Isn't this a pretty bird?

While at the library we saw this gorgeous bird and I had to take a picture. It's funny, we have a bird feeder and a bird bath in the front yard, but never see birds there, they seem to prefer the back yard. *G* Although, in the summer, we will occasionally peek outside and see a bird eating the CAT FOOD we put out for the strays. *g*

*sigh* Today didn't turn out as we had planned. I had trouble waking up and somehow this family will not get moving unless I am the one that moves them! We did make it to as many places today as we could.
Luckily we made it to the pharmacy to pick up my acid reflux meds. We also ran by the library to drop off books and I picked up a non-fiction book, The Harvard Medical School Guide to Overcoming Thyroid Problems by Jeffrey R. Garber, M.D. with Sardella White. I also picked up a reread for me, Listen To Your Heart by Fern Michaels. After that we headed to Marshalls where I was looking for a tank top. You'd think those would be easy to find, but I was looking for a specific kind, not too thin, no spaghetti straps, no built in bra, a semi-low neckline, and not expensive. I tried Target a week or so ago, nothing. I tried WW, nothing. Again, we tried J.C. Penney, nothing. So, today we tried Marshalls, nothing (But did pick up a set of glasses, the kids keep breaking ours and we have maybe three left.). *g* Then Ross, (Like Marshalls and TJ Maxx), nothing. I was starting to think this was a lost cause. We walked up the shopping center and tried Dick's Sporting Goods, BINGO. Granted, the only color I liked was black (that I liked from the selection), *g*, but it was in my size, everything else I wanted and only $10. I guess I could have gotten the red, but I don't like to draw attention to myself, not to mention I am very fair skinned and turn almost hot pink when I work-out anyway! *G* I was just so tired of wearing the only two I have, every time I worked out which is several times a week for over a year now, and I have found that if I do yoga in a t-shirt, it tends to want to slip over my head or the neck hangs open and I end up with my head stuck up my own shirt in certain poses. *g*
After that we headed to the grocery store for a few supplies. We ran out of rice. We NEVER run out of rice but somehow did this time. Odd. *g* Then home, blessed home.
I forgot to mention I finished Dogs and Goddesses last night. I loved it. I was worried because another book that was a collaberation of three authors that Jennifer Crusie was in before (I'm being purpoefully vague.), I didn't like, it didn't have a feel of continuity. This one did. There were still different main characters with different points of view, but it worked so well together that it seemed fluid. I'm keeping this one, as I can see myself revisiting it again and again.
Nothing else to share. Other than errands it's been a low-key day. (Besides the chores and laundry! *G*) I hope that y'all had an enjoyable and relaxing Saturday. I wish a peaceful and restful Sunday. Goodnight and HUGS, B.

Exercise: We walked a bit, does that count? *G*

I spy with my own eyes.....KITTIES!

Sorry, couldn't resist the title. *G* From left to right is Midnight, Fireball and LAYLA! Normally Layla can't jump up on top of the cabinets because she is so, um, fluffy. Daughter was kind enought to put her up there the other day. Layla had a blast! What is it about cats and peering down on you from higher places?
Getting a six year old to write a book report is harder than pulling teeth! It took him a bit over 2 hours because he wouldn't stop complaining about all the work he was having to do, complaining his toes itched, complaining he had to write so much that his hand was hurting, well, you get the idea! I honestly had a small headache by the time he finished, but IT'S DONE. Blessed be! *g*
Chris made dinner tonight and our picky Son actually ate a quesadilla! WOOT! Of course it was the one that didn't have chicken in it, but still! He tried something new! And declared it good! (This is a BIG deal around here!)
After dinner we watched a bit of tv and then I walked on the treadmill. I meant to do it earlier today, but schoolwork took more time than I expected and I had other household things to take care of.
While on the treadmill I started Dogs and Goddesses by Jennifer Crusie, Anne Stuart and Lani Diane Rich. I know. I know. I said I was going to wait to read this book until I finished both my library books, but I finished one and the other is a trade size and harder to hold and read on the treadmill for me. *G* So far I am liking the book. Even though it's written by three different women, the scenes and characters meld really well.
Tomorrow promises to be a busy day. *sigh* I would love to have one weekend where we could rest, but it's just not our way I guess. I hope that y'all had a fun Friday. I wish a relaxing and pleasant Saturday. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: 3.50 miles on the treadmill. No weights tonight.

Layla is knocking at the door!

Sorry for the poor quality of the picture, but it was taken the other night with my cell phone. (It takes really bad night time pictures.) Here is Layla, standing outside, and wanting in, our restroom. She even has a way of "knocking" on the door, kinda like banging on it! *g*

Today has been nice and quiet. The kids have been working on their tests and Son is almost done. He still has a book report to write, but has gone over the work-sheet for it. Tomorrow that's all he'll have to do. Wish him luck! *G*

Daughter is working on hers as well.

I decided not to go to the Y tonight. I'll make up the work-out tomorrow. I just wanted one night where we're not rushing somewhere and then rushing home to make dinner. (And it gives me a chance to rest!) It was kind of nice. I can't wait until the summer when we'll have more time for things.

I have been reading, the 'Humorous Horror' book, some of the stories are quite funny, others, well, not so much. But a few were very tongue in cheek funny and had to giggle. There was even a story by Charlaine Harris in the book, though it was not a Sookie Stackhouse, I still liked it. *G*

I forgot to mention that I picked up another book last night at WW, Dogs and Goddesses by Jennifer Crusie, Anne Stuart and Lani Diane Rich. I have been following the creation of this book since the authors decided to collaborate and then blog about it. I'm going to be good and read the library books first, but I can't wait to read the book by such talented ladies. *g*

Are y'all reading anything good right now? Have y'all noticed that March is going to be a VERY nice month for book releases? *G*

Well, I've bored y'all enough. I hope that y'all had a pleasant Thursday. I wish a fun and fabulous Friday. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Nope, took a day off. (From almost everything, some household things won't wait.)

Midnight had to look....

Now, you know when you leave a door open to a closet that a cat is going to look. And look, and then probably get into the closet. That's exactly what happened after this picture was taken. He was then shoo'ed out and the door closed. Btw, he's the one that opened the door to begin with! (If you open and close that door and it doesn't click, he KNOWS and HAS to open the door. *G*)

I'm surprised that my forehead isn't red! Son had three tests today and the math test took forever. It's not that he doesn't know how to do the work, he's just tired of going over it, again and again. Thank goodness this test is behind us and we can move forward. He's liking fractions. *g* Tomorrow he has a spelling test and write a book report. Help. I forgot to tell y'all that we've found books he'll inhale! Garfield! He and Daughter have been checking out lots of Garfield books lately. And he's reading them all on his own. It didn't hurt that they became interested in reading them because I had a whole stack from when I was young. *g*

Chris had a luncheon and then a conference call when he arrived home today. He said for such a highly esteemed restaraunt here, the food was awful, except for the cheesecake. *g* You know it's bad when my hubs doesn't like his steak! *G*

Guess what? I have books! YAY! The library came through for two of my holds and I now have: Unusual Suspects: Stories of Mysteries and Fantasy edited by Dana Stabenow and Blood Lite: An Anthology of Humorous Horror Stories edited by Kevin Andrerson. And a movie hold I had placed came in for the kids as well, Igor. Son seems to like it a lot, he's been giggling non-stop! *G*

There was a meeting while the kids were in RE for the parents of Confirmation RE students for this Fall. Everything was very straightforward and our plans for Daughter to volunteer this summer were encouraged. When I was Daughters age I was a volunteer for United Way and believe that it helped me be the person I am today. So, we've been encouraging Daughter to volunteer when she turns 14 this Spring.

After the meeting and the kids were out of class we headed to the other library to return some items and then headed to WW. I needed Tums. *G* While there we picked up the kittes a new scratching chaise. I tried to make one from boxes, but you wouldn't believe how hard it is to cut cardboard in very straight lines and then band it all together. Mine ended up only being about a foot across. *sigh* I tried, I really did. But, my cardboard isn't even and looks a lot like a rose! (The colored cardboard in the center helps give that impression. *G*) So, we bought them a new one and from the moment we walked in the door with it they were following it around! It came with a small pouch of organic catnip and the cats went nuts! Rolling all over the place, smacking each other to get it it......Drunk kitties all over the LR! *G* I wish I'd thought to record it! If you'd like to know, we bought the large sofa/couch by IMPERIAL CAT . And it wasn't as expensive at WW as I've found them online.

