Sleepy Fireball!

Fireball has claimed this box as his own. At least for the afternoon nap he was taking Friday. *g* He looks quite relaxed and sleepy doesn't he? Wish I could nap where ever. Especially after today!

It's been a looong day. We started our schoolwork today and both kids have more work this year than the last academic year. Daughter is now in 9th grade and our curriculum calls that High School. Gah! I have a Daughter in High School! That means I am older than dirt! *g* Son is now in Fourth grade and has the most books this year. His P.E. curriculum is hilarious and won't be used. I'll count the many sports they play outside as well as the MA and swimming we do. And we may sneak up to the Y's gymnasium for some basketball during the day, too. *g*
Son was up and downstairs quickly today. He's always up for a new challenge. Daughter, however, was dragging and ended up downstairs an hour later. Ah, the first day..... *g* She's promised to get moving more quickly tomorrow, so we'll see how that works out.
After doing most of their schoolwork and lunch we all headed out to take Daughter to the Pine Y to begin her once a week Life-guard training. Son and I headed home and finished up and he was allowed to play on the Wii while I mowed the lawn. All to soon it was time to pick Daughter up and then we went by the library and picked up some of my holds. I now have The Keepsake by Tess Gerritsen, Beastly by Alex Flinn (this is a YA and there's a movie that's to be released this year based on it), and For Better or For Worse by Diann Hunt (a new-to-me author). I've finished the Robin Palmer book tonight and have started reading the Gerritsen book, though I am only about a chapter in because it's so late. *g*
After the library we went to the Y where I thought we'd be meeting up with Chris but he had an errand to run (to the bookstore for the one book I asked for, for tomorrow) and he couldn't find it so he called me and asked me where it might be and I had to tell him it wasn't due to be released tomorrow but that if he'd ordered from Amazon it might have arrived tomorrow. *g* He was so funny about it! *g* But, since he didn't get a chance to work out he made dinner tonight instead, which was nice.
While Chris was running his errand, Daughter and I attended yoga and had a good class. I think our Yoga teacher is absolutely Awesome and I always feel good and content when class has ended.

The kids and I headed home and I helped a bit while Chris made dinner and we've since enjoyed The Closer which was a powerful episode and then Rizzoli and Isles where the accomplice was easy to spot, but the non-relationship with Gabriel was sad. AND NOTHING LIKE THE BOOKS. *sigh* I know she can't be married with a baby like the books, but c'mon, a little hope she'd find some peace and happiness of some sort would be nice. And they changed Dr. Isles backstory as well. I'm wondering where they're going with that one. If you watched this episode, what do you think?

I can barely keep my eyes open, so I know it's time to head offline. I hope y'all had a productive and pleasing Monday. I wish a terrific Tuesday filled with smiles for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: I mowed the lawn and 1 hour Yoga.

Interesting forest finds!

This picture is another from the walk Son and I took on Friday. It's of an old chimney in the middle of what are now woods. There didn't used to be a clear path to go see the chimney, but when the park and water park near our house was built, they also decided to make a walking trail through the woods next to our road. Next to the chimney? Was a what used to be a tree struck by lightning. The path builders ended up making a rough wooden throne from it, complete with wooden foot rest. *G*

Another day, more errands and no luck in finding a good sports bra. I KNOW I am picky, but I am picky for a reason. I want good quality for the amount of money I'm willing to spend and I want adjustable, thin straps. Am I finding this? NO. Today's search has added to the number of stores we've looked at for a total of six stores. I think I'm going to have to order online.  What was found while out was the burgundy corduroy jacket I've been coveting for a month now. And Chris grabbed it and bought it even though I protested. $22 may not sound like a lot to y'all? But, to me? I can't help but feel guilty and when I told him I'm feeling very guilty over it-he can't fathom it. Ah, yes, so easy to puzzle a mans brain. *g*
And unbeknownst to Daughter, we picked up a sparkly studded-like bracelet she was hinting strongly that she'd like. It's been put up for Christmas. Yes, I am crazy and have started looking at things for Christmas.  We found a few cute things last night at Cracker Barrel that will make good stocking stuffers, too. (Haven't bought those yet, will go back later when the kids aren't with us and pick them up.)
And reading? I haven't had the time today, but hope to before bed. I have a YA I grabbed at the library the other day, Little Miss Red by Robin Palmer. Daughter and I enjoy this author's YA books and since I"m waiting on the library (STILL!) to add some books to the catalogue (they have them, they just haven't been dispersed to the libraries yet) and none of my other Holds are in I've been reading a lot of YA's lately because it's one area of the library I haven't searched thoroughly yet. *g*
And as for later? Regular things like cooking dinner, ironing and such. Chris and I watched Noises Off and this movie farce had both of us laughing so hard in parts we were almost rolling. Seriously, I think we may have to find a copy to purchase.

All that said (or rather, written), it's time for me to head offline. I hope y'all had a peaceful and restful Sunday. I wish a lovely and pleasing Monday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: I'm counting shopping. My feet hurt badly by the time we were done and home.

A Sunny Afternoon!

I took this picture Friday afternoon. I though Midnight and Layla looked so sweet sleeping side by side and enjoying the suns rays through the kitchen door. I often wonder what they dream when sleeping, but decided that it was cuter to watch their whiskers twitch than to speculate about what creature they were chasing in their dreams. Don't let the innocent act fool you, both kitties know how to be aggravating when they want. *g*

Not much to tell y'all about today. TMI, but we went undie shopping for me today. I was on the hunt for a couple of good sports bras as I have slowly killed mine and they need to be replaced. However, the company that makes them has decided to make changes and now I'm not happy with the design of the new ones, so this has lead to me sighing and thinking I'm stuck with the ones I have. Cross your fingers I find a couple new ones soon, or it won't be pretty. *g*
One good thing today, my capri pants were looser! Last week they fit well (but better than usual), but this week they were loose! So much so that I kept pulling up one side because they would slip down to ride low on my waist. I don't wear or like belts, so on one hand I'm ecstatic that the extra work outs are making a difference (Along with tracking my food.). On the other, I hate shopping for me and if this keeps up I'm going to need a pair of new capris.

After our empty-handed shopping we drove to Mass and afterwards, as we were walking out, my legs turned to jelly. This is the second or third time this has happened and I think it's my blood sugar getting too low. We headed to the restaurant to meet up with the Out-laws and after having dinner I felt better. And yes, we called and talked them into meeting later, rather than miss anything this afternoon. We had a pleasant dinner and then had fun looking around the store in the restaurant. As we were leaving for home MIL gave me a card and said to skip our next payment to them (from when Chris' transmission was replaced) and buy myself something. Um, no. That's not a gift, because I? Am the type of person who won't spend the money on myself if it's our money (even gift money I spend on the kids). Trust me. I do not spend money on me anymore. I don't even remember the last time I bought a book! Oh, never mind, it was a Jen Lancaster book on sale and that was early last month. However, we had decent evening so I'm not upset.

We then headed home and spent the rest of the night quietly. We're trying to find a new banking software and spent most the evening on that. We tried iBank and while I like the way it looks Chris says it's slow and doesn't reconcile well. We tried Moneydance and I don't like that one. We've tried a couple of others and there seems to be something wrong with each of them. I wish Quicken for Mac was exactly the same as Quicken for Windows, but unfortunately Q for Mac is awful. *sigh* Eventually we'll find something. I hope.

As for reading? I read the YA by Jennifer Lynn Barnes last night. It was a cute book. I like the way the character was introduced and the situations she was put in. They looks like a cheerleader but is actually a Jr. Spy thing was cool and not too common and while the book wrapped up some things it left room for another afterwards, and there is another. After that I tried the other book I picked up yesterday as well and it just didn't suit me. So, it'll be going back to the library. Probably tomorrow. And now I need to peruse my keeper shelves until more of my holds come in.

That's all from me. It's been a very long day and I am very tired. I hope y'all had an amusing and smile-filled Saturday. I wish a Blessed and Peaceful Sunday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: except for shopping, none. *sigh* Not enough time in my day.

Do you remember......?

Do you remember when you're little and there might have been times you were lying on your back in the grass looking at the clouds in the sky and trying to make figures out of them with your imagination? I do. And I don't know about other girls who have grown up in the South but when I was small I also used to look out car windows when riding with my parents and look at the Kudzu hanging off the trees and anything else it could cover and make figures out of it as well. I kind of see a baby Elephant here.....

I'm not feeling well this evening (kind of melancholy), so this post will be odd, maybe. This was one of those days where there was no where I had to be and therefor the day was rather quiet. I needed that. We've just about organized all the schoolbooks and have everything set to begin schoolwork on Monday. We found we're short one Binder, Daughter's lesson plans are huge this year, and need to pick on up tomorrow. I've vacuumed, washed linens and took a walk with Son where we found the above Kudzu on the trees in the walking path near our home. Son came home with two different sized acorns and a shiny black rock (it's just asphalt with some silica mixed in, but he likes it). And we made a quick run to the library this afternoon because a couple of books I'd placed on hold had come in. I now have The Best Day of Someone Else's Life by Kerry Reichs and The Squad: Perfect Cover by Jennifer Lynn Barnes.

