The Dead Room by Heather Graham

The Dead Room by Heather Graham is a compelling story of murder and a love that transcends death.

Leslie MacIntyre, an Archeologist, barely survived the explosion that killed her fiance and left her with a unigue gift. A year later, she’s back in New York, at the site of the explosion to work at a dig site near where her world was torn apart. She’s hoping her “special sense” with finding bodies while seeing their ghosts will help her contact her dead fiance. And she does, but only in her dreams. Matt warns her of danger in her dreams, and leaves Leslie with a yearning for their love together. Matt is grateful that his cousin, Joe Connelly is there to protect her, when he can’t.
Joe Connelly is a Private Investigator hired by the Aunt of a missing woman, who vanished one night, like many other women over the past year. When he meets Leslie he is attracted, but tries to keep his distance, because she was his cousins fiancee and he knows she’s not ready to move on. However, she does want to help him with his investigation and if it means spending time with her, he’s more than willing let her.

Now Leslie and Joe are racing to find the missing girl before she is killed and Joe has a suspicion the explosion a year earlier, that killed Matt, was meant for Leslie. Can he keep her safe?
The Dead Room was book that was hard to put down. However, if you are looking for a traditional HEA, be warned, this book packs an emotional punch in the end, that is most unexpected and untraditional.

Chris had a few off the cats going nutty the oter day with the 'red bug'. They love that thing. Fireball is the most intense hunter for it, he'll practically climb the wall trying to catch it. Even Patches, who is normally sedate, tried to chase it. *g* She was so CUTE!

Today was rather peaceful in the sense that we had no where we needed to be. But, we did go by WW and picked up a few groceries. We didn't plant another tree yet, because I wasn't sure (while we were out) if the tree was actually dead. I mean, it looked dead. But, as soon as we got home, I tested it. I hate to admit that the frost we had a couple of weeks ago did kill it. NO FAIR. I liked my Crepe Myrtle, it had pretty white blooms. Um, what else? Chris made dinner while I ironed his work clothes, not a bad trade off, huh? It's amazing that when a grill is involved how fast a guy will cook for you. I also have started one of the books I picked up this week from the library, The Dead Room by Heather Graham. I like it so far. I hope to finish it soon. Some days are harder than others to read, especially when Chris is home, and the kids don't make it easier either. *g* AND the In-laws are supposed to stop by again tomorrow. Anyone want to come save me? Please?

That it from me tonight. It's been a nice day. It was warm and sunny and Oh, my Gosh! I just remembered. I told y'all Daughter picked up a bit of money for her birthday, right? While we were out today she bought her brother a remote control race car!! It was the nicest, sweetest thing she has EVER done for him. EVER. I couldn't believe it and kept asking her if she was sure she wanted to do that. She did. AWWWWWW!

Okay THAT'S it. Have a great monday. Give a smile, get a smile! B.

This is the view from the other side of the road from where we stopped to go hiking. It was taken after our hike, because when we first got there, you couldn't see 6 feet in front of you. The fog was BAD.
The rest of the pictures are below and you need to scroll down and start back up. Each picture has a comment on SOMETHING and are probably boring to y'all. Oh, and this was on the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina.

Can I just say that it was COLDER than we expected. You'd think we would have thought of that, but nooooooo. Luckily we had a few sweatshirts in the trunk of the car. And by colder, when we left home it was around 70 degrees, but up there it was close to 40. BUT, we had a blast. We were slipping and sliding and laughing. And I can answer the question of what wind feels like whistling past your hiney because you have to tinkle and you're 20 miles from the nearest restroom and you're laughing hysterically. AND I'm not the only one who took advantage of the woods resources. *g*
All in all we hiked about 3 miles round trip. We were laughing and joking and dang! Sometimes it was hard to catch our breath because we were laughing and climbing up the slope at the same time. Son did well until it was time to turn around and start back and then he started complaining about how far from the car we were. Daughter was gung-ho the entire time, except about half way through the way back, as well. Then we all started thinking we were starving and what we were going to get to eat once we were done. Chris, Daughter and I voted for steak and Son wanted french toast sticks! *G* We got neither. By the time we were done we were scraped, dirty and tired, and we settled for Arby's. But, we had a blast! We're already planning our next day trip. This time we want to go to Chimmney Rock State Park and Lake Lure, in North Carolina. It's only a little over an hour from us as well. One good thing about living where we do. We're 3 hours from Myrtle Beach, 4 hours from Charleston and half an hour from the Mountains.

Okay, I haven't had a chance to read anything today, but there's always tomorrow. We have Mass in the morning and then the afternoon is free to do a couple of things. Like maybe talk Chris into planting a new Crepe Myrtle tree since the frost that came after everything started to bloom, killed it. Hopefully he will do it right, because he goofed when he planted the Dogwood tree and killed it. My husband, he is not agriculturaly gifted. *g*
I hope y'all had a god time today. And I hope that y'all have a restful and relaxing sunday! B.

Exercise: HA! Hello! Did you not read above? *G*

On the way back toward the car, we found that the fog was lifting. Luckily I was able to take a picture of the Mountains for y'all!

One of the trees on the trail we hiked. The kids wanted me to take this picture, they are used to trees gorwing straight (relatively). Try explaining to your 5 year old Son that this tree is over a hundred years old. *g*

Hey Michele, how does this fungus (looks like a flying saucer growing out of the side of a tree), compare to the natural sea sponge you got to see?

But, we decided to shoulder on and go on one of the trails there. Daughter has taken the lead, because she was SO excited!

What the view looked like when we first got there!

Butterscotch was not a happy camper today. Chris took him to Animal Allies this morning for his appointment to be neutered and I picked him up this afternoon. He was a bit unhappy when I picked him up and a slept on the way home, but as soon as I set the carrier on the floor he started to FIGHT LIKE HADES to get out of it. He's been tucked up into Daughters room for the day and rest of the night and he can rejoin the other kitties tomorrow.

The In-Laws dropped by today. AN HOUR before they said they would! (Yes, I am a bad DIL, I make them give me a time and gee, I expect them to stick to it!) But, they brought Daughter a few shirts she liked (and a pair of Gauchos she hated. Good Girl!) and a card with a monetary gift in it. She is in heaven. She has money. And since I had to drop by Wally-World tonight to pick up milk (and cat food), she bought her and her brother some gum. I told you it wouldn't be long before she did that. *g* Have I mentioned that Son eats gum, not chew it? We have tried countless times to tell him that he has to chew a piece for at least 10 minutes, but nope. He eats it. Chews it for about 2 or minutes and then swallows it.

My good news for the day? I picked up my Amanda Quick book, The River Knows. But, while there I also picked up Heather Grahams The Dead Room. I'm still reading another book, but I can't seem to pick it up. I have no idea, it's a good book, I think I'm just not in the right mood to read it. So, I may read one of these others very soon instead, and get back to the other later. AND, to anyone that reads Jayne Ann Krentz (aka Amanda Quick) in her futuristic/paranormal name, Jayne Castle, she has a new Harmony book due out in August! YAY! I found that out tonight and I was bouncing around, quite happy!