After all that, home and pizza, yum! And now I have to get offline and buzz Chris' hair. I hope that y'all had energetic and nice day. I wish a smooth and good-natured Thursday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: I never have time on Wednesdays!

Uh-oh!

Poor Midnight, somehow he thought he could fit between the cabinets! KIDDING. This is really a part where our cabinets have a corner cabinet and then a regular cabinet and there was some space left. If we twist around and look up at the kitties and call their names when they're on the top of the cabinets they'll look down at us. Midnight took it to the extremes, though. He tried to fit his whole head down there! *G* And yet, he still managest to look shiny! *g*

It's been pretty quiet around here today. The kids are in their Quarter Testing Week and there's reviewing and testing going on here. And Son will have to write a book report at the end of the week. I am SO not looking forward to that! *g*
Still no books from the library for me, boooooooo, hisssssss! *G* Tomorrow is just too busy with all the testing to make it to the UBS, so I don't know if I can keep myself from hitting BAMM. *g* Hopefully the library will call tomorrow.
I didn't make it to the Y tonight. Chris arrived home late, they had a "Kick-off" for their corporate year at work and it ran over. So, I walked on the treadmill here at home and did some free weights. I was tried before and even more tired after, but I am determined to do my best to work-out whenever I can. And if I'm tired, well, I'll do it anyway. When Chris arrived home he tried, yet again, to fix Mrs. M's computer. Turns out there's nothing he can do, they have mis-matched start-up discs and the computer doesn't like them. But, Mrs. M says not to worry. Her son is coming to live with her and he's bringing a couple of computers. *g* Eventually, Mrs. M will move up to Minnesota to be with Mr. M and her son will take over the house. I'm SO going to miss her, but it'll be a while, so we'll enjoy her while she's still here. AND her son has a six year old, so maybe my Son will make a new friend.

On tomorrow's agenda, Chris has a snazzy luncheon to attend while I homeschool the kids and test them (Oh, the fun never ends here! *G*), and the kids have RE classes. Somewhere there we have to fit in regular household things, and a trip by the other library to return movies and books. I'm going to sweet-talk Chris into going by BAMM. *G*

I have things to do, it never ends. *G* I hope that y'all had an enjoyable and stress-free Tuesday. I wish a delightful and laugh-infused Wednesday. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 3 miles on treadmill, 15 minutes of free weights.

Is it any wonder.....

That Layla makes me smile every single day? Is this not hilarious? Sorry for the poor quality picture, it was made by my cell phone last night. I do love my purry kitty. Btw, this is the pose she makes when she wants us to pay her some attention! *G*

Oh, golly. I should have left well enough alone last night. I was exhausted by the time I got off line last night and headed upstairs, but had one more thing that needed to be done, well several more, but.... Anyway. I buzzed Son's hair last night when we went upstairs and hit my limit. Literally. Have you ever been so tired you thought you'd pass out? When your vision turned fuzzy and started into that gray area? Yeah. I hit that last night. I didn't pass out, and managed to take my shower. But, I had to lie down after that. The towels that I needed to fold sat on top of the dryer all night. I started bawling when I thought of having to get up and fold them. (Literally.) And was told they'd be there in the morning. *sigh* I thought about not saying anything here, but then thought that I'd rather have y'alls opinion. Do you think it's a one time thing I shouldn't worry too much over, or should I write everything down and call the Doc? Oh, and I do feel better today.

Onward! I didn't read today. I've been busy with the return to routine. Viva la routine! *G*And I honestly can't find anything off my keeper shelves I want to revisit right now. I am so hoping the library calls me soon! AND that I make it to the UBS this week! *G* I may break down and order some books.

I'm off to watch The Closer. I hope that y'all had a productive and pleasant Monday. I wish a content and smile-filled Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: 1 Hour Yoga with a new, but awesome, teacher.

Butterscotch is wondering.....

Why is boy-child (Son) taking my picture? *G* Why isn't he petting me instead? He's also thinking Son needs to put down the camera and pay him some attention! *g*

Sundays are starting to get on my nerves. *sigh* I have ironed, swept, vacummed, mopped, done laundry and shopped today. Oops, almost forgot AND I cooked dinner. *g* MIL came and we tromped off to Sam's where we picked up the last of the groceries. Thank goodness.

After we arrived back home the kids ran out to play and gave me some quiet time. YAY! Well, as quiet as it could be with the kids doing the whole "in-and-out, in-and-out" thing.

I finished the YA last night. I'm down to no books now! What am I going to do? Raid the keeper shelves of course! *G* As long as I can find something I want to reread. *g* I'm hoping the library gets in some of my holds SOON.

When Chris arrived home from work he went next door again to see if he could fix Mrs.M's computer, still. He overlooked the obvious and came home still puzzled, BUT he just now figured out what the issue is and will go back, again, tomorrow evening and fix it. Now, here's the sticky. Mrs.M gave him a check tonight and he tried to give it back and she won't take it. She insisted that he's been spending a lot of time on this and that he earned it. He just did it because she's such a sweetheart. But, she won't take it back! Gah! And that was before he had his "A-HA!" moment. So. What to do?

Sorry this post is so boring, btw. It's been pretty quiet with good news around here, so I just had boring stuff to share! And speaking of boring......

Ooh, guess what? Our taxes are DONE! WOOT! One less thing to do and worry over! Now tell me you know other people who get excited to have that done! *G*

I am now sitting in my favorite chair and am too pooped to pop! It's time for bed, thank goodness. *g* I hope that y'all had a blessed and peaceful Sunday. I wish an energetic and smile filled Monday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Nope, too tired!

Son snaps some pic's!

So, I gave Son a mission the other day. I asked him to go take some pictures of the kitties for me. This was a twofold favor. *G* It gave me pictures to post, and kept Son busy for a bit. I think he did a great job! This is a fabulous picture of Athena and her gorgeous eyes! Isn't she a cutie?

Today has not gone off as I had thought. Chris and I both woke up exhausted, achey, with sore throats and lots of sinus pressure. Hey, the couple that shares a cold together........um, jeez I have no idea how to finish that! *G*

But, we still managed to get some more grocery shopping in (only one more trip to Sam's tomorrow and we're done) and strolled through Target because I was looking for a facial loufa, only they didn't have any. So, I fugured they'd have tank tops out considering they also have bikinis out(Not that I'd wear those!). Nope. *sigh* It's not easy being a size 16. I think I'll just look online. I also didn't see any books I wanted! They had books I'd already read, but nothing new I wanted to read. Darnit! Maybe the library will get on the ball soon...... I have started the book I mentioned last night, the YA. It's cute, so far, and I'm enjoying it.

Um, what else? We came home, made dinner and I had some almond M&M's. *G* That was the highlight of my day. *G*

Tomorrow should be interesting. The Out-laws are coming over to take the kids and I to Sam's. I wonder if the kids will eat their way through again? *g*

And to be honest, it's been pretty boring here today and I can't think of anything else to talk about! *G* I hope y'all had a relaxing and happy Saturday. I wish a peaceful and restful Sunday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: Nope. I have barely had the energy to walk today, let alone run.

Patches is a stair hazard!

Patches is a hazard to those walking down the stairs. Especially if you're like me and don't use the light very often. *g* But, I tripped over/on her once and it freaked us both out to the point where she'll get out of my way now. 

It's been pretty low-key here today. The Out-laws visited and brought a game table for the kids. (MIL finds more things at yard sales....) It has a checkerboard/chess top and Son had a blast getting his Grandpa to play chess with him! *g* Then he begged and hadt his Grandpa play checkers, then Tic-Tac-Toe. *g* It's not that Daughter and I don't play with Son, but Chess has never been my favorite game and Daughter doesn't know how. Checkers lasts TOO LONG. *g* We play a lot of tic-tac-toe. And before you ask, no, Chris doesn't play with Son very much. I don't know why. He's not as patient as he should be and doesn't take the time. That's my job. *G* 

To be honest, we haven't done much else today. After Chris arrived home we went back out grocery shopping. Why do the prices of groceries keep going up, when the cost of fuel had gone down? *sigh* Tomorrow it's more grocery shopping and, I am hoping, a trip to the UBS before Mass. 

No reading again last night and today. Daughter checked out a YA the other day that I think I'll read. *g* It's titled Sucks to Be Me: The All True Confesions of Mina Hamilton, a Teen Vampire (Maybe) by Kimberly Pauley, a YA. We'd been on the look-out for this book for a while now after having seen it at BAMM. *g* Thank goodness for libraries! I meant to ask, are y'all buying more or fewer books than last year? I have found that we are buying few books and checking out more than ever. Of course we're also buying expensive textbooks for Chris, so that has something to do with it! *G* 

Time for me to head off. Chris has a cold and (God forgive me is a big 'ol baby about it) I need to get him into bed. I hope that y'all had a lovely and fun Friday. I wish a relaxing and happy Saturday. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Nope. Should have, I was bad. 

