Kristi's Place

I WILL be thankful in everything, even if it kills me! :)

2009-12-02T11:56:00.002-05:00

My goal is to have a thankful heart. A heart that sees the needs in others and always seeks to reach out. To "Do unto others as you would have others do unto you." To realize that no matter what I am going through, there is someone out there going through something much worse. To get up every day and say, "What can I do for someone else today? How can I be a blessing to someone else?" Why? Because the person who constantly focuses on their own problems and circumstances lives a miserable life without joy. The person who doesn't rejoice when small blessings come will certainly not be grateful for the big ones.

Unfortunately, right now I don't have a lot of money to give others. While I like to be the "giver," lately I seem to be the recipient a lot more often. I am not real thrilled to be on the receiving end. However, that is a bad attitude to have. I want to be a gracious giver and a gracious receiver.

Today I am going to list some things I am thankful for in my life. I want to do that much more often. I want to do it not just on "Thanksgiving Day" but all year. I want to see on paper the good things I have and give God the credit.

I am thankful for this temp job at Wilberforce, even if I don't get to stay here. I have met some neat people and some fledgling friendships have begun. I don't know the reason why I was sent here, but God does and that is enough for me.
I am thankful for the heart to heart talk my daughter and I had the other day. She poured her heart out, and even said how she is so glad she can talk to me. A "bonding" moment with my teenage daughter! Priceless!
I am thankful for the comfortable outfit I have on today. I have cozy socks and shoes that don't hurt my feet...heck even having socks and shoes is a blessing when so many in the poorest parts of the world have nothing to protect their feet!
I am thankful that God kept us safe this weekend when we started sliding on black ice in the van. It happened so fast, but in an instant, the van was back in the lane it should be, and all was well.
I am thankful for Sue, and the many wonderful talks we've had lately. She enriches my life, all the way from across the ocean.
I am so thankful for the birth of my newest nephew, Christian. I can't wait to see him in person and hold him. Children are a gift from God!
I appreciate my friend, Brenda, so much. She is constantly helping me in some way. She makes me laugh. I don't know what I'd do without her.
I am so thankful to be able to see Eric and his family a lot more often. When we get a second vehicle, I know I won't have to miss church as often, and will get to see him more. I am happy that I got to celebrate Eric's birthday with him ON his birthday.
I am thankful that while the van is our only source of transportation at this point, and it IS old, God is keeping it on the road, protecting it...keeping it from wearing out just. He is so good to us.
I am thankful that my family and I have never gone hungry this year though times have been leaner than we've ever seen...and we still have a roof over our heads.

My break is over and I need to get back to work. I hope to write more soon.

Oh, the Adventures of the Unemployed

2009-10-22T18:29:00.003-04:00

Wow, it's been over a year since I have posted here.

Since then, Robert wrecked our Jeep on black ice.....that was just before Christmas last year.

In February, I was laid off from the company I worked for since 1998.

In June, my oldest son graduated from high school.

Of course, those are just one sentence highlights of the biggest events of the year. There have been many daily ups and downs and highs and lows. However, the biggest part of my day is spent praying and doing my best to enjoy this God given life I live.

One big challenge has been ride sharing. The accident last December was a blessing in disguise. Robert was driving, and I was a passenger. We were headed south, hit black ice, crossed lanes and hit the guard rail, coming to a rest headed north. Nothing was coming toward us, and nothing was directly behind us. I hit my head on the passenger side window, but other than a headache, we both walked away unscathed.

I thank God for our lives, because right after the accident, Robert and I were standing between the guard rail (on an overpass) and the Jeep, surveying the damage. Suddenly, another car started spinning out of control, toward us. It stopped just inches away from the Jeep. If it would have hit the Jeep, we would have been pushed over the edge on to the highway below. I am so thankful we are still here.

As the accident was in progress, I was thinking, "Lord, what about the kids? Who is going to be there for the kids?" So I not only walked away, I walked away grateful. The insurance company totaled the Jeep, and the gap coverage (eventually) paid it off. When I was laid off in February, it was nice not to have that payment to worry about.

However, our back up vehicle is a 1997 Astro Van, which we have put more miles on than the poor thing deserves. We used to never drive it, then Josh drove it for a while. All of a sudden, it's become our main source of transportation. We've put idle arms, tie rod ends, a water pump, a fuel pump and a few tires on it this year. We don't like to drive it in the winter, as it's just not real stable in icy conditions....or windy, for that matter.

Most of the time, Robert takes the van to work and I stay home. When I have an appointment or somewhere I need to go, I get up before the crack of dawn and take him to work. Generally, I take my laptop to look up job postings or visit friends/relatives in town, etc. It saves gas to stay nearby versus coming 12 miles back home, then returning to pick him up.

The big hassle with ride sharing is that both teens work. Josh works at the nearby outlet mall, and Jess works in another town, at McDonald's. We seem to be on a constant go~go~go. Inevitably, someone ends up waiting to be picked up. Josh hasn't shown much interest in driving since he wrecked the van in August of 2008....and Jess is saving a little every two weeks for a car. She plans to wait until next August when she is 18 to drive. That way she doesn't have to pay $400 for Driver's Ed.

For Robert and me, we have been unable to save for a second vehicle. Every time we think we are just about there, something comes up. Over the summer, we spent a big hunk of money replacing our water well pump and some hardware. Of course, the van repairs I mentioned keep us on our toes. Every unexpected thing that came up made it so we can't buy that much needed second vehicle. However, I firmly believe that if I am doing what I need to be doing, God will do the rest. It's all in good time and patience.

This year has been an exercise in faith and remaining joyful in all circumstances. I am learning to be content in plenty and in want. I miss working. I miss not being concerned about going to the store and spending $100 on groceries. I miss knowing that I can pay the electric bill and phone bill and mortgage, etc without thinking twice about it. I'm not going to say that any of this has been easy. It's just I know I must open my mouth and thank God for every blessing He provides. I get up every day and thank Him for a new day. I do my best to find someone I can encourage and bless in some way. By doing so, I take the focus off of me, me, me and put my trials in their proper perspective.

Most recently, Robert's insurance went up by $30 a week...it was already $1,000 a month. Then, management changed the employee work schedules from 45 hours a week to 32. We thought we had cut as much as we could. We're now finding new and inventive ways to stretch every penny. We are learning to do much more with a lot less.

In the meantime, I am not sitting back, twiddling my thumbs. I am on just about every job website I can think of, applying for any office job I might remotely qualify for in the area. I've used: monsterjobs.com, craigslist, careerbuilder.com, ohiomeansjobs.com, usajobs.com, daytonhelpwanted.com, indeed.com, etc. I think I have applied for over thirty jobs in October.

I know I have the experience, I know I have the intelligence, I know I have the personality. I just need the opportunity. In the past, God has given me favor with people, and I still serve the same God. I know He will lead me to the exact job I need to have when I need to have it.

I figure I will start updating my blog. If nothing else, it will keep my typing skills sharp. I need to be as sharp as I can be....it's quite an adventure, here in the land of the unemployed. :-)

It Feels Like.....

2008-10-08T08:56:00.002-04:00

I'm coming down with a cold. My allergy pill isn't working, so I'm using my amazing powers of deduction, and it must be a cold. Yuck.

Although, come to think of it, I have been cleaning A LOT, playing catch up from 11 days without power. I have been putting away summer clothes and pulling out winter clothes. Cleaning out cabinets. Washing down knick knacks. Washing sheets, curtains, comforters, etc.

Perhaps it's just put my allergies on overdrive. That could be it. I hope so. I'd rather it be allergies, because allergies don't usually go in to pneumonia or bad bronchitis for me. Allergies can lead to sinus infections: sometimes. Lung ailments: rarely. ~Crosses fingers.~

Nothing too noteworthy going on here. Josh has three more football games left. Then I can breathe a sigh of relief. No more injuries, I hope! Ugh!

Wyn, my oldest (not age wise) friend, is coming in to town this weekend. Tomorrow, actually. She'll be going to the game with us Friday night. That should be fun.

Nothing else major to see here at this point. Hope you're having a good week.

There is Hope on the Horizon!

2008-09-25T15:22:00.004-04:00

There was a crew out yesterday, cutting the tree off the wires.

We have our work cut out for us now.

But not to worry, Sheba will help us!

There is more exciting news! As we speak, the Dayton Power and Light truck is at our house. They are fixing the line. They said it "shouldn't be too hard."

Let's hope the repairman is right!

If all goes as planned, I can clean, do dishes, do laundry, and put our food in a cold fridge! YAY!

There is hope for us yet!

Just When You Think It's Safe To Complain About Your Life....

2008-09-24T12:26:00.007-04:00

Okay, I still don't have power. The tree is still precariously hanging on by the threads that are live power lines.

However, it's been one of the first good days since Ike came storming in and shattered our mindless little existence.

It all started with a little financial windfall that came through for us. A windfall that gave us some room to breathe and our mortgage for September paid.

As we speak, there is a crock pot in the back office, slow cooking a pot roast for our family. There is fresh bread and jars of fruit in the fridge. All of this, courtesy of Brenda.

Then, while I was out picking up some essentials during my lunch hour, my friend, Sandy, called. I have been shopping around for a futon mattress. Sandy's daughter, Beth, gave us the futon frame several months ago. It was our intention for Jess to have the futon in her room and use it as her bed. Jess' room is small, and she liked the idea of having a couch in the day and the bed at night.

Right after we received the futon frame, our finances went haywire. We never have been able to find the extra money in our budget for a new futon mattress. We don't use credit cards...we save for whatever we need, so there are times we have to wait a long while for big ticket items.

Anyway, today Sandy called and asked if we were still looking for a futon mattress. I had Sandy and also my friend Deb, both avid yard sale attenders, on the lookout for mattresses at local sales. I figured Sandy had found one at a good price. However, even better, Sandy's neighbor had one that he was going to throw away because they didn't need it anymore! Woo-hoo! How exciting! Sandy got it and brought it home, and all we have to do is pick it up tonight! Yay!

I got back from lunch and sat down at my desk. Lo and behold, the van from one of our local florist shops pulled up. I looked at my coworker and said, "Your birthday isn't until next month. Hmmm."

The flowers were for me....from Leah. I was so touched! Thank you, Leah. Aren't they pretty?

As if Leah isn't going through enough in her own life right now!

I am sitting here, just dumbfounded about all the blessings I have....the treasures....the people in my life. I am surrounded by so many caring friends that I can no longer feel the hurt that a few angry people tried to inflict.

I have far more to be thankful for than I have to complain about.

My faith is renewed. It's enough to get me through another day.

Homeless but not Houseless, Displaced but not Forgotten

2008-09-23T11:56:00.010-04:00

On Sunday, September 14th, we left the devastation that was our neighborhood and sought refuge in the town where I work. We were relieved to get out without injury. Trees were splintering, splitting, flying, falling, cracking and causing mayhem in every direction. Our (recently wrecked) van incurred a little more body damage, but nothing serious. We were happy to get safely out of the country and in to our closest city which has a lot fewer trees.

Going on ten days later, we still have no power. Since we have well water that also equals no water. Our food was ruined...we have a $500 deductible on our insurance policy, which applies to lost food. So no help there.

We have a massive tree hanging on power lines and partly clinging to another tree. The rest of our village now has power, so those are live power lines. If/when the tree comes down (which it looks more and more like it's going to do) it will crush anything in the vicinity...and the power lines will then be a danger to everyone nearby. Here's some pics to help you visualize the tree situation: (although you can't see the power lines, really.)

The insurance company assures us, despite the circumstance described above, that we cannot file a claim for "loss of use." Why? because the tree didn't fall on the house. Yep. That's the ticket.

Calls to our local power company (Dayton Power and Light) and the local sheriff's office yield nothing but frustration. In fact, I called the sheriff's department last week and told the dispatcher that I was concerned about the tree. I was afraid that if/when it falls and a motorist happens to be driving by, it could injure or kill someone. I told them I was not home because I was not staying at home. I gave them my cel phone number if they had any questions, and told them to be sure to call me. I figured a cone or a roped off area would prevent people from driving on that side of the road, closest to the tree, and that it would keep folks a bit safer in the process.

What did the police do? They sent out a deputy, who parked under the tree for ten minutes and proceeded to knock on our door. For ten minutes. Then he left.

Oh, the brilliance that is our local law enforcement!

For two days here, school was out and that helped. I farmed my kids off in all directions, with relatives who had power, as it is difficult to find anyone who can accommodate a family of five....and anyone who is able to take on such a burden usually has a houseful already.

On Wednesday of last week, school started up again, with a 2 hour delay each day until Friday. Classes were held without power. Robert and I slept on the couch here in the conference room at work. I filled up the gas tank in our Jeep four times last week, running the kids back and forth from various relatives' homes to school.

Oh, and yes: gas. They are jacking up the prices around here because there was a temporary shortage for a few days due to lack of filling stations that had power. So, that's fun.

Things are so disorganized that I have no idea if the kids are getting their homework done, turned in, etc. I don't know if they have everything they need on any given day....book bags, Jo's snare drums for band...Josh's football gear...etc. I don't know whether I'm coming or going.

Last night we stayed with my neighbor (Ruth) who is the step mom of my oldest friend, Wyn. Well, Robert, myself, Jess and Jo stayed. Josh stayed with my across-the-street neighbor, Deb, who has three kids, two who go to school with my crew.

Ruth's home is right around the block from our house. With this temporary arrangement, the kids can catch the bus at their usual stop and I don't have to drive them. That will save us in gas money. We can bring food and put it in Ruth's fridge, and cook at home. This will save us from having to eat out all the time, which was ridiculously expensive- and for a while, only a handful of restaurants were open in our area.

So now I have a daily place to take showers without asking friends in town that have power to take a shower at their place. I can do laundry, without going to the laundromat. I can stop carrying around a bag of toiletries everywhere I go. I can be closer to my animals.

So, to the people that have blessed us so far during this time, I thank you.

I thank you, Sandy, for use of your shower. It was an amazing gift, because I don't cope well if I feel gross.

Deb, thank you for the meal you cooked on the grill even though you didn't have power at that time, either. Thank you for allowing us unlimited access to your outside water spicket so we can keep the toilet flushed and the animals watered. Thank you for letting my kids hang out with your kids as much as needed. I never worry about the kids when they're with you. Thanks for taking pictures of the tree and power lines when I had forgotten that I probably should do that. Thank you for other things like feeding the kids snacks and probably other stuff that I don't know about. Thanks for keeping an eye on the animals and helping out with feeding them on the night I couldn't make it back in to town. I don't know what I would do without you.

I thank you, Tarija, for the use of your shower and for helping with the kids. You are a single mom, but you pitched in and helped without qualm or discussion. I am glad that for a few precious days I didn't have to worry about Jess or Jo at all...as you stepped in and took care of them when I could barely take care of myself.

Brenda, thank you for several home cooked meals, which meant my stomach could stop protesting against one too many fast food meals. Thank you for doing a load of laundry for me two days after the disaster so I could have clean underwear. :) That's friendship.

Thank you, Ruth, for offering your help as soon as your power came back on. Despite the fact that you just had cataract surgery, you did not hesitate to open your home. I always felt like your home was my second home growing up. Now I feel like it's my safe haven until things return to normal. The fact that I could take a hot bath and actually shave my legs restored my sanity just a bit. Having a few days' worth of clean clothes in a neat little pile in your laundry room is a huge relief.

Okay, so those are the "thank you" sentiments I wanted to share.

Here's the angst:

Thank you, little village, for all of your gossip during this time.

Thank you for saying "It must be 'our fault' that the power is out."

Thank you, you caring woman, for laughing out loud with your windows down in your truck when you saw the tree on the lines. That was classy.

Thank you for getting the rumor mill going that we left the house and hadn't been taking care of our pets in our absence. OKAY...what were we doing there EVERY NIGHT SAVE ONE after the storm? Why did Deb's kids come over with a bags of food and jugs of water on that night? Why was our Jeep parked in the side yard? Why were we carrying in jug after jug of water for the last ten days? HMMM? Why haven't the animals died of malnutrition or lack of water?

Oh, I like the rumor that "DP&L isn't doing anything about the tree because they must not have paid their bill." Okay. I see. I guess we go to work EVERY BLESSED DAY FOR the fun of it. Not to pay our bills. Yeah. In the three years we've lived in that house, we've NEVER ONCE had a disconnect. But we chose this month not to pay our bill? Sure sounds logical to me, "neighbors."

Thank you, Josh's crazy ex girlfriend, for deciding to get your new (skinhead) boyfriend and his friends to come after Josh last week in school. Thank you for making me take 2 hours of my day to speak with the principal and try to get some protection for my son....the son who just had five stitches from a football injury last week.....the son whose eye is so bloody already that he can barely see out of it. Thank you for that.

Thank you, stupid boys, for making my husband leave work and run up the school to chauffeur Josh home so your gang of thugs wouldn't harm Josh before the football game. Thank you for making us walk around at the festival with Josh this past Saturday, because we didn't know when you were going to pounce again, and we weren't going to let it happen on our watch.

And thank you, simple minded principal, who despite all those facts, only suspended those violent boys for one half a day. Even though those boys shoved even you when you tried to intervene in the ruckus.....even though Josh produced threatening text messages he received with the "N" word used repeatedly, along with threats of violence. Thank you for your lack of sensitivity and common sense.

Perhaps you can tell I have a little anger about all of this. Right now I am wavering. I am pondering. I am so unsure of my next move. I have so little faith left. I don't know if I even want to remain in the town that I once thought of as a quiet little rural oasis. I don't want to make any decisions at all until I am not so emotional.

I can't be expected to make any decision right now. It's been too hellish a month.

Did I already mention:

Josh got his driver's license in August. He wrecked our van three weeks later. It was $700+ plus to fix, (rear axle) and $150 for tows. Josh appeared in juvenile court this past Friday for "failure to yield." That was $100. In August, Jess turned sixteen. There was money to have her little get together. Birthday money to dispense, which is a conservative, but standard amount we give the teens for their birthdays.

School started in August. There was money to get school clothes, shoes and supplies for all three. August is always a tight squeeze for us. Then I had an unexpected $900 bill for a snafu on my taxes from 2006.

Joy, joy and more joy! Despite my best efforts, we have finally joined many of our fellow Americans in being behind on our mortgage payment. We're working on getting behind on other bills, too. I have applications in all over the place for a second job. No takers so far.

I am at the point of not knowing for sure which way to turn. I feel numb. I don't know what to do from one day to the next. I don't have any certainty or even any sort of plan.

I think I just laid it all out here on the table, in part, because I have to say this stuff out loud, to someone. Part of it is just venting, as I do from time to time. Part of it is that I'm simply taking inventory.

You know, there are millions of people that have it worse in the world. There are hurting people everywhere...some close to me...some I don't know. Lately I have noticed that it seems like death and carnage and depression and hardship seem to be multiplying. I think other people have noticed it, too. Life seems to be getting progressively harder for people to cope with. Myself included.

I'm done with this post. I've rambled my ramble and griped my gripe. I've said my piece and thanked my peeps.

Thank you for going along for the ride.

"The Price is Right" Analogy

2008-09-12T09:10:00.003-04:00

Robert's grandmother, Grandma Margaret, used to watch "The Price is Right" faithfully. Daily. She would also babysit our kids on occasion before they were school age. I knew that Grandma Margarent watched "The Price is Right" because once when Jess was playing dolls she had the one doll ask the other, "Gentleman, do I have three numbers right?" I will never forget that incident, because it was so cute.

I've probably only seen the show "The Price is Right" ten times in my whole life. However, right now I feel kind of like comparing myself to one of the games that I recall from watching it. I don't know the specific name of it, but it involves a little yodeling guy on a mountain. The object is to guess the name of the product correctly. For every dollar the contestant is off, the yodeling guy moves one notch up the mountain.

I am that yodeling guy. And some hapless contestant has just guessed $500 for a pack of gum. I feel as though I am going to yodel right off the mountain into the audience somewhere. They will find me, yodeling about the countryside, permanently off track and out of the game. :)

Stress...we all have it. Is my stress any worse than the next persons?

Probably not.

I have friends going through stuff right now that I can't even begin to imagine coping with.

I'm just tired.

Tired, tired, tired.

Emotionally. Physically. Spiritually. Financially.

Sigh.

I'm here, although I haven't felt like writing or posting or talking. I haven't checked in here since June.

So I'm checking in.

I'll be okay. I always am.

Besides, how depressed can a mountain climbing, yodeling game show figure really be?

