A Hatful of Nothing

2008-09-24T11:53:00.000-07:00

Due to complete frustration with this blog... I'm now posting HERE!!!

I WAS SO MAD

2008-09-24T10:46:00.000-07:00

TODAY WHILE I WAS TRYING TO MAKE MY BLOG ALL PRETTY...
I MESSED IT UP ROYALLY
I WAS SO MAD!
IT WON'T LET ME SWITCH BACK TO THE BETTER TEMPLATES WITH ALL THE GADGETS
I WAS SO MAD!
IT DOESN'T SHOW MY MUSIC OR MY FAMILY OR MY PICTURES
I WAS SO MAD!
I DON'T WANT A FANCY BLOG NOW, I JUST WANT MY OLD ONE BACK
I WAS SO MAD!

How coffee saved my life... or at least my sanity.

2008-09-23T15:22:00.000-07:00

I really and truly think that this little coffee job has been a blessing from above as of late. I have nearly felt myself on the brink of an anxiety breakdown... but when I walk into that little shop, its all about the coffee. I have to think so hard to make things, to get it right... to please my customers that I forget about the things that worry me at home. I truly feel like the weight is lifted when I'm aiming to please some one else through the magical making of the caffeine high... unless of course its decaf. It is ironic that I myself don't partake in this magic... but I instead partake of a much better magic... the magic of work, and how it can distract you and can give you a break from other things.
Kenneth is flying to AZ tomorrow for an on site interview... I'm not really sure what will happen if he gets the job, I just know that its not comfortable... whatever it is, its not comfortable. Its not the Mayberry life I have come accustom to. I know that wherever we go or whatever we do, it will be okay.... but its all kind of sad, the closing of a chapter in our story, and somehow I wasn't quite ready for this chapter to be over. But whatever the outcome... I hope to look at it as the next adventure....

Aye, happy Talk Like a Pirate Day Aye, me parrot concurs!

2008-09-19T14:24:00.000-07:00

As some of you know or maybe don't today is one of my favorite Holidays... Talk Like a Pirate Day! So grab your Ayes Maties, and Gars... and talk like a pirate today. Kasey and I enjoyed this book in honor. So whether you be a fan of cap'n Jack Sparrow... or maybe One Eyed Willie... this holiday is fer yea! You'll never get me buried booty... and I'm pretty sure ye wouldn't want it.

100 things I like...

2008-09-18T09:57:00.000-07:00

Came across this on The Carter Family blog this morning and thought it was a good way to remind myself of all the good things.

1. John Denver music
2. Talking to my sisters and sis in law on the phone
3. Fall air
4. White chocolate symphony smoothies
5. Renting movies
6. Riding my bike to work
7. New deodorant
8. Taking pictures
9. Snuggly blankets
10. Coke
11. Pouring Rain
12. Bowling on the Wii
13. Vanilla Black Raspberry body lotion
14. Unsolicited hugs from the kids
15. Car rides with no purpose other than to drive
16. Spring grass after a long winter
17. Kite flying
18. Steamed veggies
19. Disney trivia
20. Musicals
21. Buttery popcorn
22. Laughing
23. Wyatts stories
24. Jodi Picoult books
25. bears
26. singing in the shower... or in the kitchen... or while vacuuming
27. Kasey making her own words up to songs... Babies on the wall Babies on the wall.
28. Hot chocolate
29. Phase 10
30. blogging
31. Writing poems
32. Watching 24 (although I tried to avoid it as long as possible, now I'm addicted)
33. Don Williams
34. Spending time at mom and dads
35. Roller Coasters
36. Jack Skelington
37. Friendships
38. Cinnamon Smells
40. fleece
41. Bigfoot (the mythological creature, not the truck)
42. Good Dreams
43. Cotton Candy
44. Tim Burton Films
45. Picture Albums
46. #2 pencils freshly sharpened
47. Music
48. Campfire
49. Family time
50. Backyard Basketball
51. Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
52. New Bras
53. Fabric Softener
54. Watching Ty play sports
55. Down Comforters
56. Talking
57. Being Ant Tiff
58. Enya
59. Christmas
60. Taco Bell
61. Birthday Cake
62. Growing flowers
63. Tennis Shoes
64. Doing hair and nails with Kynzie.. Girl time
65. Drawing
66. vampires
67. giggles
68. Kissing my kids goodnight
69. Family Prayer
70. Swirl Cones
71. Naps
72. Loving Gestures
73. Theatre
74. Planning
75. Chickens
76. Curly Hair
77. Finding a good deal
78. Road Trips
79. When Family comes to visit
80. Halloween
81. Sweet and Sour
82. Sitting on the porch swing
83. Dates with Kenneth
84. Little People Toys
85. Scented Candles
86. Cook it yourself night
87. Getting haircuts
88. Remembering what I forgot when I went into the room the first time.
89. Decluttering
90. nights in a hotel
91. Prime rib medium rare
92. pets
93. Stocked Cupboards
94. tv
95. Thanksgiving Dinner
96. Traditions
97. Clean Bathrooms
98. Comfort
99. Puzzles
100. Family Faith Friends

I listed a lot of food... I guess I'm hungry!

2008-09-17T19:13:00.000-07:00

That was fun!!!

2008-09-17T16:16:00.000-07:00

So I had to try it... Thanks Amie... I think Kenneth and I would of made quite the adorable couple back in the early 70s. He is especially good looking!

I'm going on a week of becoming the best Barista I can be. Today was the busiest day yet and I only messed up one order. It was crazy though, and I definitely was ready to come home after my shift. It was a good learning experience, but lets just say under pressure my mind makes the most mundane things seem difficult. I also got my first paycheck... and you know, for really enjoying myself, getting out of the house, and being around adult type people, I got payed fairly well. I think I love my job. Its unfortunate things are pointing to moving, because I could get used to working in such a great environment. Well that's it for now..... I've got coffee stained hands and the sound of ice blending in my head.

I can't believe I forgot these ones...

2008-09-13T19:25:00.000-07:00

66. Tell me a random fact about yourself: I am a compulsive cougher, when I'm nervous I cough... I've tried to not do it... but I can't help myself.
69. favorite TV show as a youngster: I liked a lot of stuff... scooby doo, smurfs, Brady bunch, I dream of Jennie (I always wished I could be her), Bewitched... I loved all the reruns of the old stuff.

I like the smell of lilacs... I guess I didn't answer this because I couldn't settle on just one. There are so many lovely flowers each unique and wonderful in its own way. Wildflowers, roses, orchids, lily's, like people, each with there own thing to offer... some full of prickles some delicate and some just too much... how could I pick just one.

Oh and Leaner, of course I notice.... Kenneth don't read this part... okay... I don't really notice one particular thing about a guy first it's probably their vibe... you know whether they're creepy or not... I don't really have a type... although I like beefier guys... not to into guys that I could beat up... don't really notice the type of guy that looks like he's not had a good meal in a real long time... I like a guy that looks like he could lift me up over his head with one arm... so maybe that's good.... Vin Diesel kind of guys! As for Twilight Edward or Jacob... neither I pick Emmett.
Disclaimer: Johnny could neither lift me up over his head, and some times he looks underfed... but something about his quirky charm... hmmm yeah... nuf said.

Keeping my mind, and fingers busy survey... with missing numbers... it makes me wonder what questions got accidently deleted along the way.

2008-09-13T07:56:00.000-07:00

1.EVER BEEN GIVEN AN ENGAGEMENT Ring? Yes, it was his mothers... and I lost it... hint to all, I loose jewelry... I'm a looser!
2.LONGEST RELATIONSHIP? 16 years of relationship on October 31 the anniversary of the our first date
3.LAST GIFT YOU RECEIVED? My boss gave me a t shirt for work yesterday... it's got a big coffee bean on it. I guess that counts as a gift.
4.EVER DROPPED A CELL PHONE? Constantly I'm surprised it still works so well
5.WHENS THE LAST TIME YOU WORKED OUT? Tuesday I went and played basketball, does that count.
6.THING(S) YOU SPEND A LOT OF MONEY ON? I'm trying very hard to not spend a lot of money on anything at the moment... Gas we spend a lot of money on gas.
7.LAST FOOD YOU ATE? Pecan Praline Ice cream
8.FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT THE OPPOSITE SEX? I don't notice... I'm married. lol
9.ONE FAVORITE SONG? Lord I hope this Day is Good by Don Williams
8.WHERE DO YOU LIVE? In the blue roof house
11.HIGH SCHOOL YOU ATTENDED: SMHS, GO MINERS!
12.CELL PHONE SERVICE PROVIDER: Verizon... can you hear me now????
13.FIRST LOVE: I was in the second grade his name was NACHO!
14.LONGEST JOB YOU HAD: I worked at the Town Pump for 3 years.... I'm not much of a job person.
15.DO YOU OWN A PAIR OF DICE? I'm sure there's dice around here
16.DO YOU PRANK CALL PEOPLE? Before the land of caller ID and *69 I did prank call people, mostly in junior high... mostly guys I had crushes on... silly silly stuff.
17.LAST WEDDING YOU ATTENDED: I can't even remember... that's bad.
18.FIRST FRIEND YOU'D CALL IF YOU WON THE LOTTERY: WOW... that would be super... but sorry friends, I would probably call my family first... I'm not sure.
19.LAST TIME YOU SAW YOUR BEST FRIEND: its been a couple years.
20.FAVORITE FAST FOOD RESTAURANT:Taco Bell or Del Taco.
21.BIGGEST LIE YOU HAVE EVER HEARD: I will not rat a certain person out but it was probably when someone was planning their wedding, even though they had secretly already gotten married.
22.WHERE'S YOUR FAVORITE PLACE TO EAT WITH FRIENDS? I don't care where do you want to eat?
24.CAN YOU COOK? I can cook... sometimes its very good... sometimes not so much
25.WHAT CAR DO YOU DRIVE? Ford Expedition
26.BEST KISSER? In the world???? I couldn't tell you... I haven't run a big enough study... In my life definitely my hubby.
27.BEST DRINKING BUDDY? Funny!!!
28.MOST DISLIKED FOODS: I'm not a big fan of cottage cheese... or clam dip.
29.THING YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT YOURSELF: I like myself...I'm glad I'm me... there's no one else I'd rather be...
30.THING YOU DISLIKE MOST ABOUT YOURSELF: run at the mouth disease
32.LONGEST SHIFT YOU HAVE WORKED AT A JOB? 8 hours... once again I'm not a big job person.
33.FAVORITE MOVIE? I love a lot of movies... and I can not, will not, single out just one... that's like asking which one of your kids you love the best. You love them all in different ways.
34.CAN YOU SING? Every one can sing... just open up your mouth and do it... what's the worst that can happen... people running away in fear... I think not!
35.LAST CONCERT ATTENDED? George Strait back in 1996???
36.LAST KISS? I kissed Kasey a little bit ago... she just woke up
37.Last movie rented? I borrowed Untraceable from my mom.
38.ONE THING YOU NEVER LEAVE THE HOUSE WITHOUT: Clothes on... that would be terribly embarrassing if I forgot those... maybe a good way to start my career as the town eccentric though.
39.FAVORITE vacation spot: Disneyland of course
40.FAVORITE beverage: As you all know I'm a big COKE fan... but I'm doing much better lately. I've cut it down to 1 or 2 a day versus 6 or 7. Someday my friend, someday!
41.FAVORITE Flower? I love the smell of lilacs... but to look at I'd have to say
42.One Famous Person You'd love To Meet? Johnny, Johnny where art thou Johnny... lets do lunch!
43.LAPTOP OR DESKTOP COMPUTER?: Desk
44.FAVORITE COMEDIAN?: Well he's more of a movie comedian... but I love love love Adam Sandler
45.DO YOU SMOKE? I may be SMOKIN, but I don't smoke... that's yucky!
46.SLEEP WITH OR WITHOUT CLOTHES? I generally am always dressed when I'm sleeping... its the before the sleeping that would be questionable.
47.WHO SLEEPS WITH YOU EVERY NIGHT? Kenneth sometimes Kasey... sometimes the cat sneaks in too.
48.IF YOU HAD A MILLION DOLLARS: Things would be a little less stressful right now.
49.HOW MANY TIMES HAVE YOU BEEN PULLED OVER BY THE POLICE? 3 times... one while with my mom and grandma.... how embarrassing is that.
50.PANCAKES OR FRENCH TOAST? blueberry pancakes... stuffed french toast... it's all good
51.DO YOU LIKE COFFEE? like or not I don't drink it, but thanks to my new job... I can make a really mean cup of coffee... I am the Coffee queen.
52 HOW DO YOU LIKE YOUR EGGS? usually not... but an omelet is good on occasion
53.ARE YOU A HOTTIE: Heck yeah.... we all are... let your inner hottie out!!! What the heck!
54.LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? Sister Darcey
55.LAST PERSON ON YOUR MISSED CALL LIST? ~ C
56.WHAT WAS THE LAST TEXT MESSAGE YOU RECEIVED? Kenneth sent me a nice one a few weeks ago
58.NUMBER OF PILLOWS? I'm a one pillow kind of gal.
59.WHAT ARE YOU WEARING RIGHT Now? My fleece star jammie pants.... and a t-shirt
60.PICK A LYRIC, ANY LYRIC: Don't worry about a thing... every little thing is going to be alright... I said don't worry about a thing...
61.WHAT KIND OF JELLY DO YOU LIKE ON YOUR PB & J? apricot
62.CAN YOU PLAY POOL? not really
63.CAN YOU SWIM? I can swim... I don't like too, but I can
64.FAVORITE ICE CREAM? I love ice cream in all the colors of the rainbow.
65.FAVE SUMMER OLYMPIC SPORT: Oh that horse trotting one was pretty cool, just ask Alex's Human.
66.TELL ME A RANDOM FACT ABOUT YOURSELF:
68.EVER ATTEND A THEME PARTY?I've planned a couple for kids and church... but I don't think I've ever been invited to one... poor me... sniffle, sniffle, sob.
69.FAVE TV SHOW FROM CHILDHOOD:
70.LAST TIME YOU LAUGHED AT SOMETHING STUPID? I laughed at myself a lot yesterday... at work... I make a lot of stupid mistakes... and you have to laugh at those kind of things...its better than crying.
71.WHAT TIME DID YOU WAKE UP THIS MORNING ? 3:30, 6:46, 8:38
72.BEST THING ABOUT WINTER?: big clothes that hide my imperfections.
73.LAST TIME A COP GAVE YOU A TICKET? NEVER... I think I have a knack for looking really really sorry.
75.NAME OF YOUR FIRST PET? I had an earth worm... it died... we had a lot of animals I'm not sure if any of them were mine personally... I can't remember most of there names.
76.DO YOU THINK PIRATES ARE COOL OR OVERRATED? Pirates are the coolest... and don't forget that September 19th is talk like a pirate day... ARRRGHHH
77.WHAT ARE YOU DOING THIS WEEKEND?? Going to a football game! GO TY!
78.BIRTHDATE: OCTOBER 7th
79.WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE: The best whatever I can be...
85.ARE YOU ON A LAPTOP?: I have already stated that I have a desktop.
87.ARE YOU SMILING? Not right now... I guess I don't find myself all that funny!
89.DO YOU MISS SOMEONE RIGHT NOW: I miss a lot of people everyday...
90.IF YOU COULD GO ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD WHERE WOULD YOU GO? Som-beach, Somewhere.
92.ARE YOU IN HIGH SCHOOL? Hmmmm... No not for awhile now.
93.DO YOU HAVE A CRUSH? I have a crush on the cutie patooty that sleeps in my bed every night.
94.GOT A NICKNAME: Brown bear, do- bug, do, har.... depends on who you ask.
95.WHAT COLOR IS YOUR BATHING SUIT? blue, red, orange.
96.DOES YOUR SCHOOL START IN AUGUST? My school never starts
97.DID YOU GO ON VACATION LAST MONTH? Have you been spying on me... this is beginning to feel like an interrogation.
98.HAVE YOU EVER BEEN ON A CRUISE? No
99.DO YOU HAVE A SISTER: 2 of the loveliest sisters a girl could have
100.ARE YOU UPSTAIRS?: well there is a crawl space underneath me, so technically I'm up stairs but that's a real stretch.
101.ARE YOU IN LOVE? Yep... love is a beautiful thing.
102.HAVE YOU EVER BEEN IN THE HOSPITAL? Only to have babies... and once when I was having chest pains... and the doctor laughed at me.... "What did you think you were having a heart attack?" She was not a very nice person.
103.DO YOU WISH YOU COULD SEE ANYONE PARTICULAR RIGHT NOW? Yes, Bigfoot and I would take pictures with him, and kiss his furry face.
104.WHAT JEWELRY ARE YOU WEARING? my wedding ring... not to be confused with the engagement ring I lost... ug.
105.WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO AFTER THIS SURVEY? Take a shower, get dressed.

