Chrouser Chronicles

Life Lessons

2010-04-30T12:56:00.002-05:00

The month of April was busy, emotional, exhausting and awesome all at the same time!

I made an unscheduled week long trip down by my parents the first week in April. We found out my mom had broken her hip almost 4 weeks before and she had hip replacement surgery. She sat in intense pain for weeks and every time she was moved it was even worse. After the surgery and once she got into rehab, she has made quite a recovery and it won't be long before she is back home where she belongs. Didn't get much sleep during all this. Long days back and forth to the doctor and emergency room, then sitting in the surgical waiting room and ICU. Not conducive to relaxation.

My brand new car got hit by great big hail balls while on this same trip and was damaged quite extensively! Not once but TWICE! The car place has had it for a week now trying to get all the dings out of it.

In the same week we threw a baby shower for my son and daughter in law (Whit and Krissy) who are expecting their first baby in June. They are having a little girl Khatyana Rose-Katie for short. We figured as long as we were all there we might as well do as much damage as we could. My sister Paula, bless her heart, opened her house to all of us for the shower. They got a lot of really great stuff to get them started.

Then on Saturday night, we threw Carrin a bachelorette party. She is getting married June 25th and didn't want anything big and splashy. So we all got dressed up and went out to eat and have a few drinks. We ended up at a duelling piano bar which was totally awesome!

It's hard to believe so much happened in one week but in our family that's the way we roll! We may not see each other very often some times but when we're needed or there's a family emergency- we all pull together and are there for each other. We know we can count on the family to be there and have our back and that's all that matters.

Now my dad is having knee replacement surgery in June so we can do this all over again. Minus the hail damage at least!

A Perfect 10

2009-12-31T08:33:00.003-06:00

Wow, the end of 2009! Another year has come and gone and I ask myself what have I done?

Let me list the things that make this year a good one for me.

1. I am still breathing which means I am healthy.

2. I am still happily married- I can't speak for Hubbs but since he is

still here I would say he is too.

3. We added to our family this year in with a daughter in law, a

grandson and a son-in-law (wedding is June 2010).

4. We will have a new grandchild added in the new year, so our family

continues to grow.

5. I am still gainfully employed (at least for now) but if they catch me

blogging instead of working I might be looking for work soon.

6. Shared many great moments with our families

in Wisconsin, Iowa and Nebraska.

7. I have made new friendships that I am enjoying.

8. I love my old friends and am so blessed to have them in my life every day.

9. I have wonderful children and grand children that I love and who love me. What more could I ask for?

So there you are. 2009 was a great year for me and I am looking forward to 2010 as it can only get better!

Happy New Year everyone!

Just a Feeling I Have

2009-12-17T09:34:00.002-06:00

Christmas is only 8 days away people! Just in case you've been living in outer space and haven't realized it yourself. Are you one of those last minute types? Don't have a thing bought yet, wait til Christmas Eve to do your shopping and hope for good sales? Or are you like me?

I have had my tree up and decorated since Thanksgiving weekend. I actually had 2/3 of my presents bought by the first weekend in November. They were all wrapped and under the tree by the first week of December and all my Christmas cards were mailed out the first weekend of December as well. I baked cookies with friends this past weekend so that's all done and out of the way. Now I just sit back and wait for it all to be over with. The only thing I am missing...... that Christmas Spirit.

This year I have no Christmas spirit! I could care less about the holiday. I am ready and have everything done but I am not excited and don't care if it comes or goes. What is wrong with me?? Usually I am so excited to buy presents for the grand kids and can't wait to show Hubbs what I've bought! This year it was a chore more than a pleasure. This year I just wanted to get finished before I even got started. Those who know me, know I am a die hard shopper and live for this so for me to not want to shop is serious business! We might want to think about intervention!!!!

Maybe sometime between now and next week I will get a visit from the Christmas Fairy and suddenly I will feel the spirit again. I hope so because for me that's what it's all about. That laughter, joy and happiness of the family being together to celebrate.

I hope you all have a Merry Christmas and a Very Happy New Year

And the Point Is???

2009-11-27T09:04:00.003-06:00

On the drive to work today, I was almost run down by idiots trying to get to those all important "BLACK FRIDAY SALES!" They were turning in front of me to get into a parking lot that was already so full it was spilling into the lot beside it or pulling out in front of me from one parking lot trying to get to the next one so they didn't miss out on another DEAL! Are you freaking Crazy people?

Once they get where they are going they have stand in line for God knows how long only to finally make it to the prize and find out they are SOLD OUT! You push and shove your way thru a ton of people all trying to get what you think is a bargain. There are people running over each other with carts, old ladies knocking down people who get in their way and mothers with children who are screaming because they are tired and want to go home. Ask yourself this question. Is it really worth it? Did you really save that much money? Did you get what you were after or did you settle for something else just because you were there and it was all that was left?

I did this once and only once and I will never do it again as long as I live! I have learned that most of this stuff remains at the same sale price they list it at for Black Friday long after this insane early morning madness until close to Christmas. I just sit back and bide my time. I will eventually get it for less than you paid for it today and I don't have to get out of bed at the butt crack of dawn, stand in line for hours, and fight crazy people to do it.

Gotta love Christmas shopping!!

I'm Melting!!!!

2009-11-10T18:33:00.003-06:00

Last weekend was the BIG shopping trip with my sisters, nieces and daughters. We do this every year, the first weekend in November. We pile into our vehicles and head for Minnesota where no one knows us and literally shop, eat and drink til we drop! It is 3 1/2 days of non stop wild women fun. We stop short of getting arrested but otherwise nothing is off limits!

This is what my credit cards looks like after shopping for the last 3 1/2 days ! They are also still smoking!

I have been named the Shopping Whore! I came away from the weekend with more stash than anyone and am proud of it! Of course I have 10 grandchildren to buy for as well as my children. Then again, I can't forget myself. What's that saying? If momma ain't happy, no one is happy! and one thing that makes Momma happy is shopping. After this weekend Momma was extremely happy! I could wear a different outfit every day for the next 2 weeks and not repeat! Sweet!!!

Beyond the clothes was the bonding and fun with family. We laughed and teased and had such a great time all weekend long. There is nothing better. I came away refreshed and ready to face whatever they throw at me. This is what it's all about.

We have already set the date for next year and I have it marked on my calendar. I wouldn't miss it for the world!

Pepe Le Pew!!!

2009-11-09T13:44:00.002-06:00

We have had trouble all spring and summer with those rascally rabbits, so Hubbs bought a trap. It is a catch and release trap- they go in, get trapped and we take them far, far away and release them. We caught quite a few rabbits and saved our garden in the process.

Now that harvesting is done, there is no need to use the trap anymore so Hubbs cleaned it up, and got it ready to put away. He set it at the end of the deck which is a bout 15 feet away from the back door of our house, with the intention of putting it in the garage "one of these days". You all know how that goes?

About a week ago he goes out to put feed in the bird house and lo and behold look what he caught in the Rabbit trap!!!

That's right a little Pepe Le Pew!! The trap really wasn't set and there was no bait in there. This little creature just must have been curious, wandered in and then BAM the doors closed and he couldn't get out again. DAMN, why did that have to happen so close to the house.

At first we were just going to leave it hoping it would die of natural causes and then we could dispose of the body. Unfortunately he was a tough little sucker and wouldn't give up the fight. So yesterday, Hubbs decided he would take him down to the creek behind our house and drown him. He had gotten all kinds of advice on how to do this. First he had to cover him up so he wouldn't get sprayed. Easier said than done people. The minute he tossed the blanket toward Pepe, the sprayer went off and the neighborhood smelled sweet!!! Thank God Hubbs was far enough away and in the opposite direction! So the next step was to get out the 22 and shoot him. There is Hubbs kneeling down in the middle of the backyard, shot gun braced against his shoulder, grandson 10 yards behind him watching and me safely behind closed doors in the house watching. Then crack and it's all over except for the smell!

Man the minute the bullet hit Pepe, he hit us with STINK! The yard and the house both smelled for a couple hours. Hope the neighbors don't hate us too bad. You see yesterday was one of those rare fall days when it was so nice people were outside and some people had their windows open and they got the full effect of Pepe.
Hope Pepe didn't have a brother who wants revenge!

The Company I Keep

2009-10-26T15:21:00.006-05:00

This is my favorite time of year!

I start to think about Halloween and buying candy for the little ones who will come knocking on my door begging for a handful.

I think about deer hunting and how my big strong hubbs will go up north to the shack and bag us a "big" one for the freezer for food the winter. Just kidding, if he brings one home I have to help clean it and there's nothing nastier than that!!

I also think about Thanksgiving and turkey dinner with all the trimmings. Pumpkin pie for dessert and everyone taking a nap later after they have stuffed themselves silly.

But the biggest reason this is my all time FAVORITE time of the year? It is MOA time!!!

Every year at this time, my sisters and our daughters get together for a 4 day girl's weekend at the Mall of America in Minnesota and we literally shop, eat, drink and laugh til we drop all 4 days! It is such a great time! There is not a male or a child in sight and because we are out of town and no one knows us we can act however we want (as long as it doesn't get us arrested) and it's OK.
I count the days all year and look forward to the next weekend the minute this one is over. It is marked on my calendar and I always make sure I save vacation days for this trip.

I believe this is year 10 or it could be 11, it really doesn't matter. We have had baby showers, celebrated the end of marriages and the beginnings of relationships and just celebrated because we were all together. Sometimes we have gone to Broadway shows and other times we just sit in our jammies and watch movies. That's the point- it doesn't matter what we do- we have fun doing it because we're together.

Poor Hubbs has gotten used to the damage I do to the credit cards after all this time and doesn't say much. I do come home with a lot of my Christmas shopping done for the grand kids so it isn't a total bust. I also come home refreshed, renewed and ready to face whatever challenges life throws at me. Oh and I start marking the days off til the next trip. Can't start planning too soon.

PINK

2009-10-14T10:21:00.002-05:00

Take a moment sometime during the month of October to think of someone you know who has Breast Cancer. Maybe it's a sister, an aunt, your mother, a friend or maybe it's yourself.

Now say a prayer for that person and then ask yourself what you can do to help them and their family during this time.

Perhaps if this person had known about and done self breast exams every month they may have discovered that lump before it had spread so far and become cancerous. Maybe if they had insurance and could have afforded the mammogram they would have seen the lump and had it removed before they had to have their whole breast removed instead.

Tell a friend, a co-worker, your neighbor or your sister about self breast exams and mammograms. Offer to do the buddy system and go with them if they are afraid to go to the doctor alone. Do whatever it takes to make sure every female you know takes care of "THE GIRLS"

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month- Please wear Pink to show you care.

Mad About It

2009-09-28T09:29:00.003-05:00

I have found a new Love!

Sorry Hubbs but that's the way it is and there is nothing you can say or do that will change it.

About a month ago I was channel surfing (yes even I do this) between commercials on a Sunday night at 10:00 pm and I stumbled across this show that once I started watching I just couldn't stop. I have become addicted to it and now every Sunday night at 10:00, there I am, glued to AMC watching this show!

It is called MAD MEN and is set in the 1960's. It is about a bunch of advertising executives (mostly men and 1 woman) who sit around and smoke and drink all day and then sleep around the rest of the time. It is fascinating to see them come to work and the first thing they do is light up a cigarette and then they pour a drink. Who drinks alcohol at 9:00 in the morning???

They have these perfect little secretaries that are attuned to their every need- which is laughable nowadays. They greet the bosses with, Good Morning Mr Draper, can I get you some coffee? as she is taking his briefcase and hat. Give me a break!!!!

Of course the good little wives are home taking care of the kids and having Junior League meetings (or so the husbands think). They are really sneaking around having affairs or wishing they were but not quite sure how to go about it.

Everyone is sleeping around with someone and back stabbing the person they are working with to get ahead. All the while smoking a cigarette! I have never seen so much smoking in one show as I have in this one!

I do not know what the pull is of this show but week after week I find myself tuning in to watch. To see what is happening in the world of advertising and if Don is still cheating on Betty or if she finally decided to sleep with Henry?

Tune in some Sunday night and see if you don't find it just as fascinating as I do.

Hacked to Pieces

2009-09-01T12:53:00.003-05:00

My computer got hacked this week and I feel totally violated!
I am not really sure how the hacker got into my emails because I really watch what I allow in there and since they completely wiped everything out- I can't go back and check.

I remember a couple things-one from Verizon and one from Loft asking me to take a survey. I wonder if that is how they got certain information about me such as my email address and date of birth, etc. Whatever it was, once they got in, they took my entire contact email address list and sent everyone a nice little email telling them I was stranded in London without my passport and needed $2345 to get home. Could they please lend it to me and I would pay them back as soon as I got back home? Most of the people in my contact list know me well enough that they laughed at this because they knew #1. I would never ask them for money this way and #2. I wouldn't be stupid enough to use such bad grammar if I did.

The first thing I did was call the credit card companies and the banks and alert them to possible fraud. This was so much fun because, while most of them will just watch the accounts, some of them made us close the accounts and issue new cards. Pain in the Ass!

Next up, call Verizon and see if they can retrieve any of my information. No such luck.You see not only did these guys take my email addresses, they took every thing else I had stored in folders in there too. I had pictures people had emailed me, information about my daughter's upcoming wedding, school websites I use frequently, order confirmations from online shopping.
The assholes took it all! And you know all they will do with it is throw it away, so why take it? I had to settle for getting my email to function again.

We called the police and reported this and he will LOOK into it but he says there isn't much they can do about it because they didn't ask for $2400! Yup that's the magic number people. As long as someone commits Internet theft and asks you for money, it isn't a crime if they keep the amount under $2400!! What kind of bullshit is that!

So now I am paranoid as hell every time I send or receive an email at home. I am constantly checking my bank accounts to make sure there is no activity happening there. I change the password on my accounts every 24 hours and if someone sends me something that looks the least bit suspicious- it goes to SPAM! It ain't fun to be hacked.

Barter Up!

2009-08-26T07:59:00.003-05:00

To Heck with the Government Programs! My sister in law Sally has come up with one that is Soooo..... much better that if word gets out everyone will want to participate!
Every year we plant a HUGE garden and there is always more produce than Hubbs and I can ever use or eat. Even freezing and canning we have excess, so we have offered our garden up to my mother in law and to my sister in law. Telling them to come down and help them selves.

This week we told Sally to come down and take whatever was left of our green beans after we had taken our fill. She picked what she wanted (hopefully everything that was left- I haven't looked yet) and took them home. Later she emailed me on Facebook- yes I do that too- and informed me she was starting her own barter program. Veggies for Bread.

Sally makes the best homemade breads! All different kinds, shapes and sizes and varieties and I love homemade bread. The problem is working full time I never make it. I once laughing told Sally I should hire her to be my baker. Now we are exchanging services. I give her the vegetables she doesn't have the garden space to grow and she provides the bread I don't have the time to bake.

How cool is that? We should do more of this more often. No money involved or needed. Simply an even exchange of goods and services.

The good old fashioned Barter System. Hmmm... I think they used to do this back in the old days and then we had something they called PROGRESS??????

Let me see... people are losing their homes, gas prices are up, we can't afford squat, and unemployment is running wild... Yeah I'd say that's progress. I vote we go back to doing things the old fashioned way.

To My Daughter Carrin

2009-08-17T19:56:00.005-05:00

Today is my first born's birthday. 36 years ago today- I gave birth to one of the most beautiful baby girls I had ever seen. It was love at first sight- On my part any way- I have no idea what she thought of me.
In a way it's a little bittersweet because as she gets older, so do I.
I love all my children equally and in their own way. They are all individuals and as different as can be. It sometimes amazes me that I could have carried, born and raised 3 children in the same house, that turned out so different. Then I realize that is what makes them who they are.

Your first born is always the experiment. They don't come with directions and you really aren't prepared for them. Considering I was an 18 year old, single mother trying to raise Carrin on my own I really wasn't prepared for her. We sort of grew up together. I remember one time I took a nap when Carrin did but she woke up first. When I finally woke up she was decorated from one end of her body to the other with my make up! Good thing it was only my make up! Sometimes I am amazed that she made it at all but then again I realize that she took care of me those first two and a half years as much as I took care of her.

After I married the man who became her father, we really became over protective of her. She wasn't allowed to walk across the street without me standing at the corner watching her til I couldn't see her anymore, she could only ride her bike on the sidewalk in front of our house because we were afraid she would hurt herself (so of course when she had a bike accident and had to have stitches, she lied) and when she went to school which was only a block away, I had her so scared of strangers, she wouldn't accept a ride from a classmates mother in a snow storm because she didn't know who they were! Naturally, she wasn't allowed to shave her legs, pluck her eyebrows or date until she was 16! This lead to sneaking around and lying and a couple of car accidents cuz she was in the wrong place at the wrong time! Of course she thought her father and I were too dumb to know what was really going on!!!!

Eventually, she grew up, had some kids of her own and once in a while I even hear some of me coming out of her mouth when she talks to her kids. So I know she listened to me and retained some things I said when she was younger. I am proud of her and what she has accomplished with her life. She has 3 wonderful children and is helping to raise her fiance's son. They all know they are loved fiercely and are strong independent individuals because that is how she was raised. She is a daughter any mother would be proud to call their own but only I get that honor.

Carrin- Happy Birthday baby girl! May you have many more and may they all be wonderful!

And the Beat Goes On

2009-08-12T18:37:00.007-05:00

This is my family.

My Mom and Dad, who started it all 60 years ago.

This is my brother Mick, sisters Natalie, Lisa, Paula and me along with our parents.

There are some grand children and great grand children missing from this picture so you can imagine what it's like when they are all in attendance!

These are the women that carry the Schuler name and legacy.
We are proud, independent, strong women and let our men know who's in charge every chance we get. You don't want to mess with us! We are Woman hear us Roar!

A little paddle boating and inner tubing was done through out the weekend.

There was some sun bathing by people and non people (don't tell Buddy he isn't people though cuz he thinks he is)

Before the Compound weekend there was some
farm chores that had to be done by the City Slickers! Morgan milked her first cow with an assist from Sydney Jo.

And this is Noah on his Lipstick. I mean his Ripstick that he got for his birthday. He got pretty good at riding it after a weekend of practice.

My newest grandson, Jackson caught his first fish and Grandpa George helped him take it off the line. He fit right in with all the rest of us and was so good the whole weekend considering he was so far away from his parents.

This is Bob and Ashley (the newest couple in the family).

See the big grin on her face? He managed to survive the weekend and took her back home with him so guess we didn't drive him away with all our insanity.

The Summer of Love weekend at the Chrouser Compound is over and from my point of view it was a rousing success. There was tons of garbage and recyclables (beer bottles and cans) so everyone must have had a good time, right? I think this should be an annual event. OOPS, don't tell hubbs I said that.

4 to 1

2009-07-26T09:41:00.004-05:00

This is not a Baseball score, nor any other sports score.

It is not the ratio of females to males in my family.

It is not the score of arguments won and lost between Hubs and I. (That is much higher on my part and zero on his).

What pray tell you ask then is 4 to 1?

Well, last night Hubs and I were out with our brother in law and his wife and some friends. We went to a local bar for a quick burger and a couple beers before going to hear a band that was playing at the street dance for Hub City Days. (The band is Boogie and the Yo Yo'z and they are awesome.) Anyway, after drinking a couple beers, I had to use the little girls room.

There was a line (go figure) and while standing in this line waiting my turn to get inside the room which had one stall in it, I observed not 1, not 2, but 3 men go into their restroom.

AT THE SAME DAMN TIME! They had 3 urinals and a sit down toilet in there! Of course I checked it out, I was pissed (no pun intended) and wanted to know why so many could go in there while we had a line. It was sort of like the clown car- one little room and they just kept stuffing people in it. I had to see what it was like.

How the HELL is that fair! Hell I would stand up and pee over a urinal if they would put 3 in the women's restroom just so more of us could use the room at the same time! I am so tired of having to stand in a line, doing the pee dance while some woman is in the restroom fixing her makeup or talking on her cell phone while men can go in 3-4 at a time just because they can stand up to pee.

Something is definitely wrong here. A Man must have had a hand in designing and building these bathrooms cuz you know if it been a woman there would have been LOTS more!

I vote that there should never be a bar with less than 3 woman toilets in it no matter what the size of the bar.

Bigger and Better

2009-07-21T19:16:00.015-05:00

My family just keeps getting BIGGER and BETTER !

Over the past couple years I went from having 2 daughters and a son with 3 grandchildren all living in Iowa and Nebraska. To suddenly acquiring a future son in law (Todd) and an almost 13 year old grandson (TJ). They will marry into my daughter Carrin's family next June but already feel just like family.

Megan and Noah and Morgan are my daughters children.

Then a couple weeks ago my son surprised us all and announced he was getting married and becoming a father to his new wife, Krissy's, 4 year old son, Jackson. I got to meet them both this past weekend when we went to Nebraska for a visit. I really like Krissy. Besides being very pretty, she seems like a very nice woman (can't call her a girl) and they seem very happy together. Jackson is adorable and I can't wait to spend more time with him. Unfortunately I live almost 500 miles away from all of my IA and NE grandchildren so don't get to spoil them too much.

I loved being a mother and now I love being a grandmother! I have grandchildren surrounding me here in WI and grandchildren that I have to love by long distance in IA and NE. It doesn't matter where you are, all that matters is how you love them.

I can only hope my family continues to grow and get bigger and better year after year. I just wish they were all closer so I could see them more often. For now, I'll just have to be content w with pictures, facebook, blogs and telephones.

Of course I have already passed on the curse to my son now that he has a child. I have told him I hope that Jackson is just as naughty as he was and gives him just as much if not more grief as he gave me when he was a child

Tara adopted a beer drinking, smoking dog named Buddy a little over a year ago and he is her baby and my Grand dog. He goes where she does, tries to do what she does and thinks he is human. He is truly one of the family!

A partial group shot showing just some of the family. Would need one of those panaramic camera shots to fit them all into the picture and then probably couldn't get them all on this blog page.
SO there you have my Iowa and Nebraska family.

Big, Bigger,Biggest.

I love them all!

Summertime-when the livin is easy

2009-07-12T18:34:00.003-05:00

I love summer!

Especially if the temperature is above the 80 degree mark and the sun is shining!

I am a warm weather person and can not stand the cold! If I had my choice of places to live it would be somewhere like Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Where I could wear a bikini all day long (not that I look that good in a bikini) just that it's warm enough that I could wear one all day long and not have to cover up.
This weekend was perfect! the temperature on the thermometer hovered somewhere around 82 degrees and the sun was shining form the time I opened my eyes til it went down around 8:30 at night. If I knew I wouldn't have offended my neighbors or scarred any of the little children in the neighborhood, I would have put that bikini on and worn it all day long- it was that nice out. Alas (yes, I said Alas) I had places to go and people to see so I could not wear just a bikini even if I wanted to and had to settle for shorts and a tank top which covered the essentials yet kept me cool.

We had the kids and grand kids over for a cookout on Saturday afternoon and the grand kids ran through the sprinkler to cool off. Tempted as I was, I did not get out the bikini and join them.I sat on our deck and had cocktails with the adults which was just as enjoyable. I did take some pictures of them having a good time in the water and will share them with all of you.

Sunday we did some yard work that we had to do even though we really didn't want to and then sat on the deck and enjoyed the rest of the afternoon with a glass of wine.

