I'll Take What I Can Get...

I'm sure you've heard a Mom say to her child, "You get what you get, and you don't throw a fit!"...or maybe you've said that to your child. I told myself this earlier in the week. And, it wasn't over a present, or what was for dinner, but watching TV with Hank.

See, I haven't been in a Christmasy mood this year. It's not that I've been a Grinch or Scrooge, but I just haven't felt the Christmas happiness that usaully comes this time of year. The biggest part of my non-Christmas spirit has come from the fact that Hank is getting older and that before too long we won't get to do the fun things like take a picture with Santa, or leave carrots out for the reindeer, etc. I want to keep him little, and I can't. I know that. And, it's a horrible reminder right here at Christmas.

A week or so ago, I was all excited that one of the classic Christmas cartoons (Frosty? Rudolph? I'm not sure which) was coming on TV. I wanted to curl up beside my Hankadoo on the couch, and watch the show, and spend time with my sweet boy. He wanted no part of it. He wanted to watch wrestling! He would rather watch Randy Orton, and John Cena than Frosty.

Sigh.

Then, earlier this week, "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" was coming on, I was so excited. I just knew he'd want to watch it! It's his favorite book, and he's never turned down watching the cartoon.

I was wrong.

Another sigh.

As I sat there watching Cindy Lou Who, alone, I might add--Hank came downstairs. He asked if he could change the channel, and I reluctantly said yes. I just knew we were going to end up watching "Storage Wars" or "Modern Marvels"...not exactly my idea of a holiday special. But, he changed it to Cartoon Network to watch Johnny Test, or something equally as annoying.

Within a few minutes, my sweet boy was snuggled up beside me on the couch. It may not have been The Grinch, or Frosty, but he was snuggled up with his momma, smiling and laughing.

I'll take it!

Santa, Let Me Explain.......

This is the face that Hank made when Santa asked if has been a good boy this year.

Priceless.

After a few minutes, Santa decided that Hank was on the "Nice" list afterall.

I think Hank was rather relieved. He was sweating it.

How bad is it?

How bad is it that 2011 is not even over, and I'm studying the calendar for 2012 to see what days I should take as vacation?

You can't say that I don't think things out in advance!

What happened to November?

Wow, it seems like we were just Trick-or-Treating, and now I have the Christmas tree up. Where did November go? I know it was here, but it's a blur. The only thing I can remember about the the month is that Maria and I spent an entire day shopping, Delaney was born, and we had Thanksgiving. That's it, I remember those three days, and nothing more.  Maybe I'm mentally blocking the month because of all the pie I ate!

Our newest family member...

Yesterday, I became an aunt. My niece was born in the early morning. She weighed 8 pounds 12 ounces, and was 21 inches long.

This little girl has...

the sweetest little face...

 the biggest feet I've ever seen on a baby...

 my sister's nose....

...and has captured the heart of everyone in our family.

We love you, Delaney. Welcome to our family.

A big day

Today, PJ took his intermediate driving test. And, even though he had a little trouble with parallel parking, he passed. After coming by my office to show me his new license, and taking Joe home to get our van, my child got into his own car and drove himself to school.

He came in from wrestling practice, and said that he needed to go by work to check his schedule. I knew this was just an excuse to go out and drive. He and Austin headed out to TJ Maxx  and Old Navy. My boys were out on their own. They were even considerate and stopped by the grocery on their way home to pick up something I had forgotten.

And, at this very minute PJ is chauffeuring Hank. I imagine they are going to get a milkshake from McDonald's. Hank said, "Hey PJ, I think we should have some brother time, and go out riding around!"...that boy knows how to play his cards!

How could PJ refuse? Again, another reason to go out driving.

And before they left, PJ said, "Hey Mom, wanna go tan when I get back? I'll drive!"

Think that was a reason to get out and drive?

What? Halloween is over?

Sadly, yes.

We had a great Halloween. On Saturday, we went downtown for the Ghost Walk festivities. This has become an annual event for us. I always help with the costume contest, and I ended up being a judge again this year. You would think that judging a costume contest isn't hard. But, it is! Especially when they are cute, or creative, or the double whammy--both! Take the big sister, little brother and baby brother combination. Big sister was an Indian. Little brother was a pilgrim. And, baby brother? A turkey! How cute is that? Then there was Little Bo Peep with her stuffed sheep. She was quite the ham and wouldn't get off the stage. One of my personal favorites was the little girl dressed as a garden gnome. She was adorable!

I'm proud to say that my little zombie came in 3rd in his age group. He was beat by the Bride of Frankenstein, (she had awesome hair!) and a washing machine. The washing machine was very creative, and made a great costume. Everyone loved his zombie costume, and he received many compliments on it. He also received a lot of attention, which we all know that Hankadoo just hates to be the center of attention!

On Monday, we went to Trunk or Treat at church, and then over to my grandmother's neighborhood for actual Trick or Treating.

We still have quite a bit of candy left, and I swear, Hank still has a gray tint to him from his make-up. He's already started planning on what to be next year. As of now, it's Frankenstein!

Teachers

When you were in high school, who was your favorite teacher?

I had several. One was my U.S. History teacher. He was smart. He was outspoken. He didn't take any crap from anyone. Not only did he teach us about the civil war, he taught us about life. Those life lessons are the ones we remember the most. I still see him on occassion, and he's still ornery and outspoken. He said the same thing about me!

Another of my favorites was my, well, I don't remember what class I had her for! It was some business class, I know that. I do remember typing, but I also remember her teaching us 'business manners'...how to sit with a skirt on, and how to answer the phone. She was also the Senior class sponsor, so we spent a lot of time doing fun things like decorating for homecoming, and practicing our Bruin yell.  She taught us: "It's okay not to be perfect. No one is perfect. We all have flaws and we all make mistakes."

In high school, my Home Economics teacher was great. She taught us how to cook,  there's no doubt. But, it's been the years after high school that I have truly realized how amazing this woman is!  She is extremly active in her church. (She sang at Kasey's wedding last year). She's involved in many different community organizations. (We just saw her at the Women's Club Harvest Breakfast). She dotes on her family. (Her hubby is pretty awesome, too!) She's writing a cookbook. And, as full as her plate is,  whenever I see her, she's never too busy for a hug and conversation. I have never met someone as full of love and kindness as she is. She touches everyone she meets, and I simply adore her. 

A few years ago, she was having a cookie decorating demonstration at Barnes & Noble, and I took Hank. He decorated some cookies,  I took some pictures, and we both were loved on by Mrs. S.  Last week, I had a Facebook message from Mrs. S asking if she could use the picture of her and Hankadoo in her cookbook. Well, yes!! Of course. 

I can't wait for her cookbook to come out. Not because it may have Hank's picture in it! I'm sure many of her former students, churchmembers and other members of the community will buy it simply because it's from someone we all admire and love.

From Pre-K to Senior in the bat of an eye..

I ordered Austin's graduation announcements, name cards, tassel, Senior shirt, etc. After Christmas, I'll order his cap and gown. I can't believe he's a Senior this year. I can clearly remember walking him to Pre-K, and it doesn't seem that long ago!

Bringing the past to the present...

