Kat's Having Kittens

Saying goodbye to a good friend.

2010-04-11T09:35:00.002-05:00

A good friend passed away yesterday and she will be greatly missed. I don't know how many woman could claim to be friends with their ex-husbands new wife, but that is what we were. I didn't get the chance to tell her goodbye, so this is my letter to her.

Tyna,
First off I want to Thank You for being such a great mom to "our" son. He was not always easy to parent (and still isn't) and you put up with a lot of crap from him over the years, and loved him anyway. We may not have always agreed on what to do with him, but we worked together to present a united front. I can't count the hours that we have spent together at school functions and sporting events over the years, but he sure made us proud. I know how much he loved you and how much he misses you already. You played such a vital role in his life and I am forever grateful that he had you there.

I want to Thank You for not being the "threatened/possessive" new wife. Ours was a relationship that came from necessity but grew into friendship. Initially our conversations may have been about pick-up/drop-off times but in time we began to share our lives. We have spent hours talking about our kids, our work, and our partners. We shared in the ups and downs that life threw at us. And I think that we set an important example of how the ex- and the new-wife can get along and work together.

I also want to Thank You for being a wonderful wife to my ex. You brought happiness and stability into his life. I know how much he loves you and that you loved him deeply. I truly believe that you coming into his life was one of the best things that ever happened to him. My heart goes out to him and to all of your children who are now left with a void in their lives.

I will miss you my friend,

Getting Better (ish)

2010-03-27T09:53:00.003-05:00

I am doing better...really...or at least most of the time. After completing the hospital treatments, the Dr put me on a liquid anti-biotic/fungal. Suffice it to say that it was AWFUL! After a go round with the insurance company to get it approved/paid for I ended up only being on it for a week. And that week I basically did nothing besides travel from the bed/couch to the bathroom and back again. Better absorption does not equal good for you. Luckily there is a pill form (which I was on just prior to my hospital stay) that they were able to put me back on. Do I still have stomach problems on this medication? Heck yeah - but at least I can function now. On-going blood work looks good and all the Dr's are happy about that. I am down to 11 pills in the am and 6 in the pm. And yes I said "down to".

I am spending my days "taking it easy" which translates to playing a lot of games on the computer, when I am not running back and forth to see various doctors. I am trying to get 8 different games finished up before April 9th when Microsoft pulls the plug on Gamespring. Damn them anyway! I still haven't got the okay from my Dr to return to work - but will try to convince him next week. Of course I haven't had very much luck in previous negotiations with him, so not holding my breath. Still...at least the tax returns are in and we can pay rent - which I am sure my daddy appreciates!!!

The Oldest Son has court next week on the High School break-in. Down from felony to misdemeanor and will find out what his sentence is. After being expelled from school here, he is doing well at the SCEP school. It's at the Juvenile Justice Center - so he actually has to stay there the entire day. At least his is getting credits and might just manage to graduate (if he can stay out of trouble!). Middle Son is busy with Track/Field - looks like he will be running the mile and hurdles. He seems to be getting taller by the day and now is about my height (not like I am tall or anything, but still...) Youngest Son will be starting Soccer in the next couple of weeks and in the meantime is spending lots of time outside (when the weather cooperates) so it is a little quieter in the house.

The Man is busy with work and playing WOW, so nothing new there. He is back working until 7ish, so the house schedule has been a little off. But overall things have smoothed out now that I am home again. Getting ready to start riding the bikes again once the weather cooperates. So that's something to look forward to.

February - a month of ups and downs

2010-03-10T10:44:00.003-06:00

The "up" cancer is unofficially in remission. The "down" spending almost 2 weeks in the hospital. But lets back up...

Finished up with chemo - but was still not feeling great, still struggling with temp. regulation, and dehydration. Was making regular trips to the Dr's to get fluids and on one trip, was really struggling to breathe...so off to the hospital for CT scan, chest x-ray, and some other tests. Found out that the lymph nodes in my upper chest and along my breast bone were enlarged. Next stop Thorasic surgeon for some more surgery/biopsy. Good news - cancer had not spread, but bad news...we don't know for sure what is going on. Back to the Infectious Disease Dr and some more tests. Answer is: histoplasmosis capsulatum. Aparently somewhere/sometime I breathed in some nasty fungal spores and they took root in my chest/lymph nodes. This explains the shortness of breath, temp. regulation issues, feeling overly tired, and dehydration. Why did this take so long to find you ask? Well the symptoms of histo and side effects of chemo are VERY similar - and so it wasn't until I was done with chemo that they realized that something else was going on. And of course histo is not something that is commonly found in this area of the U.S. So...add a VERY expensive anti-fungal/anti-biotic to the daily cocktail of meds.

Then...the kids get sick! Lets all get the stomach flu, one after another. Well between that and the new medication I was not feeling too perky. And y'all know how "perky" I am usually. LOL. So the fever/chills hit with a vengance and I can't seem to get them to go away...three hours and a phone call to the Dr and low-and-behold back in the hospital I go. Potassium levels dangerously low and the histo has spread. After many tests, it was determined that the histo had NOT spread to my brain (would eat it up) or heart (would just kill me) and with daily IV/oral potassium I managed to avoid going into a coma. Of course I was so completely out of it for the first few days - really didn't know how sick I was. Or it could have been the Darvocet shots!!!

Fortunately I have a GREAT team of Doctors - who worked hard at finding the right combination of medications to head me back to health. 12 days is a long time to be in the hospital and I am sure that I wasn't always the easiest patient to deal with. My mind was more ready to return home than my body - and it took some persuasion to get out when I did and I still had to report daily to the hospital for on-going treatment.

The good news is that The Man survived 2 weeks of being Mr. Mom and The Boys and The Animals survived too. I had many visitors and phone calls - some of which I even remember! For everyone who told me that I was pushing myself too hard through chemo and stuff - OKAY - you were right! Not that I listened to any of you - but now my body demands that I listen and heed your advice. So I am trying....

Almost done...well sort of

2010-01-20T07:21:00.002-06:00

Theoretically I have one week of chemo left...Whoo Hoo...six weeks has seemed more like six months, but there is an end in sight. The down side is that I won't really know if it worked for another 4-6 weeks after my last treatment. Aparently the nukes keep nuking for a while. So I will have to go in for weekly blood tests and then in a month or so, have yet another CT scan and bone marrow biopsy. Dr. knows I am not thrilled about the bone marrow thing - but told her I WILL have twilight sleep, not local pain killers when that is done. NOT NOT NOT going through that again. At least with the scan - it's just a matter of drinking some foul liquid and having your insides lit up like a Christmas Tree (which, is still standing in my living room BTW).

After a rough week last week, this one (so far) has been much better. Scared the Lab Nurse last Monday. She got done taking my blood and said something that sounded like the teacher off the Peanuts cartoon and I said "ok, I'm going to fall out of your chair now". Somehow she caught me and kept me from face planting, but it was a strange experience none the less. Ended up having to go in for fluids 4 times last week, plus on fluids over the weekend. Had a very nice home health nurse. And I now know how to hook myself up to IV fluids (as long as the needle in already in). So GO ME!

And I just realized that I should be headed out the door right now....so more adventures in treatment will have to wait.

It leaves a bad taste...

2010-01-03T10:34:00.002-06:00

Nothing tastes right....not sure if this is a side effect from chemo or what, but everything tastes weird/off. It's strange enough that when they flush my port that I get this weird metallic taste in my mouth (which is aparently common, but no-one seems to know why) but now it's like my mouth is coated in wax or film or something. It doesn't seem to matter how many times I brush my teeth, it's just there. It's not like when you have a cold and stuff doesn't have much taste - it's that nothing tastes like it should. Get a craving for a particular food, get the food you want, have 3 bites and decide it tastes "icky". Even things that I normally like don't hold the same appeal. It's hard enough dealing with the off/on nausea and lack of appetite or raging appetite, but add to it the funky flavors that foods now have - and well - what a mess. No wonder I can't get my weight to stabilize! 6#'s change in 2 days - yeah I can do that!

On a more positive note, after a day or so of feeling soooo exhausted that I could barely make it from bedroom to living room and back - feel pretty darn good today (comparatively speaking). I think I ran a fever most of yesterday, which didn't help. Up to 102.7* last night - thinking if it hit 103.0* that it was back to the hospital for me. Another close call - whew! I swear I am now popping Tylenol and Ibuprofin like candy most days. The memories of being able to regulate my body tempature are fading fast. Of course it doesn't help that after cutting back on the steroids my face and upper body are breaking out again. Not as extreme as before (I don't resemble a jet puffed marshmallow - yet), but enough to tell the Dr. that I am going back up to at least 10mg, 5mg just doesn't cut it.

On the kid front - Boys are back in school this week - WHOO HOO! - Oldest Son will start school out here next week as well - so it will be a full-house here once again. Keeping fingers crossed. XXX

New Years Resolution - "to survive". Okay, so maybe that's kind of a cheap one, but oh well. I would like to be healthy enough to work-out once again and not feel exhausted and maybe even quit smoking - but I figure I might as well go big.

The Kat's Out of the Bag

2009-12-26T08:41:00.002-06:00

I have come to the conclusion that being sick is not only frustrating, but it really rather SUX! I am really tired of being tired and not being able to do things that I normally can do and having my life taken over by this disease. I know that I should be grateful that I have a "good" type of Leukemia and that in another 6 weeks or so, I should be feeling much better...but when you are in the middle of it and have been sick for 2 months already, you start to lose your perspective.

It was one thing when I had to go to the Dr's one afternoon a week for chemo, but then to be told "oh BTW you will have to come down for the next 3 days and get a Neupagen shot" it completely wrecks your schedule. Esp. since it takes me longer to make the drive then to actually have the shot done. Not to mention being in the hospital for 4 1/2 days (the weekend before Christmas!). I guess the upside is that I didn't have anything "nasty" just a reaction to the "bad cells exploding and flooding my system". Yes - I know there is a medical term for that, but I'll be damned if I can remember what it is. So the fever and chills continue - but alternating ibuprofin and tylonol seem to help (most of the time). I don't know wether to be grateful that my blood counts were too low to do chemo this week (platelets were 74k - supposed to be between 150k - 200k, and need to be at least 100k for chemo) or pissed because it adds one more week of treatment. Reminder to self - don't call the Dr. when running a fever, unless you want to be stuck in a small room for days on end.

On the up side - I owe a huge couple of thank you's to people. To BFF MB who went to the mall and shopped so I would have at least one present for The Man under the tree. To BFF D who has been wrangling Youngest Son from Kids Club. To Super In-Laws who took Youngest Son (and brought food for the family). Even Middle Son's Dad brought him up to visit me in the hospital. And of course, the BIGGEST thank you of all to my Wonderful Man who had to take care of a million little details & go shopping for presents while I was cooped up. For everyone who has offered food/help - warning: your time may be coming (sooner than you think)! LOL To everyone who has sent warm thoughts/prayers/good wishes - I am truly grateful for your friendship and concern. It keeps me going!

Telling the Oldest Boys was stressful - how do you explain that Mommy is sick (has cancer) and not scare the SH*T out of them? They seem to be handling it ok - I think both knew that it was something more serious than a "skin condition" anyway. DUH! - If nothing else the hospitalization kind of gave it away. LOL. In any case they are stepping up and helping more (not that there is a lot of choice for them - ha ha). I guess it's good that as sick as they has seen me over the past couple of months - that is as sick as I will be. Looking for that positive!

It's Turkey Day!

2009-11-26T08:37:00.002-06:00

Not necessarily a "touchy, feely, happy" post.

I have somewhat of a confession - usually this is my FAVORITE holiday - but I'm struggling this year. I love going over to Daddy's house and grubbing and hanging out with family and then back to our place to hang out with friends and play games for the evening. I look forward to it, but sadly this year I am off my game and finding it hard to get motivated for the whole thing.

I am truly sick of being sick! I was back at the Dr's again last week - every time I wean off the steroids my whole system freaks out again and this time my face/neck took the brunt of it. My face was so swollen that my eyes were little slits and I couldn't drive - not to mention all the looks that I got out in public. Now I admit to being somewhat vain, but I think this episode may have cured me. (Not to mention gave me greater empathy for those who have permanent disfigurements - people can be VERY insensitive). Dr. started me out on 10mg of steroids and ibuprofin, after 3 days this was upped to 20mg, since the lower dose was not cutting it. At least then the flare ups stopped and the ibuprofin somewhat controls the pain.

Got the call on Monday that they found some abnormalities in my cells (from the last blood draw on Thurs) and now they are not sure what came first (chicken or the egg). Is my body producing abnormal cells and that's why I keep having these flare ups or are the flare ups warping the cells? Who the hell knows??? They know what it is and the "treatment", but while it may contain the symptoms - it does NOT cure them. So now it's time to go see a Hemotologist and have a Bone Marrow Biopsy. Whoo Hoo - not really looking forward to that at all. But maybe, just maybe, they can figure out what is causing all this crap and I might have a chance of living a normal life again!

Thank goodness for The Man - he has been so understanding and helpful, not to mention toleranct. He has decided though that this episode makes up for all of the times that he has been sick in the past 10 years. I know it's not easy on him being Mr. Mom for a few days - and now that we are into "weeks" it has been more than stressful. Esp. when I can't even go out in public due to the way I was looking.

Work has been great too - my client's are very compassionate, which is probably a new expereince for some, but that's ok. In the time I have been there, so far I have only worked one full week (two if you can't this week) and they haven't fired me yet!!! So again, I am thankful, if not a little grumpy.

Oldest Son is currently in jail - after sneaking out of his dads, getting drunks, and breaking into the high school with his "friends". Just don't know what else to say about that. I guess I am thankful that at least we know where he is and what he is doing right now. Kinda kills the whole decorating the tree this weekend though.

Two Youngest Boys are doing well at the moment - being thankful for that as well. But there are times when Mom's patience is wearing thin with the teenage attitude! It's just a phase - right?

Well I guess that wraps up my thankfulness rant! I will work on having a more positive attitude as the day goes on - because I know that I will have a great time today seeing everyone.

Recovery....it's a process.

2009-11-08T11:20:00.002-06:00

Seems like forever since I have been feeling well, but in reality it has only been 2 1/2 weeks. It all started out so normal and then went to hell.

On the 21st I got a flu shot - just like every year (esp. due to the locations I work in) So ok, no big deal. Well the next day my tooth started bothering me, after a trip to the dentist on the 23rd - an infection was discovered and anti-biotics were prescribed. Again not a big deal (or so I thought). Due to the anti-biotics by Monday (26th) I had developed yet another infection. Fun, fun! Then I started feeling run down/tired, fever/chills, chest congestion, shortness of breath..yada yada yade....yep you guessed it....welcome to the H1N1 virus. It became a struggle just to get through the day. By the time I got home for work (yes I was working, didn't know I had the piggy flu - just thought I had a cold) I could do little more than sit on the couch and struggle for breath. Couldn't even walk up the stairs without stopping and cooking/cleaning was pretty much out of the question. Usually in the am I would be okay, but the later in the day it got the more useless I became. Well by Sunday (1st) I started breaking out in this bizarre rash. It didn't itch at all - but looked something like a cross between eczema, chicken pox, and really bad acne. At first it was just on part of my legs and a few spots on my arms.

So after playing "stump the nurses" at work it was off to the doctors...with a list of 10+ symptoms and a record of all that had been going on --- the diagnosis...H1N1 and Erythema Nodosum (that's the skin condition). After asking for an English translation basically the doc said "my immune system freaked out" and started "attacking me rather than illnesses". Fortunately I didn't itch but was very very sore. He gave me some ibuprogin/steriod meds. It was too late to start on flu meds, since I was "mostly over it". I was cleared to return to work, since I didn't have anything catching, but was warned to stay away from sick people or I could end up hospitalized - my immune system wouldn't take much more. Well slowly I started feeling better but looking much much worse - the break-out continued to spread up my arms/legs, chest, face, neck and as warned also started turning to bruises. Thank goodness it's winter and I can cover up, not to mention I can't shave until my skin it cleared - well lets just say I'm not very pretty right now.

