Enjoying Presents...

Well, Christmas is over, and we're trying to get the house back in order. Today will be a big cleaning day, as the house is still destroyed. And it's driving me NUTS. We did get the tv moved so that we have more room to play the Wii. And while I HATE the new layout, we had a blast playing last night. And yes...I'm VERY sore. LOL!

Clarissa LOVES the hair stuff her cousins got her, and she's asked for hair dye and extenstions every day. She really likes this look and was thrilled last night at the mall when people were commenting on her "punk rocker" hair.



Jacob has been bouncing from Legos to board games to Legos to his remote control car back to Legos. The Legos are by far is favorite gift. But since they are all currently in his bedroom and no girls are allowed in there (hee hee), I haven't taken a picture of that mess yet. Here he is doing his car. Don't mind the mess -- we're still trying to clean!

Christmas is officially over here.

Our Christmas celebrations started on the 20th of this month with Christmas in Ohio at my parents' house. Great fun was had by all, watching the nine grandkids run around and play.

Then, we had Christmas here at home on Christmas Day. After lunch, my parents came up with more presents and we had a big dinner. Following dinner, we went to their hotel to go swimming, and the kids had a blast. After swimming and showers, we came back to the house for Jesus' birthday celebration. It was a hit.

Yesterday, we had Christmas in Toledo with Ron's family. Of course, the kids got more presents, and they had a lot of fun playing with their "Kentucky cousins." We only see them about once a year, so they always have fun running around in the basement while the adults talk upstairs. It was a lot of fun, and we got home LATE last night.

So this morning when we woke up, the kids realized that Christmas is now over. I must say, I was delighted to find out that they weren't *only* interested in the presents. Of course they liked the presents, but they both said that they were sad they won't see their cousins for a while again. It was heart warming to know that they enjoyed the family time, and they both really got into the spirit of giving this year. We didn't have a lot of money to give this year, but we did our best. And the kids really enjoyed it.

Christmas was a success. But it's over. :( Until next year...

Christmas was a Success!!

Santa really came through for Jacob this morning. He was THRILLED when he opened his Lego set. He never thought he'd get it because we kept telling him it was just too expensive. It's ALL he wanted, and he kept looking at it with a smile while he opened his presents from us. Thank goodness for Santa!!!



























Clarissa liked her doll bed from Santa, but she REALLY liked the play computer Jacob got her. She's been asking for it for sometime, but it was too expensive, too. Ron found it at Kohls on Black Friday for $15, so we got it for her. She was thrilled with it and has been playing with it since!! She was also shocked with her Camp Rock DVD and game. I'm sure we'll play the game later today...and even watch the movie!

Christmas Eve

We've had a wonderful time getting ready for Santa today. The kids helped me bake a cake for Jesus' birthday tomorrow, they made cutout cookies with Daddy to leave for Santa and they got all ready for church tonight. They have been very excited all day, and they are just getting around for bed right now.

I thought I'd share some photos of us before church tonight. I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas tomorrow!!!!!!!

Christmas in Ohio

Well, I made the decision Thursday afternoon to pack up and hit the road to Ohio. When I picked the kids up from school and told them we were leaving for Mamaw and Grandpa's house, they were pretty confused. Both of them were concerned about possibly missing school Friday, and CJ was DEVASTATED about missing dance. But, when I explained that we may not be able to go if we didn't go that evening, they both jumped at the chance to get on the road.

Well, we got over 10 inches of snow early Friday morning and into the afternoon, so school everywhere around here was canceled. Thank goodness I made the right decision!! I would NOT have wanted to be snowed in here with two kids that were missing Christmas with their cousins, nor would I have wanted to screw up my mom's family pictures!

On the way there, CJ got sick. Unfortunately, it wasn't just car sickness -- it was the flu!! :( By midnight, she had a raging fever and was shivering like crazy. That poor kid was miserable until later Friday afternoon. Luckily, it passed quickly, so she was able to enjoy the time with her cousins Saturday.

Here she is after she opened one of her gifts. She was THRILLED to get hair dye and a hair extensions kit. She LOVES that sort of thing!


Jacob also loved his gifts. He is infatuated with Legos right now, so he smiled ear to ear when he opened this. He also got an authentic Detroit Tiger jersey, which immediately went on over his shirt.

To go...or not to go. That is the Question.

The kids and I are supposed to leave for our family Christmas in Ohio as soon as they get out of school tomorrow. I have the day off and was going to plan on picking them up at 4:00 and getting straight on the expressway.

Unfortunately, Mother Nature may change those plans. :( :( We are now expecting to get anywhere from 6 - 15" of snow, as well as some freezing rain overnight. They first estimated that it would start around 4:00am, and now they're saying as early as midnight. I honestly think they don't have a clue and are just throwing darts!

I got to thinking that maybe I should just take them tonight. If we really get that much snow in such a short amount of time, school will be canceled. But I have reservations about risking them missing a day of school in the event it's NOT canceled. I know it's only elementary school, but I don't pull my kids out of school for things like this. What if we go and the storm is weaker than they expect or even misses us?! They will have missed school for NOTHING.

On the flip side, if we stay and it comes, we may not be able to get to Ohio tomorrow. As much as I love snow, I wish the timing was a little different on this. I'm not sure what to do. I'll have to check the weather radars later this afternoon and make a decision.

Wordless Wednesday

Monday Mania

It's the start of ANOTHER week -- where does the time keep going?! I have a lot to do this week, so I'm a little stressed out. (Maybe THAT'S what gave me a migraine last night!) We have Christmas with my side of the family this weekend. I already wrapped all the presents, but I need to find something to make for dinner. It's hard because my brothers live close, so they make their stuff at their house and bring it. I have to make something in the crockpot or get something to serve cold, because I stay at mom's -- and she cooks the ham in one oven and the turkey in the other. She has a roaster...but she won't use it!!!

I'm also a little stressed because we're going to attempt a family photo this year - with all 18 of us. This ought to be really interesting!!!! There are 9 kids, with the oldest being my 7yo son. Normally, we just get a picture with the grandparents and the 9 kids, but this year, they would like it with all of the adults, too. My dad always gets upset when they just take one or two -- they are planning on taking A BUNCH, so we'll be there for a while. After we leave the studio, I'm hoping my brother will take a few pictures of my family of four. We normally have one done at Sears every year, but that's not in the budget this year. If he can take a nice one, I can print it at Costco.

The kids have a Christmas concert for school this week, and Jacob is VERY excited. Clarissa, however, is not and says she is not singing in front of all those people. Seeing as how she got up with her Sunday School class yesterday at church and just stood there, I think she's telling the truth. I'm not sure what started this stage freight stage -- she never used to be this way. Oh, well. We'll see what kind of memories she gives us on Tuesday! LOL!

Love them and leave them...

Yesterday, I got to go out and spend some time with Tiffany and her family, including meeting new baby Ashlyn. They are all doing great - Tiffany looks amazing, Morgan is the best big sister there is, and Ashlyn is just a doll. Here is a picture I took of Morgan and Ashlyn during our visit.



When I came home, the neighborhood Christmas party was just ending. The neighbors were outside talking, and they were all giving me crap about missing the party. One of our neighbors said I must me longing for another baby. Just the opposite, I explained. I love to hold babies, and I love the baby smell. I'll even feed them and change them when necessary. But I am a "love them and leave them" kind of gal. I will spend hours loving them, but have no problems leaving them! LOL.

What a Lovely Surprise

Yesterday when we got home, I asked Jacob to get the mail out of the box for me since my hands were full. He opened it up and shouted "there's a box. I hope it's for me!"

He pulled it out, and it was a small white box. I couldn't figure out what we'd be getting in that size box. By this time, he said "Aw, man, it's for mom." Hmmmmmm. What on earth did I order?!?!

