Out with the old, in with the new?

I finally deleted my Twilight countdown widget even though I said I wouldn't. I have decided I was harboring a tiny little obsession with all things Twilight. I realized I had a problem when I check out at the store; if there is even the tiniest of pictures of Rob Pattinson on the cover of the magazines, my heart just starts to pounding and I vow that I will run out and go see the movie......again!

Adolescent obsessions aside, with 2009 just 35 hours and 49 minutes away, I think I need to return to the real and rational. I don't really believe in resolutions, but I do believe in goals. Resolutions are about as good as the paper they are written on. I have set some goals for myself (none of which I will go into detail about here) for the new year.

I will be happy in 2009. I will spread sunshine and joy wherever I go. Do you know why? Because I'm good enough, I'm smart enough, and doggonit, people like me!

The boys visit with Santa.....

Lee and I were running some errands today. We didn't really want to go anywhere with all the crazies out there, but prescriptions need to be picked up, dog toothpaste needs to be purchased, etc. We arrived at Petsmart for said toothpaste and Santa was there! I perused the store and looked at the rescue dogs while Lee ran home to get Berkeley and Riley.

They were so excited to see Santa! Riley asked Santa for a big new rawhide to chew on, and Berkeley asked for some liver treats. They told Santa that they had been very good boys this year. Berkeley told Santa he only scolded Riley a few times with his teeth and that he would try to be more patient. This is Riley's first Christmas and he told Santa that he only destroyed one ornament and knocked off the wooden cranberry string. Santa told him that was okay, he was new and over-excited about Christmas.

Berkeley and Riley want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas

She's Baaaaaccccckkkkkk.

Lest you thought that I have completely neglected my blog, I have returned. Now this might get lengthy.

Didn't I tell you that the Beagles love you, Grandma?

I have a running dialogue with my dear mother-in-law. I love her, as you will soon know. Let's just say she is not an official fan of Berkeley and Riley. I, however, am always telling her how much they love her and miss her. The picture at the top of my blog is of Berkeley and Riley "looking for grandma". They look for her everyday. She, for her part, just chuckles and says, "Yah, right."

Well, I mentioned in my last post that Grandma and Grandpa Johnson came for a visit. They decided to stay on until Mark had his orchestra concert tonight. I have visual proof of the Beagles love for their grandma.


We let Grandma hold the treats so as to focalize the beagles attention.



Riley could not contain his enthusiasm and got right on her lap! Grandma is shrieking at this point because the dogs keep jumping up on the couch and getting up close to her face to give her the extra loving that only a dog's tongue can provide. After all of this, how can she doubt Berkeley and Riley's love for her?

We love you, Grandma!

What? Another teenager?

This morning I went into Mark's room to wake him up for school as usual. Look what I found! My house has been inhabitted by a new teenager!

Of course, I had a hard time waking him up since his big sister, Brittany, (who has moved out of the house now :( woke him up at 2:30am this morning. She came over right after work to bring Mark his birthday/Christmas present. A Wii! Mark has been wanting a new game system ever since they quit making games for XBox. (Not 360, just plain "old" Xbox) He played for about an hour and went back to bed.

Grandma and Grandpa Johnson came to town for a visit, and to see Mark for his birthday.


We went to Olive Garden for his birthday meal. He sat at the head of the table and had the fettucine alfredo.


After all, there aren't many places you can go to eat where they will sing to you for your birthday. I can't believe that my baby is 13. Where is all the time going?

M is for many things. Your wit, humor, and intelligence.

A is for always being a wonderful son. You are a blessing to our family.

R is for reaching for the stars in everthing that you do.

K is for your kind and soft heart. I so love that about you.

Mark, I love you and want you to know that you are our precious son. We wouldn't be the same family without you. Happy Birthday Wonderful son!

Thanksgiving 2008

This year I didn't get any pictures of our Thanksgiving. I didn't have the big family meal this year, it was over at Justine's last Sunday. We weren't able to go due to schedule conflicts and a freshly neutered lil' fella.


I made dinner for what I thought would only be four, Lee, Mark, Brittany, and myself. Andrew insisted that he had to work that day. Brittany ended up inviting her friend, Joe, so that would make five.

I made the works. Turkey, stuffing, real mashed potatoes, gravy, corn, green bean casserole, rolls, egg nog, and sparkling cider. Topped off with pumpkin bread and double layer pumpkin pie. It was all very delicious, if I do say so myself.

Oh, did I mention that about 2 hours before dinner was ready, Andrew surprised us by walking through the front door? He DIDN'T have to work!!! Yay, Thanksgiving for 6! We enjoyed our meal and then we went and saw "Twilight" as a family. It was my second time. My family enjoyed it and they didn't even read the books.