Tomorrow is our trip to the mountains, wish us luck. The kids are so excited, they had a blast tromping through the woods last time. We're going to take a path to Lister Falls. No, I have no idea where that it, I leave all that up to Chris. I just sit in the passenger seat. *g*

I hope y'all had a good day today. And I hope (I have a lot of hope in case you're wondering) that y'all have a wonderful saturday! B.

Exercise: 25 minutes of Pilates. (I needed to, my back is bothering me and needed to be stretched out.)

Does Layla not look a bit evil in this picture? I think it's the reflective eyes. She also looks unhappy that 'Mom' was taking her picture while she was lazing around on my soa table!

Daughter had a pretty good birthday today. Chris, Son and I gave her a Hilary Duff CD, a Tinkerbell t-shirt, a Tinkerbell purse, a skirt and $12 cash (One dollar for every year.). My Dad and his wife sent her a check for $20 which I cashed for her today. Tomorrow the In-Laws will come over and giver her whatever they got her. We also let her pick out what she wanted for dinner and picked up her cake this afternoon. The bakery did a great job on the Tinkerbell cake.

I have to be honest. Except for a side trip to Sam's Club, we haven't done much today. It rained and drizzled all afternoon, so the kids weren't able to go out and play. I'm waiting for a book I have on hold to come in at the library, the new Amanda Quick (historical) and haven't bought any new books in at least a week. (I'm being good. For now.*g*) Oh, and laundry was done today as well. Do we know how to have fun, or what?! Seriously, we'll head to the mountains this weekend. We want to explore and the kids are extremely excited about it. We've already checked the weather, it's supposed to be a high of 74. Perfect for the walking/hiking we'll be doing.

So, that's it. We had a quiet day and Daughter wanted to thank y'all for the lovely Birthday wishes. (She smiled when I told her of them.) I do, too. It was really nice of y'all to think of her. Thank You. I hope y'all have a great Friday. And that you get or give a smile tomorrow. You never know how much it can affect someone! B.

Exercise: we ate late and I don't feel like having to repaint the wall again, if you gather my meaning. But, I will tomorrow, promise. And y'all know I keep my word.

Since y'all all thought the cupboard pictures were funny, here's another one! Patches looks pretty relaxed doesn't she? She is the quietest cat we have (Shut up that is a word. I think. *g*). The only cat you will NEVER see a picture of, up above my cabinets, is Layla. For one, she is too umm......heavy to jump up there and two, she's not into group activities.

It was gorgeous here today. It reached 80 and was sunny with a breeze. When I took Daughter to RE tonight Son played on the playground while she was in class, the entire time. It was just too pretty out not to let him! He played with another little boy whose Sister was in RE as well. They were so cute racing each other up to the slide and then sliding down as fast as they could. Not to mention trying to climb up the slide, the wrong way! Oh, c'mon, you know you did it when you were a kid! Son liked to slide down as though her were doing(?) the Louge(sp).

Tomorrow is Daughters birthday. She will be 12 years old and I am wondering where the time has gone. She is starting to turn into a little lady (although, she is not quite ready to leave her tomboy stage yet!). And, God help me, she'll be a teenager next year!

I made it by the library near my home before class tonight (Daughter put the materials in the drop box for me) and after class we did the same thing for the other county library. I think I've explained that since Chris works in one city, and we live within the county limits of another, we are able to use both library systems, haven't I? Anyway, after that we stopped by the mall because Son needs/needed some shorts. I only ended up buying him one pair, but still need to find him another pair. And may I say I love the fact that The Children's Place sends me coupons? For some reason, Daughter felt left out and I had to buy her a pair of capri's while there, as well. I just bought her 2 outfits last week! She is definitely the clothes horse that I'M not. While there at the mall I talked myself out of the plain white t-shirt I need. *sigh* Why is it I'll buy clothes for the kids and Chris, but not myself? Oh, don't get me wrong, I feel guilt when I buy books, but I still buy them! *g*

After all that, you can bet I was glad to get home.

Oh, and if you read the comments from the blog before this one? The brownies I had to make were a HUGE hit!

AND here's the house plan we have picked out! You have to scroll to see all of it. It's not technically a Craftman, it's referred to as a Bungalow. I couldn't find a craftsman design I loved enough to forget this one!

Exercise: None tonight. I made the circut at the mall, I need a night off.

Ennie, Meenie, Miney, Moe catch a kitty by the toe!

Would you look at these cats! All three of them are on top of my cabinet, the one over the refrigerator. At least I didnt post another Midnight picture. Um, well I sort of did. Fireball, Butterscotch and Midnight all sleeping up above our heads, makes one feel a bit unnerved.

Nothing much to tell y'all today. I've started Spirited Away by Cindy Miles. I like it so far. The heroine doesn't seem TSTL, which I dislike. And the Hero seems to be one of those tortured souls who need to be rescued. I do believe I'll be giving a review for this one! I read The Accidental Florist by Jill Churchill. For once, reading one of her books, I was dissapointed. If you want to know more about it, please feel free to email me, but I won't write a negative review of it. I also read Pink Jinx by Sandra Hill. It was a fun book, but not really my type. Although, I really adore her Viking and Cajun books. *g*

No laundry today!! It's a miracle!

I made one of Chris' favorite dinners tonight. Spaghetti and Meatballs. Then I was mean. I fixed my plate, took a picture of it with my cell phone and sent it to him! *G* He called me less than a minute later! Hahahaha! I love teasing him.

Son's lip looks alot better today. The swelling has gone down and it (thank goodness) doesn't look like it will be infected. (It was a BAD split.) His gum looks gross, but appears okay as well. I want to thank all of y'all for the advice given today, about Son's bad dreams. I appreciate the fact that y'all are such great people who generally care. Thank you VERY much.

Tomorrow will be a bit busy. Daughter has RE class and Son and I need to return materials to the library while she's there. I also need to try and get by the library near my home to return the materials there. (Two different libraries, two different counties for them.) AND I want to try and visit the UBS. I cleaned a bunch of books of my keeper shelves. Some will be donated to the library, some will be taken to the UBS for credit. Wish me luck that I get at least one or two of these done! *g* I hope y'all have a good wednesday and that somehow you manage to have some fun, or at least smile! B.

Exercise: A bit over 2.5 miles, @3.6 mph, @ 7 incline

Oh, and remeber I was telling y'all about the house plan we have picked out? Here it is.

I must be on a Midnight photo kick this week! Here is the the big 'ol baby leaning against the wall as if he doesn't have the energy to sit up all on his own. He's so silly!!

Today was interesting. All the little cracks we found were caused by the house settling and we're responsible for fixing them. No problem, we just wanted to make sure. Chris will fix them if I have to steal his computer for a weekend. *g*

He also ordered Daughters birthday cake for me. (Y'all know I hate calling on the phone!) Heck, I barely call Chris on the phone!

