It's not the fact that is a blonde joke. Trust me...I can handle those. What was so surprising is that I recieved it from a friend and my parents within 30 mintes of one another!!!! Do you think they are trying to tell me something?!
Friday, October 31, 2008
Ode to a Prankster...
My dear little friend
who brought such surprise.
Oh what a face,
You should've seen her wide eyes.
She jumped from the truck
with elegance and grace.
When she saw that shiny penny
Excitement grew across her face.
She jumped before
her brother and sister could see
on the ground that tiny coin
screaming "grab me!"
Her tiny fingers pushed
and pulled struggling to pick up
laughter filled the air
as we found it was stuck.
We laughed for the rest of the day as we reminded her of the penny that someone had super glued to the curb. Great prank!!!!!
who brought such surprise.
Oh what a face,
You should've seen her wide eyes.
She jumped from the truck
with elegance and grace.
When she saw that shiny penny
Excitement grew across her face.
She jumped before
her brother and sister could see
on the ground that tiny coin
screaming "grab me!"
Her tiny fingers pushed
and pulled struggling to pick up
laughter filled the air
as we found it was stuck.
We laughed for the rest of the day as we reminded her of the penny that someone had super glued to the curb. Great prank!!!!!
Happy Haunting!!!
Happy Halloween all!!! It is the night where the ghosts and goblins wanders through the streets searching for tasty treats!!!!!!! Unfortunately, in our neghborhood kids don't come, busy street, too many drug dealers, yadda yadda yadda. Anyway, so we are hunkering down. i enjoyed painting my daughter's hair pink this morning as they had put together their last minute Halloween costumes since Mom had seriously dropped the ball today. Bry guy just ignored it and said...no biggie. I guess my little man is growing up. My little Bee dressed as a punk rocker...with help of the pink glittery hair she looks fabulous!!! My oldest...tiny Corinna...who is nearly as tall as me now and I am almost 6 ft tall. How do 13 year olds get THAT tall?! I know I know...Amazon runs in the family!!!! Anyway, Corinna through togethr a cute teen witch outfit...refusing to spray paint her hair because that is soooooo out right now. Whatever dork!!! We are just going to relax tonight and watch some cute Halloween Movies a la Disney Channel!!! Well, Don is protesting telling me he is watching a football game, but I will win. Trust me!!!
Anyway, with a last name like "Caldron" you pretty much have to celebrate Halloween.
My question for you is: Have you ever seen a ghost or had anything spooky happen to you?
Here is one of my spooky tales:
As most of you know I was taken over by sever drama geekdom as a teen. So, as we worked on each play we would build the set and eventually we would get to the point where we needed to go and find our costumes. In the old West Building that has recently been torn down and rebuilt there was a large theater that was stocked to the hilt like a warehouse of costumes, gowns and old smelly clothes. It was like being trapped in a never ending version of my grandmother's closet. Every time I had to go there I would feel the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end. It was always a spooky place. One time my drama teacher was building a set in that theater before transporting it over to the new theater. He was on top of a twelve foot ladder and he had asked a student to hand him a hammer so he could attach a canvas to the backdrop. He held his hand and the hammer was placed in his hand. He turned to say thank you but everyone else was in the opposite end of the theater. Woooooo!!! Creepy.
I do have to admit I have seen spirits walking here and there. Banta Inn is truly haunted by a few spirits and I have seen at least one. I don't panic as I have never felt any fear towards them.
Oh and by the way, I saw a friend drive up and hid knowing she was getting out of the car. I jumped out to scream Happy Halloween...ooops it was another customer!!!!
Have a great Halloween all!!!!
Anyway, with a last name like "Caldron" you pretty much have to celebrate Halloween.
My question for you is: Have you ever seen a ghost or had anything spooky happen to you?
Here is one of my spooky tales:
As most of you know I was taken over by sever drama geekdom as a teen. So, as we worked on each play we would build the set and eventually we would get to the point where we needed to go and find our costumes. In the old West Building that has recently been torn down and rebuilt there was a large theater that was stocked to the hilt like a warehouse of costumes, gowns and old smelly clothes. It was like being trapped in a never ending version of my grandmother's closet. Every time I had to go there I would feel the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end. It was always a spooky place. One time my drama teacher was building a set in that theater before transporting it over to the new theater. He was on top of a twelve foot ladder and he had asked a student to hand him a hammer so he could attach a canvas to the backdrop. He held his hand and the hammer was placed in his hand. He turned to say thank you but everyone else was in the opposite end of the theater. Woooooo!!! Creepy.
I do have to admit I have seen spirits walking here and there. Banta Inn is truly haunted by a few spirits and I have seen at least one. I don't panic as I have never felt any fear towards them.
Oh and by the way, I saw a friend drive up and hid knowing she was getting out of the car. I jumped out to scream Happy Halloween...ooops it was another customer!!!!
Have a great Halloween all!!!!
Thursday, October 30, 2008
I found them!!!
Now I just need to pick them up!!! Odd I know, but to be perfectly honest I am really looking forward to getting them since my eyes are noticeably worse than I had originally thought. How did I function all this time?! Why am I so stubborn?! I can answer that...because I hate to spend money on myself. I would rather use it for my family. I know...it's the Mom thing that everyone does. Hubby still laughs at my testing...I laugh too for all that matters!!! I promise to take a pic once I have them on. I'll get your opinion then!!! Until then I will squint to no ends to try and see what I am doing...I hate that!!!
Mixed feelings...
I just received an e-mail from our agent telling us that there was a gentleman who would be stopping by to pick up a flyer about the house/store. He is interested in buying it and runs several different businesses in the area. This could be a good bet for us to sell and head out. So? Why the mixed feelings? He wants to turn it into another liquor store. How sad is that? it seems kind of funny to me that we worked so hard at getting the beer out of the store when we took over only to have a possible buyer who would literally fills the shelves with alcohol. THAT is where my feelings come from.
Truly, I know that if he is willing to buy it I have no control over what business goes there, but it is sad to me!!! Hubby has had the strong feeling since Monday night that the place would sell this week. He is normally right, but we are not so convinced that we are heading down to Texas to see homes. THAT will happen once a contract is signed. I think it will be perfect if it does sell to this gentleman because actually everything will be falling into place perfectly. We have been working on packing up some of the kids' things. We have a radio ad starting today to let people know of our 50% off of all boots and clothing. That will bring people in looking to buy/ bargain hunters. It looks like it has started...the falling into place thing...but I can only wait and see what happens.
Tonight, we pack!!! I am going to work a bit on the kitchen!!! Ugh!!! I hate to even think about it...Maybe I'll head to our bathroom instead. We shall see what happens.
Truly, I know that if he is willing to buy it I have no control over what business goes there, but it is sad to me!!! Hubby has had the strong feeling since Monday night that the place would sell this week. He is normally right, but we are not so convinced that we are heading down to Texas to see homes. THAT will happen once a contract is signed. I think it will be perfect if it does sell to this gentleman because actually everything will be falling into place perfectly. We have been working on packing up some of the kids' things. We have a radio ad starting today to let people know of our 50% off of all boots and clothing. That will bring people in looking to buy/ bargain hunters. It looks like it has started...the falling into place thing...but I can only wait and see what happens.
Tonight, we pack!!! I am going to work a bit on the kitchen!!! Ugh!!! I hate to even think about it...Maybe I'll head to our bathroom instead. We shall see what happens.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Halloween...
I admit. I have lost my love for Halloween this year. I think we all have. there is just so much happening that we just can't get into it. Next year we will once things are calmer. Our plans are just to hunker down and maybe pop some popcorn and make some popcorn balls with the kids. That would be fun!!! I think I can handle that one. I should be able to get some marshmallows before Friday. Sounds great to me. unfortunately we don't even have trick or treaters here. We live on a very busy street and the kids tend to go to other neighborhoods. In 6 years I have never had a trick or treater. Maybe that is part of the reason. Don misses how we used to do Halloween. It was a big thing in Oregon for us as we lived in the apartment complex. It was fun back then. Once we get moved I can concentrate and find a nice big cauldron to help me for next year. it would definitely be sad if with my last name...I didn't celebrate Halloween any longer. Luckily, my sister -in-law said there are tons of trick or treaters in her neighborhood. I can hardly wait!!! I want to have the coolest house on the block for all kids to come and have fun. I can dream can't I? No costume this year and I even packed my "normal" witches hat. You know, someday I may pen a fun little Haloween book. We shall see what happens. For now I have to stick to the adventure I am on.
I know some of you are not fans of Halloween...what are you doing this year?!
I know some of you are not fans of Halloween...what are you doing this year?!
Frustration...
Today we start our radio advertising of the clearance that will spread the word to the rest of the area about our clearance. I think it will take a few days for it to come across but we will again have large flow of traffic, which is a good thing. Anything we can do to get this going and done with I will be happy.
******************************************************************
I talked with our agent and he said that he is still getting calls, but the ones that he has gotten seem to be like tire kickers, not really interested in buying, just browsing. I love the fact that I have an agent with a great sense of humor. I always e-mail on tuesday and he e-mails right back. I could call, but with customers coming in it is difficult to carry on a conversation. Surprisingly, I am not frustrated with him or the process at all. I feel completely calm, that we are going to sell and it will be any time. Have you ever felt so calm about something?! I even went to the store and bought more boxes and have the kids starting to pack a lot of their rooms that they don't need right now. Bryan has a bazillion toys that we are saving for his cousins when we get down there. They are younger and will more than likely enjoy them quite a bit. So, we are boxing them up so that they can be put away and stop cluttering his room.