NOTHING. I didn't order anything. I got a lovely box from Brynn -- full of hair clips for Clarissa. That was so nice of her!! I took the Christmas one out and gave it to her immediately (she thought that was all that was in there), and I hid the rest. I intend to put them in the purse I had made for her for Christmas. She loves the Christmas one and wants to wear it to the kids' Christmas program at church this weekend, so I'm sure she'll love getting the rest on Christmas.

Thanks, Brynn!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hectic couple of days ahead...

Tonight will be a little crazy. DD has dance, I have to make cookies for the kids to take to the church Christmas party tomorrow, I REALLY need to vacuum, I need to do a load (or two) of laundry, and I really need to put clothes away. I'm not sure I can get all the chores done since we have to go to dance, but I'm going to try.

Tomorrow the kids have their Christmas party at church, so I'll have about an hour to myself (unless they need me to stay and help). If I can drop them off, I plan to go home and power clean for a good 40 minutes or so. The house is picked up (except the hanging clothes and laundry baskets in the basement), but I need to dust, wash windows, scrub the counters and do the floors. I can do it fast if the kids aren't around. If they need my help at church, I'll do my chores early Saturday morning before we head out.

Sat AM both kids have dentist appts. I'm getting a much-needed haircut and we have our neighborhood get together Sat afternoon. We also need to get to Home Depot to get parts to fix an electrical problem we're having, so hopefully our neighbor will have time to go with us -- we have NO idea what we need! I just pray our neighbor can fix it like he thinks he can--and that it's done right!

Sunday is the kids' Christmas program at church. I can't wait to see it - the kids do the entire service Sunday, including the message. It's really fun, and they always do a great job. Clarissa is singing like she did last year, but Jacob gets to help with the service. YAY! He's very excited, and so are we. After church, we'll clean up the house and have the day to spend playing games (or outside) until DH leaves for KY. The kids and I will probably watch a movie before bed since swimming doesn't start until January. Ever since swimming ended last month, we've been watching a movie most Sunday evenings. I like the new tradition. :)

I hope you have a wonderful weekend!!!

Diva...

Need I say more?

It's Christmas Time...

and that means pictures in front of the tree! We got in front of the tree today to take a few pictures. Clarissa and Buster didn't want to cooperate, so we didn't get many good ones this year. Here is what we came up with.

Here is Jacob. He's SO ready for Christmas. He's also so tall now!
























And I had to post this one, too. He was being so darn cute!



This is about the only picture I could get of Clarissa this year. She was being quite the little stinker today.























The kids...




Here are the kids with the dogs.
























And the family shot. I look AWFUL, but I feel that way, too, so I figured I mine as well post it. UGH! Oh, and you can see what I meant about Clarissa being a stinker...

TGIF!!!

I think my title says it all. LOL!

I am VERY happy that it's Friday and this week is almost over. I have been waiting for this day since Sunday night. And I know how bad it is to wish time away, but it's been AWFUL at work and I knew Sunday that I didn't want Monday to roll around.

Ron's birthday is next Wednesday and since he won't be here, we're celebrating tomorrow. We have a giftcard to Texas Roadhouse (and two of those chips for free kids' meals), so we're going there for dinner tomorrow. We'll come home, sing to him and have brownies. Then he'll open his presents, which is very pathetically a package of socks and a $5 movie! The kids love birthday celebrations, so they are really excited.

I have let the entire house know that I'm sleeping in tomorrow, and they better let me! LOL!!!!! I just need to get my dog to understand that, as she normally starts nudging me by 6:30am if I haven't gotten up yet. (She's used to going out at 6:00am.) Hopefully she got, and understood, the memo.

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend!!

One Proud Mama!!!

Tonight were parent-teacher conferences at school tonight, and I got the kids' report cards. I was so impressed with both of them -- they are doing really well! .

Jacob is having the normal attention issues from his ADD, but the teacher said he's making an effort and trying to stay on task, so we're still working on that. Academically, he's doing phenomenal. She said he excels in his classwork and is always willing (and able) to help others. She told me no less than five times that he's a very smart boy (which I already knew, but it was so nice to hear.)

Clarissa's teacher was the big shock for me. I expected to hear that she's fully capable but not working to her ability and that she's got behavior issues. I was right about not applying herself -- her teacher thinks she's doing just enough to get buy, but she rushes her work so that she can talk. (The talking was NOT a surprise, BTW. LOL) BUT -- her teacher told me that she is GREAT in class. She has minimal issues, and is one of the best behaved children in there. UM, HELLO. WHY DO I GET LUCIFER AT HOME THEN??????????????? I guess I'd rather her be bad at home than at school, though. Her teacher also told me that she's very smart, and she's the only one in her kindergarten class that can identify all the numbers through 100 when they're out of order. YAY for her.

I am SO proud of both of them. They are also proud of themselves. :) :) :)

Receiving Graciously

Some time ago, my friend Stacy blog about being a gracious receiver. I'd link her blog if I just knew how, but I don't know how to do that. LOL!

In her post, she asked if each of us was a gracious receiver. I immediately answered NO in my head. While I LOVE to give, I have never been very good at receiving -- ESPECIALLY when it's something that is helping me out and not just your standard birthday gift. Oh, don't get me wrong. I get embarrassed when people give me birthday and Christmas gifts, too, and I often find myself telling people that it's too much. It's just that the feeling intensifies when people give me something "just because" or with the intent of helping me out. While I appreciate every act of giving, I just have a hard time receiving gifts. I can't believe I'm going to say this, but I feel as though I'm not worthy of their gift. I'm not even sure WHY I feel that way...but I do.

Some time ago, someone offered to pay for me to attend a retreat. I declined, telling the organizer that I'd back out before letting someone do that. I am a firm believer in not buying things you can't pay for. At the time of the retreat deposit, I had a firm plan on paying for it. That fell through with some very unexpected and costly car and furnace repairs. I reluctantly agreed to borrow money from family so that I didn't have to back out, but I could never ever accept the gift of a retreat. Again, it isn't because I don't appreciate the thought. It's because I don't feel that someone should spend their hard-earned money for me to attend a retreat. While they are FUN, FUN, FUN...they are not a necessity.

You're probably wondering why I'm rambling on about this. What made me think about Stacy's post? Yesterday, someone offered to do something EXTREMELY generous for me. As usual, my response was basically thank you for the offer, but I can't accept it. The offer was unbelievable, and I'm still smiling from the selfless thought of this angel. I can't fathom why someone would want to help me in this way, but I will never, ever forget it. My heart has been touched by this wonderful person, and that will live on with me.

And to be honest, this couldn't have come at a better time for me. My heart has been very heavy with guilt and sorrow about this holiday season. Finances are so tight that we can't afford to adopt a family for Christmas as we have every other year since we got married in 1997. I've been having such a hard time coping with the fact that when MORE people need help, I had to decline my normal giving when I should be increasing it. And if I could afford it, I would -- I'd adopt more families this year. But with our current dual-state living arrangement and our jobs on the line, we just couldn't swing it this year. Paying for two households has not been easy, and I'm having a tough time paying for my own family this year. But even the logic and the numbers behind my decision don't make it any easier. It was extremely difficult for me not to help a family in need this year. That's just my "thing" every year. I love to shop for others, and I love to see the joy and relief on the faces of parents that know their children will have presents and food for Christmas.

Thank you to my own personal angel. Even if the intention doesn't work out due to the logistical problems you faced yesterday, I appreciate your offer more than ANYTHING, and you've put a smile on my face during a difficult holiday season.

December -- already?!

Man, I feel like I just wrote my post about wondering how we got to November and here we are in December already. What in the world is going on?! HOW CAN I SLOW TIME DOWN A BIT????

The kids and I put all the Christmas decorations up Saturday, and they decorated the tree in record time this year. They are VERY excited for Christmas, and we've been spending a lot of time talking about Advent and the Christmas season. Jacob is doing a reading on Sunday and lighting the second Advent candle during church. I am SO excited for him!! When the youth director asked him if he'd like to do it, he was so enthusiastic when he shouted "YES!" I asked her to give him a small reading since he's only seven, and her jaw dropped. She said she forgot he was only in second grade because he's so big for his age. Normally the 3rd - 5th graders do them. She gave him reading 2, which was easy enough for him to read the first time, so now he'll be practicing that all week. YAY for him! He's not nervous at all.