In the mail today I received a delightful package from Jace in which was a lovely note, an adorable card and a hand-knit shawl. I am truly blessed to have received such a beautiful gift and am awed at Jace's generosity. I have "met" the absolute best women online. I feel very fortunate to call y'all friends. I haven't had many of those in my life. Thank you.

Ah, should also mention that the Out-laws are up to their usual tricks again. They agreed to Saturday dinner instead of Monday, and not Sunday because they have things to do at Church. But, want to do dinner so that Chris and the kids and I miss Mass. *sigh* I'm ready to just call the whole thing off. I know they were trying to do something nice and it seems like I'm being selfish to insist on another night except for Monday (ANY other night), but that day is going to be quite busy with us starting schoolwork, Daughter starting her once a week Life-Guard training that afternoon and trying to organize everything is going to be stressful, plus Daughter has to attend yoga as well as me. I don't think they really understand the schedule we have, and need to adhere to.

Anyway, that's it from me. I hope y'all had an enjoyable Friday. I wish an amusing and lively Saturday. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 35 minute walk with Son.

An Oldie But Cutie!

I know I post a lot of pictures of Pepper, but c'mon. She's adorable. This picture was taken when she was younger and she STILL sleeps there, next to my ottoman. She prefers to be near to me when I'm downstairs and it's very sweet. Still cute, still our baby, though she is no longer little. *g*

It's been another boring day here. I've truly enjoyed the past two weeks, since I've not have to constantly drive Daughter to the Pine Y so much. I've even had time to read for a change! I think I've read more in the past two weeks than I did the entire month of July!

Today we sorted through the kids new curriculum getting everything ready for next week. We've looked over the new books and Daughter is excited as she's beginning Latin this year. I can only hope her experience with learning a language goes better than mine. While I can mimic the pronunciation and accent and remember some words in different languages and their meanings, I've never been good at learning an entire other language. Maybe it had something to do with the constant moving when I was in elementary school. (Five schools in Six years, is it any wonder why I'm so shy?) And I'm not sure, but I think I know why I've been extra tired for the past few days. I've been eating a lot of walnuts as snacks this week and those can be a goitrogen and interfere with thyroid function. Whoops! Hopefully I'll see a difference in energy levels after a few days of not eating them. Maybe it'll help with the acheyness, too.
After all that, we headed out this afternoon for the kids MA class. Their teacher was running late and so we tried to open the Dojo with the key kept at the front desk, however three of us tried and just could not get the door open. So, we had to call the head of maintenance down to open it. It even took him a couple of minutes. The door has been trouble off and on for a while now. Hopefully, they'll get around to fixing the lock soon. Even though their teacher was late, he kept the class later than the normal time to make up the time and I was grateful. It meant our time and money for the kids classes wasn't wasted and that my workout wasn't cut too short.
After class the kids and I stopped by the grocery on the way home. I swear we run out of milk fast! I'd buy two gallons at a time but can't freeze most containers grocery stores use.
Chris went by the Apple Store after work with my iPod and they didn't argue with him at all and replaced my iPod with a refurbished but looks brand new one. And while I was grateful for that, I wasn't happy to learn that every single bit of information I'd entered up until last night into the LoseIt! app I'd been using to track my nutrition and exercise habits was wiped out. If I'd backed up the thing online that would have been good. But nooooooo. Paranoid Brandy doesn't like handing that much information over. *sigh* I couldn't remember every single thing for the past three weeks, so ended up starting over from today. (Restore saved everything BUT that information. Not quite the meaning of the word, no?) And then did something I am not comfortable with. I handed that information over. *sigh* But, at least it should be safe if anything were to happen again. *knockonwood*
As for this evening? Chris and I made dinner together and set up my iPod and put iWorks on my computer. We ended up splurging on the software so I can make up Son's weekly tests this year. Is it sad that I'm looking forward to that? *g*

As for my reading today? I finished the Tess Gerritsen book and hope the next one comes in off Hold soon. I sat and placed a whopping amount of holds tonight and am still stalking the database for books that I have been waiting for over a month now. I do wish things went a bit quicker, because I can't understand the hold-up, though I am sure there is a practical reason. Hopefully. *g* Oh, and I also began and finished a YA book tonight that I really enjoyed. Tattoo by Jennifer Lynn Barnes, was a fun and quirky book with a small mystery and a paranormal bent that encompasses Celtic and Greek mythology. It actually reminded me of the Maryrose Woods books Daughter and I enjoy.

That's it from me. I'm up late and need to try and get some sleep. I hope y'all had a good Thursday. I also hope y'all took the time to wish Jace and Melissa both a Happy Birthday. How awesome is it that two very gifted and talented and lovely people are out there who were born on the same day!
I wish a fun and lively Friday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 8.5 miles on bike @ level 11, 30 minutes of weights.

Another Day, another adorable Pepper pic!

Pepper thought Daughter's Y badge and Life Guard whistle made a fun toy the other evening. She batted and tried to catch them for twenty minutes. *g* And how sad is it that I've just now found out how to blur identifying features in pictures? (Hence the Y of blurred location! *g*) But, why would you notice anyway when that adorable face is staring at you? *g*

It's been a rather slow day. As in I've been moving slow all day. I swear I feel 100 years old today. (And I tripped over Oreo last night and knocked my hand into my closet doorframe. The top of my hand is already blue and sore. Good thing I love that stalker kitty! Brandy klutz strikes again!) But, I've still taken care of a few household things today and was crossing my fingers that the kids curriculum arrived before we had to leave this afternoon for Daughter's Teen Writing Workshop. And it did! Ten minutes before we were to leave. Whew! Good timing! While Daughter was in her workshop Son and I puttered around the library looking at everything. Son found a fabulous book on Dinosaurs and wanted to check out another book on Pirates, written in 18th century English. Uh, no. I knew he would have trouble with it, so talked him into a How to Draw Robots book instead. When his reading skills improve past reading and rereading and rereading (his choice!) the Diary of a Wimpy Kid books, then he can check out the pirate book. Soon it was time to leave and we headed to the Y for Son's KidFit class. So far the Y seems to be hanging on to this class and I am seriously grateful. Son loves this class and I think it's good for him. While he was doing that I walked on the treadmill for a bit, though it seemed a lot longer because my iPod died again. *sigh* There seems to be something wrong with the battery. Guess how I found out it died. Yeah, as I was stepping on the treadmill. Oh, well. Chris has made an appointment to take it into the Apple Store after work tomorrow.
Speaking of Chris, he met us up at the Y and worked out for a bit while Son's class was ending and then we all went swimming. We had a good time, Son especially. He is WAY better at swimming now than he was at the beginning of the summer.
Afterwards we headed home and fixed simple dinners. I say dinners plural because we made another raid the fridge night. It's the only way I can get the family to eat leftovers!
Since then, nothing much. Oh, while at the library I picked up a DVD of the first season of Better off Ted for Chris, he really enjoys the show and finds it very funny. And I? Had the copy of Noises Off! I requested come in! I caught the last 45 minutes of this hilarious movie on the tv two weekends ago and had to get it to see it from the start. *g*
Ah, forgot to tell y'all. MIL called today. They're dropping by the Y tomorrow for the kids MA classes and they also wanted to take me out to eat Monday for my birthday, early since it's actually Tuesday, but whatever. *g* The only problem? I don't want to miss Yoga. I NEED my Monday night yoga class. It's part of my routine for the start of the week and helps me confront the rest of the week. So, Chris called her back tonight (because I begged) and now we're going out Saturday. To the Cracker Barrel. Which is okay, but to be honest? Not my favorite restaurant. Not even my second favorite. Oh, well. It's the thought that counts, right?

As for reading? I am 3/4's of the way through the Tess Gerritsen book and hope to finish it either tonight or tomorrow. I've read more in the past week and a half than I have in a while, thanks to not having to spend hour upon hour in the car.

That's it from me. It's late and I need to get some rest. I hope y'all had a wonderful Wednesday. I wish a thankful and thoughtful Thursday for y'all. I am thankful for good friends, a loving hubby and two rambunctious and affectionate children, not to mention the same can be said for the eight cats. *G* Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 1.75 miles on treadmill at 3.5 speed and 5 incline, 1 and 1/2 hours in the pool.

Internet back up! An oldie pic.

