It's 11 pm and I'm wiped out! I had paperwork to do this morning. Met a friend for lunch at 12:30--that part of the day was nice :-). Got home around 2:30, and decided to wash the car. Picked Bill up from work at 4. Got home and left again for Jessica's first soccer practice. Left soccer at 6:05...and had to drive 30 miles to the band concert. Didn't get home again until 9:00!
Jimmy left the concert ahead of me so he could pick up some pizza, as none of us had eaten dinner. Got the kids showered, fed, and into bed. Then I got a shower, and now I'm in bed.
Jessica did great at soccer. Although the other kids on her team aren't a good fit for her socially...hopefully she'll develop some team work skills. There are 2 boys about 5 or 6 years old, then two girls--one is around 9 years old, the other is Jessica's age but difficult to understand--and very hyper. She was a bit disappointed, as we thought she could make a new friend or two. But she's going back next week--I told her she'd better after we just laid out a chunk of money on shin guards, shoes, shorts, and socks. lol The teams aren't divided by age, but by ability.
The band concert went well. Ashlea's group played first, and got awards. Ashlea got a "most improved" award, and the band instructor went on and on about what a good student she is. She plays the alto clarinet, which isn't a common instrument.
Jessica's group played very well, and there were a lot of solos. Then 8th grade choir sang for us, and they did really well...and there was an excellent solo. Jessica is in 7th grade choir, and 13 kids didn't show up! They still did very well. Jessica loves music of any kind, and I'm glad she has band and choir.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Monday, April 13, 2009
First fishing trip of the season
The girls are off from school today for Easter break. Jimmy's at work. So I decided to take them fishing! We didn't catch anything, but had a lot of fun...until the girls got bored. LOL
Went to Highlandtown, where we always go and never catch anything--all the regulars go there, and never catch a thing, and we talk amongst ourselves about why we keep going back. It's very peaceful...that's what brings me back time after time.
We fished on an end, in a cove. Never been to that exact location before. Thought we might get lucky.
I lost 2 bobbers...but Ashlea fished them out for me. Jessica cast out and said "Mom! Look!" I looked, and told her she had too much slack, but didn't see anything else. She said, "No, look at the pole!" Her pole fell apart. The end was somewhere in the water. Good thing she had a big bobber on...we just reeled in the end of her pole and put it back together again. LOL
Then I checked mine, because it also comes apart...it wasn't put in tight enough either. So I fixed that quickly.
One of my lost bobbers was due to a snag on the bottom. The other one, however...I cast out, and the bobber flew off! It went one way and my hook and worm went the other. We all laughed about that one. As the wind blew them into shore, Ashlea walked around and got them out, so we didn't lose them completely :)
I love fishing...even when we don't catch a single fish. Just sitting on the shore, watching the ripples, is extremely relaxing. Today we saw a huge hawk--probably a red-tailed hawk as we have a lot of those around here--hunting for some food. It caught the wind and just soared around and around in circles looking for something to eat, then it moved on to another location.
Now we've all got the camping bug...have to wait about a month for that.
Went to Highlandtown, where we always go and never catch anything--all the regulars go there, and never catch a thing, and we talk amongst ourselves about why we keep going back. It's very peaceful...that's what brings me back time after time.
We fished on an end, in a cove. Never been to that exact location before. Thought we might get lucky.
I lost 2 bobbers...but Ashlea fished them out for me. Jessica cast out and said "Mom! Look!" I looked, and told her she had too much slack, but didn't see anything else. She said, "No, look at the pole!" Her pole fell apart. The end was somewhere in the water. Good thing she had a big bobber on...we just reeled in the end of her pole and put it back together again. LOL
Then I checked mine, because it also comes apart...it wasn't put in tight enough either. So I fixed that quickly.
One of my lost bobbers was due to a snag on the bottom. The other one, however...I cast out, and the bobber flew off! It went one way and my hook and worm went the other. We all laughed about that one. As the wind blew them into shore, Ashlea walked around and got them out, so we didn't lose them completely :)
I love fishing...even when we don't catch a single fish. Just sitting on the shore, watching the ripples, is extremely relaxing. Today we saw a huge hawk--probably a red-tailed hawk as we have a lot of those around here--hunting for some food. It caught the wind and just soared around and around in circles looking for something to eat, then it moved on to another location.
Now we've all got the camping bug...have to wait about a month for that.
Saturday, March 07, 2009
The big spelling bee
They do a practice round, which doesn't count, and her practice word was "judge". She said "J-U-D-J-G" She knows how to spell "judge", but I knew right then that she was extremely nervous.
She was speller #8, and as the first round started, I was feeling sick as it got closer to her turn. She got up, and her word was "caucus". I turned to my mom and said, "She knows this one!"
She stood there and said "C-A-U-C" (big sigh of relief for me at that point, I thought we were home free!) Then she said "O-U-S" *shock*
I really thought she'd get that one, we went over it several times...but like I said, she was very nervous. She has 2 more years of spelling bees, and she's already looking forward to next year. :-)
She took it well, and didn't mope and get all depressed. We went to eat after, and did a little shopping, then came home. She's been playing outside ever since. 72 degrees here! YAY!
In other news...most of our windows have no screens. I don't know why I never fixed them before...I was always waiting for Jimmy to do it. I got some screen and some rubber strip stuff at Lowe's today, and put a new screen in 2 windows. It took about 5 minutes. Went to do a 3rd, and realized...the frames are gone! So, we're going to have to check into getting some screen frames. But now that I've started, I'm going to do every window in the house :) The downstairs windows, open without screens, become cat doors....not any more!
She was speller #8, and as the first round started, I was feeling sick as it got closer to her turn. She got up, and her word was "caucus". I turned to my mom and said, "She knows this one!"
She stood there and said "C-A-U-C" (big sigh of relief for me at that point, I thought we were home free!) Then she said "O-U-S" *shock*
I really thought she'd get that one, we went over it several times...but like I said, she was very nervous. She has 2 more years of spelling bees, and she's already looking forward to next year. :-)
She took it well, and didn't mope and get all depressed. We went to eat after, and did a little shopping, then came home. She's been playing outside ever since. 72 degrees here! YAY!
In other news...most of our windows have no screens. I don't know why I never fixed them before...I was always waiting for Jimmy to do it. I got some screen and some rubber strip stuff at Lowe's today, and put a new screen in 2 windows. It took about 5 minutes. Went to do a 3rd, and realized...the frames are gone! So, we're going to have to check into getting some screen frames. But now that I've started, I'm going to do every window in the house :) The downstairs windows, open without screens, become cat doors....not any more!
Thursday, March 05, 2009
Ashlea's birthday, and a fox in the house!
Today is Ashlea's 12th birthday. Where does the time go? Jessica will be 14 next week. *faint*
We gave her the wrapped presents last night--cause *I* can't wait! I get so excited when I'm giving gifts! She got a Nintendo DS, a travel pack for it, and 2 games. She was SOOOOO happy, and surprised!
So excited, in fact, that she ignored the games that were sitting there wrapped in front of her. She wanted to set up the DS with the time, date, her birthday, etc. LOL!
Today, we surprised her with a day off from school. We took her shopping for an outfit for the spelling bee on Saturday, and ended up with 1 shirt, 3 pairs of pants, a purse, a new winter coat, and a pair of shoes. Sears is awesome for clearance prices!
Then we had lunch at Red Lobster. She had the Ultimate Feast, and had to bring half of it home. It was a lobster tail, 2 kinds of shrimp, crab legs, and fries. She loved it!
When we got the mail today, we saw that Jessica's fox costume had come in. YAY! I had an online friend make it, and we're VERY happy with her work! She's a fox in the school musical, showing next week. Ashlea is one of the 7 dwarfs, and her costume isn't quite put together yet, but will be over the weekend, and I'll post pics of it later.
We gave her the wrapped presents last night--cause *I* can't wait! I get so excited when I'm giving gifts! She got a Nintendo DS, a travel pack for it, and 2 games. She was SOOOOO happy, and surprised!
So excited, in fact, that she ignored the games that were sitting there wrapped in front of her. She wanted to set up the DS with the time, date, her birthday, etc. LOL!
Today, we surprised her with a day off from school. We took her shopping for an outfit for the spelling bee on Saturday, and ended up with 1 shirt, 3 pairs of pants, a purse, a new winter coat, and a pair of shoes. Sears is awesome for clearance prices!
Then we had lunch at Red Lobster. She had the Ultimate Feast, and had to bring half of it home. It was a lobster tail, 2 kinds of shrimp, crab legs, and fries. She loved it!
When we got the mail today, we saw that Jessica's fox costume had come in. YAY! I had an online friend make it, and we're VERY happy with her work! She's a fox in the school musical, showing next week. Ashlea is one of the 7 dwarfs, and her costume isn't quite put together yet, but will be over the weekend, and I'll post pics of it later.
Wednesday, March 04, 2009
The cooking show!
Ashlea and I went to a Taste of Home cooking show last night. We had quite the adventure.
The show was to start at 6:30. We get there at 6:00, and the parking lot is full, and people were parking on the side of the road, for about 1/4 mile in both directions. We finally found a place, in the grass in front of the building, to park, but still had to walk forever--uphill. My back doesn't do well walking long distances, but we made it.
We get in, get our goody bags, and go into the room where the show was going to take place. There were NO SEATS. We stood along the back wall. Finally we found a couple of extra folding chairs and sat them up where we'd been standing--we were lucky, as several people were standing for the entire show (over almost 3 hours long!)
Ashlea got bored, as we were clear in the back, and could only see the action on a TV screen. So I told her to people watch. We love people watching...people are weird. There was an extraordinary amount of "butch-looking" women at this cooking show. Manly hair cuts, styles, and clothing...it was very odd. That's the first thing she noticed.
She wanted to go to the restroom at one point, but came back within just a minute. Apparently, someone was in there...making a lot of grunting sounds...and having severe gastrointestinal issues. She ran back out immediately.
She commenced people watching upon her return, and would poke me every couple minutes to tell me about this person or that person. One poke she said "Check out the crack"
A woman sitting very close to us had her pants down around the middle of her butt! Her bare butt was on the seat! It was hanging out for the world to see! She HAD to have known. I mean, if my bare butt was touching plastic, instead of my underwear and jeans I'd know! The woman didn't appear to have on any underwear...just her jeans and that seat. EWWWWWWWW!!
So, we didn't come home with any prizes...but we got several recipe books, coupons, and lots of laughs.
The show was to start at 6:30. We get there at 6:00, and the parking lot is full, and people were parking on the side of the road, for about 1/4 mile in both directions. We finally found a place, in the grass in front of the building, to park, but still had to walk forever--uphill. My back doesn't do well walking long distances, but we made it.
We get in, get our goody bags, and go into the room where the show was going to take place. There were NO SEATS. We stood along the back wall. Finally we found a couple of extra folding chairs and sat them up where we'd been standing--we were lucky, as several people were standing for the entire show (over almost 3 hours long!)
Ashlea got bored, as we were clear in the back, and could only see the action on a TV screen. So I told her to people watch. We love people watching...people are weird. There was an extraordinary amount of "butch-looking" women at this cooking show. Manly hair cuts, styles, and clothing...it was very odd. That's the first thing she noticed.
She wanted to go to the restroom at one point, but came back within just a minute. Apparently, someone was in there...making a lot of grunting sounds...and having severe gastrointestinal issues. She ran back out immediately.
She commenced people watching upon her return, and would poke me every couple minutes to tell me about this person or that person. One poke she said "Check out the crack"
A woman sitting very close to us had her pants down around the middle of her butt! Her bare butt was on the seat! It was hanging out for the world to see! She HAD to have known. I mean, if my bare butt was touching plastic, instead of my underwear and jeans I'd know! The woman didn't appear to have on any underwear...just her jeans and that seat. EWWWWWWWW!!
So, we didn't come home with any prizes...but we got several recipe books, coupons, and lots of laughs.
Monday, March 02, 2009
Sharing some great recipes!