Whoa! Too much glare!

From Oreo's tummy soaking up the sun in the kitchen yesterday. Look at all that white fur. *G* And yeah, when we're doing school work in the kitchen, the cats crowd around, whether it's to be near us, or the sun, who knows. *G*

Today has been dragging by. I am wiped out from yesterday. And I'm starting to think that Wednesdays need to go away. I can't wait until the first of May when the kids don't have RE anymore and the busiest thing about our Wednedays are schoolwork and maybe a visit to the Y! It doesn't help that I didn't sleep well, again. If I could learn to just let things go, I wouldn't have done more laundry, vacummed and washed some dishes by hand after I got offline last night. It also doesn't help I was feeling a bit sorry for myself. But, I'm over it now and I'm sure the change in attitude for tomorrow should help.

I didn't read last night. I can't make up my mind which book off my keeper shelves to read! Sad, right? *G* I'll figure it out soon.

Chris had to work late and then ran into some traffic tonight, so we didn't get to visit the Y. However, I did a small Yoga practice in the LR, not so easy with cats on my mat and walking under me. Not to mention Son who became super-hyper because Mommmy was working out at home. I remembered why we joined the Y to begin with! I also (and don't laugh) have been curious about Bellydancing, so recorded an episode of Shimmy a couple of weeks ago. And I tried that tonight as well. Besides making me feel like an idiot, it was kinda fun. I wish there were classes around here! Besides, I need all the help I can get feeling more feminine other than a big 'ol Mom/Wife blob. *g* Which doesn't help when I had to show Son the proper way to hold a fist to punch, or show him HOW to punch, hook and upper-cut tonight when I was done. *G* What? TurboKick remember?

Anyway, it's time for me to get off and get ready for bed. I am so ready. I hope that y'all had a happy Thursday and had some fun enter your lives. I wish a fabulous Friday for y'all. Live it up a bit! Goodnight and sweet dreams, B.

Exercise: 30 minute Yoga Practice, 30 minute Bellydance practice. *G* And it's not as easy as you'd think!

Midnight snoozes during schoolwork!

Midnight was snoozing on the table while Son and I were doing schoolwork today. I guess sunbeams are pretty nice to nap in. *G* Chris took this picture for me with my cell-phone. Doesn't Midnight look sweet?

Ack. Wednesdays are kicking my fanny! We had schoolwork today and Chris pulled down (literally!) the Christmas lights and worked at trying to find a program to help Mrs. M's computer. Whatever program for her camera her Step-Daughter downloaded has corrupted her whole hard-drive. At this point, Mrs. M just wants her pictures saved. *sigh* Poor thing.
We did tell the Out-laws that today was a bad day to visit and they weren't very happy about it, but seemed to understand. They may stop by on Friday instead.
After finishing everything we could here we headed to the library and picked up Daughter some books and one of my holds, Don't Know Much About Mythology by Kenneth C. Davis. I haven't had a chance to look at it yet, but have hopes that it will be entertaining. After that we took the extra torx bit back from last week and then headed to the UBS. Unfortunatley we didn't make it before they closed. So, we headed to BAMM because Daughter has yet to spend all her gift card from Christmas and requested it. I looked and looked and didn't find anything I wanted to read! *sigh* I don't think that's ever happened before! After THAT was time to take the kids to their RE classes. Son's class DID tour the Church tonight and seemed to have a good time. Daughter had a meeting tonight for Confirmation this Fall. We were somehow conscripted to help with handing out some materials for the RE lady. *G* She's just so good at getting you to help! We were going to hit the other library while the kids were in class, but we helped and didn't make it then. We grabbed the kids after their classes and then headed there. We picked up another Muppet Show DVD for Son, The Closer first season dvd for me and NCIS season three for Chris. Daughter picked up several MORE books and (she's going to let me read one of them *G*) and a Harry Potter Soundtrack. Jeez, we had other stops after that and even I'm tired after reading al that! *sigh* After the other library we headed for the grocery store, dryer sheets again, and then, blessed be, home! YAY! We've fixed dinner and am so happy to be home and as relaxed as we can get considering it's almost time for bed, already!
So, I'm off to handle all those night time chores. I hope that y'all had a low-key and enjoyable day. I wish a Wonderful Thursday full of good friends and good books. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: Nope, not time today!

Layla won't find treasure in this chest!

Poor Layla, I hope she wasn't looking for the treasure of kitty treats. The only things kept in this chest are blankets. *G* That didn't seem to bother her when I was putting them away the other morning. She climbed right in on top. *G* And as a matter of fact, that's MY blanket she's sitting on! (Yes, Chris and I have our own blankets, the man is a blanket hog. *G*)

Well, the day went pretty well. Son tried my patience with his English today. *G* But, he's loving his Math right now, and we're starting fractions. So that trades off, I guess.

Chris got off again early this evening and we headed to the Y so that I wouldn't miss my TurboKick class. Afterwards we bought him some fuel. I swear that man doesn't pay the least attention to the fuel gauge. *G* We dropped of books at the closed library, ran by the grocery store and arrived home to make dinner. We tried Burritos tonight, we haven't had those in quite a while. Son wouldn't eat them. *sigh* Picky child. Then I hauled out the donation/charity receipts. I don't know about y'all but the charities such as Goodwill are a bit lazy around here. They'll give you a blank receipt, well the date will be on it, but still! Then if we aren't paying attention and write down what we donated right then and there, we have to sit down at the end of the year and try and remember. *g* Luckily I do remember whenever I donate something, usually books to the library (who does the same thing) and write the items down. But, we have one receipt this year where I forgot. Whoops!

Sometime tonight the Out-laws called. We missed it because they only called Chris' phone and he had left it at home. (He's only been carrying his "toy" around after work these days. *G*) They want to visit tomorrow, but we have so much going on that we're going to have to call them and suggest another date. I wish I didn't feel so guilty, for no reason I might add, to do so.

I did read the library book last night, as it is not right in front of me (It's late and downstairs and I'm up too late and upstairs. *G*) I can't remeber the title. Ah, (searched my blog) found it! Burried Deep by Kristine Kathryn Rusch. It was an interesting mix of science fiction and mystery. And WOW was it packed with info. *g*

Now I am free to either read a book from my keeper shelves or get something from the library. (If they have anything! *G*)

I hope that y'all had a good day and didn't mind my blathering on. I wish y'all a delightful and smile-packed Wednesday. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 1 Hour TurboKick (she ran over *g*) and 30 minutes of weight machines.

P.S. I'm really tired, it's late. I hope this post made sense. If it didn't don't hold it against me, please! *G*

Daughter's mess is Fireball's gain!

Daughter is, to put it bluntly, a bit of a slob. Where it bothers me, Fireball and the a few of the other kitties don't mind it a bit! *g* Here's Fireball enjoying Daughter's unmade bed. *G*

Today has been back to routine, and it felt wonderful to be that way! *G* One thing that WASN'T routine, I let Son pick his order of subjects today and he loved it. We grooved right on through his schoolwork. *g*

I was able to make it to my Yoga class tonight. See, I usually leave for class before Chris gets home, actually not too long after he gets off. I like to get there early. But, right now the jeep makes me nervous to drive. (It'll start sometimes and not others, but always in neutral, so far anyway.) So, Chris has arranged to get off 15 minutes early so that I can make my Yoga class until the Jeep is fixed next month. Wasn't that sweet? It better be, because he owes me big! All the ironing, cleaning and putting up with no cards or flowers on special occasions because he "forgot". Uh-huh. He'll owe me until he's walking with a cane! *G* And he's earned getting off fifteen minutes early anyway, he's put in so much un-paid overtime in the past few months it's not even funny. Have I told y'all as of last month he's been with his company 5 years? It's kinda a big deal there. They waited until after the Holidays and are taking all the other 5 year-timers to lunch this Wednesday. In a limo. *G*

I wrote my post last night and then finished another book! *G* I finished Bedeviled by Maureen Child. I liked the book, the humor was good and the romance scintillating. *G* And where it would have been good as a stand alone, the author has left questions unanswered that will hopefully be taken care of in the second book. I'm not used to Romances, even Paranormal ones being treated as open-ended. On one hand, I'm not that bothered and the other, I hope this doesn't set a trend! The sense of comepletness and satisfaction at the ending is missing. The one that makes you smile as you close the book. Not to mention my book budget would take a serious hit! *g* Oh, and I tried the Chris Marie Green book, Midnight Reign. It wasn't for me. And I don't think it's because it was the second book in a series I hadn't read the first one of.

