Up Close with Wicket!

Here's another picture of Wicket taking a ride on Son's back. She's so funny that she will just lay there as though she were royalty riding along on a chaise. Son is her favorite ride and he? Spoils her rotten by walking around with her on his back. I swear the child is going to end up looking as though he is deformed if he keeps this up! And since this picture is a bit closer than usual, can you see her ginger stripes on her leg? She also has what looks like a caramel dribble from her chin to her tummy. *G*

A rather sunny and strangely warm Sunday here today. Is the weather odd where you are? Here we reached low 70's. IN JANUARY. So. Very. Wrong. This afternoon I went to Zumba. The two teachers were there again and I had a good time. If anyone had told me ten years ago that I would enjoy and look forward to an exercise class I'd have laughed at them. Now? I can't imagine not attending classes. Afterwards I gathered the family and a list and we headed to Target. The kids now have new undies and Daughter and I have new socks. And the cats now have a new corrugated cardboard scratcher and a new kitty condo that they can also scratch. (Better those than my furniture! Which sadly, has been scratched because Butterscotch is light in the head. *sigh*) We then headed home where Chris played the Wii with the kids while I made dinner and then cookies. It was a nice evening. I wish it could have lasted longer. Unfortunately Monday seems to come faster and faster each week and we headed upstairs for bed and I ironed for the coming week.

As for reading? I haven't had a chance today. But, I did notice a big Uh-Oh last night. I somehow accidentally picked up the wrong Lila Dare book. I could have sworn I picked up her newest, but no. I accidentally picked up the first book in the series. *sigh* So, I'll have to return the book and exchange it for the newest book. Well, since BAM is in the next city over and I don't get over there but on the weekend I'm hoping Chris will get a chance to exchange it for me since he works near there. In the meantime, I'll begin the Vicki Lewis Thompson book soon. I wish the library wasn't updating everything this week. Oh, well.

That's all from me. I'm up late and am very tired. Not to mention while my new tennies worked great my feet hurt because I was on them almost all day. I hope y'all had a restful and glorious Sunday. I wish a pleasing and low-stress Monday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Zumba. (And shopping! Target is like a black hole where you keep walking around and around...... )
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4

Psycho Penguin!

That's Oreo's nickname. She has a tendency to run around the house at warp grabbing onto the door frames and standing on her hind legs all in one motion. Yeah. She is also my stalker, as she follows me everywhere around the house and sleeps behind my head while I'm sitting in my chair. Have y'all seen the commercial for the pillow buddy that comes in different animal forms and folds? Does she not remind you of one of those as she sleeps here?

Thanks to a tiny tax refund from our state we went wild and crazy here today! Yeah! We went....... SHOE SHOPPING! *g* Son, Daughter and I now have new tennies! Chris tried on and ended up ordering new shoes for work. (His tennies don't get the workout that ours, especially mine, do.) He needs good shoes considering he stands so much teaching and I wear my tennies day in and day out. AND I bought two books! Whew! We know how to live it up, right? *g* My libraries database will be down starting Monday and will be down until the following Monday. During this time I won't be able to place any books on hold. Nor will I be able to check my holds or account or even search for any books. Ack! A whole week without stalking the library database? Whatever will I do? That will free up at least an hour this week of my time altogether, though. *g*
I now have Polished Off by Lila Dare (a Beauty Shop mystery, #2) and A Werewolf in Manhattan by Vicki Lewis Thompson. We went to BAM to look and while one of these was on my original plan, the other wasn't. BUT, they didn't have any of the other books I went looking for. I'm thinking of letting my discount membership with BAM lapse and purchasing a discount membership from B&N instead. What do y'all think? Do y'all own discount memberships to a bookstore?
Ooh, I do have another book-ish type question. What do you think of a brand new author being published (in the paranormal genre) in hardback? And by brand new, I don't mean just to me. I mean this is the author's first book. Do you think this is a sound publishing decision? I just wonder about those who will or can afford a hardback book for an author they've never heard of or read before. I'm in no way saying the book wouldn't be worth the cost. I just think to introduce an author, this isn't the best choice. At least in my opinion. Y'alls opinion could be different and I respect that.

