An upside down view!

Strange kitty strikes again! It's hard to resist taking pictures of Butterscotch when he does weird things and this? Is weird. *g* We love the furry goofball.

A boring day here today. It was hot and the newscasters seem to think that the humidity was down, but they would be wrong. *g* I spent the day, all day in the house, with the blinds closed and the AC set on 80 degrees. (I'd like to set it lower, but the am trying not to have another huge power bill.) I didn't drive anywhere, which felt VERY NICE. I actually 'sat down and did the math' and am driving over 300 miles each week just Monday thru Thursday. It may not seem like a lot, but it sure is wearing.
I took the day and tried to rest. I think the heat yesterday and my allergies have really just made me sick. Bleh. I'm hoping taking the day helped. And I've been reading a bit today as well. I picked up the Erin Dionne YA book. So far it's cute. Um, add in some daily house cleaning, laundry and vacuuming and it's been quiet. Which I needed.

Which leads me to now. I hope y'all had a fantastic and fun Friday. I wish an amusing and delightful Saturday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: No. Dizziness and exercising do not go well together. Maybe tomorrow.

Two peas in a pod or.....

Two cats in a box! I took this picture yesterday afternoon of Midnight and Layla. I'm not sure which one was in the box first, but they seem to share well. Midnight seems to find Layla's fluff a good pillow. *G*

Yet another hot and humid day here in the South. I'm already dreaming and wishing for October to hurry up and get here. I've been in motion since my feet hit the floor this morning and didn't stop until after we arrived home early this evening.
After dropping Daughter off Son and I headed home and had lunch and then I slathered on sunblock and headed outside to mow the lawn. It's been raining every afternoon this week and I needed to get the lawn cut before it rained again. Too bad it was already in the mid-90's at this point. Or that it was 107 with the heat index. I managed to get it done and even someone pushed myself and also edged and weed-eated around the house and shrubbery. By this time I was not only dripping and drenched I was so hot I thought I'd never cool off and had to grab a shower before sitting down for a few minutes. And those few minutes were necessary as my arms and hands were shaking at this point. I don't know what's going on when I have to really exert myself, but I'm going to ask the Doc next week.

About 20 minutes before we were to leave to meet up with Daughter and for the kids MA class the kids MA teacher called (finally, advance notice!) and let me know that the kids MA class was going to cancelled because he had to judge/attend a black belt testing. And while I appreciate him letting me know? It was still only an hour before class and Daughter was there waiting on class and us to arrive. So, I had to rush and leave early to pick her up. This is the third class this month that has been cancelled and the teacher seemed to realize that I was not thrilled because he said something about trying to work something out for us.

On our way back we stopped at B&N for Daughter to look around and see if there was anything to spend her gift card on, but she is waiting for some CD to be released and bought a mocha coconut frappucino instead. And since she bought one, I had to buy one for Son. (His was vanilla bean, no coffee for this boy! The Out-laws? Bought him a iced coffee one time that had a shot of expresso in it and he didn't stop moving or talking for 14 hours.)
We then stopped by the library because a few of my holds had come in, they've been pretty good about getting my books in lately-though one of the books that came in I've had on hold for 2 weeks. Not counting the stalking of the database for this book for another 3 weeks before that! *g* So, now I have: Our Red Hot Romance is Leaving Me Blue by Dixie Cash, License to Thrill by Lori Wilde and Thunderbird Falls C.E. Murphy. Um, to say my reading tastes are eclectic would be a truth. *g*

By the time we arrived at home I had a splitting headache that seemed worse with movement, meaning it was probably allergy related. The kids headed outside and I headed for my chair. I wish I could say I took this time to read, but instead I tried not to move and appreciated the dimmed LR..

Chris was kind enough to make dinner tonight, for which I am grateful. OH, good news! Chris's Masters Degree has officially been Conferred! He had been waiting and waiting and finally had to prod the University and it was even back-dated.

As for reading? I've just finished the Jen Lancaster book ( a reread) and need to pick a book to read next. Since I have a small stack of books I'm not sure which is up next, but I can tell you I'm excited to actually HAVE a stack of books. I have been blessed yet again to have a library so close and able to get in so many books I'm interested again. I do not take this for granted, trust me.

I'm headed off. I hope y'all had a thankful and thoughtful Thursday. I wish a fantastic and fun Friday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: I'm counting all the yard work because it was so draining. Not to mention the lawn mower weighs a ton as does the edger so they have to count as weight training, right? *g*

Who's afraid of the big bad.....

Oven mitt? That would be Midnight. *g* It's the strangest thing, but what's actually funny is that Chris? Is not threatening Midnight with the mitt. No, he's using it like a sock puppet and saying Hello to Midnight. *G* It's the cutest, funniest thing to watch. But, I'm pretty sure Chris won't let me record it so y'all can watch it. *g*

It's been an uncomfortably humid and hot day. With yet another thunderstorm this afternoon. At least the lightning wasn't as bad this time. I started out the day tired and stayed tired all day. I must have hit my "wall". MIL called while we were on the way to the Pine Y this morning and offered to pick Daughter up this afternoon and bring her home. I readily agreed, any time I don't have to drive these days I'm happy. We've spent the past month and a half rearranging our schedule so Daughter can have this opportunity and I like to do at least one small thing each week that's just for Son, so when we arrived home after dropping off Daughter I made Son pancakes. Since I'm more of a bowl of cereal or yogurt person in the morning this may not seem like a big deal to y'all, but it was for me. And yes, he did enjoy his pancakes. *g* After breakfast we settled in the LR and Son played some games on the computer (He gets the biggest kick out of SIM's.) and I? Accidentally catnapped while waiting on a load of clothes to dry.
Not too long after the Out-laws brought Daughter home and the kids and I ran to the post office. Considering it's not even a mile from the house it didn't take long. Oh, you know how we were upset that Daughter wasn't learning CPR/First Aid while working/volunteering at the Y? Well, today she brought home a book on CPR given to her by the Aquatics Director. So, at least things are moving along on that.
This afternoon it was Daughter's turn to sit back while Son went to the MT Y for KidFit. She watched him while I went to Zumba. To be honest? I wasn't sure I wanted to go at all. I forced myself and dug deep for the energy and made it through the class because I knew I'd feel guilty if I didn't work out today. (I was going to take the kids swimming, but the storm ruined that, they shut our pool down when there's thunder and lightning.)
We met Chris at home. He worked out last night and says his knee was bugging him a bit today, so no gym for him tonight. *g* Uh-huh. Anyway, a light dinner and an early shower mean I'm blogging from upstairs and have enjoyed being off my feet! *g*

In my reading world? I'm almost finished with the Jen Lancaster book and have two books I picked up from the library yesterday. (I forgot to mention them.) I have Models Don't Eat Chocolate Cookies by Erin Dionne (a new-to-me-author and a YA) and Biting Nixie by Mary Hughes, also a new-to-me-author. I found the Hughes book playing around on the library's website and the Dionne book? I looked at a copy at BAMM this weekend. The book was on sale, but I just couldn't spend any more money besides the two books I did buy.

This is it from me, boring as it may be. I hope y'all had a superb Wednesday and I wish y'all a Thankful and Thoughtful Thursday. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

P.S. I hope y'all stopped by and said Hello to Dru on her special blog post today!
Exercise: 1 hour Zumba.

Garden Scourge!

This has been eating the leaves on my sunflowers. And he's HUGE! This one was two inches long and big. Chris knocked him off my sunflowers into the grass, but I'm sure he's back munching by now. We've been using an organic pesticide in the garden, but had to pull up the yellow squash plant because something went wrong with it and we noticed an ant hill underneath within it's root system. The bugs are winning the war this year, darnit! At least the garden has gotten lots of moisture yesterday and yesterday thanks to HUGE, loud storms that arrived. I'm thankful for the rain, the lightning has been scary, but the rain has been nice.

After dropping Daughter at the Pine Y this afternoon Son and I headed home and I took it easy. Today is a stressful day and I'm also trying to do most the laundry in the morning and evenings so as not to be a drain on the local power. Though this afternoon it was nice when the storm dropped the temperature outside from 97 to 75!

After picking Daughter up this afternoon we headed to the library. Today was the last teen event for the Summer Reading program and this afternoon they held a treasure hunt with a clues leading to more clues leading to yet more clues and on and on until you reached the prize. The hunt tested library skills and I don't think anyone knows the library better than Daughter, except the librarians. *G* So, wanna guess who won? Yup, Daughter won a $25 gift card to B&N and will soon be begging me to take her to the store with big, imploring eyes. Everyone who participated was given the cutest little cardboard pirates chest filled with all sorts of pirate-y things. Like a jolly roger stamp, bouncy balls with skulls, a skull ring, a jolly roger bandana, a jolly roger little book bag, temporary tattoos, a mini jolly roger beach ball and even a pirate rubber duckie! (That last one was adorable!) They had snacks and gave books out to the kids as well. Daughter did a gracious thing that shocked the heck out of me, since there weren't many participants in the treasure hunt Daughter asked the librarian organizing the event if Son could have one of the little treasure boxes and she said yes. Son was absolutely thrilled and hugged Daughter. It was so sweet! Don't get me wrong, they get along, but sometimes she forgets to have patience and ends up fussing at him. Loudly. It was nice to see her, in her own happiness, think of him. It was quite unexpected and gave me a glimpse that she can still be sweet.