running out......

2008-09-12T16:13:00.000-07:00

I'm tired. Not the "oh my goodness I've been running in circles all day and its time for bed" Not the "I stayed up last night and watched the late late show" kind of tired either. I'm tired down to my bones.... every muscle of my body is tired... every cell in my brain is tired... every ounce of my being is tired. I'm tired of thinking... of working so I can avoid thinking... I'm tired of working hard to keep a happy face... most of all I'm tired of holding all my fears inside. I know there are worse things... I remind myself that every day. But it wears on a person you know. It slowly grinds at all things stable, and I've never been that stable to begin with. I hate the not knowing, you know!

Today was my 3rd day of work. Once again a delight. I mostly covered the lunch shift today, and made paninis. I made Reuben, and clubs, and Philly cheese steak, and a grilled cheese. I've been riding my bike to work.... I find delight in that too, I think I've become super cost aware, and riding my bike makes me feel like once again I'm contributing to some greater cause.
The only bad part of work... is that once again I was informed that when people first meet me some find me a bit intimidating.... or the big B word, (I guess I'm not bubbly enouph). I really don't see myself this way, because inwardly I feel shy and embarrassed to say something so Stupid that the person I'm talking to will never want to be in the same room as me again. I really am not a scary person, I promise. Give me a second chance, and I promise at some point I will make you realize how silly it was to think of me a intimidating. And if I seem mostly quiet, its because I'm thinking to myself all the things I could of should of would of said differently if my brain was turned on right :(

Bloggity Stuff

2008-09-11T14:49:00.000-07:00

SO because I've always dreamed of becoming a strange cult leader... and having followers of my very own please go to the new gadget down there that says "Look who stopped by" and become a follower.... I'm not sure what will come of it... but I'm thinking it will be full of wonderment and niceties.

I also added a link to my new job. Day 2 was super. I dreamt about making coffee all night, and today seemed to be much easier. Plus I have a super boss/friend, that is just full of goodness. In the few years that I've known her, I've hardly ever heard her say a negative word, so its really easy to work for her. Plus every day that I work there I get a free drink, so my goal is to try every non coffee item that they have so I can tell people what I think (today I tried the White Chocolate Symphony with a shot of coconut, it was very, very yummy). I also got to make the whipped cream today... so I got to pick the color... I picked yellow, like the sun. Really a cool place to work.

Another thing I did today is browsed through some local bloggers... there are so many. So many creative, funny, devoted, people out there that find some escape in sharing their words. It's very awe making to be part of such a big community of fellow bloggers.

And last thought of blogging for today: Have you seen the live site feeds on some peoples blogs. This scares me. I don't want people to think I'm a stalker... I'm defiantly addicted to checking on all my blogger family favorite reads everyday... I like to see how you all are doing... but generally I don't read about people I don't know, but every once in awhile I like to browse. So if you see Big Twig on your live feed... don't be alarmed I'm not a member of The Freemen , just a house wife/coffee maker extra-ordinary, lady with a little blog addiction. Further more I will not be adding a live feed to my own blogger page... because sadly to say I check my own blog quite a bit and that would just be embarrassing... Big Twig.. Big Twig... Big Twig.

Trying Something New...

2008-09-10T12:29:00.000-07:00

I guess its time for me to step out of my shell again and try some new things, because how will you know what you like if you don't try it right. Last night I was invited to attend ladies open gym at the school to play basketball. The last time I played basketball on a real team I was 2 years short of a drivers licence.... so it's been awhile. I got there with basketball shorts on and with doubt in my mind (what am I doing here???). And with no explanation at all, I was put on a team and the game had started. I felt a little insecure and blown away by it all, but it was fun, and I sweated profusely, and I worked out a lot of stress running up and down the court. Who knows maybe I'll go back next week... it can only get better right.
Then today, I started a new job... at Crazy Bean Coffee shop, Beings that I don't drink coffee, or even know much about it, this was a whole new world to me. And why do coffee drinkers think they have to rename everything? If you want small say small... really guys its simple. But anyhow there are a lot of different ways to drink a cup of coffee and I only memorized a few so far... and that's not counting that this place sells smoothies and sodas, and paninis. So it was crazy busy, and I have a lot still to learn. But I can see it could be a real fun place to work. And I thought I knew a lot of people in this town, but really I've only met the tip of the iceberg. I feel its really a time for growth for me... and I hope to continue to grow and learn.

When the going gets touph the touph get mowing???

2008-09-08T15:14:00.000-07:00

I'm exhausted today. There's something about unexpected things that makes me want to be productive. I think I've sat still for about 15 minutes. I just wish I could do something more to contribute right now. So I do house work. I vacuum, and dust, and organize, and mow the lawn, because it helps me feel better. It helps me feel like I'm in control of something. I refuse to be upset, or stressed, or unhappy, so I put my body to good use. I clean out heater vents and organize toy buckets. I change sheets, and scrub toilets. It's not so much that I'm worried about money, or Him not finding a job, because he's a hard worker, he's a good person, and any company or business would be lucky to have such an employee.... but what bothers me is the uncertainty of it all.... and to keep those ugly thoughts at bay... I pull dead flowers from the flower bed, I scrub the kitchen table. I work until I clearly see all the things to be happy for... all the more important things. I work until I see with unfogged clarity what a wonderful family and life I've been blessed with.
You know it's funny, I was always taught to be strong, to pick myself up and get going again... but what I realized last Friday... when I finally got it through my head that when Kenneth was coming home and not ever going back to that other state, I felt such relief. I hadn't realized how much I had held in for the last year. How much contention it had caused my heart for him to be gone, I had totally convinced myself that I didn't care at all that he was gone, that I'd become quite cold about the whole situation. I'm so happy to have my full time husband back again, however temporary or permanent the situation. I'm grateful to have him home.

2008-09-04T08:43:00.000-07:00

I had the Tornado dream last night. It was a bad one... I woke up in a sweat. Usually I'm with some family member in the tornado dream... but this time I was driving all alone.
I think I have figured out what it means... and why the tornado dream is so relevant in my life. I often have it when I feel anxious about something I can't control. I'm defiantly in that mind frame right now... there are so many things out of my control at this moment. I am going to do the best I can to keep in mind the big picture... but for now.... I'm spinning just a little bit.

Mommy's broken heart

2008-09-02T15:35:00.000-07:00

Some people send their children away to preschool because they work.... some people send their children to preschool because they need a break.... some because they want their child to have a leg up come the real thing.... me well I sent my sweet little baby girl to preschool to make myself the saddest mom on earth. Really I originally thought it was a good idea for her to learn to sit and listen to another adult for a little while before starting all day Kindergarten next year. I thought it would be good for her to get into a routine of learning and playing with other children out side of our home. But today came... and she was beaming from ear to ear that she was going to go to school... and fear struck the very heart of me... that soon... all too soon, this would be her every day... and some teacher, would get to spend the majority of her time with her... that lucky person would take for granted the way she giggles, the way she makes up stories, her imagination, her sense of humor, the way she makes up her own words for things, they would take for granted the way her curls bounce when she runs, and the way she looks when she is thinking hard, they wouldn't even know how much she loves to just sit and play all alone, and how she doesn't let just any one into her little world. And although a year may seem a very very long time to her... it will melt away into months, and days, and minutes... and she will be big, and start school... and I will be here all alone, thinking of her.

By the way... she absolutely loved her first day of preschool, I'm pretty sure she didn't even miss me.

I found an Ewok in my backyard!

2008-08-27T16:28:00.000-07:00

Four Answers to age old blogger comments:

2008-08-26T14:50:00.000-07:00

1. The High school mascot is Herders... he also smokes a pipe... He is a pipe smoking Herder in a tobacco free school. The little guy football team is referred to as the "Little Herders." Yes silly I know. But I don't know if its sillier than the Frogs. Eat em up Frogs Eat em up YUM YUM!!!

