Butterscotch snoozes!

Guess what? I figured out how to take new pictures and add them to iPhoto. WITHOUT CHRIS! Ha! I'm starting to think that Apple computers are techno-goober friendly. *g* I took this picture this evening. Isn't he cute, even when he's asleep? 

Is it wrong that when I get new mail and the little letter starts bouncing up and down on the bottom of my screen, that I start to grin? It's just so cute! I'm still bothered by the headaches and a sore throat that is very painful. If I didn't already have my tonsils out I'd know that's what it was, but those were taken out about 30 years ago. (I was about 5 years old.) I couldn't handle the pain anymore late this morning and texted Chris (the less I talk, the less I swallow which means less pain.) about 10:45am to see if he could get me an appointment with our Doc. The only appointment he could get was at 11:15am. Um, yeah, that's not going to work. He works 5 minutes from the Doc's but we LIVE 30 minutes away. And it was pouring rain this morning. I had to tell him to cancel it. There was no way I could get there. *sigh* So, I self-medicated again with ibuprofen and tried the Halls Breezers that Chris bought me last night again. The Breezers didn't work, but the IB took the edge off. So, after repeatedly assuring Chris that I would be okay and that no he didn't need to take a half-day off to take care of me, I sucked it up and went about my day. *g* 

I've had enough of inactivity, but think heating up and sweating (i.e. exercising) right now wouldn't do me any good. So, I did laundry and vacuumed and have gone about my day. 

Chris brought home something new for me to try tonight and OMGosh this stuff is NASTY.  Chloraseptic cherry strips. They turned the tip of my tongue numb and the roof of my mouth for a few minutes, but didn't help my throat at all. *sigh* 

Okay, sorry, enough of that. 

Guess what? I read Promises in Death by J.D. Robb last night and LOVED IT. It had scenes of grief that would bring tears in your eyes, it had romance between Eve and Roarke settling more comfortably into marriage, and it had bits of humor, along with the mystery of 'who done it'.  I have to say I cracked up at the scene in the lingerie shop. *g* In my opinion this is one of the best of the series. 

And the other evening I forgot to post about another book, A Taste of Magic by Tracy Madison. Lizzie Stephens birthday does not pass by with a whimper, but with a bang. On that day she had been divorced for a year, was baking her ex-husbands wedding cake to the woman he left her for and her grandmother gifts her with Magic. Gypsy magic that is. Now everything Lizzie wishes for when she bakes comes true. Some with disastrous results, some with the exact right reaction. However, when Lizzie decides to take hold of her life and her new power she'll have to make the ultimate decision. Is she ready to open her heart, to the hunky policeman next door, or will she forever be the timid mouse she believes she is? The characters family is hilarious and her friends are supportive, a true blend of great characters and a good story. 

Hmm, it occurs to me I need to post that on my other blog, oops! *g* 

Next up for me is The Grand Finale by Janet Evanovich. What are y'all reading? Anything good to recommend? 

Anyway, I hope y'all had an enjoyable Friday. I wish y'all a fun and relaxing Saturday. Goodnight and Blessings to each of you! B.

P.S. Thanks to putting up with my whining this week!  I'll try not to keep it up. 

P.P.S What is wrong with Mother nature? It was 62 yesterday, 55 today and the weather dude is talking SNOW for Sunday! 

Another oldie but funny!

I haven't taken any new pictures yet, so if y'all will bear with me.... 

I find it funny that this cat, Layla, will willingly get in the kitty carrier, but the minute you try to stuff one of them in there? Yeah, it's like trying to wrestle a great dane. If I were drag the carrier out of the closet after yesterday, she'd run for the bed and scoot under it. *G* Btw,we heard from the Vet, she's fine. She doesn't have hypothyroidism. We have no idea why she weighs so much because she doesn't eat a lot. 

I woke today with another fever and headache at the base of my skull AND a sore throat that felt as though it had ground glass in it. We somehow got Son's schoolwork done. Daughter does hers in front of me so I can make sure she's doing what she's supposed to, but Son's is more hands on for both of us. He needs some directions read aloud to him and I ask him verbal questions for his Reading course. I took care of everything that didn't have to be spoken today and Daughter read his questions aloud for me. Not bad for teamwork. 

I dragged myself out of the house today for one thing and one thing only. Daughter and I had Holds in at the library. They only give us two business days to pick up our Holds and they called yesterday about them. I could have dealt with trying to wait one more day, however Promises in Death by J.D. Robb came in today. No way was I not picking that up. I drove there and Daughter went in and picked up our Holds. (Just so y'all know. I parked right in front so I could see her go in, it's a tiny library and only had one way in and out for patrons.) She's really into a new-to-her series, the Jennifer Scales books by MaryJanice Davidson. She had heard me laughing like a loon for years and expressed that she wished she could read a book that made her laugh like that. Well, she's too young for the Betsy, Mermaid and Windham werewolf books, however MJD writes a YA series with her Husband so I suggested those. She has INHALED the first two. Not bad considered we just picked up the second book today. *g* Yeah, she finished it already. That's my girl! *g* 

Chris picked me up some throat lozenges this evening. I don't know what pectin is, but I think I'm in love with it. I can swallow, for about 5 minutes after using one, without pain. AND he picked me up The Grand Finale by Janet Evanovich, because he remembered I read her. He's trying and not doing too badly. *g* 

I hope y'all had a good day. It's been quiet and uneventful here. Considering I'm not feeling well, I can appreciate it. I wish y'all a good solid Friday. Goodnight, B.

P.S. Please keep Devon's sweet kitty Elsa in your prayers. She's had a few health issues pop up.

Exercise: Nope. I know better to exercise when I have a fever. NOW anyway. But, the inactivity is driving me batty! Then I remember I cried for ten minutes because I felt so bad when I woke up. I am not pushing myself this time.

An Oldie but cutie!

I haven't had a chance to take any new pictures in the last week, so I though that since I had over 200o pictures I'd choose one to re-show. Isn't Fireball a handsome fella? I swear he knows it, too! But, luckily he's a huge sweetie. He stood up on his hind legs while I was brushing my teeth last night and put his paws on my shoulder, almost as he were giving me a hug. *g* 

Egads! I did NOT sleep well. I ached even after taking meds last night. Turned out I had a fever and woke up with it today as well. *sigh* I don't like being sick. It messes up my routine. I didn't work out today because of the fever, that's a big no-no, and I was late getting started with the kids Schoolwork today. I feel like a bad Mom/Wife because I only did one load of laundry today and didn't feel up to vacuuming. 

Oh, and no reading today either. My right hand is aching (different from being sick), badly. TO be honest it's been hurting since last week, but I thought it would go away. I think all the push-ups I've been doing lately has been messing with it. I may have to drop those. I couldn't even open a two liter today! 

Good news, I need good news. Any one want to share? Um, Life tonight was good. *g* Chris successfully installed a new hard drive in his MacBookPro this evening. Oh, and he picked up Son's new headboard today. I can't wait to do something with it, only I need to decide WHAT I'm going to do with it. I could paint it or stain it and can't seem to decide right now. OH, and Chris took Layla to her Vet visit today. (It's our MO. He takes her and then she doesn't distrust me who gives her her meds. *G*) Seems she's gained a pound and now weighs 18.4 lbs.. You're going to love this! They're testing her for Hypothyroidism! How weird would that be? Other than the weight gain she's in good health. It was funny, Chris brought her home in the carrier and let her out. She dived under our bed upstairs and at one point Chris left the room and she started to come out. He came back and she scooted back under the bed. But, never fear, they've made peace with each other this evening. *G* 

Truth be told, it's been a long day and I'm tired. I hope y'all had a pleasant day. I wish y'all a productive and happy Thursday. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Good thing it was my day off. *g* Back at it soon, hopefully tomorrow. 