I've recently found some great recipes and wanted to share. :)
1) Hamburger Pie (it might sound gross, but it's DELICIOUS!)
2 pounds ground beef
2 eggs
1/2 cup dry bread crumbs
2 tsp. salt
2 tsp. Italian Seasonings
2 tsp. dry mustard
1/2 tsp. cumin
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
3 cups thin sliced, raw, potatoes
1 large onion, thin sliced in rings
2 1/2-3 cups mushrooms
2 cups shredded cheddar
1 cup shredded swiss
4 Tbs. parsley
Mix the ground beef with the egg, bread crumbs, salt, Italian Seasoning, mustard, cumin, and garlic powder. Pat evenly into a 13 x 9 pan to make a crust. (Bottom and sides). Layer the potatoes, then onion, then mushrooms on top. Cover with aluminum foil and bake at 350 degrees for one hour. Remove foil, sprinkle cheese and parsley on top. Return to oven until cheese melts.
2) Stuffed Green Pepper Soup (Just like stuffed green peppers with none of the work!)
2 pounds ground beef
2 cups chopped green peppers
2 cups white rice
28 ounce can diced tomatoes
29 ounce can tomato sauce
2 quarts water
salt and pepper to taste
Brown and drain the beef in a large pot. Add all ingredients, and cook until rice is cooked--about 30 minutes on low heat. This makes a large amount, so for a smaller family you might want to cut it in half.
3) Chewy Cocoa Brownies
1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
1 1/2 sticks butter, melted ( DO NOT USE MARGARINE! They won't turn out right--I tried.)
2 Tbs. water
2 large eggs
2 tsp. vanilla extract
1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup cocoa
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
3/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Heat oven to 350, grease 9 x 13 pan.
Combine sugar, butter, and water. Stir in eggs and vanilla extract. Combine flour, cocoa, baking powder and salt and stir into sugar mixture. Stir in nuts if desired. Spread into the pan. Bake 18-25 minutes or until toothpick comes out slightly sticky.
These are amazing with coconut-pecan frosting. Also good with powdered sugar sprinkled over the top.
If you use margarine, the batter will be too runny, and they will be cakey instead of chewy when done. These should be chewy...like box mix brownies.
ENJOY!
1) Hamburger Pie (it might sound gross, but it's DELICIOUS!)
2 pounds ground beef
2 eggs
1/2 cup dry bread crumbs
2 tsp. salt
2 tsp. Italian Seasonings
2 tsp. dry mustard
1/2 tsp. cumin
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
3 cups thin sliced, raw, potatoes
1 large onion, thin sliced in rings
2 1/2-3 cups mushrooms
2 cups shredded cheddar
1 cup shredded swiss
4 Tbs. parsley
Mix the ground beef with the egg, bread crumbs, salt, Italian Seasoning, mustard, cumin, and garlic powder. Pat evenly into a 13 x 9 pan to make a crust. (Bottom and sides). Layer the potatoes, then onion, then mushrooms on top. Cover with aluminum foil and bake at 350 degrees for one hour. Remove foil, sprinkle cheese and parsley on top. Return to oven until cheese melts.
2) Stuffed Green Pepper Soup (Just like stuffed green peppers with none of the work!)
2 pounds ground beef
2 cups chopped green peppers
2 cups white rice
28 ounce can diced tomatoes
29 ounce can tomato sauce
2 quarts water
salt and pepper to taste
Brown and drain the beef in a large pot. Add all ingredients, and cook until rice is cooked--about 30 minutes on low heat. This makes a large amount, so for a smaller family you might want to cut it in half.
3) Chewy Cocoa Brownies
1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
1 1/2 sticks butter, melted ( DO NOT USE MARGARINE! They won't turn out right--I tried.)
2 Tbs. water
2 large eggs
2 tsp. vanilla extract
1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup cocoa
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
3/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Heat oven to 350, grease 9 x 13 pan.
Combine sugar, butter, and water. Stir in eggs and vanilla extract. Combine flour, cocoa, baking powder and salt and stir into sugar mixture. Stir in nuts if desired. Spread into the pan. Bake 18-25 minutes or until toothpick comes out slightly sticky.
These are amazing with coconut-pecan frosting. Also good with powdered sugar sprinkled over the top.
If you use margarine, the batter will be too runny, and they will be cakey instead of chewy when done. These should be chewy...like box mix brownies.
ENJOY!
Kitten update!
The kittens went to the vet today. They were really good...but on the ride home someone poo'd in the crate! They all had poo everywhere, and had to have a bath. The top picture is Lily licking Shadow. Lily weighs 70 pounds, it's so cute to see her being so lovey with the kitties.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Time for braces!
Damion and Jessica are both getting braces now. Their next appointments aren't until April, and it's odd how different things are going for both of them.
For Damion, he has one appointment to make a mold of his mouth. Jessica has two appointments-one for rubber band things to be put around her back teeth to make spaces between her teeth. And the other is for having the bands removed, and braces put on.
The office said that it doesn't look like we'll have any out of pocket expense for either of them. That's a good thing!
Jessica is finally ok with braces. The problem is that she should have surgery after the braces are on for a year...which will move her lower jaw out, and require her jaw to be wired shut for 6 weeks. She doesn't want it, and we aren't going to force her to have the surgery. We've got plenty of time to talk about it more with her. The results will be much better with surgery, but we're going to see what it's looking like once the teeth are straighter. Her lower jaw didn't grow as much as it should have, and is very recessed, causing a severe overbite. There really isn't another option to fix it.
Damion doesn't care one way or the other about having braces. The ortho also suggested surgery for him, but he has another option...removing two teeth on top. We'll probably go that route, since it's an option. In his case, surgery would give perfect results, while removing two teeth will give very good results. It's just not worth going through surgery and having his jaw wired shut for a 100% perfect mouth...when it's likely no one would ever know the difference.
In other news, Bill arrives today. We've been cleaning, and moving things around. Also looking for bunkbeds--but no luck there yet. I've got a little more to do...and all I want to do is take a nap! I'm so tired today.
For Damion, he has one appointment to make a mold of his mouth. Jessica has two appointments-one for rubber band things to be put around her back teeth to make spaces between her teeth. And the other is for having the bands removed, and braces put on.
The office said that it doesn't look like we'll have any out of pocket expense for either of them. That's a good thing!
Jessica is finally ok with braces. The problem is that she should have surgery after the braces are on for a year...which will move her lower jaw out, and require her jaw to be wired shut for 6 weeks. She doesn't want it, and we aren't going to force her to have the surgery. We've got plenty of time to talk about it more with her. The results will be much better with surgery, but we're going to see what it's looking like once the teeth are straighter. Her lower jaw didn't grow as much as it should have, and is very recessed, causing a severe overbite. There really isn't another option to fix it.
Damion doesn't care one way or the other about having braces. The ortho also suggested surgery for him, but he has another option...removing two teeth on top. We'll probably go that route, since it's an option. In his case, surgery would give perfect results, while removing two teeth will give very good results. It's just not worth going through surgery and having his jaw wired shut for a 100% perfect mouth...when it's likely no one would ever know the difference.
In other news, Bill arrives today. We've been cleaning, and moving things around. Also looking for bunkbeds--but no luck there yet. I've got a little more to do...and all I want to do is take a nap! I'm so tired today.
Monday, February 23, 2009
It's been a long time, hasn't it?
Sorry! I've been busy :)
Quick update on us...girls are still in musical practice. Now it's every day for both of them. Until 5 pm this week, then until 6:30 pm for the next 2 weeks. Musical will be on March 12 and 13, and we'll be done until next year! YAY!
Bill is coming back to live with us. It will be for much longer this time, as he has no where else to go. I'll be taking him to a couple temp agencies on Wednesday. Forgot about that when I told Marsha I would be free for the week after tomorrow. lol
I got my hair cut today. First time in a year! I had them take off 3 inches. It looks so much better. I'll post pics of that maybe tomorrow, when I "do" something with it. :)
We lost Whiskers on February 6, to FIP. :( It was very sad. He was only 4 1/2 years old, and the most loving cat you'd ever meet.
We have a standing rule that as pets pass, they won't be replaced. We have a lot of them! But...since he was Ashlea's special kitty, she wanted another special kitty.
Yesterday, we went to look at some kittens. 6 1/2 weeks old, just the age we wanted. They had 2 white ones, and Jimmy and I wanted to get them so they could play together. Ashlea had heart set on a single gray one. With kittens, you really have to get 2...so they can play together. Cats don't play with the people in the same way that puppies do, and they really learn by playing together.
So, we compromised:
Quick update on us...girls are still in musical practice. Now it's every day for both of them. Until 5 pm this week, then until 6:30 pm for the next 2 weeks. Musical will be on March 12 and 13, and we'll be done until next year! YAY!
Bill is coming back to live with us. It will be for much longer this time, as he has no where else to go. I'll be taking him to a couple temp agencies on Wednesday. Forgot about that when I told Marsha I would be free for the week after tomorrow. lol
I got my hair cut today. First time in a year! I had them take off 3 inches. It looks so much better. I'll post pics of that maybe tomorrow, when I "do" something with it. :)
We lost Whiskers on February 6, to FIP. :( It was very sad. He was only 4 1/2 years old, and the most loving cat you'd ever meet.
We have a standing rule that as pets pass, they won't be replaced. We have a lot of them! But...since he was Ashlea's special kitty, she wanted another special kitty.
Yesterday, we went to look at some kittens. 6 1/2 weeks old, just the age we wanted. They had 2 white ones, and Jimmy and I wanted to get them so they could play together. Ashlea had heart set on a single gray one. With kittens, you really have to get 2...so they can play together. Cats don't play with the people in the same way that puppies do, and they really learn by playing together.
So, we compromised:
Thursday, February 05, 2009
The trillion dollar stimulus package
Every US citizen needs to read the proposed $1 trillion "stimulus" package that Obama and the dems are trying to push on us.
The majority of the so-called "stimulus" is PORK. Plain and simple. Everything and anything that the democrats haven't been able to get passed in the last 8 years is in this thing.
1) I want to explain what a stimulus package should be. A stimulus package should create jobs. Plain and simple, right? It should bring new jobs to existing companies and give support for new company creation. It should support economic GROWTH in our country.
2) There are some good projects in the stimulus bill that do not bring jobs...do not support economic growth. These things should be looked at in a spending bill...in the budget...but NOT in a proposed stimulus package.
There is money proposed for ATV trails, for roads through national parks, for condoms, for cleaning up hazardous waste sites, for cleaning up polluted water, for removing fish barriers from waterways. It's crazy.
For example...the National Park Service is going to receive $100 MILLION for "Centennial Challenge" activities. What the hell does that even mean? It means that although $27 million was alloted for it this year, we're giving them another $100 million...for planning activities to celebrate 100 years of the National Park Service. Yes, you read that right...Here is more information: http://home.nps.gov/applications/release/Detail.cfm?ID=842
The EPA is receiving $9.4 BILLION for haz-mat and pollution clean up. That's not a bad thing...however, it's not going to stimulate our economy, and has no business being in the stimulus bill.
The Forest Service is receiving $1.5 BILLION for removing fish barriers, trails, alternative energy research, and wildfire management. Tell me how those things will boost our economy?
The Department of Health and Human Services will receive $550 MILLION for repair of Indian health facilities.
The Smithsonian will receive $150 MILLION for revitalization and alteration of facilities that they own. (That no one can afford to visit because no one has a job)
The National Endowment of the Arts will receive $50 MILLION "to be distributed in direct grants to fund arts projects and activities which preserve jobs in the non-profit arts sector." Ok, that's actually for job saving...but it's a paltry amount...and will not create new jobs, just help a few people keep their jobs. It might save 100-300 jobs.
A GOOD THING!!!! Workforce Investment will receive $4 BILLION to train unemployed people for new jobs. That's awesome! This will help us! But the amount...when we're giving more than twice that amount to the EPA...you can see where the dems loyalties lie. It's not with the American Worker!
$120 MILLION will go toward community service positions for the elderly. Yep...let's get the elderly back into the workforce...NOT! What a waste!