When my big boys were very little boys, they loved "The Lion King" movie. We watched it daily. Some days, we watched it more than once. Some days that was all we watched! I don't think the VHS tape ever came out of the VCR. The old tape finally gave out, and we've long replaced the VCR. I haven't given much thought to Simba, Mufasa and Rafiki since then.  Until recently. The movie was re-released into the theaters, and released on Blu-Ray. Austin took his girlfriend to the theater to see it, and when they were talking about how great it was, and how it brought back memories of being little, it occurred to me that Hank has never seen it. How could this be?  We had to change that. I knew that he would love it as much as his brothers did.

Last night, we picked up the DVD, some ice cream, and declared movie night. We all piled on the couch, and soon we were caught up in Scar's evil plan, and laughing at Timon. I was right, Hank loved it. And, seeing my big boys (who are practically adults now)  laugh and giggle like they did when they were much younger made me smile. At one point, when I looked over at Austin and PJ, I didn't see the long-legged Austin, with his deep voice and chin whiskers. I didn't see the buff PJ, who is getting broader every day.  I saw the little boys who used to hit rewind on the VCR, and jump up on down on the couch when Simba sang "Just Can't Wait to Be King"....

And even though Hank isn't going to jump up and down on the couch and sing, I find it great that things my big boys loved when they were little are also things that Hank loves now.

Oh, Baby!

Here's a picture of my sister from her baby shower. She has that pregnancy glow, and she's absolutely gorgeous. I don't think I've ever seen her more beautiful.

She's going to be an amazing mother. My niece is one lucky little girl.

Proud Momma

Time to brag on my little freckle-face boy...

He's the top reader in his 2nd grade class. He's now in a 3rd grade math class. He's an awesome little soccer player.

And, he's cute!

I'm a proud momma  :)

Hello, October!

October is here! There's vegetable soup simmering in the crock-pot, there's a chill in the air, the leaves are starting to change, and it is sweatshirt weather. And, even though I froze my tail feathers off at Hank's soccer game yesterday morning, I really do love this time of the year.  There's something about wearing a fleece jacket, walking around arts & crafts fairs, seeing pumpkins & mums every where you turn that just makes me happy. And, that's exactly what I plan to do the next few weeks. There's several arts & crafts fairs coming up, the farm where we go pick pumpkins, take a hayride, and run through the corn maize is open, and Barnes & Noble has pumpkin spice lattes. I'm a happy camper.

We also need to start working on Hank's Halloween costume. Last year, he was the cutest Indiana Jones that I've ever seen, but I'm not sure what he has planned for this year. I've heard him mention Captain America, which would be cool. I'm going to look at pictures to see how we can make his costume. I'm thinking a garbage can lid would be the perfect size the shield. He's also mentioned Liono from 'The Thundercts' cartoon. But, it would the Liono from the new cartoons, not Liono from the old cartoons. I personally don't know the difference, but he sure does. I suggested that we all dress up as characters from 'Wizard of Oz'... I would be Dorothy, obviously.  Joe could be the scarecrow, PJ could be the tin man, Austin could be the lion, and Hank could be a flying monkey! I thought it was a GREAT idea.  I was the only one that thought it was a great idea.

Happy Fall, Ya'll!

A Busy Calendar...

After having a few short weeks of nothing on the calendar, I now find myself writing this and that down every week. Soccer is in full swing for Hank. That means practice one night a week, games on Friday night and Saturday morning. He also has handbells and FROGS at church on Sunday nights. PJ starts wrestling conditioning today. That means three days a week after school for the first few weeks, then it's every day after school. Austin is still working a few nights a week. Take all those and add in our normal stuff, like going to the gym, going to the grocery, shuffling the boys to their other things such as football games, doctor's appointments, birthday parties, etc. It gets rather busy!

I am getting so excited about my niece's arrival! She's due right around Thanksgiving, and I can't wait to see the little turkey! I have been having such a good time buying pink clothes, cute hairbows, and other things girly. Between mom, Stevie and myself, she's going to have a closet full of clothes before she even gets here. It's been over seven years since we've had a new baby in the family, and we've never had a baby girl, so with little Miss D coming, we are all quite excited.  Hank is going to get her a special gift just from him, which I think is sweet. He said he's still going to call her Sassy. (I had a dream right after Kase & Mark found out they were having a girl--and in my dream they named her Sadie Amelia, so her initials were SAS, and we all called her Sassy! Hank was with me when I told Kasey about the dream, and he's pretty much called her Sassy since then, which I think is so cute.) I think all the 'men' in the family are getting her a gift just from them as well. Rough, gruff Uncle Joe is giving her the 'Pinkalicious' books. That.Is.Funny.
Sassy isn't the only new baby coming. We have two new babies coming on Joe's side of the family as well. One in December, the other in January. And, they are both girls! That means I get to buy even more pink!

The next few months are going to be busy and exciting!

Anything can happen in 2nd grade

Yesterday afternoon, Hank's teacher called me at work. This is never a good sign. It means whatever the reason for the phone call is bigger than just sending a note home.  I could hear the apprehension and nervousness in her voice as she said, "I've been dreading this call, there was an incident today and..." Again, not a good sign. I'm thinking to myself, 'Oh lord, what did he do? This is not good!' and after a few seconds pause she blurts out, "Hank was peed on in the bathroom!"

She goes on to explain that another little boy wanted to see if he could pee straight up. And, well, that didn't work to well for him because he ended up peeing on Hank's shirt sleeve! His teacher was mortified as she was telling me the story. She assured me that they scrubbed Hank's arm down, gave him a new shirt, etc, etc.

I'm not sure what she thought my reaction would be, but I started laughing! I have three boys, I understand how little boys think and the things they do. After I started laughing, Ms. N finally relaxed some. If she was that scared to call me, I wonder how she did calling the mom of the boy that did the peeing! How do you have that conversation?

I told her that I appreciated the phone call, that it was all good, and that I couldn't wait to hear what Hank had to say about it.

Me: Hey Hank, how was your day?
Hank: Good. I made a 102% on my math test, and we played soccer at after school.
Me: Did anything interesting happen?
Hank: No.
Me: Really? Then why do you have on a different shirt?
Hank: Awww man, Ms. N told you!
Me: Yes. (And then I start to giggle!) What happened?
Hank: (Looking dead serious) Some kid peed on me. What else do you want me to say? It's not like that was the best part of my day.

Dear Miss Sports Bra & Tight Yoga Pants,

I understand that you have worked very hard to get to your six-pack abs, and killer butt.  I must give you credit for that. Of course, you’re young, and I would guess that you haven’t had children. If you were my age, with three kids, and had rocking abs, I’d give you a lot more credit! However, as great as your abs are, other patrons of the gym would appreciate you wearing more than just a sports bra and tight yoga pants when you work out. 

By patrons, I mean women like me who are literally sweating their butt off while running on the elliptical wearing an old Colts tee shirt and faded track pants, who have had kids, and have the battle scars to prove it. We can’t help it that we have stretch marks bigger than your waist, or that our girls aren’t perky. We are the majority of the women at the gym, and we are trying very hard to get back into the jeans that haven’t fit in over two years.  When you come in wearing next to nothing, and then coincidentally, “Fat Bottom Girls” plays, it’s just a little too much. It makes us want to choke you, go home and eat a pint of Ben & Jerry’s!

Yes, you have great abs. Yes, you have a great butt. Yes, your sports bra is cute. But, it’s still called a bra, and therefore, a shirt should be worn as well.

Signed,
The Hot Sweaty Mess on Elliptical #7

When I.....