We spent last weekend up at the cottage with family and that was so much fun that we can't wait to do it again. In August my family will spend a weekend up at the cottage celebrating my parents 60Th wedding anniversary. I am so looking forward to this as it will be the first time this many of my family has been at the cottage together. It will kind of be a last hurrah for the summer also before all the kids go back to school and those going to college head out on a new adventure.

This is why I love Summer- it may be the end of some things- but it is also the beginning of so many other things.

Rite of Passage

2009-06-30T13:15:00.004-05:00

Today my baby boy got married!

I wasn't there.

They got married in Iowa and I live in Wisconsin. They only told me last week Wednesday that they were getting married today so not enough time for me to get there.

NO they didn't have to get married- they wanted to get married. Like mother like son- I only knew their father 26 days before we got married!

I haven't met my new daughter - in - law yet (I have seen pictures of her and she's very pretty) but I did send my dad to check her out and report back to me. She passed the Grandpa test.

Both my daughters have met her and they were at the wedding so family was represented.

Today my son promised to protect, provide for and support another.

He promised to love, honor and respect. (I'm sure the word obey never crossed his lips)!

He pledged his life to another and promised to be true to her for the rest of his life.

Today my son became a husband!

Today I cried!

Congratulations Whitney and Krissy! May you always be as happy as you are today and may your love only grow stronger with each day you are together!

To Dads Everywhere

2009-06-19T14:28:00.006-05:00

Thought I would share a few things I found and thought were interesting regarding Fathers.

QUOTES ABOUT FATHERS

"The most important thing a father can do for his children is to love their mother."~~Author Unknown

"To her the name of father was another name for love."~~By Fanny Fern.~~

"They didn't believe their father had ever been young; surely even in the cradle he had been a very, very small man in a gray suit, with a little dark mustache and flat, incurious eyes."~~By Richard Shattuck.~~

"Fathers, like mothers, are not born.Men grow into fathers-and fathering isa very important stage in their development."~~By David M. Gottesman.~~

"It is a wise father that knows his own child."~~By William Shakespeare (1564-1616)~~

"It doesn't matter who my father was;it matters who I remember he was."~~By Anne Sexton (1928-1974) U.S. poet.~~

"I cannot think of any need in childhood as strong as the need for a father's protection."~~By Sigmund Freud (1856-1939)~~

"A Man's children and his garden both reflect the amount of weeding done during the growing season."~~Author Unknown.~~

"The greatest gift I ever had Came from God, and I call him Dad!"~~Author Unknown.

Wishing a "HAPPY FATHER'S DAY" to all the fathers out there. Hope you have a wonderful day-you deserve it.

Make sure you give your dad a hug on Sunday if you can and if oyu can't at least think about him and smile.

Udderly Delicious

2009-06-08T11:34:00.005-05:00

I am proud to say I hail from the great Dairy State (no I don't live in California you morons).

I live in Wisconsin and we have Happy Cows too. They're cold but happy.

June is Dairy month and we celebrate in a big way. We have a big parade and a weekend celebration of music, craft fairs, talent shows, dancing, and beer drinking. Something for everyone right?

We also have Dairy Breakfasts every weekend starting the first of June and running through out the entire month. If you miss one, don't worry just go a couple miles down the road and some one else is sponsoring one. FFA, The Mayor, Fire Department, Boy Scouts, a farmer. You name it, chances are they are having a breakfast.

The sad part is these breakfasts are so good you want to go to all of them too. They serve great buttermilk pancakes as big as your plate with real butter from those happy cows. Real maple syrup processed from our own trees, sausage patties, applesauce, string cheese, milk (both white and chocolate).

Cheese curds (which if you have never had deep fried fresh cheese curds you do not know what true bliss is). A fresh cheese curd actually squeaks when you bite into it. When it is deep fried and you bite into it and you start to pull it out of your mouth and that thin little string of cheese follows, you just go mmmmmm......

They keep coming around with extras to fill up your plates so you don't go hungry. Then once you've filled up on all that, they bring you ice cream!!! Who doesn't like this dairy product? What a great breakfast!

And if all this isn't enough, they have door prizes they give away all the while you are eating your breakfast so you are a winner all the way around.

So my cows were happy to do all this so I could have a great breakfast and in return, I am Happy to recognize what a great contribution they make to our state. California, you can't have our cows- find your own!!!

Mending Fences

2009-05-26T08:23:00.003-05:00

I recently had the opportunity to spend some time visiting my children in Nebraska and decided that while I was there I would try and reach out to my son who lives in Iowa and that I haven't seen or talked to since last July.

Out of the blue, he sent me a text at Easter saying " damn you're good! I've looked everywhere and still haven't found my Easter basket!" This was the first communication I had received in almost a year and since I was reading it while driving, I damn near ran my car off the road! Of course, I responded and this opened the lines of text communication between us.

I let him know I would be coming down there in May and asked if he would be available so I could see him? I got an email back that he was now the bar manager of the country club and also in charge of the tournaments and his schedule was pretty busy so he didn't know if he would be able to get any time off. Said he usually works 7 days a week- so in other words- if I wanted to see him I would need to go where he was.

So that is how one fine morning while down there, we found ourselves packed into my daughters van headed out to see him. Of course we didn't know we would run into not one but two bridges out for repair and no detour directions. Thank God this is small town USA. We did manage to find our way to the country club and at first things were a little strained but by the time we left my son was laughing and joking and I did get a hug from him.

Did we get everything resolved? No. Will we? Hopefully sometime in the future. For now, I am just glad I had the chance to see him, talk to him and hug him. Baby steps for now. At least we are talking again.

What a truly great trip I had! All three of my children together and my grandchildren. Doesn't get any better than that! Wish I could do this more often!

THIS, THAT, AND THE OTHER THING

2009-05-12T19:16:00.013-05:00

TAKE ME TO YOUR LEADER!

Around our house all you need is a little imagination and just look at what you can be!! The leader of your own planet.

Meet Sadie Lou Woo from Wooville. She dropped in for a visit last weekend to let us know that her people are friendly and wish only to learn from us humans not to harm us. Everyone on Wooville are small like her and wear rose colored glasses because the world looks so much better when looked at through them. They love chocolate, strawberry milk and cookies for breakfast.

Meet the Diva Darlings!!

They just outran the paparazzi again. It's a tough job but someone has to do it. They are loved by America but especially Grandparetns in Wisconsin and can't go anywhere without being followed by cameras. Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie have nothing on these 3. Britany Spears look out cuz one of these days every one will be shouting their names and you will be forgotten. They love music and will dance til they get dizzy and fall down. They also talk non stop and NEVER run out of energy!

MR. COOL......

Tegan is now 9 and thinks he is way too cool to play with his cousins but you can see that he really wants to. He isn't sure he wants me to be taking his picture and definitely isn't going to be smiling for it. He's now into Nintendo DS, Ipods and soccer but still likes playing Webkinz with his Grandma.

THE GANG"S ALL HERE!!

How often do you have this much trouble all in one place?

The littlest one is scoping the place out trying to figure out where she can head out to as soon as I get done taking the picture (notice she's looking off to the side?)

SISTERLY LOVE

Looks like they really love each other doesn't it? For the most part you'd be right, but they're sisters and sisters fight, just ask mine. They love each other and they get along most of the time but once in a while they can go at it like cats and dogs. And it isn't always the oldest or the biggest that comes out on top! But five minutes later, they are sharing a piece of candy, hugging each other, or laying next to each other watching a movie. They are so incredible!

So there you have it, a little of this, that, and the other thing.

A Sad Farewell- Brandy

2009-05-12T10:05:00.004-05:00

This week my sister and her family lost a very important part of their family. Their beloved dog Brandy passed away after being with them for many years.

She was a black lab and when they got her she decided she would become Wally's dog. Didn't matter what anyone else thought, she had made the decision and that's all there was to it. She tolerated the rest of the family but it was Wally she really lusted after. She slept with Lisa and Wally most of the time. Except when there was a storm and then you could find her either under the bed or in the closet. She was a big sacredy cat when it came to storms. She watched both my nieces grow up and maybe kept their boyfriends in line just a little. She never once tried to eat Pepper (the rabbit) when Allison brought her home although she may have chased her around the house a few times (the rabbit not Allison). Brandy recently acquired a new sister, Chloe (another dog, I think she is a yellow lab). This seemed to be OK with Brandy. Maybe she knew she was getting old and the family needed someone younger to run around with but whatever the reason, they got along. She shared her family, her bed and her love with her new sister, making sure she felt like she belonged. Brandy didn't move as fast as she used to lately but she still loved her family as much as always. It was a sad day in that house when she was laid to rest and she will be missed by all, including Pepper and Chloe.

My niece has a dog Hammie, my daughter has 2 dogs Lucy and Toby and a cat Charlie, my other daughter a dog Buddy. My sister has a cat and a dog Cooper. My point here is that animals are precious and beautiful and love us unconditionally. They only ask that we feed them and pet them and give them a little loving in return and maybe let them outside to go potty once in awhile.
Where else can we get so much love just by walking in the door? Who else is that happy to see us at the end of the day, everyday? As long as you pet them or scratch their tummies they are in heaven and think you are the next best thing since sliced bread! You can't beat that, right?

They become so much a part of the family that when we lose a pet we feel like we have lost a family member and in a way we have. We miss them and think about them and remember them.

So Brandy this post is for you. All of you out there with animals- go out and pet and hug them in remembrance of Brandy.

To Moms Everywhere

2009-05-09T09:05:00.002-05:00

Kids answers to some hard questions

Why did God make mothers?
1.-She's the only one who knows where the scotch tape is.
2.-Think about it, it was the best way to get more people.
3.-Mostly to clean the house.
4.-To help us out of there when we were getting born.

How did God make mothers?
1.- He used dirt, just like for the rest of us.
2.- Magic plus super powers and a lot of stirring.
3.- God made my mom just the same like he made me. He just used bigger parts.

Why did God give you your mother and not some other mom?
1.- We're related.
2.- God knew she likes me a lot more than other people's moms like me

What ingredients are mothers made of?
1- God makes mothers out of clouds and angel hair and everything nice in the world and one dab of mean.
2.-They had to get their start from men's bones. Then they mostly use string. I think.

What kind of little girl was your mom?
1.- My mom has always been my mom and none of that other stuff.
2.- I don't know because I wasn't there, but my guess would be pretty bossy.
3.- They say she used to be nice.

How did your mom meet your dad?
1.- Mom was working in a store and dad was shoplifting.

What did mom need to know about dad before she married him?
1.- His last name.
2.- She had to know his background. Like is he a crook? Does he get drunk on beer? Does he make at least $800 a year? Did he say NO to drugs and YES to chores.

Why did your mom marry your dad?
1.- My dad makes the best spaghetti in the world. And my mom eats a lot.
2.- She got too old to do anything else with him.
3.- My grandma says that mom didn't have her thinking cap on.

What makes a real woman?
1.- It means you have to be really bossy without looking bossy.

Who's the boss at your house?
1.- Mom doesn't want to be boss, but she has to because dads such a goofball.
2.- Mom. You can tell by room inspection. She sees the stuff under the bed.
3.- I guess Mom is, but only because she has a lot more to do than dad.

What's the difference between moms and dads?
1.- Moms work at work and work at home, and dads just got to work at work.
2.- Moms know how to talk to teachers without scaring them.
3.- Dads are taller and stronger, but moms have all the real power 'cause that's who you gotta ask if you want to sleep over at your friend's.

What does your mom do in her spare time?
1.- Mothers don't do spare time.
2.-To hear her tell it, she pays bills all day long.

What's the difference between moms and grandmas?
1.- About 30 years.
2.- You can always count on grandmothers for candy. Sometimes moms don't even have bread on them!

Describe the world's greatest mom?
1.- She would make broccoli taste like ice cream!
2.- The greatest mom in the world wouldn't make me kiss my fat aunts!
3.- She'd always be smiling and keep her opinions to herself.

Is anything about your mom perfect?
1.- Her teeth are perfect, but she bought them from the dentist.
2.- Her casserole recipes. But we hate them.
3.- Just her children

What would it take to make your mom perfect?
1.- On the inside she's already perfect. Outside, I think some kind of plastic surgery.
2.- Diet. You know, her hair. I'd dye-it, maybe blue.

If you could change one thing about your mom, what would it be?
1.- She has this weird thing about me keeping my room clean. I'd get rid of that.
2.- I'd make my mom smarter. Then she would know it was my sister who did it and not me.

Out of the mouths of children come the most honest of answers.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO ALL THE MOMS IN BLOGLAND.

Joys of Parenthood- Round 2

2009-05-07T10:15:00.004-05:00

Carla had to go out of town for work and asked us to watch Tegan while she was gone. This is nothing new for us or him. However this time it meant he had to stay over night on a school night. Interesting!

Normally Tegan comes over and spends a few hours with us, maybe eats supper, plays ball with Grandpa, watches TV and then goes home with his mom. Occasionally we will babysit (what an oxymoron as he is definitely not a baby to be sat with-he's 9 years old) him and he will spend the night but this is usually on a weekend and there are no rules.

Now it's been a long time since I've had to worry about making sure homework gets done, baths are taken, teeth are brushed and kids are in bed at a decent hour so they can get up in time for school and not be cranky butts. I had a hair appointment after work so when I got home I asked Grandpa what they had for supper? Here's what he fed the child- chips, jelly sandwich and strawberry milk. Not the most nutritious supper but it was OK I guess. Made sure he had his homework done before he watched anymore TV and then asked him to take a shower.

I came out of the den about 8:45 pm and he and Grandpa are still watching TV!! "Grandpa, why isn't this child in bed, he has school tomorrow?" Grandpa says, "He's going right after this is over."

Next morning Grandpa goes to work and I get up and get ready for work. About 6:20 I start to wake Tegan up. This is where I remember what being a mom is all about. "Tegan, time to get up buddy."

Tegan: "MMMMmmmmm" as he rolls over and burrows further under the covers.

Me: " Come on, you have to get up, Grandma has to go to work."

Teagn: "Yeah" and continues to lay there.

Me: " Tegan, don't make me drag you out of that bed and dress you myself! Get up and get your clothes on." Then I went back to getting ready for work, hoping he was getting out of bed.

The next thing I know Tegan is in the living room turning on the TV,watching cartoons (typical kid) and asking me for breakfast. SHIT! I don't think we have any cereal he will eat. We have adult stuff like Raisin Bran which I know he won't touch but I ask anyway. He turns up his nose and rejects it. I ask about toasts and jelly and he says sure so I open up the fridge to get the bread and find they ate the last of that the night before- no toast for Tegan. I get on the phone and call grandpa at work and inform him that when he comes home (when I leave for work he is trading off with me) he needs to bring something for Tegan for breakfast. OK no problem he says.

All goes well after that (at least I think it does) and I come home that night to find Tegan and Grandpa flying a kite in the backyard. Carla is home already and Tegan is happy to see her. I asked Grandpa what he brought for breakfast and he tells me cookies. COOKIES! What kind of breakfast is that? Grandpa said he gave him milk with them so he had the food groups and it didn't hurt him so No harm, No fail.

We sent Tegan home with his mom who is much better equipped to parent him. After all its been many years since our last child has been school age and in need of that kind of parenting. I guess we did all right though in the parenting department for one day- we managed to feed, bathe, clothe and get him to school on time without major mishap. I am much better suited to handling my BIG kid and making sure he has everything he needs. Grand parenting is for seeing the kids for a few hours and sending them back home with their parents.

Deer Friends

2009-05-05T07:16:00.006-05:00

I love animals and nature and all that goes with it as much as anyone. I have several bird
feeders in my backyard and love to watch the Goldfinch come in and eat. When we are up north it is fun to sit outside and watch the loons swimming around the lake and calling out to each other and I have been known to stop dead in my tracks to pet a cute puppy.

I also love flowers and shrubs and have spent a lot of time and energy making sure my yard blooms with color each spring. Carla (my daughter that works in a greenhouse) brings me a lot of plants that otherwise would be thrown out because they are old. I bring them back to life (sometimes), plant them. nurture them and watch them grow into the most beautiful plants. I also have started flowers from bulbs and seeds over the years and now have a really nice yard that usually is quite pretty when spring is here.

This year I have a problem!
You see this year, Bambi, (you all remember Bambi don't you?) decided she wanted to eat my beautiful flowers for her evening snack! She crept out of the woods while we slept and the little B****! ate them right off at the ground just as they were beginning to open! Yum! Yum! She said that was sooo good! Than off she scampered back into the woods, leaving her hoof prints behind as evidence.

Now if this wasn't bad enough, she actually had the gall to come back after the plants had recovered enough to start growing back and do it all over again!!!!! So definitely not going to have anything that looks like this this year thanks to good ole Bambi. I am so pissed it isn't even funny!!!!

If any of you remember the movie Bambi, she had a friend named Flower who was a skunk. Now I wouldn't be opposed to her eating her friend Flower because this would be no loss to anyone, Right? Who wants to smell this Flower???

But if that doesn't work guess the next step is to get out good old Betsy and sit out on the deck every night just waiting for Bambi to come for her midnight snack of tulips and then "Bam!" I'll be eating Bambi for a snack.

Disclaimer: No animals were harmed in the writing of this post and I actually don't know how to shoot a gun and wouldn't kill Bambi even if I did so don't worry. But I am mad as hell at her!

I've Got A Secret

2009-05-03T11:16:00.003-05:00

I actually have a third child! I know you're all surprised right? I haven't talked about her
before so how could you know she existed?

I've posted about the daughter who is engaged and getting married.
(That's my first born by the way) and I've done a couple of posts about
my son who I am currently estranged from (that's my baby by the way). The child I have never devoted an entire post to is my middle child, Bear, so you didn't know she existed. Until now that is........

It isn't that I forgot I have another child, I think about her almost everyday and I email her at least 2-3 times a week. And up until this past week, we talked on the phone at least a couple times a week. What happened this past week you ask? Well, to add to the feelings that I have forgotten her, all of a sudden her phone calls (yes just hers and no one elses) would not ring through on my cell phone. Sounds like a conspiracy to me what do you think? I am happy to report this problem has now been fixed and her calls are now ringing through.

You can see how much George and I love her - we didn't even try to break the headlock she had us in when this picture was taken. Just kidding. Bear (this is my pet name for her and has been for as long as I can remember), is a middle child and as such often gets overshadowed by older and younger siblings. I know because I too am a middle child. Sometimes we have to make a little noise to remind people we're around.

What she doesn't realize is how special a middle child is and what they teach a parent. Bear, you had to learn patience at an early age because your older sister demanded my attention at times and you had to wait. You wore hand me downs quite often ( but not always because I sewed and made new things for you)and never complained. You never got to do anything FIRST (that was always your sister's right) but you did get to do things at an earlier age because we learned from your sister. You taught us it was OK to cross the street by yourself before you graduated from high school and that nothing would happen. You helped me understand the world wouldn't collapse if I let you go to bed with a dirty face and hands. You made me realize that if a dog would lick your face you wouldn't get sick. I learned to take one day at a time with you my middle child and realized that being a parent could be fun.

Bear has grown into a strong, independent, beautiful young woman. (I like to think I had a little something to do with that). She still calls her Mommy when she needs advice or comfort though. She has a heart as big as Texas and would do anything for anyone in need. She loves children, especially her nieces and nephews and can often be found doing things with them or taking them for a weekend just to spend time with them. To all the little kids in our family she is known as Tah Tah. If you ask them about her using her real name they do not know who you are talking about, but use the name Tah Tah and you will hear shouts of joy from any child in our family.

Bear recently became a dog owner (or he became her owner- not quite sure on this one yet) to Buddy. He has made a big difference in her life these past few months. He does have an alcohol problem that we are trying to address before it gets worse. Seems he likes his beer and whenever Bear takes him somewhere there is beer, he expects to have some. He has been known to overindulge once in a while. Other than that, he is a great companion for her.

Last summer Bear caught her first BIG fish while up at the cottage. She was ecstatic and after naming him, capturing him on film and blogging about him, she ate him! She has now been bitten by the fishing bug and I can't wait to get her back up there this year to have her try again!

So Bear, even if I don't say it often, or don't devote a whole blog to you (or more than one), and you think I have forgotten you, just remember- without you, our family would not be complete. There has to be a Beginning a Middle and an End. So you are vitally important to our family being what it is.

My secret is out now and you all know I have not 1, not 2, but 3 children so I can never forget to talk about them all again.
From now on, No More Secrets.

I'm Responsible For What???

2009-04-24T13:32:00.013-05:00

So my daughter is getting Married in 14 months and she is worried cause she hasn't done anything but plunk some money down to reserve the venue for her wedding/reception. She wonders if she has done enough or should she be doing more at this point in time.

I decided that as Mother of the Bride I should look to see what my duties (other than crying on the day she gets married) were. It seems my daughter has nothing to be concerned about because according to everything I read, I am responsible for most of the shit that needs to be done for this wedding. What the Hell??? I'm not the one getting married, she is. Why should I be doing all the work?

Here is what they say I as Mother of the bride should be doing.

Confer with the mother of the groom on all mother of the bride dress or gown choices. I figured I would save time and just pick out dresses for both of us.

So this is Todd's moms dress. I like the fringes on the bottom and the hat's a

nice touch,

And this is my dress. See it too has a little fringe at the bottom so they coordinate. And it also has a hat.

The mother of the bride will assist the bride with the selection of her wedding dress . OK here goes with my pick for what I think Carrin should wear. Second wedding, middle of June, hot as hell. I think it's a good choice. Just be sure to tan Carrin cause there's a lot of skin showing!

The mother of the bride helps the bride and the groom in gathering the names of wedding guests and narrowing down the guest list. From now until the invitations go out you all better be real nice to me cause I control the guest list. Piss me off an your name gets scratched off the list!

The mother of the bride aids in selecting the wedding invitations and the writing out the invitation copy. As long as I don't have to address them and lick all the damn envelopes I can pick them out

The mother of the bride is the assistant or is solely responsible for the other wedding details like photography/videography, wedding cake, bridal accessories, bridal shower arrangements, wedding bouquet and flowers, food catering, wedding favors, pastor/minister/church, banquet room, reception, lodging for out-of-town guests, etc. Damn, what does the bride do? Write out the checks after I plan everything I guess. Guess it's a good thing I;m getting all those vendor ads in the mail huh Carrin? They'll come in handy when I have to start planning the wedding.

The mother of the bride leaves the wedding ceremony area after the bride and groom and before the guests. What the hell? I don't get to go to the party? I have to leave after all the planning I put into this thing! That doesn't sound fair to me.

The mother of the bride dances with the father of the bride during the first formal dance. Yeah, like that's gonna happen. Not in this lifetime.

The mother of the bride ensures that all the guests are happy and having a great time and most importantly, that she, the bride, and groom, are having fun as well despite all the stress and the "hoopla". Thank God after all that planning I was worried I didn't get to have any fun. Just make sure there's a little alcohol involved to help me deal with that stress and we'll be just fine.

So Carrin, Guess for the next 14 months, you can sit back and relax cause it looks like most of the work and stress falls to me. The Frazzled Mother of the Bride.