$500 MILLION for Unemployment. HALF of which has to be used to help unemployed people find jobs. (I guess they're going all be working for the EPA and the Forest and Park Service...because there isn't much incentive here for jobs elsewhere)
$80 MILLION for OSHA to protect the rights of employees. (Ok, without industries, OSHA will become extinct...)
$300 MILLION for Job Corps. Job Corps employs people...oh, but wait...they can't use this money for the creation of jobs. They can only use it for construction projects.
We aren't even anywhere near halfway through this enormous piece of pork. But you can see...the money is going for the liberal agenda and not for the American people.
Take a look for yourself.
The majority of the so-called "stimulus" is PORK. Plain and simple. Everything and anything that the democrats haven't been able to get passed in the last 8 years is in this thing.
1) I want to explain what a stimulus package should be. A stimulus package should create jobs. Plain and simple, right? It should bring new jobs to existing companies and give support for new company creation. It should support economic GROWTH in our country.
2) There are some good projects in the stimulus bill that do not bring jobs...do not support economic growth. These things should be looked at in a spending bill...in the budget...but NOT in a proposed stimulus package.
There is money proposed for ATV trails, for roads through national parks, for condoms, for cleaning up hazardous waste sites, for cleaning up polluted water, for removing fish barriers from waterways. It's crazy.
For example...the National Park Service is going to receive $100 MILLION for "Centennial Challenge" activities. What the hell does that even mean? It means that although $27 million was alloted for it this year, we're giving them another $100 million...for planning activities to celebrate 100 years of the National Park Service. Yes, you read that right...Here is more information: http://home.nps.gov/applications/release/Detail.cfm?ID=842
The EPA is receiving $9.4 BILLION for haz-mat and pollution clean up. That's not a bad thing...however, it's not going to stimulate our economy, and has no business being in the stimulus bill.
The Forest Service is receiving $1.5 BILLION for removing fish barriers, trails, alternative energy research, and wildfire management. Tell me how those things will boost our economy?
The Department of Health and Human Services will receive $550 MILLION for repair of Indian health facilities.
The Smithsonian will receive $150 MILLION for revitalization and alteration of facilities that they own. (That no one can afford to visit because no one has a job)
The National Endowment of the Arts will receive $50 MILLION "to be distributed in direct grants to fund arts projects and activities which preserve jobs in the non-profit arts sector." Ok, that's actually for job saving...but it's a paltry amount...and will not create new jobs, just help a few people keep their jobs. It might save 100-300 jobs.
A GOOD THING!!!! Workforce Investment will receive $4 BILLION to train unemployed people for new jobs. That's awesome! This will help us! But the amount...when we're giving more than twice that amount to the EPA...you can see where the dems loyalties lie. It's not with the American Worker!
$120 MILLION will go toward community service positions for the elderly. Yep...let's get the elderly back into the workforce...NOT! What a waste!
$500 MILLION for Unemployment. HALF of which has to be used to help unemployed people find jobs. (I guess they're going all be working for the EPA and the Forest and Park Service...because there isn't much incentive here for jobs elsewhere)
$80 MILLION for OSHA to protect the rights of employees. (Ok, without industries, OSHA will become extinct...)
$300 MILLION for Job Corps. Job Corps employs people...oh, but wait...they can't use this money for the creation of jobs. They can only use it for construction projects.
We aren't even anywhere near halfway through this enormous piece of pork. But you can see...the money is going for the liberal agenda and not for the American people.
Take a look for yourself.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
It's a winter wonderland!
I really don't generally like ice and snow that keep me home bound...but it is pretty.
Forsythia bush.
This is the view of the park from my house.
Here is my mulberry tree, and you can see the power line coated with ice. Yikes.
Forsythia bush.
Believe it or not, this is my driveway...it goes down there between the trees on the right, makes a 90 degree turn, then goes downhill further to the street. This is why I get stuck and can't get out!
Close up. It's so pretty!
And this, is my blueberry bush!
Monday, January 26, 2009
Toilet Talk
The toilet seat in our master bathroom (if you can call it a master bath--it only has a toilet and a sink) was wood. One half of the seat was cracked...has been cracked for almost a year...it's been a long time. Every time I sat on it, I was afraid that I would get pinched. It was a huge issue. I mean one wrong wiggle on there, and blamo. Not something I wanted, but I put up with it none-the-less, cause who wants to go shopping for toilet seats.
I'll advise you that I also have an extreme aversion to wood...the wooden seat was pretty smooth, so I tolerated it. My hands weren't touching it, and there isn't a whole lot of "feel" sensation in the cheeks, ya know?
A few days ago, the toilet seat bumped things up another level. The part where the seat attaches to the lid became broken, causing huge spikey screws to be exposed. These screws would flop down onto the seat, and I would have to lift them back into their place for fear of being gouged. (Can you see me explaining that to an ER doc?)
So today, I did it. I bought a toilet seat!!!!!! It's not wood...it's actually a cushion seat. The lid has a pretty palm tree on it. It's beautiful, glorious, the most beautiful toilet seat I've ever seen--if only because it now graces my toilet, and has no cracks or scary spikes.
I'll advise you that I also have an extreme aversion to wood...the wooden seat was pretty smooth, so I tolerated it. My hands weren't touching it, and there isn't a whole lot of "feel" sensation in the cheeks, ya know?
A few days ago, the toilet seat bumped things up another level. The part where the seat attaches to the lid became broken, causing huge spikey screws to be exposed. These screws would flop down onto the seat, and I would have to lift them back into their place for fear of being gouged. (Can you see me explaining that to an ER doc?)
So today, I did it. I bought a toilet seat!!!!!! It's not wood...it's actually a cushion seat. The lid has a pretty palm tree on it. It's beautiful, glorious, the most beautiful toilet seat I've ever seen--if only because it now graces my toilet, and has no cracks or scary spikes.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Ordinary weekend
Nothing special to write about today. Just wanted to check in. We went out today in search of a piza peel, and came up empty handed. Apparently no one carries them, and we need two! These are Christmas presents...yes, a month late!
We had Subway for lunch. It was very good...then dinner time rolled around, and we'd laid on the bed watching TV all afternoon with nothing prepared for dinner. Jimmy thought of calzones. We haven't had calzones in forever...maybe a year. I'm now waiting for him to bring them home. YUMMY! Not very healthy, but delicious!
Ashlea went to her friend's house this afternoon, and when we called to tell her we were coming to get her, she wanted to stay over. So Jimmy dropped off her bag on his way to the pizza shop.
Damion's camping trip with scouts got cut short, because the place is a mudpit and not well organized. His scoutmaster was fed up, and decided they'd only stay one night.
Jessica got out a ball pitching machine that she got for Christmas, and entertained herself with that for quite a while in the house! LOL Very small balls, very small bat. I did tell her that she needs to put it away until she can use it outside, though.
I'm not happy with Obama's executive orders. He's putting turbo jets on our handbasket to hell. I'm wondering how long it will take those that elected him to figure it out? One of the more ridiculous orders was to lift the ban on federal funding for organizations that provide abortions in other countries! We can't even keep our own country above water, but let's send money out of the country to kill babies. That's a sound plan... And then this trillion dollar spending plan he wants...INSANE!
Off my soapbox now...just had to get that out.
Trying to find something to watch on TV. We have no Netflix movies, just returned them today. Maybe Jimmy and I will have a bowling match tonight :) Wii is always fun!
We had Subway for lunch. It was very good...then dinner time rolled around, and we'd laid on the bed watching TV all afternoon with nothing prepared for dinner. Jimmy thought of calzones. We haven't had calzones in forever...maybe a year. I'm now waiting for him to bring them home. YUMMY! Not very healthy, but delicious!
Ashlea went to her friend's house this afternoon, and when we called to tell her we were coming to get her, she wanted to stay over. So Jimmy dropped off her bag on his way to the pizza shop.
Damion's camping trip with scouts got cut short, because the place is a mudpit and not well organized. His scoutmaster was fed up, and decided they'd only stay one night.
Jessica got out a ball pitching machine that she got for Christmas, and entertained herself with that for quite a while in the house! LOL Very small balls, very small bat. I did tell her that she needs to put it away until she can use it outside, though.
I'm not happy with Obama's executive orders. He's putting turbo jets on our handbasket to hell. I'm wondering how long it will take those that elected him to figure it out? One of the more ridiculous orders was to lift the ban on federal funding for organizations that provide abortions in other countries! We can't even keep our own country above water, but let's send money out of the country to kill babies. That's a sound plan... And then this trillion dollar spending plan he wants...INSANE!
Off my soapbox now...just had to get that out.
Trying to find something to watch on TV. We have no Netflix movies, just returned them today. Maybe Jimmy and I will have a bowling match tonight :) Wii is always fun!
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Playing in the snow
When it finally warmed up a little...Saturday I believe, they played in the snow :)
Sadly, the snowman was beheaded this morning. Lily was overzealous, and ran past with her chain. It wasn't even a neat decapitation. The head was left in baseball size chunks, with nose, scarf and hat strewn about the yard.
Here's Ashlea...always posing for the camera. She doesn't have sunglasses on, her lenses are transitions.
Damion, collecting snow for a fort.
Jessica and her small fort...she was just getting started. Tom had to go over and see what was going on.
Ashlea got Jimmy to help her with a snowman. The snow was dry, so they thought of packing it in a tub to get it to stick.
Jimmy's packing it one last time...in case Ashlea's stomping wasn't enough.
And, they did finally get a snowman.
Sadly, the snowman was beheaded this morning. Lily was overzealous, and ran past with her chain. It wasn't even a neat decapitation. The head was left in baseball size chunks, with nose, scarf and hat strewn about the yard.Here's one more picture. Lily loving the indoor life. She's been in for over a week because of the horrible cold weather. Looking at the forecast, it will be at least another week before she can go back out.
District Spelling Bee
Tonight the girls had their shining moment at the district spelling bee. Neither of them studied, and just as last time...we assumed they'd be out in a round or two. Jessica stayed in 2 rounds, and the woman pronounced her next word wrong--and it's a rule that if the speller doesn't understand the word correctly that's just too bad. :(
Ashlea came in 4th place...again! 1st in her grade (Jessica was 1st in her grade as well), 4th in the school, and 4th in the district.
Next step is the county spelling bee on March 7. That one will be much more difficult. The 1st place winner from that spelling bee will go on to the national spelling bee in Washington, DC.
Here are some pics. Jessica got a certificate and a ribbon. Ashlea got a certificate, ribbon, and a plaque.
Ashlea came in 4th place...again! 1st in her grade (Jessica was 1st in her grade as well), 4th in the school, and 4th in the district.
Next step is the county spelling bee on March 7. That one will be much more difficult. The 1st place winner from that spelling bee will go on to the national spelling bee in Washington, DC.
Here are some pics. Jessica got a certificate and a ribbon. Ashlea got a certificate, ribbon, and a plaque.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Ramos and Compean
I was shocked to see that Bush had done anything today with Ramos and Compean-two border patrol agents who shot a fleeing drug dealer in 2005.
Commuting the sentences of agents Ramos and Compean is something...but it's not enough. They deserved pardons. It feels almost like a slap in the face to these upstanding US Citizens, who were just doing their jobs, and got screwed in the process.
Commuting the sentences of agents Ramos and Compean is something...but it's not enough. They deserved pardons. It feels almost like a slap in the face to these upstanding US Citizens, who were just doing their jobs, and got screwed in the process.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Today is an important day. I am often guilty of what many others are...viewing it as just another day. But when you stop and think of the sacrifices that were made, and the huge strides that have been made, it is inspiring. I have taken time to talk to my kids about Martin Luther King, Jr., and I suggest that everyone else do the same.
Yesterday was our 13th wedding anniversary. 13 years is a long time. Sometimes it seems like it was just yesterday that Jimmy and I first saw each other across the counter at the local IGA. We had a good day together. I didn't work at all, for the first day in forever. We played Wii and Yahtzee, and had a lot of fun!