Son would not go to sleep last night. It was in the wee hours when I could finally get him settled down. He mentioned something that worried me. And I'll have to talk more with him about it, but I didn't want to make it a big deal. He said that most his dreams were bad dreams, that he had a few good dreams every now and then. What do y'all think? How should I handle this? I mentioned to him that sometimes we have good dreams, sometimes we have bad dreams, and that sometimes we don't dream. I also said that maybe he should try and think of his favorite thing before going to sleep. I just am not sure what else to tell him. I did tell him that bad dreams can't hurt us. And no way was I going to mention that every now and then his Mom has feelings of deja vu months after some of her dreams. (No, I am not strange.) Don't y'all ever have that happen?

The kids were able to play outside today, leaving me some peace and quiet. Ahhhh, it was nice. It didn't last long, but it was nice. *g*

To be honest that was about all today. Except for the laundry. The bane of my existance. I did manage to get the blood out of Son's favorite t-shirt, from last night's busted lip!

I hope y'all had a quiet day and that your tuesday is cheerful!

Exercise: 2.5 miles, 3.5mph, 7 incline. (Starting back off small.)

AND, there is a book review below, not the best I've ever written though. I truly liked the book, but it didn't leave a lasting impression.

Just Like Heaven by Barbara Bretton

Just Like Heaven by Barbara Bretton was a gentle glide through the readers eyes of an older woman finding love just when she was content to live her life alone.

Kate French was in a hurry and grabbed the last pair of clean undies from her lingerie drawer. Little did she know that she would later be gently rescued by a stranger when she unexpectedly has a heart attack. She’s not sure which is more unnerving, the fact that the stranger saw her wearing a red thong, or that when they meet again she is instantly drawn to him. For not only did he save her life, he made her heart open to love.
Maybe a Grateful Dead t-shirt wasn’t the best way to be remembered, but saving a life sure was! Mark Kerry was out running errands when he saw the beautiful red-head fall in the parking lot. After realizing she was having a heart attack he stayed with her, promising not to leave her side. But, somehow he was separated from her and never learned her name. After tracking Kate down he was surprised at the surge of emotion seeing her again gave his heart, long thought closed to love after his wife’s death..
Neither were prepared for the instant chemistry they generated together, but now they must see if this is a passing fancy or a lifetime of love.
Readers will love this couple and the surprising twists and turns their lives take after meeting. Barbara Bretton once again brings love into our homes, one page at a time.

More Blood and a cross-dressing police doll!

After yesterdays photo of Midnight, I'd thought I'd remind you of what he looked lik when we brought him home from the shelter last August. Wasn't he adorable? And a little 'ol baby!!

We didn't make it to the Mountains today. We had put so many things off these past 2 weeks while everyone was sick that it just made more sense to get them done before anything else popped up. BUT, we did decide that we're going next weekend (as long as the weather holds up as nice as it was today!!). We don't live far, maybe an hour at the most, from them, so.....we will ge there soon.

I woke up stiff and sore, but other than that and feeling lethargic today, the cold or virus or whatever seems to be leaving on its own. I still have the drainage, but then again, it is Spring! And I have bad allergies.

Son was running in the kitchen tonight (with socks on) and fell and busted his top lip. He also seems to have bruised his top gum. I checked all his teeth and they are fine, nothing loose. (Thank God!) Good thing I am getting ready to set up the kids cleanings and check-up for their teeth soon. Poor baby. Second time in a week he was gushing blood. (From his lip, it's still swollen, after icing it and everything!) He definitley got his lack of grace from me. I have stitches in my chin from when I was his age. *g* When you hope for all the qualities you are going to pass onto your children, you hope for things like blue eyes, a sense of humor, love of books, NOT clumsiness and lack of grace. But, I love the little guy no matter what! OMG! I forgot to tell you, he was playing with his sister last night and he has a few police guys, Daughter had her Barbies out and he put one of the Barbie dresses on his police guy and said the other police guy made the one he was holding do it! HA! I suggested maybe he was undercover. *g* This kid sure has a wicked sense of humor! I did mention to Chris that although he (Chris) wasn't overly laden with testosterone, maybe he should spend some time outside with a ball or something with the boy. (Chris isn't very sporty, he perfers computers to say basketall. But he does know how to ski and play tennis. You don't want to know about the time we tried to play regularly (he tried to teach me) and I somehow knocked my pelvic bone out of 'joint'.) I'm. Not. Kidding. I just thought I'd hurt my back! (SEE, that's where Son gets it!)

Anyway, that's what's been going on here for the past day and a half. Have a great monday! B.

Cats, Paint and Cleaning. Oh My!

In my opinion Midnight still looks a bit like a Bat. Don't get me wrong, I think he's a handsome fellow, it's just that he is an odd looking kitty at the same time. I wish I could get a picture of him the way he looks everyday. He actually reminds me of those Egyptian statues of cats. He's got a bigger body than fits his head!

Today has been busy. Daughter didn't feel well this afternoon, so we didn't make Mass. But, she felt better later tonight. I felt a bit rough when we woke up, but felt better as the day wore on. So much so, that I scrubbed all 3 bathrooms from top to bottom and painted a wall in our LR/Greatroom. A very LONG wall, almost 21 feet long. See, it's the only way I can paint. Tackle one wall at a time (unless it's a tiny wall). But, now I am wiped out. (And I let Daughter help!)
Tomorrow we're going to visit the Mountains that are so very close to us, and hopefully do a bit of hiking. If I feel okay. I promise not to overdo, it's just that I'm tired of being sick.

Monday we have a visit from the company that holds the warranty on our house. We have noticed some cracks in the garage floor and around the window in the bathroom in the MBath and around the windows in the LR AND along one wall joint in the MBathroom. NOT a good thing. We've only owned this house for 4 years. We shouldn't be having these problems. It was new construction, so even if these are caused by settling, they are responsible for fixing them. We figure we'll be here for at least another 5 years so we want to keep the house in good working order, and not leave things for when we sell.
Oh, and this house, SO not my idea. I wanted a house with some character. I adore craftsman type homes, but Chris wanted new construction. BUT, since we've bought this house and lived with it's generic appearance inside and out, Chris has changed his mind. I convinced him that when we do sell and build our next home, it should be a craftsman type, we already have a house plan picked out! We've decided to take our time finding a piece of land to put it on though. We want it to be just right.

Bored you yet? Yeah, I know, I'm not that interesting and you could care less about my house and all that. Sorry. I'm hoping to have some wonderful pictures to show you tomorrow. I hope your Sunday is restful and peaceful. Have a wonderful day, B.

Power Tools Rule!

Another view of Layla on my chair. Not very ladylike I know. Someone needs to tell her that Southern Belles do not sit like that! Notice the pink belly? Ever since she was spayed 5 years ago, she won't let the hair grow all the way back. As a matter of fact, she pulls(?) her hair out around her legs too. I may take her to the Vet soon to see if he has any idea why she's doing this.

