Layla is read for her close-up. But, she prefers her right side to her left. *G* Actually they are all getting good at looking away when I take pictures now. Turkeys. Sounds like I need to learn a few photographic tricks.

Well, today was as boring if not worse than yesterday. Started with Mass, followed by dropping off the recyclables, with kids playing inside because it's raining (and with a friend of theirs, meaning more noise). Add in vacumming, making dinner, cleaning the downstairs bathroom and laundry and you've got my day. Gee, whatever would I do without all the housework from hades to do? Seriously, I did have time to read, but wasn't in the mood. Dh has gotten me addicted to this new game on one of the phones ( called the "Q") that he's testing for work. The game is called Bubble Breaker (I think that's the name). It's like a puzzle, sort of, which means I am SOOOOOO addicted and can't stop. Dude, (see I'm already learning the lingo) sometimes I play so long the bubbles start to blur and I get disorientated when I look up after stopping. Must. Stop. Playing. Game. Ooooh, I know what to do. I'm in the mood for peanut butter cookies. (See, I have the munchies, seriously addicted. Well, not to mention that dinner was HOURS ago!) And, well, I need a way to keep busy to stay awake, and away from the game.

I hope y'all are having a good time wherever, or whenever you are. I hope happiness follows you into the next year. I hope 2007 is the year you fulfill your dreams. And most of all, I hope you keep "talking" with me!!

An Irish blessing for your new year :

May your pockets be heavy and your heart be light.

May good luck pursue you each morning and night.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!! B.

Midnight is probably thinking "good golly Mom, enough with the pictures!" Do you know Son will pick him up and cart him around (longwise) and he doesn't hurt Son? He lets him. Go figure. I believe we have some might strange kitties. *g*

Visited the other county's library today. Picked up alot of books and a DVD of The Muppet Show for Son. He is loving it and was laughing out loud watching it. Also picked him up a DVD of Max and Ruby, a cartoon that Noggin shows, based on the books by Rosemary Wells. EVERYONE in the family loves this show. Max is just sooooo cute!! Oh, and yes, I did pick up some books AND so did the kids. I picked up:

Finding Your Mojo by Stephanie Bond, Date Me, Baby, One More Time by Stephanie Rowe, The Care and Feeding of Unmarried Men by Christie Ridgway, and She's the One by Patricia Kay (SSE #1744).

After our lovely trip to the library we came back home where I had the exciting task of 2 hours worth of ironing! But, Dh did make dinner for us. The manly mans meal of grilled steak! I think men like to grill so much because it involves fire. (Did I mention he did this in the heavy drizzle we have right now between the rain we've had all day?)

I want to wish you all a Happy New Years Eve. Thank you for sticking with me, through the boring times (of which there are many), the dramas (which there are many, because I have kids, pets and a DH!) and the funny times (see other answers!!). I have "met some of the most lfriendly, loving, warm, funny and sincere people this year. YOU ALL ARE THE BEST!

Goodnight, sleep well, B.

Butterscotch is quite the character. We've taken to calling him "Puppy". He follows us around the house, he wags his tale and he does that thing dogs do when you talk to them, the turn the head to the side thing. He is really sweet though, and the only time he doesn't purr is when he's in a deep sleep.

Today was interesting. In the sense that I got frustrated with Dh and Daughter. I was ready to go to the library, which closes early on fridays and they were sitting here eating a snack. Slowly. They knew we needed to go, I could have left them here and taken the van, only y'all remember me telling you the van is having some troubles? So, I didn't WANT to take the van and then have to call Dh. I would have had to come straight back anyway. Eventually I said something to them and we made it to the library with 10 minutes to spare, but not before making me cranky for almost an hour afterward.

To be honest, we didn't do much today. Just grocery shopping and to Petsmart for cat food, litter and a new high sided litter box for the down-stairs bathroom. They have the neatest cat condo's, but do the things HAVE TO cost over $100? We saw one the cats would love for $230. Ugh! Too pricey.

Anyway, have a good evening. I hope you have a good Saturday and accomplish everything to you need to. Sleep well, sweet dreams and may you find peace and relaxation in your slumber. Goodnight, B.

"I will kkeeeeeelllllllll you". Layla likes to play rough sometimes. It doesn't hurt and it is so funny to see her back feet doing the "jack-rabbit" thing. Oh, and she is so funny when you won't let her win! She stalks off and pouts.

We went to the movies today. It's the first time we've been in 6 months. Dh's parent wanted to take the kids to Night at the Museum and decided to invite us along as well. I have to say I was looking forward to this movie and it did not disappoint. Larry is a dreamer, inventing things and schemes that go no-where. Now he risks losing his Son's respect as his ex-wifes fiancee has become his son's role model. So, he decides to give up his schemes and takes a job, as a night guard at The Museum of Natural History. Little does Larry know, history lives on.....in more than one way. He finds that the museum comes alive at night, and his life will never be the same again. If you have kids, or just like to laugh ALOT, you need to go see this movie. My Daughter and Son both loved it, and I have put it on my list of movies to buy (when it makes it to DVD). Oh, and the cast includes Ben Stiller, Dick Van Dyke, Mickey Rooney and Robin Williams (to name a few).

Glad to know that my tastes in music aren't that different in their ranges. Sad to note, no one wanted the book I posted. Oh, well, I guess I can SHOCK the local library system by donating it.

I picked up some fleece fabric tonight to make Son a Darth Vader throw. It will go nicely with the comforter or quilt that he might get for his birthday. (If I can figure out how to make him one!) I've made a simple blanket for him, when he was a baby, but never a full-on quilt. He's really outgrown the Firetruck quilt that is currently on his bed, so we're looking for a Darth Vader or Star Wars quilt for him. I checked eBay, they have a few comforters, but I'm not buying right now. There was one quilt, but it was for $150. A little more than I want to spend. Wish me luck, but I have 3 months to fugure it out, Sons birthday isn't until March. (I like to plan ahead.)

Ah, enough of my maternal blathering. Y'all sleep well. Remember the dreams you have. Enjoy them. Goodnight, B.

Oreo just stares at us sometimes and I'm almost scared to wonder what she's thinking. She has been following me around the house today meowing. I know she's telling me to sit down so she can crawl in my lap. Poor baby. She had to wait hours before I finally sat down long enough for her to do so!

Did I mention that Dh gave me an iPod shuffle for Christmas? I've been putting music on it for the last couple of days (I had to watch Dh do the first song before I could figure it out. I am a Techno-goober.). And I have come to the conclusion that I am just plain STRANGE in my musical tastes. I have Metallica's Enter the Sandman, Indigo Girls' Galileo, Sing Sing Sing, a few of Lenny Kravitz, Ian Browns Forever and a Day, 2 Black-eyed Peas songs, and one or two Celtic Women songs on there. All in all, only 15 songs. (We don't buy too many CD's.) I have more to choose from, but I'm going to be using this to start back jogging again and wanted things with a good beat that would help to motivate my feet! Have you ever in your life heard of someone liking so many different genres of music. (I didn't put my favorite classical on there, Bach, because I can't find my CD.) I guess I'm just weird. What kinds of music do y'all like? Oh, and Dh is actually envious, of a gift he gave me! He wants the iPod shuffle he bought me for himself!! I told him our Anniversary (our 14th) is next month, maybe he'll get one. (I'll do anything to get the man to excercise!)

He cooked dinner tonight, Teriyaki Cornish Game Hens (they were supposed to be our Christmas dinner, but we ended up eating burgers because we stayed so long at my Dads.). They were wonderful and I am so happy not to have had to cook for a change! I lucked out and married a guy who likes to cook. But he won't bake, so there is a down-side. (I just spent the day doing laundry and vacumming everything!)

Um, I have won 3 books in the past couple of days and I am freaking out, because in my life good things just don't happen without being followed by VERY bad things. No, I'm not really being superstitious. I am serious. I won't go into detail, and this is bound to sound strange and stupid to all of you. But, I don't feel like I can enjoy this like I should. *sigh* I never, never expected to win. EVER.

Anyway, sorry I haven't anything else to talk about today. I'll probably have more to tell you about tomorrow (the In-Laws are coming over). And I'm going to try and visit the USB, because as I told Dh, I can never have enough books to read. (Not to mention, they only cost me a quarter as long as I have credit!) I am looking (and hoping) for a copy of The Damsel in this Dress by Marianne Stillings. Cross your fingers, I have been looking for it for for a few months now! (Yes, I know I could buy it new, but HELLO trying to save having to pay cover price!) I have a copy of Secrets vol. 10, if anyone wants it, e-mail me your address and I'll get it out very soon, no cost to you. (I can't give it to the library, I live in Bible-thumping country. And the UBS won't take many trade size.) Just be warned it is "spicey" in nature. *G*

Have a good day tomorrow. I hope it's full of smiles and good things. Goodnight and may Angles visit your dreams, B.

Meet Skeeter. (He's my guest kitty today.) He's one of my Dad's cats. He's so fluffy and soft, the only way to describe his fur is to say it feels like cornsilk (soft and light), well, except it doesn't stick to everything! *g* He still acts like a kitten and is sweet too.