***************************************************************
I know, you are asking yourself....why is she frustrated if not for the move? Well my frustration lies in the people that I am talking to...my customers. Most are pleasant and saying...we will miss you, but good luck on your new endeavour or some sort of well wishes which I appreciate. The ones that frustrate me are those that actually seem mad at us for making the decision. One man said: "You can't leave, you are ingrained in the woodwork!!!! You need to stay." I know that these are their versions of wanting to let us know how much they appreciate us, but it is driving me mad!!!! Especially when you hear it over 10 times a day. Don is on autopilot now when they start asking questions and then just drifts off into the overly repeated explanation on why we are leaving. I simply say.. the economy got us. That usually works!!! I know I will make it through this and when we are packing up the truck I will feel so much better, but for now I am smiling and doing my best. Sometimes I feel I should earn an Oscar for my cheerful performances at work, but I will make it. I promise.
***********************************************************
Oh, and if you want a good laugh here it is: As Hubby was helping Molly out in her room and packing a few items I looked into the small closet that houses our water heater. it has always been a haven for mice and we have caught several in traps in there. When I opened it up there was an odor. I looked down to find some sort of thin stick that was a creamy gold color. Now was the time I needed my glasses. I went and got my ginormous mag lite and knelt down trying to make out what it was because it just had a strange curve to it. Well, apparently that particular mouse at some decon and it had died in there some time ago because it was a skeleton of a mouse. No, I was not thrilled as I detest the little creatures, but I was amazed at the detail in their tiny skeletons. What an art form it was to create all the animals of the earth. It was truly amazing. After my appreciation for the tiny details I bagged it up and tossed it away. EWWWW!!!!
******************************************************************
I talked with our agent and he said that he is still getting calls, but the ones that he has gotten seem to be like tire kickers, not really interested in buying, just browsing. I love the fact that I have an agent with a great sense of humor. I always e-mail on tuesday and he e-mails right back. I could call, but with customers coming in it is difficult to carry on a conversation. Surprisingly, I am not frustrated with him or the process at all. I feel completely calm, that we are going to sell and it will be any time. Have you ever felt so calm about something?! I even went to the store and bought more boxes and have the kids starting to pack a lot of their rooms that they don't need right now. Bryan has a bazillion toys that we are saving for his cousins when we get down there. They are younger and will more than likely enjoy them quite a bit. So, we are boxing them up so that they can be put away and stop cluttering his room.
***************************************************************
I know, you are asking yourself....why is she frustrated if not for the move? Well my frustration lies in the people that I am talking to...my customers. Most are pleasant and saying...we will miss you, but good luck on your new endeavour or some sort of well wishes which I appreciate. The ones that frustrate me are those that actually seem mad at us for making the decision. One man said: "You can't leave, you are ingrained in the woodwork!!!! You need to stay." I know that these are their versions of wanting to let us know how much they appreciate us, but it is driving me mad!!!! Especially when you hear it over 10 times a day. Don is on autopilot now when they start asking questions and then just drifts off into the overly repeated explanation on why we are leaving. I simply say.. the economy got us. That usually works!!! I know I will make it through this and when we are packing up the truck I will feel so much better, but for now I am smiling and doing my best. Sometimes I feel I should earn an Oscar for my cheerful performances at work, but I will make it. I promise.
***********************************************************
Oh, and if you want a good laugh here it is: As Hubby was helping Molly out in her room and packing a few items I looked into the small closet that houses our water heater. it has always been a haven for mice and we have caught several in traps in there. When I opened it up there was an odor. I looked down to find some sort of thin stick that was a creamy gold color. Now was the time I needed my glasses. I went and got my ginormous mag lite and knelt down trying to make out what it was because it just had a strange curve to it. Well, apparently that particular mouse at some decon and it had died in there some time ago because it was a skeleton of a mouse. No, I was not thrilled as I detest the little creatures, but I was amazed at the detail in their tiny skeletons. What an art form it was to create all the animals of the earth. It was truly amazing. After my appreciation for the tiny details I bagged it up and tossed it away. EWWWW!!!!
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Do your words ever get the best of you?! Or the worst for that matter?!
Saturday while at work we were discussing a few different topics. It is always fun when our friend Becky comes to help us out on Saturdays. Anyway, my tongue gets tied and I always say something incredibly funny even though I don't catch it right away.
For example: While answering the phone one day I said: "Caldron's General Store, can you help me?"
What!? It was pretty funny and now if I think about it my tongue wants to say it again!!!!
Saturday we were talking about doing our hair. Becky's daughter, Bree, was telling us it takes her 45 minutes to do her hair in the morning. Becky shimed in saying it only takes her about 10 minutes in the morning. I chimed in for mine and said:
"It ony takes me a 5 minute blow dryer job." just to let you know I accidetnly dropped a word, but as I know my kids are going to read this I will not post what I actually said. Becky and I froze for a second and then burst out into laughter knowing full well it was not what I meant. my face was bright red for the next 15 minutes.!!! Wow!!!!
have you ever said something you wish you could suck in before anyone heard it?
For example: While answering the phone one day I said: "Caldron's General Store, can you help me?"
What!? It was pretty funny and now if I think about it my tongue wants to say it again!!!!
Saturday we were talking about doing our hair. Becky's daughter, Bree, was telling us it takes her 45 minutes to do her hair in the morning. Becky shimed in saying it only takes her about 10 minutes in the morning. I chimed in for mine and said:
"It ony takes me a 5 minute blow dryer job." just to let you know I accidetnly dropped a word, but as I know my kids are going to read this I will not post what I actually said. Becky and I froze for a second and then burst out into laughter knowing full well it was not what I meant. my face was bright red for the next 15 minutes.!!! Wow!!!!
have you ever said something you wish you could suck in before anyone heard it?
Monday, Monday...
A friend yesterday pointed out that it would have been a great prank to set off the motion detectors as a prank to take pictures of my abnormally ugly self when that alarm in the store went off the other night. One word of warning...although we didn't the other night...we normally carry shotguns into the store...just in case!!!! So, you probably want to think of another prank...we're waiting!!!
********************************************************
We packed up more items which felt good. It is all of my summer shoes and such along with a cradle full of stuffed animals. Hubby and I have our own Disney collections. His Donald Duck...mine? No surprise there, Goofy. I collected a Goofy from every country in Epcot wearing national costumes, Don did the same. he also has Donald through the years so it is kind of cute!!! Anyway, we packed a bit and then were forced to go and be good parents and pick up our kids from school. Afterwards, we headed off to parent teacher conferences. Ugh!!! my head is already aching....However we came home with good reports. Molly is just about to hit her stride and her teacher expressed what a gifted writer she is...moreso over her brother and even her scholarly sister. She was happy about that!!! Bryan made our jaw drop with how good he is doing. Normally, we are used to seeing 1's and 2's which are below grade level standard and approaching grade level standard. We are not sure just what happened, but he came out of it looking incredibly good. no 1's and 2's. He was all 3's and 4's. He has never achieved a GPA of 3.0 or higher. This time he broke that barrier. That little man broke the barrier!!!! Way to go Bry!!! Corinna of course exceeded standards and was just a hair shy of 4.0. Parent Teacher conferences are always interesting because you know you are going to get a good report. With hers yesterday it was pretty much nothing. No, I mean literally her teacher said nothing of her grades and instead wanted us to consider putting her in the Space and Engineering academy over at the high school. That is where Corinna planned on going anyway...if we are still here. So, that was it there. We then headed over to one of our favorite shoe stores that we found out is going out of business. We ended up buying several pairs of shoes for each child. I even found a cute little pair so I bought them as well. After that we came home and had family home evening and then proceeded to sit back and watch tv the rest of the night. A long day for certain but at least we accomplished a lot!!!
********************************************************
We packed up more items which felt good. It is all of my summer shoes and such along with a cradle full of stuffed animals. Hubby and I have our own Disney collections. His Donald Duck...mine? No surprise there, Goofy. I collected a Goofy from every country in Epcot wearing national costumes, Don did the same. he also has Donald through the years so it is kind of cute!!! Anyway, we packed a bit and then were forced to go and be good parents and pick up our kids from school. Afterwards, we headed off to parent teacher conferences. Ugh!!! my head is already aching....However we came home with good reports. Molly is just about to hit her stride and her teacher expressed what a gifted writer she is...moreso over her brother and even her scholarly sister. She was happy about that!!! Bryan made our jaw drop with how good he is doing. Normally, we are used to seeing 1's and 2's which are below grade level standard and approaching grade level standard. We are not sure just what happened, but he came out of it looking incredibly good. no 1's and 2's. He was all 3's and 4's. He has never achieved a GPA of 3.0 or higher. This time he broke that barrier. That little man broke the barrier!!!! Way to go Bry!!! Corinna of course exceeded standards and was just a hair shy of 4.0. Parent Teacher conferences are always interesting because you know you are going to get a good report. With hers yesterday it was pretty much nothing. No, I mean literally her teacher said nothing of her grades and instead wanted us to consider putting her in the Space and Engineering academy over at the high school. That is where Corinna planned on going anyway...if we are still here. So, that was it there. We then headed over to one of our favorite shoe stores that we found out is going out of business. We ended up buying several pairs of shoes for each child. I even found a cute little pair so I bought them as well. After that we came home and had family home evening and then proceeded to sit back and watch tv the rest of the night. A long day for certain but at least we accomplished a lot!!!
