Winter Bloom!

• Note to self: the days ARE getting longer
• I think I cooked so much over the holiday that I cannot step foot in the kitchen. Thank goodness for leftovers and McDonalds (only for the kids! I am cutting back on consumerism- and calories!)
• Started knitting- I haven't knit since I was pregnant with my first kiddo. That was almost 10 years ago. I am making fingerless mittens (lots of them- they are my knew love.) It was a bit of a challenge remembering how to properly cast on and use 4 double point needles (new thing for me).
• I am also making an ear flap hat. Found the most gorgeous yarn at my local independent yarn store (supporting the little guys!) I could have stayed in that little store all day. The owner is the best. She comes into the bookstore with her kids regularly so she recognized me. She showed me what she was making and talked about all the felted purses I should try. So I will definately be back!!!!!!
• Note: If you have a winter birthday- chances are you will be getting a homemade gift- wink wink!
• I have been forgoing all other shopping- and even put some yarn back on the shelf- I just didn't need it for the projects I am doing at the momment. (Oh- that was a hard one!) Sent the hubby to Target last night - needed diapers and batteries. He's very VERY good at ONLY buying what is on the list!
• Christmas vacation is going by too fast. I love having the kids at home. And I just do not want to give them back to the educational system next week! Love hanging out in jammies until 10 in th morning. Love being able to give baths and showers in the morning instead of at night. Love that they can stay up later- after all it is not a school night. Love having cousins sleep over. ETC. ETC.
• We really need to get back to practicing our piano lessons though!
• I got my grades for the semester. 4.0 - Very relieved, very happy, very, Very, VERY proud. At the start of the semester I really questioned why I was doing this school thing. Did I really want to sit beside these 20 somethings and killing myself to meet class requirements. But it was a lovely semester- I met some really cool people and even learned a thing or too (LOL).
• I remember when classes started in the fall- how lonely it felt arriving on campus. I didn't know a soul. But when I went to turn in my paper and sell my books back the last day- I ran into a handful of people I had class with. We knew each other's names, knew a bit about each other's families, sent holiday well-wished back and forth, chatted with our professor (who is younger than me) and then went our separtate ways. I left campus with a big ole spring in my step!

Challenge!

http://www.quietfish.com/notebook/?p=1284


I am on board for this adventure.

I am so sick of handing my money over to corporate America.
Especially TARGET. Sorry Target- it was good while it lasted- but I am moving on.

We work so hard for our $$$. And yet it just slips out of our wallets like water. Especially at Christmas time. When did $100.00 become small time cash? I cannot tell you how many times I dropped a $100 this month for Christmas presents and when it came time for wrapping it was like- what the heck did I buy!

I struggle with Christmas and the commercialism. I have a hard time balencing my desire to keep it simple and small and humble with the fear of disappointing my children. I did cut back a bit this year- every little bit helps and some of the gifts were things they NEEDED (gasp). Like flannel sheets, a bed, etc. Some big ticket items were possible with family pitching in.

Crazy- I tell you- life has been just crazy!

I am finally finished with my semester, and am ready to re-enter the real world again.

Lots of things I wish to do before I start back up again in January:

• Knit a pair (or 2) of fingerless mittens- my hands just get so cold this time of year
• Make a communication book for my daughter- she is making progress and I know a lot of 3rd child kids who do not talk until they are 3- but my speech therapy training will not let it go- just a little bit of help will make me feel better
• scrapbook- enough said
• finish up a few art projects that are in incomplete stages
• clean up storage area of the basement- started it this fall then neglected to finish
• write a poem
• update this little ole' blog- figure out a new direction
• store all my photos in a reliable backup system.
• same for all my school papers, etc.
• paint my bedroom- ok this one is just a bit idealistic- but if it never gets on the list it will never get done
• clean house- well that is just a given
• clean fridge- ooh not sure what is lurking in there

Happy Holidays!

Sunday- Mosaic

This is what we did today...

• Great weather...
• lots of sun...
• A tractor ride
• 7 pumpkins, 1 green, 1 white, 5 orange
• 1 gourd- green
• 2 bushels of apples- there is a pie in our future

A perfect way to avoid studying. 2 tests this week, both on Thursday.

Oh, almost forgot, LOVED Grey's

LOVE, LOVE, LOVED IT

Grateful Friday

1. Just grateful for Friday! Enough said.
2. I think that the Lochness Monster was just a manatee-like creature, because a herd of them do look a bit monster-ish if you don't know how gentle they are.
3. How are you? Simply Outstanding. That is my catch phrase for the day- week - year. That is the comment I got on my reflection paper that I turned in last week. I was very nervous. We had to turn in 2 of them and I was sure I was going to fail. The comment on my other paper was "This is excellent work as well." Phew! Sigh!
4. Last week I was drowning in uncertainty, questioning WHY- I am doing this whole going back to school thing. I was sure that I could not handle the work. This week I am feeling much better- not completely self-confident- but getting better.
5. Absolutely grateful for the new friends I met this week.
6. Safe- god is great! Almost got smashed up by a car (truck) in the new roundabout. He just pulled out right in front of me when I was in the roundabout. Man- I had nowhere to go. Luckly I was able to stop. And then he had the nerve to make a face at me like I was just a dumb driver. I went and looked up the roundabouts directions and I was in the right lane going the right way- he on the other hand was going straight in a right turn only lane! But in the end= just glad that I am safe. I had a kiddo in the car with me at the time too. God is great.
7. Sunshine
8. Warm breezes
9. New necklaces- this and this- and this
10. New shoes
11. Pizza
12. Homemade chex mix
13. Unicorn birthday cakes
14. Johnny Depp- finally got around to watching The Libertine.
15. Grey's starts up this week- and from the looks of the promos it looks like it should be a good season. Not so sure about Private Practice. I really liked Addison's character, BUT I don't know that I want to watch a whole show revolving around her character.
16. Cleaning up the house- party this weekend- someone turns 2 on Sunday.
17. Thrilled we practiced piano everyday this week- so far- that alone is a big accomplishment, especially on days/nights when I have class.
18. Daughters- how did I get so lucky to have 2 of them! Truely special. Not that my son isn't special. But I am a girly girl and to have all that girly energy running around the house is priceless. (ask me another day and I may say- hey I wished I had 3 boys!)