After shoe shopping and the bookstore we headed home. Oh, and while shoe shopping we went into the Apple Store at the mall and I played around with the iPhone. I have been wanting one of those for ages and eagerly anticipating when Chris' employer will carry them. However, when I played with it I was disappointed at how many steps you have to make to make a phone call to a 'favorite' or a contact. It's making me question whether I want one or not now, and I'm leaning toward not. (Not that I could get one for a few more months anyway.) But, I will need to replace my phone within the next couple of months anyway. Chris is trying to talk me into another smartphone. But, I don't really need all that. I don't mind waiting until I'm home to check my email. *g* (Or at the library on my iPod.) What about y'all? Smartphone or plain old cell phone?

This week I'm going to have to make Daughter an appointment with their new Pediatrician. Her joints are bothering her badly today and this evening. At fifteen she shouldn't be having this many issues with her joints. I'm going to have to have them test her, once again, for rheumatoid arthritis. Cross your fingers they can give us an answer and that they can help her.

No more from me. I'm tired. Who knew shopping wore you out. Well, when traversing Marshall's and the Mall I guess anything is possible. Ooh, and the bookstore. But, if y'all are like me you can walk those isles for hours. *G* I hope y'all had an amusing Saturday. I wish a peaceful and restful Sunday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: Shopping. Lots and lots of shopping because shoe shopping is never easy, darnit.

Wicket enjoys a ride!

A ride on Son's back that is. Wicket loves to climb up on Son's back and to be walked around. She'll lay there and just look at everything. I know cats like to be higher up so that they can survey around them, but this is a bit weird. Then again, she is one of our cats. *G* I've come to accept that each of our cats has their own quirks. And as y'all can see -Wicket still hasn't grown into those ears.

A rather plain day here today. The sun played hide and seek most the day, too. It's been test week here, the kids Quarter Tests and it's like pulling teeth to get them all done. Son took forever with his Science test, so he'll have to finish it this weekend. Just so you know, homeschooling doesn't mean no homework. *g*
I'm feeling better, still have a lingering cough and my throat is aggravated by that and that means my voice is still not all there. Not only am I speaking an octave lower than usual but I have been squeaking and losing it here and there. Ah, well. I blame drainage. *g*
Since it was a big test day for the kids we didn't go anywhere today, but that's what a computer is for! Though I wish the library would get on the ball and get some of my holds in soon. I've read the book I picked up from there yesterday and am back to strolling along my keeper shelves. I picked up Annette Blair's The Scot, The Witch and The Wardrobe to read tonight. I asked and we'll be stopping by BAM tomorrow. I can buy one, maybe two books. Any suggestions? *g* We'll also be looking at Marshall's for a pair of tennies for Son. He has a street pair, but will need a good running pair for his indoor soccer which will start in the first week of February.
Do you know that every time I think of posting something introspective I stop? I guess I don't like being too serious here. Granted, sometimes life becomes too serious and you can't help but have it spill over into every thing. But, my fear of angering someone or repelling y'all keeps me from going off into a tangent.

However, I am going to have to post something here in writing -yet again since my last post containing this matter was ignored. (I just know.)  ATTENTION BIO-FAMILY! STOP READING MY BLOG! I am slow to anger, very unlike my quick tempered, volatile mother. But, when I do anger it is a slow and steady burn. Don't make me go there. Please respect my wishes and grant me my place here in privacy.

Back to our regularly scheduled blog *G*. I wanted to thank you all for your kind words on my speaking to the MA Director yesterday. Personal confrontation is very hard for me. I usually worry over hurting someone's feelings or making them angry. (Yeah, my childhood was a barrel of laughs, can't you tell?) However, I want what's best for my children and stood up for them. Your tidings of Pride in me were very sweet, thank you!

Time for me to head offline. It's been a quiet, but intense day. I hope y'all had a spectacular and fun Friday.  I wish a relaxed and amusing Saturday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: I was tired today so took it easy. Maybe tomorrow.

I woke Pepper up when I started to take this picture. This is her sleepy look. She gives us this look when she's woken after hearing us sneeze and meowing us, too. *G* She has her quirks and her very cute face. *G*

I was good today! When we were at the Y today I actually talked to the MA Director. I said we were frustrated, the kids were frustrated and we just wanted to do what's best for the kids. I also said that as nice and sweet as the kid was who was teaching now, he was a kid and he wasn't a good teacher. I said I was sorry but he had no "plan" when teaching or experience and we just wanted what was best for the kids and other students. I said it could take a year before he could find another Shotokan teacher. I said (I was rather talkative.) that as long as the kids didn't lose their belt ranking I didn't care WHAT kind of karate they were learning.
And he listened. And agreed. And left Daughter in charge of the class to make some phone calls. Of course I also said that I didn't pay for December since my Daughter taught most every one of the classes. And he agreed. And I told him that we would re-evaluate in a month. By the time class was over he had four calls in and talked to one person who said they'd think it over. And the best part. He didn't get angry, he agreed with me. Said that since I was the one that helped support the program he respected my opinion. Whew. The whole thing had worried me. I detest confrontation. But, for my kids? I'll tackle just about anything.

