We had a Visitor!

I went out to water the garden (HA!) the other day and this is what popped out from under the zuchini plant that decided to die. From what we can determine it is a TOAD. EWWWWW! *G* (Yeah, I am that type of girl.) I didn't scream (much) when it jumped the first time, but I did run and grab my camera. And no, your eyes aren't playing tricks on you, that is RED dirt. *G* We're kinda famous for it in this part of the country. *G* Sadly we lost track of Mr. Toad later that day.

Guess what? After three days we made it to the Y and went swimming today! YAY! And we had a blast. Son didn't throw up, but still has this weird thing about HATING water in his eyes. And telling him that tears are water, doesn't help. *g*

Another day of not reading, btw. *sigh* Which is kinda okay because I have one book to read and it's due back at the library at the end of this week. They better get some of my other holds in soon!

Chris cooked again today! We had grilled barbecue chicken, YUM! *G* I wish I wasn't afraid of the grill, but when I asked him how to turn it on by myself once, he started to tell me about the few times he's almost singed his eyebrows and I decided I didn't need to know that badly. I did make him and the kids some cookies today, though. It was just a half formed thought until I read Marianne's blog this afternoon. After that I HAD to make chocolate chip cookies. *g*

And that's about it from me tonight. Chris is writing another paper for his class and I'm relishing the lingering smell of cookies baking in the air. *G* (Better to smell them than eat them!) I hope that y'all had a relaxing Sunday. I wish a stress-free and smile filled Monday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: We spent an hour and a half in the pool at the Y, does that count? How about the loads of laundry I had today? *G*

P.S. Tougher In Alaska on the History Channel is AWESOME! *G* Yes, yes I am a History channel geek. *G*

I didn't deserve that look!

We had to clip the cats claws this evening. This look from Layla was my reward. Gee! Don't you feel all warm and fuzzy with that glare aimed at you? *G*So, clipping broke down like this: Midnight-tried to eat the clippers and didn't mind nibbling my hand in the process, although he didn't try to hurt me.

Oreo-growled her head of the entire time, she sounded like some demented cat!

Layla- kept trying to snatch her paws back from my hand, but was quiet the entire time.

Patches- actually growled at me! She's never done that before.

Fireball- sat still and quiet like the sweet fellow he is.

Butterscotch- wiggled and squirmed the entire time, his nickname during nail clipping is Wiggle-worm. *G*

Athena- kept trying to snatch her paws back and wiggled around making clipping difficult.

All in all clipping the cats claws in an exercise in patience and also agility! Luckily I had Daughter to help! And I don't understand their dislike of this practice, we've been clipping their claws since we've had each of them and I have NEVER in all the years I've been clipping my kitties nails, EVER clipped too close. (And we're talking 20 years of clipping here, because I used to do this for my Mom, too when I was a teenager.)

Today was hot. Ugh! I hated to leave the house but we ventured to Mass and then home. We didn't make it to the Y today, more thunder this afternoon with dark clouds. We didn't want to chance it. Cross your fingers for tomorrow! *G*

I didn't get a chance to read today, I don't know what it is with the weekends and my lack of reading! However, I did notice something when I was blog hopping this evening! For those of you who are Candace Havens fans later this year (November) she is set to release a new book The Demon King and I. And author Linda Wisdom will follow up 50 Ways to Hex Your Lover with Hex Appeal, due out also in November.

I have pictures of both the covers, but am techo-goober enough to not be able to get them where I want them, so they are above. Sorry!

Anyway, that's my day and evening. I hope you have had a pleasant and happy Saturday and I wish a relaxing and hopefully peacefull Sunday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Fireball sneaks a peek outside!

Here's my handsome fella. He's a sweet boy and loves to use me as a bridge from the floor to my chair-across me- to the window ledge. They funny thing is? He could go from the floor to the ottoman to the ledge. There's no need to bounce across my chest to look out the window. *G*

I'm sick, literally, of this heat and it's not even JULY yet. Ugh! We went grocery shopping today and the ride to the store wasn't even 10 minutes, but by the time we walked in and started shopping I was sick to my stomache and SO not wanting to actually look at food. After spending a monsterous amount, we arrived home and put everything away. I was going to take the kids to the Y to go swimming this afternoon, but Mother Nature decided to be a witch and thunder, lightening and a bit of rain that lasted maybe 5 minutes put a stop to that. *sigh* And Chris even took today off to work on some of his schoolwork and go to the Y with us. BUT, we decided to go tomorrow, there's no rain forecasted, so cross your fingers we actually get to go. *G*

We did have a good time this evening, Chris and I, cooking together in the kitchen. I swear it's been forever since we've done that. When he was in the Military we used to cook together all the time or he'd cook dinner. Since he's been out of the Military he's been working a difficult schedule and isn't home at dinner anymore, so all that falls on me. We listened to music and just had a good time while making mexican and I made a cake for him. *G*

I did want to explain a small bit why we're panicking over the SIL/Party thing. We're supposed to supply a cheese tray and a fruit tray, only it's not that easy. To serve all those that will attend we'll actually need 3-4 of each. The cheese trays alone are $65 a piece. Now do y'all understand why I'm freaking? Don't forget I just paid out $800 to fix my Jeep. I need $1000 in August for the kids Curriculum and I am supposed to visit the dentist and have a filling/and or root canal soon, too. ALL this on one income. Yeah, no. When I said that we've made sacrifices, I meant it. But, we know we're providing the kids with the education and attention that is needed. I'm just hoping that the libraries here can keep up with the new books coming out that I want to read! (And if all that's TMI for ya, don't worry about it! *G*)

I've had no chance to read today or this evening, but I did finish the Dixie Cash book last night at bedtime. It truly was a good read. I love the characters and some of the expressions used were hilarious! I hope there's another book in the works!

That's it from me this evening. I want to spend a bit of time vegging. I am tired for some reason and feel the need to just "be". I hope that y'all had a fun and happy Friday. I wish a delightful and smile filled Saturday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: Nope, took the day off.

I thought a picture from the front...

I know I posted a picture of Patches from the other end. I figured y'all would like a picture of the front! She really is a very sweet cat. She's very shy and laid back, too. She's definitely Daughters kitty and sleeps on her bed every night. She's also the biggest cat we have, but for all that, she's a sweetie.

Today has stacked up to be a frustrating day. My SIL has emailed me, again, to handle a couple kind of the food trays. Um, yeah, I need to know the date and a final guest number. *sigh* And I'm wondering how we can afford to help with all this. SIL seems to forget we have two kids and one income. She and her hubs both work, are 13 years older and have NO kids. AND I have curriculum to purchase in August. I just don't think she's in touch with reality when it comes to other people. Gee SIL, I'm sorry we don't have the money to buy a WWII Jeep(actually they have 2), or Truck from WWII or Cannon. (Yes, they do have those.) OR to go out and buy a limited edition Ford Cobra Mustang. (They did that two weeks ago.) Sorry. I'm just upset they never said anything about this months ago. I'll get over it. Hopefully.

In other news I picked up my book from the library today. Don't Make Me Choose Between You and My Shoes by Dixie Cash. I also picked up Overnight Male by Elizabeth Bevarly. Since I was already out I decided to the Y and work out there instead of at home. Just to shake things up a bit. I made the mistake of starting the Dixie Cash book, because I had it with me, after I got off the elyptical and onto the treadmill and almost fell off from laughing. And I know the other people there had to be giving me looks even though I tried to be quiet. *G* If you like cozy mysteries you'll like it, if you like romances you'll like it. I've read others by the sister duo known as Dixie Cash and can tell you they are always entertaining.