I am feeling so tierd latey. Really tierd, like can't pick my head up off the pillow- tierd. Like pregnancy tierd ( but not!). Is is the stress, is it school, is it old bad habits, creeping up on me after 18 years? Am I getting sick- my troat does hurt.

I am finally feeling like I know what I am doing in school. Finally. I have a bit of confidence. And I have a drama group for my cultural images class and it is mostly made up of non-traditional students. Hmm. Nice term- non-traditional. Yes, a group of "older" students. The best part is that we are "older" but "wiser". My reading group for the same class is NOT made up of non-traditional students. And well, that group just bugs the hell out of me. Not because they are young- young people have a lot to offer- just not this group.

I always leave class with this heavy feeling in my chest. And today I figured it out. It is loneliness. Walking to and from classes- I do not know anyone. Not a soul. And that is a very lonely feeling for me.

Today is like the end of the week for me. I have 2 classes- 1 in the morning and 1 at night. But then on Friday- nothing, no school, no work. Just me and the little bean, all day long. I am trying to cut back on work so that I get to start off my week that way to. Mondays, me and the bean- I like the sound of that!

As much as I love working at the bookstore, I am having a hard time working, running a household, raising children and going to school at the same time. Oh, and I forgot- being a wife. Because that is really a job too! I mean that in a good way. I am realizing how true that is. I must set aside time for my marriage. I need to be nicer to my husband. Our connection makes the rest of it all so bearable. And when we are functioning as a unit- well we do so much better. Almost 10 years of marriage and I am finally coming to that conclusion.

Tonight is a Jonny Depp night. What a better way to spend a Thurs. night- since Grey's is still a rerun. I borrowed (from a new friend) The Brave and I rented the Libertine. Oh- there is so much to look forward to. Now- If I can just stay awake for it. But it beats the heck out of staying up to continue reading Beowulf!(OK- I secretely admit that I am enjoying Beowulf- afterall I am an English major.)

Grateful Friday

• So absolutely grateful that my furnace did not need to be fixed. Just a little tweeking by my amazing father - the guy can fix anything. Seriously.
• Oh, and speaking of SERIOUSLY, I am so happy that Grey's will be back. Soon, very very soon. Just one problem though, I have class on Thursday nights until 8 o'clock. So I hope my VCR is working properly and that my family does not interfere with it's functioning while I am gone!!!!!!
• Loving pumpkin spice candles
• Warm fleece jackets
• Worn in comfy jeans
• Flannel jammy bottoms
• Hazelnut coffee
• Halloween m&m's
• Not working this weekend
• Finally getting the "other side" of the basement clean, and making it into an office/craft room of sorts. That means all the junk sitting on my dining room table can go down there!!!
• The thrift store is coming on Tues to pick up stuff. Trying to get rid of stuff. I would have a rummage sale- some of it is pretty nice stuff- but I just do not have the time to price all of it. But at least I will get a nice tax donation out of it!
• Thankful that I have good professors this semester- last semester too. I think that when you are older and going back to school, you really value getting your money's worth!
• I have a plan A- and I think I even have a plan B. Whew that is some relief. I really want to work on a plan C though. You know, just in case.
• Went to Michaels today and checked out the Martha Stewart line. Very nice, but it did not really WoW me. And it seemed a little pricey too. But as I stood there listening to my toddler whine while I browsed the display- a nice Michael's lady handed me a 25% off my entire purchase coupon. So hey, I figured it must be a sign and I picked out some girly paper!
• Going into the weekend with most of the laundry done.
• Waiting for a great piece of jewlery from Monarch- see bottom in etsy. (sorry too lazy right now to link.) Love her stuff!

I'd rather be here.... this is where we were

just less than 2 weeks ago. Just an hour away from home.

And now we are gearing up for cold weather...

like turning the furnace on weather, make chilli weather,

wear your fleece jackets to school weather and yeah, wear

long pants to school weather.

But wait, I did not buy long pants for school yet. After all

it is only the beginning of Sept. School just started. Who wears

long pants to school this early?!

I thought we would have some more beach days before fall

settled in.

I have been very anxious lately. Uptight about school- my school.

Tierd of looking at all the young half-naked co-eds running around.

Makes me feel very old. OLD! Tierd of running around. Running the

kids here and there and everywhere, while making sure I get where

I need to be on time. I am missing summer. We tended to all stay put

more, or at least when we were running around, we did it all together.

Now- not so much.

My little one is having a hard time being away in kindergarten. She

misses home, she misses her mom. And I think she is really missing

her down time. And well, I miss her too. Yes, it is all easier having just one at home.

But I miss her none the less.

I want my summer back!

Swimming

I feel as though

I am just treading water,

unable to make it to shore.

My nose

is just above the cool liquid

that threatens

to invade my lungs.

My legs just run in circles

without interference.