I am still ever so grateful that I won the big prize at Bunco last year in time for Thanksgiving. My roaster oven has changed my whole life as far as my stress level on this day goes. I'm grateful that my husband and I are employed and are able to provide for our family, so many are struggling in this regard, and we are ever mindful of them. I am thankful for my family, and the special bond that I share with each one of them. I am thankful to have so many wonderful friends who add love, meaning, and purpose to my life. Happy Thanksgiving.

I Am.

I am: a wife, mother, sister, friend, daughter, aunt
I know: not nearly what I need to.
I want: to know that my kids are going to be alright.
I have: all that I could have imagined.
I dislike: Halloween.
I miss: my grandmother, Colleen Hedberg.
I feel: uncomfortable.
I hear: the Beagles playing in the back yard.
I smell: the anticipation of making something for dinner.
I crave: sweet hugs from my kids.
I cry: at the drop of a hat.
I search: for answers.
I wonder: if anyone really likes me.
I regret: too many things to mention here.
I love: my family.
I remember: what Christmas smelled like when I was a child and my grandma was alive.
I dance: when no one is looking.
I don't: want to get old.
I argue: probably too much.
I write: when I feel sad and throw it away.
I win: hardly ever.
I lose: my keys pretty regularly.
I wish: my kids would stay little.
I listen: when people talk to me.
I can usually be found: at my desk
I am scared: of what is going on in the world and being alone.
I need: the love of my family.
I forget: about how many times my name has been butchered.


PS. My beautiful daughter informed me tonight that she is moving out in about a week and a half. I am: sad.

I tag: Jen, Crystal, Melissa, and Sharon.

Good times, good times.

I really liked Twilight! It wasn't what I would call blockbuster material, but, the sheer numbers of those who have seen it thus far may send it into that sphere. I'm not sure what the budget for the movie was, but it was pretty good.

There were some really funny scenes, and Jasper cracked me up! I loved how the ending hinted at the fact that there could be more to come. I have heard rumor that they will do a movie sequel, and I hope they actually do all four books. This first one pretty much followed the first book nicely.

I went with "the ladies" and we had our "Got Blood?" shirts on that we had made for the Breaking Dawn book party at Borders in August. We were in line about 5 hours prior to midnight, but we were seated at about 8:45 pm. Not too shabby. The only thing was my knees hurt from having them bent into the seated position, theatres only have so much leg room.

Valynn, Elizabeth, Stephanie, Candi, Heidi, and Michelle T we had a great time didn't we? Again, Heidi, I am sorry for physically pushing you into the line where we were. I hope I am forgiven for that. Until the DVD release party..........

Aaaaaggggggghhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I can hardly stand the wait!



Yes, I am a grown woman. Yes, I am happily married. Yes, I love Edward Cullen.






I'll report back after the movie. Yes, I'll be there at midnight tonight!

Happy Birthday to you, happy birthday to you.....

Today is my favorite daughter's birthday. My baby girl is 19!!! She asked me today, "Does that make you feel old?" I said, "Nah, you getting older doesn't make me old." Just you wait til your kids call you old.

We took Brittany to Cheesecake Factory for lunch. It was her request and don't we always give our kids what they want?



Isn't she so pretty? Sometimes I look at her and I still can't believe that she is mine. The years have really gone by way too fast. Sometimes I see really cute girl clothes at the store and I wish she were little again.

BRITTANY

B is for your brains and beauty beyond belief.

R is for the rich blessing you are to our family.

I is for the incredible talents you have and the fact that I LOVE YOU.

T is for your tenacity. Taking the time necessary to do things well.

T is for the time you take to get ready to go anywhere.

A is for always being this amazing gift from God.

N is for your niceness and your natural ability to make friends with just about anyone.

Y is for just being You.

Brittany, you have been and continue to be one of the best things that has happened to me in this life. Your dad and I are so proud of you. You are a great sister to your brothers and I enjoy being a spectator to the closeness you share with each of them. It hasn't always been easy for you to be the filling in the brother sandwich. You are beautiful without vain. I love you so very much and wish you all the best in the year to come. Happy Birthday, Brit.

Riley.........put your shoes on!

Bring it on down to Neuterville! Yep, Mr. Riley is getting the ole' snip snip. We will not be having any family jewels in this house. He was so excited to get his leash and go "somewhere".

Reprieve

"To delay the impending punishment or sentence of (certain condemned dogs)". Poor Grandma Johnson. She was so worried about the fate of the dogs after my last post. She sent me an email asking if we still had the dogs.