The treasure hunt took longer than expected and we had to hurry to make it to MA on time back at the Pine Y. Add in after work traffic and it was close. But, we made it. Too bad Son forgot his MA bag at home with his gi and gear and the paper they had to write for class on what their favorite part of Shotokan. Funny how both kids chose sparring. *g*

After class we headed home and we made a very simple meal. Personally I don't like Hot Dogs, but Chris and Daughter do so Son and I had something else. It worked for us. *g* We watched Warehouse 13 and Deadliest Warrior and have since headed to bed. I? Have to be up in less than 5 hours and am unable to sleep. *sigh* I am going to feel sooooo tired tomorrow. Eh.
As for reading, I'm still reading the Jen Lancaster book and re-discovered that this book contains my favorite scene out of ALL her books. Her visit to the "Lady bits Doc". TOO funny. I read that part while on the bike at the Y and had to muffle my laughter and am sure I was getting some  weird looks, but at least I'm on the back row at the back of the cardio room! And the book contains some funny incidents with her husband and his obsession with cooking after watching Rachel Ray. So. Very. Funny!

And that's it from me. A boring and busy day. We've been running around all day, at least that's what it felt like! ( I drove over a hundred miles today.) I hope y'all had a stimulating and terrific Tuesday. I wish a wonderful and maybe slightly wacky Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise 11.05 miles on the bike at level 12, various weight machines. I added a new machine today.

Butterscotch sleeps on!

We took a poll the other evening. I asked everyone which cat, out of ALL the cats, was the weirdest? We all agreed that Butterscotch is the weirdest. He will stand outside Daughter's door in the middle of the night and meow, for no reason. He KNOWS his collar looks cute on him. He is easily startled, when he's WATCHING you. But, I have to say, he's a very sweet kitty. Very enthusiastic with the head bumps. (Ouch!) and when he plays he's quite hyper and happy. Even if "the wheel's still moving, but the hamsters dead".

Another Monday, another hot day, another return to routine. Yay for routine! Chris went back to work today. He took the week off last week because starting in the middle of August he won't be able to take time off until Christmas. (Besides weekends and such.) Son and I drove Daughter to the Pine Y this morning and then when we came home we had breakfast and I sat for a bit and the vacuumed the house and did some laundry. After picking Daughter up and arriving back home I decided that Chris' car needed to be cleaned out so I vacuumed it out (Jeez, kids are messy!) and Armour-alled (sp) it. Um, basically I detailed the inside of the car. Maybe I should mention that our high today was somewhere around 97 with a heat index of 110. And I? Was doing all this in the garage, with no fan and no air and no AC. I was dripping! Ugh. When I was done it looked like it had come from the car dealer. *g* After all that I decided that I wanted to try a recipe I found online for blonde brownies. I? Am not a hugh chocolate fan. Don't get me wrong, I like chocolate and prefer dark over any other kind. But, I grew up with blonde brownies (and hermits and homemade cheese crackers and homemade whoopie pies....... My mom went through a baking period. *G*) and so wanted to try out this recipe. It called for pecans, but since I know that Daughter won't eat anything with those I left them out and put in some chocolate chips instead. And some coconut. The brownies? Are YUMMY. They taste almost like a candy bar. *G* I was good though, I only had one after dinner.

Anyway, after all that a huge thunderstorm with high winds and lightning decided to blow threw and dropped the temperature. Except for the increased humidity afterwards I loved it. *g* The kids and I left for the MT Y a bit early because I felt like I ate my way through this weekend (I know I made good food choices, it's the odd hours we ate because of our upset schedule.) because I wanted to get a bit of time on the bike in. I managed to do so before Yoga and had a great yoga class. The teacher made my thighs scream tonight! It was fun!

**Warning Rant Ahead! I won't be offended if you want to skip this part.
We then headed home where we met up with Chris. Chris took my iPod Touch to the Apple store today because it died last night. Let me preface this by saying the iPod went nutty a few weeks ago and then was find so I played it off and figured it was a glitch. Then last night I was in the middle of keying something in and it went to a white screen suddenly and the dead. I had just charged it the night before and it was still almost fully charged so I couldn't figure it out. It wouldn't turn back on and I even plugged it up to my computer-and the computer couldn't see the iPod. Like it wasn't there. So, Chris made an appointment to take it in today. Which he did. They told him my battery was fully drained, they did a back up restore and said there was nothing wrong with it. AND SENT HIM ON HIS WAY. He, too was dismissed. I? Was upset. I had just charged the battery, it was still almost FULL when it died and I'm not that (pardon me) that freaking stupid. But, hey, they say nothing is wrong with it and even though it never dropped the battery, never warned me it was on low battery-nothing-obviously we were too stupid to realize that hey, the battery was drained. And my normally stand-up husband said okay and brought it home. *sigh* I charged it up tonight, again, and will see how it does for the next few days, but my love for avid love for Apple has waned. The Genius Bar techs? Are beyond rude, they don't listen, they don't care what you have to say and they DISMISS the customer and turn their backs on them. That? Is poor customer service. I shouldn't be surprised, after all the head honcho won't even take admit culpability when a product is messed up, blaming the consumer again, why shouldn't the employees take the same attitude. *sigh* I guess I should be too upset, the Genius Bar dude did tell Chris if it messed up again to bring it back in and they'd replace it. I just wish our concerns had been addressed. And I? Never want to step foot in an Apple Store again. Just thinking about it now stresses me out.
**Rant Over!

Anyway, I did finish The Colorado Kid by Stephen King tonight. The book was slow starting and never picked up a quick pace, but dawdled along. I picked up the book because the Sci-Fi show Haven is questionably based off of the book. And while a cursory read of the book makes you wonder what, if anything is taken from the book, it's there. The books main theme is What If? Haven takes it further and turns What If? into a different realm of weird. Which I like. But, the main premise of the book is that of a mystery and the different scenarios different people can deduce using only the facts known. Even if those facts make no sense and at first seem to have no cohesive meaning. I have my own theory of the main mystery of the book, but it is quite fun to speculate. *g* As for what I'm reading next? I have two of the books I picked up at the UBS the weekend before last and one library book left. I also have the two books I picked up at BAMM this past weekend. And to be honest? I started reading the Jen Lancaster book again tonight. I needed the smiles and giggles.

Time for me to get some sleep. I hope y'all had a pleasing and low-key Monday. I wish a terrific and simple Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

P.S. Please go Congratulate Dru on her fabulous news!

Exercise: 5 miles on the exercise bike @ level 12, 1 hour Yoga.

Pepper the Adorable!

I took this picture of Pepper earlier this afternoon as we were going outside to check on the garden. Look at that FACE! She's just too cute. And the funny thing is while she likes to look outside through the screen door, she actually makes no moves to get outside. She just likes the smell and what she can see.

It's been yet another hot day here. We stayed inside most of the day, but we ventured out late this afternoon to pick up some fresh corn for dinner this evening and then headed home. Not much else to share about today, we've been taking it easy, mostly. And hiding in the house from the heat. *g* (Though we grilled outside for dinner.)

As for reading? I'm a few chapters in to the Stephen King mystery. The story has that North Eastern feel to it, which I find a bit familiar. I also am trying to stick with it, it just seems a tad slow moving.

Not much from me today. It was actually a pretty quiet day. I hope y'all had a quiet and restful Sunday. I wish a low-key and pleasant Monday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: No. Back at it tomorrow.

An Oreo Oldie!

This picture was taken almost four years ago. Oreo was just as silly then as she can be now. This trash can is located in the LR next to Chris' chair. I have no idea what Oreo may have been thinking to climb in there, but you have to admit it's a funny picture.

It's been a HOT day here. We hit 114 heat index today and had weather alerts all day. It was still registering 100 at 7:45 tonight. It's making it miserable to do anything, but we still managed to get the donations dropped off today. After that we headed to Mass and then after that to BAMM. I know I shouldn't have spent the money, but between the heat and the fact that I saved $8 with coupons grocery shopping yesterday. (Not counting in-store promotions.) So, I bought Unsympathetic Magic by Laura Resnick AND found a copy of Bright Lights, Big Ass by Jen Lancaster on a clearance table and picked it up for $4. I've been wanting to own my own copies of Jen Lancaster's books instead of borrowing them from the library whenever I want to reread them. So, now I have one! Only four more to go. After that? We headed home. I don't know why but I've been exhausted all day and have felt guilty for it, but realize sometimes I'm just going to feel that way. It didn't stop me from doing laundry or flipping our mattress this evening. Nor from cleaning up after Chris cooked and other night time chores AND go ahead and ironing Chris' clothes for work. I meant to do it last weekend but Chris coerced me into taking a week off ironing since he didn't need his clothes for work this past week. I thought it best to iron them late at night after the house has cooled down and there's no sun trying to heat everything up.