Chris was supposed to go to the Post Office for me today, but forgot. So now I have to go tomorrow morning. But, I did make it to the library, Lowes and Marshalls today. The library, to pick up Blossom Culp and the Sleep of Death by Richard Peck (for Daughter), Pink Jinx by Sandra Hill, and The Accidental Florist by Jill Churchill. Son picked up 2 movies while we were there, too. I had to pick up some molding to replace around my bath tub, so that was the reason for the visit to Lowes. I also had to trip by Marshalls; Daughter has had a growth spurt and her jeans were above her ankles. I found 2 pair (one for $9.99 and the other for $16.99) AND a pair of cute slip on shoes (lavender tennie like) for her for $5 because this child takes 20 minutes to tie her shoes!

We did manage to have dinner with Chris since we were 10 minutes from his office. The kids and I really enjoyed that!

After all that, I was tired and ready to go home. So, what do I do once we get here? Dust. Yup, dug my pledge out and dusted the house. All the while doing laundry. (The water company and Cheer detergent company must love me.) AND I measured for the new molding and used Chris' electric compound miter saw! FUN! REALLY! I'm an odd female. Took it back upstairs and.....perfect fit. I. Am. Good.

After all that, I am tired. Wiped out. I notice the more I move around the more I cough. And yes, I did have Chris call and make me an appointment for the Doctor. I go Monday. This crud has me and won't let go, therefore I will MAKE it go away.

Anyway, that's our day. I hope y'all had a more relaxing day and I hope your saturday is restful. We have Church and then drop by the bakery to order Daughters birthday cake. Not too stressfull, huh? Have a great saturday! B.

Layla is wondering what happened to Darths helmet....and head. She very rarely gets into the kitty cube, I'm not sure why. I'm looking for a new kitty tee-pee that the Fosters and Smith catalog has, but cheaper than the $20 price they're asking. Yes, I'm cheap, sue me.

I left the house again today, but it was only to get taco chips, milk and some flavored waters. It rained, poured and kaboomed all afternoon. And if I didn't have to go out, I would have enjoyed it much more. I love stormy days. The urge to cuddle and read is strong. I did read the book based on the tv version of Bones, last night. I really enjoyed it and didn't expect to. Although, there were some discrepencies in the main characters and for some reason the author had Zach, Brennans assistant wearing glasses.

I have another book to start soon, I've been looking forward to ever since I read an excerpt on the authors website. The book is titled Spirited Away by newbie author Cindy Miles. AND the library called today. My Sandra Hill book and Jill Churchill book are finally in off of hold. YAY. Now, I just have to go pick them up tomorrow.

My Dad's wife sent Daughter a check for her birthday. It was nice that they remembered, but I haven't actually heard from since Christmas. I was waiting for them to make the next move, but it seems we aren't important enough to call, email or visit. I have sent a couple of emails to them, little notes, pictures of the kids, etc. We've just decided not to visit there anymore for a while. Um, my Dad smokes as does his wife. Dad is pretty good at going out of the room when we visit, to smoke, but his wife, well she lights up right there in front of me, Chris and the kids. Did I mention we're all allergic? Well, allergic might be a bit strong, we all have a major sensitivity to it. Enough that we get physically ill after the visits. And Chris and I are the worst, with headaches and nausea . I guess I'm trying to explain why we haven't been to visit and not seem selfish. I love my dad, but I also get the feeling that his wife isn't fond of us. Her family always come first. ALWAYS. Jeez, didn't mean to get off on this tangent. Please excuse me.

I haven't exercised since monday. I'm a bit worried, because I'm not really getting better. I'm hoping that changes soon.

I hope y'all had a good day today. I have been playing catch-up all day and haven't felt like I've made much progress. As tomorrow is Friday, I hope everyone enjoys the last day of the work week! Have a great day! B.

Exercise: None, I'm such a slacker. I don't like being sick.

I keep telling y'all he's not right. To see Butterscotch do this is very weird. If you've done Yoga or are at least familiar with it, he starts with a downward facing dog, ends with a morning salutation to the sun and just lays there, after all that. Have I mentioned the "crying" or meowing at the doors and walls and corners lately? He has an appointment to be neutered next week and it's not a moment too soon!

Seems I stirred a strange pot yesterday, asking about a possible feature y'all are vain over. I hope I didn't offend anyone, I was just curious.

I haven't done much today. Daughter had RE and Son and I went to the library.(And then theres always the prerequisite laundry.) I checked him out 2 movies, Daughter 1 movies and Son 2 books. It was interesting, especially when we had to make a trip to the restroom and the deoderizer they have made him sick to his stomache. I admit the cherry scent was a bit cloying , and that he and I seem to share a sensitive sense of smell, but deoderizer?

Has anyone seen the new Sci-Fi show called Painkiller Jane? Yeah, it's interesting and weird all at the same time. I need to research this, I want to know the whole story of it. I just hope they bring Eureaka! back this summer like they have stated they would.

That's about it for me today. I think I'm losing my voice. It's dropped another octave or 2 in the past 2 days and my throat is definitely feeling like it does when I get those strange polyps on the back of it, that for me signifies larengytis. More fun! *sigh* I hope y'all had a great day. It was nice here, even with the dizzle most the day. It never really rained, just drizzled for a bit, would stop and then start again. But, it was 70 degrees, so I can live with that! Have a peaceful thursday, a week from now it will be Daughters 12th birthday. Am I that old? How'd she get to be that old? Anyway, have a good day! B.

Is it just me, or is he not ADORABLE? Fireball loves to lay on top of my cabinets. If y'all have cats, do they do this too?

Not feeling very well this evening. I think I did too much earlier. I scrubbed my floors and vacumned, cleaned out the refrigerator and picked up the LR. Now I feel weak and for some reason, I still sound like a cross between Donald Duck and Bea Arthur. Seriously. My voice is almost 3 ocataves below what it usually is.

I was wondering. Do y'all have a particular feature that you're vain about? I'm just curious. I like my hair. And the color of my eyes, but I am not too fond of everything else. Is it weird or normal for a woman to not like how she looks?

I'm just in one of those weird contemplative moods today. And a bit depressed. I used to really freak out whenever I got depressed. Because of being diagnosed as Manic Depressive caused by a chemical imbalance when I was around 11 years old. I realize, I can't be happy all the time. I know that now. But, I lived in fear of the time right after my children were born.

Oh, I read that book I checked out of the library for Daughter, The Dreadful Future of Blossom Culp by Richard Peck. It was another good book and as good as I remembered! She's now reading Bad Kitty by Michele Jaffe.

Chris is back at work today, but he decided not to take his cough medicine with him! *g* It made him dizzy for a short time and tired yesterday, so he felt he wouldn't be as productive today with it. And I have to tell y'all, the Man likes to have his ducks in a row at work. Too bad he's not that way at home. But, I love the big goober anyway. A little Romance now and then wouldn't hurt, though! *g* My Mom used to say it was because they spend all the time at forst, luring a woman in, once they have her, they didn't have to work as hard anymore. Of course, he favorite saying, of mine, was that men and women are different because men are wired differently.

Y'all will have to excuse me today, I seem to be in a rabling type of mood. Shoot, I'm just moody today. (No, it's not PMS.) I hope ya'll had a great day. I'm going to take some ibuprofen and have a cold rag, my head is hurting bad. Have a nice wednesday! B. Oops, don't forget, check out Daughters grades in the post below. I'm so proud of her!!