2. Not an answer to a question, more just a random thought. I don't hate cheerleaders. My mom was a cheerleader, my sisters were cheerleaders.. and many of my friends now, were cheerleaders, possibly one day one of my daughters will be a cheerleader. It just wasn't my activity of choice. Differences make the world go round!

3. I did take my blog photo, thank you for the nice comments!

4. And last but certainly not least ... Tori Spelling is not the most attractive gal out there. And I don't mind saying so. She is prugly.... and honestly her character on 90210 Donna was annoying.

Answer to the BIG question!

2008-08-26T12:02:00.000-07:00

I've been hearing a lot of the "so what are you going to do with all your free time???" lately. I'm not really very sure how to answer that question. It's not like I suddenly got an hour that I didn't have before the day still goes by the same old way. I have the same time... it's just seems now I have a million and one ways to not waste it. I'm not trying to sound bad in anyway, I just think for the last couple years I wasted a lot of time, because I was tied to other obligations. Now that my obligations are just that MINE... no matter what I do its not a waste of time because its what I choose to do. AAAHHH choice what a beautiful thing....

Today I started my day by choosing to get out of bed at 6:30... I stumbled out and immediately went into the little girls room... I'm pretty sure you don't want a visual of any of that. Then I made my way through the house to the sun room to let the doggies out to do there duty. (not an actual photo, of a dog doing it's duty.... she was just running in circles)

Then I hopped into the shower and hopped out.

Then in was on to breakfast...which by the way for the first time in my entire mommyhood, I've been making breakfast at least 4 times a week since I got home from Portland. (Giving myself a big pat on the back as we speak.) Then I woke the kiddos up with the song: Way Up in the Sky the Little Birds Fly, Way down in the nest the Little Birds Rest!

After they were all ready I drove them to school... which I really missed the last couple of years.

Round trip 5 minutes... when we returned I got Kasey settled into playing and watching Pokemon??? and I went out to mow the lawn. (Can you believe last spring this area didn't have grass at all.) Look at those nice lines!

And as if that wasn't enough... while talking to my friend C on the phone, I organized shoes, dusted my bedroom, and cleaned my bathroom... so sparkly!
Unfortunately my day then was slightly detoured because I had to run back to the school to pick up Ty who seems to have gotten a stomach bug... yuck!
When we returned from the school, I vacuumed my bedroom and got some rugs started in the wash (oh crap I better go put those out to dry.) and when I came back through saw Kasey had moved onto a little craft project I like to call- Making Confetti. SO instead of moving onto the kids bathroom, I skipped to a little living room cleaning.
When I really started to think about it, I realized it had been quite some time (over a year) that I have vacuumed out under the couches. So I decided it was time to do a little rearranging. I vacuumed underneath and dusted all the nooks and crannies.

While in my cleaning frenzy, I felt like one of my tables was lacking for appropriate decor. So I got a frame out and spray painted it in the backyard blue to match the stuff I already have in there. I had an old school book of my grandpas that was tattered and falling apart so I used a couple pages to make this...(sorry pics kind of fuzzy, must of been the wrong setting)
Oh yeah baby, then it was time for lunch...
When I was done with lunch it was 1:00.... not bad for one morning. Sure not every day will be like this... some will be busier some will be quieter... but that's the whole point. Mostly I'm dedicating my free? time to the most important project I could possible think of...
And hopefully I won't take one minute of our last year before school for granted.

Oh what a beautiful morning, oh what a beautiful day, I've got a wonderful feeling, everythings going my WAY!

2008-08-25T10:17:00.000-07:00

As customary for the first day of school (YAHOO!!!) I had to get some pictures of my cool kids ready for the runway! Kynzie going into the 4th grade this year, was most excited to see her friends again and see her new classroom. Ty was most excited to be in Junior High and get to go to dances this year, he was also most nervous to go to dances as well. Wyatt was most excited to go to a new school, and change classes. Kasey is most excited that she has matching shoes? with her bestest friend Wyatt. She was pretty sad when we dropped him off for school today, they have been quite the buddies this summer. Mommy is most excited that I have lots of time to get things accomplished around here, and lots of one on one time with Miss Kasey.

FOOTBALL

2008-08-24T16:32:00.000-07:00

I know I'm suppose to be a supportive mother... and believe me normally I'm all that and a ball of yarn, but honestly today was a dreaded day for me, because somewhere inside me I thought we'd escape the day that I actually have to go to... bum bum bum... Football sign ups. It's not that I hate football (well maybe a little, it stands for everything I hated about high school... glorified craziness... cheerleaders... pep rallies... need I say more) But beyond all that I really just didn't want to drive 82 miles for the games. I love my athletic boy... I cheer him on... pretty loudly, and sometimes I even live vicariously through his athleticism (because I was always a little clumsy and a lot self conscious to be a good athlete) But this one never has appealed to me much. I'm happy to see him excited to play, and participate in a team sport with his friends... and half of the football town we call home. I just wish the games were closer and I wouldn't have to go to half of them alone. Poor me... I know... Boo hoo. Well here we go onto the next adventure. And hey maybe I'll get me a nice blue sweatshirt that says Herder Mom... GO- FIght- win!!!

BIG FLAT TIRE!!!

2008-08-23T15:21:00.000-07:00

I woke up early this morning to wake up the boys so they could go on a float down the Madison river. I picked up a friend they were taking with them. I dropped them off. I got a call about 12 minutes later saying that they had left their life jackets in the back of the car. I agreed to drive the frontage road until I met them. I didn't have to go very far. I made it back home... in quiet bliss all day as the girls played games and kept pretty occupied. Then the boys got home... and I found out... I had a flat. Somewhere on route this morning I picked up a very very large spiky thing and it flattened my tire. BOO, BOO ON YOU SPIKEY THING. Especially because this being a small town and very quaint everything is closed until Monday. Luckily the very nice gentlemen that took the boys today, helped me get the other vehicle unhooked from the trailer so I could drive it around for the rest of the weekend. And on Monday I'll put my big girl panties on (that ones for you C, even though you won't read this until next Friday) and go get it fixed.

What in the world???

2008-08-22T12:00:00.001-07:00

Admittedly I watched Beverly Hills 90210 religiously until it went off the air. I was actually a little relieved they finally called it quits, because it was time to move on. But while it was in its starter years I LOVED this show. So was I surprised to hear that a remake was in the works... well this being the world of reusing old ideas again and again and again... it's like beating a dead horse.... I wasn't at all surprised. Curiosity controlling my life... I'll probably give it a whirl... I watch it once just to see. But I doubt that it can come close to the original... maybe because I'm not 16 anymore... and enjoy a more grown up show... but mostly because it would be gross to have a crush on an actor playing the role of a highschooler!!! hmmm Dylan and Brandon I miss you LOL!!!

Day 4: Time to go home!

2008-08-18T12:28:00.000-07:00

So yesterday I packed my bag back up... only slightly bigger than before... due to 2 extra shirts, 2 pairs of shoes, and some goodies for the kids. We went to the farmers market? for breakfast... I had the most fabulous funnel cake ever. Then it was off to the airport for my smooth trip home. I was happy to see my families happy faces when they came into greet me, it's good to be missed. And I was happy to be home, but I had such a wonderful time with Alexs Human and CAT. They really made me feel at home, and I loved trying and doing new things with them. I can't wait to go back again someday!

Day 3: Hot to Cold, Bigfoot and The Goonies.

2008-08-18T11:02:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we got up to take a drive to the coast. I was very excited to find out we were going to see Goonie Rock. Our first stop was Astoria... home of the Goonies and many a sea lion. Although I did not actually see any Goonies I did see Sea Lions and got to hear them barking. Next we crossed a big bridge and headed out into the fog, to see a light house. It was a bit chilly out there on the hill, I probably complained about being cold. Then we headed to the beach... where it was also foggy, and chilly, and the water was cold. I think we mostly went here, so Alexs Human could once and for all prove to CAT she could fly her kite. She did a good job... and I took pictures of the immensely ugly Jellyfish. Then it was on to the town of Seaside, where we went to the salt water taffy store(Who can take a sunrise), and searched for the perfect duck (for Kasey). I got to spin the wheel and I won a candy stick... and had my name go on the wall of fame??? I also got to meet the Beerwolf and Bigfoot (although I didn't really believe he was the real Bigfoot, because he kind of looked like a man wearing a furry costume.) After that we went to Goonie Rock... I did not find One Eyed Willy there... I didn't even see a pirate ship... I was only slightly disappointed though, because the view was beautiful. After all this site seeing we had worked up quite the appetite... so we ate seafood on the seashore. We ended the day when we got home by going out to eat ice cream... where I was taught Ice cream isn't just ice cream. What a great day!

Day 2: Target, Sushi and THE PHANTOM

2008-08-18T10:32:00.000-07:00

AAHHH the variety and excitement of this city. We started off our day getting bagels at the local bagel shop. I had a raspberry bagel. Then we headed to Target and the mall to get me proper foot attire for Phantom. This is when I saw the most amazing site of the morning. A two story Target with an escalator for your cart. SO COOL! I had to take a picture just to prove that my eyes weren't playing tricks on me. After shopping the mall and finding shoes to match my clothes we headed back home. We spent some of our spare time watching Texas Chainsaw Massacre part 4 starring Mathew McCauaughey and Rene Zellwegger, possibly the greatest movie ever made (insert sarcasm here) My favorite line being "Stop it mister your scaring me." Mathew must be very proud. Anyhow then it was time to get ready. After we got all dressed up, it was time for Sushi. Now in my mind I can clearly check this off my bucket list... It had little fishy eggs on it... it was on the sushi menu... however there were no raw fishies involved. I have to say, I probably won't be eating sushi again. My taste buds did not appreciate the flavor. But I tasted, and that's what counts to me.

After sushi, it was time for The Phantom. I really don't have the word to describe how much I enjoyed this show. It was the most fantastic thing I've ever watched, and I will be forever changed. The End.

Day 1: The Many Adventures Of Sacacawea

2008-08-18T10:19:00.000-07:00

I arrived in Portland Oregon on a wonderfully hot day wearing jeans and a black t-shirt... probably the wrong attire for as hot as it was.... who knew... you think of Oregon and you think cloudy and rainy... a place wear vampires can be out in the middle of the day. But it was quite sunny and well downright warm. I have to say I was immediately amazed by this city tucked in the greenery. And the bridges lots and lots of bridges. Very pretty! Our first stop was the Rose Gardens to find a cache, and after a hike through Fern Gully (I was for sure there was fairies and gnomes just waiting to jump out and get me) we found the cache we were looking for. And a lovely statue of Sacajawea. After this we went to eat at a church turned Pub. I loved it! I ate cheese steak! After a stop at Alex's Humans house, and picking up CAT we went to watch Journey to the Center of the Earth in 3D. This is when I made the only stressful decision of the whole trip... I had to pick the butter topping for the popcorn.

You Know What They Say About Big FEET!

2008-08-17T19:57:00.000-07:00

I'll apologize in advance... but couldn't help but post this picture. I will post even more wonderful pictures of my trip tommorow.

Cold Cold Water

2008-08-13T10:38:00.000-07:00

I should not complain at all because this is the reason we live here (or so I keep telling myself) The weather here has been absolutely beautiful here the last week. Just the perfect temperature for spending time out doors. I leave the windows open at night and a cool breeze fills the whole house. It's been great. One complaint is our usually heated pool, has been broken the last few weeks, so when the air cools down at night so does the water in the pool. And at 9:00am when Kasey's swim lessons are... its fffffreezing, the temperature outside according to my trusy car thermometer said 57 degrees. Her little chin quivers and her body gets all splotchy. It's not good, and I feel so bad for her, I feel like an abusive mom making her get in there. This kid doesn't tolerate temperature changes at all, so basically I've been cursing our lovely Montana weather... because it's summer it should be hot enough that a kid can swim in comfort.

The Good The Bad and The Ugly

2008-08-10T15:49:00.000-07:00

So first of all... The Good... In 4 days I fly all by my lonesome to Portland. SO EXCITING. I am so looking forward to this trip you could not even tell, I'm sure. My only problem is me being the country bumpkin that I am, I really am not sure what to wear to such an event. Do you wear just regular ole clothes, do you dress up a bit. What does one wear to PHANTOM? Oh so cool, just saying it, is cool! If I get caught up in all the excitement later and forget to mention... Thank you Alex's Human... Thank you very much!