Bleeding heart
A person (me) who makes an ostentatious or excessive display of pity or concern for others. (Riley and Berkeley) I don't necessarily agree with the ostentatious part, since I don't believe I make a "showy" display. I am inclined towards the "pity" part.

Pity
Sympathetic or kindly sorrow evoked by the suffering, distress, or misfortune of another, often leading one to give relief or aid, or to show mercy.

It isn't the dogs fault that they have hair all over their bodies and shed it at will. It isn't their fault that dirt and grass get trapped in their paws until they come into the house. It isn't their fault that their breath is bad, dog food doesn't smell good to begin with.

I was having a really bad day. Today, when Lee came home, the leaf blower was "in" the house. Don't ask.

I'd like to tender my resignation....

as a dog mom. I have had it. I'm not cut out for this. The only reason we have dogs is because of my husband. He wants them. I'm tired of doing all of the "dog stuff".


Oh sure, this guy is cute and all, but, he is incredibly destructive and orally fixated. There are two dog sized holes in the back yard that I keep filling and he keeps digging back up. He has more toys to play with than most babies. He got my glasses out of my bag and completely destroyed them. He has confettied more roles of toilet paper, paper towels, and boxes of tissue than I can even count!

I don't want to pick up dog poo anymore, it's disgusting, and my husband refuses to do it. So who does that leave? Me! The dog hair. Don't get me started. I am forever scolding and dragging the dogs off the couch and/or my bed. I vacuum all of the time. Stick a fork in me, I'm done.



Tread lightly President-elect Obama, in your search for the "White House" dog. Your life could be mine.

My tiny little rant

I love Saturday Night Live. I always have, even from the Rosanne Rosanna Danna and two wild and crazy guys days. You remember the "Bass-O-Matic" don't you? Saturday Night Live is even better during election years where the political humor is over the top dead-on.

Tina Fey was really starting to tick me off. While she did a great impression of Sarah Palin, off camera she made it clear how she felt about her. Clearly her politics went the "other way". Nothing is more ugly than someone who bad mouths another! Doesn't she know that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery?

John McCain made a visit last week. He is definitely someone who can handle a joke, and dish one out too. So, as my final act on the political battle of 2008, I am posting this little gem. Remember, scroll down to turn down the volume on the music, then scroll back up and press play. LIVE from NEW YORK, it's SATURDAY NIGHT!!!!

On to more important things.....

I am loving this weather! It was so nice and breezy today, perfect for making.....


I haven't made these but maybe twice before, but they are delicious. Washington apples? Good. Caramel? Good. Yummy treats on a stick? Good. Semi nutritious dessert? Good.

Brittany requested that I make these this last weekend.....


She rarely requests anything specific, so I was more than happy to oblige her. Oatmeal? Good. Peanut butter? Good. Cookies fast? Good.

Mark wants me to make fry bread tomorrow. I'll probably turn that into dinner with some refried beans, cheese, olives, tomatoes, sour cream, and salsa.

I am so looking forward to the holidays. I just hope they don't speed past too fast so that I can wring every last moment of enjoyment out of them.

Well, I guess it's done.....

Got my ticket, got my ticket........

The countdown is still on! Only 19 days, 6 hours, 56 minutes, and 58 seconds to go! The tickets for "Twilight" are on sale! I bought mine online yesterday for the midnight showing! Yes, I am crazy! But, in my defense, I love me some Edward!

Halloween Hell

What contest in Hell did I win? I would really like to know. Oh sure, I don't have little, little kids anymore, but........



our beagles have sure been giving me a "run" for my money. Yesterday, the young one, Riley, decided he couldn't wait to go outside and number twoed all over the inside of his kennel. I went in to wake up Mark, and this hideous, taken on a life of it's own smell, smacks me over the head as soon as I walk in his room. Of course, at that very point, I had no idea who did what and where was it!

Today, I'm just cruising along getting ready for the day. Berkeley had climbed up on my bed, again, even though he definitely knows he's not supposed to. Again, a stomach churning smell. WHAT!!!!! Berkeley had vomited all over my bed!!!!MY BED!!!!

Right now my bedding is in the washer, hot water, and plenty of bleach. Thank goodness I keep vinyl sheets on all of our mattresses or I'd be out having to buy a new bed. So, again I ask, "What contest in hell did I win?"

Halloween Humbug

Just call me the Grinch or Ebenezer Scrooge of Halloween. Halloween, how do I dislike thee, let me count the ways:

1. The costume. Even as a child, I disliked wearing a costume. Maybe because we were poor and the only costume I ever had was a "bum" or "hobo". Now, I don't believe that "bum" is a politically correct term. The homeless might be offended by this. Dogs don't really like Halloween either. Would you like this particular form of humiliation?





