Pining for a toy!

Layla knows what it means when I take down the pink bag and shake the ball around now. She loves it. She immediately walks over to where I drop it and burrows her way inside the bag to get to the catnip ball. Frequently she'll manage to get the catnip ball out of the bag and roll it around on the floor. For some reason, unlike a couple of the other cats she can't seem to figure out to grab it with her claws and hold it in place, so when she rubs her face all over it, the catnip ball rolls away. You can barely see it at the right side of the picture, but the ball had just rolled away and Layla pondered whether to go after it or wait for me to roll it back to her. Yes, she is a bit of a lazy kitty. *G*

Well, it wasn't as hot here today, for which I am grateful. Now we just need to work on the humidity. *g* Son and I took Daughter to the Pine Y this morning and then headed home. It's funny how quiet he is so early in the day. I did find out he likes to watch The Price is Right. *G* Funniest Thing Ever to watch him enjoying the show. *G* And since when did Drew Carey get so old? We puttered around the house and MIL called and offered to bring Daughter home. Which meant I didn't have to drive over there and deal with the traffic. I agreed. (I have no idea why they've been so helpful this week, but I'm not looking for issues.) She stayed and visited a bit with the kids and then headed home. I think she's enjoying spending so much time with Daughter lately. This afternoon Daughter and I took Son to one of the library's children's reading program events. This one dealt with Water and how it's treated to make drinking water and such. They had someone from the local water company come in and he showed the kids what allum does and two short, cute, kid orientated videos about the different process. The two main characters in these videos were called Ethel Mermaid and Tad Pole. *G* Cheesy, but cute and the kids seemed to relate. After the demonstrations and videos we walked down to the river behind the library and then the kids and I headed home.
Later this afternoon we headed to the MT Y for my first Zumba class in two weeks. I've missed the last couple of weeks due to repairman appointments for the washing machine so was really looking forward to the class. I should have stayed home. The AC in the aerobic room was fried and they had two fans trying to blow cooler air in the room, but it really wasn't enough. It was stifling. I swear 15 minutes before class end my body just about gave out. And by the time we arrived back home my feet were really starting to hurt. I defrosted some meat and headed for the shower. I was gross, I fully admit it. Blergh!
But, Chris and I made dinner together with me cooking and him chopping. (Sometimes knives and I do not get along.) He's already trying to eat healthier. We had stir fry and he had stir fried (no oil or butter) mung bean sprouts in place of rice with green pepper, mushrooms, onion and zucchini along with lean meat. *g* I'm proud of him. He also cut down on his cokes for the day, too!
Despite my feet killing me at this point I really wanted something sweet and didn't have anything in the house. So, I goofed around and made cheesecake cookies with no recipe. They came out yummy, but I am sure I can do better next time. *g*

As for reading? I just haven't taken the time today. I did laundry and spent time with Son and was so tired I just kind of zoned at one point. So, I hope to finish the Trish Perry book tonight. Have y'all ever had trouble finding the time to read? Ever been too tired to read?

I can't wait to show y'all the sunflower pictures I took today. The sunflower is starting to open up, meaning the petals are starting to flare around the head. It's wondrous to watch. *g* I still can't believe the tallest one is seven foot tall!

And that's all from me. I want to try and read and finish the book up, so I'm headed offline. I hope y'all had a low-key and pleasing Wednesday. I wish a thankful and thoughtful Thursday for y'all. (I know I"m already thankful to be off my feet! *g*) Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: One long, hot hour of Zumba.

Pepper!

I realized last night that I haven't posted a picture of Pepper in the past week or so. Isn't she turning into a pretty girl? We still say she's too cute. *g* Can you believe she's just about a year old now? We can't, to us she is "The Baby" and probably always will. And right now? She's asleep at my feet.

Another long day here with lots of heat and humidity. I woke up tired and achy. Chris woke up with a headache so ended up going into work late, which messed with my schedule, but at least he felt better when he left. I took Daughter to the Pine Y and Son stayed home with Chris until I returned. It was weird, for the 25 minute drive home I was ALONE. I don't have many moments like that and it felt weird. *g* But, I was able to sing along to the radio without feeling self-conscious. (Strangely yes, I do feel that way when I sing in front of my family, just as I did when I was with Chorus, Choir and the Acappella group I was later in when Daughter was a baby.)
Son finished his review this afternoon afternoon, so he is DONE with schoolwork for the next two months. I will make sure he keeps up his reading skills and such this summer, though he won't know it. *G* Daughter still has a few tests left to take and then will have her time off, meaning I will also finally get time off. *g* And today? I realized there was one thing I forgot to caulk yesterday! I could have smacked myself when I remembered I should have done the window over the shower. I tried to take care of it today and ran out of caulk. *G*
Chris went to the Doc last week because he has a weird patch of skin on his ankle. While there the tested his blood for a few things and he received his results today. His triglycerides were high, as was his bad cholesterol and his blood tested right below pre-diabetes. (The man loves his Coke.) The Doc suggested The South Beach Diet. I picked him up some books on it from the library this afternoon on the way over to the kids MA class and there are some seriously odd recipes in there. Like the one for teriyaki sauce. That called for sugar free pancake syrup. Um, yeah, no. We're going to try our own low cholesterol diet for him first and he's going to cut out the cokes. AND he's promised to exercise more, which should be interested because the man doesn't like to sweat and has been finding excuses not to exercise lately. (And no, my cholesterol is not high, I don't eat the same foods Chris does for breakfast or lunch.)
 Daughter was picked up this afternoon by the MIL and spent a couple of hours with them since they live closer to the Pine Y than I do and they wanted to save me a trip over there today. It was very nice of them and they even fed her. *G*
I chatted with FIL, who dropped Daughter back at the Y for the MA class this evening, and whoo-boy does that man like to chat! *G* I love him though, so didn't mind, much. I even still managed to get in a shortened workout.
After the kids class and my workout we headed home where Chris grilled spicy chicken to go on our salads, yum! And MIL sent some homegrown ripe tomatoes home with us (From her sister's garden-MIL's garden, like ours is just now growing well. MIL's sister planted WAY early.) I sliced one to go on the salads, too. Double YUM!
As for reading? Ha! I should have and actually had a small window of time to read this afternoon, but didn't. I petted Layla instead. She stomped onto my lap and wouldn't get down until I petted her for almost an hour. *G* Very demanding kitty! *G*

That's it. I hope to find some time to read this evening before bed. I hope y'all had a good day. I wish a wonderful Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 8.5 miles on the bike at level 11 and several weight machines, I managed to fit those in within 45 minutes. Wish I'd had more time.

Sunflower Update.

This is the biggest sunflower and the only one that has started to open. I could barely take this picture because the flower and stalk is now SEVEN FOOT TALL. Which is why I had to hold the camera up over my head to take this picture and had no idea there was a bug in there. (No worries, I knocked him out when I previewed the pic and saw it there.) Isn't it beautiful? Although, I can't help but think of that movie with the alien plant that wanted to take over the world...... *G*

After taking Daughter to the Pine Y this morning Son and I headed home and I ironed while he kept me company. Afterwards I vacuumed and he goofed around. *g* We soon headed off to pick Daughter up again and then headed home where I decided to re-calk my bathroom. (I did the downstairs half-bath late last year.) It was a lot of work because rather than hubs way of doing things = new caulk on top of old caulk, I stripped out every bit of caulk in the bathroom and put fresh caulk down. It took two hours from start to finish, the hard part was getting up all the old caulk.  Daughter decided she wanted to help which turned into an equality lesson with Son. One where Daughter and I informed him that just because we were female didn't mean I shouldn't know how to take care of simple household maintenance. The bathroom looks great now and I'm happy to have one less thing to do. It's always bad when I start to wonder what kind of mess I can get into (meaning what needs to be done) in the house. *G* Though I can't paint because I can't hold a brush for long periods of time. I'm hoping I have no issues with my hands tomorrow. But, if so, at least I accomplished something today.

After all that we all took a break, though not a very long one, and then it was time to head to the MT Y this evening for my yoga class. By this point I was very tired, but I can't imagine starting my week without my class. *g* After which the kids and I headed home where Chris was home from work and he was nice enough to make dinner. Can you believe he didn't even notice the fresh caulk? *G*

Book-wise I am reading the book The Guy I'm Not Dating by Trish Perry. I'm not very far into it (because of todays activities), but the first couple of chapters are good. This is a christian romance whose premise grabbed my attention when I had bought another book earlier this year. Oh, and the lovely thing I was telling y'all about? The author of the book I mentioned last week, That Voodoo That You Do, Ann Yost read how badly I had wanted to read her book and was kind enough to send me a copy! I feel truly blessed that she thought to do something so nice. As soon as I read it, meaning as soon as the library books are gone, then I will dive in and be sure to tell y'all about it. The premise sounds funny and there's a mystery, cats and a called-off wedding. Sounds like absolute fun!

All that said, it's time for me to head offline. I'm sore and tired from today. I hope y'all accomplished all you set out to do today and had a pleasing Monday. I wish a terrific Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 1 hour yoga.

Fireball naps out!