Oh, and Chris and cooking? He made homemade quesadillas with fresh homemade salsa. The Out-laws gave us a ton of tomatoes from their garden (I think they have over 30 tomato plants!) when we were over there Thursday and since he's wanted to try his hand at salsa, he gave it a whirl. (Considering this is the only way I can voluntarily get him to eat tomatoes I wasn't complaining!)  It tasted exactly like the fresh salsa from Chipotle, which Daughter and I prefer, so he did a great job! I lucked out marrying a man who knows how to cook. (He's always said he learned as a survival skill living with his Mom's cooking. I believe it.)  It means that when he can (schedule permitting) he's cooked here and there over the years.

As for reading? I picked The Colorado Kid by Stephen King back up. I've only read a few pages of it so far. I guess I'm almost afraid it's going to be a sneaky type of horror book. I tried to read King's horror when I was in Jr. High and High School and I swear it's why I sleep with light on now. *g* Um, yeah, I am susceptible to scary stories. Sad for a...... give me a minute...... 35 year old woman. I can't even watch Rose Red at night. It freaks me out. Daughter thinks it's funny. Do y'all watch horror/scary movies? Or read them? The most I read similar to that these days are Karen Rose's books. *g*

Nothing else from here. Everything has been pretty normal and boring today. And Hot. Too Hot. *sigh* I hope y'all had a relaxing and amusing Sunday. I wish a peaceful and restful Sunday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Too tired today.

My two lovies!

Pepper and Layla are the two kitties that are the most special to me of all our cats. I never set out to have favorites, and be assured I show them all love, but these two touch my heart the most. Pepper in her loving innocence and Layla because I've raised her from when she was only a couple of days old. Both, I guess you could say, needed rescuing the most. And my life has been filled with love, laughter and lightness because of these two. (Not to mention Chris and the kids! *G*)

Another hot, too hot, day here in The South. At one point Chris' car registered 111. That? Is too hot. We've recently received our power bill (we have central AC) and it was HIGH. So, we've been keeping the house like a cave during the day, with the blinds closed and the AC set as high as we can stand it and still be comfortable. It's weird the way our home was built. As a two story home the thermostat is downstairs in the hallway. In the winter we have a kind of baffle that we set to send most of the heat downstairs and in the summer we set it to blow most of the AC upstairs on the theory that heat rises. Right now the upstairs stays cooler, which is okay with me. I don't mind sweating a bit when I'm awake, but not when I sleep! *g*

The kids and I had Chris along with us grocery shopping today. And while I love and adore the man as a shopper he drives me a bit batty. He wants to walk slowly and look at everything. ACK! I just want to get in, get what I need and get out. The heat today didn't help. A good thing having Chris with me, though. Daughter wasn't as snotty to Son. *G* (Their age difference has been very noticeable lately.) Our first stop was Aldi. Not a bad visit, it's just that it was so hot that we never really cooled off in the car on the way to the store, then we stepped out in it to go into the store and we never cooled off while in the store. We then headed to Sam's. Again with the heat. *sigh* The good thing about Sam's? My bill wasn't as high. Chris has cut out most of his processed meals (and lost three pounds so far between that and cutting his cola's! Woo!) so that meant I didn't have to buy him as many of those and the kids addiction to Powerade seems to be waning. Another Yay!
We then headed home, had a late lunch and headed back out. We stopped at the library so Daughter could pick up Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief , a hold of hers that had come in. She was so excited to have the movie she rarely put it down while in the car. *g* We then went off to WW where the above taking time and walking slow to look at everything occurred.
I was ecstatic to be done, but we weren't headed home. ONE more grocery store stop. (I KNOW, that's a lot of grocery stores, but we're trying to catch sales more than ever these days.) We picked up my caffeine and ice cream for the kids and THEN we headed home. I was so glad to get everything put up and then sit down for an extended period of time.

And reading? HA! I read maybe a chapter last night before my eyes became too heavy to read and I haven't had a chance to even crack open my book yet today. Maybe at bedtime. Or tomorrow?

Oh, as for Chris' list? HAHAHAHAHA! He's checked off three things this week. Out of, well I'll be kind, more than three things. That means I've got to somehow pick up the slack sometime and somehow soon. I honestly don't know where I'm going to find the time, or energy to do it, but if I want it done I'll have to try.

That's enough from me. Did y'all have a good Friday? Is it very hot where y'all are? Reading anything good lately? I hope y'all had a nice day. I wish a relaxing and enjoyable Saturday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: Four grocery stores doesn't count? Ah, well. Maybe tomorrow.

Pretty Patches!

Patches is one of the sweetest cats with the saddest look in her eyes. We don't know why she looks so sad all the time, I think it's just her markings and eye color, but trust me when I say she's loved. And don't think that she's a pushover because if one of the other kitties happens to walk too close to her she'll reach out and smack them. (Not hard.) Just for the heck of it. *G*

Another busy day here and another hot day as well. By 5pm this evening the heat index had reached 112 and I was having dreams of an ice water bath. Chris drove Daughter this week to her volunteer work at the Pine Y and confided in me later that he does not envy me my week. He now sees and has first hand knowledge of how tiring and busy the week really is for us. To hear that? To know that he finally understands WHY I am so tired (besides the hypothyroidism) means a lot to me. I guess I needed to feel a bit of validation for all that I do on top of housework and bill-paying and organizing everything.

After Chris took Daughter and arrived back home I vacuumed and took care of a few things around here. I admit to dragging a bit today, but rather than just sit I spent some time with Son and we played with the Wii. Then Chris and Son played with the Wii. We had fun, and best of all spent some time with Son. Soon it was time to head back and meet Daughter for the kids MA class. Their teacher wasn't in the greatest of moods, but as long as he didn't take it out on the kids I was fine. Chris enjoyed watching the kids spar with their teacher and each other because he doesn't usually get a chance due to his schedule. I did my usual and worked out. *g* I could have stayed and watched the kids, but I'm there all the time. I see it all the time. So, I worked out.
After meeting back up with Chris and the kids after their class we headed out. We'd promised the Out-laws we'd have dinner at their house last week and tonight was the designated night. Of course we had to stop and pick up something for Son to eat first. MIL makes NOTHING that my picky child will eat. She went out of her way to make the one thing the rest of us will eat of her cooking as well. Um, not that we won't eat her cooking so as not to hurt her feelings, but this is the one dish we heap compliments on her for. She also make a blackberry cobbler with some of the blackberries they picked with the kids earlier this week. It was yummy! And tasted a lot like my blueberry cobbler. *g* We stayed for over 3 hours and when we left we were loaded down with leftovers and a ton of tomatoes as well as a pot that had belonged to Chris' grandmother. I don't know what we'll do with it, maybe I'll put it up for the kids for when they start their own household. (I have all the pots I need right now.)

As for reading, well, I'm halfway through the Debra Webb book. I just didn't have the time to read more than that today. I'm finding it a bit too easy to put down, but am determined to finish it soon.

And that's all from me. It's been a long day and I am tired. I'm still not sleeping well, though I am finally getting more than four hours sleep, just not all at one time. I hope y'all are getting plenty of rest and had a happy Thursday. I wish a simple, fabulous and fun Friday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 11.50 miles on the bike at level 11 and various weight machines.

Butterscotch helps out!

Chris was uploading the kids schoolwork the other day and started by scanning it. Butterscotch decided that would be a fabulous time to either help or demand attention. *g* Or maybe he wanted to grade the kids work himself? *g*

Another not quite but still tiring day. Chris has been great this week about getting up early and taking Daughter on her early days at the Pine Y. I've enjoyed the chance to grab more than 4 or 5 hours sleep at night for a change. Because of yesterday the both of us were dragging a bit today, those Tuesdays are just exhausting. So, other than laundry and going through Son's closet to clean it up and make up our donations this afternoon I've taken it easy. It turned out Son had a HUGE pile of clothes that no longer fit. He sort of skipped a size or two and a lot of his things (like his Polos shirts) were only worn a couple of times. Daughter cleaned out some stuffed animals from her room (we cleaned out her closet a couple of months ago) and I still have 3 big boxes of books cluttering my stairwell. Son has also outgrown his wagon (um, by a couple of years now but he wasn't willing to let it go until now). Chris decided, looking at everything piled up reading to be donated, that we should have a Yard Sale. This Saturday. I went along with it for a while, but tonight I sat him down and told him to take a good look. We don't really have a lot for a yard sale, plus there is no way it can be organized and advertised adequately within the next two days. The extra funds would come in handy, but we can also really use the deduction for our taxes. And I? Just don't have the time.

After dealing with all that we all headed to the MTY for Son's KidFit class and my Zumba class. Daughter took Son to his class and I headed to Zumba and Chris worked out, too. I'm really liking that our local Y (the one about 15 minutes from the house) has added the KidFit classes for Son's age. He's having a blast learning all kinds of new games and playing with kids close in age.

After that we headed home and made yummy spicy teriyaki chicken salads. We even had some of those crispy wantons for the top. SO good. *g* We settled in and watched Sherlock Holmes, I picked up the DVD from the library yesterday. It was a great movie. Very fun and enjoyable and FUNNY! I've heard there are talks to make a sequel and if so I truly can't wait to see it. This movie is actually one that we'd buy. (After a couple of disastrous movie purchases a few years ago we have a policy where we either rent or borrow from the library before purchasing ANY movie.)