On to the bad... which being all sunbeams and smiles I have put my positive spin on things... My good friend the one that wasn't moving, that was going to stay for a little while longer... well it was all a farce... she is moving, while I'm away this weekend she will be loading a truck and moving to the BIG CITY! But I have told her that I will not say goodbye, but instead will use her living in the BIG CITY as an excuse to go there and do fun girlie things! So it may be a good thing, and I will have a social life out side the realm of Big Twig. So it's bad, in a Help one of my daycare kids got there leg stuck in a chair, and I need to call someone quick, kind of way, but not in the loosing a friend kind of way, because I'm not loosing her. Who knows maybe we'll do even more now!

The Ugly... I was reading an article on aging gracefully a little while ago, and while I very often feel hip and cool, the whole kid in high school thing is starting to wear me down. My kids age me, and I mean that in the most negative way possible. Because Wyatt is so darned old, it makes me have the appearance of age, even if in my mind I'm the cutest girlie on the block, people usually take me for a much older lady, maybe this is the price I have to pay, for, lets say choosing to start my family early... LOL. (not to make a joke out of it, but quite frankly I've made my peace with my mistakes... or blessings, and can now look back with nothing but, WOW what a crazy kid I was, I'm so glad I grew up!) (Sorry went way off the track on that one) Anyhoo, I hate to drown in my sorrows but I feel darn old, with the boy heading off to High school, and not even just that, but scared silly that I have not given him enough armor to fight the real battle. On top of that my baby is going to go to preschool, and it just makes me sad. Leaner hit a good point with her whole blog today. And if your like me, a little of that hurt, of letting go, never goes away, because your always letting go of something. They are always growing and changing. THIS IS ALL TOO TOO CRAZY! I'm happy for my children's chance to grow up and become Big People. But its all happening so quickly... its time I can't get back, there is no do overs, and no second chances with your kids... and all I can do now is start today, to do all those things I always meant to do and never did, before I run out of time. I have 4 years left to leave a good impression on Wyatt and hopefully not do any permanent damage in the process. And also keep a young heart and mind along the way... and maybe when Kynzies a teenager they will think I'm her sister instead of her mom... HA HA HA!

Couples Survey (probably already did this one, oh well maybe I can make up some new answers)

2008-08-07T10:24:00.000-07:00

[1] What are your middle names? Ann and Kenneth sitting in a tree... K I S S I N G
[2] How long have you been together? October of 92
[3] How long did you know each other before you started dating? 1 night
[4] Who asked whom out? I'm still waiting for him to ask me out
[5] How old are each of you?32 and 35
[6] What are your astrological signs? HMMM I'm a Libra... I don't know what he is, really important thing I guess
[7] When was your first kiss? Maybe a day or so after we met
[8] Who's mother do you see the most? Mine
[9]Who's father? Mine
[10] Do you have any children together? Yep all 4 of them
[11] What about pets? 2 cats, to dogs
[12] Do you have a song? We don't have a song... we have a whole mixed tape.
[13] Which bill is the hardest on you as a couple? Bills suck!
[14] Who pays the bills? He does... I'm really bad at that kind of stuff
[15] Who drives and who sits shotgun? He always drives, I don't think he likes for me to drive, even though I'm a much more safe and responsible driver.
[16] Did you go to the same school? Yes we did but totally different social circles.
[17] Are you from the same hometown? No I'm from the nicer town up the hill.
[18] Do you live in the same town now? Every other week.
[19] Who is the smartest? We are both smarter... depends on the subject
[20] Who is the most sensitive? Well I guess, I'm the girl.
[21] Where do you eat out at most as a couple? When we get time alone, we try a new place every time so I can't say we eat anywhere most.
[22] Where do you shop the most as a couple? I love Target, so probably there.
[23] Where is the furthest you have traveled as a couple? As a couple... we don't go very far.
[24] Who has the best group of friends? HHMMM, I don't know. We're really not big socializers.
[25] Who has the craziest exes? Gosh considering that was years ago and really haven't seen any of them since high school, who cares.
[26] Who has the worst temper? Depends on the time of month, if you catch my drift.
[27] Who does the cooking? Mostly me, although he is a really good cook.
[28] Who is more social? neither
[29] Who is the neat-freak? we both have our moments
[30] Who is the most affectionate? Probably me
[31] Who is the most stubborn? Him I usually give into things eventually, I also forgive quicker
[32] Who hogs the bed? Oh him, but every other week I get it to myself
[33] Who wakes up earlier? when he's home I do, when he's at work he does
[34] Where was your first date? Halloween Party or like going out for a date, we went to Aladdin
[35] Who said I Love You first? Don't know
[36] Who has the bigger family? He has a lot of step siblings and half siblings so I guess him.
[37] Do you give/get flowers often? rarely
[38] How do you spend the holidays? We used to split time... but anymore its just us and my parents
[39] Do you have cute little names for each other? A** hole... just joking, kind of. Not really unless Hey You is a cute little name

All Smiles and Sunshine... Oh and What Genre are YOU? I'm PG13

2008-08-06T18:19:00.000-07:00

So I honestly am trying to turn over a more positive leaf. I spent all of last school year complaining about everything, mostly being trapped in my home. But now with summer winding down and a huge vat of ways to spend my time, I'm gearing up for the wonderment of it all. I really am looking forward to it all, and hope I don't take one minute for granted. I would like to learn to use my time efficiently. NO TV. Minimal Computer time. Maybe I could do some sewing, some scrapping (no I'm not a scrapper, but I have loads of pictures that I should do something with), some writing, some reading, some organizing, some crafting. Oh the joys of it all. I really feel this is my year, and I'm grinning from ear to ear about it.

The other thing I was thinking about today is a advertisement that I keep seeing on the family channel for the movie the Notebook. Its advertised as the epic love story. I started thinking about my own life. I know for the most part, it wouldn't make much of a movie. But I was thinking would my life be a Love Story, when I look back at it. Would it be a horror, or an action adventure. I mean in all reality it has a few of everything. There's been times I've been so in love it hurts... that my knight in shining armor rode in and saved the day. There's been drama. Moments that I felt scared right out of my boots. Moments that I felt lucky to be alive, times that I've laughed by butt off, times I feel straight out of a cartoon, and moments I felt safe and secure in my quiet life... the happily ever after. So what kind of movie would you be? And what rating would you receive.

sung to the tune of Phantom of the Opera

2008-08-04T11:58:00.000-07:00

One day so long ago... my phone it rang
She said do you want to go, and I said " yay!"
I marked off the days, as they went by
My Cousins taking me to Phantom...
in 11 nights!

So I will fly away... in a small jet
My excitement grows each day, stronger yet
I can't wait to see, the Phantom live
My Cousins taking me to Phantom...
in 11 nights!

Don't mean to rub it in... well maybe I do.
I'm going to have such fun, away for a day or 2
I will gladly cross it off, of things to do before I die
My Cousins taking me to Phantom...
in 11 nights!

Addition to my bucket list...

2008-08-03T21:39:00.000-07:00

So I thought of a new one...
Just once in my life I would like to go to a black tie event. Something that I had to dress fancy. I know this seems like a vain thing but, I've never really been to anything that I had to dress real fancy for. I would like to see my husband in a tux. I would like to wear a gown. I would like to dance in the middle of the floor and feel like a million bucks. So attend a black tie event is the new addition to my bucket list.

Bad Perm

2008-08-03T21:30:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I think we have way to much fun around here!!! The other day Kynzie asked me to put little buns all over in her hair, so I did. Then of course Kasey wanted to look like Kynzie, she said she was an ALIEN! The next morning this is what they looked like. Luckily this is one bad perm that washed right out.

A quick camping trip!

2008-08-03T21:05:00.000-07:00

The best shower ever is a shower after you get home from camping. I don't know how the olden day foke did it, without regular showers. I love being clean, smelling of soap and good shampoo. But we had a good time camping, and the simpleness of it all, no plans, no demands on our time, just being together. The kids spent most of their time climbing a hill that was by our campsite.

Bucket List

2008-07-29T08:59:00.000-07:00

So when Elise assigned this... I thought fun. I really didn't know how hard it would be. My husband could tell you a bunch of crazy things he would like to do, great things, adventurous things. I would of liked to make some really crazy things up, just to be cool. But that would defeat the whole purpose, I guess my dreams are just not very wild and crazy. So I tried, and I may have to revise sooner or later, but this is what I've come up with so far.

Things to do before I die (and if I have it my way that will be when I'm 110.)

Take a painting class
Take a Hike (a real one where you hike a long long ways, and sleep under the stars at night)
Drive cross country in an RV
Watch Alaskan Bears during the Salmon run
Learn another language
Take a cruise
Learn to quilt
Visit a Real Castle
Wear a Big Foot Costume and stand by the side of the road near the woods
Have a herd of Pygmy goats
Go caving (over come my fear of tight spaces)
Grow a pumpkin patch
Write a book of poetry
Go somewhere tropical
See The Phantom of the Opera (so close)
Drive the coast on a Harley
Make tamales with my sister in law and sisters (like an assembly line, I'll be in charge of the green olives)
Sing a solo for a group of more than ten
Make a positive change to my community
Hot Air Balloon
Travel the life of Joseph Smith
Try Sushi
Dye my hair blue
Make t-shirt quilts for all my kids (learn to quilt)
Dress up and watch Rocky Horror Picture show
Act on stage
Restore a Ford Maverick
Go to the Grand Canyon
Be the lovely assistant in a magic show
Learn to make noodles like my Grandma J
Learn to smile in the face of adversity
Feed a monkey out of my hand
Volunteer in the children's wing of a hospital
Learn to Decorate Cakes
Bicycle 40 miles

Okay I'm out for right now... like I said its a work in progress... and I will keep adding too it.

Mooshee Girl Stuff!

2008-07-26T14:12:00.000-07:00

We all are different. Some of us have lots of friends... friends in everyone we meet. Some of us have acquaintances and don't get close to many. Some of us reserve our friendships... only holding on to one or two good friends at a time, this is the category I fall in. I have a lot of people I would call acquaintances, the kind of people that if I see on the street I say hello, I chat with them at ball games or in the post office... but that's it. But as for those call and vent too, share your deepest secrets with, have complete understanding with, those kind of people come down to a very small number. I'm not complaining about it... like I said we're all different. It's due to that fact, that I'm that kind of person, that I find myself selfishly relieved at the moment. You see as I was dreading getting back from my vacation, just to say goodbye to one of my bestest buds, she has informed me that they are staying a little longer. CAN I GET A HOORAY! There are few people who really get me, who look out for me, who make me a little stronger in difficult situations, and SHE fits this bill, I've called her with my worst news, I've called her with my most exciting news. And although we very seldom, do stuff together (now without daycare, I am going to make this a priority), we talk to each other at least once a day. So as she is cleaning her garage today, making her home more sellable, I'm just holding on, knowing that someday near or far, I will have to say goodbye, but grateful that it can wait a little longer.

AZ Trip

2008-07-25T17:23:00.000-07:00

2008-07-25T15:34:00.000-07:00

No rest for the wicked....