How to describe today????? Dh had the day off so of course, any plans I had were out the window. We ended up sleeping late and started off to do errands late. Errands consisting of me spending my gift cards and taking back a pair of pants my MIL got me. Why? Why does she continue to buy me clothes? (And would you not know, she gave me the wrong reciept to return them, so I guess I'll have to give them to her to return. But, she knew I was going to return them, so that's allright.) Although, I shouldn't complain, my In-laws also gave me a gift card to BAMM!! I bought Venus Envy by Shannon McKelden and The Scot, the Witch and the Wardrobe by Annette Blair. I tried to spend my gift card to Bath & Body works that my SIL gave me, but I'm allergic to most everything they carry, so I gave it to Daughter. Dh gave me a gift card to Barnes&Noble and I got Bit the Jackpot by Erin McCarthy and Missing by Meg Cabot (the last in the series for 1-800 Where are you?). (Of course, I have balances left on the cards $2 on one and $3 on another.) You know $25 at a bookstore just doesn't go as far as it used to. Dh also got me an iPod shuffle, it's so tiny and cute! It'll come in handy because I need to get my butt back on the treadmill! So far Ive only put one song on it though! The kids and Dh all made out like bandits, Dh loves the laser level I got him most of all, he was playing with it not 5 minutes after unwrapping it! So that was my day. Spent it running around and listening to Son complain because he wanted to go home and play on the computer. After hearing from his Dad and I that if he didn't stop he wouldn't be able to play with the computer for a week if he kept up the whining, he stopped.

I'm sorry I didn't get around to posting last night. We went to see my Dad and take them their gift, by the time we got home it was late and to be honest my 1st thoughts (and actions) were for a shower to wash off the cigarette smell from my Dad's house. (Ppppp-uuuuuuuu, eeewwww) Dh had only gotten about 3 hours sleep and the kids had had a long day. So we went to bed kinda early. I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas. And tonight I also bid you goodnight! I hope you had a quiet day and that your sleep is restful and peaceful, Goodnight, B.

HI!! I'll have new photos and a new post up later today. It's a bit busy here right now with the Dh being off this week. Hope everyone had a great holiday!!
B.

I know, I know, it's not a picture of the kitties, but I really like this one! Anyway, I just wanted to say: MERRY CHRISTMAS!

May the love that He has showered upon us, manifest in your heart. God Bless you all.

Brandy

Not the best picture I've ever taken of Midnight, but I wanted to show y'all how he's matured. He's a very sweet and loving boy, when he's not busy eating or playing with his brothers and sisters. He's a good boy and Athena ADORES him.

Not too much to share today. Dh had an "errand" to run and then we went to Church for Mass, because we have to be at Dh's parents early tomorrow afternoon for lunch and presents for the kids. Then we have to drop in and see my Grammy and THEN we have a Party to attend for kids put on by friends of the In-Laws. AND Dh is trying to talk me into then going to Midnight Mass, when he has to be at work at 6am the next morning. I need some vitamins or something. I guess I'll just stockpile caffiene for the next day or so. Oh, back to today, we then went by Hollywood video to get a few movies for the next few days, My Super Ex- Girlfriend was funny, but I don't suggest watching it in front of kids, there were a few scenes that were sexual in nature and one nude scene from behind for Luke Wilson. We also picked up Monster House, the Nightmare Before Christmas and Stick It. (Um, Stick It and My Super Ex were my choices.) Then we had to run to WW because, of course, I ran out of tissue paper for the gift bags we're taking tomorrow. All in all, a pretty uneventful day. Tomorrow will be another story.

I am going to be super busy tomorrow, so I'll say goodnight now. Y'all have a good night's sleep, dream of Swans and Sugar Plum Fairy's. Of snow in the moonlight and the quiet that is around when everyone is alseep. Goodnight and sweet dreams, B. * Oh, and Merry Christmas Eve!*

Wish I could just sack out like Layla has. Ever wonder why kitties lay in positions that do NOT seem comfortable? I know I have *G*.

Not much to report today. I stayed home due to the rain, and a timing problem with the engine of my van *sigh*. We'll have it looked at later next week, but for now, I just prefer not to drive it. See why we're eager to get a new vehicle next year?
I baked polverones (aka: russian tea cakes, crescents, wedding cookies, etc.) for my Dh tonight. He adores them, they're actually the only cookie I make that he is ga-ga over. He likes my other cookies, but these don't last long around here because of him. And he doesn't have much of a sweet tooth. So it really is kind of amazing.
I think Daughter is catching on tht her Mom and Dad are Santa's Helpers. She makes comments one way about it, then turns around and sounds so innocent about it, so we're not sure what to believe. I'm not eager for her to know, but I know that it's getting harder every year to surprise her. My little girl continues to grow up. I don't think I'm ready for it.

Here's where I confess to a very bad thing. I broke down in tears last night. I had to cut Son's hair (he's scared of the salon) and he kept jiggling around and I nicked his ear. He started to cry and complain and I just started to sob that no one appreciated all I did and that I took care of everyone else, but that no one seemed to care about me. Part of this had to do with the fact that I am missing my Mom( her birthday and the holidays are so close) and upset over the lack of relationship with my Father, and yes, part of it had to do with the fact that I do EVERYTHING around here. Dh goes to work, comes home, does his schoolwork, goofs on the computer and goes to bed. Daughter has to be fussed at alot lately, due to emerging adolesence I have no doubt. Son has started whining alot leading me to believe we have been spoiling him lately, and I just couldn't take one more thing. DH gave Son his bath, and they walked around on eggshells around me for the rest of the night. I was a bit better last night after having a good cry, I don't do that too often. And I'm better today, I just needed to let it all out. Which leads to today. My Dad called. He invited us over on Christmas Eve Day for a family dinner they're having(we already made plans with the In-Laws) and I told him I wasn't sure but that we'd try to drop by. He also told me that my Grammy had been in the hospital for a colon infection for the past week and a half and was released yesterday (guess I know why I couldn't reach her by phone) and that she'd be there on Sunday. Nice of them to tell me about her being in the Hospital before now! Anyway, we talked for over an hour on the phone and I'm not getting my hopes up, but it was nice to talk to him for a bit.

That's it from my house. I hope all of you had a better time! I'm fine today, except for a sinus headache. Y'all have a great Saturday and try to enjoy yourselves whether you go out in the craziness that is Holiday shopping or stay away from it. I hope you have a great day, I hope it is filled with happiness and laughter. Sleep well, sweet dreams and goodnight, B.

Bookends, Brothers and Best friends. This is why I couldn't just take one of them when we were faced with a choice. I love them both very much and as much as Fireball lives up to his name, and Butterscotch his as well, I couldn't imagine not having both of them in our home. (And they stole my chair again!!)

Today was just -"another day in the neighborhood, another day in the neighborhood". If you watched PBS as a child you know where I got that reference. Seriously? I spent the day at home, I cleaned out and vacummed the van and did laundry. Fun. Oh, and I did clean up a roll of t.p. shredded, off my downstairs bathroom floor. Fun times. Can someone explain to me how a cat can pull out the stopper (the metal kind) out of the sink? And why they would want to play with it?

I did have to run to Wally-World, Dh and I were counting and Son had one more gift than Daughter from Santa and I couldn't have that. So.....off to WW to pick her up something. I ended up with a rubik's cube(while she was with me I might add! And she didn't see a thing!), she's been wanting one and I almost got her one last year for a Christmas gift, but when I went to get one last year they were sold out. Dh looked earlier this week at another WW and they were out of them. But, I had to go out tonight because DH wants to give out his candy bags to the people he supervises tomorrow and....guess what. He forgot to get any bags. Do you know how many isles I had to go down to find the ones I did? And they were out of Holiday treat bags, I had to get hot pink striped ones. Which is okay, because I just paired it with a metallic purple ribbon and some jingle bells for each bag.(Not everyone does the red/green thing for holiday colors, right?) It looks cute, I think so any way. It works, which is all that matters. Daughter helped me fill the bags with candy and candy canes and Son ate the leftovers *g*. He's a HUGE chocoholic!

Anyway, that's it from me tonight. I haven't felt well today. Woke up with a sinus headache and just felt icky all day. So, I'm off to bed. I hope you sleep well and enjoy tomorrow as it's Friday and the last day before the end of the week. Sleep well, be safe and dream of things that make you happy. Goodnight, B.

Butterscotch is fascinated by the screen saver we have on the "big" computer in the LR. The screensaver is a Microsoft one of a Fireworks type ball bouncing all over the screen. He looked EVERYWHERE for that ball!! Hahahaha!

Today was pretty quiet. I haven't been anywhere since Sunday and haven't minded either. But, I just figured out that I need to go to the UBS tomorrow, because DH is off all of next week and if I want to keep from going nuts while he's home, I better have something to do. Well, almost all of next week, he has to work Christmas day, but we knew this a couple of months ago. The kids and I are going to wait until he gets home (He will work 6am-3pm) and no,they don't mind. We kind of don't mind because this keeps us from having to do the In-Law thing. Instead we're going over Sunday afternoon. Say a prayer for me to survive.

Guess what I did today. This won't mean much to y'all, but my Son is having a blast! I learned how to make the Newspaper hats!!! YAY! (I was looking for origami stars.) Son is running around with his and a fake sword and is pretending to be a pirate! I love it!! He's so cute. It's all downhill from here. He won't be cute, cuddly and 4 years old forever. But, he tells me he loves all the time. *sigh* Does he have to grow up? Can't I just keep him small for , oh, say, the next 10 years or so?