This photo cracks me up and on a day when I still ache all over, I need all the laughs I can get. *g* I tried to post for over an hour last night, but our internet decided to go down and wouldn't come back up. *sigh*
Anyway, on to yesterday. (Sounds weird, eh?) Nothing much to report from yesterday morning, the kids are not morning people. Yesterday afternoon we headed by the library where I picked up my Inter-library loan book, A Black Tie Affair by Sherrill Bodine. While there I also picked up The Mephisto Club by Tess Gerritsen. We then drove to the MT Y and went swimming for almost two hours. Since my joints were hurting and since I wasn't sure if my appointment with the nutritionist/personal trainer would involve working out or not, I decided to get my exercise in the pool. We had a good time and were there when the area High Schools started showing up for a Swim Meet. One school had the neatest t-shirts! They said "Chlorine is our Element" and above that had the chemical symbol for chlorine. Thought they were very cool! I've never seen so many kids at the pool at one time, either. (We have two pools occupying the same area, an olympic size pool and a smaller warm pool, the swim meet didn't use the small pool.) Son had a huge blast yesterday. He's teaching himself to jump into the pool and while he still holds his nose, he is doing pretty well. He did that for 30 minutes straight before I had to drag him out of the pool. *g* Daughter watched Son while I swam laps, and I appreciate it. By the time I was done I was still aching, but a bit looser and less tired.
All too soon it was time to leave and we stopped by a small shop and I picked the kids up a treat and then we headed to the other Y for the kids MA class and my appointment. I gave the PT/N my last few blood pressure readings and she looked at my meals and said nutritionally I'm doing well and that my blood pressure doesn't seem high to her, so she then worked me out. She showed me a lot of different moves I have never done before and all using a balance ball. And also showed me how to use a machine I have been intimidated by. *g* We chatted and before I knew it my time was over and it was time to pick up the kids. And while the free weights she gave me were no more than 2lbs (because of my wrists and hands yesterday) I still worked up a sweat. To be honest, I truly had to push myself yesterday. I used up every last spare miniscule bit of energy I had by bedtime.
After the kids class and my appointment we headed home and Chris and I made dinner, we had our made-up recipe for nachos with black beans, ground turkey, shredded cheese, salsa and for me a bit of sour cream. We nuked it to melt the cheese and voila'! Yummy nachos! And the black beans? Homemade! *G*
We enjoyed a bit of tv and then headed to bed. I cut Son's hair and took care of some laundry and read some. Other than that, a boring night. Until I went to post last night and couldn't get online. So that's my mundane Tuesday.
I would say goodnight, but it's early afternoon and I will still post tonight. *g* I hope y'all had a good Tuesday and I wish a wonderful Wednesday for y'all! B.

exercise: (I don't know how I did all this!) 25 minutes laps in pool, 1hr25min goofing around in pool, 5 minutes on the elyptical, weight training mixed with pilates and balance ball, stretching cool down.

Here we go again!

Our internet has gone wonky and is out again. Will have to try and post later. Have a wonderful Wednesday
Goodnight, B.

Published with Blogger-droid v1.5.4

Lazing around kitty!

This is one of Butterscotch's favorite ways to sleep. For some reason he likes to lean his head over the edge and his paws over the edge whether he's sleeping in the second level of the kitty tent or on top of my cabinets. *g* He's sweet and a pretty boy, but odd. Very odd. *g*

Well, I didn't want to get out of bed today! It took forever to get enough energy gathered to get anything done, but once I did? I felt pretty good about what was taken care of. We start schoolwork next week, so this week is our last week of "vacation" (Ha!) and I am just now getting around to some of the things that need to be taken care of in the house. I swept, mopped and vacuumed today but I also decided it was time to finish painting the kitchen. (And I jerry-rigged the vacuum because part of the house doesn't want to stay sealed, need to take it to the repair shop this weekend.) Remember the chair rail? And the complimentary colored paint we picked to go on the bottom half? Well, Chris painted, but didn't get behind the fridge or alone one small part of another small wall. So, today I taped everything off and finished painting everything. And I say thank goodness that refrigerators have wheels! (You would not believe how many milk jug safety seals I found under the refrigerator. (At least six!) After all that it was time to head to the MT Y for yoga. (Oh, and today? Totally forgot Daughter was supposed to start her once a week training at the Pine Y for the AD. *sigh* We called and apologized and am all set to begin next week.)
Daughter is doing well in Yoga and is receiving praise for taking the class now instead of sitting against the wall and waiting for me. Little do they know she's only taking it because she had to! One good thing, now she realizes that most poses are not as easy as they look. *g* Chris was supposed to meet us at the Y but became stuck in traffic and headed home instead. At least that's his excuse. *g* He started training a new class this week and that's always a busy time for him, so I cut him some slack and didn't tease him about it. *g*

As for reading? I've finished Working Stiff by Annelise Ryan. I enjoyed the book and the mystery was interesting as were the characters. The heroine struggles along learning her new job and I liked that because as a reader, you're learning a bit with her, rather than having a character that already knows everything and therefore things don't translate well to a reader. Next up? The Mary Kay Andrews book. I know I've checked this book, and others, by this author out of the library before, but I really am not remembering this book and that's very unusual for me. And after this book? I have an inter-library loan book I need to pick up tomorrow and that's it. I don't have any more books. Ack! Cross your fingers the library adds those books I've been stalking them for-soon. If not I'm in trouble!

Tomorrow I have another meeting with the personal trainer/nutritionist. I hope she's found some things that can help me. If not, I still have two months to bring my blood pressure down. However, the strangest thing! While grocery shopping Saturday I took my bp at one of those sit down kiosk-type things in the pharmacy and my bp was 122/78. How is that high? And I was shopping and slightly stressed! WTHeck? Eh, oh well. Two months and find a new Doctor, two things weighing on my mind right now.

Anyway, nothing else from me. I'm squinting at the screen which means it's time for me to head offline and get some sleep. I hope y'all had a productive and pleasing Monday. I wish a terrific Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Yoga.

The Odd Couple!

Look at these two! Laya searches for contact from another kitty every now and then. And for some reason she's chosen Midnight as that kitty for the past couple of months. I think she's missing her older brother, the kitty that went missing and we believe someone stole (A ginger maine coone named Squeekie.) about four years ago. We still miss him and this summer is the first time I've ever taken down the missing kitty poster from our storm door. I guess Layla decided she needed someone besides her human family to show her some affection as she went and lay down next to Midnight. And he, in an oddly sweet mood, was not mischievous and loved her back.

It's been a day and a half! This afternoon Chris decided it was time to teach Son a new Bo Kata so he set about learning and then teaching Son a new kata. Today was moves 1-9 and next weekend will be the last part. He also found Daughter a new Sai kata for her to learn as well. Chris wants the kids to do really well in the competition in November and as there are several schools already signed up to attend and compete we felt that the best chance for the kids would be in their weapons katas.
While he was doing that I was doing fun things like ironing! And laundry! Yeah, 'cause I am just a ball of laughs. *sigh* Ah, well. At least they were done early this afternoon. *g*
I took a break and finally had a bit of fun inside this afternoon. One thing I did was try out the paint we picked up for the bedroom a couple of months ago that has been sitting in the garage, the color will be pretty on my walls, but we're going to have to put a primer down first since it's such a light color and we have such a dark color on the walls now.
We had a houseful of kids because of the heat (our heat index hit over 104 today) and the kids and their friends were all inside. Can you say LOUD? *g* But, they had a blast when Chris brought out the blocker to work with Daughter on her sparring. Of course then everyone had to try it out and I even got to go after Daughter with it. And a friend or two. *G* I was semi-gentle on them, no worries.
Afterwards the kids talked about music and such and seems some of them have the same music on their MP3 players as Chris and I. *g* I headed out not long after that for yard work. While I don't relish the heat, I do like making my yard nice and neat. So, I mowed and edged/weed eated around the house, driveway, road and yard and then swept everything up. I also popped down the last bag of mulch we had that I had been  waiting on Chris to put down. For over two months now. I was tired of it sitting on the porch. *g*

After all that my feet were complaining so I took an early and quick shower. (I ended up with over 9 mosquito bites! HATE mosquitos!) While I was doing that Chris made dinner and we enjoyed a quiet dinner time.
I haven't picked up a book all day, except to carry it downstairs with me. And the carry it back up as we headed for bed. I hope to find a good bit of time to read before falling asleep. And this is where I leave y'all so I can do that! *G* I hope y'all had a Blessed and restful Sunday. I wish a low-key and pleasing Monday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: I am SO counting the yard work! *G*

Inspired Box Fun!