I have two gifts to buy for my kids and then my nieces and nephew to buy for. After that, I'm officially done Christmas shopping. Oh, crud. Except for the candy for our stockings. But then I'm done. Hopefully I can find something for my kids very soon so that I can have some peace of mind about it. AACK! It's driving me nuts not being done. My nieces' and nephew's stuff will cost less combined than the things I need to buy my kids, so that won't be too bad. And if their mom doesn't send me ideas soon, they are all getting giftcards!

I hope you all have a wonderful December leading up to Christmas!! I will feel much better when I'm done shopping and can plan our Christmas day meal.

Today I am Thankful for...

great teachers!!!

Jacob has ADD, but you wouldn't necessarily know it to meet him or have him in class. We work REALLY hard on behavioral modification techniques, and he takes NO medication. It's been very difficult, but SO worth it. We could not have made it this far medicine-free without great teachers.

I am very grateful that we had a PHENOMENAL kindergarten teacher who was so willing to work with us. When I first approached her about not medicating him, she was receptive. And despite telling me how difficult it was going to be, she never once made me feel as though I was wrong for doing it or that I was inconveniencing her. She informed the 1st grade teacher of methods she used that work, and we were able to continue working together with the school to keep him focused and learning. His current teacher is also great with keeping him occupied and focused, and he's doing GREAT in school.

I'll admit--some nights I feel like pulling my hair out. But when I see him learning and loving school, I'm so glad we chose this route. His teachers are very open about any issues we've had along the way, but I'm happy to say that he does NOT disrupt class and is reading way above the rest of his class, despite our choice not to medicate. I'm so proud of him and so thankful to his teachers and school for the help they've given us so far.

Here is Jacob on the first day of school this year. He LOVES his teacher this year.


This is Jacob and his teacher from last year (1st grade).


I wish I had a picture of his kindergarten teacher to post, but I don't have one on this computer. She was the BEST teacher ever, and we will be forever grateful to her!!

Today I am Thankful for...

the cleaning bug I caught this weekend. I'm sure that sounds very silly, but I was inspired by Susan's cleaning spree last week and got SO much done at my house this weekend. I initially thought I'd follow her lead and clean my basement, but I started upstairs and never even made it down there. I'll have to start that next week.

But for now, I am so grateful for my clean and organized house. It was so great to go to bed last night knowing that everything was in its place. And I could still smell the pinesol and see the vacuum lines! MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM....what a great feeling. Thanks for passing me the bug, Susan!

Getting to Know Me: Christmas Edition

I stole this from Beth's blog.


1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Wrapping paper all the way!!! One of the things I love about Christmas morning is watching the paper fly.

2. Real tree or Artificial? Artificial. I'm allergic to pine, so we can't have a real tree in the house. Ron was devastated when he found out and jokes that he never would have asked me to marry him if he knew that.

3. When do you put up the tree? It used to be the Saturday after December 10, because Ron didn't want it up before his birthday. But, we put it up after Thanksgiving last year since Ron isn't around to help much and because we had a long weekend to do it. It was nice and relaxing to have three days to pull it all out and get everything set up, so we're doing that this year too.

4. When do you take the tree down? Sometime the week between Christmas and New Years--it just depends on how busy we are that week.

5. Do you like eggnog? Blech. No.

6. Favorite gift received as a child? Cabbage Patch Doll

7. Hardest person to buy for? Our parents -- all three of them!

8. Easiest person to buy for? CJ

9. Do you have a nativity scene? We have a Little People one that the kids love. Someday, I'd like to have a nice set, but we need more room first.

10. Mail or email Christmas cards? I'm SO embarrassed to say that I'm e-mailing my letter with a picture attached to as many people as I can this year. I know it's bad form, and it's humiliating. But I don't have the funds to buy cards for our normal list, so I'm only mailing a few this year. :(

11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? A thermometer/barometer thing I got a couple years ago.

12. Favorite Christmas Movie? Santa Claus with Tim Allen

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? I normally shop throughout the year. Not to harp on financials, but it's been a rough year, so not much has been purchased. It will be a VERY small Christmas this year. I just need to make sure Santa makes a visit!!!!

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Not that I recall.

15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Mom's cinnamon candy

16. Lights on the tree? Lots of them! And they have to be white. I HATE colored lights - especially the BIG colored bulbs.

17. Favorite Christmas song? Let it Snow

18. Travel at Christmas or stay at home? Stay at Home!!!

19. Can you name all of Santa’s reindeers? Nope

20. Angel on the tree top or a star? When we got married, I wanted an Angel and DH wanted a star. We compromised and bought a beautiful lighted cross. When it broke two years ago (sniff, sniff), I bought a star. It's what we'll use this year, but I want to get another cross some day.

21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Christmas morning

22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? Greed. While I love Christmas, I see a lot of people who complain about what they got, didn't get, etc. And I'm not talking about your random bad gift. I mean people complaining that they didn't get ENOUGH. I don't like greed.

23. What theme or color are you using? I don't have a theme, per say, though most of my decorations are juvenile since my kids are so young.

24. Favorite for Christmas dinner? We normally have ham, cheesy potatoes, corn, lima beans and rolls for dinner.

25. What do you want for Christmas this year? I want my children to get a visit from Santa and to be thrilled on Christmas morning.

Today I am Thankful for...

my mother. She is a wonderful mom, and an even better grandmother. It's fun for me to spend time with her, and my kids LOVE to spend time with her, too. She's generous and kind, funny and spunky. I am very grateful for her in my life.

And I'm not just saying that because she's babysitting tonight!

Today I am Thankful for...

my faith. I won't bore you with the details. Those of you that read my blog know that I've been struggling A LOT the last year -- physically, emotionally, financially, etc. I am thankful that during this time, I've had my faith to lean on. At times, my desperation caused me to question that faith -- and I think that only made it stronger. I am thankful for God, the faith He gives me, my church and all that I am because of these things.

Microsoft Vs. Auto Industry

I saw this on SS and shamelessly stole it for my blog. This is FUNNY!!!

At a recent computer expo (COMDEX), Bill Gates reportedly compared the computer industry with the auto industry and stated,

'If GM had kept up with technology like the computer industry has, we would all be driving $25.00 cars that got 1,000 miles to the gallon.'


In response to Bill's comments, General Motors issued a press release stating:

If GM had developed technology like Microsoft, we would all be driving cars with the following characteristics (and I just love this part):

1. For no reason whatsoever, your car would crash........
Twice a day.

2. Every time they repainted the lines in the road, you would have to buy a new car.

3. Occasionally your car would die on the freeway for no reason. You would have to pull to the side of the road, close all of the windows, shut off the car, restart it, and reopen the windows before you could continue. For some reason you would simply accept this.

4. Occasionally, executing a maneuver such as a left turn would cause your car to shut down and refuse to restart, in which case you would have to reinstall the engine.

5. Macintosh would make a car that was powered by the sun, was reliable, five times as fast and twice as easy to drive - but would run on only five percent of the roads.

6. The oil, water temperature, and alternator warning lights would all be replaced by a single 'This Car Has Performed An Illegal Operation' warning light.

7. The airbag system would ask 'Are you sure?' before deploying.

8. Occasionally, for no reason whatsoever, your car would lock you out and refuse to let you in until you simultaneously lifted the door handle, turned the key and grabbed hold of the radio antenna.

9. Every time a new car was introduced car buyers would have to learn how to drive all over again because none of the controls would operate in the same manner as the old car.

10. You 'd have to press the 'Start' button to turn the engine off.

Today I am Thankful for...

my house. Even though it has some flaws, it provides us with warm shelter from the frigid temperatures.

