Country Chatter from a down home Critter

FINALLY some unfair and unbalance RIGHT wing news!!

2008-11-07T10:12:00.000-08:00

GO VOTE!!!

2008-10-30T12:03:00.000-07:00

This is time for all American Citizens, Christians, Conservatives and EVERYONE to go out and exercise your right to VOTE!!

I pray to God everyday that my candidate wins! If the other one wins I will be praying everyday also.

GO OUT AND VOTE!!!!

Political Debate

2008-10-15T10:55:00.000-07:00

I know that it is not a good thing to talk of politics, yes I know this....I wish my MIL knew this as well .

I also know that there is no place like home=AMERICA the land of the FREE!

This year I am a political junkie, yes you read correctly...I am addicted to politics! Egads I never thought I would be this person. If I am not perusing the papers, I am watching TV and when all else fails I am talking with those that understand and share my concerns.

I walk the floors at night praying that my candidate wins and during the day I give thanks for my faith that the Lord will prevail and put that person in office.

So let the last debate roll and with God..... all things are possible!

Sweet by and bye

2008-10-05T11:38:00.000-07:00

Life moves so fast here lately that I can barely keep up with the current. As you all know Hurricane Ike came into to Texas blowing down trees, fences and power lines...it was a mess. The hard part was living back in time, another era without electricity. There are good sides and bad side to that coin. I know why people had short lifes then because it is HARD!

A few weeks prior to the Hurricane my favorite Aunt was diagnosed with Pancreatic cancer. I knew little about it, but quickly began my online education and was floored by the short time she would have. She passed away 12 days after Ike hit. I still don't know what normal is and I think it is going to take all of us some time. Especially my Granny losing her only daughter, it is very difficult for her and that makes me worry.

I hang onto to memories and the hope that I will a better person....just half of what my Aunt Patsy was would be an improvement.

I miss all of my blog reads!

Meme.....tagged by EverCURIOUS!

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

A new Meme
Five Habits Meme

What was I doing 10 years ago?
I was trying to recover from a major headache remodeling/addition nightmare. My Twins were starting to walk and about to be weaned. I was working a few jobs while dealing with two busy teenagers. Me and 3 of my children were in car wreck, a fireman (in his big personal truck) ran a red-light and hit us. I did not know it then but my life was fixing to change in a big wonderful way!

Five snacks I enjoy in a perfect, non-weight gaining world:
CHOCOLATE! Nuts, Chips and Dip, Cheese &Pizza!

Five snacks I enjoy in the real world:
Banana's, Yogurt, CHOCOLATE, fat free pringles, Peanut Butter!

Five things I would do if I were a billionaire:
buy a huge plot of land and build a custom home on it and give each of my children some acreage
Buy a Hummer-so I would feel safe
help those less fortunate
have my own food supply-cattle and garden
pay for my brother in law to have gastric bypass surgery

Five jobs I have had:
Cosmetic Clerk
Data Entry Clerk
Maid
Mary Kay Representative
Office Manager

Five habits:
Drink Coffee
Read the Newspaper
Get online
Tend to my plants
Talk on the phone

Five places I have lived:
Houston TX
Conroe, TX
Charleston, SC
Corpus Christi, TX
Mississippi

Five people I’d like to get to know better:

Jim
Mama Mia
Diane Mandy
Britmum
Dreamers Reality
and anyone else that wants to play!

Summer time=AllStar time

2008-07-03T10:28:00.000-07:00

My life is consumed with Baseball. I know you thinking "well as much as you love it, why are you complaining?" Well in case you failed to notice IT IS HOT! It is so hot here that the squirrells are using pot holders to gather their nuts! Well, almost that hot.

Also this year is a little sad for my little Twin Christian, because he was not picked for ALLSTARS. So this is the first time in History that only ONE of boys is playing and the other is on the sidelines watching a sport he loves to participate in. This part of political baseball is aggravating!

So every weekend we travel here and there and spend 9-11 hours on Saturday and Sunday playing in tournaments. Like I said it is HOT! And then during the week we have 3 hour practices four times a week.....I am kind of hoping we lose (don't tell Caleb) so that it will be over!
Plus factor in the fuel costs, last weekend it was 77 dollars in gas.

It made me start looking at Toyota Prius Hybrid. So I emailed the Toyota salesman I know and he informed me that there is a 16 week waiting period....well , forget that!

While Christian is sitting in the bleachers he thinks it is his duty to play coach to the batters on our team. "Hey Alex is that the bat your Dad paid $500 dollars for?" "YEAH" "Well then why don't you put to good use and hit a ball this time?"?

Yeah he is funny and a tad bit outspoken!

ME-ntal!

2008-06-17T08:04:00.000-07:00

We have all heard people whine and complain about their childhood or lack-of one. You hear others blame their mistakes on it, never taking ownership for their own choices. Then you hear stories that truly break your heart into and makes you realize that you are truly blessed to have escaped the brutality of someone elses abuse.

I don't know why I am rambling on about this, really. You know I don't delve too deep in private waters, especially on the bloog-ie. But I wonder if I am truly hard-wired for dysfunction?

Years ago I went to counseling and stopped. Then started and stopped....you get the picture. Really I don't think any of them can top a one-on-one relationship with God. The way I see it is if I need help, he is my salvation. Most counselors want to give you a pill to help you through it or give you some mumble-jumble that confuses you more than you already are. I gave up on counseling over 17 years ago. And I turn a deaf ear to people that blame others.

What I am trying to say is....I wonder if true dysfuntion is in the DNA? You know that lack of trust of all human kind. That lack of ability to just smile and be happy. Why does life seem like an uphill battle for some and just WHY am I the way I am? I like fences you know extreme boundaries with everyone. Sometimes I just want to shut the world out and turn off the phone, but does it really make one happy? NO! Little things are HUGE to me. I just plain dont like it.

I could go into my childhood and I can look at some extreme things that happened, BUT does it really matter? It would'nt change anything. I am who I am. But I would like a new improved model. I want an Upgrade!

Father's Day

2008-06-15T08:12:00.000-07:00

On this day there is not as much fanfare as is with Mother's Day. It amazes me that Men really do sacrifice so much and complain so very little. They work very hard, long hours, to provide food and shelter and never whine about it. They feel it is their duty to protect and provide for their loved ones. All they expect is respect and gratitude.

My husband is truly wonderful with our children. I think his number one asset is his amazing ability to engage with our children. He is the fun one. I think he is a kid himself at times.

Today I thank my heavenly father for Fathers!

Family

2008-04-03T09:58:00.000-07:00

I try not to get to personal on my blog, especially about family. First I am a very private person and second most of you would think I was making it all up. You see Soap Opera's don't have anything on my family....seriously. I know there are alot of messed up families out there but here lately all the family drama has been causing me bad migrane headaches.

I thank the Lord for my family and I love all of them (some more than others) but being the middle-man, go-between and peacemaker gets tiring.

Right now I thank God for my church family and the friends I have that seem like family, because I am disapointed with my "real" family.

On to better news the Astro's had their first win of the season against the Padre's, winning 9-6 I believe. Also, last week my son Caleb pitched the ENTIRE game and they won 22-1. WOO-HOO!!

Have a great week!

Happy Spring Break!!

2008-03-16T13:42:00.000-07:00

Well it is officially Spring Break 2008, so that means Easter is just around the corner. We don't have any big plans, just a little R&R and a church benefit thats in the works.

I know I don't really need to be outside much, the pollen is killing me. My husband just about hog-tied me and drug me cave man style to the Doctor last week. He stated that I have severe allergies and need to take Singular on a daily basis. Anyone that really knows me knows that I don't like pills...of any kind. So we will see how long this one lasts. Right now I am taking them because when I go outside for any reason, I just cough and hack uncontrollably and that is too unbearable for me.

We have been busy doing home repair type stuff around here, we have alot more to go. So, I was thankful this morning, while at church singing "This Old House" that my husband was absent, (because of his day job) had he been present....he would've nudged me and said "ain't gonna need this house much longer" and then the honey do lists would be used to line a litter box.

Baseball season has kicked off so we spend three evenings a week practicing and honing our skills, or rather the Twins do. This is our 7th or 8th season for baseball...needless to say they are pretty darn good.

My Granny came through her sugery with flying colors and is doing very well. She is one lil tough cookie. I thank the Lord that she is doing so very well.

Happy Easter to all and to all a Merry Spring Break!!!!!!!!

De-Stressing

2008-02-08T11:39:00.000-08:00

Things have been going haywire around here....but I see the light at the end of the tunnel. Oh yeah sweet Jesus!

A few weeks ago, upon returning home from church service, I check my answering machine and have a message from my MIL. She just blurted " Hey I am coming for a visit on Feb 1st, I will be staying for 4 days. I have already made my flight arrangements and Chris and his wife will be coming the same day".

I was a bit peeved! No conversation, just an announcement. I don't fly like that. But OK I kicked into getting stuff done and believe me I worked and worked to get everything just right. I even hired some help. I did not want a repeat of my MIL last visit....she was scrubbing the bottoms of my pans.

I think I am a pretty clean person, but I am nothing like her. When we went to Padre on vacation I found that out. We brought in bags of groceries and before we could put them away in the pantry, she had to wash all of the cans, bread bag, milk container down with bleach water. "Ya never know how many hands touched this". Um Ok.
She even washed some of the walls (rented condo) down with bleach water. This is not a vacation thing to do....not my bag.

Well she came and before she had arrived she had made all the plans and done all the inviting for a dinner party....here at my house. She has done this for 10 yrs now.

She left on Monday and on Tuesday morning we had to be at St Luke's Hospital, My dear sweet Granny age 82 had to have open heart surgery to replace her Aoreta valve. Thankfully, she is doing very well. She was finally moved to a private room last night. Seems all the hospitals around here are full with flu and pneumonia patients. On Wednesday one of my Twins began running fever. He is doing much better, but I am still stuck at home. I really want to go visit my Granny. She is such a strong little Lady. That little Twin hospital bed really swallows her up. All the nurses thought we were pulling their legs, "No way she does not look 82 yrs old"!

Well we are truly blessed that all is well with her.

Hopefully I will get around to everyone's blogs in the near future...until then...have a blessed weekend!

Tootin' My Horn!

2008-01-07T11:09:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning right before Church, I decided to step on the scale and to my wonderful surprise.....I have lost 14 Pounds. YIPPIE!

Today I stepped back onto the treadmill (after a two week hiatus) and I thought "man this bites".

But the good news is ....I am halfway there. Really its just a mind set that you have to get. But I do hope that it also lowers my cholestoral.

Did any of you catch the Debates? Or the 60 Minutes interview with Roger Clemens? I don't know what to think anymore. And I am still UNDECIDED! Egads!

Have a blessed day!

Happy New Year 2008!!!!!

2008-01-03T08:44:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful Christmas around here, I hope all of you did as well.

We had the customary Cabbage and Black-eyed peas on New Years Day. It is supposed to bring you good luck and good fortune....I dunno about that, I feel blessed already!

As for New Year's resolutions, I don't really have any. I made a vow last October to lose weight and I have. I hope to lose the remaining 20 pounds in 7 months, by my birthday. I threw my low-fat diet to the wind over the Christmas Holidays. But thankfully and unbelievably I only gained 1 pound over the holidays. Believe me I indulged and it was fun.

The Twins were ready to head back to school today, but none was as anxious as I. The house is so peaceful and tranquil that I feel like I have excaped to another planet. I am soaking it in....solitude at last! Well for a few more hours anyhow.

Paul starts his new position on Saturday. He is so very nervous about this, but I know he can do it.

Looks like 2008 is going to be different already. Change is good!

So tell me, did you make any New Years resolutions?

Have A Very Merry Christmas and A happy New Year!

2007-12-21T22:27:00.000-08:00

Twas the week before Christmas and all through the house....well my life does not resemble a story book that is certain.

I love the memories of Christmas. All the good things like carolling and visiting nursing homes and wish that I could go back and do those things now. Seems like life is busy all the time. But really life is full of interruptions...guess that is the way it is these days.

I am not complaining, more like groaning. Really though I have so much to be thankful for. The Lord has truly blessed me.

My Husband is awaiting news of his impending promotion. We are 99 percent sure that the Lord has paved the way. It will be good and bad but hopefully in even measures. He and the Twins created memories this season. My husband was Santa Claus every Saturday and Sunday and the Twins were his elves. No it was not a side job, but he was asked numerous times and I thought it quite funny because he lost 20 pounds this month. He was not really big bellied to begin with. He used pillows under his Santa suit.

Every year since the Twins were born, we take them to the Woodlands mall to get their 5x7 picture with Santa. We put in a frame and when we take down the Christmas decorations we box them up. So needless to say we had 9 pictures to set out this year and I was explaining to Paul that the boys are getting too old to keep on with this tradition. Seems their 10th and last picture with Santa is really their Dad. How Sweet is that?

I ran into an old friend today. She is all alone in this world. I asked her where she was going for Christmas and she replied "I will do the same as Thanksgiving, just sit at home with my dog". I really hope that I can persuade her to spend it with my nutty family. It really worries me to know that she has been alone for years and I just lost touch with her over time.

No one should be alone at the Holidays. Well what are your plans for Christmas? I wish you all Peace, Joy and Love. Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year to All!

OOOPS TAG I'M IT!

2007-11-12T20:53:00.000-08:00

A. The rules of the game are posted at the beginning.

B. Each player list 6 facts/habits/secrets about themselves.

C. At the end of the post, the player then tags people and posts their names, then goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment, letting them know that they have been tagged and asking them to read your blog.

1. I am double jointed and able to pop just about anything toes, ankles, knees, wrists etc. without even touching them. I use to do it and gross people out. Thankfully, I gave this habit up a long time ago.

2. I have huge feet. Size 10 with long ugly toes inherited from my Dad...I think we have the same size feet. I feel sorry for the vietnamiese woman who gives me my pedicure, because my feet are bigger than her arms. I feel so sorry for her that I try to make it up to her by giving her a big tip, along with an apology.

3. The only good thing about being in your 40's is that you no longer give a hoot about what people think of you. If they like you ok if they don't oh well, so be it.

4. I am obsessed with hygiene and clean hands. If you come to my house and use the restroom, I will promptly ask you "did you wash your hands". If you go in the kitchen to get something to eat I will tell you " Wash your hands first". I don't care who you are or your age. Yeah I know I am a problem. It all started when my daughter was born I made alot of family members upset because I would not let anyone touch or hold my children without clean hands. It is very offensive to others.

5. I have not been inside a convenience store in years. If I cannot pay at the pump I will go elsewhere. I refuse to go into a convenience store unless I am on a road trip.

6. My favorite things to gaze upon are a good book, babies, baseball games and Cowboys.

The only one I tag is Tiffany. Yes she must do this again it is her repentence.

Life is Good

2007-09-10T17:36:00.000-07:00

Things have been hairy around here since school began. We are desperately attempting to get on a set schedule while getting everything done. You know homework, chores, piano practice, cello and trombone and bible study.

Sometimes I think I am forgetting something. I wonder why this is a daily occurence ...hmm what am I forgetting? Does this happen to others?

My neighbors and I are getting everything lined up for a huge benefit and raffle for the church. I really hope this turns out to be successful. Our last garage sale was a dud, the weather did cooperate with us.

This weekend we went to three birthday parties. The first and most important one being my Granny's she turned 81. She is the most adorable and cutest Granny in the world. Today Jane Wyman passed away at 93 yrs old, I pray that my granny will have that many years at least.

Even though life is hectic here, it is very, very good indeed.

MIDDLE NAME MEME

2007-08-21T14:07:00.001-07:00

Okay here's the deal ....my daring(not darling) daughter has signed me up for this meme of sorts.

Here goes, first with the rules and then with the answers and THEN with the tags.
1. You have to post these rules before you give the facts.

