Pepper's favorite toy!

I don't know why one of Pepper's favorite toys is the top off a milk jug, but I do know it's fun to watch her play with one. She will play for an hour, just going crazy over that silly piece of plastic. It's most fun to watch her dance with it-picking it up in her paws and throwing it up in the air and chasing it. But, all in such a fast motion it looks like some kind of dance. It's so cute and funny. A lot like Pepper herself. *g*

It's been a very long day and this post may ramble on because I am tired and my brain is gone. G. O. N. E. The kids and I had to get up earlier than usual today to make it to Daughter's follow up with her Doc about her tonsil and adenoid removal. We left early enough to drop off items at the library, too. Several of which were late due to me not feeling well. We then headed to the Doctor's office. Where once we arrived we signed in and sat in the waiting area. Daughter and I had brought books, but Son had forgotten to grab something. He was okay at first. He found a car magazine and read it from cover to cover. An hour passed. I finished my book. Another half hour passed. Daughter finished her book. I finally had had enough and went up to the desk to ask if we needed to reschedule. I was told the Doctor was running late, but that Daughter would be called back to a room next. Okay. Five minutes later they finally called Daughter back and we all trooped back to the room. We sat and then one by one the kids had to use the restroom. We were told it was okay, we had time. He was still two patients behind. *sigh*  So, we all headed to the restroom and by this time Son is getting silly. Very, very silly. The enforced quiet, sitting in one place and up too early made for a manic energy in that child that was wild! He was okay in the exam room and loved the stool that spun around. *g* The Doctor was in not too very long after that and the exam took a total of 5-7 minutes. We then left and headed by the eye Doc to pick up Daughter's new glasses. They had to be adjusted and then we headed home. Where, thank goodness we had a light lunch and took a nap. We all needed that nap, but I desperately needed it. And btw? All that manic energy in Son made for an interesting ride home. He and Daughter decided it would be fun to practice defensive moves from their MA class in the back seat. Uh-huh. I just know someone made a note of our license plate to report me to someone for letting my kids beat the snot out of each other. And trust me. I was there. No one was hurt.
Oh, when we arrived home my books that I ordered were waiting on me. I? Think B&N's shipping is great. With BAMM they wouldn't have been here until Saturday or even next Monday. So, I now have Dopplegangster by Laura Resnick and Naked Dragon by Annette Blair. I can't wait to start reading them. Oh, and while at the Doc's I finished the Lisa Scottline book. It was very cute and amusing and touching. I admit to crying at the part about her dog Lucy. I have been in almost that exact same position so many times. Also? People don't look at you weird when you read a book and laugh in the Doc's office.
After the nap (that was interrupted several times with phone calls and such) the kids headed outside to play and I took care of some laundry. Then I sat in my chair and tried to find a comfortable position. I seem to have pulled or pinched a nerve again and the only time it doesn't hurt is when I'm lying down. Good news is no fever this afternoon or evening! Now to get rid of the nerve pain and the other stuff. I am sore in my chest (hard to take a deep breath) and neck (for a reason, but still). And I had to close my eyes for a bit this evening, too. Not a nap, but just be still and quiet for a bit. Whatever the thing that hit me was, it hit hard. I'm ready for it to be gone now. Especially since I've missed three Zumba classes this week! (Sunday, Tuesday and today.)  Funny thing is, I think Layla senses I still am not feeling great. She won't hardly leave my side. Or  my lap. It's sweet. Weird, but sweet.

This is it. I'm so tired and am eager to get my shower and sleep. I hope y'all had a wonderful Wednesday. I wish a Thankful and Thoughtful Thursday, aka New Year's Eve, for y'all. Celebrate the year that has done and the year to come. Best wishes and Blessings for each of you! Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Eh, no.

Popping up to say...

I'm feeling a bit better today though I can't seem to shake a low grade fever for longer than my ibuprofen wears off. And the constant nodding off every few hours is weird. However, I had solid food today and so far so good! This picture was taken the week before Christmas, of Layla enjoying a box.

I don't know what I ate, and I hope to never eat it again. Chris thinks it may be traced to that family dinner we had on Saturday. However, I'm not sure. He called his Mom and no one else became ill, so it seems unlikely.
Because I was so sick yesterday (Um, btw passing out and then having your husband take your blood pressure while you're on the bathroom floor? Not fun.) we decided to give the kids this week off as well. I was okay to take them to their karate class today, but not to work out. And we found out that the reason their karate teacher wasn't in class last week was because his Mother fell and broke her hip. He said he had a feeling Daughter would teach the class. Which I thought was sweet. Chris was really great during all this, he tried to keep up with the laundry for me and went out at 7am to get me ginger-ale yesterday morning. The kids took total advantage of me being out of commission, though. I came down to a kitchen in disarray today and a LR that needed picking up. Also? While the family loves the cats? It seems I am the only one who actually remembers to feed and water them daily. Butterscotch declared his love for me today by rubbing all over my chest before I'd even gotten up today, as had Pepper, Oreo and Layla was biding her time but I escaped to the bathroom first. *g*
I tried reading a bit last night and made it a few chapters or so into a book Dru had recommended on her book site. Why My Third Husband Will be  Dog by Lisa Scottline is a humorous and compelling book filled with her take on everything from Spanx to her Mother Mary (who is a hoot!). I was able to read a bit more while the kids were in MA today, but have been fighting sleeping ever since we arrived back home and haven't read anymore. Since I accidentally catnapped while the kids were playing on the computer earlier, I hope to stay awake long enough to read a bit more tonight.

That's all from me. I am yawning and need to try and take care of a few things before bed. I hope y'all had a pleasing day. I wish a HEALTHY and nice day for y'all tomorrow. Goodnight and Thank you for all the well wishes. I am blessed to have y'all care, B.

Food, bleh!

I'm dealing with food poisoning right now. I'll post again as soon as I can. Hope everyone had a nice day.
B.

Candy Wishes and Lollipop Dreams!

I thought this was a cute picture of Son. This lollipop was in his stocking, pure sugar and yet smiles from Son made it worth it. *G* It's almost as big as his head!

Yet another busy day here. I had more laundry I was supposed to take care of, but we had errands and that family thing to take care of today, so the laundry has been pushed to tomorrow. Not that I'm complaining. *g* We SO didn't want to attend the family dinner today, but we said we would be there and so we were. However, Chris and I had a deal, we were only going to stay for one hour. Turns out his sister and BIL felt the same way. *G* We had a good time watching the clock tick and um, maybe making fun of the fudge that MIL and FIL have been trying to pawn off on everyone for the last week. They tried last Sunday, Thursday, they brought it when they visited yesterday and they brought it to the dinner tonight. ACK! I was -thisclose- to losing it if they offered us any tonight, personally. Thank goodness they didn't. *g* It took an hour and 40 minutes, but we made our escape right behind Chris' sister and BIL. Then we headed to Sam's to pick up necessities like cat litter, water and chicken nuggets (the last of those for Son). *G* Then, because we had the foresight to bring a cooler, we headed to B&N because Daughter begged. She picked up the Special Edition of some Rick Riordan Percy Jackson book. Since I, too, received a $20 gift card for B&N I looked around. However, their Romance section? Sucked. It was tiny and everything was jumbled and messed up. I couldn't find anything there, or in the Sci-Fi Fantasy section OR the Mystery section. NOTHING. It was pathetic. The store was a mess! Anyway, Daughter found what she wanted, paid, and we left. Then we headed to Toys R Us for Son, who received a gift card for there. It took him an HOUR to make a decision on what to buy. While there we ran into a woman Chris works with in the training department. She was there with her sons and mother. She was quite nice and her littlest boy was adorable. From there, after Son finally decided on some Bionicle Legos, we headed to BAMM. Chris and the kids (and the kitties) had given me a gift card from there and I picked up The Mane Attraction by Shelly Laurenston. I've been in a mood for her books lately. The humor, kick butt heroines and relationships between her characters are fun and a good read.
After that we headed home and had a quick dinner. And I? Went online shopping at B&N. *G* I bought  Naked Dragon by Annette Blair and Dopplegangster by Laura Resnick. They should be here sometime this week! *G* YAY! And hopefully my library will come through for me and I'll have some books from them soon as well.

That's it. It's been a long day and I am exhausted. I swear I don't feel like I'm getting enough sleep. Bleh. I hope y'all had a restful and fun day. I hope y'all have a Peaceful and Blessed Sunday. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Nope. Too much other stuff going on. Maybe tomorrow, though I have more grocery shopping to do.

Oreo looks good in red!