How many times did you say that when you were little? I imagine it was a lot. When I was a little girl, I would say "When I grow up: I'm going to have a huge house, I'm going to be mayor, I'm going to have little girls and do their hair every day, I'm going to stay up late, I'm going to never be the mean mom, I'm going to...." The list could go on forever.

Now, that I'm actaully a grown up, I find myself saying, "When I get old........"

I'm blessed to have several very special older people in my life. They range in age from late 70's to late 80's.  And, when I look at them, I have nothing but admiration and love.

The older gentleman that I work with is 77-years-old, and last night he went to a football game two hours away in Nashville. He didn't get home until after three this morning, and yet, he was in the office by 7:30 with coffee in hand. I know my butt would be dragging if that was me! But, he's as happy and chipper as always. Now, that's not to say that I won't catch him napping at his desk later today.  He has this easy-going way about him that I love, and even though it can be frustrating at times, working with him is one of the best parts of my job.

I am very lucky to have both of my grandmothers still living. One is 82, the other 87. They keep everything written down on a calendar, not to keep track of doctor's appointments, but to keep track of their social life. Grandma J meets all her old lady friends every Thursday for margaritas! It's a standing date, and those old women won't miss Margarita Night come hell or high water. Grandma D hasn't been feeling very well the past few weeks, so she's been taking it easy and resting. When she feels good, she's out and about every day. Quilt Club, Homemakers, Forever Young, etc. etc.

I look at these spunky grandmothers of mine, and Mr. Bob, and I can't help but think, "When I get old........"

There's a sad day coming.....

When Joe was in the Army, and we moved every few years, saying good-bye to friends was just part of the moving process. We'd have our household goods packed, we'd have travel arrangements made, and at some point before signing out of the unit, we'd say good-bye to our friends.

I don't want to say that we were 'good' at saying good-bye, we were just used to it. Joe would have to leave his buddies in the motor pool, I'd have to leave my neighbors and wives from the FRG, the boys would have to say good-bye to classmates.  It was part of our Army life.

Hank has never had to say good-bye to a friend. Well, not that he remembers. He was a little over a year old when we moved home from Georgia, and telling his partner in crime, Betsy, good-bye was not something that ranked on his list of emotional events. It wasn't like he ran out of Sweet Potato Puffs or something equally as traumatic. So, I'm a little worried how he's going to handle saying good-bye to two of his best friends and favorite playmates in a few weeks. I'm sure he'll give them a hug and say 'see ya later' like it's no big deal. I don't think it's hit him that they are moving to Texas and not just across town. He hasn't realized that he won't see them every day like he does now. I have a feeling that he's going to be a sad, pouting, little boy in a few weeks.

Rough Week

I have never been so glad to see a week come to an end as I am today. TGIF doesn't even begin to say it. This has been a really rough week for me. And, Hankadoo.

Poor Hank. First, he falls off his scooter and skins/bangs his knee up pretty bad. There was blood, and tears. He usually gets up, brushes himself off, and continues playing. When he came in the house with blood running down his leg, and crying, I was worried. We bandaged him up, put some ice on the knee, and he took some Motrin before going to bed. Poor kiddo took a bad fall. That was Monday. On Wednesday, his teacher calls. While playing at recess, Hank falls from the monkey bars. He basically did a face plant onto the mulch. His teacher said that his nose was bloody, and bruised but she didn't think it was broken. I think I need to buy stock in the Band-Aid company, and Neosporin. The knee is healing, but his poor little face still looks rough. His nose is bruised, swollen and scabbed. He has scratches on his cheek, and above his lips. I just want to say "Ouch" every time I see him. Oh, also on Wednesday, he had a nightmare that the crazy Nigerian guy that lives close to us was trying to handcuff him and his friend and take them to jail! He woke up scared, and wanted me hold his hand. He snuggled up so close to me that I couldn't have slid a piece of paper between us. Hank told me this morning, "I'm sure glad this week is over!"........ Me too, buddy!

And while dealing with banged up knees, bruised noses, and dreams about crazy men, I was also dealing with a few other things that have caused a little stress. There was some confusion, hurt feelings, drama and tears this week that left my sister not knowing if she even wants a baby shower. It's a huge mess that I hope gets worked out.  We're supposed to be celebrating, not having drama! My grandmother had a medical procedure over the weekend, and hasn't done real well this week. She also received some pretty crappy care at her follow-up visit, which makes me furious because she did exactly what her doctors and nurses told her to do.  While I was trying to learn something new at work,  my 'teacher' was an idiot and needed help herself. Don't blame me that it isn't working when I followed your instructions! Throw in the every day things to deal with like laundry, homework, supper, getting grumpy kids up in the mornings, and it makes for one rough week.

I'm ready for a few DVR'd episodes of "I Love Lucy", some pizza, and a cold beer!

Next week has to be better!

Patrick Swayze will always be my Johnny Castle

I read that they are making a remake of  "Dirty Dancing".... and my question is, WHY?
There's nothing wrong with the original. It's a classic. It's one of the best movies of all-time.

It doesn't matter what young hottie they get to play Johnny, noone can ever replace Patrick Swayze! Ever.

I can't see anyone but Jennifer Grey saying, "I carried a watermelon??"

How can you improve on something that is perfect the way it is? I say, if it's not broke, then don't fix it.

Lucy & Ethel? Nope, it's Lucy and Austin!

What does this famous redhead

                                 and this good looking kid have in common? 

They share the same birthday! I didn't realize that until just a few minutes ago. I love the fact that my son and Lucille Ball share this day. 

Happy Birthday Austin. I love you. And, Lucy.

Eighteen? Seriously?

Tomorrow, Austin turns 18. EIGHTEEN! How has that happened? It doesn't seem possible.

When he was younger, maybe 12 or so, we were talking about tattoos and he said, "I'm getting my first tattoo the day I turn eighteen!"

Now, I can't say anything about getting a little ink. I have a tattoo and Joe has several. But, I don't think any parent ever wants to hear their child say they are getting a tattoo. Much less planning for it six years in advance! We came up with some conditions about getting a tattoo the very day he turned 18. They were:

1.It had to have the Mom Stamp of Approval. (I'm not going to say yes to the Hatchetman emblem or something else crazy representing the music he listens to)
2.It had to be a decent location. (Not on his knuckles, or God forbid, the side of his neck!)
3.It had to be something he won't regret later on in life. (Because really how many 40 year old men still like their Taz dunking a basketball tattoo they got when they were 18 and drunk? My guess is not many!)

He agreed to my conditions, and he's picked out a Celtic cross that he's getting done on his upper chest. I'm okay with this. What I'm not okay with is hearing, "why did you let him do that?" from my mother! But, I look at this way-- he's 18. I can't stop him. He can do it on his own. I may as well go with him to make sure he doesn't do something stupid that he'll regret. There's a lot of other ways a boy can celebrate his 18th birthday, what's a little ink?

So far, so good!

Thursday morning, was my surgery for my wisdom teeth. It went great. The last thing I remember is Doc telling me I'll start feeling 'just fine' and the next thing I remember is walking in the house and laying on the couch. I was out, cold. Doc told Joe that it took all of nine minutes to get my teeth out, and over 20 for me to wake up enough they could send me home.