My mind is engaged

in survival.

I could give in,

I could just stop,

I could quit,

but ...

I just keep doing

what I know how to do.

I keep hoping for that

future. Working

on that dream,

knowing that

one day I will

stand on the shore

just dipping my toes in

when I feel like it.

• I am feeling completely overwhelmed that summer is almost over. Where did it go? I feel as though I have missed something. I am not ready to have the kids gone. I am not ready for the middle one to be in Kindergarten. I am not ready.......
• We have a wobbly tooth in the house. Not ready for that either.
• And my oldest- third grade. Third flipping grade. Man I am getting old.
• Just finished writing my last paper for the summer semester. Oh, I had a hard time with this one. I just did not want to do it. I have been sitting here looking at it for days. Days I tell you. I found every excuse NOT to write my paper. I cannot tell you how many games of rummy 500 I made my husband play. And well, if he refused, I played Hearts on Hoyle card games. I even vacuumed the upstairs. Not that is total desperation. Although I have to admit, after seeing how much dust and gunk my vaccum picked up- I really need to do it more often. But wait that would mean picking everything up off the floors in the kids rooms.
• I am grateful for all the rain. Two days of rain after about a month of drought. I love the sound of rain. Love to go to sleep listening to it on the roof and windows.
• The temperatures are low too. Way below normal. The kind of weather that you need to wear jeans and long sleeved shirts. Totally not August weather. But I am enjoying the respite from the heat.
• Time to study for finals. I cannot believe that my first semester back in college is almost over. Yet it feels like forever. I looked at the date on my first paper and it was dated back in May. May- school wasn't even out yet. We had the whole summer ahead of us.

Mary, Merry and Marry- there's a difference?

What American accent do you have? Your Result: The Inland North   You may think you speak "Standard English straight out of the dictionary" but when you step away from the Great Lakes you get asked annoying questions like "Are you from Wisconsin?" or "Are you from Chicago?" Chances are you call carbonated drinks "pop."
The Northeast
Philadelphia
The South
North Central
The Midland
The West
Boston
What American accent do you have? Quiz Created on GoToQuiz

Ok- I guess I passes!

Grateful Friday- summertime

• Harry Potter- I just can't put my feelings into words. Had a great night at the party. But I forgot my camera- and so far no pictures have come my way. But it was a super night. And the book- awesome! JK is my hero right now.
• Summer is just rolling along. It is amazing how fast it goes by. I am so not ready for the kids to go to school and I am not ready to buy school supplies and uniforms.
• Paid my property taxes- Ugh! Grateful to always have the $$$.
• I am almost done reading Dante's Inferno. Not a light read. Some parts are a little scary (just like Harry Potter).
• So far I am at 100% in both my classes. Translated- A's baby!
• Cooler weather on the way- then hot stuff coming back. I suppose these are the Dog Days of Summer- but boy do I wish for cool weather.
• I am off of work all week next week. Ok, not that I work a lot but I am still off.
• My brother is coming tomorrow from St. Louis. He is bringing his family of course. They just announced baby #2 is on the way!!!!
• The kids play room is clean!
• My house is relatively picked up.
• The laundry is done- for now.
• All that is a mess is my scrap supplies. But I can stash all that away in a pinch if I have too. Sure do wish I had a scrap space!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
• I have a date tonight. With my super duper hubby of course. Dinner and then some time at Barnes and Noble (without the kids). I am going to buy myself something! Haven't had a date night in a long long time. Seriously. I think since December.
• And speaking of Seriously. Soon we should be seeing some promos from Greys!

Harry Potter is in the House... bookstore

• Yes Harry has been delivered!
• So excited
• One of the boxes arrived damaged, sooooo I got to touch a book. Yes I touched a copy of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.
• Darn good thing I do not own the bookstore, or ..... I would be doing a little reading right now.

• Can't wait for tomorrow night
• Got all the stuff for my costume
• Even got Julie to wear a costume- she has never done that yet and she has worked for the store 15 years. I've talked her into being the FAT LADY- frame and all.
• Since I am telling fortunes- I am Trelawney. Really wanted to be Tonks.

Big Puddle..

• 
  
  You know you are sick when even chocolate does not taste good!

More SPT here...

Life is soooo GREEN

• 
  
  
  Nothing better than fresh brussell sprouts. The frozen kind in the freezer section, just does not compare! And the color. WOW


• I still have not received my mid-term grade. It is driving me crazy. I am starting to think that I am obssessive compulsive!


• Hell froze over this weekend. I scrapbooked! And I actually like my pages. Double Whammy! Now if I could only upload some to my blog I could share.


• Received some Etsy goodness in the mail from Mati and Sugarloop. Seriously happy. Just need to frame.


• I have a cold. A stupid summer cold! And it is so bad I went and got the contraband stuff from the pharmacy. You know the kind of sudafed that they card you and make you sign your life away. Talk about feeling like a criminal just because your nose is superstuffed.


• Harry Potter. Friday Night. I am trying to get all my coursework done so that I can spend my weekend reading The Deathly Hallows! I need to read it before any serious spoilers come out. We are gearing up at work for the party. I have given everyone the bug. Even the owner is going to dress up- and in all her Harry Potter years she has never done this. I think she is going to be Umbridge. And without insulting her- I think she would make the perfect Umbridge. So the jury is still out on my costume. I cannot decide between Trelawney or Tonks.
• I have been walking. Literally trying to walk my ASS off. So the past four nights I have donned my tennis shoes and pounded the pavment. About three miles each night. It was not enjoyable- but necessary.