Drunk and Disorderly

2009-04-20T08:32:00.004-05:00

Someone please explain to me why it is that when you put a group of women together for a weekend away they tend to get really rowdy?
Is it because we are husbandless, childless and responsibility free for two whole days? All I can tell you is that this busload of over 100 women that went to State bowling tournament this past weekend were flippen PARTY ANIMALS!!!! I am Lucky to be alive today (and actually I'm really not too sure I am).

First of all, there was enough food brought to feed a third world country! You would have thought we were going somewhere out in the boonies where there were no restaurants and no access to food. Bags of food and coolers on wheels full of food were brought on board that bus Saturday morning and every type of food imaginable was passed around and sampled by all.

Of course there was beer and alcohol in them there coolers too! Can't forget the important stuff now can we? Our team had bought a gallon of homemade Apple Pie and we vowed we were going to have that sucker gone before the weekend was over! The bus pulled out of the parking lot at 7:02 a.m. and by 7:30 the first drinks had been poured and the first beers had been opened. Way to go Girls! And we hadn't even started to bowl yet!!! I waited to have my first shot until 8:30 and then it was fair game after that.

We stopped for one hour to eat, shop or whatever about 10:00 then it was back on the bus on on to the bowling alley. We arrived there just before noon and didn't have to bowl until 1:00 so once we checked in we had time to do some more drinking (hey, what else were we going to do?). We bowled 6 games (singles and then doubles) and you can earn madi gras beads by drinking shots or other specialty drinks or doing "something creative" for the waiter. We had a few shots and tried to be creative but our waiter was a real dud and was not much fun so not a lot of beads for us even tho we tried our damnedest.

Done at 5:00 (bowling that is not drinking), then on to the hotel and dumped our stuff in our room then went out looking for a place to eat supper and have a few more to drink. Can you say "Idiots!" Some of the women with us couldn't even walk by this time. Not me of course, I was still good to go. Back to the hotel and the bar downsatirs. Are you nuts, we have to bowl again in the morning?

Sunday morning- everybody crawls (literally) out of bed-showers- eats breakfast and by 8:30 am we are drinking shots already! WTF! On to the bowling alley and bloody marys (those are nutritious right?) while waiting to bowl. Again we could earn beads by shots and specialty drinks. Our waiter this day (James- just call me Asshole) was a little more fun and we were inspired to drink a little more.

Here are some of the shots we were drinking: Pantie droppers, Little stiffys, Comfortable screws, Blow jobs, Still a virgin, and Blue balls. How many did I drink? Let me just say that my Grandchildren have enough beads to make them very happy for a while!

Done bowling and back on the bus for the trip back home. Everyone is in a really good mood. They're tired, buzzed and happy to be on their way home. But wait there's still food and alcohol left in our coolers! We can't take any of that home with us, so the food starts getting passed around the bus again and the coolers are opened and the beer and booze get opened and drank. The shots get poured and things get toasted (and so do several people) but hey one good thing comes of it. That gallon of homemade Apple Pie we vowed was going to get finished becomes a dead soldier! WooHoo!

The minute the bus pulls back into the parking lot and we see all our cars and spouses, we return to normal. No more shouting, butt banging, boob showing, beer guzzling, shot swilling, bar dancing party animals- just tired, glad to be home wives and girlfriends ready to relax. I unpack, climb in my jammies, cuddle with the Hubbs for awhile and then I am down for the night.

As I'm writing this and remembering all the things I did and my body is protesting the weekend, I know why I haven't gone for the past few years. I think I'll pass on State tournament next year too. I am in control of my senses once more (at least for now) and will say NO if asked to go again.

Roll One for the Gipper

2009-04-16T12:44:00.004-05:00

Some how I lost my better judgement last week. I know what you're thinking, "how can this be?", but between working 40 hours and finals at school, it got away from me for a few brief hours. Long enough though for those lovely ladies I bowl with (I sub on a team on Thursday nights when I don't have classes) to talk me into going to State Bowling Tournament this weekend! WTF!

Am I insane? Have I completely lost my mind? Somebody please tell me this is all a joke! I quit doing State Bowling tournaments years ago because they wrecked havoc on my body and I couldn't recover for days! What possessed me to say yes?

Now I have to drag my ass out of a perfectly good bed at 5:30 am on a Saturday to board a smelly bus with God knows how many other grumpy, sleep deprived females and drive at least 3 1/2 hours just to get off and bowl 6 (count them- 6) games in a row before being able to check into my hotel and relaxing! Then I get up on Sunday and bowl 3 more games before hauling my tired ass back on the same smelly bus and driving back home just to unpack and do laundry! Sound like fun to you? Yeah that's what I thought.

Upside to all of this if there is one. I get to drink non stop while bowling, collect beads for the grandchildren (Sailor has a bead fetish so she'll be happy), bond with my bowling girls, eat at some great restaurants, maybe do a little shopping while we're there and if I'm lucky honey, get another tattoo. (Remember the last time I came home from State tournament with a tattoo?)

Of course along with all of that goes the hang overs, lack of sleep and feeling miserable due to over indulging but it's only 2 days so guess I will survive. At least I hope I will. HELP!!

Don't Mess With Mother Nature

2009-04-14T08:18:00.005-05:00

It only took her a few times but she finally got it right!

I'm talking about Mother Nature and Spring! We are into the middle of April and finally just getting some warm weather. And trust me when I say it isn't a for sure thing- it is day to day.

I honestly think Mother Nature was a little Bipolar this year. I just finished a Psychology class so I can diagnose this with a 60% degree of "certainty" based on her symptoms. I am almost positive she went off her meds and is exhibiting degrees of manic behavior.

One day it would sunny and sixty and the next it would be cold and snowy! What's up with that? Of course you have to remember I live in "God's Country", Wisconsin where anything is likely when it comes to weather. It's been known to snow in May yet so guess I shouldn't get too comfortable.

Personally, between you and me, I think Mother Nature has a drug or alcohol problem. I mean come on, if you had to be responsible for keeping track of the weather in all those different places wouldn't you hit the bottle or pop pills? Let's see it's spring in China so that means it's winter in Chicago and I should have a hurricane in Mexico. No, No that's not right, let me start over. See what I mean? I'd either be a drunk or strung out on pills. Maybe that's why we've had such funky weather lately. Although the woman has been around for along time so maybe it's Alzheimer's that's setting in and she's just forgetting what season it is and that's why everything seems to be getting mixed up?

I vote we get Mother Nature into rehab, get her straightened out and then our weather will be back to normal. Of course we all know what happens when you mess with Mother Nature so maybe we should just leave her alone and hope she straightens out on her own. In the meantime, I am going to enjoy each wonderful , warm, sunny day she sees fit to give me.

Now head over to Jay's and thank Mother Nature while you read other Tuesday Tributes

Can I Help You Carry That?

2009-04-08T14:23:00.004-05:00

Ever carried this around on your shoulders? I have many times.

I have been guilty of neglecting my laundry once in a while.
I have been guilty of being a bad friend -not returning phone calls and emails in a timely manner.

I have been guilty of not getting my schoolwork done when I was supposed to because I wanted to watch DWTS.

I have been guilty of neglecting my flower beds and letting the weeds overtake them because I was just too lazy to get out there and pull them.

I have been guilty of hiding new clothes in the back of my closet and then telling my husband when he ask "Is that new?" No, I've had this for a long time.

What have you been guilty of? Nothing ? Anything? Lots of things?

One things I carry lots of guilt about is whether I was and am a good mother.

I have a son that went through a lot of tough times after my divorce and now he hasn't talked to me since last July. All because of something very small, but to him it was a big deal. I miss him and keep trying to make ammends but don't know if I'll ever see him again. Am I a bad mother?

Yesterday, I had an argument with one of my daughters. Again over something small and when it was all over I had to ask myself if it was a battle I really needed to fight? Was I a bad mother because of this?

Had I damaged my children in some way when they were younger because of the divorce? Will their lives forever be messed up because of me? I decided I could give a seminar and teach all mothers everywhere how to do the guilt thing correctly.

I would call it : Dealing With Mommy Guilt-Learn to Live With It!

(Had to delete the logo I had here-found out it was copyrighted-Damn I just thought it was cute who knew I had a chance of getting arrested for using it?)

This is a subject every mother instinctively learns the moment she walks out of the hospital with that newborn. Have you put your baby in the carseat and forgotten to buckle them in? Have you feed them and not burped them so they got air and had a tummy ache? Did you let them lay in their crib and cry for a while before you picked them up? Yup, you all know Mommy Guilt! Come join my seminar and learn all the tricks of the trade.

What fascinates me though is the person who wrote this book. She obviously doesn't have children herself or she would never be able to write a book entitled:

Motherhood Without Guilt

Who is she kidding? Any mother who has raised children knows there is no such thing! If you have raised children the right way, you have guilt and lots of it! I ask myself every day if there was something I could have done differently or better? Maybe if I had bought them this toy or had a better birthday party or let them stay up later on Saturday night. Maybe if I just loved them more?

Nope that wasn't it- loved them as much as I possibly could.

So I guess I am doomed to carry around Mommy Guilt til the day I die cause I'll be a mommy til then. And as long as I'm a mommy, I'll always wonder if I'm doing something wrong?

So hoist that guilt up here so I can get a good grip on it cause I have a while to carry it around yet.

The Final Chapter

2009-04-05T18:46:00.004-05:00

Are any of you ER fans?

Did you watch the season finale?

The Final Chapter after 15 years?

Were you impressed? Disappointed? Did it leave you wanting more or were you just damn glad they were finally pulling the plug on something that had been dead a long time and just living on life support?

I was an ER fan from day 1. I loved Noah Wiley (Dr Carter), George Clooney (Dr Ross) an Anthony Edwards (Dr Greene). I actually cried when he died. Then they left the show and it changed. I continued to watch for a while because I wanted to believe it was still going to be the same show even without them. But Sherry Stringfield (Dr Susan Lewis) left too and suddenly it was whole different show with all new characters.

Then I started bowling on Thursday night and had to tape the show and decided it really wasn't worth it since my favorite characters were gone. SO....... I just watched whenever I had the chance and tried to make sense of what was happening.

You have to give them credit though for carrying on with a show that was obviously hemorrhaging money badly. Their ratings were low almost every week yet they kept plodding on trying to make us believe they were still running a viable hospital in the black!

It was sad to watch the last show but I was truly disappointed in how they did it. I was really expecting a much bigger bang for my buck. Good luck to all those truly incredible actors that gave many years to ER. I hope your careers continue to grow and flourish.

Now as we close a chapter on this show and open the next one what do you suppose we will find?

Satisfaction

2009-03-31T07:52:00.004-05:00

I swore I wouldn't come here anymore.
I know I told you yesterday was the last time. I can't keep doing this! I can not see you twice a day, every day!
I promised myself that whatever hold you had one me was over, yet here I am again standing before you with sweating palms, trembling, my eyes darting back and forth to see if anyone else notices that I am here.

Why am I so drawn to you?

I gaze upon you slowly, wandering over you from top to bottom, memorizing your every detail. I reach out and slowly run my hands over your smoothness as I try to make my decision to stay or go. You have held me captive for so many months, day after day I have been a slave to you. Usually, I have to visit you twice a day. I just can not stay away from you. I feel so guilty after I see you and I swear it won't happen again. Yet I come back the next day and the day after that. How do I break this habit?

What do I do today? What will my decision be?

B3-Three Musketeer Bar. Damn Vending Machines!

Can't live with em Can't live without em!

It's Tuesday so that means Deb and Jay's Tributes. So make your decision and go check them out to read others and find your satisfaction.

Awww.....Love is in the Air

2009-03-24T09:37:00.006-05:00

I am a mother and as such I reserve the right to do things like this even if it embarasses the hell out of my children. My daughter is engaged to be married and this is her engagement announcement that appeared in our local paper. At the time I placed the announcement they had not chosen a date, but they have now decided on June 25, 2010.

(I have deleted last names from here because you just can't be too cautious today with all the identity theft that goes on.)

I am so proud of all my children and when they do something to celebrate I am all for shouting from the rooftops. You better believe that on the day she gets married I will busting my buttons and you won't be able to stop the smiles and the tears.

Congratulations Carrin and Todd.

All Psyched Up

2009-03-23T08:48:00.002-05:00

Did you know your brain has dendrites, axons and neurons? That as you get older you need more sleep and not less? That every one dreams every night even if you don't remember it? That we can be conditioned to anticipate something before it happens after being subjected to it repeatedly?

This semester I am taking Introduction to Psychology. What you might ask does psychology have to do with a Business degree? Good question. I asked myself that question too when I first started taking the class.
We use our brains for many different things and in many different ways without even realizing it. They are like an electrical circuits running throughout our body sending messages and current to different parts of our body so we can function.
Our senses are tied into psychology by how we perceive things. How we make our decisions of what something tastes like, looks like, or sounds like is tied into our brains and thus relates to psychology.
Some of our famous psychologists think we are who we are due to the environment we grow up in, some think it is due to our drive to become better people, and some think it is due to evolution. Then there is Freud, we all know who he is right? Freud determined that all men (and women) problems stemmed from memories from their childhood. And not just any memories but sexual memories.
I have learned that the brain tells us when we are hungry- yup my sure does that quite often. Wish to hell I could find the button to shut that off.
I have learned that the brain tells us when we are full- haven't quite heard that one yet and if I have it must be whispering it because I've been able to ignore it pretty good.
I have learned that the brain determines when men and women want to have sex- this usually isn't at the same time for some odd reason. You'd think the brain could at least get this synchronized so we were on the same page at the same time.
I have learned that the brain tells us when we are tired- Lately my brain tells me that is all the time. I never seem to catch up.
I have learned that the brain remembers things- Not so my brain. It forgets more than it remembers lately. In fact by the time I am done with this post, I'll probably forget why I started it in the first place.
I guess this still doesn't answer the question as to what psychology has to do with a Business degree but it's a required class so I just shut up and take it. It sure is different from all of my business classes though. I actually have to use my brain to think about my brain.

Pleasing Miss Daisy

2009-03-18T21:56:00.005-05:00

I Used to Think....

I had to please everybody.

When I was younger I tried very hard to be the daughter my parents wanted but I wasn't very good at it. I disappointed them time after time. I saw it when I got bad grades, when I got sent home from school for causing trouble, when I hung around with kids they told me not to and finally when I got pregnant.

As I got older and married, I tried to be the wife I thought I was supposed to be. I cooked homemade bread, cookies and candies. Made the kids clothes. Hosted family dinners and birthday parties for the kids. Learned how t fish and let him buy a boat. If he didn't like the color of my hair I changed it. If he didn't like the length, I cut it. If he told me I was fat, I didn't eat. I did whatever I thought a good wife was suppose to do. Obviously this didn't work out either because my husband left me for another woman.

I tried to please the people at work. Putting in my 40 hours and then some because I was a single parent now. I did whatever they asked and I would even volunteer things. I loved the computer (still do as you can see) and helped create and write a program to do the staffing for the hospital. Once this was done and I helped train people in how to work the program, they fired my ass! They called it eliminating my job due to having the computer program to do it. So I just finessed myself out of a job!! Terrific!

I then went through a phase where I tried to please the guys I was dating but that didn't work out so great either so I gave up on dating altogether and just concentrated on putting my life back on track. I did this, met Hubbs, got married and am finally very happy because I finally figured out that the only person I have to please is ME! (and once in a while Hubbs).

Now head over to Mamakat's to see who else used to.... and what they used to do.

Grilling Out

2009-03-17T08:39:00.004-05:00

Tuesday's Tribute by Jay and Deb is all about something or someone other than yourself.
Good or bad it doesn't matter what your tribute is, as long as you don't talk about yourself.

Close your eyes and open your mouth. Now take a bite and as you slowly chew, savor the delicious mouth watering taste of the juicy beef fresh off the grill. Can you taste it? Isn't it wonderful?

Last night we grilled hamburgers out on the grill for the first time since last fall. There is nothing better than the taste of that first hamburger cooked on the grill after winter has gone. I live in Wisconsin where the winters are long, hard and produce lots of snow so usually my grill is buried from November until March. When the temperature reached 60 yesterday, I called Hubbs and said, "crank up the grill, we're cooking out tonight!" Those burgers were the best things I have eaten in a long time. Since we have a short time frame to enjoy the grill, we use it as much as possible for just about everything from burgers to roasts.

So now that we have officially christened the grill for this year, it will be getting a lot of use. It makes winter officially over as far as I'm concerned.

The Day the Music Died

2009-03-12T08:27:00.004-05:00

WooHoo it's Writers Workshop Time over at MamaKats and you all know what that means. I get to choose a prompt and write about something that will fascinate you.

So this is the one I chose today: 6.) Write about the event that was the end of your childhood

The year is 1972, small town USA, college campus and I was 18.

T-R-O-U-B-L-E!

Add to this mix alcohol, young males of all makes and models, no curfew and living off campus in an apartment with my older sister and this just spelled disaster from the beginning.

I was there on a scholarship that was granted at the last minute and so I hadn't really planned any of this. I had a work study job for one of the professors and I also worked at a little eating place on campus. In between classes, I partied hard with my friends.

Life was good- Right?

Then a boy I knew (he was actually my cousin's ex boyfriend that I had always had a crush on) who had been in Viet Nam let me know he was coming home. I had written to him while he was in Viet Nam , partly because of the crush thing and partly because I thought it was a nice thing to do. I never dreamed he would look me up once he came home. Anyway the next thing I know, there he is on my doorstep.

My children should cover their eyes for this next part as they should not read this about their mother-

For the next 3 days, it is non stop drinking and sex for us. Hey what can I say- I was 18 and he was a man in uniform straight out of Viet Nam! Nothing sexier than that. And yes I was underage but it's amazing what you could get away with back then. Besides, he wasn't underage so he could buy and remember, I lived off campus so we spent alot of time in my apartment. Didn't leave my room much if you know what I mean.

Long story short a few weeks later, I'm barfing up my breakfast, lunch and dinner almost every day and can't understand what the hell is wrong with me. Can you say -PREGNANT?

I was in a state of denial at first cuz that couldn't happen to me. You know, it was my first time. It only happens to others not me. All those things went through my head. Then I faced reality and told him- he denied he was the father and wanted nothing to do with me or the baby. The Army would have helped me fight him and get support, but I figured if he was such an ass he didn't deserve to be part of this baby's life. So I quit school and with the help and support of my wonderful family I became a single mother at 19.

Eventually I met and married a man who helped me raise my daughter as his own and we had 2 other children together but for the first 2 1/2 years of her life I had to grow up fast. I was all she had. It's scary knowing a child is depending on you for things when you are still a child yourself.

Do I regret it- Not one moment. I wouldn't have the most wonderful daughter a mother could ask for if I changed anything. She changed my life in so many ways and I love her for it.

So grow up, quit being such a whiner and head over to Mamkats to read some other great stories of childhood endings.

All Things Barbie

2009-03-11T08:47:00.003-05:00

We all heard it on the news this week. Everywhere you turned, there it was plastered all over television.

Barbie turned 50! BITCH!

Did you see her? She doesn't look a day older than she did back in 1959.

There isn't a wrinkle on her face anywhere, those eyes were just as slanty as they always were. And I couldn't find an age spot even with a magnifying glass!

There were no varicose veins in her legs and every woman knows if you wear heels every day for that many years you're bound to have them. Did she have them stripped? And if so where are the scars?

Where is the pouch belly we all get at that certain age? Even without having children you get it just from over eating and we all know if you run a round dating as much as Barbie does you eat a lot. She should have some fat and cellulite somewhere on that body!

And what about those perky little boobies??? Shouldn't they be sagging by this time? Ladies, those of us over 50 are our boobies that perky yet? NO of course not, so why are Barbies? She should be having to pick those babies up every morning and stuff them into her bra and when she takes that same bra off every night, those babies should drop to the floor! Instead they are standing at attention yet at age 50! Something isn't right here.

How many of us have an ass that good at 50? Even if you do squats every day it isn't gonna look like that, I guaran damn tee it!

I love Barbie and had many as a young girl. I spent hours playing with her and dreamed of becoming her when I grew up. I bought Barbie for both my daughters when they were old enough to play with her. She is a legend among girls. But lets get real here. What kind of a role model is she?

I have to be brutally honest and say I think Barbie has had some Plastic work done over the years. You can't get to 50 and still look like that with out some help. Sorry Barbie that's just my opinion.

Instructions Not Included

2009-03-07T18:47:00.003-06:00

30 years ago this month the doctor said those words every parent wants to hear, "Run for your life because it will never be the same after today!"

Actually what he did say was, "Congratulations, it's a BOY!" Same difference but what the hell.

I had 2 beautiful, sweet, quiet, well behaved little girls at home.What was I supposed to do with a boy? I didn't know what to do with that thing between his legs when I changed him. Every time I took his diaper off it went straight up in the air and started leaking! Was there a shut off valve somewhere on this kid? And then before I even left the hospital they circumcised him! Thank God I'm not Jewish because I've carried enough guilt over that already! Poor Baby!

Take him home and please don't make him wear anything remotely pink, purple or lacey. Back then we didn't have the ultrasounds that told you the sex of the baby so I had no idea what I was having and wasn't prepared for a boy. The clothes I had were hand me downs from his sisters. Thank goodness there were some sleepers in there that were yellow otherwise he might be even more traumatized than he already is from being cut!

A whole new experience for me after 2 girls let me tell you. What they say is true. Boys are definitely different to raise then girls. From the very beginning he was going to let me know things were going to be his way. He was a cute baby but he liked attention and cried when he wanted something. Man did he have a temper!!! He still does to this day.

Being the baby I tended to spoil him a little and I will be the first to admit that. Probably didn't do him any favors but I think all mothers tend to spoil their babies. He got into some trouble as he got older and after our divorce there was some drugs involved. Guess it was kind of tough being the only guy (at the young age of 13) in a houseful of females. I sure didn't know how to be a male role model for him then.

We went through some rough times for a while. Then he straightened up and seemed to be headed on the right path for a while. He moved to Iowa about 3 years ago which has been rough on me (now all 3 of my children live in either Nebraska or Iowa and hundreds of miles from me) cuz this is my baby. Last summer he had one of his moods and left a party we had while visiting down there and he hasn't talked to me since. I have continued to send him Christmas cards and presents and I even tried texting him with no response.

I just sent him a Birthday card and present and will continue to let him know I love him.

Why don't t they give us instruction booklets with these babies when we have them? We get one with every other thing we buy. And God knows we pay enough over our lifetime for our kids. If not in money with our emotions. Maybe if I could look up in the troubleshooting section, I could figure out what to do with my son and how to fix it? The again, maybe not.

Happy 30Th Birthday to my Baby! No matter what you do you can't change that.

Slipping Away

2009-03-05T08:31:00.005-06:00

It's Writers Workshop time over at MamaKat's and this week one of the prompts caught my eye right away.

3.) Describe a memorable camping experience.

When my children were very young we used to do a lot of camping with them. We didn't have a lot of money so couldn't afford a fancy camper but had one of these pop up tent campers. You know the kind I'm talking about? OK, OK so you weren't born back then and have no idea what a pop up camper is! Jeez give me a break. I know I'm old but They looked like a little box when all folded up but once you opened them and POPPED up the tent part, they magically became big enough to walk around in? Ours was really a bare bones kind of tent camper. It had the beds on both sides and the table in the middle but no fridge or stove etc. The kids didn't care because they only slept in it. They were too busy being outside playing to care.