I've been tagged...
So, I am have been tagged where you go to the fourth folder, fourth picture and post it and talk about it. Honestly, I am still waiting for it to load. we shall see what it is together being that I can no longer deciphetr the thumbnails....OK! So it wasn't too much of a surprise that I needed glasses. Anyhooooo..... It looks like we have come up with Molly and Madison who make up 2/3 of the triplets. Both brothers and I all had babies in one year. e added on Molly, Madison and McKenzie. I know I know...sounds like a story coming on. Anyway, in this picture they are messing around trying to get hubby and I to eat faster as our Christmas Eve ritual is to open presents at that time. Can you blame them?! Now I would like to tag...Red, Jan (when of course you arrive back from your blogcation, Crazyland and anyone else who would like to join in!!!!
Monday, October 27, 2008
Content...
That's what I was...completely content to go to sleep last night at the early time of 10:30. I slept well when hubby found that he was unable to sleep so he woke me up at 2:30am to tell me. Gee! Thanks sweetheart!! I love you too!!! Honestly, i should have been given the wife of the year trophy for not biting his head off when I felt like it!!! Content was I again as I drifted off to a blissful rest. Oh wait!!! Is that the store alarm going off?!?!?! Hubby woke me up at 4:30am to tell me the store alarm was going off. So, what did we do? Forget the guns and cell phones!!! Just grab the two extra large maglites and let's run over there before the entire neighborhood has been awakened. Then again....I'm not sleeping!!! Why should they!?!?! I have to admit that I looked completely adorable as we scoured the store looking for anyone who had snuck in. It must have been a mouse that set off the motion detectors...yet another reason I can't stand mice!!! Yucky!!!! Anyway, i nearly laughed as I looked at myself in the mirror at the store. My hair was literally sticking straight up on a half of my head and flat on the other side, which it tends to do since the new haircut...the much much shorter haircut...and before I get yelled at...yes, you will all get to see it once i get my glasses... why tempt fate too much with the camera aimed at me more than it needs to be!!! Anyway, other than my hair sticking up and in my pajamas I had apparently attempted to put on flip flops and ended up with my comfy Steve Madden's. Quite the outfit....even worst than when I normally get dressed in the dark!!!! Fabulous!!! no, I am most definitely not snapping a photo of that particular outfit either. I managed to sneak in a few more Z's before it was time to get up for church...oh, and we have the early morning session. Fabulous!!!!
Trust me, I found time for a nap this afternoon!!!
Trust me, I found time for a nap this afternoon!!!
Saturday, October 25, 2008
A dream...
Honestly, after comtemplating the last 16 years it feels like a dream. I honestly can't believe that we have been married for THAT long. Apparently no one else can. As I was opening up the store Don snuck out...like he does every year...and bought me a dozen red roses accompanied by a cute little teddy bear and a card that brought tears to my eyes. I love that he does it. It is just our thing I guess. Anyway, we had a nice day at work. nothing major just a very nice day. We left work happy to be heading home as we were both tired from the long week. We changed into funny enough black jeans and shirts that matched quite well. Scary!!!! We made our way to El Castillos which, in my humble opinion, has the best Mexican Food in town. I couldn't wait to get my flautas. I helped devour 2 baskets of chips. Apparently I was hungry!!!! Afterwards we walked around the mall where Don found 2 pair of shoes for me and treated me...even though we were watching our money!!!! So we came home watched the tv...like any old married couple and drifted off to sleep!!!!
Friday, October 24, 2008
16 years in the making...
We made it!!!! Today Don & I get to celebrate our 16th anniversary. 16 years ago today I drove to our new apartment and picked Don up for our 30 minute ride to the temple. Before leaving the parking lot I remember mentioning to him: "Before we leave, you need to know....I don't divorce. Either you are going to give our marriage 100% or the wedding is called off." Some people think it is funny that we talked about that on our wedding day, but in the end it was the right things to do. We could have easily given up...many times....but we shouldered through the storms and made it...together.I was talking to a couple yesterday that just got married in August. I remember those days, you know the ones, when your marriage had that "new car smell." You know what I mean!!! Although please chuckle away. We are always together during our trials and we do not back down. We simply push on, side by side, for time and all eternity.
16 years ago we knelt at this altar and became husband and
wife for time and all eternity. Right before the ceremony my mind wandered wondering what the Lord had in store for us during our lifetime here. I will tell you one thing, just like all of your lives it has never been dull. There are challenges we face, happiness, sorrow, defeat and yes...triumph. Today is one of those triumphs. Tonight we celebrate with a cozy dinner and relaxation with the kids afterwards. I can't wait!!!
Thursday, October 23, 2008
It's what time!?
So, my eyes just popped wide open this morning. Bright eyed and bushy tailed you could say. Then I lifted my head and looked at the clock: 4:30!!!!! Wow, I hate waking up THAT early so I closed my eyes and pretended to sleep for nearly 30 minutes to no avail. my mind was already up and running. I've got to run the deposit in for the store, make lunches for the girls today, help Molly with her Egyptian project that is due on Monday. Soooo many things at work needed to be done...it's too early!!! Let's not forget the grocery list that needs to be written. Like I said...Sooo many things need to be happening. Can't I just wait until my alarm goes off though. Tonight we are headed to the grocery store to pick up a few items to last us through the weekend. The weekend already!!!! Where did my time go!?!?!?
*****************************************************************
We are putting together another advertisement on the clearance sale we are having on all clothing, boots, hats , etc in the store right now. It should be plastered all over the airwaves on Kat Country by middle of next week. We should be walking zombies if everything goes well. We shall see what happens. It will be good though to help us get rid of even more boots that we have jammed up in between every single rafter of the store.
*****************************************************************
I am in a more upbeat mood...despite the early rising so it should be a good day...I hope!!!!
*****************************************************************
We are putting together another advertisement on the clearance sale we are having on all clothing, boots, hats , etc in the store right now. It should be plastered all over the airwaves on Kat Country by middle of next week. We should be walking zombies if everything goes well. We shall see what happens. It will be good though to help us get rid of even more boots that we have jammed up in between every single rafter of the store.
*****************************************************************
I am in a more upbeat mood...despite the early rising so it should be a good day...I hope!!!!
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
I got off track...
I've been getting off track and losing myself to the desires in my mind to sell and move. Every day that passes with no action represents another inch sinking down into the depression that claimed me years ago. I look again into the gratitude that I have. I am grateful today for "Just One Bite" bars. The smell yummyliciously peanut buttery, but please do not eat them...it is rat poison. With each little fuzzy body I sweep up it reminds me that I am beating the critters that wander through the store and home are no longer enjoying their vacation paradise. they were warned. I am grateful for my friend the computer..we hang out together and play during the day and evening. She is never far away!!!
Have a great day my friends!!!
Have a great day my friends!!!
Just another wednesday...
I'm up! I'm up!!! I didn't want to as I did not sleep all that well last night. I am starting to catch that cold...You know, the one my kids all have and that I warned you I was catching. It hasn't gone full blown yet and for that I am thankful. Since I started catching the cold I lean my bed up at an angle a bit..you've gotta love that adjustable feature!!! Anyway, sleeping at angle is just not easy for me since I am a tummy sleeper. I know, I know!!! Stop yer whinin'!!! I am already ready for a nap...not gonna happen, but I can dream can't I?
***************************************************************
Last night I got home and threw a few things into a pot for dinner. I have never done this before so it was a great experiment!!!. basically all I did was throw some chicken broth I had laying around, some frozen veggies, a can of corn, leftover chicken from the weekend and a few spices. I then made some really quick dumplings to throw on top. Much to my surprise the kids and hubby actually loved it!!! Who knew?! I wasn't as fond of the dumplings. I think I need to find a new quick recipe for those, but I should be able to just tweak that recipe a bit and make it taste just fine. Who knew I could cook?!?
***************************************************************
i am going to let you in on a little secret. I hate selling the store! Yes, I do still want it sold. I think I am at the end of my last rope with it and dealing with everything. The part I hate is that we have absolutely no control over this. All we can do is sit and wait for someone to come and buy it. What a pain in the neck. I don't think it is as bad as selling a house per say, but it is bad!!! I am a control freak in my own special way. I don't want to control everything...just certain things. Having to wait while someone "crunches numbers" is beyond me. I don't recognize the need to crunch numbers for more than two weeks. Either you can do it, or you can't. make up your mind!!! Either take the leap of faith or back down!!! Don't get my hopes up!!!! ignore the whining...I know it will happen. I just wish it were happening today.
***************************************************************
Last night I got home and threw a few things into a pot for dinner. I have never done this before so it was a great experiment!!!. basically all I did was throw some chicken broth I had laying around, some frozen veggies, a can of corn, leftover chicken from the weekend and a few spices. I then made some really quick dumplings to throw on top. Much to my surprise the kids and hubby actually loved it!!! Who knew?! I wasn't as fond of the dumplings. I think I need to find a new quick recipe for those, but I should be able to just tweak that recipe a bit and make it taste just fine. Who knew I could cook?!?