• I really should be posting a pic for SPT- maybe later today. I have slacked on that. And it is something I really enjoy.

CRAB

• This is how I feel, and I am the crab
• Love Friday the 13th. It has always been my lucky day.
• Got some grades in. Got an A on my paper, Got a 100% on my World Lit. mid-term.
• Waiting on the grade for Ethnic Lit mid-term. Took it tonight. I thought the whole exam was awful. I have been doing really good in that class. Really good. I have a great understanding of the books. But the test was well, about a lot of stuff that was indirectly related to the books. A couple of the questions I could have left empty. It was like she was asking questions to a whole nother book that we did not read. I am confused! And disappointed. And I want to know my grade- just to get it over with. Looks like I will be doing the extra credit report that is offered.
• On a lighter note- I scrapbooked today. I haven't done that in months. I got the new Jenni Bowlin kit in the mail today, and actually scrapped with it the same day. I think it is one of my favorite kits yet.
• I was a good mom today. Gave the kids lots of mom time. And tommorrow I am going to do better. Other than maybe check in for my mid-term grade I am going to take a computer break the entire weekend.
• Hubby is gone away out of town. I love how much he misses us when he is away. He leaves me love messages on the anwering machine. I do not have the heart to erase any of them until he gets back home.
• The weather has been fantastic! I wish it was like this all year.
• Harry Potter is out in 1 week. I still have not decided on my costume yet. I must be in costume for the party!
• Have not seen the new movie yet. I hate going to a movie theater, except for the popcorn. They just are not comfortable. I always feel like I am packed in like a sardine. I am a person who needs a little space, a little legroom and a more quiet volume. I have sensitive ears. And theaters are just toooooooooooo loud. I know I am whinning. But anything to take my mind off my mid-term.
• The Grey's cast is back to filming. Oh the sound of that just makes me happy. Happy Happy Joy Joy.

Got GAS?

• This is the best kind of gas in town- FREE GAS. So about a month ago the lovely govenor of Wisconsin decided to add more gas tax. I think about .10 a gallon. Why? For education. Because gas and education - un well- because... ok I do not get the connection. I am all for education (of course I do not send my kids to the local public schools) but why should the tax come from gas. Gas tax should go to cleaning the environment- fixing the roads- even paying for more bloody policemen to keep our roads and city safer. I tell ya- it is enough to turn this very liberally raised girl into a republican!
• I have been very absent from blogging lately. I blame it on summer and on school. I've just had so much writing to do for school- there has been nothing left for this here blog. But I do miss just joting down my feelings. And I especially miss Sunday Scribbling and Self-Portrait Tuesday. I cannot believe I missed the entire month of June which was in your environment. I should have been all over that. And now this month- the elements. Well I am going to make sure I post something this Tuesday.
• Harry Potter- Harry Potter- Harry Potter. Can't wait. It all starts this week. We are already starting to decorate the store. I even got my niece to volunteer to work with me that night. I've been doing my weekly review with the kids. I am just amazed at how much these kids remember. They remember the details. The tiny tiny details in the books. Without even looking it all up. And I give them an assignment each week- to come up with at least 5 trivia questions to ask the group. There questions RAWK! They are so hard that I do not always know the answers. And I am pretty good at my Potter trivia. Just wish I would have had time to re-read all the books in order before the 20th. But no- I've been doing some Kite Runner- and some Greek Classics.
• Speaking of Kite Runner. I was avoiding that book. I knew it would be heartbreaking. But since it was an assigned reading for Ethnic Lit. I could avoid no more. Absolutely beautifully written. Loved the plot. But heartbreaking- yes. An absolute eye-opener.
• Hey- I am now a published critic. My 1/3 page spread on "Clementine" was published in our paper. I have received ohhs and ahhs over it. Seriosly. Even by some co-workers who are not the ohh and aahh type. Very proud. Not as proud as if I was a published author- but its a start!
• I cannot believe that the 4th of July has come and gone. Spent the holiday in our traditional fashion at my parents house. It was great as always. Kids had a blast. Isn't it always about the kids. Didn't take any pictures. Just lived in the momment.
• It is so flippin' hot here. Supposed to get near 100 degrees. High humidity. Thank god for central air. Hate it. But it is definately a necessary evil right about now. And my electric bill is going to be sky high. Oh that is probobly taxed for education too.
• Hey- Junie B. and her stupid smelly school bus was at the store and let me tell you the parents were in love with her as much as the kids. They said they would have even paid for that performance. The girl- Junie was incredible. I do not think I have seen anyone with so much energy. Not to mention we sold over $1,700 in merchandise in a little over 2 hours. We do not even do that at Christmas time. CRAZY!

Rutt

• Just feel like my world is spinning away from me
• Time is just going by too fast
• I am moving way too slow
• My body hurts
• My mind is a blur
• My eyes see better in the dark
• I crave sleep
• My sanity seems to be slipping away
• I need air
• I want to breathe
• My chest feels heavy
• I feel like I am slipping under water
• I feel like I am sand slidding through my own fingers.

{Summer....