After class we headed by the library and picked up my holds. We had The A-Team and The Sorcerer's Apprentice come in. I also had Bad Karma by Theresa Weir come in, meaning I have a book to read! YAY! We watched The Sorcerer's Apprentice after dinner and really enjoyed it. Nicolas Cage does strange characters very well. Makes me curious about his latest release as a Knight in a Medieval movie.

And that's our day. It was nice and productive, to my way of thinking anyway. I hope y'all had a nice day and a have a book to enjoy. I wish you a fabulous and fun Friday. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: 8 miles stationary bike at level 11. (My talk with the MA Director took longer than I had expected.)

Layla stole my chair!

Doesn't Layla look comfy? I got up this afternoon to put laundry in the wash and when I returned Layla had stolen my seat. And no, she's actually not as big as this picture makes her appear. Yes, she is over-weight, we have no idea why (The Vet has no idea why.). But, she's my sweetie. My furry teddy bear who is also a bed hog! *g*

We were still rather gray here today, but by mid-afternoon the rain stopped and the sun played hide and seek. The kids and I had to run to Petsmart and pick up cat food. Food for the big cats and food for the kitten. She has to eat different food for the extra vitamins and such that she needs to grow. Not that she's really growing. More and more she reminds me of a colt. She has long, long legs and a sleek body and her small head with her big ears. She's so funny looking she's cute.
After that we headed back home to take care of a few things before heading back out again so Son could attend KidFit at the Y. I decided to try and attend Zumba. I'll admit I was not my usual energetic self. By the time the class was half over I was exhausted and my chest felt a little tight and I started coughing. And then not ten minutes later-a break! For some reason the audio equipment stopped broadcasting. Want to guess who the hero was that had the audi equipment working again? Daughter! She was sitting at the side of the class and fussed with the equipment and got it working again. I was admittedly proud of her. *g* While people were looking over the audio equipment that Daughter ultimately fixed the instructor had us doing crunches and ab exercises on the floor. I tried, but didn't do many because of being so tired at that point and for some reason lying on the floor made me cough more. After Daughter fixed the machine we started class back up and finished and I was so glad when the class was over. I know I shouldn't have taken the class, but I hate admitting defeat and admitting that my chest is sore and still tight from all the coughing to me is like admitting defeat.
After arriving back home we settled in and had a simple dinner-leftovers. I know the family likes the meals we make, why we have to have a night planned where they eat the leftovers is beyond me. But we did. I guess that's family for you.
Bio-Dad called tonight, but I still don't have my full voice back and kept coughing. I need to talk to him about calling only Sunday evenings or something. We're always so busy during the week that finding the time to actually chat during the week is hard. And between Chris' work and the kids activities I only get to spend a few hours with Chris each night and half that time is spent cooking and cleaning up. This is why I adore email for most all communications. I can respond during the day or at night when I have the time and don't feel rushed.
Speaking of Chris! He has a new work phone today. He exchanged his Droid for a Droid Incredible. He's been showing and playing with it all night. *G* It's so funny, he's like a child with a new toy. *g*

As for reading? I'm out of ideas on my keeper shelves. I finished Jewels of the Sun by Nora Roberts last night and began and finished Tears of the Moon by her last night and then this evening. I could read the third in that trilogy, but of the three I like it the least. I keep hoping the library will add some books to circulation soon. And in the meantime, I'm looking over my shelves again.

And that's it. That's our day. Not very interesting, but ours. *g* I hope y'all have had a wonderful Wednesday. I wish a Thankful and Thoughtful Thursday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 50 minutes Zumba, 10 minutes AB work, pilates style. (Same teacher that taught tonight's Zumba class also teaches a PiYo class. PiYo is a mergence of Pilates and Yoga-heavy on the Pilates.)(And our Zumba classes are taught, rotated, by four different instructors.)

Cuddled love!