***************************************************************
i am going to let you in on a little secret. I hate selling the store! Yes, I do still want it sold. I think I am at the end of my last rope with it and dealing with everything. The part I hate is that we have absolutely no control over this. All we can do is sit and wait for someone to come and buy it. What a pain in the neck. I don't think it is as bad as selling a house per say, but it is bad!!! I am a control freak in my own special way. I don't want to control everything...just certain things. Having to wait while someone "crunches numbers" is beyond me. I don't recognize the need to crunch numbers for more than two weeks. Either you can do it, or you can't. make up your mind!!! Either take the leap of faith or back down!!! Don't get my hopes up!!!! ignore the whining...I know it will happen. I just wish it were happening today.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
A Sad Realization
During elections we are allowed to vote for what we believe in. I can appreacitae that we will not all agree on every issue, that's a little too Stepford for me. Anyway, I can also appreciate that others have viewpoints to where they will not believe what I do. In the Latter-Day community we spend our days quietly going about our business. We offer the gospel to those who are willing to listen. To those who don't, we smile and wish them well.
Proposition 8 has turned into a battle that I had never anticipated. Yes, I beleive that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God. No, I do not believe that anyone has the right to teach my child or anyone else's child anything about marriage. That is the parent's job, not a teachers. Yes, I beleive I am allowed to voice my opinion. My opinion belongs to me and nobody else. Yes, you have every right to voice your opinion, but if for example you happen to be homosexual I don't believe I have a right to picket and protest outside a gay bar. That is rude and disrespectful. Nobody deserves that sort of treatment. So, why do we? Here is a letter from a woman who was simply attending the temple for some peace from the worldly strife surrounding us. For those who are not in California...pray for us. We need the added strength.
Dear family and friends,
I had a very disturbing experience that I would like to share with those of you that live outside of California (or outside of the San Francisco Bay Area).
This weekend we have stake conference. Our stake conference always begins with a stake temple session on Friday or Thursday night. Early Friday morning I received a call from the second counselor in our bishopric to let me know that there would be numerous protesters outside the temple, and to remind everyone to stay calm and to drive carefully. The beautiful Oakland Temple is located right across the bay from San Francisco , very close to the city of Berkeley.
Apparently the opposition to proposition 8, the amendment that seeks to make marriage in CA between a man and a woman again, has realized the deep Involvement of the church and begun to protest right outside of the temple and harass temple patrons. The fastest way to get to the temple from our house is to take the 680 freeway, but the exit is a bit tricky. The off ramp is extremely short and straight uphill. You then make an almost blind left turn, an immediate right and another left into the parking lot. As we Approached the off ramp, I realized there would be trouble. There was a backup onto the freeway from cars stalled on the off ramp. As we moved forward inches at a time, we realized this was due to a large group of loud Protesters who were standing on both sides of the street, yelling, screaming and waving signs. When we got to the top of the offramp, ready to make our turn, one protester jumped out right in front of our car. It took my husband all his self control to carefully maneuver around him to the left and proceed to the temple. I tried not to listen to all they were shouting at us, but I was shaking as I got to the temple front door. Several of the sisters, especially the ones driving on their own, were crying (which made me snap out of it and go into Relief Society President mode to comfort them). Later, as I was sitting in the perfect quiet of the chapel, I couldn't help but think of Lehi's dream, and the people who mocked the Saints from the big spacious building but 'we heeded them not.' It was a truly surreal experience, I'd never thought that I would have to go through an angry crowd to get to the temple. As we left late at night, the protesters had dispersed, temple security (who all looked very large and Tongan) stood by the gates. I never saw a single police man.
Please pray for those of us in California fighting for prop 8--it's getting kind of scary out here!
--Katherine
Proposition 8 has turned into a battle that I had never anticipated. Yes, I beleive that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God. No, I do not believe that anyone has the right to teach my child or anyone else's child anything about marriage. That is the parent's job, not a teachers. Yes, I beleive I am allowed to voice my opinion. My opinion belongs to me and nobody else. Yes, you have every right to voice your opinion, but if for example you happen to be homosexual I don't believe I have a right to picket and protest outside a gay bar. That is rude and disrespectful. Nobody deserves that sort of treatment. So, why do we? Here is a letter from a woman who was simply attending the temple for some peace from the worldly strife surrounding us. For those who are not in California...pray for us. We need the added strength.
Dear family and friends,
I had a very disturbing experience that I would like to share with those of you that live outside of California (or outside of the San Francisco Bay Area).
This weekend we have stake conference. Our stake conference always begins with a stake temple session on Friday or Thursday night. Early Friday morning I received a call from the second counselor in our bishopric to let me know that there would be numerous protesters outside the temple, and to remind everyone to stay calm and to drive carefully. The beautiful Oakland Temple is located right across the bay from San Francisco , very close to the city of Berkeley.
Apparently the opposition to proposition 8, the amendment that seeks to make marriage in CA between a man and a woman again, has realized the deep Involvement of the church and begun to protest right outside of the temple and harass temple patrons. The fastest way to get to the temple from our house is to take the 680 freeway, but the exit is a bit tricky. The off ramp is extremely short and straight uphill. You then make an almost blind left turn, an immediate right and another left into the parking lot. As we Approached the off ramp, I realized there would be trouble. There was a backup onto the freeway from cars stalled on the off ramp. As we moved forward inches at a time, we realized this was due to a large group of loud Protesters who were standing on both sides of the street, yelling, screaming and waving signs. When we got to the top of the offramp, ready to make our turn, one protester jumped out right in front of our car. It took my husband all his self control to carefully maneuver around him to the left and proceed to the temple. I tried not to listen to all they were shouting at us, but I was shaking as I got to the temple front door. Several of the sisters, especially the ones driving on their own, were crying (which made me snap out of it and go into Relief Society President mode to comfort them). Later, as I was sitting in the perfect quiet of the chapel, I couldn't help but think of Lehi's dream, and the people who mocked the Saints from the big spacious building but 'we heeded them not.' It was a truly surreal experience, I'd never thought that I would have to go through an angry crowd to get to the temple. As we left late at night, the protesters had dispersed, temple security (who all looked very large and Tongan) stood by the gates. I never saw a single police man.
Please pray for those of us in California fighting for prop 8--it's getting kind of scary out here!
--Katherine
"You don't need to wear them all of the time..."
Yes, that is what my doctor told me as he announced that I, the eagle eyed person that I am, needed glasses. I sat through the various tests and retinal scans with the utmost confidence. "Everything will be fine," was the mantra I repeated over and over in my head. Oh!!! And the whole puff of air in the eye thing...How do you not react to that?! These people are nuts!!!
Anyway, I sat through the tests with hubby right next to me. In the end I was sitting in the chair, with the striking resemblance to executioner's chairs littered in the prisons throughout the states. I was told to cover my right eye and read the letters. I was confident I had read them right. Perhaps the term "overconfident" would fit more. When I covered the other eye: "Oh crap!" I was wrong...or was I? In all honesty I was so overconfident that I swore, in my head, thankfully keeping silent just this once, that she had changed the letters on me!!! No such luck. Hubby was giggling on the other side of the room when I finally figured out how wrong I was.
So, finally the doctor comes in to figure out just what prescription I need. He explains that I need to get glasses and that I didn't need them all of the time...only when I am on the computer, reading, watching television and driving. What?! Since when did that not encompass my entire day?! I slid from the chair feeling completely dejected, but knowing hubby would be there to help me pick out the right frames. he started out well with me. He was there with me to help me find just the right frames. The woman thought I was nuts. I was so out of the loop, finding out I even needed glasses, that I was leaning on hubby's opinion. He has fabulous taste, he always has so if I walked blindly and let him pick something out that would be fine with me!!! Somehow in the the middle of the choosing from a bazillion different frames he drifted off to the side choosing his own new frames. Honestly, he didn't need a new set, but his lenses were starting to get scratched up so a second set wouldn't be too bad. One for work and one for dress. Anyway, back to me. I looked at all of the frames. Convinced I wanted something a little more fun looking, nothing too serious, but not too blingy either. For those who know me, bling is sooo not me!!! There they were!!! I had spotted them, the perfect glasses encompassing everything I was looking for. If I had to wear glasses they would be on my terms....I found a pair of Fendi frames that were cute, comfortable fitting, and yes, they had a little bit of style. For those who know me well they can see it coming. I pick out my frames only to find the avalanche of guilt headed straight for me. It nearly killed me to know that I had picked out frames that cost $438!!! Ugh!! That is WAY too much money. Yes, I am frugal and that just about killed me. Hubby dutifully explained that I was worth it, but secretly smiling that for once he had not picked out the most expensive frames...his Armanis were only $226. How can I spend that much on frames!!!! It is so utterly ridiculous!!!! needless to say, I still like my frames I picked out and I will have them in two weeks. We shall see how they turn out from there!!!
Anyway, I sat through the tests with hubby right next to me. In the end I was sitting in the chair, with the striking resemblance to executioner's chairs littered in the prisons throughout the states. I was told to cover my right eye and read the letters. I was confident I had read them right. Perhaps the term "overconfident" would fit more. When I covered the other eye: "Oh crap!" I was wrong...or was I? In all honesty I was so overconfident that I swore, in my head, thankfully keeping silent just this once, that she had changed the letters on me!!! No such luck. Hubby was giggling on the other side of the room when I finally figured out how wrong I was.