Miracle of miracles happened yesterday. Jessica asked if she could have some real make up. She said she's been thinking about wearing make up. I nearly fell off of my chair! This is a huge step forward for her!
Tomorrow ends the unplanned vacation for the kids. They haven't been to school since last Wednesday. 5 days off is a long time. It seems that when they're home, I want them back in school...and when they have school, I wish they were home. I'm weird like that.
I hope everyone has a terrific week!
Yesterday was our 13th wedding anniversary. 13 years is a long time. Sometimes it seems like it was just yesterday that Jimmy and I first saw each other across the counter at the local IGA. We had a good day together. I didn't work at all, for the first day in forever. We played Wii and Yahtzee, and had a lot of fun!
Miracle of miracles happened yesterday. Jessica asked if she could have some real make up. She said she's been thinking about wearing make up. I nearly fell off of my chair! This is a huge step forward for her!
Tomorrow ends the unplanned vacation for the kids. They haven't been to school since last Wednesday. 5 days off is a long time. It seems that when they're home, I want them back in school...and when they have school, I wish they were home. I'm weird like that.
I hope everyone has a terrific week!
Sunday, January 18, 2009
I am sick and tired today!
It's official. I hate January. Nothing good can happen between January 1 and January 31, so I propose a petition to remove January from the calendar. January is always the coldest and snowiest month, and I, for one, am sick of them both.
My birthday and anniversary are in January, and I'll gladly give those up. I don't need to get older...and the anniversary, well, love is your heart not a day on the calendar. Besides, February has Valentine's Day, and that's good enough for me.
I woke up this morning, my anniversary, to about 2 inches more fluffy white stuff on the ground. Temps aren't going to be above freezing until Thursday. And then only for a short time...as Thursday's low will be 24. It's pretty...but I wish it just wouldn't fall on my driveway!
I haven't blurted any of my political opinions on here yet...but this morning I read a story that really ticked me off. Tom Hanks has called Mormons un-American because they support Proposition 8.
The last time I checked, supporting legislation that you believe in, and voting/donating in support of your views is the American way. That's what we're supposed to do.
I'm so sick and tired of hearing liberals spout off at the mouth that everyone else is racist, discriminatory, and un-American because we don't want to see the United States continue to the trip to hell in the handbasket that they've put us in!
I am AGAINST gay marriage. I believe that being gay is a sin...the same as any other sin. I don't believe sins have different weights of wrongness. Wrong is wrong in the eyes of the Lord! I believe Christians are to come together and help one another, as well as help to guide the lost souls so that they can find way of the Lord. God loves us all the same, and we are all sinners.
There is not a day that goes by that I don't sin. And there is not a day that goes by that I don't thank God for the sacrifice of his Son's blood to wash away those sins. I'm going to Heaven! Praise the Lord!
If you want to call me names for that, then so be it. That's the right that God gave you through free will, and the right you have under the US Constitution. I will continue to pray for you regardless of how you treat me!
My birthday and anniversary are in January, and I'll gladly give those up. I don't need to get older...and the anniversary, well, love is your heart not a day on the calendar. Besides, February has Valentine's Day, and that's good enough for me.
I woke up this morning, my anniversary, to about 2 inches more fluffy white stuff on the ground. Temps aren't going to be above freezing until Thursday. And then only for a short time...as Thursday's low will be 24. It's pretty...but I wish it just wouldn't fall on my driveway!
I haven't blurted any of my political opinions on here yet...but this morning I read a story that really ticked me off. Tom Hanks has called Mormons un-American because they support Proposition 8.
The last time I checked, supporting legislation that you believe in, and voting/donating in support of your views is the American way. That's what we're supposed to do.
I'm so sick and tired of hearing liberals spout off at the mouth that everyone else is racist, discriminatory, and un-American because we don't want to see the United States continue to the trip to hell in the handbasket that they've put us in!
I am AGAINST gay marriage. I believe that being gay is a sin...the same as any other sin. I don't believe sins have different weights of wrongness. Wrong is wrong in the eyes of the Lord! I believe Christians are to come together and help one another, as well as help to guide the lost souls so that they can find way of the Lord. God loves us all the same, and we are all sinners.
There is not a day that goes by that I don't sin. And there is not a day that goes by that I don't thank God for the sacrifice of his Son's blood to wash away those sins. I'm going to Heaven! Praise the Lord!
If you want to call me names for that, then so be it. That's the right that God gave you through free will, and the right you have under the US Constitution. I will continue to pray for you regardless of how you treat me!
Friday, January 16, 2009
-8 degrees!
I woke up this morning to -8 degrees and a large cold doggy tongue. That's always nice. Local weather says our high will be 3 degrees today.
Poor Jimmy has to go shovel the driveway in this horrible weather, so that I can get out of the house! It's been a week! He's been getting up and down with the truck. While he doesn't have 4-wheel drive, he has great tires and positive traction. He offered that I could take the truck grocery shopping...but there's really no room for the groceries!
I just know that one way or another, I'm getting out of this house...and away from these kids for a little while. lol And we're getting the mail! Haven't gotten the mail in a week, either.
We're a little concerned about Scaredy Kitty. She isn't friendly, and sleeps on a hillside near the house. We believe she's in an old groundhog or opossum hole. With the bitter cold, the outside cats have 2 boxes on the porch to get into, with lots of straw. They're completely sheltered from the wind. All take advantage of the accommodations except Scaredy. I didn't see her yesterday, either. There's not much we can do. We can't catch her and bring her in...she runs as soon as she sees one of us. I hope and pray that she will be ok.
Have a great weekend, and stay warm!
Poor Jimmy has to go shovel the driveway in this horrible weather, so that I can get out of the house! It's been a week! He's been getting up and down with the truck. While he doesn't have 4-wheel drive, he has great tires and positive traction. He offered that I could take the truck grocery shopping...but there's really no room for the groceries!
I just know that one way or another, I'm getting out of this house...and away from these kids for a little while. lol And we're getting the mail! Haven't gotten the mail in a week, either.
We're a little concerned about Scaredy Kitty. She isn't friendly, and sleeps on a hillside near the house. We believe she's in an old groundhog or opossum hole. With the bitter cold, the outside cats have 2 boxes on the porch to get into, with lots of straw. They're completely sheltered from the wind. All take advantage of the accommodations except Scaredy. I didn't see her yesterday, either. There's not much we can do. We can't catch her and bring her in...she runs as soon as she sees one of us. I hope and pray that she will be ok.
Have a great weekend, and stay warm!
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Still snowed in
Not much has changed since yesterday. I'm still snowed in. It has snowed most of the day today. Schools are all closed for tomorrow...so not only am I snowed in, but I'm snowed in with kids! (insert scream here)
I've been keeping myself busy putting together a web page for my county. A place where people can come to read information and talk to each other on a message board. So far so good...although I keep saying I'm too old for all that mess. It's been years since I've designed a web page, and never one like I'm doing now. I think I might finally have the main format close to what the final result will be. It's time to start working on all of the sub pages. Joy, fun, exciting, NOT! I'll post the link here when it's finished.
Perhaps it will be a huge success, and I'll make a little money from it. Perhaps not. lol
We're almost out of groceries. Tomorrow is the last day. We'll have chicken--again. Had chicken last night. Tater tot casserole tonight for variety, and tomorrow will be chicken again. We have cereal, so breakfast is covered. Eggs and sausage if they don't want cereal. And bread and cheese for some grilled cheese sandwiches. Friday, Jimmy has to shovel, then I can go shopping! It's not supposed to snow on Friday, but our high will only be 10 degrees.
I'm thinking it's going to be a long weekend...too cold for school, too cold for sledding, thank God for the Wii!
I've been keeping myself busy putting together a web page for my county. A place where people can come to read information and talk to each other on a message board. So far so good...although I keep saying I'm too old for all that mess. It's been years since I've designed a web page, and never one like I'm doing now. I think I might finally have the main format close to what the final result will be. It's time to start working on all of the sub pages. Joy, fun, exciting, NOT! I'll post the link here when it's finished.
Perhaps it will be a huge success, and I'll make a little money from it. Perhaps not. lol
We're almost out of groceries. Tomorrow is the last day. We'll have chicken--again. Had chicken last night. Tater tot casserole tonight for variety, and tomorrow will be chicken again. We have cereal, so breakfast is covered. Eggs and sausage if they don't want cereal. And bread and cheese for some grilled cheese sandwiches. Friday, Jimmy has to shovel, then I can go shopping! It's not supposed to snow on Friday, but our high will only be 10 degrees.
I'm thinking it's going to be a long weekend...too cold for school, too cold for sledding, thank God for the Wii!
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Need to vent!
I'm not having a very good day. I know, it could be worse. But it is what it is, and I'm not happy with it!
Started snowing around 8 am. I can't get the mail until 9:30...and thought I'd wait until afternoon so the ice on the driveway would melt. Well, it's now covered. I can't go anywhere. I haven't left the house since last Friday. This is Tuesday. I've been snowed in ever since!
Musical practice was canceled--thank goodness, cause I was going to have to send Jimmy to get the girls after he got home from work. Now we'll see what happens tomorrow. We're supposed to get 3 inches overnight, and a low of 8 degrees. If nothing gets canceled, I'll have to get out and pick up Jessica at 5:00.
I've been tossing a website idea around in my head for a little while, and decided to take the plunge. Got a host, got a domain name. Then started to mess with it...and it all crashed horribly. Apparently the primary file for my account was deleted somehow. I'm sure I did, just don't know how, and hope it doesn't happen again. So I'm waiting for that to get fixed.
Jimmy just called me. He sent Damion's mother a text letting her know that Damion has an eye appointment Friday. She texted back that she won't be there because they were in an accident last night and their only vehicle isn't driveable.
So I ask Jimmy if Damion is ok, because Damion is with her right now. He doesn't know. He didn't ask! Is he just stupid? And WHY didn't she call to inform Jimmy that Damion was in an accident? She isn't allowed to leave Damion alone when he's with her, by court order, so he had to have been with her...
That whole situation really makes me mad! I try to tell myself NMKNMP (Not My Kid, Not My Problem), but it's hard! I love Damion as if he were my own.
Well, the snow is still falling. 6 years, 4 months, and 19 days until I can move...to Savannah, GA...where the snow doesn't fall.
Started snowing around 8 am. I can't get the mail until 9:30...and thought I'd wait until afternoon so the ice on the driveway would melt. Well, it's now covered. I can't go anywhere. I haven't left the house since last Friday. This is Tuesday. I've been snowed in ever since!
Musical practice was canceled--thank goodness, cause I was going to have to send Jimmy to get the girls after he got home from work. Now we'll see what happens tomorrow. We're supposed to get 3 inches overnight, and a low of 8 degrees. If nothing gets canceled, I'll have to get out and pick up Jessica at 5:00.
I've been tossing a website idea around in my head for a little while, and decided to take the plunge. Got a host, got a domain name. Then started to mess with it...and it all crashed horribly. Apparently the primary file for my account was deleted somehow. I'm sure I did, just don't know how, and hope it doesn't happen again. So I'm waiting for that to get fixed.
Jimmy just called me. He sent Damion's mother a text letting her know that Damion has an eye appointment Friday. She texted back that she won't be there because they were in an accident last night and their only vehicle isn't driveable.
So I ask Jimmy if Damion is ok, because Damion is with her right now. He doesn't know. He didn't ask! Is he just stupid? And WHY didn't she call to inform Jimmy that Damion was in an accident? She isn't allowed to leave Damion alone when he's with her, by court order, so he had to have been with her...
That whole situation really makes me mad! I try to tell myself NMKNMP (Not My Kid, Not My Problem), but it's hard! I love Damion as if he were my own.
Well, the snow is still falling. 6 years, 4 months, and 19 days until I can move...to Savannah, GA...where the snow doesn't fall.
Taxes & sleeping in!
Our taxes are DONE, and filed. The IRS isn't accepting returns until the 16th, so the federal will automatically be filed on that date. But for Ohio is accepting returns now, just waiting to hear that it's been accepted.