This was the early 80's when my kids were 6 , 2 and the baby was about 6 months old. We would go camping almost every weekend, usually somewhere close to home but still where there was water for swimming and sand for playing. During the day the kids would be outside all day, running around playing and having a good time. Early on I used to think I had to run around behind them with a wash cloth and wash their face and hands ( I know dumb right- we're in a sand filled campsite). I soon learned that a little dirt and sand didn't kill them so they got a lick and a promise right before they went to bed each night and that was good enough until we went home on Sunday.

Anyway this particular camping trip, we had settled in, opened up the camper, and set up for the weekend. The two oldest and their dad had gone off in search of greater things and I was left at the campsite with the 6 month old baby to make lunch. Our sister in law and her family were a couple campsites over they came to share lunch with us.

After lunch, I put the baby down for his nap and while the little ones played the adults sat around the campfire and BS'd and drank a few beers. Pretty soon the baby started screaming so the adults all ran to the camper to see what was wrong! We couldn't find him! He wasn't laying on the bed where I had left him, he wasn't on the floor and he wasn't wrapped in any of the blankets. Yet we could still hear him screaming! What had happened to my baby!! Where was he??

We found him between the tent and the side of the camper just kind of hanging there. Seems he had rolled over and slipped through the opening left where the tent doesn't quite meet the camper. Thank God he was chubby enough he hadn't fallen completely through or he might have gotten hurt when he hit the ground. As it was, he was just scared- and so was I. Needless to say from then on, I put plenty of blankets and pillows around the side of the camper before putting him down for his nap and checked on him often.

That is one camping trip I have never forgotten

and a story that got told often.

Now pitch your tent over at Mamakat's and sit around the campfire to hear other stories bloggers have to tell. They fun to read.

My Take on Reality

2009-03-03T07:53:00.003-06:00

I am not a big reality TV show watcher but I sort of followed this seasons Bachelor off and on because I hated how Deanna treated Jason at the end of last season. He was a single dad and seemed like such a sweet, honest guy who really wanted to find love and get married. When they brought him back as this seasons bachelor I wanted him to find his true love and a step mom for Ty and get married. You know that fairy tale ending we all want.

I didn't watch every episode because they are so staged and boring. You can only take so much of one guy dating 25 girls and them being bitchy about him hooking up with one of the girls. Give me a break! Any way, I waited til it got down to the last couple shows and he had picked his 3 girls, Jillian, Melissa and Molly. I really liked Jillian and Melissa for Jason. I thought Molly was too fake and really wasn't there for the right reasons. When Jason sent Jillian home and kept Molly and Melissa I rooted for Melissa all the way.

I started to hear rumors that the ending of the show was fixed and that the outcome had been decided months in advance by Jason and ABC. He chooses Melissa, proposes to her but then on the After the Rose show (on live TV) he dumps her and gets back with Molly. I figured this couldn't be true. ABC wouldn't do this. I decided to watch the show and see if this actually happened.

Sweet honest Jason, who had his heart broken by Deanna wouldn't hurt and humiliate Melissa on live TV like that. Would he??

Sure as shit that SOB did just that! I couldn't believe what I saw and heard. And then when he meets with Molly, she forgives him, takes him back and they are kissy, kissy just minutes after he has dumped Melissa. Does Molly realize she's second best?? Does she not have any self respect for herself? Honey I would have told the man "If I'm not good enough to be your first choice, you ain't good enough for me! Take a hike!"

I WILL NEVER WATCH THIS SHOW AGAIN!!! EVER !!
I saw we all band together and boycott the Bachelor.
I hope Melissa has enough sense not to come back as the Bachelorette.

I am so mad at ABC and the Bachelor I could just SPIT!

Poke Me What?

2009-02-27T12:37:00.012-06:00

Pikachu- God Bless You.
At least that's how I would have responded
had you said this around me 4 days ago.
Now I know this is a character from Pokemon - a game young kids are playing all over the world. He is the Most loved of all.

Then there is Misty- She is somewhat of a brat but underneath

it all is a good girl

Ash is a 10 year old boy with big dreams

And Brock is the older testosterone male with

a large ego.

THE VILLIANS

Gary-He is very self centered and Ash's rival

Meowth- He is much like Pikachu but can speak English

There is also Jesse and James- 2 kids stuck in

pre teen bodies

These are all Pocket Monsters with special powers to share the world with humans.

There are currently over 150 different characters.

They have 4 different cards that are collected

Basic- depicts creatures that fight for you against Pokemon

Evolution- depict pokemon that are able to evolve into more powerful creatures

Energy- unite with others to create more energy

Trainer- these are used once and then discarded.

Why do I know all this you ask yourself?

My grandson Tegan is turning 9 years old on Sunday 3/1/09 and he asked me to make his birthday cake for his party. (I took a cake decorating class a couple years ago and now do all the cakes for family functions.) He wants a Pokemon cake.

I looked at him in confusion and asked " Poke Me What? "

Tegan: "Pokemom, Grandma"

Me: "what is that and where do I find it?

Tegan then tried to explain what it was all about. At that point, I just said, "Stop! I will look it up on the Internet and go from there." Hence all my knowledge.

So now I am ready and willing to go forth and attempt to create a Pokemon birthday cake worthy of a 9 year old boys praise and adoration. God help me next year, I can only imagine what he'll come up with.

Small Town USA

2009-02-26T08:00:00.002-06:00

It's Writer's Workshop time and that means MamaKat is at it again. Making up prompts for us to chose from to let the creative juices flow. The one I chose this week is:
5.) What made your childhood bearable? Write about it.

I was born and raised in a small town in southern Iowa with a population of about 1400 people. Everyone knew us and we knew everyone. It was one big family. There was no fear of letting your children walk anywhere day or night and back when I was a children there was no drug problem.

We lived a couple blocks form one set of grandparents and about 4 blocks form the other when I was very young so we could always go to their house. Mom would let us walk there whenever we wanted as long as she knew where we were. I did run away to Grandma's once and got in trouble for that but at least I didn't have far to run.

Two house down from me lived my friend Linda and her sister Cindy. My sister and I played with them for hours. If they weren't over at our house we were at theirs. They had this huge weeping willow tree in their backyard that we would grab hold of the branches and swing from. We had one of those big old tractor tires beneath a tree in our backyard and one day we decided to dig a hole inside of this tire and make a swimming pool. So we went in to the house and brought out my moms good spoons and started digging. Took us freakin forever to dig a hole and then we brought the hose down and started to fill this sucker up. Nobody thought to tell us that the water would just soak into the dirt. All we did was get muddy but we had a hell of a good time doing it. Our moms weren't so thrilled ( especially mine when she saw her spoons all bent up) with us being so muddy but as long as we were having fun that's all that mattered.

We would go out to the one swimming pool we had in town (this was a big deal in a town this size) almost every day during the summer. This is where everyone hung out. Then after we were done swimming we would head over to the Parkway Drive In for something to eat. People this is one of those places that had a true carhop that brought your food out on a tray and attached it to the window of your car. later when I was old enough this is one of the places I worked. (does this give you a clue as to how old I am?)

Growing up in Small Town USA wasn't always easy because I couldn't get away with shit. If I did something before I got home, my parents knew I had done it so there was no sense in trying to lie about it. Going to Lovers Lane to make out with my boyfriend was always a bust because the local cop (we had one and he was our neighbor) always seemed to know I was there and he would find us and take me home. I'm surprised I ever managed to have a love life as a teenager. On the other hand it had it's up side too. You always knew there was someone watching out for you and if you needed it they had your back.

So guess this is what it's all about and why I am who I am. I wouldn't trade it for anything.

Now MamaKat isn't Small Town USA, but head over there anyway to read other stories about special childhood memories and maybe you'll remember your own along the way.

The Naked Truth

2009-02-25T14:50:00.002-06:00

While on vacation, my friend and I often found ourselves in the role of Fashion Police!

When growing up my mother used to tell me "If you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all" Some of the things we saw people wearing at the resort just had nothing nice that could be said about them. They would have been better off going NAKED!

Here are some of the Fashion Offenses we saw in the week we were there.

1. Black Woman- this lady wore nothing that was not the color black- come on lady- it's 90 f-ing degrees outside and you're wearing black? It wouldn't have been so bad if it had been fashionable but usually it was old, faded and something from her mothers generation. Every day we watched for her to see if just maybe she would wear a different color and lo and behold on day she did~ she wore a dark brown shirt with her black skirt!

2. Crochet Lady- this lady had the same dress in different colors. A short shift type dress with a crocheted cover over the top of it. One day it was green, then burgundy, etc. She did spice it up by wearing shorts in between times tho.

3. Tube top Momma- This mother of a young teenager wore what we liked to call a long tube top. Each night we were treated to a different variety. Usually strapless, all very form fitting and extremely short (barely covered the essentials)! Some were leopard print and some were solid in color she wasn't particular that way. She completed the outfit with hooker heels. It was a real treat to see what she had on each night. Linda and I laughed our asses off every night. We did feel sorry for the daughter at first until we saw how she dressed and then decided - like mother- like daughter.

4. Lolita- this little lady probably carried everything she took on vacation in her purse- that's how small it all was. The dresses and skirts she wore barely covered her butt cheeks and if she sneezed we would have seen what the good lord gave her. The tops (if you want to call them that) she wore were either very short or plunged to her navel. She wore white heels with her denim short shorts and a tank top- that's a no no honey!

5. Big Guy- this man thought he was cool without his shirt most of the time and believe me when I say- he wasn't. He had a gut on him that hung over his belt and man boobs that just weren't nice to see. He could have used a good bra to hold them up. Usually when he did wear a shirt he left it half unbuttoned so still saw the belly.

Then there were all the women on the beach wearing bikinis and letting it all hang out! Believe me I'm no prize when it comes to the body but even I know when to duck and hide. Some women just don't care- they put it all out there when on vacation. Maybe it's because they are in a foreign country where no one knows them and they will never see them again.

You see the same with the men too. Little speedos on bodies that should go no where near them and sometimes they are hidden by big ole hairy beer bellies and until they actually walk past you and you see the behind, you wonder if they are wearing anything at all. It's hilarious!

This is our favorite past time when we go on vacation and it amuses us for hours. I a m sure there is someone doing the same thing to us but I don't care. I am confident enough in my style sense that if they do point at me they are probably saying " wow, look at that woman, doesn't she look great?" Conceited? I call it self confident. The day I don't think I look good is the day I go naked.

Picky People

2009-02-24T07:56:00.004-06:00

Today is Tuesday Tribute so that means I have to write about someone other than me. Sometimes this is hard to do and I curse Jay and Deb because you all know how self centered I am and how it's all about ME! Today though, I have no trouble writing about someone else.

Today I am ready to do battle!

Why are people mean, arrogant and selfish when they go on vacation? Or maybe they are like this all the time and it just gets worse when they are at a resort where they expect people to wait on them.

I just returned from a week at an all inclusive resort in Mexico- I know you all hate me but this isn't about me remember? The staff bent over backward to be accommodating to everyone and the service was wonderful. Yet there were some people who were never satisfied.

My tribute today is to those people who would bitch if they were hung with a new rope that stretched!

These people thought they needed to have someone bring their drinks to them at the bar instead of getting up off their ass and walking up to the bar like everyone else. There was one waitress for the whole room and she/he was always running.

They were not satisfied with their room because it didn't have a good enough view of the ocean. My god people the rooms were all suites that were to die for! And yes you might have to lean over your balcony to look at the ocean but who cares? How much time do you spend in your room anyway?

They thought there should be more night life. The resort had music in the lobby after supper and did a nightly themed musical presentation. There was also a disco opened from 11:30 pm- 2:00 am. If they wanted more they were welcome to go to a local bar.

They weren't happy with the variety of food. There was a buffet restaurant, as well as two specialty (Mexican and Italian) restaurants to choose from. If they couldn't find something to eat they weren't very hungry in my opinion!

If these people came here expecting to be waited on hand and foot then they booked the wrong place and should have booked the Waldorf Astoria ! Next time stay home But please don't spoil my vacation with your whining!

So go on over to Jay and Deb's and check out all the wonderful Tributes or write one of your own. Just remember- you can't talk about yourself! And don't whine if you forget!

Momma Mia!

2009-02-23T08:47:00.006-06:00

When I got back from vacation I found a couple really nice blog posts from both my daughters.

In honor of my birthday, one daughter had written an entire post about how much I mean to her and how I have shaped her life. It made me cry to know she sees me this way.

My other daughter, Carrin, honored me in a post where she gave me a Mother of the Year award. This also makes me cry to think she feels I am worthy of this honor.

Of course this award like all others comes with rules that must be followed so here goes:

Rule #1 - Admit that ONE thing you feel awful about involving being a mom. Get it off your shoulders. Once you've written it down, you are NO LONGER allowed to feel bad. It's over with, it's in the past. Remember, you're a good mom!

I feel awful that my children had to go through the pain of a divorce. That their lives were turned upside down and split in two when their father and I got divorced. It is never easy and if I could have spared them the pain I would have.

Rule #2 - To remind yourself that you ARE a good mom, list SEVEN things you love about your kids, you love doing with your kids, or that your kids love about you. These are the things to remind yourself of EVERY DAY that you rock!
1. I love the fact they have grown in to independent adults, able to think for themselves. 2. I love that they still call me when they need help. 3. I love that they are all individual of each other yet a family. 4. I love that they still want to spend time with me. 5. I love that they are protective of each other. 6. I love that they have made me proud of them and the choices they have made. 7. I love each of them for who they are.

Rule #3 - Send this to other Moms of the Year that deserve forgiveness and a reminder that they, too, are the best moms they can be!!! Remember to send them a note to let them know you've selected them, and add a link to the person who nominated you!" 1. Adrienne 2. Paula

I am truly honored by this award and by how both my daughters feel about me. Guess in the mother department I must have done something right. I just loved my children and let them be who they were suppossed to be. That's all a mother can do and hope for the best.

Saga of the Suitcase

2009-02-22T12:38:00.005-06:00

This is a picture of the four of us on vacation the night we celebrated my birthday (I'm the short one) at a restaurant set in the cliffs high above the ocean.

In the next few blogs I will tell you all about the vacation. Today we start with the story of my suitcase. I have to start by going back two years when I decided the suitcase I was using wasn't big enough any more and I went out and bought a really ~~huge~~ big suitcase that would meet my needs

I found one that was just perfect and I could pack everything I needed into it and still have room left. I was in love!! I then had a carry on that I used and this meant I could buy things on vacation and have room to bring them back! This particular suitcase was going on it's second vacation this year so was still new and as i told you all in a previous post I was not so well prepared this year and was packing frantically at the last minute. I did manage to get everything in there and it was all nicely done (I'm a control freak and like things just so).

We get to the airport that morning and check in. This isall done electronically now (even international flights) so I had to do all the work for them. What are we paying the airlines so

much for I wonder? Anyway after that is done we have to check are bags. Now when my suitcase goes in, it is all in one piece and in good shape right? Remember this for later. We go through the check point and everyone passes this one with flying colors.

Flight is OK and on time and we arrive in Manzanillo, Mexico to 84 degrees and sunshine! We are in heaven and ready to start vacation! First we have to get through customs and get our luggage. Customs is no problem, they look at me, they look at my passport and send me through. Go to get my suitcase and that nice, new piece is now missing a wheel and beat up. Yup, they broke it, so here I am going thump, thump through the airport. next you have to push this button to see if they are going to search your luggage. Red they do, green they don't. I get Red - first time in 10 years of international travel. So up on a table goes poor little suitcase, unzip her and they paw through her looking for god knows what cuz I sure couldn't have put anything illegal in there with the amount of clothes I had stuffed n there. If they knew me they would realize this. So me and my suitcase finally make it to this beautiful resort you see over here. By the way that is my balcony ledge you see in the picture.

This is the view I saw off my balcony every day. Tough to do I know but I suffered just so I could come back and tell you guys how hard it was. My poor battered suitcase sat in the corner of a gorgeous suite on the fifth floor for seven days recuperating form the trauma she endured at the hands of the airline.

We enjoyed many great days of wonderful weather (all about 90 and sunny) and ate and drank great food and alcohol. I will go into that in more detail in future posts for today is all about suitcase. We eventually had to leave paradise and make our way back home for some ungodly reason (no one has really told me why yet) so I had to pull the suitcase back out to repack.

Now this is much easier than the first time because clothes have been worn and I am not so careful in how I fold dirty clothes versus clean ones. Everything was stuffed in there including all the souvenirs, my makeup, curling iron, straight iron, shoes, jewelry, etc. You get the picture- just about everything right? The only thing I put in my carry on was my medication and the ceramic pottery I bought.

We go through the check in process again and they search my luggage this time. I see them tag it and along with my husband's suitcase they are put on the conveyor belt to go on the plane. Next we go through the process of flight preparation. International flights are different than regualr ones becausse they will search you several times before you actually get on the plane. This time we are allin line to have carry on searched again, when I am pulle aside, sent to the head of the line and mine are searched, I am gone over with the wand and they make me take off my shoes, jacket, sunglasses,etc. Do I look like a terrorist? What I turn 55 and suddenly I look scary?? We finally get on the plane and make it back to Minnesota, where it is Freakin cold! What's with the snow people? We get through customs with no problems this time and go to get our luggage.

We stand at the lugage thinga nd it starts up, here comes Hubbs. Then Al's and finally Linda's. We watch and wait but we don't see the cripple suitcase coming through. Eventually all the suitcases are accounted for and the wheel stops going around and stillmine has not come throug. You're kidding me right? This is a joke. Where the F is my suitcase guys??

THEY LOST MY Fing SUITCASE!!!

Now I had to go report this and hope they find it. It's probably off having it's own vacation after all that was done to it. So I will keep you all posted on the sage of the suitcase. I will let you know if and when I get it. For now I am without half my underwear and my make up. Two of the most important things I need. I can probably survive without the underwear but the make up is a must.

Keep you fingers crossed that it shows up soon. All the grandkids souvenirs are in there and I hate to disappoint them.

Down and Out

2009-02-12T09:56:00.006-06:00

Once again I am facing the unemployment line and looking for work. At least for this weeks Workshop Wednesday at Mamakats cause the prompt I choose is this one:

2.) You were recently laid off. Instead of moping around, you've viewed it as a chance to start fresh. Pick a new career and write about your first day on the job.

"Damn, this is just great!" I mumbled as I slid over and pushed myself up out of the booth, half stumbling as the alcohol hit me. I got laid off today and I need to find a job fast to pay the mountain of bills I have. What's a girl to do?

I figured I had two options. I could find another job I hated like the last one and end up going no where again. Or I could do something I loved and get paid to do it. What do I love you ask? SHOPPING!!!

So I signed on to be a personal shopper for an agency that caters to big name celebrities. I could tell you who they are- but then I'd have to kill you.

My first day was fabulous honey I got to fly to Paris and
shop for this gorgeous handbag and this fabulous Armini

dress. Then it was on to London where I found this to die for Valentino shoe. I was in heaven and didn't have to die to get there!!!! There is nothing better to a true blue SHOPAHOLIC (and ladies I am one) than spending someone else's money.
After an exhausting day of jet setting all over the world (OK until you have tried getting on and off a private jet in several different countries don't tell me it isn't tiring!), I finally made it back home, kicked off my high heels (bought at Target by the way) and opened a bottle of wine to toast my success in finding a new job.

Here's to picking myself up, dusting myself off and getting out there to do something I love. Who knew that I could take an addiction and make a career out of it?

So if you find yourself unemployed and have nothing else to do , head over to Mamkats and read all the great stories over there. Or better yet, write one.

Daddy Date Night

2009-02-10T10:13:00.005-06:00

My Tuesday Tribute is to a fun activity that happens every year at this time. A tribute to dads and daughters.

Every year about this time (Valentines Day) my daughter's church puts on Daddy Date Night.

It is for all the Fathers and their Daughters to spend an evening dancing and socializing no matter what their ages.

They have a DJ who plays all kinds of music, punch and cookies, corsages for the girls and a photographer to capture the night in pictures so they will have a reminder forever.

My grand daughters have been going with their dad since they were old enough to toddle and they love it! (so does dad). They get all dressed up in their fanciest dresses (preferably ones that haves full skirts so they twirl when they do spins), their best dancing shoes and fix their hair up with ribbons and bows.

A couple years ago, they decided to include Grandpa George in their Daddy Date Night. I think Daddy Kip felt 3 girls were just too much for him to handle all by himself and he needed to call in some reserves. Whatever the reason, Grandpa was thrilled and the 3 girls thought it was the cat's meow too. He gets dressed up and goes out there and shakes his booty with them til he is so tired he can't move, but he never says no when they want another dance.

I think this is a wonderful idea and gives the dads a special time to spend with their daughters. It gives the moms some alone time where they can relax and do something for themselves and it gives the daughters time to bond with their dads.

As the girls get older they will find other things that interest them and I know from experience that they won't always see eye to eye with their parents. But I am sure come Daddy Date Night, they will put on their prettiest dresses, their best dancing shoes and fix their hair up in ribbons and bows to spend time with their Dad and maybe Grandpa too ( if he can still shake his booty by then).

Now go over to Jay or Debs and read other tributes. You'll be glad you did.

Don't Cha Just Love It?

2009-02-08T12:05:00.001-06:00

So how sad is it that I totally spaced my 100th post?

Isn't that supposed to be some kind of milestone in a bloggers life?

I'm supposed to say something profound and wise. Share my vast knowledge of all things bloggy with everyone? Wax poetic about the last 99 posts and how much I have enjoyed meeting new friends. The joys of sharing stories with all of you out there in blogland. The Tuesday Tributes, Workshop Wednesdays, SITS, the giveaways (none of which I ever win by the way) and the awards passed around.

Nope, nada, not this one.

I freakin forget it!!!
I had it all planned out too. I just knew it was going to be a fantastic blog and I couldn't wait to get it out there. Then I space it completely.

Guess the Mexico vacation and school take priority over this blog right now. I never thought I placed you in any particular order but if I had to choose right now it would be this order:

1st - an 4.0 GPA in my international business class (I'ma control freak what can I say)

2nd - get my ass on that plane to Mexico and then on the beach for sun, fun and alcohol!

3rd - (sorry people) keep up on my blogging.

I do hereby solemnly swear that when (and if) I hit the 200 mark I will not only document it big time with a blog but will do a give away too.

Half in the Bag

2009-02-06T12:26:00.004-06:00

In just 7 days, I will be laying right there next to that tree. Don't you wish you were going too? I'd offer to let you go in my bag but there's no room.

I started stressing over the packing issue last week already and this was late for me.

How many pairs of shoes to take, which colors, short shorts or long ones, capris and how many, tank tops, shirts with sleeves and dressy shirts. Then there were the sun dresses, long and short, dressy and casual. Which swimsuits and how many. Two piece, one piece or tankinis? Of course there has to be accessories for all of this. Then there's the carry on and what to put in that. My books to read and my camera etc.

I got a pretty good start on it and will finish this weekend with all but the last minute stuff. You know what I'm talking about- the makeup and curling iron I use every day.

So while I'm doing all this, Hubbs is just sitting there. I asked if he was going to pack too?

Nope, I'll do it later was his response. Ok, I know it doesn't take him too long.

Last night I had a conversation with Hubbs.

Me: Did you start to pack yet?