So, finally the doctor comes in to figure out just what prescription I need. He explains that I need to get glasses and that I didn't need them all of the time...only when I am on the computer, reading, watching television and driving. What?! Since when did that not encompass my entire day?! I slid from the chair feeling completely dejected, but knowing hubby would be there to help me pick out the right frames. he started out well with me. He was there with me to help me find just the right frames. The woman thought I was nuts. I was so out of the loop, finding out I even needed glasses, that I was leaning on hubby's opinion. He has fabulous taste, he always has so if I walked blindly and let him pick something out that would be fine with me!!! Somehow in the the middle of the choosing from a bazillion different frames he drifted off to the side choosing his own new frames. Honestly, he didn't need a new set, but his lenses were starting to get scratched up so a second set wouldn't be too bad. One for work and one for dress. Anyway, back to me. I looked at all of the frames. Convinced I wanted something a little more fun looking, nothing too serious, but not too blingy either. For those who know me, bling is sooo not me!!! There they were!!! I had spotted them, the perfect glasses encompassing everything I was looking for. If I had to wear glasses they would be on my terms....I found a pair of Fendi frames that were cute, comfortable fitting, and yes, they had a little bit of style. For those who know me well they can see it coming. I pick out my frames only to find the avalanche of guilt headed straight for me. It nearly killed me to know that I had picked out frames that cost $438!!! Ugh!! That is WAY too much money. Yes, I am frugal and that just about killed me. Hubby dutifully explained that I was worth it, but secretly smiling that for once he had not picked out the most expensive frames...his Armanis were only $226. How can I spend that much on frames!!!! It is so utterly ridiculous!!!! needless to say, I still like my frames I picked out and I will have them in two weeks. We shall see how they turn out from there!!!
Monday, October 20, 2008
I should have...
A wild and scintillating post, but I don't. I have been waiting for my latest brilliant idea to post here...nothing. My brain is as empty as my bank account. Sadly, I sit here wrapped up in a quilt, in the darkness of early morning. My throat is starting to feel scratchy which means only one thing...I am starting to catch the cold my youngest as happily bestowed upon me with kisses. You see, when my baby girl is sick she wants to be bundled up and snuggled. And so we bundle her up and snuggle her. And now this is the thanks I get for being that fabulous mom that I am. Can we say the phrase again without the mocking tone? Fabulous!!! Nope! Not today.
********************************************************
This morning I will drop off the kids at school and head out to breakfast with my hubby on our weekly date. We will then head to the incredibly fabulous (oh look! There's that word again!!!!) eye doctor's appointments. I have finally given in to have my eyes checked...it's been about a decade since my last appointment. I haven't wanted glasses so therefore if I do not go to the doctor then I won't have to wear glasses. In my mind it works so beautifully. Of course, it works the same with my hearing, which I am still putting off for reasons that are my own.I will dare to get that done,but I don't have the heart to do it now. Why am I headed to the eye doctor this time. Unfortunately, over the past six months I have had issues with my vision. Fine print is unreadable now. Squinting is never a good thing and the final thing that has convinced me... I put on a friend's glasses and I could actually read better. I hated that. So, off I go. Maybe I can find some nerdy glasses, embrace the nerd within so to say. I am not as fashion forward as many of the women here. Thank heavens hubby is joining me. He has great taste.
****************************************************
After our eye appointment we will drive over to Pro Bass Shop for hubby to drool and look around. He will mutter the words....."I want...." as we wind ourselves through an outdoorman's paradise. I will find a few things to make him smile and buy them for our upcoming anniversary. I love shopping for his presents while he is there. As for me, hubby shakes his head. I asked for a dictionary and thesaurus. He does understand...yes, the nerdy glasses are a suitable choice for me.
******************************************************
Other than that it is going to be a quiet week for us. Just a few things happening here and there so it should be alot of fun...I hope so anyway. We shall see what happens on that one.
********************************************************
This morning I will drop off the kids at school and head out to breakfast with my hubby on our weekly date. We will then head to the incredibly fabulous (oh look! There's that word again!!!!) eye doctor's appointments. I have finally given in to have my eyes checked...it's been about a decade since my last appointment. I haven't wanted glasses so therefore if I do not go to the doctor then I won't have to wear glasses. In my mind it works so beautifully. Of course, it works the same with my hearing, which I am still putting off for reasons that are my own.I will dare to get that done,but I don't have the heart to do it now. Why am I headed to the eye doctor this time. Unfortunately, over the past six months I have had issues with my vision. Fine print is unreadable now. Squinting is never a good thing and the final thing that has convinced me... I put on a friend's glasses and I could actually read better. I hated that. So, off I go. Maybe I can find some nerdy glasses, embrace the nerd within so to say. I am not as fashion forward as many of the women here. Thank heavens hubby is joining me. He has great taste.
****************************************************
After our eye appointment we will drive over to Pro Bass Shop for hubby to drool and look around. He will mutter the words....."I want...." as we wind ourselves through an outdoorman's paradise. I will find a few things to make him smile and buy them for our upcoming anniversary. I love shopping for his presents while he is there. As for me, hubby shakes his head. I asked for a dictionary and thesaurus. He does understand...yes, the nerdy glasses are a suitable choice for me.
******************************************************
Other than that it is going to be a quiet week for us. Just a few things happening here and there so it should be alot of fun...I hope so anyway. We shall see what happens on that one.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Mom of the Year Award!!!
We've all done it...Mom of the year!!!! We make a move or do something that makes us feel we are the WORST Mom on the face of the planet. A friend, having a birthday recently wanted to see who really deserved that title. honestly, to pick just one is a horribly amazing process. I narrowed it down to two. Here they are:
I sat outside with my kids. They were ages 3,2 & 1. I know I know...perhaps that is why I blocked out most of their childhood!!! Anyway, we were out in the back of our apartment and I was talking to a friend who was describing to me her 3 year old's need to wander all over the complex thinking he could play with the older kids. I told her how fabulous it was to have kids who did not wander like hers did. Feeling very superior in my mothering skills I looked over to see my son age 2 eating a large chocolate chip cookie...I hadn't baked any cookies lately so i was curious as to where he found the cookie. Apparently while I was patting myself on the back my little man walked to the next building over, walked into the back door of another apartment, climbed a stool to a cookie jar, grabbed a cookie, growled at the two boys playing video games, they were speechless by the way, and then came back home. Note: It was a friend's home and it was absolutely hysterical when they told me what had happened. Beware of patting yourself on the back too much about your mad mothering skills.
Second, my oldest was in third grade and she was assigned a project of creating a zoo. We sat for a couple of hours sculpting animals out of play-doh. We had the greatest animals. Our zoo had everything from penguins to alligators, bears, pandas, zebras, and yes even flamingos. It was a great zoo. We even created little benches for the people to sit on. I watched my daughter's face when we placed the sign in the still moist play-doh. She was so proud of her creation and what we did. Life was good...until two days later when she brought the project in...Did you know that when play-doh dries...it cracks!!! Her entire zoo was a disaster! She walked into her class with tears brimming in her eyes. Her teacher saw how hard she worked on her project and she did earn a decent grade, but in the end her heart was broken....now we use regular clay!!!!
Have you ever had a mother of the year moment? Please tell me I am not the only one!!!!
I sat outside with my kids. They were ages 3,2 & 1. I know I know...perhaps that is why I blocked out most of their childhood!!! Anyway, we were out in the back of our apartment and I was talking to a friend who was describing to me her 3 year old's need to wander all over the complex thinking he could play with the older kids. I told her how fabulous it was to have kids who did not wander like hers did. Feeling very superior in my mothering skills I looked over to see my son age 2 eating a large chocolate chip cookie...I hadn't baked any cookies lately so i was curious as to where he found the cookie. Apparently while I was patting myself on the back my little man walked to the next building over, walked into the back door of another apartment, climbed a stool to a cookie jar, grabbed a cookie, growled at the two boys playing video games, they were speechless by the way, and then came back home. Note: It was a friend's home and it was absolutely hysterical when they told me what had happened. Beware of patting yourself on the back too much about your mad mothering skills.
Second, my oldest was in third grade and she was assigned a project of creating a zoo. We sat for a couple of hours sculpting animals out of play-doh. We had the greatest animals. Our zoo had everything from penguins to alligators, bears, pandas, zebras, and yes even flamingos. It was a great zoo. We even created little benches for the people to sit on. I watched my daughter's face when we placed the sign in the still moist play-doh. She was so proud of her creation and what we did. Life was good...until two days later when she brought the project in...Did you know that when play-doh dries...it cracks!!! Her entire zoo was a disaster! She walked into her class with tears brimming in her eyes. Her teacher saw how hard she worked on her project and she did earn a decent grade, but in the end her heart was broken....now we use regular clay!!!!
Have you ever had a mother of the year moment? Please tell me I am not the only one!!!!
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Just in...
Well, these are the pics I was waiting to get from Kat Country radio station. The concert was in June. Here are the guys that performed:
This is Lee Brice. He wrote an incredible song for Garth Brooks...one of my favorites: "More Than a Memory" His latest hit is "Upper Middle Class White Trash." It is hysterically funny. he's got a great sense of humor.
This is Andy Griggs. He is a great singer and has a big heart. he took extra time with the young girl in front.
And the headliner...Blake Shelton. he sings one of my personal favorites "Some Beach." I was truly dying to hear him sing it. it was great. He has a great voice and seems to be really friendly. It was a fun day with a lot business going on. We had a blast and will be sorry not to be here this next year. Who knows? Maybe we will be!!!