As for reading? I've picked the Debra Webb book back up. I had set it down to read the Jodi Thomas book I picked up and am now enjoying the third chapter. *g* I hope to find time to read some tomorrow.   My TBR pile is slowly dwindling and I have truly appreciated having it this week.

That's it from me. Time to put my feet up and maybe even ice them a bit because I'm hurting. I hope y'all had a wonderful and maybe slightly wacky Wednesday. I wish a thankful and thoughtful Thursday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

P.S. Please say a good thought or prayer for Melissa. Thanks!

Exercise: 1 hour Zumba.

It's that time of year!

The time for BLACKBERRIES! The kids and I look forward to this time of year every summer. This morning the Out-laws picked the kids up and took them to the U-pick it farm. This farm not only has blackberries, but blueberries and also they raise Bee's for honey. This picture was taken this afternoon right before we turned out fingers purple. *g* The fun thing about blackberries is that there are some sweet and juicy and then others that are so tart it almost sucks your lips back toward your throat! *G*

Well, y'all know how our day started now. The Out-laws picked the kids up this morning and took them to the farm and then brought Son and the berries home and dropped Daughter at the Pine Y on their way home. (It truly is on their way home.) I vacuumed not only the carpets and stairs this morning, but the furniture and then swept and mopped. We then ran to Lowe's to take back the ceiling fan part I picked up last week because it didn't fit. We ended up having to pick up another fan and after a couple of errands headed home so Chris could start to install it. He got most of it installed by the time we had to leave to pick Daughter up and head to the library because they were having a Teen Writer's Workshop this afternoon. I sent Chris and Son home so they could grab something to eat and stayed with Daughter. While home Chris finished installing fan and then he and Son came and picked up Daughter and I and we all headed for the kids MA class. Only guess what? The MA teacher had a family issue come up, something the MA Director knew about at least an hour earlier and no one bothered to call and let us know. So we wasted a trip over there, not to mention HI! Gas costs money! *sigh* And the MA director? He knows I'm miffed about this, especially as this is the second time this month this has happened.
Also? Daughter has been volunteering there to earn her fee for the Life Guard test. Only they're not teaching her CPR or the simple first aid that Life Guards here are required to know. She's helping with the swim lessons and acting as a gopher for the MA/Aquatic Director and the other Life Guards. I'm irritated because I was led to believe she would actually be learning something. And I'm beginning to wonder why in the heck I'm driving constantly to get her there when she's not learning anything. AND she's not helping out at home anymore without constant fussing, either. Teenagers. Guaranteed to make your head implode. *sigh*

Anyway, we headed home and made homemade french fries and had burgers. I also had some of those yummy blackberries pictured above for dessert. *G* While at the Y this afternoon I picked up another Jodi Thomas book, Twisted Creek. I'm halfway through it and am again enthralled at how this author draws the reader in the lives of her characters.

Anyway, this is it for me. It's been a long and tiring day. I hope y'all had a pleasing and smile-filled day. I wish a wonderful Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Since class was canceled so were my work-out plans. Darnit. Back at it tomorrow.

Baking inside and out!

What does a normal person do when it's in the low 90's but feels like it's in the 100's? Bake of course! Kidding, we all know I'm not normal. But, Daughter and Chris requested bananas the last time I went grocery shopping and then ate them for a day or two and then promptly forgot they were in there. Not that I mind making banana bread. *g* And if I'm the only one who really likes it, well then, their loss. *G*

It's been a different type of day here today with Chris on vacation for the week. He's made sure to upload all the kids work to the homeschool curriculum provider we use, who keep records for us. Technically it's called an Umbrella School. But, it suits us because our State is, while not homeschool unfriendly, not exactly welcoming with open arms to homeschoolers, either.

As for the other things I have on a list for Chris to take care of? Still waiting. *g* He was kind enough to roast a chicken for dinner this evening. Especially since I keep roasting them upside down. (I second guess myself too much with whole chickens. *G*)

As for reading? I found time today to finish Welcome to Harmony by Jodi Thomas. The book isn't a straight romance, but is so deeply written that there are many characters to grab your interest. It was a heartwarming look at life in a small town and looks into some of the residents lives. I truly enjoyed it and can't wait for the next connected book due out later this Fall. Next up? I haven't had a chance to start another book yet today. But, I should get the chance tonight. *g*

That's about all from today. My schedule has already been upset today, though not on purpose. I can only hope tomorrow will go according to plan. I can hope. *g* I hope y'all had a nice day. One filled with good friends and laughter. I wish a terrific Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Yoga.

Cheese Lover!

Pepper is notorious in our household for her love of anything cheese. We buy those cheese with cracker stick packs for snacks for the kids and Pepper has gotten where she can HEAR the pack as you walk with it. Whoever has a pack then also has Pepper shadowing them around. We were nice the other day and let her clean out what cheese was left out of the plastic pack. Look at that girl go! *G*

It's been a humid and busy day. This afternoon we headed to Sam's and picked up more waters and cat food for the strays outside. After that we headed to Lowe's because Chris has promised to paint this week while he's off. Yes, Chris will be off. The entire week. Ack. I've already warned him that he'd better respect the schedule we have in place and that I seriously need him to step up and get some things done around here for me. Hence the paint supply purchases this afternoon. *g* We need a new brush because he's promised to paint the molding. I can't hold a paintbrush for an extended amount of time anymore, so I'm really hoping he comes through for me. I know we spent at least an hour looking through Sam's and then another in Lowe's because he likes to "look around". *G* (When I go grocery shopping on Friday the man had best learn to look fast! *G*)
After all that we headed home and I noticed a storm heading our way. Between the sun hiding behind the dark clouds, the wind and the temperature dropping I decided it would be the perfect time to mow the lawn. I managed it, I don't know how, but I managed to mow the grass before the rain hit. I call it Cardio-mowing. *G* We also clipped the heads off three of our sunflowers. Hoping for success with this continuing adventure.

As for reading? I'm still reading the Harmony book by Jodi Thomas. I hope to find time to read tonight as I'm only a quarter of the way through. I have a feeling my reading time will shrink this week. Oh, well. At least my house should look nice. *G*

I have things to take care of so this is it for me. I hope y'all had  peaceful Sunday. I also hope you rested up for the start of the beginning of the week. I wish a low-key, stress free and smiley Monday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: See above new invention of cardio-mowing. *G*

Sunflower heights!

Remember me telling y'all that the sunflower that we first thought was extraordinarily tall, was in fact surpassed? He's the proof. I? Am about 5ft 5in. tall. The tallest sunflower is just a an inch or so below 9 FEET tall. We're amazed at the strength and beauty of these flowers. And this picture was taken yesterday after a drenching downpour, hence the other sunflowers looking so wilted. Also, we're not quite sure when to "harvest" the heads, so am kind of letting nature take it's course right now.

Not much happened today, we had another sauna like day and this afternoon headed to the library where yet another of my holds has come in. I now have Welcome to Harmony by Jodi Thomas. If that weren't enough after the library I asked Chris if we could try Mr. K's used books and more. We've been in the store twice before and both times were pretty disappointing, but I thought that since the store has been opened almost a year now they might have a better selection. While the selection still wasn't the greatest, it was pretty good and I ended up picking up three books. One of the books is one I had seen at BAMM that looked interesting but I waited to see if the library had it (It didn't). From Mr. K's I picked up: Shadow Dance by Susan Andersen, Obsessed by Susan Andersen (I went for the first book, but this one sounded interesting, too.) and Never Happened by Debra Webb. (One of the now defunct Harlequin Next line books.) I almost picked up two other books from the YA section as well, but they were more expensive. I spent $7 for the three books. Not too bad. Chris picked up an anime movie while we were there, too. And guess what? I have a TBR pile! It's a small one compared to y'alls, but I have one! After that we headed home and the kids headed outside while Chris and I put our feet up. I have been dragging today. I think this week wore me out and it was time for me to sit still for a bit. *g* And yeah, you know me. I was taking care of laundry and a few other things anyway.

I keep meaning to do the fun meme type things, so here goes; I've picked this one up from Dru and Tori.

Five Things Always in My Purse: wallet, keys, digital camera, earphones, swiss army knife.

Five Things Always in My Wallet: Drivers License, Insurance Cards, HSLDA card, Library Cards, BAMM discount card.

Five Things Always in My Refrigerator: yogurt, milk, cheese, bread, water

Five Things Always in My Closet: clothes, shoes, laundry hamper, wrapping paper, sewing machine (that I'm scared of).

Five Things Always on My Desk: (Having to fudge this one as we don't have a designated desk anymore, but have a computer armoire.) Router, printer, post-it notes, Modem, two cat statues that were gifts.


That's all from me. It's late, too late and my eyes are drooping. I will tell y'all I finished the Cathie Linz book and have started reading the Jodi Thomas book I picked up today. (Since I've had this book on hold for over 2 weeks and stalked the database for over a month for this book!) Anyway, I hope y'all had a fun Saturday. I wish a peaceful and restful Sunday. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Eh, no. I have seriously been dragging today.

I know it's here someplace!