Now I have to figure out which book to read next, which won't be easy. I have one book from the library left, but I have the feeling I want to reread one or two books from my keeper shelves as well. What would you do? *G* Reading anything good lately you can recommend?

I hope y'all had a pleasant and stress-free return to Monday. I wish a light and enjoyable Tuesday full of smiles and good reads for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: 1 Hour of refreshing and enjoyable Yoga. *G*

P.S. We're supposed to get some snowflakes tonight and maybe even tomorrow. The kids are ecstatic, so send a few good wishes for them please. *G*

Her usual look!

This is Layla's usual look. She has many, but this is the one that we see most the time. She can smile, when being petted. She can growl and hiss when angry and she can look grumpy when she doesn't get her way. *G* Kinda like this. *G*

Today has been rather quiet. I liked it. Chris had to work, but ended up over-sleeping. My fault, I don't know why but I forgot to hit the on botton on the alarm. *sigh* He took a half a day so he wouldn't be late. And after he'd gone I did some laundry and have tried to take a day off. It lasted until it was time for dinner, which Chris and I made together.

I did get a chance to finish Black Magic Woman by Justin Gustainis. I had read the first couple of pages while out yesterday and something about the book just grabbed me from there and I HAD to read the rest. It was definitely different than any other book I've read recently, even darker than my normal Urban Fantasy choices. But, the book was compelling. There was at one point what looked like two different plot-lines, however those were soon intertwined in a fantastical journey through magic and it's power. After finishing it early this afternoon I started (And just finished) Oh. My Gods. by Tera Lynn Childs. Now this book I truly liked. I smiled through most of it, even the dips into teenage angst. And the plot? I thought it to be original and fun. I"ll be keeping this author on my short list. *G* Now I just need to pick something else to read. *G* Oh, and there's a review HERE.

Nothing much else to share. Supposedly there will be snowflakes falling here tonight and possibly tomorrow, but it's too warm for it to stick. *sigh* My poor kids want snow! *G* Anyway, I hope y'all had a restful and peaceful Sunday. I wish a blessed and managable Monday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: Nope. Back to Yoga (hopefully) tomorrow.

An interruption from the Kitty Pics!

I've interrupted the normal kitty pics tonight because tomorrow (Sunday, January 18th, 2009) is Chris and I's 16th Wedding Anniversary. (I'd post a picture from when we were dating, but my scanner doesn't like that I'm out of ink!) Sixteen years ago tomorrow I stood with this man at my side and promised to love, honor and cherish him, to be by his side in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer. The obey was wisely left out. *g* It's not been hard to keep those promises. Chris is a good man, a loving husband and a playful father. He's protected me, provided for us, held my hand and let me hide behind him when I became too shy, encouraged me, indulged my need to love so many kitties (because he's as softhearted as I am.) and spoiled me with books whenever he could/can. For these and so much more he has my heart, always and forever.

Okay, enough mushy stuff! I finished Plum Spooky by Janet Evanovich last night and loved it! I was giggling so much Son kept asking me what? what was so funny? *G* I'll admit the humor was a bit juvenille, but it was so like the earlier Plum books that I smiled even as I closed the cover. And the monkey stole the book, in my opinion. *G* It also gives me hope that Finger Lickin' Fifteen will redeem the series for me. Now I have to decide what to read next. Yes, I have Bedeviled by Maureen Child to finish, but we made a quick trip by the library and picked up a few of my (and Daughters) holds. I now have to read: Oh. My. Gods. by Tera Lynn Childs (A YA and new-to-me author), Black Magic Woman A Quincey Morris Supernatural Investigation by Justin Gustainis (a new-to-me authur) and Midnight Reign by Chris Marie Green (also a new-to-me author, this is the second in a series of books, but none of my local libraries carry the first book and I wanted to get a feel for the author's "voice"). Now. Have y'all ever wondered about my process for choosing books? I'm sure it's similar to yours. I scour the bookstore in the areas (genres) I like to read, picking up and sometimes totally discarding a book. However, sometimes the premise will get to me and as I can't afford every book I want to try, I usually look for that book at the library. Now. Here's the weird part. I don't carry pen and paper with me to the bookstore. *G* I take picture of the covers, making sure the title and authors name are legible and look them up when I get home. First I check Amazon to see what others have written; the reviews and even rereading what others think of the premise (because seriously, the back cover copy is often so far out there it's not even funny). If I like what I've read I'll check both county's library sites and hopefully one of them has the book. If not, I'll do what I did this time with the Chris Marie Green book, get the second book in a series. I hope that the author writes the books where they can stand alone. Sometimes they can, sometimes not. Let's hope this time it can. *G* And that's my boring process. Do y'all do anything different? Oh, and if neither library has the books, or anything else by the author-it's added to my list to look for at the UBS.

Now, as for today. The phone never stopped ringing this morning. *sigh* MIL called, the library called (3x, all automated-I think their system is messed up), our neighbor TDY in Wisconsin called, Mr.M. They'd found a copy of the operating system and could Chris look at it this evening, yes. *G* Add in all the alarms going off around here and the fact that I stayed up late to finish my book? Yeah, I'm tired. *G* But, we still managed to get everything going today. We made it by the library, took the part back to the parts store, made it to Mass, by the grocery store and home where Chris went next door to see if he could fix Mr. and Mr's M's computer. Turns out there will be no repairing the OS (there were over 3 files corrupted thanks to Mrs. M's step-daughter), it will have to be totally stripped and re-installed, but that will have to be done tomorrow. And we've learned that Mr. M's army reserve ordered were stretched out, he'll be in Wisconsin for another year. Mrs. M might be moving up there to be with him. I'm going to miss her, she's a total sweetheart.
While Chris was doing that, I made dinner and then Chris had to run to WW because the light bulb burned out in our closet and we'd kinda like to be able to see our clothes! *G*

And this is where I'm heading off. I hope y'all had a relaxing and fun Saturday. I wish a peaceful and restful Sunday for y'all. I send out good thoughts and blessings to each of you. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Nope, too much else to do. Maybe something tomorrow.

Another lick for fur-dom!

Daughter took this picture of Butterscotch the same evening she took the picture of Oreo. Now, it could be a coincidence or the kitties could like sticking out their tongues at her. *G* Personally, I think she's got a quick finger on the shutter trigger. *G* (Try saying that fast five time. *G*)

Today has been pretty quiet. The kids had their usual tests and both scored well. These are counted toward their yearly grade along with quarter tests and four book reports for Daughter. She puts those off until the end of the year. Don't ask me why, I wouldn't want to have them all due at one time, but that's a teen for you. *G*
Tomorrow promises to be slightly busy. We have quite a few errands and then Mass. I'm also hoping to make it by the UBS.
Son and I made cookies for one of their friends across the street. He had to have hernia surgery, something odd for a 11 year old I would think. But, the he loved them. I can say cooking with a six year old is a messy, messy job! Son spilt sugar and flour around and wanted to taste everything. Which was weird, who tastes flour? *G* Or plain vanilla? Son. Boys are so weird.
Oh, and last night I made banana bread. I seem to be on a baking streak.
We are pretty darn sure we figured out what is wrong with the Jeep. I did a lot of research and found a way to test for this particular thing. It's called the NSS. (A common problem with jeeps, I've read.) *sigh* And costs more to fix than we can afford right now because it will involve a mechanic. So, I am without a vehicle for about a month. I'm going to miss the freedom of going to the library whenever I wanted, but everything will work out. It's only in the last 4 or 5 years or so that we've had a second vehicle anyway. AND Chris is a bit depressed that he couldn't fix it. *G*
I haven't read much today. I've been baking and working with the kids, doing laundry and then making dinner. Chris came home a bit early due to a headache and had a small nap. He feels better now. Thankfully. I hope to finish Plum Spooky by Janet Evanovich tonight so that I can get back to Bedeviled by Maureen Child. Are y'all reading anything interesting right now?

I'm writing this and watching Psyche at the same time, so I'm getting off so I can WATCH IT. *G* I hope that y'all had a fun Friday. I wish a relaxing and happy Saturday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Oreo says she didn't do it!