Y'all it finally turned cool here again and I for one am glad. It did not feel like Winter (officially it will be, tomorrow) until today because it was 70 degrees here yesterday!

I am wishing for everyone to have a good evening. To enjoy a quiet time to feel at peace and for your sleep to be full of dreams that are your hearts desires. Please have a good Thursday. Goodnight, B.

Even Layla had to give the catnip plant an investigation. She likes it, just not as much as Patches. I've been thinking maybe their reactions aren't that off considering none of them have ever seen live catnip before. Usually I buy it dried.

I just wanted to THANK all of you. You were really nice in your comments even though I had a mini-rant yesterday. I appreciate all the support. Today has been better, even though Daughter is giving me fits because of her attitude this week. You'd think being this close to Christmas she's be on her best behavior? NOPE. She's hit the stage where she will say "yes ma'am" to my face and then do whatever she thinks she can get away with. Adolescents(sp) are a pain the the butt!

I've decided to let my Dad get in touch with me, I made the last contact, I even sent him a Christmas card AND earlier this month sent him one of the pictures of the kids with Santa we'd had taken at the Mall. And if I don't, well, at least I know where I stand. Is it very sad that Dh's parent's have always been there to offer support to us, even though at other times they drive me crazy?

Oooohh, I have a question for you. I already know the answer, but I want to make sure my reaction was right. At Dh's family Thanksgiving dinner we went to last month, Dh's sister plunks down photos in between Dh and I, in which (the photo) she is standing in front of her hunting "trophy"( a dead buck). WE WERE EATING!!!! I just averted my head. Then she starts asking us if we want some deer meat, again and again, even after I (and DH) refuse (politely) over and over. WTH? Once should have been enough, right? My question, even though I know the answer, should I have said something to her about the photos? I didn't, just kept my mouth shut. That was the polite, keeping peace in the family, correct thing to do. Right?

Y'all have a good night. Just think, Christmas is in under a week now. Hopefully all the rush and bustle will have been worth it for our families and friends. I hope your evening is restful and relaxing and that you wake refreshed and in good spirits. Goodnight, B.

I know I'm going to hear about this not being a kitty picture, but I wanted to show you this beautiful Angel. I originally bought this for my Grammy, but Daughter and I loved it so much we decided to keep it. (I bought Grammy a pretty jewelry box instead. ) I just want to apologize if the post below is too depressing for you. I hope your tuesday is peaceful and filled with good humor. Goodnight, B.

Butterscotch acts so much like a dog sometimes, that we've started calling him "Puppy". He is also a bit clueless. He'll follow us around the house and wag his tail!

WARNING: RANT AHEAD!

Want to know about my exciting day? Too bad, because it was boring as heck. I stayed home all day. I've felt out of sorts and a bit "sharp' in my temperment. Part of it is hormones, I only get this way maybe once or twice a year, the other is today would have been my Mothers 57th birthday and I miss her. Which brings me around to my Dad and lack of relationship there! Ugh!! And I have been craving sweets like crazy! (Okay, more crazy than usual! *G*) This time of year is usually easy for me to ignore all the treats everywhere, but I've been a bit depressed this year and it makes it really hard to ignore them! I guess I'm going to have to pick up my excercise schedule. Which I haven't been in the mood for either.

Want to know how out of sorts I've felt today? I haven't been able to read. For me, that's bad. I guess tomorrow will be better. Um, I know this is bad to say, but I wish Christmas were over already. I thought we were done shopping, but Dh called and reminded me tonight that we give goody bags (candy) to the people he supervises. *sigh*I swear I feel like our bank account is bleeding money this week.

RANT OVER!

Y'all have a goodnight. It's only a week until Christmas and I'm sure everyone will be glad to have the crowds relax. I hope y'all get plenty of rest and enjoy your sleep (and your dreams). Seriously. Have a good day Tuesday, B.

Patches loves the catnip I got for the kitties as a Christmas present. Actually, out of all the cats, she loves it the most. Butterscotch is afraid of it, it doesn't seem to affect Fireball, Midnight likes to chew it, but no silliness is involved and Layla likes the way it smells but doesn't roll around for it like Patches will. Athena could also care less. *sigh* I wanted t do something nice for them, but looks like it was for just one of them. But, I have a chance to redeem myself, stinky goodness will be served to them on Christmas day.

Nothing much happening in my life today. We made it to Church on time, and afterwards dropped off recyclables. Then we checked out a new grocery store that opened in our area called "Blooms". It was nice, but a bit expensive when compared to Wally-World. It was nice that because they just opened, they were doing things to draw customers. The kids decorated a sugar cookie for free and were allowed to put sprinkles, icing (3 colors), M&Ms and different sprinkles. They had a blast and Sons didn't even make it home. Then we stopped off to look at Jeeps because we have put MAJOR miles on our van. (You kind of do that moving cross country and all.) And then Dh commuted for over 2 months with it before we bought him a car. This new vehicle would be mine. We also want to go a tiny bit smaller and I still want to be higher than riding in a car. That is my biggest requirment. Oh, and don't worry, we're not looking at Wranglers. They'e too small and in MY OPINION, they are too small when you have kids. Y'all have no idea much peraphanalia kids take everywhere!
After all that we came home and vegged for a bit, after eating lunch, and then I had the fun, fun, super fun (sensing the sarcasm here??) of ironing Dh's clothes. Almost 2 HOURS of ironing. Agh!

So, that's it from me. Another jolly old day in Brandy-land. Have a good evening. Since we got the kids up early, they are about ready to sack out. I might even get to spend some time with Dh without feeling like I'm in the Wizard of Oz (you know, all the little people around). This is going to be a mess of a week. If you have to leave your house this week, try to be patient. And while you're doing stuff for others, treat yourselves! Goodnight, sleep well and may your dreams be merry and bright, B.

I can't remember what made Fireball puff up his tale and get that ridgeback of fur (which is sad because it was only yesterday), but we thought he looked so funny! He doesn't puff out like alot of cats do, more like grows a ridge of hair up his back like that weird hog (can't think of the name, I am sooooo old) but he starts at everything too. Which, um, makes for fun times with the kids purposely sneaking up behind him and tapping him. And he can jump like Tigger from Pooh Bear. (I think we may have misnamed him.) I swear, he can jump straight up.

Okay, remember how I said I was done with my shopping? Yeah, no. We had to go out today because at the family Thanksgiving thing Dh's family did they drew names for the kids and I had to try and guess what to get these kids, but gave up and decided on Toys R Us gift cards ($10 each, the limit for gifts for the draw). People, remember how I warned y'all last night? Oh goodness, it was worse. See, Dh drove, and all kidding aside, he was doing it wrong. (it was my van, I can say that. If it was his car, he'd have been ok.) Well, he did a few things wrong like take the wrong exit out of the mall, but other drivers? Bad, very bad. And what's with the whole cutting off an intersection thing? Don't they know that's illegal? Jeez, some people do not deserve Drivers Licenses. Even Daughter was piping up from the back seat fussing at the other drivers. And the reason for the trip to the mall? We were going across the street to Toys R Us and Son wasn't feeling well today (drainage, ugh) and was very weepy.(trust me, I would not have taken a sick kid out of the house, but there was no fever and if I didn't go today it would have been worse in public later this week) I couldn't get him to eat all day until we were almost where we needed to go and he wanted Pizza. We asked him to wait until we were done, but he started sobbing, soooooo being right there anyway, Pizza from the Mall it was. And he ate every bite and felt better afterward, Thank God! Although he still is pale and his voice is scratchy. But, no more tears. I can't stand it when they cry. It beaks my heart.

I just wanted to mention that I appreciate all y'alls comments on how you don't find me boring. Thank you so much for those. I started this blog thinking if I was lucky I might get commenters, I might not, but that I needed an outlet that didn't require me to actually 'go out' of my house. And then, in the course of a little over a year, I have "met" all of y'all and I wish I could tell you how much y'all have ment to me, and my sanity some days! I so look forward to checking everyones blog and "talking" with y'all. So, THANK YOU for being there, for being who each of you are, but most of all for being so nice to me.

Oh, and another reason we had to go out today? The library called and You Don't Know Jack by Erin McCarthy was FINALLY in! AND Dh lost one of Son's gifts from Santa. Men. Can't live with them, can't make them do laundry! Kidding. We had to go replace the gift he lost somewhere between the van and the house. Yeah, I don't see how he did it either, but there you have it! NOW I am done. Because while out getting some more Tums for me, I swear I eat them like a kid does tic tacs, I also picked up Stocking Stuffers (Dh distracted the kids in the Electronics dept..). So this time, I am done, done, done! And if I say I forgot something? Shoot me. (Again, kidding.) There is no way in Hades I am leaving the house this week to go anywhere near a Wal-Mart, a Mall, or a Toy store. This is my solemn vow. Hahahaha! Sorry, I just reread that and I sound like a loon. But, I'm going to leave it because well, I'm at least part loon!

Ya'll have a good night. Get some rest to gear up for this last week. If you have to leave your home......I feel for you. *g* Sleep tigh, goodnight, dream huge! B.

I just had to show y'all the hat the Balloon guy made for Daughter last night at Dh's company Christmas party. Is this thing not adorble? How someone can make a penguin out of Balloons actually does take talent. I don't know why I thought otherwise.