I took these pictures tonight inspired by an online buddy's (Hi, Marianne!) posting of the new Simon's Cat youtube video. *g* The pictures are of Pepper enjoying a box and at one point she tried to dig through the bottom of the box. Of course that was when we had tried to drag her on a ride around the LR carpet. *G* She had a good time in the box and we had an even better time laughing at her shenanigans as she played. *g* Oh, and she wasn't the only kitty to enjoy the box tonight. *g*

It's been another long day. I wish I could say we were able to get out of the house on time today, but no one but me seems to have a sense of urgency when running errands. Our first stop was the library where I picked up Working Stiff by Annelise Ryan and Savannah Blues by Mary Kay Andrews. The later is a reread, though one I honestly don't remember much of beyond checking it out before. (It was YEARS ago.)
We made it to Target next to find Daughter's best friend a 16th Birthday gift. We settled on a necklace and a cute sparkly box from the dollar area (Target has some cute things there sometimes!) to gift box it in. After that we headed to WW to pick up the rest of our groceries. We spent less than usual since we've stopped buying so many prepackaged foods and have started using more veggies and also less snacking.
We stopped quickly by Whole Foods to look at their frozen pizza selection because we think we've linked Chris' migraine this past week to the frozen pizza we had for dinner one night. Asking these kids to go without pizza? Not an option. While there Son begged for a slice of pizza from their "bistro" and inhaled it on the way home. *g*

After arriving home and having dinner the kids sat down and made Daughter's best friend Birthday cards and I had a blast playing with Pepper in the box. *g* And no offense to my family, but I think that was the best ten minutes of my day. *g* Oh, I made Chris lunch today (not a normal occurrence since he takes his lunch to work or the fact that I am a simple grab something from the fridge person for lunch for myself). I made him a spinach roast beef wrap AND HE ATE IT! I came up with this a couple of weeks ago and Daughter and I really enjoy them as a semi-quick and healthy lunch. And daughter? Well, she likes to eat. *g*

I started the Annelise Ryan book. I found this book by seeing the second book featuring the main character when looking at books online. Luckily my library had the first book and is ordering the second book so if I like it, I'll be able to read it next.

That's it from me. I'm rather boring and it's a nice kind of boring. Oh, and my toe isn't broken after all, only sprained. (I couldn't bend it last night, but it can bend today-Yay!) I hope y'all had an amusing and interesting Saturday. I wish a peaceful and restful Sunday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Hmm, does walking all over those stores count?

Just Hanging Around!

At least that's how Butterscotch seems to feel since his foot is sticking out over the tent and he doesn't care about it. *g* Midnight is on the bottom and doesn't seem to mind, as long as nothing interrupts his sleep, he's fine.

Another busy day here. I've been doing laundry since I woke today and dragged the shampooer out and did the mattresses with an allergen cleaner. Before I knew it, it was time to go grocery shopping. The kids and I were careful not to leave the house before 2:30 since school in our state is now back in session. We won't start for another week, but we are careful not to draw too much attention as homeschoolers. I know it may sound silly, but we would rather be safe than have an ominous knock on the door. (We are in no way, shape, or form breaking the law in our state and are very careful to follow the law when it comes to homeschooling.)
It used to be that I would shop at Aldi, Sam's and WW and would buy the biggest amount of groceries at WW. Now, I purchased a lot of our groceries from Aldi. *g*
After we were done with Aldi and Sam's we headed home. There just isn't enough room for two weeks worth of groceries in the car. So, tomorrow we'll go to WW and finish. And the reason we didn't go tonight? We went to the MT Y and went swimming instead. We were there over two hours and had a good time. The kids love the pool and Son is growing more confident in the water and didn't even wear the flotation device tonight. (No worries, I was never more than 3 feet away from him, or when I was, Chris wasn't far from him.) He's right on track to take swim lessons this Fall, we hope. Of course he's still holding his nose any time he's under water, but hey. You take what you can get sometimes.

After our fun we headed home and Chris and I made dinner together and watched Eureka and Haven. Haven is turning into one of my favorite shows. The story-lines get weirder and weirder. Though some scenes from tonight's episode reminded me of something, maybe a Twilight Zone episode?

Chris is having to take care of inputing our finances right now, since my computer decided it didn't like Quicken anymore. (Seems it takes an extra large amount of the hard drive to run it and with all the pictures I take and play around with, the computer wasn't "getting along" (*G*) with Windows. And I started to get angry a bit and knew I was irrational about it. It made me feel as though I were less, because I couldn't take care of something I've been doing for more than 17 years of our marriage. And I realize that that sounds silly and, well, irrational. But, I guess I was feeling as though it was one way I felt like a partner in our marriage, taking care of all that. And now when I can't? I felt like I was seen as less of a partner. I think it all goes back to value. (And yes, I know this is a heavy topic, sorry.) And how we value ourselves. I don't value myself enough. I had not realized that. I have tied how I see myself into all that I can do and actually do for my family. Chris and I sat and talked and he helped me see that I am not being judged by him, or by the kids. That I am judging myself. That? Is going to be hard. Aren't we all our worst critics?

Anyway, onto lighter topics. We did stop by yet another grocery store on the way home from the Y, I had forgotten. And having worked retail when I was a teenager I always make a point to be polite and nice to the cashiers. Tonight's? Was clearly having a bad evening. I could tell she was tired and so made an extra point to be nice, chatting her up. And Chris cracks up at this part, as we were leaving I told her to have fun at her weekend at the lakehouse with her friends (see how odd I am to have elicited this information?) and since they were leaving for their trip when she got off work tonight and I knew she was tired I also added a "drive safe". I? honestly can't help it. *g* It's the mommy gene, I think. *g*

As for reading today? I've started the Susan May Warren book this evening. Last evening I stayed up way too late reading the Tess Gerritsen book, Body Double. I finished it and now am on the second of two books I picked up yesterday. I'm starting to get a bit nervous about what to read after this last book as the library has yet to add five books I've been waiting on into the catalogue for check out. Looks like it may be time to look over the Keeper shelves again. *g*

Anyway, sorry to drag y'all though my psyche tonight. It's just that I wondered if y'all ever had those feelings, too? Oh, and I think I broke my toe tonight. Heck of an evening, eh? *g* I hope y'all had a fantastic Friday. I wish an amusing, light-hearted and fun Saturday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 2 hours swimming.

Uh-oh, someone's in trouble!

So, super sweet Pepper has a dark side! Well, not really. She has a mischievous side. This was the THIRD time TODAY she'd attacked the tissue. So funny and she honestly can't understand why she was fussed at, yeah, try fussing and laughing at the same time! Son took these photos for me and caught her in the act for the third time. *g* She's still too cute. *g*

It's been a long day and I honestly can't say where the time went. My week of go-go-go is starting to catch up with me, even though my days aren't spent driving as much, they're still tiring. I've wanted to be lazy today, to sit in my chair and not move, but it's on days like these I am also my own cheerleader. And I know that sounds stupid, but it's days like these I tell myself 'just do this, okay you did that you do something else, too.' For me today? That cheer involved working out. I woke with most all my joints aching and I've been off of pain meds such as ibuprofen and tylenol for two weeks now. (Did you know ibuprofen can raise your blood pressure? I didn't! Let's not forget the possible liver damage tylenol can cause, one of the reasons I switched to ibuprofen years ago.) So, I've been trying to rally myself all day. *g* Sounds silly, I know.

We did make it by the library this afternoon as we were heading to MA class at the Pine Y. I now have two books to read-YAY! I have Body Double by Tess Gerritsen and Double Trouble by Susan May Warren. I'm hoping to enjoy both these and have already started the Tess Gerritsen book.

We then headed to the Pine Y for the kids class. The MA teacher was late today and the AD couldn't get ahold of him, so he taught the first half of the class and the MA teacher finally made it and taught the second half of the class. As soon as I knew the kids had a teacher, I went for my workout. After the kids, which was rough, and made tears spring to Son's eyes. (They had to stand with their arms straight out  at shoulder level for over five minutes.) (And if you don't think tears in my child's eyes didn't tick me off, you don't know me AT ALL. But, he wasn't hurt, it was just challenging and a bit painful and I'm guessing he was teaching them a lesson on patience and toughing it out.) I have to stop babying Son and he didn't complain about it to me, he just accepted it. The kids were warned by us, and by their MA teacher that they will hurt during and after these classes and tournaments. That it's not uncommon for them to break toes, feet, hands, noses, etc. And both still begged to take the classes and to compete in the tournaments.

We left the Y and had to run back by the library. I had turned some books in yesterday and forgotten to take a receipt out of one of them. I'd called the library this morning, but forgotten to pick up the receipt in the prior visit. I felt so stupid, too. But, they were nice and gave me the receipt and we then went home. When Chris arrived home he and I made dinner together and now? I've been watching Investigation Discovery. *g* Chris has been watching X-Men with the kids. *g* But, it's almost time for bed and my book is calling me, not to mention a grape popsicle. *g*

So, this is where I head off. I hope y'all had a positive Thursday. One filled with laughs and smiles. I wish a fun and fabulous Friday. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 8.50 miles on bike @ level 11, 20 minutes weights and 10 minutes stretching.

Pretty and Sweet, Pepper!