Daughter snapped this picture of Oreo in mid-yawn last night. And we sat here and wondered what to caption it. It's more fun than you think. Give it a try. *G* We had: Tastes Like Chicken, Oreo Sings the Blues and Get That Vacumm Away From Me. Go ahead, it's fun!

You know how I said my Jeep was fixed? Yeah, not so much. It's still doing the weird issue upon cranking, so it's not the ignition switch. Poor Chris. He was so elated when he thought he'd fixed it. And now it seems he didn't he's a tad upset. As am I! But, we've lived with one vehichle before, for years actually. While it takes time to find and fix this matter, we're back to it. Cross your fingers and say a prayer we figure it out.

What else? Well, Son has started to learn to write cursive today. He became upset when he couldn't do it perfectly the first time on his own. I had to remind him that things take practice. He's also learning something new in math, thank goodness. We've moved onto and planes and angles. *G*
I'm still reading Plum Spooky by Janet Evanovich. It's taking me a while because I don't get much uninterrupted reading time during the week, unless I stay up too late and I have enough sleeping problems right now. I can say that the Monkey is cracking me up! And that me laughing and snickering while reading it is getting me weird looks from the family. *G*
But, I can't read a hardback easily while working out anymore, it causes me too much hand and wrist pain. So, I took Bedeviled by Maureen Child with me while at the Y tonight and started it when walking on the treamill (after the elyptical) waiting for Chris to arrive. I've never heard of a milk jug being used in quite the way the heroine has/did.
I made Chris and Daughters favorite dinner tonight, Chicken Pot Pie. It was requested because it was COLD outside tonight and will be for the rest of the week. It's not often we get weather of 9 degrees with wind chill. One of the perks of living in the South, I guess. Luckily (Or not) we won't be getting any rain during this. I don't think we'll see snow here this year.

And it's time for me to get off when I start talking about the weather! *G* I hope y'all had an enjoyable and pleasant day today. I wish a fun and fabulous Friday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: 2.5 miles on the elyptical, 1 miles on the treamill, 30 minutes with the weights.

Athena's version of Kitty Yoga!

Isn't she cute? Athena will roll over and over when you talk to her. She almost seems to adore being spoken to and will chirp back! For some reason it is extremely difficult to get a good picture of her lovely eyes, which are the color of burnished gold. And I keep telling y'all, our cats are WEIRD. *G*

A lot more should have been accomplished today but what WAS accomplished was allright. The kids finished their schoolwork in a timely manner and since today was Chris' normal day off he sat and internet surfed while the kids and I were doing schoolwork today. There were a few things I wish he had taken care of, such as returning the extra bit (He bought two yesterday to be sure he had the correct one.) or going by the grocery store for me, or even taking down the lights that are still up. *G* However, I can understand him wanting to just "be" for a day. Saturday on the other hand I will be handing the man a list of things! *G* Kidding. Maybe. *G* After the kids were done and I had vacummed and took care of some laundry we headed to the Library in the next county to return The Muppets cd and look for some more items. Son picked up another Muppets DVD and a cd, Chris picked up an Apple OS book and a pc game, Daughter picked up a cd and I picked up a cd (Baroque Splendor) and a book, The Hunt by Jennifer Sturman (a new-to-me author). After that we headed to RE class and Chris and I and all the other 2nd Grade parents had a meeting and Church tour, they want to make sure that we can point out things in the interior to the kids. Chris and I feel it was a nice tour and talk, but also wish they took the kids through as well. Son so wanted to go with us! *G* After that we went to BAMM where I used the very last of my gift card to buy Bedeviled by Maureen Child and the February edition of RT magazine. We had one more stop before heading home, the grocery store! *G* After THAT we headed home, made dinner and wound down. *G* It's now VERY late, I've pursued my magazine and need to go to sleep. But. I am still reading Plum Spooky by Janet Evanovich (and am loving the monkey!). *G*

That means this is it for me tonight. I hope that y'all had a wonderful day. I wish a lovely and low-key Thursday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: No time. I'm hoping to get back to my exercise routine tomorrow.

Oreo took a nap in the sink!

The other night I started my nightly bedtime routine of a shower before bed. Oreo decided my dirty clothes made a great bed in the sink. *G* Do you know I had to pull the clothes out from under her, she did not want to give them up! I keep telling y'all we have weird cats. *g*

Well, Chris fixed the Jeep. (*knock on wood*) It seems it really was the ignitions switch, though he worried me when he sat down with the repair manual and went through what else it could have been AFTER he had fixed it. *sigh* MEN! So far so good!

I heard of a new genre yesterday that I had NEVER heard of before and was wondering if y'all had heard of it? It's called Steampunk. Katie MacAlister has announced that she's going to be working on this genre and she went on the explain the elements of it, but I am still a bit confused. Are there other books out there in this genre?

As for today, well. It was boring. *G* Instead of skipping ahead in Son's math, I decided to cut down on the number of problems of the math formula he's been working on. I want to make absolute sure he's understanding everything. Chris arrived home while we were still working on schoolwork and had a snack and started to fix the Jeep. Turns out he had thought he had a certain torx bit, but the actual ones on the vehicle had a security torx bit. He had to call around and see who carried one and go get it before he could fix the Jeep. *G* Trust a guy not to read that far in advance of a repair manual. *g*

I didn't make it to work out tonight. I have been weirdly tired (More like fatigued.) today and where that was workable, the big headache I had this evening kept me home. Chris was nice enough (and he wanted to try out his handwork, so he took my Jeep) to pick up my Hold at the library this evening, Plum Spooky by Janet Evanovich. Which was good considering I finished Running Hot by Jayne Ann Krentz. I loved this book and am left wanting to know what's coming up in the next book.....NOW. *G* JAK is one author who occupies almost a whole shelf on my keeper shelves. *G* Is there an author that y'all read who you have most their books?

Sorry to say, that's it from me tonight. I'm really tired. I hope y'all had an enjoyable Tuesday. I wish a Wednesday filled with good friends, laughter and smiles. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: No, bad headache and fatigue. I may find time tomorrow to work out.

An Oldie and Funny!

I'm reposting this picture because this is what I deal with almost every night. Oreo will jump up on the back of my chair and hug it. Does it not look like she's claimed it as hers? And if I happen to take offense of her tail wapping against my head? Well, she'll fuss at me if I grab her tail! *G*

Today has been back to routine, sort of. *g* The kids and I followed our routine in that we woke up, got dressed went downstairs, ate breakfast and started on schoolwork. However, the routine of Son being bored with his math has happened again and made me want to lay my head down and take a break. Instead I shortened his lesson today. I know why he's bored. He's doing the same formula of problems that he was doing before Christmas break and all last week. Tomorrow is supposed to be more of the same, and I'm all for using repitition to teach a formula, but this is overkill. I think we'll skip ahead again.
As for another break in routine...... My jeep is, as y'all know, not working right now and Chris won't be able to take a good try at fixing it until tomorrow. SO, he got off an hour early today just so he could take me to my Yoga class. Wasn't that sweet? (Btw, he earned the hour off, he stayed over an hour late yesterday.) When he arrived home he had to run next door to our neighbors house. Miss M's (She's actually married, but this is the South and rather than call her by her Christian name or the more formal Mrs. Lastname, we add Miss to her first name. What? *G*) step-daughter had tried to download something from her camera to Miss M's computer and since Mr. M (His Christian name begins with an M, too. Cute, eh?) is in the Reserves and TDY for a year to Minnesota, he called and asked Chris to look at it. Turns out the Step-Daughter currupted the computer files and the whole computer will have to be reloaded. Oops. Also oops is the fact that Miss M can't find her restoration software. *sigh* She's going to see if her Daughter has a copy and then Chris can fix everything for her. I'm hoping everything works out for her. She's a real sweetie.
So, Chris worked out while I had Yoga tonight. Yay Chris! *G* One of the ladies who had started-then stopped for over months and now rejoined our class came over to me after class and told me she could see a real difference in my flexibility. I thanked her because I think it was a compliment. *G*
I finally was able to start Running Hot by JAK last night and am hoping to read a bit more today. I've been a bit leery of starting this book, mostly because I highly anticipated it. Have you ever done that? Wanted to read a book so badly and then were a bit trepidatious to actually read it? Luckily, I've gotten over that for this book. *G* I've found another book I want to read soon. And luckily have just enough left on my gift card to buy it. Bedeviled by Maureen Child. The premise sounds interesting even though I've heard it's a two book story arc so this one won't have a HEA. I read a review over at http://www.romancenoveltv.com/ that perked my interest and my funny bone. *G* But, need to finish the JAK first and hopefully my other Hold (Plum Spooky by Janet Evanovich) will come in soon, too. *G* What? Y'all know there can never be enough books. *G*

Anyway, that's all from my head this evening, and aren't y'all glad? *G* I hope that y'all had a pleasant Monday. I wish a stress-free and enjoyable Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 1 Hour of Fabulous Yoga. *g* (We had my favorite teacher and she put us through a great practice!)