I spent Thursday drugged up on the couch. My face was numb the entire day, and I was groggy. But, I felt okay. I was able to keep my medicine down, and mashed potatoes and gravy from KFC were the tastiest thing I had ever put in my mouth. I spent most of the day Friday sleeping. When I wasn't sleeping, I was eating pudding and watching either Ally McBeal or NCIS. Yesterday morning, I slept. Then, I got brave and ventured out of the house.

So far, so good. My mouth is sore. But, I haven't shown any signs of a dry socket. And, overall, I feel okay. I'm still tired. I plan on taking it easy again today, I don't want to over-do it and then be miserable. I'm trying to decide if I want to lay by the pool, or just stay in where it's cool and lay on the couch. I'm not nearly as swollen or puffy as I thought I'd be. I'm very happy about that, because 'chipmunk' is not a look that I pull off real well.

"Very Worried Walrus"

When I was a little girl, I had all the books in the Sweet Pickles Series. And, even though "Very Worried Walrus" wasn't my favorite, it's the one that I'm thinking about.

I'm a 'worried walrus'......

I've been worried about the older gentleman that I work with. He's been ill, and was admitted to the hospital. When I spoke with him this morning, he sounded great, and I know that he'll be back to his sweet, ornery self in a few days.

I've been worried about Hankadoo on his trip to Holiday World today. I know that's normal. Anytime our babies are away from us, we worry. I know he's having a great time, and will be worn out when he gets home tonight. But, until I kiss those little freckles, I'll be worried.

I've been worried about having my wisdom teeth out. Worried is rather a weak term. I'm actually starting to freak out. I know that I'm in great hands, and that I'll be fine. But, I'm still freaking out. Normally, a three day work week tickles me to death. Not this week! I'd much rather be at work Thursday morning than having my wisdom teeth cut out. I actually emailed my doctor and asked if a shot of tequila and a Tylenol PM was out of the question before I went to bed Wednesday. I'm not supposed to have anything after midnight, he never said what I could and couldn't have at 11:45. He hasn't replied. I'm guessing that he didn't see the humor.

I wonder if Mom still has my Sweet Pickles books in the basement. Maybe next week, I can be "Goof-Off Goose"

Killing time on a Wednesday..

There isn't one thing in particular that is on my mind, or that I feel like writing about today. So, I'll just write a little of this and that.

•I had my consult with the oral surgeon yesterday. Everything is a go for having my wisdom teeth out next week. He said that they aren't as bad as he had anticipated, which is good. He said he'd put me out completely, and afterward, give me stuff to help prevent a dry socket. I know that he'll do everything he can to make sure I'm okay, but I also know that I will be freaking the hell out the morning of my surgery!!
•Tonight is the New Kids/Backstreet Boys concert. Truthfully, I'm more excited about seeing my sister than the actual concert. I don't think I've seen Stevie since Mother's Day. Kasey had originally planned to go, but ended up having to work. It will still be a good time. I just wish I had time to nap beforehand. I'm not a night-owl by any means, and I know come 9:30 tonight, my old, tired butt will be yawning and ready for my bed. Well, atleast my pajamas.
•Speaking of Kasey-- she and Mark found out that their little kidney bean is a girl! I'm so excited! I can't wait to have a niece. I can't wait to buy pink, and hairbows, and to spoil her rotten!
•I have FINALLY seen the scale move down! I've lost around 16/17 pounds since the beginning of the year. I still some to lose, but I can actually see a difference now, and that is so encouraging. My all-time favorite jeans that I haven't worn in a loooong time now fit. Well, 'fit' may not be the right word... I can get them on and zipped. That in itself is an accomplishment. It's not pretty, but I can get them on!! Now, I just need to work harder so they won't be skin tight and look painted on. I'd like to breathe while wearing them. That would be good.
•I haven't had my hair cut since April. I'm almost ashamed to admit that. But, the last time I had it cut, she cut it really, really short. So, it hasn't looked bad. Until this week. Now, it's gotten heavy, and has no shape. I need to go see Kelly and have her thin it out. I may have her cut it all off again, or I may let it grow out some. With me, there's always a hair dilemma.

That's all I have for today. I think I'll go kill time at people.com, or my newest web addiction--Rants From Mommyland! I love those women. Their blog makes my day.

Like Momma, Like Son?

People always tell me how PJ looks like Joe and his brothers, and how Austin is built and has the same body language of my dad. I very seldom hear how any of the boys resemble me in any way. But, all traits aren't just physical.

Last night, we did a little shopping. PJ bought shoes, and Austin bought cheap sunglasses.

They do have some of their momma in them, after all!

Missing my lounge chair

This was my vacation view. I'm already missing my lounge chair.

My vacation has started.....

I'm officially on vacation. So, why was I out of bed by 6:30 this morning, and doing laundry/cleaning the kitchen by 7:00??

Because I'm crazy. That's why.

Because we're leaving tonight for our trip and there's still stuff that needs to be done. And, I'm probably the only one who really cares that there's stuff to be done. I'm sure that my darlings who are sound asleep could care less that a load of wet clothes are in the washer, or that if we don't eat the bananas today we need to throw them out before we leave. I'm certain that two of my darlings haven't even packed yet. Meanwhile, I've been marking things off my "to pack" list. Just like Santa, I've been making a list and checking it twice. I'm sure I'll forget something. Isn't that how it works? I just hope it isn't one of the boys.

Aaah, vacation. Time to relax. Eventually. After the bags are packed, the laundry done, and the bananas thrown out.

This time next week--

This time next week, I'll be on vacation. Aaaah, vacation. Just saying it makes me smile. And, while I still have seven days, I've already made a list of what we need to pack in suitcases, what we need to put in the van, and what we need to pick up at the store before we go.

I'm not anxious. I'm just prepared!

It's been an exciting week, and it's only Wednesday!

On Monday, my friends Chris & Mike welcomed their new baby boy into the world. I went by the hospital to check on Chris, and of course, to see the baby. What a sweetie! He has dark hair and little squishy face. Absolutely adorable!

Yesterday, My Georgia Girl, Trish and her hubby James welcomed baby Jordan. All day, I kept checking my phone and Facebook, waiting to hear the news. And, around 8:00 last night, the text came. After a very long day--Jordan made his grand debut. I can't wait to get my hands on the little chunky monkey in a few weeks when we go to visit.

The rest of the week should be pretty exciting, too. Joe's nephew, Jake, is getting married on Saturday. Hank is the ring bearer, so we have to go the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner on Friday. Although, Hankadoo is not real happy that he has to miss the end-of-VBS-party! Last night at VBS, Hank and another kid had a head on collision. Literally. He's sporting a pretty good size knot on his head. I'm sure it will be purple and green by the time he puts his tux on for the wedding. I'm sure he'll have some big, elaborate story to tell everyone as to why his head is bruised.

We also have a birthday party Saturday night for a friend who is turning 40. There's something comical about leaving a wedding reception and going to a pig roast! But, a party is a party! I'll just have to remember to take clothes to change.

Babies, Birthdays, Weddings-- what a week of celebrations!

Then & Now

This picture was taken in June 2004. Hank was just a few weeks old. PJ was just a little guy. He kept his hair in an Army cut. Austin wore glasses and looked like Harry Potter. They were both in elementary school.

This picture was taken a few weeks ago. Hank is seven and going into 2nd grade. PJ is going to be a Junior. He's about to get his license. Austin is going to be a Senior and turning 18 soon.