Hope this post finds your life on the right track. :)

To Do List

2008-06-25T09:38:00.004-04:00

Has anyone noticed that when a person goes away on a trip, there is lots to do? Not to mention that part of the mission of my trip to Georgia is to transport some items to my uncle that my grandmother requested that he receive after her passing. It's been over three years since she passed, and I still haven't taken them down. Why, you may ask? Why would I take so long?

Because some of the items can't be flown, shipped or taken by bus. No, they aren't bombs, just WW II relics that can be considered weapons...though they are family heirlooms of sorts.

Sigh. Anyway, I've had to locate and pull those items out of storage....and now I have the following list to work on, which seems to keep growing:

Get Jeep washed
Get laundry caught up, which I've been working on this week
Wash the cooler that has been in storage
Pack gifts that I have for my little cousin Jesse, as well as Uncle Ron and Aunt Pat
Pay this week's and next week's bills prior to leaving
Pick up a box of contact lenses
Make sure animals have adequate food so Robert doesn't have to go to the store and pick any up while I am away.
Clean litter box, guinea pig cages
Check Jeep fluids, tire pressure, etc.
Pack camera tripod
Buy extra ice
Jess needs a hair cut
Return library book
Buy snacks for trip
Pack lunch for trip down

I know I am forgetting something....sigh. It's all good, though. I like having these kind of to-do lists. It makes me feel like I'm accomplishing something as I await the trip ahead.

Before I close, I want to say that I am an inconsiderate boob :) for not mentioning the lovely visit that I had with Marilyn, April and Sarah last week. We met up at BW3s and had dinner...it was far too short a visit, but long overdue. April, when was the last time we got together? It's been months! Anyway, in my last post I was listing all these great times I've had of late, hanging out and catching up with friends. Yet I completely left that tidbit of information out. April reads my blog, so I know she was wondering what the issue was. :) Sorry, April! Too much on my mind!

So, for an April shout out: Have a good trip to PA, and I enjoyed seeing you all! Let's do it again real soon!

Also, to Sheila, in case she EVER reads this blog....Can't wait to see you on the 12th! Miss you!

In other news, I'm still working out faithfully...at least 3 times a week, often 4. I am up to four miles...or I do shorter mileage with a faster pace...a.k.a....jogging. I also do strength/resistance training. Today I did thigh/arm and ab work in addition to a one mile jog. I am feeling great! After my initial 20 lb loss, I'm not dropping weight quickly, but I am reshaping, firming, toning. My clothes fit better. I feel better. I am motivated. YAY! Now if the scale would only move down a few more pounds...LOL!

Okay, that's it for now! Duty calls!

Georgia on My Mind

2008-06-24T10:03:00.009-04:00

Yay! Jess and I are to leave for Georgia on Saturday morning to visit my Uncle Ron and Aunt Pat. They live about 1 hour north of Atlanta. This will be my third trip to visit them. This will be my first trip driving there myself. I can't wait! I am requesting prayer for a safe and uneventful trip there and back...as well as smooth sailing all week leading up to our departure.

Sometimes the travel gremlins like to come in and spoil plans we have to go places. I am praying that no travel gremlins prevail this time. I NEED some time away! :) Jess and I also need some mother/daughter bonding time. She'll be 16 in August. How many more of these little get togethers will we have the opportunity for before she becomes an adult? Sigh.

I really feel like this trip is "meant to be." One day a few weeks ago, I sat down to calculate what I would need for gas and such. When I did that, I came up with between $250-$300. That same day I did my calculations, I saw my name in the paper for unclaimed funds. I would never have known I was in there (who has time to read the paper?) but a coworker of mine saw his friend's name and asked me to look up his friend's information. Right underneath his friend's name, was my name, my old address!

I went to the directed website, and it said I had over $100 in unclaimed funds. Guess how much? $275! Yay! How exciting! I won't see those funds for awhile, but I can go on my trip-guilt free-knowing God has provided my funds in such a way that it doesn't dip in to my budget! Eventually the gas money I have to use will be replenished when my unclaimed funds check arrives! Double yay!

What's new in your lives? I hope this post finds all my blogger peeps blessed beyond measure!

The friend I have known the longest...Wyn....33 years of friendship and running now...was in town back in May. It was so much fun! She came in on Memorial Day weekend and we spent some quality time hanging out....catching up, etc. We also spent some time with our friend, Tracy, who has 1-year- old twin boys. Those babies are gorgeous...and growing like weeds. They just don't stay little long!

Also, in April, a dear friend of mine from elementary school got married. I felt so privileged to be able to attend. Josiah and Jess went with me. It was a lovely outdoor wedding. Tricia looked radiant and very happy...she and Jeff have dated for years, and they seem very well suited for one another.

Last week I got to see friends Sandy and Beth at the June crop. We had a great time, though Beth had to skip out early for other plans. When I don't see Sandy for awhile, I feel it. She and I are a lot alike. She boosts my spirits and I know she understands my ups and downs where being a mom is concerned.

Beth and I got to hang out a bit when I invited her along to a Dayton Dragon's baseball game a few weeks ago. I wanted to take Jo and his cousin, but I had four tickets and Robert had to take Josh to driver's ed. Beth- who has such a fun loving spirit- agreed to tag along. We all had such a good time!

I missed out on Sandy's May crop due to Josh having driving school. Driving school is over, now he just has to complete his four scheduled drives with the instructor. How scary! :) I'm so glad he's 17 1/4....and still not a licensed driver. I'm sure my insurance rates are glad, too.

Jess is now talking about wanting her permit. YIKES! Anyone know of any industrial strength hair dye to cover the grays I'm going to be developing SOON? I'm thinking of wrapping the cars in bubble wrap and wearing a helmet while I teach them to drive. Maybe even some knee pads, body armor.....installing an i.v. drip of Pepto Bismol...haha.

Oh yes....did I mention that Robert got a promotion? He's in one of the highest paying positions at the foundry where he works now. It involves a gradual pay increase on a specific scale...but he's already $1 an hour up! What a blessing!

Also, did I mention that both Josh and Jess got multiple academic awards for the last semester of the school year? Jess got "Most Improved Student" and "Most Artistic" for her class. Her artwork won multiple awards this year and represented her school in shows across our area of Ohio. She is really gifted. She gets this from Robert and Robert's side of the family. I am amazed at her talent and way of seeing things with such an artistic eye.

Josh...he was student of the month for May...and was in the paper for the third time this school year. Once was for a Veteran's day project, once for basketball, and then for student of the month. He was also awarded "Renaissance" for the last semester...the criteria being: 1. No unexcused absences or tardies 2. No disciplinary action 3. All A's and B's.

I am so proud of my kids' improvement!

Josiah is growing like crazy! He is startlingly close to 5' tall now. He's just about Jess' height. It seems so strange and sudden, because the growth came out of nowhere. Robert's brother's son, Fred Jr., is spending a great deal of his summer with us, and Josiah is loving that! They have such a cool bond as cousins...both born in November of 1997. They are more like twins! :)

Okay, I've got to get to work, so before I go:

Just some specific shout outs:

Denise with your upcoming surgery...you are in my prayers.

Holli, it was great to see you at your shower! You're so pretty and glow-y! :) You and little Teegan are in my prayers! She's going to hang out in your belly for a while longer...I know it.

Pat, hang in there, my friend. The peace that has alluded you will soon settle upon you. I can feel it.

Pam, thinking of you and that new baby. I wish I could be there to hold her! Please let me know if you got my package. I have been a bit concerned...I don't trust the post office with my whole heart. :)

Leah, if you still read this, know that you amaze me! You're beautiful and strong! Hang tough!

Beth, text me and let me know how things are going. You know I love updates on what's new.

That's all I can think of for now. I will leave you with this awesome picture that Wyn took of our kitten, Keebah, while she was here. Yes, yes, we finally decided on a name for that little ball of energy. Keebah it is. The name...like Tiga's...came from a Japanese cartoon show that Robert and the kids watch. Why settle for mediocrity where pet names are concerned? :)

I LOVE this shot of Keebah...taken clear across our yard. Keebah is allowed on the back concrete pad, just outside the back door. Wyn got this pic with little effort. SIGH. I simply MUST have one of those SLR digital cameras with the lens that can zoom across country. It's making me have camera envy. Up until this picture, I was totally content with my Kodak 8.1 megapixel point and shoot. Sigh. :)

That's all for now! To my American friends: have a blessed 4th of July if I don't post again by then! God's richest blessings to you and yours!

Congratulations, Pam!

2008-05-29T09:33:00.002-04:00

Congratulations to my blogger friend, Pam, on the birth of her baby girl!

I am so happy for you, Pam! She's gorgeous, just like her mommy!

A New Love in My Life

2008-05-06T08:12:00.006-04:00

I went to pick Jess up from her friend's house after a visit to the family's farm. I came back with more than just Jess.

I came back with a cute little girl, which I intended to name "Diva," but so far all we call her is "Kitty." She's sweet and spunky. However, she is still not friends with Sheba. Sheba's trying.

Even our boxer, Maggie, is awkwardly trying to reach out in her own bumbling dog way. So far, both are simply rewarded with spitting and hissing and puffing up. Eventually, I'm sure, Miss Diva...or Kitty... or whatever...will have to come to terms with them and make new friends.

Until then, Jess, Jo and I are her favorite "peeps." Ahhh....baby kittens....so much cute packed into a tiny little ball of ornery. Life is good.

Any Master Gardeners in the House?

2008-04-25T09:24:00.006-04:00

I have some beautiful flowering trees in my yard that my grandmother planted years ago. There are a few trees that I know what they are. There is one that I know is an apple tree, but I don't know what kind. Although it produces little green apples. (Granny Smith, perhaps?) There are one or two trees that I am positive about. Those are the bing cherry and peach trees.

The funny story about the peach tree is this:

When I was little, we had three peach trees in the center of the yard, bordering our garden. My brother, Eric, and I used to throw the peach seeds, pits, whatever you call them, at one another. My grandparents would fuss, saying, "Don't you do that! We'll have peach trees growing up in the middle of the yard one day!" We'd laugh and as soon as their backs were turned, we'd be at it again.

Eventually, the peach trees began to do poorly and had to be taken down.

About ten years ago, my grandmother stopped putting out a garden, due to failing health. After she passed, a little tree sprouted right in the middle of the yard where the garden used to be.

Out of curiosity, and since it wasn't in the way, I let the tree grow.

Guess what? It grew to be a lovely peach tree! It gives off some wonderful fruit!

Was that Grandma's way of saying, "I told you not to throw peach seeds at your brother!?" :)

Or was it her way of saying, "I'm still with you, and I still have a sense of humor?" Who can say? :)

Here is one of the blossoms from that peach tree:

In retrospect, I wish I had inquired of Grandma while she was living as to what these trees are. However, the acre is filled with trees, and unless I wrote everything down, I wouldn't trust my memory, anyway.

If I can't get any answers here, I'm going to consult a friend of mine who is a master gardener. From there, I guess internet research is my best guess.

Please feel free to comment and tell me if you have a clue what these trees might be:

This one is brilliant with color, and some of the blossoms grow directly out of the bark, as shown here:

Another view of same tree:

This is a shrub of some sort. It is nestled amongst pine trees in a shady part of our yard. It seems to be thriving, though there is virtually no sunlight in this portion of the property. I think these photos are going to look lovely in my scrapbook at some point!

This is the apple tree blossom. This tree produces little greenish yellow apples. I'm not sure exactly what kind of apple tree it is.

This tree is also in a very shady part of the yard. I have no clue as to what it is, but I don't believe it bears any fruit.

This tree has blossoms that are so muted in color that you have to get up really close to notice them at all. Also not a fruit bearing tree to my knowledge.

I also don't know what this tree is, but it looks suspiciously like the apple tree blossoms shown above. It's just that it has never produced fruit of any kind. It is in a very sunny part of the yard.

That's it for now. You may not be able to help me indentify these trees....but at the very least you got a peak at the spring colors I'm enjoying in my yard this month!

Have yourself a great weekend!

Lately

2008-04-23T08:35:00.005-04:00

Lately I've been asking myself why I even keep this blog if I can't be bothered to post but once every other month, if that.

I know the reason is simple: there are some of my blogger peeps that I don't have contact with any other way.

They are important to me, and I cherish having them in my life. I love going to their blogs and keeping up with their lives. I love hearing about their joys and triumphs. I like dropping an occasional comment as time and internet connection permits.

So I'm keeping this blog, and I'm going to update it a bit more often. Once a week? That's a goal I can achieve, I'm sure.

So don't give up on me yet, my friends! :)

There is a lot of stress in my life right now. Particularly involving my teenagers. Stress and heartache and dissapointment.

This, too, shall pass. One day I hope to have three well adjusted, happy, fulfilled, selfless, spiritually in touch, emotionally sound children.

Until then, I'm just taking each day as it comes and I'm thankful for the good stuff that's happening in my life.

After all, neither one of them are felons. They are in good health. They aren't expelled from school nor are they failing in any classes. They aren't skipping school and they are not going to be parents any time soon. Yes, they have crappy attitudes, and it's like pulling eye teeth to get them to help around the house. I guess crappy attitudes and teenagers often go hand in hand. So, I'm doing my best to be patient. Sigh.

I've been thinking I have a lot to look forward to in my life right now. That keeps me going.

SOOOOO......

What do I have to look forward to?

With that tax rebate check that's on the way I'm planning on getting a new couch and chair for my living room. Woo-hoo! (God willing.) I've had new...(I'm not counting gently used furniture)...furniture once in my 17 years of married life and it was cheap so it only lasted a few years. So I'm excited!
I got some free stuff from Creative Memories for having excellent sales last month. The box is to be delivered today. I love it!
It's Spring! I look forward to having some sunshine each night when I leave work. I may actually get out of my winter funk!
Jess and Jo just got their spring pics taken for school and they are always great pics! I'm looking forward to seeing them soon.
I ordered some stuff for myself through a mail order catalog to include: a new sewing kit, that fancy new craft light cutter for scrapbooking and some organizers for the home. I haven't purchased anything through mail order in a long time. It's fun waiting for that.
I'm going to church again, and I truly look forward to it. The church I'm going to is about ten minutes away, in a little town that neighbors ours. The pastor, Rex, is a man I've known for 14 years. He was (and still is) the chaplain at our area YMCA, and I used to work there. A few years ago he was preaching at the church I grew up in, but the attendance has been so poor, they reassigned him. The atmosphere at this neighboring church is amazing. There is such a friendly, welcoming feeling there. It's uplifting. I'm looking forward to getting up each and every Sunday. There is about 50-60 people that attend, and they go out of their way to welcome guests. There is a 1/2 hour time to share what's going on in folks' lives and time to pray for the concerns of others. Jo and I started going on Easter, and since then, Jess and Josh have started going. It looks like Josh is going to get involved with the church basketball league, which I think will be a good step in his life.
I am thinking in May I might get to meet my blogger friend, Denise. Nothing is set in stone as far as a date, but I am keeping my eye on the calendar and our budget for an opportune date. ~Crosses fingers.~
One of my friends from back in elementary school is getting married Saturday. Yay Trish! It's going to be an informal outdoor wedding. I haven't seen Trish since 2006, so I'm looking forward to it.

My brain isn't allowing me to think too much more at this point. I know there is a lot more good stuff going on in my life, but alas, work calls.

Blessings to you and your family! Thanks for checking in with me!

March Madness

2008-03-27T08:56:00.007-04:00

That title was simply an attention grabber.

I really need an attention grabber, because I never blog anymore, and I'm sure folks are tired of coming over here, just to see that I'm still being a slacker/slogger. I just can't seem to get motivated to say anything blogworthy on a regular basis anymore.

I mean, life is good. We had a nice Easter. As usual, we have our up ups and down downs, and then our uneventful days, which make up the bulk of our existence. We work, we come home, try to keep the house in order, pay bills, get up and start all over again.

I've started an actual journal at home. I used to keep one religiously, but when I started blogging, I all but gave it up. I don't know, there's just something comforting about taking a pen in hand and writing my thoughts down. Seeing my own handwriting makes me feel like my words are flowing from my soul, not my brain...if that makes sense.

Josh turned 17 years old yesterday. He came to work with me on the day before his birthday. He snoozed in the conference room on the couch and then walked to town to visit with a cousin. My job is less than a mile from anywhere in town, so he didn't have far to go. For some reason, when I was watching him walk down hill, away from my job, I got the worst pain in my heart....such a deep sadness. So often I distance myself from Josh emotionally, because I can't take the hurt. He can be so unpredictable, that it doesn't benefit me to let myself become complacent, expecting smooth sailing from him. Yet that day I saw his lone figure moving away from me, and I was engulfed in emotion.

So soon he'll be his own man, and the little bit of say so I have in his life will be null and void. That's such a scary prospect for me. He's talking about colleges...pros and cons...financing options...SATS....campus visits....oh man. Wasn't I just changing this boy's diaper? I can't be old enough to have a son that will graduate next year! Can I? Wasn't I just graduating myself?

Josh has finally had the time to concentrate on driving. Robert and I both are taking him out to practice pretty regularly now. For some reason, at this point, Josh seems to be more confident behind the wheel when I'm the one in the passenger seat. I try hard to be calm and reassuring, even though I am somewhat nervous inside as he maneuvers the roadways. He says that I seem totally at ease. Perhaps I should pursue a career in acting! :) Next month, Josh starts driver's ed, so that should be helpful. In the interim, pray for us! :) And send all your extra helmets and bubble wrap! tee hee.

Anyway, when I was watching Josh walk down the hill, away from me, what was I to do but let him know I cared? I grabbed my cel phone and sent him a text message...."I love you, Josh." I got a message back, "ILU2." Good enough for me. :) Technology is our friend.

Today Jo is with me at work, snoozing away in the conference room. There's something about having him nearby that is comforting right now. Maybe it's that I know that Jo has another 8 years of being at home. Maybe that it's because Josiah is always the same kid...unchanging and kind. He seldom gets in a bad mood, and he's always affectionate and compassionate. I so hope that his rapidly approaching teenage years don't diminish his kindness. That would be heartbreaking in and of itself.

We haven't seen much of Jess since spring break started. She's been staying with Robert's sister since last Friday. She wasn't even home for Easter...she went to church with Robert's family and spent the day there. She sent me pictures from her cel phone so I could see what she looked like in her Easter outfit. She'll be sixteen in August, and she, too, is exerting her independence more and more.

I'm so thankful that winter is almost at its end. Winter is a difficult time for me. The bleak, sunless weather brings me down. I think what has helped me this year is my fitness program.

I've been working out 3-5 times a week, between 1/2 hour and an hour per workout. I'm using my walk at home dvds, which I have about 20 of, and the "walk boosters," which include weights, stretchy bands, among other Leslie Sansone walk enhancers. Right now I'm at 20 lbs down. My energy is better, I've not had a cold or asthmatic episode in MONTHS, (knock on wood) my mood is usually positive, and I'm sure that I'm at least one clothing size down.

For now, I'm putting on a belt and just wearing baggy clothes. I don't want to go out and buy new stuff, as I want to lose between 20 and 30 more pounds, and I don't want to have to keep buying new sizes. For me, the most important thing is HABIT. HABIT, HABIT, HABIT. When people ask me what I'm doing to lose weight, it's all about habit for me.

I gained the weight by falling into the bad habit of eating poorly and not being active. I'm losing it, gradually, by replacing those habits with healthier ones. This HABIT can't ever change, or the results will be unhealthy. The weight will come back, my health will decline, and the fitness benefits will disappear.

I'm not looking at my life the same way anymore. I'm not looking to "reward myself" for a certain number of pounds lost. The reward is a healthier life, fewer trips to the doctor, fewer medications to take in the future, and the ability to do more than I ever have.

I think the biggest change I've noticed is not in the scale or in the mirror. It's in my life.

I was shopping with Jess at her favorite outlet mall clothing store about a month ago. She takes the phrase, "Shop 'Til you Drop" to a whole new level.

So, I had been walking around the mall, then holding Jess' stuff, and walking even more, helping her pick some outfits for several hours. After about the first hour, she said, "Mom...are you tired? Do you need to sit down?" I thought about it. "Nope. I'm good." An hour later. "Mom, you probably need to sit down. I'm probably wearing you out, huh?" The answer was still "I'm fine."

And I was fine. I was so thrilled about that. My stamina is so much better than it was. That is a reward to beat all rewards.