Look at that face? We cannot resist that face, with her big, luminous eyes and pointed ears. She has us wrapped around her, um, tail and we ooooh and ahhhh when she does something sweet or funny. She is soft as silk and super sweet. She also has a nose like a bloodhound and ears that can hear you open the freezer door from upstairs. Pepper wants her ice, to play with, and we never disappoint. *g*

Another quiet day here. It's been nice not having to run around constantly during the day. I'd forgotten what it's like to have time to do other things besides drive. *g* Today I not only caught up on all the laundry, I vacuumed AND shampooed the carpets downstairs.
We left late this afternoon for the Library before heading to the MT Y, but the library was closed. They were having a training day and will be open again tomorrow. We dropped off several books and will return tomorrow to pick up our holds. (I have one book in, thank goodness, because I have no library books left!) Hopefully the library will add the five books I'm stalking the catalogue for soon. If not it could get ugly. *g*
After dropping off books we headed to the MT Y. I had Zumba, which I shouldn't even be taking because my feet are very painful afterwards (but it's so fun and not boring!) and also for Son's KidFit. I hope the Y continues this weekly class for kids Son's age. He really enjoys it and has fun with other kids his age playing and learning all different kinds of games.
After both Son's and my class were over we headed home and I put my feet up for a few minutes. Not long after Chris arrived home from work. He had a slightly different schedule today since they are training this week. While I put away and folded yet more laundry he cooked dinner and we enjoyed being home and relished the peace that comes from not being around other people. I don't mean that to sound like I don't like people, (I LOVE to people watch, you learn so much!) it's just that I am so uncomfortable around lots of people and the Y was busy tonight and I am so self-conscious that it's nice to be away from anyone who could (but most likely is not) judging me in any way, shape, or form. And I know that makes no sense. I think only other people who are shy can understand this.

As for reading? I finished the Tess Gerritsen book and have placed the next on hold. Hopefully it will come in soon. *g* Are y'all reading anything good lately? Anything to recommend? I've started reading the newest Linda Howard book. I'm hoping the MANY bad reviews of this book are unfounded.

Anyway, that's it from this quiet part of my world. I hope y'all had a wonderful Wednesday. I wish a Thursday filled with laughs and good friends. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 10 minutes of stretching, 1 hour Zumba.

A Quiet Day!

Blogger seems to have been messing with picture capabilities again, so no picture from me tonight. UPDATED! I got it to work! WOO-HOO!
Y'all know are cats aren't normal. Here is Butterscotch trying to sleep not only in a box of water, but also on top of another box of water. *g* At least he didn't cause the box to tilt over, it was actually a worry of mine. He looks comfy, doesn't he?
 This post is late and I'm tired and I may ramble all over the place. Wait, y'all are used to that. *g* We finished Son's CAT test this afternoon and not long after we left for the Pine Y and my appointment with the personal trainer/nutritionist. She looked over my eating habits (that LoseIt! App comes in handy!) and said she couldn't see an issue with my diet, though did say I could use a few more veggies in my diet. I told her the days we didn't eat as many veggies were atypical, and that we usually had tons of either green and leafy or yellow and red. *g* She showed me a few new exercises that might help and had no issue with my workout schedule and variations, either. She said she'd do a bit more research on my behalf but thinks the hinderance to my weight loss is in fact the thyroid and the medication for it that I'm taking. She also is curious as to why my blood pressure changed so drastically over a years period of time, since I sat for a consultation with her a year ago. But, she's going to have me come back in next week (at no charge because we had a late start today since another client ran over) and go over some more things then. I already feel validated with the nutritional aspect. Yes, I have a sweet tooth, but I don't go crazy and I like veggies unlike most my family. *g*
Anyway, after the consult I headed to check on the kids and then did my regular workout. After all that we headed home and met up with Chris and he and I started dinner. We made chicken fajita quesadillas, SO GOOD. *g* And we watched Warehouse 13 and Memphis Beat and have had a pretty quiet evening. It was nice. I've also read my way through 3/4's of the second (or is it third? Never been clear on that.) Tess Gerritsen Rizzoli and Isles book, The Sinner.  I hope to finish it tomorrow.

Speaking of tomorrow. Time to get some sleep. I hope y'all had a productive and terrific Tuesday. I wish a wonderful and slightly wacky Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: All together: 15 minutes of stretching, 8 miles on stationary bike at level 11 and 30 minutes of weights.
P.S. Is it bad that I just noticed I have followers? Is it bad that I have no idea what that is? I'm pretty sure it has nothing to do with guidance, because I hardly know what I'm doing half the time! *g*

The rare and beautiful Athena!

I say she's rare, because getting a picture of her is rare. Do you know it took the cats two weeks to notice this shelf had been mostly cleared and when Layla was on there the other night, they finally found out there was room for a kitty there. Since then Athena has made it her roost for most the day. I think she was surprised when Daughter took this picture of her!

We had a nice day here today. The temps didn't become too bad thanks to cloud cover for most the day and the humidity was almost bearable!
I administered Son's CAT test today, well, parts of it. We'll finish the test tomorrow. The only problem he seems to have with it is that he doesn't want to stop after the sample question and listen to the instructions again. *g* I had to fuss at him twice today, but he seems to have the hang of it now. We also received his official grade report from Seton and he made all A's and B's. Don't forget, where I may give him and grade his weekly tests, they also require him to take quarterly tests that I administer, but that they grade. We are quite proud of him and can't wait to see what he thinks of Fourth grade, though we are waiting until the end of the month to start. I decided to wait because we ran around most of last month and I want them (and myself, yes, selfishly) to have a couple of weeks of having to do NOTHING. Well, except for Son's test. *g* AND Son has found a new book series he likes. (New to him, not new to others.) He's read the first book in the 39 Clue's series and now wants to read the second. I'm elated!
Daughter is doing well. She's starting to make a list of all the historical periods and peoples we want to study this year as her 9th grade curriculum doesn't contain History this year. Odd, but not unheard of. (Our state has a whole semester of public school in the same grade dedicated to... our state. Yeah. *head thunk*) We're hoping to find out many unusual and fun facts while studying. *g*

This evening we headed to the MT Y and Daughter and I attended yoga while Son was in childwatch. Chris met up at the Y and worked out during our class. Afterwards we decided to go swimming for a little while. We didn't have as long as usual, but still enjoyed ourselves. Well, mostly. The Life Guard seemed to be on a power trip because she fussed at Daughter when she went to get a kickboard, saying it was only for laps in the big pool when Daughter intended to use it in the small pool. We checked the rules, that were publicly posted, and no such rule existed. And she said nothing to me for having one. SO, we told Daughter to go get her kickboard and we basically stared the Life Guard down. We also filed a verbal complaint against her, not just because of this, but because she was trying to secretly use her cell phone to text, a big NO-NO while on duty. BIG no-no. She would sneak into the equipment room and we'd see the light of her cell phone in her hand as she checked her messages and would then text. Half the time her back was to the pool. NOT GOOD. And we weren't the only ones in the pool! Yes, there are two pools in the same area, a big olympic sized pool and a smaller pool. Yes, there are two Life Guards on duty at one time. One for each pool. She didn't ask the guy watching the other pool to spot her, she just walked away. Where I feel a little guilty telling on her, her actions were possibly dangerous.

After all that we headed home and made dinner. A big baddie. We had frozen pizza. Days like today are hard sometimes to make a good dinner and we don't do this often, thank goodness. I was good, though. I didn't eat much of it. I am also being good and still taking my blood pressure a couple of times during the day. So far? Nothing too bad. Seriously. It was 107/64 when I woke up this morning. Weird. My FIL, btw, told me not to worry, that the pressures I had taken over those days were still good. And if anyone would know besides my bully of a Doc it would be FIL. He's ON bp meds. He has high bp and has to watch his closely. MIL? Wanted to know what the big fuss was-just take the pills. *sigh*

Ah, as for reading, I've picked up and started reading the second book in the Rizzoli series by Tess Gerritsen, The Sinner. I've had it since checking it out last week and finally have the time to read more than a page or two here or there. It's nice to have that kind of time for a week or two. *g* Please send good library thoughts my way. I only have two more books to read after this one and have been stalking the database to finally add FIVE books to the catalogue for checkout.

Tomorrow is my appointment with the personal trainer/nutritionist. She's a nice, smart lady and will tell me straight out what I need to change. I just hope the changes are easy for me to take! *g*

That's all from me. It's been a nice day, but I'm tired and need to get some rest. I hope y'all had a pleasant and stress-free day. I wish a terrific Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Yoga, 1 hour swimming.

It's hard to say no...

To Layla when she looks at me like that. I took this picture yesterday when I was having lunch at the kitchen table. Layla didn't know I was only having a bagel, but she sure wanted to try whatever I had. *g* This is her "guilt Mommy" look. *g*

It's been a long and interesting day. We all overslept and thing kind of went along after that. I've been doing laundry all day, vacuuming and also mowed the lawn. I finally convinced Chris to help me out and he replaced the weather stripping around the front door. He finally saw the light, literally, around the edges of the door and since we don't want energy escaping either out, or in (meaning heat in the summer coming in or cold in the winter coming in) we are trying to take of these things. I'd noticed the light around the door the other day and mentioned it to him this afternoon. I guess my talk with Chris about helping me out around here finally clicked when I mentioned it might help lighten my stress load the other day.
The kids were inside most the day, we had rain all night and most the morning so it was quite humid out today. We never hit the 90's, but our heat index was in the 100's thanks to the wall of humidity outside earlier. There friends came in and they played hide and seek in the house and you've never seen anything funnier that a bunch of kids all over 4 feet tall try and hide behind a curtain! They also almost ate through an entire box of microwave popcorn. Did I mention most of these kids were boys? *g*
My computer crashed late this afternoon, seems the recent updates I made to the Windows partition I have (now had) didn't agree with our Quicken software. It caused the partition to crash which caused my computer to not respond. *sigh* Chris worked everything out while I was mowing the lawn. Of course I now no longer have Windows, the partition or Quicken on my computer. Which is going to make things a bit difficult. Seems we're going to have to purchase a Mac based financial software soon. iBank looks good. Do y'all know of anyone who uses that? Should I keep looking? I know Quicken makes a Mac version, but I've seen it and don't like it.
Of course we also found a mistake where thanks to the stress of last week I'd made. I paid a bill earlier than I needed to, which will make for some fun footwork for the rest of the month. *sigh* At least I was feeling "lighter" today and not as stressed out. Even now knowing I was so stupid and loopy last week I made a mistake doesn't feel as stressful as dealing with the Doctor. That puts things in perspective.