Last weekend when we were playing around with dressing up the kitties Oreo was willing to look girly. Even though she wasn't fond of the Santa hat, she seemed to really like the red ribbon rose. She's almost preening in this picture. *G*

I hope y'all have had a lovely and Merry Christmas. The kids and Chris really enjoyed their gifts. I was so relieved. And Chris LOVED the Dresden Files graphic novel I gave him. Daughter popped her new earrings right in and Son? Went through everything so fast he actually forgot to unwrap one gift because it was covered in a hurricane of paper. The kitties also LOVED their gift, I boiled a piece of chicken just for them. *g*
It would have been a better day but Son was so excited he had trouble going to sleep last night keeping "Mrs. Santa" awake and unable to wake "Santa" to help take down the gifts. By the time he finally fell into a deep sleep I was exhausted with a nasty headache. So, I wasn't thrilled to be woken 3 times in the 4.5 hours I was able to sleep. *G* Add in a weird allergic reaction to something I either ate or touched my face with and this morning could have gone better. But, the kids were happy. And after getting all the wrapping paper up and vacuuming, I was content to rest for a bit before tackling laundry.
This afternoon the Out-laws dropped by and watched the kids play with their friends. (It rained ALL. NIGHT. (and morning) LONG. making my yard one big pond and the kids unable to play outside.) So, the kids stayed in and their friends came in. And WOW,  can a 3rd grader ,two 5th graders, a 7th grader, an 8th grader and a 9th grader be LOUD. *G* But, FIL seemed to enjoy himself, playing a game with all the kids. MIL took the news of the clothing they'd gifted the kids with being too small rather well. I was sure she'd be upset-with me, but she said she'd take some of the items back and promised to get the receipt for another to me tomorrow.  Yes, I said tomorrow. As if yesterday and today weren't enough we had promised a few weeks ago to attend another big extended family thing. I've had about all the togetherness I can stand right now and last night while fun was also exhausting being around so many people at that party. It's so hard for me to be outgoing when I'd rather sit back in a corner somewhere and observe.
As for reading, while waiting on Son to fall asleep last night I read Dirty Sexy Knitting by Christie Ridgway. It was a good book, though a bit hotter than I had expected. It is also the third and last book in a series and I think I'm going to try and go back and read the first two books.

I hope y'all had a very Merry Christmas. I wish a restful and fun Saturday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: Not today.

Dapper Santa!

Fireball looks quite handsome as Santa, all my fellows do. And no, the hat wasn't tight, we just had his ears tucked up inside it. He was okay wearing Santa's hat, as long as he was in my arms. *G*
It's been a looooong day! As soon as I awoke I wrapped the last two gifts for the kids that were going with us today to the Christmas party we were attending. This afternoon we had a light lunch and then a couple of hours later we headed to the Out-laws for the gift exchange and sliced smoked turkey and roast beef for a light supper. After eating, opening gifts and taking pictures we headed to a Christmas party that the SIL & BIL, and Out-laws are invited to every year and we are as well. They always have things like a chocolate fountain, chicken nuggets, rolls, garlic toasts and such. As well as hot cider, cold cider, coffee and hot chocolate. Then there's a visit from Santa! *G* The kids have a blast and one year I am going to get over feeling gauche and take pictures of their lovely (and WAY decorated) home. We even begged and were able to see their two Himalayan kitties. (They had put them up because of all the guests.) I swear to goodness they look like Ewoks. *G* We showed off the picture I posted earlier this week of Pepper, and the ones of Layla as well. I was told I should print out a calender. *G*
After all that it was late and we headed home. We thought (Chris thought) of going to Midnight Mass but with Son being so young I know we'd get looks, so I suggested we wait another year. As soon as we were in the house the kids were going through all the things the Out-laws had given them. Poor MIL, she really tried with the kids, but every single item of clothing she picked for the kids is too small. And the sweater she gave me, and then asked if I liked? I told her the color was pretty. (Pansy purple.) But, it was round necked and I wasn't about to tell her anything about the fact that that sweater may be going home with me, but it was going in the back of the closet. (It was crew necked, I feel like I'm choking with anything around my neck, heck, even my necklace chain dips into my cleavage to keep from being too short.) She picked up on my "pretty color" comment and offered to return it for a v-neck. Which was quite kind of her. I swear I was absolutely polite and nice and didn't let on that I wasn't going to wear it at all. I do wish, quite strongly, that she would QUIT trying to buy me clothes. Our tastes don't match AT ALL and I don't like disappointing her. *sigh*
Oh, as soon as we arrived and the kids were messing with their gifts Chris disappeared upstairs to wrap his. *G* I sent Daughter up to help him because the man has issues with wrapping. *G*
Since then they've come back downstairs and are now rooting through my kitchen for snacks before bed. (That's what happens when you eat small food all night.)
Anyway, no time to read today and I still have to wait a bit before putting the kids stockings together. So, this is it for me. I hope y'all had a wonderful Christmas Eve. And I wish y'all a Blessed and Merry Christmas! Goodnight and Love and Hugs, B.

Exercise: No, but felt exhausted after the Christmas part. Being around all those people was exhausting!

Tiger makes Santa look Gooood!

Tiger thinks he looks quite handsome in the Santa hat. At first he was a bit shy like Midnight, but he walked around and didn't try to take it off. Which I appreciated when I took his picture. *G*

It's been an off day here. Chris went to sleep with his eyes watering and snoring up a storm, driving me crazy. (The snoring.) See, I'm one of those weird people that have a hard time sleeping, falling asleep, with noises like that going on. I leave the fan on and the tv tuned to a music channel (we have satellite and have sirius radio) just to make white noise. So, when Chris is snoring loudly I can NOT sleep. At all. He finally stopped long enough last night where I could fall asleep. I woke tired and with no energy. Not a good start to the day. I've still managed to take care of some laundry, wrapped some more gifts and even pushed myself and went to Zumba. Of course, as soon as we arrived home from the Y I had to sit down. I could actually feel my blood pressure drop, as well as my heart rate. And I started to be weepy. (Crying at certain commercials and a magazine article I read.) In other words, my hormones were off. But, hopefully tomorrow will be better.
Chris left this afternoon to take drop off the recyclables and to do his Christmas shopping. WHY does he do this every year? And if we didn't have to be at the Out-laws tomorrow afternoon for a family thing-he'd have waited until tomorrow. He was gone all afternoon and didn't arrive back home until later this evening. But, he was sweet and called periodically because he knows I worry.
As for reading? Well, I read the January issue of Cat Fancy and have also started rereading The Mane Squeeze by Shelly Laurenston. The book has several laugh out loud moments and I felt like I needed them.
We had a simple dinner this evening, soup and sandwiches. I just didn't feel like cooking and Chris had been shopping all evening, so we went with warm and easy to fix. *G*
That's all from me. It's been a tiring day. I need to do a few more things before bed, so I'm headed offline. I hope y'all had a Wonderful Wednesday. I wish a Thankful and Thoughtful Christmas Eve Day (and Eve) for y'all. Goodnight, B

Exercise: 1 hour Zumba.

Pepper plays Santa, too!

I was asked if Pepper had her picture made with the Santa hat. OF COURSE SHE WAS! *G* Is this not the CUTEST picture ever? She was such a good girl and this picture makes me smile so much! Cute baby Pepper.

Today didn't start off well. Chris woke up with a what is either a cold or a bad allergy attack. Either one is not good because when he gets this way his eyes water and he snuffles. Luckily he took some benedryl and it seemed to work, making my allergy theory seem to be the answer. But, because he was feeling so rough when he woke up I told him to just leave the fan up today and that we'd give it one more day to even out, or we'll take it back soon. The bad thing is? He hasn't even started his Christmas shopping. WHY do men wait until the last minute? I don't get it. I was done a month ago, for his gifts, anyway. Now he's going to stress out trying to get things done and mess up the small bit of schedule I DO have for this week. Tomorrow is his only day to do anything, too. We have to be at the Out-laws Thursday afternoon, oh joy. *sigh*
In good news that doesn't make me want to tear my hair out... I read my book last night. I actually stayed up pretty late to finish it, but it really became good right about the middle and I didn't want to wait to find out if the bad guy was who I thought it would turn out to be. (It was.) I can't wait to pick up the next book featuring the heroine next month. And I think I have a small crush on Max. He was so cute in a geeky, out in the stratosphere theory-wise, way old senior citizen. *G*
As for today? The kids had MA and when we arrived their teacher was no where to be found. I know he planned a class for today, he mentioned seeing everyone next week at last weeks class and gave the kids "homework". However, he was a no show today. And he's a responsible man. So, now we're worried about him. He has always and I mean always been there for the kids classes, even when sick, and always early. We tried the number we have for him, but there was something weird about the line. The Y didn't seem too concerned and that made me a tad ticked off. Of course if I find out he blew off the class, I will definitely be ticked off. As for today's class? Since most the kids were already there Daughter taught it. Uh-huh. I was the main disciplinarian for the class, but other than that I left it to her to go over their kata's, sparring and "kidnapping game". I didn't think it would hurt, since a lot of the kids weren't going to be picked up by their parents until after the class and didn't want them wandering around the Y. The staff didn't seem to have a problem with it, either. It was okay for one class, but they need their teacher back for the next class. And Daughter did pretty well! After that we headed home and picked up Chris and headed to the library where Daughter had her volunteer time. After that we headed home and Chris and I made dinner. I was in the mood for a burger, but can't actually eat burgers anymore (fast food burgers, they make me sick) , so we made turkey burger/patty melts. SO GOOD! I think we have a new family favorite. *G*
Since then I've been catching up on internet news and adding to my TBB/TLF list. (To Be Bought/To Look For list). I also have a load of laundry going and am hoping to get on the treadmill for a bit before we go upstairs since I missed my workout at the Y today.
That said, I need to grab a pair of shorts and a t-shirt. I hope y'all had a Terrific Tuesday. I wish a Wonderful and slightly wacky Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: Hoping to edit this later to say Treadmill. *G* EDITED TO ADD: 3 miles on the treadmill. I also vacuumed the house afterwards.