I took this photo the other morning. Fireball loves to sleep on our blanket chest on top of a crocheted throw that was made for me. Doesn't he look peaceful? I wonder if he's dreaming of cat nip and chasing flies? *G*

It's been yet another long, hot and humid day. I finally tackled the bookcases today and filled not only one box, but two. Don't worry. My shelves are still packed. *g* I also tackled Son's shelves tonight and filled yet another box, keeping those special and favorite books from when he and Daughter were little and making room for his MA trophies and Star Wars collectibles. It looks much neater and nicer, though I am sure that within a day or two his shelves will be a mess again.
This afternoon we headed out and traded out our propane tank for a replacement so Chris could grill again. We also picked up a new collar for Pepper. We're not sure how she broke her first collar, but she's been without one for a few weeks now and has been pretty happy about it. However, she is so vision impaired that she runs into everything and everybody and we need a warning system-hence a new collar with a bell!
After that we headed home where Chris grilled steaks while I cleaned swept and mopped and have taken care of tons of laundry. Can I just say how glad I am to have my washing machine back? Oh, and while out we picked up a new lightbulb for the dryer so that I can see the clothes as I take them out! *G* I know, exciting right? *G*

And that's our exciting day. Lots of errands and chores. I hope y'all had a good Sunday. One filled with rest and relaxation and maybe even a smile or two. I wish a low-key and pleasing Monday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: not today

Son's fun

Son asked to borrow the camera the other day and being a trusting Mom I said okay, but that he had to be very careful. And he was. This is one of the pictures he took. I don't know if Butterscotch was trying to measure his tongue or if Son's ruler tasted extra yummy, but that cat sat licking the ruler for a good 2 or 3 minutes. What I find funny, is that this is why Son wanted to borrow the camera. *G*

It's been another busy and hot day here. I don't hate summer, but it's definitely not my favorite season. I tried to get an early start to the day today with laundry and waited like a good neighbor to mow the lawn. (Unlike a few we have who are out there at 7am!) I finally started around 11am thinking that it was still early enough to not be really hot and didn't pay much attention to the position of the sun. I just wanted to get it done so I could move along on my list of things I needed to get done. So, I mowed the lawn, trimmed around the house and edged along the driveway, back patio and the part of the yard that meets the curb. (That last one? A holdover from when Chris was in the Military. Everyone did that one whoever lived in base housing.) I then swept up all the clippings up the curb, driveway, front porch and back patio. I was so hot by the time I was done I just wanted to grab a quick, cool shower. While I was doing all this Chris took his car and had the oil changed. His car is a strange thing. And sometimes I think technology has gone a smidge too far. See, his Maintenance required light came on-meaning it was time to change the oil, a couple of days ago. Yesterday it decided that rather than blinking a couple of times when you start the car and then shutting off it was going to stay on. Nice and bright and freaking me the heck out. So, while I was taking care of the yard work Chris took his car and had the oil changed to turn it off. And it worked. *G* I get that vehicles are becoming more intelligent, but Chris hadn't even reached the mileage on the "oil change at so many miles" sticker. *G* So, newer vehicles are safer, have better gas mileage (in most) but are WAY more annoying and smartypants-like.
After taking care of the lawn and shower I finally had something to eat. Seriously. I knew if I ate beforehand it would not be pretty. Yes, the heat and humidity were that bad.
When Chris arrived home we picked up two books at the library that had come in, YAY! So, I now have Nothing But Trouble by Rachel Gibson and The Guy I'm Not Dating by Trish Perry. I also received a lovely something in the mail, but more on that tomorrow.
After the library we headed to Mass. During which my neck was really bugging me as my shirt collar rubbed against it. I had no idea what it was until we arrived home later this evening and I discovered that while I had thought I'd started early enough not to be bothered by the sun, I was wrong. I am again sunburned. I feel so stupid. I wore a hat, I wore sunglasses and yet I forgot sunblock. Dummy.
We headed to the mall after Mass. Daughter is trying to find a thin belt because some of her clothes have more narrow loops and her belt is too wide. But..... we couldn't find one. We tried Claire's, Hot Topic, Buckle and even J.C. Penny. Nothing was narrow enough and suited her. Oh, well. We decided to shelve the search for another week or so and headed home. We did find out that our mall has changed a lot since we'd been there last (sometime in April I think). We're going to be getting an Apple Store! WOO! *g* Once it opens I may have to worry about Chris drooling all over the store. *G*

Anyway, as y'all can see it's been a pretty boring day, or I'm boring, take your pick.  It's also been a tiring day. I'm headed offline. I hope y'all had an amusing and enjoyable Saturday. I wish a peaceful and restful Sunday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: See above yardwork. *G*

It's that time of year.....

It's time for my to go through my keeper shelves.  As you can see they're getting unruly. We are going to take these shelves down and put up different ones eventually (Other things keep coming up, c'mon universe, I need more bookshelves!), but haven't been able to yet. Wish me luck! (And I know some of you, TORI, have more books than this. But, remember that I only have this space for books right now.

It's been a loooong, hot day. I meant to get out of the house early today to get the grocery shopping done, but moving a teenager when they don't care? Not easy. By the time we left it was hot and the sun was high. With coolers packed in the back so we nothing melted or spoiled we headed out. I have to give Daughter credit. She does help once I can get her out of the house. *g* Our first stop was Aldi where Son and Daughter have to take turns getting the cart. What is it about having to place a quarter in a slot to unlock a cart that is so fun? *g* I was smart today, I took a half frozen bottle of water with me and even (I feel so bad about this, but I had to.) popped it into my purse and took it into the store with me. I never cooled down the entire time we were in Aldi. Of course I am a speed shopper and only spent 30 minutes in there, but still. After Aldi we headed for Sam's. When we were done there I splurged on drinks as we were leaving because my water was almost gone (Yes, I carried it into Sam's as well.) We skipped WW this afternoon because there was no way we could stuff those groceries into Chris' car with everything else. We tried last time and had them in the floorboards in the passenger seat and seats in the back and next to Son in the back seat and some still fell out when I lifted the back of the car. *g* So, we took everything we'd bought and headed home where after putting everything away I had to sit and cool down. By this time I was feeling sick. There are very few things I like about summer. We waited on Chris and headed back out to WW after he arrived home and changed. He was happy to be able to drive his car again. *G*
Have I mentioned that the WW's here have remodeled? The stores now all have different layouts with wider, but shorter isles with less merchandise. There were several things that I usually buy that they are no longer carrying and I was a bit exasperated by the time we were ready to leave. And the deli? We walked up to the deli and while one side seemed to be close, another part still had lights on. There was an employee cleaning further down in the closed section, but rather than acknowledge us standing there to tell us that that section was closed as well she looked at us and kept right no cleaning without saying a word. Posted hours at the counter would have been nice, too. Oh, well. I think I'm going to try another grocery store next time for the items we purchase at WW. Anyway, after WW we headed home and fixed a simple dinner before sitting down and relaxing.

As for reading? I'm almost done with the Linda Castillo book. It's an emotional book for the heroine. She's a strong woman, but is facing a horror in the present which is bringing back feelings and memories from her past. And I feel so bad for her. I sound silly don't I? After I finish the book I'll pick up the Evanovich book again. I've heard that it's a written as a return to her earlier Plum books, but I have to admit to being a tad bored with the series. While the mystery changed, everything else is the same. She loves Joe, but they're on the outs. Oh, wait now they're in, but Ranger makes her knees like jelly and she's tempted. The only thing I'm looking forward to in this book are Lula and Grandma Mazur. What about y'all? What are y'all reading?

I need to head upstairs. I hope y'all had a fun and fantastic Friday. I wish an amusing and laugh-filled Saturday. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: I keep saying if y'all saw the flats of waters, flat of poweade, cat litter and other assorted things I have to pick up all day you'd know. I may not have exercised? But I exercised. *G*

Love and Devotion

When I look at pictures of Layla and she's doing something like this I am reminded of love. Not just her love for me, but mine for her. I can't imagine a day when she doesn't jump on the bed and squash me by crawling up my chest if I'm not fast enough to get out of bed. *g* I am reminded of how she loves to nip on my feet when I'm braiding my hair because I'm not brushing her. And most of all, I am reminded of how much I love her when she purrs when I pet her. So yes, she's spoiled and pampered and can go from a purr to a snarl in in .05 seconds. But, I love her.

Another scorching day here. After dropping Daughter of at the Pine Y at noon Son and I headed home and changed and headed to the MT Y where went swimming for an hour. (During the summer the "open" swimming hours are scheduled because lots of Daycares and even the Y's own Summer Camp use the pool, as well as swimming lessons taught, water fitness classes and even physical therapy patients.)(That's the small pool, the Big pool is used for laps and the swim team.) However short our time, Son and I had a good time. He's getting good at traversing the pool-he swam 2 laps today with no help from me other than shadowing him. He's never had swimming lessons and we're hoping to have that done later this summer. And yes, I know he's rather old to not know how to officially swim but this child has issues with gagging when he gets water too far into his mouth and until last summer was scared to go under water. We figured when he was ready to take lessons he'd let us know and it looks like that time is soon. Afterwards we headed home for lunch and after that a bit of schoolwork before leaving for the Pine Y for MA class where we met up with Daughter.