Oreo and Fireball Play!

This is not normal for these two kitties. They don't get along. Mostly because every time Fireball gets near Oreo she starts growling. He then retaliates by chasing her all over the house! It can get loud. *G* After Christmas I took this box out of our closet and the cats immediately claimed it before I could put it in the garage with the other recyclables. Sorry it's so dark, but I took this with my cell phone before bed one night. In it are Fireball (in the box) and Oreo (on top of the box). She wanted in that box badly, but settled for playing 'King of the Mountain' on top of it. *G*

Today has been busy. I didn't even get to eat anything remotely like lunch until about 3:30pm. The Out-laws arrived to take us to Sam's this afternoon and shopping with them is an.......adventure. *g* They'd never been shopping with Son either, so it was even. *G* The kids liked the fact that today was free sample today. Not an hour before we'd left Son ate and delcared himself "Full". After we got there? He talked a sample person into 2 pieces of cheese pizza. And then did it again. He also had two samples of a chocolate ice-pop. *g* Daughter had a sample of cheese pizza, a sample of a chocolate ice-pop, a sample of a hot-wing, and a sample of an egg roll. *G* My kids dined themselves through Sam's and the Out-laws thought Son was hilarious for charming the pizza sample lady out of 4 samples total. *G* What can I say, he's cute. *G* He then charmed the cashier. He was on a roll today! (He's normally shy.)*G* When we arrived home the Out-laws left and I ate a snack while the kids played outside. I then ironed Chris' clothes, cleaned both litter boxes (by cleaned I mean scrubbed with anti-bacterial soap), made dinner and have done laundry. I. Am. Tired.

Do you know I haven't even had time to read today? I'm hoping to correct that at bedtime. I still have to clean up after dinner and have the usual night-time chores. And Running Hot by Jayne Ann Krentz is still going with me from room to room! *G* Please tell me I'm not the only one who does this?

My Jeep still isn't fixed. Chris just hasn't had time. He's taking part of Tuesday off of work because he can't get to it until then so that he can fix it. Cross your fingers and say a prayer please!

While eating my snack earlier I caught an episode of The Naked Archeologist on tv, the episode on Joshua. Son thought it was AWESOME because they were using Lego people to illustrate a few points. *G*

Well, I don't have anything else to talk about. *G* I hope y'all had a relaxing and peaceful Sunday. I wish a low-key, smile-filled and pleasant Monday. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Nope, hopefully Yoga tomorrow night.

P.S. Small post below.

Williams-Sanoma Brownie Pan

I saw this at Williams-Sanoma yesterday and WANT IT. *G* This is a brownie pan and would make the cutest brownies ever! *G* Unfortunately it's $29.95. *sigh*

Another Oldie but cutie!

Athena is an adorable cat. She's also LOUD when she wants to be and will "talk" to you when she's in the mood to do so. She's also timid with strangers and spends most of her day upstairs when we are downstairs, but also spends most of the night upstairs as well. She won't eat without another kitty or person to go into the restroom with her, which is weird, and because of this Midnight has been known to shove his paw over her face to get her to leave him alone. *G*

Today has been tiring. I am "too pooped to pop". We ran all our errands, and I have one more tomorrow to run. MIL is coming over to take us to Sams' and then I am done. Today we made it to everywhere we needed to, thank goodness. Chris has a new clip for his phone. Son has new jeans and a new pair of shoes, I bought a pair of capri's for Yoga but they're going back. (I just can't justify the expense to myself.) Son also has a new Nerf Gun to shoot his sister with. *G* Daughter has a new book. We made it to Aldi's for non-perishables and another grocery store for cola's. The mall was tiring, like I knew it would be. But, I did have fun drooling over everything in William-Sanoma. *G*

Oh, and yes, I was able to pick up Running Hot by Jayne Ann Krentz. I can't wait to read this one, but am not sure I'll be able to stay awake tonight to do so!

That said, I'm headed for bed. It's been a long day and I'm stressed, which makes for a tired Brandy. I hope that y'all had an enjoyable and relaxing Saturday. I wish a restful and peaceful Sunday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: My feet hurt and there has to be a reason, all the walking maybe? If so I want credit for it.

Proof For Jace! (An Oldie but Cutie!)

Jace commented yesterday that Layla doesn't smile. That she seems perpetually grumpy. While that is sometimes not far from the truth, I had to find proof that Layla can indeed smile. *G* This is one of my favorite pictures of Layla. Mostly because it show the bond between the two of us. Layla truly is a part of my heart. *g*

The other picture is of Butterscotch, being, well, a bit paranoid. He heard a noise while peeking out the window and it turned out to be one of the other cats. *G*

I had a hold in from the library today, but didn't have time to pick it up! ACK! I wannnnnnnt it. *G* Anyway, I'll pick up Running Hot by Jayne Ann Krentz tomorrow. Today was just another off kilter day for my off kilter week.. *sigh* The good news is, it's not the starter that's messed up with the Jeep. It's the ignition. Ha! Hopefully Chris can fix it. He has limited knowledge of automotive repairs, but electrical work, he can do. (When we were first dating he installed those boom-boom-boom speaker boxes and stereo's.) Not bad for someone partailly color-blind. *G* The bad news is, it needs to be done now, because the Jeep doesn't want to start unless you are pushing the key in as hard as you can. And? I'm not driving it that way. Which means Chris better get on it soon. *g* At least I made it to Target and home and then WW for groceries this evening.

Tomorrow is a busy day for us. I have to buy Son some new jeans, Son wants to spend his gift card to Toys R Us and Daughter wants to spend her gift card to Bath & Body, so that means ......THE MALL. SAVE ME NOW! I don't mind shopping, but there's something about the mall that bugs me. I think it's our Malls flow pattern. Or it could just be that I don't like Malls. *g* Then again, they do have a Borders........*G*

I'm hoping to get some restful sleep this evening. Cross your fingers. *G* I hope y'all have had a fun and happy day. I wish y'all a relaxing and smile-filled Saturday. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: No, too tired today. *sigh*

Could it be?

Could Layla have been the culprit? We don't think so, though this picture makes us wonder. *G* We think this was more of a 'wrong time wrong place' type thing. Layla will sit outside the restroom door waiting for the other kitties to eat, waiting her turn. But, you never know!

Ever have one of those days? Yeah. I am having that day more like that WEEK. *sigh* I accidentally dropped my cell phone at the Y today while changing and ever since then it's been turning itself off. Only after I arrived back home? It turned itself back on. Too weird. I'm just hoping I don't have to buy a new cell phone. I love my phone! OOh, speaking of the Y (Yeah, I know I was actually talking about my cell phone, but bear with me.). While on the elyptical tonight messing with my phone I suddenly smelled the overpowering smell of strawberry Lipsmackers. You know that smell? The one where you graduated from chapstick, but weren't old enough for lipstick? Where you had to constantly reapply it because you kept licking it off? *G* Or am I the only one who used to wear it? *g* Anyway, I glanced over and sure enough, a younger teen was on the next elyptical. *g* Have you ever run across scents like that, ones that automatically bring back thoughts of younger days?
And back to one of those days. The phone rang constantly this morning. And the wind we've had for two days now wasn't as fierce today, but close and Chris hasn't had time to take down the outside Christmas lights yet, so the ones on the second story were somehow unhooked from their power plug and banged against the gutter outside our bedroom window. I swear it sounded as though someone were shooting a BB gun or paintball gun at our house. *sigh* There went trying to get some sleep for me. When I got up I was so tired I just wanted to sit and cry. But, I had some toast and felt better. Oh, and we've notice that the starter on the Jeep is starting to go. Say a prayer that it lasts a few weeks longer please? We have to buy Chris' books for his next class and renew our HSLDA membership this month. It just needs to hold out until next month. *sigh* But, knowing my luck (*knock on wood*)..........
The kids and I did go by the library near our house this evening. Daughter had 6 books in and picked up a few more. I'm still waiting for my book Holds, but they did have a few of my movie holds in: Indiana Jones and the Kindom of the Crystal Skull and Get Smart along with a couple of the first season episodes of Heroes for Chris.