Midnight is embarrassed!

The first picture is of Midnight being shy. Or embarrassed. He does look rather, um, unhappy with his Santa picture. If only he would have smiled........
For a Monday, a usual day of routine for us, today was filled with a lot of upset. For one? No schoolwork today. For another? Chris is home the entire week. We all started off by sleeping late. And I wish I hadn't because I felt like I was late for everything from then on. Which was a weird feeling considering I really didn't have anywhere to be or anything major to be doing! I did manage to get some ironing done this afternoon and also helped Chris install the new ceiling fan (those things are HEAVY when you're holding them over head while someone does the wiring). Unfortunately it's making a noise every time the blades turn. We think it has something to do with the motor. And I know I joked about hubs and the other fan, but he really does know what he's doing (when his temper isn't involved) when wiring these things. So, we'll give it a chance to even out overnight as recommended by the directions. If it is still making noises, THEN it will be taken down and returned. Chris decided to stay home with the kids this evening so he could finish a paper for school, while I went to the Y for Yoga. I had a wonderful class and then returned home. I finished the ironing and we ate dinner. We cheated tonight and had pizza. (Granted it was freezer pizza, but still.) *G* We also watched the Finale for The Sing Off and were happy to see the group we were pulling for won! Awesome!
Ooh, and as for reading? I looked for the past couple of weeks for a book whenever we were out and a bookstore was nearby and could not find a copy of Disappearing Nightly by Laura Resnick. However, last week I bought a used copy online and it arrived today! I can't wait to start reading it. *G*
I have a weird question for y'all. What is your favorite Holiday Song? I'm just curious. And it doesn't have to be the approaching Holiday at all, it can be ANY Holiday.

That's it from me. I still have a few things to take care of this evening. One of which is more wrapping, though I did most of it last night. I hope today went well for y'all. I wish a Terrific Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 1 great hour of Yoga.

Grumpy Santa! (Sensing a theme?)

I took this picture last night as the kids (Mainly Daughter and I) were playing dress up with the kitties. The kitties probably thought the laughing people that serve them were nuts. We knew we were, but we had a blast. *G*Here is Layla's interpretation of Santa! She was a good sport and was loved on appropriately. *G*

It's been a semi-busy day here. Yesterday when I was dressing for Church I took a look at my wardrobe choices and wanted to sigh because my choices were so limited. Pants wise, I'm good. I can't imagine needed more than 2 pair of slacks, 2 pair of jeans (and I don't really like jeans!), 3 pair of sweats (1 of which I stole from Chris) and a pair of yoga pants. (And while I love my yoga pants and could live in them happily, they're not appropriate for gatherings and Church.) So, I'm set that way.  However, my wardrobe is pretty inadequate as far as sweaters (it's been so chilly!), or even long sleeve shirts. As in I have 2 sweaters I can wear out. So I made the mistake of talking to myself out loud and Chris overheard. After today's visit with the Out-laws, which went well, we stopped at Lowes on the way home. We need a new ceiling fan in our room. The one Chris has had to tinker with has been making odd noises lately and I'm not letting him try and fix it anymore because right now? I have no overhead light in my bedroom and one of the glass tulip globes is chipped! (Cranky husbands should not be allowed to work on items they have no clue how to fix.) Oh, anyway, we picked out a new fan, on sale-Yay! and from Lowes we went to Kohl's. I went in to look at shirts, but didn't see any I liked. I did find two sweaters, on sale, that I really liked and decided to try them on and maybe buy one. Well, actually Chris decided to buy both of them for me. While there I also looked for a new pair of gloves. And should have gone there in the first place! I found a nice fleece lined pair that were a neutral black and am so happy! I'm going to have semi-warm hands again! (I loaned Daughter my pair when it snowed earlier this year and haven't seen them since.) I do feel guilty about the purchases though, well, the sweaters not the gloves. I know I needed them, but still feel guilty about it. Chris said something about me putting everyone else first for so long that I had neglected my needs. But, isn't that what I'm supposed to do? Isn't that what any mother does? *sigh* Funny how I don't mind buying a book here or there but clothes send me into a tizzy. (So does buying more than one or two books at a time! *G*) As of right now I haven't even taken them out of the bag and put them in the closet. I keep going back and forth on whether to keep them (the sweaters, the gloves I'm definitely keeping) or not. Need and Want are on the same side and they're tying with Guilt.
After our errands we arrived home and Chris made dinner. (He's been really good about that lately, it's nice. And I cleaned up.) So, all in all a decent day.
As for reading I picked an old Jennifer Crusie off my keeper shelves, Getting Rid of Bradley. If ever there was a book that can make me smile, it's this book. It's the original published category book, not the reprint that was MM released. Which should tell you how long I've been a Jennifer Crusie fan! *G* What is one of your favorite "go-to" books that makes you smile and even laugh?

That's all from me this evening. It's getting late and I have a bed to make (washed lines today), a shower to take and somewhere in between that I need to find time to wrap a couple of the kids gifts. I hope y'all had a restful and lovely day. I wish a stress-free and pleasant Monday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Hands are still bothering me, there's other things to do and we've been busy today-so no. Blessed be tomorrow is Yoga!

I don't want to be pretty, darnit!

At least that's the expression on Layla's face. *G* You have to admit the red rose bow is pretty festive and pretty. Layla would have rather tried to play with it than wear it though. *G* You can see her thinking "Hmph!" That's my pretty, grumpy girl! *G* (Santa hat pics to come this week.)

I feel as though I accomplished nothing today. I managed to get about one load of towels done, but no other laundry than that. We did make it to Mass on time, despite heavy traffic. The roads were clear, which was nice. We were worried for a bit about ice, but the sun came out today and melted everything and we were home this evening before it could refreeze.
After Mass we headed to Target, I needed two $5 gifts for the kids for the party we're attending Christmas Eve, Santa will be there and handing out gifts-therefore I had to had gifts for Santa to hand out. When we arrived I let Chris and the kids head in and I headed down the course a ways to Hobby Lobby to pick up more wrapping paper and some tissue, too. I knew I'd find something there and I picked up a candy cane striped paper for $3 for 100ft. I love a good deal. *G* We looked around Target and I found two things for the kids, a book light and a pair of speakers for an iPod as well. I pointed them out to Chris and then the kids and I headed to "look around" while Chris managed his covert shopping for me. *G*
After that we headed home and had a nice dinner together. Though we didn't all eat the same thing. Son is not into mexican unless it involves plain nacho chips, so he had pizza while the rest of us had burritos. *G* We also enjoyed a yearly tradition and watched National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. We always watch the movie together every year and we had a blast doing so this year. *G* It's funny, we always notice something new, too.
Afterwards we headed upstairs and the kids and I had a blast playing dress-up with the cats. First it was just Layla and the rose bows I have. Then it was a couple of the other kitties and the bows. THEN we took out the Santa hat. *G* We laughed so hard we couldn't stand it. We felt bad because we were laughing so much and know we were assaulting their dignity, but c'mon. We weren't hurting them and we loved on each of them afterwards. I can't wait to share the pictures with y'all. *G*
No reading today, we've spent the day and evening together. I'm hopeful I'll find something off my keeper shelf to keep me occupied until the library comes though for me. I'm number one for both books I have on hold, cross your fingers!
Tomorrow (Sunday)( I'm up late.)  I'll have to deal with the Out-laws, and am already dreading it. Hopefully I'll find time to exercise and iron, too.

I hope y'all had a fun and relaxing Saturday. I wish a Blessed and Lovely Sunday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: I wasn't going to say anything, but the last couple of days my hands and wrists have really been bothering me, as a matter of fact I'm waking up aching and feeling old. Bleh. Hoping for a burst of energy soon!

An Oldie but funny! (Part, um, I forget!)

This picture was taken three years ago. As you can see, we kinda like to torture the cats a little and take their pictures wearing silly hats. *G* It's a win-win situation. We get a laugh out of it and the kitties get catnip. *G*  Um, Layla makes a scary Santa. *G*

Ti's been an interesting day. I've been listening to Forecasters all day who had no idea whatever the heck the weather was doing. We were supposed to see a little snow today, but only a mix of rain and sleet seemed to be happening at our house. Too bad, the kids really wanted to see some snow today. There's always next year. *G*
I had Chris take the jeep today and he needed it because of all the ice on the road when he finally got off work. The roads were full of ice! I'd have hated him to have an accident driving his little car.
The kids and I did their schoolwork today and they are extremely happy to have next week off. Chris has next week off as well and I just know he's going to drive me crazy. MIL called this evening. We had agreed to visit them on Sunday, but she called trying to get us to change those plans to tomorrow instead. To her it seems to be okay if we miss Church. However, we have never asked them to miss their services and the lack of respect drives me batty. Then she asked if we would visit Monday instead. Um, no we have plans. Tuesday? Again, the kids have MA and we have plans. Wednesday? AGAIN, we have plans and we'll see them Thursday anyway. WTHeck? Gah! Drives me up a wall! So, we're still on for Sunday, but it will be earlier, which suits us anyway.
This evening Chris and I made dinner and we have just vegged. The cold and wet weather has kept the kids indoors today and they were a bit unruly this evening. I am waiting for the library to have one of my Holds come in because I am currently book-less. I am trying not to go back to the bookstore this week because I've already been once! AND I was at Border's last weekend. *sigh* Maybe I'll pick something off my keeper shelf again. I have a couple of Holiday themed Anthologies, maybe one of those.