We then all headed home and both kids were rehashing their MA class, seems the teacher let them attack him today. *G* I did learn the Y can't repair or replace the AC in the Dojo. It would cost too much, the Y would need $3000 to fix it. Ye-ouch! So, for the summer the kids are going to have to suffer, unfortunately.
This evening I made dinner, a spicy garlic stir-fry. Everyone seemed to like it, so that's good. I have to make up a menu before grocery shopping tomorrow (Um, today, it's late again.) With the heat we're having we could have sandwiches and salads for two weeks, but I don't think anyone else would go for that. Especially Chris. *G*

As for reading? I haven't had a chance today and right now I am so tired I'm not sure I can keep my eyes open much longer. I hope to find some time tomorrow that I can just sit for a while. This week has been so busy and it's taking some getting used to. I want this opportunity for Daughter but facing an entire summer of this is going to be a challenge.

All that said it's time to head offline. I hope y'all had an interesting Thursday, one filled with friendship and laughter. I wish a fun and enjoyable Friday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

P.S. Could y'all please keep Dru in your prayers? She didn't feel well today and will be seeing a new Doctor next week. Great friends are hard to find and we want Dru to be healthy and happy! :)


Exercise: 8.05 miles on the bike at level 11 (I was running late to MA class due to traffic and a slow train) and a few weight machines.

I keep telling y'all my cats are weird. Here's a prime example. Butterscotch is sitting in the catnip bag and sat there for over five minutes. If I didn't know better I'd think he really likes having his picture taken. *g*

It's been an exhausting day. I awoke around 3:30 am with an acid reflux attack (I had just gotten to the point where I wasn't taking any more meds for this, too. Um, and yeah, I did gradually take myself off them.) and it, was bad. Tums were of no help and I ended up getting sick and felt like my throat was on fire. (I started my meds back tonight. I'm no dummy.) All in all I ended up with about 4 hours sleep before we had to wake up and Chris had to leave for work and I had to take Daughter to the Y. To be honest, I was so tired I was hoping I could talk Son into resting for a bit when we arrived home, but no such luck. MIL called an hour before I was to pick up Daughter and offered to bring her home and at that point I was very grateful because I don't like driving when I'm this tired. She even took Daughter to Taco Bell for lunch before bringing her home. *g* After she arrived home and MIL left the kids tried to get some schoolwork done. I say tried because Son was tired and having a hard time concentrating and Daughter, well, this new schedule change has been a challenge for her this week. She does enjoy it, but I've made sure she knows that if she doesn't finish her tests this week she won't be going back next week. The GE repairman arrived close to 2 O'clock and replaced the pump and then discovered that hey! There was a leak in the front as well. Nice. However, he was going to replace the seal when he noticed the apparatus that lets water flow into the washer was loose. He made sure it was back in place and voila! I have a working Washing Machine! YAY! I can do laundry again! YAY! (Sad how excited I am about this, isn't it?)
I received a lovely email this afternoon that helped brighten my day as well. I keep hoping things are looking up, it's been so hard to be hopeful and cheerful lately with my anxiety attacks when I have to drive the jeep. Which Chris has been driving all week. Considering I'm putting more miles in to driving each day than he is? It works for us right now. However, the jeep did the weird thing to him tonight when he was on his way home. It shut off while he was stopped at a light. It started right back up, but yeah. He told me at bedtime tonight and I immediately started to stress. See, when not driving it I can let that stress go a bit because Chris remains calm and collected about this. Me? I freak out. We're hoping to get it into the mechanic next week. I don't want to attract negativity, but I have a bad feeling. And I'm just plain scared. I'd rather put my head in the sand a bit longer, the stress is taking a large tole.
Anyway, after the GE repairman left I tried very hard to continue on with my day but started to feel sick and kinda dizzy and knew I had to give in and take a nap. I'm not a nap person usually, but will admit I felt better after I awoke and walked around a little. Funny thing was Chris called and woke me up 20 minutes after I went to lay down and then did it again 20 minutes later! The man knows I don't immediately fall asleep. It takes time and yet, yes, he still called. *G* We were supposed to have Charter (cable. dsl, phone services) come by today and hook up a DSL line, but when Chris called to check they said because of our foundation they'd have to go up into the attic and drop a line down through the wall and at that point? (Chris informs me of all this when he arrived home this evening) I told Chris that I didn't want anyone drilling holes up in my attic, or running a line up the outside of the house and drilling through the siding. And I certainly didn't want any more holes in my walls. He'd also have to go in late to work that day and would mean giving up an hour or two of overtime. All for a savings of $8 a month. Um, no. I flat out told Chris it wasn't worth the savings. Would it have been for y'all? Bear in mind those two hours of overtime would steal the $8 savings per month for about 4 months. AND we have to pay an installation fee. Yeah, AT&T may be a pain in the fanny, but it just wasn't worth it, right now anyway. And Chris agreed. Trust me, it's not easy to sway the man when he has his mind set up, so I was happy. *g*

As for reading? I started the Evanovich book last night, but for some reason set it down and have picked up and am halfway through the Linda Castillo book. It's quite riveting and painful to read but also compelling. It's as if the hero and heroine have switched roles in this book and it's painful to watch unfold across the pages.

That said, it's late, again, and time for me to get some sleep. I hope y'all had a delightful Wednesday. I wish a thankful and thoughtful Thursday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Ha! No way today. Hopefully back at it tomorrow.

Look at those eyebrows!

Now Updated.
Stalker Kitty/Oreo stopped stalking me the other evening (for a short while anyway) when a small flying bug got in through the storm door. (Look at those whiskers, too!) She was attentive until she lost sight of the bug. But, there's nothing funnier than watching these cats go nutty over a bug. *g*

After yesterday I was hoping Daughter 'working' different hours today would be nicer because we could sleep a little later. However, we paid for that extra hour of sleep. I took Daughter to the Pine Y and then Son and I headed home for lunch and schoolwork. I then picked up Daughter and we all headed home for a snack, to pack their MA bags and some schoolwork for Daughter. We then headed back AGAIN for the kids MA class. Tuesdays are going to be rough, and I have them like this for the rest of the summer. The thing is, I don't think it would have bothered me as much as it did if it weren't so HOT. It was 91 with a "feels like" of 103 by One O'clock. And continued to become hotter. And I? Don't do so well in the heat, especially the heat with the unrelenting sun. Ugh.
When we went back this evening for the kids classes we barely made it there when the skies opened up and it started to pour and with fierce lightning as well. I dropped the kids at the door, because there were no spaces in the Y's lot and I had to park across the street. As I was crossing the lightning strikes seemed way to close to the tree I was under and I hustled! (Which is why my feet are killing me now.) We watched tree branches break off, hail and high winds and drenching rain fall. Nature is awesome.

After class we headed home and I made patty melts and onion rings (from scratch). I called it diner night. *G* We don't eat like this all the time (try never), but I had to throw together something from what we had and Chris was no help in choosing something for dinner. Scary thing? It was the first time I have ever made onion rings. *g* They came out okay, a little bland, though.

Oh, I totally forgot! Before the kids and I headed to their MA classes I happened to check the library's website and they had two books in for me! There was no way in heck I was going another night without anything to read so we left fifteen minutes early and went by and picked them up. I now have Sizzling Sixteen by Janet Evanovich and Pray for Silence by Linda Castillo. I started reading the Evanovich at the Y. *g*

And now it's very late and I need to get some sleep. I hope y'all had a lovely day. I wish a wonderful Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 10.20 miles on the bike at level 11 (in 30 minutes!) and various weight machines.

**** (Updated) P.S. I just reread the post and please forgive me for the horridness. My only excuse is that I was exhausted.

Giant Sunflowers!

The sunflower plant that is located on the far right of it's row is now about six feet tall. It's developed it's bud and we'll have flowers in a short amount of time. We think. Isn't it pretty? This is a close up shot. The plant itself is HUGE.