Then came Thursday (5th) and I had a relapse. Started just feeling horrible...the pain had spread into my muscles/joints and I was getting worse rather than better. After falling down Friday morning and a call to the doctors office I was told to come in asap. After another blood draw and exam, it was determined that some virus was still kicking my immune systems ass and winning big. The doc wanted to put me in the hospital but due to a lack of insurance (it's coming soon!) she offered me the option of getting steriods shot into the butt and a high but brief dose of prednasone, gave me strict orders to go home and go to bed and if I didn't see much improvement by Sat morning then it was off to the hospital - deal with it. So got shot up and went home to bed, after putting family members on alert. Well I woke up yesterday feeling improved. Not great mind you, but better. For the first time in a week I didn't feel like I was going to fall over everytime I stood up, no freezing/sweating incidents, and actually walked up the stairs without stopping (but still had to sit down afterwards). I still didn't do much, but was feeling ok. Today I am hanging in - a little itchy, still tired, still sore, but better than Friday.

The Boys have been tropers for the most part, esp. since I was sick for the Oldest ones birthdays, and Halloween. Although they did threaten to go on hunger strike if I forced them to eat anymore frozen microwave dinners or canned meals. So fast food has become a second food group in our home. Mom hasn't cooked for about 2 weeks now. The Man has been holding up pretty well in the Mr. Mom role, taking care of me and The Boys. He has really stepped it up and kept everything together. He has had to handle the shopping (since I can't walk that far) and other things that need to be taken care of. Special thanks also goes to my wonderful M-I-L who brought over some home cooked for for dinner and breakfast. The first that anyone has had in a while.

So the prognosis is guarded at the moment, but slowly I am on the mend and hope to be fully recovered by this time next weekend. In the mean time I will drink plenty of fluids, get plenty of rest, and try to actually work a full week next week.

Wow - it's been how long?

2009-11-03T12:43:00.004-06:00

Guess I better do a little update before daddy starts to nag (jk). Well managed to survive all of ,
The Boy's Birthday - 17, 13, 7 - oh and 32! My how time flies - all are doing fairly well at the moment.

The Man & I have both changed jobs...I am now at Campus for Hope on the long-term dual diagnosis unit and he is now with PayFlex. Both of us are pretty happy with where we have landed.

Middle Son as a Possessed Kitty...boy's in the group went as cats and the girl's as bunnies. Not easy to find a cat custume that doesn't come with a skirt!

Youngest Son - brought home mommy lots and lots of candy, lucky for him I can't eat most of it, due to some ongoing dental problems.

Sleep Deprivation or...how do you like my bags?

2009-09-02T08:42:00.002-05:00

Sleep dep...what the heck? So it has been at least a week since I have last slept through the night. Those of you who know me well, know that I do NOT do well when I don't get my sleep...well consider yourself warned! At most I am getting 3-4 hours of unbroken sleep and then wake up every 15 minutes to 1 hour after that. Lately have basically been "up" since sometime between 4 and 5am. I even gave up one of my weekend naps to see if that would help - uh, NOPE. Not really sure what is going on, but it's not good. I am REALLY tempted to go and get some Tylenol PM/Sominex nighty-nighty stuff and just take my chances. Yes, I know that since I have sleep apnea I am not suposed to take it - but I'm getting to the point where I just don't care, I just want to sleep (for about 10 hours - but would settle for 7).

In other news - after an extended period of unemployment The Man has finally had a job offer (YAY) but will not start until the 14th (BOO). In the meantime, he has been working when he can with the elevator gig. Thankfully this has translated into a day or two per week, so at least that's something.

Youngest Son has started soccer and seems to be adjusting back into the school routine. We are doing a ride share for school with a neighbor - since big brother is no longer available to walk him to school. Alternating weeks for driving - so it's not too bad.

Middle Son is adjusting to Jr. High - has started Cross Country, but decided not to go out for Show Choir this year. Aparently cuts into the time he has to "hang out" which would be "THE END OF THE WORLD". Or something like that. He is on the same school team (they divide up the kids into clusters for classes) as his big brother was, so at least the teachers are prepared.

Oldest Son is doing well at school. Couldn't get into the math class (Trig) that he wanted because aparently they have to pay to take advanced math out in the boonies. He would get college credit for it - so will try for a scholarship next year. Due to on-going legal issues he has been kicked off the Cross Country team, so that was a bit of a bummer. Actually what he got was a suspension for most of the season, which would disqualify him from districts and therefore from state as well. Went to court here in Sarpy and they kicked it back to Madison County - so still don't know what will happen. Figure at this rate he will be on probation until he's 19.

Really want to go back to bed now, but need to go to work. If the weather holds maybe a bike ride tonight - will try to exhaust myself even more and see if that helps.

Anything to avoid exercise

2009-08-12T08:24:00.002-05:00

So for my birthday I wanted a bicycle...so The Man and I went shopping. I got a pretty purple one and he got a blue one. Figured this was a good way to get some exercise and do something healthy with the kids. Well we decided to get a bike rack for the vehicles (fits both the van and the car) since the boys bikes can go inside the van - but 4 bikes might be pushing it. We also picked up a bike rack for inside the garage to help keep the new bikes out of the way. And here is were the "avoidance" takes place....

The Man (instead of listening to me) decides to balance one foot on the wet bumper of the van and brace one foot on the back wall of the garage to install the bike rack. Despite my offers that I could back the van up and bring over the ladder - I was told to bugger off. Anyway...long story short...guess who slipped? Well we have a table out in the garage that nicely connected with his knee cap and tried to force it up into the middle of his thigh. OUCH! Let's just say that the air was very blue for a while.

Next day it's off to the Dr's....nothing broken (thankfully) but very swollen and likely to be that way for several weeks. Got some med's to help with the pain/swelling and no spending quality time with an ice bag. Guess it will be a while before our first ride.

When beating your child is not an option

2009-07-17T09:58:00.009-05:00

So what do you do when you are completely stressed out and need to "do" something? Time to break out with a little home re-do.

Strip down 2 levels of border and move the furniture..nope still pissed off, need to do more.

Time to start painting...and no - mom did NOT pick out this color!

Almost done and temper is getting back under control. Citrus Burst? No kidding.

The final product....tired and calm (mostly)...note the outlet covers are now black.

Middle Son is very pleased with the new digs...need to get some new bedding stuff (in black), but not today. Oldest Son is unlikely to be as happy....but really, who cares?

Uh, it's been HOW long?

2009-07-08T09:31:00.002-05:00

News from the home front....
I am still busy balancing work and my internship, as well as the house/kids thing. My internship has been off to a slow start, but I'm not in that much of a hurry to get it all done, so that's okay. I am doing it at one of the shelters and really like it down there. I am coming to the end of my time in our Sarpy Office and starting to make plans to transition back to our Central Office. Not sure if I will stay a "real" employee or go back to contract - but should know in the next week or so.

The Man was laid off at work...but was then rehired for another project. So the good news is that he is still employed and the bad news is that it's still with the same company and he may have to quit the elevator gig due to scheduling conflicts. Oh well...still searching for something better, but there's not alot out there. Just thankful he's employed.

Youngest Son is busy at Kids Club and having a good summer so far. Lots of field trips, swimming, and other cool things. Some days I wish I could go back to elementary school! But only some days. Middle Son is mostly just camping in front of the tv/computer/game system - so we have to kick him out of the house some days.

Oldest Son came home for the summer, so that he could work and save up some money. House rules were "no drinking, no drugs, no unprotected sex, and be home at curfew". Things had been relatively peaceful and going smoothly until last night - guess who managed to get himself in some more legal trouble? And no, I didn't beat the crap out of him, but believe me I was tempted. Tried to convince the cops to take him to juvenile detention, but they don't do that for weed tickets. And yes, this time he was smoking it. So said child is now being sent back to his father's house. Not that he doesn't have pot head friends out there - but.....Oh yeah and this will violate his probation...more legal fun.

Well that about wraps up the current events of the household. Will do some painting this weekend, going to see Wizard of Oz on the big screen, and going to see Styx/REO..so it will be a busy weekend, and hopefully enough to keep me distracted.

Adventures in Racooning

2009-05-21T08:18:00.003-05:00

So....aparently racoons are a little more tenacious that we gave them credit for. Hmmmm.

Now we were up on the roof about 4-6 weeks ago and there was no hole. But the sounds continued from our fireplace. Obviously between the fireplace and the siding. Originally not being sure if we had a) squirrels or b) racoons or c) a birds next in there. Knew it was some sort of animal by the fact that the animals were going nuts. Started seeing this racoon more and more frequently (even during daylight) so back on the roof we go. Sure enough, now we have a hole -so of course we patch it up. Thought mommy racoon was out...well guess what? Nope momma was in there and determined to get out.

The picture above is the hole that we covered...and the picture below is where she decided to make an exit when she couldn't get out through the no longer open hole. Yes, that is the side of our house - siding now has a lovely hole. Not only that but when momma is on the outside and babies are in the inside - does not make a happy combination. Oh and she can climb down our black siding.

Just in case you are wondering NO ONE at the Humane Society will come and remove racoons from you home unless they are inside the house. You can trap them (buy your own trap) or kill them and they will come and pick them up - but you are basically on your own. Oh, and the companies that will come out and get them want $169 to "take a look" and $59 per racoon.

So most evening you will find The Man out with Daddy's air rifle and me with a flashlight running around the roof and home. Please don't call the police we are really not crazy...ya' know that anti-freeze in the cat food isn't sounding like too bad of an idea right now.

Oldest Son's Track Meet

2009-05-03T10:19:00.006-05:00

Oldest Son...Conference Track Meet in Stanton, NE

Probably would have been a better idea, to take this early in the day instead of at the end of the meet. He did great and we are very proud of him.

The team did great in the 4x800 relay...best time of 11:54! Finally broke that 12:00 mark.

Midway through the 2 mile...great stride.

And to the finish line...feet don't even touch the ground...best time 11:09. Whoo Hoo!

Final race the 1 mile, just pushing through to the end, best time 5:15.

...and again he runs so well that his feet don't touch the ground!

What a fansatic job!

In other news

2009-05-03T10:15:00.002-05:00

Quick update...survived back to back out of town trips, smoking off and on, and playing catch up on life.

Youngest Son has won past 2 football games..YAY. The Boys are jsut counting down the days until school is out for the summer and we are counting the days too, just not with as much excitement.

Start "new" job tomorrow...well same company but new position and moving from contract to "real" employee and from running all over town to having a real office...will comment more on this later. Jury is still out on if this is a good thing.

About 3 weeks behind on housework and homework...no suprise there...the more things change the more they stay the same. Oh, well.

On quitting....and it's time to go.

2009-04-04T09:03:00.002-05:00

Well it's time for another trip to CA to do a little crisis management. The original plan was for Middle Son to head out there over break, but due to chaos and stress, it turns out that I will go instead. Sometimes it takes more than a little "phone therapy" to make things right. Will be a quick but busy trip. And they are prepared for me being completely crabby, so that's ok. The Man is, of course, stressed out by my leaving - but is actually getting better about it, now that The Boys are older and more capable of taking care of themselves. I'm actually feeling pretty postivie that the house will still be standing when I get back! Although between the racoons, squirrels, and birds...the dog may truly go crazy before I get back.

The other big news is that I am quitting smoking! Wasn't really that hard a decision to make, when you hear ciggy are going up to $7 a pack. hmmm, both of us smoke about a pack a day, so $70 a carton x's 6 cartons, uh yeah - that's $420 per month. Nope, not gonna do that...even if we could theoretically afford it (which we can't) I am NOT NOT NOT paying that much to smoke. So there ya' go. My plan so far has consistented of setting a quit date (Sunday, April 5th), of telling everyone I know that I'm quitting (accountability), of getting coupons from Dr and buying some gum (just in case), and identifying a reward (gym membership). Ok - honestly, the biggest barrier is not going to be the cravings or even the agitation, it's gonna be the weight gain. Ummm, hello - didn't just lose all this weight, so I could gain it back now. The CA clan is so happy that I'm quitting they don't really care how big a B**** I am. The Man is also quitting, so it's probably a good thing that I will be out of town - or at least it will be for the relationship. Just so everyone is warned...we may be going to a smoke free household, so plan accordingly.

Well it's time to start taking care of all of the last minute chores (shopping, cleaning, packing, etc.). A big THANK YOU to Daddy for agreeing to take me to the airport and yes I know that "I owe you".

PS Congrats to The Morgan's on their new baby boy!

Everything Turns Out Alright....

2009-03-14T09:23:00.002-05:00

A week of annoyances (mostly petty) but still...in the end it's okay though.

A work have been playing chase down the files and missing evals. We are getting ready for our yearly audit and some how our file tracking system decided I had about 30 missing evals - some from last year! Say "what"? Well after searching and re-printing found most of them either on the computer or in the files and never marked complete. It usually takes a couple of weeks to get them done, after meeting with the client....so very busy getting caught up after basically being out of the office for a couple of weeks. Did have some that were a week or so overdue - but months!!!! nope, didn't happen.

After having on-going poor customer service from NFM - can someone please explain why my tv that was due in on the 2nd is still not here? And why when you are going to call me back within 2 hours - I still haven't heard from you 2 days later? Finally - finally find out our tv will not be in until the 20th. Didn't think I'd want to know that? What! So yesterday, we just went down to BB and found the same size tv, with the same specs for about $45 less...guess what NFM-you can keep your tv! Also picked up a VHS/DVD-R records for about $60 cheaper. What a deal! Of course, in the land of annoyances, we get our new goodies home, go to hook up the tv and discover that our new HD tv won't get HD, because we have an old cable box in the bedroom and it's not HD - so on the to-do list today...run to Cox and get a new cable box!

The Middle and Youngest Son's have decided that from 7am until 750am is argument time...and go at it every morning. What a lovely way to start out the day...can I just get one cup of coffee in me before I have to break things up? Seriously?

Oldest Son has his first track meet next week....may try and make the drive to Wayne State, but unsure since we have dentist appts and the van needs to go in for an oil change. Really love to watch him run, but driving out to the boonies is not my idea of fun! So we will see if we can make a couple this year. At last check he is running the 2 mile, 1 mile, 800x4 relay, and something else. So he will be doing a lot of running! Go Kiddo!

Well, need to start tackling the to-do list and seeing if I can get the house in some sort of order - or not.

Getting Healthy

2009-03-04T08:57:00.002-06:00

Hi welcome to our home...in thanks for stopping by, we have a lovely parting gift for you...you may choose to take home either a) the stomach flu or b) the head cold that moves into your lungs and won't go away for a week or so. Oh you don't want one of those? Well then don't come over. Yes, that was life in our household last week. While we are mostly recovered, The Man and I both have a lingering cough. Whee!

In other household news...Oldest Son has been sentenced to six months of probation for his "weed ticket" and we are still waiting to see if the charges in Sarpy are going away. Could have been worse, but I know his father was just hoping for a fine. Will have to wait and see how this might affect his eligibility in Track...you would think that the school/courts would want him involved in some positive activities, but they do things a little different out there.

Middle Son has once again gotten himself in hot water at school....Yo Mama jokes (okay everyone goes through that phase) but profanity laced....ummmm, not so much. And...taking a page from his brother.....forgot to mention that he had been sent to the office! Me: "hey how was school today" Him: "oh fine". Ummm, hello! So he will once again be spending quality time with his bed.

Youngest Son has finally finished basketball and we have a couple of weeks break before flag football...assuming he stops whining long enough to live until the start of the season. ha ha ha

Have a busy weekend coming up, so here's hoping everyone stays healthy enough to get it all done.

Been a busy week!

2009-02-22T09:49:00.002-06:00

So the kids ended up with a four day weekend, since there was no school on Monday and I took the day off too! Just kinda hung out and babysat for a friend...so it was loud and chaotic around here for a few hours. On Wednesday...took Middle Son and his BFF R to the UNO Mavs game (ex-#2) arranged for them to be ball boys for the game. Was pretty cool and the Mavs won, so that made it better. Thursday and Friday were spent in Lincoln doing some training, which pretty much killed the rest of the week.

I did manage to make it to most of my class on Thursday and since there is only one week left I suppose that was a good thing. Will be working on final papers/assingments for the next few days to get everything done. Thanks goodness I only have a couple of classes left! Of course we really don't get a break between one set of classes ending and the next ones starting. No rest for the wicked I guess.