That said, it's time for me to head offline again. It's been a long day and a bit stressful worrying about the weather. I hope y'all had a fun and fabulous Friday. I wish a relaxing and pleasant Saturday! Goodnight, B.

Exercise: No. I should have, but no. *sigh* Maybe tomorrow.

He makes me sleepy!

This picture makes me tired. Or maybe it's because I really am tired and, yet again, up late? *g* Midnight looks a bit miffed that Layla is inside the kitty cube. He prefers to sleep in the bottom, but has been okay about sharing. And to find Layla in there? Was surprising.

Yet another day that felt long. We had occasional glimpses of the sun today, but none lasted longer than a few minutes and it was chilly. I was absolutely shocked to hear we may see a mix of rain, sleet, snow late tomorrow afternoon. It is WAY weird to hear of anything like that here in December. I kept asking "here?".  I've told Chris he's to take the jeep tomorrow just to be on the safe side. He's a great driver and could make it through almost anything in his little car, but I'd rather he have the jeep with it's 4WD just in case.
We made it to the library and back before the Out-laws arrived this afternoon. I picked up Star Trek for Chris, who later told me he had to restrain himself from calling me from work this morning to remind me to pick it up. *G* (He and Son watched it this evening and really liked it.) After the Out-laws arrived they (the kids and the Out-laws) played a couple of games of SORRY! and had a blast. And they took the kids and I to dinner since Chris was working late. We went to Cracker Barrel and Son and Daughter had a great time playing with that wooden puzzle on the table that they bought the kids both their own games when we left. They also ordered Chris a dinner to go to take home, which was sweet. There wasn't much stress to this visit, which was nice and a change from most visits. After eating and paying for the meal we wandered around the shop in the "lobby" of the restaurant and I saw some FABULOUS stocking stuffers! They had gyroscopes! And some cute puzzles and those big swirly lollipops! I'm sending Chris by the one near his office with a list. *g*
After that we headed back to the house and met Chris, who was pleasantly surprised to have a dinner from the restaurant. The Out-laws stayed a little longer and then left. The visit went better than I expected and I think part of that is because they called ahead this time, earlier this week AND today. But, I think the biggest thing was that it had been a couple of weeks since their last visit.
As for the rest of the evening? I left Chris and Son downstairs and headed upstairs to take a shower early. I've been really tired all day and it was nice to be the first to get in the shower tonight. Daughter came with me and she volunteered to wrap some of Son's Christmas gifts, which was nice of her. After my shower we watched an episode of Bones that we had missed, from last week. It was neat to have a little bit of girl time. And they guys enjoyed the Star Trek movie together, so they had some guy time. *G*
In my reading world I've already finished one of the stories in the book I bought last night, The Mane Event by Shelly Laurenston. There are two and I enjoyed the first one, the heroine was tough, but still retained some femininity and the hero was just head over heels for her. The humor was hilarious and the supporting characters were fun, too. I'm hoping to read the second story tonight, but am wiped out, so I don't know if I'll get to it.

The kids are excited to have next week off, as is Chris. He's taken the week and I'll either have him get some work done around here, or I'll end up smacking the back of his head again. *G* Well, time to head offline. I hope y'all had a Thankful and Thoughtful Thursday. (I am thankful the visit went so well with the Out-laws. *G*) I wish y'all have a lovely and fun Friday. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: I would have, if I'd had the time or energy.

Chair Thief!

I took this picture last night as I arrived home from Zumba. Butterscotch thought nothing of stealing my chair while I was gone and then when I arrived home? He yawned at me! The stinker! However, as soon as I went to sit on him (no, I really wouldn't do that) he moved. Smart little chair thief. *G*

It has been a busy, busy day. While the sun may have been shining it was downright chilly! This afternoon the kids and I headed to the Eye Doc for Daughter's appointment. She now has a slight astigmatism (I apologized to her for that piece of DNA. *G*) and her eyes are a little worse. Gee. Wonder why? Maybe because she doesn't wear her glasses? *sigh* So, what bright thing did I do? Bought her new glasses. They should be here around the first of the year. They would be here sooner, but the eye doc's is closed for most of next week and then the week after, too. (Must be nice!) Luckily our eye insurance paid for some of the cost of her new glasses, but they don't pay for the anti-glare (I don't know why not, you need it to wear glasses and drive at night.) and they only covered a portion of the new glasses. The visit turned out more expensive than I expected, but Daughter promised to wear the new glasses once they arrive. I should have made her swear on a Bible.
After that we headed home for a snack for then kids and then headed back out. Yesterday I was supposed to cut Son's hair but he had a haircut and to be honest my hands have really been aching lately. Not to mention he was a little weepy last night so I told him we'd go get his hair cut today. He brightened up at that. (I think it's the lollipop they give him. *G*) So, we headed to Great Clips where he had a "high and tight". And a lollipop. *G* I had thought this close to the Holidays that we'd run into serious traffic in the area we were in, especially as it was close to rush hour. However, we had arrived more quickly than I had expected and then they had Son back right away, so we had about a half hour before we had to leave that area for the kids RE classes. So, we walked down to Ulta (outdoor strip-mall type thing, but a bit more upscale) where we were shocked to see lines almost halfway back of the store! I've never seen it that busy. I wanted to look at stocking stuffers for Daughter, but the $1 items were all silly things Daughter wouldn't use, or wouldn't care to have. Like the toe pads when painting your toenails. So, I had to rethink all that. Though we did enjoy looking around a bit. What can I say we're girls. Well, Daughter and I. Son just likes to smell everything in the store. And touch it, too. *G* After not purchasing anything we headed to the kids RE classes. Again, me thinking we'd hit a lot of traffic at this time because it was around 6pm. Again, no traffic. Weird. We arrived early, as usual and went ahead and headed inside. The RE classes were each having a Holiday party and everyone was excited. So cute to see all those little kids. (Our RE classes go from 1st grade through 8th grade.) I have a hard time sometimes, believing Son used to be that little. Those days just slip by so fast. I have to keep reminding Chris and Daughter than Son is only seven years old because he's taller than a lot of boys his age and also because he usually speaks so clearly and with clear thought. He also has a wicked (and sometimes silly) sense of humor.
While the kids were in class I met Chris at BAMM where I picked up a comic book each for the kids for their stockings and a pen (Star Wars, Bobba Fett, so CUTE!) for Son and rubber bracelet for Daughter that says "allergic to boys". Think she'll get that it's a joke? And I picked up a book for me, The Mane Event by Shelly Laurenston. These books are a bit hotter (as in "Anyone have a fan?" and "I need some ice water.") than I usually read but the humor and stories just grab me and I really enjoy them. Luckily this one has been released into mass market paperback. I went ahead and bought it because I've already finished The Mane Squeeze. I could barely put that book down. The romance was sweet, her hero's are always head over heels for the heroines and there is usually a back story running along with the romance that is interesting as well. TMS leaves a couple of threads dangling, one of which I am sure I've figured out, but the book also introduced us to another character who's book I hope will be released soon.
After that we headed back to pick up the kids, but because of a school program there wasn't enough parking so I picked the kids up and Chris went on home. I met Daughter up front. Outside. In the cold. Brrrr. And we waited for Son. Soon he arrived and we headed home.
We've had a nice dinner in a warm house and I feel blessed that I could not only afford Daughter's glasses (GULP!) but that I could pick up some things I know the kids will get a kick out of and make Son happy with a haircut and lollipop.
 We also watched The Sing Off again this evening and can't wait to see who wins, though we have our own opinion and we won't find out until next week who the winners will be. Tomorrow will be interesting. The Out-laws are going to be visiting. (Grant me patience and strength.) And I have to swing by the library tomorrow afternoon. Star Trek (the latest movie) is in from Hold and Chris is excited to finally be able to see it. *G*
Anyway, I am up late-again, and need to head offline. I hope y'all had a Wonderful Wednesday. I wish y'all a Thankful and Thoughtful Thursday. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams.

Exercise: Nope, day off, too busy.

Oreo looks miffed!

This cat takes a lot of energy. She can be quite sweet, and loves to chatter at me at night when I'm getting ready for bed. She loves to stare at herself in the bathroom mirror, too. The energy part is balancing my attention towards her. If I pay a lot of attention to her she immediately thinks she's the Queen Bee and will jump all over Layla. But, I can't NOT pay attention to her, so I have to carefully pay her attention, but not too much attention. She's a needy girl!