I hope that y'all had a good day. That you laughed, smiled and felt good. I wish a FUN and fabulous Friday to y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 30 minutes on the elyptical, 30 minutes on the treadmill. I want to work out with the weights but am clueless.

Oreo won't stop staring at me!

This cat is obsessive. I mean it. Any time I go upstairs, she has to go and run up ahead of me. On the way down, she'll walk behind me to make sure I'm actually headed down the stairs. This picture was taken last night with my cell phone. I know y'all can't tell, but she's to the left of my chair. I swear she stared at me for a good ten minutes. It was creepy! Cats really should blink more. *G*

My timing was off today and I blame the heat. It reached a HOT 97 here today and I kept my fanny inside for most of it. We left early to go to the Y, so I could pick up a book that had come in on hold. Unfortunately I forgot the hours and arrived 2 minutes before they closed. I didn't want to make them stay late, even though the door was open, so I just left and headed to the Y. Here's the thing. I left our home at 10 till 6pm, my class is at 6:45. It only takes 15 minutes at the most to travel to the Y from our house and since the library is less than 3 miles from our house, you do the math. BUT, if I had decided to go home and THEN go to the Y I would have had to turn around and head right back out. Especially since I like to get there about 10 minutes early anyway. Have I confused y'all yet? Anyway, I sat with the kids in the childwatch and chatted with the workers until my class started, in the lovely air conditioning.

By the time we arrived home it had cooled a bit, so I sat outside with Son while he played in the backyard because Daughter was out front with her friends. Sometimes the age difference between the two is WAY wide, you know?

And while I may have done laundry today, I refuse to cook when it's this hot so we had sandwishes for dinner. *G*

(After I posted last night I made a blueberry cobbler, cutting some of the sugar and ironed.)

As for reading today? I haven't really had a chance. I've been doing little things here and there and just didn't have the right temperment to pick up a book today. Which is bad, because I have a few really good library books I need to read before they're due back. Maybe later tonight or tomorrow.

That's about it from here. I'm waiting for Chris to get home and then looking forward to getting some sleep. I'm so tired. I did want to thank y'all for the kind words on last nights post. I'm sorry to be such a gloomy guss. This next month is not going to be easy for us and I was stressed/worried thinking about it, on top on the SIL issue and we have another issue in August that could potentionally be bad. *Crossing fingers, knocking on wood* (Oh, and don't worry, Chris and I are fine, the kids are fine and the cats are as crazy as ever.)

I hope y'all had a good day and stayed cool! I wish y'all a relaxed and happy Thursday. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Yoga

Patches cracks me up!

I think this picture of Patches is one of my absolute favorites, and I just took it last night! *G* I like how you can see the little pads of her paws. She seems very relaxed, doesn't she? *G*

Today was quiet (and OMGosh HOT), more so that I was more quiet than usual. It was an off day for me. I didn't even gather the energy, physically or mentally, to exercise until 8pm. In an effort to save a bit of gas, I didn't go to the Y today but did Yoga at home. I thought about the treadmill, but couldn't muster the enthusiasm to get on.

I have been reading a bit today. I'm almost finished with The Accidental Werewolf by Dakota Cassidy. I would have finished it, but for some reason I just didn't want to read much today.

Tomorrow will be another, hopefully better, day. I hope that y'all had an enjoyable day and that you smiled and shared that smile with others around you. I wish you an energetic and lovely Wednesday. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Yoga at home.

The Highlight of my day!

Layla is trying to rub herself all over my new library aquisition. *g* I know she's trying to mark it as hers, but I have news for her, MINE (to read anyway). But, two of my favorite things, books and kitties! *G*

Just another quiet day here, albiet a bit warm and stormy. Too bad it didn't do more than drizzle in our area. The kids have had a blast playing with their friends now that it's Summer. Son is now technically a "red-neck", a term used here in the South. His neck is sunburned from this past weekend outside having so much fun. *G*

SIL called this morning. To talk to ME. Uh-huh. She wanted to know what I wanted to help with, with the Out-laws 50th Anniversary part in August. This is the same woman who told Chris last year that I wasn't one of the family. Now that she wants something from me I guess I'm family? Supposedly she's been planning this party for almost a year. Why two months before, she wants something from me, I don't know. And it's not that I mind helping, but why now? I told her that I'd do whatever she wanted me to do, but she never picked before she ended the call. And Hi. These aren't even my parents. They're Chris' and hers. She didn't ask him to do anything. Is this because I don't have a job that I'm paid for? AGH! I'll help because that is how I was raised and who I am, but the more I think about this, the more I am NOT happy. (And also as I sit here and think about it, the more I know that she hasn't hammered out any firm details, at all.) *sigh*

Let's see, I also swept and mopped all the floors that get that treatment today, did ONE load of laundry *G* and polished the furniture. We went by the library today on the way to the Y this evening and picked up one of my books from Hold, Bobbie Faye's (kinda, sorta, not exactly) Family Jewels by Toni McGee Causey. I also picked up a book by a never-heard-of author A Nameless Witch by A. Lee Martinez. I'm still reading An Accidental Werewolf by Dakota Cassidy and have placed the Uncorrected Proof I received, Accidentally Dead by her aside so I can finish the first book about three friends and the Supernatural. *G*

After Yoga we arrived back home and the kids shot out the door and weren't seen until it was dark. (I'm kidding, I knew where they were.) I made cookies for them and their friends and let them decimate their rooms with their friends while the cookies were baking. Their friends were amazed that I baked. Seems no one bakes at their house, so I sent them home with the remains of the cookies I'd made after my kids had had a few.

And that's my day. Not much going on, but enough for me. I hope that y'all had an enjoyable day and that you smiled at least once. I wish a light, sunny day for y'all tomorrow. Goodnight and Bless each of you, B.

Exercise: 1 Hour Yoga.

Fireball and Layla buddy up!

Fireball and Layla were dozing just in front of the entryway this afternoon and I thought they looked so cute together I snapped this picture with my cell phone. Out of all the cats we have, Layla gets along with Fireball the most. They all seem to think of her as the "den mother" and many a kiss is given out by her.

Today was warm and quiet for the most part. I didn't go anywhere today and needed the down time. Between my allergies and the Chinese Food we had for dinner last night I haven't been feeling the best. As a matter of fact, I hadn't eaten anything but crackers today until dinner, which Chris made. Oh, and of course laundry needed to be done, no matter how I felt.

I have been reading today, however. I read Something Wicked by Evelyn Vaughn. It was pretty good, albiet a bit dark. After that I picked up Dakota Cassidy's The Accidental Werewolf and have read a chapter or two, but had laundry and the kids interrupt, so put it down for a bit.

Chris has been pretty good today. Son felt left out when Daughter went to one of her friends house to play and he wasn't invited, so Chris took him with him to the store this afternoon and according to Chris they had fun. *G* Chris also said to me" he's not quiet, is he?" Um, no. His mouth starts running when he wakes up and moves all day long until he falls asleep at night. *G*

I hope that y'all had a pleasant and relaxing day. I wish a happy and stress-free day for y'alls Monday. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Um, no. Chris and I make light by saying (when we feel this way) that we don't want to redecorate the walls. Ugh.

Yesterdays picture from inside!