On our way to school yesterday morning, there was an accident with A LOT of emergency personnel. The kids saw the smashed vehicles and an injured man being put in the ambulance while his family looked on. It turns out that a homeless family was crossing the street, and the father was hit by a truck, who hit a car when he was swerving to miss the man. I feel just awful for that family, not just because of the father's accident, but because they don't have anywhere to go. No place to call home.

Today I am Thankful for...

my family's health. We've had a long few days of a stomach bug at our house, and if I never have to clean vomit up again, it will be too soon. BLECH! I am very thankful that the bug has passed and we're all healthy now. I just hope it stays that way.

Random things about me...

A friend sent this to me via e-mail, so I said I'd do it. It's long, and it seems repetitive, but what the heck...

Hi my name is:
Brandi

When I'm nervo​us:​
I laugh a lot

By this time next year:​
I hope to be out of Michigan

PART 1: YOU

Were you a plann​ed baby?​
Yes

Were you the first​?​
Nope - I was the last

Are your paren​ts still​ marri​ed?​
Yes - 41 years

PART 2: YOUR PERSO​NALIT​Y

Do you have low self estee​m?​
No

Do you get depre​ssed about​ thing​s easil​y?​
Lately yes - but normally no.

Are you happy​ right​ now?
I try to be, but I miss living with my husband. I'm very happy that I have healthy and happy kids, a home to live in, food to eat, etc.

PART 3: APPEA​RANCE​

Are you comfo​rtabl​e with the way you look?​
No. I hate being fat. Ironically, I must not hate it enough to stay on the wagon.

Descr​ibe your hair:​
Short, spikey, highlighted

Where​ do you buy most of your cloth​es?​
Kohls

PART 4: RANDO​M

Ever been kicke​d out of a bar?
Sadly yes--but only because of someone I was with.

Ever drunk​ diale​d an ex?
Nope.

Can you tie a cherr​y stem using​ your tongu​e?​
Nope

PART 5: THE OUTDO​ORS

Do you prefe​r indoo​rs or outdo​ors?​
Outdoor

Do you like walki​ng in the rain?​
Yes. Some people feel the rain, others just get wet. :)

Do you like thund​ersto​rms?​
LOVE them!!!

PART 6: FOOD

Are you a veget​arian​?​
No - I could NEVER give up meat!

Anyth​ing you absol​utely​ could​ eat forev​er?​
Mashed potatoes and gravy

What is your favor​ite desse​rt?​
Lemon Meringue pie

PART 7: RELAT​IONSH​IPS AND LOVE

Do you want to get marri​ed?​
I already am married.

Have you ever been in love?​
Yes

Are you in a relat​ionsh​ip now?
Yes

Are you happy​ with where​ you are?
I'm happy to be married and to be a mom, but I wish I lived in the same state as my husband!

When you meet the right​ perso​n,​ do you fall fast?​
Well, I met my husband in August, was engaged in November and married in July. I'd say yes.

Have you ever had your heart​ broke​n?​
Sure, hasn't everyone?

Would​ you ever take someo​ne back if they cheat​ed on you?
I don't know. I say once a cheater, always a cheater, but after seeing a friend go through this, I really can't say. I don't think I could, but I just can't say no definitively.

Do you want kids?​
I have two healthy and beautiful children.

How many?​
Two and through.

Would​ you consi​der adopt​ion?​
We did consider it, but then we were blessed with our own.

Do you belie​ve love at first​ sight​ exist​s?​
attraction...yes, love...no

Do you belie​ve in celeb​ratin​g anniv​ersar​ies?​
Yep!

Do you belie​ve that you can chang​e someo​ne?​
No

Do you have feeli​ngs for someo​ne right​ now?
of course, my hubby

Do you still​ have feeli​ngs for an ex?
No

How old do you want to be when you get marri​ed?​
I got married when I was 20


What do you do when your mad?
I like to be alone when I'm mad.

What are the color​ of your eyes?​
Green

Last night​ you felt?​
Happy that the furnace guy came and fixed our heat!

Were you happy​ when you woke up today​?​
Yes - I had heat!! :)

What are you liste​ning to right​ now?
The dogs playing

If you could​ pack up and leave​ your life now to move away,​ would​ you?
Leave my life here in MI? Yes. Leave my family? NO WAY!

How'​s your room looki​ng?​
Messy, as usual.

What are you doing​ tomor​row?​
Working

What were you most looki​ng forwa​rd to today​?​
Bedtime. I'm almost there!

How is your hair?
It's O.K. I'm trying to adjust to the highlights.

Do you like your first​ name?​
It's O.K., but everyone either sings to me or tells me that it doesn't fit.

Do you like to cuddl​e?
Yes

Baseb​all or footb​all?​
I prefer to play baseball but watch football.

Marri​ed?​
Yep - 11 years

What'​s your bigge​st fear(​s)​?​
Being stuck in Michigan forever!!

Name somet​hing great​ that happe​ned today​:​
I found out that I can save big on my prescriptions through a new mail program at work.

Who was that last perso​n you had a phone​ call with longe​r than 7 minut​es?​
My mom

How often​ do you hold back from sayin​g what you are think​ing?​
Every week day

Last hug?
Five minutes ago. CJ gives the best hugs!!

Is somet​hing bothe​ring you?
Yes - I want to live with my husband.

Has anyon​e ever told you that you have prett​y eyes?​
Not that I recall.

What woke you up this morni​ng?​
The alarm and then my dog.

Will you be in a relat​ionsh​ip in four month​s?​
I hope so.


When was the last time you had butte​rflie​s?​
Yesterday

What are you excit​ed for?
the weekend

Who was your last misse​d call?​
Ron

At the momen​t are you more warm or cold?​
WARM!!

What was the last thing​ you spent​ your money​ on?
Gasoline - and hey...it was pretty cheap!

Who do you trust​ the most in your life?​
My immediate family

Is there​ one song that remin​ds you of the whole​ summe​r?​
Nope

Would​ you chang​e who you are?
Nope. I like myself.

Do you have a great frien​d of oppos​ite sex?
yes, my husband

Are you in a relat​ionsh​ip?​
yes

Are you happy​ about​ that?​
yes

What were you doing​ an hour ago?
watching TV

Do you have a best frien​d?​
Not really :(

What kind of pets do you have?​
2 dogs

Are you a happy​ perso​n?​
for the most part

Do you hold a grudg​e?​
no, not really

Do you have aim?
Yes, but I am rarely on there.

Favor​ite color​?​
green

Do you get along​ with your paren​ts?​
Yes most certainly

Last perso​n at your house​?​
The furnace guy.

Do you like your food touch​ing on your plate​?​
I dont care with most things

Do you sleep​ with one leg out from under​ the cover​s?​
I sleep with BOTH legs out of the covers!!

Do you like to hold or be held?
Be held

Is there something thats bothering you?
Yes - that Ron lives in another state.

Is there something you want to tell someone but cant?
I dont think so

When was the last time you cried​?​
Yesterday

Today I am Thankful for...

HEAT!!!! The furnace company came out around 6:00pm last night and was able to fix the furnace with no issues. He was gone by 7:00pm, and the heat was blowing like crazy. It probably ran all night to recover the temperature since it was off for a couple days, but it was nice and cozy this morning when I woke up. Well, as cozy as it can be at 68 degrees. LOL! But it was nice to wake up to the normal temperature rather than having it in the 50s!!!

Today I am thankful for...

my house. I'm glad I have a roof over our heads - even though there is no heat in there right now!

Today I am thankful for...

my family.

I'm in Ohio visiting my parents, and I'm very grateful to have parents within driving distance. They both have minor health ailments, but nothing that prevents them for living pretty normal lives, so the kids LOVE to visit here and play with them.

It's so fun to see the joy on their faces -- the kids' AND the grandparents'!!!!

Today I am Thankful for...

MY CAR!!! I'm sure that's another shocker to some of you because I have complained a lot since August that my car keeps breaking down. And it does. But for right now, it runs. And since my neighbor had a car stolen, I'm just grateful to HAVE a car today!