Where has the time gone? It doesn't seem possible. My babies are growing up fast.

Whatever shall I read??

Typically, I read more in the winter than in the summer. And, even though I spent the cold wintery months reading the Steig Larsson books (The Girl w/the Dragon Tattoo, The Girl Who Played w/Fire, The Girl That Kicked the Hornet's Nest) I have seemed to read A LOT in the past few weeks. I have read:

• Water For Elephants


• City of Bones


• Mini-Shopaholic


• Belong to Me


• Secrets of A Shoe Addict

My pile of "To Read" is quickly becoming the "Already Read" pile. I'm trying to decide what to read next. We're going to be in the car for several loooong hours, so I'll need a good book to entertain me then. And, when we are soaking up the sun while on vacation, I'll need a book. Suggestions??

Today, I think....

--I think my head is literally going to explode from all the sinus pressure. I'm going to the doctor later. She'll agree that I have a sinus infection/ear infection, write me a prescription and send me on my merry way.
--I think I need to decide what to do with my hair. I've had way too many bad hair days lately. I said I was going to let it grow out some. But, that's easier said than done.
--I think I'd rather be at home, laying on the couch and watching 'Ally McBeal'. I could use a nap and some laziness.
--I think I may get to see my sisters this weekend! That makes me very happy.
--I think that McDonald's is the reason my pants are tight. Between the Rolo McFlurry and my beloved Caramel Frappe, I'm never going to fit into my jeans.
--I think this has been a long week!

Summer is here. It’s hot, hazy & humid. School is out. The pools are open. And, I’m counting the days until we leave on vacation!!

Hankadoo started a new summer/day camp program today, and I’m really hoping he’s having a good time. I've thought about him all day. Luckily, he’s not afraid of change, and by the time we got there this morning, he was ready to go in and make some new friends. I really think he’s going to love it. They do all kinds of fun activities, and have things planned every day of the week. They go swimming, they go bowling, they go on cool field trips to places like the Derby Dinner Playhouse, Kentucky Down Under, The Corvette Museum, and they even go to Holiday World one day. Do they have summer camp for grown-ups?

One of my all-time favorite quotes:

"I'm selfish, impatient and a little insecure. I make mistakes, I am out of control and at times hard to handle. But if you can't handle me at my worst, then you sure as hell don't deserve me at my best."
— Marilyn Monroe

Happy 85th Birthday to an American icon.

A community mourns

A little girl in our community was diagnosed with neuroblastoma in December of 2010. Yesterday afternoon she lost the fight. She was three years old.

Rest in peace, Addison Jo. You touched the hearts of many.

Soccer jersey--$25
Laundry detergent--$15
Seeing the look of pure joy on a seven-year-old-- PRICELESS!!

The last soccer game of the season ended with a very muddy Hankadoo. The Silver Knights may not have won the game, but they ended the game in cheers as Hank took off down the middle of the field and did a body slide right through the mud.

The lesson of the night: Don't dare Hank to do something! Because he's going to do it!

Hodge-Podge

There isn't one thing in particular on my mind today, so this is hodge-podge post, I guess.

I have lost my voice. I sound horrible. It's making answering the phones rather challenging. And when I do manage to whisper out my greeting, everyone says, "Oh My God, you sound awful!"..... Gee, thanks for the reminder, Captain Obvious!

The sun is shining. For now. It's not going to last long. When I was watching the 5:30 morning news, they were saying to prepare for bad weather tonight. When the weatherguy is warning you 12 hours in advance that you may need to seek shelter and prepare an emergency kit--that's never a good thing. I'm hoping it won't come to that!! Hank has a soccer game tonight at 7. I'm wondering how this will play out today. I do not want to be at the field if we have bad weather coming.

My heart breaks for the residents of Joplin, Missouri (and all the other communities that have been hit by tornadoes!)-- I can't even imagine what they must be going through. Our highest elected official in the county (my boss) is from Joplin, Missouri. He still has family & friends there. His aunt was injured when her house collapsed. She's in the hospital, and he hasn't spoke with other family members. Yesterday, he left for Missouri. But before he left, several of the magistrates and Department Heads took up a donation for him to give to the American Red Cross once he arrived. It was a very kind, thoughtful gesture, and I believe he was surprised when he received the card with the donations. I live in a great community. There are kind, wonderful people here. And, I'm lucky to call them my friends.

I haven't done a great job about going to the gym the past few weeks. I've either been busy, or just haven't felt like it. I need to change that. I haven't lost as much weight as I had hoped at this point, either. To be honest, I haven't tried as hard as I should. I need to do better. I'm stuck at a certain weight, I know once I break that barrier, it will give me a renewed motivation. I need to lay off the cake. Cake is evil.

My sisters...

I have the best sisters in the world, and lately, I've really been missing them. They only live 45 minutes away, but we don't see each other as much as we'd like. We're just too busy. We all have a lot going on in our lives. But, when we do get together--it's wonderful.

I sent them both a text last night, all it said was, "I miss you!"....
Those three little words said it all.

Stitches, Sunshine & Charlie Sheen

On Sunday, Austin was washing dishes, when a glass broke and cut his thumb. It was bad. It was bleeding. I could actually see his muscle. It was obvious that he needed stitches. We go to the ER, where they tell us that we can stay there, it was going to be an hour or so wait before we could get into the annex clinic for care or we could go to the First Care clinic, they open at 1. It was 12:15, so we thought we'd go to First Care, and wait. And, with any luck be the first seen. We sat in the parking lot for 45 minutes, and at 1, there wasn't a light on, or a soul to be seen. At that point, we realized the clinic opened at TWO! Ugh. We went back to the ER, and there we sat, waiting. Austin was called back, and we finally got his thumb stitched up. Instead of the little pretty stitches, they gave him three of the big tension stitches to make sure the cut didn't split back open. They stitched him up, bandaged his hand, and wrote him a note for work. He'll go back in ten days or so to get the stitches out. And, he's out of dish duty for a while.

Kentucky weather is very unpredictable. Last week, we were 15 to 20 degrees above normal. It was 85 to 90. The sun was out, the sky was blue, it was gorgeous! This week, we are below normal temps. It has been in the 50s. It feels more like March than May. The sky is gray, and it's just been depressing and blah outside. I need sunshine!!

Last night, while Joe, PJ and Hank went to Hank's soccer practice, and Austin was working, I took advantage of being home alone. I curled up on the couch with the remote, a big bowl of Honey Bunches of Oats, and watched "Two and a Half Men"......... It was a perfect way to spend a few hours alone. Now, I'm not a huge Charlie Sheen fan. I never have been. I think he's a, well, I'll leave that word out, it isn't very nice! But I have to say--I love him on that show! Now, that Ashton Kutcher (can't stand him!) will be replacing Charlie Sheen, I just don't think the show will be the same. I guess I'll keep watching the re-runs. I'll take Charlie over Ashton anyday!

A new hat

Every woman wears many hats in her life--daughter, sister, mother, wife, friend. Women can also wear their professional hat--teacher, nurse, chef, secretary. I believe most women need a huge closet for all the hats.

I'm happy to say, that come November, I'll be wearing new hat.

I'll be an AUNT!! My sister, Kasey, and her hubby, Mark, are expecting their first baby in late November. And, even thought I'm an aunt to Joe's niece and nephews, it's not the same. They were all born before I came into the family. Hankadoo was the last baby born into our family, so it's due time that we have a new little bundle of joy to spoil, and make a fuss over.