Layla! Again! (*G*)

I know I posted a picture of Layla last night, but THIS picture was made using the Photobooth feature AND I learned how to save it to iPhoto all by myself. Not a big deal to y'all I'm sure. But, don't forget I am a TechnoGoober! This is a big deal to me. *G* Not to mention, I have a pretty new picture of Layla! 

I feel bad. Real bad. Ugh. Sore throat, lethargic and achey. If Chris gave me his cold I'm going to have to kill him. I was just tired with a sore throat and achey wrist before my trip to the Y, but afterwards? Bad. 

But, the MacPro that Chris had ordered arrived today and the kids and I went and shipped it back to Apple. AND since I needed to slow time a bit before heading to the Y I also had both kids haircut. When I first walked in, to a salon we'd never been to before, I had misgivings. The floor was cracked and there was more product on display for sale than space for stylists. However, the girl that did Daughter's hair paid attention to how Daughter wanted her hair cut she also took great pains to make sure is was even all around. Now, you'd think that wouldn't matter, but you'd be WRONG. *g* We've had issues with that before. The same stylist did Son's hair and when I told her we wanted a "high and tight" she knew exactly what I meant and did a great job with it. There were no stray hairs sticking up. (We've had problems with that before, too.) While there a woman came in with her son and saw Son getting his haircut and said he was cute. I agreed with her. *G* And thanked her. *G* It was funny, too. Because there was country music playing and my kids DO. NOT. LIKE. Country Music. Daughter put up with it while her hair was being done and Son? Tried to hide inside his coat and covered his ears. I finally borrowed Daughter iPod for him while we waited on her. Although, come to think of it, she put her earphones in the minute she was done. *G* 

After that we headed to the Y, and Chris even worked out tonight. I didn't really want to workout today, but pushed myself anyway. I felt better for about 10 minutes after I was done. And then? Exhausted and achey again. *sigh* 

No reading last night. I was too busy and before I knew it I was asleep. *G* No reading today either. Again, too busy. I'm hoping to get some reading done this evening. I picked up a book at WW Sunday that I forgot to tell y'all about, You Are So Undead To Me by Stacy Jay. It's a YA and features Zombies. The premise sounded fun. We'll see. 

That's all from me this evening. I want nothing more than a hot shower and to head to bed. I hope y'all had an enjoyable Tuesday. I wish y'all a pleasant and low-key Wednesday. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 2.5 miles on the elyptical, a mile on the treadmill (giving Chris time to work-out a bit) and 30 minutes of weight machines. And I forgot to mention Melissa's challenge, day 24, too.

Look, but don't touch!

Look at my sweetie! Isn't she a cutie? *G* Notice that pink belly? That why she has a Vet visit scheduled for Wednesday. She's starting to pick her fur off again. It started around the time we put the tree up for Christmas in December. So, we know it's an allergen of some sort, but it's been a while now and she's still doing it. I've stopped using harsh cleaners (we went natural) and I barely use air fresheners and don't use anything on the carpet, though we (Ha! ME!) vacuum several times a week and shampoo the carpet a couple of times a year. So, she goes on Wednesday and we're hoping they put her back on the allergy meds for a little while. Cross your fingers for Layla, please! 

Well, I'm on the new computer and am learning all it's little quirks. I like the keyboard, very much, I don't have to pound the keys hard or spread my fingers very wide like I do on Chris' computer. Turns out I had 2196 pictures. *G* And it was more than 2 GB that was downloaded to this computer. Although, he still does't have my email (the saved ones, or the address' which will have to be written down and typed in). If y'all want to be really sweet, could y'all send me your email address'? It would be way less time comsuming to do it that way. But, no worries if you don't. 

I read Charmed I'm Sure by Liz Ireland last night. It was cute, though the hero bothered me. He was engaged yet still checking out the heroine. I would have liked a firm "I'm making a mistake marrying blah-blah" before checking out the heroine. But, that's just me. It was still a cute and sometimes hilarious read. 

Chris stayed home today, he coughed all night and snored, too. I was (-) this close to shoving his fanny in the floor last night. *g* But, I restrained myself and just shoved him a lot instead. *g* At least he didn't hold up the kids school work today. It was so nice to get back to normal around here. That included Yoga tonight. Ahhhh, I feel much better! Although my wrists are killing me lately. Back to the ibuprofen. *sigh* 

Have y'all had a good start to the week? I hope so! I wish y'all a happy Tuesday. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Melissa's challenge day 23, 10 minutes of balance ball exercises and 1 Hour Yoga. 

P.S. UPDATED: It's 10:47 and Chris and Daughter are out in the backyard checking out a comet. Think this could count as a science project? *G*

You can't blame me this time!

This is Midnight wearing the tie that Son has now outgrown. Don't worry, it's a clip-on. It wasn't my fault this time, Son wanted to try the tie on Midnight. We're lucky, Midnight is pretty laid-back and didn't seem to mind much. *G* 

It's been a looong day. I still can't post pictures on the Macbook yet, so am on the other laptop. It's taking a long while to transfer everything, seems I had over 2GB of Documents alone. And turns out I have over 2,000 pictures. *g* Gee, who'd a thunk it. *G* 

I did manage to get the ironing done today as well as the rest of the grocery shopping. Though, WW ticked me off a bit. I handed the cashier a whole bunch of coupons but became distracted while checking out and didn't check my receipt until outside at the jeep. I turned right back around and went back and got the coupons from the cashier and took them to the Service Desk where I was given cash back on what I would have saved. I was irritated at the time, but I still got my $4.20! Do y'all clip coupons? MIL brings me some every now and then, which is good because we read the news online and don't remember to buy a Sunday paper much. 

But, it's done. Good thing because I am all shopped out. Um, unless it were for books. *g* Luckily I could do that from my chair. *G* 

We also made it by the library today, they had two holds in for me. So, I now have: Charmed I'm Sure by Liz Ireland, Simply the Best by Shirley Jump and I also picked up The Stepsister Scheme by Jim C. Hines (a YA). The last sounded absolutely fascinating because it has Cinderella, Snow White and Sleeping Beauty, only Snow White (known as Snow) is a Queen's Bodyguard as is Sleeping Beauty. *G* Now I just need to find the time to read them! Thank goodness tomorrow is a return to routine. I need it right now. 

I am up way too late, trust me WAY too late. So I'm headed offline. I hope y'all had a restful and pleasant Sunday. I wish an energetic and enjoyable Monday. Goodnight and Blessings to each of you, B.

Exercise: Melissa's Challenge day 22. And 15 minutes of light hand weights. I wish I'd had time for more. Back to Yoga tomorrow, YAY!

Plbbbbbssss!