2. You must list one fact that is somehow relevant to your life for each letter of your middle name. If you don’t have a middle name, use the middle name you would have liked to have had.

3. At the end of your blog post, you need to choose one person for each letter of your middle name to tag. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them they’re tagged, and to read your blog.

Okie dokey here we go my middle name is LENETTE
L-Leo the Lion is my sign. My hair resembles that of a Lion's Mane.
E-Eldest-I am the elder of my siblings.
N-Nervous while in a car. Especially in rain or two lane roads.
E-Extremist when it comes to my way of thinking on politics and religion and honesty.
T-TEXAN Born and raised. Texas Twang is an art!
T-Temperamental- I hope to grow out of it one day!
E-Eager and Excited to have this over and done with. heck yeah.

Now I am suppose to tag 7 people because my middle name is so dang long. So any-- many --miny-- moe YOUR IT! hehehe Naw feel free to do as you please. I am not puttin' any one on the spot. But I would like to know your middle name because I am nosey!(Shoulda put that one under N-Nosey) Thats all folks............Tammy Lenette not Wynette signing off for a tad.

YEE-HAW

2007-08-10T21:51:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago the boys attended a Buck-a-Roo Bible Camp for three days. They were so excited about this church, that my husband and I decided to check it out.

So last Sunday we mosey on down a dirt road and park the truck and walk down another dirt road to a barn, which serves as the church. There were fiddlers, guitars and other string instruments but no piano nor was there an organ anywhere to be seen. It was like walkin' into a scene from Gunsmoke.

After we took our seats (in folding metal chairs) an older lady came by and said " Why Paul is that you?" and then proceeded to tell me that I had the sweetest husband. I know I hear this all the time, so much so, that if he does something wrong I am afraid to speak of it for fear that no one will believe me. Anyhow just goes to show it is a small world after all.

The Preacher announces all the upcoming events. Seems this church is big into trail rides, rodeo's and bull riding. So the entry fee per night for riding a steer is 15.00 and my lil one has worked his tail off to make it.

Tonight was Buck A Roo Buck-Out and he rode his very first steer. But he declined to ride it twice. YIPPIE!
He had on full protective gear- a face mask, helmet and chest and rib pads but he hurt his leg a little bit when the steer stepped on him. Its not that bad but it could have been worse. I know what your thinkin' and believe me I did not want him to do this but his friend did it last week and he had to give it a go.

As the sayin' goes Boys will be Boys!

Instruments

2007-08-09T10:30:00.000-07:00

We have spent a lot of time searching and researching Instruments.

Christian is going into Band this year and originally he wanted to play the flute. The Band Director decided that he would be better at playing the Trombone. So we looked at new instruments and they cost about $1,000.00 or you can get a slightly used one about $600.00 or a really used one for about $ 400.00. Or you can rent it.

Well Caleb is going into Orchestra this year and he is going to play the Cello. Eventually you will move from a 3/4 to a 1/2 size Cello and these little babies are EXPENSIVE.

I never learned how to play any instrument. I can not read music. I had a friend who took piano lessons and I was very envious of her ability to do so. Years later when my daughter was young and expressed an interest in music, I said "go for it". She played the violin for years and I worked a little extra to pay for private lessons.
Now we work a little extra so the boys can take piano lessons. They have been at it for almost five years now.

Do any of you play an instrument? Or have any knowledge of the Trombone and Cello?

Mama Lion and her Cubs

2007-07-31T20:36:00.000-07:00

This is the week for birthdays around here. Yep I had mine on July 28th and in a few hours my Twins will turn 10 YEE=HAW!

I look on the last 10 years of my life and ALOT has changed. I have changed. Sometimes I wonder if it is for the better or worse. Up until 6 years ago I worked full time and another extra job on the side. I was dressed to the nines and spent at least an hour a day getting fixed up. These days I may spend 1 hour a week getting gussied up.

I very rarely wore pants, I was dress girl. T-shirts and tennis shoes were something I NEVER wore. Boy have times changed because now I even wear baseball caps when I am dodging the "fix hair" routine.

I look in the mirror and I wonder who that woman is. Sometimes it scares me and other times I like the skin I am in. Speaking of skin ...in my younger days (yeah i know...one day does not make that much of a difference) I spent gobs of money on expensive skin care and now my only skin care regimen is washing my face on a daily basis. I also went through a can of hairspray a week, now a can last a whole year.

What happened? I don't know and I am still trying to figure it out.

Ten years ago I went into labor so we headed to Saint Luke's Hospital in Houston. They did an amniocenteses to see if the Twin's lungs were developed enough to be delivered a few weeks premature. The tests came back ok. So they wheeled me into delivery which was my first surgery (at that time) one of them was breech so we had to do a C=section. I was so nervous and scared. I was told that I looked like a deer caught in the headlights. I thought I was dying. I refused to be put to sleep because I had waited almost 9 months to see the little angels that God had given me and I did not want to be asleep when they came into the world.

I was told never to get pregnant. I had such high risk pregnancies due to my rare blood type and not getting a Rhogam shot after my first baby. So when I became pregnant with the Twins while on birth control, I was not sure that I should keep the pregnancy and was advised to terminate and I came very close to doing that. Instead I saw a specialist once a week and had a total of 6 amniocenteses along the way. I prayed feverntly every day that God would keep them save. And he did even though my blood fought against them as a foreign object. My daughter and I picked their names based on God's purpose. Caleb=means Mighty Warrior of God and Christian-means Like God.

Happy 10th Birthday Caleb and Christian!!! God is Good!

The Boys are Back in Town!!!!

2007-07-21T09:32:00.001-07:00

My boys are back from Camp and I feel normal again. I really missed these boogers!
Life is dull and boring without children. I felt so lonely. They are soaking up the a/c, reading all the saved Sports sections of the newspapers and tuning in to TV.

My husband is on vacation this week. So we are going to catch up on some home improvement and then go out and have some fun with the boys.

Hope all is well in your neck of the woods. Tah-Dah!

Boo-Hoo

2007-06-24T17:40:00.000-07:00

I know it has been forever since my last post, I am a bad blogger! Yes sirrie!

Summer is here and my boys are still busy, so that makes me a taxi cab driver, maid, nurse and many more hats do I wear.
They just finished a week of Boy Scout Day Camp and believe me I think they are tougher than nails. I spent just a couple of hours out in those woods and almost got carried off by a mosquito bigger than Texas. Yep darn straight. If you can survive the heat the mosquito's will take you down!

Now it is time for me to start ironing all these name labels into all their clothes, as I am ((crying)) shipping them off to a two-week stay at Summer Camp. Yes I am certifiably nuts. This is not ok (for me). They are eagerly anticipating camp. I wonder if I will survive. Boo-Hoo!

My Mom and Pops has relocated. Yes almost as close as my backyard. YIKES! They made a 200 mile move from a town near Dallas to CornRow TX. They live about 8 miles from me and are in the process of building a new home. Meanwhile I am looking for a place in New Hampshire or somewhere....j/k.
Hopefully this will be a good thing for the kiddos.

My husband took his vacation this past week to work on replacing our gutters. Instead we had to replace some of the wood and facial board behind the gutters. That took a full week and some buckaroo$. Everyone says that seamless gutters is the only way to go....so...we are going to pay someone to install them. We are on a waiting list. It has rained here for longer than 2 weeks now. I long for a few rainless days.

Well gotta go grill some burgers before another shower hits. ;)

Cajun Humor

2007-05-23T12:35:00.000-07:00

Cajun Horoscopes

Some Cajuns are pretty skeptical of horoscopes and the people that readthem. If we are to ever fully understand all the star signs and the peoplethey represent, we need symbols that are true Cajun.

OKRA (Dec 22 - Jan 20) Are tough on the outside but tender on the inside.Okras have tremendous influence. Older Okra can look back over his life andsee the seeds of his influence everywhere. You can do something good each day if you try.

CHITLIN (Jan 21 - Feb 19) Chitlins come from humble backgrounds. AChitlin, however, will make something of himself if he is motivated andhas lots of seasoning. In dealing with Chitlins, be careful they may surprise you. They can erupt like Vesuvius. Chitlins are best with Catfishand Okra.

GRUBWORM (Feb 20 - March 20) You have an overwhelming curiosity. You'reunsatisfied with the surface of things, and you feel the need to bore deep into the interior of everything. Needless to say, you are veryintense and driven as if you had some inner hunger. You love to stay busyand tend to work too much. Nobody in their right mind is going to marry you, so don't worry about it.

MOON PIE (March 21 - April 20) You're the type that spends a lot of timeon the front porch. A cinch to recognize the physical appearance of MoonPies! Big and round are the key words here. You should marry anybody who you can get remotely interested in the idea. It's not going to be easy. Youalways have a big smile and are happy. This might be the year to think about aerobics. Maybe not!

POSSUM (April 21 - May 21) When confronted with life's difficulties, possums have a marked tendency to withdraw and develop adon't-bother-me-about-it attitude. Sometimes you become so withdrawn,people actually think you're dead. This strategy is probably notpsychologically healthy but seems to work for you. You are a rare breed. Most folks love to watch you work and play. You are a night person and mindyour own business.

CRAWFI S H (May 22 - June 21) Crawfish is a water sign. If you work in anOffice, you're hanging around the water cooler. Crawfish prefer the beach to the mountains, the pool to the golf course, and the bathtub tothe living room. You tend not to be particularly attractive physically, butyou have very, very good heads.

COLLARDS (June 22 - July 23) Collards have a genius for commmunication. They love to get in the melting pot of life and share their essence with theessence of those around them. Collards make good social workers,psychologists, and baseball managers. As far as your personal life goes, if you are Collards, stay away from Crawfish. It just won't work. Save yourselfa lot of heartache.

CATFISH (July 24 - Aug 23) Catfish are traditionalists in matters of theheart, although one's whiskers may cause problems for loved ones. You Catfish are never easy people to understand. You run fast. You work andplay hard. Even though you prefer the muddy bottoms to the clear surfaceof life, you are liked by most. Above all else, Catfish should stay away from Moon Pies.

GRITS (Aug 24 - S ept 23) Your highest aim is to be with others likeyourself. You like to huddle together with a big crowd of other Grits. Youlove to travel though, so maybe you should think about joining a club. Where do you like to go? Anywhere they have cheese, gravy, bacon, butter, or eggsand a good time. If you can go somewhere where they haveall these things, which serves you well! You are pure in heart.

BOILED PEANUTS ( S ept 24 - Oct 23) You have a passionate desire to help your fellow man. Unfortunately, those who know you best, your friends andloved ones, may find that your personality is much too salty, and theircriticism will affect you deeply because you are really much softer than you appear. You should go right ahead and marry anybody you want to because in acertain way, yours is a charmed life. On the roadof life, you can be sure that people will always pull over and stop foryou.

BUTTER BEAN (Oct 24 - Nov 22) Always invite a Butter Bean to a partybecause Butter Beans get along well with everybody. You, as a Butter Bean,should be proud. You've grown on the vine of life, and you feel athome no matter what the setting. You can sit next to anybody. However,you, too, shouldn't have anything to do with Moon Pies.

ARMADILLO (Nov 23 - Dec 21) You have a tendency to develop a toughexterior, but you are actually quite gentle and kind inside. A good evening for you! Old friends, a fire, some roots, fruit, worms, and insects! Youare a throwback. You're not concerned with today's fashionsand trends. You're not concerned with anything about today. You're almost prehistoric in your interests and behavior patterns. You probably want tomarry another Armadillo, but a Possum is another somewhat kinky matingpossibility

I am so ready

2007-05-21T18:42:00.000-07:00

for summer to be here. I am not a huge fan of the Texas heat that we generate here, but in the summer we are free of obligations. Well, kinda sorta, I am still obligated to pay bills and do laundry Shucks!

Last week we had 3 evenings of baseball games, a piano recital, 2 concerts and a camping trip all in 6 days time. Egads!

This summer we are taking a break from Piano and Scouting. We will simply do as we please. Yippie!

This will also be the first summer that my boys will go away to a summer camp for 14 days. I am a bit nervous about it. So if any of you have done this before, your advice is more than welcome. I don't sleep very well without my boys at home. I will cross that bridge in July.

Have any of you made plans for Memorial Day? No I have not, right now I am of the mind set of no-plans for me ...thank you!

Happy Mother's Day!

2007-05-13T10:38:00.000-07:00

Happy Mothers Day!

Today is a trying day for me as I try to remain positive, despite all the negative feelings I harbor about this day.

Every mothers day I am ponder the true meaning of a mother. It goes beyond conception and birthing. It is a life long sentence of worrying.

So I reflect on the postive experiences that I share with my children and realize that the things that I cherish the most is the peace that they give me freely. Their love and devotion.

My Twins wrote me a letter and expressed their desire for a million dollars so they would have enough money to buy me diamonds and Astro's season tickets. I don't need money or gifts such as these to make me happy.

Just knowing that my children love the Lord, that they are happy, that they love me, love themselves, respect me, respect themselves and do the very best they can ....is indeed a wonderful gift in itself. It is the only gift that a mother wants.

Life without Baseball

2007-05-02T20:51:00.000-07:00

would be very dull indeed!! The Twins are playing competitive baseball on a new league this year. It has taken some getting use to but for the most part we are adjusting to the change.

The boys were not real happy being in Cardinals uniforms. I totally understand that, they are the Astro's rivals! Its hard to wear a parent t-shirt that has "Cardinals" on it. The first week in April in MLB when the Astro's playing a series against the real Cardinals, I could not wear my parent t-shirt. My boys understood.

Sunday we had some family time together at Minute Maid Park. Unfortunately the Brewers beat the Astro's. But in the end we really had a good time. The Twins got baseballs autographed by the Coach Phil Garner, the catcher Brad Ausmus and by Pitchers Brandon Backe and Brad Lidge. So really all in all we WON! Now thats some friendship balls because of those signatures my boys will remember these guys forever.

I lovingly placed them in acrylic cases to protect them. Ah what would life be without baseball? B-O-R-I-N-G!

Are you there God it's me ....

2007-04-16T16:17:00.000-07:00

Life is full of up and downs and sometimes round and round. Round and round we go where we stop nobody knows.

Egads! I am a horrible blogger! I wonder if I should let it go, my daughter says "No!". I have not even taken the time to peruse my favorite blog-buddies blogs. I know - me bad.

You have sooo many things going on in life....taxes, BASEBALL, children, chores, bills and life continues to throw you one curve ball after another. I am not complaining, but I do wonder how women work full-time and keep up. I did it for many, many years but now-a-days it seems I can't keep up with things like I use to. My calendar is full and I forget things. This use to never happen to ME!

Could it be age? Uh-Oh maybe so. Please forgive me for being such a bad blog buddy. I promise to try to visit more often. Gotta go the Astro's are playing against the Cubs.

Hiatus over

2007-02-14T20:08:00.000-08:00

Oh me Oh my! Let me tell you the flu is bad to the bone! Every thing hurt for the longest time. I guess as you get older it takes longer to recover. I still have to blow my nose all the day long, thankfully it is the only hangover I have.

Somehow during this time I managed to drop off and pick up my boys for Piano lessons, Cub Scouts, basketball practice and school. I was a terrible sight to behold, still am for that matter.

Now my lil one is sniffling and coughing poor baby. Fortunately the boys had a flu shot. Mama did not.

Today is Love Day, so Happy Valentine's Day to all. I have tried numerous times to comment on your blogs....but was unable to do so.
So just a bit ago I signed up for the google blogger thinga majiggy.
Hopefully now I am able to communicate with ya.