Hubbs: I'm almost done

Me: Wow that didn't take you very long. (I'm a little concerned with what he might have taken since I didn't have any input and he usually doesn't care what he wears so thought I would ask what he packed.) What clothes did you take?

Hubbs: My new shorts and some T-shirts. Couple of dress shirts and my long pants.

Me: did you check the t-shirts before you packed them to make sure they didn't have any stains or anything?

Hubbs: No.

I decide it is easier for me to just repack his suitcase than it is to try to explain it to him. I go in there and I look at my suitcase and then at his. He has 4 pair of shorts, 2 pair of long pants 2 swim trunks, a couple dress shirts and enough t-shirts for the week. He took his sandals and a pair of tennis shoes. All this could easily fit into his carry on alone. Then you look at my suitcase which is filled to overflowing and my carry on. Kind of funny really. The difference between a man and a woman and their needs.

The really funny thing in all this- I won't wear half of the things I take along. But you just never know.

I'm Not God and I Can't Control Everything

2009-02-02T08:45:00.006-06:00

I bet you already knew this bit of information didn't you?

I just found out Yesterday!!!

Did you think you were being kind in keeping this from me?

To let me go on thinking I could handle everything life threw at me?

In reality you were being cruel to let me go on living a fantasy where I move through each day totally unaware of how little control I really have on reality.

It all came to head yesterday when I realized that it was the first of the month and I only had 13 more days til my vacation. There was still so much I had to do and so little time to do it that I had to start that day.

I had stayed up way too late the night before and was a tad bit sleep deprived already. So I began the day with a strike against me in the smarts department. Don't start! I already know what comments you want to make and they aren't allowed.

So I have 3 weeks left in my college class, which means I will miss the entire last week, right? So I have to work ahead. I have been working like crazy yo get my report done on time so I can hand it in and get a great grade. I am a little controlling in that way and have reworked this paper a couple times already. Also, I have to take 2 (that's right 2 )tests in the last week so have to do some extra study time for that. All this on top of the regular weekly class work I have to do. And I don't like to settle for anything less than an A GPA.

I needed to do laundry too since I haven't done any for a few ~~months~~, ~~weeks~~, days and it was beginning to pile up. So I threw some clothes in the washer between paragraphs of my report and switched them to the dryer during rewrites. I enlisted the help of Hubbs in folding as I hate this part of the laundry.

My grandson,Tegan spent the night with us on Saturday and he wanted to play Webkinz Sunday morning. Of course this meant I had to give up control of my report and my computer. Could I do this? For my grandson of course I could. Besides, I knew it wouldn't take him too long and he would get bored and move on to something else, freeing up my computer. So I helped him adopt his newest Webkinz, a cow he named Chocolate.

OMG!
Next I realized I had not even started to think about packing my suitcase for the trip yet!!!! Tell me this isn't so? I haven't started my lists yet of the things I need to take and the things I need to do to get ready. No wonder I'm not prepared!!!
I need to get on this right away! I normally have this done and the suitcases by the door 2 weeks before the trip. I haven't even gone through my clothes yet and decided what I'm taking. I still have to hem a sundress and iron clothes that I washed from last summer and just tossed in the iron pile never to be looked at again until needed. Well they're needed now Honey! So I ran downstairs and pulled out the suitcases, blew off the dust and hauled them back upstairs. Then I ransacked my drawers and closets for the next 2 hours ( homework be damned- this was much more important) and packed my suitcase. Hubbs is on his own, but then it only takes him 15 minutes to pack so I'm not too worried about him.

By this time I realize I didn't tan yesterday so I call and see if I can get in today. I can so I run right over (people our tanning beds are in the back of our local restaurant) and for the next 20 minutes I lay in a warm tanning bed and relax while smelling french fries and cheeseburgers. Yum Yum!

Back home, it's time to fix supper and I realize I didn't take anything out of the freeze. Thank Goodness for microwaves. I grab some pork chops and zap those puppies long enough to thaw them out. Then into the oven they go while I throw together a salad and do up some french fries (got a hankering while tanning). Opened a bottle of wine and there's supper.

Cleaned up afterward and that's when I finally got a few minutes to sit. That's when it hit me! What you all knew all along............

I have no control over anything. My life controls me, I don't control it. When did that happen?

Lookin Out My Back Door

2009-01-29T08:36:00.005-06:00

It's Workshop Wednesday time and the prompt I chose is
3.) Describe someone in your life you wish you saw more of: This was a no brainer and gave me a chance to write a post about someone I love a lot and haven't posted about yet.
My BFF Gayle. I hope she reads this one and knows how much she means to me and how much I miss her evry day.

There used to be a time I could stick my head out my door and hollar "Gayle, if my kids are down there, shag their ass home. Supper's ready!" and my best friend would send my kids home before the last word was out of my mouth.

My youngest child actually found my BFF for me when we moved into our house. We were all so busy moving furniture and unpacking boxes but he was only 5 so he was out exploring his new neighborhood. He wandered down a few houses and found a little girl playing outside and decided he wanted to play too. Gayle (the little girl's mother) thought she ought to let me know where he was so I wouldn't worry and we became friends from that moment on.

If her kids weren't at my house, my kids were at her house and we never worried about them because we both knew each of us would treat them and discipline them just like the other would. They called us both mom and felt at home in both places. We've been there for all their graduations, weddings, and births of their children.

Gayle and I wore a path down the middle of the road going back and forth between our houses. We spent many hours laughing, crying, swearing and doing our fair share of bitching about our husbands, kids, families, friends and jobs. We might have even tried to solve world peace in there somewhere but gave up on that. It was hard enough trying to solve our own problems let alone world peace.

We've supported each other through many things. She was there for my divorce and I was there for hers. I stood up for her second marriage and she stood up in mine. The words "In good times and in bad" apply to us. We share a bond that often times makes us think we might have been twins separated at birth. I will be thinking about her during the day and all of a sudden my phone will ring and it will be Gayle saying she was thinking about me and had to call. It is so uncanny it's almost unreal. Gayle knows more about me than any one and if she ever wanted to do a tell all she would have some good stuff to put out there but I'm not worried because unless I truly piss her off, she will carry all that to the grave with her. Just as I will do with all the stuff I know about her.

3 years ago, Gayle fell in love with a high school sweetheart who just happened to live in New Orleans. They had started conversating by email and phone and he came to visit and Gayle went down to visit. Around this time Gayle started job hunting down there also just on the off chance something might pop up.

Lo and behold, my BFF pulls a double whammy on me! Not only am I in Mexico on vacation but it's also my birthday and when I get back there is a message on my answering machine to the effect that she has gotten a job in New Orleans and is moving! I literally dropped the phone and started to cry. My hubbs thought someone had died and I guess in a way someone had.

For a while I was very angry at Gayle for leaving me. Who was I going to talk to when I had a problem? Who could I stop for drinks with after work? Who would be there when I needed that shoulder to cry on? Who would understand me like her? But I didn't have to worry because whether she is just down the street or across the country she will always be my BFF and that bond never dies.

We may have to tell each other our problems over the phone or via email and text but we still can. And we may not be able to stop after work for a drink but we can open bottle of wine over the phone and toast one together. You can get really drunk over the phone and not have to worry about driving home from the bar!

I wish she still lived down the street and out my back door but she comes home once in a while and I have made the trip down there to see her and will do so again.

Friendship never dies. I love you and miss you Gayle. Now get your ass back here where it belongs!!!!

Now head over to Mamakat's to read other post's while I quit blubbering here

A Girl and Her Dog

2009-01-27T08:04:00.008-06:00

Today's Tribute is dedicated to Buddy (my daughter Bear's) dog.

He celebrated his 1st birthday on Sunday January 25th.

So: HAPPY BIRTHDAY BUDDY!

Buddy has brought a lot of love and laughter into Bear's life since he came to live with her.

He gives her unconditional love, in return for just being there every day and feeding him.

When Bear comes home from work at night he covers her face with kisses to show how happy he is to see her and how much he missed her. Then he will run circles around her and jump in and out of her lap several times before he finally settles down.

He has little dog syndrome, where he thinks there is a BIG dog inside of him and he will take on the biggest dog he comes face to face with. At our family Christmas, my niece brought her St. Bernard and Buddy thought he was just as big. Can you see it? This little guy nose to nose with a St Bernard??? I kid you not, and the St Bernard backed down!

He is also in LOVE! That's right Buddy has not one but 2 girlfriends! He thinks the dogs next door are just the next best thing since sliced bread and whenever they are outside he puts up such a ruckus to go out. Then he runs back and forth along side the fence "courting them". It is true Puppy Love.

Buddy likes, Red Bull, food of any kind and his alcohol (he's been known to drink wine on occasion), but most of all, Buddy likes Bear. I pay tribute to Buddy for all the changes and happiness he has brought to her life since he has come to live with her.

Happy first birthday Buddy!

Now go on over to Jay and Deb's for more Tuesday Tributes cuz they're fun to read and even more fun to do

Fight Like a Girl

2009-01-26T10:04:00.005-06:00

At 6 years old I was playing dolls with my friends. Having tea parties and playing make believe with my moms old dresses and shoes. Not so with Sydney Jo, my 6 year old grand daughter. She likes these things too, don't get me wrong, but she also likes to fight.

Fight, you say, that's just plain wrong! Before you all get your knickers in a bunch thinking her parents have her in the extreme fight club and pimp her out for money, let me explain.

She takes Karate lessons. And she's good at it! It teaches her discipline and
strength. We went to watch her try for her yellow belt Saturday. She had to do a series of different moves as they were called out to her from her instructor in front of a room full of people. Now remember, she's 6 and he didn't just call off one at a time and let her think about it. He rattled off several, then when she completed those told her to turn and repeat them the opposite way. This takes concentration and at 6 years old that's hard to do.

The whole exercise took about 15 minutes and she did very well. Then she was presented with a certificate and her yellow belt. You couldn't wipe the smile off her face. Now she trains again before she can try for the next belt. I think she gets her high yellow or maybe she just gets her green belt.

Sadie is also taking Karate lessons but isn't ready to test for her belt yet. It's just a matter of time though. Sailor isn't old enough to start yet but is already mimicking her sister's moves and can't wait to get out there and start busting a move.

I can tell you one thing for sure, I wouldn't want to meet any one of these girls in a dark alley once they've mastered their lessons. They may fight like a girl but they'll clean your clock!

Up Yours

2009-01-21T14:45:00.002-06:00

Today I am wearing Indian Underwear!
Don't know what that is? It is underwear that creeps up the cheeks of your butt and right into the crack of your ASS! Sneaky little devil that it is, it does this when you least expect it and when you really can't do anything about it.

I know there are underwear made to be worn like this called Thongs and on occasion I wear them. Today is not one of those days. This underwear is not supposed to be there and is not at all comfortable there.

For instance, I was standing there talking to my supervisor when all of a sudden, BINGO! You guessed it, underwear in the butt crack and I couldn't pick it out. No nice why to do that and hold a conversation with the boss is there? Finally finish and run back to my office where I pull those nasty fellas outta there as best I could and carry on.

Next up, walking down the hall with people all around and there they go again! Almost made me want to shake my hips to see if they would fall back into place but then I remembered where i was and stopped just in time. I looked around to see if anyone had noticed what had just happened but no one was looking at me funny so guess not. Quick stop in the bathroom to remedy the problem and off I went again.

This happened a couple more times throughout the day until I just wanted to take the damn things off and go without! At least that way I wouldn't have to be shifting them around every ten minutes! Why can't someone make women's underwear that stay where they are supposed to? I think I am going to take a roll of duct tape to work with me- that ought to solve the problem next time it happens!

Woman,Thy Name is Schuler

2009-01-20T09:44:00.004-06:00

Today's Tuesday Tribute sponsored by Jay and Deb is all about the women in my life and how they have shaped me and made me who I am.

It begins with Frances, the woman who began this whole dynasty and more fondly known as Grandma P. This woman used to scare the bejesus out of me yet at the same time I just wanted to hug and kiss her. She could get me to do the nastiest chores and make me think it was my idea by the time I was done. Grandma P worked as an assistant in a local drug store for as long as I can remember and people used to ask me how old she was. I really never knew but I would always reply "she has to be under 65 because she is still working." Imagine my surprise when she did eventually quit and she was over 80! She mastered the computer after she was 70, bowled once a week and when she worked late and needed a ride home she hopped on the back of her bosses motorcycle. She was one tough old bird that lived to be 92. She makes you want to be a better person every day of your life.

Next is her daughter, my mother Diane. She inherited all of Grandma P's values of course and lived them every day of her life. She raised a garden, canned, sewed all our clothes, made homemade bread every week , hung the wash out on the line and ironed everything! Then she would dress us kids up and take us to church and Sunday school every week like clock work. She took care of her mother until she passed away then just a few short months later found out she needed surgery. During this surgery, mom suffered a stroke and lost the use of her left arm and partial use of her left leg. She never let it get her down and she wouldn't let us be down either. She says there are people far worse off than her and as long as she still has her mind and can get around that's all that matters. Gotta love someone who takes lemons and makes a pitcher of lemonade then shares it with the entire family.

Then I have my sisters, Natalie, Lisa and Paula- we don't live close enough to see each other on a daily basis but we do manage to get together at least 2-3 times a year. We don't always get along and there a few times we may disagree with each other, but try to hurt one of us and you take on the whole lot of us. We are ONE when it comes to family. We have been known to be a tad bitchy once in a while and proud of it too if you ask us. We all were born with the shopping gene and are proud to say we have passed it down to the next generation of our daughters.

In a round about way this post comes back to be about me (SORRY) because if it weren't for all these women and their being a part of my life (and I Thank God they have been) then I wouldn't be who and what I am today.

Head over to Jay and Deb and read some other tributes or do your own. They're fun.

Have You Seen My Sanity????

2009-01-19T09:33:00.004-06:00

This past weekend was the Big Family Christmas Celebration at my house. We typically pick a weekend in January (after everyone has done the traditional Christmas with other family) and gather to carry on the old fashioned Christmas my Grandma P started years ago. My sisters and I started this after my parents and other family members moved back to Iowa and we were left up here in Wisconsin. This gave us a way to still celebrate our Christmas tradition even if we couldn't be with the whole family. We took turns hosting it each year and as our children grew and had families they started travelling back to to share this experience with us. Eventually, our parents started coming up to spend the holiday with us and the past few years our youngest sister decided she wanted to join in on the action, so one year she hosts it and we all travel to Iowa.

It starts about Wednesday when my kids/grandkids hit my house. They stumble in about midnight, half asleep, yet excited to be there. I steer them in the direction of their beds and kiss them good night and they are down for the count. The next day they spend time shopping and playing until I get done with work then we have our own private Christmas gift exchange and dinner. Friday they spend the day with their dad/grandpa having a horse drawn sleigh ride in -5 degree weather! Sounds like fun to me.

Thursday my parents, sister,her husband and their two boys arrive. Time to shuffle the sleeping arrangements around.

Now we begin utter chaos. There are 9 adults, 6 children under the age of 13 and one dog all in my house at the same time!! HELP! Friday night we decide to take this show on the road and go out for a fish fry. Have you lost your freakin mind? First of all half the group isn't even there by the time we need to leave to make our reservation so we go without them.Then our table isn't ready so we're standing in the entrance way taking up the whole space while other people are trying to get in. Finally we get seated, everyone is there and my grandson says, "I'm going be sick!", runs to the bathroom and proceeds to puke all over! Way to make and entrance Noah! So he and his mom head back to our house while the rest of us enjoy our fish- you honestly didn't think we were all going to leave did you? We aren't totally heartless though, we took her home a fish fry to go.

Now for the big day, Saturday. I'm running around like a chicken with it's head cut off while everyone else is relaxing, shopping, playing Wii or just plain oblivious to the fact that "hey there's gonna be a total of 25 people here for a party soon and lots of stuff needs to be done!" Needless to say, everything got done (and what didn't nobody missed anyway) and everyone had a great time.

The Ugly Sweater contest was a big hit! There were truly some butt ugly sweaters too. I have pictures to prove it and will post them at a later date. They are all going to make their way to Good Will where they will make some ones day and will probably not be considered Ugly!

Food, Alcohol and good times were had by all well into the night. Last call was made by the bartender and once again we shuffled sleeping arrangements because we added four more people to the Inn. It was wall to wall air mattresses, sleeping bags and bodies in my family room.

Sunday morning found me cooking breakfast for the hungry masses as they slowly rose from their beds. Then the packing up started en mass and pretty soon Hubbs and I heard the sweetest sound ever- absolute, utter, SILENCE!

We took down the Christmas tree and decorations, cleaned the house and put everything back the way it was. There's only one thing I haven't been able to find but I'm still looking.
IT'S MY SANITY.
If any of you run across it would you let me know and I'll give you my address so you can return it.

It Was Only a Bazooka

2009-01-14T18:44:00.003-06:00

For this one we have to go way back to time beyond when most of you were born.

I am talking about when I was a small girl and since I am close to being older than dirt some of you may not remember some of the things I will be describing.

Mamakat's prompt that I chose from this weeks Workshop Wednesday was Talk about a time you stole something.

I grew up in a small town of about 1500 people where everyone knew everyone. In a way this was a good thing because I never had to be afraid and my parents always let me go places by myself. No drug dealers standing on street corners or men waiting to drag me into their cars and take me away(this would come later when I went to college). The down side to a small town was that you shouldn't get away with anything either. My mom knew what I was doing before I even thought about it sometimes!

We shopped for groceries at Rubick's. A real Mom and Pop store where they had a butcher who cut your meat as you asked for it. The candy wasn't located next to the check out but rather it had an aisle all to itself. They had tootsie rolls, jaw breakers, smarties, licorice, slo pokes, sugar daddies, fruit stripe gum and my all time favorite the big round ball of Bazooka Bubble Gum!

One day I went shopping with my mom and while she was talking with a friend I casually checked out the candy aisle. I walked back and forth looking at everything, reaching out and touching once in a while and heaving a big sigh because I had already been told I wasn't getting anything long before we had left home.

I was probably 6 years old at the time and I knew what stealing was but in my mind if I took one piece of Bazooka Bubble gum it wouldn't really be stealing. After all, we had just spent lots of money on groceries, this would just be more groceries, right?? So I reached out and put my chubby little hand around a piece while looking to see if Mom or the store people were watching, snatched it up and thrust it in my pocket, immediately running out to the car, jumping in and slamming the door (this was before we had to strap kids into car seats- guess back then they didn't care if we lived or not).

Mom came out, got in the car and we went home. As we were putting the groceries away, I decided I was safe so I pulled the Bazooka out of my pocket and started to unwrap it.

Just like that, my mother's hand snatched my wrist and took the gum out of my hand at the same time demanding," Where did you get this?" I knew I was in deep trouble when I looked at her and the next words out of her mouth were,"and don't lie to me"

So , with tears streaming down my face, my bottom lip trembling and snot dripping from my nose, I told her what I had done. She tossed my naughty ass back in the car and raced back up to Rubick's Grocery store. Then marched my sorry ass in the store and in front of everyone there made me tell the owner what I had done, give him back the Bazooka Bubble Gum and tell him I was sorry. I was horrified!! He was so nice and offered to give me the gum anyway. Of course my mother wouldn't let him- the principal of the thing or something like that. Cured me of ever wanting to steal again.

Now head on over to Mamakats and steal some other stories from bloggers participating in the workshop. You won't be sorry.

Here's to You Mr. Snowplow Driver

2009-01-13T08:17:00.003-06:00

In order to fully appreciate this Tuesday Tribute you have to use your imagination.

So, close your eyes and listen as you hear the Budweiser theme song start out softly and slowly build (Jay close your eyes I see you peeking!) to a crescendo!

While this is happening imagine men and women jumping out of bed in the middle of the night, throwing on long underwear, flannel shirts, wool socks and heavy work boots. They bundle up in warm coats, hats and gloves, grab a cup of coffee as they run out the door to brave to winter weather and head to the municipal building where they will fire up the big orange SNOWPLOWS.
(and then you hear in that perfect announcers voice:)

That's right, Here's to you Mr Snowplow driver without whom I would not have been able to get to work to day. You got out there in the middle of the night while the snow was still blowing and the temperatures were below zero and cleared the roads.

While I was sleeping in my nice warm bed you crawled out of yours to put the salt to the ice. To melt that crap so that it was just slush this morning so that my car didn't slip and slide all over the place.

We sometimes take you for granted because it's your job but what if your car doesn't start, you oversleep, or your driveway doesn't get plowed? Who would clear our roads then? So I salute the Snowplow Drivers , those men and women out there working in the worst weather so I can have peace of mind.

OK, music fades and you can open your eyes now. Head over to Jays to read other Tributes or join the fun and write your own

Me and My Friends

2009-01-12T08:45:00.006-06:00

Last week I was tagged with an award by Carrin @ Carrins Comments.

I have been so busy I am just now getting around to sharing it with all

of my friends. Isn't it PRETTY??

Of course as with all blogger awards, there are rules that have to be followed

Rule 1 - Say a nice thing to a man in your life.

Rule 2 - List at least 6 ways you measure success in your life.

Rule 3 - Assign 5 other worthy blogs

Since the #1 guy in my life is Hubbs, I told him how much I loved him and how blessed I was to have him in my life.

I measure success in my life by knowing my children are happy, by sharing my joy of life with others, hearing the laughter of my grand children as they play, being able to live my life each day with the man I love, enjoying good health and sound mind, and having many good friends and a large family to love me.

Now I must pass this award on to five people I think deserve it. This is actually not hard at all because in the short time I have been blogging I have read some amazing blogs and made some wonderful blogging friends. So here they are and please if you haven't already tuned into them go check these blogs out- you will be hooked just like I was.

Jori -a great blog to read- I want to be her when I grow up

Jay - this guy is so funny I pee my pants- a must read.

Binks I stumbled on this one by accident and haven't left since!

Debbie what can I say about O Sage One- if you haven't found her yet you're missing out.

Jane -my most recent find and so glad I did- Great Blog

So there you have it. The Measure of A (Wo)Man.

Alphabet Soup (with Crackers)

2009-01-10T07:58:00.003-06:00

You have to be just a little crackers to want to play this game and I actually ~~begged,~~ , ~~pleaded~~ volunteered after I saw it on one of my new favorite blogs.

Jane at Emptying the Nest played this game using the letter V and did a great job. Had me laughing my butt off so when she asked if anyone wanted to play, I raised my hand and said ME! ME! ME!
The rules of the game are as follows: You have to list 10 of your favorite things, but they have to start with a certain letter assigned to you by the blog owner. Since we are just new blog friends, Jane must have taken pity on me becasue she did not give me one of those UGLY letters like U, Q, or X. She gave me M. So let us begin the alphabet game.

1. Macaroni (and cheese)- this is my favorite comfort food. I will make a whole box of this when ever the hubbs is going to be gone. This will be my meal of choice whenever I don't want to cook anything else. I love to make this homemade, using 3 cheeses. The gooyer (is this even a word?) the better.

2. Mojitos- My drink of choice right now. Made with rum and mint it is soooooo good! Give me this with macaroni and cheese and I'm a happy camper. I have now found a bottled version by Bacardi so don't even have to take the time to mix them. How sweet is that?? Try them you might come over to my side.

3. Millionaire- Hell no I'm not one, Yet. I keep hoping to one day win the Powerball and every week I give them my $5 like clockwork. So far they have just taken it and haven't given anything back except a measly $4 or $7 here and there. Every girl has to have a dream right and mine is towin that million some day. Let ya'all know when it happens.