This post may be very short. I am so tired and sleepy this evening! It's been a pretty good day. The sun played played hide and seek today, plus we had some rain earlier this morning. All leading up to a damp, but pleasant day. We also had warmer than usual temperatures for the afternoon, but a cold front came in this evening bringing wind with it that batted my Jeep like a giant hand swatting a fly! Whew! The drive home tonight was fun! *g*
The kids finished most of their schoolwork before we headed out this afternoon for their MA class. Daughter intimidated the boy from last week, so he mostly behaved. Thank goodness. Since my Y has added a Zumba class every other Tuesday night and tonight was that night, I stayed in the class and watched the kids instead of working out this afternoon. (I know my body and know I would NOT have had the energy to do both.) Daughter was a bit out of practice, having missed two weeks, but she did well. Son is having trouble remembering some of the katas, but I think it's more of an age thing with him.
After their class we drove home so they could finish their schoolwork and grab a snack and drink. Then we headed back out to the Y for my class. I had a BLAST! I am so glad they added another night of Zumba! I know I'll be feeling it tomorrow, too. *G* Chris went straight home after work instead of working out and was nice enough to make dinner this evening. We had my favorite-Garlic Chicken-Yum!
We also watched The Sing Off again. I'm enjoying this show! We already have a favorite group, too. And so far they're doing very well.
While the kids were in MA class this afternoon I started the Shelly Laurenston book, The Mane Squeeze. I'm really enjoying it so far. There is a humor and irreverence the author uses for parts of the story that have had me laughing out loud in places and then trying to cover for it. *G* I'm about halfway through it and really having a great time reading it. I am SO going to have to get her backlist for this series. And maybe try one of her other books written under the name G.A. Aiken. I hear they are well liked.
That's all from me tonight. The day has hit me and I am ready to grab a shower and snuggle under the covers with my book. But, I have a few things to take care of first, so this is it for me. I hope y'all had a delightful and smile-filled Tuesday. I wish a Wonderful Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 55 minutes of Zumba. I had a GREAT time. *G*

Pepper, a box and a nap, Oh My!

This box brought a delivery last week. The cats? Are loving it! We even decorated it for them, hence the ribbon on the corner. Each kitty has taken at least one nap in the box, but Pepper is the most frequent napper. I think it's because we have positioned the box next to my chair. *G* Isn't she sweet?

Whew! After an exciting, stressful and busy weekend it was nice to get back to our normal routine today. And I needed it. Thanks to yesterday I was achey today and sluggish. I always know that if I expend a lot of energy one day, the next day I'll pay for it. And I did. Luckily I only had one more load of laundry to do today and took care of that fairly early. The kids and I concentrated on their schoolwork and though Son started scattered we soon settled into a good rhythm. Daughter has decided that rather than stress out in trying to catch up to Son's week in curriculum (thanks to the pain she missed a couple of days last week, too) she'll just stay a week behind and go another week past Son at the end of the year. I have to say this is definitely one of the perks of homeschooling. I'm only giving them one week for Christmas, as usual, and the kids are okay with that. Though they are a bit jealous of their friends who will have two whole weeks.
I was moving slow most the day and even considered not going to Yoga this evening, being that tired, but knew if I didn't go I'd have a fit later on and harangue myself. So, I went. Chris had even asked me to pack him his gym bag for this evening after work. Leaving didn't start off well. *G* We left and I got to the end of the street and felt like I hadn't closed the garage door. So, I turned around and went back up the street and I had closed it. Must have been one of those things that is so routine that you don't realize you're doing it. So, we started back off. And reached the end of the neighborhood and I realized I'd left Chris' gym bag sitting on the bottom stair. *sigh* So, I turned back around and went back and Daughter ran in the house and grabbed it. Third time must be the charm because we made it to the Y after that. *G* I am so glad I went. After class I felt good. I felt more energized, but limp. And in a great mood.
Chris met me (and daughter, she stays in the aerobic room with me, playing with her iPod or gameboy) with Son in tow (he had checked Son out of ChildWatch for me) and we headed for home.
We decided on breakfast for dinner with pancakes, grits and bacon for Chris and Son and sausage for Daughter and I. Chris even made gravy for his grits with the bacon drippings. Jeez, is he Southern or what? *G* We also watched that new NBC show, about Accapella groups competing. It was pretty good. Ooh, we finally watched License to Wed last night and about had a fit laughing! The scene's while they are trying to register for their wedding? With the two fake babies and two friends kids? Absolutely HILARIOUS!
As for reading? I am about halfway into the Garvey book. I settled down and was able to read after everyone had gone to bed last night. (And I had finished the ironing.) It's a cute book. I do kinda wish it was a book I had gotten from the library.
And that's it. I have a book to finish and some rest to get so that I am not so tired tomorrow. Hopefully I'll sleep better tonight, too. *G* I hope y'all have had a pleasing Monday. I wish a terrific Tuesday for y'all. (Daughter is VERY excited she can return to MA class tomorrow, Tuesday.) (I'm up too late writing this post. Shhhhhh!) Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: 1 hour of GREAT Yoga. *G*

P.S. If you don't mind me sending you a Christmas card, please let me know!

Where Chris is KING!

Looks like fun, right? This was taken, by me with my cell phone, right in the middle of wiring the new radio to the jeeps wiring. May I just say that not all the wires were the same color? But, Chris did a great job and I now have a new radio and best of all, NO SMOKE! WHEEEEEEE! *G*
Oh, and btw. My husband is sick and twisted! He was cracking jokes the entire time, you know, pretending to be electrically shocked and also saying things like "whoops! Those two wires shouldn't touch-ouch!" And yes, I may have smacked him on the back of the head a few times. *G*

Before he installed the radio for me (I had to help and hold the light and tell him which colors were which, he is slightly color-blind-reds and greens.) he went and had his oil changed and his tires balanced and rotated. Good thing, too. We found out that he needs a new tire, one has flat spots. He'll pick one up this week. While he was gone I swept, mopped, vacuumed, and have done load after load of laundry. Then Chris arrived home and we went to work putting the new radio in. After that Chris test drove the jeep for me everything worked well. YAY! No smoke, that was my only requirement. While Chris was gone I shampooed the downstairs and hallway and then the upstairs hallway and Daughter's room. I'll get the other rooms sometime this week. I also cleaned out the shampooer by taking it apart. Yes, I cleaned a cleaner. *G* And Chris had NO idea that the bristle brushes could pop out. *G*
When Chris arrived home he made dinner while I sat for a few minutes and then went back to doing laundry. I still have ironing and more laundry to do later. (It was linen day here. *G*) Oh, and just remembered that I need to buzz Chris' hair tonight, too. *sigh* Maybe I'll be able to rest tomorrow a bit. I didn't get to go to Zumba today, my dashboard was laying all over the front of my floorboard and I can't drive Chris' car, I still haven't picked up on how to drive a stick shift. *sigh* I think that may be a talent beyond me. I am just too ordinary, no talent anywhere.
Anyway, with all that today I haven't even had time to enjoy my new books! I've read the first few pages of the Amy Garvey book, but other than that, nothing today. Hopefully I will find time tonight. Hopefully.

That's about all from me. It's been a looong day that is not over yet. I hope y'all had a restful and Blessed day. I wish a low-key and pleasant Monday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: I ran out of time doing everything else!

Kicking Butt and Taking Names....

Elf Style! *G* Aww, c'mon. You have to admit this picture is funny. Please forgive the glowy eyes,  this was taken with my cell phone with the flash on. And no worries, we gave her catnip and loved on her for being such a good sport.

It's been a long, damp, chilly day. We headed out this afternoon with a list of errands to take care of, some before Church, some after. We made it to one errand before Church and were headed to the bookstore when we noticed a weird smell and a wisp of smoke coming from behind my radio. We panicked and found somewhere to pull over. Chris pulled off part of the dash in an empty parking lot, but couldn't see much so we took a chance and headed home. Oddly enough, we had been listening to Christmas music on the radio, but when we panicked we shut off the radio and we were almost home when I mentioned to Chris that we hadn't done anything different driving on the way home as we had been doing except the radio was off and there was no smell or smoke. We made it home in record, safe, time and Chris pulled out the entire dash. (He may not know his way around an engine, but show him electrical components and he knows his stuff.) He first pulled out the radio and we noticed two smudges on the back dash panel. They were sticky and we were confused. So,  he looked at the wiring and about had a conniption. Turns out an idiot must have had the jeep before we bought it because they had obviously had another sound system in there before selling it, because when the guy (and Chris swears it had to be an idiot guy *G*) went to put the factory radio back in he ended up rigging up wiring that had no place being in there. He said he was surprised it hadn't shorted sooner. On one of at least eight wires we found two that were stripped and were barely held together. Whoever had done the work thought electrical tape was the end all be all and there was a ton of it on all the wires. Now, Chris says he is positive *knock on wood* that this is what the problem was, and I am inclined to trust his opinion since he and a friend used to build speaker boxes (you know, those huge speaker boxes with amps that sit in trunks of teenage boys and make everything sound like "wah, yeah, uh-huh BOOM BOOM BOOM... ", when they were teenagers themselves. So, all this leads up to? My radio is possibly fried and Chris doesn't want to take the chance of putting it back in so he bought me a new one tonight. Now I? All I require is something that allows me to listen to the radio, I don't care if it has CD, CD-R, or CD-W capabilities or if it can work with an MP3 player. I would have been fine with one of the $40 models at WW. (Someone tell me why it costs so much for a radio to listen to music that is free for listeners?) So, we headed back out, and it had turned even chillier and started raining. FUN! Brrrrr! We headed to the mall first. Son has outgrown a couple more pair of pants and I had a 10% coupon for The Children's Place (LOVE their pants for boys!) where we picked up two pair for Son. Then we headed into the Border's Express. I usually wouldn't shop in there because they don't do discounts like BAMM does, but I had heard (And it was true) that Waldenbooks and most Border's Express stores were closing.  To me that equals SALE! And I was right. I bought two books because I hadn't been able to get to BAMM earlier. I now have Christmas Spirit by Amy Garvey and The Mane Squeeze by Shelly Laurenston. After that we looked at gloves at J.C. Penny's because I loaned mine to Daughter in February when we had snow and haven't seen them since. However, HI! THEY were expensive. Right now I just can't spend $30 on a pair of gloves. That's just nuts to me. Maybe I'll give in when it becomes even colder here, but for now? Yeah, I have pockets and armpits. *G*
We then left and headed to Best Buy. Chris told Son it was the adult toy store. *G* For him maybe, I'm always bored in there. We looked at car radio's and good golly they were expensive and Chris wasn't impressed. So, we headed to Target because mysteriously our can opener was in the company of Daughter and broke. Uh-huh, she swears she didn't do it. I might believe her. *g* While there Chris looked at car radios (I swear they hide them in that store.) and found one he liked. So, he bought it. *sigh* And yeah, it was more than $40. Now, I love that he loves me enough to want me to have a good radio. It's just....... I'm CHEAP, um, THRIFTY! (That sounds better. *G*) But, I didn't argue with him. And tomorrow, instead of going to Zumba, I have to help install it because hi! My hubs? Is partially color-blind and needs me to tell him which color some wires are. *sigh* In good news I might find time to shampoo the floors, too. *G* Oh, funniest thing. When Chris had my dash out and I saw the dust back there I just itched to clean it. And he knew it. BEHIND the dash. Uh-huh. I think I need help. Oh, and just to let you know? A soft paintbrush makes a good duster for um, yeah, behind the dash. *G*