This is Lee Brice. He wrote an incredible song for Garth Brooks...one of my favorites: "More Than a Memory" His latest hit is "Upper Middle Class White Trash." It is hysterically funny. he's got a great sense of humor.
This is Andy Griggs. He is a great singer and has a big heart. he took extra time with the young girl in front.And the headliner...Blake Shelton. he sings one of my personal favorites "Some Beach." I was truly dying to hear him sing it. it was great. He has a great voice and seems to be really friendly. It was a fun day with a lot business going on. We had a blast and will be sorry not to be here this next year. Who knows? Maybe we will be!!!
A long night!!!
It was one of those nights...I was too hot...now too cold...I want covers....No covers.... toss...turn...bang head into wall desperately wanting to feel some sort of unconscious level...turn off the light...the light is off...turn off the moon....highly unlikely. Use bathroom 5 gazillion times!!! Pray. Pray again. Pray again. Pray once more. Fall asleep for five minutes before alarm goes off. Drat!!!!
Maybe tonight will be better!!!
Monday, October 13, 2008
If I could go anywhere...where would I go?
If I could go anywhere....
In town...Mongolian Barbecue for lunch. Mmmmm!!!
In California...Well, honestly I would love to be up in Tahoe, sitting on the shoreline watching snow fall.
In the US...Texas. I so want to get this move over with!!!!
In North America...I'd love to go to the Nova Scotia area and visit the beautiful sights and enjoy the imagery I always pictured when I read the Anne of Green Gables series.
In Europe...I am torn between two places. I would love to head into Scotland to visit with my best friend ever. I also would love to head back to Italy. There are so many places I would lvoe to visit again. more that I would like to explore and so many more gelato flavors to savor!!!
In the world: Everywhere...except deserts!!!!
In town...Mongolian Barbecue for lunch. Mmmmm!!!
In California...Well, honestly I would love to be up in Tahoe, sitting on the shoreline watching snow fall.
In the US...Texas. I so want to get this move over with!!!!
In North America...I'd love to go to the Nova Scotia area and visit the beautiful sights and enjoy the imagery I always pictured when I read the Anne of Green Gables series.
In Europe...I am torn between two places. I would love to head into Scotland to visit with my best friend ever. I also would love to head back to Italy. There are so many places I would lvoe to visit again. more that I would like to explore and so many more gelato flavors to savor!!!
In the world: Everywhere...except deserts!!!!
Ready for the world!!!
Yes, I have recovered for the most part...after taking not one, not two, but yes three fabulous naps yesterday AND going to sleep on time last night. Hold your applause! I know I am sooo fabulous!!! Just kidding!!! It felt good to just sit in bed and not concentrate on anything. Of course my poor friend Christine called me when i was falling into one of my naps and so I wasn't concentrating too well when she was on the phone. I'll have to call her this week when my head is fully screwed on to catch up.
I am again caught up in my writing. I love it when I am able to just fall into a story and lose myself within it...for the time being anyway. I can't completely let go since I do actually have a family to deal with as well. For now it is small pieces here and there. When the kids are off into bed, when hubby is engrossed in his sports and my laptop is balancing eagerly on my lap. pop the Ipod in and let my fingers go!!! I really like the way that this one is looking so far. My kids are dying to find out what I am typing. Their curiosity is hysterical. At times I am typing away before they go to bed. They will come in and kiss me good night and eyes will wander over onto the screen only to find the only thing they see typed is: "Quit peeking, give me a kiss and get to bed!!!" A sense of humor is VERY necessary in our family.
Other than that is just business as usual. I need to finish waking up the kids for school and then hubby and I will run errands until it is time to pick the kids up. Fabulous!!!! Sounds like fun to me!!!! Enjoy your day!!!
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Crash!!!
No, this is not my Ferrari nor did I get into a car crash. It is the crash that you hit when life comes at you too fast. There are so many things that we need to do that it seems like we will never get done. I pray and hope that we do finish it all off. I simply crashed.
There is a never ending list of things that need to be done, but I never get them done. I don't sleep like a normal person does and that is never usually it, but it adds to it. The kids are back in school after their month off which means I am up at 6am to enjoy 30 minutes of silence before waking the masses. By the time I finish the day it is nearly midnight. That doesn't help. Then throw in the sleeping issues and working at a fast pace. We have been busy non-stop since putting some things on sale. I have been working hard trying to sell the store. We have an interested party, but he has not committed fully yet. he is working on a business plan that will satisfy the investor willing to throw their cash into the ring. If they do and sign the contract then we have something to work with. It is an interesting tidbit that we have just finished voting yes on the traditional marriage issue, we are going to finish off our door to door knocking campaign tomorrow. The kids are going to come and help us out. it will be good to teach them hands on how democracy works. I think it will be great.
So, today I crashed after a long week and laid in bed all day. It was a nice relaxing day. I needed it. Tomorrow we run a few errands and I have some work to do at the house while the kids are in school. Once they get home then we will have dinner, family home evening and start knocking. Have a great week!!
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Saturday is a special day...it is a day to air gripes!!!
OK! So I am in a ranting mood. For all those who know my fabulous sweet personality and believe I am one step away from being fully Christ-like then please wander onto another blog for awhile. I have issues and things that bug me beyond all belief and very little sleep so they are all coming out now! Let the cards fall where they may!!!
We went and took the youth to Boomer's last night. It was a night of go-kart racing. Yes, I did actually get kidnapped by a few of the girls to ride in one...Apparently go-karts are not made for tall people. Not a comfy trip, but I managed to hold my own. ANYWAY, the youth that came with us had earned their way there, by earning a total of 600 points during the summer with challenges that included : daily prayer, daily scripture reading, family history work, spending time with family, good attitude while with said family, service projects and such. it was a really great challenge for them to start out with. 11 made the challenge and went to boomer's with us adults. Now, I am exhausted from a long day of work and these other children, let's call them children shall we, were running around with no respect to others around them. We were mini golfing and a group of those same children literally ran through our green area as we were putting. WHAT!? Ok! that was nearly enough to send me over the edge. Another group of children swung hard and hit a golf ball full speed, 3 holes away, into my hubby's back. hubby then scared away children...they may have wet their pants. Others were escorted off the property by security guards for talking back and making fun of security guards. I was so proud of the way our youth acted and wondered...Why haven't they been taught better?!
***********************************************************
For some who may not know we own a store...for the time being. It is up for sale and we are ready for a new adventure. So, while waiting for the sale to happen we have just started clearancing off the hats, boots, clothing, belts..etc. Basically, everything you can wear is 50% off. Great deal for these times I think and people have come in non-stop to take advantage of these great deals. What I don't understand as nearly three different people asked my hubby if he would give them anything extra off the hat. When people are downtrodden and trying to survive as a business...why are you asking for more? It is a certain culture of people to haggle and I understand that but don't be downright rude about it!!!!
************************************************************
And finally, I have a couple dear friends who do not have a mean bone in there body. One was verbally attacked over the phone by a son's girlfriend for her parenting skills while another received an attack over the Internet. Ok!!! So, where do people get the right to believe that they know everything? I am so sick and tired of the pompous prideful people attacking good people. it is absolutely insane!!! Sure, there have been times in my head I have questioned the parenting skills of some women and men, who hasn't?! But let's get real here!!! Whoever has the audacity to attack another's beliefs or parenting skills should be escorted off my planet. I am not perfect, nor do I need my imperfections thrown in my face. Believe me, I already know what I need to work on. Just because I have difference of opinion on any given subject and I am allowed freedom of speech in my country, it does not give me a right to outright verbally accost another person. In times of election I may not like a candidate, but does that give me a right to make hateful comments? No!!!! I can comment on their political beliefs and what has been spoken, but there is no room in this world for hateful comments. We are all humans, prone to mistakes, but are we really deserving of verbal abuse from another?!
******************************************************
Ok! I am done, you may now turn your head back and believe I wrote of chirping blue birds, summer picnics in the park, chattering chipmunks and a smiling sun and happy happy thoughts!!! Have a great day all!!!
We went and took the youth to Boomer's last night. It was a night of go-kart racing. Yes, I did actually get kidnapped by a few of the girls to ride in one...Apparently go-karts are not made for tall people. Not a comfy trip, but I managed to hold my own. ANYWAY, the youth that came with us had earned their way there, by earning a total of 600 points during the summer with challenges that included : daily prayer, daily scripture reading, family history work, spending time with family, good attitude while with said family, service projects and such. it was a really great challenge for them to start out with. 11 made the challenge and went to boomer's with us adults. Now, I am exhausted from a long day of work and these other children, let's call them children shall we, were running around with no respect to others around them. We were mini golfing and a group of those same children literally ran through our green area as we were putting. WHAT!? Ok! that was nearly enough to send me over the edge. Another group of children swung hard and hit a golf ball full speed, 3 holes away, into my hubby's back. hubby then scared away children...they may have wet their pants. Others were escorted off the property by security guards for talking back and making fun of security guards. I was so proud of the way our youth acted and wondered...Why haven't they been taught better?!