Today I am Thankful for....

my children. I have been through so many ups and downs this year, and through it all, I've found hope and comfort in my family...particularly my kids. They have no idea what I've been through this year, but they make me smile and laugh when I need it most. They give me the strength to fight, even when I feel like giving up. They truly give me a reason to wake up every morning, especially when I want to pull the covers over my head and go back to sleep. It took four LONG years of infertility treatments to get these kids, and I think that probably makes me even that much more grateful to have them in my life.

Today I am thankful...

for the end of our election process this year! As I have known for sometime, my choice for President did not win. But this isn't why I'm happy that the election is over. I'm thankful that the process is complete, and that it went off without any major issues. I'm HOPEFUL this means that we, as a nation, can move forward TOGETHER to improve our country and get things back on track.

I'm thankful that the election is over so that the character bashing of both candidates will end. Today is a new day. Let's move forward and make it a good one.

Today I am thankful for...

our democratic process. I'm sure this is on the mind of many today, but I am truly grateful to live in a land where we have a democracy.

I went to the polls this morning and voted before going to work. And even though I'm quite certain my candidate is not going to win, it felt good to cast my vote anyways! We also had some important local races and two issues I wanted to vote on, so it was a very important year to vote.

Today, I am Thankful...

for my health. I'm sure some of you are wondering how I can say that with all the whining I do about my tumor and the pain it causes me. But you know what? I am thankful that I'm not suffering with anything fatal or that would cause me to be completely incapacitated.

I am thankful that God gives me the strength to step out of bed each and every morning--ESPECIALLY the mornings when my pain is so great that I'm not sure I could roll out of bed without Him by my side.

I am thankful for wonderful doctors that are working tirelessly to help me manage my pain and move forward with my life.

November?!

Today is November 3rd. How in the world can it be November already?! I just can't get over how quickly the years go by anymore. When I was young, it seemed that I was always complaining that the time was going too slow. I remember my mom telling me to stop wishing my life away--live in the now and enjoy life. Boy, do I wish I would have listened to that advice!!

Now I'm 31 years old, and I feel like every week flies by. I try to take time to stop and smell the roses, but I haven't done a very good job. My goodness---it seems like we just did the kids' birthday parties!! Where in the world have the months gone?!

Tomorrow is the election, and I'll be so glad when it's over because I'm sick of the ads. Thanksgiving is in 3½ weeks, and then Christmas is only 4 weeks after that. I'm not ready for another year to come to an end. I need time to slow down so that I can enjoy my kids and have memories of this winter. PLEASE SLOW DOWN, TIME!!!

6 Random Things

I've Been Tagged

The Rules:
1. Link to the person who tagged you: I don't know how to link it, but Manda tagged me.
2. Post the rules on your blog (this is what you are now reading).
3. List 6 random things about yourself.
4. Tag 6 people at the end of your post.
5. Let each person know they have been tagged and leave a comment on their blog.
6. Let the tagger know when your entry is up!

_____________________________________________________________

6 things about me...

1. I was a nail biter ALL MY LIFE. On my 31st birthday this year, I was getting radiation, and the tech was horrified when she saw my nails. She encouraged me to quit biting my nails and went on to say how nasty of a habit it is. I told her I tried to stop many times and just couldn't. She told me that if I could walk through the door and let them put radiation in my spine, I could quit biting my nails. I left that room and never bit them again. It's only been 7½ months, but I don't anticipated going back to nail biting now!

2. I suffered through YEARS of infertility and had five miscarriages. When I reached 22 weeks with Jacob (the longest I made it with a pregnancy), I started wearing maternity clothes even though I didn't need to. I was just so excited to be pregnant and have things going so well that I wanted everyone to know it.

3. I am the youngest of four kids in my family, and I'm the only girl. Yep--I have THREE older brothers...which made dating really hard! I'm actually the only girl on the entire side of my Dad's family, so his mom spoiled me rotten!!!

4. I don't have a best friend, and sometimes that makes me really sad.

5. I'm 31 years old and worry that I won't be able to get insurance soon because of all my liabilities. My insurance carrier paid OVER $500,000 for my medical services last year--so that was BEFORE my radiation this year.

6. My son has ADD, but you wouldn't know it to meet him or have him in class. We work REALLY hard on behavioral modification techniques, and he takes NO medication. It's been very difficult, but SO worth it. I am very grateful that we had a PHENOMENAL kindergarten teacher who was so willing to work with us. She informed the 1st grade teacher of methods she used that work, and we were able to continue working together with the school to keep him focused and learning. Some nights I feel like pulling my hair out, but when I see him learning and loving school, I'm so glad we chose this route. His teachers are very open about any issues we've had along the way, but I'm happy to say that he does NOT disrupt class and is reading way above the rest of his class, despite our choice not to medicate. I've so proud of him.

And I'm tagging.... Cathy, Diane, Traci, Brandi, Julie, and Kaye.

The End.

My soccer season is over. The boys did great and learned a lot this year. I was so proud of them, and they were even proud of themselves. We won our last game, which really made the season end on a great note.

After the game, one of the moms handed me a card, but it was cold and dark, so I didn't open it until we got home. In it was a gift certificate for a local restaurant. That was so thoughtful, and I appreciate the gesture very much. We have our banquet Monday night, so I can thank them in person there.

I Made the Appt.

I have an appt. with my neurosurgeon for tomorrow. I put this visit off for months, literally, but I can't avoid it anymore. I'm in such severe pain that I can't function normally anymore. My life is suffering, my kids are suffering and my HOUSE is suffering! (LOL!)

I'm pretty nervous. We're going to talk about another laminectomy, which I DO NOT want to have. I honestly don't know how I can recover from that with Ron living in a different state. We're also going to discuss more drug options. I've tried nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and steroids to help with the inflammation, but neither worked. I've tried Neurontin and Lyrica for the nerve pain, and those didn't work out either. Well, the Lyrica could have worked if I had some help with my kids, but I was too loopy on it to continue. The Neurontin did nothing for me.

Anyways, if you're the praying kind, please say a prayer that all goes well tomorrow. I'm HOPING for some kind of miracle drug or cutting edge technology that will be offered so that I don't have to have surgery OR radiation again.

Decision 08

I'm voting Democrat because I'm way too irresponsible to own a gun, and
I know that my local police are all I need to protect me from murderers
and thieves.

I'm voting Democrat because I love the fact that I can now marry
whatever I want. I've decided to marry my horse.

I'm voting Democrat because I believe oil companies' profits of 4% on a
gallon of gas are obscene but the government taxing the same gallon of
gas at 15% isn't.

I'm voting Democrat because I believe the government will do a better
job of spending the money I earn than I would.

I'm voting Democrat because freedom of speech is fine as long as nobody
is offended by it.

I'm voting Democrat because when we pull out of Iraq I trust that the
bad guys will stop what they're doing because they will then know we're
really good people.

I'm voting Democrat because I believe that people who can't tell us if
it will rain on Friday CAN tell us that the polar ice caps will melt
away in ten years if I don't start driving a Prius.

I'm voting Democrat because I believe that business should not be
allowed to make profits for themselves They need to break even and give
the rest away to the government for redistribution as IT sees fit.

I'm voting Democrat because I believe liberal judges need to rewrite the
Constitution every few days to suit the liberal fringe kooks who would
NEVER get their agendas past the voters.

A Liberal is a person who will gladly give away everything they don't own!

Scary Times

This is just a big self-pity whine. No need to read--I just needed to get this out.

WOW. Chrysler is cutting another 25% of their workforce. This is on top of all the cuts that have already been announced. Industry analysts say this means they are closer to a sale or merger, which will be another big blow to this area. Every week I read the depressing news of the auto industry and wonder what will be left of Metro Detroit when this is all said and done.

All these announcements are just plain scary to those of us in this industry. I mean, it's been bad for a long time. I can't even remember my last raise. My benefits have gone up in cost and down in coverage over the last five years. With the increase of everything -- food, gas, heating bills, etc. -- I've been working with a pay cut every year since 2003.