Is this not the craziest picture? Butterscotch sat the other evening atop my kitchen cabinets and had his tongue out, like he didn't even know, for 10 minutes! Chris finally reached up and touched it, thereby reminding this silly kitty it was sticking out! *G*

Ever had one of those days whe everything seemed like a blur? I've spent more money today than I am comfortable with, but all things needed and all things that will be appreciated. We started the day looking at new kitchen table chairs, we have parson's chairs and they are a mess, the cats have destroyed them. So, we headed to a store that sold all wood furniture. Didn't see anything there, so we headed to another store that sold the all wood furniture and you have the option of finishing yourself. BINGO! We found four chairs, unfinished, in a fanback design that will work and are comfy. Oh, and were on SALE! While there we also looked for a headboard for Son's bed because, well, he doesn't have one. *G* Found one, unfinished, on sale solid wood panel design for $85. It was originally $150. I am going to have projects! YAY! I love working with wood furniture! I love staining and I'm thinking the chairs are going to be two-tone. Still thinking what color we'll do Son's headboard. After that we headed for Mass, then to Sam's for groceries, then to the Sporting Good store to pick up Daughter a bathing suit, then to Best Buy to look at cameras. While there we looked and debated the Mac's. See, last night Chris ordered me a MacBookPro. But, I had my doubts, it's a big computer and I? Well, I don't have the biggest hands in the world, I didn't like where the CD slot is and the keyboard is hard for me because it doesn't pick up when I type because I'm a soft typer. So, while there I looked at the regular MacBooks and drooled all over one. *g* Chris and I had a discussion and we went ahead and picked up the MacBook tonight and will return the other one. I'm not on it yet, Chris is putting all sorts of applications on it and setting it up for me. Turns out we're actually saving money this way, though it doesn't seem like it. The MacBook is cheaper and that was a big part of my decision to be honest. But, the biggest thing? I just plain like it better. Now I'm going to stress a bit until the other is here and I can return it. Oh, and all this was funded by Chris' bonus this week. We've also set aside money for the kids curriculum in the Fall and savings. I'm thinking of putting the curriculum money in a short term CD. (Hey, I'm not just nice and all smiles, I have a BRAIN.) It will earn more interest than a plain savings account. Normally I'm a bonds kinda gal. *G* Have y'all ever used a CD? Good idea? Bad?

So, anyway, we've been so busy today that there was never a chance to read. *sigh* AND I have to visit the library tomorrow because I have two more books in from Hold. I can say that I started Smart Girls Think Twice by Cathie Linz last night. Why did I not realize this book was connected to the last? That this was the third sister?

After my big blur of a day I am exhausted. It's time for me to get a shower and SLEEP. Ah, blessed sleep. I hope y'all had a pleasant Saturday and relaxed. I wish a peaceful, restful and content Sunday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Walking, walking, walking.......AND Melissa's challenge day 21.

Tiger wanted a nap inside!

I'm guessing that Tiger became a bit cold the other day when he decided to come in for a nap. *g* When he comes in he becomes Daughters responsibility. She is to watch him and keep the other cats away from him. He doesn't seem to mind and looks quite comfortable doesn't he?

Today was HARD. No, there was no exercising today (no time). But, the Out-laws came over early and MIL and I went to buy Son a suit. With her I was able to get $10 off the suit. But, the scary thing is? She scared me with her driving. OMGOSH! I gripped that door handle so badly I'm surprised I didn't leave marks. They arrived about 3pm and she and I went together while FIL stayed here with the kids. We arrived back at the house at a bit after six and Chris arrived home right around 7pm. So, it was all me today. ACK! I am SO tired now. We did treat them to dinner this evening at Cracker Barrel. They've taken us out to eat so many times I've lost count and it was nice to be able to take them. And Son even ATE. WOW! (Son's a notoriously picky eater.)
Um, what else? Not much to be honest. I've had no chance to read today between the Out-laws and laundry and taking care of the house and homeschooling today. I did NOT wake up very sore, just a small bit after all of yesterday's exercise.
To be honest, I am so tired I'm getting off line. I hope y'all had a nice day. I wish y'all a relaxing and happy Saturday. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Does shopping with MIL count?
Updated Exercise: Forgot to mention Melissa's challenge day 20!

Son and his passed test, plus a crazy kitty!

Just wanted to share this with y'all, it's Son and his passed test. Yes, I was sneaky and had him hold it up to hide most his face. I wish his gorgeous red hair could be seen better here. *G* And the other picture? Is of Midnight, who will go to great lengths to find a straw to play with! *G* Including inside my cabinet. It's Chris' fault. He placed the straw where he could torment Midnight, but Midnight is no dummy. He knew how to get it. *g*

Today was interesting. We went to the Y for my consultation with the PT. She took my measurements (ACK!) and showed me some different exercises I can implement into my work-outs. Two of them are using a balance ball and were FUN, but hard. *G* She said she's had clients call her the next day and say "I hate you" because she works them so hard. Um, I actually thought she took it easy on me. *g* And she also said she's had clients who weren't willing to try new exercises. I asked her what the point of having a PT was then? I also told her that I would try whatever she suggested, and I did! She worked me out for about 40 minutes and I hope the new exercises she showed me help. I was a bit self-conscious because there were so few people in the gym there and I couldn't blend in. And I was also worried because it was before the regular schools get out and I had my kids up there. But, a few of the personnel there (including the PT) know that we Homeschool and said there was no problem. Whew! While there I also signed Daughter up for swimming and Son up for Basketball. They start in March.

We came home, ate lunch, and I decided that since she did mostly weights with me today I would work-out on the treadmill. Son and I hooked my iPod up to his stereo and I walked, jogged and boogied all over the treadmill while he danced around the LR. *g* After I got off I started dinner and had most everything done by the time Chris arrived home. He's feeling better btw, but not great. Poor dear.

I started Instant Attraction by Jill Shalvis last night and made it about a third of the way through. I really like the hero and heroine and it's so easy to recognize Jill Shalvis' smooth and slightly funny writing style. *g* I hope to finish it tonight.

Tomorrow the Out-laws are coming back over, we're all going out to eat. Yay. But, it will be nice to eat AT a restaraunt for a change instead of grabbing something or cooking. No clean up for me! YAY!

Anyway, that's about it for us today. I hope that y'all had a breezy, easy day today. I wish a fun and laugh-filled Friday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Day 19 of Melissa' challenge, 40 minutes w/PT, and another 2 20 minute sessions of Power Burn on the treadmill. Let's hope I have the energy to crawl out of bed tomorrow. *G*

No, I didn't make a mistake!

This was my view when I was doing my sit-ups today for Melissa's Crossfit Challenge. Exactly as I saw it. *G* I was in front of the treadmill on the floor doing my sit-ups and Fireball wanted to know what the heck I was doing! He even did his whole head tilt/cute thing. *G* (I took this with my cell phone, which was in my pocket.)