Thank Ya'll for checkin' in on me :O)

So Sick

2007-01-29T18:08:00.000-08:00

Things are going to the wayside around here. We are sick! My Twin comes home with a rash over his entire body. His schoolmate has the shingles...so I assume the worst and take him to the Doctor. Only to find out he has Eczema. Hmm

My husband and I have a bad case of the flu. We are in and out of the bed. I feel better when I am in the bed with my vaporizer running. My poor children having to eat hot pockets every evening. My house smells like vicks and looks neglected. I believe that old sayin' "If ye ain't got your health ye ain't got nuthin"

Hope everyone is well and kickin'. I hope to be in a day or two, Lord willing.

2007-01-19T04:52:00.000-08:00

Raindrops keep falling on my head. Thankfully the ice has disappeared, though the cold temperatures are still around. The weather is nasty and gloomy here in Conroe, TX.

I know I need to focus on something else. But...I have been stuck indoors for quite some time. I do not drive in wet or freezing conditions, it causes me overwhelming anxiety. Montgomery County is known for bad drivers, whom scare the weebie beegeebies out of me in good driving conditions, much less bad conditions. Huntsville TX the town north of me, reported 44 accidents in one day, due to icy conditions.

Hopefully things will clear up soon. Weather permitting the boys have baseball evaluations on Saturday. We are geared up for baseball, and I am very excited to begin the new season and look forward to watching the Astro's as well.

My sister is missing again. I may post about it one day, it is difficult for my family to watch her go down the path of destruction. I do not know what to do ...Except pray feverently. Drug addiction changes a person in many ways. It is terribly sad.

On a happier note my boys were picked for the Student achievement award. They are the first children to ever receive it at their school. It is given to those who exhibit not only great grades, but excellent citizenship. Students are recognized for demonstration of outstanding character and providing a positive impact on the campus. I am very proud of them. The school superintendent along with a school board member, surprised them at school with the award statue.

Have a great weekend!

Winter Blitz?

2007-01-13T17:03:00.000-08:00

I am getting myself all worked up over this Weather that should arrive in two days. I recall the last Winter Blizzard we had back in 1997. It was terribly cold and we were without electricity for over 10 days.

You could not get a room anywhere. It was terrible. I detest cold weather, guess you could call it a side-effect of being a born and bred die-hard Texan. If it gets below 70 I am cold.

In this town if it sleets you lose power. My husband says " You just need to not worry your head about it, ya know how the media is, they blow everything out of proportion"!

I wonder how others in different States are dealing with this onslaught.
Have any of you experienced it? If so please share.

Happy New Year!

2007-01-06T19:12:00.000-08:00

I know I have been missing in action. No time to blog or even read blogs.

You know how the holiday rush is right? I suffered for almost two weeks with the Crud. You know the non-stop persistent cough that keeps you awake. I am finally over it and after watching 20/20 last night, I agree that the weather is to blame. Alot of people are sick with this stuff.

We had a very nice Christmas this year. I thank the Lord that my Granny is still alive and well. It is the best gift of all. She had me real worried this season. She is suffering through with a case of shingles. She will be OK though.

For New Year's we built a huge bonfire and popped a lot of firecrackers. The kids love that. It was a relaxing way to bring in the New Year. My daughter worked and went home, so that gave me peace of mind as well. Just here in Montgomery County alone, they made 76 arrest on New Years morning.

Today was my Dads birthday celebration, he turned 62. He fixed up some mighty delishous BBQ Ribs and chappel hill sausage, my Granny fixed her homemade BBQ sauce and made a 3 layer German Chocolate cake YUMMY! I felt like it was my birthday!

I miss reading all of Ya'll but I will be coming around in a bit. Happy New Year Bloggie Buddies!

Five Christmas Songs

2006-12-10T22:17:00.000-08:00

I have been tagged by David to list five of my favorite Christmas songs

1. Away in a Manger (This was my fave song as a child and remains so)
2. Joy to the World
3. O come all Ye Faithful
4. Drummer Boy
5. Silent Night

So, What are your favorite Christmas Carols?

Brrrrh! It is cold!

2006-12-04T06:31:00.000-08:00

I don't know about temperature in your neck of the woods, but it is mighty dang cold here in Texas! I guess I should not complain it could be worse like over in Missourri. I feel for those folks without power and many of them dying trying to stay warm.

Last year we only reached freezing once or twice. So far this year we have tripled that. Texas is usually pretty mild in November and December....but not this time around.

Makes it a tad bit more difficult for gettin' out shopping, especially when it is a lot more comfortable for this elf to get online and peruse.

My lil one wants a deer rifle for Christmas and THAT IS ALL HE WANTS or so he says. But he ain't gettin' it. He is only 9 yrs old and never been deer huntin' a day in his life. My husband only hunts about once every 5 or so years. He is gonna have to wait until he gets a gun safety course under his belt.

The other Twin wants a big ol' 4-wheeler, it has been on his wish list now for 3 years...BUT he will have to keep it on his list. They are against the law unless you are over 16 yrs old. I found that out last year when I went to get him one.

Oh let me share this one with ya- On Thanksgiving we always order a Honeybaked ham. Did the same this year and on Thanksgiving night we get a call from their company informing us that alot the hams were contaminated with the Listeria bacterium. Of course my siblings and I began to feel sick upon hearing this. After much digging through the trash containers, we find the UPC code and call the 1-800 number back. Much to our glee this particular ham was bacteria free. But I go out to the freezer to get the code off of my Christmas Turkey and luckily find out that it is contaminated. Therefore I am thankful that we did not eat this Turkey for Thanksgiving. Quite a bit of people die every year from this bacteria, especially the elderly and very young.

Hopefully no one passed away due to these infected hams and/or turkeys. We really were quite thankful.

Happy Thanksgiving Ya'll !!!!!!!!!!

2006-11-22T00:42:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is upon us and gives us reason to reflect on all the things we are grateful for. I must say it is quite a long list. I have asked my Twins to make a list of the top ten things they are thankful for.

I am thankful that my boys have grown closer to the Lord. That they are confident enough to sing songs of praise at church. And that they were baptized this year, a decision they made on their own.

I am thankful as well for my daughter, who improves greatly with each passing year....who by the way will turn 25 on the 25th. I fondly recall her birth, the day before Thanksgiving so many years ago. Growing up I jokingly told her "If you woulda just waited one day, you coulda been a turkey!" Her favorite holiday is the less stressful Thanksgiving Day. I am thankful that I was blessed with a daughter, my only baby gurl.

Speaking of being blessed....remember my last post?? Paul-David (hubby) filled out a transfer request, had an interview and was hired for the Lake Conroe store WOO-HOO! It is close to home and a step up from Cleveland...plus change is good.

Enjoy your family, the delicious meal and have a very Happy Thanksgiving :O)

Jibber Jabber

2006-11-14T21:21:00.000-08:00

Things are hectic here on the home front. I sure miss blogging and reading my blog buddies blogs (say that 10 times ;)

My hubby has been working over-nights now for 9 months, the standard rotation for Managers at Wally world is 6 months...today he was told (not asked) that he will have to continue overnights until February. I want to cry (Guess I have to put on my big girl panties and deal with it!) You see it is difficult for me to sleep when he is not here. Plus I rarely see him awake. He has a part time job as well, feeding horses and mowing 2 properties (which we should get a break from for a few months....this time of year).

I know stop whining....I am thankful that he has a job. Sometimes things seem unbalanced. The boys miss him as much as I do. But we stay busy with Scouts, Soccer, Piano and school.

On top of all this, my brother told the Twins that he would give them their own horse. Hmm I dunno about that. It sounds nice but do you know how much it costs to feed two horses? Nevermind the vet bills, fence mending and the tooth fairy to float their teeth. Hay is also in short supply around here! But how do I break it to them? "Ya'll ain't gettin' no horse and thats that!" ;)

My family has designated me "In Charge" of Thanksgiving Dinner. I think that gives me exclusive rights to delegating dont you? So, what are your plans for Thanksgiving?

Gobble Gobble

Eight is Enough

2006-11-05T19:49:00.000-08:00

I have been snagged/tagged by Britmum . The purpose of this tag is to list 8 things about yourself. Seems easy but.... is not. Hmm where do I begin? Let's see

1. I began driving at the age of 13 and had my first car then too.
( No I was not legal to drive....and no one gave me lessons.)
Needless to say there were many mishaps.

2. I had a severe crush on John Travolta. I remember seeing Saturday
Night Fever on a daily basis at the Theatre when it came out. I
joined his fan club and they sent an autographed picture of him.
I had numerous posters on my wall as a teenager, but he was the
only one that graced my ceiling (above my bed). *swoon*

3. About the same time as my Parents divorce, at the age of 10, I
contracted hepatitis A. It was the worst illness that I have ever had.
My best friends mother had it and somehow I became infected. I
remember my family, classmates and neighbors having to line up
for a shot that would prevent them from infection. I have my liver
checked yearly. Sometimes I wonder if this is why I tire easily.

4. There were about 10 very traumatic experiences during my
childhood. I will share one. When we arrived home from a
deer hunting trip. We found a man dead in our house. He had
broke in and used the rifle (the one my Mother decided not to use
and had left on the bed) to blow his head off. Needless to say we
never spent another night in the house. My mother would not go
back inside.

5. Some of my favorite memories of my childhood are visiting with
the elderly. My Granny and my Aunt would take us to visit
different nursing homes. And at Christmas time me, my siblings
and cousin would go to sing Christmas Carols. I think elderly
people are the smartest and most neglected group of people.

6. I was at Astroworld the day Elvis died. I called home and asked to
be picked up, I had to leave to mourn in private.

7. I left home at the age of 15. I returned at 16 and left again for good
at 17. The first time I left (at 15) I went to Las Vegas.

8. I believe that God has great things in store for me. I have always
believed in him. If not for the Lord, my Twins would not be here
today!

Anyone that has made it to the end of this list may /or may not wish to do this list of 8's. I like getting to know people, even though I must admit it is hard to share some things. Let me know if you decide to do this....so I can check it out.
And if you get the chance click on britmum's link above she is a really sweet gal in spite of her taggin' me. ;O)

Happy Halloween!

2006-10-31T10:29:00.000-08:00

I know it has been awhile since my last post. Things have been rockin' and a rollin' here. I am sure you can relate.

I am not real big on Halloween, I don't decorate or get all excited about it. Things change when your not a kid anymore. I remember my Mom scouring the goodwill and salvation army finding costumes for her 4 children and herself. I don't have that drive or imagination when it comes to my own children. I just let them pick one off the shelf.

This year one is a skeleton and the other is a ninja. They wore their costumes to a Halloween Party given by my cousin's on Saturday.
It was a cool party. They had their own version of "Fear Factor". I could not believe that the same boys that will not eat their vegetables here at home would be more than willing to eat a minnow to proceed to the next round.

They also had a scary trail. They led us through the woods with many horrors along the way. Needless to say they went all out for this party. The children were delighted.

My favorite thing about Halloween is seeing all the kids in their costumes and knowing that they are so excited.

Tonight we will go to a fall festival where our boy scout troop has a booth. What are your plans this spooky night? ;O)

You Break-You Buy!

2006-10-23T14:35:00.000-07:00

Oh remember my last post when my hunny went fishing. Well the clock kept rolling by and I worked myself into a panic. I had not heard a word in many hours and he was not answering his cell phone. So, I called the Forest Ranger & The Police. Needless to say I was frantic and full of tears. I imagined terrible things and visioned my life without him.

When he finally walked in the door with a big grin on his face (Yep he was catchin' a bunch of fish!) it quickly faded because once I knew he was fine and dandy, I was hotter than a two-dollar pistol!

Oh Baby my phone broke so I could not call you. hmmph!

So the next day he takes my cell phone to run errands and to purchase him a replacement cell phone and guess what? He Breaks MY PHONE!

So the very next day, I start a job and ask him to do a few things around the house. He broke my stove! And my computer! I am not joking one bit! I was livid!

If this keeps up the next thing to be broke....is my pocketbook!

Rain, Rain Go Away!

2006-10-16T11:37:00.000-07:00

Whoever is dancing the raindance can stop any moment now! We are currently under tornado watch and most parts of Conroe and Houston are flooded.

Guess where Mr.Vacation boy is?? My husband is out at the Lake fishing for his 5th day in a row! In this storm....he has no sense. He called a few minutes ago to check in and to relieve my non-stop worrying. He was giggling like a 3 year old because he has 3 big-uns on his line.

I am stuck inside, because everyone knows that I do NOT drive in the rain. The news is advising people to stay off the roads. Two people have died this morning and many are trapped in their cars. So I am cooking up enough food to last the remainder of the week.

I had a nice weekend. The boys did a wonderful job and won their second soccer game. They look like pros out there on the field. It was Grandparents day so my MIL received a ribbon for participating.

My sister spent the weekend with us and we all enjoyed our visit.

The newscaster just announced that instead of listing the roads that are closed it would prove easier to just state "All roads are closed!" My husband may have to leave his truck behind and come home in his canoe!

The facts of life

2006-10-11T06:06:00.000-07:00

A couple of eyeopening true life examples of elementary children -

A fellow student in 4th grade, was sent home for bringing a condom to school. Once caught, he informed the teacher that he stole it from his Dad. He also told her that he had planned on having sex with his girlfriend and did not want her to get pregnant. He had already kissed her the other day and was worried that she may already be pregnant.

A fast moving little girl asked one of my boys to "go out with her". In other words, be her boyfriend. To which my son replied "No, you already have a boyfriend". And she said "No I broke up with J---- because I caught him smoking crack". OK I almost had a stroke when my little boy told me this.

So, son do you know what crack is? "Yes Mom it looks like a rock" "and I also know what weed is, it looks like chopped up grass and dirt". Hmmm Well how do you know this? I WATCH COPS MOM!

The other day I made a new house rule. I pulled all the controllers from the playstations and put them in my closet. I informed the boys that there would be No Video Games played during the school week and only 2 hours on the weekends. They don't like it but they will probably stop wasting precious time zoning out. And spend more time reading. Time will tell. Perhaps I need to do this with the Telly as well.

Now if I could just figure out how to send them to an all boys school where the kids are still kids. What a dream thought!

Dog GONE!

2006-10-07T21:27:00.000-07:00

I know...it has been a while since my last post. Things have been stirred up around here. A wild trio of dogs running in a pack have been terrorizing the neighborhood. They have killed all my critters (except for my cat and dog). We buried our poor little pygmy goat named Nelly just a couple of days ago.

The kids have been kept in-doors after one of the dogs lunged at them and the neighbor boys. On Friday my husband lured one with food and we tied him up and had animal control pick him up. So, one down and two to go!

We had our very first soccer game today and though I was not expecting to be, I found it very enjoyable. Soccer is a lot more strenous than baseball or any other sport. It is constant non-stop running.

While on the subject of sports. I think that I will take up football. A local business man who began his career as "Mattress Mac" has lured me in. He is a fellow Houstonian who rose to the top selling furniture and electronics. He hopes the Houston Texans will beat the Dallas Cowboys but he does not think they have it in them. SOOOO if you spent $4,000 on furniture before October the 15th and The Houston Texans beat the Dallas Cowboys you will get your furniture for FREE!

So if any of my fellow blog buddies knows their football, tell me what'cha think about this one!? This is not the first time that he has offered a promotion such as this. He has plenty of money and gets plenty of business. He may be getting some from me before October the 15th.

Busy Boys

2006-09-28T19:57:00.000-07:00

My little guys are very excited about their boy scout troop. They keep thanking me for taking them and being so involved. I really like this den that they are part of.

Years ago I was a brownie troop leader for my daughters troop. She was a girl scout for many, many years. Unbelievably in all my years I have yet to go "Camping". It has never appealed to me. I don't like bugs, ticks, mosquitos, lizards, bees, snakes or rodents and roughing it is too rough for my delicate skin ;). I also like a nice soft bed with fine sheets.
But now after all these years, I am wondering if I might like it.