2008-07-25T15:03:00.000-07:00

Well I thought I'd get home and take a long nap... but that is not what happened. We were all out of groceries so I had to go buy some. Then I had to go to Moms and pick up Chili-dog... so today I'm home... not rested and ready for a big nighty!!!!
My vacation was a lot of go go going. And a lot of bum exploding Mexican food, delicious but should be eaten in smaller quantities if you know what I mean. SO here goes my travel log: For memory sake... for your boredom sake... for the shear pleasure of writing a ton of run on sentences because that's what I do best.
We flew into SUNNY HOT MESA ARIZONA on July 4th. The heat walking out of the airport nearly knocked my off my feet... but you know that was the hottest I was the whole trip. We spent the 4th in our home towns with the in laws. It was great fun, and got to spend time with a step brother that we haven't seen since Ty was a little baby. The weekend came and we went to The International Wildlife Museum where I met my new boyfriend along with many other stuffed animals (taxidermeed animals) . It was wonderful spending time with all the dead animals of the world, and the kids enjoyed it. We got Slade on Monday, so on Tuesday we went to the Tucson Mall and let the boys free to check out all of the Classy Ladies of Tucson. We also checked out the Foothills Mall and caught a movie.... WALL-E (loved this movie) The boys watched Hancock and loved it as well. On Wednesday we went to Safford to visit my oldest sis and her family. All was wonderful there.... we spent a day cemetery hopping(don't sigh, quite seriously one of the coolest things ever). I took lots of pictures and said hello to all the ancestors. Also got to go out to eat, just the adults, which was a delight. Friday we went back to Oracle and spent a few more days there. We took the kids to Old Tucson. Which quite frankly has gone down hill in the last 12 years, but we had fun there. The boys always kept us laughing especially when the dancing lady flirted with Slade. On Wednesday we said goodbye to the In laws and went to Grandma Cs for a quick visit, and shared a meal with some of the Carter cousins. It was good to see some of you, even those who didn't know who I was, lol.
Then it was to my sister Darcey's house. We got to go watch the D-backs in a very good game against the Dodgers. And had lots of fun hanging out with them. We also go to sneak out again with the adult Whitings and go out to eat dinner. We went to Joes Farm Grill (which was featured on the Food Network) anyhow really yummy food with a really neat atmosphere... and what topped it off for me was the Barbies and GI JOE'S in the bathroom walls to watch you while you.... go... too funny! Then it was time to come home. And you know for all that traveling and go go going, I really had a good time, and it went by really quickly. So glad to be home and glad to have my own bed back, and not be living out of a closet, but it was really nice to visit with family.

2008-07-21T14:22:00.000-07:00

I'm home... I'm exhausted and I'm ready for a nap... I will fill you all in on my trip, Arizona, and my new best friend when I've rested up. SO GLAD TO BE HOME!

Here in AZ

2008-07-14T16:20:00.000-07:00

It hits me in waves ... the nostalgia. The smell of the rain in the desert. The familiar roads and places. It fogs over me. And I'm in a different time, transported back to my youth. Remembering things I haven't thought of in years. Thinking of things I used to do, people I used to know, a person I once was. I miss those days, I wouldn't want them back. Things seemed so harder then, big deal out of nothing days, but there was something fun and wonderful about all of it, the recklessness, the craziness, the heartache, and excitement. Oh youth!

Time is going much quicker than I expected it would. I'll be glad to be home, but I'm having a great time here as well.

Leaving on a Jet Plane....

2008-06-30T11:31:00.000-07:00

Well time before the big trip is dwindling away. I have pulled out all the luggage... and made the lists of things to do before we leave. I delivered Chili dog safely to moms house where she will be hanging out with the big DOGS until we get back. I hired the neighbor kids to take care of the yard and the cats.... really my biggest worry about the whole trip is whether I will be coming home to a brown yard or a green one. I dyed my hair today, so that the Arizona people won't know I'm getting a few grays on the top of my scalp... oops I guess you know now. Also if you'd please ignore my horrible farmer tan arms, and white legs that would be Super! All that's left is the packing and packing and packing... but I won't do that until Thursday because we don't have that many pairs of shorts. Well the kids don't anyway, I probably do. So with all of this done, I still feel like I'm loosing my mind. It just seems like a long time to be away from home, without a car... without means to get back if we just decide to come home early. Not that I'm afraid we'll do that, but I hate not having the possibility. I guess I'll get over it pretty quick once I'm there in Sunny AZ. Oh to all you family members that may or may not want to see me, I will be staying at Grandma Cs on the night of the 16th, so come one come all, or don't, but it would be nice to see you, and I realize that's the middle of the week, but it's what works since we have no car. So we are on our way...with sunscreen in hand.... and smiles on our faces.

Sun Room Make Over...

2008-06-24T14:54:00.000-07:00

Couple of coats of paint, new flooring and some ceiling fans, and a lovely sitting area is born...

Our Family Picture

2008-06-24T14:52:00.000-07:00

My mothers day picture finally came in today!!!

Survey photo bucket hard survey don't do it!!! Mine is totally out of order, so wow I stink at this!

2008-06-21T21:22:00.000-07:00

I didn't know how difficult this was going to be... because I couldn't figure out how to cut and paste and get the pictures on there as well, so bear with me... it's a mess. And I really don't even remeber what the questions are suppose to be because my pictures are so out of order.... and five hours later here it is:

1. Favorite music right now... music your listening to right now... something like that 2. Celebrity crush... take me away!
3. Color

4. Married or Single:
5. Your name: 6: One word to describe you:

7: What is most important to you:

8.What do you want to be when you grow up:
9. What kind of phone do you own:
10. Favorite movie
11. Blonde or Brunette:

12. Something you hate:
13. Where were you born:

14. Favorite Show

14. School mascot... clearly we were not the roosters... or the chickens... We were the miners, I guess that is this particular poultrys name.

15. Go anywhere right now???

16. First record you purchase yourself?
17. Kind of car you own>>
18. Favorite thing to do in your spare time

19. Closest to your right leg

20. Last book you read:

21. What do you wear to bed:
22. Closest red thing to you
23. Icecream or Coffee flavor

Just because its JUNE, JUNE, JUNE!!!

2008-06-21T21:08:00.000-07:00

What a busy week. We had a baseball game every night but Tuesday. Ty's season is finally over, their team really came around and took 3rd place in the tournaments. He was very happy about that, because it's been a bit of a rough season, and 3rd was really good for them. When we weren't driving, watching, or eating after baseball, we have been cleaning for an open house at our home today. I guess it went well. We went to the big city to pick up some things to make our house even more lovely. Projects projects... what would life be like without them. Then on more exciting fronts, vacation is just around the corner, and I need to still call Grandma C and tell her when we will by to see her (and heck if all you super cousins want to meet us there, that would be great too, oh and aunties too, it would be nice to see all of you, so maybe we can work that out somehow.) So I need to prepare for that.

Also I'm so very much looking forward to going and eating shrimp at Valerino's house in August. Busy girl I am. And pretty much I'm loving summer so far.

That was the ramblings of a sleep deprived, over done, mommy!

IT'S A BEAUTIFUL DAY!!!

2008-06-17T15:40:00.000-07:00

Wow... it has been the perfect summer weather for the last 2 days. Nice Warm wonderful weather and not a complaint will be heard from my lips about it. I am not going to use the word goal, because if I say goal, the naughty rule breaking Tiffaney wants to not do it (shame shame on me) but I will say my summer (gosh what other word means goal but isn't goal) my summer ambition (wow that's a big one), is to walk... and believe me that's a tough one. But I'm on day 2 of getting up before the kids, and walking, and I feel pretty darn good about myself. Yesterday I went alone, and today Hubby went and then I turned around and walked with a friend. I did walk a couple of times last week as well. I really would like it to become so habit and routine that I don't even think twice before rolling out of bed, throwing on my tennis shoes and heading out the door (oh and somewhere in there I would get dressed because no one wants to see me walking around town in my stripey pjs I'm sure). So what a great start to my day. And really beyond that didn't do anything spectacular, but it's just good to be into the summer days now. Have a few little home projects that are going around in my head right now, that I hope to soon be working on, mostly sun room stuff (hopefully it's stuff that will get done and I can show pictures). Yay for summer, ambitions, and projects... YAY!

How do you pack for a 21 day vacation?

2008-06-15T19:56:00.000-07:00

In about 18 days we will be headed for the hot and dry desert of sunny, hot, sweaty Arizona. I am really looking forward to being home for the hottest time of the year, so I can remember why I tolerate -10 degrees in the winter. No really, I'm looking forward to seeing the sites of the desert, the smiling faces of family, and the wonderful food (not to say we don't eat here in Montana, but it's not the same). So what I'm not looking forward to is packing for 6. We have never flown as family anywhere, so that is a whole different kind of packing. Hopefully my mother in laws washer is in good working order, because I'm sure we'll be doing plenty of laundry. At least shorts and t shirts take up a lot less room in the bags than pants. And we'll be packing a lot of those. Okay so any tips for airline packing???? Does anyone know any tricks I'm not aware of???

Here comes the sun la la la la!!!

2008-06-10T17:32:00.000-07:00

What is up with the weather.... did someone forget to wake mother nature up from her winters sleep???? 50 degrees is not, and I repeat, IS NOT a winter temperature! It is not warm and toasty, I have not been able to break out my nice summery attire, because I have been stuck in a sweatshirt and pants for what seems like eternities (probably just a couple of days, but I'm hating the coldness that's creeping from the whipping wind that never seems to stop blowing here in windy Big Twig.) And this morning seemed so promising the sun started shining and for a brief moment I looked to the heavens and shouted "Hooray Sun!!!" I didn't really shout at it, but I did bask in it's loveliness, just so the sneaky clouds could come and hide it once more, with the bully wind shoving me back inside. NOT FUN!!! Summer is suppose to be warm, hot even... and its June, clearly a summer month. And further more, when it's rainy and windy ants don't come out, and had it not been for the kindness of some sweet little children (NOT MINE), who went out and caught ants when the sun was shining, my nice little pygmy short horned lizards, would have had nothing to eat today... so thanks to them, and no thanks to cold!!!

A Day at the Dentist

2008-06-06T08:02:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday Kasey and I had a dentist appointment. She was excited to go, because when she had went for her check up she had gotten a nifty bracelet. So she knew she would get a prize. I was in for my cleaning, and she needed a cavity filled. When Kynzie was smaller I always had to hold her hand, so I wasn't real sure how she would react. She was so good... she went right with the dentist, and talked to him about her cousins, and how old she was... and when asked when she was going to turn five... she said "about two minutes." I felt perfectly comfortable with her staying as I slipped into the next room, so I could have my teeth cleaned. I could hear her occasionally talk to him, but mostly she was just calm and relaxed in the dentist chair. When we were done she got a sugar free sucker for a prize????? The dentist is conveniently located behind Target, so we stopped to get her something for being so good. We found some nice little toys and were on our way out the door, when I noticed blood running down my girlie's lip.... what the heck??? Then I realized what a dope I was, what a dope the dentist was for giving her a sucker while her lip was still numb. She had chomped her lip to shreds. Lesson learned, don't let your child eat right after dentist appointment. I felt so bad that when we stopped at Walmart to get some food for a visit with the Whitings at our house, I bought her the Indiana Jones Whip she's been wanting, money can buy a little less guilt, not really, but she was happy!

Wild Weekend with the Whitings

2008-06-01T19:11:00.000-07:00

We spent the last 2 days visiting my sister Darcey's family who were up from sunny Arizona. Most of Saturday we spent geocaching and picnicking in the wilderness. A lot of fun. We split up into teams and found 5 caches in all. The best find however was not a cache at all. The girls (being the team I was on) decided we'd race up the hill a different direction than the boys. We were climbing fiercely over logs and through prickly little branches. Darcey was in the lead, being the athletic one. When out of the corner of my eye I see something large and brown, simultaneously Darcey starts jumping up and down yelling, "A MOOSE, A MOOSE!" Now I know to all you city folk moose may just seem like a clumsy docile creature, but when they feel threatened especially with a baby with them (which was the next thing she yelled "it has a baby!") they can be quite aggressive and have been known to kill people. Luckily we calmed down, and quietly walked a safe distance away, to enjoy a nice view of the moose. (My pictures were not the best.) We then went home, and the kids took turns on the motorcycles. Today we enjoyed time with papa, taking a scary windy road out into by far the ugliest area of Montana were we all took turns shooting cans, and looking for rocks. And what trip to the badlands would not be complete with out bringing home a few new friends (what Do horny toads eat???)

2008-05-30T16:22:00.000-07:00

Great Song Request C!!!

Do not follow where the path may lead. Go, Instead, where there is no path and leave a trail.