• I absolutely hate this weather! It seems that in Wisconsin we go from using our furnace to our air conditioner in the same week. I want my windows open. Hate air conditioning, hate humidity!!!!!!!!!!! I know all of you in the south have little sympathy. But I am just tired of giving all my money to the local utility company. And I need AIR.
• Ok now that I am done ranting. We did manage to have some fun yesturday!
• Ordered the best pizza yesturday! Onion, zucchini and black olives. And panetis. Love panetis! Oh and raspberry wine from Missouri.
• I haven't had much time for scrapbooking. And everytime I do my kids want to "help". And my daughter keeps trying to covet all my cool Jenni Bowlin supplies. She has good taste. My daughter. And well, Jenni Bowlin too. (you know I had to add that just in case she reads my blog....LOL.
• Need to buy paint. Want to paint the place up. But I am torn. I love color. Lots of it. But I also love the look of clean crisp white. Especially on the walls and then POP the color with art and all my stuff. When is too much color too much? And is there such a thing. Torn I tell ya.
• I need a haircut. Again-torn. Just do not know how I want it. It is very long right now. And it took me almost a year to get it this long. And now, of course, I want to cut it. And I think I need bangs. Torn I tell ya.
• I am not very happy that Grey's let Isaiah Washington go. I feel the network succumbed to peer pressure. or media pressure.
• Trying to be and eat healthy. Working for me so far. But it is soooo hard giving up the chocolate. Ok not completely giving it up. But just not having it on a daily basis.
• My kids are growing up way too fast this summer. They just need to stop it!!!!!!
• Off to work today. Just for 4 hours. Hopefully we will not be too busy!!!!!! I am just not in the mood to help anyone out today.
• Ok. Since it is cooler outside than in the house right now. I am going to get something to read and go sit out on the patio for some AIR!

Grateful Friday

• I think that I really NEED one of these. I have a love for sticky notes.
• Seems I am only posting of Fridays lately. I've been very busy doing homework. I just read the Odessey. You know Homer. I was very proud of myself. Until I found out that this is on the reading list for all incoming freshman at the local Catholic High School. So now I am not as impressed with myself. How come I haven't had to read this sooner? Was it my public school education?
• Yes- homework. All caught up!!!!!
• Storms yesturday. Nice cool temps today and even a little sunshine.
• My nieces 8th grade graduation party tomorrow. Looking forward to it. Looking forward to seeing all the inlaws.
• Made a mini-book for my nephew in St. Louis. Pictures of all his Wisconsin relatives. He's almost 2 and I guess he loves it. Thought he should practice since he's coming to visit in August. Also made him a CD of our favorite kid music. Something to listen to on the way up here.
• Washed bedding today. Love a clean bed.
• Schools out. I think this is good. Anyway- our lifestyle is lmore aid back. And the kids have not said "I'm bored" yet.
• Got the poster board to make our summer good behavior game. I think that I am doing it to my own version of Trivial Persuit.
• Napping toddler right now- absolutely flipping priceless.
• Making salmon tonight. I love it when I know what is for supper when I wake up in the morning.
• Trying to figure out my school schedule for fall. I may have to quit my job. I really like my job, but school is supposed to be a priority right??@!
• Wrote a book review for the local newspaper and it will be published, full page in July!
• Going to scrapbook this weekend. Even if I have to stay up all night. I just have some creative energy going on.
• Got the newest edition of Blueprint magazine. Picked up Domino too. I really like these. Even though they are full of pricey stuff (yeh they think that they are affordable), they are both very eclectic. Just my style. Or my "non-style". I am just too fickle to pick a certain look and carry it through an entire room or house. Ecclectic- yeah that's me.
• My house is quiet. I think I am going to sign off and enjoy myself. (or write my essays on Homer).

Grateful Friday

• This little one, aka dumb kitty, kit kat, linus, took a nap in an open window and.... accidentally pushed the screen out and went thud- outside. OUTSIDE. Thank goodness we were around when it happened and thank goodness I caught him. He hasn't realized yet that he can climb trees and stuff. Because I do not think he would have come back.


• Survived a week of preschooler fun. Preschool Graduation was today, dance dress rehearsal was today.


• Wrote 3 papers, got 3 A's. How cool is that. And my teacher told me my paper was "fabulous". She made my day, week, month, life....


• Bought lots of scrapping stuff. The Kelli Crowe kit from SIS was a must. I really love her stuff and it is a bit out of my norm. So the kit will be a wonderful diversion from my own style. Of course the Jenni Bowlin kit went up today and I got some more American Crafts albums too. Also stopped by my LSS and picked up a few things. Now I just need to make the time to use all this stuff.


• Today my husband got paid - double. Just because. No really it was a mistake. So now they have to redo his payroll and tell us how much we owe them back. It was really fun while it lasted!


• So happy it is finally friday. For a short week it was really long.


• Last day of school is Tuesday. Looking forward to having less running around. Not having to worry about whether uniforms are clean. The kids however are not getting along much and summer is just starting - so I will have to make a plan for that.


• I need to get my hands on some art work from this gal. I absolutely love her colors and style.


• It's friday and we did not have pizza. I just cannot remember the last time that happened. We had spagetti instead.


• I had lunch with some old friends today. It was a lot of fun.


• Memorial Day weekend was wonderful. Went by way too fast. But fun. Parades, a cookout and I got lot of homework done.


• Lots of homework done = priceless.


• The weather is warm. Too warm. I am just not ready for the hot sticky summer weather. I hate, absolutely hate air conditioning. And we had to use it one day already. It's may. Hate it. Hate it. Hate it.


• I am tierd of giving Target all my money. Trying to do something about that. Any suggestions.
  
• I love this girlz suggestions. I am definately going to try it!


• Also going to try this, and this!