On Sat. was Youngest Sons next to last basketball "camp" and then we have a few weeks off before Spring Flag Football starts. Whew. Met with Oldest Son's public defender on Sat. and we will not have to go to court of Tuesday (YAY). PD hopes to get these charges dismissed and he will only have to pay court costs or possibly do a little community service. Doesn't go to court on the other stuff until March...so we get a little break. He should be starting track practice in March, so hopefully he can stay out of trouble long enough to participate in that! Middle Son is still debating on whether or not he will play soccer in the spring. So will leave a big ? there.

Other than that....doing some re-arranging in the house and trying to decide on paint colors. Ordered the kids a new computer and should have that by the end of the week. Still debating on getting new monitors or not...will have to see how that all works out.

Adventures in grocery shopping

2009-02-13T11:06:00.004-06:00

So knowing that it is going to snow and realizing that there is not much in the way of food in the house, decide that a run to the grocery store is in order. As I wait patiently to take a right turn at the top of the hill (please don't let me get stuck) along comes a driver from the East wanting to make a right-hand turn and go down the street that I am on. Well at least I assume that his intention based on the rare use of a turn signal blinking. Well that may have been his intention, however, his van aparently had other intentions....like t-boning the side of my van. Cargo Van vs Mini Van (this is not going to be pretty). Well said driver does manage to get his van (Mr. I'll go where I want) stopped before impact YAY. I could not have opened the driver's side door enough to get out! Yes, it was THAT close. As I stare into the white's of his eyes (we were very close) I can almost hear the "oh S***, I'm sorry". In true mommy style I just sat there and smiled. As he tries to get his unruly van turned in the right direction, another car stops to let him go and sure enough if his van didn't try to ram that car too and then headed down the hill to try and take out a mailbox! Not sure what kind of gas/oil mix he put in that thing...but that was a very pissed off van!

So after that little bit of fun, I arrive at the grocery store - along with half of the population of LaVista/Papio. If anyone was wondering, no the store was not prepared for the rush...imagine Xmas lines at WallyWorld and you'll get the idea! Above is a shot of the neighbor's tree. As you can see, just a dusting on the ground....I have plenty of time to get to the store and back...right? Right?????

And below, the same tree an hour or so later, when I get back from the oh so fun aforementioned trip to the grocery store.

Yep, and it's only started to snow! But I am stocked up on chips, ice-cream, cookies, pop-corn, and a trashy romance novel. Think I'll just hang out in front of the fireplace now.

Girls Night Out

2009-02-08T08:54:00.002-06:00

Whoo Hoo...so actually got the chance to go out last night (well yesterday). Went with BFF "Dus" to see - He's just not that into you. Quite a funny movie actually and woven with a strand of truth. Not a movie critic at all and don't really pay attention to those who are. We enjoyed the movie and that's all that really matters. Then headed over to CB for dinner at Quaker Steak and Lube. Food was pretty decent, drinks - not so much. Didn't really matter though. The best thing was going out, sans The Boys and The Man. Okay, so we were home by 9pm, but still. Had a great time just catching up and bitching about life.

Honestly, hardly ever go out. Just me with friends anyway. I go out with The Man, or we go out with the Kids, but "girl time"...well lets just say you could count on one hand the number of times a year that I do that. Which is pretty pitiful. The Man goes out or goes gaming or whatever but usually I stay home (this is not a dispariging comment against him at all- just the way it is). So one of the goals this year was to go out more...more as a couple and more just me (yes I need a life!). We (as in me and a couple of friends) are trying to plan a "girls weekend" - which since all of us have kids, work, sports, yada yada yada, is much more complicated that one would think. Last time we actually got together to do something, we had to plan it almost 3 months in advance. Yikes! So if we start planning now, may be able to pull something off by the time the kids are out of school.

On to other news...not much else going on. Had a couple of really productive days getting stuff done. It is Momma S's 60th birthday on Monday, but are celebrating today. Have been advised that we can't be "mean" so....well I'll try. That's all I can say. Which means it's time for me to go bake a cake.

Been Awhile

2009-01-31T11:21:00.002-06:00

Well as Daddy pointed out....it's been a while since I have posted an update. Partly lazy, partly busy, and partly I guess because there has not been much going on.

Got really busy at work for a while. I always have a certain number of opening, based on the fact that clients tend not to show up. Then of course, had a couple of weeks where everyone showed up and was buried in paperwork. On the upside, it did help to make up for a very slow December. School has taken off like a rocket...papers and large chunks of reading. I was caught up over break...now, not so much. Now the final push is on....these classes end at the end of February then only 2 more to go. And yet another internship of course.

The Man is still hanging on as his job. Constant changes but still there. Know that he would like something else but there's not much out there right now. And just about everytime he thinks about getting back into food service another place is robbed and that ends that thought.

On the kid front...Youngest Son stated basketball "camp" today....only runs 5 weeks, so not bad. Just mostly fundamentals n stuff. His best-bud Julian is in it too, so they have good fun together and it gives me a chance to catch up with Doostie.

Middle Son managed to get himself into trouble...nothing like a call from the school saying "hey we have your son in the office for passing sexually inappropriate notes". Yeah - that was fun. Granted boys will be boys...but school really isn't the place for those kind of things. Fortunately the girl they were talking about was not aware of what was said, only the teacher.

Oldest Son is still in a holding pattern. Got kicked out of Diversion at his dad's and went to court on his "weed ticket" but they want him to have an eval before sentencing. As a counselor I know that when a client comes in a says "but it wasn't mine" my immediate response is "BS", but occasionally it's true. He has court in Sarpy at the end of the month on his Shoplifting charges, still need to get with the Prosecutor on this. Sending the mail addressed to me, but to his dad's address, so we are still working things out. Looks like he is headed for probation in one or both locations anyway. Will have to wait and see I guess.

In the meantime...trying to get the house organized for the Super Bowl. Waiting for the tax returns to come in, so we can get caught up and start getting stuff done around the house. Time to paint n' stuff. And maybe, just maybe, get the squirrels out of the damn attick (AGAIN!).

Back to crazy...I mean normal.

2009-01-10T09:25:00.002-06:00

Now that the insanity of the holiday's has been and gone, things are getting back to "normal" around here.

The Boys are back in school (whoo hoo) and classes started back up for me as well this week. Actually managed to get quite a bit on homework done over the holiday break, so I was actually prepared for class (whoo hoo again).

Oldest Son is back at his dad's...let him go Shoplifting out there, if he can find a store. ha ha. Still no word from Sarpy County on his latest charges and not sure what it will do to his Diversion out there. But that's his problem, not ours.

Got the wii Fit for xmas (thanks hubby) and have been having a lot of fun with that! According to the game I'm 46 years old...uh, yeah thanks for that. But the man is 37, so he needs to do some work too! Other than it keeps telling me that I'm unbalanced (like you didn't already know that) it's a pretty decent workout.

The Man had a seriously nasty case of the flu. Started getting sick on Saturday night, worked for a little bit on Sunday and then basically slept for the next four days. Poor baby was running a fever and had a whole boat load of sniffling, sneezing, coughing, etc. Could have starred in a NyQuil commercial. But thankfully he is finally on the mend. I got a little sniffly, but managed to avoid getting sick, as did the kids. Whoo Hoo (agian)

After a sucky month at work, things look to be picking up now, which will be nice. On the upside, I did manage to get caught up on most of my paperwork, so that it always good. Hopefully now that the holidays are over people will start showing up again!

Just as a side note...our living room looks really big now that the tree and stuff is down! Now just to get everything else back in place. Once I'm done playing on the computer of course...Spore is rather addicting y'know?

New Years Resolutions?

2009-01-01T09:11:00.002-06:00

Managed to do pretty well last year...so here we go again. In no particular order (even though they are numbered)
#1. Finish college...yeah, I think 2 masters degree are enough.
#2. Now with the weight lost, time to "beef" up a little, also go walking at the zoo with Mother T...but not until the weather is better.
#3. Be a kinder/gentler Kat...okay so that's not well defined, but it's a work in progress.
#4. Finally FINALLY finish organizing the house and get rid of all the crap that I've been holding onto and don't need anymore....practical and attainable.
#5. Cut back on smoking...okay this may not be realistic at all, but it's out there.

The Man made 2 (one reachable and one not-can you guess which is which?)
#1. Poop three times per day.
#2. Help out more around the house.
So he says...not gonna say what the other ones were, because it would sound cheezy and such, so I'll just do them and if I succeed then you'll know. Yeah - because doing something and then saying "oh that was one of my resolutions", isn't cheezy at all!

I'll make a couple for the boys (not that they came up with them at all!)
Oldest Son....stay out of legal trouble for the year - (since he was only home for 4 days before being ticketed again - this might be tough)

Middle Son....have a little less attitude and stop being rude to my parents (esp. my dad) oh and brush my teeth before they all fall out!

Youngest Son...quit being whiny and clean my room (yeah right...and we're making snowballs down below)

I hope that everyone has a wonderful and successful 2009!

Happy Holidays!

2008-12-27T10:37:00.004-06:00

Happy Christmas Everyone! We had a great day filled with family and food. Can't ask for more than that! Well actually you can, and we did, and as usual the kids made out like bandits. Of course, we didn't do too badly ourselves!

Here we are full of holiday spirit, or something else...you can be the judge!

And of course The Boys in their matching PJ's. Their favorite thing in the world. Ha ha ha!

So we started the day at home, only had the Youngest Son with us, so a little less chaotic as usual. Santa brough a new Bike, which has been ridden about the house! Then off to the In-Laws - Grandma is visiting from KY and so it was very nice catching up with her (and the rest of the family) and stuffing ourselves with a BIG breakfast. Gotta love those biscuits and gravy! From there off to the Parents for more prezzies and more food. Sis and her family, Cuz and his girlfriend, and Oldest Son wandering in (unexpectedly) later on. Needless to say by the time we got home, we were pretty tired...but not too tired to try out the new video games. Friday brough the arrival of the Middle Son and so the opening of presents continued.

Now the only goal....to reclaim the living room and find a place for all of our new goodies! Thanks to everyone for sharing this day with us! Love you all very much!

Shopped until I dropped..

2008-12-20T09:43:00.002-06:00

Help I've fallen and I can't get up...can someone give a girl a hand?

Acutally wasn't ALL that bad, we went out during the day, so crowds were less than they could've been. We did manage to knock out the majority of the kids stuff (minus stocking stuffers) and got that dropped off with the In-Laws. Esp. with the 2 oldest, can't risk leaving stuff around the house for their annual scavanger hunt! Bad enough that The Man does too. The Boys have already been looking in the closets...yeah like I would put anything in there...hope you like the prezzies we bought everyone else. ha ha ha Suckers!

Went and did some shopping yesterday too. Had Youngest Son with me, so that limited what I could buy. He actually didn't do too bad considering shopping is NOT on of his better behaved things to do. "can I have this? or this? or this? or this? or this?" Only a few more things to pick up and I can be officially DONE!

On a happier note, did get Youngest Son's hair cut....was threatened by MIL to have "our" presents returned if it didn't happen. LOL....I even already had it scheduled. So there...just love those email from FIL that have the subject "mama says...." Too funny!

Had a really nice time with The Man's (other) boss and co-workers. Went to dinner and to J. Medicine Hat...was an AWSOME show last night. Tonight is the gathering of friends at K & M's so will have to do some baking today. Running out of time and starting to panic, just need to remember to breathe!

Getting excited now....

It that _____ time of the year!

2008-12-14T09:39:00.002-06:00

Well, time has just been flying by...and the big day is getting closer and closer. Xmas shopping is getting there. On the up-side have pretty much figured out what we are getting everyone, now we just have to go out and get it. Thursday will be our "major" shopping day, and should pretty much get everything done.

So I am getting back into the swing of school. About had a melt down last week after MAJORLY struggling with this biology stuff....but thanks to Prof. Brian (thanks hun, love you!) he came over and put it into english for me. Thankfully one of my classes is easy, becuase the other one is kicking my a**. YAY. Still had a bunch of issues about graduating (please please let me out!) So aparently I was showing up on Dr. L's intern list and he never recieved anything because I was actually assigned to Dr. H, and so they were about to unenroll me from my classes becuase I had an "F". Then...we got that part figured out, but was still missing my performance eval from my supervisor...chased her down and found out that it was sent in late, but was finally sent. So HAPPY news in the mail on Friday I got my confirmation that my grade had been changed to an "A" and that I was offically done with my Masters! WHOO HOO! Of course it will probably be January before I get my diploma, but that's okay....just glad it got straightened out.

The Man is still employed and it looks like he will be moving to a different area in January, so that is a good thing for us...really don't want to be unemployed in this economy right now. Have been reconsidering taking a full-time position with my employer, but just don't know how it would work with having to work all of those nights and having school too. So for now, just adding some extra time in, when I can.

The Boys are doing well and getting really antsy for school to be out. The Middle and Youngest get out on the 19th, so just 4 more days of school for them. Oldest Son (who is home this weekend) doesn't get out until the 22nd, but they have a shorter break because they get lots of snow days during the year.

The Man's grandma will be here on Friday for the holidays which will be REALLY nice, since we haven't seen her in a year or so. Have Xmas party for his other job on Friday and a holiday gathering with friends on Sat, so we will have a busy, busy week.

Keeping busy

2008-12-06T09:38:00.002-06:00

Well the cleaning of the house goes on....The Man tackled the closet in the computer room, which was about to collapse under the amount of crap in it. Again filling the garbage bins - seriously do we really need to hang on to a 56k modem? How about a floppy drive and I mean the "big" floppies...okay so maybe it was time...also found 7 or 8 mice and a few keyboards circa 1990's. Oh my, what junk. On the upside, did find some of the camera software that's been missing. Oh and 2 tv's. huh?

In the spirit of not procrastinating, we actually have purchased a few prezzies (shortened shopping season y'know). Still trying to get The Boys to finish their lists...of course Youngest Son is at that age where he wants everything he sees on TV. Ick....too much crap in his room as it is, and I already cleared out a bunch of stuff before his b-day. Trying not to rely on gift cards as much this year, but don't have a lot of money to spend either, so will have to find a compromise.

Classes started this week, well actually on Sunday (on-line) and Thursday (in class). Still kinda wondering what I was thinking going back to school. But sheez 4 classes and a second Master's, how could I not. The on-line class is pretty brutal so far - lots of biology/neurochemistry. Icky Icky Icky! One of those where you read a chapter and go "huh?" then go back and reread it. Guess how I'm spending the weekend? But I will get through it - according to the teacher it's only the first few weeks that are like this. Lets hope so anyway. The other class is therapeutic interventions, so it won't be bad. And only one paper. Whoo Hoo.

Work is work. The Man is still cross training into other line groups in the hopes of not having his position eliminated. Looks like he may go to 4-10's in the near future, which will give him 2 days at the elevator gig with Country Boy. So that's helpful too. After being crazy busy in the couple of weeks before T-Day, work has been slow with lots of clients not showing up. At least I can get caught up on paperwork (that's the theory anyway). If not there is always plenty to do at home.

Thanksgiving Festivites

2008-11-29T10:12:00.007-06:00

All in all...a good day filled with family and friends!

The family (per request from MIL and FIL)

Cuz, Liz, and Youngest in a rousing game of War or was it Go Fish?

Stuffing is complicated...huh Sis?

Mommy, not gonna let that bird get the best of her! Notice Daddy is nowhere to be seen.

The Kids table, doesn't everyone remember those days?

The Family hanging out!

Thanks to Nana and Pop-pop for hosting another wonderful dinner. Was nice to have everyone there and catch up with all the goings on.

Keeping busy....

2008-11-22T09:17:00.002-06:00

Best way to describe it...just busy, busy, busy.

On the up side, work has been pretty calm and controlled. Go in, see a few clients, do some paperwork, go home. No major crisis for anyone and no desperate rush to get something done for any attorney/case worker. Kinda like it. Probably won't stay that way for long. Between Turkey Day and X-Mas can be a pretty slow time. It's not until after the first of the year, that all of the holiday drunk drivers start showing up. But that's not a problem, it's called job security. At least my job is recession proof - there is never a shortage of stupid people.