***********************************************************
For some who may not know we own a store...for the time being. It is up for sale and we are ready for a new adventure. So, while waiting for the sale to happen we have just started clearancing off the hats, boots, clothing, belts..etc. Basically, everything you can wear is 50% off. Great deal for these times I think and people have come in non-stop to take advantage of these great deals. What I don't understand as nearly three different people asked my hubby if he would give them anything extra off the hat. When people are downtrodden and trying to survive as a business...why are you asking for more? It is a certain culture of people to haggle and I understand that but don't be downright rude about it!!!!
************************************************************
And finally, I have a couple dear friends who do not have a mean bone in there body. One was verbally attacked over the phone by a son's girlfriend for her parenting skills while another received an attack over the Internet. Ok!!! So, where do people get the right to believe that they know everything? I am so sick and tired of the pompous prideful people attacking good people. it is absolutely insane!!! Sure, there have been times in my head I have questioned the parenting skills of some women and men, who hasn't?! But let's get real here!!! Whoever has the audacity to attack another's beliefs or parenting skills should be escorted off my planet. I am not perfect, nor do I need my imperfections thrown in my face. Believe me, I already know what I need to work on. Just because I have difference of opinion on any given subject and I am allowed freedom of speech in my country, it does not give me a right to outright verbally accost another person. In times of election I may not like a candidate, but does that give me a right to make hateful comments? No!!!! I can comment on their political beliefs and what has been spoken, but there is no room in this world for hateful comments. We are all humans, prone to mistakes, but are we really deserving of verbal abuse from another?!
******************************************************
Ok! I am done, you may now turn your head back and believe I wrote of chirping blue birds, summer picnics in the park, chattering chipmunks and a smiling sun and happy happy thoughts!!! Have a great day all!!!
Friday, October 10, 2008
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Seriously, there is sooo much to be thankful for!!!
No, there has been no offers yet on the business, but we took a few steps to keep going. We are clearancing all clothing at our store. honestly, it is sitting there gathering dust so we opted to start clearancing out the clothing in order to use the money to keep going and bulk up on the items that do sell quickly. It has been crazy. I am exhausted by the end of the day and I am just ready to dive into bed. I was so thankful that Corinna threw some beef enchiladas together and in the oven for us yesterday. Today was even more hectic as we sold a ton of items and so it was really a great thing. I also had a great conversation with a gentleman that is caught up with the idea of buying the place. We talked for a bit and he bounced some of his ideas off of me and honestly I thought they were great. He understood when i explained why we would not bend when it came to the price, but he also was happy that negotiations could be done about the inventory. So, we will hopefully hear some good news soon as well as another couple that were looking at buying the place and our agent will check in with them next week. So, hey, I am totally excited, but not too excited as there is nothing signed. I am just excited to hear some talking happening. Also, i am not sure if it was a coincidence, but the wind knocked our sign off and it broke into three pieces...Coincidence or was there a message in it. I laughingly told Don it was our Heavenly Father's way of saying it is sold. I wish!!!!
For those of you who think I have dropped off the "Twilight" radar I can assure you that I so have not!!! I still love Edward. he is a dream guy, however I do admit that I have my own Edward at home and he is fabulous...misguided sometimes, but then again Edward was not perfect either. I know! Blasphemy to some women, but he left girls. So let's not even go there. I am looking forward to the last trailer which comes out tonight. It is going to be great to see a little more. Each little preview I have seen has been great. My favorite thus far has been on the Penelope DVD. Fabulous, it just makes you go weak in the knees!!!
for now, enjoy the movie poster!!!
Oh and here is the palylist for the Twilight movie soundtrack that is released on November 4th:
Muse — Supermassive Black Hole
Paramore — Decode
The Black Ghosts — Full Moon
Linkin Park — Leave Out All The Rest
MuteMath — Spotlight (Twilight Mix)
Perry Farrell — Going All The Way (Into The Twilight)
Collective Soul — Tremble For My Beloved
Paramore — I Caught Myself
Blue Foundation — Eyes On Fire
Rob Pattinson — Never Think
Iron & Wine — Flightless Bird, American Mouth
Carter Burwell — Bella's Lullaby
Did you notice Rob Pattinson is listed. it seems our Edward has many talents!!!
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
If you don't live in California...you may not appreciate this!!
So, we have been as supportive as we can in Proposition 8...changing the state constitution to declare that a marriage is between a man and a woman. I know, you have heard me a gazillion times talking about this and here I am again. Of course, this story involves finding out that Heavenly Father has a great sense of humor in this situation...and that I have done what I could...smiling the entire way!!!
We walked to our first house. I am incredibly terrified talking to people I don't know. So this was set to be a horrible experience for me. As we approached the first door I looked down to find two different women's names on the list of at that address. As the woman answered the door I finally figured out just what that situation was at that house. yes, our first couple we were trying to convince you vote to get rid of gay marriage was none other than a nice lesbian couple. No, I am not kidding. I was friendly when she squinted and declared that she knows all she needs to know for the vote. Well, then!!! We talked to a few other people who had all of the information they needed. Our last gentleman declared that his marriage was not going to be endangered if gays could marry. He totally missed the point of the proposition, but he just wanted an argument. There's no point in arguing with grumpy people!!!! Anyway, I am due to go back out and finish my assigned route. I figure it can't be as bad as tonight!!! Smile, it was funny, at least we thought so.
We walked to our first house. I am incredibly terrified talking to people I don't know. So this was set to be a horrible experience for me. As we approached the first door I looked down to find two different women's names on the list of at that address. As the woman answered the door I finally figured out just what that situation was at that house. yes, our first couple we were trying to convince you vote to get rid of gay marriage was none other than a nice lesbian couple. No, I am not kidding. I was friendly when she squinted and declared that she knows all she needs to know for the vote. Well, then!!! We talked to a few other people who had all of the information they needed. Our last gentleman declared that his marriage was not going to be endangered if gays could marry. He totally missed the point of the proposition, but he just wanted an argument. There's no point in arguing with grumpy people!!!! Anyway, I am due to go back out and finish my assigned route. I figure it can't be as bad as tonight!!! Smile, it was funny, at least we thought so.
A little trip...
I know it may sound "Corny" to some of you, but every year once we hit the first Monday in October we head to the pumpkin patch!!! I tis really a fun place that has more and more fun stuff every year!!!
We hit the train ride!
The hay ride!!
We did the pumpkin blasters, but we had too much fun that I forgot to take pictures!!!
Then we headed over to do some mining. I had so much fun with a large nugget of Pyrite (fool's gold) that I kept yelling: "I'm rich! I'm rich!!! I've got gold!!!!" The kids were laughing.
They laughed at me, so I sent them to jail!!!
We saw tons of pumpkins!!! And even wrangled a few ducklings. Although, we were too busy trying to help catch them to get pictures.
We wandered through the 25 acre corn maze where each of the kids took turns at trying to get us lost. Don't worry, Super Mom, who coincidently gets lost in a paper bag, has apprently developed the super power of always being able to find her way through large conrmazes without much trouble. I saved the day!!!!
I also watched the fam do some racing....
No, not in THAT car, but these.Look how fast she was going!!!
I
t was a fun night when I needed to wrangle my critters and get them to home in time for bed...Now that they are tracking back on at school. Yay me!!!! It wasn't long before we headed back home!
!! What a fun night!!!
Monday, October 6, 2008
My favorite days of the year...
Yesterday was one of my favorite days of the year. Not only do we get to watch a broadcast of general conference and hear wiser men and women than myself...I know hard to believe..., but we traditionally keep it as a lay in bed and enjoy the words and music of our church leaders kind of day. It really felt good. Today will definitely be different, I have to get out of bed and get dressed. Not to mention the fact that I have been awake since 6am. Ugh!!! Today was my last chance to sleep in for a very long time. The kids are back in school tomorrow. Yay me!!!! Now our food bill will go down and we can get back into the swing of school, homework and all of that great stuff. My head aches just thinking about it all.
Today will be a fairly busy day for us...in a slow paced, day off kind of way. I am cleaning the kitchen this morning and then I have a church meeting at noon. Afterwards we will head off on an adventure the kids have not figured out yet. I'd love to post what it is, but I would hate for them to figure it out so easily. I'll post pictures tomorrow!!!
Today will be a fairly busy day for us...in a slow paced, day off kind of way. I am cleaning the kitchen this morning and then I have a church meeting at noon. Afterwards we will head off on an adventure the kids have not figured out yet. I'd love to post what it is, but I would hate for them to figure it out so easily. I'll post pictures tomorrow!!!
Saturday, October 4, 2008
A watched pot never boils...
That is the old addage that is guiding my life. I am trying so hard not to think about moving, but I can't help but wanting to look at houses and such and thinking about the upcoming move. Am i planning exactly what I am going to get and do? No, although I am currently taking in the Pottery Barn catalog and I love the fact that my hubby really likes what is in thee!!! YAY me!!!!! It is also hard not to concentrate on the place selling when every customer feels the need to ask us how it is going. Frustrating to say the least. Today is our busy day and I am sitting alone in the store. Unfortunately, a rainy day is only good for one thing. It has to happen on a weekday while the men are working and find out their work boots have holes in them. For now, it means nobody is buying anything else. We have sold several boots today and for that I am thankful.