I'm not sure if this picture is bright enough for y'all to see that Midnight and Wicket are curled up next to each other napping. And to be honest, Wicket curled herself around Midnight. It was so cute, she really loves her big brother. Even when she tried to jump off the ottoman onto his back as he walks by looking as though she's trying to ride his back like a bareback circus performer. *g*

Today was rainy and gray and cool. After schoolwork this afternoon the kids and I headed to the MT Y so that Daughter could teach MA class there. While she was teaching I rode the stationary bike, just not as energetically as I normally do. As a matter of fact I felt short of breath but felt like I needed to do something. I hate being sick. I won't overdo, or at least I won't mean to overdo. I skipped the weights today, though. I knew I wasn't up to that. The coughing is worse, but strangely enough the pounding heart feeling every time I bend down or stand up has all but stopped. It still does it every now and then, but not as hard and fades quickly. I've been losing my voice off and on all day as well. Daughter found she wasn't as recovered as she though she was, too. She coughed a bit while teaching class today and found herself tired this evening.
After the MA class at MT Y we headed to the Pine Y for the kids to attend their MA class. Though to be honest, I wonder why we even go anymore. They learned nothing new. And both kids are becoming very frustrated with the situation. Daughter ended up helping teach the class since the black belt brought in to teach doesn't know what he's doing because it's a different type of Karate from what the kids have been learning. I feel like we're failing the kids in this. And I know realistically that all this has been beyond our control. If I had felt better today I'd have stayed later after class to talk to the MA Director about everything. We are coming up to the time when we need to make a definitive decision for the kids about these classes. We had hoped that the MA Director was having some luck finding an actual instructor, but so far-no. *sigh* It's looking more and more like we're going to have to have them start over from scratch in another discipline and that's not fair to them. But, the alternative is to send them to the school that their teacher left to go teach at. The teacher that made promises and disappointed the kids. The teacher that couldn't be bothered to be upfront with the parents or kids. The teacher who I now feel is a bad influence because of the broken promises. That teacher needs to seek to be more mature than he is now. It's just not fair to the kids. A mentor/teacher should be trustworthy and honest. Argh!

Anyway, after arriving home this evening Chris and I made dinner together and sat and enjoyed a little time together before heading upstairs. It's been a very long day which has left me feeling weak and sore. I should have taken the time and stopped and bought some cough medicine. Think the syrup I have left from a year ago is still good? *g* Nah. I need to dispose of that.

As for reading? Still reading the Nora Roberts book. I haven't had as much time to read this week so far. But, I should finish the book sometime tomorrow. I may read the second book in that trilogy after that since none of my library holds have come in yet.

Time for me to get some rest. I hope y'all had a terrific Tuesday. I wish a wonderful Wednesday for y'all filled with good books and good friends. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 10.75 miles on stationary bike, 1.65 miles treadmill. (I walked so I wouldn't disturb the kids Pine Y class.)
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4

Oreo pretends we can't see her!

I know this picture is old, but I keep forgetting to download the most recent ones off the camera. I do think it's funny when she closes her eyes like this and thinks we can't see her. You have to wonder if they truly believe that! *g* In the meantime we humor Oreo and pretend we can't see her pretending not to see us. (That's a fun sentence!)

Not much to report on for the day. Both kids are again back to schoolwork. Daughter felt too bad last week, but Son was okay and the week before it was reversed. I'm still dealing with whatever this crud is the kids have shared with me. My chest still hurts badly, but I guess that's going to be the case until I can get rid of it. However, I don't really get sick days. Gosh, I miss those. Remember when you were a kid and if you were sick you stayed in your jammies all day either on the couch or in bed? What's that like again? I haven't had one of those in...... wait for it....... almost SIXTEEN YEARS! *g* (Not counting that weird 24 hour thing I had last year. If I can't actually remember anything-it doesn't count. *g*)
After schoolwork today and Chris arrived home I went to Yoga at the Y. I wasn't sure about going, but thought the stretching might help my back and chest. It did help my back.
While I was gone Chris made dinner, which was very nice and we ate as soon as I arrived home. We watched Castle this evening and I won't spoil anything, but thought it was cute how Castle danced around the reasoning of why he was sticking with Beckett when she asked him point blank. And the last part? Had me holding my breath hoping they were in time. Chris recorded Harry's Law for me to watch later, too. I really enjoyed that show last week and am hoping that it keeps up it's momentum.

I still don't have anything new from the library to read and so am reading Jewels of the Sun by Nora Roberts. I will say one thing about keeper shelves-they're like a small UBS that only stocks books you like by authors you like. *g* And hey! There's no fee! *g*

And that's my day. I've taken care of household things as well, but am trying to cut back on boring y'all with those details. I hope y'all had a smile-filled and pleasant Monday. I wish a terrific Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs!