Today has been busy. And HOT. I feel like I spent half the day in the car and have been hot and tired all day. I didn't sleep well last night. I was worried about getting Daughter up in time this morning and worried she wouldn't like it or wouldn't do well. (Those worries were for naught, btw. *g*) Chris left for work and then the kids and I headed to the Pine Y. Son and I dropped Daughter off and headed for home, stopping for fuel along the way. Son shocked me when out of the blue from the backseat he told me he didn't think he wanted to be a Police Officer anymore, he wanted to be a Mechanical Engineer so he could work on race car engines. Um, okay. The funny part of this was it was totally out of the blue and also that Hi! Where in the world does an eight year old get that kind of specified information? After we arrived home we grabbed breakfast and started schoolwork. Son had a paragraph on St. Peter to write and dragged his feet, but still managed to get it done. Since this paragraph has to be turned in we decided he would write it again in cursive since his print penmanship is far worse. MIL called this morning and offered to pick Daughter up from the Y this afternoon and meet us at Costco which is while not close, closer than the Y to our house. We agreed and had a nice walk-thru of the store. She and FIL ended up picking up a few things and when Daughter mentioned that a type of cereal looked good-into the cart it went. (That cereal? Post brand that has cherries, almonds and flakes and small bits of granola. It is YUMMY. Even Son, picky eater Son-likes it.) After visiting with the Out-laws while walking around Costco the kids and I were heading home when Daughter informs me that there's something wrong with her bathing suit. And she couldn't have said something earlier? Turns out her fabric has somehow weakened and is starting to be able to see the elastic in the fabric. *sigh* Another unexpected expense. So, off we headed to Dick's Sporting Goods for a new bathing suit. She ended up choosing a tankini with boy shorts. We then headed home out of the heat. By this time the sun was bothering me and combined with the heat and allergies (or could have been the poor air quality) that I was feeling sick. I was glad to get home and sit in a cool house out of the sun. I felt well enough a couple hours later to go to Yoga and when we arrived home I was telling Chris about her bathing suit and that she'd picked a two piece. Go ahead. Think for a second. Teenager, protective dad and two piece. *g* And yes, I was mean and let him think a bikini for a split second. *g* However, I soon showed him  her new tankini and how modest the legs were and he was a happy Dad. *g* But, it was still funny. He tried to play it off, saying he knew I wouldn't let her pick a bikini. Yuh-huh, then what was the look of OMGosh my Daughter is growing up!? *g*
We fixed a simple dinner together and enjoyed  a bit of quiet time.

As for reading? I haven't had time today. I even picked Getting Rid of Bradley by Jennifer Crusie off of my keeper shelves. It's one of my absolute favorite books of her and my copy is an original release when it was a category. If I can stay awake long enough tonight I might be able to read a few chapters. If not, I'll pack it up and take it around with me tomorrow. *g* And hopefully the library will be getting in some of my holds soon. Please. *g*

That's it from me. My jaw is cracking I'm yawning so widely and often. I hope y'all had a pleasing Monday. I wish a terrific Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Yoga. I'm hoping my work-out schedule doesn't suffer too much with this new schedule. (Though I already know Wednesday is going to be an off day, but that's due to GE and the washing machine, not Daughter's job.)

Bottoms up!

I told y'all yesterday about the catnip ball and the bag. And how the kitties would crawl into the bag to get to the ball and roll around and around? Here Layla is demonstrating exactly that. *g* Doesn't she look so silly? *g*

It's been a hot, humid and busy day. I made sure the kids had cards ready for Chris when he headed downstairs today and he enjoyed them. We had a nice lunch this afternoon and then Chris and I cleaned out the dishwasher. As in bleach and using a toothbruch to get into crevices and using a socket wrench to pull out the mesh drain to clean it. Later this afternoon Daughter went to the library with NG (neighbor girl) and they performed their volunteer work and Chris and Son and I headed to the cell phone store to purchase Chris a new case for his Droid. The one he purchased from Target 2 months ago was being held together with electrical tape, so for Father's Day the kids and I decided he needed a new case. He ended up picking one that was not only a case, but a clip as well. And the reason he went to the store with us? So he could use his employee discount. *g* (Chris has expensive tastes, that discount was needed. *g*) We then went to Lowes and picked up some silver spray paint so I can paint the frame on a mirror we keep in our kitchen that's fading and is chipped in a couple of places. We then headed home. Daughter arrived back not long after that and the kids headed outside to enjoy the rest of the afternoon and Chris took the laundry to the laundromat again and I made a blueberry cobbler, cornbread, picked up around the house, put all the recyclables outside, vacuumed, ironed and had to clean up a drink Son spilled on the carpet. When Chris arrived home I had just dragged out the shampooer to finish cleaning up the drink. *g*
We had a nice dinner and I was grateful to sit down for a bit, but was soon back up to fold laundry and take care of a few more things.
As for reading? I haven't had time and am also out of books. I have the keeper shelves to pursue later, but right now I am exhausted and have to get up super early to take Daughter to her Pine Y volunteer job. Wish us luck, that we get out the door in the morning on time and that Daughter does well? Please.

I hope y'all had a Peaceful Sunday. I wish a pleasant and low-key Monday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Nope. I was going to go to Zumba, but my feet were really hurting today and I want to go to Yoga tomorrow. I need to go to yoga tomorrow. *g*

Do you see what I see?

I can almost hear the conversation this look suggests as Layla and Patches check out the inside of the grocery bag. What y'all can't see, is that lately this bag has contained only the catnip ball. I needed someplace to put the ball after the last time the cats lost it under the couch and then behind the kitchen armoire. (That thing was not easy to move.) So, not only is the ball made out of catnip, the bag now smells like the ball. See the fun there? The cats will CRAWL inside the bag to get to the ball and then kick and roll over and over and basically make us laugh like loons. *g* So, it's a win-win, the cat get their kitty fun and we get ours. *G*

Not much going on here today beside unrelenting heat and humidity. We attending a family gathering this afternoon. One of Chris' cousins son's graduated from H.S. and there was a small cook-out held in his honor. (One of three actually since his Mom and Dad are divorced and remarried.) We enjoyed the time we spent with the cousin and his wife, who are both irreverent and yet quite kind, to us anyway. We left after a couple of hours, when the older generation pulled out some of the mountain of photo albums. (Chris' aunt had to have over 40 albums. Whoa!) They were having a good time reminiscing about old times and friends and to be honest we just wanted to go home and left them to it. We were gifted with zucchini (Two were almost as big as eggplants!) from another aunt and MIL sent us home with some blueberries. Yum!
As soon as we arrived home the kids friends swarmed and they spent a bit of time outdoors. I sent two of the four zucchini given to us across the street to the neighbors (Chris and I are the only ones who eat zucchini.) and then started cooking dinner. The kids and their friends came inside and were loud and boisterous (something Chris is not used to) and had fun playing the Wii and Chris and I ate alone together in the kitchen and let them have fun. They went back out after a while to play basketball and Chris and I took over the Wii and played some golf and bowling. He kicked my fanny at golf and I kicked his at bowling. *g* And why is it that I don't have much of a competitive streak, but when Chris and I play against one another I just want to whomp all over him? *G*
The kids decided it was too dark and too hot to play basketball and again invaded our home. They were crazy and funny and loud and Chris did pretty well at not turning into an old curmudgeon and fussing at them. *G* After an hour or so the scattered to their different homes and Son and Daughter decided to play some more on the Wii. I haven't seen the tv all day and haven't really missed it. *g* Maybe I can talk Chris into playing cards tomorrow night? *g*
As for reading? When we headed upstairs for bed I finished the Inter-Library loan book that I was reading last night. While I liked the book, several things about the heroine annoyed me. She was supposed to be scatterbrained, but was upset when someone tried to help her, another was a moral issue for me. She promised to sell certain items to one person and then decided to broker different deals. That? Bothered me. And I did enjoy the book, there were some very cute moments. As a matter of fact, I think the teenage neighbor stole the second half of the book, she was way more entertaining than other secondary characters.
And as for what's up next? No idea. That was my last book. Ack! Hopefully the library works on adding five of the holds I want to circulation this week! (They added one Friday, I'm #3 on the list for it. *g*)

Anyway, I hope y'all had an enjoyable Saturday. I wish a settled and simple Sunday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: Not today. No time.

Butterscotch in all his looniness!

Nope, not a normal cat in the bunch. As Butterscotch proves in this picture taken yesterday afternoon. He looks comfy, doesn't he? Sometimes cats remind me of slinkys, with the way they can bend and squirm themselves into such odd poses. Makes for funny pictures, so I'm not complaining. *g*

Last night we had fast food for the first time in a month because it had been a long day for both Chris and I and neither of us felt like cooking. I woke this morning feeling awful, achey and stiff and sore and with a slight headache. I couldn't figure it out for most the afternoon and then I remembered that last night, after I'd eaten I'd developed one of those hot red spots on my cheek. They don't last past a few hours, but it's like the nerves of my skin become inflamed for a small bit of time. I get them when I'm around something that makes my sensitive skin flare up. I put that together with what we had for dinner last night (because I haven't had one of those spots in a while) and checked ingredients online this afternoon. My fast food meal (a sandwich) contained soy. Ah, well. At least now I know what I can't eat. *g* Funny enough, Chris said he felt kind tired today as well. Seems his body didn't like fast food either. I'm thinking since we hadn't had any in such a long time our body's don't like it anymore. And I? Am grateful. I am sincerely grateful because I think this means that Chris will think twice before eating fast food again. (He really enjoys his junk food.)
Anyway, I didn't have the energy for much today so settled into light housework and schoolwork with the kids. I took an hour or so after they headed outside with their friends this afternoon and caught up with all the paperwork I do for the curriculum makers. See, we're kind of under an Umbrella School. We keep attendance, we make up a schedule, we teach the work but we send reports and large tests to the Umbrella School for them to keep records for me that any school district can't oppose. They also send us CAT tests to be given and they grade them for more records. I spent a lot of time this afternoon making sure everything is close to being ready to upload and file. And the sad part is? I found it soothing. Yeah, I'm weird. I prefer order and am the type of person who believes everything has a place. I file our monthly receipts. Yeah, I'm THAT weird. *g*
This evening when Chris arrived home he agreed to a meat free night (YAY!) and made his famous (to Daughter and I) Macaroni and Cheese. FROM SCRATCH. Much, much better than anything that comes out of a box. *g* I made sure we had some veggies and fruit to go along with it. *G* Poor man, he's not thrilled with these no meat nights, but goes along with it for me.
As for reading? I'm halfway into the Amy Garvey book, Hot Date. It's a cute book with a cute premise and a small (very small) mystery and a bit of conflict. But, most of all it's a fun read because the heroine is everything I'm not. She's impulsive and disorganized and funny as heck. *g*

No more from me. It's time to get some sleep, even if it's already technically Saturday. I hope y'all had a fabulous Friday. I wish an amusing and enjoyable Saturday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: Day off, seriously needed it.