Butterscotch was on the trail of a fly that managed to get in the other evening when we checked on our garden. Either that, or he wants to know how to use the microwave. *g* Pardon the mess, but rest assured things were set to rights not long after this picture was made.

When Chris took my appointment to the Apple Store earlier this week we thought they'd just replace the casing right there. No. They had to order the part, so today (despite being tired and my hands tingly and numb) I took my PreciousMac to the Store for it's repair. The first time I went in someone took notice and things were taken care of, I dropped off the computer and was told that the repair would be a while because they were so swamped and didn't have enough techs right then. So, I went along with it and the kids and I left and headed to BAMM where I looked around. I found a book I want but am see-sawing on buying it. I have library books and am trying to keep a tight reign on my book budget. So, we left empty-handed. We then headed to Target because the kids wanted snacks and I wanted a drink. (It was HOT today.) While there we finally found a belt for Daughter that was thin enough, but punk-ish enough looking for her (it has dainty studs on it). We had to buy it. It was the only one that was a. black, b. her size and c. it was on clearance. We then headed to Lowe's where I finally picked up some caulk and found a repair kit for the ceiling fan in the LR that Daughter somehow managed to break and we can't turn it on unless it's on low or it swings wildly. While there I drooled over all the crepe myrtles and when doing that we happened upon our first weird thing. On one of the dwarf crepe myrtles was a Praying Mantis. Son would shuffle to the right and it's head would follow him and then Son would shuffle to the left and it's head would follow him. It was quite fun. *G* We decided to browse the store while looking for the caulk and on the same isle as the caulk came across the weirdest thing I've seen in that store in a while. FOAM stain. Uh-huh. Stain that is delivered as a foam. We may be the only ones that find this weird, but since I do most the furniture refinishing here, I've never seen anything like it and stood there in the isle and took a picture with my cell phone and sent it to Chris. *G*
The Apple Store told me they'd call me when my computer was done, but by this time a repair that should have only taken a half hour should have been completed(especially since I dropped it off at 1:15pm and was told it would be fixed between 2pm and 3pm and it was now 3:45 pm)(I kept waiting for them to call!), even with their busy schedule, so we headed back to the Apple Store. Now, here's where I feel a bit ashamed. When we walked in I'm guessing someone should have "checked me in" to their system. The guy was helping someone and I stood there patiently, but when he was done he glanced in my direction and then WALKED OFF. Okay, I thought. I'll just head back to the Genius Bar, they can check me in and I can take my computer home. Um, no. I stood there for fifteen minutes. No one asked me anything. They were busy, I'll grant them that, but when one became free he asked if my name was Charlie and when I replied no, he immediately turned around and starting doing something else. So, I stood there another five minutes and felt like an idiot. And felt bad. See, I've been feeling pretty good about the whole shy thing lately. I thought maybe I was overcoming it. But, today made me realize I haven't overcome it at all. I've just become comfortable with the places we go regularly and the people we see regularly. When I'm taken out of that routine I immediately return to my mantra of 'Oh God, please don't laugh at me or notice me'. I told y'all that to continue my experience.
I finally gave up and decided to wait until the Genius Bar wasn't as busy and walked over to where the kids were looking at the iPod speaker accessories. (They were in my sight line and no more than five feet from me at all times.) The guy that was supposed to have checked me in finally noticed I was carrying an empty computer case and walked over and asked me if I'd been checked in. I told him no, I hadn't, but that I had been there earlier and was back to pick up my repaired computer. He said that I was checked in (no I wasn't) and walked off. *sigh* At this point, this is where I felt hopeless and a bit of despair. I just wanted to take the kids, get my computer and go home. And Daughter? Daughter somehow understood, or noticed that I felt like I was going to cry, because she walked right over to the Genius Bar and stood there with her arms crossed, her hip cocked out and an irritated look on her face and was immediately helped! My fifteen year old Daughter, I am ashamed to say, did what I could not do. She stood up for me. Daughter called me over from where I had been looking with Son and we were given my repaired laptop and left for home. I know now I am not over the shy thing. I just wanted to get away from all those people in the store and was severely uncomfortable with that many people around. (Um, not to mention in pain because my heels were hurting at this point.)
Why is it I can't stand up for myself, but mess with my kids and I will fight for them? (I didn't have to fight to have Daughter participate in her Assistant Life-Guard gig, but I did beg nicely and pull some strings for her.) Daughter has been bragging to her Dad tonight that they must have been afraid of her bruised and cracked knuckles and because she was wearing her Karate t-shirt. I? Think they recognized someone who had confidence and was irritated and wouldn't take no for an answer. I am so proud of her.
I was most happy to arrive home and sit down with my feet up after all that. Not long after Chris arrived home and I made dinner and we have enjoyed Eureka and Haven on the Sci-Fi channel. Chris was kind enough to clean up tonight and we all headed upstairs after I took care of a few regular household things. The kids practiced a bit of their Basic Attack moves and I played "attacker" so they could go through the moves and now it's time to get some rest. *g*

Oh, as for reading? I finished the Merline Lovelace book and already can't wait for the next book in the series. Though I do wish her love interest had behaved a bit differently when faced with a come-hither from another woman. He didn't behave badly, but I like a good clean clarification in those situations. All in all a good book! What I'm reading now? While at the library yesterday I picked up Big Girls Don't Cry by Cathie Linz. I didn't mention it because it's a reread for me. I'm halfway through and should finish it tonight or early tomorrow if given the chance. *g*

That's all from me. I have one more load of laundry to do and read a little and hope to sleep a lot. I hope y'all have had an enjoyable and fantastic Friday. I wish an amusing and relaxing Saturday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: I'm hoping to count all the walking we've done today.

Queen of the Castle!

Layla really likes this box, one of the reasons it's still sitting in a corner of our LR. I've yet to figure out how to give it a turret, but the kitties don't seem to mind. Especially since they're just sleeping in it. *g*

The heat and humidity are atrocious here right now and I'd prefer if we could skip the rest of July and August altogether and head straight into Fall. I don't know why, but October is my absolute Favorite month.
I didn't sleep well last night, blind panic hinders rest for me. Added into that is all the trouble I've already had sleeping this week and you've a very tired Brandy. After dropping Daughter off this afternoon Son and I headed home and he watched a movie for a while and I took care of some household things. We also played the Wii a bit right before we left. We stopped by the library and picked up two of my holds that had come in (The library has been pretty good this week!) I now have (added to the others picked up this week): Stay by Allie Larkin, a new to me author and Ghost Shadow by Heather Graham. Son and I then headed to the Y for the kids MA class and to meet up with Daughter.
While the kids were in class I worked out and have you ever worked out and the only pockets are ONE back pocket on your shorts? I had to put my phone in my bra! Um, to be particularly honest, I have this problem every time I wear these shorts, but I brought it up because on one machine I took my phone and placed it on the cupholder (why, just why?) on the machine. And promptly forgot it. I moved on to another machine and didn't remember until I was upstairs and halfway to the dojo. I had to run back down and hope to goodness no one stole it or possibly turned it in. Luckily it was right where I had left it. I can't believe I did that! I've never forgotten my phone before. That run down and back up totally took the little energy reserves I had left. By the time I made it to the dojo I was shaking with fatigue. I sat and drank a bottle of water and tried to rest for a few moments and then the kids and I headed home.
Not long after arriving home Chris called. He'd talked to the HR person and has been cleared! After speaking with some others in the class the HR person determined Chris wasn't even in the class training when the trouble occurred. However, Chris had been thinking on this and remembered someone else who WAS responsible for the class was there and should have to answer some questions. But, the good news is, we don't have to live with panic! The bad news? Grown adults can act worse than high schoolers. (The trainees.) *sigh* Oh, and the class has been grumbling that Chris makes them *gasp* do WORK. Golly Gee! Who would think that just because a company is actually paying you to attend this training and all that it entails that you actually have to, I don't know, DO SOME WORK? What is wrong with people in our society today? I was brought up that if you got a job that paid money, you did the work. If you didn't you were either fired or if you didn't like it, you quit. Not so today. Today people want to be paid for the minimum effort they can get away with. It's just sad.

Anyway, we're feeling much better tonight and than you all for your kind words, prayers and support. I wish I could have been more specific, but couldn't. I'm sorry about that. But, not sorry to know how truly lucky we are that I have such great friends.

Because of the heat and the stress of the past two days Chris and I did not want to cook tonight, so we had a fabulous salad instead. Yum! I picked up a great ranch dressing made with yogurt last week and it compliments a spinach and mixed green salad very well.

Did I tell y'all that Monday my neighbor (Mrs.M) had surgery? She had laprascopic hernia surgery and breast reduction surgery done. (This is the same neighbor that had gastric bypass last year.) (Also the same neighbor that has been living in Wisconsin to be with her Military husband.) She came home Tuesday and had asked beforehand if I could pop in and check on her for a while this week since her son works and her daughter has her own family to care for. (Don't go there. I don't get it, either.) Anyway, yesterday and today I have been checking on her, but think she's fine. She thought she'd be doped up on pain-killers, but instead has been stubborn and skipped them and while in pain, she seems to be doing well.