Today was spent doing all the normal fun things I do on Dh's payday. You know, like paying bills (gotta love EFT!), grocery shopping and even a side trip to the Post office thrown in for fun!! The thing that bugged me and made me proud all at the same time? My kids were the most well behaved at the Post Office. They were quiet, stayed out of the way, didn't crawl all over the mail slots and tables and they were so sweet about wanting to mail the things I took in, that I let them put them through the slots. One kid crawled up one of the ledges where the slots were and tried to climb the handles for the slots before an EMPLOYEE, not the parent, noticed and had to ask whose kid it was and could they get their kid down before he got hurt. I know where my kids are at all times, I never take my eyes off them, and they sure as heck know better than to try a stunt like that!! I couldn't believe my eyes.

In other news I also have wrapped all the gifts, except the 2 2foot tall copper bird feeders. I have no idea at all how to tackle those. I may try to find tall bags for them. The kids are all excited, wanting to shake and heft the gifts trying to figure out what they are. Daughter has already picked up on the "good things come in small packages" for girls thing. (Get your mind out of the gutter people!) Son is getting so excited that every day now he's asking if tomorrow is Christmas. Every commercial on TV that features a Santa also gets him excited. We watched The Polar Express last night (Dh's parents bought it for them last year and Son has seen it over 10 times). Son can qoute the movie and tell you what a character will do (pull out watch, put on hat, etc.) next. He loves the song "Hot Chocolate" and dances and jumps around the LR when it comes on in the movie. He's so much fun to watch.

I appreciate y'all sticking with me and reading my boring blog posts. I know I'm not funny, or exciting and the fact that you still read and comment is so sweet. Now, y'all get some rest because tomorrow is saturday and if you have to go out in public you're going to need it. Remember to be careful and try and behave. I've seen some scarey people in the last few days, meaning nasty in temperment, not truly "scarey". Sleep tight, goodnight, B.

I don't know whether to be worried because these are 2 boy cats or just Awwwww at them! Oh, wait 3 boy kitties. I thought it was funny how Butterscotch was holding Midnight. No one can say my kitties don't have their sweet moments.

The Christmas party at Dh's work was tonight. The kids had a blast! In the Santa's Worshop Dh and I had thought that because of the name, they'd be making ornaments or something. NOPE! There was a company there called Animalland. They are like a portable Build-a-Bear Workshop thing. The kids whose parents had RSVPed were given tickets earlier this week and each ticket (one per child) were for an animal of the kids choice, to be stuffed and stuffed with a star with a wish from the child whispered upon it. I can't believe his company did something so generous! My kids were astounded! Daughter picked a white tiger with blue eyes and Son picked a Ginger kitty. After that we visited the balloon guy. He was so funny and was part comedian! He made Daughter a hat with a penguin and Son a sword, because that's what Son asked for. After that we ate. They provided a buffett. Well, actually, they provided 2 different buffetts. One for kids with chicken strips, tater tots, mac-n-cheese, pigs in blankets and cookies. The adults got things like Bourbon meatballs, fettuccini alfredo, spinach baklava bites and poppy seed rolls (there was more, but that's what Dh ate!). After that we saw Santa and the kids had their picture made with him. Dh got to come down and spend some time with them while we were doing all this (he works a funky schedule, 3:15pm-12:15am). All in all it was a fun time for the kids, and I was so relieved to finally leave. There had to be hundreds of poeple there! It was so noisey! We walked out and I just stood a moment and enjoyed the quiet. Well, as quiet as it can get with an 11 year old and a 4 year old who don't know how to quit talking!

AND, I even put on a touch of makeup for the occasion. Hahaha! See, I'm allergic to alot of stuff and never wear it because my skin tone is pale and clear anyway, but whenever I want to "dress up" I put on my eyeliner (just under, lightly) and mascara (lightly). You can laugh now. I know that's a pitiful amount, but for me that's dressy. I used to wear more when I was in HS, but it always made my face itch, and after a while I stopped wearing it at all. I swear I'm not bragging, but I've had people ask me what brand I wear and when they find out that I wear nothing they are amazed. Unless blistex counts? What about y'all? Do you ladies wear make-up? Did your Mom teach you, or did you figure it all out on your own? My Mom always told me when it comes to make-up, less is more. And she let me play around with it when I was way young, so that I'd never hide it later on and end up over applying. Geez, I bet y'all are bored out of your ever-loving minds right about now. Sorry *G*! I have NO idea how I got on that topic, oh wait.....

My brain is fried, so I'm going to veg until I go to sleep. Y'all have a good evening and enjoy the fact that tomorrow is friday, the weekend is almost here. Hope your Christmas shopping is done. Sleep well, sleep tight and sweet dreams, B.

In case you didn't believe me about the leap-frogging Athena did around the tree! She's been pretty good for the past few days. Maybe she got it all out of her system. I'm crossing my fingers.

For the past 2 days I've come downstairs to shredded toilet paper in the downstairs bath ALL over the floor. At first we really did think Athena was the culprit, but after catching him in the act we found out it's actually Fireball. He attacks the roll of paper like it's a mouse or something. SPASTIC does not cover the description.

Did I tell y'all what I finally picked out for the In-Laws? We got them a VERY nice copper bird feeder and a gift card to the movie theater. They have a few bird seed bags, but nothing really nice and they love to feed the birds and go to the movies. I think we did good. Um, we got my Dad and Step-mother the same thing, well, the bird feeder anyway. Now I just need to figure out how to get it to them. See, I just figured out something the other day. My Dad and Step-Mother are smokers. Dad will usually go outside to smoke when we visit, but my Step-Mother won't. Both Dh and I have a sensitivity to smoke but bore with it. UNTIL. Until I noticed the past couple of times (Um, yes, a few months ago, but still) that the kids come down with cold-like systems the day after we visit them, and that DH and I get really congested and the drainage is awfull. Gee, it only took me 3 YEARS to figure it out. But, then again, it's not like I'm real close to my Dad and I can count our visits out to his house on both hands for one year. And they never visit us. EVER. So, do I go out there and visit and make not only myself, but my kids sick, or do I wait until he finally remembers he has a Daughter and grandkids and call me to explain? I could just visit my Grandmother and give her Dad's gift. I might do that, except that she lives on the same road as my Dad and he'd see me visit her, but not him....... *sigh* And through all this my feelings are still hurt that his wife could care less about keeping me informed about things AND my Dad could seem to care less about us. If I dwell on it, I get depressed, so........I need to think about something else. Anyone know how to wrap a 2 foot tall copper bird feeder?

My Daughter is driving me crazy, I'm stressed out over my family,Christmas, my Mom's birthday was the 18th, and my Dh is working LATE and can't be my sounding board, not that I would say anthing to him anyway. He's busy with work and his Masters and I just hate to burden him sometimes with what I feel are MY problems not his. Anyway, have a good night. Try to rest, the end of the week is near. Sleep well and try to imagine a time when you were most happy. Goodnight, B.

These are the Holiday Kitty dessert plates my MIL bought me. She finally figured out after 16 (almost 14 years married) years that she can buy me things with kitties on them and I'll keep them.

Who me? I didn't touch the woodchuck.( You can just see that in her eyes.) No, she only rolled all over the floor on top of it. Oreo is one of many fans of the Catnip Woodchuck I picked up a few months ago! I was wondering what to get the cats for Christmas (yes, we do that), and am thinking about a getting them a catnip plant. What do you guys think? (Oh, and please excuse the mess on the bookshelf for the LR.)

The In-Laws stopped by today and we had a good visit. I sometime forget how nice they can be, when I have to deal with them on other occasions when they are manipulative. MIL has figured out that I love kitty things. She brought me some Holiday kitty dessert plates to hang in my plate rack in the kitchen. I'll post a picture tomorrow.

I finally got the urge to bake tonight. I decided on my Lemon Biscotti. It's a huge pain in the butt to grate the rind by hand instead of using fresh, but that's what I prefer. I hope some makes it until tomorrow. I can be greedy when it comes to this biscotti. It's Yummy! Maybe tomorrow I'll bake some more. Maybe peanut butter cookies. My kids want me to make chocolate covered marshmallows. No baking included, so maybe that as well.

I hope y'all are having a good week. Dh's work is throwing the employees kids a Christmas party on Thursday. It's the first time since he's been with the company that they are doing so. I hope it goes well. The kids are looking forward to it. There's going to be a catered dinner, pictures with Santa (free!!) and a Santa's workshop where the kids will be making ornaments. They are also giving a Santa's letter to be taken home that the kids will fill out and they've asked for donations of gift cards to a local womans shelter , which I thought was really nice.

Okay, that's it for tonight. I still have to ice the Biscotti and maybe sample one or two *G*. Have a good evening. Sleep well. Dream of wonderful things like HUGE sales, or wonderful books, or huge sales on wonderful books, or......well, y'all fill in the blank. Goodnight, B.

Isn't Athena adorable? She just has this look. Like "what the heck are you doing? I have to tell you that Sunday afternoon when we put the tree up, before decorating it, we gave it time to fall open. Athena decided to help the bottom branches. By playing Leap Frog with them. She jumped from one branch to another. And even made it halfway up the tree before falling out. It's funny. She's the only cat I know who doesn't like heights, she wouldn't go any higher.