Midnight gets attention!

I am so bad at titles! Sorry this one is so lame. But, it does get to the point. Midnight decided this afternoon that Son had done enough schoolwork and he wanted attention. Right then. So, he hopped up on the table and laid down all over Son's schoolwork. Son was delighted with the break and lavishly bestowed attention upon Midnight. Can't you see a happy cat in this picture? And yes, he's a VERY big kitty.

Ever had one of those days where you feel like you can't do anything right and you're stupid as heck and not quite in sync? That was me today. For some reason I thought 3:30 was the right time to leave and head by the library before going to the kids MA class all the way across the city next to us. Um, no. Not when we had to be there by 4:00. I felt a real disconnect there. And did I discover this as we headed out to the car? No. I discovered this as we were parked and getting ready to walk into the library. *sigh* We ended up being 15 minutes late to the kids MA class, but the teacher was very understanding as I had had FIL let him know we were running late today. Yes, MIL & FIL were at the Pine Y to see the kids and to pick up a borrowed kitty carrier from us. I thought since I was running late I would have to forgo my workout. But MIL insisted and even walked on the treadmill while I used the bike. I wasn't able to get my usual workout done, but it was a decent one at least. It was quite kind of her to insist. I think she knew I wouldn't if she didn't work out, too. And I almost didn't anyway because I didn't want to leave FIL alone, but he was happy to sit in the observation area and watch the MA class. Daughter has somehow managed to injure herself ( a couple of weeks ago actually) and I've been making her ice her leg. Only, she hasn't been taking it easy like I've told her to, nor has she iced her leg every day. So, today her teacher noticed she couldn't bounce on her feet (kinda like a boxer does) and asked her about it. He suggested a brace for her, so after class and saying Goodbye to the Outlaws we headed out to find one. We thought maybe Target might, but no. I then decided the best place to find one was probably the drugstore and that's where we found one for her. She's work it all evening and says her leg is feeling a bit better. So, that's good. I did tell her I'd had enough of her not taking it easy and that if it wasn't feeling better by early next week I'd take her to the Doc. The sad thing about all this? I recognize her workings. She's just like me in this regards. Take it easy? Heh. Yeah, right. She, too, goes full steam until she'd injured. I'm wondering if it's a good quality to be passing on, or a very bad quality? I think I'm a bad Mom when it comes to this. I am a do as I say not as I do type when it comes to "taking it easy".
After the drugstore we headed back to the library where we picked up a CD that had come in hold for Daughter and Son picked out a couple of movies and I picked up my Inter-library loan book, Hot Date by Amy Garvey. I'm still upset that they couldn't get ahold of one of my requests. A book by Ann Yost titled That Voodoo That You Do. It's available as an ebook as well as a print book and I'm finding that stores (brick and mortar) don't carry it. This is the third book that the library hasn't been able to get in for me. The others were, oddly enough, BelleBooks books. (BelleBooks is a Southern publisher lacated in Georgia.) You'd think SC libraries would order their books, but no. (At least not our two counties.) Oh, and speaking of reading. I'm a third of the way through the mystery by E.J. Copperman. The story is cute and fits the formula for a cozy.
Ah, after visiting the library we headed home. The kids immediately headed outside and when Chris arrived home he took the laundry up to the laundromat (Is it sad that I miss doing laundry?). Again, he washed it up there and then brought it home to be dried. Trust me when I say that 4 loads of laundry may wash faster at the laundromat, but drying them here took hours. But, that's okay. I didn't mind. I have clean clothes! *G*

I think I've rambled on enough today. At least I didn't have much trouble remembering words in this post, unlike speaking during my day. I hope y'all had a special day full of laughter and excitement. I wish a fun and fantastic Friday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: 7.04 miles on the bike at level 11. Does anyone know if doing this in 26 minutes is  good timing or bad timing? No weights today, not enough time.

I can't decide

I really couldn't decide if Layla was tired, or just lazy. Only she would lay down to drink water! And can you just see the corner of her eye as she watches me take her picture as she had a drink of water? And her ears are cocked back. Hmmm, I'm thinking Layla was a bit miffed at me! *G*

We finally had some rain last night and it cooled things down for a little while, while helping to keep the humidity pretty high. As soon as I was sure the yard was dry around noon and noted the temp was 85 degrees (more on this later) and had settled Son down with lunch and made sure Daughter could prod him on his schoolwork I then headed outside. I was smart. I didn't eat lunch first. Because while it may have said it was 85 degrees it felt warmer. It took an hour, and a lot of sweat, but I finished the lawn and headed back inside only to check online and note that yeah, it was 85 with a feels like of 101. Nice. No wonder I was soaking wet. And here's where my stupidity comes in. I forgot to put on sunblock. I don't think of it because I don't spend a lot of time outside during the summer and I'm usually allergic to something in a lot of lotions. I really should have put some on. I noticed when I changed that I was pink, on my shoulders. It didn't look too very bad, so I didn't give it much thought and went about my day. More on THAT later.
Anyway, we did some more schoolwork and Son has finished his last book report/review. Yay! MIL called as well. She and FIL want to come watch the kids at the Pine Y MA class tomorrow. I don't mind.  But, I did make sure they realized that I usually work out during that time.

The washing machine repair guy arrived ten minutes before his scheduled time was to end, spent 10 minutes in my house looking at the washer, told me it was my pump and that he would have to order it and that it wouldn't be in and repaired until late next week. AND the man did not listen to me when I explained to him where the water was coming from and that it was a lot of water. He had the nerve to tell me that it wasn't that bad of a leak (WTHECK?) and that if we placed towels under the washer we could still use it. Um, NO. It soaked through two towels with the last load we did when we discovered the leak! AND he said not one word when I pointed out the molding that will have to be replaced because of the "small" leak. I will spare you the nasty thoughts I was thinking at that time. I was livid when he left. *sigh* Not to mention this means we'll have to pay to use the laundromat for another week. Bleh!

Late this afternoon, after a huge thunderstorm (with rain this time!) and after picking two squash (a summer and zucchini) from our garden. (I really enjoy saying that! *G*) one of the kids noticed a strange car pull into our driveway. It was my Aunt! She dropped by with her grandson and brought me some pictures of Grammy and of the family when I was very young. It was nice to see her and I love the pictures. The funniest thing? In one of the pictures it looks like me with red hair. It was MY MOM. *G*
Chris arrived not long afterwards and we all had a nice chat before my Aunt left. And this evening I made dinner and since the house was full of kids, mine and their friends, I made dinner and Chris and I ate together in the kitchen. I was nice, almost like a date. *G* Afterwards, when the kids friends left and after they'd eaten I played with the Wii with Son and Daughter. We had a blast! I did find out I'm not good at Carnival Games, except for ski-ball. But, that I rock at Bowling and Boxing. *G*
And that was our night. After all that I took care of chores and we headed upstairs. It was a nice night to put the aggravation of this afternoon out of my mind. Which leads me back to the pink shoulders. Yeah. I noticed they were sensitive in the shower. I hopped out and I am RED. And sore. *sigh* But, my yard looks great and I put some lotion on my shoulders. I'll share a pic tomorrow. Needless to say I will be more careful next time I do yardwork. Like at night. With a flashlight. *G*

Oh, almost forgot. I finished the Lori Wilde book this evening and have started the E.J. Copperman mystery, The Living Deed. I'm only about two chapters in, but I like the authors "voice". And am glad I took a chance on this new-to-me author.

And that's it. I'm very tired, it's been a long day. I hope y'all had an adventerous (yet safe) day. I wish a terrific Thursday for yall. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: I am so counting mowing the lawn. Btw, I don't like gnats. *g*

Feeling giddy and guilty!

Aren't they pretty? After checking the library website frantically today and not having any holds come in and receiving a form letter in the mail from the library today telling me that they couldn't get in one of my Inter-library loans, well, I was a bit desperate for something to read. So, the kids and I stopped by the bookstore on the way to their MA class this afternoon and I only meant to buy two, but ended up leaving with four new books. I feel so very guilty for splurging on them, but ever so giddy to have something to read.