The troop has a 3 day camp scheduled in October and I am seriously considering it. The boys do all the cooking on an open fire (the adults build it). The boys also pitch all the tents. They have showers and restrooms so it is a functionable camp. If the hubby can get off from work we will probably go on this adventure. He loves camping and can teach me the ropes.

The boys are practicing everyday for their 2nd annual Piano recital. And next week we begin our very 1st soccer season. I don't really understand soccer, but they really want to try it. They keep telling me that they want to try every sport there is.
So they want to play golf and tennis as well.

Thankfully, they insist that Spring time is reserved for Baseball ONLY!

Speaking of baseball...did ya'll see the Astro's vs Pirates game today? We swept them! Beat their Ca-Hooties! Yippie Ya Yo!! 3 more games to go!

Sorry guys but I am so lovin' it! Life without baseball is boring.

Holy Toledo!!

2006-09-25T06:05:00.000-07:00

Did any of you catch the game last night? The Astro's whupped up on the Saint Louis Cardinals. We beat them in a 4 game sweep! The FIRST time EVER to sweep the Cardinals!
I love my boys! And to top it off Roger Clemens was the starting pitcher. Life is Good!

Everyone has a favorite sports player....who is yours? As you already know and my bedside table proudly displays, mine is ROCKET ROGER!

A Creature is Stirring!!

2006-09-22T17:01:00.000-07:00

Awhile back my husband built a barn. After that we accumulated some critters. So, the barn proved a great place to store grain and feed. Right?

WRONG! A few weeks ago my husband asked me to come out back, so that he could show me something. I went with him to the barn, where he points his finger to the seat on a fat-boy mini-bike. So? Look Closer he instructed. Eeewie what is that?

I think it urine and feces from a RAT! Yikes! I have been bothered ever since. We have set out POUNDS of poison, bars and bars and boxes upon boxes of poison pellets! We do it EVERY day and SOMETHING is still eating this stuff like it is candy!

Today we set traps. I am wondering if it racoons or possums or an entire family of rats! It gives me the weebie-jeebies Yuck!

I have lived here a long time....21 years and I have never seen a rat or a mouse or any rodents! I know they are out there in the woods, but jiminy-cricket this is not that farfrommyhouse!!!

My cat is on welfare and unable to work. Just lays around meowing for a free hand-out! Too busy sleeping and eating to chase a dad-gum rat away. Hmmph! I am removing all snacks and tid=bits from her menu.

I think it is funny(NOT!) that the bars we bought from the feed store are called "Just One Bite". They should change that to "Just one MORE bite!" Because whatever is out there, returns nightly for another stomach full of the scrumptious poison bar.

To be continued....... :(

Beware of Girls!

2006-09-18T19:20:00.000-07:00

My little Twin baby boy's have entered the danger zone of 4th grade. Ya know where the girls have gone wild. Is my memory going bad? Or did girls always grow up too fast?

School has not been in session for a month yet...but...two girls are chasing after one of my boys. She is even bold enough to call the house. I have told the boys numerous times that they CAN NOT have a girlfriend until they are at least 15 yrs old.

Seems like Christian is ok with this and has even told the girls "My mom says that Caleb is not old enough for a girlfriend yet!" to which this identical Twin girl replies "Tell your Mom, that Caleb can do what he wants, because it is his life that he is living"! WHAT??

So, I calmly sit down and proceed to email the teacher. She has 4 boys herself so she should be able to advise me in this situation. She emails me back and informs me that kids seem to find "love" in the 4th grade, but don't be alarmed because these crushes fade just as quickly as they begin. It will be over before you know it!

Hmm did not realize this was normal. My brother told Caleb "If you still like this girl (identical twin) when you get to Junior High, go up to her sister and kiss her in front of her...and when she gets mad, just say "Oh, I thought it was you". The boys still think that is funny and gross too. They are not getting married because....You have to kiss her in front of everybody! Ewww!

So maybe I am worrying about nothing.

A Simple Life

2006-09-13T07:49:00.000-07:00

I often wonder what the secret is to raising children. I always look to those who proved successful. Today there seem to be fewer role models and the children of today are more protected than any other generation.

When I was younger parents would let their children walk to school, or walk to the store and even a mile or so to visit their friends. We also did not buckle up in seat belts and even rode in the back of pick-up trucks...especially on Halloween night. It was the only way we could all fit. I also look back with fondess on drive-in theatres, where we rode to and from in the back of a truck.

My mother is one of ten children. Most of her siblings are wealthy. Some may think that would be an advantage, but it really was not. Most of those children have yet to grow up and still rely on Mom and Dad's money to pull them through.

However one of my Aunts who lives in a modest home. Raised 5 successful children with very little money. She had a garden and she never worked a day in her life outside of her home. Her sons had to work around the house and later had to get jobs to help purchase a car and then put themselves through college. I think they were too busy to get in trouble with the Law or involved in drugs. They were raised in church and taught the golden rules.

Recently we had our family reunion. 80% of the women (and a few men) have had plastic surgery....ya know face-lifts, liposuction, butt-lifts, nose jobs, tummy tucks, botox, collagen and a whole lot of boob jobs. And though some of them do look younger than they really are, none of them look as good (less wrinkles) as the simple Aunt that I mentioned. She has never had a vain surgery nor would she.
As we sat around discussing all the surgeries that have taken place since our last get together, I commented on the oldest most simple Aunt. And my Pop said "She looks so good because she has led such a simple life, the good life".

What are the things your parents did that you carried forth with your own children? I can honestly say not many, if any.

When people ask me "Where did you go to school?" I reply "How much time do you have?" I went to many, many schools. Because we moved alot. So, I decided that I wanted my children to have roots. Don't know if that is a good thing, it was just something I did not have. Guess that is why I still live in this house after 21 years.

But I see children raised by Preachers and good parents, who turn to drugs and law breaking acts. I think alot of kids problems are parents that are too busy. I know that all parents love their children, but sometimes their priorities get mixed up. I also believe that children are given too many material things and not enough time.

I wish parenting came with a fool-proof reference manual. And I wish I had all the answers....Don't we all?

Celebrating the big 8-0!

2006-09-07T17:38:00.000-07:00

Today is my Granny's 80th Birthday! My sweet lil dear Granny. She stands all of 4'11 and looks like a little angel. I went over to visit her and took her out to lunch. As usual she grabbed her jacket...yes I know it is in the 90's but if the breeze moves she gets goose bumps.

She is truly a one-of-a kind person. I have never seen her sip alchohol, smoke, say a cuss word or even tell a lie. She refuses to even tell a little white-lie. For example the phone rings, do not ask her to tell that person that you are not there. No way will she lie for you.

She has never drove a car in her entire life. She lived in the Heights near downtown Houston and took the bus to business college, then later took the bus to her job as Secretary to the Chief of Police in Houston. She later worked with then Mayor Kathy Whitmire. After 25 years of service she retired. She still writes all her household notes in shorthand and reads 2-3 books a week.

She woke up this morning and walked a few miles. This little lady is something else. I thank the Lord above for blessing my life with her. She is my favorite person in the whole wide world.

I always ask the Lord when I pray "Just let her live at least 5 more years"! Today at lunch she told me "You know I never thought I would live to see 80, but now I look forward to 90!" You go Granny :O)

The only sad thing about her birthday is that she married the day after it...so tomorrow would be her 63rd anniversary. My Grandpa died almost two years ago. I miss him. And I am glad that he went before her, because if it would have been her first, he would have grieved himself to death. I worried that she would , but she is very strong.

She has 5 Grandchildren, I am the first born. I am also the only one with brown eyes. My family is German, fair haired and blue-eyed. All of my siblings have blondish hair with blue eyes. From the time my Mother announced her pregancy, my Granny prayed feverently for a brown haired, brown-eyed Grandaughter and that is just what she got. I felt cheated, everyone loves blue eyes....Well, everyone except my Granny!

Another day ...Another dollar!

2006-08-30T17:44:00.000-07:00

I have been meaning to post for days now. With school back in session, life seems to run in high gear.

The Twins are making it a point to be different...Caleb refuses to wear shorts and Christian is refusing to wear pants. They both have to spray (4 squirts) of cologne onto their he=man chests every morning. Is this a riot of passage? They are both in the same class this year. I picked their teacher, she was happy to have the pair. I only asked that they sit away from each other...well she has them sitting side by side. Oh well! The boys told me that it is fine with them, because they just pretend that they are not brothers when they are at school. Hmm wonder if they could do that for me? I can imagine saying in the morning "Stop that arguing you two! You are not brothers but classmates, treat each other accordingly!" Yeah mm-hmm in my dreams.

My mom called today, she is packing up her belongings. She is moving HERE, to Conroe Texas. Yep. My MIL is planning on leaving Kentucky next year and guess where she is re-locating? You got it...right HERE where I bees. So, I am pondering my options here. Perhaps, I could relocate to Arizona, ya know where Britmum resides. I know it is hot as hell there...but she has one swanky pool ya know. Maybe I could chuck some corn over in Nebraska. Cliff needs to spend some time on the golf course and he just lost one hand (oops leg) recently. It shore is pretty where he lives.
Never hurts to dream does it?

Well, I lost $100.00 dollars today. On a bet. No I don't buy lottery tickets, nor do I go to casino's. But I just knew that the fella that admitted killing Jon Benet was the one who did it. My brother was just as adamant that he did not do it. So, the gambler that he is ...said lets bet a hundred dollars and I said OK your on. You know the rest.

Gotta catch the last few innings of the Astro game, they might have a chance in the wild card. Crossing my fingers here. Dreams really do come true. Right?

Silver Dollar City

2006-08-24T14:59:00.000-07:00

2006-08-24T12:33:00.000-07:00

#1 - Me and Caleb on a ride at Silver Dollar City
#2 - The Twins
#3 - Caves-Way too scary for Caleb & myself!
#4 - Caleb
#5 - Christian

Down in Louisana where the green grass grows....

2006-08-21T20:53:00.000-07:00

We had our kin folk get-together. It began on Thursday and ended on Sunday. I almost backed out of going, but changed my mind. My Mother's side of the family is totally different than my Dad's side.

The reunion was held in Louisiana at a resort called Cypress Bend. There was a sign up table in the lobby for activities. There were competitions held in Golf, Fishing and Washers. There was also a fishing tournament held for children only. I thought my boys would win this....but...it was too dang hot for fishing!

Friday night was Karaoke in the bar. Saturday night was a band hired from Nashville called "The Heat". I video-taped them because they were so good, that I think they will be famous one day. There was a night of dancing in the ballroom. We spent most of out time out at the pool. The pool was half indoors and the other half was outside, you could swim under the glass wall to get to the other side. My boys loved it!

There were over 300 relatives there and we occupied the entire resort. This was the best one ever held. It was really nice to see my cousins, Uncles and Aunts. Since Grandma passed away we rarely get together as a whole.

Anyhow, it is nice to be back home!

Do you believe in magic?!

2006-08-15T20:53:00.000-07:00

What a majical evening here at the Kirby VanBurch magic show in Branson, Missouri. Kirby -The Prince of magic, performs mystifying illusions and has many exotic animals in his show including two very rare Royal White Bengal Tigers.

#1 Kirby was dropped down in a cage on a running motorcycle, that re-appeared on the opposite side of the stage in another cage.

#2 The Twins, Myself, FIL and Step MIL. I thought we were fortunate to have front row tickets...but changed my mind when he appeared with a humingously huge boa constrictor snake around his neck and it hissed at us.

#3 Kirby and his lovely wife Bambi

#4 Mr. & Mrs. Magic with The Twins.

The best part of the show was the ending. The lights were turned out. Kirby held a glow in the dark string. He explained that magic is not REAL it is just an illusion. He shared a story that his Grandma told him about people ande broken dreams (as he tore a piece off the string), broken hope (another piece torn off of string) and broken lives (now he has three pieces of string) but with the Lord Jesus Christ you can be mended and made whole! THEN VOILA the string was all in ONE piece! Of course by this time I was boo-hooing crocodile tears!

He spent his summers here in Conroe , TX with his Grandmother, whom he gave a most inspirational tribute in his closing speech. I adore this fella and if you ever go to Branson do not miss his show! I found this old small story about him, from many years ago...if you have time click the link http://members.aol.com/rojo777/AboutKirby.htm As you can tell pictures really do bring memories close to heart!

Gear-Up

2006-08-11T09:08:00.000-07:00

School is just around the corner, so we are getting geared up. I have been shopping here and there for over a month. I was amazed, as I began digging the bags out of closets....I bought alot more than I thought.

Anyhow, the only things that I have left to purchase are Cowboy Boots and Tennis shoes and then stick -a -fork-in- me, I am done.

My refrigerator has been making all kinds of noises. Groans, moans and spitting sounds. The Sears guy will be making a delivery today. For numerous years, I have the freezer on the bottom type of fridge. Also, the biggest one money can buy. All that is changing today. I am getting the old-timey kind...you know...the freezer on top. Perhaps, my mom will get stop complaining since she will no longer have to stoop to get ice!

I refuse to buy another appliance that is Stainless Steel! I detest stainless steel. My stove and dishwasher both are the horrible SS. I know that most desire it, but honestly it is a full-time job to keep it clean. It always looks nasty in-between cleanings. I even bought the expensive steel cleaner/polish but even a dribble of water looks like grafitti on my dishwasher. I am looking forward to the mis--matched bisque colored refrigerator.

We are going to Minute Maid Park tonight to watch the Houston Astro's compete against the San Diego Padres. Andy Pettite will pitch. Hopefully, we will win tonight.

Have a great weekend, doing whatever you enjoy! :O)

A Re-Run worth Repeating :O)

2006-08-08T08:47:00.000-07:00

"IT'S SO HOT IN TEXAS THAT..."

"The birds have to use pot holders to pull worms out of the ground.

The potatoes cook underground and all you have to do to have lunch is topull one out and add butter, salt and pepper.

Farmers are feeding their chickens crushed ice to keep them from layinghard-boiled eggs.

I went out to check on my Pig and all I found was a slab of bacon.

IT'S SO DRY IN TEXAS THAT...

"The cows are giving evaporated milk.

The trees are whistling for the dogs.

A sad Texan once prayed, "I wish it would rain - not so much for me,cuz I'veseen it - but for my 7-year old."

A visitor to Texas once asked, "Does it ever rain out here?"A rancher quickly answered, "Yes, it does.
Do you remember that part in theBible where it rained for 40 days and 40 nights?"
The visitor replied, "Yes, I'm familiar with Noah's flood."
"Well," said the rancher puffed up, "we got about two and a half inches ofthat."

"YOU KNOW YOU'RE IN TEXAS WHEN...

"You no longer associate bridges (or rivers) with water.

You can say 110 degrees without fainting.

You eat hot chilies to cool your mouth off.

You can make instant sun tea.

You learn that a seat belt makes a pretty good branding iron.

When the temperature drops below 95, you feel a bit chilly.

You discover that in July, it takes only 2 fingers to drive your car.

You discover that you can get a sunburn through your car window.

You notice the best parking place is determined by shade instead ofdistance.

Hot water now comes out of both taps.

It's noon in July, the kids are on summer vacation, and not one person isout on the streets.

You actually burn your hand opening the car door.

You break a sweat the instant you step outside and it's only 7:30 am.

No one would dream of putting vinyl upholstery in a car or not having airconditioning.
Your biggest bicycle wreck fear is, "What if I get knocked out and end uplying on the pavement and cook to death?"

You realize asphalt has a liquid state.

How hot is it where you live? Whew-We!

Home Sweet Home!

2006-08-04T18:54:00.000-07:00

We arrived home yesterday, I was looking forward to our return. The vacation was lovely and packed full of activities. Ya know that sayin' that vacation can be work....well it was in a way.