Exercise: Um, maybe not tonight, unless the ibuprofen works a miracle.

We just received Daughters grades. She Passed!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Yippeeee!!!!!!!
Grades are as follows:
Art-A
English-B plus
Handwriting-B plus
History-B plus
Math-C plus
Music-C
Phonics-B plus
Physical Education-C plus
Reading-B minus
Religion-B plus
Science/Health-B minus
Spelling-A minus
Vocabulary-A

I'm so proud of her! Regular post later tonight.

A Day in the Life of my boring life!

Daughter with big baby Midnight, taken by Son the phtographer artist extraorinare. (Who always smudges the lens! *g*) I felt this photo was safe to post as you can't really see Daughter's face. I wanted y'all to see how Midnight enjoys being carried around.

Okay, time to update y'all on the sickness situation:

Daughter is fine, just a bit of drainage.

Son has ALOT of drainage and is coughing, still.

Chris went to the Dr. today, they didn't really give him a diagnosis beyond bacterial infection and gave him cough medicine with codiene (boy, he gets dizzy fast with that stuff!) and Azithromycn, an antibiotic. Other than that, he's been in a good mood and ALOT better.

Me, MAJOR headache, drainage, coughing and sore throat. I've put off going to the Dr. because, well, I hate going to the Dr. and antibiotics mess up the female body, 'nuff said.

I have been reading today, since I've been caught up on all the laundry, I've read 2 books. However they were YA books and just the "light" reads I needed. One was Bad Kitty by Michele Jaffe and the other was the book I had been searching for Daughter and was given the name thanks the the RT book slueth board! (They rock, seriously.) It was The Other Side of Dark by Joan Lowery Nixon. It was still as good as I remembered it and can't wait for Daughter to read it to see if she liked it. (Right now she's making her way back through the Harry Potter books in anticipation of the release of the last book this year. And she's reading through them quickly!) Am I the only person who didn't really care for the HP books? (Don't hate me!) Don't get me wrong, I like Science Fiction and Fantasy, I prefer Romance and I like to read history books because I find them interesting. YA books give me that sense that I don't have to have sex in a book for it to be entertaining (although some YA books really push the button on propriety). But, the HP books? Didn't care for them. My Daughter and Chris like them though and I'm sure as soon as Son can read well, he'll go after them as well.

ANYWAY, that's my day. Boring as ever, but comforting in that fact today.

I hope y'all had a good monday and a great tuesday. B.

Exercise: 2.5 miles on the treadmill at 3.5 speed and 7 incline. I thought I could boost my immune system a bit, I did was make my head hurt like crazy and my coughing hurt as well. But, I feel like I acomplished something, even if it's not as much as usual.

Notice anything? Like Layla? In my chair!? Is it just me or does she look like she's sitting on a throne? Am I sad, in that I'll just switch seats after coming back in the room and having a cat in my chair?

Today was quiet, and I for one enjoyed it. Chris was better about being sick today, so my need to smother him has gone away. *g* I am forcing him to make a Doctors appointment tomorrow. I haven't done much today, just laundry and ironing. It was so sweet to see Son's shirts in with Chris' to be ironed. They're just so cute! I'm a Mom, sue me.

I also posted a review for Satisfaction Guaranteed by Lucy Monroe, below.

Daughter is sick too. Have I told you that? Have I also told you I am SO over the 'adolescent thinking they know everything because her parents are dumb as bricks' thing? Ugh. I love her, but would it be wrong of me to lock her in her room, until she's 30? I'm kidding. No, really.

Sorry to tell y'all, but that's all I have to "say" today. I'm tired and my head hurts so I'm going offline and to bed. Y'all have a stress free Monday! B.

Exercise: I'm hoping to get back to that this week, with the help of ALOT of ibuprofen and a trip to the Doctor.

Satisfaction Guaranteed by Lucy Monroe

Satisfaction Guaranteed by Lucy Monroe introduces the Agents of The Goddard Project, a select group of men and women chosen to protect the Nation from techno-terrorism.
This book was a decidedly erotic dance across page after page. I call it a dance, but duel is also appropriate as the characters kept up with changing emotions and reactions.
Beth Whitney learned her lesson three years ago; never date an agent. Now she works for her father, TGP's overseer, as an Administrative Assistant. But it’s hard for her to keep her distance from her fantasy lover, agent Ethan Crane, when she is assigned to be his partner for a mission in the Pacific Northwest. Their tutorial about each others likes and dislikes starts way before the mission, and sparks fly immediately.
TGP Agent Ethan Crane has always been attracted to the Boss’ daughter, but has kept his distance for over 2 years, seeming to know instinctively that she is dangerous to the one part of his body he is not used to protecting, his heart.
As their mission heats up, so do the sheets, the walls and whatever surface is handy for the two lovers, who at first glance seem all wrong for each other. But, as appearances can be deceiving, so can assumptions about their future. Not to worry, as with most romances there is a HEA, and one machinated by the Boss himself! All in all, a spicy look into the lives of The Goddard Project agents and their innermost desires

My fingers are scorching from the scenes in this book! So, if you're in the mood for an emotional tug-of-war with a great ending, then this book is calling your name.

I have yet to find out the fascination the cats have with Chris' backpack. He carries it to and from work, it holds his computer in a special padded pocket. When he brings it home each night the cats, especially Layla, rub all over it and even try to play with it.

Today was blah! It started out sunny, but I knew it was supposed to rain later this evening. I took Son and he and I went to the library to pick up the books that had come in for Daughter. After I dropped him back at home with Chris (who is driving me BATTY with the poor pitiful me I am sick, thing. Yes, I'm sick the kids are sick and so is he, but we don't act like we're dying. Well, Daughter did till I pointed out to her the differences in how she was acting and her brother was acting, and both sick). I ran to BAMM for something to read, and yes I did check the library, I didn't see anything (REALLY small library). I picked up May's issue of RT magazine and Satisfaction Guaranteed by Lucy Monroe. I just finished it. A very spicy book. I'll post a review after I let my thoughts cool down! *G*

Anyway, after running by BAMM, I had packed the recyclables in the van and on the way to grocery shopping, I dropped them off. Then on to grocery shopping, by myself. I can't remember the last time I went to the grocery store for a full shopping list of groceries by myself. It did take a bit shorter time shopping. But, I also found myself picking things up for the kids that I knew would cheer them up from not feeling well. (And went ahead and got a few things for Daughters birthday in 2 weeks). Yes, I also got a few extra things for Chris to make him more comfortable. Not that they worked. He's determined to be miserable and is in the mindset that nothing will help. Seriously. We have the same illness, I have no idea why I am able to function and he's not. Granted, I'm not running on the treadmill or doing anything that will make my head hurt worse, but I'm not lying on the couch and complaining and sighing loudly. Give me a break. Excuse my lack of patience with him, okay? It's just I'm taking care of everybody and not feeling at peak performance myself. I am sorry he doesn't feel well, though.