I'm not sure I told y'all that the washer repair had been postponed until Wednesday (technically today since I'm up late, again.). I am sincerely hoping the washer can be repaired and that we won't have to wait for parts. It's weird not doing laundry and it's starting to really pile up again. Bleh.
I was going to mow the lawn today, but the 95 degree weather that "felt like" 113 convinced me to stay inside with the nice air conditioning. When I went out to feed the strays and check the mail the entire neighborhood seemed to be humming. It was the sound of the AC units. *g*
Chris took the jeep to work today and left us his car. I asked him to do this because I knew I couldn't take the stress of driving the jeep so far from home when it's acting up. As a matter of fact, Chris has come up with a plan. See, usually I am the one that comes up with the anxiety easing plans, but this time I can't seem to climb down off Mount Anxious and Chris stepped up. Next week Daughter will start her Assistant Life Guard duties and we'll share Chris car since we'll be driving so far from home. In the morning we'll take Chris to work and then turn right around and take Daughter to the Pine Y for her duties (Only M-Th's.). And on the 28th we'll take the jeep to the mechanic and see if he can tell us what's wrong with it and get an estimate. If it's not outrageous we'll get it fixed. If it is, we'll park the jeep until we can afford to fix it and continue to share the car. I imagine it'll get old-quick. But, I don't want to deprive Daughter of this opportunity, especially since she's looking forward to it.
This evening after heading back to the house from the kids class we ran into serious lightning and thunder with barely a drizzle. I wish if we were going to get the light and noise show we'd get enough rain to help water the garden.

As for reading, I finished Insatiable by Meg Cabot. It was a good read, albeit a bit predictable. I liked the humor injected into it and if I'm right this may be the beginning of a new series. This afternoon while working out at the Y on the bike I started Crush on You by Christie Ridgway and finished it this evening at home. I've since begun Addicted to Love by Lori Wilde. Three of the books I chose because I knew they'd be fun. The mystery intrigued me when I read the description online after Dru mentioned it and checked and the library wasn't going to order it. I like books with ghosts for some odd reason. The Katherine Allred book may be Sci-Fi/Fantasy, but the author has a fun sense of humor and her other book is sitting on my keeper shelves. I found another book to check out while looking at these at the bookstore and as is my practice took a picture of it so I can look it up later.

I had a small issue at the Y after working out tonight. I worked out and then went to wait on the kids and when I went to stand back up when they were released from class my legs turned mushy for a second and my hands started to shake really badly and I thought I might fall down. I don't know if it was because I'd gotten so sweaty working out, or whether it was because the rooms where the kids were aren't air conditioned right now (AC is broken.) or if maybe my meds are outta-whack. It wasn't like the anxiety attack I had yesterday, so there's a difference. The kids MA teacher became concerned and kept asking me if I was okay. (He's such a good kid.) And I was after a few minutes. Suddenly exhausted and a bit weak limbed but okay. And the kids and I made it home okay, no worries. I wouldn't have driven if I had felt it was unsafe. But, I am a tad confused as to what's going on. Did I tell y'all Chris made dinner tonight? I don't know if it was because of basic need for food or because he was being nice, but he made a nice beef stir fry.

Anyway, that's it from me.  It's been a very long day and I need to get some sleep. I hope y'all had a nice day. I wish a wacky, though safe, and happy Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 10.05 miles on the bike at level 11, 3 weight machines.

Garden Update III

Check out the sunflowers! They're now taller than Son! The last one in the row is the tallest and is still growing. And yes, in an effort to trim my rose bush I may have scalped it a bit badly. However, the kids and I are glad to have some of the decaying branches with their HUGE thorns gone. Oh, I know y'all can't see it in this picture, but my tomato plant on the far left (the others are smaller and not as easily seen) has a tomato on it! YAY! And we should be able to pick some crookneck squash soon. Daughter is already begging for Squash casserole. *g*

Today was horribly bad and for that I am grateful. It was however, unbearably hot. We reached somewhere around 96 with a feels like of 104. Y'all know I'm Southern. And that I would rather not wear shoes in the Summer when at home. Heck, even in the winter I run around the house in a pair of socks and have been known to go outside and feed the strays in my socks. *G* However today? The pavement of our driveway was scorching hot! Ouch. And I found out by walking out to feed the strays and check the mail. *G* Um, tomorrow is supposed to be even hotter. I'll be wearing sandals to check the mail. *G*
If the kids finish all their tests and other work this week then they'll be done and we'll have a break. Which would be nice because I look around and notice that I need to recaulk, a lot of areas. And paint some trim. And touch up some of the walls. Today however, I settled for vacuuming the house and shampooing the GR and hallway downstairs.
This evening the kids and I headed to the Y and I enjoyed my Yoga class. We did a few poses against the wall for a change in the second half of the class and one leg stretch was a bit hard, but interesting. I tried really hard not to worry about the jeep on the way up there and back and it didn't do what it had done on Friday, but the stress of trying not to worry and actually worrying like crazy set me up for another anxiety attack when I got home. Unfortunately Chris was here for this one and I think he must think I'm nuts. I was walking down the stairs when it hit and had to sit down hard before my legs gave out on me. After a bit I calmed down, but had to slide down the stairs because my legs were still shaking and when I reached halfway down Pepper decided she wanted to go up stairs. Only instead of going around me, she tried to walk as though I weren't in her way and she bumped into me. And I had to set her over to my side. As she was coming back downstairs she ran into my back. I knew she had vision problems, but gee-whiz! Oh, a funnier thing happened right after that. I was sitting on the bottom step and Pepper was standing there as well. Only in front of her was Layla. She slipped off the step and landed on Layla and practially jumped back up on the step. BUT, she then started swatting at Layla, as though it were Layla's fault and would Layla move already. I had to take her off the step and place her on the floor behind Layla so she could get into the kitchen. I wish I could have caught it on camera. I know it's not as funny reading it as experiencing it, but trust me. It brought a lovely bit of comedy to my day.
Since the washer is leaking we're not using it and laundry was piling up. So, Chris took the overflowing stack of towels to the laundromat this evening (not someplace I want to take two kids, one a cranky teenager and another an eight year old who does not know how to stop talking) and while he was gone I cooked dinner. It didn't take long before he was home, we just needed them washed, there's nothing wrong with our dryer. *knock on wood* (What? I can use every bit of good luck I can get right now.)

Tomorrow is another day, as they say and I'm ever hopeful. I'm reading Insatiable by Meg Cabot and am about 1/4 of the way through. There is a bit of head hopping with alternate chapters, but I don't mind.  I DO mind that this is still my only book from the library right now. Five of the books that I am watching work their way through the database are still stuck as "received" and it's driving me crazy. I want the little hold button to pop on the books links. None of my other holds are in and don't seem to be coming in any time soon. It's not my favorite position to be in regarding books. *sigh* Ah, well. Patience is a virtue. *g*

Time for me to head offline. I hope y'all had a pleasing and low-key day. I wish a delightful and friend filled Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Yoga.

Stalker Kitty, again!

I took this picture last night. See Oreo watching me from the bathroom counter? When she saw the camera she looked down. But, the weirdest thing? When we're in the shower Oreo will stand on the counter and stare into the mirror. She's not staring at herself. She's using the mirror to look behind her! Odd, so very odd, but strangely sweet Oreo.

Sunday is supposed to be a relaxing day, right? Not here, not for me. I started a load of laundry this afternoon and as is my custom, immediately put the laundry bag back into it's holder. Chris happened to be walking by as the load started and noticed it sounded like water dripping. Uh, yeah. *sigh* It turns out the washer is leaking. Looks like it might be the seal, again, or the drum. Again. I really dislike this washer. And am very angry that this is the fifth or sixth time that we've had to have a repair person come to repair this washing machine. It's only four years old. I will never buy another GE appliance as long as I can humanely help it. We're going to have to replace the molding in the laundry area and may even have to replace the flooring under the washer and dryer because it's been leaking more than just today. We used to have one of those plastic things under the washer, but they are not made for these heavy front loaders and during one of the repair trips out it was broken and never replaced. *sigh* Thank Goodness we purchased the extra warranty. The repair people won't be here until Tuesday. I have an over-flowing laundry bag right now for towels, so tomorrow we may have to get by a laundromat. Bleh.
You know, I try very hard to live a good life. To set a good example for my children. And yet? I feel like I'm being punished lately. Because it's not just the washer. The jeep has been acting up this week as well. We will continue to do the best we can, we will continue to try and live as good people. But, I truly wish whatever "bad" was attracted to us would go away. The stress? Is hurting me. I had an anxiety attack Friday. An honest to goodness anxiety attack. I hid it from the kids and I wasn't going to say anything, but when the idle on the jeep dipped while we were headed to the UBS? I stressed out to the max. We'll have it looked at soon, but can't afford more high cost vehicle repair bills. So, if it gets any worse the jeep will be parked for a few months. And I? Am trying to breathe in good and breathe out bad. Sounds corny, but it's what's keeping me sane right now.

As for today after discovering the washer was leaking? I ironed, dusted and polished every stick of furniture in the house *G*, rearranged furniture and doo-dads and then put them back because I didn't like the way it looked, raked up the front mulch bed and bagged the clipping from our bushes and weeds, and shampooed my bedroom and the hallway carpet (These are high traffic areas and the kids like to have an occasional nightly snack at the foot of my bed on the floor.) Tomorrow I hope to shampoo the Great-room and downstairs hallway carpets. I would have mowed the grass today as well, but the heat was bad and add in the oppressive humidity and it was impossible. I know my limitations and that combo would have laid me out.