Mom, Stevie & I are all hoping for a girl. We've had our fair share of blue, we need some pink. I'd love to buy dresses, hair bows, and baby dolls. Hank wants a boy, so he'll have someone to teach 'boy' things to. I don't think Kase and Mark care, they are just excited to add a little one to their family.

Regardless, boy or girl, I can't wait for our little Thanksgiving turkey to come! In the meantime, I need to make space for my new hat.

Frankly, My Dear........

Oh, how I love "Gone with the Wind"..... I think every woman should have a little Scarlett O'Hara in her. She has fire. She has determination. She has strength. She has that look that can stop you in your tracks. There are so many great quotes. At some point, I think every woman has pulled a 'Scarlett' and said the "As God as my witness, I will never.............."

My famous Scarlett reference: "As God as my witness, I will never mow grass again!"

I haven't touched a lawnmower in over 8 years!

Just like every woman needs some Scarlett, every man needs a little Rhett Butler. He's dapper. He's charming. He looks amazing in a suit.

I can watch "Gone w/the Wind" over and over. I've watched it on TV, I had it on VHS tapes, I have it on DVD. And, tomorrow, I'll go see it again on the big screen. Several years ago, our old theater underwent a restoration to restore the theater back to what it looked like many years ago in it's prime. Now, the theater will have concerts, plays, and show old movies. There's something so nostalgic about watching Scarlett & Rhett's love affair on the big screen. It's captivating. It reminds me all over why I love the movie the way I do.

A Happy Ending

On Thursday, my wallet was stolen. It was stolen from my office while I was either in the break room, or in another office. Luckily, I realized that it was missing not long after it happened, and was able to call the bank, and my credit card companies immediately to alert them. My bank card was frozen, and the credit card companies cancelled the cards. I started thinking about other things that were in my wallet--insurance cards, Sam's Club Card, gift cards, Kohl's cash, etc. etc. I was mad because it was my Vera Bradley wallet that I just bought a few months ago, and love! It was not a good afternoon, obviously.

Yesterday afternoon, Joe and I were out running an errand, and my phone rings. PJ says, "Mom, I'm about to tell you something that will make your day much better-- the Sheriff's Department just brought your wallet, and it appears that nothing is missing!"

I couldn't believe it. I just knew that my wallet was gone. I never thought for a minute that I'd get it back. Much less, getting it back with nothing missing!

Sometimes there are happy endings!

Today's Forecast....RAIN!

It's raining here this morning. Again! I'm so sick of rain. I have worn my rain boots more in the past month than ever before. At this rate, we are going to need an Ark. Schools are closed, roads are closed, creeks are over flowing. Hank didn't have soccer games or practices all last week. The game for last last night was cancelled, as well as practice today. I wouldn't be suprised if the games for this coming weekend are cancelled, too. The rain needs to stop. And, quickly!

Friday is The Oaks, and I don't want to be at the track all day in the rain, that's for sure. Churchill Downs doesn't allow umbrellas. I don't want to buy a cheap rain poncho and cover my hat in a clear bag. That's not a good look. I'm going to keep my fingers crossed that the rain will stop, the sun will shine, and we will have a wonderful, amazing time on Oaks Day. To be safe, I'll cross my toes, too.

Happy Birthday... to ME!

Today is my birthday. And, I have to admit--I'm one lucky girl. I'm convinced that I have the best family & friends that any girl could ask for!

Last night was a great night. We ate dinner at Buca di Beppo which is an Italian resturant that serves family style, meaning their portions are HUGE! I think that's obvious from the picture of my dessert. For the record, I shared with everybody. The cool thing about Buca di Beppo is that anything goes attire wise. You can wear anything from a prom dress to a UK tee shirt and jeans, and it's all acceptable. The resturant has really cooky, crazy pictuers all over the place. Everything from Italian soccer teams to photos of nuns bowling. There's pictures of Sophia Loren and 'mafia' scenerio pictures. We had reservations in the Pope Room. And, well, it's called that for a reason. The entire room is decorated with Pope memorabilia, complete with a Pope John Paul bust in the center of the table!

The food was great, and the company was even better. A group of crazy girls came and sang 'Happy Birthday' to me--just because they thought it would be fun. I had Joe, my parents, baby sister, and some of my closest friends with me. It was wonderful. I just wish a few of my GA girls could have been there, too!

My boys spoiled me! They gave me a new CD, a movie that I've been wanting, an iTunes gift card, new ear buds, a 'Greatest Mom' coffee mug, a camera case, and a flower that I have already killed! Stevie gave me a very cute J initial glass to drink my Diet Coke from. I had a Kohls gift card that I already used, and some betting money for later this week. My BFF, Maria, gave me the neatest gift... a 1975 (the year we were born!) Kentucky Derby glass, and an issue of Sports Illustrated from May 1975 after Foolish Pleasure won the Derby. She also gave me a very pretty fleur de lis bracelet and slide to wear to the Oaks this week. It was all wrapped up in a Lucy & Ethel bag! We decided the Lucy & Ethel bag will go back and forth between us every year.

So, Happy Birthday to ME!

xoxoxo

Prom Pictures, Pasta & Ponies

"Sunny days, sweeping the clouds away...."

The rain is gone (for now!) and I believe today is going to be a wonderful day. For weather, and other things!

Today is the senior prom. I can't wait to see pictures of my sweet, beautiful cousin, Alex. And, speaking of pictures-- I'm actually taking them of my friend's daughter, Emily. I'm a little nervous about it, to be honest! I want her and her friends to have great prom pictures. What if I don't do a good job, and she hates them? I'd feel horrible. Fingers are crossed that they turn out great! Prom pictures are important. You have to look back on them twenty years later and say, "What was I wearing?" or "Oh my god, look at my nerdy date!"

I didn't go to my senior prom. Long story, completely different post. But, I did go to two my junior year. One was with my friend, Adam, he went to a school in a different county, so the only person I knew at prom was him! The other prom I attended my junior year was with my friend, Pat. It's funny after all these years, I'm still friends with them on Facebook. Maybe the next time I'm at mom's, I'll grab the photo albums and scan a few pictures. My dress was a fuchsia pink, I had big hair (of course) and I was rather skinny. Oh to be that way again-- skinny with big hair is one hell of a combination!

After our prom photo shoot, I'll have to come home and get ready! We're going out for my birthday. Several of us are going to Bucca di Beppo for dinner. Yum. And, my sister sent me a text last night saying we should go to Churchill Downs for Downs After Dark. It's their night racing event, and tonight is opening night. That sounds great to me, so I guess I'll check with everyone to see if they are up for that. Maybe I'll get lucky and win some money! Momma needs a new pair of shoes!

Royal Wedding

Yes, I was one of those crazy people that got up at 4:30 this morning to watch the Royal Wedding! I loved it. I loved seeing all the hats, and what people were wearing. I loved seeing Prince William and Prince Harry walk in together. Being the mom of boys, I love seeing a bond between brothers. I thougth Kate was absolutely beautiful!

Hankadoo was watching as he was getting ready for school, and he said, "Who cares about a princess, where's the KING?"

Oh, Hank!

Rain, Rain-- STAY AWAY!