The kids liked the treats I picked up for them and besides putting the groceries away and doing laundry because Son had an slight accident before he woke up today, which meant more laundry, thats been my day and night. As for the rain? As soon as I brought the last grocery bag in and closed the back of the van, it started to pour!

I sincerely hope ya'll had a fun day. And that your sunday is restful before the start of another week. Have a good day, B.

You couldn't PAY ME to go back to H.S..

So, tonight we're watching a movie you've probably seen. We bought this on DVD, to replace the tape we killed, a few weeks ago. I think I've seen this movies too many times, because I can almost quote it word for word. *g* Granted, I was 10 years old when this movie first came out, but I think it captures the akwardness of High School and all the agnst that goes along with it. Not every girl gets the hott (notice the 2 t's) guy in the end, but it's fun to root for Samantha anyway. Almost like a (then) modern day fairy tale. (Have I mentioned this is one of my favorite movies of all time?)
Chris came home early from work today. He was pale and coughing like crazy. This thing has had ahold of him for almost 2 weeks now and I told him yesterday to make a Doctors appointment. He forgot. Uh-huh, right. He's on the couch with a cold cloth over his eyes right now. Why are men big babies when they are sick?

Son is okay, no thanks to the gash in his head and the snot running down. (Lovely visual, right? Welcome to my world!) Why do little kids autmatically wipe their noses on their sleeves, thereby smearing the icky stuff all over their cute little faces? Is it a requirment, or what? I have to give the kid kudos though. He is not complaining everytime I drag out the nose squeegee and tissue paper. Because, he WILL NOT blow his nose.
Daughter is still not sick and is practically lording it over the rest of us. That's okay. Eventually she'll get it. *g* And then (cue morbid music) "I'll get you my pretty and your little dog too!" Okay, kidding. I think the cold medicine has made me loopy. Um, except that I only take it when I go to bed. So, just figure it lasts a lllooooooong time. *G*
I didn't make it to the library today, what with Son and his snot issues and he and I are coughing like crazy, it just seemed prudent to stay home. Hopefully tomorrow I'll make it out of the house (for the first time this week).
I hope y'all have a wonderful saturday, go have some fun for me! B.

It almost looks like Midnight is floating, doesn't it? He's a funny kitty. He likes to be carried around and is very sweet. He also still tries to suck on our ears sometimes. He is too weird.

I had an okay day. Still fighting the drainage and stupid resulting headache. Someone said the absolute sweetest thing about me today, that I cried. I'm so goofy. I don't know quite how to take a compliment. Chris calls me beautiful all the time, but I'm married to him, so he has to be nice to me, and I know I'm not. Which is exactly what I tell him. I usually say: "I'm not, but thank you for thinking I am". Yes, I am annoying, how kind of you to point that out! *g*

Still not reading today, well, except for blogs. And the library called today, 2 books I had placed on hold for Daughter are in to be picked up. The Dreadful Future of Blossom Culp by Richard Peck (I read this when I was young and thought Daughter would like it) and Bad Kitty by Michele Jaffe (which is a YA, that I read last year and think Daughter will like, and there's nothing wrong with an adult reading a YA! Is there?) I hope not. I'm an eclectic reader.

Son, is not having the best day. He's been gagging because of the drainage all day and then this evening while I was making dinner, he was "being moved over" by Daughter and fell off the couch and hit his head on the chest I use as a coffee table/storage in the LR. It put a nasty gash in his head, and blead enough to freak him out, but there was no gaping wound and the blood stopped after a few minutes of applied pressure. He doesn't need stiches and his eyes stayed the same, so no concussion. But, JEEZ, the kid is having a bad week! His foot on saturday (no bruise, nothing), then Chris' cold/sinus thing and now a head wound! Poor baby! I had to calm him down AND calm down Daughter. I felt comfortable taking care of all this myself, but I was also happy to have Chris get home and double check for me (he used to be an EMT, yes a very varried career for hubs). Anyway, Son seems fine now and is staying up late so I can keep an eye on him for a bit longer (just because I know he's okay, doesn't mean that fear hasn't creeped in!).

Other than all that, the day has been good. I've been dealing with the usual laundry (when, WHEN does it ever end??) and housekeeping. Fun, yes? Nope, but it makes up my world. I hope y'all had a good day! And that your friday is great, because hey! It's FRIDAY! B.

Exercise: the coughing has settled in, not great for the treadmill or anything else. As soon as I am able I will definitley be back at it. I feel so guilty!

Oreo actually loooks shy here. She's a good girl with a serious attitude. It's funny, if she's not in the mood to be petted she will slink under your hand. Chris gets a big kick out of it.

Well, I have placed us under quarantine. *g* Daughter didn't go to her RE class tonight because Son and I are sick. Granted, I could have dropped her off, but I didn't want to take Son out today, it was cold and wet and I'm pretty sure that Daughter is a germ carrier. I don't think the other parents would have thanked me.

Son has been pale, but in good spirits, and ate like a small horse this afternoon, but then lost the battle with his tummy once tonight. Ginger-ale is being pushed like crazy and he's congested and coughing tonight. TMI, right? When he doesn't feel well, he is in my lap. And my lap has been full today. Chris didn't warn me about the sore throat, so that was a nice surprise today when I awoke. He so owes me.

I just found out tonight that Daughter is making decent grades on her tests, except for Math, those could use some improvement. I tried to read today but couldn't concentrate, so this thing had better go away soon. I need my books!

I'm still keeping up with laundry and other things, even managed to cook dinner tonight. Other than that, nothing else to tell y'all.

Have a good thursday! B.

Exercise: NO. Somehow the idea of getting hot and sweaty, with a stopped up head and nose (hello, headache) and congestion doesn't seem so appealing right now.

Another oldie but goodie, this one of Son. He isn't feeling well today and thanks to an inability to blow all this crud out, or spit it out, he's been sick a couple of times. AND I'm now getting it as well. So.....this is it from me tonight/today. I'm sure I'll try to bore y'all with my daily life tomorrow, but for now, Son and I don't feel well.

Have a good wednesday, B.

Exercise:Um, no. My head hurts enough thanks to drainage that if I did something it might fall off.

Isn't Fireball a dapper and handsome fellow? He's smiling, too. He's so sweet and is healing up nicely. His fur is starting to grow back on his tummy and his leg, where the Vet had shaved him. AND he's now bigger than Oreo!

Okay, so I "said" I was going to exercise? Does painting my entryway and part of the living room count? Please say yes! I climbed up and down off a chair too many times to count, not to mention moved furniture, carried the 5 gallon pain bucket around (and it was full!), taped all the molding and did enough squats with the paint brush in hand that I'm certain I'm going to be feeling all this tomorrow. *g* But, everything looks so bright and clean and sparkly now.

Nothing much else happened today, unless you count the MANY loads of laundry done today! I also read a book today. By Lisa Kleypas, It Happened One Autumn. One of the few historicals I read every year. It was good.

Anyway, that's it. It was, of course, a monday, meaning uneventful and boring. I liked it! Y'all have a good tuesday, B.