2. The begging. Yet another hit to the homeless. Isn't Halloween really just legalized begging? I mean, you knock on doors, you hold your hand out saying "Trick or Treat". The homeowner then gives you a piece of candy and you skip off to the next house on the block! Of course, that could be a bit of a challenge this year.



3. The waste. Were we not taught to NOT play with our food?



I know I am in the minority here, so to all of you Halloween zealots, (and you know who you are) Happy Halloween, I'll be watching Hocus Pocus. Bette Midler is a hoot and half;)

The Secret Life of Bees

This past Wednesday evening was our monthly Bunco night with the girls. It was great fun and I won for high score. My prize was 2 VIP tickets to Harkins, a free popcorn pass, and a $5.00 Harkins gift card. I didn't tell my husband that I won until I called him at work this morning and asked him if he wanted to go on a date. Now, we're currently monetarily challenged, so I'm sure he was wondering how I was going to pull this evening off.

We went to see The Secret Life of Bees.


Based on the book by Sue Monk Kidd. Oh my heck, it was so good! The only problem was that I didn't have any tissues with us. Trust me, you'll need them. I just absolutely loved the female characters and the strong women that they were. That Dakota Fanning is such a great little actress!

Well, being that I don't want to ruin any of the movie for anyone, let me just say that we brought our Harkins cups and used the free popcorn pass, and some Reeses Pieces for Lee. All told, the whole evening cost only 50 cents out of pocket. Not too shabby!

Kid Tag

Most of the "kid tags" I have seen involve small children. Mine are older and somewhat smart alecky.

1. What is something your mom always says?
Andrew: "No."
Brittany: "Anything ending with a question mark"
Mark: "Make good choices!"

2. What makes mom happy?
A. Chocolate
B. Chocolate
M. Her blog

3. What makes mom sad?
A. People not helping around the house.
B. I don't know.
M. When I don't hug you.

4. How does mom make you laugh?
A. When she is being silly.
B. Being you.
M. When you say funny things.

5. What was mom like as a child?
A. Devil's daughter.
B. Little
M. Little

6. How old is your mom?
A. Fourty.
B. 40
M. Forty.

7. How tall is your mom?
A. 6' 1/2"
B. 6' 1 3/4"
M. 6' 2"

8. What is your mom's favorite thing to do?
A. Play Bookworm
B. Blog
M. Blog

9. What does your mom do when you are not around?
A. Go shopping.
B. Talk to the dogs.
M. Dance in the street.

10. If your mom becomes famous, what will it be for?
A. Being the #1 Scrabble queen.
B. Her shoe fetish.
M. Knitting.

11. What is your mom really good at?
A. Cooking delicious food.
B. Asking questions.
M. Cooking.

12. What is your mom not very good at?
A. What Brittany and Mark said.
B. Minding her own business.
M. Video games.

13. What does your mom do for a job?
A. She a trans-monster.
B. She dingles with numbers all day.
M. She's an associate thing.

14. What is your mom's favorite food?
A. Spaghetti
B. Chocolate
M. Spaghetti

15. What makes you proud of your mom?
A. Her attendance to everything I did.
B. When she doesn't ask too many questions.
M. When she bought me an Ipod.

16. If your mom were a cartoon character, who would she be?
A. Marge Simpson
B. Marge Simpson
M. Taz

17. What do you and your mom do together?
A. Talk while copying checks.
B. Chill.
M. Cook.

18. How are you and your mom the same?
A. We almost like all of the same things.
B. We're both women.
M. We look alike.

19. How are you and your mom different?
A. I'm male, she's female.
B. I'm 18, she's 40.
M. I'm a boy, she's a girl.

20. How do you know your mom loves you?
A. When she hugs me for a very long time.
B. When she doesn't ask me so many questions and lets me sleep.
M. When you hug me.

I tag: YOU!

Relief Society Enrichment

And enriching it was!


I don't know if you have ever heard of Keri Maughan, but, she is AMAZING! She gave a discussion on "Parenting our Heavenly Father's Way". It was definitely the boost that I needed after my "poor me" post of earlier that same day. This gal is funny and engaging and really had us in stitches as she shared with us some tools that we can use as parents to better parent our children.

Of course, when you look at her, she is like, so beautiful and her life has probably been a bed of roses. I would be wrong on that account. She shared some of her experiences with her children, she has four daughters, that really made her relate to all of us and the parenting mistakes that we make.