Have been tackling things around the house laterly...cleaned out the kitchen cabinets and found about 50 sippy cups/sport bottles (do these multiply in the cabinets or what) and some lovely tupperware circa 1970's judging by the color. Must have been cast offs from the parents at some point in time. Next stop was the laundry/storage room. OMG - what a pit, I know it was bad - but sheesh! Uneathed toys that I think Oldest Son had when he was very little, also found about 35 rolls of wrapping paper, about 40 gift bags, 8 (yes 8) rolls of scotch tape. Also in amongst the mess lots of games (why do we have 3 candyland's?) and....my great-grandma's china set. Service for 12 (WOW). Do I really still need paper's that I wrote in 1998 for undergrad? Umm. no. Nor do I need the math books or micro comupeter fundamentals book. Seriously..."this is the power button, depress to turn on your computer...this is a mouse it is used to navigate on screen". Oh, and the dog kennel - didn't even know we still had that. Threw out so much stuff, I actually had to use the neighbors trash bin too. The Man has been making so many trips to GoodWill lately, I think he's on first name basis with the staff there!

Speaking of The Man, still looks as though he will have his job until the beginning of next year. With DHL stopping domestic service and laying off 9500 people, that will be the end of that. But it looks like he may transfer to working for a different company at the call center. Keeping our fingers crossed anyway. In the mean time he'll still be looking for something else. Just playing the waiting game for now.

We have The Boys for TurkeyDay this year....so it's off to the parents and then home for the annual get together at our house. In-laws off to visit Grandma O, so one less stop to make there. Will probably see them over the following weekend. This year we are doing something different and having a "good will" offering to raise money for the Honor Flight Fund. Unsure how successful it will be, but thought we'd give it a try. There are some things that are THAT important.

Well it's off to finish working on the house, more I get done now, less I have to deal with mid-week. Hope everyone has a great holiday!

WHOO HOO - I did it!

2008-11-15T10:06:00.002-06:00

Okay, so I can finally say.....I am oficially done with school. So yeah, most of my papers were 3 months late and my final meeting with my supervisor was too, but it's over! There were so many reasons for not getting this done, and it wasn't just that I procrastinated (although that point could also be made) just life in general.

Do I feel relieved? You betcha...I about fried my brain out this week trying to get everything done. And honestly, I have never been one for all night cramming or staying up really late to get a paper done. Call me old, call me lazy, or whatever, but I'm not doing it. Need my sleep too darn much.

So on to the next steps....classes start Thanksgiving week (assuming I can get my financial aid stuff straightened out) and need to send everything in to the state for my mental health license. Let's hear it for more alphabet soup, just what everyone needs, more letters after their name! Just to clarify....no I an NOT crazy going back to school, even given the fact that I barely finished this time around. In the interest of having a career in some other state than NE, gotta have that 60 hour degree. That and I figure, take 4 classes and get a 2nd Masters, well why the heck not. Okay that's really a rethorical question, I can list the answers for myself, thank you very much. Really it's just 3 classes and a 250 hour internship (which is half of the previous), so I can do it in a year. Not to mention it takes off a huge chunk of hours needed for licensure, so that's a plus too.

I guess the only question that remains, is what the heck I'm gonna do with all this free time. ha ha ha

To my son on his sixteenth birthday!

2008-11-03T09:10:00.026-06:00

Happy sixteenth birthday to the Oldest Son!

Wow - sixteen years old, my how fast time goes by. I remember the day you born - the doctor swore to me that you would not come that weekend (he was going to be out of town). Of course since it was Halloween I had piged out on candy - your first sugar rush! - even on the way to the hospital I didn't think I was in labor, after all it was eleven days early - the only time you've been early in your life! - but the nurses said that you were on the way. Called the Doctor to come back from Lincoln. There were some complications, and I remember how frightened your dad and I were. When the doctor said c-section, I thought your dad was going to pass out. Luckily he had a good grip on the door frame! I remember how tiny you seemed, but all the important bits were there!

The next day Pop-pop and NaNa drove (in the snow) from Omaha, NE to see you. I remember how teary eyed PP got, just seeing his first grandson. And Grandma Carol flew in from Cali the next day. You didn't like to sleep much at night - and would cry and cry. We spent many nights in the rocking chair with you because you hated that crib. About the only thing that really calmed you down was the theme music from the Young and Restless (yes, I was a soap opera junky).

You had so many grandparents....five generations on my side and four on your dad's side. I think our living room overflowed with gifts when it was your birthday and at Christmas.

As you got older, you just loved the camera and became quite the showman - any time we had it out you would crawl over with this big cheezy smile. Overall you were a pretty happy baby - even on airplanes - people couldn't believe how quiet you were. You loved visiting your grandparents and playing with the coasters at PP and NN's. In fact one year that is what they got you for Christmas and you couldn't have been happier!

Back in the day, you actually liked school. Yes, this is true. I remember at your Kindergarten graduation, the principal mispronounced your last name...and you corrected him very loudly! At that time...I couldn't believe how fast your first year of school had passed, it seemed like you went from being a baby so fast. You started playing t-ball and then baseball - I can't count the number of practices and games that your dad and I went to. You finally gave it up after about six years, but boy do we have a lot of trophies and pictures of you in your uniform(s).

Actully school was always a little hit or miss with you. You did (do) well when you wanted to and if you didn't....well we know how that goes. You were in the gifted program and were so gosh darn smart, but tended to use your head for getting into trouble rather than for your studies!

It seems like the year's passed by in a blur...

Then there was the hair thing. It was mostly straight and then it started getting wavy. You couldn't decide if you wanted it long or short or somewhere in between. You wore your pony-tail proudly, even when others made comments about it, you just didn't care. Your father and Idecided that it was your choice and not something we were going to fight with you about.

Come Jr. High you found Show Choir and Running....not that they kept you out of trouble, but it kept you busy (mostly). I spent so many afternoons going to cross country meets and track meets. I was always so impressed with your efforts, even when you weren't feeling you best, you always tried.

You have always been such a good big brother, and always grateful that I didn't give you a sister! While you didn't always set the example I had hoped for, you have taught your brothers love. You have always been willing to help out with them and spend time with them, which means so much. Even putting up with the matching PJ's year after year!

High School has been a challenge for you, as it was for me. You make your choices and accept the consequences (good or bad) of your actions. We have tried to instill in you - that you should be your own person and make your own decisions, even when we don't agree with those decisions - it does show your inner strength and independence.

You have grown into a young man that I am so very proud to call my son. I love you with all my heart, mom

The birthday party

2008-10-28T09:12:00.005-05:00

Happy 12th Birthday...now blow out the candles.

Just got a strike, oh yeah, who's the man?

I can do the splits (sort of). If that's not a cool pose, I don't know what is!

Bowling extravaganza...and yes Mom won (148) so take that! Everyone enjoyed themselves and the birthday boy had a great time.

Proud Mama - State XC 2008

2008-10-25T08:56:00.007-05:00

Dateline...Kearney, NE site of the Nebraska State Championship Cross Country Race. Chilly, breezy, with light sprinkles. Not the best running conditions, but at least it's not pouring or snowing!

Pre-race chat with the coaches, listen up boys! Yes, he's still wearing the PLV warm up jacket!

About the 2-mile marker, gotta catch him!

Crossing the finish line. He did it!!!!

It's official - they are Class D Champions. Check out the Medal! We rock!

Can't keep from smiling, look at the cool trophy!!! Need I say more.

Oldest Son did a fantastic job, Father and I were there to cheer him on, it was amazing! So proud of this accomplishment and really coming through for the team. Congrats baby!

The Trip

2008-10-23T21:17:00.006-05:00

So after meandering down the highway, through the rain, we finaly find the Country Homestead B & B. Driving around the Iowa country side, in the pouring rain, at night....ahhhh....these are the the things that bad horror movies are made of. Super friendly couple (David and Lin) own the place and got us settled in and then off to a not-so-stellar dinner in another town of about 5 people, then back to B & B for some R & R (yeah, ya'll know what that means!). In the morning the rain had cleared and while it was chilly, it was a nice hike. Then we got cleaned up (and de-mudded) and took the scenic route home.

These are the Loess Hills (pronunced Lus - if anyone was wondering). And we went hiking through the back of the property. Beautiful fall colors and not so beautiful fall weather. Aparently it's about like Nebraska weather.

Looking up the hill, I think he was trying to find the dog, but I'm really not sure. He may have been trying to figure out how to poo in the woods for all I know. Nice picture of The MAN though.

Coming down from the ridge....notice the dog (well his backside). Goes by the name Clay..really friendly collie that decided to join us (herd us) on the walk.

Just because he insisted taking a bunch of photo's of me. Figured I better be the one to pick out which one gets posted. This is a view down the valley. Very windy at the top, but the view was worth it. (and NO I'm not talking about myself!)

Overall an enjoyable, albiet late, anniversary...hell, who woulda thought nine years???

Birthday Chaos

2008-10-22T08:36:00.002-05:00

This time of year just kills my wallet. The Man turned a not so happy 31 on Sunday...we'll be celebrating today a combination birthday/anniversary (9 years) by making a quick overnight trip to a B & B. He doesn't know yet and it's driving him nuts!!! Guess who doesn't like suprises? Anyway BFF T is kid sitting for us. Love ya babe!

Middle Son will be 12 on Thursday, finally settled on bowling for his birthday. Will probably go sometime Sat, now just to round up his friends. Still hasn't said what he wants for his birthday other than an Ipod, which his dad is getting him. Maybe I'll just give him a beating! ha ha ha

Oldest Son was home for the weekend. Looks a little weird with no hair (short as Youngests Sons) and it's taking some getting used to. Will post a pix when I remember to take one. His Cross Country team is District Champs and he will run at state on Friday (in Kearney...yuck) He has been posting good times this year, not bad anyway for missing half of the season. He will be 16 on the 1st. Don't know what he wants for his birthday either, besides his Drivers License and a Car. Only one of which he will be getting (hint-it's not the car)

Youngest Son is finished with soccer and basketball doesn't start until Jan. so we have a bit of a break. Got his medal last night and he's pretty happy with that.

Have a couple of Halloween parties coming up and so I suppose getting costumes will be on the agenda in the next couple of days. Such is life.

The School Thing

2008-10-10T08:12:00.002-05:00

So many of you may know that even though I "graduated" from college in June (walked the walked, sat through boring speeches, etc) I was not technically done. So here's the deal...I was still finishing up my internship - which involved working lots of hours for free, writing papers, and reviewing jounal articles (must be peer approved!). All this crap was due by the second week in August. Well guess what? Here it is October and I still don't have any of it turned in. This doesn't necessarily come as a big shock for those who know me well, but actually this really is bad, even for me.

So here's what happened...more or less. First off I was procrastinating (typical) until the last minute, then had a bunch of crazy stuff go on in the family and being behind in my "real" work, the my supervisor went on vacation, and then I just got lazy. I went through a period of time where I really couldn't decide if I wanted to be an LMHP (mental health counselor) and so I kept thinking about getting it done, but there were always more important (at least in my mind) things that kept me from getting my school sh*t done. I've mentioned before how much I love what I do (substance abuse counseling) but couldn't really decide if I wanted to go the distance. So here it is October and time is fast running out. It's not that the assignments are hard (shouldn't take more than a weekend...if...if...I sat down and did it) but the motivation was lacking.

Anyway...as a very smart supervisor pointed out to me...I've already done the time (at work and school) and the hard part is over, just get up off your butt and get it done. So - I went and met with my Prof. yesterday and found out what all I actually needed to do (goals, 10 article reviews, hours documentation, reflection paper, and supervisor performance evaluation) and that's it. Me being me, needed a deadline of course. Initially he said by today (which except for the last thing, I probably could have accomplished) but he gave me until the 16th...with an extension until the 31st. Wants as much as possible by the 16th because he is going to China on the 17th. If I don't have everything to him by the 31st though, I will end up having to do my internship all over again. Okay so that's a pretty big incentive, since I want to start taking classes in the Winter. Time to get my a** in gear and get this done. The decision has been made, and yeah I guess I really do want that piece of paper.

Sometimes Counseling Sucks

2008-10-09T08:12:00.001-05:00

I love my job, 99% of the time. For the most part I have no regrets about going into this field and doing what I do (occasionally about getting the master's degree-but that's another story). There are times when it is stressful (who's job isn't) and there are times when it's hard and draining (again who's job isn't) but overall I think that this is what I'm meant to do. Except for days like yesterday....

I have this client (we'll call this person "X") that I have been working with for several months. Well X got my email address (long story on that one) and would occasionally email me, just to touch base - okay so not a big deal, at least initially...I only met with X a couple times a month and we were working on some pretty hard stuff...well occasionally became more often and then more and more often. Aparently "on vacation" didn't resonate very well with X and I had a boat load of emails when I got back...some normal, some pleading, and some mean...well finally managed to set up appt with X to come to the office and thought we had cleared up the misunderstanding, but then the phone calls started. "I am in love with you, I want to f*ck you, I want to be with you, etc." not ANYTHING I want to hear from a client. EVER! Suddenly I am getting spammed with emails and phone calls (to my business cell - not at home). After consulting with not one but two supervisors decided to terminate the counseling relationship. Of course, because of all that had gone on (basically being stalked/harrassed) final session was kept short, with door slightly open and someone watching through the 2-way glass. Not really sure how I am feeling about this...part of me is sad because X was really making progress and dealing with stuff that needed to be dealt with and part of me is really glad that this is all over. Of course, had several emails this morning...and not nice ones. The down side of this business I guess.

Not to minimize what happened...this was slightly less stressful than dealing with suicidal clients, but weirded out just the same. It was quite the learning experience and I am sure my supervisor and I will continue to process this for a while. However, today is a new day and I am trying not to let this situation make me second guess my profession.

Crazy Things and life in general

2008-10-01T08:48:00.002-05:00

Been pretty busy since I have returned from CA. On the home front...The Man started his new job and seems to like it okay. It's not food service and shouldn't involve guns, so that's a plus. Trying to convice him to take a class at MCC in the winter, just one...to get him feet wet. Oldest Son is on Diversion, waiting to see how much community service/fines he will get. Middle Son is being somewhat of a terror, managed to get ISS for taking stop watch from school. Of all the traits that he could pick up from Oldest Son, could have done without this one! Youngest Son still busy with soccer and such. I'm still plugging away at work....changing my schedule around (AGAIN) looks like I'll be headed back to Sarpy a couple of days a week. Still (still) haven't got all my crap together for school. Realized that I really didn't want/need PLMHP, so wondering what the heck?

On the extended family front....Nephew has got himself in a bit of a jam after a email joke was taken more seriously than intended. Poor Sister is worried sick (love ya sis!) and I am trying to get what info I can for her. This sitution really pisses me off...seriously...as my Uncle would say...if you can't take a joke, go take a sh*t! All this hoopla over nothing. Out of respect for my Sis that's all I'm gonna say about it. Also found out that Ex-Niece is also on Diversion for taking Ex-SIL's pot to school. At least the family is well represented in the CJ system. Has the whole world tilted on it's axis or what???

On to misc. news....Mommy and GG are doing well. Really for being 91 years old, GG is doing remarkably well, just absent minded as all get out. Still living on her own and can take care of her own needs - thanks to diety of your choice. Mommy is busy with work and GG, but is holding up very well. Racoons and squirrels seem to be out of the ceiling at this time...at least now we are getting some uninterrupted sleep.

Trippin'

2008-09-26T15:50:00.008-05:00

Mommy at Point Reyes Light House, CA. Nice drive if you like small one and a half lane roads and hair pin curves, where you can't see the deer waiting to jump out in front of you!

From the top of Dream Vision Road. Nice view, but same driving problem. Oh and by the way...it dead ends!
Sun on the incoming tide, South Beach of Point Reyes

And the waves keep tumbling down....

Yep, this is the view from the top. And you wonder why we put up with the drive.
Ha ha ha ... suckers

Starring Youngest Son!

2008-09-16T07:59:00.007-05:00

I believe that I'm super man...hey shouldn't this be a water slide?