Grateful Friday

• So glad this little girl is enjoying soccer. She's pretty good too. And very proud of herself! She brought her soccer shoes and shin guards to preschool today for show and share.
• I really liked Grey's finale last night. Not a first- (but that is how I have felt with each finale). If the show was all mushy gushy predictable- who would watch it. And I can live for the next 3-4 months without it. A hiatus is in order. A "break" is good.
• Ok I have officially overdosed on cheese puffs. I had them for a snack last night- while watching Grey's and then for breakfast. I really do not recommend them for breakfast, because I am getting a bad case of gut rot. But oh they were good.
• Watched "The Queen" last night. I thought that Helen Miren's acting was wonderful. But the movie was just very dry. And I love Queen Elizabeth, if you ask me she has single handedly kept that monarchy going for over 50 years. Not an easy thing to do in our times. Yes, it's too bad she isn't more stylish- but you know she is old. She dresses just like my grandmother. And she even looks like my grandmother. It must be all the German in them.
• All my research is done for my paper. Class officially begins tomorrow. Tuition is paid. And I plan to finish writing it this weekend. That's my plan.
• And I am sticking to it.
• My kids have 2 weeks left of school. How can that be? Where did this school year go? It feels like it should be Christmas break- not summer break. Oh how am I going to keep them occupied and getting along for the next 13 weeks? Ok- must have a plan for this.
• My middle child will be a kindergartner. That is beginning to hit me- HARD. With my oldest- it was just so natural. It is in his nature to go and do and be with his friends. But with my middle one. Well we have just been through so much together. I quit my job for her. She is a BIG personallity in a little body. She is just everything. And I cannot imagine what me and the littlest one will do with out her next school year. Who will entertain us. WE will be on our own.
• Sun is out. Weather is warming up again. So tierd of having 85 degree days followed by 60 degrees. I know it is still spring. But just a little consistency would be nice. It is just ridiculous to use the furnace one day and the air conditioning the next. But that is what it has been like.
• Ordering pizza for supper tonight. That makes me very happy. Made fish last night. It was pretty good. And pretty heatlty with couscous and asperagus. But I am really not a big fan of fish. Seafood such as shrimp, lobster and scallops- yes. But fish - I tolerate. So I made up for it in cheese puffs!
• Beds are made, most of the house is vaccuumed, most of the laundry is done. That's pretty good. I need to dust. But am just so unmotivated to do anything domestic.
• Went to mass yesturday. My son was reading some of the petitions. I am very proud of him and so happy that we are able to give him these experiences. His school is wonderful, and the community of kids is exceptional. I hope that he takes these lessons with him throughout his life. They are really reamarkable experiences.
• Need to look up some new tunes to listen to. I will check out the list from Grey's last night- but need more. Hopefully some of you in blog world have some good ones going on your blog!

Embrace

I had a dream last night.

It took me a while today

to remember it.

And once I did,

I was able to literally

embrace

the beauty of it.

It was a gift.

To me.

I dreamt that I saw my

old best friend.

Ran into her while

running typical errands.

She saw me,

tried to look for a way out.

But resigned herself to my

presence.

I felt much the same way,

but then was just overcome with

grace.

I just calmly

went to her

and put my arms

around her.

I placed my cheek

against her neck

and gently held her.

And then I woke up.

As I said

A gift.

Because all of my dreams in

the past,

since our friendship so mysteriously

ended, were all about me

screaming at her

uncontrollable,

with spit flying

from my mouth,

and my body and heart

just shaking in grief and anger.

This dream was

all

peace

and

love

and

maybe,

just maybe

forgiveness?

Thank you, Lord,

I do appreciate it.

This picture SUCKS!

I have to write a paper this week. A paper on a theme relating
to the book A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry. Actually,
for those who haven't read it, it is a play/screenplay.

It's good.
Not a hard read.
But a hard read.
Only not at first.

I just do not know how to explain
what is in my heart.
My essay needs to be on
the government's policy toward
racial inequality
back then
and what it is now.
And has our government
made amends to
what happened.

I know that if I had read this book
when I was 20, it would not have
really had much of an impact on me.
You know the world was all about me.
But now I read it,
and I think,
I have a family,
I have a house,
I have to provide,
My kids need an education.
What if my family
was going through
today, what
the Younger Family
went through in the book?
Which is what many/most
African-American families
went through back then.
Only for many it was worse.

So as I began my research,
I happened upon this book.
And bought it.
And read it.
And there is just so much more
disturbing information in it.
Not just about African-Americans,
but Asian, American Indians,
even the Irish.
(Really none of this is new information to me)
It's just I am seeing it through different eyes.
I am seeing it as a parent,
who cannot imagine
explaining to my kids why
they have to use a different drinking fountain than a white person,
or why they have to use a different entrance to the theater,
or why they have to sit in a different train car, or bus,
or why they cannot play at the same park or go
to the same school.

The above picture just saddens me.
Our government saddens me.
I know that progress has been made.
After all on the democratic ticket is an
African-American candidate.
And really that is amazing.
But the history of our laws,
and our history of ignoring our laws,
and our history of re-writing our laws
just to support white supremacy.
Well it SUCKS!

And then - oh God, there is the whole
slavery thing. But fortunately that is not
part of this essay.
Or I would be writing a book instead of a paper.

History sucks. Really. Man is mean.

Wish Flower

"LOOK mom,

we have a

wish flower

in our yard!"

Tessa, age 5

Sunday Scribblings- Second Chance

There are a few things that I would do differently

if proposed with a "second chance". If it were really possible,

and the oppportunity presented itself- how could I say no.

How could I say no to righting the one wrong thing in my

life that will always be there inside me, tearing my apart

at times, and makes me questions my value.

How could I once again make that bad decision?

However, would that second chance me going back

in time and doing it all over again. Then I really would

have to say "NO". Because all that has been created would

most likely cease to exist.