I stayed up late last night getting everything finished. So late, in fact, that I don't remember Jimmy waking me up this morning...he said he told me goodbye. I depend on that, because 75% of the time I just get up rather than wait another 20-30 minutes for the alarm. Well, guess what? I didn't hear the alarm either.
Ashlea came downstairs, just as I woke up. I assumed Jimmy was still here, and asked her why she was up so early. She said...it's getting light out, shouldn't we all be up? PANIC! It was 7:14! Ashlea's bus comes at 7:30. She's fast, so she made it.
Jessica refused to get up until 7:46, and the van picks her up at 8. She made it, too...but I hate when she does that. At least she didn't complain about breakfast this morning. She'll eat at school.
It's going to get very cold this week. Tonight, 8 degrees. Thursday, 2 degrees. Friday's high will only be 13. Jimmy put Lily out last night--we brought her in Friday when it was so wet, so she could be dry. But she'll be coming back in tonight, and staying through the weekend because of the cold. It's not fit for man nor beast out there!
We did get the driveway shoveled yesterday. The girls and I did some, and then Jimmy was out there at 8 pm finishing it up. I should be able to make it back up. I guess I'll find out this afternoon when I go out to get the mail. We haven't gotten the mail since Friday!
Have a great day!
I stayed up late last night getting everything finished. So late, in fact, that I don't remember Jimmy waking me up this morning...he said he told me goodbye. I depend on that, because 75% of the time I just get up rather than wait another 20-30 minutes for the alarm. Well, guess what? I didn't hear the alarm either.
Ashlea came downstairs, just as I woke up. I assumed Jimmy was still here, and asked her why she was up so early. She said...it's getting light out, shouldn't we all be up? PANIC! It was 7:14! Ashlea's bus comes at 7:30. She's fast, so she made it.
Jessica refused to get up until 7:46, and the van picks her up at 8. She made it, too...but I hate when she does that. At least she didn't complain about breakfast this morning. She'll eat at school.
It's going to get very cold this week. Tonight, 8 degrees. Thursday, 2 degrees. Friday's high will only be 13. Jimmy put Lily out last night--we brought her in Friday when it was so wet, so she could be dry. But she'll be coming back in tonight, and staying through the weekend because of the cold. It's not fit for man nor beast out there!
We did get the driveway shoveled yesterday. The girls and I did some, and then Jimmy was out there at 8 pm finishing it up. I should be able to make it back up. I guess I'll find out this afternoon when I go out to get the mail. We haven't gotten the mail since Friday!
Have a great day!
Monday, January 12, 2009
Monday, at last!
The weekend was very long. Snowed in, with two very moody teen/preteen girls. I wouldn't wish it on anyone.
Thursday was my birthday. I'm 29 for the 6th time...or 35 if you're math challenged. Another year older and hopefully a tiny bit wiser. I hate getting older, but apparently there's no cure for it yet. lol
We were forecasted to have 8-10 inches of snow beginning late Friday night. The snow started 7 hours earlier than predicted, and stopped almost 24 hours hours earlier than predicted. We ended up with 2-3 inches, and some ice. 2 inches or 10 inches doesn't matter much to me. I'm snowed in regardless, as I can't drive up my driveway with more than about 1/2 inch of snow.
This morning we had the usual school-day-morning drama with Jessica. She hates to get up. She hates to do anything that pulls her out of her world. She couldn't care less what she looks like, or if her hair is done. Getting ready for school throws all of these things together, and it's not pretty.
The big dramas for her today were:
1) Couldn't find socks. When I told her that she took several pair up to put away yesterday, she broke into tears and said I didn't believe her. At that point, I switch gears, and tell her that I believe she can't find any, so she can either find some, or go without, but she's going to school in 20 minutes either way. Then she yelled that I don't believe her again, and that it's not that she can't find any, but that she doesn't have any. 3 minutes later, she had on socks.
2) Couldn't find shoes. She asks if I've seen them. I tell her I have not, which causes her to cry and tell me that she knows they aren't anywhere, that someone has taken them, and why don't I believe her? I saw her next about 3-4 minutes later, with shoes on.
3) She wants a bowl for cereal. I explain that she has to take her meds, and I need to fix her hair, and she doesn't have time for cereal as she has to leave in 8 minutes. The school offers free breakfast to every child, and she usually eats there, I reminded her of that. I also reminded her that if she wants to eat breakfast she needs to get up earlier. Which caused her to cry that she was up at 7:00, watching Ben 10 so should have plenty of time for breakfast at home. Then she went into a whining, crying, drama fest that I lied about the time earlier. (It was exactly 7:22, but I told her it was 7:30) and that if I hadn't lied to her she might have time to eat breakfast. (Which has absolutely nothing to do with anything, except in her mind...somehow...) I told her she has options. She can A) Get up and dressed at 6:30, then eat breakfast while watching Ben 10, then finish getting ready. Or...B) Not start getting dressed/ready until 7:30 and eat at school. She doesn't like either option. In her mind, she's up at 7--and the fact that she spends 30 minutes watching TV has no bearing on time at all.
Life sure is fun around here sometimes...NOT!
Today, we're having snow showers off and on. I'm not going anywhere. I should go get the mail, but it's not worth the walk up the icy hill when I get home. Tomorrow, the girls have musical practice...so I might have Jimmy take my car to work, that way he can pick them up on his way home, and I still won't have to go out. lol Wednesday I will HAVE to go out, as Jessica has musical practice, but only until 5:00.
Have a good week, everyone!
Thursday was my birthday. I'm 29 for the 6th time...or 35 if you're math challenged. Another year older and hopefully a tiny bit wiser. I hate getting older, but apparently there's no cure for it yet. lol
We were forecasted to have 8-10 inches of snow beginning late Friday night. The snow started 7 hours earlier than predicted, and stopped almost 24 hours hours earlier than predicted. We ended up with 2-3 inches, and some ice. 2 inches or 10 inches doesn't matter much to me. I'm snowed in regardless, as I can't drive up my driveway with more than about 1/2 inch of snow.
This morning we had the usual school-day-morning drama with Jessica. She hates to get up. She hates to do anything that pulls her out of her world. She couldn't care less what she looks like, or if her hair is done. Getting ready for school throws all of these things together, and it's not pretty.
The big dramas for her today were:
1) Couldn't find socks. When I told her that she took several pair up to put away yesterday, she broke into tears and said I didn't believe her. At that point, I switch gears, and tell her that I believe she can't find any, so she can either find some, or go without, but she's going to school in 20 minutes either way. Then she yelled that I don't believe her again, and that it's not that she can't find any, but that she doesn't have any. 3 minutes later, she had on socks.
2) Couldn't find shoes. She asks if I've seen them. I tell her I have not, which causes her to cry and tell me that she knows they aren't anywhere, that someone has taken them, and why don't I believe her? I saw her next about 3-4 minutes later, with shoes on.
3) She wants a bowl for cereal. I explain that she has to take her meds, and I need to fix her hair, and she doesn't have time for cereal as she has to leave in 8 minutes. The school offers free breakfast to every child, and she usually eats there, I reminded her of that. I also reminded her that if she wants to eat breakfast she needs to get up earlier. Which caused her to cry that she was up at 7:00, watching Ben 10 so should have plenty of time for breakfast at home. Then she went into a whining, crying, drama fest that I lied about the time earlier. (It was exactly 7:22, but I told her it was 7:30) and that if I hadn't lied to her she might have time to eat breakfast. (Which has absolutely nothing to do with anything, except in her mind...somehow...) I told her she has options. She can A) Get up and dressed at 6:30, then eat breakfast while watching Ben 10, then finish getting ready. Or...B) Not start getting dressed/ready until 7:30 and eat at school. She doesn't like either option. In her mind, she's up at 7--and the fact that she spends 30 minutes watching TV has no bearing on time at all.
Life sure is fun around here sometimes...NOT!
Today, we're having snow showers off and on. I'm not going anywhere. I should go get the mail, but it's not worth the walk up the icy hill when I get home. Tomorrow, the girls have musical practice...so I might have Jimmy take my car to work, that way he can pick them up on his way home, and I still won't have to go out. lol Wednesday I will HAVE to go out, as Jessica has musical practice, but only until 5:00.
Have a good week, everyone!
Tuesday, January 06, 2009
Can you hear the quiet?
Other than noisy Lily, outside barking for no reason, I'm in peaceful quiet. The kids went back to school yesterday, and Jimmy went back to work. but I had errands...so I didn't get to enjoy it.
Today, I'm doing NOTHING, for a few hours anyway. Jessica has an appointment, so I have to pick her up from school early, and will be gone until late evening.
Yesterday was Damion's birthday. Since his cake was gone, I made a big chocolate chip cookie. :) We all had a piece of it after dinner. We got him a wrestling game for the Wii, in addition to the things he got early over the weekend. At 7:00, his mother picked him up, and he'll be there for over a week!
I hurt myself with the Wii. It's a great workout, but I'm so horribly sore today that I'm not going near it. I can barely dress myself! LOL
We're supposed to have freezing rain today, and the weather map shows that it's right on top of us, but I haven't seen anything. It's dry as can be outside.
Musical practice starts this week. For the next 2-3 months, our lives will be wrapped up in that. The girls love it, but it makes for some very long days for them. Practice runs from 3:30-5:30 or 3:30-6:30, and they'll practice from 2-4 days a week. I bought snacks for them to pack, as they'll be very hungry. Ashlea has lunch at 10 am!
All the crabs are up. I did make a mistake in a previous post...when I said all had molted. The two Ecuadorian crabs have not molted yet. They've been with us since September. The other 8 crabs are Purple Pinchers, and they have all molted. :) It's great to look in the tank and see 8-10 crabs crawling around, playing, eating, taking a dip in a pool, or just laying around soaking up heat. Sometimes one or two will go under the sand for a day or so, but they are just resting.
Now I have to get to know all the little ones...we had them named, but then they buried for molting, and we've forgotten who is who. Once we get to know them, we will name them again. :)
I sure hope everyone is having a great new year!
Today, I'm doing NOTHING, for a few hours anyway. Jessica has an appointment, so I have to pick her up from school early, and will be gone until late evening.
Yesterday was Damion's birthday. Since his cake was gone, I made a big chocolate chip cookie. :) We all had a piece of it after dinner. We got him a wrestling game for the Wii, in addition to the things he got early over the weekend. At 7:00, his mother picked him up, and he'll be there for over a week!
I hurt myself with the Wii. It's a great workout, but I'm so horribly sore today that I'm not going near it. I can barely dress myself! LOL
We're supposed to have freezing rain today, and the weather map shows that it's right on top of us, but I haven't seen anything. It's dry as can be outside.
Musical practice starts this week. For the next 2-3 months, our lives will be wrapped up in that. The girls love it, but it makes for some very long days for them. Practice runs from 3:30-5:30 or 3:30-6:30, and they'll practice from 2-4 days a week. I bought snacks for them to pack, as they'll be very hungry. Ashlea has lunch at 10 am!
All the crabs are up. I did make a mistake in a previous post...when I said all had molted. The two Ecuadorian crabs have not molted yet. They've been with us since September. The other 8 crabs are Purple Pinchers, and they have all molted. :) It's great to look in the tank and see 8-10 crabs crawling around, playing, eating, taking a dip in a pool, or just laying around soaking up heat. Sometimes one or two will go under the sand for a day or so, but they are just resting.
Now I have to get to know all the little ones...we had them named, but then they buried for molting, and we've forgotten who is who. Once we get to know them, we will name them again. :)
I sure hope everyone is having a great new year!
Friday, January 02, 2009
Impromptu birthday party!
Today started as any other day. Then Jessica asked if her best friend could sleep over. No problem. Then I had an idea...since Damion's birthday is Monday, why not let him invite a couple friends to sleep over. Then I realized that Ashlea would be left out, so she invited her best friend. We ended up with a total of 7 kids!