I was so happy that I went. I didn't want the evening to end. I wanted to bring her home with me and do a little "Nanny 911" number on my home and family. I did talk to her for a bit after the meeting. I asked her, "I have a child that has moved out of the house, am I too late to use these new skills?" Thankfully, that answer was "no".

She was so awesome! If you ever have the opportunity to attend any of her classes, DO IT! You will only be better for it. www.keriparentcoach.com

Am I?

Do you think that it is possible to know what kind of mother you are or were in this life? I know that we probably shouldn't look to our children for acknowledgement, it behooves being a humble, self-sacrificing, never looking for the glory in the mundane of everyday mom.

I have been touched over the course of my life, of children who were very expressive to and about their mothers and the wonderful examples they were. It's easy when they are very young, to know exactly how they feel about you. When they are hurt, they come running to mom to make it all better. The unsolicited hugs and kisses and the "I love you mommies", priceless treasures to behold.

But, what about when they get older? It's "natural" for children to want to separate from their parents and establish their own identities. Does this mean that we are no longer useful? Have we expired? Does the umbilical cord ever really sever?

I just ponder what kind of mother that I am and if I have made any difference in the world for my having been there. I didn't have the luxury of not having to work, and I really feel that it has gotten in the way of being the most wonderful of mothers. Am I the only one who thinks this way?

Tag.....I'm It.

My Quirks

I was tagged by Michelle

RULES

1. Link the person(s) who tagged you.

2. Mention the rules on your blog.

3. Tell about 6 unspectacular quirks of yours.

D. Tag 6 fellow bloggers by linking them.


Numero Uno. Whenever I eat candy corn, and I only do at this time of year and only if they are Brach's candy corn, I like to bite them one color at a time. This in itself is so quirky because they are made with honey and I don't like honey, go figure.

Numero Dos. I dislike melon of any kind. No watermelon, no canteloupe, no honeydews or any other melon. Ohmygosh, what a wierdo!

Numero Tres. I'm tall. Possibly even freakishly tall for a woman, and yes, I know it. I make you feel short? Well, everyone makes me feel like Bigfoot!

Numero Quatro. I love the feel of fresh, crisp, at least 220 thread count cotton sheets. Polyester blends pill, and I don't like the feel of that. I don't like satin sheets either because I am afraid I'll slide off the bed in the middle of the night.

Numero Cinco. Spelling errors really bother me. Most especially when I read the newspaper or a book. Hello? Is there an editor in the house?

Number Six. I don't like leftovers. For me, it's only good the first time, and if you reheat it, it just doesn't taste the same. Also, I don't like overcooked pasta. If it's not al dente, for get a bout it!

There you go. Try not to judge. I tag Sharon, Justine, Shellee, Melissa, Jen, and Michelle C.

He's got his game face on!

This is Mark right now at the Diamondbacks game. He's the Security Kid. Perhaps Law Enforcement will be in his future as well!



I am so amazed sometimes at some of the unexpected opportunities that have come the way of my kids. Last night was his first orchestra concert of the season, and Mark is the section leader. He was offered the opportunity to move up to the next orchestra, but refused on the grounds that he has already had to change his schedule once this semester. What a kid!

Giddee Up!

I'm fairly certain that my blog is not one of very interesting reading as of late. So might I regale you with "Tales from the Gynecologist" or "Live from The Stirrups"!?



I had my annual visit of dread to my gynecologist on Monday. Stop me if you've heard this one before. You're sitting in the waiting room and the front desk gal calls out from behind the window, "Mrs. Johnson, we're gonna need a sample." Well, fortunately for me, I had drank a fair amount of water before I left and was prepared to offer my specimen.

I'm finally called back and taken to the "smaller waiting room" otherwise known as the examination room. The nurse takes my weight (I HATE SCALES!!!), my blood pressure, and asks if I'm having any problems. I tell her, "Well, I haven't had a monthly in 2 months and I'm not pregnant, is that a problem?" She laughs and writes it on my chart, and I further tell her that my husband keeps bugging me and asking if I'm pregnant. I told her that I told him, "Let's operate on the idea that I'm NOT unless I tell you different." She laughs again and directs me to 'the gown' and that 'everything comes off'.

So anyway, my doctor comes in and I rehash what I told the nurse, and she asks why I haven't had a monthly in 2 months. I tell her that I don't know, but, my husband thinks I'm either pregnant or under a lot of stress. She asks about hot flashes and the like. I ask, "Are you telling me I'm old?" "No, you're a too young for that, besides then I'd be old next year." So now I know that my gyno is 39 years old.