This picture is of the brothers Fireball and Butterscotch peeking outside at Layla. The screen door is wide open and they could have gone out at anytime. They were curious, which is natural, but a bit cautious. Fireball stayed crouched down, even when he finally ventured out. *g* Butterscotch had to be taken out and he would barely move. Silly boys. And I don't know if Layla was gaurding the door to keep the other kitties inside, or just liked being in the way!

Today was nice, I just wish my allergies had taken a break today. I've been kinda dizzy and had a lovely sinus headache all day. Ugh. We did make it to the next county's library where I picked up The Accidental Werewolf by Dakota Cassidy, Something Wicked by Evelyn Vaughn (a Silhouette Bombshell and Confessions of a Teen Sleuth a Parody by Chelsea Cain, this last book I've been wanting to read, as a fan of the Nancy Drew books when I was a young girl. But, I started it this evening and all it's doing is reminding me why I liked the Trixie Belden books more. *G*I'm just glad I was able to pick up a few books. :)

After the library we went by Lowe's to pick up some paint for the molding. Have I mentioned that my next house (please let there be a next house) will have wood molding, not PAINTED molding. Ugh! Between the kids, the cats and for some reason I think the vacumn cleaner, the molding needs to be painted, refreshed, every 6 months or so. Anyway, while there we picked up a new doorbell, we wanted one with a lit botton and ours doesn't have one, or we didn't think it did until we got home and Chris installed the new one and we took the old button apart. Turned out the light had burned out. Before we bought the house. FOUR years ago. *G* I like my new button, it matches the storm door we put on two years ago. *G* The one thing I forgot? A new zuchini plant. Maybe we weren't meant to have zuchini? I'll try and remember before the summer ends. *G*

That's about it for the day. Unless someone could explain to me why it took Daughter two hours to get herself down the stairs after we woke her up and called for her repeatedly? *thunk* She's going to drive me batty. I can tell. It might be time to take her door off the hinges again. And yes, we have done that because of this problem before. *sigh* Teenagers are tough. Ugh.

I hope that y'all have had a good day and that you had a good time. I wish a relaxing and yes, peaceful day for y'alls Sunday. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Does walking around Lowe's and staring at the most gorgeous kitchen cabinets count? *G*

Layla felt the wind in her fur!

That's my poetic way of saying that Layla went out on the porch the other evening. Note that the brothers Fireball and Butterscotch are inside peeking out at her bravery. *G* Also note that Layla is not wearing a leash. It's because we know that she won't go far, and although she can really move when she wants to, we can run after her. *G* She had a blast outside smelling the small garden we've started. (My zuchini plant died, boo!) We eventually sent her back in and she went willingly. She's no dumby, she know's she's a pampered kitty. *G*

I don't have much to tell y'all about today. I'm still reading the Dakota Cassidy book, Accidental Vampire, but I can't read it alot at one time because it's bound almost like a manuscript and gets tiresome to flip and hold those pages. Not to mention it's hard to read on a treadmill! So, for the treadmill I started (and have just finished) Pandora's Box by Natalie Stenzel. I had read a few uncomplimentary reviews of the book (It being a new-to-me author I did some research after I got it at the UBS.), but I really liked it. There were moments for tears and moments for laughter and of course a HEA, that set up another book! It is a retelling of the myth of Pandora's Box, only this one involves a Puca, Druids and a gaes (a gaelic curse). Who can't enjoy that? *G* And now I have another book to add to the Look For list for the second book. I hope my UBS gets it as well. (My book budget is non-existent until August. *sigh*)

Anyway, except for working out on the treadmill, making dinner, throwing my kids outside to play today and having more quiet time to clean and read, I haven't done much today. I hope that y'all accomplished everything you set out to do today, and had fun along the way. I wish a lovely and FUN Saturday for y'all. Goodnight and HUGS, B.

Exercise: Over 4 miles on the treadmill @ 7 incline.

And this is one of the SMARTER cats!

Seriously, tell me this cat isn't crazy? *G* When Chris came home the other evening he leaned over my chair to give me a kiss and Midnight was so happy to see him he CLIMBED UP ON HIS BACK and LAYED DOWN. (And this was before Chris just had a haircut, by me. *G*) Have I told y'all a few of the things Midnight is smart enough to do? He can play ice hockey (he will catch and throw it.) He can open our cabinet doors (so we have baby locks on a few) and he knows how to make the safety collar "break" apart whenever he wants off the leash when we take him outside. Smart and a GOOBER as evidenced by this picture. *G*

Today has been pretty boring. Daughter and Son spent the majority of the afternoon and evening outside, so I had tons of quiet time! What did I do? I vacummed and have done laundry. That's it. I've been lazy and baaaaaaaad today. *g* And you know what? I deserved it. (I keep telling myself that anyway.) I didn't even exercise, mostly because I felt a bit meh today. But, I've been goofing off on the internet and reading a bit.

I finished Blind Rage by Terri Persons. I liked the book, although it felt a bit flat compared to the first book. And the heroine sure didn't seem to suffer from a lack of hormones! (To put it lightly.)I did like it enough to wonder if there will be a 3rd? And I have several books on Hold at the library, cross your fingers they come in. Normally I don't talk about any author contests I have won (mostly because I don't win very often), but I did win an ARC (actually it's an uncorrected proof) recently and it arrived today, Accidentally Dead by Dakota Cassidy. I have started reading it and it's hilarious.(I may even write a review of it, it's been a while since I did that.) It is a paranormal, but the authors wit, humor and style are hilarious and I just wanted to share because this book will be released in July. *G* Oh, and this past February her first print book was published The Accidental Werewolf. Very good and very funny.

And that's about it from me tonight. It's been a boring, quiet day. The weather was nice, but warm at 86 degrees. (I hate Summer.) I hope that y'all have had a quiet, peaceful day. I wish a Fun and Sunny Friday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: No, I was BAD and took it easy today. (Back at it tomorrow.)

Can you tell what this is?

It's a paw print on the windshield of my Jeep. And yes, I know, I need to wash the Jeep. *G* AND I know exactly which cat made this print. Tiger. *G* The funny thing is? I don't mind the paw prints, I think they're cute. What? *G*

OMgosh, I am SO tired. I had maybe 4 hours sleep last night before having to get up and leave for my Doctors appointment. *sigh* Nerves. And the weird thing? The appointment didn't go badly. This will never be the easiest appointment for me, but the Doctor and Nurse noticed my death grip on Blind Rage by Terri Persons (y'all don't take books everywhere?) and started asking me about it and what authors I read and the next thing I knew the appointment was finished. Oh, and my blood pressure was 120/82. The bottom number is high for me and I asked about it, I was told it was close to perfect. Huh? Turned out my lower number of 70's weren't the best for me. Ooookay. Oh, and the thyroid pills brought the number up. Go figure.

I've been looking all over the place for used copies of Grimspace by Ann Aguirre. Oh, and has anyone read Channeling Cleopatra by Elizabeth Ann Scarborough? I've seen it somewhere and can't remember where. I found the description online and it looks interesting, but it's another I can't find a local used copy of. *sigh* Oh, and I AM reading Blind Rage by Terri Persons right now. I'm about half way through it. And really enjoying it. *G*

We went and found Chris a new pair of shoes for work today. He went with something a bit more casual that I was happy with, but he likes them, so that's what counts. And I'll pick him up a dressier pair later. *G* It only took 3 stores to find him a pair.