Damion has NEVER had a birthday party before. He was so happy and excited, and it's been just awesome watching him enjoy everything. I made his cake, we ordered pizza, got chips and pop. The kids have had so much fun.
Damion doesn't play games. Hates games...other than video games. I asked if anyone wanted to play Yahtzee, and Damion and Cody volunteered to play. Neither knew how to play, and hadn't ever played before. Damion ended up winning! That was great, because now he has a game that he likes :)
They've taken turns playing Wii--and even Jimmy had to play against them. The girls all did make overs on each other. It's been noisy...it's 10:00, and they're still all playing and carrying on, but they're getting along and having fun.
Damion has NEVER had a birthday party before. He was so happy and excited, and it's been just awesome watching him enjoy everything. I made his cake, we ordered pizza, got chips and pop. The kids have had so much fun.
Damion doesn't play games. Hates games...other than video games. I asked if anyone wanted to play Yahtzee, and Damion and Cody volunteered to play. Neither knew how to play, and hadn't ever played before. Damion ended up winning! That was great, because now he has a game that he likes :)
They've taken turns playing Wii--and even Jimmy had to play against them. The girls all did make overs on each other. It's been noisy...it's 10:00, and they're still all playing and carrying on, but they're getting along and having fun.
Damion's friends playing Wii baseball, while Jessica and her friend watch.
Everyone waiting for Jimmy to light the candles.
Damion just before he blew them out. He looks so happy!
Damion trying out his Walls overalls and coat :) He really liked them.
How can you not love them?
Above is Mr. Crabs. He is the biggest crab that I have, and has an awesome personality. He is a little bigger than a golf ball.
Can't you see him just saying "Please love me!"??? He's so cute! This is one of my Ecuadorians. We haven't named them, because they're both in the same color shell, and refuse to change into new ones. He is about the size of a 1 inch ball with his shell on.
Friday morning musings
Yesterday was a good day. New Year's Day doesn't seem like a holiday to me. It's just another day. Although I do try to have fun on New Year's Eve, and make it a big deal for the kids :)
We went shopping for Damion's birthday, and I got some new shells for my crabs at Petco. It's very hard to find shells in pet stores...even ones that sell a lot of crabs. Petco had a very small selection, less than 15 shells, and only 2 types, most were the same size. The best place is to go online. I usually buy from thecrabbagepatch.com.
Damion will 13 on Monday. He's turning into a young man, even his voice is changing already! It's been a very long 13 years, but the struggles have been worth it. Other than the typical--so everyone tells me--teenage stupidity, he's a pretty great kid, despite all that he's been through. We still worry about the next 10 years, but we're hopeful.
Today, I'm going to make his favorite birthday cake. Chocolate cake, filled with strawberry ice cream, and frosted with Cool Whip. He's had it for the last 3 years, and requested it again for this year. It's soooo good! He'll be with his mother Tuesday and Wednesday, so we want him to enjoy his birthday for this whole weekend :)
I hope he likes his gifts! We got him noise canceling ear muffs for shooting, 2 boxes of shells, insulated overalls and a matching coat. He'll get those things today, and then on Monday we'll give him another gift to open...yet to be determined. lol Whenever we celebrate the kids' birthdays on a different day, we make sure they have a gift to open on their actual birthday.
I must share that I made Paula Dean's Chocolate Gooey Butter Cookies last night. They are TO DIE FOR! My sister, Rachael, made them last weekend, and they were the best cookies I've ever had in my entire life. If you like chocolate, you'll love these cookies!
Trying to work and post here at the same time isn't working out very well. So I'd better go for now, and get back to work!
We went shopping for Damion's birthday, and I got some new shells for my crabs at Petco. It's very hard to find shells in pet stores...even ones that sell a lot of crabs. Petco had a very small selection, less than 15 shells, and only 2 types, most were the same size. The best place is to go online. I usually buy from thecrabbagepatch.com.
Damion will 13 on Monday. He's turning into a young man, even his voice is changing already! It's been a very long 13 years, but the struggles have been worth it. Other than the typical--so everyone tells me--teenage stupidity, he's a pretty great kid, despite all that he's been through. We still worry about the next 10 years, but we're hopeful.
Today, I'm going to make his favorite birthday cake. Chocolate cake, filled with strawberry ice cream, and frosted with Cool Whip. He's had it for the last 3 years, and requested it again for this year. It's soooo good! He'll be with his mother Tuesday and Wednesday, so we want him to enjoy his birthday for this whole weekend :)
I hope he likes his gifts! We got him noise canceling ear muffs for shooting, 2 boxes of shells, insulated overalls and a matching coat. He'll get those things today, and then on Monday we'll give him another gift to open...yet to be determined. lol Whenever we celebrate the kids' birthdays on a different day, we make sure they have a gift to open on their actual birthday.
I must share that I made Paula Dean's Chocolate Gooey Butter Cookies last night. They are TO DIE FOR! My sister, Rachael, made them last weekend, and they were the best cookies I've ever had in my entire life. If you like chocolate, you'll love these cookies!
Trying to work and post here at the same time isn't working out very well. So I'd better go for now, and get back to work!
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
More crabs surfaced today!
If you don't know how much I love and enjoy my crabs by now...well, you must be hiding under a rock or something. lol
Last night, I rearranged the crabitat and filled in holes that they had dug. Change is good for them, because in the wild, the scenery changes often due to the beach environment. We had 6...we've had 6 up for a couple weeks or so now. I noticed Mr. Crabs seemed to be missing this morning--he's currently in a pearly white shell. But I still counted 6, and his shell wasn't laying empty anywhere, so I thought there was another that had surfaced.
I was just watching them again, and saw one in a dirty shell...small one...I kept looking at it...and counted crabs. There are EIGHT above ground now, and Mr. Crabs isn't there...which means there are 9 healthy crabs :) Waiting on one more to surface, and then I will really, really celebrate!
Oh, and in case you're wondering, Mr. Crabs is fine. He's likely buried to de-stress since the tank was emptied of all his toys last night. lol It doesn't take much to stress out a crab :) He'll be back up in a day or so--maybe even tonight.
Caring for crabs isn't easy. I've said that before...but really, I read forums dedicated to crab owners, and many die shortly after being brought home--as moving is stressful on them. None of mine have. Many more die when they molt--as molting is very stressful. None of mine have! I've had NINE successful molts! (And hopefully #10 will surface in the next day or two!)
Conditions in the tank have to be absolutely perfect for crabs to survive. We've had Hermie since October 2007...and didn't know a thing! I'm so glad he lived until we learned. Then we got Mr. Crabs in January. I got 4 more in September, and 4 more in October.
Once #10 surfaces...I'm going to get a couple more. 2 at a time this time. :)
My family looks at me like I'm crazy. I brought them all around the tank, shining my flashlight on the crabs-one by one-and counting them all off. They nod, and say "yeah, that's nice". I know they're just putting up with me...and they don't really care...but when I say that I'm excited, I mean I'm really excited! LOL It's a huge accomplishment.
Now, on to other things.
1) We had a huge thunderstorm last night. The thunder woke us all up. It was so loud, I thought something had exploded. Then there was ice hitting the bedroom window later. I woke up at 9:00 this morning to snow covering everything, and still falling. Thank goodness we didn't get much accumulation because....
2) I had to go to Wal Mart. We were out of everything, and I needed groceries! In the future, I will do everything possible to avoid shopping on New Year's Eve. It's worse than Christmas! I had to leave the girls with the cart while I went up and down aisles picking things up, then running back to the cart to deposit them. Insane doesn't even begin to describe the chaos.
3) Tonight is New Year's Eve. We're having strip steaks, cold shrimp with cocktail sauce, and Pringles. lol We're going to play Yahtzee, Wii, and have a good time together. The girls are very excited. This is the one night they get to stay up until midnight. Let's see if they make it! Heck, I can't wait to see if Jimmy can make it. This will be our 13th New Year's Eve together, and he's NEVER stayed up until midnight. He can do it on other nights...but never does on the one that counts!
There's food and fun waiting for me in the kitchen, so I'll blog at y'all next year!
Last night, I rearranged the crabitat and filled in holes that they had dug. Change is good for them, because in the wild, the scenery changes often due to the beach environment. We had 6...we've had 6 up for a couple weeks or so now. I noticed Mr. Crabs seemed to be missing this morning--he's currently in a pearly white shell. But I still counted 6, and his shell wasn't laying empty anywhere, so I thought there was another that had surfaced.
I was just watching them again, and saw one in a dirty shell...small one...I kept looking at it...and counted crabs. There are EIGHT above ground now, and Mr. Crabs isn't there...which means there are 9 healthy crabs :) Waiting on one more to surface, and then I will really, really celebrate!
Oh, and in case you're wondering, Mr. Crabs is fine. He's likely buried to de-stress since the tank was emptied of all his toys last night. lol It doesn't take much to stress out a crab :) He'll be back up in a day or so--maybe even tonight.
Caring for crabs isn't easy. I've said that before...but really, I read forums dedicated to crab owners, and many die shortly after being brought home--as moving is stressful on them. None of mine have. Many more die when they molt--as molting is very stressful. None of mine have! I've had NINE successful molts! (And hopefully #10 will surface in the next day or two!)
Conditions in the tank have to be absolutely perfect for crabs to survive. We've had Hermie since October 2007...and didn't know a thing! I'm so glad he lived until we learned. Then we got Mr. Crabs in January. I got 4 more in September, and 4 more in October.
Once #10 surfaces...I'm going to get a couple more. 2 at a time this time. :)
My family looks at me like I'm crazy. I brought them all around the tank, shining my flashlight on the crabs-one by one-and counting them all off. They nod, and say "yeah, that's nice". I know they're just putting up with me...and they don't really care...but when I say that I'm excited, I mean I'm really excited! LOL It's a huge accomplishment.
Now, on to other things.
1) We had a huge thunderstorm last night. The thunder woke us all up. It was so loud, I thought something had exploded. Then there was ice hitting the bedroom window later. I woke up at 9:00 this morning to snow covering everything, and still falling. Thank goodness we didn't get much accumulation because....
2) I had to go to Wal Mart. We were out of everything, and I needed groceries! In the future, I will do everything possible to avoid shopping on New Year's Eve. It's worse than Christmas! I had to leave the girls with the cart while I went up and down aisles picking things up, then running back to the cart to deposit them. Insane doesn't even begin to describe the chaos.
3) Tonight is New Year's Eve. We're having strip steaks, cold shrimp with cocktail sauce, and Pringles. lol We're going to play Yahtzee, Wii, and have a good time together. The girls are very excited. This is the one night they get to stay up until midnight. Let's see if they make it! Heck, I can't wait to see if Jimmy can make it. This will be our 13th New Year's Eve together, and he's NEVER stayed up until midnight. He can do it on other nights...but never does on the one that counts!
There's food and fun waiting for me in the kitchen, so I'll blog at y'all next year!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Updates :)
Friday, we had a Christmas gathering at my sister's. She is an awesome hostess, and her home is beautiful. We all had a great time. Had to take the Wii, and everyone had a good time trying it out. She wants one, so I hope she gets one soon! Here are some pictures:
I'm waiting for the kids to go back to school! Two weeks is too long! Yesterday, they played Wii all day. We went out to dinner after Jimmy got home from work. Only to Eat 'N Park, but at least I didn't have to cook! Today, Jessica was in a very bad mood this morning. ***Note to all teens...it doesn't serve you well to start the day by screaming at your mom!*** This afternoon was better, and I made pepperoni rolls.
I started with Marsha's dinner roll recipe, and made a double batch. Used 1 pound of mozzarella and a little baggy of pepperoni--are those 8 ounces? Anyway, it worked out perfectly. I did another batch after the first, and took some pictures to share with you.
And here is the finished product. They are so soft, and delicious!
Here's Jessica...sort of gazing into space. She loves her new riding boots, though!
What is with everyone looking so bored? Jimmy is on the left, my mom is in the middle, and my brother-in-law, Jeremy, is on the right.
Ashlea's looking at the tabletop pinball game that she received. I told my sister, Rachael, that when she has kids, her living room will look like this all the time!