Oh, and when I came downstairs this morning.....I had to put about 5 or more ornaments BACK on the tree. I can't name names, but I have my suspicions on the gremlins who have caused this mischief.

Today was a quiet day, which in alot of respects I enjoyed, I just don't feel like I accomplished much. Y'all have a good night and I hope your Mondays weren't too bad. Sleep well, sweet dreams, B.

So......yes, I seem to have WAY too much fun playing with the kitties. But, they are my stress relievers. I just feel better when I pet them and it's so much fun to play with them. I couldn't imagine my life without them. But, most especially Layla. Pink is her color, isn't it?

We put our tree up today and decorated it tonight. My stand is OLD, like 1950's old. It rotates and plays music by a music box inside and there is another switch for the lights as well. I inherited it from my Mom. It 'makes' Christmas for me. Because this is the stand I danced around as a child and it is so special to be able to watch my children do the same. Memories made, then and now. My Dh sort of understands. He likes it, he just doesn't have the emotional attachment to it that I do. But, he has replaced a switch and will rewire it this year, for me. I love that man so much.

I'm feeling sappy tonight, can you guess?

I've found another holiday meme, but I'll wait to see if anyone else will post it first. I am really weird about these. Squawkradio (Christina Dodd, Eloise James, Lisa Keypas, Teresa Mederios, Elizabeth Bevarly, and Connie Brockway are all Squawkers.) Squawkradio is having a type of contest/membership drive this week. They are giving away books and some ARCs. (Oh, and this is where I found the meme.)

I have been super tired all day and felt like I was dragging. Yet, we still managed to find a gift for Dh's parents and my Dad and Step-Mother. We are going to get Dh's parents one more little thing because as much as they annoy me and try to control us, they really have been good to us. They are always there for us and they've had a really bad year healthwise for Dh's Dad. (He's doing great btw!)
Oh, Dh made a 97 last week for his class and got 15/15 points for a paper he wrote (that was 20 page long). I am so proud of him!

That's it from me! I am about ready to drop. Y'all have a good evening and sleep well. I hope your dreams are special. Goodnight, B.

Not the same picture I posted before even though I know you're thinking it is. The other had Fireball and Butterscotch, this one has Fireball and Midnight. Aren't they just 2 very cute buddies!

I'm very tired so this post is going to be short. The highlights of my day:

-Bought our Christmas tree. (Can I just say it was COLD tonight?)

-Had a Moolatte from Dairy Queen, OMG so good!

-Went to Palmetto Home and Garden Store (lots of different vendors with lots of different home things like furniture and home decorator things, leading to......Daughter saw an old rotary dial phone in there and asked HOW you dialed a number. I swear Dh and I shared a look and then cracked up. Of course I did show her and she thought it was the neatest thing in the world and wanted to buy it (it was 1940's iron phone). I like old phones and might have, IF it didn't cost $95!!!

-Went to NC to see McAdenville, the lights were beautiful. (Too bad the traffic wasn't!)

-Had to go to 2 truck stops on the way home for the kids to use the bathroom. Dh had to hold Son OFF the floor to reach the male thing on the wall because it was so high. Hahahah!

-Didn't get home until after 1 am. I am SO tired.

All right y'all. That's the condensced version. We survived the hour and a half drive to see a town full of lights for 15 minutes. Whose idea was that anyway? Oh, yeah, DH's. I may smother him while he sleeps. KIDDING. I'm off to bed, y'all sleep well and try and relax tomorrow. Goodnight, B.

I just love this look on Oreo's face. Kind of a cross between "what you lookin' at" and "oh no, not you again". She just exhudes attitude. It's funny but if one of the other cats gets within a half foot of her, she growls at them and stalks off. And anyone who says cats don't have personalities is SO wrong.

Had Mass tonight and the kids were pretty much well behaved except when Son decided to talk in the middle because he wanted more gum. After eating 3 pieces in the space of 15 minutes. Hey, at least he likes spearmint. The biggest thing that bothered me about tonight? I couldn't find my gloves and the steering wheel was freezing!

Earlier this afternoon, I was doing my Yoga and the cats would wind under and through my legs. It's not bad enough that they think my Yoga mat is a scratching post! No. They play with my braid when I'm bent over too. Am I some kind of jungle gym to them? Even I have to admit it was pretty funny, though. And I really don't mind all that much, well, except about my Yoga Mat.

I hate to say it. But, other than these things, and except for fussing at Daughter about her paper that is due tomorrow, that's it for me. Tomorrow we are going to get our Christmas tree and take a small road trip about an hour away to see some Christmas lights. There's a town called McAddenville (NC) that the entire town decorates for the holidays. It's a tradition to visit every year, not just for us, but for a lot of people around here. I hope your weekend is lively and that you get enough sleep to enjoy it. Try to find some way to treat yourself tomorrow. No one said it had to be huge or expensive, shoot, just a small peice of candy if you want, but be nice to yourself and try to do a good deed for someone else. (For me this is usually allowing someone out of a parking lot or holding a door open. For my DH it's not revving his engine as people walk in front of his car!) (Men.) Anyway, have a good saturday, B.

My last kitty in Santa hat pictures. Patches looks the most dignified I think. She seems calm and accepting of her fate.....having a crazy KittyMama.

Okay, I don't talk much about tv on here, but has anyone else seen the new show Men in Trees with Anne Hasche? I am loving it! It's fresh and funny and I wish I lived in Alaska where the show is set. It's full of quirky characters and beautiful scenery. Okay, enough fan blubbering from me. I have been enjoying watching all the old holiday shows for kids with my kids. I picked up Emmet Otters Jugband Christmas today for my Son, he seemed to really enjoy it. We watched Santa Claus is coming to Town last night, you know, the one that is narrated by Fred Astair? Son seemed ecstatic that 'Kris Kringle' aka Santa Claus had red hair. Um, have I mentioned that Son is a redhead? He was so funny about it! "Santa has red hair like me!!" (Hello, he's 4!) Hahaha! Trust me it was too cute. Okay, I know, enough about my kids, right?

I picked up a new book tonight when I had to run and pick up a few things from the libray and Wally-World. The premise sounded funny and it's a holiday themed book, so wish me luck because I've never read a book by Carly Alexander before. The book is called The Secret Life of Mrs. Claus. I'm crossing my fingers that I like it.

It's really cold and windy out tonight and to be honest I wouldn't have minded, but when we went out earlier and I first stepped out of the house, I thought it wasn't so bad, I didn't take my coat and was only wearing a sweatshirt. UNTIL. Until I had to pump gas. Bbbrrrrrr! I won't make that mistake again. My point being, if it's as cold there as it is here, be careful tonight. Cover up and take all the normal precations. Take care of yourselves and enjoy the fact that the weekend is almost here. Tomorrow is friday and I know alot of you have to be thinking TGIF. Sleep well, sweet dreams and Goodnight, B.

Today's holiday picture is brought to you by Butterscotch. He is a bit......um, odd. See, when we put the hat and scarf on him, he didn't try to escape. He just....sat there. Looking confused. Don't get me wrong, he's sweet, very, very sweet. He does act alot like a dog, though. He wags his tale and begs for affection, and follows Dh around the house like a puppy.

Well, I spent most of the afternoon making chocolate chip cookies for Daughter to take to her RE Christmas party tonight. According to her the cookies were a hit. Dh took the day off to spend some time with us, but mostly to work on a business management paper he had due tonight. Also, he needed a break from a co-worker who is asking him to do more and more of his work for him. His co-worker started out by asking for a favor every now and then, but now is asking almost daily. I asked Dh how this guy got promoted if he can't even do the work the job entails, and he had no answer to give me. He did say he was going to start telling this guy that he needs to deal with his own work.
Anyway, while Daughter was at RE Dh and I took Son to The Sports Authority (Son asked) to have a look around and then spent a few minutes at BAMM, which was located next door. After all that we picked Daughter up and dropped off the recyclables and headed home. All in all, a quiet day.
Has anyone else noticed the increase in trafic where y'all live? It's very hard to be a nice driver during the Holidays. I had to cut someone off just to get in a lane I needed to get into and I felt so bad about it! I do joke with Dh though, that whenever I get behind the wheel I turn into PMS woman. (The joke being I don't normally get PMS.) Guess you have to know me to get that one!

I'm off to lullaby land. Y'all try to keep warm and snuggle under your covers. I hope your dreams are full of peace. Goodnight, B.

Yet another Santa picture, this time of Fireball! Actually he didn't do too bad. He just, um, tried to walk out of it. Backwards. Cat's will never cease to amaze me.

Today has been , blah. I felt alone all day, even though I have the kids here. And the cats. Just...lonely. I get that way sometimes. *sigh* I did make it to the library to return some movies and a book on cheesecake, still can't find a good recipe for a vanilla cheesecake, and then we came home and I made a roast for dinner. I do love my Dh's reaction when he called from work on his dinner break tonight. He asked what I'd made and said that he'd taken a t.v. dinner (shut up, I know they're bad for him, but this is what we do). (He eats the leftovers from dinner the night before for his next dinner and he didn't feel like taking the spaghetti that I made last night. ) Anyway, when I told him that we were eating roast, he said "I knew I should have taken a sick day". He does love my roast. He's so funny. I swear he loves me partly because of the recipes I brought to our marriage! (His Mom can NOT cook.) He knows most of the recipes I grew up with by heart now. Only things I can't get him to eat: Quiche and Cheese Suffle`. Of course I won't eat seafood, so I guess we're even. Oh, and it's funny that for a Southerner I can't eat fried chicken. It makes me sick. Literally. Ever wonder what food dishes you grew up with that you make now, or dishes you hated growing up (I HATE catfish stew! And my Mom loved it, and would even eat it for breakfast the next morning. EEEEwwwwww.) ?? And I have NO idea how my mind wandered onto this subject.