In other excitement, I got a Cricut machine. I love it! I've been making some fun stuff with it. I'm making personalized gift tags for birthdays and special occasions....as well as some cool and very easy scrapbook pages. What's cool is that it works with my Creative Memories paper, which I consider a quality product. I know what to ask for from Robert when he wants to know what I want for Mother's Day or my birthday. Cricut cartridges!!!! At $60 per cartridge, I won't be buying those on a weekly basis, but if I ask for them for holidays and birthdays, I'll eventually have quite a library of fun stuff to create. It's a neat invention.

Work is going well. I took the initiative and spoke to my head boss about some issues that had been detrimental to my finances and the way I feel about my job. In August, I will have been with this company ten years. I had just about lost confidence in my future here. The talk went better than I had expected, and I have renewed faith in my job. I've now salaried, though for years I resisted such a move. This change has afforded me more free time, as I now work 40 hours a week, while making more than my former hourly wage at 45 hours a week. It was validating to have my concerns met with such a positive response.

So, finances are looking up, although like everyone, the gas prices aren't a big help. Robert and I are still ride sharing every day in order to avoid having to put gas in two vehicles. Working in the same town...less than a mile apart...is one job perk we have. We drive a van and a Jeep....both are gas hogs. When finances permit, we plan on buying a smaller car. While we need a vehicle with lots of leg room...we don't have small children anymore....if Robert and I can get a small car to drive back and forth to work in, that will save a great deal in fuel expense.

Things are really busy at the foundry where Robert works. He has been working about 20 hours overtime per week for the last two months. That certainly contributes to getting things caught up in our once depressing budget. We don't know how long the overtime will last, but we're doing our best to get ahead in the interim.

I think that is all news that is news right now. I'll be stopping by your blog to see what's going on in your life soon...if I haven't already. In the meantime, blogger friends, SIGN UP FOR A FACEBOOK ACCOUNT, AND LOOK ME UP! (If you're not already one of my facebook pals.) I am on that site more than any other...and it's a great way to stay in touch. It doesn't take a lot of time to communicate and keep one another posted there. Plus with the privacy settings, I feel so much better about posting pictures there. I have 20+ albums with recent pics in them...and only my facebook friends can see them! Once you get over there, you'll see why I have such a hard time keeping up a blog....that site is addicting!

Okay, I'm done rambling. I guess I needed to post a loquacious update. I owe my blogger peeps that.

Until next time, love and many hugs!

Remember that Cool Contest I told you about in February?

2008-03-13T13:58:00.002-04:00

You know, the cool foster/adoptive mom with the cool blog who was giving away the cool Ipod?

Guess what?

The winner didn't ever get back with her to claim it!

So his/her loss is our gain! The contest is back on!

You can check it out here: http://baggageandbug.com/2008/03/12/ipod-nano-giveaway-take-two/

Good luck!

My Early Valentine's Day Gifts....

2008-02-12T15:18:00.000-05:00

You know I love Build-A-Bear.

Saturday, I went to a fancy dinner with my friend, Sandy, and a friend of hers. We had a great time.

Robert picked me up after we got back.

Sitting in the front seat of our Jeep were these cute bears:

Aren't they adorable? And guess who they're supposed to be?

He DOES have a sense of humor! ;)

There's This Really Cool Lady With a Really Cool Blog......

2008-02-12T15:11:00.000-05:00

-Who is having a really cool contest....look!

http://baggageandbug.com/2008/02/11/want-a-free-ipod/

I am a frequent reader of this blog, and an occasional commenter.

Baggage an amazing woman, foster mom, adoptive mom (and since I was adopted myself, I totally respect that particular attribute), veteran, bride-to-be, blogger/writer, etc. Check out her site and possibly win a cool prize along the way.

I'm going to add her blog to my blog link on my side bar...if I ever stop being a blog slacker.

Anyway, go on over there....you'll thank me later! ;)

Where Am I?

2008-01-23T09:13:00.000-05:00

I am at a reflective place in my life. I am feeling better and trying to get some of my priorities in order. I'm at a place where I know my life can't go on as it has, so revisions have to be made. There is stress and worry and issues that sap my energy. We all have difficult challenges to face...in one way or another. For some it might be money issues. For others, relationship issues. Maybe it's job security or emotional upheaval or health concerns. Or all of the above.

I think many people take inventory of their lives at the dawn of a new year. That can be good.

No, I don't do resolutions. They don't stick. I think I do evaluations.

In many ways, there is abundance in my life. Some lacking, much abundance.

Over and over I've seen people in my life pray for blessings and talk about how they wish something specific would happen. And then when the good thing happens, they don't take time to reflect on it before they're off on the next problem.

I'm guilty as charged on this as well. Do I stop to thank God for what blessings I have, big or small? Do I talk of my fortune as well as my misfortunes?

I'm looking at my life, and here's what I am thankful for:

This post was started last month, and I didn't have time to get back to it. However, I still feel this way, so I'm continuing it in February.

I've been working out 3-4 times a week, and I feel loads better than before.
Robert's working out, too, and we're both focused on healthier food choices.
My relationship with Josh is peaceful right now. He has shown real signs of maturity this year.
Jess is back on ADD meds at her request. The improvement in her behavior and focus is phenomenal. Her teachers are noticing a difference already.
Jo is spending a lot of time with his cousin...Fred Jr. They've been alternating....we keep little Fred one weekend, and his mom keeps Jo the next weekend. Jo has always been quite opposed to going anywhere to spend the night with ANYONE. Even my mother-in-law. So this is a welcome change for Robert and I. When little Fred is with us, the boys play so well together that we hardly know they're around. When Jo goes there, Robert and I actually get to go on a date now and then. It's refreshing.
I'm so blessed to have the friends that I do. They are such a treasure in my life!
I love having Dish network, and have passed many a blah winter day watching my new favorite show, "Monk."
I've been able to read a couple of great books. Most recently, "Three Weeks with My Brother," by Nicholas Sparks was amazing.
I have a new favorite cd, which is the new release by Natasha Betingfield. Her songs "Happy" and "Pocketful of Sunshine" have been playing in my cd player quite a bit. My mood is elevated each time I hear those songs. What's even better, is that I got the cd through Rhapsody-free-after saving music download codes from Wendy's cups.
I spent some quality time with Sheila watching the Superbowl last Sunday. I get to see her at least two more times this month...tomorrow at a 3 hour crop and on the 23rd at an all day crop. We have a lot of catching up to do.
Saturday, Sandy and I are going to a retirement dinner for a CM big whig. It's free food and door prizes at a fancy hotel in Columbus. It's an excuse to dress up and get out of the house. I'm looking forward to it!
There's nothing to say real exciting about my job except that I still have one. I'm doing some big time soul searching about my future....
This may sound silly, but Robert has a coworker whose wife works in a doctor's office. She's been sending in all kinds of fun pens and goodies that the drug reps leave. I've got some pretty nifty pens of late. It's just something fun that I'm enjoying.
I got a free Build a Bear Valentine dog. I had a $5 coupon and a $10 reward certificate, so I ended up paying a whopping $.69 for it. Yay! Here's a picture:

Bipsy went to Yosemite last week and she's back! Wheh! What a hectic week! She brought me back a mint green fleece jacket, which I'm lovin'-and wearing right now-and a big Yosemite mug. Yay to unexpected goodies!
My blogger friend, Denise just bought a house! I am so happy for her! Yay Denise!
I'm excited that PJ is back, blogging again! I missed you! And she's got a little girl on the way! How exciting!
Pat continues to learn and grow and she has so many people's lives she has touched through her blog.
Elliemarie is having a difficult year, and hasn't blogged a great deal. However, she is making some positive and healthy changes in her life. I am so proud of her!
Holli is pregnant! She's had her first sonogram and all is well! She is thrilled and I'm rejoicing with her!
It's a new year, with new challenges and new highs and lows. I've got a lot to be thankful for.

Thank you for the blessing you are in my life! If I haven't said it lately, I love you lots!

Remembering Tiga

2008-01-11T13:41:00.000-05:00

According to shelter records, Tiga (pronounced Tee-guh) was born somewhere around August 2002. We adopted Tiga from the local shelter in January of 2003. When we first got him, it was because we thought he had pretty eyes, and because we felt sorry for him. He was the only cat/kitten that was not up and attempting to get our attention. He was lying passively in the cage, looking sad.

At first, he was not thriving, wouldn't eat, had mite and flea infestation and was filthy. We took him to the vet, got him de-flead, de-mited, cleaned up and back on his feet.

The vet told us that he was siamese flame point and domestic short hair mix. His eyes were the most unusual shade of blue....light like the ocean against his white fur. He had yellow tiger stripes on his tail and tips of his ears. I'd never seen another cat like him. One thing about him that was unlike other cats I've known (especially Sheba), he would never groom himself much. Sheba, who we got in August of 2003 as a kitten, did most of his grooming for him.

Robert always said that Tiga was "straight up alley cat." For years, he'd tip over our trash and dig in it if given half a chance. Even though food was always available to him. I think it was because he was on his own at an early age, on the streets. No matter how much he ate, he always wanted more, and was getting pretty portly at just over five years of age. I suspect he was going to the neighbor's house to eat in addition to eating his meals with us. Tiga never seemed to do anything in moderation.

We named him Tiga after a Japanese super hero called, "Ultraman Tiga" that the kids used to watch on Saturday morning cartoons. I think his was the only pet name we all agreed on without bickering.

When he was strong enough, we had him "altered," but it never curbed his desire to roam. He always preferred to be outside, climbing trees, exploring, and tormenting the dogs as much as possible. The dogs and all the neighborhood cats knew he was in charge. I literally have videos of Tiga putting our big dogs to flight when they thought they would sneak up on him and hassle him.

This is one of my favorite pictures of Tiga, sitting close to me between the computer and the tv. I thought the angle made it look like he was on tv.

He got in these silly moods and would practically tear the house apart racing around, sliding the rugs all over the floor and generally acting goofy.

If I walked around the block, he followed me like a dog. Same thing in the house, or if I happened to be doing yard work. Wherever I was, he followed, to see if he could help. Sometimes I had to put him in the house while I was mowing the lawn. He'd literally try to hop up on the mower while I was mowing. He knew no fear.

Tiga loved riding in the car with me. If I was going for a ride and he knew it, he would hop in and ride along.

With his best friend, Sheba. He loved Sheba and merely tolerated all other animals....and there were plenty he didn't tolerate. He treated Sheba like she was his daughter.

Tiga died in his sleep last night. We think it was accidental antifreeze poisoning. He was gone for three days this week, came back and seemed disoriented at first, but then seemed to recover rapidly. He was eating and drinking and using the litter box without incident. I didn't know he was so desperately ill.

Though I am overwhelmed with sorrow right now, I do know he lived the short life he had to its fullest.

~We will miss you and we will never forget you, Tiga.~

Happy New Year to All!

2007-12-31T19:05:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year! I pray this for my friends: that this year is the most fulfilling, least worrisome, most prosperous year that you've had EVER in your life! That your trials will be few and your blessings MANY!

How was your Christmas?

Ours turned out good after all. All that worrying, and still had a good holiday.

Robert ended up getting a contract signing bonus....when the union where he works settled on a new contract. What good timing! Now it wasn't all that spectacular of an amount, but it sure helped right before Christmas.

We had a lot of bad stuff come about in December of this year. Lots of financial blows, but that was one windfall, and for it I am grateful.

The Friday before Christmas I was feeling yucky, then I got a really sore throat, which got worse the day after Christmas. Now I'm feeling pretty good, just a little nasally. ;)

I have gotten A LOT of sleeping in done. Sleep, sleep, sleep. I love it.

Bipsy's in Paris. I was watching her house (and feeding the kitty cat) as well as watching the home of a friend in our neighborhood. Bipsy's house watching comes with the perk of a hot tub, which I enjoyed several times. Yay! Love that hot tub! Nothing like a hot tub to ease holiday stress! ;)

The Saturday before Christmas we finally got DISH put in! Yay! Two years with nothing but 28 crappy cable channels and now we have 300 and some crappy satellite channels! Yay! Robert finally feels at home in the sticks and I finally have him off my back about "not having anything to watch." What a relief!

I don't really watch t.v. much, normally, but since I've been off, I've been a regular couch/bed/chair potato. I've been wallowing in the t.v. watching. I did read a little bit of a Christmas novel by Debbie Maycomber. Other than that, I've watched "Animal Planet," "Lifetime," "Oxygen" and more mind numbing t.v. than I can count. I have watched "Rachel Ray: 30 Minute Meals," "What Not to Wear," "Monk," "Cold Case," and some shows that really rotted my brain cels like, "Bad Girls Club," and "I Love New York." I feel my intellect decreasing daily. ;)

Okay, it's now January 2, 2008, and I'm back to work.

Robert and I ended up going to TGI Friday's for dinner, and that's where we rang in the new year. We were home by 12:30. Nothing exciting.

I don't really do New Year's resolutions, typically. Do you?

Of course I want to be healthy, more prosperous, etc. But that's an everyday endeavor for me. Doesn't start or end with a new year. I haven't seemed to conquer the desire to get healthy, but I believe since I have more time than before, I can make it happen, one day at a time.

So, did you get anything fun for Christmas?

I got fleece jammies, house slippers to match, a generic "Magic Bullet," since my "real" one is missing in action. Could it be in storage? Still at our Xenia house? Who knows.

Let's see...potpourri, candles, lotsa fleece gloves, perfume, some bath goodies, a pocket sandwich maker, socks, and a really nice pair of suede winter boots. Fun!

I got a lovely blanket from Denise, which she made! Boy, did that come in handy during the few days that I was sick and chilled! I had to fuss with Jess over it, because she seems to think it's hers. :) Today as I left for work, she was cuddled under it. So sweet.

Bipsy gave me a cozy LLBean fleece jacket. Looks like that's going to come in handy this year.

The kids got what they wanted....we pulled it off! Wheh! Every year it's touch and go.

We had a good time during our time off. I am rested and I was ready to head back to work. It's nice to get a mini vacation.

How about you? How did your holidays go? Do tell!

Again, Happy New Year and many blessings to you and your family!

Big hugs!

A Couple of Things That Have Made Me Smile This Christmas Season

2007-12-18T08:40:00.000-05:00

It's easy to think that my holiday season has been all bleak and sad this year. But that's not entirely true. Yes, I'm fighting the blues, blah and all the stresses that come with the season.

But there have been some smiles along the way. For example:

Rudolph and Clarece that Robert and Jess made for me at the end of November from Build-a-Bear. (B-a-B ought to pay me for all the free ads they get on my blog, lol!) Rudolph's nose lights up and if you press his foot, it plays a song. How sweet!

We've had a lot of snow around here, so it may be a white Christmas!

I was able to get Josh and Jess' gifts through Ebay much cheaper than anywhere else and they did get what they want- though used- and they are okay with that compromise.

I set out to make my holiday cards this year, and I did that, and I got them all out except one or two, which I am working on. I managed to get the holiday pictures taken and the letter written as well. That was quite a project, and I feel I accomplished something.

I still have a job.

I still have my sanity (I think.)

I made it to my dear friend, Bipsy's holiday party Saturday, despite a freezing rain storm. I even blow dried my hair and used a curling iron on it when I was getting ready to go! I have been using the "heater in the Jeep" blow drying method for months now. Felt good to primp a little.

A friend sent me a picture of her office, and in it I saw several items I had sent her over the last year. It brought tears to my eyes. And a smile to my lips.

I got pretty flowers from the former general manager of our sister company: The pictures does not do the arrangement justice. They are especially lovely now that the roses have opened up.

I got a Christmas card from one of our sister company's employees. I had only met this employee once, during one of our training trips. It was an unexpected and welcome surprise.

Yesterday, my friend, Sandy, stopped by with this sweet book:

Sandy's daughter, Beth is in town and I got to visit with her Saturday! How fun! We swapped ringtones and compared phones and did a lot of catching up.

You know, there's so many more happy little moments in my month that I haven't listed here. I've had lovely chats with my friends on facebook, I've reconnected with some people I only catch up with once a year, and I've spent an hour here and there snuggling on the couch, watching Christmas dvds with the family.

So maybe this celebrating the joy of Christmas thing isn't about having a stress free season. Maybe it's about happy little blessings that light upon us like butterflies- so lightly that if we're not careful, we'll miss them altogether.

If I don't get another chance to say it, Merry Christmas and a very happy 2008!

Where Are You Christmas?

2007-12-11T08:45:00.000-05:00

Where are you Christmas?
Why can't I find you?
Why have you gone away?
Where is the laughter
you used to bring me?
Why can't I hear
music play?

My world is changing
I'm rearranging
Does that mean Christmas
changes too?

Where are you Christmas?
Do you remember
the one you used to know?
I'm not the same one
see what the time's done
Is that why you have
let me go?

I would type the rest of this song....about Christmas being here if you care and so on....but I'm just not feeling it right now. Faith Hill sings the song beautifully. But I'm not past the "Where Are You" part. The joy of Christmas alludes me yet again. Anyone else there in their life right now?

One too many stresses....losing a portion of my benefits here at work right before the holidays....(about $400 a month)....ongoing drama with life in general. Sigh.

I love Thanksgiving. Spending time together, cooking, laughing, eating, watching the parade. No huge expectations and potential dissapointments.

But Christmas...it's becoming a holiday that no matter how hard I try to celebrate it, I find myself dreading it more every year.

Teenagers have expensive wants. Budgets are tight all year, and then add Christmas to it, and things become next to impossible.

I love giving. I love wrapping gifts. I enjoyed making cards this year.

I just don't enjoy the worry that comes along with the whole thing.

Sometimes I wish I was Amish.

Then I wouldn't be shopping for MP3 players and video games right now.

Hope you're feeling the warmth of the holiday season. Send a little of that joy my way, okay? I could use some right now. ;)

Moments that Keep Me Going

2007-11-29T09:35:00.000-05:00

That first cup of coffee in the morning
Fifteen minutes spent enjoying a good book
A completed scrapbook page
A car ride in complete silence
Watching the horses graze in the fields near my house
A kind word from a good friend
My kids' laughter
Unexpectedly saving money at the register
Problems that work themselves out
Hearing that something wonderful happened to a loved one
Getting time to write a blog post
Finding the perfect gift for someone I care about
Sleeping in on the weekends
Hearing from a long lost friend
A good hair day
Opening the mail and finding a "just thinking of you" card
A worry free day

Hope you have plenty of happy moments to keep you going this week! Big hugs!

I Am SUCH a Blog Slacker!

2007-11-20T12:23:00.001-05:00

I'll admit it. I am a miserable excuse for a blogger. Truly. This blog is so neglected, someone ought to just turn me in for false advertisement, because I shouldn't be allowed to call this an actual blog, really. Sigh. More like a slog. What you get when you combine a slug and a blog. That's my page. Slog, slog, slog. Fellow bloggers, I'm really a slogger. Sad, but true.

That being said, how the heck are ya? Good, I hope! I have been stopping by my beloved friends' blogs, I just haven't been maintaining mine. What is this world coming to? ;)

I do have exciting news! Josiah's 4th grade team won the Western Ohio Junior Football Conference Superbowl this past Sunday at the Dayton Welcome Stadium! Woo-hoo! Our pee wee Rams were undefeated in all fourteen games, allowing only four scores from game one through the championship game.

There were 36 teams in his conference. Our team was a tiny team in numbers, with just 14 players. Most other teams had 25+ kids per team. Many cities had 4-5 teams, because they had so many kids in their school system. It's truly a David -vs- Goliath tale, and just about every team we played was a Goliath compared to us! I know you can't tell, but I am soooooo proud! Just bursting with pride, downright wallowing in it. After hanging out with these parents and kids, you become like a family, so it's really neat. Tonight is their award banquet, so they'll have a participation trophy, and the Superbowl Trophy as well. ~ Smiles from ear to ear.~

In other news, Josh turned in his football pads on a Monday a few weeks back, and started basketball on the same Tuesday. Sigh. I was hoping that he would take the winter off and take driver's ed, but no such luck. Boo. But he's staying busy and I keep thinking, "This will look good on college applications." Every. Time. I. Drive. Him. The. Fifteen. Minutes. One. Way. To. The. School. I. Say. That. Literally. It's my new motto. "This will look good on college applications."

Jess is doing well, and there isn't much of anything to report with her right now. No news is good news, I guess. Perhaps. Maybe.

I'm thrilled to have a four day weekend ahead! Woo-hoo! Last night Robert took Josh to basketball practice, and I picked him up. Since Jo no longer has practice, I had time to make some Christmas cards. I had such a good time, listening to Christmas music on our local holiday station and making the cards. I plan to finish up the whole process the day after Thanksgiving.