*********************************************************************
I am so ready for the weekend. i know what you are saying: Tammy ...it is the weekend. For you maybe, but not for me, yet. We are on the Sunday Monday schedule of days off. We will be busy this week visiting our assigned homes to talk to people about proposition 8, amendment to the state constitution to declare marriage is to be man and woman only, and let our views be known. I am not the type of person who does this and so my anxieties will be at an all time high, but I am fairly good at talking to perfect strangers in the store so i am hoping that I will make it through. Tonight I am heading to the store to pick up the groceries for the weekend and then I will be back at home and ready to hole myself up for the next 24 hours. I am sooo looking forward to hearing from President Monson...I love him. Hubby is already home in bed and not feeling well. I only have two and half hours left and so I am looking forward to locking up in a bit and heading home. Until then I guess i had better get to work on the latest and greatest story. We shall see what happens.
**********************************************************************
For those of you keeping score...today I am thankful for friends...isn't it obvious why?!
**********************************************************************
Oh and here is a little conversation that happened at the store yesterday. This is proof that I am not ALWAYS nice:
man- you know, I came in here about 4 months ago and left my card and nobody called me when my jeans came in.
me- I'm sorry sir. That is probably because we never received a shipment.
man- That's no excuse! You need to take care of your customers if you ever want my business again.
me- I'm sorry sir, However if the company doesn't send me the product then I can't call you and tell you it is in.
man- Well, why don't you go look and see if my pants are there.
me- Sure, what is the size and style.
man- I wanted the gray 38x30...grumble grumble
Me- you know, it looks like someone came and exchanged a pair because there is one right here.
man- grumble.
me- excuse me?
man- you are incompetent
me- what did you say?
man- Why are you selling the store?!
me- well, the economy has taken a dump on us and we aren't surviving. we've got kids to look out for so we are selling.
man- And just where am I supposed to buy my pants now?
SNAP!!!
me taking the pants out of his hands and putting them back on the shelf- to be perfectly honest sir, I could are less where you go and buy your pants now. It is none of your business why we are selling the store and if I am incompetent then why do you still come back?! Why don't you take your business somewhere else!!!
man- picking up the pants and following me to the counter- how much do I owe you?
AAAAARGH!!!!!!
I really am fine and if he wasn't an old man I probably would be sitting in jail right now because i would've have smacked him. All is well though...and yes, I did take his money.
*********************************************************************
I am so ready for the weekend. i know what you are saying: Tammy ...it is the weekend. For you maybe, but not for me, yet. We are on the Sunday Monday schedule of days off. We will be busy this week visiting our assigned homes to talk to people about proposition 8, amendment to the state constitution to declare marriage is to be man and woman only, and let our views be known. I am not the type of person who does this and so my anxieties will be at an all time high, but I am fairly good at talking to perfect strangers in the store so i am hoping that I will make it through. Tonight I am heading to the store to pick up the groceries for the weekend and then I will be back at home and ready to hole myself up for the next 24 hours. I am sooo looking forward to hearing from President Monson...I love him. Hubby is already home in bed and not feeling well. I only have two and half hours left and so I am looking forward to locking up in a bit and heading home. Until then I guess i had better get to work on the latest and greatest story. We shall see what happens.
**********************************************************************
For those of you keeping score...today I am thankful for friends...isn't it obvious why?!
**********************************************************************
Oh and here is a little conversation that happened at the store yesterday. This is proof that I am not ALWAYS nice:
man- you know, I came in here about 4 months ago and left my card and nobody called me when my jeans came in.
me- I'm sorry sir. That is probably because we never received a shipment.
man- That's no excuse! You need to take care of your customers if you ever want my business again.
me- I'm sorry sir, However if the company doesn't send me the product then I can't call you and tell you it is in.
man- Well, why don't you go look and see if my pants are there.
me- Sure, what is the size and style.
man- I wanted the gray 38x30...grumble grumble
Me- you know, it looks like someone came and exchanged a pair because there is one right here.
man- grumble.
me- excuse me?
man- you are incompetent
me- what did you say?
man- Why are you selling the store?!
me- well, the economy has taken a dump on us and we aren't surviving. we've got kids to look out for so we are selling.
man- And just where am I supposed to buy my pants now?
SNAP!!!
me taking the pants out of his hands and putting them back on the shelf- to be perfectly honest sir, I could are less where you go and buy your pants now. It is none of your business why we are selling the store and if I am incompetent then why do you still come back?! Why don't you take your business somewhere else!!!
man- picking up the pants and following me to the counter- how much do I owe you?
AAAAARGH!!!!!!
I really am fine and if he wasn't an old man I probably would be sitting in jail right now because i would've have smacked him. All is well though...and yes, I did take his money.
Friday, October 3, 2008
Today I am grateful for things that stink!!!
Garbage trucks. Oh sure! They roll up to the store making noise and waking me up as they empty the dumpster into the back of the truck, but the garbage disappears every week. The men who wake up early in the morning to pull out and take away all of our waste...for them I am incredibly grateful. I am also grateful for the laughter and jokes having to do with garbage trucks. I will never forget a night where we watched, straight faced, as a group of asian businessmen from across the ocean raised their hands above their head imitating the power of the garbage truck arms as they picked up dumpsters and lifted them to throw the trash in the back of the truck. It was a classic.
**********************************************************************
Skunks- Last night, as I was working on dinner Don ran to kitchen declaring a skunk was in our yard. I asked him where and he gave me the oddest look. "Well, I didn't see him...I just smelled him!!!" I was hoping to poke my camera out the back window and get a picture from a long ways away. Nope!!!! He disappeared as quickly as he had appeared. Why am I thankful for skunks? Because they are cute!!! They stink!!! But they are cute!!!
**********************************************************************
I will add on the one thing all you great Moms are thinking of....Dirty Diapers!!! Why am I thankful for them...because it means my children are here. The children I am responsible for have come to this earth and I am caring for them...also because once they are cleaned up they have the cutest little bottoms in the world!!!
**********************************************************************
Skunks- Last night, as I was working on dinner Don ran to kitchen declaring a skunk was in our yard. I asked him where and he gave me the oddest look. "Well, I didn't see him...I just smelled him!!!" I was hoping to poke my camera out the back window and get a picture from a long ways away. Nope!!!! He disappeared as quickly as he had appeared. Why am I thankful for skunks? Because they are cute!!! They stink!!! But they are cute!!!
**********************************************************************
I will add on the one thing all you great Moms are thinking of....Dirty Diapers!!! Why am I thankful for them...because it means my children are here. The children I am responsible for have come to this earth and I am caring for them...also because once they are cleaned up they have the cutest little bottoms in the world!!!
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Today I am grateful for...
The rain that is coming. I feel it in my joints already and I am so thankful it is coming. Do you know what this means?! It means that I can close my eyes and listen to the tiny drops as they hit the ground. I can smell the long dried earth as it gets a drink for the first time in a long time. I can jump into mud puddles, wiggle my toes. After playing in the rain go inside and get warm with a cup of hot cocoa and a book while snuggling under my snuggliest blankie. Ahhh!!!Life will be good!
A sad read...
In California we are dealing with the same sex marriage issue...again. Several times the people of this state have voted it down telling the government we do not believe in this. Time and time again it comes back. We have it up for vote to amend the state constitution to state quite clearly that marriage is defined as between a man and a woman. I read today a viewpoint of someone that crushed me. They wanted us to stop the hatred towards people that are different. I don't understand where this hatred she talks about comes from. Our Heavenly Father loves each and every one of us that comes to this earth, make no mistake about that. It is our own choices, mine, yours and everyone else's that He is not always thrilled with, but that does not diminish the love he feels for us. Marriage however is a completely different thing. It is a sacred ordinance for a man and woman to unite their lives together. It has been that way since time began. The first marriage of Adam and Eve was ordained of God. There is no straying from that point. Not once in the scriptures have I found that the gay/lesbian lifestyle is ordained of God. I am not trying to offend because believe me I do have some great friends who just so happen to be homosexuals. I have customers that I service at the store who live that lifestyle. Do they deserve less respect than the heterosexual customers..not a chance. However, it is time that I stand up for what I believe in. It is time that I cast my vote for what I believe. I pray that this proposition goes through, if it doesn't then this great country we live in has hit another stumbling block and I fear for what will happen next.
What is the worst thing that can happen when selling a house?
Yup! You've guessed it!!! We found a leak in the wall of our hallway bathroom. Luckily, our neighbor is a handyman and tore out the tiles...so carefully though we were able to reuse them and not spend too much money. Apparently the leak had been going for nearly a year or so. FABULOUS!!!! However, he has fixed it, let it dry out, replaced the tiles, re-grouted and today it will be sealed. Then the handles will be replaced and tomorrow our bathroom is up and running again!!!! I e-mailed our agent to warn him about the bathroom so he didn't schedule anyone to look at the house while we were down for repairs. I am just happy it is almost done!!!!
Today I am grateful for...
Laughter!!!
I do mean this in all seriousness. I am so grateful for the laughter in my life. It helped me last night while at the salon getting my hair cut and my hairdresser said the one phrase you never want to hear her say: "OOOPS!!!" Laughter is my means of dealing with stress, happiness, sadness and just everyday. When hubby and I decided to get married there was a lot of turmoil in our lives as some of the family members were protesting the wedding. On the day of the wedding as we knelt across each other at the altar all the stress, all the pain, all the anger melted away being replaced by laughter. Hubby was so happy he began to giggle. I tried to squeeze his hand, but that made it funnier. The absolute worst part was that someone seated behind attempted to hand him a kleenx assuming that the shaking in his shoulders was from crying. No, my dear hubby was laughing because he was so thrilled. So, laugh a little today...it's instant therapy!!!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)