We went to the Y tonight but Chris had a headache so he observed my Yoga class. *G* And wouldn't you know we had my favorite teacher, who decided tonight was the night to use a LOT of new moves. *G* Chris agreed with me though, saying she was a good, patient teacher. (He should have an idea, he used to teach for the AF. *G*) I keep trying to get him to try Yoga, but he's too chicken. :)

But, I'll forgive him, he made dinner tonight. And please excuse me if this post makes NO sense whatsoever. I am exhausted and my eyes keep trying to close. I hope that y'all had a simple day, filled with nice things and people. I wish a happy and well rested (*g*) day for y'all tomorrow. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: 1 Hour Yoga.

Another oldie but cutie!

Something about this picture makes me grin like a loon. It's almost like Oreo thinks she's exaclty where she's supposed to be. Or, maybe it's that she looks so serious sitting in such a ridicilous place. *G* Either way, it's too cute.

Hmmm, another boring day here. It was hot as usual, where is the cooler weather we're supposed to have by now? (And by cooler I mean in the mid to high 80's instead of the mid 90's?) Because there was no class at the Y I was willing to humiliate myself to take (there was a class called CoreRebound, it involves mini-trampolines. Me, on a tramplone is NOT a good idea, hello klutz here!) or injure myself to take, I stayed home and used the treadmill.

I've also taken it a bit easy today. Yesterday's activities made me tired. *G* Tomorrow is a very nervous day for me. I have a Doctors appointment. A female type appointment and I hate these. No, I mean it. I get nervous and start to cry and the Doctor's I've seen don't respond well to this. And I can't help it. *sigh*

Anyway, today I've read and finished Cast in Shadow by Michelle Sagara. I found the book to be a good read. I really enjoyed it, it was powerful in it's own way. Although I felt the heroine was a bit naive to have lived the life she did and had. I will be looking for the next book in this series when I can go book shopping again. *G*

Not much else to share today. It's been slow. Chris has tomorrow off and we're looking for new work/dress shoes for him after my Doc visit and before Yoga. I already warned him I wasn't missing my class. *G*

I hope that y'all had a good day and that your life was filled with laughter, smiles and friends. I wish good things for your wednesday, please know that I send Hugs to each of you. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: a bit over 4 miles on the treadmill @ 7 incline. (I went up an incline.)

"Oreo, I swear. There's nothing there!"

Oreo felt sure she saw a bug flying around the lamp between Chris' and my chairs the other evening. Look at that face! Does she not look intense? Poor thing, there was no bug that we could find. And one of the funnier moments was the minute Chris and I saw her look at the lamp, we each removed our drinks from the table. And grabbed the bottom of the lamp. *G* One crazy cat right after the other here. *G*

You ever have one of those days where you wonder where in the heck you'll get your energy? I did not sleep well last night and did not want to get up today. *sigh* I'm hoping that will be different tonight. But, somehow, somewhere I found the energy to get everything done (and then some) today. Between vacumning, ironing, MORE laundry, the library, Yoga and then coming home from that feeling drained and then MAKING the energy to edge and weed eat my neighbors yard AND plant a small garden in our yard, I am tired. And that was all before 9pm.

The good news is, I have 2 books from the libary: Blind Rage by Terri Persons and Accidentally Engaged by Mary Carter (a new-to-me author, the premise sounded cute). But, I've already started Cast in Shadow by Michelle Sagara. Oh, at the library Son decided to check out about 10 books, all on different vehichles and one on CAT MUMMIES. I kid you not. I tried to talk him out of that one, but he wanted to read it, so we'll see how it goes.

I'm too tired to think of anything more interesting. Ah, I can say the "water bucket" conservation is going well. I filled up the birdbath today and had water left over to water my two weeping willow trees. *G*

I hope that y'all had a pleasant day today. That y'all had the energy or found the energy to get everything you needed to done. I wish a nice and sunny day for y'alls Tuesday. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 1 Hour Yoga, and lots of yard work. Y'all don't want to know how sweaty my clothes were when I finally came in tonight. Ugh, BLEH!

This new toy's getting around!

Patches looks a bit miffed doesn't she? She tried to intimidate Layla into walking away from the new toy, but Layla held firm. Yup, she firml held her feet in the air and looked like a turtle tipped onto it's back. Good news is she COULD turn over, she was just kicking the toy on her tummy. *G* (And yes, Patches played with the toy later. )

Today was supposed to be a quiet, stay at home day. We had half that. The Out-laws called early afternoon and wanted to come by. As much as we were looking forward to having a day to relax and get a few things done, we said okay. We had a nice visit that lasted almost 3 hours. And after they left Chris decided HE was going to edge the yard (and who am I to complain? *G*) and did. Tomorrow he'll do our neighbors yard before he goes to work. We also stripped a small piece of our backyard to plant the containers we have because they aren't holding water well because of the heat. I'll do that within the next couple of days.
What else?
The new battery for the Jeep works perfectly.
I made one of Chris' favorites for dinner tonight, Pot Roast. Yum.
I clipped Son's hair.
I've been doing laundry again, all day. Does it ever end?
Chris is writing a paper for his class and I'm up keeping him company.
We've started a new water saving thing. You know when you start the shower and you let it run until it get's warm? We've started saving that water in a bucket and watering our plants. Yes, I know it sounds a bit odd. But, it works and that water isn't just wasted down the drain.
And........
There's nothing else to share with y'all. I think I should have just posted a picture and left it at that. *G* I hope that y'all had a relaxing Sunday. I wish a stress-free and energetic Monday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: Not really. Back at it tomorrow.

Sooo, um, did I mention?

Did I mention what else I bought at Target yesterday? See this cat toy? It had 3x as many feathers when we brought it home. I've been finding them all over the downstairs (Last night and today). As a matter of fact I peeked in Daughters room early last night and Athena had a feather in her mouth trying to eat it. Butterscotch was dancing all over with it when we first gave it to the kitties and yes, it not only was missing feathers last night, it was also SOPPING WET. Say it with me now, eeeewwwwwww! *G* Patches is the one playing with it in the above picture. *G*

Today has been nice. Yes, it was hot, but it was nice. *G* We made it to the UBS and they had one of the books I went looking for, Cast in Shadow by Michelle Sagara. I also picked up another book by a new-to-me author, Pandora's Box by Natale Stenzel. I admit, the premise is cute for that one, but it was the title that made me pick it up. I bought Chris a book with my remaining credit (Time to take some books in for trade!), A Forgotten Realms book, SPELLFIRE (the expanded version) Shandril's Saga Book 1 by Ed Greenwood. ( We have the original version, this one is BIGGER and better. *G*)

After the UBS we headed for Mass but were an hour early (We didn't take as long in the UBS as we thought) and let the kids play on the playground. After Mass we went by our favorite Bakery (I got my cupcake, I deserved it after yesterday. *G*) where we had an unfortunate encounter. The battery died. GAH! We were driving the Jeep today and remember the alternator incident? Yeah, the battery had been drained but we thought it was okay. Shoot, I've been driving with it for the past two weeks! Turned out it wasn't ok. *G* It will be though. We brought the Jeep home, swapped out for the car and went and bought a new battery. Chris will install it tomorrow. In the meantime, we had a good day together. Lots of laughs. Especially when Chris was playing with Daughter with the garage door. *G* AND best news of all? It drizzled this evening! I wouldn't mind a knock down drag out thunder storm with pounding rain, but I'll take drizzle. *G*

And except for the fact that there was more laundry to do today, it's been a good day. *G* I hope that y'all have had a good day. I hope that laughs were laughed by you and that you smiled at something. I wish a relaxing and peaceful Sunday for y'all. Goodnight and hugs my friends, B.