That's what I usually do every year on the day after Thanksgiving. I don't join in the shopping extravaganza. I assemble, apply labels to, and get ready to mail Christmas cards. I was a little late getting the family pics taken this year for the cards, but as we speak, the pictures are being printed and all I need to do is go pick them up. Insert big sigh of relief here. I actually took the kids' pictures in about 5 minutes, right before the bus came one day last week. I was waiting for all of us to be home in the evening, but that never happened, so I gave up. The kids will represent our entire family on the cards this year. They are the ones that people want to see, anyway, right? ;)

What are your plans for the holiday, my fellow Americans? Are you traveling or staying home?

While Robert does most of our cooking (99%) throughout the year, I do a large share of the cooking on Thanksgiving. Jess and Jo pitch in to help, and it's a lot of fun. We let Josh sleep so he doesn't wake up cranky. We'll cook way too much food, and we'll all sit around feeling overfull, watching the parade and football. I'm getting sleepy just thinking about the Thursday afternoon nap!

I've been blessed to see a lot of my friends here lately! I went to Holli's for a a mini reunion over a month ago, which was cool. There were a couple of girls there that I haven't seen since high school. Catching up was fun.

Sheila and I had a great visit at a crop recently....a privilege that is becoming rare since she moved close to an hour away.

My friend Wyn was in town for nearly a week recently due to her mom's unexpected illness. Her mom got better pretty quickly, so Wyn and I were able to have some quality hang out time.

Two Saturdays ago, I saw my friend, Mary Jane, who recently had a crochet book published. The local library held a show showcasing the fashions in her book, which Jess, my niece, DeeDee, and I attended. I just barely made it to the show, as Josh had a 90 minute basketball scrimmage in the morning, Jo had a tournament game in the afternoon. I felt privileged to be able to make it.

As a side note, Mary Jane's book is called "Positively Crochet" and is sold on Amazon.com, if you are interested. Her name is Mary Jane Hall, and the book is full of adorable designs. I don't crochet, but I am going to try some of the basic projects, just because they are so darn cute! I used to attend church with Mary Jane, where her husband was pastor and my brother, Eric, was assistant pastor.

My fun month continued, as I got to have dinner with my friend, April, and her daughter last week. We caught up over salads at Applebees'....though we've both pledged not to let so much time elapse before we get together again.

That same week I stopped by my friend, Tracy's, house and got to see her twin baby boys and lovely daughter. I hadn't seen Tracy since our Saturday day out in July, though I got to see her kids at the local flea market on an outing with their grandma last month. Babies grow up so fast, so as usual, I snapped a lot of pictures that day.

My CM friend, Sandy, has stopped by frequently here at work the last few weeks. It's been so much fun! She's such a blessing.

There is nothing quite as enriching as spending time with my friends! They're treasures! When I don't get to see my friends in person, I've been talking with several on facebook, which I'll admit is taking up way too much of my online time these days. ;)

On that note, I'm going to close for now.

Have a wonderful week, and if you're celebrating Thanksgiving this week, have a very happy one, filled with more joy than you can contain!

Shameless Magazine Sales and Promotion ;)

2007-11-14T14:13:00.000-05:00

Okay, I just wanted to throw this out there to you:

There is a magazine that Creative Memories puts out called "Lasting Moments." It's full of really good ideas about scrapbooking and quick and fun projects. There is an incentive for me in the month of November. If I sell 4 subscriptions by the end of the month, I get some cool album kit goodies.

Here's the 4-1-1 on the magazine:

All issues include feature stories and creative ideas that celebrate seasons, connections, traditions, travel, hobbies, heritage and more. Lasting Moments also offers photo-taking tips, technology information, success stories, new products, and a fun section called “One page three ways.”

• 72 pages, full color, six times per year

• Customers receive 6 issues for $23.97 U.S./$29.97 Canada

If you are interested in taking a look, I can send you a digital copy to peruse. Just email me to let me know, and I'll send you a link to this months' copy. If you like what you see and would like to order, I'll be happy to walk you through that, too.

Another approach is to go to Creative Memories dot com ;) (link on my side bar) and take a look there. If you decide to purchase a subscription, my CM magazine id is 18294498, which will let Creative Memories know that I am the one who gets credit for the magazine sale.

Thank you so much for letting me ramble! Have a great day!

Big Girls Don't Cry?

2007-10-25T15:46:00.000-04:00

If they do, they get many negative reactions, based on an article that was on Yahoo's front page today.

But my personal dam finally broke, here at work, and I cried. A lot. At work. Sobbed. In the front office. And I didn't care.

Okay, I cared. A little bit. It's a little embarrassing. But sometimes it's the straw on the back of the camel that already has a load the size of Texas.

I'm better now.

It started with a day that I managed to stay behind no matter how hard I tried to get ahead. Then I tried to cram 500 errands in a one hour lunch. Then I got back to work and found that I had left half of my purchases at Wal-mart. When I called, they had put my items back in stock, and said I had to come back and basically re-shop all over again. I can't foresee any time to do that for the next few days.

Thanks to the listening ear of friends, to Sandy for going to Wal-mart and getting my money back for me, and deep breathing techniques, I think I'm going to make it. ;)

But for the record, big girls do cry.

I'm Alive, I Promise...but Am I LIVING? ;)

2007-10-17T09:58:00.000-04:00

You know, my woeful neglect of this blog of late is shameful at best. What has this blog ever done to me that I've turned my back on it so completely? Nothing, nothing at all. ;) I think I've just gotten to the point that on most days I'm too busy to blog, and then on the days I'm not too busy I am too bummed or tired to blog. I know, excuses, excuses. If you only knew how many posts I've started and allowed them to sit idle without publishing. Sigh.

Rest assured, I am thinking of you, my blogger peeps. I am jumping over to your blogs every chance I get, and I am reading your posts. If my schedule (and my computer) cooperate, I actually get to comment now and then. But I haven't forgotten you, I pinky swear.

Over a month ago, Josh pulled his hamstring at practice. We've spent the last month since then running him to the orthopedic specialist, physical therapy, etc. No mistake: if they are injured, football players still have to be at practice, at every game, etc., on top of their rehab. It's been tiring, and expensive. Thank God for AFLAC! And trust me, I'm not getting paid to say that. It's been a godsend! The good thing is, Josh is back in the game! They are fast healers, those teenagers! ;)

I'm also very appreciative of Josh's team trainer who was so supportive during this process with Josh. He came to the ER the night of the injury just after we arrived. He stayed, asked questions, offered input and reassurance, and even called the orthopedic doctor at home to discuss Josh's case. The following morning, he called the dr.'s office, made Josh an appointment, then called me at home to tell me where to be and when. He even provided detailed directions on how to get there! I half expected him to show up in our driveway and chauffeur us there as well! It was so helpful.

Here's a clip of a video (crossing fingers now) of his very first game back from his injury. I wish I could recoup like this! Sorry about the shaky video. I was leaning on the fence, which some kid was kicking, so I took what I could get. ;) Hope you don't get motion sickness!

Well, Jo's team is still undefeated. They are awesome! One night Robert and I dropped Jo off at a scrimmage, then went to our local Dollar General to get some gloves, as it was going to be a cold night. We weren't prepared for the drop in temperature, as we had just experienced a record setting hot weekend. So, we were about ten minutes late getting back to the game. The score was already 23-0, with Jo's team taking the lead that early on. We were flabbergasted! (How often do you get to use that word, huh?) ;)

Jo's team's last regular season game is this coming weekend. That may sound good in theory, but my life is getting ready to get even busier.

The playoffs work like this: Every team goes in to the playoffs equal. It doesn't matter how many wins or losses a team has during the regular season. Team names are thrown in to a hat, and that's where the selection begins. If a team wins on Saturday, they play again on Sunday. The playoffs run from October 27 through November 10th.

Now, keep in mind that Jo's team is undefeated in the regular season. They're very good. Chances are, they're going to make their way through several teams before they're eliminated, if at all.

Btw, isn't this just the cutest thing? Daddy and son, watching the game, waiting for Jo's team to take the field..... ;) Brag, brag, brag...or as Pat would say, "Cluck, Cluck, Cluck." teehee!

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Share Photos - Free Video Hosting

Therefore, my weekend plans are on permanent hold until at least November 10th. And November 11th is Jo's birthday.

Then what? Thanksgiving is just around the corner, then the mad dash to get ready for Christmas! In between all of that, Bipsy and I have another trip to Tennessee for training. Looks like early December. I'm tired just thinking about it. How about you? Have you even started thinking about Christmas? Ugh! Who has the time?

One cool thing: I just found out that my friend, Wyn, is going to come for a quick weekend visit on the last weekend in January. She hasn't been here since March of 2006, and that was just after my surgery. I was tired and lackluster, so I am hoping for a high quality visit this time around. ;)

Nothing else real exciting to report at this point.

Our fall colors aren't in full splendor this year due to the drought. We have had rain for two days, but I think it's going to be a dissapointing autum color-wise this year. This is usually my favorite season due to the gorgeous scenery that we normally have, so let's cross our fingers for better weather next year.

Hope this post finds you and your family blessed! Until next time, (which I hope isn't as far off, if I can stop being such a blog slacker) may you have more joy than you can contain!

Okay? Love and hugs!

More Stealing of Denise's Brilliant Ideas:

2007-10-05T12:08:00.000-04:00

Before I list more of my favorites, having taken more of Denise's ideas, I want to amend my last post. I didn't know that "Our Lady Peace" was a political Canadian group, but I like their sound. So I guess they would have my vote for favorite political Canadian band. Also, how could I have forgotten Frankie J as one of my favorite Latino male artists? So, that is all the corrections/additions that need correcting/adding in that post.

favorite Canadian female singers: Sarah Harmer, Alanis, and Carolyn Arends
favorite song written for me: I don't have any: sob, whine, moan. ;)

favorite song that i was the major inspiration for: Still got nothing

favorite line of b.s.: I go to the doctor, and tell the nurse who is about to weigh me in that I "prefer to carry my purse on to the scales...it's a security issue I have," and then I ask her if she believes it weighs 30 lbs. It always gets a laugh. ;)

favorite cd's: I like compilation cds that friends and loved ones make for me, that is super special. I also love all my favorites....Cindi Lauper's greatest hits, The Eurythmics greatest hits, Phil's greatest hits...Toby Mac's solo releases, anything DC Talk....too numerous to mention, really.

favorite bands from this century: I'm so stuck in the 80's....I have to say I enjoy RBD, Jess' favorite band, and Chris Brown (not a band, an artist) that is Josh's favorite R & B artist, as well as reggae artist Sean Kingston. But the last two don't really qualify as bands.

favorite job i've had: the one I have had for the last 9 years. Most of the time I look forward to coming to work, with very few exceptions over the years.

favorite cartoon: "Family Guy." shhhhhh......

favorite superhero: The Tick

favorite "in your face" album: Anything by Alanis

favorite winter activity: This is a family blog, so I must plead the fifth ;) ....no, just kidding...I love making hot chocolate for the family after a snowball fight...it always ends up being a warm, fuzzy moment....except the part about wet clothes everywhere....

favorite makeup: CONCEALER and lip gloss. I am addicted to lip gloss. I hate having chapped lips.

favorite part of my body: Oh man....I am not wild about my body, because I have such a short torso...but for a short person, I have reasonably long legs, so I guess I like my legs better than all the rest of the body parts that don't comply with my high expectations.

favorite life quote: "It's hard to be optimistic when your fat pants are tight." ;) (That's my favorite "funny" quote.)

favorite life quote is: "Do Unto Others As You Would Have Others Do Unto You."

favorite hidden sin: I shamelessly stare at guys with muscular biceps. ;) And now it's not hidden anymore, is it? ;) Thank God my handsome husband is among those shamelessly stared upon guys. ;)

favorite t.v. mom: Debra from "Everyone Loves Raymond."

favorite cartoon strip: dilbert and cathy

favorite moment when time stood still: The first time I saw Robert walk in to the restaurant where we met. It truly was one of those "time stood still" moments. I had never seen anyone that looked quite like him or that exuded more confidence and kindness all at the same time. I was mesmerized.

favorite moment growing up: My grandfather bought a play house for us from a neighbor and fixed it up. He painted it the same color as our house, put in carpeting and locks on the door and windows. It was so neat. We spent many a fun hour in there, being kids.

favorite story to tell at family get-togethers: Sadly, we don't really get together as a family in my family...and I don't have too much of a long history with the family I do have left. Most of the family that I have left are relatives I met after I became an adult. My maternal grandparents are deceased, as are my paternal grandparents that raised me. My mother is deceased, and the rest of my family is scattered. Most of the stories I tell in my family are stories about cute things my kids said or did when they were little. Most of those stories I've told here at some point. Sad but true.

Okay, that's the end of my "favorites" as borrowed from Denise's recent posts.

A Cool Survey From Denise's Blog:

2007-10-04T12:42:00.000-04:00

My Favorites:

favorite colors: mauve

favorite color to wear: green

favorite dead singer in the last 30 years: Ray Charles

favorite male singer: Phil Collins

favorite singer that turns me on: Chad Kroeger

other favorite male singer: Toby Mac

favorite Canadian band: Nickleback

favorite political Canadian band: I'm not a political kind of gal, so I'm not sure.

favorite Broadway song: "You're the One that I Want" from "Grease"

favorite female singer: Annie Lennox

favorite female singer who is most controversial: I thought so long and hard on this that I almost got a headache, so I gave up. My second favorite female singer- and I don't know if she's controversial- other than her hair color: is Cindi Lauper.

favorite dead female singer: Karen Carpenter

favorite folk female singer: Joan Biaz

favorite female rocker: Amy Lee (of Evanescence)

favorite folk group: Peter, Paul and Mary

favorite rock group: Bon Jovi hands down, followed by Genesis

favorite album: Phil Collins' greatest hits

favorite Hispanic female singer: Jaci Valasquez

favorite Hispanic male singer: Ricki Martin (shhhh)

favorite Hispanic rock group: RBD

favorite song to make fun of: Most anything Beonce sings

favorite vehicle: 1972 Yellow Slug Bug with convertible top

favorite classical song: "Eine kleine Nachtmusik"

favorite classical composer: Mozart

favorite new age artist: Enya, since she's the only one I'm real familiar with

favorite day of the week: Sunday

favorite holiday: 4th of July

favorite outdoor activity: Fishing, lounging in the sun

favorite toy: my digital camera

favorite food: boneless, skinless chicken breast

favorite fruit: strawberries

favorite veggie: toss up between broccoli and brussel sprouts.

favorite author: Debbie Maycomber

favorite book: Cedar Cove series by Debbie Maycomber

favorite genre of book: comedic, fluff novels.

favorite poem: "When the Frost is on the Pumpkin"

favorite female poet: Me-who else can put in to words what I'm thinking?

favorite horror book: Don't have one. I'm a big chicken.

favorite horror animal: See answer above

favorite movie of all time: "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation."

favorite sci-fi movies: Star Wars series

second favorite movie: "Oh Brother, Where Art Thou?"

favorite form of exercise: walking to Leslie Sansone dvds

favorite tv shows: "Everyone Loves Raymond," "Third Rock from the Sun," "Whose Line is it, Anyway?" reruns, "Smallville" and "Cold Case," although I saw a show with Wayne Brady last night...something to do with remembering lyrics to songs and I really, really liked it. May be a new potential favorite. I think it was called "Don't Forget the Lyrics."

favorite sense: Sight. I like to see where I'm going.

favorite way to pass the time: scrapbook or read

favorite comedian: Sinbad

favorite vacation place so far: Georgia, but just because my uncle is there. Otherwise: New England area in the fall for the colors of the leaves.

favorite time of year: fall

second favorite time of year: spring

favorite shoe: Sandals

favorite material to wrap myself in: Velour blanket

favorite phrase: "What's the dealio?"

Hi there

2007-09-19T09:02:00.000-04:00

How are you? Good, I hope.

Just thought I'd drop in a quick post to let you know I am still out here. :)

I'm hoping that my coffee kicks in soon, because I am barely keeping my eyes open today.

Lately I have been tired a lot. I think it is simply the non stop, race track of a life I have these days. I keep thinking that football doesn't last forever. And the games are fun. I'm meeting lots of new people. I'm catching up with a lot of people from back in high school. So there is some good intermingled with all the exhaustion. ;) As of right now, Josh's team remains winless, and Jo's team remains undefeated. It's nice just to see them play.

We did get out to our area festival last weekend, and I got some fun pictures of the hot air balloons going up:

I am still reading every chance I get. Have read some great books lately. I'm a fast reader, and it helps pass the time while waiting for football practice to let out. I've also been taking my Tazzy with me to practices. He loves the attention he gets, and I get to spend more time with him. I'm not home nearly enough, so my portable pup rides along.

"Are we there yet?"

I finally got out to visit my friend, Sheila, and see the house she bought...and moved in to back in July. It's about a 45 minute drive for me. I spent about three hours with her Sunday, which was the most we've seen each other in months. The Browns (Robert's team) played the Bengals (my team) on Sunday, and I decided to make myself scarce. The Browns triumphed, but Robert gets all worked up during these games, so I like to find somewhere else to be. That way he can grump at the t.v. in peace. :) Sheila has two new additions to her family:

Nicky, who was dropped off in the country not far from Sheila. She's about 6 months old. She's a sweetie! It's speculated that she is a Border Collie/Cocker Spaniel mix.

And Houston, a 2 year old Red Doberman that her friend gave her when she moved in to an apartment. Sheila has five acres for him to explore. He's big and intimidating looking, but sweet as can be. Still puppyish. He's all played out in this pic, so he found a sunny spot to snooze.

Bipsy and I head out to Tennessee again this weekend. We'll leave Sunday morning and come back Monday evening this time. We won't be staying quite as long this trip. I am happy that I won't miss Jo's game Saturday, so it's good timing. I think I will enjoy getting away for those two days, even if we won't get as much sight seeing in. This week at work will be hectic, getting the finishing touches on the training materials.

Nothing else to report, really. Jess is doing well, and not currently playing any sports. She spends most of her time these days fussing with her hair and watching dvds or talking with her friends online. Yesterday she was on burnout and decided to read. Oh, to be young again. So few responsibilities, so much free time. :)

Well, that's about it on my end. Hope this post finds you blessed! Hugs!

The Crying Chair

2007-09-11T11:01:00.000-04:00

You sat, broken, there
in your antique rocking chair
bitter tears spilling everywhere

You cried for lost children
for lost women and men
We all cried daily, over them

You remembered the day
like so many your age
when they took your heart away

You couldn't sleep
you couldn't eat
you could only taste defeat

You wouldn't hear me
say, "please, turn off the t.v."
If it were only quite so easy

You withered, went cold inside
the last of your innocence died
left, untouched, was our pride

You could not forget, nor could we
then you became part of the tragedy
you began to slip away, gradually

You now have your name saved
upon the back of your husband's grave
etched with many of our nation's brave

You are at rest while we go on
clinging to what we've built upon
Like all those lost, you will never be gone.

Trading Diplomacy for Honesty

2007-09-07T09:16:00.000-04:00

If this is my place to vent and rejoice, I'm going to dump this negative rant here, and get it out of my heart.

It's popular lately to do "clean sweeps" of our homes. To throw out, sell, and organize stuff that's been junking up our closets and corners, leaving no room for us to live.

So that's what I'm doing with my soul. I'm de-cluttering it.

There are some people in life that are soul-sucking vampires, who prey on our kindness, our honesty, our innocence, our well meaning outreaching. They take a kind-hearted, naive individual, and manipulate them into giving, giving, giving....until they use them up and toss them out. They don't care about the carnage they leave behind, because they only have their own personal gain in mind.

Sometimes, co-dependent people (lots of them women) get strung along, year after year, month after month. These codependent folks think that they will achieve happiness one day, if they can change the person they care about. If the codependent can turn this...wayward person into a functioning adult, they win the ultimate prize: true happiness.

"Then, and only then, will they see how wonderful we are, and then they will make us a priority! They will honor us, like they neglected to do for so long! They will hold us in high esteem and appreciate us! They will think about us, cherish us, nurture us, just as we have them! They will meet our needs, just as we have attempted to meet theirs! Then, and only then, will our lives be complete and fulfilling!"

The truth is, the person won't change, and the whole process will leave the c/d person exhausted, unsatisfied, feeling like a failure.