Sorry to say, but I am more than ready for bed. I hope that y'all had a good day, one that treated you nicely. I wish a fun and fabulous Friday! Goodnight, B.

Exercis: 2.25 miles on the elyptical, 10 minutes on the treadmill (I was waiting for Chris) and then 30 minutes of weight machines.

Layla is entranced by a screen saver!

The title of this picture/post pretty much says it all. Last night Chris left his computer open and was in the kitchen, when Layla decided to steal his seat. As she sat there she looked at his screen, which had gone to his screen saver of cats walking all over the screen (Fitting, eh? *G*) and she was entranced! I had to laugh because of the look of awe or wonder on her face! It was so funny! *G*

Today has been pretty boring, or usual. *G* High winds started last night, with rain and the winds continues today. I saw some of my neighbors trash containers roll down the road and the Christmas tree we had taken down tried to make a break for it! But, Chris took it off to be recycled this afternoon. We even had hail and more rain this afternoon and now they're calling for flurries tomorrow. WTHeck is going on with Mother Nature? This rollercoaster of a weather pattern is getting freaky!

This evening the kids returned to their RE classes after Holiday Break and Daughter has a new teacher as they get the kids ready for Confirmation in the Fall and Son is now in active practice for his First Communion Test next month. While the kids were in class Chris and I headed to the Main library for that city. (I've explained before that we are able to access both counties/cities libraries. It used to be because we lived in one county and Chris worked in another that we were able to access both, but they've changed the rules and now it's automatic.) We even held hands walking in. *G* Of course we soon seperated to different parts of the library, but it was sweet. *G* While there I picked up two books: Burried Deep by Kristine Kathryn Rusch and Out of Time by Samantha Graves. I've feeling so blessed with all these good library books. Especially since my book budget is nill right now! The library there also has DVD's of tv shows. (Ex. Numbers, Laverne & Shirley, Mash, Everybody Loves Raymond, etc.) We picked up a DVD of the first season of The Muppet Show. I used to watch that when I was young! Son LOVED IT! He was giggling practically the entire DVD. Did y'all ever watch that? What tv shows do you remember from when you were young?

Chris and I had been having such a nice time strolling through all those DVD's that we were a few minutes late picking up the kids! I felt so bad and made Chris RUN so we could get to them faster. *G* This must be my week for running late. It's rare, I'll tell you that. Normally I am EARLY for everything. Drives Chris batty. *g*

After picking up the kids we headed home and fixed dinner. It's been low-key ever since. Oh, I did make it to level 10 of Bookworm on Shockwave. *G* What?

Nothing else to share, it's a (Hopefull.) Return to routine again tomorrow. I hope that y'all had a good day, one filled with smiles and pleasant people. I wish an enjoyable Thursday for y'all! Whether it be because of books or people or whatever! *G* Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Day off.

An oldie but goodie!

This is a Blog award that was given to me by Jace. More on that later. *G*

This picture was taken last year at this time. My boys, they are without a doubt the troublemakers in my kitty family. Here they are from left to right: Butterscotch, Midnight and Fireball.

Today has been interesting. *G* Chris took the day off because he felt tired, but don't worry, he's fine. *G* He did distract Son a bit when we were doing theirschoolwork, but not on purpose. *G* Eventually we finished. Though I did have Chris help me a bit at the last. I had him do Son's spelling flash cards with him.

Chris took the kids to the Library this evening while I went to class at the Y and when I arrived home he made dinner. *g* YAY! I didn't have to cook!

Okay, about the award Jace gave me because I post every day and for my "adorably hilarious cats". I can't take credit for the kitties. And I post every day because let's face it I am a shy, lonely woman who uses the internet as a conduit to others. It's easy to be me when y'all can't see me or talk to me. *G* If that makes any sense.

Anyway here's how the rules play out:

-Mention the blog that gave it to you. (Done.)

-Comment on their blog to let them know you've posted the award. (About to be done.)

-Share six values that are important to you.

-Share six things you do not support.

-Share the love with six other blogging friends.

So, here goes!

Values that are important to me:

Kindness- I don't think there is enough kindness to others in our world these days.

Manners- I know it sounds silly, but please and thank you are more important than they seem.

Charity- it doesn't have to be money (although that seems to be the easiest to give), time is just important.

Patience- it's so easy to let go and yell. Take a deep breath, count to 10. Do whatever you have to do to reign it in. Patience is a gift we can give to others.

My Faith- I won't go into this, y'all know I don't talk religion on my blog.

Books- I know, I know. Not really a value. But, to me sharing a love of books is a huge part of my life. I encourage my children to read, heck, I encourage Chris to read! *G* I want to encourage the world to pick up a book. It can be serious, fun, sexy, I don't care if it's a computer manual-READ! *g*

Things I do NOT support:

Hatred

Violence

Censorship

Cruelty (there is a difference between cruelty and hatred or violence)

Ignorance

Discrimination

To be honest, all of these can be traced back to ignorance.

Okay, I'm supposed to share this with six other blogging buddies. I know that many of you live hectic lives, so I'm not choosing. I will ask that if you have the time or inclination you participate. I also want y'all to know, I really do treasure each of you. *g*

I forgot to say that I started and finished Good Luck by Whitney Gaskell last night. I highly recommend it. You will feel for the heroine and experience her emotional rollercoaster as in one day she loses her job, her car dies, she catches her live-in boyfriend cheating to winning the lottery! In one day! The rest of the book is the heroines struggle to discover that money does not always buy happiness and sometimes you have to find it within yourself.

When Chris went to the library this evening he picked up a Hold that had come in for me, so I now have Poltergeist by Kat Richardson. *g* I hope the second book in this Urban Fantasy series is as good as the first.

All right, that's it for me. My nightly news is on and as intersting as that can be I have a few things to handle around the house. *g* I hope y'all had an interesting and creative day. I wish a smile filled and pleasant Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 45-50 minutes of TurboKick (she doesn't always finish on time. *G*) and then 25 minutes of weight machines.

It's not all grins and giggles!

Or then again.......*G* This is the mess we came home to on Saturday after Mass. If you can't tell what this is, it's a roll (a full roll) of tissue paper from the downstairs restroom. We thought we had solved this particular problem by squishing the roll making it more difficult for the cats to take the rolls off the holders. (We have open ended holders.) They haven't done this since we started squishing the rolls. Seems they found a way to get shred the rolls anyway! *G* And we have a pretty good idea which of the furry culprits did this. *g* I'll give you a hint, he's cute, debonair and a handsome fellow.

Today was lovely! For some odd reason we reached 70 degrees here. In JANUARY. Odd, just odd. But, the sun was out and we returned to our regular schedule. YAY! Late this afternoon/early evening we gathered our library books and headed to the library. It had to be one of the most frustrating visits there I've ever had. Normally I have nothing but good things to say about our local library branch. The staff is friendly and courteous, but today they dropped the ball. Son wanted to check out a car magazine, but it contained no bar code for checkout. They thought it wasn't available for checkout and we had to ask them to check. Which they did, and then had to issue a bar code. They also seem to have misplaced a CD Daughter had been informed was in from Hold. And all this was done in sloooooooooow motion. We were told to call back tomorrow and see if the CD came in then, even though the computer says it's already there. I know all this sounds small and petty, but it was the way everything was handled. As though Daughter, Son and I were addle brained for making them actually do their jobs. *sigh* I guess everyone has an off day, right? Gosh knows I do! *G* OOH, I didn't tell y'all the oddest/coolest thing I saw while there! Romeo & Juliet in MANGA! (How do you correctly pronounce that anyway?) Yes, Shakespeare! In Manga! TOO COOL! ( I don't read Manga, but I think it's a great way to get kids to read. And now a great way for them to read Shakespeare!) While there I did pick up three books, two more J.D. Robb (Imitation in Death and Origin in Death). They did have one of my Holds in as well, Good Luck by Whitney Gaskell (a new-to-me author), I've heard nice things about this book. *g*

Thanks to the library we barely made it to the Y before my Yoga class. We literally ran into the building, I ran the kids to Childwatch, ran to class and snapped out my mat, ran and changed and was back on my mat just as the teacher was walking to the front of class. Whew! And I'm not exaggerating, either. My heart was pounding when I sat down! *G* I had a great class, though. My favorite teacher was there and our class was packed. Must have been all those New Year's Resolution people. *G* Not to mention the regulars. *g* She kept things interesting and I had a great time. Chris even worked out while I was in class tonight! YAY! *g*

After class, it was home to make dinner, something simple and relax a bit. It's now time for bed and I have those nightly things I always have to do, to do. *G* I hope that y'all had a lovely day. I wish a fluid and happy Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 1 Hour Yoga. (Can I count all the running around I had to do as well?) *G*

Layla in the kitty cube!