So, since I know y'all are sitting there scratching your heads wondering "what the heck is wrong with her?" just chalk it up to my being without adult company and lonely tonight. Have a good night, try and be courteious(sp) in the next few days. Sometimes we forget in all the hub-bub of life to just smile at someone. You never know, it might make someone feel better, or even you! Goodnight, rest well, B.

Oreo's turn on wearing the Santa hat. That's me holding her up so Dh could get a picture of her expression. Who want's to take a stab at guessing what she is thinking?

To be honest I'm not quite sure if I have anything of interest to talk about, so I guess I'll babble away and if you want to read it fine, and if not......well, be nice and don't tell me how boring I am!

Dh managed to put lights on the house without falling off the roof. BUT, he did manage to get stuck up there, because he couldn't see the ladder! I had to move it where he could see it! And then teased him about it all night long. When he was done we had mexican food and watched National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. He said putting up the lights made him want to watch it! We laughed and snuggled on the couch while the kids watched a video in the other room.

Okay, I have a story about Farting Fish for you! That got your attention didn't it? The other night I was playing an alphabet game with Son while Daughter was reading and Dh was at work. Anyway, he has these alphabet cards and there are 2 of each letter in the set and we were playing at matching the upper case letter with the lower case letters. As we were doing this, I started calling out words with the same letter as the letter we were matching. Ex: "O-octopus, orangatan(sp), Ohio", you get the idea. Anyway, we got to the letter "f" and he's looking at all the cards and trying to find the other "f" and I start saying words again "fox, friend, ferret, found, fish...(my only excuse is I wanted to keep his interest at this point) fart". Well, that cracked him up which made Daughter look up from her book in surprise as Son starts chanting "farting fish, farting fish". Now, everytime I drag his alphabet cards out he starts up with the "farting fish". *sigh* Gotta love 4 year old boys! (Is this when I mention that maybe, just maybe I'm the one that taught him and Daughter the "Jingle Bells, Batman Smells..." song?) Oh, and yeah, I did explain what "laid an egg" means, because he thought Robin was laying an egg like a chicken! I am such a bad mother! But, I love my kids and want them to grow up with lots of love and laughter.

If your eyes crossed reading that, I refuse to apologize! I still crack up thinking of Son chanting "farting fish" and collapsing in giggles, because I know one day he'll only walk with me if I'm 6 feet in front of him.(Um, *raising hand* I'm kinda guilty of that one, wich is why I know that's going to happen.) For now, I'm going to treasure these moments and the fact that he still likes to give me kisses and hugs.

Y'all have a good night and cuddle up under the covers. It finally got chilly here, so that's what I'm about to do. Sleep well, dream big and most of all, look for the humor in things around you. Goodnight, B.

Hahahah! Guess what ? I found a small Santa hat! *g* Granted the cats aren't pleased, but I swear we all laughed hysterically. Oh, and the hat? Came with a scarf too!

Okay, I meant to post last night, but to be honest....I forgot. Today was busy, I finished sanding the blanket chest and then stained it. Um, I forgot to wear gloves when I did it, and the stain was oil based.....so now I can't get it all off. *g* I hope it fades by next Sunday!

I meant to post this "Get to know Me, Holiday list" last night, but didn't. So, here goes!

1. Eggnog or Hot Chocolate? BOTH. But, eggnog only for maybe 2 glasses during the holidays and Hot Chocolate ALL winter!

2.Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? Santa wraps, unless it's a present too big to wrap! Oh, ans Santa uses different wrapping paper than Mom and Dad!

3.Colored lights on tree/house, or white? Colored on tree(kids choice), white on house.

4.When do you put your decorations up? Outside decorations go up the first weekend of December and the tree goes up around 2 weeks before Christmas.

5. Do you hang mistletoe? Um, no. The cats might try and get to it, and Dh needs no help stealing kisses!

6.What is your favorite Holiday dish? Cajun stuffed chicken with creole cornbread dressing. Discovered this when we lived in MS, YUMMY!

7.Favorite Holiday memory as a child? The Christmas after I turned 16. I got up and my parents and I were unwrapping gifts. One of mine was a steering wheel cover and I was puzzled and thought it was supposed to be for my Mom. Another gift opened and this time it was the registration to the car I had thought my parents had bought for themselves from my Dad's boss. My Dad worked overtime for 4 months to buy me that car! I cried and to this day I treasure how much they loved me to do that.

8.When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? Shhhhh. As an official member of the Santa Helper Association I am not allowed to speak of this subject!

9.Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? Yes. Well, the kids do (one each) as I did when I was growing up. Dh didn't, but he's good with the new (to him, since we've had kids) tradition. The rest are opened Christmas morning.

10.How do you decorate your Christmas tree? Very, very carefully. There were years that only the top half was done due to kids crawling and cats. Now we decorate the whole tree and I have my Mom's antique (re: old) tree stand that turns and plays music using a wheel music box.

11.Snow, love it or dread it? Love it! I love winter, and since we live in the South it doesn't snow more than 2 inches a year. I want to move where there's more snow!

12.Can you ice skate? Um, no. I tried. My brain tells me it's physically impossible for a person to glide on a single blade and unfortunately, my body agrees *g*.

13.Do you remember your favorite gift? Um, hello, the car! Actually, I just love the memories.

14.What's the most important thing about the Holidays for you? Family. Watching my kids eyes open wide and sparkle.

15.What is your favorite Holiday dessert? I have to pick one? Let's just say I love cheesecake!

16.What is your favorite Holiday tradition? Hmmm, decorating the tree with my kids.

17.What tops your tree? An beautiful Angel.

18.Which do you prefer, giving or receiveing? Giving. Watching smiles on my kids and DH's faces.

19.What is your favorite Christmas song? I love them all, but Emmanuel and Carol of the Bells are my 2 favorite.

20.Candy Canes, yuck or yum? YUM!

Alright, that's it from me! More than you wanted to know, but that's my right! I hope you all have a good night and enjoy the time before starting the week all over again. Rest well and keep warm. Oh, and if you want to do this list on your blog, please do! Goodnight, B.

I caught Athena actually resting the other day. She is sitting in Dh's chair and not mine, for a change. We played musical cat collars last night and now she's wearing Midnight's old collar and bell, since I purchased him a new one that is bigger. (And he knows how to take it off! )Midnight woke me up at 4am playing with something on the bedroom floor. I heard whatever it was tinkle, got up to check and make sure it wasn't something that he could get hurt on and the booger picked it up in his mouth and tried to run under my bed with it! Turns out it was his new collar, that has a safety release specifically for cats (good idea/bad idea). I managed to get it back on him and crawled back in bed. I finally figured out what was bothering him later today, the bell on his new collar sits higher and sounds different. *sigh* I couldn't have normal cats, oh no.........

I don't suppose you remember, but this summer I was planning on refinishing my blanket chest, but it got really miserably (yes it is a word, I think) hot so i put it on hold. Last week Dh helped me with the chemical paint remover (can I just say EEwwwww) and got alot of it off, but left alot too. However enough came off that it made it easier to sand off, Dh tried to steal my project from me, but lost interest and I've taken it back over. Today I was sanding away with my handy-dandy elctric sander when the dang thing DIED!! Died, I tell you!! So, I had to go buy a new sander tonight and ooooh baby. It's quieter and has all these nifty little attachments. I llluurrrvveee it! I called Dh and told him he was in trouble, for not buying me a new one sooner! Hahaha! I just know he's going to mess with it tomorrow. He's jealous I got a new toy/tool.

Okay, I thought I didn't have anything to blog about today, but I guess I was wrong. I have a holiday questionarre that's been floating around for a week or 2 and I know Bailey has done it as well, tonight. I had already planned to post this tonight, but have decided to do it tomorrow! Also, if y'all want to do it, be my guest. I'd love to see the answers. Have a good evening, tomorrow is Saturday and I hope y'all are going to have some type of fun! Sweet dreams, B.

I know you can't see this that well, but this is 4 of my Fur-babies (Midnight, Patches, Oreo, Fireball). I just loved it that the cats were all vying for a spot to see outside. I only wish a few more of them made it into the picture.

I spent today trying to get a few things like grocery shopping done and when it was over, I was so tired. And I made it home just in time to see "Men in Trees" (after I put everything away), I have so missed this show!!

Anyway, I have my feet up, for the moment, and a cat demanding attention (Layla) so all is right with me.Have a good evening and try to ge enough rest, especially since tomorrow is Friday! May your dreams be filled with all the things you love, B.

I snapped this picture of Fireball during one of his naps yesterday. I have no idea why his tongue is hanging out, but I about fell in the floor laughing after I took the picture!