Today was Chris' normal day off, good thing becuse he's sick. Son is pretty much better, although he got sick in his sleep and didn't really wake up when I cleaned him up! After school work today we made it to the library and I now have books! *g* I picked up: Instant Attraction by Jill Shalvis, Ask Anyone by Sherryl Woods and Smart Girls Think Twice by Cathie Linz. After picking them up we headed to the kids RE classes. While the kids were in class Chris and I headed to BAMM (Hitting Every. Single. Red light.), they didn't have a book I'd gone to look for, but DID have a book I was happy to pick up, NutCase by Charlotte Hughes. She's having a booksigning next week in two different locations near me, but I won't be able to attend. I am happy to have the book, though! *G* After picking that up we headed back to pick up the kids and Hit Every. Single. Red Light. *sigh* It just wasn't my night for driving. After THAT we headed to WW to pick up something for Chris to help with all his coughing and then home, in the pouring rain. It got so bad on one of the back roads we take that we had to shift into 4WD. I HATE driving in the rain. But, we are home, safe and sound (and I have books), so all is well. *g* Oh, and as for Son? Guess what? Son was right, HE PASSED! YAY! His test even had Super Job written on the top. *G*

I DID finish Kill For Me by Karen Rose last night. It was an inticate book with lots of surprises, but very good read. Um, and there was a scorcher of a love scene. *G* I think the book had a satisfying conclusion. I can't wait to see what the author has up her sleeve for the next book.

That's it from me tonight. It's been a long day, I'm not sleeping well thanks to all the sick people here (the snoring, OMGosh the SNORING!) and have things to take care of around the house before I can go to bed. I hope y'all had a pleasing day. I wish an enjoyable and energetic Thursday. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: None today-no time. I have my consultion tomorrow, wish me luck!

Midnight wanted to help with laundry!

Midnight wanted to help with the laundry the other day. Daughter snapped this picture of him when she went to put her things in the dryer. He's SO weird!

Today has been eventful! The Out-laws came over today and FIl went to the movies with the kids and MIL and I went shopping! She even bought me lunch. We took the clothes back that she had bought Daughter and I picked out two shirts for her instead. We then went back and picked up the kids and FIL. We arrived back here and Son talked FIL into playing a video game with him. *G* FIL got so tickled at him! *G* They left after a while and then it was time for me to head to the Y. Son is still dealing with drainage, so I didn't want to put him in Childwatch. Chris came and picked up the kids right before my class. *g* We had a good class and afterwords I worked out a bit more and then headed to the library to drop off some items (We'll go back tomorrow to pick up some things.) and then to the grocery store for apple juice for Son. Oh, and the reason Chris didn't stay at the Y? He now has the same crud that Son has. *sigh* I also talked to the teacher of my class(before I left the Y) (She's a personal trainer.) about what I could do (add or change) because I am seeing NO results for all the working out that I do besides muscles. *G* I'm meeting with her on Thursday and she's going to give me a consultion.

As for reading? I'm half way through Kill For Me by Karen Rose. I had thought I would finish it, but it has a lot of detail and I'm doing my best to keep everything straight. There are a lot of characters in this book and while some are from the earlier Scream For Me, there are a lot of new characters.

Tomorrow is going to be another busy day and I'm hoping I also get a chance to visit the bookstore. After finishing Kill For Me, I won't have anything new to read! *G* Cross your fingers, too. We find out how whether Son passed his test tomorrow evening. He has utter faith in himself, as do most six year olds, but the verbal portion he had to do with another parent is worrying me. What if the parent phrased it differently? The parent who tested him had a thick accent, what if he misunderstood? *sigh*

I'm headed to bed. It's been a long day with another on slot for tomorrow. I hope y'all had a pleasant and productive Tuesday. I wish a smile-filled Wednesday for y'all tomorrow. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 50 minute TurboKick, 35 minutes weight machines. AND Melissa's Crossfit challenge day 17.

Layla begs for attention!

When Layla wants attention she flops over onto her back and shows her pink belly, begging. Then we (we know our role in all that) have to fawn all over her and tell her she's a good girl. And yes, she used to have fur on that belly, but has taken to pulling her fur out again. It started again around the first of December, and don't worry she has an appointment to see the Vet in two weeks. *G* That's my big baby! *G*

Today did not start out well at all. Son coughed last night due to the bad drainage he has. So much so that he started coughing early this morning, gagged and threw up. It was repeated and repeated for about an hour this morning. Poor baby. After he was done I had him sleep more a couple of hours. He woke feeling much better and while he hasn't been bouncing around everywhere today, he's been cheerful and sweet as always.

Chris got off a few minutes early today so that he could come home and watch the kids (I didn't want them in Childwatch today.) while I went to Yoga. We had the class in the new aerobic room with it's bright walls, lights, ceiling fans and wood floors. It was so quiet! No more elypticals, treadmills and bikes going while we were in class, not to mention the tv's and people on the machines talking! WOO! AND no more overpowering sweat smell/man made humidity! *g*

After class I arrived home and Chris made dinner (He joked that "Gee, I DO know how to cook". *G*), something he hasn't had the opportunity to do in the past four years but is trying to get back into the habit of helping with.

I haven't had a chance to read more yet. It's been a bit busy around here, the kids had schoolwork today (Yes, I am aware it was a holiday. I am also aware that Son was sick earlier this morning. He chose to do his schoolwork today!), there's the ever present laundry and household fun things to take care of. This is my last book. I have nothing new after it and am hoping the library gets in one of my Holds, soon.

Tomorrow, we not only have schoolwork, but the Out-laws want to take the kids to the movies. I'll see how Son feels tomorrow, on whether or not he'll be able to go. But, right now he's acting as thought this morning never happened.

Nothing much else going on here. It's been a quiet day, for which I am thankful. I hope y'all had a nice return to routine. I wish y'all y'all a happy and smile filled Tuesday, and a good book to go with it! *G* Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: One hour of Yoga. Niiiiiice. *G*

Meet Meow Mix!

This is Meow Mix, so named because if he's hungry or if someone is outside he constantly meows to them, kind of like the commercial song for the brand cat food. (But not singing, just meows A LOT!)*G* He is one of the feral/stray kitties we feed daily. (You don't want to know how much we spend on cat food in a month! *G*)

I was so busy looking up books this evening I forgot to post until now! And I'm up LATE! I have a sinus headache and am keeping an eye on Son while he sleeps. He woke this morning with gunk (Ewwwww!) all over his face and tried to clean it off himself.....with wet toilet paper before I had my contacts in! *G* Don't worry, I washed his face. *g* I had to go to the pharmacy today and pick up one of my prescriptions, while there I talked to the pharmacist and got a recommendation for an over the counter decongestant for him. So far it seems to be working well. Oh, and no fever this afternoon, yay!

Daughter and I have been working on a puzzle for the past two days and it's driving me batty. I hate to leave it alone, but know that if I don't I'll be up 24 hours straight trying to put it together. Finally, this evening, I just walked away from it. *G* Are y'all like that?

I've started Kill For Me by Karen Rose. I haven't gotten very far, but already I like the heroine. As we've learned in earlier books, she's survived a monster of a brother and now we learn a bit more.

MIL called from the Mall today. She bought Son his jacket for his First Communion today, without asking. While I appreciate the thought, we had one picked out and were just waiting to see how he did on his test. I may keep it, I may take it back. We'll see. When I told Daughter I'd like her to wear a dress when the time came, she gave me a LOOK. *G* My tomboy Daughter is more at home in nice pants than she is a dress. Don't worry, I won't make her. I just wish she'd slow down growing a bit!

Anyway, that's all from me. It's been a long day and I'm tired. I've also added many books to my TBB/TLF list.I hope y'all had a lovely and peaceful day. I wish an energetic, stress-free Monday for y'all. Goodnight and HUGS, B.