We all get second chances at times. I have a second chance to

finally finish my degree. And it is a second chance I am taking

seriously. It is something that I will work on with all my might.

I've had second, maybe third, or fourth chances at happiness.

Thank goodness. I fortunately didn't need that second chance

at getting my driver's liscence when I was 16, as I passed the first time.

But it sure is nice to know that that 2nd chance card is there waiting,

just in case.

I know that I will not get a second chance at raising my kids. I know

that there are friendships and relationships that are long gone.

I think with age and maturity, one comes to realize that although having

second chances is a nice safety net for some occasions, life is just really

too short to rely on them.

Grateful Friday

Oh Friday has come and gone, but I am posting my list anyway.

• I love looking at this picure. There is a 87 year age difference between them- yet they have so much in common. Seriously. They share some of the same passions. Like... saving used wrapping paper just because it is pretty, saving cards, the color purple, the love of birds, and the list goes on and on.
• Started my assignments for my summer classes, even though they officially start next week.
• Received my order from Amazon with 2 books that will help me write all the papers that I need to write.
• The money to pay summer tuition. And the approval for subsidized student loans for next year.
• Sunny weather.
• Baseball has started for my son.
• Maybe taking the kids out for pizza tonight and meeting friends there. Maybe. Not confrimed yet.
• A semi-clean, semi-picked up house at the momment.
• Having lunch with my husband and girls yesturday. Ordering a really good sandwich.
• Making pancakes, bacon, hashbrowns and fruit for supper last night.
• Finally getting my kids to eat pure maple syrup rather that the heavily poisoned high-fructose cornsyrup brands. Now I am working on the yogurt.
• My mother's day presents. Cards, keychain, a ring. Yes I have received them all already. Kids just have to live in the here and now.
• My pre-schooler is speaking kindergarten. "Mom look I made a pattern. Blue, Purple, Blue, Purple.....
• I just feel very blessed that I have plans. That I have family to support me. That I have the resources to go forward. That although I am scared- I know in my heart I am doing the right thing and that it will all work out.

I always wish I had a sister

I am enjoying the company of these 2 little ladies.Their bond is a special one. One that I hope I can help them foster into adulthood. I always wish I had a sister- however I was blesses (ahem) with a little brother.That was definitely not in my plan, although I wished that I had a big brother (but that is a whole nother blog entry). I am glad, however, to be part of their little world together- for now.

• So much going on in my part of the world lately.
• Finally made time to get my student ID. So now it really feel official. You know that you are old when you go to the ID Center and say you need and ID and the young,fresh teenager asks you "Are you faculty or a student?".
• Faculty- I wish.
• I began melting down yesterday when I received my first assignment. The professor asked for volunteers to do early reports on the first book we are assigned to read when class begins next week. So I blindly volunteered. And then really freaked out, when I realized that this is my first college class in 16 years. And my first English paper in about 18 years. I quickly realized that the literary world may have changed since my youth. So I went on Amazon and ordered a few reference materials.Sure I had used my writing skill plenty in the workforce, but that was all technical writing, policies and procedures, training and educational materials, grants, etc. Totally different.
• Seriously.
• So today I did my research, after all it is only a one page report and if I include a picture then only 3/4 a page.
• And now I feel better.
• Because I have a plan.
• New greys tonight. Can't wait. They really do need to wrap up this season.It has been all over the place. Not complaining. But the finales really draw a conclusion. Of course I will be very very sad that I do not have any new episodes until next September. But at the same time I am glad to have a break from Thurs. nite television, especially since the show was moved to 8:00. I preferred it at 9:00 when it was a guarantee that the kids were in bed. Next year I will have to record Grey's because I have a class until 8:00 on Thurs. There was no way around it.

SPT- on the street

A bill and a deposit!

UNfortunately the deposit is smaller than the bill.

And a little help from my friend.

See More SPT here.

Meme

Are your parents married or divorced?

Married for 39 1/2 years

Do you believe in heaven?

Yes

Have you ever come close to dying?

Not that I know of. Except the time I was almost hit by lightning. It hit a wire about 5 feet above me. The hair on my arms stood up straight for about a month or so. Very freaky. Very lucky!

What jewellery do you wear 24/7?

My wedding ring. I ususally wear a ring on my right hand too- right now my moonstone ring. My necklace with Mary and my grandmother's zodiac sign- gemmini. I remember her wearing it. Also my first child would have been a gemini. I like to think that they are all up in heaven together!

Do you eat the stems of broccoli?

I think so. Never thought about it.

Do you wear makeup?

Yes- maskara

Would you ever have plastic surgery?

Probobly not. I wouldn't even have an epidural when in labor. The whole needle in the spine/skin thing. So I do not think that needles and scaples in my face would happen either.

What do you wear to bed?

Jamie bottoms and a long sleeve gap t-shirt.

Have you ever done anything illegal?

Probobly

Can you roll your tongue?

Yes

Do you have a boyfriend or girlfriend?

Very married.

Do you believe in abortions?

I do not believe "IN" abortions. I believe in the right to choice.

What is your hair color?“

Dark blond. But I really want to add color to it. Like pink or blue or Yellow or orange. If only I were younger!

Future child’s name, boy and girl?

Done with the kids!

Do you smoke?

No

If you could go anywhere in the world where would it be?

England, Ireland, back to Germany, Italy. Europe in general!

Do you sleep with stuffed animals?

Not unless my kids are in bed with me.

If you won the lottery, what would you do first?

Pay off my debt, pay off my parents debts, give some to my church, put some away for my kids futures, plan a vacation, all that good ole stuff.