Here is Jeremy again, my step-father, Reid, and Rachael. The guys are admiring tools and a new electric razor. Doesn't take much to entertain the men I guess.
This picture wasn't from Rachael's house...but was taken by Ashlea with her new camera at our house on Christmas morning. We look so lovely in the morning, don't we? LOL If you're wondering...it's the crabitat behind us.
I'm waiting for the kids to go back to school! Two weeks is too long! Yesterday, they played Wii all day. We went out to dinner after Jimmy got home from work. Only to Eat 'N Park, but at least I didn't have to cook! Today, Jessica was in a very bad mood this morning. ***Note to all teens...it doesn't serve you well to start the day by screaming at your mom!*** This afternoon was better, and I made pepperoni rolls.
I started with Marsha's dinner roll recipe, and made a double batch. Used 1 pound of mozzarella and a little baggy of pepperoni--are those 8 ounces? Anyway, it worked out perfectly. I did another batch after the first, and took some pictures to share with you.
Double batch of dinner roll dough, after raising about 2 hours.
I cut off chunks, a little smaller than a tennis ball.
Then roll them out into a circle-like shape.
Add a few slices of pepperoni and a pinch of cheese.
Then roll them from one side to the other, and fold over the ends.
Put folded side down on a greased cookie sheet--I always line mine with foil. Easier clean up.
I don't generally let them rise again, but let them rest about 10 minutes before putting in the oven at 400 degrees. They puff up in the oven.
And here is the finished product. They are so soft, and delicious!
Sunday, December 28, 2008
I am NOT a loser!
Ok, so I lost a few games of Wii tennis...does that mean the game has to call me a LOSER? I think not! Hrmph! After all, I did completely finish all levels of the career hunt on Cabela's Big Game Hunter...no one else could get past level one. HAHAHAHA!!!! That lion at the end is a real...killer...pun intended!
Apparently, I'm better with guns and crossbows than I am with a tennis racket.
Just wanted to share :)
Apparently, I'm better with guns and crossbows than I am with a tennis racket.
Just wanted to share :)
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Christmas! YAY!
I can't believe it's almost over. We had a great day. It started when my alarm went off at 6:45am. I forgot to shut off my phone. I use the phone as an alarm clock, and it's set to go off Monday-Friday. I've been turning it off at night, but I forgot. lol
Anyway, when I woke up, I heard the kids upstairs giggling with excitement. Apparently, Jessica was awake at 1am, 2am, and 5 am. lol She stayed awake at 5 am, and I'd told them not to wake us up until 7. Well, at 7 nearly on the dot, they came downstairs :)
So far, here's the tally:
We did a Wii as a family gift. The kids were ECSTATIC!!!! Original plan was to give them each their own, but they decided they'd rather have one big gift to share, and have more individual gifts rather than each having a huge gift and very little else. Even when they realized today that they'd voted not to have their own Wii's, they were very happy with how it worked out :)
Jessica-Nintendo DS, Hannah Montana game, DS accessory kit, 2 Fatheads (of Hannah Montana), Disney Sing It for Wii, 2 microphones for Wii, Ben 10 for Wii, 3 shirts, 3 pair of jeans, perfume, body wash, lotions, lip gloss, 3 tiny Cabbage Patch Snugglies, pajamas, robe, slippers, and I know there was more...just can't remember it all. lol
Damion-12 gauge shotgun, shells, wolf dream catcher, 6 shirts, robe, slippers, Battle of the Pacific for Wii, Cabela's Big Game Hunter for Wii, cologne, sweats, and again, I know there was more...
Ashlea-10 MP camera, a Caboodles case, 3 shirts, jammies, robe, slippers, hair curlers, Banana Blitz for Wii, Littlest Petshop game for Wii, 3 of the Cabbage Patch Snugglies, perfume, lip gloss, 4 Littlest Petshop Pets, and yet again...I can't remember it all. lol
The kids got Jimmy Ritz crackers, a sausage, cheese log, spicy mustard, and beef jerkey. I got him sweats, the new Guns 'N Roses CD, 2 shirts, a can of potted meat--story behind that one. He wanted a CD from the John Boy and Billy Show called Potted Meat. It's the Carl Childers Album (movie, Slingblade). So, I bought that CD and another one from their show, and a can of actual potted meat. I wrapped the tiny can in about 15 or 20 plastic bags...so it was a huge ball, and then wrapped in wrapping paper. We had so much fun laughing as he was unwrapping it all! LOL
I got...and I don't know from who as I don't remember what was written on each tag...The Christmas Sweater (book), Scarpetta (book), a Mio GPS!!!!! I have wanted a GPS for a long time, a candle, and candy. :)
We had a nice ham dinner--no thanks to QVC and Kansas City Steaks, who guaranteed our ham would be here yesterday. We checked the tracking yesterday afternoon, and saw it had just left Indianapolis at 12:30 pm. No way would we get it until Friday. QVC has refunded our money, and we get a free ham...whenever it gets here. But we made due with a great honey ham from Kroger :) It was delicious!
After playing with the Wii most of the day, we went for a drive to try out the new GPS. Jimmy said he wanted to go on some backroads and see how well it worked. So...we did. We found some REAL back roads. We're driving down this one road...get to a sign that says "NO WINTER MAINTENANCE" so we knew that no one lived on the road...all of a sudden the road was gone, and there was a rushing creek flowing right across it! We got out, stretched our legs, and Ashlea took some pictures with her camera. We did have just barely enough room to turn around. Otherwise, we'd have had to back up about a mile or so to where another road intersected.
Damion will leave in the morning to visit his mom for a week, so we're letting him get his fill of the Wii this evening :) He'll be back home next Friday. And he can't wait...he loves his shotgun, and the Wii. lol
Tomorrow, right after Damion leaves, we're heading to my sister's house for Christmas with my family. It will be a very fun day. The Wii is going with us. lol It gave Jimmy a workout today with just bowling and boxing. We'll have to be careful so we don't get any Wii-related injuries. :) Apparently, it's very common.
I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas, and I wish you all the happiest of New Year's.
Anyway, when I woke up, I heard the kids upstairs giggling with excitement. Apparently, Jessica was awake at 1am, 2am, and 5 am. lol She stayed awake at 5 am, and I'd told them not to wake us up until 7. Well, at 7 nearly on the dot, they came downstairs :)
So far, here's the tally:
We did a Wii as a family gift. The kids were ECSTATIC!!!! Original plan was to give them each their own, but they decided they'd rather have one big gift to share, and have more individual gifts rather than each having a huge gift and very little else. Even when they realized today that they'd voted not to have their own Wii's, they were very happy with how it worked out :)
Jessica-Nintendo DS, Hannah Montana game, DS accessory kit, 2 Fatheads (of Hannah Montana), Disney Sing It for Wii, 2 microphones for Wii, Ben 10 for Wii, 3 shirts, 3 pair of jeans, perfume, body wash, lotions, lip gloss, 3 tiny Cabbage Patch Snugglies, pajamas, robe, slippers, and I know there was more...just can't remember it all. lol
Damion-12 gauge shotgun, shells, wolf dream catcher, 6 shirts, robe, slippers, Battle of the Pacific for Wii, Cabela's Big Game Hunter for Wii, cologne, sweats, and again, I know there was more...
Ashlea-10 MP camera, a Caboodles case, 3 shirts, jammies, robe, slippers, hair curlers, Banana Blitz for Wii, Littlest Petshop game for Wii, 3 of the Cabbage Patch Snugglies, perfume, lip gloss, 4 Littlest Petshop Pets, and yet again...I can't remember it all. lol
The kids got Jimmy Ritz crackers, a sausage, cheese log, spicy mustard, and beef jerkey. I got him sweats, the new Guns 'N Roses CD, 2 shirts, a can of potted meat--story behind that one. He wanted a CD from the John Boy and Billy Show called Potted Meat. It's the Carl Childers Album (movie, Slingblade). So, I bought that CD and another one from their show, and a can of actual potted meat. I wrapped the tiny can in about 15 or 20 plastic bags...so it was a huge ball, and then wrapped in wrapping paper. We had so much fun laughing as he was unwrapping it all! LOL
I got...and I don't know from who as I don't remember what was written on each tag...The Christmas Sweater (book), Scarpetta (book), a Mio GPS!!!!! I have wanted a GPS for a long time, a candle, and candy. :)
We had a nice ham dinner--no thanks to QVC and Kansas City Steaks, who guaranteed our ham would be here yesterday. We checked the tracking yesterday afternoon, and saw it had just left Indianapolis at 12:30 pm. No way would we get it until Friday. QVC has refunded our money, and we get a free ham...whenever it gets here. But we made due with a great honey ham from Kroger :) It was delicious!
After playing with the Wii most of the day, we went for a drive to try out the new GPS. Jimmy said he wanted to go on some backroads and see how well it worked. So...we did. We found some REAL back roads. We're driving down this one road...get to a sign that says "NO WINTER MAINTENANCE" so we knew that no one lived on the road...all of a sudden the road was gone, and there was a rushing creek flowing right across it! We got out, stretched our legs, and Ashlea took some pictures with her camera. We did have just barely enough room to turn around. Otherwise, we'd have had to back up about a mile or so to where another road intersected.
Damion will leave in the morning to visit his mom for a week, so we're letting him get his fill of the Wii this evening :) He'll be back home next Friday. And he can't wait...he loves his shotgun, and the Wii. lol
Tomorrow, right after Damion leaves, we're heading to my sister's house for Christmas with my family. It will be a very fun day. The Wii is going with us. lol It gave Jimmy a workout today with just bowling and boxing. We'll have to be careful so we don't get any Wii-related injuries. :) Apparently, it's very common.
I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas, and I wish you all the happiest of New Year's.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
It's here! It's here! Christmas is here!
I've been waiting for today FOREVER! Christmas Eve!
We haven't done much decorating this year...and I was sad about that. I didn't do any decorations last year except the tree, because we were all sad about Jimmy being in Iraq for Christmas. And this year I wanted it to be so much nicer. But it didn't happen, until last night!
Ashlea and I stayed up after everyone else went to bed. We cleaned, and decorated! It was a big surprise for the rest of the family this morning :) That really got us all feeling cheery.
Around midnight Ashlea and I tried to go to Wal Mart. We made it as far as the sidewalk outside our door...and everything was ice. So we came in, and went to bed. First thing this morning, I sent Jimmy to get the few things that I needed for baking today and dinner tomorrow :) He's a good sport. lol
We also went out to see some lights after dinner yesterday. There's a family nearby that does a light show set to music, and broadcasts the music on a short wave FM station. It is awesome. We sat there for about 20 minutes or so. Santa came by while we were there to wish us all a Merry Christmas. Ashlea tried to hide from him. He told Jessica he's keeping his eye on her...and she said that Ashlea's the bad one. He laughed. We drove through Toronto looking at lights, and then came home.
So far, Christmas is going great! Today, I'm baking, and enjoying the day with my family.
We haven't done much decorating this year...and I was sad about that. I didn't do any decorations last year except the tree, because we were all sad about Jimmy being in Iraq for Christmas. And this year I wanted it to be so much nicer. But it didn't happen, until last night!
Ashlea and I stayed up after everyone else went to bed. We cleaned, and decorated! It was a big surprise for the rest of the family this morning :) That really got us all feeling cheery.
Around midnight Ashlea and I tried to go to Wal Mart. We made it as far as the sidewalk outside our door...and everything was ice. So we came in, and went to bed. First thing this morning, I sent Jimmy to get the few things that I needed for baking today and dinner tomorrow :) He's a good sport. lol
We also went out to see some lights after dinner yesterday. There's a family nearby that does a light show set to music, and broadcasts the music on a short wave FM station. It is awesome. We sat there for about 20 minutes or so. Santa came by while we were there to wish us all a Merry Christmas. Ashlea tried to hide from him. He told Jessica he's keeping his eye on her...and she said that Ashlea's the bad one. He laughed. We drove through Toronto looking at lights, and then came home.