Exercise: Day 15 of Melissa's Challenge, but that's it. I've ironed, cleaned, LEFT THE HOUSE for half an hour-WOW! and done laundry. Back to Yoga tomorrow, thank goodness.

Give a Hug!

Sorry for the quality of this picture, but I had to share. This is the kitty bed in a corner of our bedroom. Notice Layla sleeping quite comfortably. Midnight decided he wanted to share and climbed in with her and he HUGGED her. Awwwww!

We went NOWHERE today. It was actually kind of nice. Although I hate we missed Mass. Son still had a fever upon awaking and still had it when it was time to leave, so we stayed home. He's acting as though he feels okay although not as.....bouncy as usual and I don't trust the fever. Hopefully tomorrow he'll wake up without it. The Out-laws stopped by for a visit bearing Valentine's Day candy for the kids and a couple of Polo shirts for Chris, 2 shirts for Son, and a shirt and jacket for Daughter (That Daughter hated on sight and went bye-bye with MIL. *G*). And I? MIL gave me a bag of Hershey's minatures. I only like the dark chocolate, so gave them to the kids and Chris. *g* At least she's stopped trying to buy ME clothes. *g*

As for reading? Nothing last night or today. I've been keeping a close eye on Son and have been cleaning like wild today. I even got Chris to paint the door that leads to the garage. Woo-Hoo! It looks so nice again! Well, except for the dents we've placed in it since we moved in. (Steel door.)

I need your opinions. I need a new laptop, this one will be past it's warranty next month and it has had a few, um, glitches. (Remember? New hard drive, motherboard, casing, speakers, etc......) (That was just in ONE week, there have been many other issues.) Chris wants to get me a Mac. Ok. *g* But, I'm torn in what to choose. Do I choose a regular MacBook? Or a MacBookPro like he wants to get me? Whatever I get has to have room for my book reviews (There are more than you think.), my eBooks (Not as many as you'd think, but still quite a few.), my poems (Um, the ones I'VE written *G*), my pictures (Over 1400 and counting!), my Books Read database Chris made me and everything else I have like book lists, articles I've saved, etc. So far it's come down to the screen size. I don't have the best eyesite so the 15" MacPro or save a few dollars and get the smaller MacBook. *sigh* I'm leaning toward the MacPro but wish it were cheaper.

Ah, well. That's it from me. I hope y'all had a lovely and relaxing Saturday. I wish a peaceful and restful Sunday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: Day 14 of Melissa's challenge! Done. That's it. *sigh*

The Big City comes to my Southern Town!

Have y'all seen these? Let me guess, I am the only one who hasn't. When we were shopping in Macy's last week (Where I bought my nightgown on sale for $11! I am GOOD! *G*) we were walking around and saw this. And immediatley went all "country". We could not believe our medium size city had one! (Um, hence the picture. *G*) What's next?

Btw, HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY! I just want y'all to know how much the friendship, support, smiles, cyber hugs and comments mean to me. Each of you has a place in my heart. (Not to mention my prayers.)

I started the Jen Lancaster book last night at bedtime. *g* I was laughing so hard I shook the bed and yet Chris slept on. (Must be nice to sleep that heavy.) WHY did no one recommend this author to me before? She is HILARIOUS! I finished the book this evening and put another of hers on Hold in the next minute. *g*

MIL called today, they want to visit tomorrow. I should have seen it coming. Any day that may have any meaning at all and they have to be there. Saturdays are usually very busy for us and they know this, yet want to visit anyway. Ah, well. I'm hoping their visit doesn't take long, though I am concerned that MIL said FIL has had a migraine for the past two days. Especially since he used to suffer from them to the point of having to take Morphine and traveling to Chicago for treatment. *sigh* I'm hoping this is just a one time thing for him. The migraines have been (mostly) gone for over 4 years now. They need to stay that way. I fear for FIL, I really do, the man just never gets freedom from medical issues.

That's all from me tonight. I'm up late. Son developed a fever this evening and fell asleep in my lap after crying that he didn't feel well. He's sleeping in our room tonight and I'm keeping a close eye on him. I don't like when my babies get sick.

I hope y'all had a fun Friday. I wish a relaxing and happy Saturday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Day 13 of Melissa's challenge. That's all. I was tired today. Hopefully more energy tomorrow!

I have a song running though my head!

Want to guess which one? "All around the mulberry bush the monkey chased the weasel....." Know why? Because that's the song that popped into my head last night because of Athena. Let me explain. I was on the landing where we have my bookcases browsing through my keeper shelves when I heard something rolling around in Daughters tub which can be seen down the hallway from the stairs. I walked up a few steps and said "hello?" All of a sudden Athena's head pops up like a Jack-in-the-box and stared at me! I laughed like a LOON! She's just so weird and funny! (And it's fitting, her nickname is Monkey.) Btw, she stayed there peeking out for a good ten minutes. *G*

I feel much better today. Still waking with tons of drainage, a sore throat and a sinus headache, but they aren't as bad as they were, so I'm happy. Chris however felt dizzy this morning thanks to all the fluid rolling around in his head (he's succeptible to any fluid near his ears) and took a sick day. Son and I started reading The Tales of Desperaux by Kate DiCamillo today (we used a chapter for his Reading Schoolwork today as well). He's loving the book and the little mouse. *g*

I didn't sleep well again last night so read another book. And one I didn't know I had! Wait Till Your Vampire Gets Home by Michele Bardsley was a fun, snappy romance that involved dragons and needing fire-retardant clothing! *G* There was a bit of everything, but mostly full of the fun, snark, good vs. evil, and hot hot romance I've come to expect from a Broken Heart book. I know I have Kill For Me by Karen Rose to read, but I haven't been in the mood for it yet. I've needed some light, fun books this week. Don't worry, I will get to it soon.

I went to the Y tonight while Chris stayed home with the kids. The new gym and aerobic room are now open and they've added some new weight machines in the weight room. I'm excited to have Yoga in the new areobic room next week! Oh, and I forgot to tell y'all we're signing Son up to learn to play Basketball at the Y's new gym. (I don't remember telling y'all that, so if I did, sorry! *G*) He's looking forward to it. So far they're not doing anything in Daughter's age group, but I'm sure they will eventually.

Oh, almost forgot! We did run by the library this evening. I had a book in from Hold that I put on hold to begin with just because of the title. *g* Ever done that? If the book is anything like the title, it's going to be awesome. So, I now get to read Such a Pretty Fat: One Narcissist's Quest to Discover If Her Life Makes Her Ass Look Big or Why Pie Is Not the Answer. Seriously, wouldn't you want to at least peek at a book with a title like that? *G* Oh, and the author is Jen Lancaster. I've never read anything by her before but am hoping I enjoy this! *g*

That's it from my chair! *G* I hope y'all had a wondeful day full of good thoughts and some smiles. I wish a fun and fantastic Friday for y'all. (Is it almost the weekend again already?) Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: Melissa's Challenge, day 12. 2.66 miles (30minutes) on the elyptical and 30 minutes of various weight machines.

Another Brother, Another Handsome Fella!

Fireball is so nosy and we have to be extra careful that there is nothing on the floor that he may want to try to "taste". Remember, he's the kitty that somehow ate a string (we still have NO idea how that happened) that became tied around the back of his tongue and preforated his intestines. He's our Lucky kitty, of course we also say he's down 2 lives. Once from that and once from falling off the bannister upstairs. But, his nickname is "Goat" for a reason. *G* (Son took this picture.)