Exercise: Nope. Took the day off. I have to edge and weed eat the lawn tomorrow though. *G *

Layla gets cozy!

Now, remember when I said that the cats don't get in trouble when

I can't see them get to the tops of the cabinets? Well......Daughter felt so bad that Layla can't jump up there and get up on top of the cabinets like the other kitties, so....she put her up there. The good news is Layla LOVED it. She had a blast watching everything below her. The bad news? She couldn't get down on her own and Daughter had to hand her to me from the counter. *G*

Today was quite hot. We're still in the low 90's, but I swear it feels worse when you get out into it. And guess what I did today? Yeah, got out into it. *g* I had to run to Target, Daughter was in need of new Bras. Something I spared Chris from shopping for. *G* As a matter of fact when I told him my plans for the day, he told me he didn't need that type of information. *G* But, we found her some she likes. Exactly like mine. The sports bras by champion. *G* Son also bought himself (with his allowance) one of those Punchy/hit/smack things that you blow up and are weighted on the bottom so they pop back up when you hit them. He has been smacking the snot out of Spiderman ever since we got home. *G*And me? I left target with a loufa and a toothbrush. *G*

After Target we went to WW, where I did my grocery shopping. What amazed me, was the fact that there were no warnings anywhere about the tomatoes. None. While there I picked up a WW gift card and used it at the gas station they have. *G* I saved 3 cents a gallon, I like a good deal. *G* When we arrived home, I put away all the groceries and took 10 minutes to sit and cool off and then headed outside to mow the lawn, and since my neighbor's hubs is gone for a year (he's Army Reserve) and her neither her Son, nor her SIL has been over to do it like they promised, I mowed hers as well. So, I mowed 2 lawns, in the HEAT. Gah! I immediately came in afterwards and took a cool shower, but the damage has been done, I feel sick. Ugh! (And guess what? I've been doing laundry all day, too.) *sigh* I think I deserve tomorrow off. I really do. Unfortunately Chris needs new shoes for work and guess what we're doing tomorrow? *G*

No time to read today, I'm still reading the Sofie Metropolis book by Tori Carrington. The library has been slllllooooooow about getting me something. I want to call them and complain, but I won't. *G* Cross your fingers I find something tomorrow at the UBS. *g*

Anyway, I'm ready to pick up everything to head upstairs. I hope that y'all had a good day today, that you had some fun. Or made someone smile. *G* I wish you a happy and relaxed Saturday. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: I've mowed 2 lawns today, grocery shopped, and taken a 13 year old bra shopping. TRUST ME, I exercised. *G* PLEASE say I exercised?

Butterscotch looks sad!

Doesn't he? To me he does, of course he also looks a bit puzzled. Then again, this is the weirdest cat we have. Actually, I say that about every cat we have! *g* And sorry about the basket in the picture, that's my Lid basket.

Today wasn't as hot, yay! It was hot, but we only hit 93. Nice! As a matter of fact, we won't be where we're supposed to be for this time of year until the middle of next week. *sigh*

I did read The Royal Treatment by MaryJanice Davidson today. It was just as much fun as I remembered it. The Alaskan Royals are supposed to be finished with the third book, but I still feel there were some loose ends left and feel that there is at least a couple more books. I won't go into spoilers to explain why. Um, and lets pretend this is off topic please? Have you ever read an author and been such a fan, but then later on not liked where the authors writing was going? I know writing changes and grows, as does the writer, but when this author goes in new directions, do you follow blindly or know when it's time to stop being such a fan and know when to stop making the books auto-buys?

This evening, I'm in the first chapter of Sofie Metropolis by the husband/wife writing team of Tori Carrington. I've heard the series described as a Greek Stephanie Plum series, and it is similar, but not really. Gee, that made alot of sense, right? I guess it't the way it's written, or what you could call the tone of the books. Either way, I really enjoy the series.

I've been making a short list to take to the UBS saturday. It's not really buying books when I shop there, because since I have credit there, each book I buy there costs me credit (half the price on the book) and cash-a quarter! So, it doesn't count as BUYING, buying books. And that's if they have anything I want. Yes, I have actually gone in there and NOT come out with books. Cross your fingers, because my library is being SO SLOW on gettting me anything to read! *G*

I didn't go anywhere today; one because of the heat, two because the library didn't have anything and three because I COULD have gone to the Y today to work out, but I decided to save a small bit of gas and use our treadmill. *G* The kids had fun outside this evening. I watered the front lawn and son popped his bathing suit and ran through the sprinkler, he was soaked and had a blast. *G*

And there's nothing else to share tonight. I'm off to take a shower, read and wait for Chris to get home from work. I hope that ya'll had a pleasant day and that there was a good book or two for y'all to enjoy. I wish a fun and fantastic, maybe even a bit funky, Friday for y'all. *G* Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 4.24 miles on the treadmill @6 inline. (Almost time to change the incline!)

Ribbons and bows are made for playing!

Layla doesn't look thrilled here does she? I put the pink bow on her collar and if looks could kill, I'd be flat. *G* I don't know why. I think pink is her color! And yes, I did take the ribbon off.

Today was hot, just not as hot as it has been. We reached 93 today with humidity that started my hair curling and frizzing before I even left the house this afternoon. *sigh* Having naturally curly (think banana curls, or wavy spirals) is not always a good thing. *G*
I had to put the Cait London book down. It was too dark for the mood I'm in right now. So, I took two books off my keeper shelves to read instead. I've started with The Royal Mess by MaryJanice Davidson (yes, I know it's kinda fluff, but I love the sense of snark and humor that the book is chock full of) and Sofie Metropolis by Tori Carrington. I love this series and can't wait for the 4th book, Working Stiff to be released in September. In the meantime I was curious. I found two different books by two different authors that seem interesting and though my library doesn't have them, maybe the UBS will. So, have any of you read Grimspace by Ann Anguirre? Or Cast in Shadow by Michelle Sagara? The premise of each of these sounds interesting, and would be new-to-me authors.
I've been doing laundry all day again, not much fun happening here! I did go to Yoga this evening, even though it was the teacher I'm not fond of. We did have a new person in class. I felt so bad for him. He was a weight lifter (you can tell) and was having the hardest time. I wonder if he actually thought Yoga was easy? When we arrived home the show started. And by show, I mean the lightening storm we had. It was lovely (and scary) to watch, but it would have nice if actual RAIN had been present. Well, other than the three drops I saw. We're STILL under draught conditions here and everything is so darn dry it's not even funny. Normally I don't have to water my lawn, but this week, I've taken turns rotating from the front yard to the back. Unfortunately I can't water more than 30 minutes each time. *sigh* One of my weeping willows looks like it may die. Someone want to send us some rain? Please?

And that's it. It's a normal wednesday here for us. And another boring day to share with y'all. I hope that y'all had a good day and that smiles were a part of it. I wish y'all a healthy, happy thursday. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: 1 Hour Yoga.

Midnight is thinking "Uh-oh, BUSTED!"

We caught Midnight on the counter judging if he could make it to the top of the fridge to the top of the cabinets. *G* Don't worry the counters are wiped down SEVERAL times a day. And by caught, I meant that if I'm in there I'll shoo them off the counters, but if I don't see them get up there to get to the top of the cabinets I don't fuss at them. *g* Weird, I know, but it works for us. and like I said, I clean the counters, ALOT. The other photo is of the wiring for the thermostat we were trying to replace. And why did I take a picture? Because I wanted to be sure if anything happened that Chris could put it back the way it was. And that was an issue because he's partially color-blind (reds and greens). I'm happy to say that the picture wasn't needed. He did fine. He did a great job with replacing this one and it wasn't his fault that the new one didn't work and this one had to be put back on. So, in case he reads this (which he rarely does) I want to say : " I know it wasn't your fault, you did a great job. Thank you sweetie!"