The sun is shining for the first time in several days. We've had nothing but rain lately. Well, I take that back-- we've had rain, flooding, winds, and tornadoes. Roads are flooded, people have had to evacuate their homes, creekbanks are pushed to their limits, everything is a muddy mess, and our fairgrounds lost three buildings on Tuesday from a tornado. Someone said yesterday that they had recorded almost ten inches of rain in their rain gauge since Easter Sunday. That's a lot of rain in a short period of time! My rainboots have been my shoe of choice lately.


I'm hoping the sun is here to stay!

Happy (Belated) Birthday, Peej!

It's Sunday, PJ's birthday was Friday, and I'm just now posting about it. It wasn't that I forgot, I've just been busy.

I still can't believe that he's 16! My little peanut of a baby is now this handsome, funny, and overall great young man.

He's my little miracle baby. My pregnancy was one complication after another, I was sick (very sick!) from day one, my water broke at 28 weeks, I was in the hospital for three weeks when the doctors decided his lungs were mature. They induced labor on April 21, and at 2:46 a.m. on April 22, this tiny boy weighing 4lbs 40zs was born. He was tiny. Yet, at the same time he was huge. Most babies born at 31 weeks weigh between 1 and 2 pounds, he doubled that. If he had gone full-term, he would have been a hoss!! It's not uncommon for premature babies to stay in the hospital until their actual due date, which for him would have been the very end of June. He came home on May 10, little but healthy! He's never had the health issues that a lot of preemies have. And, now 16-years-later, you'd never know that he started out so teeny.

Happy Birthday, Peej!

Life is not fair!!

Some things in life just aren't fair. Today, for example... my sister is soaking up the sun on some beach in Mexico, drinking umbrella drinks, and working on her tan! I am sitting in my alternate office, with a splitting headache thanks to the paint fumes that are coming from my real office. Don't get me wrong, I am very happy for my office to get the makeover. It is much needed. It's going to look great when it's done. But, given the two, I'd rather be with my sister, sipping a fruitty drink. It's also not fair that she's built like a super model and I'm build like a Model T.

Here Fishy, Fishy!

Some people look forward to the first day of a hunting season, or opening day of baseball. Yesterday was declared 'Opening Day of Fishing Season'...... and this was Hankadoo's catch of the day. It made him happy. He fished with his Grumps, planted flowers with his MawMaw. He came home tired and a little sunburnt. He said it was a great day!

It's that time of year..

A lot changes in the spring. Not just the trees and flowers blooming, and the weather getting warm, it seems like we get really busy in the spring! After being lazy all winter, and being home all the time, spring rolls around and we are all of the sudden packed on the calendar, and out of the house all the time. The past week or so has been a blur. We've gone to the circus, we've had Hank's birthday party, the boys were on sprig break, we've had Hank's actual birthday, we've had soccer practice, we've gone to the Louisville Science Center, we've been in and out of the house a lot. And, I can tell. I have a huge things to do list, and I know without a doubt that I can't get it all done today. So, it's time to pick and choose. Going to the grocery is important, we need food. And, laundry is important, we need clean underwear. Going to Louisville to pick PJ up is important, he goes back to school tomorrow. Getting Austin to work is important, he needs his paycheck. And, if you ask Hank what's most important today, he's going to say FISHING! Hank is going fishing with his Grumps today. He's so excited! Dad caught several nice fish yesterday, and Hank is determined he's going to have the same luck today. We have his poles ready, we bought worms, his tackle box is stocked, and we tug his life jacket out of the closet since Grumps is taking him on the little boat. After the great fishermen return, Hank and MawMaw are going to plant flower seeds and work in the yard. They plant their flower seeds in the spring, and then track their progress all summer. Hankadoo loves this! And, he takes great pride in his zinnias, and sunflowers. There have been times where he's said, "Mom, we have to go out to MawMaw's so I can see how my flowers are doing!" I'm sure once the ground is ready for tomatoes and squash, he'll be out there with Grumps digging and working on the garden. They'll dig, water, weed, water, feed, etc. etc...and when that first tomato is ripe, Hank will pick it. It's that time of year! Soccer, Fishing, Gardening, the laundry doubles and my eyes stay red and watery. Ahhh, spring!

My Birthday Boy

Today is my baby's 7th birthday! Sniff. I can't believe it, it just doesn't seem possible that seven years have gone by already. Sniff. Before I get all teary-eyed and ruin my make-up, I'm going to stop and just say... Happy Birthday, Hankadoo! I love you.

Technology

The great thing about modern technology is that it keeps me connected to friends and family. I email, text, Facebook, call, etc. on a daily basis. I love it. The bad thing about modern technology is that it pisses me off to no end when it doesn’t work correctly! My cell phone isn’t working right, and it’s driving me crazy! I have become so frustrated that I have literally wanted to smash it with a hammer.

Tonight I’ll go to AT&T and see what they can do to fix my phone. If they can’t fix it, I’ll get a new one. Simple as that. I need my phone. And, I need my phone to work. That’s really not too much to ask, right?

Happy Birthday, Stevie!

I'm lucky to have such a wonderful sister!

Work In Progress

TGIF! This has been a long week. The weather was beautiful the first half the week. The sun was out, the skies were clear, it hit 80 degrees. Goregous. All that changed! Now, it's cold! The skies are gray, and we actually have a chance of snow late tomorrow/early Sunday.

Hankadoo started soccer practice this week. He's on the same team as last year, with all the same kids plus an added three. He was so happy to see his buddies from last fall. They all acted like they hadn't seen each other in years. There was a lot of hugs, high fives, and rowdiness. He immediately took up the goalie position. Some kids don't like being goalie, they get nervous, or afraid they'll get hit by the ball. Not Hank. He loves it! I imagine I'll see him in the box most of the games this year. We actually have one girl on the team this year, and she is good. She can hang with those wild boys all day long and show them how to get that ball up the field. It will be interesting to see how they work with her as a team member. "Ohhhh, it's a girl!" is the mentality of most seven-year-old boys! I guess their team is a work in progress right now.

Last night at soccer practice, I decided that I'd walk around the field/school grounds, even it was cold! I grabbed my fleece, my mp3 player, and headed down the path. I got into a good grove, jamming to a little Kid Rock and much to my suprise, I actually started running! Now, it wasn't for long, or very far, but I ran. I'm not a runner. At all. I won't be running any marathons, that's for sure. But, it's the first time that I've really seen a difference from going to the gym. I guess all that time on the elliptical is paying off. I ran, and I didn't die. Wow. Now, if my jiggly parts would just tone up, I'd really be happy. I guess I'm a work in progress, too.

Foolish Pleasure

Every so often, something happens that I find very humorous, or ironic. Today I made a discovery that was both.

Over cake & coffee this morning, the discussion turned to the Kentucky Derby. I was talking about how I’m going to the Oaks this year, and how I love that my birthday always falls during Derby Week, etc. I told the story that mom always tells me about watching the derby from her hospital bed the year that I was born. I was two days old. Maybe my love for all things derby started right then and there.

Someone asked me if I knew who the derby winner was that year. I didn’t. So, when I looked it up I found it very humorous and ironic that the winner of the derby that year was Foolish Pleasure.

How appropriate is that? I have all kinds of ‘foolish pleasures’….. shoes, an iced caramel macchiato, new sunglasses because they are only $4, pink lip gloss, smell good shampoo, the list goes on. And, on. And, on some more...