4. Mirrors- Something that on one day can be my best friend and the next my worst enemy. Why is it that I can look in a mirror one day and love what I see and the next time I want to throw a shoe through it? I swear to God I have funhouse mirrors in my house! Mirror, Mirror on the Wall?

5. Mama, Mommy, Mom, Mother- all these words are me and have come out of my children's mouths at varying stages of their lives when they have wanted or needed me. It doesn't define who or what I am (I am so much more on any given day) but I love being a mother. The one that means the most would have to be Mama because it's the first time the said my name.

6. Men o pause- a nasty phase all women go through so I'm really not sure why they named it after men. Although if you break it down and look at it the way I have it here maybe they are really telling men they should pause before engaging us in anything during this time. Thank God I am done with all this.I am sure hubbs thanks him too.

7. Meltdown- Somthing I have been known to have on occassion when under extreme stress! This has been known to occur when travelling with Hubbs, building something with Hubbs, planning a large family gathering (which I am doing right now) or during school (which I start next week).

8. Marriage- I love being married to Hubbs. He is my soul mate and completes me. No matter what I say about him in my blog without him I would be lost. I highly recommend it to everyone.

9. Many- the number of blessings I have in my life between my HUbbs, my children, grand children, family and friends.

10. Migraine- I thought halfway through this list I would maybe get a migraine trying to finish but it really wasn't that hard. Thanks to the several mojitos I have drank and the macaroni and cheese I have eaten. I feel no pain.

So anyone out there that would like to play the game. Let me know and I will give you a lovely letter. Come on don't be afraid.

Who Am I?

2009-01-07T18:57:00.005-06:00

Who am I? Depends on the day , the time of month and of course who you ask.

One day I can be Pollyanna only seeing the bright side of every thing. The next I am Cruella ready to steal your puppies right out from under you.

This week Mamakat had us ask a loved one to use 6 words to describe us and report back as one of our prompts for Wednesday Workshop.

I decided the best person to ask would be my sweet, loving, wonderful husband. Who knows me better than him right? The most wonderful words would trip right off his tongue. Right? Wrong.

He. had. to. think. before. he. answered.

When he did answer this is what he had to say...........

1. Energetic- So what, I'm the energizer bunny running around like crazy never stopping? I do admit I can get a lot done in a day and I don't need a lot of sleep but pink was never my color.

2. Thorough- OK can you say anal retentive? I have to have everything (and I mean everything planned out to the minute. I am so organized that when we are going on a trip I am packed 1 1/2 weeks before and would have the suitcases in the car if my husband would let me drive around with them.

3. Resourceful- OK so I was a Girl Scout and could probably build a fire by rubbing two sticks together. Is there a crime in this?

4. Loving- Thank God he threw this one in there or the man might have ended up dead or divorced. Yes I do love him just kidding.

5. Thoughtful- I think about myself all the time. (That's a joke people.) I also think about shopping and how many new pairs of shoes or how many new purses I can buy.

6. Humble- I am truly humbled by how well my husband knows me and yet still loves me. Most people, myself included would have left me by now after all this.

When my evil twin creeps out, shows herself and starts acting like this, my husband puts his arms around me, tells me he loves me and brings me back down to earth. Then I truly am all of the above words he used to describe me and deserve them all.

Head over to Mamkats and describe yourself in six words or less

The Gift that Keeps on Giving

2009-01-06T08:49:00.003-06:00

Jay over at Halftime Lessons, a new blog I've started ~~obsessing over~~ ~~stalking~~ following has created something fun and new in the same spirit as MamaKat's Workshop Wednesdays. He is calling it Tuesday Tributes and it is all about saying something about other people- nice or not/

The one thing you can not talk about is yourself. I know, What the hell is this all about? I need that attention people!! How do you expect me to survive if no one is talking about me and if I don't talk about me- no one will!!!! Oh alright, I suppose I can make it one day without all that adulation.

I debated long and hard whether to be nice or naughty with my first Tuesday Tribute- Naughty won. So here goes.........

I do not mean to offend any one from Illinois but what the hell is wrong with your Governor? Was he like this when you voted for him?

Does he not get how much trouble he is in? He just keeps on doing whatever he wants and damn the consequences. Sort of like a 2 year old that has been told he can not do something then does it anyway all the while looking at you to see if you are watching.

I am tired of seeing him on TV, in the newspaper and the Internet. Waving and smiling like he doesn't have a care in the world. Does he think if he pretends everything is OK it will be? What planet does he live on? You are under arrest and facing impeachment idiot! Deal with reality!

Like the child he is acting like, he didn't listen, appointed Burres and now we have to untangle that mess. Someone needs to give him a potch on the butt and stand him in the corner for a time out. Grow up Blagojevich!

Under Construction

2009-01-04T08:19:00.005-06:00

We built our house about 8 years ago but didn't finish the basement right away for 2 reasons.

1. We didn't know what we wanted to do at the time.

2. We were doing the work ourselves and had reached the point that if we didn't stop now we probably would have either ended up divorced or killing each other and since we were newly married we decided that wasn't such a good idea.

We gradually finished the family room without too much bloodshed and have been enjoying it for a while. It is my sanctuary. I spend quite a bit of time there because it is cozy and inviting, unlike our great room which I feel is much too big and very cold. I don't spend much time there unless we have company.

We are hosting my family Christmas in January and will have a large number of people staying with us so I informed my husband that it was time we finally finished the last room. It is a combination sewing room/bedroom. The drywall has been up for quite a while, it just needed to be mudded and then painted. The ceiling hung and the floor installed. A good weekend project for the two of us. Right? After all my husband is in the construction business so how hard can this be?

The drywall is completed and we schedule the painting. We ended up having one of our employees finish mudding it for us as my husband decided he didn't ~~want to~~ didn't have the time do it. This took a couple of weeks since we had to work around other jobs this person had (we don't come first you know). The painting ends up being New Years Day since we both have the day off. Yup you guessed it, we both wake up ~~feeling like shit~~ a little the worse for wear but determined to paint the room. It does get done and I have to say, it looks amazing! We had to do some touch up work cuz the first time around wasn't so stellar but hey what do you expect?

This weekend we started to put in the dropped ceiling tiles. First we have to put up the grid to hold the tiles. For any of you that have never done this, you nail this metal strip around the outside of the room then crisscross those with others and wire them up to hold the tiles. I am only 4'11" and was expected to be able to hold these strips up on the wall while my husband nailed them up. That wouldn't have been so bad, except I was supposed to be able to see this pencil mark that he had made and be sure I had the strip dead on this mark. Hello can you say, "TOO SHORT TO SEE THE DAMN MARK!"
My husband didn't seem to understand this and was constantly asking me "do you have it on the mark?" You betcha honey. Ask me one more time and you'll be wearing the mark .
We finally got the grid done and started to put up the ceiling tiles only to find that some of them were water damaged from sitting in our basement so we ended up being 6 tiles short. Now we have to order more tiles and hope to hell they still carry these tiles or we will end up taking down all the ones we have put up and redoing the ceiling with new ones.

Today we are supposed to lay the floor. We are doing a slate laminate floor that should be fairly easy to lay and only take a few hours to do. However, we went to a party last night and hubby is a little under the weather again today( really people he doesn't have a problem- it is the holiday season) and then mother in law has invited us to lunch so we will be taking a break right about the time we finally get a good start. I keep reminding him we only have 11 days left until my family descends on us so we need to get this room done or they could end up sleeping with him.

Wish me luck

Making the List

2009-01-01T06:00:00.001-06:00

It's Writer's Workshop Wednesday and you all know what that means.
Yes you have to endure another lengthy story from me because Mamakat ~~forces~~ encourages me to do this to broaden my horizon and my fan base.

Today I chose prompt # 4.) Close out 2008 with your own TOP 10 list!

#10. We finally built the deck on the back of our house! Well almost- the railing isn't done and the step still needs to be built but at least the deck is done.

#9. My Mom and Dad celebrated 59 years of wedded ~~bliss,~~ ~~happiness,~~ OK togetherness without killing each other. I wish I could some day achieve this.

#8. Hubby and I finally made the long awaited trip to New Orleans to visit my BFF and her S/O. She's only been down there 3 years! Geez, what's the rush?

#7. Hubby and I also took our annual tropical vacation to Mexico, only to find I had booked us at a repeat resort ( I try never to do this). They had been bought, renamed and remodelled. Not as good the second time around.

#6. Brett Favre retired from the Packers then decided he wanted to play after all.WTF? We decided we didn't want him. Aaron Rodgers is much better.

#5. My daughter, Bear and the Nebraska grand kids vacationed at the cottage with Hubby and I, Bear caught a BIG fish. She named him Michael. We ate him.

#4. Finally got everyone together for a family picture (or so we thought) Seems my son decided to have a tude that day. We only had to travel 3 states and 500 miles to do it but it sure is worth it!

#3. Bear hosted her first family holiday dinner(Thanksgiving) this year. Hubby, I,daughter Carrin's family and friend Carey's family all helped her and her dog Buddy celebrate.

#2. I got a son-in- law fro Christmas (almost). Daughter Carrin got proposed to, said yes and they're now planning a wedding.

and the thing that holds the top slot of 2008

#1. My dad turned 80 years young in November. His wife, children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and friends gathered to celebrate his life.

So head on over to Mamakats and see who else made the list.There's some really good reading to be found if you take the time.

Becoming a Senior

2008-12-30T11:09:00.005-06:00

I just a few weeks I will be turning 55 years of age!

YUP, I will become the speed limit (at least that's what it is here in my state) and officially a Senior Citizen!! CRAP!

It didn't bother me to turn 30, 40 or even 50 but for some unknown reason, I hate turning 55!

Maybe it has something to do with all the mail I have been getting lately and the ads on TV.

It seems that AARP suddenly wants to become my best friend. They send me letters asking me to join their club. Telling my what wonderful benefits I would enjoy now that I am OLD! I can get discounts on hotel rooms and if I am stranded on the side of the road, AAA could help me out because my membership would cost me less. Not to mention I get to eat off the Senior Menu now! YIPPEE!!!

There is the reminder from Social Security that if I retire now I will only receive this much a moth but if I continue to work until I am 72 I can receive so much more!! As if I want to work until I am 72 years old!! WTF!!

Then of course there are all the ads about insurance plans on TV- Chose this one and you won't have to have a physical exam. We will insure you no matter what. They don't tell you that your premium is so high you can't afford it.
The next says it pays for all your medical bills and your prescriptions without having to have a supplemental plan. ( you just have to use the doctors and clinics it tells you to).

Then there are the commercials for the Assisted Living Facilities- Nothing like planning ahead, right? Might as well pick one out while I still can (at least this way I get one I like and not one my kids just dump me in) because according to TV, Alzheimer's will be setting in any day now.

I have been watching the trailers about the movie "The Curious Case of Benjamin Buttons" and I have to ask my friend Debbie at Suburb Sanity (she's the Sage one and has all the answers) if he can grow younger why can't we all?

I know my fear of 55 is irrational and it's just a number but for some reason I am really terrified of this birthday. I guess maybe it has something to do with being labelled a Senior Citizen. I don't feel like one. Hell ask anyone who knows me and they'll tell you I've never acted my age! Can I skip this for now and just stay a Junior (so to speak)??

Chrouser Christmas Chaos

2008-12-27T09:36:00.014-06:00

The Stockings are hung by the chimney with care

Wait Tim, St Nicholas has already been there!

Mark looks like he's lost something!!!!

Oh Wait...........He found it!!

Santa's Elves all seemed to be relaxing and having a good time after working so hard all year long.

They deserve a little fun time because soon they will be busy once again making toys for next year!

Next came the Three Wise People
They are only considered Wise because there is a

woman among them

They came to spread glad tidings and

cheer

Lots of cheer(see what's in their

hands?)

Next came the passing of the cup.

This is tradition among the Chrouser Christmas dinner. Nah, John just wanted coffee so Dick was passing him a cup. Had you going for a minute didn't I???

Finally the next generation of Chrouser Males.

I don't know whether this is a GOOD thing or a SCARY thing.

I will let the picture speak for itself and you can make your own decision.

Everyone had a great time and there are more pictures so I can blackmail some family members later.

I am lucky I get to do this all over again in January with my family from Iowa and Nebraska.

Hope every one had a Merry Christmas and is looking forward to a Happy New Year.

CHRISTMAS MESSAGE

2008-12-24T09:47:00.003-06:00

TWAS THE DAY BEFORE CHRISTMAS
AND BLOGGERS WHETHER FAR OR NEAR
IF THEY ARE OLD, YOUNG OR IN BETWEEN
WERE SPREADING CHRITSMAS CHEER.

THERE IS JORI A CAROL SHE SHARED WITH US
AND DEBBIE WE SAW HOW HER TREE WAS DONE
MAMAKAT WITH HER TODDLER'S FIRST WINTER
AND CARRIN'S CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN TO DAY ONE

SO BLOGGER FRIENDS AS YOU SCATTER
TO SHARE LOVE WITH THOSE YOU HOLD DEAR
LISTEN CLOSE AND YOU MIGHT HEAR ME EXCLAIM
"MERRY CHRITSMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!"

ENJOY YOUR HOLIDAYS AND I WILL BE BACK WITH YOU ALL AFTER I AM DONE WITH ALL THE CELEBRATING

6 inches!

2008-12-21T09:04:00.002-06:00

OK get your minds out of the gutter! I'm not talking about my Hubby or any other man for that matter! That would just be fantasy wouldn't it???

I'm talking that lovely white stuff called SNOW!
Last night while we slept, those nasty little snow fairies decided to make an appearance. They didn't just want to say HI, they wanted to wanted to make a real impression and they did.

Actually the snow started yesterday morning about 11:00 am. Hubby and I had to play Santa's little elves and finish our shopping and it was no picnic driving into town. There were a couple of moments where the car started sliding and I closed my eyes and started praying.

It went something like this: "Jesus Christ Honey just get there in one piece and I promise I won't kill you."

2 1/2 hours and 3 stores later and we started back home. By this time we can only travel about 40 miles an hour and everyone keeps hitting the brakes because the person in front of them does. This is due to the very first person in the lead being afraid that the road might be slippery in certain spots so they slow down periodically. Don't they know this causes more accidents than if they just would drive at one speed?? A trip that normally takes about 12 minutes to make now takes us almost 25 minutes! Unbelievable!!!

This morning after breakfast, Hubby went to get the plow to clear the driveway. He was just going to shovel until he got out there and saw how much snow there was and how heavy it was.
Guess it would be good snowman snow but I just can't see me getting all bundled up and going out there and making a snowman. Nope, not gonna happen.

Me, I plan on grabbing a good book or maybe a movie and sitting in front of the fire all day. Who knows, I might even stay in my jammies all day. Just that kind of day.

Office Christmas Party

2008-12-19T13:18:00.003-06:00

Today is our company's annual Christmas party. We always have it at the shop so no one has to go home and clean up and come back out. They just finish up their work and come in and enjoy. Their spouses and children are welcome to come too.

My sister in law Karen has always been in charge of the food and she always does a hell of a spread! If you can't find something to eat then you aren't looking. She spends a lot of time and effort to make this a really great party for everyone.
This year she couldn't do it because of other obligations so Sally (another sister in law) and I are doing it. We knew right off the bat we had some pretty big shoes to fill so we asked the guys what they wanted for the party.
Here's what they said:
Wildcat: for those of you who aren't familiar with this- it is raw ground round with onions and salt and pepper and they eat it on rye bread.
Hot Wings and Meatballs
Smoked or Deep Fried Turkey with buns for sandwiches
Cheese/Sausage with crackers
Salsa/chips- this is my homemade stuff that is awesome
Veggies and dip
Veggie Pizza
Couple Pasta Salads
Shrimp and sauce
Simple desserts

So this is exactly what they are getting. Nothing fancy and nothing catered. Sally and I made it all ourselves. Slaving over a hot stove/oven to make these people happy.
Of course, I have to work today so I can not help Sally set up, Hubby will have to do this. So I had to leave a detailed list for him and I do mean a detailed list!

It went something like this:
The basket is to put the crackers in. Put the napkin in the basket first, then the crackers.
The Veggie pizza is already cut but be sure you put it on a serving plate before you put it out- do not serve it on the baking sheet!
The spoons for the salad and the salsa are in the sack.
Make sure you take the salad, the shrimp,the veggies tray, cheese tray and the veggie pizza from the fridge and the cookies and the wings from the garage.
I have to spell it out for him because if I don't he would just slap everything down as is and call it good.

Hubby is in charge of the booze and there's always plenty of that. Beer, booze, wine , Tom and Jerrys and once in a while someone will bring champagne.
It has been known to happen that an employee will end up sleeping in the break room due to too much partying. Better that than send them home in that condition.

There is not any copy machine stuff going on (at least I've never seen any) and I've never caught anyone naked and naughty at these parties but they do have a good time.

So grab your party hat and come on over, drinks are on me!

Letters to Santa

2008-12-18T08:39:00.004-06:00

If you follow my blog at all(and you damn well better cause it's awesome) then you know that on Wednesdays I participate in a writer's workshop sponsored by my blogger friend Mamakat. Today's assignment that I chose was to write a letter to Santa. so here goes......

Dear Santa,

Can we talk? I know you're terribly busy this time of year but something has been bothering me for a long time and I just need to get it off my chest.

45 years ago when I was 9 I wrote you a letter asking for a Barbie Dream house for Christmas. This is all I wanted so that Barbie could marry Ken, the love of her life, have kids and live happily ever after.

Santa, I'm still waiting for that Dream house......

Barbie never married Ken. They lived in sin instead and she could never figure out what she wanted to do with her life.
She flitted from Flight Attendant, to Dentist, to Teacher, to Doctor, to Astronaut, to CEO of a company and the list goes on and on and on. All because I never got my Dream house.

Santa you were probably the cause of the feminist movement all because you didn't bring me my Barbie Dream house. Millions of young women followed Barbies lead. She became their role model. They demanded equal pay for equal work and equal time in the bedroom as well as the boardroom. If Barbie could do all these things then they could too!

Santa if you had just brought me my Barbie Dream house, Barbie would have married Ken, lived happily ever after and none of this other shit would have happened. But nooooo. You had to forget me that year. See what you started? Hope you're happy.

By the way, I had to buy my daughters every one of those Barbies as she changed careers cause they wanted to be just like her.

I won't be putting out any cookies this year Santa, looks like you've gained a little weight. (you might want to call Jenny Craig, I hear she works wonders).

Merry Christmas
Still Waiting in Wisconsin

Now head over to Mamakats and read other letters to Santa and see what everyone else is wishing for.

The Never Ending Story

2008-12-16T09:35:00.004-06:00

TAG, YOU'RE IT!
This seems to be the theme for this little story. You write a paragraph, then tag a blog buddy to write the next one and so on until the story is finished ...... or not. My very naughty daughter Carrin tagged me to add on after she wrote her paragrah. So sit back, read and hopefully enjoy the story.

I hunched down to see what it was, but as I did, the bus violently veered to left. I was thrown up against a heavyset Asian woman with blond hair. I pardoned myself, but she faced forward with no reply. Just then, a man wearing a jumpsuit of silver and gold stood up at the front of the bus. He was holding a megaphone and a box of graham crackers. He held the megaphone up to his face and began to speak... (Some Guy)"Ladies and Gentlemen...please do not be afraid! I am here to help you" he said in a mighty booming voice. As he began to step towards me I felt a hand creep its way around my throat and all of a sudden I was pressed against the mighty bosom of the Asian woman as she she hauled me to my feet. She began to back away from the costumed crusader all the while holding me, feet dangling in the air. I panicked and my eyes searched the bus, hoping to connect with someone, anyone who would be able to help me. My eyes met those of the hero in gold and just as I began to gasp for air he yelled...(~E)„Put her down and no one gets hurt“, he yelled at the Asian woman. All the passengers turned to see what was going on and, as they did, I noticed they were more panicked than I was. A small bespectacled man closest to us hissed at my captor and said in a low voice „Take me, just don't hurt her.“ My fear gave way to curiosity. Who were all these people, and why were they so concerned for my well being?The Asian blonde's back was now pressed against the back of the bus, and she increased her grip on me as the megaphone man crept slowly towards us. As he passed through the bus people started getting up, and now they formed a small army behind him. He raised the box of graham crackers above his head and put his lips to the megaphone... (That Damn Expat)"Since you refuse to cooperate, I will have to use my secret weapon!" Suddenly a laser like light shot out of the box of graham crackers and everything went black. I don't know how much time passed, but I awoke in a mysterious room with a terrible headache. Immediately I assumed that I had been captured and began wondering why me? Why not the Asian lady who seemed to be the source of trouble? Just then, a woman walked into the room wearing a gold lame' dress, she said...(Laura)"Oh, you are awake? I am glad you're okay...", and she gave me a glass of water. Apparently I fainted at her boutique while picking out some clothing. I am so relieved that it was just a dream. Being captive is not my cup of tea. Besides, who was that big Asian woman? And what's up with that horrible blond hair she had? Asian people would never look pretty with blond. She was freaky. I thanked the boutique owner and decided to walk outside. It is really nice day out. Oh wait.. I am hungry. I should get something to eat. "What should I eat?", I was talking to myself when.... (Maki)All of a sudden a run away hot dog cart was headed my way! The owner of the cart was running frantically behind it all the while yelling "Some one please catch my dogs!" Two thoughts went through my head. One "get the heck out of the way" and two "what would the gold hero dude do?" I decided to do my best to help the hot dog vendor. I watch the cart coming straight for me and try to calculate when to lunge after it. As it's gathering speed towards me, I lunge, grab the handle and throw myself on top of the cart. But the cart does not stop! I am flying down the hill on top of the cart all the while the vendor is yelling at me not to smash the buns. I laugh out loud and think "Why do these happen to me?" and then I remember back to last night...(Carrin)
When I was attending a black tie event at Rockefeller Center to raise money for charity. This would be my last chance for fun for then next 12 weeks. My book was due out next week and it would be non stop publicity tours from then on. I had spent hours getting my hair and makeup done and chosing just the right dress for tonight because I was meeting "him". Finally after all this time, we would be seeing each other for the first time. I was so excited, my heart was racing and my pulse was pounding. What would he look like? Would he be as handsome as he sounded in his emails? I stood just inside the door watching the people as they entered wondering if each of the men might be him. I moved to the top of the staircase, placed my hand on the railing and was just about to descend, when suddenly someone grabbed me, stuck a needle in my neck, and as they pushed the plunger in slowly they said...(Sheri)

Now I am tagging two of my blogger friends that have wonderful story telling abilities that I think would do a great job of carrying on with this story
Debbie
and
Jori
For the instructions on how to play the story game go here

Deck the Halls (and anyone else that gets in my way)

2008-12-14T11:09:00.005-06:00

Man I hate going out to the stores this time of year! Even the grocery stores are nasty right now! Case in point- Hubby and I went to do our grocery shopping at 6:00 pm Friday night (this is not our usual time to do this but we were literally out of everything and had no choice) thinking we could get in, get what we needed and get out.