My life has been an open-shut case of co-dependency. From my childhood relationships right on in to my adult ones.

As I've gotten older, I've recognized my tendency to be co-dependent, and I've made healthier choices. I've revised my behavior in some of my relationships that were worth salvaging (Robert and the kids and some friends) and I've released some of the people in my life who were not true friends. That's never easy to do, and sometimes I find myself slipping back in to old behaviors.

I have to shake myself up and say, "Quit! STOP IT! You were not put on this earth to make sure this person never has a bad day! Let them be angry! It's not your fault!" Other times, I mess up and get all bent out of shape, and finally find the strength to right myself.

I've fought long and hard to make some relationships work that should have never been a part of my life. I've been stubborn, trying long after Elvis had left the building, for lack of a better way of putting it.

One major example is my relationship with my dad. But there are other examples.

Part of the process of "clean sweeping my soul" is recognizing that I'm angry and I'm tired and I'm tired of being angry. Once I do that, I can move on. I can forgive, but first I have to understand....put my finger on...just why I'm so angry.

I haven't been living for awhile. I'm tired, deep down in my soul. I have been so bogged down that it becomes increasingly difficult to function. I get depressed, I go deep within myself, and finally, finally, finally I recognized the pattern.

I'm letting go, and purging. I'm going out to the door step of my soul, and I'm tossing years of clutter in to the front yard. I'm taking the broom, and I'm sweeping the floor clean. The neighbors might see it and say, "Is she crazy? What is she doing?"

What am I doing? I'm flinging out the anger and the resentment and the disappointment and the hurt, for all the world to see! Out it goes! Here's the face of the anger, and I will entertain it no longer! It is ugly, it isn't nice, but it is as real as it gets. I will be rid of it.

And I will be free.

What the anger looks like:

What I hate about you:

You think you are a superior being.
You are manipulative.
You are passive/aggressive.
You are a liar.
You are phony.
You think you can "fix" everything and everyone, but the truth is, you need someone to fix you.
You pretend to care, but you are a totally apathetic individual.
You are controlling.
You are obsessive/compulsive.
You are hard hearted.
You are argumentative.
You are condescending.
You only do what benefits you.
You think you are better at everything than you are.
You think you can do no wrong.
You are judgmental.
You pretend to be open minded, but you are one of the most close minded people on earth.
You think your way is the only right way.
You think you have superior intellect.
You think you can get your way about any and everything.

The truth is:

You're just a scared child.
You have no reason to think you're better than anyone.
You're stuck just like everyone else and can't see it.
You are only fooling yourself.
You aren't as perfect as you think you are.
You would see the truth if you stopped lying to yourself.
You might get close to people if you stopped hiding behind your smoke screens.
You don't have it together like you think you do and everyone around you can see it.
Your way simply has you painted in to a corner, and as long as the corner seems tidy and neat and unobtrusive, you'll stay there, never moving from that one spot.
You tell lies then forget what you've said and contradict yourself later.
You really don't have much of a personality at all.
You could probably depress a person to death if they listened to you for long.
You have very little at all going for you...and deep down, you know that.
You have yourself elevated on this high horse in your mind, but no one respects you and very few people like you.
Your success-what little you have in the grand scheme of things--came from riding on the coat tails of others.
You've accomplished very little on your own.
Your "amazing" relationships are based on lies and deceit.
You are not in control of the world around you like you think you are.
You are one slip away from the house of cards you've stacked falling down and you're too blind to see it.
You've spent so much of your life in an attempt to be "safe," but you are at risk of losing your very soul.
You are in control of your own circumstances in life, but no one except you would ever want to live your pathetic life.
You couldn't handle it if some things came along to shake up your master plan.
You don't realize that at first I felt sorry for you because of how people treated you, but now I realize that they have all finally gotten tired of you, too. Eventually everyone will.
You must see that there are many billboards on the highway of your life that scream "I'm out of control."
You don't know....and may never know.... what real love is.
You will keep on fooling yourself until you've lost everyone and everything.

What I like About You:
I'll have to get back with you on that.

Whew! I feel better now! ;)

Undiscplined?

2007-09-04T13:12:00.001-04:00

The key to good writing is to organize one's thoughts. At least, in my mind, that's how I see it. There has to be some truth to that statement. Otherwise, if we wrote how we thought, our randomness would seem manic, rambling, and would not be cohesive. Without explanation, such writing would either a.) cause the reader to lose interest b.) generate alarm on the part of the reader.

But I feel so random in my thinking right now. I'm finding it difficult to put my thoughts into any semblance of order.

I can't finish a thought before another jumps in, demanding priority.

But if I wrote how I feel, this is what it would sound like:

"Boy, my back hurts. I really overdid it this weekend. But it was nice to get so much accomplished. My neck hurts, too. Who knew painting a ceiling could use so many muscles?

I'm glad I settled on antique white. The walls look so much better. Who in the world paints in flat paint? Really? I know they didn't have any kids home at the time, but they had cats. Flat paint? So impractical.

I really need to double check my account....two days till payday. Wonder how much gas I'll need to make it until then? At least the kids' lunch money is set for the week.

I wonder who is taking Jo to practice tonight? I probably should. I sure don't think I can handle any extra housecleaning tonight. Not with my back so sore. I can't paint, really, until I get more paint. Need to write down the exact brand and color and number. Found that extra paint brush, so I'm good on brushes.

Maybe if I take Jo, I'll get to read some while I'm there. Which book? I'm reading two right now, but I hate that. I should finish one, then the other. Otherwise it's just too confusing.

I need to mention to Robert that the extra drywall is really going to come in handy. If we can get that leak in the bathroom taken care of, then putting in flooring and drywall will be no problem. We really need to get that done.

I'm thinking I can squeeze the storm door in to the budget this week. We really need it. I do want to make the car payment next week. I want to be early on that for sure, since it's the very first payment. I'm pretty sure the outside spicket can wait. I mean, we'll be turning that off for the winter, anyway. The furnace and oven....can't really wait on those.

Too bad I couldn't find the time to order that Chinese. It sounded really good for lunch. Where did the time go? How did it get to be 11:30 so soon? And now it's already 1:30! That is a four day work week, typically. Never caught up.

That's so awesome that Robert won the perfect attendance drawing. And what he said, "I've been blessed." It was neat how he said that. And then he said, "I was just wondering about gas for the week, and then I get this money. It was a blessing, no other way to look at it. I didn't realize the van was so low on gas." It was nice of him to think about picking me up lunch. If only I could have gotten away to order it. I should program their number in to his phone. I have it memorized.

I could take a nap. In fact, I could sleep for a week. But when couldn't I? A week of lounging in bed sounds like a dream vacation for me. Ugh, last time I thought that way, I had surgery. Nah. I'd settle for a nice, cozy nap.

One of these days I'm going to have a really nice, tall bed with a mattress about two feet thick. I'm going to get the biggest, most expensive comforter, and I'm going to snuggle down in it and not come out for days on end. Sigh. Like the "Princess and the Pea," but without the pea or the royalty part. I really am sick of substandard beds.

I need to get over there and check out Pat's vacation photos.

Wow, I'm still amazed at how physical soccer is. I think that might be the first soccer game I've ever gone to. Wait. No. There was that semi-pro team we saw once when we used to go to the church of the guy that owned that team. But I don't remember it being quite as physical. Or maybe it was just because Jon was playing. He's like a son to me, really, and I didn't want to see him hurt. It must hurt when they hit the ball off their head. Eek. I can tell that his mom was nervous, too.

Wheh. I have so much to do. I soooo should not be blogging. But I never do anymore. I'm going to forget how sooner or later.

It is so cold in here that it is hard to type. My fingers don't want to work. I really should turn the air down a bit. I wonder what it's like outside?

My stomach is being stupid today. Why does it always act up after a long weekend? It's like it fouls up its routine.

I really, really don't want to be here.

Should I take an ibuprofen? I know it would help, but would it get my stomach started up again? Don't need that. It was probably the deviled eggs. Sometimes eggs just mess my stomach up.

Wonder what Leah is up to today?

Denise looked great in her picture! So did Holli!

Wonder if Sabu will make it? I've tried everything. He's just so thin. Wonder if the drops in his water will help? Poor little guy. Those kittens and the puppy pictures on Denise's blog were so cute.

I still can't believe Gideon did that. Serves Tiga right. Smart dog, flipping his water over on the cat. He knows he can't bite him, but he still had his revenge. Why does Tiga always have to pick with the dogs? He's such a bully.

I'm making so many mistakes typing. My fingers are too cold to function. I need to bring in some wool gloves. Why do they have to keep it so cold in the summertime and hot in the winter time? Makes no sense.

I want to go lay down on the couch, but there's so much to do.

I wonder if Jess turned in her forms today? If not, she's going to get demerits. What is going through that girl's head sometimes? They remind her every day. So scatterbrained.....like her momma.

Gosh, my neck really hurts. Maybe I will take an ibuprofen......maybe not. I think I can make it through if I just rub the soreness out.

Wonder what's up with Josh and T.J.? I should email Jennifer if I can get time.

What is he sighing for? He can't possibly be stressed! He doesn't do anything around here. Such a jerk. Why doesn't he retire?

Thank God for lip gloss. My lips are so dry. This stuff from Bath and Body Works is great. Even if it is for kids.

I'm glad Jo got his math done last night. I can't believe it's been so long since I've done subtraction problems like that. The calculator really has spoiled me. When he gets to Algebra, I'm doomed. Unless Josh and Jess are around to help him.

Man, I have so many schedule changes to make. The orders are piling up. I gotta get these done. Plus two shipments. The shipping hasn't been heavy today. But I've still been crazy busy. One thing after another. Didn't even get the mail opened. The phone has been ringing like crazy.

Gotta get to it, before I get buried in this paperwork.

My neck is feeling a little better.

Cottage cheese for lunch, how boring. At least I had some here.

I love three day weekends, but I hate four day work weeks. What a pain."

That's my mind, in the span of about ten minutes.

It's never much quieter. Makes me tired just thinking about it.

Hope your Tuesday is going well. Thanks for stopping by and tolerating my random thoughts. ;)

My Little Girl, Jess

2007-08-30T08:28:00.001-04:00

Fifteen years ago today my little girl came in to the world. My due date was August 19, and she was taking her sweet time joining the rest of us. I was so ready for her to be born! I kept a diary about it, and the common thread was that it was hot and I felt like I was going to explode. ;)

She entered the world at 4:04 in the afternoon, after 14 hours of labor. She weighed 7 lbs and 14 oz. She looked like a duplicate of her brother, Josh. We all felt like we'd entered the twilight zone because of that.

She had a bit of breathing trouble because of being overdue. It's weird, I'd always heard of premies having trouble breathing because of underdeveloped lungs, but never pulmonary issues due to staying in the uterus too long. I guess I just made it too comfy in there for her. :)

I kept telling my doctor that I sensed she was ready to be born, and he kept saying that the sonogram, even though it concluded that my original due date was correct, had a variance of one to two weeks. He understood I was miserable, but it was better to let "nature take its course" than to induce my labor. Of course, I was just the patient and he was the one with the medical degree. So I kept my (very bloated) silence.

Anyway, I'm going to post "13 Things I Love about My Daughter" as a tribute to her on this, her fifteenth birthday.

She has the cutest laugh ever!
She speaks her mind and doesn't apologize for it.
She is 5' tall, but she is tough! She once ducked a punch from a neighbor boy, then knocked him on his butt with one punch. Growing up as the middle child between two brothers has its advantages.
She has a flair for style. The older she gets, the more she grows in to her own "look."
She's spent hour upon hour teaching herself Spanish. She's dedicated to becoming fluent in that language. I admire that.
She loves music, and is always singing.
She's not swayed by what's currently the popular thing to do. She's who she is, and doesn't care what other people think.
She has a sweet smile, and she smiles a lot.
She has a compassionate heart for animals and people.
I didn't know this until the other day, but she taught herself how to edit and write html codes...without even pausing when she's typing. I was amazed! She's a quick learner, except in math, which was always my weak subject, too.
She is not a quitter! She's one of the most tenacious people I know.
She is beautiful....and has the most gorgeous brown eyes!
Her emotions can be quite powerful at times, (like her momma) and she lives life by diving in head first. She stands up for what she feels and doesn't back down. She will always strive to have the last word, and it is my conclusion that she should pursue a career as a lawyer. ;)

I love you, baby girl! Happy Birthday!

Tag-I'm It...Again! ;)

2007-08-28T11:17:00.000-04:00

Pat tagged me on her blog, and I'm tagging you. Just for the record, if you haven't checked out her blog, "Child Lost," you're missing out. She has some amazing stuff to say and I've learned a lot from her. Her link is on my side bar for all interested parties.

Okay, okay, I don't know how I can possibly come up with 8 random things about myself that you don't already know, truly. I think you know just about everything about me, including my underwear size. If I tell you anything else, you may be able to steal my identity......WAIT! That sounds like a good idea! I truly wish someone would do just that! Boy, would they get their feelings hurt! They'd be BEGGING me to take my identity back in NO TIME FLAT. They might actually sue me for ruining their life by having my identity. ha ha. (Sorry for the blatant sarcasm...it was uncalled for.)

Okay, seriously, let's see here:

During times of great stress in my life, my right eye twitches BIG TIME.
I can forgive most everyone except myself.
A couple months back I got a pink "chocolate" phone as part of my cellular carrier's "new every two program". It's a love/hate relationship. I love how it looks and plays music, but I'm constantly calling someone erroneously. Plus the battery life is poor.
I'd love to open my own photography studio.
I always wanted to be a stay at home mom, but finances never permitted for long. Despite that, our kids have never had a babysitter and have never been in day care. Family has always watched our kids or we worked opposite shifts. During my 16 1/2 years so far as a mom, I was able to stay at home about 2 years total, and worked part time for an additional 2 years. Now that the kids are older, I'm glad I work outside the home.
One of my greatest joys in life is to open my mailbox and find a letter or note card from a friend.
I home schooled my oldest son during his kindergarten year. He has one of the sharpest memories of anyone I've ever met.
If I don't write down important stuff, I will forget it. If I meet someone and I know I need to remember their name, their kids' names or whatever, I will write it down in my note pad immediately....or program it into my phone. Usually that's all it takes. I don't even have to look at the paper/cel phone entry again. As long as I write it down just that once, I will remember.

Wheh! Truly, that was really hard to get through. I challenge you to look deep within yourself and find 8 new things to write. It's hard. But I bet you can do it!

Hey Howdy and Hello

2007-08-23T09:53:00.001-04:00

Hey, hope you're having a good day. After all, two more days until the weekend, right?

Life continues to be busy on my end, but hey, I keep thinking it should be different five years from now. :)

The kids got off the school without a hitch. So, that's a big sigh of relief.

Last night the coaches cut short Jo's practice due to the heat. That was also a sigh of relief. I got home at 7:30 last night! Woo-hoo! I didn't know what to do with myself! I've been getting home around 9 p.m. every night. Then I usually have the animals to feed and water and usually at least one load of laundry to do. Last night, Jess fed and watered the animals right after school, which was a blessing! I actually woke up once in the middle of the night and thought, "Oh my gosh! The animals!" and then realized she'd taken care of them. :)

Robert came home after work yesterday, rearranged the house, cooked, cleaned and was just full of energy. He even gave me a back rub, since I'd had a tough day. I thought I'd suddenly entered a parallel universe...one I would prefer to stay in!

What was a bad work day ended up being not such a bad evening. That's a great feeling. To actually come home and feel a sense of peace and tranquility at home instead of strife is amazing. Usually I look forward to going to work to get away from the stress of home. I sure could use more evenings like yesterday!

One good thing that's going on is at the first of August we rented a storage unit. We'd had so much stuff piled around...and the house is way too small in the first place. After we shut down the toy shop, we put all of that inventory in our house. No way was that working!

Then, we moved the remainder of our boxes from our "city" house (finally) to our "country" house when Robert's sister started moving in. That stuff sat around, unpacked, because we didn't have time to mess with it. Or even room to move it around. Some might say, "well, if you haven't used it in so long, throw it away." Easier said than done. Most of the stuff was framed portraits and collages and family mementos.

So, we have a lot more room now that we have the storage unit. We can now take our time and go through it and get rid of what we don't need, sell some, give away some, toss some, keep what we want. It's great to be able to move about a little....and see our walls! Boxes packed to the ceiling do not make for very nice decor.

Sigh. The perils of the working parents with two teenagers, two houses, too many pets and zero time.

Okay, duty calls. Bipsy and I will be making another trip to Tennessee next month to do safety training. Plus I'm doing a personnel newsletter for our sister company there. In conclusion, I have a lot to do and very little time.

If you don't see me as often visiting your blog or if I don't post, it's not that I don't love you or care about you. It's simply that I'm overwhelmed and doing what I can to get caught up. What goes up must come down, so this trend can't last forever! I am eager to get some time to visit with you soon! Until then, many hugs and much love!

Quick "Hi"

2007-08-15T12:53:00.000-04:00

Just a note to say that I am alive, just busy, and haven't forgotten you, my much loved blogger peeps. I miss visiting with you here, but frankly, I miss myself, too. I'm so busy lately that I feel like I'm sure to meet myself going out when I'm coming in.

Hang in there with me, okay? This can't last forever, right? What goes up must come down sometime, I figure.

Until then, hugs and all my love!

Your befuddled blogger friend, Kris.

The "I've Got a New (Used) Vehicle but That Means I Also Have A Car Payment Again" Blues.....

2007-08-10T13:46:00.001-04:00

It's a 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Tape and cd. Air. (Thank God, since the van STILL doesn't have air- after three attempts to fix the air and some hose kept melting, so we gave up.) Sun roof. New tires. All kinds of specialty features.

And all I keep thinking is... "Crap. I have a car payment again. I didn't want a car payment."

My stomach hurts.

Maybe I'll just turn this blog into an "all ads, all the time" blog so I can become independently wealthy. Haha!

Happy Friday, anyway.

Sigh. ;)

Once Upon a Time

2007-08-09T08:37:00.000-04:00

I started working on this post last week, and never got it finished. Usually, in these cases, I delete old posts. However, having reread it, I feel about the same as I did last week, so I'm keeping it. The only thing I can now add to my rant is that it's still friggin hot, and our Taurus has been declared dead. In many ways, I would like to rejoice about that fact. I've wanted to drive that stupid car off a cliff for years. In other ways, I'm irritated because I now have to go car shopping. That's always fun. But we shall see what happens. So many lots, so little time.

On with the old post:

This week, I reached the 400 post point in my blog. Last month, the "three years running" point.

Sometimes I feel like I've gotten away from the intended reasons for starting this blog.

Sigh.

I guess I'm just having a melancholy day.

There is so much good in my life.

There is a lot of stress.

I handle it, I deal with what comes my way.

There are days I am so contented that I feel I could drift away, light and airy and free.

There are other days that I feel so burdened that I feel nauseous.

Like cancer can invade the body, depression lurks around the corner...trying to take over a person's thoughts. A person may receive treatment, but there is always the possibility that it will come back. And what does a person do if the cancer creeps back in? They cope. They fight it. They put one foot in front of the other until they survive or they succumb. There are only two choices. Live or die.

The sad thing is, people who are alive aren't always living.

Why?

They are busy. They have things to do. Money to make. Bills to pay. Houses to clean. Responsibilities. People to please. Neighbors to impress. Kids to feed. Animals to take care of. Run, run, run, run. I've said it many times before. Hamsters on wheels, running to and fro, keeping busy. Sometimes that's a real good way to avoid dealing with life.

Ah, nothing like posting here when I'm melancholy, so I can pull everyone else down in to the doldrums with me.

I have absolutely nothing to complain about.

I have everything in the world to complain about.

So, what to do?

Take inventory.

Here's what's bugging me right now:

Josh and his wildly cycling moods. No end in sight on that one.

Jess and her pushing (almost 15) to be more independent...it's a necessary evil, but I'm not ready.

Robert and his less wildly cycling moods. No end in sight on that one, either. You know, Robert is a good man. I love him. I respect him a great deal. He is a hard worker. He is a good dad. He is thoughtful. He does loving things, self sacrificing things to make me happy. I know that he is thinking of me regularly, and does things to show me that. He puts me ahead of himself most of the time.

However, there are times I wonder if our union can survive two more years of our life as it is now. With Josh's tantrums and fits. Plus the stress of having two other kids, who often get shuffled to the side in order to make room for their brother. Add to that the stress of me being the only one in the house that does not have ADHD. Sometimes it's almost more than I can take. Some days I feel like I'm going crazy trying to keep things straight. Keep the family straight. Forget even keeping me straight. That's a laugh!