As for reading? I admit to procrastinating on the Meg Cabot book. I want to read it, I think. But, at the same time I want to pick a book off my keeper shelves just to have a back up and because I'm feeling the need for something fun. Of course the time in front of the keeper shelves has proven to me that I need to weed through the books soon. AND I need to go through Son's as well. I just need some boxes first. *g*
Another bad procrastinating tool? I downloaded two free ap's for my iPod. I now have a dog whistle (I was curious as to how the cats would react. Midnight acted like it was catnip to whoever was holding it, weird.) And I downloaded a bubble-breaker type game. See, bubble-breaker was my absolute fav game on Chris' old blackberry. I loved playing that game. *g* Not to mention it was my favorite price. FREE! (Especially right now.) I will eventually read the Cabot book. Probably start it either tonight or tomorrow. In the meantime I need smiles so am on the hunt, again, at my keeper shelves for a fun or funny book.

That's all from me. Sorry to be a downer. Believe it or not, I'm not depressed, just resigned. It's easier for me this way, to be able to keep a sense of humor. I hope y'all had a Peaceful and Pleasing day. I wish a smile-filled and happy Monday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: My feet hurt, therefore I say I exercised. *g*

View from my pillow!

I thought y'all might like this cute picture of Pepper. She's like my shadow most days and I think, but can't prove since kitties don't talk, that she feels like I'm her security blanket. She sleeps at my feet at least half the night and is one of the heaviest sleeper of a cat we've ever had. Yet has no trouble hearing one of us grab some ice from downstairs. *G*

Another busy and good-golly-it's-hot-out kind of day. I don't know if it was allergies or the humidity but by the time we headed home from Mass and our errands this evening I felt sick. Bleh. But, our day didn't start there. This afternoon after taking care of a few household things we headed out. We managed to get by the library to pick up my hold and I now have Insatiable by Meg Cabot. It's a paranormal, not that that's new from this author, but it's an adult paranormal which IS new from this author. I hope I like it because I don't have anything else until a couple other of my holds comes in or they add the books I"m stalking through their database to be added to circulation.
After the library we headed to Mass. It was a special Mass because we were celebrating the 25th Anniversary of joining the Priesthood of one of our associate Priests. Normally I don't speak much of Church here, unless it's to say we attended as another part of our day. However, this Priest? Father Bart? Is absolutely the nicest, funniest, most sincere and kind man I have ever had the fortune to meet. He is also shorter than I (and Son is speedily catching up on him) and I just want to tuck him in my pocket. And I don't speak of religion here much either, but you truly can see the Light of God in this man and I am so honored that he has touched our lives.
Okay, anyway, onward.....
After Mass we headed to Target where we picked up a white t-shirt for Daughter, a requirement of her volunteer job starting next week. Chris and I also were trying to find certain razor blades. Yes, we share a razor and have for a while now with non-harming results. But, after a year of buying the same blades the company decided to stop making them. Within a two week period since the last time I've been to the grocery store they were ALL GONE off the shelf. WTHeck? How do ALL the blades we're looking for disappear? *sigh* So, we had to pick a new razor. Have y'all seen these things lately? Five blades? Who needs five blades? And the scariest were the ones with five blades and then an extra straight razor-like blade on top of the other blades. Can y'all just now see me with blood running after accidentally nicking myself with the stupid thing? Gah. And yes, I know this is boring. But, it took us TWENTY minutes to pick a new razor! I look back now and think good golly that's twenty minutes I won't get back. *G*
After Target we ran by Publix because WW stopped carrying the sandwich cheese we buy in the deli. Remind me again why I shop there? Publix? Was Niiiicccce. We spent way more time than needed be walking up and down the isles oohing and ahhing over a grocery store. No, we really don't get out all that much. *G* And if you think we walked out with just cheese you'd be so very wrong. *G* The cherries looked too delicious to pass up. *g*
After all that we headed home and I was grateful. We walked out onto the back porch this evening at twi-light and you could see the air hanging there. I honestly wonder at how people survived before air-conditioning. Not so much to cool the air, as to de-humidify it.
And this evening Chris and I watched Couples Retreat. It was okay, not as funny as the promos made it out to be. But, an odd and somewhat funny movie. I took an instant dislike to one of the characters and that may be coloring my opinion of the movie. Ever had that happen to you?

Anyway, it's been another long day and time for me to get some rest. I hope y'all had an amusing and enjoyable day. I wish a Blessed and restful  Sunday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: Ha, no, not today.

Our Scottish Adventure

This picture was taken at the Scottish Games a couple of weeks ago. It's taken me this long to be okay with remembering that day since we had all that trouble. One of the funniest things? Notice the gentleman in the bottom right hand corner? See the MacStaff shirt? I got a kick out of those shirts. Oh, and the band on stage? Our favorite Scottish band-Albannach! Unfortunately I couldn't find a picture with all the band members in it, there were two other on the left hand side of the stage that didn't make it into this frame.

It's been a rather busy day. We had a late start to schoolwork and then grocery shopping because Daughter didn't feel well. Seems we are not done with drainage or allergies. But, after she felt better we headed to the UBS. Where I was sorely disappointed. I would swear that in the 4 months since I've been in there the stock was exactly the same. AND they changed their policy on credit for books and paying for books. Since the selection was so bad we left with no books for me, but a Garfield book for Son.
We took off for Aldi and picked up some basics and then headed to Sam's where Daughter picked up a few samples and even shared one with Son and I. Yummy little cupcakes. YUMMY! *G* I ended up picking up some huge strawberries there as well as our regular groceries. And then it was time to stop by WW. I did better this time with our budget, but am seeing a rise in prices there making the value of shopping there not much of a value. I'm not great at coupon hunting because we shop by two weeks of menu's, but did end up saving about $7 with coupons I clipped from what MIL brought me earlier this week.
It was so hot today that the kids and I were more than happy to head home at that point. I'm not sure how we packed all those groceries into our vehicle, but whew! After arriving home Son headed outside to play and Daughter actually helped me bring in the groceries AND put them away! I was shocked!

As for reading? I have NOTHING TO READ! The library notified me of a hold in, but I couldn't by to pick it up this afternoon before they closed. Darnit. I will pick it up tomorrow. As for now? I'm twitchy and have been scanning my keeper shelves. Hopefully I'll find something to tide me over until tomorrow and can read a chapter or two and relax.

I have to head offline now. It's late, technically because I can't sleep it's already Saturday. Oops. I hope y'all had a fun Friday. I wish an amusing and enjoyable Saturday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: Hi! Grocery shopping HAS to count with all those flats of drinks and cat food and cat litter....... please? *G*

Heart warming brothers!

I had a hard time titling this picture. They just look so sweet and loving. And usually it's the other way around in their relationship. Usually Butterscotch is the bossy cleaner.

Today never felt like it went along my schedule. Sleeping late will do that I guess. I am having to poke and prod the kids this week to do their schoolwork this week as well. They want to be done like their friends, but don't realize if they just finish they would be! Argh!
This afternoon we headed out a few minutes earlier than usual for the kids MA class so I could drop by the library and pick up a book that had come in from Hold. I was grateful, too. Because I finished the Robyn Carr book last night and didn't have anything to read while working out at the Y. Talk Me Down by Victoria Dahl is a bit racier than I am used to, but the plot was interesting. The author is new-to-me and while I like the characters and relationships the, um, raciness has made me blush. I finished the book this evening and enjoyed it and may try another book by the author. But, I am back to nothing to read! Hopefully I can get by the UBS tomorrow before grocery shopping. I haven't been there in a while and hope that in my absence they've gotten in some newer books. (I stopped going so much when our schedules became so busy and when I noticed the UBS wasn't getting in newer books.) Cross your fingers for me. *g*
After popping into the library we headed to MA and noticed some very dark clouds on the way. The kids teacher wasn't there today, complications from his "day job". *g* So, the Director taught class. While the kids were in class I worked out. After class the MA Director showed me a clip of the tournament the Y will be using to drum up interest in the Fall tournament. It's a bit weird knowing my kids are going to be plastered on the internet in this clip, but no names are given, and the focus on the kids isn't much. And those dark clouds? Let forth like you wouldn't believe while I was working out. The rain was going sideways thanks to the wind and I couldn't see the street in front of the Y, only white. The thunder and lightning let loose as well and shook the whole building. And trust me, this place is built like a concrete fortress. Luckily it let up before we had to leave! Gotta love summer rain storms. *g*
After that we headed home where I started dinner so we could eat before it was dark for a change! *g* I even made my cheesey-garlic biscuits. Half of the batch I made were inhaled! After dinner Chris played a game on his computer and I read for a bit. His last class of his Master's was over Monday, but he's still glued to his computer and it's starting to get on my nerves. I know he's glad to have some time to play now, but how about coming up for air? Geez.
Anyway, it's time for me to head offline. It's late and I need to try and get some sleep. I hope y'all had a good Thursday. I wish a fabulous and funny Friday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: With less than an hour to work out I was happy to get in 8.50 miles on the bike at level 11 and 3 weight machines with 3 reps of 12 on each machine.