Doesn't Layla look adorable in the kitty cube? *G* This is the first kitty cube we've had that ALL the kitties will sleep in! As a matter of fact, Layla is asleep in it right now and snoring. *G*

You know Sunday's are usually a day of rest? Yeah, no. Not for me anyway. *G* Today I did three loads of laundry, ironing, vacumming, sweeping, mopping and polished all the furniture. By the time I was done I was sweaty, tired and SO ready to sit down. *G* But, the house looks nice, smells nice and we all have clean clothes to wear. A win-win situation.

Last night (and um, early this morning) I read Greywalker by Kat Richardson. It's an Urban Fantasy, so there was no HEA. There was a lot of World building and the descriptions of the "Gray" could be a bit cumbersome at times, but I enjoyed it. The heroine was tough and didn't shirk away, but was hesitant to believe what was happening to her. And I have already put the second in this series on Hold at the library.

I'm not sure what's next up to be read. Maybe one of my purchases from last week. *G* If so, For the Love of Pete by Julia Harper is on top of that small stack. And since I've already read the first couple of pages, I know I can look forward to a funny, fast paced, good read.

It's bed time for us. I hope that y'all had a restful and peaceful Sunday. I wish a low-key, yet productive Monday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: No time, too busy. Back to Yoga tomorrow and our regular schedule. THANK GOODNESS!

Oreo wants to go for a ride! NOT!

When MIL took the kids to the movie the other day, she had to borrow Son's booster seat. And when they returned it was rather cold out and I waited to put it back in the Jeep. So, I set it inside the door that afternoon and later that evening Oreo decided she liked it. I even asked her if she wanted to go for a ride. *G* I think she gave me a firm NO on that one. *G*

Today has been foggy, gray and a bit dreary. Not that I'm complaining. I love days like this. They're perfect for sitting in a comfy chair with a good book and  a mug of tea or hot chocolate. *g* Speaking of which, I made myself some cocoa last night and of course had to put a marshmallow or two in it. Guess who likes melted marshmallow with a bit of cocoa with it? LAYLA! (I let her lick my spoon when I was done. *G*) What's y'alls favorite hot drink? Tea? Coffee? Hot chocolate? (I know Dru's answer to this one! *G*) But, if you do drink cocoa, do you add marshmallows, whipped cream or just plain? 

Anyway, I didn't have much chance to read earlier today and this afternoon we headed to Mass and then the grocery store and to get me some fuel for the Jeep. Gas prices have gone up  20 cents in the past day. *sigh* Oh, well. It's still better than it was a few months ago. Add in more laundry and it's been a typical day. 

I did read this evening. I turned my computer over to Son for the evening and read Hex Education by Emily Gould and Zareen Jaffery. It's a YA and I enjoyed it. It's set in MA and features girls who come into "powers" ne magic witchcraft. But, it was handled nicely. Good vs. Evil, with the girls being the good who have to save their town against an evil mysterious witch who's powers are destroying the town with weird weather. It was a light, fun book to read and I admit to giggling a bit reading it. Next up is probably Greywalker by Kat Richardson. I hope y'all have been blessed with good books, too! 

Tomorrow is another slow day. What can I say, we're pretty boring. *G* I do have to run to the library, a movie came in for Son. And I have ironing to do. Yay. *G* Anyway, it's time for me to get a head upstairs and get things ready for bed time. I hope y'all had a relaxing and fun day. I wish a peaceful and restful Sunday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: I was bad. No. *g* I read instead. 

Curious cats! An oldie but cutie!

This picture is from about a year ago. And seems fitting since the Y's childwatch closes early on Friday and I couldn't get up there, that I had Chris move the treadmill into place for me this afternoon. *g* And of course Midnight HAD to get on and walk for a bit, and, um, maybe looked like we made him jog for a second or two. *G* What? He chose to get on. *g*

Not much to report on today. *G* It's been quiet, even with Chris home. Nothing was done mind you, besides laundry and cooking, but it was a nice day anyway. I worked out this evening and Chris fiddled with our stereo, per my request, to see if we could use our ipods through the speakers. *g* Turns out we can! (I love asking him questions like that-he'll drop whatever he's doing just to try because he can't help himself. *G*)

I did read a bit today, Portrait in Death by J.D. Robb. I've only one more book after this one in the series to read and then I can start on my other library books. What are y'all reading? Any books coming out this month that y'all are looking forward to? Have y'all made a list of books to look forward to, buy or get from the library for the year yet? I'm still adding to mine and will probably do so all year long as some authors don't have definitive dates for their books yet.

I'm fading fast, I swear I feel like I don't get enough sleep. Ah, well. I hope y'all had a fun, slightly funky Friday. I wish a relaxing and smile-filled Saturday to y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: 2.75 miles on the treadmill at 3.5 speed and 7 incline. Then another 10-15 minutes with the free weights.

Butterscotch!

I had to take this picture today. I wish it were a bit clearer, but it was taken with my cell phone. I thought is was hilarious that Butterscotch got as close to the window (and sun) as he could, but took care to hide his eyes behind the other curtain. And yes, that is a piece of cardboard on the floor under him. We received a gift in it and the cats like it so much I haven't had the heart to recycle it yet. *G*

Today was very quiet and very chilly. We never reached over 45, but at least there wasn't any wind! I knew it was going to be chilly and dressed in my frmpy warm best. What can I say, I knew I wasn't going anywhere. *G* The kids, on the other hand, went to see Bedtime Stories with MIL. (FIL didn't go with them because he has an inner ear infection. ) She also treated the kids to an early dinner afterwards at McD's. *g* And me? I did laundry, picked up the house and frittered my time away reading and on the computer.

When the kids arrived home they went outside and played with their friends while it was still a bit light out. When they came in I handed over my computer to Daughter and Son has been busy with his toys. *G* Chris worked tonight, so that he may have Christmas off later this year. (That sounded SO wrong, but was factual. *G*) If he works enough small Holidays, like today, he gets the bigger ones off. It's an odd system, but works for us. We don't do much on New Years Day anyway. Do y'all?

I made chocolate chip cookies this evening, and Son watched my every move. He wanted to taste the flour and baking soda. Little boys are weird. *G*And of course I let him lick the beater. *g* (I don't have the hand strength to mix a thick dough by hand.)

And that's my day and night. I hope that y'all enjoyed a restful day. I wish a fun Friday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: No, I should have but I needed a lazy day. *g*

Patches wishes y'all a Happy New Year!

I know Patches looks odd in this picture. To be honest I caught her right as she was starting to yawn! *g* Patches, honey, if you think you're tired..........*G*

Happy New Year! It's now officially 2009 here in SC. From now on every time we write the year on things we'll have to remind ourselves, at least for the first week or so. *G* I can't wait to see what we write on our Tests next week!

It's just after Midnight and I am exhausted. Last night from about 1am on, in increments of time anywhere between an hour to an hour and a half, I'd hear a sound that sounded like a car horn beeping outside. I've told y'all how light a sleeper I am, now imagine trying to sleep through that. I even went out to check the Jeep! And do you know what that sound turned out to be? Chris' new toy. Something about the settings for email (both work and home) made that weird noise and yes, it sounded as though it were coming from outside for some reason. Too bad we didn't find this out last night, but only after I couldn't take it anymore and got up early this morning. Want to bet I feel silly? Want to bet that Chris OWES me? *g* BIG TIME!

As for our day, it went well. The taxes were paid on the Jeep as this was the first time this week it could be taken care of and still be counted as December. We had to take the Erector set back for Son. They tried putting it together many different ways and something always went wrong or didn't fit well. He bought himself an iTunes card instead. *G*

As for the weather today, it definitely wasn't like what we had yesterday! It was clear, but very breezy and chilly. Our high was 51 degrees not counting the wind chill. And it was SO breezy there is now a tent in my front yard that's not ours! I hope whoever it belongs to finds it soon.

We also visited the library today. We picked up Horton Hears a Who that had come in from Hold and Hex Education by Emily Gould and Zareen Jaffery (A YA and new-to-me author(s)). While there I dropped off the J.D. Robb books I had been reading, though I still have a few left.

And now I have to go! *g* I'm so tired and still have to buzz Chris' hair. I hope y'all had a lovely day and a festive New Year's Eve! Happy New Year, again! Goodnight, Blessings and Hugs, B.

Exercise: No. Busy, day off.