Finances. In some ways, we're so much better off than this time last year. In other ways, worse. Okay, maybe not worse. At times I think, "We shouldn't do this and we shouldn't do that," but if we continue to do NOTHING all of our lives, we're gonna look back and say, "Where did the time go?" If we do that, we accumulate a stash of money in the bank, but we can't get back those wasted years. They're gone. I don't want to say that I did nothing and work my life away.

My schedule is another irritant in my life at this point. Right now I am running more than I have been in a while. Both boys are in football. That means: team meetings, writing checks right and left, team photos, cookouts, fundraisers, games, practices, scrimmages, etc.! Ugh! Does anyone have a remote so we can fast forward? In some ways, the football is fun. In other ways, it's exhausting. Of course, most anything is exhausting in this heat.

Now for the good: (Added in today, Thursday August 9th.) ;)

We still have two houses. My sister in law is moved in to the city house, and it is getting fixed up more and more each week. It looks great! (Compared to how it was looking.) We will be bringing in some rent...not much but some, beginning next month.

I just got a moderate raise. That helps!

My health is better than it has been in a long time. I can still breathe easily. That is a great feeling!

My pets are healthy and happy. (And mischevious, but that's how they should be!)

My kids are healthy, and mostly happy. School is getting ready to start, hallelujah! ;) Most of their school shopping is complete. There are always a few surprises that crop up due to individual teacher requests for supplies, but nothing that should break the bank.

As stated, I have a job, at which I have been employed nine years as of tomorrow.

I have wonderful, supportive friends.

In fact, I just made a new friend during track season. Her name is Jennifer; her son T.J. is friends with Josh. They were on the track team together and are now in football together. They live less than 2 miles from us. Her son Tyler is on Jo's football team. You know what that means? Ride sharing! Woo-hoo! We've already coordinated some great ride sharing and time saving plans. And, even better, we're both with the same cel phone company, so calls to each other's phones are air time free! Even more woo-hoo! It's so nice to have a friend that is a mother of three and works full time as well. She also has a Noah's ark of pets, she also lives out in the middle of nowhere. As she put it, "It's so nice to finally meet someone who is living my life!" ;) We do have so much in common, and I am grateful for having her in my life.

Even though I don't like having a car payment, I do have the finances to go car shopping and put a downpayment down. I have the Taurus for a trade in, which I am happy to see go.

I get to scrapbook occasionally, and I might tonight. I've been really in to card making lately, and that's something I can do even if I only have 15 free minutes.

There is so much for me to appreciate about my life!

There, I feel better. I always get the urge to take inventory when life gets tough.

Thanks for letting me get back to the roots of my blog, which is: rejoicing about the good stuff and venting about the bad.

I needed that.

Tag, You're It!

2007-08-02T13:34:00.000-04:00

Pat tagged me, and I'm tagging you!

It's "8 Things You Don't Know About Me."

This is going to be hard. My life- what I want known about it- (smiles) has been shared on this blog for three years going now. I've posted over 400 times...I've covered a lot of bases. So, I will try to figure out 8 things about me that I haven't shared. Here goes nothing:

My knees are hopelessly scarred from multiple bike accidents as a child.
No matter what I do, I can't get my finger nails to grow. Vitamins, diet, exercise, more water intake....nada.
Two of my front teeth are fake...I have a partial plate. I'm not saying which ones, either. ;) Usually no one can tell.
The dentist told me that the partial plate would last five years max and then I should have permanent bridgework put in. That was 19 years ago.
There is a genetic issue in my birth mother's side of the family wherein two front adult teeth never come in after the baby teeth are gone, such is the case with me. Jo-Jo has the same thing, only his are lower teeth that will not come in. They could tell this by his most recent dental X-rays.
Prior to Robert, all of my boyfriends were caucasion.
One of my closest friends has a terminal illness and there is not a day that goes by that I don't think about it.
I can't drive a stick shift. I will have to learn if I ever buy my dream car, which is a 1972 yellow slug bug. ;)

Thirteen Things I Learned on My Recent Trip to Canada

2007-08-02T09:04:00.000-04:00

Do not trust internet directions.
Do not trust internet travel time estimations.
Always take more than three days off to make the trip.
My husband does not drive as fast as I once thought he did. He drives fast, but just not as fast as some of the drivers I have now observed.
Never arrive late on a Sunday. Everything starts closing down and you will not be able to do the currency exchange thing, which is important.
My debit/Mastercard works when swiped as a credit card, but not in the ATMs. Bummer.
Once you get on a highway, you'd better be sure that you're traveling the direction you want to go. You will not see a sign that says "QEW" (or whatever road you happen to be on) again. Only on off'/on ramps.
Other than the road signs, everything looks pretty much the same as it does here.
People are pretty much the same as they are here, only maybe even a bit friendlier. Many wanted to know what our weather was like right now, where we were from, had we lived there long, had we been to Canada before, how long were we staying, etc. It made me smile.
There seems to be a lot more road construction (destruction?) here than in Canada.
It's good when you're in the line to get in (or out) of the country, and you're not one of the vehicles that get singled out for inspection. (Wheh!) ;)
Both US citizens and Canadians flock to Wal-mart in droves.
I've met the coolest Canadian ever and her name (alias) is Elliemarie. ;)

My Third Wordless Wednesday Post

2007-08-01T11:19:00.000-04:00

Meeting a Friend

2007-07-31T11:43:00.000-04:00

I just want to say that we had an awesome trip this past weekend. All five of us were able to travel to the Hamilton, Ontario area and meet Ellie! How exciting! She's even cooler in person than she is online! (I didn't think she could get any cooler!) ;)

We stayed in Cleveland on the way there and in Buffalo, NY on the way back. A fun time was had by all. Shopping and frivolity ensued. I will share some pictures of the sights as soon as I get caught up on my work, as I took Monday off.

I was very happy to get back to my pet crew. I did miss them a bunch. Debbie, a big "thank you" for stopping by to look after the dogs. Big hugs!

More later.

Happy Birthday, Denise!

2007-07-31T10:30:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday!

(May all your cake be yummy on your lips, but absent from your hips!) ;)

13 Things People Have Said to Me that Were Intended as Compliments but Ended up Sounding Like Insults in Disguise....

2007-07-26T09:24:00.000-04:00

The first pseudo-compliment was uttered when I was a teen by my best friend, Wyn, who I'd known since I was three years old. She was doing my makeup for a prom I was attending in my freshman year of high school. My date was a junior at a school several counties away, and his mom was on her way to pick me up for the big night. I was nervous, and as a result, I had developed a huge zit right in the middle of my nose. Wyn, older than me by six months, (and much wiser, I surmised) was working furiously at damage control, attempting to cover the blemish. She finished her work, stepped back, and declared, "Okay, done. You are going to look really good in the dark."
I had just gotten my senior pictures back and was extremely satisfied with them. One of my friends, an amateur photographer, had taken them, and I was delighted with the results. I took them to work with me to share some with my coworkers. One of the first girls to see them shared my enthusiasm on how well the pictures turned out. "WOW!" she exclaimed, "These shots are great! They don't look anything like you!"
I had only been married a couple of years, and at the time I was working as a waitress. Every day I wore black slacks, a white (man's) long sleeve dress shirt, a tie, and an apron. This was our required uniform. I had to wear my hair tied back in a bun, as it was pretty long. My guaranteed day off each week was Sunday, and on the way home from church one week, my hubby and I happened to see his uncle at our local grocery store. Before we even had a chance to start chatting, Robert's uncle assessed my church attire, complete with flowery dress, pantyhose and high heels, and he blurted out: "Wow! Kris! You actually look like a woman today!"
Once I took an office job, the pounds began to creep up slowly. I decided to start a workout program, in hopes of winning the battle of the bulge. I had a stepper, which I used faithfully, and had worked up to about 45 minutes a day. I was losing weight, and was quite excited! I was speaking to my coworker and friend, who I could commiserate with on weight gain issues, as she had gained a few pounds over the years as well. I had just read an article that I found interesting, and welcomed her thoughts on the subject matter. "This article," I explained, "says that if a person carries their weight primarily in their rear, they should not use a stepper. It says that it will build additional muscle in the buttocks and make the person's backside appear that much larger." I paused, pondering this potential setback. "I wonder if I should change my workout routine?" I mumbled. My friend didn't take long to offer a response. "If you ask me," she declared, "It can't get any worse!" I think I laughed for ten minutes. My friend insists, to this day, that she was talking about herself when she made the comment, but I'm not totally convinced....
"Wow! You sure carry your weight well!" is one I hear frequently....gotta love that one. :)
My sister-in-law is the queen of backhanded compliments. One day she came over, just as I was getting ready to head out to run some errands. I had taken care with my makeup that day, something I didn't always do on my days off. Kay took notice. "Wow." she pointed out, "You really are one of those people who look a lot better with makeup on." (She is right.)
You never know what my kids are going to come up with. They can slice and dice me without even intending to. One day my kids were looking through my high school yearbooks. They paused to read the inscriptions left by my fellow classmates, friends, former boyfriends, teachers, etc. My daughter was fascinated to see that I actually had a life before I married and had kids. After a bit, she formed a conclusion: "Mom, you know something? You were far too pretty back then to have all those ugly boyfriends." HUH?
Likewise, the junior high yearbook perusing didn't turn out much better. I was an awkward preteen with huge owl-like glasses, braces, a poor complexion and a goofy hair cut. To say that my junior high school photos were unflattering would be an understatement. Jess struggled to find something positive to say in light of these rather embarrassing photos. "Well, Mom," she assured me, "At least you had good taste in shirts."
Even my hair dresser got in on the fun. My friend had purchased a "works" session for me. So instead of just my usual cut, I was treated to eyebrow wax, hair color, etc. How fun! Trish had just finished doing my eyebrows and stood back to take a look. "They look great! See?" she showed me, quickly flashing a mirror in front of me. "Now, do you want me to do something about that mustache?"
My husband also gets in on the double talk. One day he looked at me and said, "You know what? Your weight has never been an issue for me, no matter how much you've gained. I think you still look good." Uh...gee, thanks, hon.
I made a grave error in the hair care aisle. Instead of grabbing my normal "light brownish auburn" shade to cover my gray, I grabbed something that was a more dark purplish red that screamed "Flaming redhead alert, avert your eyes!" My husband was shocked to see the change, but tried to give me a boost of confidence. "I'll be glad when that grows out, but until then, I'm just going to call you my little redbird." Okay, thanks for that, babe.
This one is something my sweet, well intentioned hubby has said on more than one occasion: "I can always tell when you're losing weight, because your chin thins out right away." (What he's saying is, in reality, is that I go from two or three chins to one!) ;)
When I got acrylic nails put on for the first (and last) time, my friend remarked, "Wow, your fingers don't look nearly as stubby now!" ;)

Hope you got at least a chuckle or two at my expense! ;) Have a great Thursday!

Contest

2007-07-25T13:43:00.000-04:00

There's a pretty neat contest going on over here:

http://lifeisrantastic.blogspot.com/

There's some money being raised for some great causes and a lot of fun stuff to check out.

Thought I'd share it with you! Have a great day!

My Second "Wordless Wednesday" Post

2007-07-24T09:00:00.001-04:00

13 Things That I Consider Blessings

2007-07-19T21:00:00.000-04:00

My health: I feel great right now! I can breathe, move and talk without getting winded!

My job, the same one I've had for nine years.

My family!

My friends!

My pets!

Clothes on my back...and then some.

My blog and my personal journals...my ability to write in general.

My house....I thought at one point I might not be able to buy it from my grandmother's estate, so I truly appreciate it now.

My completed scrapbooks....I've lost track of how many. 40+ at least.

My memories....sometimes they are bittersweet, but I have the ability to retain them.

Many good books, which I have enjoyed reading lately...and the time to do it.

I am thankful for the quiet times in my life.

I feel blessed that when I lay my head down on my pillow, I sleep peacefully most every night. I am not in turmoil or tortured by emotions through the night. I am so glad!

Something Touching

2007-07-18T13:14:00.001-04:00

This is a blog link that I plan to add a "badge" on my sidebar for as soon as I figure out how to do that. Anyway, this blog author runs a dog (and cat) rescue. It has some wonderfully touching stories and the blog author has a wonderfully caring heart. If you have time to check it out, you'll be glad you did.

http://www.aplacetobark.blogspot.com/

A Tiny Bit of Fanfare:

2007-07-18T10:11:00.000-04:00

It slipped by without me even noticing, but I have been officially blogging for 3 years as of this past Monday. It has been such an enriching experience for me. If I would have known how many great people I would have met, I'd have started much sooner. Thank you to all of my "blogger peeps" for your kindness, support, and friendship over the years! Hugs!

My First "Wordless Wednesday" Post

2007-07-18T05:00:00.000-04:00

I Might Actually Get to Post About My Vacation Time...

2007-07-16T11:26:00.000-04:00

Okay, before something comes up that prevents me from posting:

Here's what we did....

Went to the drive in (that's where we rang in the 4th...for the third year running) and saw "Transformers" and "Evan Almighty." Both great movies.

We went to the movies on the day of my birthday/our anniversary...yay! I finally got to see "Fantastic Four...2." Another good action movie. Robert got me some newly released Strawberry Shortcake dolls. Jo and Robert got me a sweet card, 3 roses, a mug with a stuffed dog in it, and a little singing sunshine character that sits on a shelf and sings "You are my Sunshine." Say THAT five times fast. ;) Jess got me some "toasty almond" lip gloss from Victoria's Secret. We saw fireworks that night, and we had cake and ice cream the following day. (We were all too tired after the fireworks to stay up and enjoy the cake.)

Went "yard selling," and "thrift store browsing," and "outlet mall shopping" also in the middle of the day throughout my week off. Yep, I was excited to be able to do stuff in the middle of the day, because usually I am stuck in the office during prime daylight hours.

I did a little card making and read a fluff novel. Spent some extra time with the kids and the pet crew. Went out to eat a couple of times.

On the second Friday I was off I took Jess, her friend, our neice, DeeDee, and Jo to a beach close to Columbus. It was nice. They had a great time, and it was some much needed time away.

When my plans to see my uncle fell through due to some unforseen family issues he had, I was bummed at first. Then I planned to go see Ellie, and I was sure that was a "go." Well, McDonald's ended up giving Josh a hard time about trying to take the weekend off without adequate notice, so we decided to try it again sometime soon. Perhaps the end of July? I'm still working on the details on that, and crossing my fingers that it works out this time.

I slept in ALOT, got my sleep schedule all out of whack like a little baby. :) When I came back to work, I was exhausted for three days. Wheh! But I did get some great naps in and extra zzzzzs. When I am stressed, I cope by writing or sleeping. Needless to say, I was pretty stress free that week due to all the naps I got in.

The last day of my vacation I went to a friend/neighbor's home for a barbeque, which was fun. She gave me a vintage Strawberry Shortcake glass from the 80s. How cool!

I played catch up all last week at work.

This weekend, I spent most of Saturday with my friend, Tracy. She's my friend that has four month old twin boys. Plus she has a four year old daughter. Tracy's husband took the kids to see his parents in Columbus, so she had a very rare free day. Tracy works full time, takes school online and raises her family. She is amazing!

Anyway, I felt so honored that she would want to spend her one free day in MONTHS with me. We've been friends since 3rd grade, but it's only been the last couple of years that we've stayed in touch faithfully. The first few years after high school we were spending lots of time together. Then she got married, life got hectic for both of us, and we drifted apart. Back in 2003 we started hanging out a bit more, and I am so glad we did. Tracy's mom, who passed away in 2004, was instrumental in getting us reconnected. I will always be grateful to her for that.

During our "girls' day out," Tracy took me out to lunch for my birthday. We ate at a "make your own stir fry" restaurant at a fancy new mall that a neighboring town just opened last year. That was fun!

The waiter seemed to be flirting through our entire meal, but I just chalked it up to him vying for a better tip. After all, he was probably in his mid twenties. At the end of the meal, Tracy and I were taking pictures of each other to save to our phones. That way when Tracy calls me, her photo will come up....and visa versa.

At that point, the waiter asked if he could give me his phone number so I could "text" HIM. HAHA! Imagine that! I said, "I don't think my husband would appreciate that too much." After that, he was conspicuously absent from our table. Thank goodness we were done eating and the bill paid, or we may have gone hungry. Lol.

I've got some pictures to share of my week off, so here we go:

My birthday cake:

My goodies from Robert:

And Jo's: (Did I mention he bought these with the money we give him for feeding the guinea pigs every day? They were discounted items from Mother's Day...he was so happy he got a good deal so he could buy me more than one thing. What a sweet boy!)

The kids enjoying the beach. Btw, I don't know the guy walking past....;)

Some sunsets we got to see along the way:

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Last but not least, for sure:

I got a package from Denise today, which was so cool! I love it! It's like getting to draw my birthday out a little longer...have I mentioned I love birthdays? I am such a big kid...

Denise got me an inspirational women's book, a cute little angel girl that I plan to keep on my pc speakers, and a lovely bookmark. I chuckled, as well, at her very "uplifting card." ;)

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So, that's it for now. Hope you're having a great week! More later.

13 Ideas I've Had for Getting Rid of Telemarketers

2007-07-12T12:22:00.000-04:00

At work, I deal with telemarketers every day. Some are easy to deal with, others are huge pains in the butt. I get some really sarcastic, hateful folks on the other end of the line. I've come up with 13 ideas (some of them I think I've heard somewhere before) for getting these delightful people off the phone. I can't actually do all of these, in reality, but maybe you can.

My favorite one goes something like this: Hi, you have reached_______. If you are calling for accounts receivable, press 1. If you are calling for sales, press 2. If you are calling for customer service, press 3. If you would like to place an order, press 4. If you would like to speak to someone in shipping, press 5. For human resources, press 6. For safety, press 7. For maintenance, press 8. For receiving, press 9. For accounts payable, press 10. To reach the employee directory, press 11. Finally, if this is a sales call, please press 12..... at which point, they would be immediately be disconnected. (Insert evil laugh here.)

"What?! You want to speak with Bob? I thought he was with you!! What have you done with him?!!!"

This one I actually do: "I'm sorry, no, we don't purchase our ________(insert applicable item here) in house. We have all of that purchasing outsourced. But thank you for calling." People hang up, simply out of confusion.

The cruel method that wastes the telemarketer's time: permanent hold....I confess, I actually do that one, too. It usually works swimmingly.

I've heard this one somewhere: "I'm sorry, I'm a little busy cleaning up the crime scene from the latest homicide here. Can you call back in a couple of hours?"

Put down the phone for an extended period of time and play "Tiptoe through the Tulips" by Tiny Tim as "hold music."

Carry on a long drawn out conversation with them. "You know, he's away from his desk, but maybe we could chat while we wait for him to come back. So, what's going on in your world today? Have you seen any good movies lately? I have...in fact, I just saw "Transformers, and it was awesome. Let me tell you all about it...."

"Hold on, I'll try his extension. Oh darn! Hold on a second. The string just broke and now the cup has a crack right where the string goes in. I can't get any reception at all. Can you call back later? No? You're in and out of the office? Okay, hold on a second." (pause for effect.) Yell, in your loudest voice: "JIM!!!!!!!!!!!!! TELEPHONE CALL!" Wait a moment. "Sorry, he's not answering his page...."

"No, I'm sorry, he's no longer with us. We can't replace him until the FBI finishes their inquiry. But thanks for calling."

"No, we really aren't interested in that free publication. Our production manager isn't allowed any flammable materials in his office any more after that last fire. So we try to keep the paper goods to a minimum around here."

"No, I'm sorry, I can't connect you to our owner. He passed away several years ago." (This one is, sadly, true.) "No, I can't leave a message for him. He's a little busy there in heaven."

"No, we aren't interested in having our roof repaired or replaced. We've decided when it caves in, we're just going to install a skylight."

And finally, "No, I can't tell you the model number of the copier here. It's being guarded by a rabid pit bull and we're only allowed to get close to it for two days during month end. During the rest of the month, we have to copy everything by hand on the back of last years' sales reports."

Oh, the things our minds think up when we've had too much (or too little) coffee! ;)

A B C's of me

2007-07-10T10:19:00.000-04:00

I am thinking about doing an ABC album about who I am. I think it would be a good thing to leave behind for my kids when I depart this earth one day. So, I am going to use this post as my practice run. On most ABC albums, several descriptive words are used for each letter. (If possible.) This helps paint a more detailed picture of the subject. If I can get through this, maybe you'd like to try it out on your blog....