Well out come the stirrups and, of course, this is my FAVORITE part of the visit. She notices my height once again and says, "Oh, let me extend these for you." Holy cow!!! I was easily more comfortable immediately! It was the first time EVER that my knees weren't around my ears!!!

Long story short, I have to have some bloodwork done to check my female hormone levels. I'm afraid they'll tell me I'm no longer a woman;) So out I skipped with my lab order, my prescription, and my order for my mammogram. Joy of joys, we'll discuss "The Girls" at a later date. Until then......

With His help go I

The Earl of Melancholy has visited me again today. I find myself contemplating Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ role in my life. As I wrangle with my thoughts of inadequacy, I question whether I am doing all that I can to live a life that is pleasing to Him.

I am not especially talented and pretty much a regular "Jane". This is alright with me as I do enjoy living my life of relative anonymity. I do worry though, about what I have contributed thus far in my earthly existence. I suppose this could be just me looking at the back of my own tapestry, as I am wont to do.

I am just so grateful that I have my Savior who loves me and lets me know that when I feel especially alone and lonely. He calms my troubled soul when I feel that my efforts in the building of His kingdom seem so insignificant.

I try very hard to see the eternal perspective in everything, and I try to be very present in my trials so that I learn from them the first time. I've had many more challenges than my tiny little mind could ever conjure up for myself, and I am humbled that He would allow me to have them and learn.

I am grateful that I have the gospel of Jesus Christ in my life. I am thankful that I have a model to follow in the raising of my family, even though I haven't always been successful. It's the belief in Him that allows me to get up each morning and try again.

I hope your day is peaceful.

Boys will be boys, or something like that

We have adopted another puppy. Andrew is moving out of our home this weekend and has bequeathed his puppy, Riley, to us. I am no longer a "Beagle grandma", I have become his "Mom". Now this being said, Riley seems to know that he is a member of this household and makes himself quite comfortable, thanks in part to his training from Big Brother Berkeley.


Uh, yeah, apparently I can't take a shower without being taken advantage of. One thing that is a constant in our home is that the dogs are not allowed on the couch. Do they listen? I think not. Little Riley can even jump up onto my bed now too.



Gee Mom, aren't we so cute on the couch? Their redeeming quality is cuteness of course and scenes like this:



It's funny to me when they sit together, they look and turn their heads in unison. I think in these pictures, they are looking for Grandma Johnson. Let this post be a lesson to all of you parents out there. If your adult child moves back home, make sure they know that any pets or children will be leaving with them when they get back on their feet and leave again. I think we were just so happy to have Andrew back that we assumed he knew this was the case, but alas, we would be wrong about that. Therefore, we have made it clear to the remaining two.

I've got to go vacuum now, it's the shedding season.

Cutie Patootie Diet

To watch the video, scroll down to the bottom and turn the sound all the way down on the playlist, then scroll back up and press play. Hilarious!

100 things I like.....

I stole this idea from a friend's blog. I thought it helped to focus on good things, no negativity here. So in no particular order:

1. Crisp autumn nights
2. Babies heads
3. Surprise money in the mail
4. Freshly cleaned laundry
5. Devoted beagles sitting at my feet
6. I love you's
7. Dancing
8. Harvest moon
9. Apples
10. New ink in my printer
11. Beautiful orchestras
12. Romantic walks
13. How I feel AFTER a workout
14. Mark asking me for hugs
15. Treats left at my doorstep
16. Silence
17. Clean kitchen
18. Grandfather clocks
19. Browsing clearance at Target
20. Reading
21. Playing Bookworm
22. Watching sleeping children
23. Flowers just because
24. Crossing things off my to do list
25. Rearranging furniture
26. Fresh sheets
27. Cozy pajamas
28. My friends
29. Girl movies or "chick flicks"
30. Laughing
31. Taking naps
32. Perfectly manicured lawn
33. Pedicures
34. Massages
35. Blog stalking
36. The Young and the Restless
37. General Conference
38. Jewelry
39. White teeth
40. Real mashed potatoes
41. Going barefoot
42. Spaghetti
43. Grandmas
44. Twilight
45. Anita Shreve books
46. Soft sugar cookies
47. Christmas
48. Michael Phelps
49. Days that Lee has off
50. Dreams
51. The ocean
52. Family get-togethers
53. Good dance music
54. Willow tree figures
55. CSI Miami
56. Presents
57. Ross, Monica, Joey, Rachel, Chandler, and Phoebe
58. Sleeping
59. Lighthouses
60. Cotton flannel
61. Warm homemade cinnamon rolls
62. Basements
63. Days off work
64. Girls night
65. Nemo
66. Refrigerator magnets
67. Plants that I can keep alive
68. Beautiful art
69. Balanced checkbook
70. Early bird dinners
71. Green
72. Black and white photographs
73. Parties
74. Bananas
75. Kitchens with a theme
76. Found money
77. Vacuuming
78. Painting
79. Secret acts of service
80. Perfectly appointed linen closet
81. Smiles
82. My Ipod
83. Free gift time at Clinique
84. Avon catalogs
85. Sunday paper
86. Gold colored paperclips
87. Packages from the UPS man
88. Taking care of my family
89. Being needed
90. Waking up slow
91. De-clutter
92. Brand new box of crayons
93. Having my hair washed and dried
94. Saving money
95. Funky hosiery
96. Happy endings
97. Useless trivia
98. Hot cocoa
99. Kraft macaroni and cheese
100. Rug Doctors