First of all everyone and their dog were in the damn store at this time of night! This is supper time for cripes sake, what the hell are people doing buying groceries now??? Then it seems the store thinks this is the optimal time of day to restock their shelves and the produce. There are boxes all over the aisles and stock people standing around talking and laughing. That's right, I said standing around. Not restocking as they were supposed to be doing but in groups of 2 and 3 having a good time and taking up more space so you couldn't get through with your cart. Where is your Customer Service people?????

I went in armed with all my coupons to get their "deals" so of course when I went to get what was on special, they were all out. WTF? Where are the people who were supposed to be restocking the shelves? Couldn't they be putting more of these specials back on the shelves so I could buy them??? Sorry but there is a limited supply and once they are gone they don't restock. Of course, that explains why these people are just standing around. There is nothing to restock the shelves with.

As we continued through the store, people cut us off as we came out of the aisles, grabbed things off the shelf just as I reached for them and never once said, "sorry" and were just plain rude.

We finally got everything we needed by which time I am so angry,hungry and ready to get the hell out of there and go home that I could just scream. We are headed for the checkout lanes of which there are a whole 3 open when miracle of miracles, they decide to open one right as we get there!! Someone up there does like me. I am2 steps away from the lane when some lady bangs her cart into mine, pushes her way into the lane and starts unloading her groceries onto the counter. I feel my arm slowly moving forward to grab her and I know I am seconds from decking her when hubby (bless his wonderful heart) grabs me and says " it's OK honey, we're not in any hurry." Of course as I turn to glare at him with a look that could kill and inform him that even if he isn't I am cause it's after 7:00 pm and I'm hungry, another cart pushes their way in front of us!!! At this point I just want to cry but would settle for a good stiff drink, all the while wondering where the hell these people's Christmas spirit is?

I look at them, smile and say, Merry Christmas, all the while I am thinking " I hope you get run over by reindeer in the parking lot!"

Christmas Cookies

2008-12-12T13:35:00.006-06:00

One of the things I like about this time of year are the cookies and candies being spread around.

One of the things I hate about this time of year are the LBs being spread around my hips and ass because of the cookies and candies!

This weekend it is baking time for me. My kitchen is turned into a baking machine and usually ends up covered in flour from one end to the other!
I have always loved to make all different kinds of cookies for Christmas.
There are Snickerdoodles, Peanut Blossoms, Spritz, Chocolate Crinkles, Gingersnaps, Peanut butter Balls, Almond Cookies and of course what is Christmas with out the Cutouts!
I love decorating the cutout cookies the best. I do several different colors of frosting and I can't begin to tell you how many jars of different colored sparkle and accessories I have to make them look FABULOUS! The trees have to be trimmed just so and the snowmen have eyes,noses and buttons down their fronts. My husband gets frustrated because he just wants to slap the frosting on and be done with it, "after all we're just gonna eat the damn things!" but that's not the way it's done in my house. Don't tell my husband but he is right, we are just gonna eat the damn things but it's so much fun decorating them before you eat them.

Then there is the candy. I used to make a lot of this when I and my kids were both younger. I would make Divinity, Nougat, Fudge, Peanut Brittle, Caramel Corn, and Almond Bark Pretzels. Now adays I only make homemade peanut brittle and fudge and if my Hubby is really lucky, I might do a batch of the Almond Bark Pretzels which are his favorites.

I was never satisfied with one batch of these cookies and candies, oh no, I had to make double batches. I would put some out to be ate right away and put some in the freezer thinking we would still have some when Christmas came. Right? Wrong! Not in my house there wasn't! Even now with all the kids grown and gone and just me and the hubby. I do the same thing and think there will be some by Christmas time. Wrong! I think there are little elves living in my house that come in at night and eat these cookies while I am sleeping.

Of course the doctor did ask my hubby yesterday if he was putting on a couple LBs so maybe I should start calling him Santa's little helper?

Conversatin with a Mouse

2008-12-11T08:14:00.004-06:00

It's Wednasday so that means it's Writer's Workshop time over at Mamakats. Here are todays prompts:1.) Allergies much?
2.) Worst dentist experience ever.
3.) Describe a "new road" you've taken in your life.
4.) What would you say to a mouse who could talk?
5.) Who is the best listener you know? What makes him or her such a good listener

I thought it would be fun to do #4. so the following is my conversation with a mouse. After reading mine, head over to Mamakats blog and check out all the other great stories that are posted there.

As I was cleaning my house the other day (and now we all know this is a fantasy because I don't clean my own house) I stumbled across atiny mouse in the corner of my closet. She was making herself a house there for the winter.

Me: Miss Mouse, what are you doing in my house?

Mouse: It's too cold to be outside so I thought I would live in your lovely house for the winter.

Me: OK, but there are some ground rules if this is gonna happen. Think you can handle that?

Mouse: What kind of rules?

Me: #1. If you're gonna live in my house you can't be pooping where ever the hell you want. Learn to use the toilet! I'm not cleaning up after you.
#2. No chewing holes in the bottom of the boxes of food when you're hungry. Open the damn things like the rest of us! If you have trouble ask.
#3. Don't be running around and scratching in the walls at all hours of the night! Some of us have to work in the morning. If you must do that, do it during the day.
#4. I'm not running a damn daycare here so if you insist on having so damn many babies, find some where else to take them.
Any questions or problems with these rules?

Mouse: I can live with all your rules. No problem. I just have a few requests of my own.
#1. Would you get a volumizing conditioner the next time you go to the store? My hair needs a little plumping and the stuff you use is crap.
#2. I would prefer the wheat crackers to the plain ones. They're better for my diet ( you know fiber- that poop thing). Oh and would you get the sharp cheddar cheese please?
#3. Would you leave the remote for one of your many TVs where I can reach it so I can watch my soaps during the day? It's pretty boring around here with nothing to do all day!
#4. Oh and talking about noise at night, could you and your husband keep it down too? Talk about loud!! Geez!

So me and Miss Mouse struck a deal, shook hands or paws or whatever and she stayed there for the winter. This is what I imagine a conversation with a mouse might be like if they could talk.

Stop the Car I Want to Get Out!

2008-12-08T06:15:00.004-06:00

So Saturday my husband and I decided to take a road trip to do some Christmas shopping.

I know, I know. You're all saying, : What the hell were you thinking?" Obviously I wasn't or I never would have agreed to get in the car with him.

But in my own defense we were going to Cabelas and I love this store. The closest one is about 3 hours away and we have been there before so I figured he remembered how to get there. Right?

WRONG!!! Men never remember these things.

We get up early (and I mean really early) and just as we are ready to walk out the door, my husband says, "You did print off directions on how to get there didn't you?"

This should have been my first clue that things were not going to go smoothly but I ignored my inner voice and answered, "No, you didn't ask me to. Do you really need them?"

Hubby: "Probably, I'm not sure I remember how to get there. Print them just in case. "

So good little wife that I am, I did and off we went.

All was well for the first 2 hours of the trip because he knew where he was going. It wasn't until we had to take the exit to go to toward Cabelas that we started to have trouble. I started to read the directions to him but he had seen a billboard that said Take exit 207. SO, as far as he was concerned, that's all we had to do. No need for any directions, just look for exit 207. Where ever the hell that might be.

I then tried to tell him we had to take 35E S for a short jaunt but he strongly argued that we never got off 694.

I said, "the directions say we have to....."

Hubby, " I don't care what the directions say, we stay on 694 all the way."

Me: "Why do you have me print these directions if you aren't going to follow them?"

Hubby: "In case I don't know where I'm going, but I know what I'm doing now."

Me: "OK then. I'll just sit here and not say a word, but if you get lost don't blame me." All the while I am thinking Never again am I reading directions to this man. He can map it out for himself before he leaves.

Of course I was right and we did have to take 35E S for a short period of time but he wouldn't admit a thing.

We finally get to Cabelas, do our shopping ( we did our part that day to stimulate the economy) and the last thing I did before we checked out???

I picked up a Garmin GPS system, tossed it in the cart and said, " Merry Christmas, Honey!"

Let someone else be his guide from now on. He can't argue with a machine or can he???

Reality Check

2008-12-04T07:36:00.003-06:00

It's Writers Workshop Wednesday again over at MamaKat's and this week I have chosen the prompt:

3.) If you had to star in a reality TV show, which one would it be and why?

Now I don't watch all of the reality shows out there (there are way too many and way too many weird ones) but I do watch a few. I even have a couple that I am obsessed with but don't tell anyone OK?

First there is The Bachelorette- I would love to think I could star on this show- wear all the fabulous clothes. Live in the mansion, go to all the exotic locations and have the full attention of 25 gorgeous men! Alas, I am happily married so this eliminates this show. Damn!

Second there is Top Chef-I could chop, saute, puree, bake and cook with the best of them. I just couldn't stab you in the back at the same time to win the show. Pack up your knives and leave the show.

Third there is Americas Next Top Model- OK who am I trying to kid here right? I am only 4'11" and Old! Hello you have to be a skinny bitch for this one with a face that would stop trucks (that one I could probably do but not for the right reasons). I'm not in the running to become Americas next top model.

Fourth we have Real Housewives of Orange County- Now this one I do have some qualifications for. I am a housewife (but on this show you really don't have to be cause not all of them are married) and I live in a county. I could spend money like it's going out of style, drink champagne on yachts and party with the best of them. I would have no problem spending 2.5 mil on a house or $2300 on a dress and $1000 on a pair of shoes and jewelry puh-lease. Bling is my favorite subject. The only disqualification I have for this show- I don't have the money it takes so guess not babe- Not gonna be the new girl this season.

Fifth and final one- Project Runway- I love this show because I love to sew. My mom used to make all of our clothes when I was little and then she taught me to sew and I made my children's clothes. I also made Barbie doll clothes, brides maid dresses, winter coats and wedding dresses. So I have a vested interest in this show. I pick apart their clothes and I criticize how they make them. I could do so much better and that is why I should star on it. I would be so FIERCE!
There would be no stopping me and I would totally rock the show to the very end! Just ask my children (they always loved my clothes) Of course they had no choice when they were little but as they got older they sometimes asked me to make them things so guess it wasn't too bad.
So One Day you're In and One Day you're Out. I'm IN!

Home Alone

2008-12-03T09:08:00.004-06:00

I'm sitting at home
With nothing to DO!
Except sit at the computer
And blog for all you.

Due to Miss Staph and Miss Strep
These two little bugs,
My body at home,
Has been laid out by these thugs!

I'm not used to inactivity
It's driving me CRAZY!!!
This being at home all day
Is making me lazy!

I sleep until eight
Drink coffee, watch soaps
Sit home all day long,
Feel sorry and mope.

So please release me
Back to work SOON?
Before I become,
A total, complete, absolute LOON!!!

It's Mine, All Mine

2008-12-01T19:07:00.003-06:00

Ever wanted something so bad you could taste it? I have and I usually always don't get it. This time though there is a big give away over at the SITS page and if you go here you can read all about it for yourself.

I am so excited because I could be named Friday Favorite and win a $200 Target Gift Card (Back off Carrin this is mine!) just by mentioning this Grand Prize and then commenting on their blog tomorrow. I never win anything and I mean anything but this is Mine All Mine. And I'm so excited I just can't hide it! Nothing ventured nothing gained and who couldn't use a little something something right now?

Good Luck to all of you. Even if you don't want to participate in the giveaway, check out the SITS blog.

Home Again, Home Again, Jiggity Jog

2008-12-01T12:34:00.006-06:00

Wow the past five days have been intense with travel, family, food and fun!

Wednesday we packed up the vehicle in the early am and headed out of town for Iowa and Nebraska to spend the Thanksgiving holiday with my children. We arrived at my daughters about 5:00 pm, quickly unpacked and called my other daughter to make plans for supper.
It was then off to the Spaghetti Works for supper with the grand kids and to catch up with all their news. When we got back to Tuta's her other house guests were there and we all settled in for the night.

Thursday morning after everyone was up and had breakfast, we started the Thanksgiving dinner preparations. This was my daughters first time hosting the holiday so she was a little excited and had some questions but over all she had most things under control. Carrin and the kids came over about 11:30 and we started putting things together. Once the food flowed everyone dug in and and ate til they couldn't move. Then the pies came out and we ate some more.

Friday,we met my sisters and niece for some after Thanksgiving shopping. We had to pick up stuff for the big Family Thanksgiving we were having on Saturday. Yup that's right, we were doing this all over again on Saturday. Later, we all went out to Mom and Dad's for supper and to hang out. The decibel level in the house is probably well over the legal level when we all get together but we have a great time. There were adults, kids and dogs running around all over the house. The only one not having a good time was Thomas, the cat who was banished to the basement during all this.

Saturday morning we got up and carted the stuff for our big meal to our church. We decided to have it here for two reasons, it was bigger, they had all the stuff we needed to prepare it and we were having a surprise open house for my dad's 80th birthday and this was a great place to have it. It is really fun to work together with family when we do something like this. Everyone is doing what needs to be done and having a good time dong it. It all came together like a well oiled machine. Everyone had way more than enough to eat and then we had lots of time until the open hose so we stalled a little doing dishes, then had pie, then stalled a little more and then finally people started coming. We had put together some pictures from over the years and everyone had a great time and many laughs looking at them and asking: "who is this?"

Sunday morning it was crawl out of bed at the crack of dawn and hit the road for the long trip back home. It takes about 7 1/2 hours not including the stops for gas and meals. We ran into a little snow through all three states (IA, MN, and WI) but the roads were pretty good so travel wasn't bad.

Once we got home we had to go to our grand daughter's birthday party, so it wasn't until after 7:00 pm last night before we finally got the chance to sit down and relax. Toady it's back to work and back to normal. Thank goodness for that. It's nice to visit but nicer to come home.

Over the River and Thru the Fields

2008-11-25T10:53:00.003-06:00

To our Daughter's house we go....
The car knows the way
to carry our stuff,
Thru the white and drifted snow OH NO!
Over the river and thru the fields
Oh how the wind does blow!
It stings the toes,
And bites the nose,
as over the highway we go.

Over the river and through the fields
to have a first rate day;
Oh hear the sound,
of joy abound,
Hurrah for Thanksgiving Day-ay!
Over the river and thru the fields,
speed fast my car of gray!
Spring over the ground,
like a hunting hound!
For this is Thanksgiving Day.

A new twist on an old song I used to sing as a child. Since I am going to Nebraska for Thanksgiving this year for the first time I thought it appropriate that I have a song for the road trip.

We leave tomorrow and will be traveling over 500 miles or approximately 8 hours. We are leaving about 8:oo am and should get to our destination about 5:00 pm. ( potty calls and gas stops included) I usually read or watch a movie while my husband does the driving (he is such a wonderful man). We stop only for gas and to grab a quick bite to eat and then we are back on the road. This is one trip where we don't end up arguing but only because George knows where he is going and doesn't need me to give him directions. Thank God for this because it's one trip we actually enjoy taking together.

Hope every one has a Happy Thanksgiving and I'll see you when I get back! For now I better get packing or I won't be on the road to my daughter's house.

Into Every Life a Little Bling Must Fall

2008-11-24T13:35:00.004-06:00

I was doing my daily blog stalking and while reading one of my favorites, MamaKat, I found this really great give a way! So head over and check out these earrings and if you want to win them follow the directions. You must first go here , look at all the beautiful jewelry ( a real chore I know but do it anyway). Then go back and write up a short blog about your favorite.

Mine is the Triple Earth necklace in shades of green and gold. It is gorgeous!!! I'm thinking it would make a beautiful Christmas present and Santa should maybe put it in my stocking, HINT. HINT. Husband mine. Ever girl needs a little Bling and what better time than Christmas to give her some.

Of course I never need a holiday to buy Bling because to me every day is a holiday when it comes to shoes, handbags and bling!!! Bring it on Baby!

Widow's Weekend

2008-11-23T08:03:00.003-06:00

It's that time of year again when all good little wives find themselves left behind at home. Abandoned by their husbands who are off in search of other "Deer"(the four legged kind) for the next week.
The men scatter to all parts of the woods to sit in deer stand for all hours of the day stalking that elusive BIG BUCK. Hoping to get that one shot that will give them the trophy mount for their wall and meat for the freezer. They spend their evenings eating, drinking and playing cards (you know guy stuff) til all hours of the night then get up at the butt crack of dawn and hunt all over again. They come home at the end of the week smelly, unshaven and most of the time triumphant, dragging that deer behind them.

So what do the women do while the men are away you ask?

They also hunt. They hunt the big shopping bargains. They start planning sometimes months in advance with friends as to where they will go and what stores they will HIT. They scour the papers and the Internet for coupons.

They scatter to all parts of the city to walk the shopping malls for that BIG BUY! Hoping to find those big sale signs that mean they can buy more because they got a discount. They spend the evenings eating and drinking and watching Thunder Down Under male strippers (you know girl stuff) then get up at the butt crack of dawn the next day and do it all over again. They come home at the end of the weekend slightly battered from pushing, shoving, and braving the crowds of other women shoppers (they can be brutal at this time of year) but dragging their prizes behind them.

So you see, we aren't so different, our male hunters and our female hunters. It's just the methods that we use. They sit in the cold and use guns, we are in the warmth and use plastic. Who's the smarter one here?

Things Long Buried

2008-11-20T09:08:00.003-06:00

Mamakat's writing workshop prompts this week are as follows:

1.) The last time I laughed really hard...
2.) Forgive and forget...I think.
3.) I remember when...
4.) Write about something that bothered you this week.
5.) Write a poem about a favorite color.
Based on something that happened in my life recently, I chose #2

If you had asked me last month if I was the type of person to forgive and forget, I would have said yes without even thinking about it. Life is too short to hold grudges and dwell on the negative. It is easier to forgive someone and move on than to let the anger fester and be bitter. Right? This is the type of person I am. Hell I even forgave my ex husband after cheating on me (after all he got cancer and I figured that was punishment enough) and we are semi friends today.

But something happened a couple weeks ago that has me questioning all this.

36 years ago, I had a brief romantic encounter with a young man I was infatuated with, I was 18 y/o, in college and as dumb as a box of rocks when it came to men. He was in the service stationed in Viet Nam and we wrote letters back and forth the whole time he was gone. When he came home, he came to visit me at school and we partied like there was no tomorrow for three days straight (alcohol was involved) and of course there was sex. I thought I was one of those girls that couldn't get pregnant the first time without protection (yeah right). 9 months later out pops a beautiful little girl named Carrin! Surprise you're a daddy!

However this guy doesn't buy it and decides he isn't the daddy and doesn't want anything to do with me or his daughter. The army sent a representative who offered to help me do a paternity test and fight for child support but I decided that anyone who was asshole enough not to want to love a child had no rights to that child at all. I tried letting his parents know but they too wanted nothing to do with their grandchild. I called this person one more time the day my daughter was born to let him know he had a daughter and that she was healthy and beautiful. He could have cared less. That was 35 years ago and the last time I had any contact with him. I told my daughter about her father when she was old enough to understand and then promptly forgot about him.

Until a couple weeks ago when my daughter asked me for information about him. It seems she has decided she wants health information an may even wish to try and find him. This is her right of course. It terrifies me to no end. What if he decides now that he wants to know her and be her dad after all these years? I raised her, he can't just waltz into her life now and decide he gets to claim bragging rights for how she turned out. What if he rejects her? This could devastate her to be rejected a second time by this man. How can a father not want to know his child? How can he know he has a child for 35 years and never wonder where she is or what she is doing?

I wish my daughter well in whatever she decides to do about this. I will always be there to pick up the pieces if she is hurt or share in the joy if she is successful cause that's a moms job.

Forgive and forget this man who is her father..... I thought I had. Now I have to rethink

Traditions

2008-11-19T09:30:00.004-06:00

Growing up, my life was all about traditions.

There were Sunday dinners at Grandma Jean's house (usually after we had all gone to church). She would make a big dinner with meat, mashed potatoes, gravy, cole slaw, jello salad, a vegetable, biscuits or bread and a dessert of some kind. We always ate at the dining room table with Grandma at the head and Grandpa at the end and all the rest of us seated all around them. Afterward, we would help Grandma do the dishes and then after some play time down in their huge basement, we headed down to the other end of town to see Grandma P. We could usually talk her into making us malts (chocolate or strawberry were the favorite flavors). Then it was home to finish up any homework, take baths and hit the beds.

There was church and Sunday School every Sunday as a family whether my dad was home or on the road. My mom would get or sorry butts out of bed and make us get dressed in or best clothes and out the door we'd go. We would sit in the pew at church with my mom at the aisle and then us kids . Her arm usually rested along the back of the pew so that if anyone of us did something we weren't supposed to (imagine that?) she was quick to smack the back of our head. There was always a lot of very quiet whispering into our ears during church (threats of dire punishment to come once we got home) that no one but us kids ever heard.

We celebrated each holiday in special ways:
Easter: Mom always made us girls matching Easter dresses (which were very pretty) and then we had the hats, gloves and patent leather shoes, My brother had the slicked back hair, dress pants and tie thing going on. We went to sunrise service at church then came home so we could hunt for our Easter baskets. Some years that Easter Bunny find them so well we had trouble finding them. Then we would go into Grandma's for and Easter Egg hunt in her back yard and dinner.

Thanksgiving: Was always the big family dinner where everyone got together to celebrate. I can remember so years eating 2-3 dinners because we had to go to both Grandma's houses and then mom had dinner too but it didn't matter because the food was sooooo good! All our aunt, uncles and cousins would be there ( and sometimes we hadn't seen them for a long time so this was great) and we would run around and play for hours.

Christmas: Was always celebrated at Grandma P's on Christmas Eve with chicken dumpling soup (don't know why or where this started from). Mom always made us girls matching dresses for Christmas too until we got old enough to protest and then they were similar but not matching. The entire family would get together, Grandma P, Grandad, Mom, Dad, us kids, My Uncle Glenn, Aunt Cherie and all their children. We always ate first, the adults around the dining room table and the kids usually in the enclosed back porch room. It was a real thrill when you reached the age to move to the adult table. We could not open any presents until everyone was done eating and all the dishes were done. This was a fast and strict rule of Grandma P and nobody messed with this woman and her rules! So of course my Uncle Glenn, knowing how anxious all the kids would be to open presents would ask for thirds on soup and then take his time eating. After that he would want dessert right away instead of waiting until after presents were open. There were several Christmases when children were in tears because of this begging Uncle Glenn to please hurry up and eat so we could open presents. Dishes are finally done and presents are being opened when all of a sudden, there is a knock o Grandma's front door. When we ope it, no one is there but a huge box has been left and when we bring it inside and look at what's in it, we find it has been left by Santa and is full of gifts for everyone. This was the tradition of the Santa Claus Box that went on for many generations.

I loved all these traditions growing up and tried to keep them going with my children. It was difficult sometimes due to family dynamics, a divorce and location of relatives but I did the best I could.
To this day I still do the Sunday dinners even if it's just for my husband and I ( and sometimes it doesn't even have to be a Sunday to have this family dinner).

I don't do Easter like I used to anymore.

I still do Christmas but because part of my family lives so far away we do 2 Christmases. We do Christmas Morning brunch with our 2 daughters and grand children who live here by us. Then in January, my parents, my sisters and I and all our children still get together to celebrate the Grandma P traditional chicken dumpling Christmas. We rotate where it is ever year and we only do presents for kids under a certain age but it gets the whole family together and carries on the tradition.