Exercise: 1 hour Yoga.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4.

This picture is a almost two months old, but it shows how I spent most of this afternoon. Wicket crawled up on my chest and decided to take a nap. A long nap. Since I wasn't feeling well anyway, I decided she was fine where she was and let her be. Wow have her ears grown since this picture was taken!

This post is going to be short. My chest is hurting a lot today. As in every time I take a deep breath it hurts. My blood pressure is fine, my pulse is fine and my heartbeat is fine. My chest just hurts and I'm dealing with nasty drainage and coughing sporadically. The good news is that the kids are feeling so much better they spent the afternoon outside playing with their friends. And then inside with their friends for a bit this evening. I'm so glad they were able to have fun and spend time with their friends, especially Son, as he hasn't really played since he became sick two weeks ago.

And as for reading? I finally exhausted my supply of books from the library. I hope they add some more books to the database soon! In the meantime I browsed my keeper shelves this evening and picked up Jewels of the Sun by Nora Roberts.

There's nothing more to add except I'm hoping to feel better tomorrow. I didn't make it to the Y today, I decided it would be best if I rested. Didn't seem to help, though.
I hope y'all had a Blessed and restful Sunday. I wish a stress-free and pleasing Monday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 0 (I do not like being sick!)
Fitness Challenge Miles: 0

Pepper is my cutie!

Pepper is still my baby. Yes, Wicket is younger, but Pepper has an innocence to her that still makes us think of her as a kitten. Of course she's almost as big as Midnight, but she still plays like a kitten and she is just so sweet.

It's been a long day. The Out-laws visited today and the funny thing is they bought a new car almost two weeks ago and drove it over today and when they arrived Chris surprised them with the jeep. They were so glad we had found a way to replace the car and we were happy for them because they've talked about getting a new car for almost a year. *g* Of course they just started looking for real a couple of weeks ago. *g* That's just how the Out-laws work. They brought me coupons and they brought the kids a Star Wars puzzle, a double sided Star Wars puzzle. The kids gave it a good try this afternoon, but they gave up after an hour and said that they'd try again later. *g*
After the Out-laws left Chris and I went grocery shopping. We left the kids at home, still something I fret over, but Daughter is old enough. They played the Wii the entire time we were gone. Chris and I made it to Aldi's, Sam's Club, WW and even a local grocery store because even WW didn't have the last few things on my list. By the time we arrived back home I was starving! *g* So, we had a quick dinner and enjoyed an NCIS (why yes, we are NCIS addicts) marathon on USA network. *g* We even managed to watch an episode we'd never seen before.
Y'all will never believe what we bought at WW! A beginners kit to learn to knit! (It only cost $10, a lot less than I expected.) We thought we'd try to learn, though I'm not sure how well I'll do. I'm a total klutz and also with my nerve damage... But, it'll be interesting to try.
As for reading? As always when the weekend rolls around, I haven't had a chance to read today. Though I did begin The Crossroads Cafe by Deborah Smith. I have enjoyed many of her books, though the Mermaid books are my favorites.

No more from me this evening. (Very late evening.) I haven't felt very well all day. This cold or crud as we like to call it seems to be affecting me a bit with lots of drainage and a sinus headache and a bit of dizziness. I lost my voice again this morning for a while, until I cleared all the drainage from my throat. And I had a weird feeling in my chest most the day, as though my heart were beating hard. (Blood pressure and pulse were fine.) Chris listened with his stethoscope (He used to be an EMT and a few other medical related things.) and took my pulse and even just felt my chest and said nothing was wrong. And then I remembered. Daughter had the same thing happen to her for a while one day in the first few days of this. It's stopped now-that weird feeling. I think it has something to do with the drainage in the lungs and the coughing. NO worries! So, be vigilante if y'all get this! I'm hoping (a lot) that I feel better tomorrow because I'm getting restless and want to go back to the Y.

I hope y'all had a Happy and Healthy Saturday. I wish a Blessed and Peaceful Sunday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: I'm counting the shopping since it took THREE hours. *sigh*
Fitness Challenge Miles: 0

Wicket is an NCIS fan!

I wanted to post this picture, which is similar to another I posted this week, because I wanted y'all to see how small Wicket is still. She eats well, she plays hard and her coat of fur is shiny and silky. She's just small and sleek. I also wanted y'all to see that not only is she an NCIS fan (she watches the tv show for a few minutes any time it is on), she's a Ducky fan!