We left on a Thursday and two hours into our trip the rain began falling. I am nervous in rain and I seem to upset people by driving below the speed limit. So, we pulled over in Hope, Arkansas. The birthplace of our former President Clinton. My mother-in-law would have been tickled pink. Every restaurant and even the local Wal-Mart, proudly displays his picture and the photo of his house located just a mile down the road. Just that fact made me want to find another town to nest in. But we spent the night there and headed to our destination bright and early the next morning. On our way home after exiting Texarkana, I rejoiced in the sign proudly stating "TEXAS-The friendly State and home of George W. Bush". Not to get into politicking or anything but I adore this strong Texas fella!

Branson Missourri is the place to go, especially if you have children. There is so much to see and do in that town, that even a month there would not make a dent.

We spent two full days (yes in a row Whew-We) at Silver Dollar City and one full evening at Celebration (Think Six-Flags here) and I was delighted when the Twins said "Oh, Ma our backs and feet are aching" I thought it was just lil old me feeling my age, but even the young-uns were whipped!

We took lots of pictures but we lost our camera and two rolls of film at the park. I have two to be developed and I will get a disc so that I may display a couple on my blog here.

We went to the Kirby VanBurch majic show and they called Paul up there to blindfold Bambi (The majician's wife) after that my husband was dubbed "Paullinator" and I was "Taminator" and we were the two most picked upon people in the whole show. The Twins were awestruck when he made a hellicopter appear on stage. Hopefully those pictures are in my possession.

My in-laws joined us for a day and night in Branson. And once we left Branson we drove the four hours up to their home to spend a little more time with them. They own a busy restaurant and a big antique mall there. So guess where I spent my time? Yep and I brought home a 150 year old mirror with hand wood carving around it! It is the oldest thing in my home.....besides me hehehe

While we were gone my chickens (Ahem ..the menfolks chickens) began laying eggs! This morning we gathered 6 of em'! I am going to have to buy a book and figure out when and how they hatch them.

Speaking of home there is no place like home!

AT-CHOO

2006-07-17T09:15:00.000-07:00

I have a summer cold...You know sniffling, sneezing, runny nose. I feel phuney! Hopefully it will not last long, as I have a long list of things to do. Our vacation is just around the corner and I need to wrap some things up.

I took the advice of a friend and checked into timeshare rentals. I never knew that you could book a split level condo (2 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 kitchens and TWO jacuzzi) for less than the price of a motel/hotel. It has everything including a washer and dryer for less than $ 70.00 per night! Hot Diggity Dog! Not only is it beautiful, but it is right in the heart of Branson Missouri!

We will be there for about 5 days and then head to Table Rock Lake to stay on my Father-in-Laws houseboat. I am not as excited about this as the boys are. All I know about the boat is it has a/c and satellite. The guys want to fish a day or two. I guess I will either read or do a little shopping. School days are just around the corner! OMG where did the summer go?

I am so heartsick of all the turmoil going on in the East. Seems Israel is always being attacked on some level. From Saddam Hussein sending those scud missiles over there, now the Palestinians kidnapping their guards....I pray to God that this is not going to be World War III. I am praying ferverently for peace over there.

I was watching CNN this morning and seems everyone is making a big deal over a little four-letter word "SHIT"! Seems the microphone was on during a conversation between Bush and Tony Blair and George W said "Shit". I think it is hilariously funny. Nothing to get upset about he is only human and I happen to like the word myself. I prefer "Oh shit" or Awe Shit. Either way it is a lot better word than the other four letter word.

I think people should focus on the sufferings of the innocent children on both sides of this battle than what the President is saying.

On a happier note: The Astro's have a new player named Aubrey Huff. I think he is a positive addition to our baseball team. During times of war and depression nothing cheers me up as much as good ol' baseball game!

Bye Bye Birdie!

2006-07-07T12:02:00.000-07:00

When I say birdie I am referring to the Saint Louis CARDINALS! Let me tell you, I have been to many games at Minute Maid. But other than the World Series in 2005, I would have to say this was the best game ever! We kicked some butt last night! And if we win the next two games, the Astro's will move up from 3rd place and be tied with the Cardinals for 1st Place! :O)

Everyone was pumped after the game! Yelling and hollering "WOO-HOO"!

So as we load into the truck, I pop in my KC and The Sunshine Band CD and crank up the volume and slide the windows down. The traffic was heavy in downtown Houston and hundreds of people were walking the sidewalks. They could hear "I wanna put on my my my my my Boogie Shoes and Boogie with you" and they were singing and dancing, twirling their wives and/or girlfriends around! It was awesome and this went on for 10 minutes at every corner block in downtown Houston!

It was a remarkable and memorable event! GO ASTRO'S!!

Plop, Plop, Fizz, Fizz

2006-07-03T20:01:00.000-07:00

Oh what a relief it is- Our 6 days a week, five hours a day All-Star Baseball tour of duty is OVER!! The boys came in 2nd place! I feel like I won....because it is finished ;O)

I have spent last couple of days catching up on things. Now I need to prepare and plan for our upcoming vacation. I have heard some great things about Silver Dollar City. The reviews state that this is the #1 theme park. I like that it is set in the frontier days era. We are excited and ready to check it out! We are also going to see a local hometown fella named Kirby, put on his fanastic Magical show!

One things for sure three of are going to age on this trip. We are leaving on my birthday, and then three days into our trip, the Twins will turn 9 years old! My goodness time flies by! We usually spend their birthday at Minute Maid park catchin' an Astro's game, so we decide to catch one this Thursday instead. It will be a good one, against the Cardinals who were in first place, until they lost today :O).

Happy 4th Everyone! I am looking forward to reading and catching up on all of your blogs!

What's your Dosha?

2006-06-17T21:04:00.000-07:00

Your Dosha is Pitta

You have a quick mind, a gift for persuasion, and a sharp sense of humor.You have both the drive and people skills to be a very successful leader.Argumentative and a bit stubborn, you have been known to be a little too set in your ways.But while you may be biased toward your own point of view, you are always honest, fair, and ethical.
With friends: You are outgoing and open to anyone who might want to talk to you
In love: You are picky but passionate
To achieve more balance: Be less judgmental of those around you, and take cool walks in the moonlight.

What's" Your Dosha?

Events

2006-06-04T18:47:00.000-07:00

On Friday, the menfolk went to Minute Maid, to watch the Astro's get tortured by the Cincinatti Reds. They made us look real bad out there. While on the subject of baseball, my boys were picked for All-Star's again. We have quite a feat in front of us, but they are so looking forward to it!

We tried to take our minds off of it. Decided that laughter would be the best medicine. So, we hopped in the minivan and headed to the Theatre to see Over the Hedge. The Twins loved it, they said it was the best movie ever. Hmm it was good, but ...I have yet to see a movie top Toy Story. My husband thinks Shrek is still the best.

Today was exciting for the boys. The partaking of their FIRST Lord's Supper/Communion. They fully understand the meaning and have the grace and reverance required. They will be baptized later this month.
The Lord is Awesome!

My ROCKET is Back & Ready to Launch!!

2006-05-31T10:08:00.000-07:00

The Rocket Returns

Right-hander Roger Clemens has signed with the Houston Astros, returning to the hometown club for whom he has pitched the past two seasons.

Clemens, who will turn 44 in August, has a 344-172 record and seven Cy Young awards. Clemens pitched for the U.S. team in the World Baseball Classic in March and still seemed to have the ability to perform at a high level.

Clemens rejoins a staff anchored by RHP Roy Oswalt and LHP Andy Pettitte as Houston pursues a return to the World Series. Clemens' first scheduled Major League start is Thursday, June 22 against the Minnesota Twins at Minute Maid Park.

YOO-HOO! I am so excited! I adore this man and his abilities! What a dream he is!

Critter fodder

2006-05-27T06:34:00.000-07:00

Life is always throwing you a curve ball. Through it all you just press onward. Sometimes though there are things that happen, that make you feel pity or guilt or keep you up at night.

A few months ago my 37 yr old sister went through a nice two month stay at Jolimar. Family was called to raise the $24,000 price for treatment. Everyone was in prayer and hopes that this would prove a happy ending and a healthy way of life for her.

It lasted for two months and sad to say that things look worse than before she went into rehab. My mother is at odds with me because I do not feel the need to rescue/save her. Personally, I do not think there is a damn thing anyone can do at this point. If any of you have been through this and have any advice, please share it with me. I pray to God that she gets clean before anything bad happens to her. My Mom says it is like having cancer. I disagree, you do not have a choice with cancer.

On a more positive note: School has ended on a great note. I hope not to bore you too long but I must gloat just a wee bit! DRUM ROLL Please!

Both of the Twins received awards for A Honor Roll, Good Citizenship, Science!

Christian also got perfect attendance. Caleb won a trophy for 2nd place in math contest. He also won a medal and beat the school record for laps ran. He ran almost 30 miles this school term.

Sorry, I am just overly ecstatic and proud of my boys. They are the greatest gifts from above.

Well, my Dad just called to invite me over for Bar-Be-Que! Have a great Weekend!

Cowboy Round-Up

2006-05-20T08:59:00.000-07:00

All the men folk, big and small are in Bellville TX for a Cowboy Round Up. An adult pairs up with a child to cook a brisket on a little Hibachi grill. They then take the briskets to be auctioned and all the proceeds go to Autism.

The Twins were excited to go, it is rare that they get to leave for a weekend without me. The Cowboys mainly consist of local Houston Judges, Lawyers and Policeman as my brother assured me of their safety. They have hired staff to watch the children as well. I hope they raise a bunch of money for autism.

I thought of going out and doing something but really nothing sounds as good as stayin' in and watching the Houston Astro's game. Last night against the Texas Rangers, what an awesome game! WE WON! Hopefully they will prove a repeat performance today!
GO ASTRO'S!

The Sound of Music

2006-05-09T04:31:00.000-07:00

The Twins had their Annual Piano Recital last night. They pick their own piece to play. Christian played the James Bond Theme song and Caleb played You're a Grande Old Flag

They played very well. When Christian was finished with his performance he took his Cowboy hat off and put it on his chest and bowed before the crowd. He is one little ham. It has been three years of lessons on a weekly basis and I am amazed how far they have come in such a short time. I pray that they continue to enjoy the piano.

Back in my childhood days I had a girlfriend named Donna, we met in third grade and still remain friends. I adored her and envied her life, as it was a much more stable one than my own.

She and her siblings took Piano lessons, which Donna detested. I thought this would be my way to learn, through her. She threw in the towel after a year or so. When her sister played it felt like a creek running through my soul.

I feel this way when the boys play. I felt this way years ago when my lovely daughter played the violin.
Music makes you feel deeply. It stirs things from deep within.

What is your favorite music? And do you play an instrument? I never have, I wish I could read music and play it as well. I think the Saxophone is a Sensual sounding piece all on its own. Think I will end my post on this note...the oven buzzer is sounding. Apple Pie Yum=Yum

Baseball, Critters and Kids

2006-05-04T08:41:00.000-07:00

Things are growing by leaps and bounds around here. It is proving to be a major job to keep up with the grass mowing at three different locations, especially considering we live on acreage and one of the properties is abundant acreage. I don't know about ya'll, but we have to mow every week. YIKES!

The black cat my husband dragged home about a month ago, has given birth to SEVEN baby kitties-4 are black, 1 is mixed and 2 are solid white. Thankfully she is a wonderful mother. Everyone calls us "The Farmer and the Dale" because we are housing numerous critters. Not inside my house mind you, but we have built additional critter habitation.

I am having problems with one of my Twins. I have written a letter to Dr. Phil. He has changed his behavior in the past month. He lashes out, talks back and has become rude and disrespectful. We have tried numerous things including taking things away, forbidding him to play baseball, removing the playstation and lastly spanking him. Needless to say none of it has made much of an impression on him. He did seem upset and even cried because we did not let him participate in his teams last baseball game. I talked to his teacher and the only difference she sees is he likes to play around and talk more, when he should not be. The only temper tantrums she sees is when he is at PE and he shouts and hollers at others, while playing soccer. You see Caleb is the #1 winner at being at being a sorry loser. He takes it personal. Anywho I am looking for solid advice on handling all this, before it goes too far. Yes I am soliciting yours as well.

Did any of you catch the game last night. WOO HOO the Astro's beat the Saint Louis Cardinals!! They will play them again tonight. We will watch the same two teams compete against each other in July, only this time we will be there at Minute Maid. I have purchased tickets for 5 games this summer!

I am in the process of planning our vacation to cover parts of Tennessee, Kentucky and Missouri. We have not had a real vacation in a couple of years now. There seems to be so many things to do in Tennessee. Loretta Lynn has a dude ranch there. Dolly Pardon has an amusement park and don't forget Elvis! :)

Well, the cat is meowing, the dog is scratching and the goat is bellowing...better go tend to the other critters! Ya'll have a nice weekend and GO ASTRO'S!!!!!!

HOLY TOLEDO!!

2006-04-26T01:39:00.000-07:00

The Houston Astro's played a 14 inning game tonight, they broke the long standing tied score and WON the game! A mighty fine game it was...even if it was, a tad bit long- a whopping 4 hours and 48 minutes, it was worth the wait!

The Astro's Player of the game was Dave Borkowski, he sure knows how to pitch, I think it runs in his family. What a memorable and wonderful debut he made tonight. The final score against the Dodgers was 4-3 YIPPIE!!!!

Speaking of baseball
The Twins had a game last night. Caleb hit the ball nearly out of the fence, barely missed going over it, by about 2 feet! Christian made 4 outs, he even ran them down and tagged them out. They are pretty competitive when it comes to baseball.

This year, youth baseball sucks! We have a Coach who has numerous problems. Him and his ex-wife, have three young sons and have been divorced for 4 years. Yet they like to argue and create havoc for one another. And it seems that the pattern they are creating...always falls on Game Day! This time she asked for his car keys, claiming that one of the boys had left something in there. He gave them to her and she left in the car and did not return. Needless to say he could not concentrate on the game or anything else. She informs me last night that it was in her name and he has not paid child support or car payments.

I want my boys on a REAL TEAM! We have waited one whole year for this and it turns out to nothing but an atrocity! The kids are standing around, waiting on the Coach while his life's problems play out continously. There is a single Mom whose son plays on our team (he is raised by Grandma) and she is love with the coach and likes to yell out at her son "Poor baby, come suck Momma's t*tt*e!" How utterly disguisting, I want to jack slap her, for not only humiliating her son, but talking like that in front of the other children. Another boy on the team called the Coach a "stupid ASS" what is up with all this????

I try to stay positive (I know it does not seem that way :() and I tell the boys ...we only have 5 more weeks of this! If they did NOT love baseball, I would yank them out! Too much drama. Too much white trash bullshit!

And just to make certain that they are getting plenty of BB, their sister took them to the High school varsity game and they were mighty impressed.

Sorry guys....I am in a funk! But tomorrow is another day!

It's a beautiful morning

2006-04-23T08:11:00.000-07:00

There are things in life that make you feel good. Here are few that I have had the privelege of experiencing this lovely weekend.

My husband surprised me with a few books, of his choosing. Just because he was thinking of me :O)

My son brought home a huge homemade card, with 21 enclosed letters. Each of his classmates wrote me a letter, that brought tears to my eyes. I will keep these as my treasures.

My daughter not only helped me clean the house, but we took turns blow drying each others hair. We also stayed up until 2:00 am yakking in bed.

My son took all his money to church. He wants to give it to the Children Ministry. I am thankful that he is a giver.

Our goat, Nelly is doing much better. We took her to the vet and everyone eewed and aahed over her. She had a severe eye infection and she seems to be a different more pleasant creature now that her needs are tended to.

God is good!

Easter Sunday

2006-04-18T18:10:00.000-07:00

Easter Sunday was a glorious and memorable day!