This year is particularly hard, and I don't know how we're going to make it through the winter. Heating costs are expecting to rise. Both kids needed new coats from growing, and I couldn't find any to fit them at Goodwill/Salvation Army. I bought them on sale, but it was still a HUGE blow to the budget. Add to that the hat/gloves and clothes Jacob needs. Not to mention snow pants, which I just can't afford to buy this year. If the Salvation Army doesn't have any to fit them, they won't be playing in the snow this year. I'm going to have to figure out how to buy boots for them -- not sure where that money will come from either -- but they go outside in the snow at school, so I have no choice.

Jacob knows times are very tough for us, and he keeps asking if Santa will still come. I'm starting to think he knows. I mean, why else would he think OUR financial hardship would cause Santa not to come?! I keep reassuring him that Santa will be here, yet I'm trying to figure out how in the world to get the kids things they actually want from Santa. I've been buying things all year (little things), but I always wait to buy the things from Santa until closer to Christmas--so that they can get SOMETHING on the list that they send Santa. Unless I can convince them to put things on the list that I've already bought (which would be hard because they know what they want), I'm worried they will be totally disappointed. And please don't leave me comments about kids not needing everything or that. They don't. I just want them to have SOMETHING that they love from Santa.

There. I said it. I put it on paper. We're broke. We can't afford winter, much less Christmas.

It's Friday! It's Friday!

Ahhhhhhhhhhhh. I made it through another week. YAY! I know it's sad that I focus on Fridays all week, but what can I say--I need the weekends. And Ron hasn't been here in two weeks, so I am looking very forward to having some help with the kids this weekend. And of course they are very excited to see him.

We are doing A LOT this weekend. Tonight, I'm taking the kids to a Halloween party at their school from 6:30 - 8:00. We'll come home, get them to bed and then I'll watch some shows from the DVR.

Tomorrow morning we're going to see High School Musical 3, though the kids don't know it yet. Clarissa will be SO excited, and Jacob won't be...but he's going anyways. LOL! After the movie, we'll go to lunch and then go home and get ready for more Halloween activities. Our city has Trunk or Treat this Saturday at 5:00pm and then our church has it at 7:00pm. The kids are THRILLED with all the Halloween activities.

Sunday, we have church and lunch and then Ron leaves again. :( Jacob has swimming in the evening, and then we get ready to start the week all over again.

I hope you have a wonderful weekend!!!!

Puggle

I'm just helping my doog friend make a decision. :)


















pug·gle (pŭg'gle) n.
a small mixed breed of dog created by mating a pug and beagle; thereby producing an energetic hound having: a thickset body; a short-haired, smooth coat of fawn, tan, and black coloring; a deeply wrinkled forehead; short legs; a curled tail; and drooping ears.

Size
Puggles grow to be 15-30 lbs. and approximately 13-15 inches at the shoulder.

Coat
Their coat consists of short hairs. Puggles come in a wide range of colors. Fawn/Tan puggles are the most common, but some are black, white, or tri-colored. Second generation puggles take on more of the white and tan or black, tan, and white coloring.

Character
Puggles are sweet-tempered, playful, energetic, intelligent, social, and affectionate. A puggle is a great companion. They are also very curious dogs.

Temperament
This breed gets along well with children, other dogs, and other household pets. Puggles are very friendly and like to show you.

Care
Puggles require low grooming maintenance. Daily walks or a nice size area to play is advised. They do need to get their exercise as they have energy.

Activity
Puggles have a good amount of energy and love to play. They enjoy going on walks and running around. Puggles also love their downtime. They love to cuddle up to you on the couch or in bed.

Training
Puggles are also fairly easy to train. Puggles can learn all basic commands including: sit, down, stay, settle, take it, leave it, fetch, roll over, and come. Potty training can be challanging at times. The best way to train a puggle is with reward and repetition as they can be stubborn.

Shedding
Puggles do shed moderately. Their short hair and smaller size seem to help. It is advised to brush your puggle to remove excess hair.

Barking
Most puggles do bark like any other dog breed. Some are very quiet and don't bark much. Some young puppies bark when they are left alone in their crates.

Allergies
A Puggle is not a hypoallergenic dog. If you are allergic to another type of dog you may be allergic to a puggle.

Howling
Some Puggles do howl on occasion. They can inherit this trait from the beagle. They can do this when they get real excited.

Controversial Survey

[01]Do you have the guts to answer these questions and re-post as The controversial Survey?
Sure -- that's why I copied this.


[02] Would you do meth if it was legalized?
No. I've never done an illegal drug and don't intend to start now.


[03] Abortion: for or against it?
While I'm pro-choice (because let's face it--it's not the government's business to legislate a woman's body), I personally believe abortion is morally wrong, except in cases where there is a plausible medical reason. I know people who have used abortion as birthday control more than once, and that, IMO, is despicable. If you don't want kids, don't have sex.


[04] Do you think the world would fail with a female president?
No.


[05] Do you believe in the death penalty?
Absolutely.


[06] Do you think Marijuana should be legalized?
I'm still undecided. And this isn't a wishy washey answer to try and avoid the question. I truly can't decide what I think about it. On one hand, part of me thinks it should be treated just like alcohol. On the other hand, I think there are a lot of scary implications about making it legal.


[07] Are you for or against premarital sex?
I'm not really for or against it. I just think people should choose their sexual partners wisely and protect themselves from disease and unwanted pregnancy. Refer to my abortion answer above.


[08] Do you believe in God?
Yes I do.


[09] Do you think same sex marriage should be legalized?
No. I've changed my mind on this issue so many times over the last eight years or so. Ask me in a month, and it might be yes.


[10] Do you think it's wrong that so many Hispanics are illegally moving to the USA?
Yes I think it's wrong because of the key word in the question--ILLEGALLY. If anyone wants to come to the USA to contribute as a positive member of society, I'm all for it, as long as it's done legally.


[11] A twelve year old girl has a baby, should she keep it?
It's a family decision, and I can't comment on another family's situation I know nothing about.


[12] Should the alcohol age be lowered to eighteen?
No.


[13] Should the war in Iraq be called off?
No. You don't just "call off" a war. I think we should put together a solid exit strategy and start moving troops as soon as we can, but I am against a quick withdraw because I don't believe it's in the best interest of the USA.


[14] Assisted suicide is illegal do you agree?
Another tough one because of the implications it brings, but I think I'd say the decision should be left to the individual. The hard thing is, how do you determine if someone is capable of making this decision for themselves? Where are the lines drawn? I think it would turn into an ethical nightmare, yet I don't think people should be forced to suffer if they are coherent and choose not to live.


[15] Do you believe in spanking your children?
My kids would most definitely tell you that I do.


[16] Would you burn an American flag for a million dollars?
No way!


[17] Who do you think would make a better president? McCain or Obama?
McCain


[18] Do you think Obama will be killed?
No, though I know several people who have legitimate concerns that will be attempts made on his life. I've been told to expect "a decent attempt" in less than two years. I'm praying that doesn't happen.


[19] Should child predators be forced to wear signs identifying themselves?
Yep. I think it should be branded on them for life, however short that may be.


[20] Are you afraid others will judge you from reading some of your answers?
No. I don't expect everyone else to feel the same way as I do. I just hope they have the same respect toward me and my answers and don't "bash" me about it. But if they do, that's fine. I have thick skin.

Single Parenthood Sucks

I tell ya, the last two years of my life have made me realize that single parents and military families deserve A LOT of respect. I just wish Ron would realize the same!!!! I don't work at my paying job or at home for a pat on the back, but it would sure be nice for him to acknowledge how hard I'm trying once in a while! I know the house isn't as clean as he'd like it to be, but dammit--the kids are wearing clean clothes, they're fed and loved, and they are learning to be productive citizens. I don't think that's all that bad, considering I'm managing a STRESSFUL full-time job, two kids, two dogs, a house and kids' activities (including coaching Jacob's soccer team.) And our house isn't dirty, by any means---it's just not as organized as we'd like. Is that SO bad in the grand scheme of things?! GAH!!!!