So far, Christmas is going great! Today, I'm baking, and enjoying the day with my family.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
It's almost Christmas!
Is anyone else getting really excited? When I was a kid, I'd get excited because there would be presents for me under the tree on Christmas morning. Now I get excited because there are presents for my kids on Christmas morning! LOL
I feel like I almost can't wait to see their faces when they first see the tree, or when they open their gifts. Is it ever going to get here?! 5 more days...5 more days...5 more days...seems like FOREVER!
This weekend has been boring so far. This morning I cooked breakfast for everyone. We had French toast and maple sausage. :) I worked a bit today, did some laundry, and wrapped some gifts. Pretty uneventful.
The village Christmas party was tonight. Jimmy took the kids to that, and they had a great time. This was the first year without a magician! The magician is always cheesy...but it's something they all look forward to. He was listed on the announcement, but wasn't there, and no explanation was given.
I'm glad they had a good time anyway :) They look forward to it every year. At some point, they'll think it's lame, and will want to be out with friends...keep them young as long as possible!
I feel like I almost can't wait to see their faces when they first see the tree, or when they open their gifts. Is it ever going to get here?! 5 more days...5 more days...5 more days...seems like FOREVER!
This weekend has been boring so far. This morning I cooked breakfast for everyone. We had French toast and maple sausage. :) I worked a bit today, did some laundry, and wrapped some gifts. Pretty uneventful.
The village Christmas party was tonight. Jimmy took the kids to that, and they had a great time. This was the first year without a magician! The magician is always cheesy...but it's something they all look forward to. He was listed on the announcement, but wasn't there, and no explanation was given.
I'm glad they had a good time anyway :) They look forward to it every year. At some point, they'll think it's lame, and will want to be out with friends...keep them young as long as possible!
Thursday, December 18, 2008
The Christmas Sweater
We took the girls to see The Christmas Sweater, Glenn Beck's Christmas performance. All I can say is WOW! And....I want the book! It was the most amazing performance...a one man play. And there was a message of redemption, forgiveness and hope...we all have storms to face, but God can see us through if we let him.
Here is the summary from the website:
"A 13-year-old boy is given a Christmas present by his single mother, the only thing she can afford: a sweater, which he scorns, having wanted a bicycle. He crumples the sweater into a ball and throws it on the floor of his room. When his mother dies in a freak car accident, Eddie is sent to live with his grandparents, with only the sweater to remember her by. Orphaned, bitter, angry and alone, Eddie is tormented by dreams of the way he treated his mother, until he meets someone who understands him: a next-door neighbor who may or may not actually exist. With Russell’s help, Eddie is able to come to see the sweater as something that will stay with him for the rest of his life, and ultimately it teaches him that the true meaning of a gift is that it is given with love."
It is a based-on-fact-story from Glenn's life. By the age of 13, Glenn was orphaned...both of his parents had died. His father from cancer, and his mother from a car accident. It took him until his 30's, when he had a dream...to get his life together. And until now to share the story.
A lot of people think of Glenn Beck as just another political talk show host...a big mouth, an opinionated conservative. The man is also a very compassionate Christian, who speaks from the heart, lead by God. He lives God's will for his life, and since making that choice, God has used him to reach out to many, many people.
If by chance you haven't heard of him, turn on his show. www.glennbeck.com can tell you what station he's on in your area. He'll likely be taking off next week, to spend Christmas with his family. Be sure to listen...he had a show on CNN's HNN channel (Headline News), that is ending, and in January he will have a show on FOX NEWS. The TV shows are completely different from his radio show. It's well worth checking out Glenn in both forums.
I'm left today still with tears in my eyes, and reflection in my thoughts. The message last night will stay with me forever.
Here is the summary from the website:
"A 13-year-old boy is given a Christmas present by his single mother, the only thing she can afford: a sweater, which he scorns, having wanted a bicycle. He crumples the sweater into a ball and throws it on the floor of his room. When his mother dies in a freak car accident, Eddie is sent to live with his grandparents, with only the sweater to remember her by. Orphaned, bitter, angry and alone, Eddie is tormented by dreams of the way he treated his mother, until he meets someone who understands him: a next-door neighbor who may or may not actually exist. With Russell’s help, Eddie is able to come to see the sweater as something that will stay with him for the rest of his life, and ultimately it teaches him that the true meaning of a gift is that it is given with love."
It is a based-on-fact-story from Glenn's life. By the age of 13, Glenn was orphaned...both of his parents had died. His father from cancer, and his mother from a car accident. It took him until his 30's, when he had a dream...to get his life together. And until now to share the story.
A lot of people think of Glenn Beck as just another political talk show host...a big mouth, an opinionated conservative. The man is also a very compassionate Christian, who speaks from the heart, lead by God. He lives God's will for his life, and since making that choice, God has used him to reach out to many, many people.
If by chance you haven't heard of him, turn on his show. www.glennbeck.com can tell you what station he's on in your area. He'll likely be taking off next week, to spend Christmas with his family. Be sure to listen...he had a show on CNN's HNN channel (Headline News), that is ending, and in January he will have a show on FOX NEWS. The TV shows are completely different from his radio show. It's well worth checking out Glenn in both forums.
I'm left today still with tears in my eyes, and reflection in my thoughts. The message last night will stay with me forever.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Spelling Bee!
I am so proud of Jessica and Ashlea! I think I wrote about it earlier, but Jessica took 1st place in the 7th grade spelling bee, and Ashlea took 1st place in the 6th grade spelling bee.
The school bee was held this week, and out of 32, the top 15 go on to the district spelling bee. Jessica came in 12th place...and Ashlea came in at 4th place! They BOTH will be in the district spelling bee on January 21.
I was extremely shocked, given that they hadn't studied the words for the school bee. But from now through January, they'll be studying the words for the district bee. There are 1500 words!
The school bee was held this week, and out of 32, the top 15 go on to the district spelling bee. Jessica came in 12th place...and Ashlea came in at 4th place! They BOTH will be in the district spelling bee on January 21.
I was extremely shocked, given that they hadn't studied the words for the school bee. But from now through January, they'll be studying the words for the district bee. There are 1500 words!
The top 15!
Jessica is in the back, in black.
Ashlea is front right, in stripes.
Jessica is in the back, in black.
Ashlea is front right, in stripes.
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Christmas Parade
Today was the Steubenville Christmas Parade. Damion participated with his scout troop, so we all went. It was 23 degrees, but we stood on the sunny side of the street. Bad for pictures...but good for some warmth! We had a great time.
We are in Steeler Country! And this is goes to show the lengths that Steelers' fans will go to show their pride and support!
As well as being Steeler Country, this is also farm country, so what parade could be complete without a John Deere?
Here are the girls, bundled up in several layers, waiting for the parade to start.
Here are the scouts! Damion is the center flag holder...with the American Flag. Our neighbor, and one of his best friends, is holding the Ohio flag.
And here's another one. Dan and Greg both realized were taking pictures :) Dan is the Scoutmaster, Greg is Assistant Scout Master. They're a great couple of guys.
Every parade needs a couple of classic cars. These two were my favorites.
These guys were trying to be the Blues Brothers or something...it was just odd. the guy facing the crowd, dressed in black, just jumped out of the car. lol
This scene is from A Christmas Story! My favorite movie! I WANT ONE OF THOSE LAMPS!
And here is the Eat 'n Park cookie guy. Isn't he cute?
We are in Steeler Country! And this is goes to show the lengths that Steelers' fans will go to show their pride and support!
These guys are re-enactors, and we thought their jeep was pretty cool :)
This next one is just plain weird...I get that it's an old ambulance, but...it's ugly. And what's up with having all the doors open while driving down the street? Some people...
As well as being Steeler Country, this is also farm country, so what parade could be complete without a John Deere?
This guy was riding on the trailer that the tractor was pulling...he must really like cows.
Our own local celebrity...Snowbird! Snowbird tells us when school is canceled on WTOV, News 9.
Of course the Shriners were present. I think their little cars are just so cute!
And this Volkswagon dune buggy was pretty cool, too.
Last, but certainly not least, is SANTA himself!
Christmas concert
The girls had a great Christmas concert. When I figure out video, I'll post a song or two :) But for now, here are some pictures.
Ashlea had a solo melody part with the alto clarinet. She is also in the 6th grade choir.
Jessica plays flute, and is also in the 7th&8th grade band.
Ashlea had a solo melody part with the alto clarinet. She is also in the 6th grade choir.
Jessica plays flute, and is also in the 7th&8th grade band.
Ashlea on stage with her alto clarinet:
Jessica, Jacqui, and Ashlea. Jacqui is Jessica's best friend.
Jessica at home before the concert.
Jessica on stage with her flute.
Ashlea and Alex. He's so cute! He posed for this specifically so that I would take his picture. He loves to have his picture taken.
Ashlea at home before the concert.
Sunday, December 07, 2008
The animals are running the zoo!
With temperatures in the teens this weekend, I brought Frank and Lily inside. I hate that they're outside dogs, and while they have lots of straw...and Frank has a warm doggy bed inside his box, I feel bad for them.
For those who don't know, our inside dogs are Rugs and Precious. They're less than 10 pounds each. Tiny little things. Frank is around 40 pounds...and Lily is at least 80, if not more.
Frank used to be an inside dog, so he knows how to act. But Lily...well that's another story. We had our first Lily related injury today, when she ran down the stairs behind Rugs. Rugs got scared, and tripped, hurting his already bad back leg. He's fine now. :)
Lily likes to lay on the couch, but takes up 2/3 of it. She's apparently found a nice sleeping spot on Ashlea's bed, and Ashlea doesn't mind at all. lol
Tomorrow, we'll be near 40 degrees, and they can go back outside. I can't wait until Tuesday and Wednesday when we'll be in the 50's! WOOHOO!!!! Get out the bikini's, tank tops, and flip flops!
More news on the crab front. Another crab has surfaced, and had a perfect molt! We now have 6 crabs crawling around above ground. It's much more interesting with more crabs. 4 of my 10 crabs have successfully molted, and couldn't be more excited!
The girls got their interim reports on Friday. Ashlea had one B, and the rest A's. The B was in math...and was caused by a D! a D! on a paper that she did. She "thought" she knew how to do it, and didn't read directions--common with kids who are bored in class. We discussed it, and the grade is already back to an A because of a test she took on Friday. But she's got to be more careful. Jessica has a D in math! Her actual grade is a D! She's missing an assignment, that she can...and WILL...do on Monday. All other grades were B's. They're great students :)
Hope everyone has a great week!!!
For those who don't know, our inside dogs are Rugs and Precious. They're less than 10 pounds each. Tiny little things. Frank is around 40 pounds...and Lily is at least 80, if not more.
Frank used to be an inside dog, so he knows how to act. But Lily...well that's another story. We had our first Lily related injury today, when she ran down the stairs behind Rugs. Rugs got scared, and tripped, hurting his already bad back leg. He's fine now. :)
Lily likes to lay on the couch, but takes up 2/3 of it. She's apparently found a nice sleeping spot on Ashlea's bed, and Ashlea doesn't mind at all. lol
Tomorrow, we'll be near 40 degrees, and they can go back outside. I can't wait until Tuesday and Wednesday when we'll be in the 50's! WOOHOO!!!! Get out the bikini's, tank tops, and flip flops!
More news on the crab front. Another crab has surfaced, and had a perfect molt! We now have 6 crabs crawling around above ground. It's much more interesting with more crabs. 4 of my 10 crabs have successfully molted, and couldn't be more excited!
The girls got their interim reports on Friday. Ashlea had one B, and the rest A's. The B was in math...and was caused by a D! a D! on a paper that she did. She "thought" she knew how to do it, and didn't read directions--common with kids who are bored in class. We discussed it, and the grade is already back to an A because of a test she took on Friday. But she's got to be more careful. Jessica has a D in math! Her actual grade is a D! She's missing an assignment, that she can...and WILL...do on Monday. All other grades were B's. They're great students :)
Hope everyone has a great week!!!
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