Today has been busy. I had to go to Petsmart today for cat litter (40lbs.) and catfood (1 very large and 1 medium size bag). That should last me 2 weeks. I also found a winter coat for Son($25, good deal) along with hat and gloves and a pair of shoes for him as well. I felt bad that Son got so many new things tonight that I bought Daughter a purse with Tinkerbell on it. And NO, this wasn't Christmas shopping. He needs these things. *sigh* Kids are SO expensive. Also picked up a statuette for my Grammy for Christmas. It's of an Angel, which she collects. Lets see....I also helped out my MIL with a gift for Daughter, she gave me money to buy Daughter 2 books, which I did tonight while she was in RE class. After I picked Daughter up from class we went by Wally World for a few things(things for Dh for Christmas), sad thing is I have to go back tomorrow for my regular grocery shopping. Of course Wally World didn't have what I needed so I had to make one last stop at Target for another gift for Dh. Now I am DONE for him!! YAY!! So, I have the kids, DH, and Grammy out of the way. That just leaves the In-Laws and my dad and step-mother and her granddaughter. *sigh*

I finished Drop Dead Gorgeous by Linda Howard this morning. Blair Mallory has a deadline for her wedding to Lt. Wyatt Bloodsworth. 29 days is not enough time to plan a wedding with the Holiday season gearing up, especially when someone is trying to kill you! After nearly being run over in the Mall parking lot, crank calls and someone setting fire to her condo Blair has to wonder if her marriage will take place. During all of this Wyatt accuses her of being nutty and imagining things, but even he has to admit that when her Condo is burned down that maybe she isn't imagining someone after her afterall. While suffering a cuncussion, wondering if her fiance loves her enough to GET married, and playing marriage counselor for family friends, Blair must find out who is trying to kill her and why. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it was a great sequel to the last Blair Mallory book, To Die For. It was great catching up to the characters and visiting as Blair and Wyatt finally get their HEA.

Well, I am SO happy to be home. Son is a sweet and lovely child, but I am happy that he is now sitting in front of Disney's Robin Hood, because he would. not. shut. up. All day, all afternoon and all evening. I love my kids, but am glad they are in another room right now! Anyway, y'all have a good evening and just think, today was the middle of the week. The weekend is only 2 days away now! Sleep well and Sweet Dreams, B.

UPDATE: Picture has been removed for safety reasons.
I thought I'd post this picture of the kids from tonight. We went to "A Dickens of a Christmas" tonight at one of the towns nearest to us. It was fun, to a point. There were just too many people there and the only public restrooms were in local businesses along the downtown(trust me with a 4 year old you need acessable(sp) restrooms). There was a man on stilts, a magician, Father Christmas, The Nutcracker performed in a store window, period costumes and some dancing (like the Virginia reel) and a tree lighting ceremony. All in all, we had a good time. This is the 3rd year we've gone and the attendance has tripled in those 3 years. As with other pictures of my kids, I will take this picture down tomorrow. We went with the In-Laws (the kids and I, Dh had to work) and had a pretty good time.

I had to put up the other book I was reading, it was slow going for me. I guess I'm just not in the mood for it, I'll go back to it later. I started Drop Dead Gorgeous by Linda Howard and already I love it! There's even a moment when the heroine 'Blair' makes reference to the fact that she has another book. *g* I found that hysterical. Thank y'all for comments on my migraine, I appreciate the thoughtfullness. I'm doing better today, just a small headache. Anyway, I loved reading about your favorite ornaments. My favorite ornament/figurine is an Angel kneeling and holding a candle, she also plays music, but I haven't put her batteries in in so many years that sometimes I forget she does play music (Silent Night). My Mother gave it to me when I was 10 yrs. old. I have alot of the ornaments that went on the tree when I was growing up, so now I get to share them with my kids as well as those we've added for the them.

In other news, I haven't heard from nor seen my Dad since I called him on his birthday in the middle of October, *sigh*. I guess he really has forgotten he has a daughter and grandchildren. The next move is up to him. I'm tired of being the one who is always trying to cultivate a relationship with him and my Step-Mother. And to change the subject, how is the Christmas gift shopping going? Like I reported before, I'm done for the kids, I know what to get my Dh and the In-Laws. I'm still stuck for my Grammy. I'm sure I'll think of something. Dh and the kids and I are going to a Craft Fair this weekend, maybe something will be there.

That's all from me tonight. I hope y'all are enjoying the week and that you get plenty of rest tonight. Tomorrow is wednesday and thus the middle of the week. Sleep well, B.

Hi. I'm feeling sick tonight due to a migraine. Ugh. Anyway, I feel kinda slumpy like Layla is looking in this picture, so this is it for me tonight. Sorry. I hope y'all have a good evening and I'll try and post better tomorrow. Just to keep it a bit interesting, tell me about the Christmas/Holiday decorations y'all feel the most attachment to and if you're going to decorate at all! Goodnight, B.

UPDATED: The picture has been taken down to ensure a modicum of privacy for my children!

Here is the picture of my Munchkins that I was promising y'all today.I'll leave it up until tomorrow and then AWAY it goes. We visited Santa last night and I would post the phot that the Mall takes, but my scanner is dead. So, they let us take this one with our camera (if we bought a photo package, which we did).

Last night was BUSY. I had to give Dh and Son haircuts, clean both bathrooms of hair (this involves me on my hands and knees) and give Son a bath, do laundry and get a shower myself. I managed it all in the space of an hour and a half. I told Dh I get more done around here in an hour than he can in a day! He agreed.

Still haven't managed to read anything today. We had a dinner for Dh's extended family to attend and then I suggested a trip to the local outlet mall for a pair of Khakis for Son. (Already tried the mall the last night.) We had bought a pair last night, but the dressing room was packed, so we just bought them in his size. WRONG thing to do. They were HUGE in the waist. Son is tall for a 4 year old and wears a size 5 in pants, he's very slender though. So, I found a pair on sale at the Gymboree outlet (first time in there, the baby clothes are soooooo cute!), cheaper than the pair we found at the mall and they have belt loops, and that new thing they are putting in kids clothes these days, where they put elastic with button holes and buttons inside the pants so that if your kids (like both of mine) are slender, you can draw the waist in. Great invention for kids clothes! If I've bored you with all this Mom talk, sorry. Anyway, we just got home and are happy to be able to sit down. Aghhh. My poor feet. We've been on the go since 10am.

I'm going to get a cold drink, put my feet up and be lazy, for about an hour. Then I have more laundry and possibly some ironing, if I can't put it off until the morning. Y'all have a good evening and I apologize for the triviality of my post, but....well.....I'm boring!! Have a good evening, rest up because the week is about to start that idiocy that is monday again. Goodnight, B.

Hahaha! I LOVE this picture of my Layla. The attitude is present as always and she seems to be just "letting it all hang out". Sometimes a Lady she's not!

Sorry I didn't post last night. I was so tired for some reason, so we went upstairs early. And to honest, I had a boring day anyway! I did read an OLD Elizabeth Bevarly book, Moriah's Mutiny. It's amazing to see how books have actually changed over the years, it was written in 1991 but, the story still seems relevant to today. Yes, I do know it was only written 15 years ago! In other book news, I won an ARC of Donna Kauffman's soon to be released The Great Scot (a follow up story to her Bad Boys in Kilts featuring the 4th Chisolm brother) due out March 6 of 2007. The ARC arrived today and I cannot wait to sit down and read it!! Be sure to check out Donna Kauffman's blog, she does great commentary on the Reality shows and runs a contest just about every week.

Anyway, that's my post for today. I hope y'all have a good afternoon and evening and that you enjoy yourselves somehow! Have a good day, B.

Somedays it's just hard to reach the keyboard through all the fur! Midnight and Fireball decided the other day they wanted some attention. And I know y'all are jealous of my screensaver.

The day went well. The In-Laws came over and everyone was pleasant. It wans't bad. We all ate a good meal and the Dh did a great job on the turkey! Even the cats behaved and stayed off the table while we ate.

Nothing much else to share today, sorry. After the In-Laws left we sat in front of the tv and vegged out. (well, after the clean-up) We just enjoyed the day, and evening. I hope all of y'all had a day that went well. I'm finally off to bed. Sleep well and if you're off to the stores tomorrow, good luck! Night, B.

I thought y'all ought to see one of the reasons we laugh around here. Athena has discovered the fact that she can reach the toilet paper holder. (we use one that slides on and is attached to the wall only on one side). It didn't take her long to do it either. Layla used to do this as well. So much so that one year Dh gave me a figurine of a cat covered in t.p..

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving and I want to state that I am thankful this year for many things. I am thankful for: my family (even the In-Laws), my fur-babies, and I am very thankful for the friends I have made this year. I couldn't imagine my life with out y'all now.

Today has been spent almost as any other day. The kids were fine, although Daughter is driving me batty (starting to be a major theme). Dh FINALLY shampooed the carpet downstairs for me, I've only been asking him to for over 2 months now. But, I now have clean carpets. YAY! I also went ahead and made tomorrows dessert. Nothing traditional here. I made Chocolate Eclair dessert. It's yummy and my family loves it. We're just not huge pie eaters. I, um *looks around furtively* don't like pumkin pie and neither does DH. If the In-Laws don't like it, too bad, because the kids will end up licking the pan!