Well, Daughter, Son and I are feeling a bit better today, but Chris seems to be lagging behind one day. Which makes sense because he didn't show symptoms of being sick the day we did, but the day after. We're pretty sure we just have nasty colds, but it's weird to have gotten it at basically the same time.

Son had his test this evening and we know how he did for a portion of it, but not the whole thing. Part of it was verbal and it was arranged where parents kinda "switched" kids to test them. He says he think he did well, though. We'll know next week. Cross your fingers!

I finished Never Been Witched by Annette Blair last night. I was glad to have a chance to finish the series and the look in the back of the book at a new series was interesting. *g* I couldn't sleep well last night either (my nose was stopped up and I can't sleep well like that, even sleeping sitting up) so I read Too Good To Be True by Kristan Higgins. I loved it! It had it's funny moments to keep it from being too serious. And the family made this book, yet again. I love how this author's books are so well rounded and, well, fabulous reads! *g* I hope there's another in the works! *G*



That's about it from me tonight. It's been windy, rainy and stressful today! *G* I hope y'all had good day. I wish a pleasant and thoughtful Thursday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.



Exercise: I did Melissa's challenge, but nothing else today. Still coughing, still have sinus headache and have been achy in my hands and wrists to do anything longer. Hoping for better tomorow! *sigh*

Isn't Butterscotch a pretty boy? He seems to think so. *g* I've never had a cat actually look like he's posing before, but I think he does. Check out the tail curled around one paw. *g*

We managed to get through the day somehow. I write this because we are all still suffering through what we thought were allergies, but now am wondering what the heck it is. Is it possible for 4 people to get sick at the same time? We didn't think so, but now........ Well, I'll leave it at "we don't feel good."

I read more last night, since I couldn't sleep well. I've almost finished Never Been Witched by Annette Blair. Out of the triplet series books, I think my favorite was the first book featuring Harmony.

I did make it to WW today to pick up more printer cartridges. Seems we were low on everything. Oops! Since MY computer (stupid Vista!) and the printer don't get along, I didn't know. *g*

I don't have anything else to share, sorry. I'm off to cough up a lung or something. I hope y'all had a nice day. I wish y'all a good and smile-filled Wednesday. (Send good thoughts, Son has his First Communion test tomorrow!)

Exercise: I did the exercises for Melissa's challenge first thing today, but a sinus headache, sore throat and coughing are making me feel like crud. Bleh!

Dainty and Ladylike? NOT!

Oreo is one of our prettier kitties, but she has an attittude that won't quit! Note the dainty crossing of the paws. This kitty can growl the loudest out of all our kitties and boy, is she talkative (to me)!

Today was a routine to normal, in a sense. Son has gotten back into Monday with no issues, even with drainage and coughing because of it continuing. Daughter on the other hand has fallen behind today. *sigh* It's a teenage thing. The same teenager that held my hand the other day is now making me nuts! *G* Her library priveledges have now been revoked and she is grounded until she has caught back up to where she's supposed to be. I will let many things slide, such as her laundry or her messy room, but schoolwork is to be done and done on time. In that I am a very stern Mom.

We're all suffering from drainage of some sort or another. My ears keep clogging and unclogging and crackling and my nose is stuffed up. Son is coughing and sniffling, but no return to making him sick. As a matter of fact he's as hyper as always. Daughter is dealing with the drainage and coughing as well, but not as badly and seems her same self. Chris has been bothered today as well. *sigh* I wish I knew the allergen that is bothering us, but with the weird weather we've had lately, there's no telling.

I did read a small bit today and hope to read more this evening. I picked up Never Been Witched by Annette Blair and took it with me to the Y tonight and read a bit before my class started. One of the perks of always being early. *G* I took it because as a paperback it fit in my purse. I will get around to reading the hardback I have very soon.

In the past couple of days I've been doing a lot of research on Hypothyroidism. I've learned that there are certain foods I shouldn't eat (anything containing soy) and certain raw veggies I shouldn't eat, not to mention certain nuts as well. (They call these foods goitrogens.) I've also learned that my Doc should have run ALL sorts of tests. *sigh* I've been writing down and keeping a record of things lately, like being so tired again, not staying warm, etc. I'm hoping she listens. My next appointment is in March and I won't move it up, yet. So, sorry to bore y'all with all this, but I wanted to let y'all know that I am not ignoring everything that has been going on.

Not much else to share. It's been a long day. I hope that y'all had a pleasant and productive day. I wish an enjoyable Tuesday for y'all filled with good books and friends. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 1 Hour Yoga.

Midnight wanted to go shoppping!

This is the bag that I was given when I renewed my discount membership with BAMM. I brought it down yesterday and Midnight immediately climbed in! Maybe he thought I would take him grocery shopping?

You know how Sunday's are supposed to be days of rest and relaxation? Yeah, not around here. *g* I felt decent today, except for a sinus headache and sore throat. (There must be some allergens floating around.) But, I am happy with all I accomplished. The ironing is done for another week, the last few items on my grocery list were bought, I also picked up a new plant for the kitchen (I somehow let the other one die, Bad Brandy! I blame the heating vent. *G*), I raked the mulch up from the front yard where the wind had scattered it the other day, I did laundry, made dinner and prepared dessert *g*, ran and emptied the dishwasher (Why am I the only one that does this?) and swept out the garage. I also cleaned the kitchen, but that's a daily thing, you know? *g* And there is always something to be done before bed!

And yet again, no reading was done. No fair! *sigh* May I say how much I am looking forward to a return to Monday and our routine? *G*

Last night wasn't the best in that I worried about Son. He was full of energy, but seemed to start coughing early in the evening. We noticed he had some serious drainage not long after we arrived home and even while bouncing around the LR, he managed to throw up 5 times last night. Son will blow his nose, but his bodies way of getting rid of the drainage is drastic, messy and icky! *G* Thankfully, no getting sick today, just a lot of coughing. As a matter of fact Daughter and I are dealing with it today as well. Hopefully tomorrow will be better. It was nice enough to open the windows for a while today. Who ever heard of 70 degree weather in February? I think Mother Nature is menepausal (sp).

And that's all from me. I have many other things to take care of. I hope that y'all had a restfull and peaceful Sunday. I wish a productive, energetic and pleasant Monday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Day 8 of Melissa's challenge. (I did it yesterday, too, just forgot to post it.) Does it count that I raked the front yard? *G*

Patches wonders..."You lookin' at me?"

Do you see how these cats make my heart thump? They like to jump up on the bannister and while there is the second floor on one side, the other is the bottom stairs! One cat jumped and slipped. Want to guess which one? Fireball! He's down 2 lives. Patches has never fallen, thank goodness.