Oh, and as for reading? I finished Silent Scream by Karen Rose last night. I liked it alot. The heroine was strong, intelligent, yet vulnerable and hero was the same. *g* The secondary characters were a good fit as well, though I was saddened by one thing. And that thing? While heart-breaking, was understandable to within the story-line. Now I'm reading Now You See Her by Merline Lovelace, due to a special kindness, and am already a fourth of the way through. (I started reading the book at the Y.) I enjoyed the first book featuring Air Force Lt. Samantha Spade (though why I forgot the Sam Spade thing? I have no idea. *G*) and have been looking forward to this reading this book and so far it does not disappoint.

And that's all from my very tired and possible rambling brain. I'm biding my time for when I can tell everyone it's time for bed. Without hearing complaints about how early it is. *g* I hope y'all had an energetic and happy Wednesday. I wish a thankful and thoughtful Thursday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 11.40 miles on the bike at level 11 and various weigh machines.

Sunflower picture!

Is it just me, or does this sunflower look like a droopy lion head? And the one sunflower that was seven foot tall? Has been surpassed by another that is at least half a foot taller than that!

It's been a very stressful day. I can't say anything other than something happened at Chris' job today that he felt he had to come home because my poor hubby was in tears at one point and short of breath with heart palpitations in another. He's done nothing wrong, but it's hurt him badly and has me freaking out. I've taken stress to the max today and am not sure how long this situation is going to last. But, I know I won't feel better, or safe, until a couple of months have passed.
So, other than to tell y'all I'm still reading the Karen Rose book, this is it from me.

I hope y'all had a lovely and stress-free day. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: No. Meant to then above situation happened.

Oreo was un-invited to dinner!

This picture makes me smile. I took it last night as Chris was grilling out. We had several little green bugs get in while he was going in and out, all what we call leaf-hoppers. With this many cats, summer bugs are an entertaining show to watch. Though if we can reach them we try and scoot them outside. Here Oreo is mesmerized by a leaf-hopper on the wall in the kitchen. What made me laugh as I took this picture is the absolute concentration and certifiably crazy look on her face. And the fact that she was sitting in the chair that was slightly pulled away from the table as if she were invited for dinner. *g*

It has been one hot, humid and hectic day. Son and I dropped Daughter off at the Pine Y this afternoon and headed home where we both fiddled around a bit. All too soon it was time to go back and pick her up and then head to the library for their Teen Summer Reading Program event. This week they were doing Mendi, henna tattooing. Now, I expected to have someone there to explain what Mendi was, what henna was and what it was made of and maybe have someone there to do the Mendi. What we got instead? Two librarians with no artistic ability at all and three books on Mendi on a table as you walked in. They really dropped the ball on this one. Most of the teens attending were girls who ended up writing their names, or their boyfriends names on their hands, wrists or down their legs. *sigh* Daughter wanted a trinity knot, but no one there could draw one and she tried by practicing on some paper but couldn't do it. (Did I mention that at this point the librarians gave up and were giving out the henna in little cones to the teens?) So, instead she drew a cross on her outside ankle instead. I know library's budgets were cut this year, but could they not have found a volunteer or done something else? I just think it was handled poorly, as has been most of the events we've been to this summer.
After the event we headed BACK to the Pine Y for the kids MA class, where we were met with a power outage, though not 15 minutes after we arrived the power came back on. The kids had class and I went to work out. I had to cut my weights short because I ran out of energy. Ran out to the point where my hands couldn't grip much anymore and were shaking. I just can't seem to keep up this week with my energy level. So, I walked back up to the kids MA class which ended not long after that anyway. We then headed home and as I haven't been home since early this afternoon we had simple sandwiches and baked fries for dinner.
Since then we've watched a bit of tv, Warehouse 13 and Memphis Beat. Both are really enjoyable and fun in different ways.
Oh, meant to tell y'all. When I was at the library they two of my holds in. So, I now have Silent Scream by Karen Rose (which I started reading tonight at the Y) and Spying in High Heels by Gemma Halliday. I've tried the series by Halliday before, but for some reason or another didn't finish the first book, so now that a few years have passed have decided to try again. Oh, and I've finished the comic book compilation. *g* It was a cute read.
And that's it from me. It's already really late and if I'm going to get at least 5 hours sleep, I need to head offline now. I hope y'all had a good day. I wish a wonderful Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 11.08 miles on the bike at level 11 and various weight machines.
P.S. I've received an award from several of y'all and have meant to do it but keep being ditzy and forgetting. I WILL get to it soon.

Sweetly Devoted!

Or waiting for crumbs. Pick one. *G* I don't know how, but I always seem to forget that Pepper likes to sleep between my chair and and the ottoman when I'm sitting in the chair in the LR. I'll set my feet down to get up to do something and touch her fur and instantly remember. (No worries, I don't actually step on HER. I may forget for some odd reason every. single. time. BUT, I always remember to gently step down.) I think she sleeps there for two reasons. She feels safe near me and she wants to know when I'm going into the kitchen. Our chubbette Pepper loves cheese and constantly hopes any trip into the kitchen involves cheese. Um, she may be spoiled just a tad. *G*

As y'all can see, we have internet once again. It's becoming quite frustrating to lose service every time we get a down-pour of rain and have AT&T refuse to put the pieces of this particular puzzle together and actually, you know, listen to us. For some reason they want to believe it's something inside the house, um, yeah, that's why the rain OUTSIDE affects it? Instead of something outside that they'd be, you know, RESPONSIBLE FOR FIXING. Gah. This issue is one of the reasons we really tried to find an alternative to our internet provider. We tried using a mobile hotspot but didn't like the speeds and didn't like the fact that there could be security issues. We were willing to try Charter (Well, Chris was willing to try and despite bad feelings about it, I gave in at first.), but there was no way someone was going to drill a hole outside my house into my attic (running a line up the side of the house to do so) and then drill more holes from my attic into the walls. No way, No how was that going to happen and I put my foot down. Good thing, too. Because Chris found that Charter has a bad rep in our area after all. Score one for intuition. So, now we're stuck with our current provider until Chris' company begins to offer it's internet services in our area. Which could be another two years. *sigh* Anyway, enough of that.
Chris took my precious Mac (yes, I'm going to keep calling it that, mostly because this computer really is my life-line to the world outside my small insular world of the library and the Y. Places where I am actually starting to interact with people, a bit anyway.) with him this morning to work and the kids and I headed to take Daughter to the Pine Y. After dropping off Daughter I surprised Son and treated him to breakfast at Krispy Kreme. We haven't been there in almost 5 months and while he was absolutely silent all the way taking Daughter to the Pine Y, on the way home he did not stop talking. (And that's BEFORE eating his doughnuts!) He was thrilled, and I was glad to make him smile. After picking out our doughnuts (Yes, I was bad. I had one, too.) we headed home where I tried hard not to zone out considering I'd only gotten about 3.5 hours sleep last night. Luckily MIL picked Daughter up and brought her home for me because around that time I was so tired I would have been worried about driving. MIL stayed for a few minutes and brought me lovely tomatoes again and a Rose Tree. And it's exactly what it sounds like. A rose plant that has been somehow made to resemble a small tree. I'll plant it in the backyard as I'm still holding out hope for either crepe myrtles or a dogwood for the side of the house. *g* Except for pine trees, I truly believe you can't have enough trees. *G* I spent the morning and a bit of the afternoon dealing with laundry and then gave in and took a small nap. Why is it whenever I take a nap everything needs attention? The library called, the buzzer sounded on the dryer, Chris called....... I ended up with an hour long catnap. Better than nothing. It gave me enough energy to handle the rest of the evening.
Soon the kids and I headed off to the library. Three of my holds had come in: The Wedding of Cathy and Irving by Cathy Guisewite (What? I find the comics cute.), The Colorado Kid by Stephen King (a mystery, not horror, never ever reading his horror again-GAH!)(This book is what the new Sci-Fi show Haven is based upon and me being the curious person I am......) and Ravenous by Sharon Ashwood, a new-to-me author who I found by seeing a book at BAMM that I was interested in, but the library didn't have it, they do however have this book which is as good a way to be introduced to a new author. Oh, and last night I finished the Annette Blair book. I really enjoyed it, though there may have been some tiny things that bugged me, but that were easily overlooked. Overall I liked the book and can't wait for the next in the series. And since then? I've started the Cathy book. *G*
After the library the kids and I headed to the Y for Yoga. My regular teacher was absent, but we had a brand new teacher (actually a regular from our Monday classes) who did a much better job than any of the other Yoga teachers this Y has. Um, besides my favorite teacher, of course. This was her first class to teach-ever and she did a good job. I was glad she also seemed to understand the importance of music (to me anyway) in her class, nothing too restful but with a decent and soothing beat to keep energy levels up.
After class the kids and I headed home and met Chris who began dinner. Which was YUMMY. Per my request he made barbecue chicken (on the grill, which is why he cooked it. I am scared of the grill.) with grilled veggies and a side salad. And then we sat to enjoy the new season of The Closer and the new show Rizzoli and Isles on TNT. I am so glad The Closer is back and the Rizzoli and Isles was GOOD. Chris and I really enjoyed it and can see adding it to our regular viewing.