King for a day...and it's my day!

Hey look I just scored! This is my happy face!

Going for the goal, get outta my way!

More pix on myspace.

Almost back to normal

2008-09-13T10:44:00.002-05:00

Things have settled down pretty well this week. Managed to get a ton of stuff accomplished at work. Acutally the first time I have been COMPLETELY caught up since, oh I don't know, March. Feeling better about work than I have in a long time. Managed to touch base with Mr. A out at the program I want to go to. Always nice talking with him, he is pretty positive that he will find a way to bring me on board eventually. And I believe that when it's meant to, it will happen.

Youngest Son's birthday today. Have a soccer game today and going to the Bridge from nowhere to nowhere lighting and fireworks. Tomorrow is the party at Boingz - whoo hoo! Just as a side note...when did RSVP's become optional. I have heard back from 2 parents...since we have to pay for a certain number of kids, hoping the others will show up.

Oldest Son was in town last weekend and I took him to get his hair cut (per coaches instructions) but later he decided he didn't really like it. So.......wait for it.....he buzzed his hair. This is a kid who hasn't really cut his hair since the 4th or 5th grade. Have asked him to send a picture. Can't imagine what he looks like now.

In other news...The Man has been offered 2 yes 2 jobs and is now trying to decide which one to take. Both have pro's and con's...but neither are in food service. Trying to aviod that at the moment, after the whole robbery thing. Should have more info next week. Other than that just trying to get organized for the trip to CA next week. Not the best timing, but the trip is overdue and Mom needs a break, so off I go.

I want a normal life

2008-09-06T08:23:00.003-05:00

This week has been crappy overall and it just keeps headed down hill. As if getting robbed at gun point wasn't enough to make for a really shitty week, how about getting fired for it? Yes, that's right FIRED! Thanks a whole lot for that Mr. Piece of Shit Company. "Improper cash handling procedures" they call it. If you want to do a really poor job of managing a company write a policy that is physically impossible to follow and then fire someone for not following it. Ummm, hello - can you say BullShit??? So hear we go again...and because of the robbery were going to take advantage of the companies EAP but of course can't do that if you no longer work there. Guess they'll do anything to save a buck and shit of thier staff. Oh and did I mention that the managers-on-duty that were actually the ones responsible for making the deposit didn't even get written up, not to mention fired???? Just supremely annoyed over the whole situation.

On to other news....Youngest Son has his first soccer game of the season today! Nothing like a bunch of little weeble wobbles running around to put a smile on your face. Middle Son is being a total brat (stress reaction I'm sure) so there's nothing new to report there. Oldest Son is home for the weekend. Had a talk about decision making skills. If I didn't mention it, he did test negative for ALL drugs...still waiting to see how the charges will be resolve. It looks like it will either be a $125 fine + costs and community service or a $300 fine and no community service. Fines/Penalties doubled if one school grounds - hopefully a lesson learned there.

On the kitty front...pick up Tippers ashes from vet today...will have a little ceremony at home with The Boys and The Man. The Other Cats seem to be coping okay for the most part. Mysti keeps coming up and sniffing around my pillow looking for him, but the only one who seems to cry a lot is Brock and she's kinda whiney anyway. Azzie is about 90% recovered from being "drunk" and overall seems to be doing well.

Now if we can just get those damn squirrels out of our attic (again) things might actually calm down around here.

A life for a life...?

2008-09-01T10:56:00.003-05:00

Yesterday started out well....but ended in disaster.

About 1230am the phone rings and it's the alarm company for The Man's store. Tell them to call on his cell, he is up at work late doing end of month inventory...so I think he should be home soon. Phone rings again, it's The Man...he and the DM have just been robbed at gun point. He was checking the doors and two hooded men come up with guns, threatening to kill him if he doesn't give them all the money in the store. Naturally, he and the DM comply. He tries to get them to leave their finger prints, but has no luck and the robbers take off with the money. Police are called and an investigation is underway. Now his store is not, what would be considered, in a "bad" part of town and Sunday nights are not the busiest, so who knows what the logic was. It's always about money isn't it? Finally gets home around 230am and is pretty shook up (duh!) but overall doing okay...considering he got smacked in the head with a gun. Fortunately he wasn't hurt more or shot. Pretty f'n scary overall - don't know what in the hell we would do without him.

And if the night wasn't bad enough...after talking to him for a while, I go upstairs and Tipper is meowing and got sick in the closet, thought it was weird he was laying down - so I go to pick him up. His back legs were completely useless...he couldn't stand and was trying to use his front legs to get up and couldn't. He just meowed and meowed. Called out vet and was referred to the Emergency Clinic, so I get dressed and rush off to the vet. Having been through this with Smokey, I knew exactly what was wrong and that there was no hope. A blood clot lodged in the base of his spine (embolism, for those who want to be proper about it) and it cut off the blood flow to his back legs and some organs. He wasn't in too much pain, but he was struggling to breath. No choice here but to do what had to be done. The Dr's there were completely compassionate and supportive and let me hold him as he slipped from this world to the next.

Overall really shitty...I am so angry that all this happened, on the same night no less. It's like some f'd up sort of karma. What he giveth he taketh away and all that BS. Yes, I know that Tipper was old (16 years), but why? Why on this night of all nights, couldn't I just rejoice in knowing that My Man was safe and that he came home?

See next post. It's all just too much...

Tipper - RIP - September 1, 2008

2008-09-01T10:08:00.005-05:00

Tipper Max May 1992 - September 1, 2008

Goodbye Dear Friend. May you have happy hunting always and a warm sunny spot to spend all of your days. You brought so much love to our family...and many suprises (remember the snake on the doorstep?) .... and comfort in your gently purring.

You were such a tiny thing when you came into our lives. Back in the day when both your eyes were green. You slept on my pillow from the beginning, burrowing under the covers with me everynight, lulling me to sleep with your purrs. You survived many moves and several adventures as we lost you twice over the years. But you were tough, a fighter, even with no front claws you climbed trees and caught whatever animal happened to catch your fancy. You slept with The Boys when they were young, and never once stole their breath like grandma said you would. They will miss you too...I was just pregrnant with Oldest Son when you came and yet, you showed your love to all of them the same, never complaining when they pulled at you or "petted" you with heavy hands when they were young.
My amazing bath tub kitty. You just couldn't resist a tub full of water...the number of baths that we shared over the years and your love of bubbles, even if they did make you sneeze. How many times did you pull back the shower curtain or bang on the doors to be let in? And there you would sit, on my chest or belly, tail flopping in the water, until it was time to get out.

I will miss you so much. The hours you sat on my lap, the naps we would take in the afternoons, getting high on catnip, and of course the "whats under the blanket" game. While I can't say that I will miss getting sneezed on very much, those darn allergies, it was always good for a laugh when you got someone else. No cat will ever replace you in my heart or in my arms. You will always be my baby.

Love, mama

A little more mellow...

2008-08-30T09:27:00.002-05:00

Note it siad "a little". Having talked to Oldest Son, it seems that he is taking his consequences rather well overall and realizes what a boneheaded thing it was to do. Still waiting for the drug tests results - should have them this weekend.

After a re-arranging frenzy last week, I am going to tackle the kitchen this weekend. Can't really rearrange it, but I don't think the cabinets have really been cleaned out since we moved in (6 years ago!) and it's time. I also absolutely HAVE TO get cracking on the last of my school stuff. I am supposed to meet with my supervisor next week for final sign off, so it's time.

In yet another attack of over-ambitiousness, did 6 - 7 miles on the roller blades yesterday. Work on the Papio/Keystone trail forced an alternate route - essentially from Seymore-Smith (72nd and Harrison) to Manglesons (84th and I-80) and back. So my quads really hurt and ankles are a little tender. The weather was nice and I chatted with some little old ladies on the way there and back, I guess I shouldn't complain too much.

The Man is still crazy busy at work - did manage to sneak out early on Wed and get a little down time. Tomorrow The Family is going to FunPlex (assuming the kids can behave) and The Man has been warned that work WILL NOT interfere with family time that day! Have a bbq on Monday to go to, which I will be doing the single parent thing at, so he can give us at least one day. I understand that this is only temporary but doesn't change it from being frustrating right now!

Seriously dumb ass kid

2008-08-28T07:59:00.002-05:00

So get a call from Ex #1, Oldest Son has managed to find trouble in BFE, Nebraska. Stupid (as he is currently known) had a friend who was getting high and stashed his pot in the library. Stupid, being the good samaritan that he is (ha) decided to help him smuggle it out. Cops had already been though with drug dog and found it, but sprayed it with some stuff, so when Stupid went in and got it, guess who's fingerprints were on it. Yes, he did take it out and throw it in the dumpster, but he had it in his possession. Aarrgghhhh!!! Got busted by the superintendent and earned a fifteen day suspension from school. Can't run cross country (don't know if he'll be allowed back on the team) and will probably have charges brought against him. In typical Stupid fashion, of course, deny deny deny, when will he learn that he is going to get CAUGHT? Everytime!
Seriously....how brainless can one kid be? Even I was not that dumb. (no I really wasn't daddy). This kid doesn't have to go looking for trouble, it just finds him. Of course, denies that he smoked any and we will see about that. One of the upsides to being a SA counselor - access to drug tests, which are on the way to Ex #1. If Stupid does not test clean, there is going to be hell to pay. So much for small towns keeping him out of trouble. What a bunch of sh*t.

Crazed and Annoyed

2008-08-23T10:04:00.002-05:00

This has been a week of ups and downs....Azzie is still walking around drunk, but seems to getting somewhat better, or maybe he is learing to adapt? Not thrilled about being locked up all the time, but not much we can do about that.

Middle and Youngest Sons back in school (YAY) but are being raging buttheads at home, hope this is an adjustment thing. But jeez gimme a break would ya? Doesn't help that I'm doing the single mom thing due to The Man being soooo busy at work. Says it will get better soon, but I'm not holding my breath. At least they are following through on the training for him, no if he could just get some staff hired.

Interviewed for a new job on Monday, but pretty sure I am turning it down. Not really that interested in doing a womans group and with mandatory work 2 nights a week, can't really see that being feasible right now. Although it would be closer to home and more consistent in pay. But overall don't think it is a good fit for me or them. The position that I really wanted is not being filled at this point and I'm not sure that the hours or pay would be worth the sacrafice it would entail. Guess it really doesn't matter at this point. Although I am finally digging myself out of the "black hole" at work.

Oh yeah, and got my hair cut off yesterday - still reaches my shoulders (sort of - mostly) time for a change I guess.

Drunk Kitty

2008-08-20T08:06:00.002-05:00

No, not me and not really drunk. Get home from work on Monday and kids say something is wrong with Azzie (big ol' fat cat). Well we pry (literally) him out from under the neighbors car and take him inside. He is staggering around and keeps flopping over. Hmmmm weird. Since he is indoor/outdoor cat, first thing I wonder is if he has gotten into something. Kept trying to get up on the counter and falling. So call the vet and they say bring him in (DUH) off we go...vet tests for FeLuke and FLV - both negative (thank goodness) run the bloodwork and everything is normal, huh? Not been poinsoned and white count is fine...well shit, what the heck is wrong? Heart, lungs, and abdomen all sound fine too. No tender spots, so it is unlikely that he was hit or injured.
$230 later and we have no idea what's wrong. Dr. says he has seen this before and it might an inner ear thing - throws off their balance. Gave him a shot of antibiotics and a shot of steroids (to reduce any swelling or to kill nasty bugs) and told to take him home. Advised not to let him have access to any stairs or counters (where his food is) so he doesn't fall and injure himself. Well double DUH on you. It should clear up in a week or so, don't expect immediate results, but call if it gets worse. Triple DUH there.
So Middle Son is sharing his room with one fat cat , some food and water, and a litter box. This is not good, but he doesn't seem to be in any pain...Azzie not Middle Son...we shall see how this goes.

Off they go!

2008-08-19T08:05:00.005-05:00

Happy Days are here again! Gotta have the hair spiked mom, it's the first day of school.

I'm cool in my new t-shirt! Finally a 6th grader, on top the dog pile now.

Don't we look sooooo excited for this day?

Oh wait..where's my bookbag? lock? school supplies? Oh, I have them!

I will survive!

2008-08-16T10:08:00.002-05:00

Well, I made it. Finally done with my internship hours. YAY! Somewhere I miss counted so I have to go back and refigure them, but that part is over. I still have papers and stuff that have to be submitted and things to be signed, but my supervisor is out of the office next week and that gives me a little time to get it all done. Will have somewhat a normal schedule for a little bit (at least a week or 2), just evals and getting all of my files closed and transferred...paperwork, ick!

The Man is FINALLY done with his training and is now in his new store...been a pretty rough start so far, but I think he will stick it out (for now) and hopefully will have a fairly set schedule starting in a couple of weeks.

Oldest Son is doing well, "offically" starts XC practice tomorrow and started school last week. Is taking Driver's Ed and hopefully will be a little less dangerous on the streets. Middle and Youngest Sons have been out camping (if you can call staying a fully loaded RV the size of an apartment camping) with the In-Laws and seem to be enjoying their last week of freedom. School starts Tuesday and I still need to get school supplies of course. Just tack it on to this weekends to do list.

Helping a friend move, have a graduation party to go to, and Def Leppard on Sunday...busy as usual, but looking forward to getting out and doing a little socializing.

Feelin' Groovy!

2008-08-09T09:49:00.003-05:00

"I've got a pair of brand new roller skates...he's got a brand new key!" For those old enough to remember the song or who have heard it, this makes sense, everyone else feel free to scratch your head in confusion. Don't ask how old the song is or who sings in, I dunno. But.....as you may have guessed, I got a pair of roller blades for my birthday. I have been wanting a pair for a couple of years now and finally got some. Of course I haven't really roller skated since high school (awww, those were the days) with the exception of some school skate parties with the kids. Biggest issue...who moved the brakes? I am used to having to toe stopped in the front (where it is supposed to be) NOW it's on the back. So haven't quit mastered stopping, it's either into the grass or coast to a stop. Operating under the principle that I exercise regularily (mostly) and can climb tall mountains (in Colorado) and have skated in the past (20 years ago) I decide to his the Papio/Keystone trail. Okay, so maybe a little ambitious, did I say little? About five miles total and yeah, not moving real good today. The last quarter mile about killed me!

Oficially finished my classes last Tuesday! YAY - but still have some miscellaneous papers (about 10) to finish and submit all my hours, blah blah blah, but mostly done. Will see my internship clients for the last time this week - then may have a calm(ish) couple of weeks after that. Starting to talk to the powers that be about future job stuff. Still ambivilant, but checking things out.

Speaking of jobs - The Man has his last day of training in Lincoln today and starting Monday will be the new Unit Director (general manager) of the Arby's at 53rd and Center. He will still have 10 - 12 weeks of training, but it will take place in "his" store. Says he has a pretty good crew for the most part, but of course has already fired on employee. Called the cops on the employee too. NOTE: Don't bring your hobbies to work with you, if they are illegal.

Oldest Son is doing well back at his dads, I think. Haven't heard from him, so I am assuming this is the case. Middle and Youngest Sons are getting ready to go back to school, don't think that they are as excited as I am, but that's okay. They will go camping next week with the In-Laws and are looking forward to that!

It's my birthday!

2008-08-04T08:06:00.000-05:00

And another one bites the dust!

Why do I always do this?

2008-08-02T09:32:00.002-05:00

One of these days procrastination will be the death of me. Of course I am feeling overwhelmed because I have a sh*t ton of stuff to do for school. And what the heck happened to the rest of the school year. You would think that since this is the end of school for me, I would be more on top of things...but there you go thinking again. I will get through it and get everything done and probably end up with an "A" to boot, but that doesn't help me at this point. Duh! I have no-one but myself to blame...shame on me!

Sent Oldest Son back to his dad's a week early....one of these days must learn to scare him like his dad does because he doesn't pull this kind of crap out there. Overall he had a pretty good summer (for him) but this last week or so has been not so good, and frankly it came down to work and if he's blowing off work then he really doesn't need to be here. I could have let it slide, but it was just getting out of hand, oh well.