Today has been pretty busy. Chris went to have his brakes changed this morning and was gone for over 4 hours! At one point he had left and they'd somehow messed up his parking brake, he turned around and had them fix it. And the funniest thing? It cost more to do his brakes than it did to fix my Jeep! And my jeep had the original Starter! (The mechanic said he was surprised and hadn't seen an Starter last that long!) Anyway, today we made it to Marshall's where we picked up Daughter a pair of jeans from the Junior's dept., a size 3, and me a black sweater off of clearance. Whoo-yeah! A very pretty black sweater for $15! After that we headed to the Mall. For the past few years I have put everyone else first and have barely bought myself the basics (besides books, which are basics to me *G*). I have 2 pair of jeans, 3 pair of sweats (One pair I stole from Chris) and one pair of dressy pants. Today? I picked up a pair of khaki's! AND a new nightgown. Both on sale. And yes, I feel horribly guilty. *sigh* So, I have a new sweater (I can't seem to get warm these days!) a pair of khaki's and a new nightgown. WOW! This is alot for me! After that we headed to TJ Maxx, we needed new pillows and I don't pay full price for pillows. *G* Okay, I hardly ever pay full price for a lot of things. Do y'all seek sales or those places that have discounted items for your homes?

Then we headed home, blessed be, and ate dinner and are sitting with our sore feet up! *G*

I didn't get a chance to read last night, nor today. I am hoping for a chance tonight, but the weekends seem to suck my quiet time into a huge black hole never to be seen again. *G*

I hope y'all had a relaxing and pleasing day. I wish y'all a peaceful and restful Sunday. (I'm off to get chores done. *sigh*) Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: Shopping better count. And don't be fooled. I don't like shopping, at least for myself.

Layla and the sink, a love story!

Tonight when I was in the shower Daughter placed Layla on the bathroom counter and Layla immediately climbed in the sink. She hasn't been able to jump up there in a while and as I type this is STILL in the sink! *G* I think she'd spend most her time in there if she were able to get up there herself.

It's been a long day. I visited my neighbor, Mrs. M, this afternoon, but didn't stay long as she wasn't feeling well. She had called earlier this week to see if I would like to look at some of her books because she wanted to get rid of some of them. She was so eager to please, that I brought three books home I have absolutley no desire to read! But, it made her happy. She said she'd either have to donate them or box them up to store because, as I think I've told y'all, her son is moving in with her while Mr. M is away for the Military for another year.

Chris arrived home soon after I did and we made a menu/grocery list for the next two weeks and headed to Sam's to pick up our bulk items. We also ended up picking up Chris a new computer bag and Daughter a pair of jeans. Unfortunately the jeans have to go back. They don't fit her well at all. After Sam's we headed to Target where we picked up Daughter a new pair of flats and a long sleeve t-shirt, and another printer cartridge for the printer that is bossy and won't even copy black and white, or scan, when your ink is very, okay, very very low. *G*

After that we headed to WW where we picked up most of the remaining groceries (We still need to make one more trip, to Aldi's, tomorrow.). I dislike all this shopping from place to place, but it does save us money so we end up doing it anyway. Do y'all buy all your groceries at one store, or do you visit a few as we do?

I did get some more reading done last night, I read the Linda Lael Miller book, A Stone Creek Christmas. It was very sweet and seemed light to me, just right for my mood yesterday. And who wouldn't want a Vet that could talk to your animals and hear them, understand them, when they told her what was wrong with them? I know I would! *G* (Especially Layla, and what is irritating her skin.) I'm not sure what to read next, but it may be the other library book.

Tomorrow Chris will have his brakes done and we need to find Daughter another pair of jeans. Did I tell y'all she's only about an inch shorter than I am now? And the shoes we bought her tonight were size 11 womens? ACK!

Well, it's late. I'm up late again waiting on the ding from the washing machine. *sigh* There just isn't enough time in the day! I'm off to dry clothes and get some sleep. I hope y'all had a nice Friday. I wish a relaxing and pleasant Saturday. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: No. No time today. Wait, I did do Melissa's thing.

Happy Kitty! VERY Happy Kitty!

Technically Midnight isn't just happy, he's drunk. *G* And he's not dirty, that's catnip he's rolling in. Note the glazed and vacant look in his eyes. It was so funny to see him rolling all over the floor and EATING the catnip! *G* If you have kitties, how do they react to catnip?

Today has been quiet, but not quiet enough for me. I woke feeling like I'd never slept and like my body would prefer not to move today. Every thing has been an effort. *sigh* I think it was because Wednesday was busier than usual and more stressful.

To be honest, where I usually look forward to going to the Y, tonight I wanted to come up with any excuse to stay home, but I went anyway. I felt better, for the first five minutes after I was done. Then the tiredness set back in. I'm sure tomorrow will be MUCH better. Do y'all react physically to stress?

I did do something great last night. I READ. A BOOK. Ahhhhhh, it was nice. *G* I started and finished (I didn't want to put it down.) Trouble in Mudbug by Jana DeLeon. It was a good book and my only complaint is that the next book in this series(?) isn't out until Fall. *g* The book was funny and moved well with a good mystery.

I don't know yet which book I'll read next, but I kinda want to read another "light" book. We'll see. *g* Are y'all reading anything good right now?

Anyway, this is it from me. It's been a long day and I want to climb under my duvet. *g* I hope that y'all had a more energetic day than I had and a happy one at that! I wish a fun and fabulous Friday, treat yourself! Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 2.55 miles on the Elyptical and 25 minutes of weights.

Books, My Chair and my furry friend....

Today has been.....interesting to say the least! Not to mention busy. The above title is how it's ended though. Let me tell y'all about it....

We got up at an ungainly hour, I left Son and Daughter in their jammies, bundled them under a blanket (in their coats) in Chris' car while I drove the jeep (that did NOT want to start) this morning and we headed for the mechanic. Dropped off the jeep and arrived back home (Oh, and the reason for the coats AND the blanket? It was 18 degrees out this morning! IN THE SOUTH! *g*) We arrived back home and then Chris had his call with Mac, turns out he'll need to buy a new battery, fun. Then the mechanic called, all my stress built up in my chest and I swear I almost had a panic attack, then the mechanic tells us...it was the starter all along. It cost $400 to replace and put in. Whew, HUGE sigh of relief, we were expecting triple that. So, we gave the go ahead to fix and Chris headed out to buy 2 new front tires, have his oil changed and pay for the jeep. Today has been an expensive day. The kids and I had schoolwork done, we headed to the library (where I picked up Kill For Me by Karen Rose and A Stone Creek Christmas by Linda Lael Miller), then with Chris we headed to RE. While the kids were in RE Chris and I headed to BAMM where I picked up the above stack of books and my RT magazine as a treat for me! YAY! Oh, and I renewed my discount membership and they gave me the above bag as well.

I bought: the March 2009 issue of RT magazine

Trouble in Mudbug by Jana DeLeon

Too Good To Be True by Kristan Higgins

Never Been Witched by Annette Blair

Wicked By Any Other Name by Linda Wisdom (which I just checked, has a March 1st release date but was on the shelves)

and The Demon You Know by Christine Warren

I am SET for books! Oh, and all these were my early Valentine's Day present. I can't have flowers thanks to the cats. They think they're just YUMMY. *G* And I'm already feeling guilty about getting them. *sigh*

We've also set Chris an appointment to have his brakes done this Saturday. And all this is being paid for by......a tax refund from our State. Any left over goes to Savings and to purchase bonds for the kids.

Oh, after Bamm we headed to the other library and dropped off items, it was COLD, already 23 degrees this evening. After that we headed back to pick up the Jeep to bring home. (Ruby is home, YAY!) We've eaten, I have books....ohhh love that book smell. *G* And I have my furry buddy next to me (No, not Chris, Layla! *G*). It's a good evening. Too bad I have to get up, do more laundry, handle all the night time chores and collapse into bed. *sigh*

I just want to thank y'all for all the good wishes for the expenses for the jeep. We are so relieved. It was like a weight lifted. Again, thank you for caring enough to think of us.