The boys woke up especially early, to see if Mama Bunny remembered them. They were so excited to get their "sports theme" baskets. Last year Daddy Bunny was in charge and he bought them rod & reels and we taped candy and goodies onto it.

This year Dad is too busy working, but he brought them donuts to eat, before leaving for church. Tiffany arrived early and we left in time to make it to Sunday school.

Which was taught by my ex father-in-law. My ex Mother in Law, still introduces me as her Daughter in law, never mind that I have been divorced from her son for 17 years. Thankfully, she and I still are very close and remain like family. I am the Daughter she never had and she is the Grandma my children desire.
Though, I bore her only one grandchild, she thinks otherwise and thankfully so do my other three children.

The Twins sung a nice, cute song and their performance was good. I was a little concerned that one or the other would mess the other one up. They sang in perfect harmony with one another. Here is the song:

IF YOU BELIEVE

I read about how Paul and Silas were in Jail.
And no one there, Nobody there could go their bail.
But when they prayed they found that God was on their side
That Jail House door swung open wide

Chorus:
If you believe, you shall receive, There's not a trouble or care the
Good Lord can't relieve.
Oh he is just the same today, all you have to do is trust and pray
believe, you must believe.

When Daniel stood before the Hungry Lions den,
Nobody thought that there was any hope for him.
But all night long the Lions did not take a bite.
God took away their appetite

Chorus: (repeated)

When David stood before the Giant with his sling
Goliath laughed at such a puny little thing
But David knew his faith in God would stand the test
He flung the rock, God did the rest.

If you believe , you shall receive, there's not a trouble or care the good Lord can't relieve
Oh he is just the same today, all you have to do is trust and pray
believe, you must believe!

I have many fond memories of Easter past and this is another one that I will cherish!

Bad Boys, Bad Boys, What cha' gonna do?

2006-04-15T11:37:00.000-07:00

You ever felt your heart stop? Then feel like your in a tunnel, or having an out of body experience.

We were all outside, my husband working on a new & improved pen for the critters. The Twins pull out their motorcycles and are riding about.

When all of sudden, I hear screaming, loud piercing screaming, out of the woods comes Christian and he shrieks "SNAKE! Caleb got bit by a SNAKE!" I screamed at Paul "Oh, My God" he ran towards the back of the property and I ran toward the house, grabbed the phone and called 9-1-1.
Then I ran to the back to check on my son and all the while his life began flashing through my mind. I thought I was having a heart attack!

My lil one over reacted. Caleb ran over a snake and then he wrecked his bike. I called 911 back and informed them that all was well.
An hour later, a police car pulled up and I told him the whole story.

I think the officer thought this was strange or who knows what he thought. He asked me "what is your phone number?" I told him. He replied "Yep that was the number reported".

Sometimes the lil ones can scare the beegeebees out of ya!

Happy Easter to all of you! :O)

HICK-A-BILLY & HICK-A-BOB

2006-04-14T10:41:00.000-07:00

My baby brother likes to amuse himself by paying people to do outrageous things. Last year he offered all the kids $100.00 to eat a June bug, the rules were that they had to chew it and could not up-chuck .

Needless to say my boys were game. Last week he offered one of them $20.00 to chew a Jalapeno pepper. David does this all the time, even to grown men. He calls it cheap laughs.

He told the Twins that he would pay them $10.00 per lap that they RAN , around the perimeter of 8 acres, I guess he failed to recall that my boys are athletic. Caleb ran 6 laps and Christian ran 4, however David gave them $100.00 each. Guess what they decided to spend that on?!

Hick-a-Billy & Hick-a-Bob decided to go to Lowe's with their Dad, to get wire and posts and on to the feed store, to purchase:
2 Turkeys, 1 Rooster and 4 Hens and perhaps a guinea pig! Too many Critters! But this is what they wanted! I do not have the first clue about any of these animals. I already feel like I am running a zoo with three men around ;0)

I am hoping that ya'll have some advice for me.

***Update 4/15/06*** Woke up this morning and all the critters are gone. One baby hen lay dead in a corner of the pen. There were feathers everywhere. I wonder what happened and if it the cat had any part in it. My boys are sad :(

2006-04-12T08:09:00.000-07:00

Took my lil twin, Christian to the Dentist yesterday to get his work done. I thought that having Caleb go first (a few weeks ago) would be strategic. He would relay to Christian how easy and painless it was.
Everything panned out as I hoped until yesterday!

The procedures took double the time than they should have because Christian would not stop saying:
"OUCH!" "What are you doing?" "I Can't breathe!" "I need to go to the restroom again" "I feel dizzy".

Needless to say I had a headache when we left the office. I am thankful that it is over and behind me/him.

I planted a few Sega Palms, a Bottlebrush, 10 more trees and some Gladiola bulbs this week. So, far everything is doing well. My husband thinks our lawn looks like a golf course. I love this time of year and the weather is great too.

Oh, remember the cat I told you about, the one my husband dragged in. Well, she is Pregnant! I have never had a pregnant animal. I have them all fixed. I wonder how long it will be before she delivers. She eats like there is no tomorrow.

My husband hangs his tool belt on a wall in his Workshop. The other day we noticed a bundle of pine needles in it. I poked my head inside to take a peek and out flew a small bird, almost right smack dab into my face, I screamed, she flew off. And inside lay 5 little eggs. They hatched yesterday and there are five lil baby birds. So sweet and cute they are :O)

Critter Chatter

2006-04-10T20:28:00.000-07:00

Well things have been mighty heated up around here. I followed my gut instinct and my husbands well thought out advice...Therefore we will do as planned (for awhile now) and stay in town for Easter and hear our Twins sing at church.

Needless, to say the phone has been ringing relentlessly! My Mom even threatened to take her own life. Geez the drama of family. Soap Opera's don't have a damn thing compared to my family. They are over the top...But I love them. Sometimes ;)

There are a few that I love dearly, but their constant, never-changing, self destructive ways are a thorn in my side. They say one thing and do another. You know those kind...That never grow up! I ran out of empathy along time ago.

I am thankful for friends who give me reassurance and sound advice.
My late Grandmother always said "If you have one real friend you are blessed, if you have more than one you are truly blessed" Well, I am truly blessed.

Speaking of Grandma, I will deliver a few of her quotes:

"If you lay with the pigs, you will smell like the pigs"

"Pretty Feathers make a pretty Bird and its the same with clothes.

"Birds of a Feather, Flock together"

" Your only as good as the people you hang with"

and a couple of kinda bad ones were:

Worse than tits on a boar hog
Dammit to hell
You make my ass wanna dip snuff ( This was usually said around the card table while playing Canasta)
My Grandma had 10 children, my mother included. She was an awesome woman.

Happy Easter to all and to all a goodnight!

Popcorn, Poetry & Prose

2006-04-06T09:44:00.000-07:00

Tonight is the 2nd Annual Popcorn, Poetry & Prose. It takes place at the elementary school.

My Twin's have decided to participate again. No doubt about it Caleb chose the Houston Astro's as his theme. Somehow the Astro's and poetry do not seem to go together....but he is making it happen. Too bad MHN (aka Dreamer's Reality) does not live close by, because Caleb surely needs some voice lessons. I dread his mumbled presentation tonight. Christian knows how to speak with expression.

Tomorrow night we have another baseball game. We got skunked last week. The score was 10-2 and you know who made those two points. Yep my two boys. Seems alot of the youngsters are afraid of the pitching machine and some swing as though they are playing golf. I love the little boys that stand like Bagwell.

Well, Nascar has their big race going on in Dallas this weekend. My sister and brother are there in his big ol' bus, sitting on the infield. I just don't get into racing. I like watching the last 5 minutes and thats about it. My ex use to race sprint cars out at the track and I got into then, because it was someone I knew personally. But it was loud, dirty and stinky.

Easter Sunday is coming up and I am in a pickle. My Twins are suppose to sing, just the two of them together, at Church. It has been in the process for over a month. The song is a really upbeat Easter theme.

Well, my baby brother wants all of us (there are four siblings) to load up in his motor home and go to Momma's for Easter. It has been over 6 years since we have all been together. My other brother lives in North Carolina and will make the trip along with his small children that we have not seen.
My ass will be in the fryin' pan if I don't go....but the Church program has been made! What's a woman to do?

Ya'll have a nice weekend! Tell me what your plans for Easter are!

NO Bugs Please!

2006-04-05T07:39:00.000-07:00

In hopes of gaining knowledge or wisdom, I am reaching out and writing this post.

It is April and once again, we are invaded by a swarm of June Bugs. I mean hundreds of them, congregating once again. I think they have a family reunion at my house annually. My neighbors may see a couple, but the majority in great masses, prefer my home.

It is the same way with Love bugs, you know the annoying lil black bugs that stick- it to each other...the same ones that stick it to your cars paint job. They cover my house and vehicles. People are amazed at the great volumes of Love Bugs and June Bugs that I accumulate. You would think that I send out invitations to these pesty lil cooters.

I wonder what is the purpose of June Bugs??

Well once again we sprayed Demon around the perimeter of the house and when I woke up this morning. lo and behold there was at LEAST 300 of those brown bad boys lying dead as a door-knob in my driveway.
I think (just maybe) we won the war and put an end to their family lineage. Crossing my fingers here. :O)

On a positive note I think I also have more butterflies, hummingbirds, squirrels and assorted woodpeckers than most as well. For this I thank the Lord. There is always birds singing in my yard. Even inside with the doors closed you can hear them 24/7. Lovely indeed.

2006-04-01T18:11:00.000-08:00

Seems we are quite the busy bee's around here! We are usually right on top of our game with everything. We live and function in this household on a strict pattern of routine. When the bell tolls every morning at 6:45, we promptly arise, turn on our alarm clocks back into the ON position and begin making our beds, (my boys make their own) getting dressed, having breakfast and setting out for the day ahead.

Things have changed...my husband has started his 9 month tour of duty on the NIGHT shift! YIKES!! I do not know how this is going to pan out, but we will survive it. He is also doing commercial (Acreage) mowing, office cleaning and much more on the side, as well as working 54 hours a week for Wally world.

I told him today that we are going to have to let some things go. We just have to decide which things. We are the kind of people that wash our cars (ourselves) once a week, our yard is always tip-top shape and the house as clean as a whistle, if I have 2 loads of laundry it means I am running behind...you get my drift...we are perfectionists who are now behind in our game.

The Twins have jumped in and they do the push mowing around the perimeter of the house, they make their own beds, feed the animals, make their own breakfast and just about anything you ask them on top of doing their regular jobs SCHOOL. I am proud of them.

My daughter has moved back to town. She is currently either on a covered wagon or riding solo on a horse, in a trail ride with my brother and sister. I was tempted to join them last night. They are having alot of fun out there in Cowboy Heaven.

I have been volunteering at the boys school....I think I found my future daughter in law. If only my boys could or would wait it out another 15 years or so. This little girl is so Smart. I enjoy talking to her and learning new things. She is an avid reader of many topics. I keep dropping hints to the Twins.

I overheard the Twins at breakfast this morning. " Caleb you know Mom really likes Candice, but really we are not old enough for a gurlfriend but you can marry her" Caleb replied "Nuh- Uh!" then Christian said "You know when you get married you have to kiss her " Oh Yuck and You have to do it in front of all these people" "I ain't doin' it no-way Jose' " Me neither Nuh-Uh!

I just love boys! They are such a riot when they are little.

Critter Crumbs

2006-03-25T11:11:00.000-08:00

I have been runnin' around like a chicken with its head cut off! Too busy to post or read my favorite blogs :O( I shore miss all of ya and I will try my bestest to get over there in the next day or so!

The Dentist appointment went well. Caleb was still "high" on the valium and laughing gas, well into the evening. Once during the procedure he proclaimed "I ike da dentis the denis is ni" which translates (minus the numb tongue) "I like the dentist the dentist is nice". I knew then that he was too happy. While walking out of the Dentist office he ran smack dab into a wall! Other than that, it went fine and dandy. I let the bravest Twin go first, so that he could the pave the way for my lil scaredy one who has to go for his appointment in two weeks. After they are finished I will inform them that they DID get shots in their gums. They have always insisted that they will NEVER let someone give them a shot in the mouth....No Way! hehehe my lil secret for now :O)

They both made straight A's and perfect attendance on their report cards. Also got the results on their TAKS test and lil Christian was commended by the State of Texas. I know I am braggin' but I am super duper proud of them! They earned it.

My husband brought home a solid black cat from Wal-Mart! I was pretty upset for the first day. My lil chiuahua Tinkerbelle was trembling in fear, thankfully she got over it too! Seems people that camp out in the Wal-Mart parking lot in their motor home, open the door and their cats/dogs bolt out. Most of the animals find their way to the Garden Center. Well, I guess my husband thinks he is Dr. Doolittle. He KNOWS this is the Smartest Cat just by looking at him. Do any of you have any suggestions for a name? ...for the cat that is...I have plenty for my hubby ;)

Went to a ScoreKeeper class this morning and seems I am the only one confused. The Twins know how to keep score, the only problem is They will be playing. I must be ADD because there was too many cell phones and kids and grown ups acting like kids for me to grasp all the codes and numbers they assign, for keeping score. I hope there is a book on it . Milo Hamilton...I will NEVER be!

Let's Play BALL!!

2006-03-18T09:25:00.001-08:00

The Twins are back in the nest. They had a wonderful time visiting with their Sissy and Mimaw.

They had their first Baseball Practice on yesterday. This is the first time in over 5 years that they will have a different coach. Their Coach seems a bit nervous...this is his first year. He designated the Twins as the Team Leaders. They are taking this position very serious.

On the field the Coach instructed the players "When the ball is hit to the outfield, You MUST throw it to first base!" Upon this instruction my lil Christian said "Excuse me Coach, but as Team Leader I must let you know that you just made a mistake. Anytime a ball is hit into the outfield, It SHOULD be thrown to second base instead of first!" I thought this was real funny coming from a 8 year old.

The Coach went on and on bragging about our boys. It made my husband utterly uncomfortable. He kept stressing to the Coach "My boys are NOT the greatest....They JUST LOVE baseball, thats all!

Then he looks over at me and says "Honey, you know, if the boys ever decide to quit baseball, I am not going to give them a hard time about it!"

I have know idea where that thought came from. Life would be most boring without Baseball!!

2006-03-15T15:22:00.000-08:00

Whew today has proved to be a fruitful day! We planted a few trees around here, a lemon tree (presently,it has about 6 lemons on it ) a pear tree and a fig tree. I have never had much luck with fruit trees, I said a prayer over them today.

I bought a new chaise lounge with a nice big flower-dy cushion and placed it on my deck, so I can soak up some sun while I read a book.

My husband has been scouring around looking for a commercial type Lawn mower and wanted me to come along and help him decide between the two. Of course I did not care for either of the two, I had my eye on a different brand altogether. So Lo and behold we got the one I liked, which is a SKAG (yep thats the name)!

I have been managing some of my brothers properties and getting bids for mowing, cleaning and etc. and guess who decided he wants to work (for me... hehehe) my husband is going to do all the mowing and cleaning on top of his day job! CHA-CHING! :O)

My lawn is almost completely green, my Amarylis are about to pop open, my canna Lillies are spiking up....I think Spring is in the air! This weather is lovely isn't it?

2006-03-13T09:34:00.000-08:00

On Saturday afternoon, I drove to Fairfield, TX, to meet my daughter and hand over the Twins. They are going to stay the week with her at My Mom & Pops house in a little town called Van. Ya know one grocery store and 45 churches.

I hardly know what to do with myself, it is shockingly quiet around here. I wonder what people with out children do. It must be terribly boring at times.

Pops cooked a nice fried (farm raised) fish dinner, which the Twins were not eating. So he asked them "Are you going to eat your fish? I know your Daddy cooks it for you" to which they replied "We dont like this fish, the fish our Daddy cooks is the fish WE CATCH!" Ouch!