Foolish Pleasure isn’t just a derby-winning horse!

Note to self--

Must. Work. Triceps.

Mine aren't as flabby as that picture, but I do have a case of lunchroom lady arms. You know when you wave, and your flab keeps waving?

Maybe I can dress up as a flying squirrel for Halloween.

Or, maybe I should work my arms when I'm at the gym. They do have machines just for that, afterall.

Blooms & Bald Heads

Spring has sorta sprung. The flowers are starting to bloom, the trees are starting to bud, and the weather was perfect all weekend. If you ask my itchy eyes and runny nose, they'd say that spring was definitely here! But, in true Kentucky weather form, it will be 80 today and 55 by the end of the week.

Yesterday, Austin participated in the St. Baldrick's fundraiser. St. Baldrick's is an organization that raises money for childhood cancer research. The big fundraiser for this organization is going bald, hence, St. Baldrick's! Austin asked me last week or so if it was too late to sign up. I checked into it, and realized he still had time to get registered and raise some money for this wonderful cause. I'm very proud of him for doing this. I don't know of many seventeen-year-old boys that would willingly shave their head. Most are too vain. But, Austin thought it would be cool, and knew that the money he raised would go to a wonderful cause. He looks good with his bald head! I read in the paper today that there were around sixty participants, and that they raised close to $12,000.

Dental Anxiety

For years, I've had dental anxiety. I would have panic attacks, break out in a sweat, get sick to my stomach, etc, etc. I had a horrible experience with having two wisdom teeth out. I ended up with dry sockets and was in the worst pain in my life. I would rather go through child birth and having my appendix out at the same time than reliving the dry sockets. I was in the dentist office 14 times in 17 days, I missed two weeks of work, I lost 12 pounds (well, that part wasn't bad!)...I basically wanted to die. I laid on the couch for days with a bag of frozen peas on my face. After all that, who wouldn't have dental anxiety?

Now, several, okay many, years later, I do really well when I go to the dentist. I don't freak out, I don't break out into a sweat. I love my dentist. He is the sweetest, kindest man that I have ever met. I actually got to know him through work, he's also our county coroner! The coroner is part of county government since it's an elected official. After seeing what kind of wonderful person he is, I knew that I'd be comfortable with him as my dentist. I recommend him to anyone and everyone when the discussion of a dentist comes up. He's the best. So is his staff. Although, I wish my hygienist wouldn't ask me questions while my mouth is wide open and she's cleaning my teeth. It makes it a little hard to talk! And, she makes me laugh. That's also not good when you're mouth is wide open and she has sharp instruments in her hand.

When I had those two wisdom teeth out, the dentist told me that if the other two ever needed to come out, it would have to be oral surgery.

Today, when I was at my regular cleaning, my wonderful dentist who I adore said the words I've been dreading for a long, long time.

"You need to go ahead and get those other two wisdom teeth taken out!"

Crap. I guess I HAVE to now!

Just when I'm getting over my dental anxiety, I have to have oral surgery. I know the minute I sit my butt in that chair I'm going to freak out! It's not anything that has to be done this very instant, but I know that if I don't get the ball rolling that I'll never do it. So, I'm going to call our buddy the oral surgeon and talk to him. I know I'd be in good hands, and that I'll be fine. But, it's still scary.

I'm going to put my big girl panties on and schedule my surgery. July or August sounds good, what do you think?

Happy St. Patrick's Day

This is a picture of me & Stevie from our St. Patrick's Day party a few years ago. As you can see, we're very festive. My family uses any excuse we can to get together, so for the past several years, we've had a St. Patrick's Day party. We're Irish, somewhere down the line.

We wear silly hats, headbands, tiaras, or barrettes. We have green and white feather boas, we make green food (spinach dip, green rice krispy treats, cupcakes with green frosting, etc) and we basically hang out and act silly. We are a good time! I love my wacky family.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

How is it that....??

How is it that I can eat things like pico de gallo by the cup full, and chow down on hot wings, yet things like bananas and a bowl of cornflakes give me heartburn? I don't understand it.

Last week, I ate a bowl of cornflakes. I ended up having a really bad case of heartburn. I ate Mexican food over the weekend. I had a huge serving of pico de gallo, drank a margarita, and I was fine. Last night, I ate a banana and then wanted to die I had heartburn so bad.

WTH?

Therapy comes in many forms

I love to shop. I love margaritas. I love to laugh. I love my best friend. And, when you combine those, it makes for a perfect Sunday afternoon.

There's something theraputic about an afternoon of trying on shoes, talking about old friends, bitching about our husbands, and walking through the mall searching for bargains.

I'm not sure if it's cheaper than seeing a psychiatrist, but it sure is a lot more fun!

Update on the table, and other tidbits

--The table looks SOOOO much better! I'm no longer ready to kill Joe. We went to Lowe's and bought some of the furniture paint pens and he spent some time last night coloring. You can still see the ring, but it doesn't stick out like a sore thumb. I'm going to turn the table around so it's on the back side, and won't be so obvious. I'm very relieved over this. I was freaking out yesterday.
--I have a headache from hell.
--I need a nap. And, a margarita.
--Considering tequila will sometimes give me a headache, and make me sleepy, the margarita may not be the best idea.

TGIF!

Another trip to Wal-Mart Hell

I have to do something to keep me awake, I'm sure my boss wouldn't like to come back to find me drooling on my desk. Yes, I drool when I'm asleep. I'm not proud of that fact, but I've come to accept it. It's part of my life. Especially when my sinuses are bothering me. And, really--when aren't my sinuses bothering me? That leads me to my rant about Wal-Mart and getting my sinus prescriptions refilled.

Last night, I went to Wal-Mart to drop of my prescriptions. The lady tells me it will be about 30 minutes before they are filled. Okay, fine.. I can kill 30 minutes in Wal-Mart, that's not hard to do. After 30 minutes, I get in line to pick up my prescriptions, and they aren't ready. It's going to be another ten to fifteen minutes. Fine. Let me just wait. Again.

I stand close to the pharmacy and people watch. That was entertaining. There was the lady that had her gray sweatpants tucked into her cowboy boots. There was the lady with the mullet. No joke. And there was a guy who literally looked like a monkey. People watching made the next few minutes go by rather fast. I get back in line. And, guess what?

Yep, my prescriptions still weren't ready. Are you kidding me? This time I huffed. Between the huff and the look, the lady waiting on me knew I was tired of waiting. I politely said that I'd sit on the bench and wait. Again.

Roughly ten minutes later, they called me up. At this point I have almost an hour invested in waiting to get my Flonase. I just wanted to go home and watch 'American Idol'...

I get my prescriptions, and as I'm walking off, I look at the receipt and then I wonder, "Why is my prescribed Allegra more than the over-the-counter Allegra?"...... so I go back to the pharmacy. I'm such a glutton for punishment. But, money is money. And, I'm cheap.

The 45-day over-the-counter Allegra is cheaper than my prescribed bottle! Argh.

The pharmacist was nice, refunded my money on the prescription and apologized for the wait, and for the prescribed Allegra not ringing up the way it should. I think she even apologized for it being Wednesday and it raining, and Obama. She knew I wasn't happy. I'm not sure what gave her that idea, my huff or 'the look'... but regardless, my patience had been tested, and she knew it.

I'm switching to Walgreens!