What? I was nice? I didn't tell y'all the nickname my Mom gave him when we were dating. *G*

I finally finished my re-read of the Bobbie Faye book. I can't wait until the other book featuring this character is finally released into my library's circulation. It's titled Bobbie Faye's (kinda, sorta, not exactly) Family Jewels by Toni McGee Causey. (It was released in late May. I have no idea what's slowing down my library but they need to kick up the pace!) *G* I've started A Stranger's Touch by Cait London. It's from my splurge a couple of months ago. Whew! The library better get me some books soon, my TBR shelf is looking bare! *G* I'll go into withdrawal soon. *G* So, tell me. What are y'all reading?

Oh gosh, I had TurboKick tonight and my teacher is an energetic fiend. I have no idea how she does it! The class kicked allright, MY FANNY that is! (You don't stop moving from the start of the class, to the end of the class.) I swear this lady has more energy that I have EVER seen in another person, counting my six year old. *G* She'd already taught a spin class and an aerobic class today, and probably something else as well. Someone tell me why it is I can sense the beat in music and a song and could sing one back to you in the correct key, but I have NO rythm when it came to this class. NONE. But, I can laugh at myself and did several times during class. (And I know it's a defense mechanism.)

And all that when I still don't feel the greatest. The heat today did not help. We hit 96, a bit cooler, but not cool-er enough. *G* Just the drive from my house to the Y (15 minutes on a slow day) made me a little sick. (I can't handle the heat well.) But, I stuck it out. Because I am stubborn as heck. *G*

I hope that y'all had a reprieve from the heat today, and if not, that y'all kept cool. I hope y'alls day was nice and at least relaxed. I wish a happy and smile-filled wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 45 minutes of TurboKick. Shorter class this week, but OH SO VERY TIRING.

Fireball tests his balance!

Chris was talking to Fireball the other evening and Fireball was listening intently. Maybe too intently, because he was rolling all over the top of the cabinet and for a moment or two we seriously thought he was going to fall/roll off! Silly kitty!

Today was H-o-t! We reached 99 and 100 degrees! And add in the heat index, to 106! Yowza! The Out-laws picked the kids up early this afternoon and headed to the movies. I enjoyed the quiet time and managed to get some more laundry done, and the ironing. I even managed to fit a couple of chapters of the Bobbie Faye book! But, my good mood did not last. MIL called when they finished with the movie and told me that she had left something cooking in the crock-pot and they were going to head to their house to check on it. Um, okay? Gee! It's not like I have any plans this evening! I didn't want to be rude and tell her that she HAD to have the kids back at a certain time, but I was annoyed with the assumption that whatever I may have had planned didn't take precidence. *sigh* Oh, and yeah, she knew exactly when I needed to be at Yoga and when I needed to leave to get there, because she asked Daughter. And boy, they cut it close. Not a phone call or anything to let me know when they would be back. I know I sound like I am blowing this out of proportion, but it's a control thing with her. It gets old quick. She also grilled Daughter on why Daughter didn't want to go to Charlotte. Um, yeah, because she didn't want to? (And was told this last week.)

I need to let it go, I need to let it go, I need to let it go. Alllrighttttty then! The kids enjoyed the movie, though! In Son's words: "It was COOL!" *G*

I did make it to Yoga. And though our teacher ended up being late, she made up the time. After class we came home and the kids started in on one another. *sigh* After dinner I sent them upstairs. For some reason I don't feel well right now. I think it's drainage. So, this is it for me. I'm going to sit back with my book (I hope.) and some dt. sprite until Chris gets home.
I hope y'all had a decent day, that there was some sun in your lives. I wish a happy and smile filled tuesday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 1 Hour Yoga.

The amazing, talkative, hardly ever seen..ATHENA!

Remember the box that Midnight was so enamored with? Athena snuck into it last night and decided to camp out for a while. Daughter took this picture of Athena. My LR looks sloppy right now because the cats love this box and keep moving it around and taking their toys to it. *G* It's cute, though.

Today has been hot. I know I said that yesterday, but today? Well, it was actually worse. Our heat index hit 103. Ugh! We kept the blinds closed and were hoping that the new control for the AC would work, but it messed up. Making the AC run ALL DAY. Over 9 hours of AC and it never made it below 82 in here. We were miserable. Finally Chris put the old control back on and now it's working the right way. I guess we're not meant to go hi-tech. *G* And yes, he did have it hooked up correctly. We have no idea why it went badly.

I have been able to read a little bit today, but mostly I have been doing laundry and trying not to move un-necessarily. *G* And talking with Chris. Also, WKRP came on WGN this evening and Daughter, Chris and I sat and watched it. Daughter thought it was hilarious and Chris and I had a blast watching something that was in syndication when we were her age. *G* And just so you know, the entire first season of WKRP is available at Target for $20. (At least at our nearest one.) *G*

I did get to read a bit, I would have read more but the heat gave me a viscious headache, so I had to basically sit still today for a few hours. The Bobbie Faye book is just as hilarious as I remember. And I can't wait for the next book in the Bobbie Faye adventures to be released into circulation. My library is holding it hostage right now! *G* (Along with another book I want to read, Bling Rage by Terri Persons.) I can be patient as heck for other things, and people, but have no patience waiting for the library. *G*

Tomorrow the Out-Laws are coming to pick up the kids and take them to the movies. They're going to see Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull. The kids are looking forward to it! I'm kinda looking forward to the 2 hours of alone time I'll get. *G*

Nothing else to share tonight. (Except that I'm enjoying the AC right now. *g*) And that I'm looking forward to picking up my book again later. I hope that y'all have had a relaxing Sunday. I wish a stress-free and happy Monday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: As hot as it was today? NO! Back to the Y tomorrow for Yoga.

Oreo goes a little nuts!

I know this looks like two of the same picture. But, I tried to crop it so that y'all could see Oreo a bit better. She was in what we call psycho penguin phase last night. With her ears laid back and crouched down flying around the upstairs like she was on fire. I took this picture with my cell phone, so the quality isn't the greatest. Sorry. But, you'll have to trust me, she goes nuts. We've learned to stay out of her way when she gets like this. *G*

Today was hot, hot, hot. It reached 98 degrees and that's not counting the heat index. We spent the majority of the day upstairs because we have the vents more opened up, up there. So, it's cooler. *G* Even the kids played inside with their friends today.

After 7pm, while it was still in the high 90's, we ventured out to Lowe's (I know AGAIN! *G*) where we picked up a programmable control for the AC/Heat. We wanted to be able to change the temp in the house without having to get up and adjust it all the time. We're also hoping that since the temp will change before we get up in the mornings that it will save us a little bit of $ in the long-run. It also has settings for when you're on vacation and tells when to change the filters. *G* While at Lowe's Chris drooled over the grills. I had to remind him that he has a grill that is in good working order! Men!

After Lowe's we headed to WW to pick up a few groceries, I was out of yogurt *g*, and then we headed home. Ahhhh. This evening we've been watching the new Green Channel and watching the "Greenovate" show. What absolute FUN! Chris and I had to finally stop watching because we kept saying " ooh, we can do that, and that. And what a great idea!" *G* We especailly liked the tankless water heater. I do know that when we go to put the new floors in downstairs next year *knock on wood*, we'll do the bamboo. I'm not enamored of it, but I like the fact that it's a renewable resource.