And after that? Bedtime. *g* Which leads to now because I am drooping, dropping and for some reason aching like mad here. (No, it wasn't the yoga class I've been aching since last night hence the lack of sleep.) I hope y'all had a good, strong start to the week. I wish a terrific Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Yoga. Can I also count the number of times I went up and down stairs today to do laundry? *G*

Our Interner Provider...

UPDATED! Can y'all tell Chris typed up the following post? *g* we have Internet again and I'm online thanks to my iPod, though my presence will be limited. I wish each of you a great day! B.
Sucks! It rained today and suprise, suprise, our in ternet is down again. My computer goes to the Apple store tomorrow to fix the case, so I'll try to get online with my iPod. Cross your fingers. I hope ya'll have a fabulous and entergetic Monday. Good night, B.

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Fluffy Patches

I wish I could say that Patches is all fluff, but I'd be wrong. I can tell you that she is sweet and sounds tiny, but isn't. I can also tell you that she's the biggest calico I've ever seen and that we've nicknamed her "voice" as a Minnie Mouse voice. I caught her napping under the window the other day and had to share with y'all.

I had things to tell y'all yesterday, but since the internet went down and after everything we've done today.... well, I can't remember what I was going to share! *g* I can tell y'all we went grocery shopping yesterday. The first two places were just the kids and I and we took the big cooler and filled it with ice because of the heat. Later we went back out with Chris, after he arrived home from work, and gave in and we returned to WW. The past two weeks I'd been paying attention and WW prices really were cheaper and for a family on a budget sometimes I just have to do things I don't like.
Anyway, today we headed out to Mass and afterwards we went to.... the new Apple Store that just opened. Just opened today, that is. Chris and the kids had a blast in there for almost an hour. One good thing came out of it for me, though. My MacBook has been cracking at the edges (and also I have fissures on two of the sides, the casing is definitely bad on this one.) and I haven't done anything to have it fixed because that meant shipping my computer and it being gone for a couple of weeks. But, today I made an appointment to have it looked at and fixed because we were told it should take no more than 24 hours to fix. WOO-HOO! So, on Monday I take my precious computer to Apple and will be without it for at least a day. Ack! But, it'll be fixed. I keep telling myself that so I won't freak out.
After the Apple Store we checked out a couple of stores looking for a new pair of slacks for Chris for work. I know, exciting, right? *g* I wish I could have found the dark grey I had been looking for, but settled for a semi-dark color instead. I would look at a rack in a store and turn to look at another rack and bump into Chris who would be right behind me. At one point I told him to go join the kids at looking at the Apple vending machine and that I'd call if him if I found something. What? It was just easier that way.
We then headed by BAMM for a few minutes, but shockingly I didn't see much I wanted to read. Of course there were books there that I wouldn't mind trying, by new to me authors, but I only have so much to spend (talk about a tight budget!) and didn't have my list with me and just wasn't willing to take a chance. Maybe the library will get on the ball soon and get in the six books I have on Hold. I can hope, right? In the meantime I'm reading Death by Diamonds by Annette Blair. I'm only a few chapters into it, but am already enjoying it.
We've since arrived home and had a quick dinner. I'm doing load after load of linens today and am anticipating a buzzer at any moment, so I'm headed offline. I hope y'all had an entertaining and enjoyable day. I wish a peaceful and restful Sunday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Not today, though we did walk all over the mall. Does that count? *G*

Internet Connection Down Again-UPDATED!

UPDATED! We have internet again. No idea why, and neither does AT&T. Though they keep trying to blame the modem we have now replaced twice and the lines inside the house. Ha, no. Curious how we seem to always have issues AFTER it rains. I'll be back with a regular post tonight! *G* Hope y'all are having a pleasurable Saturday!

Our internet is down once again. Maybe AT and T will eventually figure out what they're doing. Back when I can. Have a great day, B.

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Cat nap castle!

I'm thinking of adding a turret to the box and calling it a castle. The cats are seriously enjoying sleeping in there, hence this photo of Fireball. I don't know how long I'll keep the box, but it'll stay in the corner until they grow tired of it. *g* Ooh, tired? Nap? Bad Brandy.  *g*

It's been another scorcher here. Chris' car has an outside temperature gauge and today it had 103 listed.  I don't think that was counting the humidity. Bleh. I've tried to take it a bit easy today since I was so hard on my feet yesterday, but wasn't as successful as I should have been. It would help if I took some ibuprofen to help the inflammation, but we're out and most store shelves are pretty empty as the stock hasn't been replenished much because of the investigation about the recall. Ah, well. This afternoon the kids and I headed to the MA class and things went normally, no cancelled class today. While the kids were in class I worked out and met up with them as their class was ending. I did get a chance to see their teacher making them do the "army crawl" on their stomaches, using their elbows as leverage to move themselves across the floor. Sounds weird for MA class, right? Their teacher is also concerned with their physical fitness and endurance and out of the two classes they have each week one of those is a 'work out' day where they do exercises meant to help with their strength and endurance, both needed for MA, anyway. Don't think their teacher is mean, he gives them several water breaks and has been known to pop a band-aid on one of my kids when he felt it was needed. *g* I call him the younger brother I never had. *g* Just because he's hyper and funny and so, so YOUNG. You know that energy you had at 20? Multiply it, 'cause this guy practically vibrates with it some days. Of course he's also been known to pout. Oh, never in class. I think he picks up on my maternal instincts and seriousness and wants to make me laugh. Hence the younger brother comment, as I've seen Son do the same thing to Daughter.

After class we headed by the library to drop of a video of Son's and while there I picked up a book for Daughter that was for sale for FIFTY CENTS. It's titled Simon and Schuster Handbook for Writers. I bought it for Daughter because I thought it might be useful to her, and to show her I support her and want to help her in/with her writing. She's already started looking through it and reading it. *g*

In reading? I have managed to finish up the last Mudbug book by Jana DeLeon. I so wish it weren't the last book. The humor and romance and mystery were such a fabulous combination. I really enjoyed the book and it will sit with the others in the series on my keeper shelves. I wish more authors wrote humorous romantic mystery's. *G* I don't ask for much, do I? *G* Next up is the Annette Blair book. I will start it either tonight or tomorrow some time.

Anyway, time for me to head offline. I hope y'all had a simple and delightful day. I wish a fun and fantastic Friday for y'all.(It's grocery shopping day here, in the heat. Gah.) Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 11.15 miles on the bike at level 11 and various weight machines.

Look at those whiskers!

Can you believe how long Butterscotch's whiskers are? I swear he's smiling because I took his picture. Butterscotch is actually a vain cat, you wouldn't think a cat could have that problem, but this is a cat that KNOWS he's handsome. *G*And crazy. *g*

Another hot and semi-busy day, at least here, anyway. This afternoon after vacuuming, cleaning and laundry I took the kids to the library to see a puppet show featuring two stories, The Rainbow Fish and The Three Little Fish and the Shark. *g* It was cute-and packed! I've never seen so many people attend one of the Summer Reading Program Events! Son sat on the floor, with about 30 other kids, and Daughter and I sat in chairs that were positioned along the walls of the room. The lady next to me had a little girl, about 18 months old and cute as a button. She took a shine to me and at one point decided she wanted to sit in my lap! One of Son's friends also attended and they had a good time.
After the event we headed home where the kids played outside for a bit and bugged me about when we were leaving for the Y because I told them I was taking them swimming this evening. And their friends were going to be there, too. I attended Zumba and had Son try a new Kid Fit class aimed at 7-11 year olds. He had a good time and it seems we've added yet another activity to our schedule. *g* After Zumba and Son's class we headed for the pool where the kids friends had already arrived. Daughter had a blast with them and Son and I had some fun as well. (He's the youngest and while he's trying to be a better swimmer, he doesn't rough-house like they do so I kept him with me.) Son decided to swim laps and did about twelve of them. Each lap was a little different, he used a boogie board for two laps and he tried the backstroke for another and he had a blast. He is improving with his swimming, but still wears the safety -belt type floating device. Chris arrived from work not long after we'd been in the pool and he swam a few laps as well. I'm always happy when he exercises. *g* (I even got a few in.) and before we knew it the kids and I had been there for almost two hours and it was time to head home because we were all starving! And if you think I drove home in my bathing suit because my exercise clothes were still damp and sweaty? You'd be right. *G* Bleh.
I hopped in the shower and Chris fired up the grill tonight. I always like it when we grill, less clean up. *G* Of course now I'm paying dearly for attending Zumba. My feet are killing me. I know I'm going to have to give in and see the Doc soon. I know I keep saying that. I mean it this time.

Since dinner I've take care of a few household thing and buzzed Son's hair. And have FINALLY been able to put my feet up. *G* I haven't been able to read much today and am not sure how much I'll read tonight considering I am tired. *G* I'm hoping tomorrow is a slow day. But, I'll settle for a semi-slow day. *G*
I hope y'all had a wonderful Wednesday. I wish a pleasurable Thursday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Zumba, laps in the pool and following Son all over the pool. *G*

A leftover box and some imagination!