I despise being a single parent, and I'm starting to feel resentment about it--A LOT of resentment. The problem is, I'm resenting Ron, and it's not his fault. He didn't ask to lose his job, nor did he want or expect not to find work here for TWO years!!! I just try to focus on one day at a time, but I also have to try and figure out plans for the future. Today I looked at the school calendar. I have all the days off planned for this calendar year, but then I look at the rest of the school year for 2009 and panic. Who will watch my kids on Martin Luther King Jr. Day? What will I do with them over Spring break in April? I have NO idea!!!!

I live every week day focusing on the weekend and then spend every weekend wishing that it would just slow down! I need some help around here. I cannot keep going like this. It's hard, and it's frustrating. I HATE it, and I want to either live with my husband or live near my family!!

O.K. Whine over.

Halloween came early

Our city has a Farmer's Market in our City Square every Sunday. Periodically, they do themes. This week, it was Halloween. They had a costume contest, pumpkin carving contests, crafts, face painting, an entertainer and trick or treating. The kids were really excited to put their costumes on and go over.

Here is DD. She wanted to be Annie "more than anything else." So, I found a costume on etsy and got her a wig. We already had black shoes, so she was good to go. She was really excited, even though I didn't have any makeup to give her freckles. I will use my neighbor's makeup pencil on Halloween.





DS chose Star Wars. He's never seen it and only knows what classmates have told him about it--but that's what he had to have.



DS was chosen as a volunteer during the show with the entertainer. He was so excited when he stepped up there, but even more so when the guy instructed him to hit him in the back of the head.

On Word

I stole this from Brynn. I don't know how to link a blog, though.

*Use the 1st letter of your last name to answer each of the following with ONE word... *they have to be real places, names, things...nothing made up! Try to use different answers if the person in front of you had the same 1st initial

1. What is your last name?.....................................Lezon

2. 4 letter word...............................................Love

3. Vehicle: ...................................................Lemon

4. City / Neighborhood: .......................................Lurid

5. Boy Name: ..................................................Lance

6. Girl Name: .................................................Lucy

7. Occupation:.................................................Landscaper

8. Something you wear:.........................................Lace

9. Food: ......................................................Lamb

10. Found in a bathroom:.......................................Lint

11. Reason for Being Late......................................Lights

12. Something you shout........................................LEAVE!

13. Animal:....................................................Lion

14. Body part:.................................................Leg

What the Hell was I Thinking?!

I have a water problem in my basement, so I decided that I had to find the source--which includes knocking down a wall. I can't afford to hire anyone right now, so I thought I'd do it myself. What the HELL was I Thinking?! I've only got two panels of dry wall ripped off, and I'm in so much pain that I'm in tears, literally. My entire back is sore, and I'm having the pins and needles tingling all over from irritating my tumor too much. CRAP!!!

I was really hoping to get the entire outside wall ripped out this weekend, and I really don't think it's going to happen. I've already taken a Lyrica, and I'm going to take a pain pill in a while. If I can recover alright, I'll try again tomorrow, but I'm just not sure that's possible. THIS SUCKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am tired of this tumor ruining every aspect of my life. I am tired of being a single mom and trying to take care of everything in this house while also keeping everything normal for my kids. I would really like to crawl into a hole and hide. Forever.

Failed Attempt

Well, John McCain had one last chance to come out and show the country what he's made of. And he blew it. I swore I wasn't going to stay up to watch the debate, and I set up my DVR so that I could watch it later. But, as usual, I couldn't resist. I watched. I was horrified at this performance.

Senator McCain needed to come out full throttle and attack the issues. He needed to stay focused on HIS campaign and tell the voters what his plans are. He did very little of that. Instead, he kept saying "Senator Obama wants to..." You know what??? People know what HE wants to do because HE IS TELLING THEM!!! This was McCain's chance to come out and really drive home how he plans to change the country. It was definitely a failed attempt.

One comment I will make about the moderator is that he asked a couple DUMB questions. As a voter, I don't need to watch them discuss the negativity of the campaign. We can see the ads ourselves. We know what they mean. We are used to them from all the years of negative campaigning. But to waste time discussing that when we could have discussed energy, health care or education longer was plain stupid. I was actually a little perplexed when Senator Obama insisted that 100% of John McCain's ads are negative. Huh?? But what I remember most is how McCain looked like a cry baby because Obama wouldn't apologize for not addressing negative remarks about his campaign.

I'm glad the debates are over, and I can't wait for 20 more days to pass. I want this election behind us so that we can move forward together as a nation. And I've said for months that I knew McCain wouldn't win, so I'm preparing to move forward under President Obama. I hope he can deliver the change he has promised.

Wordless Wednesday

PSA: How NOT to spend your money

Listen very carefully because I'm going to give you a very important tip on how NOT to spend your money. Whatever you do, do not have radiation. It costs approximately $21,000/week. Can you say GULP?! That's what I said when I saw the bill. I've been trying to negotiate my portion with the hospital, but so far they aren't budging.

I am very blessed to have medical insurance because I'm only have to pay half of that amount. That said, I owe the hospital more money than I can even sell my house for right now. Very depressing. And even more depressing...they want me to do this again!

Hell no, I won't go. Hell no, I won't go. Sorry. That's what's going through my head though.

Crop Success!!

I attended a 12-hour crop yesterday at a local church. They hold this twice a year to raise money for their youth program. It's always a lot of fun -- good fellowship, good classes and GREAT food!

I was originally going to take supplies to make cards, since my scrap room is a MESS. But, I decided to sort some photos and organize some paper and embellishments to get some pages done. I completed 18 double page layouts yesterday. WOOHOO!!! Well, some of them need titles since I didn't take my Cricut, but that won't take long. I am so impressed that I got so much done.

I now have through the summer of 2006 complete. YAY!

Politics as Usual...

I hate election time.

But I do like political humor.

I received these from my grandfather. They are good for a laugh. Click on them to enlarge them.

Alphabet of Me

Saw this on Sherry's Blog. Sadly, I don't know how to link her blog. She's Midnight Scrapper over on the left under SS blog roll.

♥A is for age: 31
♥B is for beverage of choice: Water or decaf tea
♥C is for career right now: Sales Manager
♥D is for your dog's name: Buster and Patch
♥E is for essential item you use everyday: Computer
♥F is for favorite TV show: Brothers and Sisters
♥G is for favorite game to watch: The Match Game reruns
♥H is for Home town: Marion, OH
♥I is for instruments you play: None now, though I used to play clarinet
♥J is for favorite juice: Pomegrante Blueberry
♥K is for a favorite keepsake: A ring from my paternal grandmother
♥L is for last place you ate at: Home
♥M is for marriage: 11 years
♥N is for your name: Brandi
♥O is for overnight hospital stay: TOO MANY!!
♥P is for people you were with today: My kids and my co-workers
♥Q is for what's your best quality: Integrity
♥R is for what are you currently reading: 50 Moments - Scrapbook the Pages That Matter Most by Lisa Bearnson
♥S is for relationship status: Married, but living in different states.
♥T is for time you woke up today: The first time? 5:08am. When I finally crawled out of bed? 6:25am5:25am
♥U is for the type of underwear you have on: Cotton ones. That's all you need to know. LOL!
♥V is for vegetable you love: Lima beans, but since some say they aren't a veggie, I'll also say cauliflower
♥W is for worst habits: Getting on SS!
♥X is for x-rays you've had recently: Chest x-rays
♥Y is for something candy : Homeade hard candy at Christmas--cinnamon flavored
♥Z is for favorite zoo animal: Any of the cats

Gooooooooooooooooooo Spitfires!

I coach U8 boys soccer. I'm not sure if I've blogged about that or not, and I'm too lazy to go check. When the season started, I had two boys that were pretty good, four that showed some promise and six that had no ability (or desire to play) at all. I was really dreading this season, and I've definitely had my share of heartburn. Granted, most of that has been the parents -- one in particular that is a thorn in my side -- but it's been a rough road nonetheless.