"I'm too sexy for my collar, too sexy for my collar, too sexy it hurt's". Hahahahaha! Seriously, doesn't Butterscotch look inordinately proud of himself? And he's SMILING!

WARNING: POST ABOUT MASS FOLLOWING. If you find that offensive, I'm sorry.

Okay, yesterday. We got a late start but knew we had practice at the Church. It took an hour and a half and after that we ran by the gift store for a card for Daughter and one for her sponsor/godmother, not to mention a small token for her sponsor/godmother. Then we had to run by the mall for a return of mine. THEN, we ran and picked up lunch because Son is the only one who had time to eat. (Um, yeah, I made it for him, but didn't have time to make something for everyone else!) In between all that we had to get gas. Chris dropped the kids and I off at the hair place and Daughter got her hair cut (over 3 inches!!!!!!), it now falls right at her neckline. While we were there, Chris went by the bank and then swung back up and picked us up. We had one more stop to make. We had to pick Son up some gum for the night ahead. Now. We had told the In-Laws that we would be leaving at 7:15 for the Church (we live about 25-30 minutes from it, all interstate miles) and guess what? They were here waiting on us when we got home at 6pm. They had intimated they would be here at 7pm. But, what was done was done.

Anyway, Daughter got there on time and we took the In-Laws into the Church. You could tell they thought it was nice, but they had only ever been in one other Catholic Church before, and never to a Mass. (They went to see the gardens of one when they visited California.) Did I mention that this service is the longest Mass there is? 3 hours long?! Chris said it wasn't the best Mass to introduce a couple of novices! But, they held their tongues and tried to be pleased for Daughter. Afterwards they shot out of the Church like a cannon! *G* They left and we stayed for the party that is always held afterwards. Daughter was quite the social butterfly and barely sat still. Chris and I are amazed at how poised she was during the Mass and party. Everyone came up and congratulated her. And I do mean EVERYBODY! Even people we had never met made it a point to tell her how well she did. She was the only child that went through with the RCIA. (But, only for Baptism and First Communion. She'll be confirmed later, when she's older.) Oh, and Son? He was well behaved the whole time. Except for the scream he let out when the kneeler came down on his foot. But, he was fine and was quiet almost immediately. What a good little boy! And? Sweetest thing, he was proud of his sister, you could tell. He talked about her all night.

END OF MASS POST.

Today was spent quietly. The In-Laws had tried all day yesterday to get us to agree to spend the day with them, but I knew that we would be wiped out from all the goings on from yesterday, so we told them no. Turns out it was a good thing, because my SIL showed up, despite having Strep throat (can you believe that?!). The In-laws called today and were bragging on her for it. Do you think they'll be bragging next week when they come down with it? We did make, um, I mean let the kids play outside today so that Chris and I could recover. They had a blast and Son really enjoyed the candy and bubbles the Easter Bunny brought him and his sister. And that's it . I've thoroughly enjoyed our boring day. Shoot, I've even enjoyed the laundry today!

I hope y'all had a good Easter and that your monday is not hectic for y'all. B.

Exercise: None today. I was wiped out from yesterday. Tomorrow for sure.

An oldie but goodie. Who doesn't love pictures of kitties in sinks? *g* I will take (or have Son take) some new pictures tomorrow. Layla looks so comfortable doesn't she?

I wish I had the brain energy left to tell y'all all about today and tonight. Suffice to say, Daughter was fantastic, she has hair 3 inches shorter than earlier today and her father and I are very proud of her. Oh, and the In-Laws behaved, but you could tell they were in sever culture shock, and not in a good way.

I'll fill in all the details later, after I've had some sleep. I hope everyone has a wonderful Easter!

B.

Exercise: You're kidding right? It's one am and we just got home! I'll exercise later. Maybe tomorrow.

A different view of Athena trying to catch the "red bug" on the wall. Isn't she cute! Have you ever noticed how a cat will attach to a certain person? Athena and Patches are Daughter's babies. Layla, Midnight and Fireball have attached to me. athen does, however, let Son pick her up and carry her all over the house, like a baby. It's so cute.

Today felt busy, although I didn't go anywhere. Daughter is nervous about tomorrow, so I kept her a bit busy earlier today (not to mention that she has no school work and I always left her to get her work done, instead of alot of chores). I weeded the front bush/mulch bed and she had to put them in a bag and throw them away. I had her empty the porch off, so I could sweep it. And I had her clean all the trash out of the van (hey, it's not my trash!) and then I vacummed it. Sensing a them here? Let's see, before that I vacummed the house, wiped down the downstairs bathroom and have done 3 loads of laundry. What the heck is worng with me? Oh, I forgot, I also cleaned up and swept out the garage. Dudes, I am T I R E D. And I still need to exercise. And I didn't get to read today, either.

But, Daughter is now playing with Son. It's amazing how well they can (sometimes) get along despite their age difference. I think it's great as long as no blood is shed, or no screams that go "MOMMY SHE HIT ME" or "MOM HE HIT ME". It was sweet earlier. Son wanted to play with her and she wanted to read. He wanted me to MAKE her play with him. Awwww. I had to tell him that I couldn't make her play with him and he wanted to know WHY! HAHAHA! Too sweet. Right now they're getting along. Thank goodness.

Anyway, wish Daughter lcuk tomorrow and if you don't mind, just send good thoughts that if her grandparents (my In-laws) actually do go, that they behave and don't make any comments that might ruin her night. Goodness knows I'm worried. Chris is worried and Son, well, we'll see how he does. I hope y'all have a great saturday and if I don't "see" you a Happy Easter! B.

Exercise: still need to do, 30 minutes of Pilates. (I'll update either way.)

Everybody say "Awwwww".

It almost looks like Fireball and Midnight are holding hands. It's really sweet how the cats get along. AND it's really funny when they are playing, running around upstairs. I tell the kids the elephants are loose. (You wouldn't believe how loud they sound!)

Today was a rather fun day. Since Daughter is done with her school work until her new curriculum gets here, she read most the day. And like her Mom she can really hit a book. She started and finidhed the first book in the Artemis Fowl series. When she has schoolwork, she is not allowed to "read for pleasure" until everything that is supposed to be done, is done. So she's really enjoying catching up with her reading. And the best part of the day? I didn't have to fuss at her about paying attention to her work!! YAY!

I knocked out my exercise early today, doing it this afternoon, instead of this evening. We managed to run by the library and I found 3 books, Daughter found 3 books and Son found a graphic novel and a photograph book of Nascar and 2 movies. A great trip to the library!

After that we made it to Mass. Son behaved and Daughter seemed okay. She's starting to get nervous for Saturday.

And that was our day. Well, except for all the usual, like feeding the kids and cleaning up around here. *sigh* I know, boring.

I hope y'all had a good thursday and that you have a fun friday! B.

Exercise: 4 miles on the treadmill, 3.6 speed and 7 incline.