Haven't read anything new today. I did pick up 3 or 4 books at the library yesterday evening. I also picked up a Wallace and Grommit DVD for Son. He has Attack of the Were Rabbit, but turns out the library has a DVD of 3 different skits of Wallace and Grommit in it. Is it weird that my 4 year old Son now can say the word "knickers" with a British accent? If it is, don't tell me.

Y'all have a good night. Enjoy your time at home, maybe if you want read a favorite book or pop a favortie movie in and watch it. But, above all else know that you are appreciated, especailly by me. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Is it just me or does Layla just exhude attitude, or should I say cat-itude? Also, trust me when I say she can be very sweet or an uber-witch. But, no matter what, I love her.

I got the best mail today. Drool worthy mail. A SEE's candy catalogue. YUMMY! I have to tell you, I miss living near a store. When we lived in CA, we used to visit the mall where the store was located at least once a month and when you go in the store, they give you a free sample of candy. YUM. Now that we live here, they place a kiosk in our mall every holiday season. My kids love finding SEE's gold coins (chocolate coins) in their stocking every year. I hate to say it, but I think SEE's is better than Godiva. I. Kid. You. Not.
I did take the shoes back today and didn't feel as bad about it as I thought I would. I think I've become resigned to wearing my scruffy tennies until they form holes! *g* As it is, the tread on the bottom is gone. Makes for slick slippery walking in the woods when we go to the mountains.
I also made it to the UBS today and to be honest, only brought home one book.
I dropped of our recyclables, we are trying to teach our kids that this stuff is important, and dropped off some things to the library, went by the grocery store and picked up Sprinkles to make some sugar cookies for the kids and then, HOME!!
I tried a new recipe for the sugar cookies, and the kids liked the dough better than the cooked cookies!! Oh, well.

It has been rainy, windy and cold tonight. I'm looking forward to my shower and then a nice warm sleep. Y'all snuggle down and enjoy your evening. I hope your dreams are filled with unspoken wishes and joy, goodnight, B.

Y'all seemed to enjoy the kitty pile pictures, i.e. the cats asleep together. How's this one grab you? In it we have Layla, Midnight, Fireball, Butterscoth and Athena. I think they are CUTE!

We have been having internet problems tonight, so this may post or it may not. Ive been in a Holiday reading kick. I read The 6'1" Grinch by Tiffany White while on the treadmill this evening. It was cute. Holly Wilson is a Real Estate agent determined to find Noel Hawksley a home before Christmas. Unfortunatley for Holly this doesn't leave much time for all the Holiday preparations she wishes to make, because Noel keeps distracting her with his smile. Noel finally finds a home he wants, but it's Holly's! How is she supposed to find Noel the perfect home, when all she wants to do is play House with Noel? It was a light, flirty read that is helping me get in the Holiday spirit, because I have to tell you, all the Christmas stuff going on around me when it's not even Thanksgiving yet, is driving me batty and actually a bit depressing!

Did I tell you that I found a pair of tennis shoes on Saturday when shopping for the kids? I had a 15 percent coupon and they were on sale, so it was a great deal. Until I got them home to test them out on the treadmill and discovered one hurts the pad of my feet, I couldn't even make it half a mile in them. Every pair of tennies I've found this year has just not measured up to my old ratty pair of Nike's that are 2 years old. *sigh* So, back they go tomorrow. I am probably the only woman who y'all know who will ever utter these words "Shoe Shopping SUCKS!". (Shhhh, did you hear that? I think the world just froze for a second.) All kidding aside, I am the worst for shopping for myself. Unless it's books. That I love. But, clothes, shoes or purse shopping for me? I find tedious and depressing!

ANYWAY, y'all have a good evening and try to snuggle under your warm blankets tonight. It's chilly here and I'm thankful for the silk stuffed duvet we have(it's waaaarrrmmm and hypoallergenic). Be brave, because Fall is just getting started toward winter! Enjoy your dreams. Goodnight, B.

I had a post all written out, but somehow it disappeared, so as I am too tired to rewrite it, I'm posting a kitty pic and saying goodnight. Enjoy the cutie-pa-tootie pic of Fireball and Butterscotch. Sleep well and sweet dreams, B.

I'm not sure how to describe this picture for you. Okay, I know how, its just boring. In my hallway between the kitchen and LR we have a shelf that also has hooks for coats and such. We put the cats wand with the feathers through all the hooks. Now, normal cats may accept this. Ours however, aren't normal. They have decided that they need to play with the "toy" whenever they want. So, they climb whatever may be hanging there to get to the feathers! As you can see Fireball doing just that in this picture.

Today was spent finishing my Christmas shopping for the kids. The kids went to see Happy Feet (cute movie according to Daughter) with their Grandparents. Dh and I were afraid we'd be freaked out by not having the kids with us, but it was really nice. It almost felt like a date! It ended all too soon, we had to come home and face the fact that we have 2 kids who were dying to know where we had been and did we buy anything. DUH! Like we'd tell them. Anyway, everyone had a good time and we rounded it out by having some Greek food. YUM. I'm still full.

I'm sorry to say that I have nothing else to share tonight except that 1. I am sooooo tired, and 2. Comic Relief is on tonight and if we can distract the kids (the language and jokes are a bit risque) we're going to relax and watch it. Have a great evening, I hope your day was fun and that your Sunday is relaxing and peaceful. Sleep well, B.

I wanted to show you the self-satisfied look on Layla's face after she demanded space on my lap last night! Does she not look like if you crossed her she could decimate you? Trust me, when she crawls up on my chest at night and I'm wincing because all 16 lbs of her are on my chest and it's hard to breathe (HA!), I in no way want to tick her off. But, just because I an laugh at her quirks and her temper tantrums, I love her above all my other fur-babies, she is as close to a 3rd child (she and DH compete for 3rd)as I have. And she knows it!

I am so very tired tonight. I will tell y'all that I read On the Edge by Pamela Britton today and that I throughly enjoyed it. I'll review it tomorrow. Right now, I'm fighting not to cross my eyes and my head is starting to throb because I'm trying to concentrate. Y'all have a good evening. Enjoy your Saturday and try to have a little fun. Night, B.

You'll have to use your imagination just a little with this picture. Midnight was at one point draped over Layla like a coat, but by the time I got the camera out and took the picture he had started to move. Layla just let him lay on her, but looked up at me like "get him the eff off me!".

I haven't done anything much today. Just ran an errand to Wally-World for the things I couldn't pick up yesterday at the other one I do my shopping at. I also did a few things around the house, as usual. Of course, I also picked up a book at WW as well. Dashing Through the Mall, an anthology with Sherryl Woods, Darlene Gardner and Holly Jacobs. I'm halfway through it. So far I like it, but you have to remember this is an anthology when you start a book like this. The stories are short are sorta plausable, they just need an element of belief to make them work.

Anyway, not much else to tell y'all. I am boring as heck, you know? Have a good evening and don't forget that tomorrow is FRIDAY!! YAY! The last day before the weekend is finally here. My In-Laws are coming over on Saturday to babysit the kids so that DH and I can do a little holiday shopping. They're going to take the kids to see Happy Feet, the new movie about Penguins. Goodnight, B.

Layla and Oreo enjoyed the lovely weather we had the other evening, because it was nice enough to open the window in the living room. I thought it was funny to see that their tails are both curled under the window sill.

My headache is better, I'm not sure why but I haven't felt well the past few days and yesterday was the worst. My appetite has been off, I've been really tired and yesterday I felt sick. And no, I'm not pregnant. I think it may have something to do with the fact that my allergies bother me all year long. They affect me as soon as I step out of the house. I had to run to the library yesterday afternoon, so that may be it. I once told my Doctor about the symptoms for my allergies and she tried to give me the nasal spray stuff. Have y'all ever had to use it? Ugh! The most nasty smell ever. And I am very sensitive to smells, always have been. I'd rather have drainage and my ears stopped up, with the constant yawning that's automatic to unclog my ears, that accompanies the whole shebang.

Enough of that junk. I finished my book, Born in Death by J.D. Robb. It didn't have the violence that her others seem to have, but the story grabs you. Eve is investigating the murder of an accountant when she finds the accountants fiancee dead as well. The murders bother Eve as all do, but these bother her because this young couple were so in love and now their young lives have been cut short before they were wed, for greed. While investigating the murders Eve must also plan and give Mavis her baby shower and while doing so meets a pregnant frind of Mavis', Tandy. Tandy is alone after having moved across the world to start a new life and give birth to her child without the childs father in their lives. Mavis becomes worried when Tandy doesn't show up for her shower and begs Eve to investigate. Eve, under enough stress to solve the murders, decides to humor Mavis. But, right from the start Tandy's empty apartment worries her. Why would a woman getting ready to give birth disappear? Throughout the book Roarke is there to assist Eve and the usual characters are there as well, Peabody, McNab, Feeney and of course Summerset all help to round out another great book from J.D. Robb.

Today was full of errands. Gotta love visiting Target, Marshalls, Petsmart, the UBS and Wal-Mart all in the space of 4 hours, with 2 kids who annoy the heck out of you by asking for everything they see!! And now it's interspursed(sp) with " Oooh, I want that for Christmas" . Oh, joy. Just makes regular household shopping fun. NOT. Anyway, y'all have a great night. I'm going to listen to the rain outside, I just love the sound and it's relaxing for me. Stay warm, enjoy the evening and sweet dreams, B.