Anyway, after that we headed by WW (AGAIN! I KNOW!) for some kind of wiring thingies to clamp them, I call them twistie clamps, I don't know their real names, but I do know how to use them. *G* Anyway, after that we headed home, had a another quick dinner and rested a bit. Not to mention warmed up. Darn it's cold out right now and going to get colder. Brrrrrrrr!

That's all from me. I can barely see the screen on my computer my eyes are drooping so bad. I hope y'all had an uneventful and even tempered Saturday. I wish a peaceful and restful Sunday for y'all. I could use that myself! *G* Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: Panic burns calories, right? As does trekking all over hither and yon? I hope to at least get on the treadmill tomorrow.

This thing will hold twenty pounds, right?

This is the kitty condo we bought for the kitties a couple of weeks ago. The kitties? Love it. Midnight thinks we bought it just for him. Yesterday Layla climbed in and decided to take a nap. Midnight decided to be benevolent and shared with her. I like this picture because she's looking up at him. *G*

Aside from the chilly temps and a teenage Daughter who is obviously on the mend because she's starting to drive me batty again, today was pretty nice. The sun was in and out, making those chilly temperatures felt and it never warmed up as much as the forecasters seemed to expect today. After schoolwork was done I started to make a menu for the next two weeks worth of groceries, with Son's help. I had to wait a bit to leave and begin grocery shopping because we were waiting for two deliveries. I splurged and ordered the facial wash from Philosophy. I felt a little better about it because I found a smaller bottle at a cheaper price, though it was still a splurge for me. I'll gladly spend money on books (gladly, but guiltily), but I thought about it and thought about it my skin on my face is super sensitive, to the point where I'll get hot spots that turn red for no reason and then they'll itch for no reason. I know the trial I used for a few days seemed to calm it down a bit, at least the flare ups weren't as often anyway. So, I did it. Of course I also ordered Daughter some of the body wash/shampoo/shower gel in the Cinnamon buns scent, in a small size. It's going in her stocking. *g* When I made the order I was given the choice of two more samples AND since I signed up for their newsletter I also received a free small bottle of one of their perfumes, which I gave to Daughter. I can say it has a nice clean scent. Almost like soap. Now to see if she actually wears it. *G*
After the deliveries we were waiting for arrived, the kids and I packed up and headed out. We needed to run by the bank because my Dad sent the kids a check for Christmas and they were eager to spend it. And yes, when he sends them a check I just split it between the two of them and let them buy what they want instead of picking something out for them. This way when they send him a Thank You card, they know exactly what the money went on and can tell him.
We met Chris at Aldi after that and picked up a few things, mostly lunches for Chris for during the week. Then we headed by Game Stop, a video game store, where we picked up gift cards for their friends. While the kids and Chris looked around in there, I headed next door to Hobby Lobby (awesome store) and took a look around their Christmas department-looking for garland. As for decorations they were pretty much picked clean. However, I did pick up a roll of wrapping paper. It is a gorgeous silver. (And since then I've discovered it's thick as heck and not so easy to wrap with! *sigh* Why some pretty things be a pain in the tush?) I met the kids and Chris back outside and then we headed over to Sam's. I found a few good deals and even picked up a nice red shirt for Chris and some socks for Daughter while there. Son had started coughing halfway into the store, a kind of clearing the throat cough and next thing we knew he was holding a hand over his face and I knew exactly what was going on. I hustled his fanny to the nearest trash bin and he was ill. Poor thing. We've all been dealing with drainage the past couple of weeks and I should have recognized the signs tonight that he had some at the back of his throat. No worries, he has no virus or anything, just drainage. I was a bit embarrassed to discover that we had been watched by two women, but they soon put both Son and I at ease joking that one's son would have been covered head to toe, while the other joked her son hardly even lets her know when he becomes ill. They were really nice about it. I wiped Son's face and he had a sip of his soda and was fine, so we continued on.
After Sam's we headed to WW where we picked up the rest of our groceries and even picked up Chris' sister and bil's gift. I am now done! Well, except for the one thing left I wanted to pick up for Chris. THEN I'll be done. *G* How are y'all doing with your Holiday shopping? Done? I have to address my cards this weekend and have them mailed out on Monday. Yes, I know, I'm cutting it close. I rarely remember to do them earlier than this. We headed home after finishing at WW and I put all the groceries away. We had a simple dinner and the kids have been playing games all night. And I? Wrapped the SIL&BIL's gift, along with a couple of the kids. Now I just need to find time (and space away from the kids)  to wrap the rest of them.
No reading today because of everything else. Not to mention I have no idea what TO read. I'm hoping to make it to the bookstore tomorrow, but we'll see how that goes.
And that's all from me. It's been a very long day followed by a very long evening and I'm squinting at the computer screen-meaning my eyes are tired. So, I'm headed offline. I hope y'all had a Fun and Festive Friday. I wish a relaxing and enjoyable Saturday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: Nope. Too busy running around all day.

O' Christmas Tree!

Guess where we went this evening? We went out on a very chilly evening (I NEED to find my gloves! Brrr!) to Lowes and picked out our Christmas tree. Why is it as a Mom I made sure the kids had outerwear that was warm enough, but for myself totally picked the wrong jacket? Did I mention it was CHILLY?  *G* Anyway, Chris rearranged to get off a bit earlier and when the he arrived home the kids were SO ready to go. It was sweet. After we picked out the tree and I helped Chris secure it to the top of the jeep and then we headed to pick up some dinner! It was treat night because of the tree shopping and the kids each were able to have whatever they wanted (within reason). Daughter is still unable to chew hard things or to eat foods that aren't soft. But, we found her something. Son, of course, opted for McD's. And no, we don't let them eat like that all the time.
After heading home and eating we set about placing the tree upright in the stand. Now, this stand was my Mom's. It used to play music and rotate. Unfortunately a couple of years ago the motor went out and Chris took it apart and the pieces are STILL sitting in my closet in a bag. I can tell you I found out the stand is about 50 years old and I hope that we can find replacement parts. It just doesn't seem like Christmas when we can't hear the tinkling of the music box that worked along with the motor.
Anyway, the tree was secured and Chris strung the lights while the kids watched. After Chris was done we let the kids pick what ornaments they wanted to place on the tree and then watched them pick a spot for each one. The funniest thing was trying to get Son not to place every single ornament we have on the tree! When they were done it was time for Chris to place the Angel on top and we stood back as he plugged everything in. It really looked lovely. The kids did a good job! Although, I still think I want to find a garland for the tree. When I was little my Mom used popcorn garland. I don't think that's a good idea for us with the kitties. Oreo has already taken up her spot behind the tree. When it's lit up she sits there and stares at it. Sometimes she'll also sleep under it. I think she believes it's magic. *G* And in a way she's right. We thought The Baby, Pepper, might be a problem with the tree. But, she's been fine so far. She smelled it and that was about it.
Since the tree is a fresh, live tree and I've been doing some reading and found that pine and the water used to "feed" the tree can be poisonous to the kitties if they were to drink it (sap and such), Chris made a small cardboard circlet to go around the base where the tree sits in the water in the stand. Hopefully it will keep the kitties out of the water. As for the ornaments? Fragile and breakable went up toward the top. Wood, metal and fabric ornaments went toward the bottom. *G* That way if any are batted down, they won't break and the cats can't eat them. *G*

After all that we watched a bit of tv, CSI tonight was pretty weird, but in a good way. And after that we headed upstairs for showers and bed. I am finally warm now! *G* I felt like I was never going to get warm after this evening out. Next time I'm wearing a warmer coat. I'm hoping the library gets something to read for me in soon or that I am able to get by the bookstore soon because I finished the Evanick book and don't know what to read now. I may grab something off my keeper shelves, though I am not sure I'm in the mood for any of those. Weird, I know.