After I mowed the lawn I took a shower and started ironing while Chris made dinner. I honestly don't know of anything better than a potato baked on the grill. SO. GOOD. I finished ironing after dinner and am now very happy to be off my feet! *g*

AND I have reading news! I started and have finished the PJ Sugar book by Susan May Warren titled Nothing But Trouble. I liked the heroine and the overall theme of the book. One of redemption from past mistakes and a return to home. There was a mystery and a lot of humor. Ah, guess I should warn y'all this is a book with a Christian bent. But, it isn't one outright in your face, which I prefer. Next up? Not sure yet. I will be placing the second book in this series on hold. AND I remembered where I'd seen a recommendation for this series and author. On the RT magazine homepage.

That's all from me. I need to get some rest. I hope y'all had a peaceful and restful day. I wish a low-key and pleasant Monday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: I'm counting the lawn mowing as exercise because I hustled thinking we were going to get more rain. And had the drizzle on my arm to prove it when I was only half done. I must be dedicated to a nice lawn because I was worried about lightning, but still out there. *g*

I spy with my own eye.....

Hint, one of these things is not like the other. *G* And please excuse the mess of this bookcase, this isn't one of mine, this is a general household bookcase, one that serves as a catchall for Chris' certificates and diplomas, computer books, photo albums, etc. (Of course the TOP of the bookcase is mine. *G* See one of my two houseplants? I wish there were more but the cats...... ) I'm betting you've spotted her by now. Yes, that's my Layla sitting on the third shelf. I was walking around with her and letting her see things from my shoulder and she was so interested in this shelf she hopped down and wanted to sit on it. *g* 

It's been a LONG day. We headed out earlier than our usual for a Saturday morning, the family? Yeah, they are not morning people. Trying to get everyone with everything in the car this morning was funny. I forgot my phone and got back into the car after retrieving it and then Chris forgot his sunglasses and Daughter wondered where her phone was..... Fun times! But, we finally headed out this morning and had SOn there on time. We picked up his outfit and changed into it and then sat and waited. And waited and waited. The show was a bit disorganized. They'd tried, but kept taking applicants up to this morning and therefore there were lots of kids and parents and outfits everywhere. I will give them credit though, they tried to keep things interesting for the kids who had to wait. There were coloring books, crayons, cartoons, milk, water, chocolate milk, cookies, and all for the kids. Son chatted with a little boy who will be five soon and this kid was CUTE. MIL showed up backstage and checking in to make sure Son was fine and then she headed out front to sit with FIL, Daughter and Chris. We did bring the camera, but Son's face is too visible in each shot, so I can't post any of them, sorry. They finally had everyone lined up and the kids took their turn on the stage. I waited for Son backstage, so didn't get to see his karate kick that the audience applauded over, but I heard all about it! *G* We were free to leave at that point, but stayed a few minutes to watch Son's new young friend. *g* Then we headed to the Mall's food court because the store had given Son a treat bag that contained a free meal voucher from Chik-fil-A. MIL, FIL, Daughter, Son, Chris and I had lunch together and it was nice. We chatted for a good while. Afterwards we walked around the mall and checked things out, we don't normally frequent this mall and while it was the mall we visited when we were kids when we moved away there were major redesigns and remodeling done. Although, it's still showing it's age in several areas. I noticed it wasn't as "nice" a mall as the one we usually go to. It was mostly geared towards teens and their parents money. *g* All in all we ended up being at that mall from start to finish over three and a half hours. Time to GO. We said goodbye to the Out-laws and then headed to Hobby Lobby. Chris made a copy of his Master's to display at work (the originals of his things always stay at home, my rule) and we picked up a frame for him to place on his wall at work. (We lucked out, too! Frames were 50% off!) After that we headed home where I had lunch (I didn't eat at the mall.) and then we headed out for Mass. Not ten minutes into the Mass it started to POUR down rain and by the time everything ended the road outside was flooded on the edges and we were under flash flood warnings. We drove home carefully and have enjoyed the quiet that comes from a rainy evening. Everything seems to slow down a tad when it rains, doesn't it? 

And I, instead of reading, enjoyed a conversation with Chris! It was nice! Sometimes we forget to slow down and talk TO each other instead of AT each other. Chris made dinner, buffalo chicken and spinach salad-YUMMMMMMY! And I helped by chopping add-ins while he cooked the chicken. Just a simple meal, but one of our new favorites. If you asked me ten years ago if I'd be enjoying raw spinach I'd look at you like you'd lost your mind. *g* Which for some reason reminds me that I need to see if the library has that old Popeye movie with Robin Williams. The kids might like it. *g*

I'm off to try and get some reading done before crashing. I hope y'all have had a delightful and amusing Saturday. I wish a Peaceful and Blessed Sunday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: Can I count all the mall walking? From one end to the other and then back again?

P.S. Again, I'm going to apologize for a post that has no definitive topic. Meaning it's rambling. *g* Did I mention it was a LONG day? *G*

Pepper's Cuteness cannot be denied!

Look at that face! Isn't she adorable? *g* NO one here can tell her "bad girl" when she does something bad, though we have progressed to the point where we can tap her nose when she does. And that blank look? She looks like that ALL the time, except her pupils are usually larger. She's a sweet girl and will follow me around and sits at my ottoman when I'm in my chair. *g* There there's the ice game...... *G*

I would say it's been a boring day, but it hasn't. Like a good girl I took my blood pressure when I awoke and wrote it down (111/68) and was pleased and thought the Doc would be, too. Since I have been so anxious about it, Chris called and left a message at the Doc's office for me this morning detailing my bp's for the past week. Most were fine, but even I recognized I needed to lower a few. They are as follows:
8/05/10-7pm-135/83
8/05/10-12am (couldn't sleep)- 115/89
8/06/10-9am-117/83
8/07/10-10pm-123/87
8/08/10-9pm-142/81
8/10/10-8am-127/90
8/11/10-10am-128/96
8/11/10-3pm-142/76
8/11/10-11pm-135/87
8/12/10-8am-114/74
8/12/10-11pm-117/87
and one last one, beside this mornings, the one I took AFTER the Doc's return phone call 140/84. That one? Was when I was ticked off, was having an anxiety attack and was close to crying. The research I've been doing this week suggests that I am PRE-hypertensive. That a change in diet and exercise could be used at first to try and control it. My Doc? Well, the nurse is the one who first returned the call. (They called me directly.) She said they'd looked at the numbers and that the Doc has decided I needed to start the bp meds and she was calling it in for me to start today. And I said? NO. I was firm and said no. That startled the nurse who then (I'm guessing went hunting for the Doc.) put me on hold for the Doc. Yeah. The Doc then came onto the phone and told me that my numbers suggest I needed to start medication now. Again, I said no. That I had contacted a nutritionist and personal trainer and that I wanted two months to try this on my own. She argued with me! Said that I was putting myself at risk for kidney and heart disease and that she didn't want me to regret not starting action sooner. I mentioned my thyroid results and how I hadn't received any and how I thought she was holding my prescriptions hostage. That silenced her for a minute. She then said she'd called my thyroid meds in for one month LAST WEEK, without telling me. I asked about the side effects of my thyroid meds and mentioned several of them. She said stress has the same results. Really? Stress makes me sweat like crazy when working out (more so than usual) or when hot, or the fact that I get hot very easily, or how the meds are linked to raising blood pressure? She said all that can be attributed to stress. WTHECK? I said again I just wanted the time to work out it on my own first and finally she gave in. She renewed my thyroid meds for six months, but I have to make an appointment to see her in two months to re-evaluate. Huh, right. I'll be seeing another Doc next time. Between the "liquid diet" suggestion (really? that teaches me what? that solves the symptom but not the problem of WHY I can't lose weight) and this arguing over starting bp meds when I'm 35 years old and don't want to be on another medication right now. Especially one I've read I WILL be stuck on for the rest of my life. Well, that leads me to distrust her as my Doc. And that's not good for someone who is overseeing my care. *sigh* I had a cry this afternoon and then became resolute. I have a plan now. One I need to concentrate on. And in thinking all that? My stress has lessened. Not to mention the daily drive is now dwindling to once a week and we'll start school soon. That actually lessens my stress. Weird, eh?