Middle and Youngest Sons have been on the attitutude train lately and both are about the get knocked off. What is with everyone anyway? Middle Son went to the orthodontist and needs braces (which we knew) but now instead of waiting until he is 14 they will probably start pulling teeth and working on some stuff starting at 12. You'd think that he would be better at brushing his teeth and there you go thinking again!

The Man is almost FINALLY done with training in Lincoln. Where he will be is still up in the air. The GM at the store he was going to just up and quit...and they don't want to move him into a GM slot without more training (at least they do something right) and set him up for failure, so he may do more training at one of the other stores, but at least that long freakin drive (and gas bill) will soon be a thing of the past.

Still struggling with "what will I do next". That is the big questions on everyone's mind (at least at work). I have a program that I want to go to, but not sure if it will be possible - it's having some growing pains...have been tagged to go to a new program that is starting in one of the other offices, but it will be mostly substance abuse, which is okay - they want me to do a woman's group, which is really not okay. Do I really want to give up the autonomy of going back to work full time at an agency and especially at another NFP? Half of me thinks I'm crazy, the other half thinks Yay benefits and more consistent paychecks. F if I know what the hell I'm doing - really guess it will come down to what hours they want me to work. Still have a few weeks to decide, so will just continue to procrastinate on that too.

Feeling Blahhhhhhhhhh

2008-07-26T09:00:00.003-05:00

One of those photo's that were more dumb luck than anything. Just happend to be standing around and saw this feather on the tree. Nope - don't know what kind of bird it's from so don't ask.

Feeling pretty lazy and run down if the truth be told. Have fallen (hard) off the exercise wagon. I wake up and I'm too tired to workout, so I don't, then feel tired and crappy all day, and so I go to bed early, and then don't feel like getting up and exercising....just repeat the cycle over and over. I know that I would feel better if I would just GET UP and do something, but nope...

I am getting REALLY tired of my internship and work...not that I don't love my work, but I am not doing what I know I want to do....I realize that there are only a few more weeks and then I will be done with my internship, but still! Here I am about to be truly done with school and I have no freakin idea of what I will do next. Assuming that I get it together and finish up all the crap I have to do for school. I'm not really procrastinating, I just have no motivation to do anything. There are a couple of opportunities where I am doing contracting work and there are some pro's and con's to going full-time (legitimate) and I don't really know what I want to do. I know what I don't want to do, so that's a start. I'm sure something will turn it, it always does.

The Boys and The Man are doing well. Busy, busy, busy. Only a couple more weeks with Oldest Son and Middle Son is home (FINALLY). Youngest Son is about to drive everyone crazy...lets hear it for school starting in about 3 weeks. Whoo Hoo. Seems like the summer has flown by and we haven't really done anything. Everything is chaotic and depressing.

Settling In!

2008-07-19T08:52:00.004-05:00

Things have been a little chaotic since we have been home. Had a ton of stuff to do at work and ended up putting in quite a bit of extra time, trying to get caught up. Also had a number of new clients this week and had to transition out of one group. A little more lax on vacation than I should have been on the homework aspect and didn't really get anything done. Fortunately my Prof. is pretty laid back and said to just turn stuff in when I got it done.

The Man is back at work and is at the mid-way point in his training. So only three more weeks of that drive. At least it's not winter! Middle Son is still in Washington until the 22nd - seems like he has been gone forever. Oldest Son has now started at McD's, he is only working about 20 hours per week (I think that is all that is allowed) and seems to be liking it okay. Or at least well enough to get up and go every morning. He works at 8am, so there goes sleeping in all summer. He has to go back to his dad's by Aug. 9th to start driver's training...so he may see if he can keep it part-time after that. Youngest Son had a great time with Grandma and Pappy - he's had a little attitude since he came home, but nothing terrible. Just seems like he grew up a bunch while we were gone.

The trip to Colorado really was fabulous and it just gets better everytime that we go. Had so much fun, although the legs were a little sore for the first few days back. The Man thinks we should move there, of course. Maybe for three months a year, but that would be about it. The weather is bad enough here - I'm not moving somewhere, where it snows more and gets colder for longer. Thanks anyway.

More from Colorado

2008-07-17T08:02:00.006-05:00

Baby Elk (not a moose) with mommy in the background. Actually spotted them in the grass next to the parking lot of the library in downtown Estes. Have to watch out for them, they do tend to wander around a bit.

Me and Tia getting ready to go on a 3 hour ride through Roosevelt National Forest. She had a really nice gait. But still the inner thighs felt it later that day. What a sweety.
Morning on the deck of our cabin. Hadn't been in the hottub yet that day - but loved it at night. We are actually uphill from most of the other cabins (see the roofs in the left side background).

A picture of home sweet home away from home. You might be able to swing a cat in there - maybe! But we didn't spend much time in there anyway. Very cozy and somewhat isolated. No heat though, and trust me it gets a little chilly up there in the mountains.

Twin Sisters

2008-07-10T23:39:00.004-05:00

Oh, what a hike, 3.7 miles one way and most of it vertical. Took 5 hours round trip, about 3 up and 2 down. About four hours of hiking total. It was the the best hike and the worst hike, but so glad that we did it.

This is a picture from the top of the tree line, about 13,000 feet. It's all pretty much shale and rocks from here to the top.
A view from the top looking down into the valley. The 360 views were absolutly spectacular.

Us at the top, yes we are really higher than the mountains in the background. Feeling very much like being on top of the world.

Here a shot from the ground to where we hiked. That tall peak in the background is where we had lunch this afternoon. Not feeling overly bad tonight, but know that tomorrow will be another story...headed off to the hottub and bed.

Horsey Back Riding and Photo Hike

2008-07-10T23:31:00.004-05:00

The Man on Chief during the Wine and Cheese Ride. Nice!

The winning photo from the photo hike contest! Go Me!

Just a little bit of our busy day. Started off with the Photo Hike, which was nice and hey, I won - so obviously it was good. Got back and rushed to the cabin to change for the wine and cheese ride, The Man survived his one ride - still complaining about "the boys" hitting the sadle. After that, rush back to cabin to shower and change and shoot down for dinner. After dinner headed into town for the local rodeo. No pix here, turned out crappy (need a better lens). The back to the room for hut tub and bath.

Tomorrow is the big hike - keeping fingers crossed on this one.

White water rafting

2008-07-08T21:28:00.002-05:00

Giving new definition to the word cold! Had a blast, but yeah, it was uber chilly. Some of the people were getting wet suits...thought, no, never needed them the past couple of times. Knew that the water was going to be deeper and thought we would get some better rapids. But had NO idea that it would be that cold! The Man is, as he would say "half the man he used to be" and yeah, I could cut glass, even through the life vests. On the up side, he did stay in the boat this year, although there were a couple of close calls. Just kinda vegged for the rest of the day.

Thinking it's about hot tub and bed time. Maybe watch a movie, or fall asleep with it on. Not that I would ever do that. Tomorrow will be busy....photo hike, wine and cheeses horse back ride, and then off to the rodeo.

Haven't heard from the kids, so I assume they are doing okay...will try to call from town tomorrow. Hint, hint - if you read this you better be emailing your mom!!!

Hike to Lily Lake and Isabel Lake

2008-07-07T23:34:00.006-05:00

Chuck on the snow up towards Isabel Lake. Us at the Falls by Isabel Lake

Us at the trail head in Roosevelt National Forest.

Looking out over Lily Lake

More pix on myspace.

Off we go

2008-07-07T23:12:00.005-05:00

Pictures of the "Arabian Nights" hotel room. Cheezy yes, but the twinkle lights, were sadly not working.

The a/c didn't want to work, but overall not a bad experience.

(more photos on myspace...)

Crazy Ass Week!

2008-07-03T22:02:00.002-05:00

Monday - just gotta love teenagers. Have to admit that I'm really getting a kick out of the teen group - 10 teenager girls (15-18). Hardest part is not to laugh at them. More angst and emo than is good for a person. Lord knows my friends and I were never that bad (HA!) Think I still know some adults like this....

The plan for Tues and Thurs was to do some closure with my shelter group, since I was not going to continue with them. Got a call from the shelter in the am...not enough guys for the group on Tues and group will be cancelled on Thurs...threw me into a right tizzy, I tell you. Can't just abandom them (not good for therapist or clients) finally managed a compromise via my supervisor, where the counselor who is taking over will NOT tell the group that I am not coming back and then the following Tues after our trip I will break the news. Only gives us one session for closure, and it'll have to be enough.

Wed - just busy as f***, Oldest Son had to make a quick trip back to his dads to get all of his sh*t and had to go in early for meeting after meeting. Trying but not quite successful at getting caught up on any work.

Thurs - after a week of every freakin client showing up in crisis, finally caught a break when 2 of my clients at one of the shelter cancel on me. Decide to skip the staff meeting (not driving all over hell and gone just for that) and did FINALLY actually get some of the crap cleared off of my desk. Of course I still had to run all the way out to West O for yet another group tonight.

In the meantime, haven't seen The Man all week, due to him being on closes in Lincoln. An NO dear, 5am is not an acceptable time to come to bed!!! Think the last time we actually talked face to face was Sunday. At least he was home to watch Youngest Son tonight. Middle Son got picked up this morning and not a moment to soon, talk about someone about ready for a beat down. Actually called in his dad last night and said "get over here and you deal with the little blankety blank!"

So tomorrow, get rid of one kid, get one back, shop, pack, clean, and get ready to go....just hope I don't have a break down before then. On the upside have been getting alot of exercise - ya' gotta look for that silver lining.

One more week

2008-06-29T10:48:00.002-05:00

So can I tell you how much I am looking forward to this trip. Counting the days, let me tell you. I'd count the hours, but god knows what time we will actually leave on Sat.

Just busy, busy, busy as usual. Really trying to get as much done as possible at work, home, school before we go. I will, of course, have to take school work with me, as usual, but it will give me something to do if I let The Man drive on this trip. No - he won't be driving through the mountains, I'd like to get there in one piece!

BFF T will be watching the house/animals as usual for us. May also be keeping an eye on the Oldest Son "if" he actually gets a job, otherwise - it's off to daddy's you go. Middle Son is off to Washington with his daddy and Youngest Son will be hanging with the In-Laws. I think they are going camping (which he loves) so it will be a pretty good deal for him.

Now just to laundry, packing, shopping, cleaning, and all that jazz. Not necessarily in that order anyway. Have to get ready to pick up Oldest Son and stop by the Folks house. Going go and shoot some stuff up I think.

Mama's got a new ride

2008-06-23T08:47:00.005-05:00

Finally decided to upgrade...2004 Kia Sedona!

Isn't it pretty?

Getting back to normal

2008-06-22T10:21:00.002-05:00

Well not that I didn't enjoy all the excitement surrounding graduation - but am relieved that things are getting back to "normal".

Work is settling down and am making a few revisions to my schedule. I will be giving up my groups at the shelter, maybe temporarily - maybe permanently, but at least through the end of my internship. I really love doing this group, but the paperwork is doing me in and I just can't keep up. Have quite a bit to accomplish on the work side before we leave for CO.

The Man's training is going fairly well but the schedule is pretty chaotic and varies from week to week. His g'ma was in the hospital this past week, but is doing better now. MIL had to fly out to KY and spent 3 days sleeping in a chair but is back now. Nonnie has some heart problems but is back at home and resting.

The Boys are all doing well. Oldest Son finally has a job interview - YAY - on Monday and is hopeful that he will get hired. Hard when you are only 15 and everyone wants 16 year olds. Middle Son has been catching games at the CWS, thanks to his dad and now has signed shirts/ball from Fresno State. A big thanks to BFF D for getting him to and from the games this week.

Have to get Thank You cards out today and do some shopping n' stuff, but feeling much more centered at the moment and the stress levels are down finally.

Graduation and other news...

2008-06-14T10:02:00.006-05:00

Graduation was great!!! Even better when I am actually done in August. It was really nice having everyone there at the ceremony (The Man and The Boys, Mom, Dad, Other Mom, Auntie and Uncle from England, Cuz and Girlfriend).

Had a great party afterwards that ran into until the late hours. Great to see everyone and thaks to all for the cards/goodies.

Mom's visit was great - went to the zoo and movies and out to eat (a lot!). The tornado's were another story - and could have done without them. Poor Mommy was supposed to leave on Wed night and couldn't get out until Thurs. What a mess - had to spend an hour in the tornado shelter at the airport and was pretty stressed out by the time I got back to the airport to pick her up. I loved having an extra day with her, but this is not quite the way that I wanted it to happen. She did finally make it home safely.

In news at home...The Man has started his new job at Arby's this past week. Pro's and Con's - training is seven weeks in Lincoln, and what the price of gas??? But they are giving him extra pay to compensate, so that good. Fortunately they are not giving him any trouble about going on vacation right in the middle of training. YAY - would have hated to leave him here. Ha ha ha...

The Boys are all doing pretty well and staying out of trouble for the most part. Oldest Son has not found a job, guess he thinks that employers will just know he is looking and come beat our door down to hire him. Not happening. Middle Son is covered in bruises (what a clutz) and running around the neighborhood on his new bike, as usual. Youngest Son has mostly mastered riding a bike without training wheels - and will probably get a new one soon. YAY.

Daddy's Day is tomorrow, so I best get to shopping.

48 hours and counting

2008-06-05T09:16:00.001-05:00

Almost there. Mommy got in safely, but said it was a bouncy ride. Still have some stuff to take care of around the house and shopping to do. MIL is bringing some chairs and stuff over tomorrow. Still have to go into work for a few hours this week and next, but it's getting there.

Only other piece of news - The Man had two job offers this week and accepted one. He is still holding out for one other one, but in the mean time, why wait? More details to follow in the future.

The final countdown

2008-05-31T09:55:00.002-05:00

Well it's the last weekend before graduation...and as usual I'm scrambling to get everything done. Big projects include the cleaning the carpets, fixing the deck, and getting the food ordered. Still dithering around on the food, but I'll get it figured out soon! Little projects include everything else. Oh yeah...and getting the curtains hung up...can someone please tell me what the heck I did with the curtain rods? Of course this is the week that the dish washer starts acting up too. When it rain it pours, but hey it's been good for the grass.

Survived finals, now only one class left! And actually have a week or so before classes start back up. Have to pick up books and cap/gown this week though. I can't believe that I'm almost done. The Boys are doing good so far this summer. Youngest Son really seems to enjoy KidsClub. Oldest Son still having some problems finding someone to hire him. It's the whole 15 year old thing. Middle Son is doing yard work for BFF TieDye and is actually making more $ than his brother. Oh well.

The Man is getting pretty frustrated with the job seach thing as well. Has had a few interviews and has put in a ton of applications, so now it's just hurry up and wait. Grrrrrr.....

Work has been busy and of course I forgot to clear my schedule from when Mommy gets here, so now I'm scrambling to get stuff covered. Will have to work some, no getting around it, but people have been pretty good about covering groups and evals for me, so I won't be totally bogged down with work. Aunite and Uncle will be here from Jolly Ole England on Monday, and we're looking forward to seeing them. They just don't get over here enough.

Must stop procrasting now and get stuff done. Yeah right!

Healing....

2008-05-24T14:16:00.002-05:00

Well my back is finally back to a more normal color, but it itchs like crazy due to all the peeling. Daddy's hand in on the mend and he is back to shooting (albiet more carefully).

The Rush concert was excellent!!! The drive sucked, of course, but Oldest Son didn't drive us off the road. The show lasted about 3 hours and Geddy's voice was still amazing after all these years. Good to have a little bonding time anyway. Plus got to see an old friend from high school and that was pretty cool too.

The Boys are out of school for the summer and there shall be no rest for the weary (that would be me). Youngest Son will go to KidsClub at school, Middle Son will just hang out, and Oldest Son will be working (hopefully). He is home at the moment, but his dad said that if he can't find a job then he will have to spend the summer out in BFE.

Feels pretty weird to be home this weekend. It's the first time in four years that we haven't gone camping. At first we weren't going because The Man couldn't get the time off work and then when that ceased to be a problem, we couldn't get rsvn's. Oh well. Got stuff to grill and will make s'mores and pretend. Not sleeping in the backyard - just not the same. Maybe that explains the funk I'm in today.