Miss Mopey has left the building.......

I've been such a mopey mopey lately. I guess you could call it the "I can't wait til summer is over doldrums", or "Is this heat ever going to end?". Some people get down in the winter when there is less light, I get down with neverending oppressive heat. But, NO MORE I say. I will be happy! I will be upbeat! I will laugh! I will sing! I will dance!



I will get my fall decorations out. The fall decorations suggest to the mind peace and calm and COOL. Scarecrows and fall leaves. Cute little people swinging from vine wreaths in beautiful oranges and browns and yellows! Lions and tigers and bears, oh my!



I will take the time to watch a funny movie. A happy dancing penguin movie:) Penguins are happy, right?

Whatever.....it's all random

Well, it's been a week, so I thought that I better post something. On the good news front, Mark is doing a lot better with school. We have been sending extra prayers his way and to all his classmates. He has been happy for a week now, thank goodness. He is working hard and getting A's, we're so proud of him.

Brittany works so much. I do worry about her. She hasn't been able to nab a massage therapy position yet, but is still hopeful. She has been doing more to establish her independence from "Mom and Dad". We started charging her a nominal amount of rent, so now she lovingly refers to us as "Landlord". She is happy and cheerful though, and I love that about her.

Andrew is struggling. He isn't happy living at home and is currently looking for another arrangement. I guess it isn't pleasant to be 20 years old and living with Mom and Dad, what with the rules and all. I am hoping that he can move forward in his chosen career soon, and then I think he may learn to appreciate me; I don't know that for sure though.

Me? I am currently trying not to let the state of affairs bother me. I've worked so hard all of my life for what I have, and I'm mad because "He Who Should Not Be Named" is really doing a number on my family. I'm not really sure what I have done to deserve this.

I'm glad it's Tuesday and I can't wait til Friday because the industry that I work in is a real big bummer right now. You keep hoping the news will get better, then the government announces it has taken over the two largest mortgage giants. Oh bother.

My Marky

I'm not sure what I should do. Mark is having a really hard time adjusting to Junior High School. If you know him please don't talk to him about this, it would embarrass him. It's hard for me, his mother, to see him in tears every day. The other kids are mean, they have foul mouths, and the other kids are just plain mean.

He is begging me every day to homeschool him. I'm torn. I work from home and I am responsible for our household and yard. I don't feel qualified much less have any more time. What do I do?

We keep trying to give him a pep talk, you know, "just give people time to get to know how wonderful you are."

In Tempe, they have middle school, which is 6-8th grades. The 8th graders were schooled in separate buildings so the younger kids didn't have much interaction with them. In retrospect, I think this is a great idea. Here in Mesa, and I am a product of Mesa Schools, it seems like every man for himself.

You want your kids to be able to handle the challenges of the world, but, what do you do when their sweet sensibilities become forever altered by this earthly experience? Some of these kids have such filthy language. Don't they know that it doesn't take any intelligence whatsoever to talk this way?

I think as a society, we have stepped away from being that village that raises a child. Apparently it's anything goes. What is the point of making rules when the adults won't abide and enforce them? This is why we have girls dressed like street walkers, and boys that either don't own a belt or decent underpants. If I see another pair of "stank drawers" I'll have to excuse myself to heave. Of course, there is the very real fear of getting sued. What a sad commentary on our intelligence and common sense. Common sense doesn't get the big payoff in court.

Back to Mark. I love him so much, and I can't make everything perfect for him, but, how do you help so that he doesn't become so completely broken and miserable?

Your thoughts please.

Phelps Phan

Great News!!!! I am so excited! It couldn't have happened to a better person! On September 13, 2008 at 10:30 p.m., I will be glued to the TV to watch Michael Phelps host the season premiere of Saturday Night Live! Pure Genius! Those folks over at SNL sure have their finger on my pulse.