Gold or Silver?

Silver usually

Hamburger or hot dog?

Vienna beef dog- chicago style. .

If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

I could get by on bagels.

City, beach or country?

Beach

What was the last thing you touched?

Other than this computer- the microwave

When’s the last time you cried?

When my cat died.

What color are your pants?

Right now red- flannel

Ever been involved with the police?

Not that I know of. My friends a cop.

What’s your favourite shampoo/conditioner and soap?

Pantene

Do you talk in your sleep?

Nothing intelligbile or worth repeating.

Ocean or pool?

Both, either

What’s your favourite song at the moment?

Burning by Whitest Boy

*edited: Makes Me Wonder- Maroon 5

Have you ever had a cavity?

Many- and now a few crowns.

Window seat or aisle seats?

Window

Ever met anyone famous?

Yes

Do you feel that you’ve had a truly successful life?

I am happy with my life. There are few things that I wish I had done differently-but just a few things.

Do you twirl your spaghetti or cut it?

Cut

Are you self-conscious?

Sometimes

Have you ever ridden in an ambulance?

Yes

Last gift you received?

A orange hibiscus plant from my son.

Last thing you spent lots of money on?

Tuition

Where do you live?

Midwest-great lakes area

Last wedding attended?

Nieces wedding last summer

Favorite restaurant?

A little restaurant on the bay with a beautiful sunset and great seafood.

What is your favourite kind of car?
Volvo wagon.

What’s your least favourite chore(s)?
Windows

Favourite drink?

Diet Mountain Dew. I've been trying to quit it for over a year now. Do really good and then something just sends me over the edge. LOL

I wish I was....here,,,,

Yesturday- birthday.

A nice birthday.

A really great birthday.

A few presents.

Some ice cream.

Some cupcakes.

A gift certificate to the bookstore- from my boss!

A few cards.

Some cash.

A piano solo- written just for me.

A handmade card- with the word "Love" spelled by a preschooler.

A moonstone ring- Love moonstone. Center's me.

A hibiscus plant- orange- from my 8 year old.

He arranged to get it all by himself (with help from his grandpa)

A soccer game.

A late lunch. (without the kids)

A sunny day.

A thunderstorm.

Tickets to the Lion King.

Lots of hugs.

Lots of kisses.

Some time together.

Some time alone.

A new i-tunes playlist.

Slept in- a little.

A good nights sleep.

And today - a new year.

With my new age.

Which I will forget

and have to remember.

Not a remarkable number.

But a nice even number.

Feels right.

SPT- on the street

I know this street is named after a state or a presidents.

Just can't remember which one.

Next time I am here-

I plan to pay more attention.

Been on this street so many times-

on vacation

and on short little day trips

like this.

I have been on this street

in the rain,

in the sun,

and in the snow.

Not much special about this street.

It's old.

It's very small town.

It's dirty.

It's crowded.

It's all mismatched.

It's a resort town.

It's a blue collar town.

It's people make big ships.

It's inhabited by artists.

It's inhabited by welders.

It's inhabited by lots of people of Belgium descent.

It's beautiful.

It's ugly.

It has a wonderful dive restaurant that we love.

It has lot of shops- which we really do not love.

But we love to walk up and down

both sides of this street.

I have no idea why.

Grateful Friday

• It was a good week. Busy week. Week of Family. A week of Celebrations. My son made his First Communion, my daughter celebrated her 5th birthday, survived Kindergarten screening (big deal for a very shy child), new bikes, lots of cake, and good food.
• Did I say we survived Kindergarten screening. They scored my daughter low in a few places, they never thought to ask about personality. She just doesn't talk to strangers- I am ok with that. I thought they got quite a bit out of her. Really I do not like screenings at this age. I do not like the whole labeling business and stuff and beginning that when they are in pre-school and working with strangers, just isn't good information to have anyway. Whatever!
• The weather is supposed to be great for the next 4 or 5 days. Above normal temps and lots of sun. Can't wait! Really can't wait. Because right now it is cold and damp and dark.
• I really loved Grey's last night. But boy did the hour go by fast! Next week- 2 hours! I am going to have snacks prepared for that one. Maybe even a cocktail or ....2. Or I could just wait until the second half- pop a Tylenol PM and then sleep like a babe when the show is over?! Either way- I am still having snacks!
• I know that my husband bought me something from sundance. And I know it is jewlery. And I know that it is one of 2 rings that I picked out. I know all this - but I have to wait a few days till my birthday.
• I cannot even begin to tell you how happy I am that dance class is almost over with. A couple more weeks of studio classes, pictures, stage rehearsal, dress rehearsal and then finally the recital. Then over! And I do not think she wants to sign up for next year. That's ok with me. It will save a significant amount of money and she will be in all day kindergarten - so she will not need the added activity.
• Soccer starts next week. Happy about this. But I will also be happy when it is over with too. Just a lot of running around, rushed meals, dirty kids, tierd kids and later bedtimes while we try to fit it all in (plus still practicing piano and for spelling tests).
• Hubby is out of town today. So tonight is going to be a McDonalds night. So happy to not have to cook!
• My reign as PTA president is almost up! Now if I could just get the rest of the officers to commit to a meeting time to do next year's budget. I could pass the torch.
• Bought my school books. And the tuition money is in the bank.
• Did I mention that I have a birthday coming up! My hubby asked me what kind of cake I want. And dare I say it.... I do not think I could possibly eat another piece of cake right now. So the kids and I are planning to have Ice Creame Sundae Night instead. With all the fixings. Multiple flavors!