We went to bed last night feeling much better about our situation. We were confident that we'd made a good decision to trade the car. There was no use pouring money into that car-putting good money after bad. Chris went after work last night and looked and looked and looked and test drove a Jeep Liberty and another SUV and even some cars. He really liked the Jeep Liberty but the interest rate offered by Wells Fargo through the dealer was outrageous. So. He contacted our bank. And we were given a much, much, much, MUCH better interest rate and we are now the proud owners of a blue Jeep Liberty. No, I didn't get a chance to drive it before we bought it. I couldn't leave the kids-Daughter is still dealing with bad drainage and sinus headaches and a few other aches from coughing. I did get to drive it this afternoon and it's very nice. It has low miles and sits high (higher than our other Jeep). It'll take some getting used to as it drives like a truck. (But, I like trucks. Yeah, I'm a weird sort of female. *G*) I've been driving the car for so long it feels weird. But, we feel good about the purchase and we have five days if we want to change our minds. Which we'd be odd people to do. *g* I haven't come up with a nickname for the new Jeep yet. (And yeah, we actually do really need a nickname as we now own two Jeeps.) And I pray we made the right decision. Y'all know me. I have buyers guilt when I by a t-shirt. Think how I'm freaking out over a vehicle!
I will say that I woke this morning and could barely speak. I tried and would squeak and some parts of words didn't make a sound at all. As the day has worn on it's gotten better, but now as deep night encroaches my voice is once again diminishing. And coughing has started. Oh, joy. At least I don't seem to have the same thing the kids did-no fever-blessed be!

Normally today is grocery shopping day. But, with Daughter still sick I only ran out to pick up my books in from Hold at the library and by a local grocery store for cat litter. Tomorrow I'll have to do all my usual grocery shopping. And also The Outlaws are coming over for a visit. Funny enough they bought a new car two weeks ago.
Oh, and the books I now have? A Cutthroat Business be Bente Gallagher and Night of the Vampires by Heather Graham. And since I had no where to be this evening I began and just finished the Heather Graham book. It has some of the same characters from her Night of the Wolves book that was out sometime early last year.

That's about it for today. It's been an interesting day. I appreciate all the hugs and good thoughts sent our way. I hope we did a good job with them! *g* I hope y'all had an enjoyable Friday. I wish a fun and laugh-filled Saturday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: *sigh* no. I need to tomorrow.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 0

A Sunny Napping Spot!

Not only does the cats play area stimulate them, but thanks to being a sunny spot it also makes them sleepy. *g* Here are Midnight and Layla taking a nap during the afternoon a few days ago. I think it's funny, sweet and odd that when they sleep, they tend to seek space near each other. And yes, I can tell that's Midnight and not Pepper. Midnight has a brown tinge to his fur almost making him look like he has chocolate fur instead of black fur. Pepper has a blue-ish tint to hers.

Well, today continued with it's suckage. I have to say this month has been one disappointment after another. (Well, except for our Anniversary.) I can only pray (and ask for good prayers or thoughts) that this month improves. Chris dropped the car off at the mechanics this morning and by lunch time he had an answer to what was wrong with it. The crankshaft. *sigh* He was told it had at best 6 weeks to 6 months before it went kaput. But, that they wouldn't be surprised if it lasted much less time. Then they gave an estimate on fixing it. They said that thanks to the type of engine we have the entire engine would have to be replaced. With labor it would cost around $4500 (if not more) to fix. Chris and I felt like the world had dropped from under us. Were they kidding? No. This is a very well-known and respected mechanic. On top of the $1500 we had already put into the car to replace the transmission and then another $4500 to fix this? Would total almost the cost we paid for the car minus a couple grand. (Well, are still paying actually.) Unacceptable. Not to mention we were going to pay off the car this year. Now? I want nothing to do with it. I will NEVER trust that car again. It's just too much trouble. After much consideration we decided to trade in the car. We have an SUV picked out-Chris went after work to look at it. It's a Jeep Liberty and has low mileage. We're hoping our Bank will give us a decent interest rate.

Anyway, while Chris was busy this evening I read and finished the Jayne Ann Krentz I began last night. Next up? I'm not sure yet. And tomorrow I need to go by the library and pick up two more holds that have come in. At least I've been good and haven't bought many books this year so far. Thank goodness for the library keeping up with me for a brief, but nice, time.