After all that I almost forgot my Aunt has called last night and wondered if her Grandson could come play today because she had an appointment. I need to work on saying No, but because the boy is close in age to Son I agreed. As long as she knew I was taking the kids swimming today and that I had promised. so, she dropped her grandson off and we headed to the MT Y to go swimming. That little boy? Sweet and good and can swim like a fish! We had a good time until his Dad came and picked him up. And Daughter? Was actually helpful today and watched the boys for a bit so I could get some laps done.

Other than all that it's been a pretty normal day. Until tonight when a HUGE thunderstorm came through and knocked out our satellite and computer for a bit. I missed most of Haven, darnit, but hope to catch it's rebroadcast soon. *g*

I hope y'all had a better aft, you know what? I'm not letting earlier ruin what was afterwards a lovely day. I hope y'all had a fun and fabulous Friday! I wish a grand and amazing Saturday for y'all. (Wish Son luck, it's his Back to School 'Fashion Show'-he's calling it his Show Off time. *G*) Goodnight and blessings to each of you, B.

Exercise: 1hr 25min. swimming. With lots of laps!

P.S. Oops, as for reading? Just finished the Resnick book and am going to start the Warren book I picked up yesterday. I read the first few sentences last night and liked it.

Daughter's first boyfriend!

Actually, no. This is Daughter's first CPR Dummy. The Aquatics Director gave it to us on loan for a while for Daughter to practice her CPR skills. Here he is strapped into the car. (My idea. *g*) For some reason we have him sitting at the kitchen table and I keep patting his head as I walk by. Odd. *g* What should we call him? *g* (I cracked Daughter up at dinner calling the CPR dummy her first boyfriend, so you know I had to tell y'all. *g* Oh, and I told her that I hated I'd missed her first kiss (meaning CPR on the dummy), this was when he was sitting at the table with us, he fell over and I told Daughter that was no way to treat a boyfriend. *G* I had her shaking with laughter. *G*)

I feel like it's been a long day, but it probably wasn't. When I awoke this morning all I could think was "Thank goodness! Last day!".  Even Daughter seemed to be tired this morning. We headed to the Pine Y and dropped Daughter off and Son and I headed home where I took care of some household chores while Son played on the Wii and had breakfast. All too soon it was time to head back and pick Daughter up. The Aquatics Director came out with her and talked to me for a few minutes. He said she did well, but that when he was watching her she became nervous and retreated a bit. It seems so weird when he tells me this (I was told before that she needs to be a bit more assertive.), because the Daughter I see at home and with her friends and brother is assertive and with her brother- bossy, opinionated and sometimes downright cranky. *g* I told him we'd work on it and we headed home. The kids managed to pass the time and I checked up on my email and such. (Forgot to tell y'all. Every Monday until Spring Break Daughter will work at the Pine Y to work on her CPR and life-guarding skills and so the AQ will pay for her to take the class and BIG test.)
Then it was time to head back to the Pine Y for the kids MA class. While there I made an appointment for next week with the lady who is a friend (close aquantince sounds weird)(She's a personal trainer and nutritionist and teaches a couple classes I take.) for an overall consultation. She'll look at what I've been doing and then let me know where I need improvements, whether it may be nutrition or exercise.
(Oh, this is where I tell you my fear of confrontation and conflict took hold and all the anxiety I've been having kept me from calling the Doc today. I know I need to call her tomorrow, I just am not comfortable in this situation. Especially initiating things.) (I'm a bad phone person, I hate, yes I used that word, hate, calling people I don't know. Unless it's about my children.)
While the kids were in class I worked out and then headed back to pick them up. After their class we went by the library where I picked up Linda Howard's new book, Veil of Night. I'm wary to read this because I have been seeing disappointing reviews online. But, I'll give it a try, anyway. I also picked up Nothing But Trouble by Susan May Warren. This book is, I think-can't really remember, an Amazon recommendation when I was looking up another book. The premise sounds cute and this is a new-to-me-author.
After that we drove home and I started dinner. I'd been wanting stir-fry for a while and decided to make that for dinner. It wasn't until a couple hours after dinner that I remembered teriyaki sauce (by way of soy sauce) is one of the foods on a list the Doctor gave me that I should avoid. I don't know what I'll do without teriyaki sauce! And yes, they make a low-sodium version, but it tastes odd and has a weird consistency. Maybe just use less? *g* Other than that, every other spice we use is low in sodium. I'm actually a 'less is more' when it comes to cooking with some spices, whereas Chris likes to pile them on food. What a strange difference men and women's taste bud's are. I'm not saying I don't like spices! Ha! No. But, you should be able to taste the food you were cooking with, too. *g*

OH! We finally had some rain today. And while I love rain, I don't like driving in rain that is pouring down so badly I can't see five feet in front of me at 4pm on a busy highway with a highway patrolman behind me. Not like all that makes me nervous or anything. Gah!

As for reading? I had hoped to be finished with the Laura Resnick book tonight, but didn't get as much reading today as I'd expected. Maybe I should have read instead of cleaned? Um, nah. I have more time to read, things not being cleaned bothers me. *g* Maybe now that I'm not going to be running over the Pine Y every single day I'll have time to read more? Or, um, paint or caulk. BUT, I will make more time to read.

Well, that's it from me. Another boring look into my life. I hope y'all had an awesome Thursday. I wish an enjoyable and fun Friday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 10 miles on bike @ level 11, 25 minutes of weights.

P.S. Just realized how rambling this post is, sorry about that!

Oreo pretends the camera isn't there

Oreo is a truly odd cat. She follows me around so much we call her "The Stalker" and will chat/fuss at me when I'm upstairs in the bedroom putting away laundry. When she's not begging for attention she's mini-growling at the other cats when they get too close to her personal space. She's quite the verbal kitty!

One more day. That was my mantra getting up this morning to drive Daughter to the Pine Y. Tomorrow is her last day volunteering and is also the day she tests for CPR, she was supposed to test Tuesday but the Aquatics Director got his days mixed up. The morning went as usual and soon it was time to pick Daughter up. On the way home we stopped by the Sporting Goods Store to return the brace we bought yesterday and stopped once more before heading home at the convenience store for drinks for the kids. They asked for a small treat and I agreed.
After our afternoon at home we headed to the MT Y for Son's KidFit class, he really enjoys going and I'm hoping they continue the classes after school here returns next week. There's no guarantee, but I know we'd all be disappointed if they stopped the classes. While Son was in KidFit I worked out and while I really, really wanted to take the Zumba class I knew if I did I wouldn't be able to walk much tomorrow. So, instead I walked on the treadmill and worked on some weight machines. I don't want to burn out on the bike, so decided the change up would help.
The kids begged to go swimming again, so after Son's class and my workout we headed to the pool. Chris met us there and we had a good time. Son made a friend, he does that so easily, and played with that boy with a ball and hoop over the pool. When we finally left we were all water logged and pruny and starving. So we headed home and made a quick dinner. And Daughter and I watched Noises Off , a funny movie that I always enjoy. This was Daughter's first time watching the movie and she was cracking up!
As for reading? I was able to make it to a third of the way through my book and while I wish it were more I do hope to finish the book within the next day. Maybe after tomorrow and my hours of driving per day I can get some reading done. *g*

That's it from me. I'm so tired and need to get some rest. Tomorrow promises to be a big day, between Daughter's last day and tomorrow is the day I'm supposed to get back to the Doctor on all my home blood pressure reading. And ask why everyone else had had their test results this week except for me, or why she's still holding my prescription renewals hostage. I am going to ask her to give me a month to get my blood pressure under control on my own. Now that I actually know there may be a problem, I can work to make more changes to my lifestyle and eating habits. Chris wants to "fire" her. See, while I was there I mentioned a few other things that were bothering me and she never addressed them. At all.

Bah! I was saying, time for bed. I hope y'all had a wonderful and slightly wacky Wednesday. I wish a grand and amusing Thursday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 2 miles on treadmill @ 4 incline and 3.5 speed, 25 minutes of weights, 1hr and 45min swimming.

Troublemaker!

See this face? Though it may be handsome, it's a face that is constantly in trouble. Because Fireball? Will eat anything. Plastic seems to be his favorite. We have to constantly watch what could be available and can't leave the pantry door open because he likes to chew the bag that clementines come in (those webbed bags). But, we love him despite his weird tendencies. And his nickname? Goat!