And I still do Thanksgiving. This is my favorite holiday of all because I get to cook which I love. Every year I get up at the butt crack of dawn and stuff the bird, bake the pies, make the rolls, peel the potatoes, make the salads and everything else that goes into making that picture perfect Thanksgiving dinner. And yes it must be perfect! I am a fanatic about it. This year the tradition is moving and I must give up control. Can I do that? I honestly don't know but we'll find out won't we. I have not had Thanksgiving with all 3 of my children together since they have moved away. They live in Iowa and Nebraska so my daughter who lives in Nebraska has asked me and George to travel there for Thanksgiving this year and spend it with them. It means giving up Thanksgiving with George's daughters but they understand and have other family to spend the holiday with. I am so excited about this because tradtion means so much to me and everytime I spend a holiday with out my children, I am so sad. This year , I don't have to be sad.

Tradition is wonderful- changing traditon even better

Milestones and Memories

2008-11-12T07:55:00.002-06:00

Daddy © By Evan L. Salcido
Daddy
In the heart of everyone, young or old,

Lies memories of a special man.
They remember football,

And how this man came to see them play.
They remember school,

And how he encouraged them each day.
They remember ice cream,

And his readiness to oblige.
They remember playgrounds,

And how he'd take them down the slide.
They remember monsters,

And when he fought them off.
They remember sickness,

And his wince at every cough.
They remember graduation,

And his face lit with pride.
They remember marriage,

And the man steadfast by their side.
These men want no payment,

They desire no reward.
These men only want to hear four words,

'I love you, Daddy'

My daddy turned 80 years old yesterday. He is my hero. The man I look to when I have a problem or need comfort. He has always been there for me, to pick me up and kick me in the ass and send me on my way throughout my life. We haven't always seen eye to eye ( our personalities are too similar for that to ever happen) and there were times when we didn't speak for a while but in the end I always knew that he was right and I came around.

When I was very young, dad drove semi and was gone 4-5 days of the week sometimes coming home in the middle of the night. It was great to wake up and find him there the next morning but we had to be quiet so he could sleep. I remember a few times when my mom would wax the wood floors and my dad would hit one of the scatter rugs with his sock feet and go down for the count in the dark, man were there some fireworks then!!! Course us kids thought it was funnier then hell and laughed our butts off! Occasionally dad would even take us kids on a short trip in the semi with him. This was soooooo cool!

As I got older, dad got out of trucking and into farming. He would then allow me to skip school and attend auctions with him on Fridays so we could buy cattle! Was I truly interested in cattle? Hell no but it got me out of school so who cared! Of course I always skipped on my own and faked my mom's signature on the excuses.I got called into the principals office once on a legitimate excuse that they thought was fake and they called my mom a liar! BAD IDEA!! This set my dad off to no end and he paid my principal a visit and rattled a few cages. needless to say they never questioned another excuse fake or real that I handed in for the rest of my school term.

After graduation I got pregnant and was too scared to tell my parents so I moved to another town and got a job. Thinking if I didn't go home to visit very often and wore baggy clothes they wouldn't know. Parents aren't stupid nor do they stop loving you because you do something stupid.They let me move back home and helped me get back on my feet. I had to pull my weight there was no free ride here. When my daughter was about 2 years old, my dad was supposed to be watching her while she was napping. He fell asleep himself and started snoring. My daughter woke up and started coming down the stairs but stopped about three stairs from the bottom and that's where we found her when we got back. She would move from there because as she said "Grandpa's making funny noises!" Even sleeping he was a good babysitter.

Over the years I have watched this man go through many life altering changes. They don't seem to break him, they make him stronger. At 80 he is still driving semi from Iowa to Wisconsin 2-3 times a week, he takes care of my mom who had a stroke 7 years ago, he maintains their home doing the laundry, cooking and cleaning and he makes the best pies you have ever tasted. And he still manages to call me at least 3 times a week just to check in and see what's up, or how the Packers are doing, or how school is going, or just to give me shit.

That's who this wonderful man I called dad is and why I love him. Happy Birthday Daddy

The Igloo Adventure

2008-11-06T08:23:00.003-06:00

Once again it's time for Mamakat's writers workshop. I will attempt to do #1.

My head was pounding, my mouth felt like it was full of cotton and something or someone was poking me. I slowly opened one eye and saw an unfamiliar face looking back at me. This was the source of the poking. I quickly shut my eye again and pretended I was a sleep. Maybe, I thought to myself, if I feign sleep they'll go away and leave me alone. No such luck.

Face: Lady, wake up! You have to get out of my igloo and go home.

Me: (in my head) Igloo? Why would I be in an igloo? Aren't they normally in Alaska? I live in Wisconsin how would I get to Alaska? I just went to my neighbor Judy's party last night.

Face: Lady, I saw you open your eyes. I know you're awake. Talk to me.

Me: Who are you? How did I get here? Where am I? Better yet who am I? I don't remember anything from last night. As I talk I quickly check my pockets for a wallet but all I find is $4 and a rock in one pocket and a toothbrush in another. (Great, I can skip rocks on the lake, brush my teeth and buy a pound of whale blubber but I don't know who I am!!
Lot of good this does me.) Maybe I can use the $4 to pay this guy to find out who I am? No not enough money.

Face: My name is George and if you give me the $4 I'll help you find out who you are and help you get home.

Me: (Thinking to myself this guy is nuts but if he thinks he can do this for $4, I'm game) "OK George you have a deal" Here's the $4.

George: Your name is Karen, you live two houses over and you were at a party last night. The reason you have a rock in your pocket is Judy's son was going to throw it at his sister and you took it away from him so he couldn't hurt her. The toothbrush is your daughters, you went home to make sure she brushed her teeth before going to bed but you got interrupted before you had a chance to do this so you stuck it in your pocket and never took it out again. You had a little too much to drink at the party (this isn't a bad thing) and ended up in my yard sleeping in my son's igloo tent. I didn't have the heart to wake you and send you home last night so I just let you stay here.

Me: A little sheepishly: So I'm not in Alaska? (Slowly it all starts to come back to me. I remember drinking Purple Passions last night. They tasted like grape juice and went down so easy that I must have had a few too many, hence the hangover and memory loss.)

George: No, still in Wisconsin.

Me: Crawling out of the tent a little awkwardly I manage to finally stand up and look around. I now recognize the neighborhood and feel foolish. All I want to do is go home. Vowing never to drink another Purple Passion again as long as I live. I turn to Geroge and mutter a Thank you as I quikly dart across his yard to mine.

Girls Gone Wild for Shopping!

2008-11-05T11:17:00.004-06:00

For those of you that don't know (and by now that's few of you) I am a shopaholic! This is a trait that has been passed down to all female members in my family. No matter what the age, when we are together and any where near civilization, we must shop! We don't just go to a store when we have a need, we go because we' re there. It's a bonding social thing. Sometimes we don't even buy anything we just have fun walking around the mall and laughing.

About 10 years ago, my sister decided we needed to get out of town to do this shopping thing and we needed a whole weekend to do it. So she put together a shopping trip to the Mall of America (or MOA as we like to call it) for the girls. We always went the first weekend in November and we went from Thursday to Sunday.

It was literally "SHOP TIL YOU DROP" for us die hards with time out to eat and drink to replenish our bodies for the next go round. We would run our purchases to the hotel rooms (right across the street, thank God) and go back for more. By the time we were done for the night we had one whole side of the hotel room piled high with packages. Then we had to do a show and tell. Can't shop without showing everyone what you got. Half the fun is showing it off!

But then it was time to cut loose and relax. We always find really great restaurants to eat at and have a few cocktails to unwind. One year we met a friend who bought us all shots because we looked like we were having so much fun ( we even sang karaoke that night) and another year we all tried different cocktails but found one persons that we liked so much we all ordered it the next time and then found they were so expensive we couldn't afford to eat supper. We have discovered new and exciting food dishes, have shared food dishes with each other and have ended up buying dessert and taking it back to eat in the comfort of our jammies.

Over the years our shopping group has diminished in size but the amount of fun we have stays the same. We have moved from hotel rooms to Adrienne's house in Hudson and we have expanded our shopping from just MOA to include IKEA and outlet malls. What hasn't changed is being able to spend time with my daughters (who happen to live over 500 miles away) my sister and niece and just have a good time. We aren't wife, mother or employee during this time. We are just "Girls Gone Wild for Shopping!"

Stand Up and Be Counted

2008-11-04T08:17:00.005-06:00

Today we have the opportunity to make a difference. Living in America gives us that right. It is called freedom and not everyone has this wonderful gift. Most

of us take it for granted, never stopping to think of how we got it or the many sacrifices made to give it to us.

A lot of people don't think their vote matters because what difference can one vote make? One vote makes all the difference in the world! Your voice matters! Many races have been decided on less than 500 votes and your vote could have been the one that turned the decision. Think about that when you're thinking about not voting today.

2008 brings the chance to make history- we saw a woman run for president and even though Hilary didn't get the nomination she went farther in the race than most of the male candidates did. Then there is Sarah Palin as the Vice Presidential candidate, if MacCain wins we will have the first female VP and maybe in 4-8 years a female president. If Obama wins we have the first African American president ever elected to office. This year will go down in the history books as one of the greatest ever.

So don't sit home today bitching about the economy and the fact that wall street is in trouble. Don't blame either candidate for what's happening and say they caused it and can't fix it. Look at what you have because you live in America. You have the right to chose where you live and work. The right to walk around free and the right to vote for who you want to run your country. Most people don't get that choice. We have the things we have and the freedom to have them because we vote and have a country we can be proud of.

I'm not telling you how to vote, your opinion is your own. God knows my husband and I don't agree and that's OK because that my friend is what America is all about. The right to have an opinion and voice it without fear of retaliation.

I AM TELLING YOU TO GET OUT THERE AND VOTE ! Vote for who ever you want to but VOTE. If you don't, you have no one but yourself to blame if you don't like what's happening with the economy and wall street- not the president.

EVERY VOTE COUNTS- VOTE TODAY!!

And the Award Goes To...

2008-10-31T12:42:00.007-05:00

ME!

My daughter Carrin gave me this lovely award (because she has to) because she loves me. She also said these nice things about me as the reason she was giving me this award: My Mom. I must credit her for my love of many things, writing included. Since we have been blogging I have learned more about her than I had in "real life". It's amazing how more free you feel with the written word. Keep it up, Mom. I want to learn more and more about you and your layered past......

I love blogging and sharing things with my family and friends. I have always had a very active imagination and wanted to become a writer alas (does anyone say this anymore?) this never happened but blogging allows me the freedom to express myself creatively.

There are rules to receiving an award (damn, nowadays everything comes with strings attached) and so I must find at least 5 deserving fellow bloggers to pass this on to or the award fairy will sneak into my computer whilst I sleep and steal this cute little feller away from me.

I would like to give the first award to the person who got me started blogging Adrienne . I started reading her blog and thought, How hard can this be? I should start one of my own. Her blog is always full of cute pictures and wonderful stories about her boys. She is my niece, a wife, a mother, works in the corporate world and travels all over, yet manages to have a firm grip on her life.

The second award goes to AFRo I love reading this woman because she puts it all out there and isn't afraid to tell it like it is. I started reading her blog after she commented on one of my writer workshop articles, so you could say MamaKat is responsible for this hook up. AFRo was talking about 100 Days of Sex and it was one of those topics you just had to go back day after day to find out what happened and if they actually made it to day 100. My husband wants to know too cause if they make it he wants to try next.

Award 3 goes to MamaKat because if it wasn't for her writer workshops, I probably wouldn't have met some of the people I have. Reading her blog and participating in her workshops have led me to read some really great blogs that have become favorites of mine.Thank you.

Fourth Award is presented to Jori at Jeff and Me + Three. I stumbled on this site by accident and never want to leave it. She is hilarious and I never get tired of reading her blog. You are what I want to be when I grow up.

And the fifth and final award goes to (drum roll please) my daughter Tara who didn't want to do this blog thing in the beginning, but then she kinda got the bug and even started changing her templates and adding pictures and even asking weekly questions. She hasn't quite got as hooked as my daughter Carrin and I but maybe someday she'll get there. In the meantime, I'm just happy to have her in blog land with us.

Now should you accept the award, please follow these steps:

1.Post the award on your blog.

2. Link me for giving it to you.

3. Link the originating post - here

4. Pass the award on to five more deserving people.

5. Post these rules for your recipients

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the academy for nominating me for this award... oh wait wrong show. Maybe next time.

Living on the Edge

2008-10-30T08:07:00.002-05:00

MamaKat has assigned the next writing class and the prompt I chose was # 1. To write from the point of view of the glass on the edge of the table.

Today I am not in my usual spot, above the knife and a little to the left. Today they have left me teetering right on the edge of the table, scared, alone and out of place.

Sometimes I feel like the glass on the edge of the table. I like being in that familiar place, always knowing where I'm at and what I'm supposed to be doing. When they place me on the edge, out of my comfort zone, I am unsure and venerable. It is an unknown element and a whole new world.

I can either stay on the edge, hoping that someone will push me back where I belong, at the top of the table with all the other plates and silverware, or I can take the plunge and find out what awaits me on the other side. Life with the feet and food and chair legs might not be so bad once I'm down there. (Think of all the gorgeous shoes I can look at!). Life is like the glass on the edge of the table, you can either live it staying on the edge your whole life or you can go over the edge and see what life has to offer. You decide.

Trick or Treat

2008-10-28T13:34:00.005-05:00

Look there is Sleeping Beauty, Rapunzel, Jasmine, a Ninja, a Unicorn, a Bride, and a Dragon. Am I in Disney Land, I've always wanted to go there? Wait pinch me and see if I'm awake? OUCH, I didn't mean that literally! That's gonna leave a bruise. I'm not in Disney Land, I'm in Kip and Jennifer's garage and at their annual Halloween Party!

Every year for at least the past 3 now, Jennifer has turned their garage into a spectacular Halloween Haven and put on a wonderful party for both children and adults. She decorates the garage from top to bottom with things she makes (Yup, she's crafty as hell) from ideas she gets out of magazines. Then they have this amazing maze for the kids to go thru. Last year it was made from cardboard boxes (but they kept falling down) and this year they made it with straw bales. They put lights on the inside so the kids won't get too scared to go in (but she also puts blinky heads and skeletons in there too). She makes goody bags for each kid to take home with them filled with all kinds of stuff.

There are games to play and hidey holes for kids to find as well as many places to run, jump and climb. There is no end to the many things the kids can do and not once in all the time they were there was there one fight or argument amongst the kids.

Meanwhile the adults are enjoying themselves talking and eating and drinking because they don't have to constantly be monitoring the children who are having too much fun to be whining and crying and wanting Mom and Dad. Works out well for all involved. Can somebody say, Genius, Jennifer.

Eventually it's time to eat and let me tell you no one goes hungry here! There was turkey sandwiches as the main dish and then all the extras. Pickle wraps, wieners in BBQ sauce, spinach dip, chips, veggies, cheese, crackers, cupcakes, pretzels, punch. You name it and it was probably there and with a Halloween theme to it.

I have to say I don't know where Jennifer gets the energy sometimes. She worked nights this weekend, has the 3S's to chase after, is home schooling Sydney, they are now milking a cow (Gloria), she is remodeling her bathroom (just got it finished enough to use right before the party) and planned a party on top of this. Where does she find the time? This weekend she is putting together a birthday party for Sydney Jo. Maybe I should check her to see if she is running on energizer batteries. I'm tired just writing about it. Wait, she was dressed as a witch at the party- maybe she's Bewitched and she just twitches her nose to make it all happen. Hmmmm!

Drinkin In the Dark

2008-10-24T15:02:00.003-05:00

Wow, I can't believe I haven't blogged in four days! that must be some kind of record for me. No I wasn't sick and I wasn't out of town. just in a funk and didn't feel like yakking with you all.

I've been coming down off that high stress level I create for myself now that school is over for the semester and things have been really intense at work and felt it was better to not share anything rather than share all the negative crap.

So over the past week every evening after coming home from work I have (felt the need, had to have, would have killed for) shared a cocktail with my husband. With all the shit going on in my life this doesn't always mean it happens before supper so some evenings I had my cocktail (where does this strange word come form anyway) after we ate.

Now I am not a raging alcoholic and do not need to run right out and join a 12 step program. 2 drinks and I'm usually happy as can be, 3 and my husband is happy because he gets lucky later and 4 drinks and I'm done for the night. But as you can see by the title of my blog there may a just a tiny problem with my drinking habits.

My husband and I do not have the same taste in TV entertainment shows so I usually retire to the den every night to watch my shows while he stays in the living room and reclines on the comfortable furniture with the BIG TV. I like to sit in the dark when watching TV ( maybe a little candlelight once in a while) as it is wasteful to burn all that electricity and much more relaxing to watch in the dark. Besides it makes it easier to fall asleep if it's dark.

Anyway, this week when I retired to the den to watch TV, I took along my cocktail telling my husband. " Time to go Drink in the Dark". Later I would come out with the empty and he would look at me and shake his head. After about the third night of this when I came out with the empty our conversation goes like this:

George: " Still drinking in the dark, I see?"

Me: " Yeah, do you think I have a problem? Should I see someone?"

George: " No, Just turn on the lights that'll fix it."

Without George, I'd still be drinkin in the dark and have a problem but he solved it for me. Now I drink with the lights on- no problem. Right? Thanks Honey.

Memory Lane

2008-10-20T13:16:00.003-05:00

I just finished my last college class for this semester, am waiting on my final grades and next week I sign up for classes for next semester.

For some reason, this made me think about the first go round with college life and some of the really fun and really stupid stuff we did. I thought I would share some of them with all of you.

My best friend was Nanette, she was also no taller than 4'10" and our nicknames were Flatman and Ribbon (for very obvious reasons). We had some really great times together.

My first semester 8:00 am class was Anatomy and Physiology- who the hell wants to dissect animal at that time in the morning! Especially if you had been partying the night before? I missed a few of those classes.

My older sister also went to school here and lived in an apartment so I did not have to live in the dorm- WOOHOO!! Party Central at our house!

There was a mental facility in the town where I went to college and occasionally someone would escape so everyone in town was put on alert. Kinda scary!

Some of my classmates and I had a scavenger hunt for Halloween and it was a lot of fun.

I was a Speech/Drama Major so had to participate in most of the plays the they produced and for one I needed an empty pint alcohol bottle. several of us didn't have one that empty so we had to buy some bottles that were full. I bought a bottle of peppermint schnapps and drank it til the bottle was empty. We went to play practice a tiny bit drunk and the director sent us all home and told us not to come back til we were sober! It was fun though and the play was a success.

I tried out for the college cheerleader squad but didn't make it and was horribly disappointed for all of 10 minutes then got over it.

I had a work study program where I graded papers for one of the professors so always had the test papers before anyone else and probably could have made a ton of money selling them if I was that kind of person.

I snuck into all the bars before I was old enough and partied and never once got ID'd. (Don't know if that's a good thingor a bad thing).

We would og home on the weekends and bring back enough food to stock our cupboards for weeks. Thanks Mom.

All in all I was your typical 18 year old college kid having way too much fun and not paying enough attention to my grades. All I cared about was Drinking and Boys so it's no wonder I never finished my first year. But 35 years later, here I am back in college, older, wiser and all that stuff out of my system. Maybe this time I can get it right.

Coffee Anyone?

2008-10-19T09:24:00.003-05:00

Meaghan has a great new business up and running that you have to check out if you are a coffee nut like I am. It is called Get the Bean and you can find her at http://getthebean.blogspot.com/ . You can order coffee, tea, biscotti and all kinds of great stuff. She has my all time favorite coffee Blue Mountain from Jamaica and it's not a bad price . I can't wait to check out all the goodies.

Things That Go Bump In The Night

2008-10-17T11:45:00.002-05:00

This would be my incredibly drunk husband as he stumbles around at 2:00 am after coming home from bowling. I have to say in Georges defense that he doesn't do this often (maybe once or twice a year) but when he does, it is both irritating and comical at the same time.

Irritating because he wakes me up from a really sound sleep which I then find it hard to return to while he passes out once he finally hits the bed.

Comical because he tries sooooo hard to be quiet so as to NOT wake me and the harder he tries the MORE noise he makes.

I didn't hear George actually come into the house last night but he must have had a hard time getting from the back door to our bedroom because that's when I woke up. I give the man Kudos for not wanting to turn on the lights to wake me up but trying to make it across two rooms of furniture in the dark while inebriated is not a smart idea. Not sure what he actually bumped into or if he just was using the furniture to steady himself.

He finally made it to the bedroom and into the master bath where he did decide to turn on the light (before he shut the door) Thank you honey! He didn't get the door shut quite tight so he tried again with a little more force this time resulting in some noise decibels. He gets done in the bathroom and turns out the light (before opening the door this time) and proceeds to walk acroos the bedroom in the dark. How do you all think this went?????

Yup you're right. Not well at all. He ran into the corner of our bed which caused him to utter a few choice words ( I won't print them here) and almost fall into bed and on top of me. By this time I am laughing my ass off (silently of course because he doesn't know I'm awake) and just hoping he makes it into bed without doing any bodily harm to himself or me.

He manages to get into bed, set his alarm for 3 hours later and instantly starts snoring! Now I am wake for the next 30-45 minutes trying to get back to sleep after being dragged from a deep sleep and beautiful dreams just a few short minutes ago. Go Figure?

Getting Noticed

2008-10-15T21:27:00.004-05:00

OK so I tapped into Mama's Losin It and got hooked.I even added her button to my blog so it was easier to get to her. How obsessed is that? Anyway her assignment today was to pick a subject and write about it. I chose the one Recall a time you did something to get noticed. My writing is no where near as good as hers but here goes.
I don't remember a time when I didn't do something to get noticed. I am 4 feet 10 1/2inches tall and the middle child (Hello what's that tell you?) so I was always trying to get attention. I think from the time I could talk I was getting my older brother and sister in trouble for no reason just so Mom would come running and I ran away from home to my grandmas house (she just lived down the block and through the alley). She fed me cookies and milk and called my mom.
When I got older, I would leave the house for school and roll my skirt up til it was so short if I sneezed you'd be able to see what I ate for lunch thinking I was cool and my mom wouldn't know. I got to school and put my make up on in the bathroom so I'd look really cool, then went across the street and stood on the corner (yes I was one of those girls) and smoked cigarettes before school and at lunch. I thouhgt this made me really hip and one of the BAD GIRLS.
I would skip school and forge my mother's name on the passes the next day and was so good at it I was voted Best Escape Artist by my classmates for the yearbook my senior year. I went out for all the plays because I could act out and people would notice me.
I would change my hair color and style frequently to get noticed even if it turned out Funky once in a while (and it did). I still do this now but I go to a stylist so it doesn't turn out Funky now.
I flirted with the boys a lot but had a big brother that policed by dating life so didn't actually get to date many of them.
Now a days (since I am mature) if I want to get noticed, I use my knowledge. Hell no, I still like to get down and have a GOOD TIME! I have been know to get tattooed and do shots of Hot Sex at Bowling Tournament weekends. I may be 55 and a grandmother but I'm not dead yet.

2008-10-14T14:53:00.002-05:00

You Are a Hazelnut Latte

You often having the craving for something exotic. You get bored easily.
You are a true adventurer. Nothing makes you happier than traveling.

You're a very cosmopolitan and worldly person. You have sophisticated tastes.
You have a keen attention to detail. Little things matter to you - you are a bit of a perfectionist.