I got a funny email from a friend today. The following is for adult viewers only, so if you have little children, I'll wait for you to scoot them out of the room. I don't want to be held responsible for any conversations that you aren't ready to have.

Are they out yet?

Okay.

Here you go.






Isn't that just so adorable?

My husband will love this one

High Heels

What kind of shoe are you?

Of course I would be high heels! Was there ever any doubt? One of Lee's favorite comments about me is that when people naturally say something about my height, he is sure to say something about the four inch heels I like to wear as well.

That's right! I LOVE to look down upon my kingdom and squash all of the little ant people!

Seriously, what's wrong with tall women wearing heels? I am no wilting flower that will wear flats so that my husband will look not so short, as Nicole Kidman was wont to do when she was married to Shorty Cruise. I have loved high heels since I was a little girl, the higher the better.

Disclaimer: This post in no way should be construed as a prejudice against those that are vertically challenged, you know who you are:)

My lil' lobster

Aahh Brittany. Girl goes to river with a friend. Girl says she reapplied sunscreen. Girl missed like, her whole body. Girl is a.........



Girl is burned the worst on her little patootie. I asked Girl, "Did you ride down the river on your tummy?" Girl replies, "Yeah, most of the time." She is my lobster and I love her.

I'm a Nut.....but, you may already have known that.

You Are a Hazelnut

You are very unique and distinct. You may even freak some people out. Most people don't really know how to interact with you. You get along best with anyone who is super sweet. But you really do get along with almost anyone. You just need a chance to wow them.

What Nut Are You?

What do you think? I hope that I don't freak anyone out, except for the Amazonian tallness. If I freak you out or if you don't know how to interact with me, please leave me a comment. Maybe I need to take this test again.

Life is not a rehearsal......

It is a soap opera, but I wish it was a sitcom. You know like the Cosby Show?

I love the Cosby Show. It takes me back to a simpler time. Claire was the quintessential mother who rarely had her feathers ruffled where her children were concerned. Where can I get some of that?

I think I am Claire's polar opposite. My feathers are all over the room at times. I have a tendency to exude calm, cool, collection. That is my facade.

I loved the elaborate lessons the Cosby children were taught. Remember the one with Theo living on his own? Money lesson learned in one half hour. Or the one where Theo was on trial for telling half truths and other deceptions? Yet another courtroom drama wrapped up in, you guessed it, one half hour.

Where am I going with all of this? I think it can be wrapped up neatly in the Serenity Prayer. "Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference."

In the immortal words of Frank Costanza, "Serenity Now, Serenity Now!"

What a Cutie Patootie Pie

This post is dedicated to a very gifted athlete. I have been watching the Olympics, paying especially rapt attention to this handsome young man. In some ways, he reminds me of Andrew.



The sheer power, the 6 foot 7 inch wing span, the incredible strength. I mean, "I'm scared of you!"



Every night as I watched him prepare for his swims, I would wonder aloud, "What is he listening to on that Ipod?"



When I workout, I'm usually listening to upbeat dance music or some hip hop lite. No gangsta rap here. Foshizzle. It turns out that when he is in the "zone" he is listening to hip hop, particulary Lil Wayne. Just thought you might like to know that.



I'm not particularly fond of Lil Wayne, but it must be working for him. This is what pure joy looks like!

Probably what I can appreciate the most about Michael Phelps, besides that perfectly chiseled physique, and his boyish handsomeness is........


He loves his momma!

Dancing in the street

When my children were smaller, I used to tell them a funny little story about the first day of school. I told them that on the first day of school, after all of the kids went to school, me and all of the other moms would dance in the street. For a couple of years I told them I got to LEAD the dance in the street. They eventually caught on, but it was fun while it lasted.


Here is Mark. Mark is so happy because it is the first day of school. He's happy because summer vacation was so boring, what with all the video game playing, sleeping in, and playing with friends all day. I'd need a break from that lifestyle too. Actually, he is smiling this funny smile because I said a funny word that he wasn't expecting.

See how studly Mark has become? It's his first day of Junior High and we have grown up so much. He looks so much older to me:( My baby! Speaking of baby; Mark had his dental visit and cleaning on Thursday morning. His teeth were all nice and sparkly white. No cavities either. He did have one small annoyance though, what with his newly discovered grown up personna and all. One last baby tooth. A BABY tooth!!!

Mark took matters into his own "hands" and had that baby out the very next night! I just had it cleaned! What, no more tooth fairy either? What am I good for anymore now?

Well, Mark had a good first day of school and just as I had predicted:



He was fast asleep on the couch within an hour of returning home for the day.