Good golly could my days be any more boring? *g* Though this week our routine is slightly different. Daughter is "working" mornings only this week meaning we are all getting up early and it leaves me wishing I weren't a night owl. (Have been a night owl as long as I've been alive, drove my Mother nuts! *g*) After dropping off Daughter this morning Son and I headed home and he fell asleep in the car on the way home, so I"m not the only one tired! After arriving home was had breakfast and I took care of a few things, but mostly zoned out. I fiddled around on the computer a bit and then it was time to pick Daughter up. We did end up stopping at the Sporting Goods Store and found a brace for Daughter. Unfortunately, they didn't have one in her size, but did in the next city over. (We live in a small town between two cities.) So, want to guess what I ended up doing? Yup, driving over to the other city's store. And guess what? Daughter was able to try on the brace in her size and it didn't work well. *sigh* However, we did end up trying another one and she seemed to like it. SOLD! I was very happy to head home after that. (Unfortunately is seems that this brace makes the back of her leg hurt. *sigh* So it goes back tomorrow and we give up for now.)
I've just been very tired and extremely stressed out since last weeks Doctors appointment and have ended up having anxiety attacks. So, when we arrived home, I sat and again tried to rest and relax. (HA!) When I picked Daughter up this afternoon I was informed there would be no MA class tonight, I knew it was in doubt because the teacher is on vacation but the MA Director had said he might teach. Well, he couldn't. SO, no MA class tonight. Instead I was able to go to Zumba at MT Y. It's upset my workout schedule a bit, but we've decided to go swimming again tomorrow evening.
Afterwards we headed home and while dinner was being prepared I cracked. I just started crying. If it was my Doctors intent to induce even more stress into my already busy life she's succeeded. Admirably. Chris calmed me down, by telling me things I already knew, but needed to hear from someone else. It won't help my stress level much, but it helped for a little bit.
I've managed to read another chapter in my book. I know it's not a lot, but my attention has been divided among many things and I'm finding I haven't read as much this summer as I usually do this time of year. Our busy schedule seems to preclude that. I can't believe I'm looking forward to starting back to homeschooling so much come the first of September. *g*

Anyway, time to get some sleep. I hope y'all had a fabulous day. (With lots of smiles and good books!) I wish a wonderful Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Zumba.

Grumpy Layla!

This? Is a grumpy face! She was not happy the other afternoon. However, I'm happy that instead of taking her foul mood out on my furniture she chose to scratch the heck out of the corrugated cardboard scratcher we have.

It's been a too long, very tiring, running around day. It started way early this morning with taking Daughter to the Pine Y and then coming home, grabbing breakfast and then sweeping, mopping, vacuuming and laundry. I was able to sit for about 10 minutes before we had to head out and pick Daughter up. By the time we arrived back home with Daughter I was dragging (didn't sleep well last night) and took a small catnap in my chair. I could hear the kids, so I guess it's more that I rested with my eyes closed than anything. We were only home for a little over an hour before we had to head back out to take Daughter to the Doctor. Daughter sees a different Doctor in the same practice that Chris and I go to, and her Doctor? Was fine with me checking out facts on RA online. She's going to test Daughter for RA and also test her thyroid. I asked for both tests and she did mention that Daughters SED rate was elevated last time and if it is this time (Meaning last summer and now this summer.) that she'd refer us to a Rheumatologist. As for the thyroid? She wanted to know why I wanted the test for Daughter and I told her it was because I was Hypo, my Mom had Hashi's and that Daughter has put on 13lbs in the last 4 months even though she is VERY active. (Sounds familiar, eh?) We won't have results until Wednesday at the earliest. Oh! As for test results! Chris' came in today on his Punch Biopsy. It was fine, no big bads there. Seems at one time his skin was irritated on his ankle and then whatever irritated it went away and that weird patch of skin is what's left and eventually it'll go away. Um, here's the thing. He's had it for two YEARS now! WHEN is it going away? Yet another reason I'm not happy with our Doctor.
After Daughter's appointment was over we went looking for a new ankle brace for her (her ankles are what are bothering her the most, but overall all her knees, ankles, wrists and neck are bothering her). We went to CVS, didn't have one. We went to Rite Aid, had one, bought it-then realized it was the wrong size and had to return it. All in the space of ten minutes. Yeah. That kind of day. So, then we tried Walgreens. They had one, but it was white. C'mon? Really? Active teenager, summer, sandals, barefoot? WHITE? *sigh* We left that one at the store and have decided to check the Sporting Goods store tomorrow and then if they don't have one we'll order one online.
After all that the kids and I headed home where we had about an hour and then we headed back out to the MT Y for Yoga.
Afterwards we all headed home and it was make your own dinner night. (Basically a raid the fridge night to get rid of some leftovers. No worries, we made something for Son.)
We've watched our Monday night shows, The Closer and Rizzoli and Isles, both good episodes. I already can't wait for next week. *g*

That leads to now which leads to me heading offline and getting some much needed sleep. OH, as for reading? I was five pages into the Andersen book when I realized I had read it before so picked up the first thing I could grab on the way to the Doc's this afternoon and have started Unsympathatic Magic by Laura Resnick. Already I can tell by the little I've read that I'm going to enjoy this book a lot. *g*

I hope y'all had a nice Monday. One filled with good friends and smiles. I wish y'all a terrific Tuesday filled with lovely books. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Yoga.

Boys hanging out!

Butterscotch and Midnight decided it would be nice to nap in one of the kitty tents yesterday afternoon. And I thought they looked so funny watching everything going on in the LR yesterday. Midnight is getting pretty smart, he closed his eyes when I took the picture! Stinker! It still looks like he's smiling, though.

Another long and sort of busy day. After lunch (because here some stores still open late on Sunday here) we headed to Lowe's and picked up some drainage rock to place around the AC unit. We also looked at a pricing a new lock for our storm door because Chris broke it the other evening. It was sticking and would lock, but not lock all the way into the wood (but still LOCKED!) and used a wrench to make it turn, therefore breaking the lock and for an hour there we couldn't unlock the screen door at all! Now we can't lock it. Gah! And the thing is, I ask him to help me take care of a few things around here and not five minutes before he broke the lock I asked him to leave. it. alone. The ONE thing I ask him not to touch and he breaks it. MEN! Anyway, we talked to an employee who was in the storm door section and he said we'd have to order the parts from the door manufacturer.

After Lowe's we headed to Target where I picked up my toothbrush and some socks for Daughter and a vitamin that is supposed to help lower my blood pressure. (I did a LOT of reading last night.) If it turns out I'll need the blood pressure meds from the Doc, then I'll take them, but the hurriedness of the whole thing doesn't sit well with me when my blood pressure wasn't THAT bad. I just want a chance to try and fix it on my own first. Time the Doc doesn't seem to be willing to give me.

Anyway, after all that we stopped by the house and placed the rock and grabbed our swim bags and headed to the MT Y's Pool. We were there for 2.5 hours! We had a blast. The Life Guards there today were so bored they were blowing up the safety gloves as balloons and gave a few to Son to play with in the pool. Then they decided to put water in them and make a kind of floppy throw toy. We had a blast with those, throwing them at each other and trying to hit one another with them. I was beaned upside the head a few times. *g* We also got into a splash fight and Son and I raced from one end of the pool to the  other in quite a few round-trip laps. He cheated, he was wearing flippers and at one point even used a boogie board. *g* Daughter and Chris did a couple of laps in the big pool (the swim teams pool, it's unheated-brrrrrrr!) wearing the flippers as well. I'm not exactly positive, but I think I saw the Life Guard giving Daughter quite a few glances. She acted oblivious, so I'm not sure she's picking up on those things yet. I can say Chris was totally oblivious, whether that was on purpose or not I don't know. By the time we left we were all water logged, pruned and smelled strongly of chlorine, but we had a fantastic time together as a family.

We then headed home and Chris started dinner and since laundry wasn't done yet I decided to see if I could ride Daughter's bike. Yup. Go ahead and laugh. I haven't ridden a bike in over 25 years! (The exercise bikes at the Y don't count, you don't have to balance or use brakes on those! *G*) At first I couldn't get the hang of it, but then Chris lowered the seat for me and I finally got my balance and Son and I rode bikes for about 15 minutes. I know. I'm a wimp. But, we live on part of a hill and getting up that hill was rough! *g* So, I came in and Son soon followed. Daughter and I played bowling on the Wii and then Son and Daughter played. I just wanted today to be fun. Of course like all fun things, after dinner it ended. I had to finish the laundry and take care of ironing.

And that leads to now. If y'all can't tell I haven't had time to read today at all. But, I did pick a book to begin, Head Over Heels by Susan Andersen. I think I've read this book before, but that would have been years ago, so if I remember too much I'll have to pick yet another book. *g* Are y'all reading anything good right now? Looking forward to anything coming out this month?

Tomorrow promises to be another semi busy day. Daughter has her Y work in the morning and then in the afternoon she has a Doctors appointment. She's having issues with her joints. I'm insisting they test her for RA again and this time also for hypothyroid. It seems odd she's had this issue for two different summers now. The fact that RA runs in both mine and Chris' family is a scary thought.  (Both our Mom's have/had it.)
This is it for me. It's time to get offline and get some sleep. I hope y'all had a restful and smile-filled Sunday. I wish a stress-free and pleasing Monday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: I'm counting the swimming and bike riding, small though that last one may be.