And another night comes to a close. I hope y'all had a Thankful and Thoughtful Thursday. I wish a fun and fabulous Friday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: No. No time with schoolwork this afternoon and no time this evening. I am already looking forward to Zumba on Sunday and there's an extra Zumba class on Tuesday this coming week, too! YAY!

Pepper finds a comfy napping spot!

Pepper found a good napping place this afternoon. My foot. She slept and just sat there for almost an hour. I didn't have the heart to move her and since I wasn't feeling too well today I took it as comfort and enjoyed it. She's such a sweet baby.

While we may have had the sun back this afternoon, we also had high winds to go with it. So much so that several times this afternoon and evening we had to go outside and grab planters that had flown off the back porch.
Daughter is still dealing with the pain from the adenoid removal. I can tell the pain is along her jaw about to her ears. She's still having to take her pain meds and does not like the 'out of step' feeling they give her.
Son was better about his schoolwork today. So much so that I let him play one of his lego games on the computer this evening.
Chris and I had words today, something that doesn't happen often and that on top of a sinus headache from hades today made me feel awful. To be honest I've been feeling "lost" today. You know the feeling where you're not listened to and no one seems to appreciate you? I guess it's just me. It's made me sad all day. I hope when I go to bed and wake up tomorrow it's to a better day. And yes, Chris and I are okay. He can just be so infuriating at times. But, he did make dinner this evening, so that was nice.
I kept the kids home from RE this evening. I felt Daughter needed the evening home. I was worried about taking her out in the high winds and around a bunch of teens who go to public school with all those teenage germs. Probably paranoid, but she did thank me later this evening and said that it was for the best. However, she wants to go out tomorrow because we have planned to purchase our tree tomorrow evening. Wish us luck.
That's it from here. I have felt too bad for reading much today. Though I did read a few chapters in the Evanick book. Anyway, this is it from me. I am more than ready for bed. I hope y'all had a Wonderful Wednesday. I wish a Thoughtful and Thankful Thursday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: Eh, no.

Pepper is growing strong!

Isn't Pepper growing into a pretty girl? The kids and I were talking yesterday and we all agree she's just too cute. As a matter of fact, I can't tell her she's a bad girl to her face. I look at her and just tell her "no-no", but when I see those cute big eyes and face? Well, I dare you to try and be mean to that adorable face! *G*

Daughter has had a small setback today. Her throat is a bit sore and her jaw and along her ears are really hurting her. The Doctor told us the adenoid removal (and the tonsillectomy) is really rough on teenagers and he wasn't kidding. Poor girly. She's even taking her pain meds today. I know my girl has to be hurting to agree to more medications.  Hopefully tomorrow will be better for her. I did take the kids to MA today (Daughter just observed.). Though I was leery to do so because of the chilly rain we had all day. I didn't want Son to miss another class and couldn't leave Daughter home. Their teacher was glad to see her and teased her about not talking much. He also asked how she was feeling. He's a really nice teacher. While they missed class last week some new students joined the class and one boy is going to be trouble. He doesn't want to listen to the teacher and thinks everything the teacher says is a joke and that he knows everything already. *sigh* Is it bad that I can't wait to see Daughter take this kid down a peg or two? And he will, because as soon as she's able the teacher is making her his teaching assistant to help work with the new kids. Son did well today and paid attention. He made a few small errors, but his teacher says he's improving.
After class I bought Daughter a milkshake, thinking it might help her throat. And then we ran by the library, but just to the drop-off boxes. I dropped of everything and then we headed home. Where we waited for Chris to arrive home.
All in all it's been a slow day. Son didn't want to concentrate on his schoolwork, but everything was done and Daughter felt bad and didn't do much, making her more behind. But, I can understand. When you're in pain and uncomfortable it's hard to concentrate. I just hope she realizes how hard she's going to have to work to catch up. *sigh*
Tomorrow the kids have their RE classes. I'm not sure we're going yet or not. It all depends on Daughter and how she's feeling. Hopefully better!
As for reading? Well, I didn't work out at the Y today during the MA class like I usually do. I sat with Daughter instead because I was worried about her and wanted to keep an eye on her. As for the book I was reading yesterday? I put it down for a bit. I just wasn't in the mood for it. Instead I wanted a romance and picked a Keeper off my shelves- Mistletoe Bay by Marcia Evanick. It's sweet and romantic and funny and I wish there were more books like that out there today. It just seems even the genre of contemporary romance has changed too much. Eh, don't mind me. I'm an old fogey on this subject. I just need some fun reads right now.

That said, it's time for me to head offline so that I can read for a bit and have some quiet time. I hope y'all had a Terrific Tuesday. I wish a wonderful and maybe slightly wacky Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: 2.15 miles on the treadmill at home this evening @ 4 incline.

That is an excited cat!

Last night I took the cats feather wand out of the closet and spent the next 45 minutes cracking up at the excitable antics of our cats. I originally took it out to play with Pepper (it's a toy she can hear well because of the plastic crinkles within the feathers) but soon the other cats came flying in the room. It was funny. I even, at one point, took the wand and used it as a baton as I sang a Christmas carol to the kitties. Their little heads were beebopping all over the place watching it. It was hilarious! *G* And yes, I am slightly demented. I thought y'all knew that by now.

Today was nice! We kind of had a return to routine, since Chris was at work and the kids and I started on schoolwork. Daughter is making up her missed week and Son went along with his weeks schoolwork. Our only major change was that in deference to Daughter we did it all in the LR so she could rest on  the couch. She said she was tired when I woke her today, so I think it was a give-n-take with her company and trying to appear pretty normal for her friends. She also still insists she doesn't have any throat pain. However, when eating this evening she said her teeth were hurting along her jaw. I'm thinking that has something to do with her adenoid removal. But, of course I'm keeping a close eye on her.
I can say we had a late start today and it was entirely my fault, but I refuse to feel guilty. I overslept. It was nice to SLEEP. AND I had to take a benedryl last night because my skin was itching so bad and with a stopped up nose, too. Not a fun evening. *g* I will repeat, it was NICE to sleep.
Chris went into work early today so he could get off in time so I could go to Yoga this evening without having to take Daughter out of the house. Tomorrow I have no choice, I have to take her out, but it will also have been a week since her surgery so maybe it will be okay, and it's just for an hour. It was almost surreal going to the Y by myself. The new tires made the ride feel different and I'm not used to not having the kids with me. I sang along to Christmas carols on the way up there and had a few minutes by myself once I arrived. It was cool! This was my first visit out of the house since Friday when we made a panic driven visit to the Doctor and Chris drove then, so this was the first time I've driven in a week. The class was awesome, the teacher showed us a new stretch (that I totally have trouble with thanks to my leg muscles being so big), but it was interesting to learn a new move. On the way home I again sang along to the radio's Christmas music (I'm trying to get into the Holiday spirit, not as easy as it sounds.) and stopped by the library right before they were closing so I could pick up a DVD for Son that had come in and a CD for me. The ladies there were nice and asked after Daughter. I let the volunteer coordinator know that Daughter may be back this week, but at least she'll be back next week. Then I headed home where Chris was supposed to have put up some of the Christmas lights outside. Did he? Nope, but I'll cut him some slack since he was so busy running errands this weekend and woke up early just so I wouldn't miss Yoga today. Yeah, I'll keep him. *g* We made dinner together and sat and enjoyed a bit of tv before I took care of making sure the house was ready for the nightly shut down and then I herded everyone upstairs. Yes, I even have to herd my hubs upstairs because if I don't he'll fall asleep in his chair in the LR. *G* And he snores, so no one needs that. *G* Um, it's not a good thing to have your face sting when you put sensitive skin lotion on it, is it?
I've even been able to read this evening, though not a whole lot. I'm about two chapters in Three Days to Dead by Kelly Meding. The premise is another original one and so far I don't have a real handle on the heroine. She's been murdered and wakes up in the morgue in another woman's body, and I know she's  a trained hunter of some kind, but the book hasn't described much yet.
That's all from me tonight. It's late and I should be sleeping. Oops. I hope y'all had a lively and lovely Monday. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Yoga.

Athena!

She's not really spooky, but the glow-y eye thing? Yeah, that's spooky. Is it just me, or is it weird that Athena likes to sit in my rocking chair? I thought cats and rocking chairs were enemies? Trust Athena to buck tradition. *G*

Today almost felt like normal! I only had to wake up twice during the middle of the night to give Daughter her meds and even remembered to take mine! Daughter felt good today and hasn't taken a pain pill since yesterday afternoon. She says her throat isn't bothering her and that she's fine. Uh-huh. Have no fear, I'm still keeping an eye on her. As a matter of fact, I wouldn't let her go outside today though she begged. However, I did ask her friends to come in and visit with her instead. She really perked up and enjoyed herself. I could tell she was worn out later tonight though. She fully expected to bounce back and is perturbed that she hasn't. *G*
Chris ran a couple more errands for me this afternoon. He took something back to Target for me and had two new tires put on the jeep for me. (I'd planned that for this weekend a few months ago.) And he went to the Firehouse to meet his Mom and look at the pictures that were taken a few weeks ago. Remember me complaining about those? Yeah. We didn't buy any extra. It's a nice picture (we were given a free 10x13), but not something I want to display all over my house. It's stiff and formal and Chris and I like more informal family pictures. You know, the ones where it doesn't look like the infamous American Gothic painting by Grant Wood. And our attitude about it? Drives MIL batty! But, we have a free picture and no one said I had to display it. *shrugs*
I made Daughter a special dinner tonight, her favorite, Squash casserole. I made it because its soft enough but not "baby food" which is what she refers to the consistency of most of the foods she's allowed to eat. She seemed to enjoy it. (I did leave out the pepper, though.) Chris and I made a separate dinner for ourselves and Son ate something else entirely different, too. I managed to catch up with all the laundry today and also take care of the ironing. Like I wrote above, almost a normal day. Tomorrow will involve schoolwork for Daughter. She's now a week behind in her curriculum thanks to the surgery, but that's okay. She'll either catch up, or finish school a week after her brother this coming year.