A.) affectionate, assertive, allergic, animal lover
B.) blogger, big butted :)
C.) capable, curious, caring, Christian, cautious
D.) determined, dutiful
E.) emotional, eclectic
F.) friend, Foster (maiden name), funny, forgiving
G.) goofy, gregarious, generous
H.) hopeful, helpful
I.) introspective, Irish, insecure
J.) jovial, jester
K.) Kristi Kay, knowledgeable
L.) listener, loving, loquacious, laid back
M.) Mom, music lover, moody
N.) niece, Native American, nervous
O.) optimistic, overwhelmed, open minded
P.) poetic, patriotic, passionate, peace loving
Q.) quirky, quiet (at times)
R.) researcher, romantic, restless, rebellious
S.) sarcastic, silly, sister, sensitive, scrapbooker
T.) tenacious, temperamental, trusting
U.) understanding, undisciplined, underrated and under-appreciated ;)
V.) vocal, vain
W.) writer, wife, worrier, worker
X.) "X-tra stumped" on the "X" word ;)
Y.) Young (at name and at heart)
Z.) zookeeper (a zoo is what I have at home...aka Noah's ark)

Thirteen Reasons July 4th is my 2nd Favorite Holiday...even if this IS a day late.

2007-07-06T21:21:00.000-04:00

It's a very happy holiday, full of history and tradition.

People in the US get in really good moods, especially when they get an extra day off.

I get the day off.

It's my birthday! (1972)

It's my wedding anniversary! (1991)

Fireworks are fun!

Grilling out is fun!

It's not Christmas, so it doesn't get first place...but it is a close 2nd.

I like donning my red, white and blue and celebrating.

I enjoy the national anthem, especially when people sing it that can actually sing.

When the weather is nice, pool or beach time is a possibility.

Potato salad, macaroni salad, fruit salad...there's bound to be some sort of yummy salad served on the 4th.

Did I mention the fireworks? ;)

My Goodies From Ellie!

2007-07-01T22:47:00.000-04:00

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Such a cute nightlight!

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The Baby Dwarf Hamsters

2007-07-01T22:33:00.000-04:00

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It's really hard to tell just how small they are, but take the lettering on Jo's shirt as a reference point...

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The one Jo is holding in this bottom photo had rickets...basically softening of the teeth and loss of hair due to the inability to eat hard food. I gave her romaine lettuce for a week, and she is growing, eating, and her hair is back. What a relief!

Some Photos That I've Been Promising to Share....

2007-07-01T21:40:00.000-04:00

Some shots of the non-work related part of our trip:

The water in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park...

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Some folks enjoying the water:

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The amazing trees:

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The area of the park we visited:

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Share Photos - Free Video HostingWhat a Place to Build a House....What a view....way up on the side of the mountain!

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Why they call it the Smoky Mountains.....

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Why they post falling rock signs.....

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Have you ever been cut off by a giant ice cream cone in traffic? Just wondering....

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At least they put the "closed" sign out before they drove away.....;)

Thank You

2007-06-28T14:03:00.000-04:00

I want to send a note of thanks out to one of my friends who silently reads my blog and then emails me or talks to me in person, rather than posting comments to my blog. I have a couple of those kind of friends out there. While I'm at it, I will also say "thank you" to April for the lovely card, as well. ;)

But I want to thank my one friend for the very thoughtful gifts. I'm not going to call you out here or be too specific, but what touched me so deeply is this: You listened. You listened to me, even when I didn't know you were listening, and your gifts reflected that. I am touched and I want you to know that. Thank you so much.

More later, I hope...if I ever get caught up! Geez! ;)

13 Reasons I Wish I Were In Georgia

2007-06-28T10:43:00.000-04:00

I prepared this post several weeks ago as my first "Thursday Thirteen" post. My trip didn't work out, but I'm posting this, anyway. I'm thinking by the time December rolls around and it's cold in Ohio, Georgia may sound even better! ;)

My favorite uncle lives there.

It's not here.

I would be off work.

I would get to see my little cousin, Jessie, who is a doll.

I would get to catch up with my Aunt Pat and my cousins.

I would get to sleep in.

I loved my first two trips there

I would be spending time with my daughter....just she and I on the trip down.

I would get to fine tune my very slight southern accent.

There is a chance I could take a dip in my cousin's pool where the water is warm and there is always good food waiting after a swim.

I would be taking lots of pictures to scrapbook at a later date.

Did I mention that I wouldn't be HERE?

I might actually get a little color if I get out of the office.

This is sooo neat! ;)

2007-06-27T15:21:00.000-04:00

http://potw.news.yahoo.com/s/potw/18303/cupid-for-country-folk

Quick Post

2007-06-26T16:43:00.000-04:00

Hey, just wanted to let you know I'm back to work and swamped. I had a great trip: we got a lot accomplished and training went well. We also did some sight seeing/relaxing and way too much eating out. However, it wasn't fast food and I made some good food choices. I drank lots of water and cranberry juice along the way! ;)

I will post some photos soon. Tennessee really is a lovely state.

Today I've been crying and regrouping off and on throughout the afternoon. My Uncle Ron has had some unexpected family emergencies arise and he's had to ask me to reschedule my trip to Georgia to visit him. I'm so disappointed, but some potential other travel plans are in the works. Depending on some varying factors, all of this may work out to be even better than I had planned.

When we were in Tennessee, it was so stifling hot (and I hate hot) I actually said, "Why don't I go south in the winter like the birds do?" Turns out, we have a plant shutdown the week between Christmas and New Year's, like we have for the last two years. It looks like I may be able to go to Georgia right after Christmas if we play our cards right. We'll see....God willing and the creek don't rise.

I told Uncle Ron, "Look, my only draw to the state of Georgia is you and your family. That's the only reason it's my second favorite state in the US." I've been there. This is just my opinion, okay, so I hope not to offend anyone, but: It's dusty, hot, there isn't a whole lot of anything scenic to explore: and I'm taken aback at how there are very few flowers or anything colorful there...other than the red earth. Now, granted, there may be lots more to see in other parts of Georgia that I haven't explored. For me, it's just not the prettiest state I've ever seen.

So, this may work out even better....stay tuned for developing news...;)

Hope you're having a good day where you are.

Hugs!

Hope to get this Posted

2007-06-21T16:28:00.000-04:00

Okay, let's see: I've been working my fingers to the nub (as has Bipsy) to get ready for our training in Tennessee. I keep telling her, "Whenever you get stressed out, think of the name of the hotel we'll be staying in: "The Hilton Garden Inn." I haven't had much of a chance to see what the hotel is like, but the name itself sounds relaxing. I'm looking forward to the trip, just for a change of pace. We leave Saturday morning and return Monday night.

I've had a uti AGAIN this week that has turned into a fun kidney infection. So, I'm on antibiotics for that. I am sitting at my computer with a heating pad on my back. I went and bought one because I knew the lower back pain would be much more tolerable with one. I was right! Ahhhhhhh. Now I just need a plug to convert it so I can plug it in on the trip down to Tennessee. ;)

I mentioned the dwarf hamsters babies in one of my text message posts. They are so cute it's almost paralyzing. :) They are totally sweet (unlike their parents) and easy to handle. I would sit and watch them all day if I had the time (but I don't) so I took some pictures. Maybe I will find time to post them here soon. I amazed at how something so tiny can be so active and amusing to watch. Jo adores them!

Robert wants to take me out to dinner tonight. I am torn between wanting to go home and pack and then lay down with the heating pad and actually going out to dinner. It's a toss up. I know I will miss being away from the family, but getting in bed, covering up with the comforter and resting sounds so inviting. We'll see.

As I mentioned, Ellie sent me a really cool package of Strawberry Shortcake items, none of which I have seen around here. There are stickers, (enough for me to use some and save some) a water bottle, a keychain doll, a retro Strawberry Shortcake patch, a postcard, a mini tote and my personal favorite, the night light. I'm sure I've missed something. That was such a welcome surprise. I'd been having a crappy week, and it was just the pick-me-up I needed. Thank you so much, Ellie!

I also mentioned that Josh is doing well on his job. He is getting all kinds of encouragement from his bosses. They want him to work more and more hours, but we're reigning him in, keeping him around 30 hours. I don't want him to get on burnout at this age. I know from firsthand experience that employers will work a workhorse to death. A good worker can easily be taken advantage of and end up exhausted. He's too young for that and doesn't NEED to work 40 hours a week. There will be plenty of time for being a workaholic when he's an adult. :) Why start now?

I'm looking in to renting a car to go to Georgia instead of taking a bus. Our transportation situation is grim right now, with both vehicles heading to the shop this week. Plus, they both have some age on them now. One is a 1997 Astro van and one is a 2000 Ford Taurus. Even if we have the vehicles back and ready to go by next Thursday night, I'm not sure I want to tax them by putting the additional mileage on them. Factoring gas prices and car rental, I'd still come out a bit cheaper by driving myself, since Jess is going with me. Plus it would afford me more freedom to sight see a little along the way. I'll miss out on some ecclectic characters in route, but I can live with that. :)

Other than that, no new happenings in my life.

I would like to request thoughts and prayers for my friend, Sheila, and her husband, Terry. Their dog, RD, died Sunday, on Father's Day. This dog was like their baby; slept with them, went everywhere they went...wanted for nothing. He died when his harness got caught in one of the electric fences on their farm. He started trying to chew through the fenceline, and it electricuted him. Terry happened to be away at the time. They live on a 40 acre farm with cows, goats, sheep, horses, Shetland ponies, etc. Their two dogs had a lot of running room. I guess RD went under the fence after a rabbit (which he did quite often) but happened to get caught this time. The fence was set on low, but he took a shock for long enough that his heart stopped. I know just how difficult losing a pet can be, so I am very sympathetic with their plight.

On that sad note, I must close.

Hope you're having a good week! More later!

For my final mobile post

2007-06-20T20:59:00.001-04:00

For my final mobile post 2day, we have baby dwarf hamsters! they r 2 cute 4 words! they r apprx. 2 inches long & tame! about 3 wks old-i think.

Today was jess' last game.

2007-06-20T20:53:00.001-04:00

Today was jess' last game. they had open play, so jo got to play, too. he scored! in other news, josh's bosses say he is doing great! yay!!

A big hug 2 ellie

2007-06-20T17:57:00.001-04:00

A big hug 2 ellie for the awesome box of strawberry shortcake goodies...stickers, night light, etc.! i hope 2 post pictures 2 morrow. so fun!!

I have been too busy

2007-06-20T17:48:00.001-04:00

I have been too busy @ work 2 post, so i am sending a couple of short posts via text message. bear with me....

This is only a test

2007-06-18T21:40:00.001-04:00

This is a test to try my hand at this mobile blogging thing. IF it works, I can keep you posted on my trips. Fun!

Monday is Upon Us

2007-06-18T10:30:00.000-04:00

I'm just now starting to (reluctantly) open my eyes.

Work is work, and I'm too busy to linger here long.

I just wanted to say, "hi." Hope you had a good weekend, and hope your Monday is going decent for a Monday. Anything exciting to report in your world?

Saturday Bipsy and I leave for Tennessee to conduct safety training at our sister company there and we will be back to our regular routine Tuesday.

Part of me is looking forward to the trip, but the other part of me is already missing my family in the worst way.

The following week, Jess and I head out to Georgia to visit my uncle. I am close to tears because I simply can't wait to go! I miss Uncle Ron so much! My little cousin Jessie is Jo's age, and she, too, is unable to contain her excitement about our visit.

I'm going to be tired by mid July! We plan on going to Chicago the weekend after that, (July 6th, 7th, 8th) so we'll see what happens. I'm hoping that trip works out. It's going to be a matter of how much of what we get done how soon. :) Did you follow that? ;)

I'll try to post more later today.

This Looks Like a Fun Contest:

2007-06-16T18:28:00.000-04:00

Photo Sharing - Upload Video - Video Sharing - Share Photos

This looks like a fun contest, but if you want to enter it, the deadline is tomorrow night, so hurry!

Here's the scoop:

http://jennymcb.blogspot.com/2007/06/js-blogging-limerick-contest.html

Here's the blog author's example:

There once was a musing blog written by Jen

Who thought of contests that anyone could pen

From a story to haiku

What could a blogger do?

And a limerick contest was begun by Jen

Okay, here goes my attempt:

There once was a goofy blogger named Kristi Kay....

who juggled work, kids and her Noah's Ark each day.

in her imaginary spare time-

she would oft pen a rhyme;

for she was never at a loss for something silly to say.

Okay, that's all I have right now. Wish me luck! ;)

Happy to Report

2007-06-16T17:10:00.000-04:00

I'm happy to report that my car problem was simply the fuel injector went out. I'm so thankful!

I don't believe I've ever been thankful for a car part going bad. But I am now. No tampering by livid neighbors is a good thing!

Hope you're having a good weekend!

More later.

Really Cool Contest:

2007-06-16T10:00:00.000-04:00

I entered this contest online and wanted to share it with you so you could do the same if you like: The deadline is rapidly approaching on this one, so check it out:

http://thiseclecticlife.com/2007/06/02/this-blog-blows-my-dress-up-contest-2/

Hope you get a chuckle from the entries!

If anyone was a saint, she was....

2007-06-14T18:22:00.000-04:00

I have always admired the Grahams. I've read many books about them and by them. I grew up watching Billy Graham crusades. Neither of my grandparents (nor my parents) were Christians while I was growing up. However, my grandparents always watched the crusades with me, and admired their work for humanity. They never went to church with me, but they always watched Billy Graham when he was on television. I'll never forget that.

It kind of feels like a distant, but much loved relative has passed. Or the end of an era, in some ways. In close knit relationships like the Grahams had, one often speculates how the surviving spouse will go on.

We had a couple in the Methodist church I attended growing up that had been married 60+ years. I think 66 years. They were so sweet. They walked around holding hands and staring into each other's eyes like teenagers. When the wife died, her husband died the next day. Kind of like Johnny and June Carter Cash. He lasted about six months after she passed, I think. Great love stories like that amaze me. It's almost like a person loses the will to go on after they've lost such a lifelong partner.

My heart and mind is with them all today.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070614/ap_on_re_us/obit_ruth_graham

Let's Talk Racism In America

2007-06-14T09:21:00.000-04:00

It still exists.

Yes, on both sides of the coin.

There are still some very angry, very volatile people in the world.

They still teach their kids to hate.

Yesterday, Jo was playing in our yard with a whole group of friends, as usual.

We had little tiny water balloons filled up, which they were tossing at one another. It was 90 degrees, and it was a good way to cool off.

Jess had just stepped in the house to take a phone call. We all got our "new every two" Verizon phones, and she didn't want there to be any risk of it getting wet with the water balloon fun.

Josh was at work.

Robert was in the shower.

I was "swiffering" the living room floor.

Suddenly, Jo burst in the front door, crying.

One of the neighbor boys had hurt him and ran away, with his friend, laughing.

Several other boys stuck around to make sure he was okay, and to tell me what happened.

About a year ago one of these boys came in the yard and called Jess a "b" and tried to hit her. She ducked his punch, punched him (in front of about 12 kids) and knocked him down. He went crying home with a bloody nose.

Yesterday, this same boy took a piece of plastic tubing and swung it at Jo, slapping him across the face with it, leaving a bruise below his eye. These boys are fourteen years old. Jo is nine.

Then both boys ran out of the yard, laughing, yelling, "Stupid nigger!"

The remaining group ran in to tell me, Jo leading the pack, crying.

The boys were nowhere to be found when I got outside.

I walked across the street to where the older boys' grandparents live.

I explained the situation, and the grandmother (who is a saint) explained that she wasn't surprised, because the attitude about race trickled down to the kids from her husband. He walked up behind her, saw me, rolled his eyes, and walked away. I asked her to speak to her grandson about the situation. That he was no longer welcome in our yard, as he clearly had no concept of what respect is. I told her that I didn't care what their beliefs were, and they had every right to say whatever they wanted on their own property. I let her know that if anyone comes on my property and conducts themself in that way, then we have a problem.

I went up to the other boy's house (whose dad is the head of our animal control division, and I don't want to make an enemy of) and repeated my speech to her.

This boys' mom told me that she reserves the right to make a determination on the incident because I am "giving her only one side of the story." She didn't seem the least bit concerned, and seemed convinced that I was making up the whole story.

Today, we got in our car to go to work...and guess what? It wouldn't start. Coincidence? It had been running fine up until this morning. No engine light has come on, no funny noises, no issues starting or running. As we speak, it is being checked to see if it has been tampered with.

ALL WE WANT IS TO LIVE IN PEACE AND LET OTHERS DO THE SAME. To use an overused quote: "Can't we all just get along?"

Oh Wow, This is Cool!

2007-06-13T12:23:00.001-04:00

Remember my "Most Embarrasing" Posts?

2007-06-13T09:51:00.001-04:00

There for awhile I was doing a series of posts on my most embarrassing moments. I was sitting here, and one just came to me. It wasn't really embarrassing in a public way, but more in a personal way.

I really did live a very sheltered life in many ways. One thing I took for granted in my young life is a simple task: My grandmother always bought my underwear for me. (Could that be why I had so many "bloomers" in my underwear drawer?) ;)

Well into my twenties, Grandma bought me underwear and socks for every single birthday. It was kind of a nice, especially when I was struggling to make ends meet as a young wife and mom with two babies. I never had to worry about that clothing expense. I just had to focus on keeping my kids in diapers! ;)

That being said, when Robert and I got together, I took over the buying of his underwear. Seemed like something we just got used to doing. Like mother, like daughter. That's what I bought Robert for birthdays. Socks and underwear. And sometimes shirts and pants.

Anyway, one year my grandmother decided that she was bored with the socks and underwear thing. She was done with it where I was concerned. She started buying me small appliances: an ice tea maker....a good blender...etc. She began buying socks and underwear for the kids. She was a practical thinker where gift-giving was concerned.

So, logically, I had to start buying socks and underwear for myself.

The first time I went to buy myself underwear, I used the same logic buying panties that I did buying Robert's undies. If a man's underwear is sized just like their pants are, women's must be, too. Right? For example, Robert wore a size 34 jean. So his underwear was like 34/36.

I wore a size 12 jean at the time. So, I should buy a size 12 pantie, too. That was my logic.

I didn't read the package.

Reading the package would have been a good plan, right?

I picked up what looked like 6-7 pairs of panties in a pack. I took them home.

I opened the package.

Low and behold, I quickly learned that a size 12 pant size does not equal a size 12 pantie ....

There were two pairs of underwear in this very large package.

I held them up for inspection. I thought I had bloomers before! Wow. I could dust a baby grand piano with those all in one swipe.

Needless to say, I learned my lesson that day.

a.) always read the package
b.) never assume anything
c.) no one I know wears a size 12 pantie
d.) be thankful for wise grandmas who know how to buy underwear

Okay, that's it. Have a good day. More later.

YouTube

2007-06-13T08:39:00.000-04:00

Hey, howdy.

The problem with my video is that my dial up at home won't let the video load all the way before the loader times out. I have to save the movie to disk, bring it to work and upload it from here.

I hope to have it up and running by tomorrow or at the latest, Monday.

Bummer.

But at least we're halfway through the week. Hope you're having a good one!

YouTube rambling

2007-06-12T12:46:00.000-04:00

I checked on YouTube, and they said that due to the high volume of video posting since yesterday (? something in the air ?) that videos would not show up as quickly as normal, and to bear with them. I'm starting to wonder if their system crashed, because mine was "uploaded successfully" last night and is still not showing up. ;) Weird.

I let the family see it before posting it, and Robert actually laughed out loud. That was my "sign" to go ahead with it. If I had it on my work computer, I'd just go ahead and post it on my blog from there. Alas, I did the video from home.

I used Windows movie maker. It's not a professional video, but it was fun to make. I've been wanting to work on it and post it since last fall. Takes me a while to get to personal projects, since Robert and I are personal nonstop taxi service for two teenagers and one nine year old. Not to mention that we are car sharing, and have been for months. This does help us with budgeting during these crazy gas prices. It's alot easier to budget gas money for a car than it is to budget for a car and an Astro van.