I was so bored yesterday and still feeling phew-ny, so I watched a movie called Hustle and Flow and every since then I can not get that song out of my mind. Mind you I do not particularly care for rap music...I know it is the in thing, but I just ain't into it, even though the lyrics are rapped into my subconscious mind at the moment. Also watched a movie called Prime with Uma Thurman, the ending or lack of an ending made it an unworthy movie to me. I can't wait to see the movie Crash and see what all the rave is about.

Looks like I am getting a big break this Spring Break. Bah-hum-Bug ;)

Doctor Doctor give me the news.....

2006-03-08T07:30:00.000-08:00

We have been quite busy around here making the rounds to Doctors and Dentists. You know the yearly stuff and then some of the stuff you put off last year. My calendar is exploding with appointments.

Yesterday I took the Twins in for their dental exam and cleaning. Seems they both have some work to be done. Upon leaving they handed me two yellow envelopes, each containing a valium, that I am to give the boys an hour before their visit. This will be the first non-chewable pill that they have ever taken in their life. I am curious to how it is going to affect them. Do I need to cart a wagon with me for next trip? Will I have to carry them to the door? Time will tell. Heck I may need a wheelbarrow to tote my money thru the door as well :O)

I have a Dentist appointment today with a guy named Nguyen. I do not usually do this...I like names like Mc Greogor, because I have a difficult time understanding most accents other than southern. I have visited the same pedicure spot for over 10 years and I still strain to understand every word spoken. Unfortunately, I was chewing a piece of gum the other day and a splinter of tooth broke off. My former Dentist is no longer a provider in my network. I am sure you all know how that goes.

The weather here has been in the 80's...I think it is time to drag those summer clothes out of the attic.

I was really sad to hear that Dana Reeves (Christoper Reeves wife) passed away. It seems like all the good people leave this earth early. She was truly a remarkable woman, and now there is a thirteen year old son left behind with neither a Dad or Mom. How tragic!

Life is short....so Soak it up!!

2006-03-03T15:01:00.000-08:00

This is my hubby, me, baby brother (are there any good single women out there??) my Dad and my sister with her arms around my Twin boys.
Not a good picture, as the sun was glaring in our eyes.

My brother was in town for the big Rodeo Trail ride, my sister in for a little visit since she was granted a weekend pass. Dad took the Twins for a spin on his Harley (barely noticeable in the pic).

Seems my brother got the flu on the last leg of the trail ride and guess who he passed it to? You got it...ME!

Since I am too weak to do much else, this will be declared movie weekend. Hopefully there will be one or two good John Wayne movies on the tube. I will also watch North Country with Charlize Therone.

Ya'll have a nice weekend now Ya hear??

With the Clock ticking...

2006-02-28T14:50:00.000-08:00

I decided at the last minute to cancel/postpone my surgery. I want more time to think it through and also more time on the vitamins and thyroid medication.

I thank all of you for you well wishes and prayer and words of cheer. I appreciate you all. I spent alot of time today full of stress and research. My Granny and My daughter understand my inner most feelings, even when I myself don't have a clue.

Anyone sure about NovaSure?

2006-02-23T07:03:00.000-08:00

I am overwhelmed by the recent findings from my yearly Well Woman exam. Seems I have an under-active thyroid problem that needs medication. I am also anemic (and have been for many, many years) and need to start taking Pre-natal vitamins. And last but by no means last....I am scheduled for surgery next week.

Really since there is no incision made, I will myself to believe it is only a procedure. NovaSure ablation, which is also known as endometrial ablation. My ob/gyn said you either do this or go on hormone therapy from here on out. So, I scheduled with Saint Lukes Hospital to have the procedure (which requires being put to sleep) done on March the 1st. If I sound like a big chicken...it is because I am!

My husband is really excited about all this! The Doctor informed him that I will be a new woman full of energy. I hope he is right.

I am trying to stay busy working. I have also started a new project.

Separating the Twins and giving them their own bedroom. I worried about it for a year or so, because they are very close, yet they fight alot.

I think they really dig saying "Get outta my room!" I am not finished with this project, but they slept in separate rooms for the first time last night. It made for interesting conversation this morning. Christian (who I thought would be a scaredy cat) proclaimed that this was the best nights sleep he has had in a long time...that is...until Caleb scared him this morning! Seems when Christian opened his eyes, Caleb was standing there staring at him. To which Caleb replied " I only came in your room to look at your clock. Hmm they both have clocks. Oh well maybe the bugger missed his companion.

Now I have to figure out how to divide a playstation2, a piano, a giant gumball machine, a desk, books and etc.

A mother's work is never done!

Talkin' bout My Guys!

2006-02-17T15:40:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to my Sugar Pie Honey Bunny! Lordy Lordy Look Who's 40! He is a tad bit younger than me!

I always dated much older men, he was the first one younger than me and he turned out to be the last.

I thank the Lord everyday for blessing me with his love. Enough mushiness...I am starting to cry.

The top picture is of: Christian (the smallest Twin) and the Birthday Boy (my hubby) sitting in our living-room, having a tutorial on the guitars.

Christian looks a bit funny because he decided to put the horse shears to his own head...yucky...he chopped up his hairline and whacked it up something awful...thankfully it is growing back.

The next picture is the Twins in our yard, punching on their punching bag! That is Caleb in the front, I am trying to teach them to use this bag instead of each other! Yeah Right?! Wishful thinkin'

Happy Birthday Paul David :O)

Have a blessed weekend!

Reflection

2006-02-15T06:11:00.000-08:00

I had a pretty nice weekend considering the weather was cold and dreary. My sister is doing well and even though she has gained a little weight (which I like) she looks better than I have seen her in a looonng time!

We spent Friday and Sunday together. Saturday a bunch of people went on a trail ride, I decided to stay home and watch movies and get some income tax returns finished. We watched "flight plan" with Jodie Foster, it was real good, then "Must like Dogs" with Diane Lane, unbelievably my husband is still talking about that movie. He thinks it is a perfect example of the struggles that single people incur today.

Sunday, we all met at my grannies house in Spring. My Dad had Bar-B-Que ready for us, I did not eat, my husband cooked a big spread for breakfast and it was filling. But I tried the Blueberry Cheesecake (even though I don't care for cheesecake) and it was delicious! My Dad makes some of the best homemade pies! His apple pie could win a ribbon! He took the Twin's for a spin on his Harley and tried to coax me into going for a ride. No Way!!

My sister and I had a little wrestling match out on the lawn. That lil ol' thang took me to the ground and nipped my chin with her big ol' diamond ring...my chin still hurts! We were just acting like kids!

Yesterday was Valentine's Day and we did not really plan anything this year. The hubby went into work an hour early so that he could get off early. After we picked the Twins up from their piano lesson, we went into town to take care of some business and decided to beat the crowd and have a seafood dinner. We took turns reading the Sports section of the newspaper. Tried our best to explain how much 17 million dollars is...That is how much Jeff Bagwell makes per season for the Houston Astro's. The Twin's wanted to know if that was enough money to buy a four-wheeler. After we explained how many houses, trucks, ATV's that 17 million would buy, they could not sit still. As you all may know my boys dream is to be a professional baseball player when they grow up.
One day I may be asking for their autograph or sitting in my own skybox! :O)

After getting in bed last night, Caleb came in and asked if he could rub lotion on me....Paul David yanked the lotion out of his hand and said "That's my job son!" But I must say the evening turned out very nice!

I had a very nice Valentine's Day and I did not get any chocolate. I woke up yesterday to a big gift bag full of books, 3 different hair tools and some CD's, which included Neil Diamond's latest one. I prefer that anyday over calories!

Hope you all had a nice weekend and an enjoyable yesterday!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2006-02-13T09:48:00.000-08:00

ROSES FOR ROSE

Red roses were her favorites - her name was also Rose -And every year her husband sent them, tied with pretty bows.The year he died the roses were delivered to her door.The card said, "Be my Valentine," like all the years before.

Each year he sent her roses, and the note would always say,"I love you even more this year than last year on this day.My love for you will always grow with every passing year."She knew this was the last time that the roses would appear.

She thought, "He ordered roses in advance before this day."Her loving husband did not know that he would pass away.He always liked to do things early, way before the time.Then, if he got too busy, everything would work out fine.

She trimmed the stems and placed them in a veryspecial vase,Then sat the vase beside the portrait of his smiling face.She would sit for hours, in her husband's favorite chair,While staring at his picture and the roses sitting there.

A year went by and it was hard to live without her mate,With loneliness and solitude that had become her fate.Then, the very hour, as on Valentines before,The doorbell rang, and there were roses sitting by her door.

She brought the roses in, and then just looked at themin shock,Then went to get the telephone, to call the florist shop.The owner answered and she asked him if he would explain,Why would someone do this to her, causing her such pain?

"I know your husband passed away more than a year ago,"The owner said. "I knew you'd call, and you would want to know,The flowers you received today were paid for in advance.Your husband always planned ahead, he left nothing to chance.

"There is a standing order that I have on file down here,And he has paid well in advance; you'll get them every year.There also is another thing that I think you should know:He wrote a special little card . . . he did this years ago.

"Then, should ever I find out that he's no longer here,That's the card that should be sent to you the following year."She thanked him and hung up the phone, her tears now flowing hard,Her fingers shaking, as she slowly reached to get the card.

Inside the card she saw that he had written her a note.Then, as she stared in total silence, this is what he wrote. . . ."Hello, my love, I know it's been a year since I've been gone,I hope it hasn't been too hard for you to overcome.

"I know it must be lonely, and the pain is very real,For if it were the other way, I know how I would feel.The love we shared made everything so beautiful in life.I loved you more than words can say. You were the perfect wife.

"You were my friend and lover, you fulfilled my every need.I know it's only been a year, but please try not to grieve.I want you to be happy, even when you shed your tears.That is why the roses will be sent to you for years.

"When you get these roses, think of all the happinessThat we had together, and how both of us were blessed.I have always loved you, and I know I always will.But, my love, you must go on, you have some living still.

"Please try to find happiness, while living out your days.I know it is not easy, but I hope you find some ways.The roses will come every year, and they will only stopWhen your door's not answered when the florist stops to knock.

"He will come five times that day, in case you have gone out.But after his last visit, he will know without a doubt To take the roses to the place where I've instructed him,And place the roses where we are, together once again."

I thought this was a lovely story to share on this day before Valentine's day! Happy Valentine's Day!

What kind of Tree are You?

2006-02-09T08:20:00.000-08:00

What are you? Find your birthday and then find your tree. This is really cool and somewhat accurate.

Dec 23 to Jan 01 Apple Tree
Jan 01 to Jan 11 Fir Tree
Jan 12 to Jan 24 Elm Tree
Jan 25 to Feb 03 Cypress Tree
Feb 04 to Feb 08 Poplar Tree
Feb 09 to Feb 18 Cedar Tree
Feb 19 to Feb 28 Pine Tree
Mar 01 to Mar 10 Weeping Willow Tree
Mar 11 to Mar 20 Lime Tree
Mar 21 (only) Oak Tree
Mar 22 to Mar 31 Hazelnut Tree
Apr 01 to Apr 10 Rowan Tree
Apr 11 to Apr 20 Maple Tree
Apr 21 to Apr 30 Walnut Tree
May 01 to May 14 Poplar Tree
May 15 to May 24 Chestnut Tree
May 25 to Jun 03 Ash Tree
Jun 04 to Jun 13 Hornbeam Tree
Jun 14 to Jun 23 Fig Tree
Jun 24 (only) Birch Tree
Jun 25 to Jul 04 Apple Tree
Jul 05 to Jul 14 Fir Tree
Jul 15 to Jul 25 Elm Tree
Jul 26 to Aug 04 Cypress Tree
Aug 05 to Aug 13 Poplar Tree
Aug 14 to Aug 23 Cedar Tree
Aug 24 to Sep 02 Pine Tree
Sep 03 to Sep 12 Weeping Willow Tree
Sep 13 to Sep 22 Lime Tree
Sep 23 (only) Olive Tree
Sep 24 to Oct 03 Hazelnut Tree
Oct 04 to Oct 13 Rowan Tree
Oct 14 to Oct 23 Maple Tree
Oct 24 to Nov 11 Walnut Tree
Nov 12 to Nov 21 Chestnut Tree
Nov 22 to Dec 01 Ash Tree
Dec 02 to Dec 11 Hornbeam Tree
Dec 12 to Dec 21 Fig Tree
Dec 22 (only) Beech Tree

YOUR TREE (in alphabetical order)

Apple Tree (the Love) -- quiet and shy at times, lots of charm, appeal, and attraction, pleasant attitude, flirtatious smile, adventurous, sensitive, loyal in love, wants to love and be loved, faithful and tender partner, very generous, many talents, loves children, needs affectionate partner.

Ash Tree (the Ambition) -- extremely attractive, vivacious, impulsive, demanding, does not care for criticism, ambitious, intelligent, talented, likes to play with fate, can be very egotistic, reliable, restless lover, sometimes money rules over the heart, demands attention, needs love and much emotional support.

Beech Tree (the Creative) -- has good taste, concerned about its looks, materialistic, good organization of life and career, economical, good leader, takes no unnecessary risks, reasonable, splendid lifetime companion, keen on keeping fit (diets, sports, etc.).

Birch Tree (the inspiration) -- vivacious, attractive, elegant, friendly, unpretentious, modest, does not like anything in excess,abhors the vulgar, loves life in nature and in calm, not verypassionate, full of imagination, little ambition, creates a calm andcontent atmosphere.

Cedar Tree (the Confidence) -- of rare strength, knows how to adapt, likes unexpected presents, of good health, not in the least shy, tends to look down on others, self-confident, a great speaker, determined,often impatient, likes to impress others, has many talents, industrious,healthy optimism, waits for the one true love, able to make quick decisions.

Chestnut Tree (the Honesty) -- of unusual stature, impressive, well-developed sense of justice, fun to be around, a planner, born diplomat, can be irritated easily, sensitive of others feelings, hard worker, sometimes acts superior, feels not understood at times,fiercely family oriented, very loyal in love, physically fit.

Cypress Tree (the Faithfulness) -- strong, muscular, adaptable, takes what life has to give but doesn't necessarily like it , strives to be content, optimistic, wants to be financially independent, wants love and affection, hates loneliness, passionate lover which cannot be satisfied, faithful, quick-tempered at times, can be unruly and careless, loves to gain knowledge, needs to be needed.

Elm Tree (the Noble-mindedness) -- pleasant shape, tasteful clothes, modest demands, tends not to forgive mistakes, cheerful, likes to lead but not to obey, honest and faithful partner, likes making decisions for others, noble-minded, generous, good sense of humor, practical.

Fig Tree (the Sensibility) -- very strong minded, a bit self-willed, honest, loyal, independent, hates contradiction or arguments, hard worker when wants to be, loves life and friends, enjoys children and animals, few sexual relationships, great sense of humor, has artistic talent and great intelligence.

Fir tree (the Mysterious) -- extraordinary taste, handles stress well, loves anything beautiful, stubborn, tends to care for those close to them, hard to trust others, yet a social butterfly, likes idleness and laziness after long demanding hours at work, rather modest, talented, unselfish, many friends, very reliable.

Hazelnut Tree (the Extraordinary) -- charming, sense of humor, very demanding but can also be very understanding, knows how to make a lasting impression, active fighter for social causes and politics, popular, quite moody, sexually oriented, honest, a perfectionist, has a precise sense of judgment and expects complete fairness.

Hornbeam Tree (the Good Taste) -- of cool beauty, cares for its looks and condition, good taste, is not egoistic, makes life as comfortable as possible, leads a reasonable and disciplined life, looks for kindness and acknowledgment in an emotional partner, dreams of unusual lovers, is seldom happy with its feelings, mistrusts most people, is never sure of its decisions, very conscientious.