2008-05-28T20:58:00.000-07:00

My young man graduated from 8th grade a couple hours ago. I'm so very proud that he is my son. I'm proud of the person he is. I'm proud that he is such an individual in a sea of jocks and cowboys. I'm proud that he dares to walk the fine line of expression. I have to say that he's a pretty cool kid, and I'm sure he'll continue to grow into a pretty cool man. I would love to say his graduation went off with out a hitch (but if it had I would probably be relaxed in front of the tv right now, waiting for their elaborate party/dance to be over.) But instead I'm here still wrapping my mind around the uncalled for actions of the principle and one of the teachers. I'm not sure what exactly was said, but they had my poor little boy almost in tears, because he decided to wear dress shorts instead of pants. (Like I said cool kid)They thought his dress was inappropriate, I think they are inappropriate. I had some tense moments talking to the authority figures, expressing how while surrounded by girls with their cleavage hanging out, the least of his worries should be 5 inches of Wyatt's bare leg. But after I told Wyatt repeatedly how very handsome he is, how wonderful he is, How much of a great individual he is, he was ready to graduate. And he did, my little boy making one more big step toward manhood. Yay him, sad for me!

Day Seven

2008-05-27T11:02:00.000-07:00

I think I've forgotten what the sun looks like... I've forgotten what it feels like shining down as its golden rays of happiness touch my face, I forgotten what it is to drag the sprinkler all around the yard, giving my baby grass its little drinky, forgotten what the blue sky has to offer in all its grander.... in all seriousness... what the heck??? who ordered the tropical rain forest weather? I love rain, but this is a bit ridiculous. I honestly feel like whooping out my hammer and nails and building an ark. Line up the animals....because the forecast for the next 33 days is, you guessed it, RAINY!

DAY SIX OF RAIN

2008-05-26T11:11:00.000-07:00

I can see clearly now... that I would never make it in a place it rained 75% of the time, because after a few days the novelty of moisture wears off, and you start getting a little crazy. I mean 2 days is good... but six days that's a lot. A lot of rain! I'm taking advantage of the rain today... and turning the inside of my house back into a home instead of little kid central. No more car track carpet... no more shelves of toys. At the end of the week I will give them all their crap to take with them, and I will be free of this prison ( I know that's a little harsh, but I use such words so that when I look back at this I will never have the temptation to do this again) Okay what button did I push to make my words funny???
This week, Wednesday to be exact, is Wyatt's 8th grade graduation. I am almost done making copies of my slide show. And wow that's it, it will be summer and on to new things. Isn't life good!

Don't Put Your Finger in Your Nose... in your NOSE!

2008-05-22T12:31:00.000-07:00

So as I sat here and watched a youngun' in my care today, pick his nose and quickly stick whatever it was he found up there, in his mouth... I threw up a little in my mouth... but after that a thought... sick as it is occurred to me, here is a kid that would not touch the lovely tostada I made him for lunch... saying "that is the food I don't like" to which I said "Too Bad", but he'll eat a booger... a booger, the stuff made of dust particles and our own mucus. HOW DISGUSTING.... but something compels kids and some really nasty adults... to eat them possibly every day. What compels them... is it some strange animal instinct... that I have long since ignored... is there some unknown benefit that we educated beings no longer understand. Or is it just the best hiding place for his booger he could find at the time??? Either way still makes the back of my throat lurch, and my stomach turn, and makes the words jump out "Don't, don't don't don't do that!"

2008-05-22T06:11:00.000-07:00

To start I have 5 1/2 days left of daycare... WOOHOO!!! Which also means I'm trading my daycare kids in for my very own children for the summer. I'm thinking/hoping that it will be a great summer. Right now I feel so knee deep in baseball, a birthday this week(Kynzie), and 8th Grade Graduation next week, on top of the daycare kiddos... I'm a bit light headed about it all. I know it could be a much worse... and I'm not really overwhelmed yet, I just am having a hard time focusing on it all at the same time. But in 2 weeks it will all be over, well not the baseball it goes for another month... but the other stuff, and it will be all relaxing by the beach(well there isn't a beach up here, but whatever), it will be GOOD. It will be very good.

It's raining it's pouring the old man is snoring.... been at it for about 36 hours... and my baby grass will grow bigger and stronger and we'll have to mow it!

Leaner~ I do not care what color manes my ponies get... I fully trust your artistic talents.

Some Kind of Wonderfu!!!

2008-05-19T20:42:00.000-07:00

I really wanted to be her... not Mary Stuart Masterson... but the character Watts. She drummed she was a tomboy... she got the boy in the end. She was so darn cool. I wanted her clothes, her hair, she had that piece of crappy car that I would of happily drove... If there was one person I wanted to be my early teen years it was Watts.

Another Baseball Day!

2008-05-17T18:43:00.000-07:00

Well I asked for the burn and I got it...even with spf 45 being out in the blazing hot (it really wasn't hot at all... it was 80 with a cool breeze) but the sun, oh the sun, for someone whose skin is the creamy white of 2% milk... well I am now like strawberry milk instead. I like it though, sick and twisted as it may be... I like the burn.

Flowers and A Shave

2008-05-16T06:25:00.000-07:00

Although I had 6 kids yesterday( at this point I'm hanging for the ride, 9 1/2 days left) I got a few things done, and I need to brag a bit, because its felt lately that I've been a lazy lazy girl. First I finished the 8th grade slide show, not as fun as I originally wanted, but oh well. Now I just need to make 45 copies of the darn thing, which may be more time consuming than anything. But pretty close to done, and that's awesome. I also got out my gardening gloves, well not really I like getting my hands dirty it makes me feel like I've actually done something, and I filled my barrels with flowers. I also planted a couple of new plants in my flower bed, they all seemed very delighted in their new homes. They really did, they all looked at me with appreciation in their eyes and said "thanks". Okay so they didn't, but in a world with little thanks it would be cool if flowers could say thank you. When I was all done with that and the grass was getting watered, I decided to finish shaving Chili Dog... I started a couple of weeks ago and she didn't care for it, so I only got her top half, so yesterday I finished the job. She looks a little silly, but it's got to be better than her porcupine hair she had. Maybe now people won't laugh at her... she can hold her head up high... or she'll just stay a bit cooler for the summer. SO that is all the great things I did yesterday... on with today!

2008-05-14T14:39:00.000-07:00

It's flower power time. It's finally time to plant some flowers outside. I always wait, and around mothers day I plant, it's generally safe from freezing. But the last couple of days have been cold and yucky, so I think tomorrow will be the day. It's suppose to be a balmy 73 degrees. I love planting flowers every year, to add a little color to the front of my house.

2008-05-13T11:35:00.001-07:00

I have two words to describe this day... MISERABLE CRAMPS!!! lucky lucky are we women to have such bodily blessings in our lives.

2008-05-10T18:36:00.000-07:00

Today was our first Saturday baseball game this season. We went to Gardiner for a Double Header. Luckily the weather was nice. Ty played really well and we even got to take in a little wildlife while we were there (notice in the picture of Kenneth coaching first base, there's an elk on the hill above him.)

I really wish I would of gotten a picture when we were pulling out of the baseball park, a huge buffalo was running down the middle of the street, how Dancing with Wolves is that???

Hard work payed off!!!

2008-05-07T07:42:00.001-07:00

We moved the dirt... we, mostly he, planted seed, we spread manure, we watered, we waited.... and like magic it appeared lush soft green baby grass. And today it's raining which is going to boost the process I'm sure.

SOOOO COOOOL, and I will proudly admit it even though I'm no longer 15, I so do look forward to this movie.

2008-05-05T18:30:00.001-07:00

2008-05-02T12:52:00.001-07:00

So here's the thing the other day I sat watching a rerun of Samantha Who? on my computer and realized I really like her hair. Christina Applegates hair in the show. I decided I could do that with my hair. My hair is curly, so why not. So when no one was paying any attention to me I got out my little scissors and cut some of the hair off of the back so it would all be about the same length, I guess, because with the curls there is no way of knowing for sure. So anyway this is the final result. I tried to pick a picture of her that looks kind of crappy so that I wouldn't look as bad, but you know she is a hot actress, and I'm me.... SO BE NICE!

2008-05-01T12:45:00.001-07:00

I am a
Daffodil

What Flower
Are You?

May

2008-05-01T08:22:00.000-07:00

It's May, it's May, it's May, it's May, it's May!!! DO YOU KNOW WHAT THAT MEANS. I'm in the final stretch.... the end is in site.... 21 school days left... Yippity DO DA!!!

Because you didn't know everything about me already

2008-04-30T06:25:00.000-07:00

Somewhere in my survey history.... I have done this survey before.... but not to let down those who love to read my surveys.... and because it is expected of a person such as myself here it is_

1. Do you like blue cheese? I do so like blue cheese to dip, I like to eat it on a ship, I like to eat it here or there, I like to eat it everywhere... but mostly on Buffalo wings.

2. Have you ever smoked? I tried, I coughed, I did not enjoy.

3. Do you own a gun? I do own a gun... I actually shot a antelope with it, I will no longer be hunting, once was enough for me.

4. What flavor Kool Aid is your favorite? Probably lemonade

5. Do you get nervous before doctor appointment? Depends on what kind of appointment it is... what its for. I hate the ol' yearly.... that makes me nervous. But if I'm going in for a cold, not so much.

6. What do you think of hot dogs? I think hot dogs are great, all that weird crap wrapped into a tube... how do they do it??? Some mysteries were meant to be unsolved.

7. Favorite Christmas movie? In recent years Elf has taken my top pick, but for a long time my favorite Christmas movie was probably A Year without Santa Clause.... I'm mister Green Christmas I'm mister sun, I mister heat blister, I'm mister 101. They call me heat miser.... okay okay I'll quit.

8. What do you prefer to drink in the morning? Diet Coke... I also prefer Diet Coke in the Afternoon, and at night.

9. Can you do push ups? I enjoy push ups, the orange ones from the Schwans man are the best.

10. What's your favorite piece of jewelry? I'm not a huge jewelry fan... probably the ol' ring.

11. Favorite hobby? blogging of course... but following in closely... would be photography.

12. Do you have A.D.D.? I've often pondered this question without being prompted... I've not been diagnosed with ..... what were we talking about

13. What's your weight? Fluctuating between 133 and 138 depending on time of month, hormonal differences, water retention, etc. etc...

14. Middle name? Ann, simple yet charming, don't ya think?

15. Name 3 thoughts at this exact moment. My inner ear itches.... that yogurt I just ate left a funny feeling in my throat.... Do you think I could really have ADD?

16. Name 3 drinks you regularly drink? Diet Coke... could ya guess? I also enjoy water and milk.

17. Current worry? I'm really worried I may have ADD??? all kidding aside, I'm not really worried about anything at the moment.

18. Current hate right now? hmmm hate is a strong word... but I really really really don't like the fact that after a lovely couple of 70 days its now going to be stormy and yucky... but even that makes me a little happy because my little grass seeds will grow bigger and bigger.

19. Favorite place to be? I like to be a lot of places. Home... visiting family... Disneyland.... AZ.... out to eat....

20. How did you bring in the New Year? I don't really remember... I'm pretty sure I slept right through it. Oh yeah I'm old.

21. Where would you like to go? I'm going crazy don't you want to come along.... I'm going crazy just singing this song. When Mary had a little lamb the doctor was surprised.... when old McDonald had a farm the Doctor nearly died.

22. Name three people who will complete this? You guessed right Amie I completed it. As for the rest of you Eat Drink and do surveys!!!

23. Do you own slippers?A couple pairs... boot ones that two years ago I frequently wore as shoes.... and some little black slip on ones.

24. What color shirt are you wearing right now? dusty pinkish

25. Do you like sleeping on satin sheets? Have no idea satin sheets are for rich folk and porn (jk)

26. Can you whistle? Sure

27. Favorite color? I like green and purple.... along with various other hues of the rainbow.

28. Would you be a pirate? Shiver me timbers... of course... as long as we were land loving pirates cuz I'm not a big fan of the sea!

29. What songs do you sing in the shower? Anything from I Am A Child Of God to Have a little Priest off Sweeney Todd.

30. Favorite Girl's Name? Mine of course.

31. Favorite boy's name? is there a favorite, there are so many lovely boys names out there... all of them lovely and great in there own way... it's like picking one sunset above another.

32. What's in your pocket right now? laundry fuzz I'm sure.

33. Last thing that made you laugh? can't tell you

34. Best bed sheets as a child? Strawberry Shortcake.... I know a girl and she is very berry!

35. Worst injury you've ever had? I'm kind of lucky I've never really had injuries categorized as worst. I've had sprains... bumps and bruises... but really nothing serious.