No more from me this evening. I've had a sinus headache all day and have been sneezing a LOT this evening. I looked at Daughter and shook my head at her and said if she gave me 'the crud' I was going to get her. I was teasing. She wasn't feeling good today. Her head also hurt today and she can't breathe out of her nose at all today. I hope she feels better tomorrow.

I hope y'all had a thankful and thoughtful day. I am thankful for all of y'all and my family and finally knowing the truth about what was wrong with the car. There's some relief in that. We were thoughtful as we made a plan of what to do. So, I've listened to my own salutation. *g* I wish an enjoyable Friday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: No. Didn't really have a way to get to the Y this evening. Also, sinus headache. Bleh.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 0 (Geez, I so want to do better about this!)

Wicket enjoys tv!

I took this picture the other evening. We thought it was adorable how Wicket jumped up on the chest that we keep the tv on and was really watching the tv. Something about the character on the screen was fascinating to her (Dr. Mallard on NCIS). She stood there for almost five minutes transfixed the images on the screen. So cute!

Son woke feeling better than he has all week and Daughter had no fever today, though she's sore from all the coughing she's been doing over the past couple of days. I woke feeling better, but still with a sore throat. I can live with that. And I was thinking this day would be okay. Not great, not fabulous, but okay. (The car thing and it's accompanying stress keeps things from being great right now.) But, this afternoon, well, the day took a turn that it never recovered from. I was in the kitchen at lunch time and had just fed the inside cats and the outside strays we feed. I returned to the LR and to my horror saw the ginger kitten (Wicket's brother) in the road. He rolled and I thought he was playing in the road, until he twitched his paw and was still. I knew then what had happened. Someone ran over that poor little baby. I cried. God how I cried. So little and yes, feral, but cute as a button and not deserving of the end of his life. (We never could get close enough to catch him to take him to the shelter.) And then I 'put on my big girl shoes' and found a shoe box and went and picked him up out of the road some idiot must have been speeding on and placed him in the box with a little teddy bear from the pile of cat toys we have. (He was so little, he needed a toy to be with him.) And tonight when Chris arrived home from work he buried the kitten and I cried again. Because I wish I could have saved him. I wish I could have done something before today so he was never in the road this afternoon. And I felt so guilty. I thought maybe it was my fault for feeding the strays at all. But, my heart can't stand to see a starving cat. I'm trying to let go of the guilt. But, I grieve for a kitten who had no name, no home and never knew the kindness of a gentle rub.
I had to get out of here this evening so I picked up some of our holds from the library and then went to Zumba. I now have: Sizzle and Burn by Jayne Ann Krentz (a reread), The Crossroads Cafe by Deborah Smith and two movies- The Expendables and The Killers.
I've begun reading the Jayne Ann Krentz book this evening. I wanted to revisit the first contemporary of the Arcane Series.
We couldn't decide on dinner tonight, so we had a very bad thing-fast food. I admit the burger was good.  Not having to cook or think about cooking tonight was better. Tomorrow Chris takes the car to the mechanic to see what's wrong with it. We still can't have it fixed until Mid-February, but at least we'll know what's wrong with it and how long we will be able to drive it as-is. I only hope there's some comfort in that.
There's something I wish I could write about here, but some members of my extended family have discovered this site-therefore invading what little privacy I held from them. (No, it's not Chris or the kids-they're welcome to read here, they know what I post.) I don't like that I've lost that last veil from my family. How odd is it that I wrote here to find friends (and lovely ones I've found) and to have a place to be me, but to an extent knew I would find privacy from my family because no one else knew about it. *sigh* Oh, well. I guess in my small way this is my way of admonishing those who know they shouldn't be reading here.

That's it from me this evening. It's been a long, very long, day. I hope y'all have had a Wonderful day. I wish a thankful and thoughtful Thursday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings to each of you, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Zumba
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4.

Buddies!