Lime Tree (the Doubt) - intelligent, hard working, accepts what life dishes out, but not before trying to change bad circumstances into good ones, hates fighting and stress, enjoys getaway vacations, may appear tough, but is actually soft and relenting, always willing to make sacrifices for family and friends, has many talents but not always enough time to use them, can become a complainer, great leadership qualities, is jealous at times but extremely loyal.

Maple Tree (Independence of Mind) -- no ordinary person, full of imagination and originality, shy and reserved, ambitious, proud, self-confident, hungers for new experiences, sometimes nervous, has many complexities, good memory, learns easily, complicated love life, wants to impress.

Oak Tree (the Brave) -- robust nature, courageous, strong, unrelenting,independent, sensible, does not like change, keeps its feet on the ground, person of action.

Olive Tree (the Wisdom) -- loves sun, warmth and kind feelings, reasonable, balanced, avoids aggression and violence, tolerant,cheerful, calm, well-developed sense of justice, sensitive, empathetic, free of jealousy, loves to read and the company of sophisticated people.

Pine Tree (the Peacemaker) -- loves agreeable company, craves peace and harmony, loves to help others, active imagination, likes to write poetry, not fashion conscious, great compassion, friendly to all, falls strongly in love but will leave if betrayed or lied to, emotionally soft, low self esteem, needs affection and reassurance.

Poplar Tree (the Uncertainty) -- looks very decorative, talented, not very self-confident, extremely courageous if necessary, needs goodwill and pleasant surroundings, very choosy, often lonely, great animosity,great artistic nature, good organizer, tends to lean toward philosophy,reliable in any situation, takes partnership Seriously.

Rowan Tree (the Sensitivity) -- full of charm, cheerful, gifted without egoism, likes to draw attention, loves life, motion, unrest, and even complications, is both dependent and independent, good taste, artistic,passionate, emotional, good company, does not forgive.

Walnut Tree (the Passion) -- unrelenting, strange and full ofcontrasts,often egotistic, aggressive, noble, broad horizon, unexpected reactions,spontaneous, unlimited ambition, no flexibility, difficult and uncommon partner, not always liked but often admired, ingenious strategist, very jealous and passionate, no compromise.

Weeping Willow (the Melancholy) - likes to be stress free, loves family life, full of hopes and dreams, attractive, very empathetic, loves anything beautiful, musically inclined, loves to travel to exotic places, restless, capricious, honest, can be influenced but is not easy to live with when pressured, sometimes demanding, good intuition, suffers in love until they find that one loyal, steadfast partner; loves to make others Laugh.

I am a Cypress Tree, I agree with most of the description, except the "hates lonliness" but then again, I have never been lonely. I wish I were an Elm Tree.

Tell me What kind are you?

2006-02-08T06:42:00.000-08:00

I've been meaning to post for days, but something always comes up.

Take the Superbowl for instance...I meant to get into it and watch it, but after about 30 minutes I said "Fugitaboutit". I detest commercials, so I record all my favorite shows, then I just fast forward through the commercials. But on SuperBowl day my plan was to catch all of the new ads, especially the one with P Diddy, but I missed it. I also thought I may get a chance to see my brother David on national TV. He flew to Detroit in time to catch a Kid Rock concert and to watch the Superbowl live. Oh well, I don't think I missed much!

Paul David came home from work Sunday evening walking crooked, seems he pulled something in his back. It is much better, though he is still walking funny. Thankfully, it has eased up and he is no longer waking me up during the night bellowing "Oh Jesus" or "Oh my God!"

The Twin's had back to back Basketball games and the second one was very exciting! It went into overtime and they finally called the game it was a tie! I feel for Christian he tries real hard and gives his all, but no one wants to pass the ball to the smallest kid on the team. The Doctors predict he will be about 5'9" and his twin brother Caleb will be 6'4". He may be short but he sure makes up for it in will and determination!

My sister is getting a weekend pass and will be coming Texas under the supervision of my brother. I look forward to visiting with her. She has been clean ( I like the word "free") for 30 days now. I thank the Lord above and pray that this is a new beginning and a way of life for her.

2006-01-31T15:39:00.000-08:00

As you all know I am not computer savvy. My daughter is and lucky for me she is here, and she helped me, put two pictures on my blog. (I only have 1 CD with pictures)

The first picture is of my sis Lori & me. She is on the left and I am the one in the dress (as usual).

The last picture is (from left to right) my husband Paul-David, My Pop and my baby brother David.

You hear so much about them...now you can see them. I love seeing everyone's pictures on their blogs.

Well have to go see the State of the Union address. Goodnight Blog Buddies! :O)

I am the Champion :)

2006-01-31T06:29:00.000-08:00

Stayed up until almost two this morning playing scrabble in the bed with my husband, the underdog. He tried to pull some good ones...like the word HAXE, have you ever heard of such a word? Nope!

Anyway, I kicked his booty. The final score was 170-249 and the victorious feeling is still within me.

I have not posted in a week. My only daughter is here visiting. We have been catching up. I will post more in a day or two. Take Care Blog Buddies and have a great week!

Back in the Saddle...

2006-01-25T06:58:00.000-08:00

I am back in the workforce...Kind of!

My baby brother David bought three commercial properties, close to downtown Conroe and asked me to be in charge of Management.

Basically what I do is collect rent from his office space leasor's. Advertise for more prospective businesses to lease space and Pay the bills (with his money not mine :)! Hire people to do the up keep.

I like it so far because I work around my schedule as well as the Twin's schedule and it is not very time consuming....the extra money will be nice too!

Update regarding my sister Lori: My father and brother joined her last weekend for the Family session, they reported back that she is very happy. I spoke to her last night. They have her in classes 11 hours a day, she is recovering and learning new ways to think, act and deal with life. I think this facility is making an impact on her life. I want to thank each and everyone of you for your heartfelt prayers! You are blessing to me ...all of you :O)

Let's Dribble

2006-01-22T19:12:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow the Twin's begin their very first basketball season. They will practice two hours tomorrow and their first game begins on Saturday. They are ecstatic! My husband joins in their elation :O) He loves the game and played it during his high school years.

I on the other hand know absolutely nothing about this game...as you all know I am a die hard baseball freak! I can get out there and give anyone a run for their money with a game of HORSE, other than that I am ignorant of the rules and plays.

I just hope basketball season does NOT overlap the onset of baseball season. The Twin's have 5 years experience under their belts in the game of baseball and they're mighty darn good at it...if I must say so myself!

We just finished our first and LAST season of football. The Twin's piped up and said " You know Mom, we know just about every sport...except golf! When are you gonna let us learn the game of golf?" Oh goodness gracious give me a break!

Critter thoughts

2006-01-17T07:52:00.000-08:00

I've been thinking alot about life, the hand we are dealt and the paths we go down, the turns we make and the dead end roads that we sometimes stay on for way too long.

As I have gotten older, I have come to understand many things that were confusing in my youth. I know that mistakes can make you wiser, especially if you take the time to learn from them. I know that harsh words, spoken in haste or a moment of anger, can never be retrieved. I know that there is NO differential status quo in drugs, whatever your drug of choice is. A pot smoker is no higher class than a crack addict...it is simply addiction.

I know that a dead tree will not bear fruit and I believe people are like trees. I think people place little value on their roles in the family. I think it is most important that people strive to be a good role model, not only for your children, but your nephews, nieces, your childrens friends and even your own friends. Everyone needs someone to look up to. I think people either contribute or contaminate.

No matter how much I love someone, I forbid them to pollute or contaminate my children or myself. Years ago, I would just allow it or accept that it was the way it was. Today I know that I have a choice in which scenery my life plays out on.
We affect generations to come with the decisions that we make today.

I know that even though life is hard, God wants us to be a winner and not a whiner. It is during the tough times of life that we find out what we're really made of.

Don't worry about the things you cannot change. I struggle with this statement or should I say I really worry about things that I have no control over. I want to worry less and smile more. Don't You?

Well lets do it!!

2006-01-15T15:52:00.000-08:00

Prayer for Those Abused by Drugs
Most loving God,
we ask your blessing upon allwho suffer from addiction.
Strengthen them to reach out for help.
Enable them to take the first step to recovery.
Bless them with the persistence to persevere in the fight to be free.
Give courage and hope to their families,drawing them close together in the power of your love,which alone can transform our living.
Amen.

Cowboy in the Jungle...threw the rope! A meme of 4's

2006-01-10T09:39:00.000-08:00

**Cowboy Greg lassos me into this meme** :O)

Four jobs you have had in your life:
Receptionist-for Pat Anderson Properties, Montgomery TX ,even though the name has changed, clicking the link above will show you the exact office I worked in. This was a part-time endeavor, I also had a fulltime job in the same subdivison.

Computer Data Tech/Clerk-OK Utility Service, I did alot of data entry here. This office was also located inside April Sound Subdivision, I wore many hats at this job and I stayed for many, many years. I thoroughly enjoyed it. They were bought out by the next company I worked for.

Office Manager-Hays Utility Company- I stayed here for a little over five years and boy that was too damn long!

Paramount Insurance Repair Service-My family owns this business. They have offices all over the United States. I worked for them in South Carolina, when Hurricane Hugo hit. Its hard to work and travel all over with small children. I wish I was in a position to do it though. The last time I worked for them was in 2003 when Flood Allison, hit Houston ...I was a Job Shack Queen (yes that is what we call it) My baby brother is very successful here.

Four movies you could watch over and over:
Saturday Night Fever !!
Driving Miss Daisy
Steel Magnolias
Shawshank Redemption

Four places you've lived: Basically I have only lived in ONE place my whole life – TEXAS! I wouldn’t have it any other way!
Houston, Texas -Born and Raised!
Charleston, South Carolina
Rio Grande Valey, Texas
Corpus Christi, Texas

Four TV shows you love to watch:
Everybody Loves Raymond
20/20
60 Minutes
Dr. Phil

Four places you've been on vacation:
New York, NY
New Orleans-The French Quarter
San Antonio, TX -River Walk
Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Four websites you visit daily:
http://martinisforone.blogspot.com/ Diane's adventures mesmerize me http://davidsdailytalkandblog.blogspot.com/ This is one swell fella
http://bugsbutt.blogspot.com/ I am addicted to his humor
http://trivialtiffairs.blogspot.com My daughter :)

Four of your favorite foods:
Honey Roasted Almonds- everyday!
COFFEE-with hazlenut creamer
A good thick Steak -rare
Shrimp

Four places you'd rather be right now:
Tennessee
Kentucky
New York City
North Carolina

Four Bloggers you are tagging:
Diane Mandy http://dianesdaily.blogspot.com (one hip chick)
David http://davidsdailytalkandblog.blogspot.com (funny guy)
Michelle http://gnumann.blogspot.com/ (fellow Texan- Queen of Nice)
Ivy http://thisshitismadnotes.blogspot.com/ (a dandy Texas Gal!)

Even tough cookies....crumble

2006-01-09T12:50:00.000-08:00

My lil sister is one tough cookie, she stands tall even though she is a little bitty thing. She is petite like my Mother.

I am the tall long legged one, almost as tall as my brothers. All of my siblings were blessed with blond (almost white) hair and blue eyes. I got the brown all the way around.

Lori was the tomboy who liked to kick ass. If you crossed her, she would just haul off and pop you in the jaw. Never mind she is a little bitty thing, still buys her clothes in the junior department and wears a size zero or two at the most. Her first response to any trouble is to kick ass. I have seen her take on more than one person...usually a girl her age and then the girl's angry mother.

She does not fight like that anymore, but she is still tough. But the cookie has crumbled and I walk the floors worried about my baby sissy.

She holds everything inside and rarely lets herself become vulnerable. She hides stuff. And for the past few years she disapears. No one hears from her for days.
She disapeared two days after Christmas and 4 days later called crying frantically for help.

I thank God above for keeping her alive. I curse crack cocaine.

Today she is entering a treatment facility. She wants help and needs it. I hope and pray that Jolimar is the right place for her. She is 37 years old and can not keep going down this path. Thankfully, God allows us the ability to make U-turns.

I wondered (and still do) if posting about this is the right thing to do. I would never want to hurt her or invade her privacy. I know that God has some angels out here in blogland that not only give support when needed, but also pray, and she needs it.

Mama Hen

2006-01-07T17:12:00.000-08:00

Mama & Daddy had four children, girl, boy, girl and boy...I am the oldest. I am the reason they were married in the first place. And I was the happiest one when they divorced.

I was 10 years old. Dad won custody of my sister and me. Back in those days ( I'm not ancient) if a woman was having an affair or shacking up (as it was called) then a man had grounds to fight and possibly win. My Dad wanted all of his children, but he bargained with Mom and told her that he did not want his girls to grow up seeing things that were morally incorrect.

Dad was straight as arrow and loved very few things...his Mama, his Daddy, his children, our Mother and Jim Beam. Some things never change.

Mom liked to party. Usually 6 nights a week, so most of the time we would fend for ourselves. My parents were young and dumb when it came to parenting skills. I do not blame them or hold a grudge. I really think I learned alot from their mistakes.

I became the Mama Hen to my siblings. I cleaned, cooked and even drove my own car, at the age of 13, to do the grocery shopping. I did not stick around long though. I pulled up stakes at the age of 15 and ran away, all over the country. I eventually ended my journey in Las Vegas, made a phone call and let the folks know that I was fine and would return on my own terms, meaning not under their thumb or their rules.

After I left home, my parents tried to get their act together where the rest of the children were concerned.

The original reason for this post is my little sister Lori Sue. I love her with all my heart! I will try to complete this tomorrow. Bear with me.

To be continued....

2006-01-05T06:40:00.000-08:00

I know....I am a slacker! I have let my blog posts go by the wayside. Today I will get back into to the swing of things and check out the blog world.

I am curious to see what has been going on in all of your live's. Throughout the day, I WILL peruse all my favorite blog jaunts and let ya know that I am still here.

I am curious to see if everyone is posting about their New Year's resolutions...I usually do not make any. But there are two things that I am going to do different in 2006. I need to eat healthier, more rabbit food such as veggies and fruit. Second I want to get rid of some of my stuff.

I have too much of everything! Too many shoes, dishes, photos, knick-knacks....you name it and I probably have at least 10 maybe 50 or more of it. I am not joking here.

Here is an old fact... I woke up hearing noises about 3 am, it was my sister in law tip-toeing around in my home. I was alarmed and thought that she may be ill or in need of something. I asked her "Are you okay??"
Yes she replied I just wanted to look at everything, you have so much stuff! I thought of offering her a dust rag to use while she went around checking it all out.

People like to come over and when they do they walk around and just look. Some think I have talent as a decorator....NOpe I just keep it and add to it. But frankly it is impossible to keep everything dusted, vacuumed and polished. Somehow, Someway ,I have to do something about all the excess.

My husband could take care of this problem in just one day, because he is experienced in discarding mine and the Twins things. He likes to get rid of stuff, just not.... his stuff. I mean does anyone really need to save 4 years worth of Fishing Magazines?? And how many tackle boxes and fishing poles does one man need??

Officially beginning soon, I am putting my HOUSE on a diet!

A little under the weather

2005-12-23T08:43:00.000-08:00

It is strange how we rarely get sick around here, but when we do, it is always during a school break. Seems the Twins and I have the coughing, sneezing, low grade fever kind of cold.

We have hankies, kleenexes and cough drops strewn about. The faithful humidifiers plugged in, beds unmade and medicine bottles here and there. It could be worse.

The biggest hurdle is functioning without sleep. Who can sleep while hacking constantly? Not I. I have coffee to hold me over.

Two more days until Christmas, I have cleaning and baking to do. One or two more presents to wrap. I feel like a little kid....anticipating and counting down.
Merry Christmas Ya'll!!