36. Do you love where you live?In the summer time I love it very very much... in January-March not so much.

37. How many TVs do you have in your house? 4, 4 TVs. but I'm earnestly trying to get our cable shut off.

38. Who is your loudest friend? Okay honestly I got nothing for this question... nothing

39. How many dogs do you have? One Chili Dog!

40. Does someone have a crush on you? Oh the numbers are endless. As soon as they see my lovely face they are hooked.

41. What is your favorite book? Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse, anything by Jodi Picoult or Richard Paul Evans.

42. What is your favorite candy? Milky Dove Chocolate... or Cadbury Eggs oh how I love thee.

43. Favorite Sports Team? Phoenix Suns and Diamondbacks. I don't like football.

44. What song do you want played at your funeral? Ding Dong the Witch is Dead which oh witch the wicked witch... ding dong the wicked witch is dead!

Girls can be Superman too!

2008-04-28T19:38:00.000-07:00

I think the hardest part of having a four year old... that is your last child.... is that you start noticing all the things that you will never have in your home for your own little ones anymore. When we were in Target the other day... I noticed these Superman jammies... just like both of my boys had when they were littles. I loved them so much. So of course I bought little miss Kasey some. And boy does she love them... She put them on as soon as we got home. Sunday morning, she didn't want to go to church because she didn't want to take them off, I finally convinced her that she could put them back on when we got home, I honestly thought she would forget about them by the time we got home. She didn't. As soon as we got home they went right back on. This morning she didn't want to take them off either... lucky!?! for me she had a coughing fit and threw up her orange juice on them, so she knew I would have to wash them, but after her bath tonight she insisted on putting them back on. I'm glad she loves her new pj's, but I'm now doubting whether this was a smart purchase on my part. She looks pretty darn cute in them though!!!

nothing says I love you like a big jar of pickles

2008-04-24T08:37:00.001-07:00

I don't know what you think of when you see a big jar of hot pickles (I probably don't want to know what some of you think), but I think love. Yes Love... the warm fuzzy kind of love. The Love that's been built on memories and thoughtfulness. Now I'm sure your all wondering why pickles... why Tiffaney why pickles??? Well back in the day... many many years ago, when we were just a young married couple with a itty bitty baby boy. We lived in the ghetto. Well maybe not the ghetto, but not a very nice area of apartments. The kind of place that you go back to ( and yes we did last year, and it was scary) and say "wow we lived here!" Anyway... on the corner from the scary apartment was a store (a corner store). They sold subs and snack food... but my favorite thing they sold was hot pickles. Yummy. Kenneth would often go on a pickle run for me. Like I say Yum, Yum! Such a nice hubby I have. At the time I wanted so much more than what we had, but looking back at it, I'm so grateful for those times in that apartment.
Last night Kenneth brought home this big jar of pickles, said he saw them and thought of me. I can't help but fall in love all over again. All because of a jar of hot pickles.

HHHMMMM!!!

2008-04-23T08:54:00.000-07:00

I'm starting to think that there is something wrong with my little Chili dog... not only did she poop in her kennel night before last. But last night when I told her to go to bed (generally she just goes right in) she bolted the other direction, and when I went to grab her collar to encourage her in, she snapped at me just barely missing my hand. Weird dog behavior! Could she be sick??? or do dogs just hate me???

There is officially 26 1/2 days left of school. That means there are 27 1/2 fun filled days left of daycare kids... and each of those days I'm maxed out... meaning I have my full capacity of children including a 9 week old baby. WOW!!! are we talking fun or what.

On further news... I woke up to only 1, One I tell you, only one, Diet Coke in the fridge.... I guess that's my hint to slow down on the SODA! Water is good... water is nice... yummy water! Maybe not, but it's what I will be drinking for the remainder of the day.

2008-04-22T06:52:00.000-07:00

To be more positive, the realtor called yesterday... after the showing... and no I didn't stick around to watch... that would really make me sick to my stomach.... but anyhoo... she said my house showed really well. I'm not sure what that means... but I'm sure it was a compliment. I know it will be awhile before we sell our home, but it's nice to get good feedback.

Things I Don't Want to Do But At Some Point Will Have Too!

2008-04-22T06:33:00.000-07:00

1. Even after cleaning for 3 days... one night of not cleaning attributes to a messy house.
2. I have a pile of 8th grader photos that need scanned cropped and turned into a lovely slide show.
3. My wonderful (sarcasm) dog decided to take a large dump in her kennel last night, for the second time this week and now the sun room smells very very bad.
4. The refrigerator is in desperate need of a good clean out.
5. The Daycare kids will be here in 10 minutes... need I say more on that one
6. The back of my car is filled with all the crap out of my sun room.
7. The manure in my yard needs watered.
8. I really should sew the button on Kenneth's pants... and while I'm at it I probably should mend the pillow that's had a tear in it for months.
9. It's Earth Day... I should plant a tree or something.
10. Wake up... I really don't want to be awake.... I could of used one more hour of sleep.

Nerve tingling exhaustion...

2008-04-21T11:22:00.000-07:00

I'm beyond tired... I never knew how crazy this whole house selling thing could be. I found out on Friday morning that the realtor would be showing my house on Monday (today). So I got busy and thanks to my friend C we got the whole sun room cleaned out and looking pretty darn good. (I'd still like to paint it)

I was feeling so motivated that I rearranged furniture in the kids rooms as well. And did some touch up painting. I cleaned and cleaned and cleaned for 3 days. I'm sore... I'm tired... I'm beat... just so someone could walk through my house for 15 minutes and point out all the things they like, disliked, quite frankly hated??? about my home. It made me a little sick to my stomach the whole idea of it... and I'm really not sure if I can do that 5-10 more times until the right person comes along. Although my house right now at this moment... looks perty... real perty!

One year til he can drive...

2008-04-16T07:41:00.000-07:00

Did you know our state law let 15 year olds get a drivers licence... 15??? The lunacy of it all. Yesterday was Wyatt's 14 birthday! I think he had a good day... he referred to himself as one spoiled boy. We took him out to eat at his favorite restaurant last night. I took the camera but forgot to take pictures while we were there, but I did take a fine one of him eating his left overs. Then since he doesn't love cake... he picked out a snowball for dessert! Happy Birthday to him!

Tifs Top Ten ( In Response to Amies top 5)

2008-04-12T21:21:00.000-07:00

And of course...my #1

A VERY BEARY BIRTHDAY!

2008-04-12T17:51:00.000-07:00

Four years old??? can you imagine. We started out the day, with a lego my Eggo breakfast... I homemade the waffles but she calls them Eggo's anyway. We had presents of course... and she didn't seem too disappointed that they were all clothes. Then we headed to Build A Bear Workshop. Where she picked the twin of Alex to be her new friend. She named the little guy Pretzel... what better name for a dog. (I have to say though there was a weirdo lady that loomed over us the entire time we were there, talking to me like she knew us and staring at Kasey kind of creepily... not sure but it gave me that strange something in my gut, wrong feeling, and I was kind of happy when we were finally done in there) Then out to eat at Olive Garden. What a great day, I know Kasey had a good one, except for the moment that I took her into the bathroom to go pee and she screamed and cried because she's majorly afraid of automatic flushing toilets, and much to her delight when we got to Target they had "good flushers". Wow!

Is it Really only 9:00???

2008-04-11T08:17:00.000-07:00

This may turn out to be the slowest day ever! I want the weekend to be here already. We have plans... plans to celebrate a couple of special birthdays. Not only that but for the first time in months this weekend is suppose to bring 70 degree weather. That's warm... that's short weather... that's something to smile about. But I have to get through this day... the slowest day ever first. This day the one that's inching along as snail pace, tortoise pace, statue pace. And the quite boys of yesterday... have been converted into loud crazy... turn any and every object into a gun boys, that is not something to smile about.

Kasey is so excited for her birthday tomorrow... she wants a kite. Out of every thing in the world she could possibly want... it's a kite. She even talks about how she will put on her shoes and run through the park, and it will go up, up, up! We'll see what we can do tomorrow when we go to town to celebrate.

Well have a super weekend to all of you, if I make it through this long haul of a day... I will have a super weekend as well.

A Very Merry Unbirthday!

2008-04-09T13:17:00.000-07:00

Since Half of my daycare kiddos had birthdays in April I decided we should have a party. So today we had an Unbirthday Party for everyone. We played games, watched Alice in Wonderland, and had a Tea Party with cupcakes and juice! They also all got to dress up like characters from the movie. Fun Day!

2008-04-08T09:11:00.000-07:00

I got new bras in the mail yesterday... super terrific... the girls are back in place. I hate getting to the point in the bras life that the elastic has lack of hold anymore... I start feeling saggy... and saggy is not good. Anyhow that was definitely a high light of my day. I also got some new tennis shoes (there the ones in the middle)... in hopes they would inspire me to walk away some of the brownie pounds I've put on lately... just looking at these shoes makes me want to get out and do something... they are truly motivational shoes. Hooray for shoes. I love tennis shoes, I love new bras, I love the fact that the snow that fell this morning is already starting to melt, but that's an entirely different story in itself. Yay for Tuesday!

Workin' Hard with A Smile on my Face!

2008-04-07T07:38:00.000-07:00

From start to finish (start being FRIDAY, 3 day weekend for me yiperoo!) this weekend was absolutely just what I needed. Let me tell you about Friday. After I was delightfully informed that I would not have extra kiddos around I delightfully informed one of my goodest friends that I was a free lady. And she suggested we do lunch or something... Oh do you know how long it's been since I've done lunch or something... just like that hop in your car and go eat lunch. SO WONDERFUL and she was so nice, she even treated me... Thanks again C. Then we had time so we headed over to THE CRAZY BEAN, which I haven't yet been able to go to because I'm generally not so delightfully free, and I had a Strawberry Smoothie.... which was probably the best smoothie I've ever had... maybe because of the delirium I was experiencing from being free, or maybe it was just that darn good. After that we went to watch the matinee performance of Jack and the Bean Stalk... staring Kynzie and Ty-----! They did fantastic... a mother couldn't be more proud (even though the play itself sucked... just to be honest). After that we walked down the school halls, where I ran into my daycare baby... and she said "Tiffy's house." My heart was so happy, that I couldn't resist her cuteness and brought her home for a play date. See what I do to myself??? We did enjoy having her though, because I haven't had her since February when her baby sister was born. Went and watched the evening performance of the play... my kids did a great job once again... but once again was almost in tears from the sadly lacking play. That was Friday.

Saturday... we didn't get very much done because outside where the dirt loomed at me, waiting for me to move it... it was COLD! Not fun to do outside chores in the cold. So we did indoor things instead. I painted up some nicks in the walls. And then we popped popcorn, and snuggled up and watched KING KONG... I'm pretty sure I did what I've done every time I've tried to watch this movie, and that's fall asleep... so I still don't know how that big ol' ape gets from the scary island from yester' year, to New York... I guess it will remain a mystery. Saturday was good, and to top it off I rewatched Sweeney Todd, I think I love it more every time I watch it.

Yesterday instead of being a good little girl and watching GC... I strayed from the pack and enjoyed the beautiful warmth outside. My kids with smiles on their faces(seriously they were smiling, maybe even whistling) we ventured out with shovels and wheelbarrows, working like a fine oil machine, we moved a lot... A LOT... of dirt. They worked so hard without complaint, without question, I couldn't help but reward them... so we drove to MCDONALD'S and we drove through... that's my confession for the week... won't tell you all the other naughty things I do on a weekly bases. When we got back, Ty and I played a little baseball, I painted a little trim outside, we moved even more dirt (because Ty insisted that we move more.) And then we rested. What a great weekend. The only thing that would of made it better would have been having Kenneth home to see what hard workers our kids are. On to a new week.

Break You Beater Brownies... and other yummies!

2008-04-04T08:52:00.001-07:00

I don't bake often... I enjoy it, but I rarely seem motivated to just bake. Yesterday I baked all morning long. I hadn't planned to, but I thought it would be nice to make some oatmeal cookies. When I was finished mixing them up, I thought that since I had all my supplies out I would make some peanut butter cookies as well. As my cookies were baking I was browsing my cookbook and found a recipe for Grandmas Best Brownies. I rarely make brownies from scratch because they are usually dry. But I thought Why not give it a whirl. So I mixed up the recipe, and decided to flavor it up a bit and added pecans. I guess my mixer wasn't used to mixing this much in a day, and the beater broke. Luckily they were mostly mixed up, and to top it off after I spread them in the pan I drizzled them with caramel. OH SO GOOD! Only problem with making so many treats is the temptation to eat them all.... Poor Poor Me.