While we were talking about all this, Son was playing his Operation game on the floor and the cats would freak out everytime he made it buzz. He thought that was so funny, that he started MAKING it buzz on purpose. *G* Which got on Daughters nerves quickly. But, then again, she's 13. Everything gets on her nerves. *sigh*

I haven't had a chance to read today. So I can't talk about books. I meant to start the Bobbie Faye book last night, but haven't had a chance to do more than read the first few pages. Maybe tonight. *g*

I hope that y'all had an enjoyable Saturday and that y'all smiled! I wish y'all a peacefull and relaxing Sunday! Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Does walking around Lowe's and WW count? No? Oh, well. Maybe tomorrow.

Cat in a box, Free Shipping!

I'm kidding. As much as this cat exasperates me sometimes, we all love him. But, you have to admit this makes a funny picture. *g* Even funnier? He sat in that box for at least 5 minutes. Just staring out. And any other cat that came near was smacked by him for their curiousity. *G*

Today was HOT. I'm beginning to think Mother Nature is going through Menopause and is having a hot flash. Whew! Unfortunately I had to go to the library today to pick up a DVD for Chris for his class. I can already tell our habits are going to have to change for summer. Normally we are night owls and tend to run errands around 5pm-6pm. (After school is out for the day during the school year.) But, with the heat we have now, all errands will have to be done in the morning or after 8pm. I'll still go to Yoga, though. *g*

At the library I picked up Chris' DVD, and a few books. One was a reread for me, Bobbie Faye's Very (very, very, very) Bad Day by Toni McGee Causey. All the others are downstairs and I am too tired to go get them. *G* I'll post them tomorrow. I'm still reading Exit Strategy by Kelley Armstrong, but it's almost like a procedural and I keep picking it up an putting it down. The book fascinates me and yet I get too much of it. Does that make sense? It's not horrific, it's just cold.

Anyway, after the Library we headed to the grocery store. FUN! And then 5 minutes later home. *g* I was just happy to get home! I let the kids play down at a friends house and had the house to myself, well, with the cats. It was nice and quiet, and I enjoyed it.

Later this evening we remembered that we needed to give Layla her meds. Daughter wanted to try and she did. Try that is. *G* But, she was no match for Layla. Layla spit it out and ran up the stairs as though the hounds of hades were after her. I was impressed. I never knew she could move her large self that fast! She hit the top step as we hit the landing! And even with me diving across my bed, she made it under before I could grab her. *g* Daughter went under to grab her and became stuck, so ended up grabbing her ankles and dragging her out while Daughter grabbed hold of Layla and dragged her out. *G* I snatched Layla, sat on the floor with her and dropped the pill in her mouth. (And we're not talking a large pill either. It was a small pill AND THEN it had to be quartered!) I held her mouth for a second and she swallowed it. Ordeal over and done. WHY can no one else in this house handle these cats? *G*

There really is nothing much else to share. The Out-laws were strangely okay with not going so far next week and might settle for renting a movie or two and watching with the kids. I may even pick up some snacks and popcorn for them and make it more fun!

I hope that y'all had a nice Friday, with laughter and smiles. I wish a lovely Saturday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: 4.11 miles on the treadmill @6 incline, reading a book. *G*

Had to blog this before I forgot!

My state just made the National news, NBC at least. *G* Because we are going to make available (by unanimous vote) an "I Believe" license plate. Someone said it was like waving a red flag that says 'Sue Me'. *G* It will look like the Florida plate with the same message.

Another cat in the Hamper!

I'm not sure if you can recognize Layla through the mesh of Daughters hamper. But, trust me, it's her. A few of the cats had fun with it when we did laundy earlier. *G* Daughter says when it's empty Midnight likes to collapse it!

Today had to be the most boring day ever. *G* It was also 96 degrees and HOT (w/ heat index we hit about 100). We're expecting a small monster heat-wave this weekend. What FUN! Not. I see a high power bill in our future. As it is I leave it at 79-80 during the day. Any warmer than that and I'd be sick. *sigh*
So, what did I do today with weather like this? I made cookies! Yeah, I know. Dumb. But, they inhaled what cookies we had left after giving some to our neighbor the last time I baked, last night. This time I made Vanilla Wafers. They won't last a week, but hey, I made them. *G*

Also, the Karen Robards book, Night Magic ? I don't know if I read it before or not, but I had to put it down. Today I picked up Exit Strategy by Kelley Armstrong. It's about a female assassin who helps another assassin, her mentor, hunt down an assassin turned serial killer. What? My reading tastes are rather eclectic. I can say that I have never read anything by Kelley Armstrong before and so far I like the writing. Of course I am only at Chapter 6. We'll see how it goes from here. *g*

I hope that y'all had a good day. And that there was sun and warmth. I wish a fun, fabulous and nice day. Goodnight, B.

No exercise today. I was tired today. Back at it tomorrow. *g*

Another cat in the box!

Patches decided she wanted the box from daughters shoes, too. *g* As you can see, she barely fits either. Everyone asks me how our cats get so big (No not fat, BIG.) I tell them we feed them Miracle-Grow. *G* Well, that's not true. We just love them alot.

Jeez! I thought yesterday was warm! We hit 95 today, with humidity. By the end of the month I will be held hostage in the house except to run errands or go my Y classes.
I wish I could say that today was interesting, but it really wasn't. *G* Son wanted to play outside today, but after about an hour he came in asking if he and his friends could play inside. Now, here's where I am a mean Mom. I said no. But, I have good reasons. Daughter is dragging her feet with her last paper and I didn't want the munchkins bugging her, and they would have. Also, I remember playing outside at Son's age for hours, no matter how warm it was. And don't worry. I am the Kool-aid Mom for the kids and their friends. (The sugar free kool-aid, anyway.) After Son's friends left I let him play in the sprinkler for a while before we had to leave for my class. He has a blast, and what better way to cool down? *G* (Oh, and if you think the heat means the end of the allergies, you'd be wrong.)(So says the sneezing fit I just had. *G*)
I had one of the harder, but better Yoga teachers for class tonight. She's still recovering from shoulder surgery and couldn't do alot of the more difficult poses, but she is still a good teacher and gave us quite a class!
After that, home and dinner. *sigh* Sorry, nothing very exciting happens around here. I've started the Karen Robards book, Night Magic. The first chapter seems somewhat familiar, but the cover doesn't look it. So, I may or may not have read this. I'll know by the 4th chapter. *G*

Oh, the Out-laws called this afternoon. They want to take me and the kids to Charlotte, NC to a Discovery Center. (About an hour to an hour and a half's drive from our home.) I really don't want to go, and neither does Daughter. The thought of spending that much time squeezed into a car with the out-laws (who can not drive) and not even a full 2 weeks after that stressfull trip to the mountains? Uh-uh, no thank you. I told Chris and he agreed to call them and remind them that our area has a zoo and several Childrens museums and Discovery Centers right here, without having to travel so far to see one. (In another month or so, the idea wouldn't have been so bad, but right now? No thank you.)

Well, my day is ending. I'm trying to get to bed early tonight. I hope that y'all had a good day and that it was more interesting (but in a good way) than mine! I wish a lovely and fun day for y'all tomorrow. Goodnight, B. (Who now can't breathe through her nose. *G*)

Exercise: 1 Hour Yoga.