However, did I mention I have to get up at 4 am so that Robert can be at work by 5 am? Then I go lay down in the conference room until it's time for me to start work.... Did I mention that he has to hang around town until I get off at 5 pm, and then we start our evening? Did I mention that this is getting on both of our nerves? Did I mention that we don't use credit cards, so I have to save up money for auto repairs, so nothing gets done in a timely manner? Did I mention that I almost have the money saved to get the repairs on the van done? We're within a week of having two cars again! (God willing and the creek don't rise...) haha! YAY! Now that the van is close to being worked on, I have to start saving for brakes for the car. Sigh. At least we don't have a car payment right now. That's good.

But I digress....

In other news, I feel really good, and my blood pressure is still normal. I'm so happy! I have so much more energy than I have had in months!

Jess has her last softball game on Friday! Hallelujah for that!

My friend, Wyn's step mom (who lives right around the block from us), called yesterday. She asked me if Josh would like some clothes that her son, Tom, left behind when he moved to Massachusetts. I said, "sure!" We went and got them yesterday. Shorts, jeans, shirts, sweaters, etc.! Boy, Tom had good taste in clothes! I can't imagine this is his "castoff" stuff! Josh was happy, I was happy. What a blessing! Saves me money in the long run!

Other than that, nothing major. I had Jo with me at work yesterday. He was so good. Just played quietly, watched t.v., and ate his food/snacks. Sometimes I just go back and look in on him, just to smile at him. He's growing up so fast! I try to cherish was little time left I have before he turns into a teenager, too. :)

Okay, I'm outta here for now. I hope the video is up soon. If it isn't up by the time I leave here tonight, I'm going to try to resend it another way from home.

Hope you're having a good day!

Hugs!

YouTube

2007-06-12T08:45:00.000-04:00

Hey, I posted a video on YouTube...see sidebar on my blog...but as of this morning, it's not up and running yet. It should show a still frame of my video once it's ready to go. It was a lot of fun to do, but I'm a major rookie, so bear with me. Hope you at least get a chuckle. ;)

99 on the list...

2007-06-08T10:54:00.000-04:00

99. Just confirming that I REALLY AM bad at math. I told ya so! :)

99 Things About Me

2007-06-08T09:00:00.000-04:00

A while ago, I found this idea on Pat's family blog, and I thought it was neat. I saved it to my documents, and have toyed with the idea of using it in a post off and on. I asked myself, "Can I really come up with 99 things about myself?" I still don't know the answer to that, but I'm going to give it a whirl. I'm hoping that some of you follow suit, and try this on your own blog. I just think sometimes it helps to reflect on who we are at heart. It helps us get to know one another, as well as ourselves.

I am sure some of this list will be repetitive, so please forgive me if I bore you to tears. ;)

My name is Kristi, but nearly everyone calls me Kris.
I was named after a 70s soap opera character.
I have a 16 year old son named Josh.
I have a 14 year old daughter named Jess.
I have a 9 year old son named Josiah...aka Jo-Jo.
I will have been married to my husband, Robert, 16 years on July 4th.
I have four dogs...Gideon, Taz, Carlito and Maggie.
I have two cats...Tiga and Sheba.I have six guinea pigs...Sabu, Bentley, Lilly, Milly, LaBrawn and Carmello.
I have three unnamed dwarf hamsters. They bite. I should name them B1, B2 and B3. (Biters 1, 2, 3.) ;)
I was raised by my paternal grandparents.
I purchased the house that I was raised in and that my dad was raised in.
My grandfather built the house. He was a gifted carpenter.
The house we live in really is too small for us, but I love it, anyway.
My birth mother died at the age of 58 in 2005.
I didn't meet my birth mother until I was almost 18.
My grandparents that raised me are deceased. My grandfather passed away in 1995, and my grandmother passed away on New Year's Eve 2004/2005.
I do not have a relationship with my birth father.
When I was a teenager, I planned to be a missionary. I didn't want to marry or have kids.
I met my husband while he was a cook and I was a waitress at a local restaurant in my senior year of high school.
I am now an Administrative Assistant/billing clerk for a small manufacturing company. I will have been there 9 years in August.
When I accepted this job, my youngest child was 9 months old.
In high school, I lettered in tennis. I started out on the reserve doubles' team and ended up first single's varsity.
I once took a twelve mile canoe trip down the Little Miami River in the Dayton area. I thought I was in peak physical condition at that time in my life. The next day I couldn't lift my arms above my head because my muscles were so sore.
I started a Christian support group in our high school in my sophomore year that met once a week before school.
My brother, Eric, is my only sibling that was raised with me and we both have the same mother and father.
Eric has four children, all boys.
My birth mother's mother was a native American from the Arapaho tribe. She was raised on a reservation.
My husband is of African American descent, with Mexican heritage on his father's side.
My husband does not have a relationship with his birth father, either.
Many people think my husband is "Samoan." We are asked that all the time.
Other people think my husband looks like the actor, Ice Cube. We've heard that like a hundred times. ;)
My birth mother remarried after my father and she divorced. Her second husband was African American. I have three half siblings from that union. Tony, Todd and Tami.
Tony has three children... a boy and two girls.
Todd lives in Hawaii. He has no children.
Tami has three children...all boys. She just had her youngest in April.
I've been friends with my friend, Wyn, the longest; since I was three and she was four. She lives in the Springfield, Massachusetts area.
I can't swim. I can float and tread water, but I can't swim.
I wasn't allowed to get water in my ears as a child because I had perforated ear drums. This is why I never learned to swim.
Growing up, we only had one dog. His name was "Ole' Yeller." He came to our house, a stray, when I was nine years old. The vet believed him to be 9 months to a year old. He lived to be 17.
I have kept a diary since I was nine. I have many diaries that have huge gaps of time in them, but have kept some sort of written record of my daily life through most of it so far.
I am glad I kept those diaries, because I have big chunks of time that I can't recall from my childhood.
When we were little, if a stray cat or kitten came to our house, (which many did) and we asked to keep it, we were almost always allowed to. Off they would go to the vet to be spayed or neutered, and then they hung around our house or barn and lived out their lives there.
One of our strays lived to be 21 years old.
I collect Strawberry Shortcake stuff. I have way too much of it, but I love it.
I love to scrapbook, and I have completed 40+ albums, including gift albums, to date.
I am a Creative Memories' consultant. I don't actively sell the product, I'm what's known as a "hobbyist." (Stay active as a consultant for the discount.)
I go to a scrapbooking crop at least once a month.
My favorite food is Mexican food.
I hate pecans, especially pecan pie.
My least favorite vegetable is asparagus.
I love brussel sprouts.
I can't stand to eat white bread.
I'm not a big fan of pork. It's because I don't like foods that are real salty, which bacon and ham usually is.
My grandmother used to make me an orange chiffon cake for my birthday every year.
My grandmother used to buy me towels every year for Christmas. Now that she's gone, I miss that a lot. I'm thinking of asking for towels for my birthday this year from Robert. I love new towels.
I love Big Macs, so I avoid them like the plague.
When I was pregnant, I craved McDonald's french fries and Frosted Mini Wheats. (For the kid in me...haha.)
I am terrible at math. Always have been. I use math every day on my job. I use my adding machine a lot.
Music impacts my moods greatly. That's why I don't listen to country music. It depresses me.
I love pop music, particularly upbeat. I like any music that makes me happy. Top 40, Contemporary Christian, and 80s are my favorite genres.
My favorite scripture is Psalm 139.
I went to church camp three years in a row from my freshman year to my junior year.
I get my feelings hurt rather easily, but I'm working on that.
I never discuss my political views. Period.
I wear jeans to work almost every day.
I've worn contact lenses since I was fourteen.
I picked strawberries at a local fruit farm for a whole summer to buy my first pair of contacts.
I had braces from 7th grade to my freshman year of high school.
I can't understand why people think Bob Dylan can sing.
My brother, Eric, is named after Eric Clapton and Bob Dylan.
My least favorite popular singer is Beyonce. Her voice is like fingernails on a chalkboard to me.
I think Chad Krueger from Nickleback has a sexy voice. It irritates my husband when I say that.
I think Weird Al is a comedic genius.
I love to laugh. I laugh a lot. I prefer movies that make me laugh. I think there are enough sad events in real life. I'd rather see a movie that takes my focus off the sad stuff.
I could make a lot more money than I do if I sought another job in my field, but I'd have to travel to Dayton, Cincinnati or Columbus. I would rather spend that extra travel time with my family, so I stay where I am.
I'm not a big fan of change.
Something in my personality craves stability.
Something in my personality craves chocolate. :)
My biggest worries usually involve my son Josh or finances.
We have so many projects we need to do on the house we live in, but never seem to have the time to do them. Or additional money in the budget.
I'm not a morning person.
I love to sleep.
A good day for me is one where I got a nap in.
I rarely have a day where I get a nap in.
My favorite physical charateristic is my eyes.
My least favorite characteristic is my complexion.
I can tan really well but I don't get out of the office enough, so I stay pale.
It is my goal to have lasar vision correction surgery one day.
I want to go to college after my kids are all adults.
I adore my Uncle Ron in Georgia. He reminds me a great deal of my grandfather in personality. He looks just like my grandmother did, but acts just like my grandfather.
I also adore my Aunt Marlene...my birth Mom's fraternal twin. They looked nothing alike, but I used to always get them confused on the phone. Their voices were that similar.
I used to love to wear dresses, and now I hate it.
I've never been out of the country. I hope to change that soon by visiting Canada. ;)
Robert and I both have ugly feet.
In my early twenties, I worked for a Jewish family helping serve food during their Passover feast. The church I attended at the time focused on the Jewish roots of the Christian heritage. There was a member of the church that had a kosher food business. The weekend I worked for this Jewish family was one of the most wonderful in my entire life. They were fun, lively, great story tellers and extremely generous. I will never forget them.
One of my lifelong goals was met in 2001 when I got to attend a Billy Graham Crusade with my family in Cincinnati.
I've been to one NFL football game (Bengals) and several Red's baseball games. I love to watch NFL football on t.v., but hated it in person. I hate to watch baseball on t.v., but loved it in person.
My dream car is a 1972 yellow slug bug. Maybe I'll buy one after the kids are grown....

Wheh! Okay. That's it. It is hard to figure out what to say on these lists. Feel like giving it a try? ;)

Doctor Visit

2007-06-07T11:02:00.000-04:00

I made it to the doctor yesterday without the appointment being cancelled. It went well. In fact, I've lost ten pounds since my last visit in March. That's 17 for the year. That's a good thing!

I told the doctor that I had stopped exercising since I've been having this trouble breathing when I walk and I was sure I would have gained. He says we should market the "do nothing and lose weight" diet. We'd be a smashing success! ;)

Anyway, he says shortness of breath and wheezing can be a symptom of high blood pressure.

What he wants to do is start me out on a water pill to see if that helps get my blood pressure under control.

I took my first pill this morning and I, of course, have been running to the bathroom ever since. Now my ring is so loose it's falling off, and believe it or not, I can breathe. The "crackly" sound when I breathe is gone. I can take a deep breath without it hurting. I feel like my energy level has improved. The swelling in my feet is all but gone now, so my shoes are really loose. All good things!

I'm supposed to keep track of my blood pressure for a month and then have a follow up to see how we're doing from there. Thankfully, this drug is inexpensive, falling in to the $10 copay slot on my prescription drug plan.

I'd say that the appointment was a success! Just thought I'd update you.

Hope you are having a good Thursday in your world.

Hugs!

Pausing to be Thankful

2007-06-06T08:58:00.000-04:00

There are some things in my life I'm thankful for right now, and I am going to share them here today. I tend to get caught up in the heartache and struggles of life sometimes, and forget what good things are happening in my life.

I am very thankful for my friends. I appreciate you all so much! From my friends that I've had for 25+ years, to the friends I've recently gotten to know through this blog: you are a daily source of inspiration for me. Thank you!
I am thankful that I have a job, that I am working and able to work. That stability is something I often take for granted, but I know things would be different if I suddenly found myself out of work.
I am excited that I recently pieced together a computer for the kids. So, we are now a two computer household. A monitor here, a mouse there, and an unwanted pc from a friend...boom, we're in business. All at no cost to me! This addition is going to be extremely helpful in the future, I predict. The monitor and keyboard both look like new! The mouse is a cute little AFLAC mouse that has the AFLAC duck "swimming" around in it...a freebie from our AFLAC insurance agent. ;)
I'm happy that my Ipod shuffle is not dead as I supposed it was. It wasn't loading or updating or charging on my work computer. I was sure it was fried. I took it home and it worked just fine on my home computer. I wasn't about to spend any money to replace it with needing numerous things repaired at home. Now it is back in business, which will really prove to be a blessing on my long bus ride to Georgia and back at the end of this month.
The day I posted about my kids being distant was the day I came home and Jo gave me a hug as soon as I walked in the door. Jess has been spending a lot of time talking to me about what's on her mind and that's as healing to me as it is to her. I can handle dealing with the things Josh says and does if the other two kids don't seem distant at the same time. Even Josh thanked me for helping him on a school project yesterday. Wonders never cease! ;)
School is out as of Friday for my kids! Woo-hoo! I always breathe a sigh of relief when that happens! It seems like the expense of having three kids in school (all in three different buildings) gets ridiculous at times. I love summer as much as they do. Not only is it vacation time, it's time for a break from the rat race that the school year can be.
Today is my doctor's appointment and they haven't cancelled it so far! Yay! Thank you, God!
I had to have a talk with a friend on Monday and I had anticipated it would go poorly. I think this friend was also expecting the worst. We were both so relieved that we handled a delicate situation with ease and were both happy with the outcome. Wheh!
It's a sunny, beautiful day! It's warm but not too hot and we're halfway through the work week! That's reason to celebrate!
Jess was telling Robert that she never sees us hug and she doesn't know why. Robert asked Jo if he agreed with her, and he said he did agree. At the time, Robert didn't reply, but he's hugged me every day since that conversation. He's not a very touchy-feely person even with me, so this is indeed a breakthrough. In the past if when I've tried to hug him, he usually seems unresponsive or tenses up, so I'd all but given up. I don't know if this pattern of behavior will last, but I rejoice in it while it does. I know that God can change a heart, so I'm trusting that Robert is a work in progress, just as I am. ;)

Okay, that's my "Top Ten List" of things I'm thankful for. I hope you have lots to be thankful for today! Have a great day wherever you may be!

Transparency and Conflicting Emotions

2007-06-04T13:03:00.000-04:00

You know, I have a conflicting personality issue. I don't have the emotional discipline to ever have a "poker face." If I'm angry, it shows. If I'm sad, that shows. If I'm happy, I glow. At the same time, whenever something is really bothering me, I don't have an easy time opening up. I go inward. I take everything inward. When I am hurting, I am obviously troubled in the eyes of those around me, but I just don't feel like letting go of things, or sharing what's on my heart.

I hold my thoughts inside for varying reasons....sometimes it's a matter of pride. Other times I think that I can't really share how I feel because so many people have so many more struggles than me. Is it fair to whine about things when there are people with difficulties (even in my circle of friends) I can't begin to fathom? Still other times I think I would rather keep things to myself than to ever hurt someone around me. Often I just feel like if I would improve my outlook on life, I'd count my blessings and quit dwelling on stuff I can't control. Maybe that's true. Yet sometimes I face issues that need a solution, and I just manage to prolong my stress by not addressing them.

Even in this blog, sharing about personal struggles isn't easy for me. It's a little easier because it's written expression, not spoken. I can think about what I'm going to say, then type it. I can edit the post and then revise it again if I don't feel it sounds just right.

With Robert, I have always been pretty good at just saying what I think. I've never feared losing him because of being forthright. Although, over the last few years, I've even become a bit more guarded with him than I used to be. I've realized that in the past I've been rash and immature. I've hurt him by being too frank and too honest, and that was not my intention. I thought that we had an open communication. Yet when I applied my standard to his statements to me, I realized I wouldn't want him to say to me some of the things I say to him. I guess it's the whole "Do Unto Others" philosophy.

So, with age, I've become quieter. I joke around a lot when I am happy. Sometimes I can even be quite chatty. But the more I am struggling or sad or down, the quieter I become. Sometimes it's easier not to speak than to have to explain myself. Or rally for my point. Or to make changes.

The other day, Robert said, "You seem so distant lately."

If he says it, it bears considering. He's a man of few words. Yes, he will occasionally get in moods when he's talkative. However, for the most part, he is introverted. Maybe the longer we're together, the more alike we're becoming? I don't know.

You know, based on the case I have laid out here, I realize something has to give. I have to work some of my thoughts out. I can't keep things bottled up. I don't know for sure, but maybe some of this high blood pressure stuff is related to keeping silent about so many things. Is this the person I'm meant to be?

One thing that is eating away at me is my relationship with my kids. Yes, all three of them. Especially Josh, but even on a smaller scale with the other two. There's an old saying that "we teach people how to treat us." There is some truth to that.

My kids do not respect me, and I am realizing that I am partially to blame for that. I hear myself saying the same thing over and over and over, and yet unless I get angry, they pretty much ignore me. Sometimes I feel like I'm a ghost, in the room, rattling my chains and trying to be heard, to no avail.

All three of my kids have ADD. They do not exhibit signs of hyperactivity, but the inattentiveness is a big issue with them. This is inherited. Robert has the same diagnosis.

In a crowd, you wouldn't pick them out as ADD kids. They aren't especially rowdy. They aren't huge troublemakers. They seldom get write ups and school or on the bus. They are just kind of...spacey. Each of them have pretty much identical parent-teacher conferences each semester.

The teacher usually says something like this, "Josh-Jess-Jo (insert correct child here) lacks motivation. They have a hard time staying on task. They are staring out the window or out into space somewhere. They have trouble getting assignments completed on time."

My kids get along well with other kids. They are all popular and have more friends than I can keep track of. Yet they can't follow through with things unless I am constantly after them.

I've tried it all. Vitamin therapy, prescribed medication, music therapy, reflexology, prayer, posting to-do lists, etc., etc. It's just exhausting.

They get mad at me. Mad because I am constantly reminding them to do this or that. With each reminder, I get louder and more insistent. When I get fed up, I yell. Then they get madder.

Recently, Josh was diagnosed as bipolar. However, the Catch 22 is that ADD is inactivity in the frontal lobe of the brain. Bipolar is characterized by excess activity in another part of the brain. The medications that would help either would make the other one worse. So, we're in a waiting game. The trick is to wait until one or the other becomes unmanageable and then treat accordingly. It is like waiting for the other shoe to drop.

Josh is so angry 80% of the time when he's at home. He's short with the whole family. He is often disrespecful in his tone. He can be very stubborn about doing what he's told. And trust me, we don't ask a lot of any of them.

For every good moment I have with Josh, there are 1,000 bad ones. Robert keeps telling me to harden my heart against his hatefulness. That I take too much to heart...I need to realize that Josh's mood swings are in no way an indication of what kind of mother I am.

It's easier said than done, this hardening my heart against my own child. How do you do that? Is that a father thing? Is that a learned thing? How do you close your heart off so that hurtful things don't sting any more? It's not something I've been able to accomplish.

Now, Josiah is at that age when he's outgrowing Mom...he's starting to become a whole lot more independent. Gone are the days that the minute I come home, he would race to the door to give me a hug. Lately I can't even seem to cajole a hug out of him. I never thought he'd change. I always thought he'd be the lovey-huggy-kissy kid. Boy, was I wrong!

Jess has been in that "don't touch me" teenage stage for a long time. She can be very dramatic and throw tantrums when she doesn't get her way. However, for the most part, she's a typical teenage girl and we get along fairly well. I believe that when she is an adult, we will be friends and she will remain very much a part of my life.

Right now, I am just feeling lost where my kids are concerned. Most of the time I am around them on the weekends, I am longing to be at work. Work is an oasis of calm for me. I know how to do my job. I do it. Simple. There is no wondering what I could have done differently or contemplating if I made irreparable mistakes or constant tension over silly stuff. It's just a peaceful environment. I spend most of my time working independently, which I love. I can listen to what I want to on my computer...I can pause to blog when I'm not swamped, and even when I'm swamped, I am capable of handling it.
Sigh. Double sigh. Triple sigh. I truly wish each kid was born with their own personalized handbook that says, "do this and do that."

Sometimes I wish there were fewer waking hours in the day.

Sometimes I wish I was born without a heart.

But mainly, I wish I could fastforward through certain moments of my life.

That's about it for now.

Thanks for tolerating my ramble.

Hope your Monday is not filled with "I wish-es" and "what ifs."

This Really Touched My Heart

2007-06-01T11:33:00.000-04:00

http://potw.news.yahoo.com/s/potw/42/love-warriors