When I told Chris I needed some boxes to put books in when I went through my bookcase he brought three home from work. Between my bookcases and Son's we filled up three (I already had one.) and had another leftover. The cats were investigating it when I suggested we seal it and cut an opening to make a kitty house. We did that Sunday afternoon, not long after Midnight took a nap in it and then, even though her paw was swollen at the time, Layla decided to nap in it as well. She spent 2 HOURS in that box and really seemed to enjoy it. I took another picture of Fireball asleep in there today. Isn't it amazing how easily pleased kitties are with a box and a pair of scissors? *g*

It's been a rather slow and very hot day. After yesterday's activities and a night of little good sleep I woke tired and have been dragging all day. My neighbor stopped by this morning (Ms.M) and asked a favor, she's going in for surgery next Monday and knows she'll be sent home Tuesday and was wondering if we could check on her every couple of hours or so while her Son is at work. Considering we adore Ms. M I said that would be no trouble.
This evening we headed out for the kids MA class and had to deal with some stupid drivers. What's funny is I tend to fuss at drivers when I drive (Not loudly.) and today even Daughter, sitting in the passenger seat, got in on the act when I had to stop suddenly because the guy in front of me forgot what a blinker was for. At the same time she and I said "Ever hear of a blinker, dude?". I'm not sure my little driving quirk rubbing off on her is a good thing or a bad thing? *g* No sooner did we arrive for the kids class than the teacher walks up and says that he has to cancel class. There was a swim meet downstairs and only two life guards and they needed him to help out since he's a certified life guard. *sigh* I drove all that way and had to turn around and drive back. Add in that I had had to psyche myself up for a work out considering how tired I was and add in the sick feeling I get from the heat and instead of heading to the other Y to work out the kids and I headed home instead. By the time we arrived home I had a headache and kept it all night long. So, we'll just chalk this day up to a loss.
The good thing about today? I had a bit of a chance to read this afternoon and am now halfway through the book by Jana DeLeon. On one hand I can't wait to finish it and on the other I'm sad to see the series end and I have no idea if the author is working on anything else! I hope so!
Another good thing about today is that Warehouse 13 on Sci-Fi (I refuse to type the idiotic new branding they came up with.) was/is back tonight for it's second season! I'm glad the show moved in a new direction with a different villain, instead of dragging the other story-line through another season. And then there was a new Deadliest Warrior. I didn't really have a favorite this week, but still enjoyed the match-up.

And that's it from me. I'm still fighting a headache, but finally gave in and took something for it, and need to get some sleep. I hope y'all had a good Tuesday. I wish a wonderful Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: Blame the combo of heat and exhaustion, but no. Back at it tomorrow.

Lovely Pepper!

I truly think Pepper is adorable, actually, we all do. She is also very sweet and playful. She enjoyed it the other afternoon when I opened the patio door and let some fresh air inside. She sat in front of that door for over an hour. *g* Doesn't she have the sweetest face? (And no, when I took this picture I don't remember her having something on her eye, but it appears in the picture.)

It's been a hot and busy day. Chris had the day off, a small upset to my routine. I say small because he did a pretty good job of staying out of the way today. *G* He fixed the storage bench on the front porch which holds a lot of the kids outdoor things (footballs, soccer ball, basketballs, bats, badmitton rackets, etc.).  I mowed the lawn, edged, trimmed and swept everything up. (And remembered sunblock, um, after 20 minutes, but then I put it on!)The kids went to see The Last Airbender with MIL this afternoon, so it was nice to have a little bit of peace while taking care of everything. After the kids arrived back home and I had rested for a bit I headed off to Yoga and Chris stayed home with the kids. No, I don't know why he decided not to work out tonight, but I've decided I can't nag him about it TOO much.
After I arrived home from class we started dinner, a stir fry with everything. Especially since Chris is trying to eat better. We had zucchini, red pepper, onion, mung bean sprouts, chicken and Chris had low carb stir fried noodles while the kids and I had a bit of rice. He cut and I cooked. I like it when we work together that way in the kitchen. It was nice to chat with him. *G*
Tonight I finally had a small chance to read and started Showdown in Mudbug by Jana DeLeon. But have only read the first couple of chapters because I had to put it down and take care of the ironing. Tomorrow I plan on resting just a little and have that book in my hand when I do.

Speaking of tomorrow, I need to get some sleep. I am exhausted. I hope y'all had a pleasant Monday that was low-key and stress-free. I wish a terrific Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: I'm counting the lawn work and 1 hour of Yoga.

A Sparkly Night

It's been a rather scary day for me here. It was such a gorgeous day out early this afternoon that I wanted to let Layla soak up some sun on the back patio. She enjoyed it for a while, but then decided to explore. Since I was less than two feet from her I thought it would be okay. However at that moment a wasp flew right in front of her and she decided it was something to play with and catch. And was stung in the paw. My poor kitty and it was all my fault. I stayed glued to Layla all this afternoon keeping an eye on her. Her paw swelled up and I sent Chris to the store for some benedryl just in case, but her breathing was never bothered and she showed no other signs of being allergic to the wasp sting, so I didn't have to give her anything. And now, tonight, the swelling has gone down to the point where it's gone and she's still her normal self. The wasp stinging her really scared her and she won't go near the back door, even to sun herself. I hope she enjoys her sun, in the house, again soon.

The picture above was taken this evening. We weren't sure we were going to do fireworks this year, but I scraped it together and we only spent about $30, but the kids had an absolute blast. We had poppers and sparklers and roman candles and a few other things I don't know the name of but that were loud and sparkly. *g* And the picture to the right was taken this evening as well. Chris has as much fun with the fireworks as the kids do and enjoyed a sparkler this evening. *G*
We had the usual crowd this year and added one more from the kids usual group. The kids had a blast (Ha! Literally!) and oohed and ahhed the whistling and booming lights.

After it was all over and the kids returned to their homes and ours were inside Chris and I cleaned up and put away the folding chairs and headed inside where I made cookies again. This time I made oatmeal cherry cookies for a couple of reasons. One, I was out of cream cheese and have to put the search for the perfect cheesecake cookie recipe on hold. Two, I had dried cherries in the cabinet and wondered how I could work those into a recipe. Three? I can't eat raisins (they don't like me) and thought to give an old fashioned recipe a small update. The verdict? They are yummy and low fat and did I mention yummy? *G*

I haven't had a chance to read today. I've kept an eye on Layla, done some laundry, took a walk with Chris, baked and cleaned. I hope tomorrow is a little slower! *G*

I hope y'all had a lovely and Sparkly Fourth of July. I wish a low-key and delightful Monday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: Chris and I took a walk and tried out the new walking trail near our neighborhood. It was interesting and almost all uphill! *G*

Pepper!

I took much better pictures of Pepper yesterday afternoon but forgot to download them off the camera. But, I have found that Pepper doesn't take very many bad pictures. *G* Have I told y'all we've decided she's football shaped? She's narrow at the shoulders, has a round belly and then narrows at her hips. She's a football! *G*

Since Saturday usually has no routine, I can't say today was a return to routine. However, I can say that the weather? Has been rather nice. It's been pretty warm, but we've had a small break with the humidity making it bearable outside. As a matter of fact, it's been so nice that two of the other sunflowers started blooming today! It's weird to watch them unfurl the yellow petals, almost one by one. And with those unfurling today we've had lots of tiny bees, even more so than before! However, the bees didn't bother us so much that we couldn't bring in the crookneck squash today and the zucchini that is at least three inches around! It looks like a dark baby watermelon! *G*

At lunchtime today Chris headed to the Y to workout and I have to say I was very proud of him. He's been sticking with the low cholesterol diet ever since he received the email from his Doc. And while his schedule during the week doesn't make for much time to workout, this is the first time he's ever gone to the Y on the weekend by himself to workout. And since we talked last night and he assured me he wouldn't feel "left alone" during what is usually our time together I went when he arrived back home. It was nice and quiet at the Y with only a handful of people there and made for a nice workout.

While I was gone he kept an eye on the kids and after I arrived back home and showered and changed we headed out. I wanted to go to Whole Foods today to see if we could find some healthier alternatives to Chris' frozen lunches and wanted to show him there is more produce out there other than what's found  at our regular grocery stores with their limited selections. He picked up a few things and of course we couldn't leave the store without the kids each getting a piece of their delicious pizza. *g*
We also ran by the bookstore today. I wouldn't have and really feel guilty about it but the library has been dragging it's feet getting in any more books for me and also adding the books I do want badly into circulation. *sigh* The books I ended up getting are both the third books in series that the library isn't carrying anyway. I picked up Showdown in Mudbug by Jana DeLeon. This is the third and final book in the Ghost Mother-in-law series. I also picked up Death by Diamonds by Annette Blair, also the third book in her vintage clothing/magical mystery series. I honestly can't decide which to read first! Although I am still feeling guilty.

After that we headed home and had a simple dinner of sandwiches with fresh, garden grown tomatoes (courtesy of MIL's sister). Chris had pineapple on the side with his since he doesn't eat tomatoes unless I hide them. *g*
All in all a nice, low-key day. I've enjoyed it. And this is where I say 'night. I hope y'all had an enjoyable and relaxing day. I wish a restful and Sparkly Sunday, aka The Fourth of July for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 8.60 miles on the bike at level 11 and at least five weight machines. (I stuck to a strict time schedule today so as not to take a lot of time away from the family today.)