Finals are next week and then graduation. I am getting excited but nervous, even though I won't be "offically" done. Things are coming along in the house and yard, so progress is good. Now if I can just get a final head count.

Sun, Sun, and Sunburnt

2008-05-19T08:06:00.002-05:00

Well the good news is the yard is really coming together. Got a little bush (Dwarf Glow Barberry) for out front and trimmed up the Butterfly Bush. The new one has pinking leaves on the new growth and the purplish red when it is mature. Kinda puny now but will get to be about 3 x 3 when full grown. Pretty but no flowers to attrach bees. Got all the mulch laid out front and down the side of the house and under the tree next to the deck where it was all muddy. Laid mulch in the back and planted some mums courtesy of the neighbor. Laid some grass seed out where the pool used to be and hopefully it will green up by graduation. The Man and I were very busy Sat & Sun and made 3-4 trips to Home Depot for gardening/yard stuff. They should love us now. Also got the fire pit all set up.

The bad news....running around in a sports bra and shorts has turned my back and calves into a lovely shade of red. It's quite uncomfortable at the moment, just lathering on the aloe and keeping my fingers crossed that the drive tomorrow won't be too bad. Actaully not to bad as long as nothing touches my back and I don't move. ha ha ha

Progress

2008-05-17T09:04:00.002-05:00

Well My Daddy survived his surgery and is recovering well - from shooting himself in the hand. No permanent damage anyway. Actually I don't usually shoot when I'm over there (right handed grips don't work well for lefties with small hands). But he had a new little one that I got to shoot (on Mommy's day) and it was actually quite fun. Not really into the big ones he has, but this one was pretty cool. Still not the sorta thing to have in the house though. I might be tempted to light up one of the boys! (Just kidding!).

For those who didn't hear - Godfathers has decided that it taking some of it's stores in a new direction. New District Manager = new ways of doing things. The head count so far is Chuck, another of his managers, another GM, and one other assistant manager. Talk about some crazy crap and trumped up reasons for getting rid of people. Of course, NE is a right to work state, so why even bother with the BS?

Graduation plans are coming along pretty well...we are making progress in the house and will tackle the yard this weekend. 1st weekend without rain in a looonnnggg time. Have cake ordered and picked up some supplies and sent announcements/invitations - ATTENTION PEOPLE - I NEED RSVP's!!!!

Oldest Son is back for the summer, kinda nice having him around. We are going to see Rush next week and in the mean time he will be looking for employment. Youngest Sons are still in school for one more week. Youngest Son is done with soccer for the season - got most of the games made up. Will try and get Middle Son signed up for Basketball Camp, that's his latest sports interest. Not sure about Swim lessons yet, but still may do that as well.

Trying not to procrastinate...so I guess that means that I better get busy.

New Family Motto

2008-05-09T07:46:00.002-05:00

We call it "stupid is as stupid does". The family has been plauged by injuries and other things.

My poor father managed to shoot himself in the hand with an air pistol. He will have to have surgery next Tuesday to remove the little cork shaped pellet from his hand. He posted some pix and xray on his blog. http://rabbittwarren.net/Rabbitts_Blog/index.html

I managed to pull the tendons/muslces in the arch of my foot, doing yoga. Lost my balance and my foot twisted on the mat. A little painful to walk, minimal swelling, but not too bad.

Oldest Son did not injure himself but did manage to get disquilified from Track Districts by not turning in some make up assignments. The relay team had a good shot of making State, but needed him. Kinda screwed himself and his team on that one.

Seems to be a trend in this family lately...

Getting stressed!

2008-05-06T07:47:00.002-05:00

So time is getting away from me again. I thought there was actually 2 weeks before mothers day. Aparently not. Which of course means that graduation is coming up faster than I expected. Have sooooooo much to do with the house and yard, on top of work, school, and internship. I am definately feeling under the gun.

On top of that found out that La Vista Days is the same weekend as graduation, which will make traffic and parking worse! So the to do list includes: sending announcements and invites, fixing the yard, getting the deck fixed, rearranging the living room and basement, cleaning the carpets, and planning food/drinks/desserts. I seriously need help!

I think I can, I think I can, I think I can. If I actually manage to pull this off I will be the little ingine that could.

For our troops...

2008-04-30T08:05:00.002-05:00

The average age of the military man is 19 years.

He is a short haired,tight-muscled kid who, under normal circumstances is considered by society as half man, half boy Not yet dry behind the ears, not old
enough to buy a beer, but old enough to die for his country.

He never really cared much for work and he would rather wax his own car than
wash his father's, but he has never collected unemployment either.

He's a recent High School graduate; he was probably an average student,
pursued some form of sport activities, drives a ten year old jalopy,
and has a steady girlfriend that either broke up with him when he left,
or swears to be waiting when he returns from half a world away.

He listens to rock and roll or hip-hop or rap or jazz or swing and a 155mm
howitzer.

He is 10 or 15 pounds lighter now than when he was at home because he
is working or fighting from before dawn to well after dusk.

He has trouble spelling, thus letter writing is a pain for him, but he can
field strip a rifle in 30 seconds and reassemble it in less time in the
dark.

He can recite to you the nomenclature of a machine gun or grenade
launcher and use either one effectively if he must.

He digs foxholes and latrines and can apply first aid like a
professional.

He can march until he is told to stop, or stop until he is told to
march.

He obeys orders instantly and without hesitation, but he is not without
spirit or individual dignity. He is self-sufficient.

He has two sets of fatigues: he washes one and wears the other.

He keeps his canteens full and his feet dry.

He sometimes forgets to brush his teeth, but never to clean his rifle.

He can cook his own meals, mend his own clothes, and fix his own hurts.

If you're thirsty, he'll share his water with you; if you are hungry,
his food.

He'll even split his ammunition with you in the midst of battle when
you run low.

He has learned to use his hands like weapons and weapons like they were
his hands.

He can save your life - or take it, because that is his job.

He will often do twice the work of a civilian, draw half the pay, and
still find ironic humor in it all.

He has seen more suffering and death than he should have in his short
lifetime.

He has wept in public and in private, for friends who have fallen in
combat and is unashamed.

He feels every note of the National Anthem vibrate through his body
while at rigid attention, while tempering the burning desire to
'square-away' those around him who haven't bothered to stand, remove
their hat, or even stop talking.

In an odd twist, day in and day out, far from home, he defends their
right to be disrespectful.

Just as did his Father, Grandfather, and Great-grandfather, he is
paying the price for our freedom. Beardless or not, he is not a boy.

He is the American Fighting Man that has kept this country free for over
200 years.

He has asked nothing in return, except our friendship and
understanding.

Remember him, always, for he has earned our respect and admiration with
his blood.

And now we even have women over there in danger, doing their part in
this tradition of going to War when our nation calls us to do so.

As you go to bed tonight, remember this picture,

A short lull, a little shade and a picture of loved ones in their
helmets

Prayer wheel for our military...

'Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands.
Protect them as they protect us.
Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us
in our time of need. Amen.

It's been a long week

2008-04-26T08:28:00.002-05:00

Things are starting to calm down 'round the old homestead. It was really weird to have a couple of days off. Didn't really get anything accomplished that I wanted, but that's nothing new.

Mr. Big Balls is recovering slowly, went back to work yesterday, but ended up coming home early. Trying again today - we'll see how it goes. At least I've been allowed to sleep in the bed again!

Just a little chaotic (gee what a suprise)in the family. Oldest Son twisted his ankle earlier this week doing the high jump. But...he ran the hurdles and did really well, so he may continue doing that for the rest of the track season. Lord knows he has the legs for it anyway! Youngest Son should finally have his first soccer game of the season today (last 2 were rained out). Had a scrimmage game on Wed during practice and he did pretty well. Middle Son will be doing some yard work for BFF Oz. Says he wants to do it, so we shall see how that goes. #1 Nephew had a scary incident at school - when a kid got hit in the face with a stray bullet. Sis says he didn't really want to go to school the next day, and who can blame him?

Got mama's plane tickets for graduation this week and have actually started planning graduation party - who says I can't plan ahead occasionally? MIL made good point about party platters and not having the space in my fridge, but I think we got the menu sorta planned anyway. I may actually have my sh!t together for this thing after all - now I just have to pass this freakin Behavior Mod class. (I missed a test and have to make it up on Tuesday) not going the best, but this too shall pass.

Recovering

2008-04-24T08:46:00.003-05:00

The Man survived his surgery and is doing pretty well, all things considered. Has some pain, but that's to be expected. Overall it went well and we are just being lazy around the house today. And, personally, I'm hoping his staff gets thier shit together and stops calling.

On a more upbeat note - Youngest Son lost his first tooth yesterday. In the car, fortunately he didn't swallow it, and the tooth fairy came and blessed him. Isn't he cute?

Sick and sicker

2008-04-19T10:07:00.002-05:00

Still battling allergies, but actually had a couple of moments in the past few days when I have been able to breath. Whoo Hoo.

Had to go and get Youngest Son from school yesterday, to qoute the nurse "he's puking buckets" oh what fun. Today Middle Son (not to be out done by younger bro) decides to join in the fun, and now the battle for the bathroom is on. Oldest Son was gone last night, so hopefully he can avoid it. Washing hands a lot in the hopes of The Man and I also avoiding the latest illness in our house.

Actually The Man is still doing crisis control at work, since the robbery. He has had to go up several nights to be with the closers, everyone is still freaked out about the situation. Although he may finally get the camera's installed that he has been asking for, for 4 months.

Things at work and school are moving along pretty well. Got my graduation announcements in the mail this week. I am pretty stoaked about it and starting to make plans for the party!!! I think it's starting to sink in that I am really almost done and that graduation is less than two months away. Admittedly feeling pretty cocky, but I'm entitled.

Just when you think things are normal...

2008-04-14T11:10:00.002-05:00

Rough night last night - just as we were getting ready for bed the phone rings. The Man's store has been robbed. His closing manager (Lil ME) and employee (M) were in the office finishing up paperwork and a masked man (not the Lone Ranger) comes in through the back with a gun wanting money. Bad scene all around. Lil ME gave him most of the money in the safe while he was pointing & cocking his gun at her and M and then he leaves. Fortunately no one was hurt but very shook up. So we get dressed and head over there. Both girls are little things, Lil ME is smaller than me and M is a high schooler about the size of Middle Son, luckily they didn't try to do anything to stop this crazy ass guy! M's parents were on their way to pick her up at the time so they were there and Lil ME's hubby was on his way to pick her up so people were there shortly after this all happened. The guy apparently pried open the far back doors and then came down the hall and into the store. Lil ME thought the back door was closed, but looks like J (the closing guy) may not have gotten it closed all the way. The Man has been trying to get cameras installed in the store but hasn't had any luck. He's pretty pissed now, becuase at least they could have had part of it on tape. He's pretty shook up too and of course, worried about his staff. It looks like it might have been either a former employee who knew the routine or had help from someone who knew the routine/layout of the store. Police are investigating and hopefully will find this SOB! We got home a little before 2am, not a very good start to the week. Hopefully, no where to go but up from here.

PS. A giant THANK YOU to BFF T for coming to the rescue and getting up and staying at the house with the kids in case they woke up. We love you baby!

Feeling Groovy

2008-04-13T09:03:00.003-05:00

Actually I'm just listening to "Wild Thing" and I really like that song.
Had a pretty productive week and feel like I'm finally getting the hang of the new schedule. Seeing some new clients and that's an interesting experience. At least I'm starting to accumulate some real "hours" that I can count for licensure.

Cirque du Soliel, was AWSOME - I really enjoyed it and The Boys did too! Youngest Sons soccer game was cancelled yesterday due to the weather - so will have to wait until next week for the big day. He seems to be enjoying it, or so he says, so that is good. Oldest Son is doing pretty well in Track. Running the 2 mile, 1 mile, and 4x800 relay. He's not really happy with his mile time (last race run for the day) but is doing well (4th or better) in the other events and his times in those are pretty good! Middle son just kinda hanging out and chatting on the phone all the time!

The Cat trauma is pretty much over. Had the 2 kittens scheduled for declaw's and the female to be spayed. Only Brock (our female) wasn't up to day with her shots and so to be postponed. FYI - She HATES car rides. So got Mysti declawed which resulted in a week of newspapers in the litter box and down to one litter box, which none of the cats appreciated! Finally took Brock back to the vets for spay and declaw only to find out she had a major infection and they had to do a full hysterectomy (sp) and couldn't do the declaw. Apparently she also HATES taking medication and has to be chased about the house each time we need to med her. Fortunately last of her medication should go down her throat or down my shirt today. Still have to get stitches removed this week (sometime). Think I will hold off on the declaw for the moment. Had enough trauma!

Managed to break some kind of spring on the car. Don't know how but that's what I do! Called a friend to follow me down to where JJ works so we could get it fixed. Also had some problems with the shocks/struts thingy so needed those replaced too. Of course this has to happen on a Sat when The Man is at work and I have a million errands to run. Luckily Oldest and Middle Sons were at their dads and MIL came to get Youngest Son. Didn't know what was wrong with the car and was worried about driving it with The Boys. Sounded like a freakin' loud UFO as I was driving. Yeah - I know nothing about cars. Got the "you have to check your oil" lecture too. Hmmm, don't have a penis so that's not my job. But will now check it monthly (or something like that).

Have a pretty mellow week ahead, whick will make up for the chaos of the following week. Now just to get caught up on the last of my paperwork and laundry.

Connecting...

2008-04-06T10:11:00.002-05:00

So it's been a pretty cool week. I have reconnected with a couple of high school friends from Merry Old England and that has been kinda neat. Esp. since one I haven't talked to in about 15 years. The power of the internet.

On the home front, Oldest Son is back for the weekend and has 2 girlfriends he's juggling - told him if he is going to have two it would be better to have one at his dads and one here, not both here, esp. when they know each other. Middle Son went to a Hockey game and had a sleepover, black and orange face paint all over the sheets, guess that means more laundry! Youngest Son started soccer practice this week and we went and got him cleats and stuff. Still don't have the dates for his games, but seems like he has enjoyed it so far.

The Man has had a very busy week at work, but had most of Thursday off and all of today - WHOO HOO!!! Went to the Dr's this week to see about getting snipped, we have talked about this for a few years now and he's seems to have come to a decision on it. Told him I'm okay with whatever decision he makes, didn't feel it was really my place to advocate one way or another.

Family field trip today to see Cirque du Soliel, feeling pretty excited about that. Managed to get good seats and am hopeful that the kids will enjoy it. It's been a long time since we have been able to do anything with all of us together, so I am really looking forward to this.

Got all of my "comps" done for school, took a little longer than I thought but I got it all done on time. School and work are still busy, but things are settling down there and I am definately more relaxed. I think I am finally adjusting to the new routine. Got one cat declawed last week and go back to the vets tomorrow to get the other done and spayed (if the Dr has time). Only PITA is shredded newspaper in the litterboxes, so everyone is sharing one and it has to be changed every day. Doesn't smell too pretty - but such is the price we pay.

Officially Spring

2008-03-28T07:47:00.002-05:00

As I sat down at my computer this morning, I looked out the window, and in addition to seeing the usual multitude of squirrels (including short tail) I noticed a big fat robin. The first of the year. Hooray - spring is here!

As the world turns

2008-03-26T08:14:00.002-05:00

Whew - will this busyness ever end??? Had a good Easter - the Bunny was very good this year and we got a Wii. Have been having quite a bit of fun with The Boys and The Man playing on it. Ended up with a couple of extra peeps for dinner and one who didn't come. Actually worked out pretty well and then of course, we played on the Wii. (Ha Ha daddy - I have one and you dont!) Didn't realize that they were still so hard to find and had quite a time getting ahold of one. Saw Sis and Nephew over at Daddy & Mommy's and had a chance to catch up with everyone. So that was real nice too.

Work has been really busy and I can't seem to get caught up. New schedule is really throwing me off. Have 3 new mental health clients starting today (if they show up) so feeling a little stressed over that. More the paperwork stuff than actually working with the clients. FINALLY am able to get onto the computers at work - so that's a start anyway. Still procrastinating on my Comps for school, have to get them done or I don't graduate so I guess I will get my a** in gear soon. Also have a test tonight that I need to find time to study for. Hmmmm, maybe I should be doing that now?