Just to show that boxes aren't the only things......

the cats like to get into. *G* Oreo likes to be inside Daughters laundry hamper when it's empty. And note the handles? Yeah, we can pick her up and drag her around in there and she will growl at the carpet as it goes by, but doesn't seem to mind if we swing her from side to side a bit. Not one normal cat lives here. *G*

Today was busy and quite warm. The humidity decided it would butt in today as well, making movement sticky outside. Too bad I had errands to run today! I noticed yesterday when driving that my sunglasses have a couple of scratches right in the middle of one of the lenses and it drove me batty yesterday because it was in my line of sight. I hate when this happens, my eyes are light sensitive and I hate shopping for me. (Unless it's books. *g*) I love my sunglasses, they're plain and faux tortoiseshell(sp) and dark. I've had them for two years and am careful with them so I have NO idea how they scratched up. *sigh* So, since I had to run to a few places I decided to be on the look-out for a new pair. First stop was the library where I picked up: Iron Cowboy by Diana Palmer, Dream Quest an anthology of stories edited by J.C. Wilder and Linnea Sinclair ( a re-read for me), Night Magic by Karen Robards (an older book of hers that sounded interesting), and Alice, I think by Susan Juby (a YA that sounded funny). I also picked up Son a book on race car engines, a book of Poems by Shel Siverstein (can't think of the title right now) and 3 movies: The Seeker, Happy Feet, and a Eyewitness Butterflies DVD. Oh, and Son also checked out a magazine on concept cars. *G*

After the library I headed to the pharmacy to pick up my thyroid meds and totally upset Son because I wouldn't buy him candy. *g* I checked out the meager selection of sunglasses there, but didn't like anything. So, I decided to try Target where I had bought the other pair. I ended up buying a pair I am not completely certain I really like. But, their selection was sad, too and I'm not willing to go somewhere else and pay more than $15 for a pair of sunglasses. What's wrong with a classic look? Why do they have to put gold and rhinestones all over sunglasses? And if they're not decorated within an inch their lives, why are they so oversized they swallow a face? It's me, isn't it? I'm too boring or something.

*sigh* After Target I headed to WW to pick up some waters and get gas. And then we came home. (I even checked WW for sunglasses and didn't like anything there either.) Where I was happy to be. *G* After ironing, not so fun to do when it's warm, btw, we ate and I finally finished Scream For Me by Karen Rose. (I was 2 chapters from finishing when I had to give up last night and get some sleep.) The author has a way of drawing you in and making you a part of the story. The characters are believable and sympathetic (the good ones anyway) and the bad guys are evil. I also believe she set the scene for a new book featuring a couple of minor characters in this story. And I can't wait!

And that's all. I'm a SAHM, there is nothing more intersting here. *g* I kinda like it that way anyway. *g* I hope that y'all had an enjoyable Tuesday. I hope warm weather found you where ever y'all are. I wish a fun and happy wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: a bit over 4 miles on the treadmill @ 6 incline. I read the Diana Palmer book and finished it while on there.

Cats and boxes!

What exactly is it with cats and boxes? This is the box that Daughters new tennies from a couple of weeks ago came in. Layla was the first kitty to claim it, but not the last. *G* And yes, I know she barely fit. *G*

Today was nice. It reached about 92 degrees here today. I swear it's like Mother Nature heard that it was June and WHAM! It gets really warm. *G* At least the humidity is pretty low for this time of year here. My schedule was blown to smithereans early today because today Chris had the day off, as a comp day for working Memorial Day. He did rearrange the garage though. *G* For that I am glad! AND when I went to Yoga tonight he went with us and worked out while I had my class. I tried to get him to go to class with me, but he's too chicken. *G*
I also planted the new plant we picked up yesterday this evening. (I wanted to wait until it was cool enough to be out there with a shovel.)
Our kids had run down to their friends house this evening when Chris suddenly called my name and said "hurry". I though something was wrong with the kids, but no. *G* I wasn't quite fast enough to see what he called me for, but he told me that he had heard a strange sound and turned around and Tiger was climbing the bird bath to drink the water, with his head just over the rim. We have the weirdest cats. (And there are 2 different food bowls and 2 different water bowls put out for the strays outside, so I have no idea why he wanted the water out of the bird bath so badly.) But, just the image in my head is funny. *G*
I'm over half way through Scream For Me by Karen Rose. I stayed up late reading last night, but was too tired to finish the book. To me, that is the sign of a good book. You know, when you can barely keep your eyes open, but you don't want to put the book down. Have y'all had one of those recently?
And since my days are boring, that's all from me. *G* I hope that y'all had a good day and that you found some enjoyment in it, whether it be a smile aimed at you, or just looking forward to your evening. I wish a delightful and Sunny day for y'alls Tuesday. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: 1 Hour Yoga.

Tiger is sabatoging me!

Okay, so we placed the catnip and mint on the barbecue grill to keep the cats out of it, right? Um, I had been watering my containers every day or so and noticed that the cat nip wasn't looking so well. I though maybe it was the soil, or bugs, or thinking I had a black thumb. Nope. Wasn't any of those. Chris went out this evening after I mowed the lawn to spray weed killer out. He called to me throught the screen door to come see something. And behold. The biggest dang bug you've ever seen squashing and LICKING my catnip plant. I'm going to have to get a hanging plant container. *G*

I don't know if y'all heard (and I forgot to tell y'all, sorry), but the President spoke at the commencement of one of our local colleges Saturday. I don't talk politics, so that's not why I'm telling y'all this. I'm telling y'all because we saw Air Force One yesterday and THAT was so cool!
Today was not boring, but not that interesting. Well, I guess y'all might think it was boring. We gave Son his 'First Grade Diploma' and he liked it alot! And we made a trip to Lowes to pick up Pine Needles for the bush beds we have. I never in my lifetime thought I'd ever buy Pine Needles after living in a house that had 13 pine trees in our yard when we lived at Keesler AFB in Biloxi, MS.. But, mulch floats away and ends up having to replaced every couple of months, and since we switched to pine needles last year they've lasted longer and are WAY cheaper. And y'all know I like a good deal. But, I digress. While at Lowes we picked up a few new plants (WITH COLOR, YAY!) for next to the mailbox. And a bird bath! It's so pretty, a bronze color. I gave up buying books for a couple of weeks to get it. But, I think it will be worth it to attract some birds to the yard for the kitties to watch from inside the house. *g*
When we arrived back home I mowed the lawn. Technically Chris kept telling me he would do it, but I needed him to put the pine down. *G* What? The last time I spread it around I had splinters in my hands for a week! And maybe I'm able to get it done faster. But, that had nothing to do with.........okay. I'll be honest. That had everything to do with why I mowed. *G*
Okay, enough about yard work.

I am up to Chapter 7 in Scream For Me by Karen Rose and am really getting sucked into the story. There is so much going on and I can't wait to see how she connects everything together. I haven't had a chance to read today, been busy. But, I hope to read some more this evening. *g*

I watched a new tv show tonight that I absolutely like! It was such FUN to watch! And the looks on some of the guests faces. OMGosh it was hilarious! If y'all have a chance check it out, it's called Rock the Reception on TLC. *G*

And that's it from here this evening. I am eager to read my book, and then goodness knows-sleep. *G* I hope y'alls Sunday was full of peace and happiness. I wish a stress-free and Light day for y'alls Monday. Peace, Love and Good wishes to y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: I mowed the lawn. Please tell me it counts! *G*