Luck of the Draw!

2008-04-04T07:13:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning expecting a day like every other day... a day knee deep in kids, a day with yelling and craziness.... but what I got instead is quite the Hip Hip Hooray Making... I got a phone call from the one parent of the one child I had on my calender today... saying He wouldn't be making it today. And just like that it becomes another 3 day weekend. Which is very good timing since I have that huge pile of dirt that still needs moving, also Kynzie and Ty are in a play at school today, and that means I don't have to lug 2 kids with me. Just Kasey and I. The Beauty of it all!

Knee Deep In Dirt!

2008-04-03T06:53:00.000-07:00

It doesn't matter how much I clean clean clean... as soon as one room is spot free, the next room is getting dirty. I seriously think that if I was to get this house all clean at the same time, it would require sending my family to live somewhere else for awhile. I shouldn't get frustrated about it. But it really can wear a person down. Today I've decided I'm not going to clean like a crazy person. Take a cleaning break... I often wonder if I started just picking up after myself. Keeping only my room and bathroom clean, only picking up my coat or shoes... what a disaster the house would be within a day, if I only washed my cereal bowl, or threw away my garbage, oh the mess it would be. I shouldn't whine about it, there's really nothing one can do about this dilemma and I know women all over the world can totally get where I'm coming from.... but it would be nice if my house would stay clean for 24 hours.... one can dream.

Dishing Dirt...

2008-04-03T06:42:00.000-07:00

I'm sure the neighbors are all dishin' dirt about the new FOR SALE sign on our house. Isn't that how it happens. The sign goes up and people notice it... then it's all "I wonder where they're going?" "Why are they moving?" "I' m sure hope they sell it and get the heck out of our neighborhood." I don't know what they're really saying. I can only imagine it's "We'll sure miss them." HA HA HA!

Shoveling Dirt...

2008-04-03T06:34:00.000-07:00

Didn't realize how out of shape I was getting in my wintry hibernation mode, until ten yards of dirt arrived yesterday(we have a huge hole, where a tree used to be that needs filled in). After the kiddos were all picked up yesterday... I figured I'd do my part to fill in the whole. Because of fencing we couldn't get said "DIRT PILE" very close to the HOLE. So we have to transport it by wheelbarrow. I did about 4 wheelbarrow loads and felt defeated. But Kenneth said he had done ten and I not wanting to be a slacker of any sorts, made it my goal to do ten as well. I made it to ten, and I am so sore today. Sad that it is... I'm sore from yard work. And we didn't even make a dent in the pile of dirt. We've got a lot more dirt to move, YEEHAW!

HOUSE 4 SALE

2008-03-31T11:24:00.000-07:00

We did it... it's officially for sale.

We'll see what happens.

Quiet Friday

2008-03-28T07:13:00.000-07:00

It's Friday Friday... Friday Friday! Wow that week just slipped on by. Today I have only one... one little child. Kasey and Kenneth are out of the house. So I'm here with one little guy. AND IT'S SO QUIET. I could probably clean or do something today. I could... not saying I will... but the possibility is there. I can already tell this is going to be a good day!

2008-03-26T08:26:00.000-07:00

Start... Finish... Delete... as I start over and over and over. I don't know how many thoughts I've tried to process this morning by typing them into a post. I could start with my thoughts on Disposable people in our lives... Or I could right about the poopie pants pooper striking again.... I could even write about the stinky snow that was covering the ground this morning, but lets try something uplifting for a change:

Last night I, thank goodness, was gently reminded to attend the RS birthday party dinner for our branch. There was dinner, there was cake, there was the SPEAKER (angelic voices are heard in the background.) But seriously, She was good, and probably spoke on just the things I needed to hear. The first thing that she talked about that made light bulbs burn a little brighter in my head was the virtue of patience. Not only do we need to be patient towards our children, our spouse, our family and friends, the person weaving crazily through traffic, but we most importantly need to be patient with OURSELVES... Who knew? I'm probably the least patient with myself. I never give myself time to develop myself. I just expect myself to be perfect right now... and the fact that I'm not means I'm a failure. AAAAHHHH Patience!

The next thing I loved that she talked about, is taking time for ourselves... Developing our interests, hobbies... things that make our heart happy. Finding the thing that we do just for us, and doing it, So that then we can go and do for others.

The other thing that she shared was this (which I really enjoyed, because so often I think we all get stuck searching for the wrong kind of glory):

The following is the philosophy of Charles Schultz, the creator of the "Peanuts" comic strip.

1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world.
2. Name the last five Heisman trophy winners.
3. Name the last five winners of the Miss America.
4. Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize.
5. Name the last half dozen Academy Award winner for best actor and actress.
6. Name the last decade's worth of World Series winners.

How did you do?

The point is, none of us remember the headliners of yesterday. These are no second-rate achievers. They are the best in their fields. But the applause dies. Awards tarnish. Achievements are forgotten. Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners.

Here's another quiz. See how you do on this one:

1. List a few teachers who aided your journey through school.
2. Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time.
3. Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile.
4. Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special.
5. Think of five people you enjoy spending time with.

Easier?

The lesson: The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials, the most money, or the most awards. They are the ones that care.

Great things to think about!

Quotable Kasey! (mostly so I won't forget)

2008-03-25T09:29:00.000-07:00

We had movies and popcorn on Thursday afternoon... of course Chili dog was inside begging for her share of treats. Kasey happily obliged her. I noticed that she was feeding her a lot and didn't want the dog to get sick so I said, "Kasey don't feed her to much." To which she replied, "I'm not feeding her two much, I'm feeding her Three much!"

Saturday evening as we sat down for our wonderful Ham dinner I asked Ty to say the blessing on the food. He said a very nice prayer and at the end said "Amen", Kasey looked up with mischief in her eyes and said, "A-Girl"

Its all in how you look at it...

White it is...

2008-03-25T09:16:00.000-07:00

So I took Leaners advice and decided to go with the white with blue jeans look for our picture. I started to look at my favorite online stores to see what kind of deals I could get. I went ahead and ordered all the boys plain white tees. I found Kynzie and myself white tanks with cardigans to go on top. Then I found this... ever so cute eyelet cotton dress for miss Kasey. I'm so excited. She will look so adorable. Now I just need to find a photographer that will take an outside shot for us. I know of a couple here in town. I will have to talk to them about pricing. I can't wait.

Last day off...

2008-03-24T17:21:00.000-07:00

Now the countdown really begins... there's no three day weekends left. There is no days off at all. It's straight on through summer. There is exactly 49 days of school left... 49 days til I get my life back. 49 days until my life is full of happy happy bliss! I can hang in there and do my best until then.
On a side note 47 school days until Wyatt's 8th grade graduation. Can you believe that, I'm seriously not old enough to have a high school student as a child, fetch me a walker and some false teeth would ya. I better start some sort of beauty regimen now, before the crows feet have taken permanent residence. WOW... a highschooler under my roof, and it's not me.

Lost

2008-03-23T12:58:00.000-07:00

Generally speaking I'm not a sharer of all things spiritual. Although it's very much a part of the person I've become I don't usually take the risk of what others may think of me. But lately I've felt so weighed down... that I truly feel if I don't express myself in some way that I may as well not believe myself.

I struggle. I struggle a lot. It's been a rocky road, that I have gladly conquered for many years. Knowing that I was making a smoother path for my children to follow. But lately things have been extremely hard. I have fought to remember why I even bother. As the tiniest things begin to be stretched and criticized to the point of exhaustion... I wonder. If something that small is such a big deal is there even a place for me in this God's kingdom. If that is unforgivable... what about the others... other people that I love... other people that I've lost. Will Jesus embrace them, I have to believe so... for my own sanity I have to believe so. And then in church as tears run down my face... I look past the trivial things that have been said, I look past the people, their personal platforms, I look past their words... to the simplicity of a song.
I know that my redeemer lives
What Comfort this sweet sentence gives
He lives he lives who once was dead
He lives my ever living Head
He lives to bless me with his Love
He lives to plead for me above
He lives my hungry soul to feed.
He lives to bless in time of need
He lives to grant me rich supply
He lives to guide me with his eye
He lives to comfort me when faint
He lives to hear my souls complaint
He lives to silence all my fears
He lives to wipe away my tears
He lives to calm my troubled heart
He lives all blessings to impart

Not to only perfection... not to only those with perfect faith, not to those who wear the right clothes, or say the right words, not only for those who make the right choices, not just for the reverent; but the doubting, the troubled, the stubborn, the devastated, the hurt, the aching, the lost, the prideful, for all of us. He said "Come unto me", to each and every one of us, not just a precious few, each and every one was given the invitation. Each and every one.

Needed a Break from Cleaning

2008-03-21T13:57:00.000-07:00

1. What is your occupation? Bringer of Wrath! OOHHOOOHAAHAHA
2. What color are your socks right now? White
3. What are you listening to right now? Kasey talking about batteries
4. What was the last thing you ate? Reese's Easter Candy
5. Can you drive a stick shift? Yes, but it's really not my favorite thing in the world
6. If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Aquamarine
7. Last person you spoke to on the phone? Alex's Human
8. Do you like the person who sent this to you? Sent???? I like the people that posted this before me
9. How old are you today? I am old enough to kick some butt... ha
10. Favorite drink? COKE... oh yes!
11. What is your favorite sport to watch? Basketball
12. Have you ever dyed your hair? This week? I don't even know what color my hairs really suppose to be.
13. Pets? two cats and a Chili-Dog
14. Soap or shower gel? Shower gel... in different brands and scents so I can smell like the season I'm in. Baked goods in the winter... fruity in the summer.
15. What was the last movie you watched? The Atonement
16. What was the last book you read? I'm reading The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon by Stephen King.
17. What do you do to vent anger? I probably yell way tooooo much.
18. What was your favorite toy as a child? Strawberry shortcake, My little ponies, Barbies
19. What is your favorite season? Fall, Spring, Summer.... NOT WINTER
20. Hugs or kisses? hugs21. Cherries, Blueberries or Strawberries? Strawberries
22. Do you want your friends to play along? Why of course... it's never fun to play alone
23. Who is most likely to play? Funner than fun people with nothing better to do!
24. Who is least likely to play? Stuck in the Muds
25. Living arrangements? 3 bed 2 bath in Big Twig.
26. When was the last time you cried? Probably Yesterday
27. What is on the floor of your closet? All my lovely tennis shoes
28.Who is the friend you have known the longest? Amie
29. What did you do last night? Watched the Atonement and ate popcorn
30. What is your favorite number? Four
31. What or who inspires you? People that go out of there way to be kind.
32. What are you afraid of? Pitch Black, tight squeezes, people breathing my air, loosing my kids, etc. etc. etc.
33. Plain, cheese or spicy hamburgers? No Bun
34. Favorite dog breed? I don't think I have a favorite
35. What is on your key ring?Elmer Fudd
36. Favorite day of the week? Depends on the week.
37. How many states have you lived in? Three
39. Favorite holiday(s)? I like them all, and any other reason to get together with family
40. Ever driven a Motorcycle or heavy machinery? I just drove a motorcycle last weekend... and I've driven a tractor before.

2008-03-20T06:43:00.000-07:00

For Mothers Day This year all I want is a good professional picture taken of my family. I know it's a ways off, but I'm already thinking of what kind of clothes we should wear. Color Schemes??? Where we should get it taken??? I really want this to be a good picture. So in your experiences with family pictures... what colors for clothes, and type of pictures (location) do you think make the best pictures?

Fun With Photos

2008-03-18T13:37:00.000-07:00

2008-03-14T12:36:00.000-07:00

Dove Milk Chocolate is the best chocolate.... the best, so today when I received this 6 oz chocolate bunny, my mouth began to salivate. I admired its lovely foil wrapping... all tasty and wonderful. I did however check out the nutritional facts on the back of the box. Serving size 1/4 of a bunny. HHMMM! How exactly do you quarter a bunny? Is there a proper way. Any way you slice it... wouldn't it be uneven? I debated for a little while...very little while.... how I would get my serving of yummy chocolate bunny. Then a tiny bit reluctantly I ate the whole thing!

Lunch Lady Land

2008-03-14T08:56:00.000-07:00