As for reading? Still didn't do any today. Watching over Daughter and making sure she didn't over exert herself when her friends were here, taking care of household things and spending time with Chris this evening took it's place. Hopefully, tonight at bedtime, I'll be able to read some. Especially since Daughter is weaning off most of her meds and after tonight only has two we have to worry about.

That's it from me. Thank you again for all your prayers, good thoughts and well wishes for Daughter. Each one was answered! I am so blessed to have y'all in my life. Really. Okay, enough gushing. Time for 'night-night. *G* I hope y'all had a lovely and blessed Sunday. I wish a low-key, stress free Monday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Nope. And it's driving me nuts. I feel like a big 'ol lump. I'll be glad to get back to yoga tomorrow.

What a Difference a Day Makes......

I took this picture tonight, one handed, with my cell phone. When I had a chance to sit for a bit this evening Layla jumped up in my lap and refused to get up. She purred and gave me a look that seemed to say "sit and pet me", and so I did. *G* I think I did a good job, too. Because this? Is a picture of a happy Layla! *G*

What a difference a day makes! (Um, sorry about the ear worm.) Today was like day to yesterday's night. Daughter is feeling much better. Much, much better! She felt well enough to put on clothes other than jammies! I want to that y'all! Y'all are all wonderful women! (Like y'all don't know that!) Thanks to the good thoughts, get well wishes and prayers from each of you Daughter is doing so much better. You have absolutely NO idea how much the support y'all have given me has helped. I'd like to say again- THANK YOU SO MUCH! Daughter had color in her face today. She ATE today! (Granted, it still has to be very soft foods.) She has also decided she doesn't want any more pain pills and says her throat is hardly bothering her today. (I'm still keeping them nearby, nothing worse than a cocky teenager.) We ran out of her anti-nausea meds and didn't make it to the pharmacy to pick up the refill before they closed, but she's been fine. She's finally started to bounce back. And besides getting dressed today, the other clue I had to this miracle? She fussed at and smacked her brother this afternoon. On one hand I am aggravated that she smacked him and on the other hand-YAY! She felt well enough to smack him! *G*
I've still been watchful and attentive to her today. We still had her rest on the couch when we all went downstairs, but she didn't nap once and never once complained of her throat or ears (a common ailment with adenoid removal) bothering her. I wouldn't even let her get ice for her ginger-ale today. I feel like she needed this day to feel stronger and better. Tomorrow? We'll take it one step at a time. I may take a nap tomorrow. I need it! *G* I had to wake up at 1am, 3am, 5am and 8am to giver her separate medications last night. Ack. And? With all that I forgot to take mine until this afternoon!
Can y'all believe I has still more laundry to do today? Though it was only two loads.  Uh-huh. (And more tomorrow, too.)
While I was doing a bunch of household stuff and watching over Daughter, Chris ran a few errands for me this afternoon. We donated some items to Goodwill and he hauled those off today. He tried to have Daughter's prescription filled but the pharmacy changed it's hours and closed before he expected. He also picked up Daughter a boxspring for her bed. See, Daughter was given an antique bed by the Outlaws that was made of iron. It has a headboard and footboard and a it's own springs (negating the need for a boxspring). It's also made her room look tiny, the bed looking as though it were overpowering her room. She asked us a month or so ago if maybe we could give the bed back to the Outlaws and pick up a regular bed frame and boxsprings. So, we waited a bit until we had the extra money and Chris picked it up (and a frame) this evening. When he arrived home and carried it upstairs we set about setting  up the new frame and taking apart the other bed. Her room now looks like it's two feet bigger! Of course, now I have the urge to pick her up a new comforter....... *G* Maybe next month, after Christmas and maybe if there's a sale.

No reading for me today. It's been enough to keep up with my blog reading. And thank goodness for that or I'd be going stir crazy. Well, not really, but it's taken my attention off of the worry I've had. Are y'all reading anything good? I've been adding to my TLF/TBB list. Do y'all keep one of those?

All this and that said/written, it's time for me to get some rest. One eye is twitching, a sure sign I'm past my limit and about to hit "THE WALL". I hope y'all had a relaxing and fun Saturday. I wish a restful and Blessed Sunday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: I lost count of the time I've been up and down the stairs today, does that count?

Midnight naps in the new kitty cube!

This past weekend we were out and about and picked up this new kitty cube at Target for the kitties. It's two stories and has a "sleeping loft" (HA!) and an enclosed space for sleeping as well. Midnight? Loves it. As a matter of fact, if we can't see him around, we know he's inside the cube sacked out. Just like in this picture. *G*

It has been a rough day. Daughter woke feeling worse and then later proceeded to become ill. She then complained of a severe headache and I called Chris at work because being sick and a headache together are NOT good. He called the Doc's office and decided to leave work early. He stopped and quickly picked up some ginger-ale for Daughter and headed home. The Doc's office called him when he was ten minutes from the house and said to bring her in. So, I gathered everything we'd need to head out. This should tell you how badly Daughter was feeling. I asked her if she wanted to put on some sweats or just go to the Doc's in her jammies. She chose her jammies. (Which she was already wearing.) She was pale and looked so utterly miserable it's been hard to keep from crying watching my baby suffer like this.
Chris arrived home and we all packed up and headed out. I wanted Chris to be there in case the Doc decided to admit Daughter to the hospital, that way he could be there to pick up anything we might have needed. Plus, the moral support was very much needed. We arrived at the Doc's office and their main concern? Yeah, getting Daughter's paperwork squared away. Nice. I understand the need to do so (and had to keep Chris from going off on the receptionist), but could it not be done while my Daughter is taken back to a room where she can maybe be more comfortable than the main waiting room? *sigh* Priorities-they don't seem to have the correct ones. Anyway, after waiting about half an hour they call Daughter's name and I go back with her. The Doc visits with her, takes a look at her throat, looks at the med sheet I gave the nurse (with all the times I've given her her different meds) and asks a couple of questions. He decided to change her pain med and gave us two other prescriptions as well, bringing Daughter's total meds to FIVE. That's right, she now has to take FIVE different medications every day. *sigh* And these meds? Some are VERY scary. I'm starting to wish the pharmacist didn't give us those little pamphlets with the drug information in them. One of the new prescriptions is for a mouth wash. Daughter has developed thrush and now has to take "Dr. King's Magic Mouthwash". Uh-huh. No joke, that's the real title. Now, getting her to take it? No easy task. Daughter and liquid meds have a sordid past. As in she can't tolerate them for some reason. It took me an HOUR to persuade her to take this new med tonight. But, she did it! YAY!
All this leads up to me telling y'all that with the continued use of anti-nausea meds (though she did become ill once this evening and Chris and I considered taking her to the ER) and the new pain pill(s). Daughter seems to be feeling a tad better. She is still colorless, with every freckle standing out. But, she's eaten grits and now chicken noodle soup this evening and she's actually drinking a bit more fluids. Now I just need to stop dwelling on the new meds and their proposed side-effects. Whew.
It has been one heck of a stressful day and I had to sit and have a small cry this evening, which, to be honest, is what I think prompted Daughter to be better about her liquids. Because her Dad told her I was stressed out over her not drinking enough and possibly becoming dehydrated. He was right.
I'm going to ask for y'all to continue to keep Daughter in your thoughts and/or prayers. She's more alert now that her pain med is different, but I'm still so worried. So, please?
Um, in reading news I haven't had a chance to read today. Shocking, I know. *G* But, I've been so busy with Daughter. I did finish the Kelly Gay book. The premise was definitely original and handled well. The main character was likable and pretty much believable. The world building could have used just a bit more attention, but there will be another book out next year that I am sure will help towards that. I would have to classify it as an Urban Fantasy because there is no HEA for this book. And that's all I can tell you without spoiling anything.
That's it. I'm exhausted. On top of taking care of Daughter I've also tackled and cleaned her room and done all her laundry on top of my regular household duties. Leading me to have done 7 loads of laundry in the last 24 hours. The stress is keeping me from sleeping well and is also making me ache all over. So, I am looking forward to Daughter feeling better not only for her sake, but for mine! And sorry if that sounded selfish, it wasn't mean that way.

I hope y'all had an enjoyable, fun and festive Friday. I wish y'all a relaxing Saturday. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Up and down the stairs so many times my head spun a bit count? *g*