Layla soaks up some sun!

Layla loves the boxes I keep in front of the sliding door in the kitchen. I don't know if it's the sunshine coming through and warming the cardboard, or whether it's the fact that we spend the afternoons in the kitchen doing schoolwork. Or maybe it's because that's where all the food is. *G* Isn't she pretty just soaking up the sun?

Today has been very quiet and to be honest I relished it. Because I took a high impact class yesterday I decided we would go swimming today so I could rest my feet. However, the weather decided to disrupt our plans and I cleaned up around the house instead. It was overcast and what I call "growly" all afternoon. Meaning we had lots of thunder but no lighning and very little rain. And the Y? Clears the pools if there is thunder or lightning. So, we stayed home and I rested. Since I usually go until I fall over I guess this was  good thing. Too bad I felt antsy and a bit bored. That might have had something to do with the fact that I am down to only one book left to read. Well, y'all know I have keeper shelves. But, I mean one book I haven't read yet. *g* And as of an hour ago? I started that book, Moonlight Road by Robyn Carr. Oh, last night I stayed up way too late reading Wanna Get Lucky? by Deborah Coonts. I found the book to be fun and quirky with a light mystery and a good romance. Now, be warned this book is set in Las Vegas and there are some definite characters involved. But, I thoroughly enjoyed it, and the ending.

No more from me tonight. It's been a quiet, but long day. I hope y'all had a day full of sunshine and smiles. I wish a delightful Thursday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: Day off. Back at it tomorrow.

Stacking the brothers!

Is this not a cute picture? It has the brothers! And they're not fighting! Aren't they both so attentive? Butterscotch on top and Fireball in the bottom tent meant I had to take this picture. *g*

Not much to share about the day. The kids are still doing schoolwork, though Summer is trying to settle in. We'll be wrapped up within the next two weeks, but that doesn't mean my days will be relaxing. Considering we're going to be a bit busier than before because of Daughter's volunteer work at the Y means I"ll be driving all over the place.
The kids had MA class this evening and on the way we stopped at the library for me to drop off a couple of books and pick up the Train CD that had come in for me. We then headed to the kids class. Funny enough, about a half mile from the Pine Y they're teacher ended up in front of us and you'd have laughed at how excited Son became over that. He thought it was hilarious. *g* I'll admit I did a very bad thing. I took advantage of the teacher this evening. I asked him if I could take an exercise class that run until half an hour after their class ended. I asked him if he could maybe make sure the kids made it down to the aerobic room after their class ended. He said sure. Asked me if I wanted to make it a weekly thing! This? This is why I like this kid so much. I did take the class. He did make sure the kids made it downstairs to my class and I thanked him. And afterwards when we were walking out of the Y we ran into him again and I thanked him again and he said he owed me way more thanks than I owed him. Um, huh? It took me a while, but I think what he meant was that we have supported him as being a good teacher and influence on the kids. Why I need thanks when he's so good with my children and is making them so happy by teaching, well, I'll never know. And no, I won't take advantage and have him walk the kids down every week.

We left and met Chris at home. And we cooked our first zucchini! It was yummy in some stir fry. *G* As for reading? Well, I finally finished the Susan Mallery book, Chasing Perfect. It was a sweet read. A few surprises and one of those road to redemption themes, but all in all a good read and I'll look for the next in the series when it's released. Next up? I've started Wanna Get Lucky by Deborah Coonts. This is not your average book, nor your average mystery. As it's set it Las Vegas I didn't expect normal, so so far I'm not surprised. Much. *G*

As for the cell phone hot-spot experiment? Chris didn't like that he couldn't control the wi-fi as much as he'd like and didn't like that there was a lag in speed due to anytime the phone had downtime. So, it's going back. It was a worthy experiment and now we know that for the things we do on the internet (mostly my reading everything and anything and his schoolwork) it's just not going to work for us. So. We're looking around. AT&T is just too expensive and we're being charged for a home phone we don't even use. *sigh* We may call and ask them what can be done about that.

That's it from me. It's late and my book is calling me. I want to read a few more chapters before my eyes start to drift close. I hope y'all had a delightful Tuesday. I wish a wonderful Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Zumba. Tomorrow I'm giving my feet a rest, I think, and the kids and I may go swimming.

An extra picture.

Layla reminded me I didn't post a kitty picture, so here she is to wish y'all fun, friends, laughter and smiles.
Regular post below this one.
Blessings, B.

Now all I need is.....

Two more pounds of these. *G* The fun thing about trying to grow a strawberry plant for the first time is actually, well, trying. *G* It's even better when you get gorgeous berries like this. Unfortunately, we only have the one plant and so far it's only yielded about 6 berries. One or two at a time. *G* Next year? I want a whole row of Strawberry plants. Btw, the kids tell me the berries taste good. I wouldn't know, the stinkers eat them every time one ripens. *g*

Guess what?! Chris' car is fixed! YAY! After shelling out a large quantity of money it runs great. As a matter of fact, I drove it to the Y for Yoga this evening! *g* Chris took a half day so he could have his Dad give him a ride over to pick it up. And you have no idea how glad I am to have my jeep back! Earlier this afternoon MIL picked up the kids and took them to the movies. They went to see Marmaduke. Both kids enjoyed it. We had no idea Chris' car would be ready today and even I didn't know until Chris called me from work while the kids were gone. So, it's been an interesting afternoon!
And one of the funniest things this afternoon? Both MIL and FIL are pretty proud of our little garden. Considering theirs is much bigger? I find that funny.
Since the kids have been back from the movie they've been outside. They didn't come in this evening until it was dark. Chris and I made spaghetti and meatballs this evening and the smell lured daughter inside every fifteen minutes to ask when dinner would be ready. Son? Won't eat spaghetti. Pickiest. Eater. Ever. We can't figure it out, he loves pizza and that has tomato sauce, but he'd rather have noodles with butter and parmesan cheese. But, at least I'm not stuck making a whole different dinner for him tonight.

As for reading? *sigh* I haven't done more than read the first few pages of the Susan Mallery book. I meant to read more, but have been so busy today it's been a complicated goal. Hopefully, tonight after heading for bed I can get in some reading time. Does life get in the way of your reading a lot? I can't wait until we're done with schoolwork, at least for a few weeks and I can read whenever I want. I need the vacation time as much as the kids do. *g*

Time for me to take care of a few things around here before bed. I hope y'all had a stress-free and pleasant Monday. I wish a terrific Tuesday filled with laughter for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Yoga.

Almost forgot!

Isn't it cute? It's our first zucchini! A regular post is below this one, but I almost forgot to share this with y'all!

Oh, and this post and the regular post are being posted using the wi-fi hotspot from the Palm Pixie so it seems to behaving. Keep those fingers crossed, please!
Blessings, B.

Garden Update II

Check out our garden! I know it's very small, but this is the first year we're trying to grow different things besides tomatoes. The huge three plants on the right? Those are the sunflowers. They are almost 4 feet tall and they are still growing. Next to those are the squash plants and then on the far left is the most mature of our tomato plants. That's just the back row! *G* One thing we've already learned is that we need to space the squash plants out better next year, and the same with the sunflowers as well. But, not bad for  beginners, eh?

It's been a pleasant, but busy Sunday! It started slow, but this afternoon I went to Zumba and when I returned Chris took the recyclables off. While he was gone I rested for bit and then took care of laundry, swept and mopped and more laundry and started the garlic roasted potatoes for dinner. After he returned he started up the grill and we checked on the garden and watered it. After dinner I've taken care of the ironing and buzzed Chris' hair. He's starting a new training group through classes tomorrow and I like for him to look sharp. *G* Not to mention he likes the fact that the shorter his hair, the less likely you can tell exactly how many silver hairs he has! *G* I am so very happy to be done with everything today because Hi! Day of rest? Not here.

The kids have been outside almost all day, which was nice. Daughter spent some time with the teenage girl across the street and her friends friend. I was actually happy about this because Daughter is a serious tomboy and while I am okay with that I also think she's a bit immature for her age because she spends most her time with Son and playing sports with boys that happen to be the same size as her, but a couple of years younger. However, I don't want her turning into Neighbor Girl, either. That child? Has her cellphone glued to her ear. I watched Neighbor Girl throw a football with one hand and use her other hand to hold her cell phone to her ear! Sad part is, she's still pretty good at throwing a football! I don't want Daughter to be anyone other than who she is, but she does need to mature a bit.

I haven't read anything today. Last night I did finish the Lila Dare book, Tressed to Kill. I really enjoyed the book and unlike some mysteries I didn't think there were too many characters that I couldn't keep up with them all. I can't wait to read another book in this new series. Next up? I think I'll be starting the Susan Mallery book. I peeked at the first pages of all the books last night and set up a reading order by that. The first scene in the Mallery book just grabbed me more than the others. Do y'all do that if you have a choice of books?

Anyway, time for me to head offline. I hope y'all have had a peaceful and soothing Sunday. I wish a smile-filled and low-key Monday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Zumba.