Still waiting to see how Oldest Son did at his track meet yesterday and Youngest Son starts soccer practice next week, looks like things will get even busier around here. Oh well - such is life.

Out of sight, but not out of mind

2008-03-22T09:04:00.002-05:00

So I have been a little lazy getting this thing updated. I am still adjusting to my new internship/work schedule. And it is being refined still, so I am still struggling with where I am supposed to be on what day, but I think we have it figured out now. I have started seeing a couple of kids and it is going pretty well, I think. We have bonded over StarWars so that's a start. I am a little nervous about the kids group on starting on Monday, but hopeful it will give me some stuff I can use. I should have a mom and an older child starting next week, assuming she returns from detox. The paperwork is giving me fits, but that's life in the non-profit world.
The Man is finally getting his store in order and actually had most of Thursday off. GASP - SHOCK - AWE. His new MIT's are making progress and will soon be able to fly solo, and so his schedule is getting more managable by the week. He has mostly recovered from his fall at work and everything seems to be working fine (nudge, nudge).
We had an opportunity to see some friends that we don't get to see often and I FINALLY got to meet a couple friends from TX. I have talked to them on the phone, but in 8 years have never managed to meet them in person. We didn't have as much time to visit as we would have wanted, but we did have a nice time. Thanks to M/C for hosting the visit.
Oldest Son is home for the weekend. He had his first track meet this week and did okay. This is the first time he has run on an indoor track, but he did pretty well. The schools were from Class A down to D-1 (his class) so the competition was pretty stiff. Ex #2 actually brought him home, which took some coordination and planning (Oldest - yes this is my ex-step father, sort of complicated to explain). Of course, being home really means he shows up for $ and clean clothes and that's about it.
Middle and Youngest Sons were out of school this week and so were scattered around. Both seem to be doing pretty well. Had parent-teacher conferences and got good reprots. Middle son has atrocious handwriting and needs to be more on task, but his grades are good. Youngest son is doing awsome and at the top of his class academically. Unlike his brothers he appears to be better focused on task, but of course, this is only Kindergarten.
Okay - so that should catch everyone up. Will visit with Daddy & Mommy on Sunday and then have dinner at home with some friends (The Man has to work - of course). In-Laws have gone missing, so still don't know if we are making an appearance there or not. Busy, busy.

My authentic japanese name!

2008-03-15T08:41:00.000-05:00

My authentic japanese name is 秋本 Akimoto (true autumn) 美晴 Miharu (beautiful clear sky).
Take your real japanese name generator! today!
Created with Rum and Monkey's Name Generator Generator.

Busy Here

2008-03-10T11:42:00.002-05:00

Well made it through the first week of internship. Some ups (learning new stuff) and downs (going to the wrong place on the wrong day) Overall it looks promising. Have a audit at work the end of this week, so will be busy catching up files and such. Guess that means will have to actually get busy instead of procrastinating. Also school starts this week, so will have to find the time to go down and pick up my books. 3 classes left!!!!

The Man got injured at work, nothing broken, but bruised up. He actually went to the Dr's so that should tell you how much pain he was in. Last night we went to see Jeff Dunham, very good show and the last of the X-mas prezzies to be done.

Oldest Son was home for the weekend, he seems to be doing okay at dads and started Track & Field last week. He'll be running the 1 mile, 2 mile, and 4x800 relay. Their first competition is Thursday. The down side of course is that with the exception of a couple of weekend races, we won't be able to go and watch him. But if he makes State then at least we can go to that since it is here.

Middle Son is being more helpful around the house and getting Youngest Son out the door to school in the mornings. They are fighting less, which is a great relief for eveyone. Youngest Son starts soccer in a couple of week. Nothing like a bunch of drunk little people staggering around a field to make you laugh.

Stupid Females

2008-03-04T16:08:00.002-06:00

Okay - so sometimes is pays to be a woman. My tail light and blinker have been out for a week or so which basically left me with either a) waiting for The Man to fix it (which we be at least another month or until I get a ticket), or b) fixing it myself (see previous comment about tickets) or c) playing dumb. Well I chose to pick dumb.
Go into our friendly neighborhood Napa and say "gee it seems like my tail light and blinker thingy is out, giggle giggle, can you help me?, batting eyelashes".
"I sure can ma'am."
"Oh and also my wiper blades are kinda streaky, do you think that they should be replaced? giggle giggle, more batting of eye lashes."
"Well yes ma'am they probably should."
"Oh gee I hope they aren't hard to replace I just don't know anything about cars, wringing hands and looking demure."
"Not a problem, I can get you fixed up."
Fifteen minutes later, new wiper blades are on and new lightbulb is in place. Wow! Sometimes it's just too easy.

I'm so excited/nervous!!!!!

2008-02-29T08:31:00.003-06:00

So...Monday is the start of a big week - I start my internship (450 hours) at work. I am finally headed down the home stretch. So in addition to my regular work and school, I will be interning (unpaid of course - welcome to the not-for-profit world). What I know so far is that I will be working in the Sarpy Office in the Domestic Abuse Program and I will spend one day a week in the DV shelter. I will also be co-facilitating a kids group(ages 7-11). That I'm a little nervous about, having never worked with kids. Should be interesting. Also a little nervous about working with the women in the shelter. I usually work with the violent ones and not thier victims, but this should give me some better perspective.
After finals (today) I will only have 2 classes left! (well 3 if you count my internship seminar). WooHoo!!!! I get to graduate in June (that's June 7th, so mark your calendars NOW) but don't get the diploma until I finish my last class in August. It seems like forever since I started this journey and I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel and it feels really good.
GO ME

Icky Icky Icky

2008-02-20T08:54:00.002-06:00

Starting with the crappy weather - enuff said - kids are out of school and I'm house bound.
The Man is sick - they have been passing around a nasty flu/virus at work. Of course since everyone is out sick, he has to work. And when you are working 60-70 hours a week, it's not easy to recover. Ex #2 was also sick with it and had Middle Son this weekend, so waiting for everyone else to get sick too. A little congested this morning myself, but it could be from sleeping on the couch for 3 nights. Skipped the workouts, just too freakin' tired. Not to mention, a headache from you know where.
Did pretty well on the to-do list this weekend and spend a good chunk of today getting some of the other stuff done. Have plenty to keep me busy between work and school. So I probably should stop procrastinating and blogging and get busy.
Everyone stay warm.

Busy as usual

2008-02-16T10:30:00.002-06:00

To do this weekend - type evals, file taxes, pay bills, run errands, clean house, do laundry. Yeah, something like that.

Did a kid swap last night with a friend, traded an 11 year old for a 5 year old. I think that I got the better end of the deal and she thinks she got the better end of it. So everyone's happy.

Oldest Son is at his dad's, Middle Son will be heading over to Outlaw's house, and MIL is taking Youngest Son once he gets back this am. May actually have a little peace and quit around here. Guess I will have to stop offering them up to grandpa for target practice.

My internship is coming together - I will me with the person who will be my supervisor in about a week and get that all set up. I will mostly be working in the Domestic Violence Program and also some gambling stuff (if I can get the rest of my classes done for that). I am really excited about doing this and looking forward to getting it all started. It will require some rearranging of my current work schedule, but looks like it will all be good in the end. Have a bunch of stuff due at school in the next couple of weeks (papers and presentations, and such) but then I will only have a couple of classes left. Have already registered for Spring (just one class) and then in the summer (2 classes) and I AM DONE! Of course I still have comps in the spring, but they shouldn't be too bad.

Working out and eating better and feeling pretty darn good overall.

The hunter

2008-02-16T10:22:00.000-06:00

You Are a Hunter Soul

You are driven and ambitious - totally self motivated to succeed

Actively working to achieve what you want, you are skillful in many areas.

You are a natural predator with strong instincts ... and more than a little demanding.

You are creative, energetic, and an extremely powerful force.

An outdoors person, you like animals and relate to them better than people.

You tend to have an explosive personality, but also a good sense of humor.

People sometimes see you as arrogant or a know it all.

You tend to be a bit of a loner, though you hate to be alone.

Souls you are most compatible with: Seeker Soul and Peacemaker Soul

What Kind of Soul Are You?

Feeling Groovy

2008-02-14T08:43:00.001-06:00

Pants are fitting better and I'll be able to do my internship at HFS - yay! More details to follow.

Bragging Rights

2008-02-11T08:21:00.000-06:00

Just gotta brag on my family. Had mentioned in the past that Daddy had got a new treadmill and finally got to see it over the weekend, when we went over for NE Mommy's b-day.
So here's the scoop - I really like their treadmill, it's smaller and lighter than ours (fits better in a room that's for sure) it also had "crosswalk" arms. So if you picture an elliptical trainer with the "arms" and see them attached to a treadmill that's what it looks like. It also had a bunch of walking programs that mine doesn't, but you can't custom program. Overall I think it's a good fit for them.
On the family front then, we have Daddy doing 2 miles everyday (?) and NE Mommy doing a mile everyday (?) not really sure how often. Which I think is AWSOME! I consider their lifestyle as "typical" Go to work, go home, watch tv, go to bed, visit with friends on Saturday's and the grandkids on Sundays (okay, well when we make it over) So this is a big change for them. BIL W has been working out since the heart attack and Little Sis is a dental tech so she is on her feet and walking around quite a bit on her job. So everyone seems to be getting healthy.
My In-laws got bikes last year and ride them around during their various camping adventures, so pretty healthy there. FIL even quit smoking last year (mostly).
So our family is on the move! Pretty cool huh?

Feeling not so good

2008-02-07T08:28:00.000-06:00

Between my clients and my kids, not feeling very good today, so staying home. Although I will have to go to school. Did well on my exams in one class - will find out tonight how I did on my early final. Internship still up in the air, hope to know more by the end of the week.

Had to wipe the home computers, so will have to find everyone's web pages again. Starting from ground zero. The kids managed to pick up virus's causing the red screen of death - so we now have blank slates.

Work for me has been pretty steady. One of my clients got into a fight with a truck and lost, so went to see him yesterday in the hospital. Opiates weren't his drug of choice, but that might change. Poor guy just can't seem to catch a break. After many a discussion on why relationships are discouraged early in recovery (due to risk of relapse) with another client, who swore that his relationship was different (aren't they all?) and there was no way that they would break-up and even if they did, he wouldn't use - blew a .120 after his girlfriend dumped him. Uh, hello - do you get it now?????

The Man is crazy busy at work. Will be working 7 day weeks for the next couple of weeks. Resturaunt drama resulted in the loss of one counter person and one shift supervisor and a mess of a schedule. He says as long as he can say it's still better than Wendy's then he can cope. Will be stressful for all of us though.

Mommy #2 has a birthday on Sunday and will have to figure out what to get her. She is a little hard to shop for, but we will stop by with the kids for a visit anyway. Speaking of The Boys they are all doing okay at the moment or at least no worse than usual.

Anyway, I'm going back to bed.

Doing Good

2008-01-31T08:28:00.000-06:00

So I have upped the workouts this week. At the gym did an hour on the elliptical and an hour on the bike (not on the same day) plus swimming a few laps afterwards. Talk about spaghetti legs, if you've ever had the experience after getting off a workout machine and staggered around like a drunk, you know what I mean. Still working out at home in the mornings - so far have stuck to it pretty well. Will have to see in a few weeks if I can keep it up.

Things around the house are pretty quiet at the moment. Work has even been pretty mellow this week, except for one crazy ass client who calls me 5 - 10 times per day. Aarrgghhh. The rest of them are doing pretty well, suprisingly enough. Trainee is coming along and showing alot of promise. She is taking a more active role and I am pushing but not too much (or so she tells me). I think she will be a really good counselor one day.

Have a final exam in one of my classes today and a paper due tomorrow. The exam is early - like by a month - but we will be working on other stuff for the rest of the sememster.

Anyway, must get my butt moving to work. See most of you on Sunday, if not, have a good weekend.

Feeling Groovy

2008-01-26T09:45:00.000-06:00

Had a pretty good week actually. Work audit went okay, becuase we were able to get everything caught up and I actually had the missing stuff done, it just wasn't in the files, so everyone calmed down. Next time bet they'll give me some warning. Pretty much caught up and it looks like they are going to work with me on my internship stuff. Saves me the hassle of finding somewhere else. Have a job interview with another agency on Monday, but 99% sure I won't be taking it. NBD - just want to check it out.

The Boys were better this week (overall) and aren't fighting as much or driving me quite as crazy (last night being the exception of course). The Man finally has his hours at work somewhat under control and is not as much MIA as usual.

On the getting healthy bit - back on track with the exercise (even made it to the gym yesterday) and have gotten pretty consistent with the workouts. Eating healthy has been hit and miss, but it's getting better. Scale is back moving in the right direction, so that's a plus (or a minus???) So proud of my daddy who has invested in a treadmill and is actually using it! He is not fat by any means but is pretty sedentry. I am glad to see him taking care of himself. Because of the military I didn't necessarily know my grandparents really well and I want The Boys to know their grandparents.

The Man and I are trying to get our dates settled for our Colorado trip. Probably will be end of June/beginning of July. Don't want to go over the 4th of July holiday so will most likely be the week before or after. Have graduation in the beginning of June (strange to graduate before I finish my classes, but oh well). Mommy will be coming from CA and then we also have favorite Aunt and Uncle coming from England sometime in June, so we are trying to work with the dates. That and of course, The Man, has to clear the dates with work. My work doesn't get a say in the matter. Will farm out The Boys and spend some "couple time" in one of our favorite places.

Also, with the help of Oldest Son, have "myspace" up and running. More out of defense than anything else, have quite a number of friends there. For those who are interested it's also Kat's Having Kittens there. However, blog will stay here.
Well I hear my laudry calling me so best get moving.

Doing okay

2008-01-17T08:53:00.000-06:00

Not much going on around here at the mo'. Oldest son was home this past weekend - finally finished his community service and stuff for court, will send it to his PD and then we should be done with the court stuff. Kids were hoping for a "snow" day - no such luck.
Have been doing pretty well with the diet/exercise thing. But haven't been sleeping well and so not as good as it could be. Clients calling at 530am, makes it tough to stay motivated.
Work is busy as usual...have a potential job offer, will have to see how that goes. The Man is finally getting stuff organized at work and his hours are down to about 50 per week now. Makes it easier around the house anyway. Youngest son is over his "mood" for the most part.
Trying to get organized for the Super Bowl party and have a busy week next week at work and school. So hopefully will get everything done in time.

An "F" this kinda mood!

2008-01-11T10:44:00.000-06:00

Yeah, pretty sums it up. Was getting ready for school and decided "no, don't really want to go" so I didn't. Have tons to do around the house (which is pretty trashed at the mo). Nope not in the mood to do that either. Laundry? Dishes? Pick up kids crap? Nope, nope, nope. Maybe I should pay bills and balance check book, that would be a double nope. Have a bunch of stuff to do for work and a paper to start for school. Uh, did I mention nope and more nope?
Kids about to drive me around the bend...Youngest son being especially difficult this week and Middle son just egging him on...don't want to deal with that either. Clients calling and complaining...that's why I have voicemail! (will check messages just in case)
So...I am taking a mental health day (at least until I pick up oldest son) and will sit on my butt in front of the computer and play stupid games. Sometimes, it just has to be done - and frankly I am done dealing with crap and responsibilities at the moment. So there!

Other stuff!

2008-01-09T13:37:00.000-06:00

An additional kiss and hug to BFF T who was also in the "we all feel sorry for her, so we will bring her chocolate" group - thanks baby!

Doing to National Fitness Challange through Discovery.com. So far so good, kind of slacked off over the holidays. Did manage to lose 10-12 lbs last year and so I am half-way to goal. Doing very good at the exercise thing (again) but the whole eating the right thing is still a struggle. Oh well, baby steps. Actually if you can get around the community site it's pretty cool, but definately having some technical issues.

Work and school still pretty busy. I'm working on figuring out how to get my internship hours - have to start in March if I want to graduate in June, so maybe I'll procrastinate a little more. HA!

The Kids and The Man are re-adjusting to "normal" routines, so things are good.