Until last night. Something clicked with them. With the exception of the two kids with "THE" dad, they all played beautifully together. They stayed in their positions (BIG accomplishment for this age group), they made great passes and they played TOGETHER. It was so wonderful to see. I was so incredibly proud of them.

We won the game last night 5 - 2. What kind of mother would I be if I didn't mention that Jacob had 3 of our goals? Of course, I'm even more proud that he had one assist and several FANTASTIC passes, too. He's not a ball hog, and I'm very proud of that. We've won other games, too, so it's not like this is a first. I'm just so proud of how they played last night. It was nice to see them finally start understanding the importance of standing where I tell them to, staying spread out and making great passes.

YAY, team!!!!

I Hate Halloween

There. I said it. I have never been a fan of Halloween. I didn't like it as a child and usually didn't go trick or treating. Now that my kids are into it, I deal with it but just cannot get overly excited about it.

So, what's my problem this year? DD wants to be Annie. You know, the orphan. I can't find a red dress anywhere, and I don't sew. I'm wishing more now than ever that I would've taken the sewing machine out of the box to learn how to use it. How stinkin hard can a red dress be to make?!

I have found a few online but don't want to pay $50+!!!

I hate Halloween.

There must be an end...

I had a really great weekend, and I was sad to see it come to an end. Diane arrived Saturday morning, and we went out to see Tiffany. We took her for lunch, hung out and talked and then went back to her place and talked. It was so nice to visit, and Tiffany looks GREAT. She is mostly following her doctors orders, and she's feeling much better than she was last week.

We left her place around 4:00 and rushed home so that I could get out of my sweatpants and ready for dinner with more friends. Diane and I got ready very quickly and then rushed off to the pub to meet more friends. We had a nice dinner with great conversation, a few drinks and then went to Starbucks to visit for a while. It was such a nice evening -- I LOVE meeting up with old friends.

This morning, Diane and I just sat around and chatted for a while. We went to Texas Roadhouse for lunch, and she's now on her way home. Booohooooooo!!! And though I'm disappointed that it had to come to an end, I'm grateful for the chance to have such a great weekend. Thanks, Diane!! (and Sue and Amy and Kathy)

Friends are the Flowers of Life

Can I just tell you how lucky I am?! Diane is coming to visit tomorrow. I've been waiting for this for a month -- I can't wait. We were going to try and organize my scrap room, but there won't be time now. Why? Because we're going to see our bed-ridden pregnant friend, Tiffany. YAY!! Then, we're going to go to dinner at a pub and see four other SSers. Double YAY!!

I am so excited for this weekend!!!! Seriously, I feel like a giddy little girl. I plan to enjoy some much needed girl-time, and I'm exited to see so many friends. I hope you have a great weekend, too!

Wordless Wednesday

This picture pretty much sums it up. I'm sick. I HATE being sick. And while it doesn't happen often, when I do come down with something, I usually get really, really sick.

So, here is my whine for today. My head is so congested that I feel like it could explode. My throat hurts, my ears hurts and my body aches. I have a slight fever, but you'd think it was awful by the way I'm shivering. UGH! I hope this passes soon. I'm supposed to have company Saturday and meet some SS sisters for dinner.

Home Sweet Home...

After a nice trip to see the folks, it's so nice to be home tonight. It was a nice weekend, and the kids LOVED playing with their cousins. It's not that far of a trip, but it sure wears me out. Between the drive, sleeping on the floor with the kids, staying up later than normal and still getting up early--I am absolutely exhausted by the time we get home. Tonight is no exception.

But of course, like a glutton, I'm sitting here in front of the boob tube waiting for Brothers and Sisters to start. Tomorrow is going to be a rough day!

Getting to Know Me

1- What's worse - Physical or Mental cheating?
Physical, though emotional cheating would be a close second

2- Is it easier to forgive or forget?
Forgiving

3- Can men and women be " Just Friends?"
Yes. If not, I'd be VERY lonely, because I have never had many female friends.

4- Dating co-workers?
A BIG no-no.

5- All expenses paid vacation to anywhere?
Alaska for a month

6- On the way to the electric chair - What's your last meal?
Filet mignon, potatoes, lima beans and creme brulee

7- The water park..
is TONS of fun!!

8- When you are "In Love" do you notice other people?
Who doesn't notice other people?! It's acting on it that I don't do.

9- Is flirting cheating?
No, though it's not always innocent either

10- Would you rather have 1 great friend or 5 pals?
1 great friend

11- If someone called you a bitch would you be offended?
It depends on who and why...but probably not.

12- Are you ok with your significant other being friends with an ex?
Yes

13- Would you live with someone without marrying them?
No

14- Favorite sport?
Hockey

15- Is toilet paper hung over or under?
Under

16- Do you squeeze toothpaste from the middle or end of the tube?
I use a pump

17- How do you feel about tanning booths?
I'm scared to death to go in one ever since I had radiation. :(

18- Friends with benefits?
Is NOT for me. I could never bring myself to have meaningless sex

19- Do you believe in angels?
Yes. We all have guardian angels.

20- Would you rather take pictures or be in pictures?
Take them!!

21- Have you ever flirted with someone you had no interest in?
Not on purpose

22 - Ever kissed a random person and then walked away?
No

23- Would you buy bootleg merchandise?
No. I won't even let people give me copies of music CDs--I certainly wouldn't buy it!

24- What color looks best on you?
My mom says I'm an autumn, but I don't know what that means.

25- If you could play any sport professionally what would it be?
Soccer or fast pitch softball

26- Ever break up with someone and regret it?
Nope.

27- Are you a jealous person?
I have personal insecurities that are sometimes seen as jealousy, but really I'm not very jealous.

28- Would you ever have plastic surgery?
Heck ya!

29- When do you want to get married?
I already am married.

30- Who has the sexiest accents?
I LOVE listening to Russell Crowe. I'm not a fan of HIM...but I love his voice/accent.

31- Next concert you're attending?
Who knows. My kids hope it's the Jonas Brothers LOL

32- Favorite song?
Stupid Boy

33- Favorite movie?
A Time to Kill

34- What's your occupation?
Sales Manager for a company that makes automotive parts

35- What's your sign?
Pisces, but I don't read that crap

36- Are you a beach, country or city person?
Country all the way!!

37- Best vacation spot you've been to?
Sweden

38- Have you ever had a "secret affair?"
No

39- If you could own a non-traditional pet which would it be?
Tiger

40- Favorite show as a child?
Little House on the Prairie

41- Where do you spend most of your money?
Target

42- Are you currently working at a job that you hate?
Yes...but it's because of the industry and market, not because of the company

43- Have you ever been so heart broken that you called in sick to work?
No

44- Favorite summer drink?
Pomegranate Fusion Smirnoff Ice

45- Can you change a car tire?
Only when the idiots that rotate the tires don't put the lug nuts on too tight!

46- Favorite cologne / perfume?
None - I don't wear anything like that

47- Favorite candle scent?
Cinnamon or Pomegranate Cider

48- Would you consider yourself adventurous?
No, I'm more of a "play it safe" girl

49- What is your My Space profile song?
There are a few, I think, that it scrolls through -- Keith Urban and Daughtry mostly

50- Favorite concert attended?
Meatloaf

51- Would you date an already attached man / woman?
No way!

52- Would you sing Karaoke in front of co-workers?
Probably not because I'd have to be drunk to sing it, and I'd never be drunk in front of them

53- Can you shoot pool?
No. I actually like to attempt it, but I'm HORRIBLE.

54- Do you like your siblings' significant others?
Yes.

55- Can you drive a stick?
Yep - that's what I learned on

56- When you marry will you wear white?
I did wear white, yes.

57- Have you ever sat and hoped for a phone call?
Not that I can think of

58- Ever skip school and spend the day at the beach?
No

59- Favorite TV show?
Brothers and Sisters

60-what are you waiting for at the movies?
I never go to the movies -- I can't justify that kind of money for a movie