I'm not sure why I love this picture. Maybe it's because it has Son in it, or maybe because it has Layla. It's probably because of both. *g* Son is playing a video game by the way. I could be scared at how well he, as a 5 year old, is able to play his games on there, but I am proud that he can do so much. And no, he doesn't do anything on there unless I'm in the same room. Neither of the kids are allowed to be on there unless I'm in the room, or Chris is. AND Chris has installed a 'filter' on the computer. It slows the browser down, but keeps them off any site we don't approve.

Chris stayed home from work today, sick. His allergies got so bad last night he's hacking the drainage and his throat was so sore when he woke up today he could barely talk. He's better tonight. I went to WW and bought some Mucinex for him, not to mention some Benedryl.

Daughter is finished with Math for her school year. As a matter of fact, she has just one paper left to write and she'll be done for her school year. I'll give her about 2 weeks off and then it'll be time to start her next school year. I think I've explained before that we do this all year long. She doesn't get a summer vacation like most kids. We tried that for the first few years, but found that the routine of school work was hard to get back into for her, and that it was too easy to forget what she had just finished. This way, she retains the information better, and she gets 2 weeks off every time she completes a 9 week quarter. And I'm sure that that's way more information that you needed. Sorry. I always feel very defensive when it comes to talking about Homeschooling and I ask that you excuse me. I want to share with y'all, I'm just not sure how it's received. Moving on........

I finished Hot Stuff by Janet Evanovich; my review is below.

I hope you all had a good wednesday. Out of curiousity, is anyone aware of the reason Wednesday is often referred to as Hump Day, actually, I can figure out that on my own, I was just curious as to how it started. Ah, never mind. I wish a good thursday for you and that things flow smoothly through-out the day. B

Exercise: None tonight. VERY tired. Back to it tomorrow.

Hot Stuff by Janet Evanovich and Leanne Banks

Hot Tuff by Janet Evanovich and Leanne Banks is a pleasant romp through the life of an ordinary woman in extraordinary circumstances. Luckily she has friends and a new man to help her through it all. And I think Beast steals the show!

Cate Madigan wants a normal life. She wants to finish school to become a teacher, maybe find a good guy and ride off into the future with his black horse. Instead she gets a meddling family bent on setting her up with blind dates from hades and a drag-queen room-mate. Then her room-mate disappears and Beast is delivered, from him. Beast is a 120lb. Bull Mastiff. Too bad he's a puppy!

Enter Kellan McBride, er, Koster. He enters Cate's life in search of something he believes her room-mate has stolen. But, he's falling, hard for Cate. She's becoming more important to him than his case. Even Beast is growing on him.

Now Cate and Kellan need to find Marty, Cate's room-mate, and stop all the mysterious things going on before they can find out if there's a future for the two of them. Um, the 3 of them, because Beast isn't going to be left behind.

All in all a cute book. Not a standard Evanovich, in the way that she captures and keeps your interest. But, the characters are fun and the action, although predictable, flows well. Alot of mention is made in the book of how Cate wants to be a teacher, but I have to say, the way the book has her baking cakes almost non-stop, she should reconsider her career choices!

I give up, Don't shoot!

Seriously, doesn't this pose remind you of someone staniding against the wall ready to be frisked? (Maybe I watch too many cop shows?) Just so you know, she's trying to catch the red bug. *g*

Hot Stuff by Janet Evanovich is due out today and Chris called B&N near where he works to see if they had a copy. They did and he went on his luch hour and picked it up for me. Isn't that sweet? He knew I was working hard with Daughter on her math today and that I didn't want to take the time out of that to go buy it.

Nothing much today, except I'm revisiting multiplying mixed numbers and fractions. Joy. Have I mentioned that math is not my favorite subject. Give me history or literature anyday. But, math? Bleh.

That's it. That's my day. Sad isn't it? Don't get me wrong, I love my children and the time I am able to spend with them, but that doesn't keep me from getting lonely.

Ah, don't mind me. Want to know the chore I do that I put off doing the most? Clipping the cats claws. Butterscotch squirms and squiggles, Patches is starting to get mean about it and Layla is not called 'demon cat' during the process for nothing. Fireball behaves, Oreo growls (I think Layla is wearing off on her) and Athena puts up with it and Midnight tries to bite the clippers. I had to deal with them all today to do it. And yes, I HAVE to do them all at the same time. Wouldn't you?

Anyway, I hope you had a good day and that tomorrow follows in those same way. B.

Exercise: 30 minutes of Pilates. Done.

Can anyone say 'Federal Offense'?

Layla is doing what I wish I could do right now, but I still have one more load of laundry to fold. And yes, she stole my chair, again. You have to admire how a cat can just go to sleep, whenever and wherever they want.

I am so flipping tired. I have done alot today, but not as much as I could have done.

I went to the Post Office and mailed some things off. While there Son played with a stamp machine and it started to spit out money. I'm not sure how it happened, but he is now aware (from me) that is is a federal Offense and Mommy doesn't want to go to jail. Luckily the PO clerk was highly amused at how a 5 year old turned a stamp machine into a slot machine. (And yes, I made him give the money to the clerk.)

After that a trip to WW for milk. I'm starting to think that maybe Chris needs to sign over a portion of his paycheck to them every pay period. Oh, wait we sort of already do that. *g*

I was SO happy to get back home. For about 5 minutes. Then I had to vacumm the carpets, sweep and mop the floors (have I mentioned I live in a 2 story house?) and do 4 loads of laundry AND do Chris' ironing tonight that I was supposed to do last night. That's an hour and a half I'll never get back. But, it was my fault. I didn't do it last week, so it had piled up. That's not counting feeding the kids and constanly picking up after them, or fussing at Daughter to get her math done, that she has 2 tests left and is dragging her feet on. *sigh* So, I haven't had time to read today, but am hoping for a few minutes before sleep claims me tonight. I hope.

Now, I'm going to spend a few minutes with Chris, who just got home, before I have to fold that last load of laundry. I hope y'all had a good day. If not, then I hope that tomorrow is better for you. B.

Exercise: 30 minutes of Pilates.

Son took this picture of Patches. I think that it's a particularly good picture of her and that she looks like she is patient with him. I can attest to the fact that she is not a huge fan of Son, but isn't mean to him. And yeah, that's my chair she is on top of.

Today was a rather quiet day. It rained, although not the Thunderstorms I was expecting and, to be honest, looking forward to today. We stayed in and Daughter worked on her other paper (St. Rose of Lima this time), Chris uploaded most of her schoolwork, Son watched the Nascar Race. Actually, I'll be honest, by the end we were all watching it. Good finish, Son's favorite racer won. Let's see, I also did lots of laundry (yay), and made Chris' favorite, of mine, a Roast with carrots and potatoes. I've started The Last Viking by Sandra Hill and will have it finished by bed time. I am enjoying it, but not as much as her other, later books in the series. I also still have ironing to do as well, oooh, fun, NOT. But, it must be done.

Anyway, that's my day. Nothing exciting, nothing outrageous, just an ordinary day with my family. I hope y'all had a similar day, to rest up for the week ahead. Have a good monday, B.

Exercise: 4miles on treadmill, 3.6 speed, 7 incline. And that's where I started the book I'm reading.