I hope y'all had a lovely (and warm, brrrrr!) day. I wish a wonderful Thurday for y'all, filled with good friends, big smiles and warm laughter. Goodnight and God Bless, B.

Exercise: Nope, except for the exercises for Melissa's challenge.

Messy kids and kitties!

Remember a post (I think this weekend) when I said that the kids had stuff all over my LR? Yeah, this is what it looked like. Son took this picture with my cell phone. Note that as soon as Son got up to take the picture the cats HAD to see what was going on and get in the middle of the mess. *G*

Today did not turn out as I had planned. I had hoped to make it to the library and didn't. I had hoped Chris would be able to take me to the Y and he ran late, not his fault, but still. Now, I've explained that there's something wrong with the Jeep and I'm sure y'all are tired of hearing of it. The thing is, I haven't driven it since we discovered this issue. Sure, we start it (Luckily it'll still do that, sometimes after clicking a few times.) every other day so that the battery doesn't get run down, but I have been too worried that I'll go somewhere and it won't start at all. And that's not something I'm willing to let happen when I have the kids with me. However, it's been okay the past couple of times, so I took it to the Y tonight. Chris met me up there when it was time to leave in case it wouldn't start, though. *g* Tomorrow it goes to the mechanic to see if it's the selenoid/celeniod switch or if it's the NSS. Cross your fingers it isn't too much to fix. Please? Actually could y'all keep thinking good thoughts, too? I'm STRESSED OUT it will be too much. *sigh*
Okay, in GOOD news......I was able to make it to TurboKick tonight and guess who begged and then DID IT WITH ME? SON! He was SO CUTE! Even the teacher said he did good (He was clueless half the time, but hey, he's only 6 years old!). I kept my eye on him and made sure he didn't get hurt and the other participants in the class thought he was a cutie, too. *G* Daughter sat in the back and watched. I can't get her to try the class for anything. *G*
Well, I am now without anything to read. I didn't get by the library today where they are holding a book for me. I finished my last book last night, the supernatural mystery anthology. It was interesting, there were many good stories in there and I KNOW I recognized one author just because of the story he wrote in another anthology, featuring Santa Clause. *G* There were a few I didn't like and ended up not reading, but I gave every single one of them a try and read most of them.
Tomorrow promises to be SUPER busy. I honestly don't know how we're going to fit everything in. We have to take the Jeep to the mechanic in the morning (and my kids are SO not morning people), then Chris has a service call for his Mac in the morning (the battery has issues), then he's going to buy two tires and have them put on his car and have his oil changed. We have the kids schoolwork then somehow make it by both libraries. There's also RE tomorrow night. I get tired just thinking about it. *sigh*

And on that tired note, it's time for me to get off. We're supposed to maybe get snow flurries sometime between tonight and tomorrow night. I doubt it will happen, it's just too warm here, even when it's cold. *G* I hope that today found you safe, warm and happy. I wish an energetic and enjoyable Wednesday. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 45 minutes of TurboKick, 15 minutes of weight machines (there were too many people there to get all my weights in tonight), oh, and the challenge things that Melissa has going on!

Look at the little pink paws!

Do y'all have any idea how many times I've had to take a tooth brush to the area between the carpet and the wall? This is Oreo's favorite place to sleep at night. As a matter of fact she's there right now! *G* I do so wish I had hardwood floors.......

Today has been quiet and nice. I like Mondays and the return to routine. It's nice knowing exactly what you're going to do for the day. Testing is done for the kids Second Quarter and we've entered the Third Quarter for their schoolwork. So, we're halfway done for the year! YAY! (Don't forget, we started in September.)

Hopefully this week we'll get my jeep in to be fixed. Chris is still a bit upset he's just not mechanically inclined. The man can take apart a computer (Literally.) and put it back together and write his own software, but has no clue how to fix a car. I guess we each have our own capabilities. *G* It's time to do routine maintenance on Chris' car as well. And two new tires. Ah, well. The things we have to do to get places. *G*

I finished the Fern Michaels book. I didn't like it as much the second read through as I did the first, but I'd read it years ago, so that may have something to do with it. Have you ever done that? Read a book and then years later go back and reread it and not like it? Now I'm down to one book from the library, the anthology of supernatural and regular mysteries. BUT, I'm hoping I can get to the library tomorrow. They have a copy of Kill For Me by Karen Rose in from Hold! YAY! The library is being slow for everything else, though.

Chris got off a little early today to take me to Yoga at the Y. He worked out while I had class. Even the ladies at the Childwatch asked where we'd been last week because he had to work late and I worked out at home. *g*

Did anyone watch The Closer tonight? And did you laugh as much as we did? I LOVE THAT SHOW! *G*

That's it from me tonight. I hope that y'all had a pleasant and appealing day. I wish a low-key and smile-filled Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 1 Hour Yoga, had a fabulous practice.

Just hangin' out!

I'm not sure if that's literally or not! *G* We make a big deal out of Layla getting in the kitty cube because it's the only tent/cube we've ever had that she'll get into! Not to mention she looks so cute in there. And if there are more pictures of her on my blog that any other kitty, I'm sure y'all understand. *G* The other cats have their own personalities but Layla and Midnight are the strongest personalites of all the cats we have.

I was good today. Sort of. I made dinner, did laundry, ironed and emptied the dishwasher. I also messed around on the computer a bit. *G* Oh, and I Daughter and I managed to take down the last string of Christmas lights that Chris never seems to get to. Did I mention it was on the second floor roof? We were good, though. We took the screens out of the windows and used a painting pole to slide up the underside of the light clips and pop them off. *g* Then Daughter pulled in the string of lights (with clips still attached) through her window. *g* And we loved teasing Chris when he arrived home after work this evening when he saw the lights and couldn't quite wrap his mind around how we took them down. *G* But, he did help me fix Son's bed. One of the pieces of the frame had fallen off and I was tired of it sitting under there for the last few months. (I kept asking, he kept forgetting.)

But, during that I had been ironing and backed into the iron with my elbow, while it was still hot and now have a two inch burn on the skin right next to my elbow. AND I reached up to brush some hair off my face and somehow (with the short, short nails I keep) to scratch my forehead right at my hairline and now have a small flap of skin pulled up. I am NOT pulling it off. It's been hours and it still hurts. Ouch! I'm guessing it was just my day for injuring myself. *sigh*

I've added a new book to my TBB list, Too Good To Be True by Kristan Higgins. I read an excerpt off the Harlequin site tonight and in that short excerpt I laughed enough for Chris to ask me what I was doing. *G* In the meantime I'm rereading the Fern Michaels book I brought home from the library yesterday. I did forget to mention I had read A Veiled Deception a mystery from author Annette Blair, last weekend. There was a twinge of paranormal to it, but not much (for those of you who don't like it *G*) and I enjoyed it, the heroine was funny and smart and even a bit snarky. I hope the author continues her foray into mysteries. She has a paranormal romance out this week as well, Never Been Witched.

Now, I have to get the kids to PICK UP THEIR STUFF off my living room floor. *G* I hope y'all had a restful and peaceful Sunday. I wish a sunny and pleasant Monday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Nope, back to yoga tomorrow! *G*