This picture cracks me up. Midnight and Layla are odd friends. She seeks out his attention sometimes and he's the same. Then again, she's been known to chase him down the stairs for no reason other than he breathed wrong. *g* This was one of their good afternoons where his breath didn't offend her. *g*

So my schedule is still off kilter. Not only is Daughter now sick, but although Son is feeling better he's still recovering. And this morning Chris woke up feeling dizzy thanks to drainage. So, he had a sick day. And I? Woke with a sore throat and sinus headache that has stayed with me all day. And yeah, as the day has gone on I've felt achey and am thanking goodness I haven't been worse. I did give up going to work out tonight. I didn't want my head to explode.
So, Son is back to schoolwork and Daughter had the day off as a sick day. Chris was home and yes, today was our Anniversary. We made each other cards. He drew two very pretty kitty's for me on my card. *g* And I wrote him a poem for the inside of his. Sometimes I think the cards I give him are the only poems I write anymore.
I did get to read some today. (We didn't have MA classes to attend today, so I had time.) I finished Deep Waters by Jayne Ann Krentz and began and finished Morning Glory by Diana Peterfreund. I don't remember reading many books that are based upon a movie, seeing a movie based upon a book or reading a book that was later turned into a movie-yes. But, I have to say. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The lead character is Becky, a tv morning news director who is recently let go from a position she's held for years. She never finished college and her prospects are dim when she lands a new job working on Daybreak, a has-been of a show that is slowly dying. She blackmails a world renowned news anchor/journalist into joining the show and fights hard for ratings, though the anchorman would rather not be there and does what he can to sabotage his portion of the show. Becky also meets a man, another tv show director and has to learn to let herself feel confident enough not to screw everything up. I? Enjoyed this book so much I can't really say. The characters are human and funny (the weatherman on the roller-coaster cracked me up!) and Becky's struggles to make it are sweet and full of hope. I know most people will see the movie and won't realize there's a book based upon the screen-play, but I hope someone out there gives the book a shot. Whether you see the movie or not! (Especially if your budget is like mine-so tight is squeaks, with no room for movie tickets.) I can't wait to see this movie-once my library gets it on DVD. *g*
Next book up? Goddess of Legend by P.C. Cast. This is one of the authors 'Goddess Summoning' books and since that series is what made me a fan of the author to begin with, I am happy the library had this book. This is a loose retelling of a Camelot fantasy. And so far I like the book, a lot.

No more from me tonight. I ache all over, even my neck is hurting, and I need to lie very, very still and get some sleep. I hope y'all had a good day filled with good friends and good books. I wish a Wonderful Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: *sigh* No, not tonight.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 0 (I don't like seeing a 0 here, but my head hurt too badly tonight to do anything about it.)

Sneaky Fireball!

Fireball is a sneaky, sneaky kitty. I just know he's on top of the cat food holder to try and figure out how to open the door to the garage. He's not sure what to do if he gets the door open, but he's at least figured out that the lock and doorknob mean something in his plan. *g*

Ever try and have good hope for a day and have it dashed in an instance? I am at heart a person full of hope. And while the whole car thing is freaking me out and stressing me out, I have perspective about it. There are others out there who have it worse. Who have bigger things on their minds. And I'm not sure what started me down that path, but that's how my mind works. Anyway, when I woke the kids today Son had another sinus headache. Since I woke with one, too, I was sympathetic. But then Daughter came out of her room and she was hot. Her skin was very warm and she had a temperature. And she ached. And her throat was sore. *sigh* So, now I have two kids sick. Son is having a hard time shaking this thing, but I'm hopeful this week will be better than last and Daughter has rested most the day. She had another fever tonight, but we'll see how she feels in the morning. In the meantime I'm not sure if it was the same where y'all live, but today was a school holiday here and I went ahead and gave the kids the day off. Today was spent quietly.
This evening after Chris arrived home I headed out to the Y for a very quick workout and Yoga. I needed the time and the workout away from the house after being housebound last week. I enjoyed myself, even though I was sore from Zumba yesterday. I'm never sore after that class, but some of the moves yesterday were different-I guess because the teachers were WAY different than the other two. I didn't give it much thought until I arrived home and all of a sudden found myself aching and tired and with a sore throat and sinus headache this evening. I'm crossing my fingers I'm not catching what the kids have. I can't afford the time to be sick. I need to take care of everyone else.
Chris took care of dinner and we settled down for a bit. He and I watched the new Harry's Law show on NBC. It was good. I enjoyed it. Chris watched The Cape, too. But, I found myself thinking it was better in the premiere. Tonight's episode seemed lackluster.

As for reading? I forgot to mention I picked up a copy of Deep Waters by Jayne Ann Krentz at the library the other day. I forgot about it because it was in the library box downstairs. *g* At least it was where it was supposed to be. Sort of. I usually keep books that I am going to read on my bedside table and then as I read them they are placed in the library box by the garage door downstairs. (It keeps the books in a central location so we can remember to return them in a timely manner.) Anyway, I wanted to reread the book, but now I'm wondering why. I remembered it as the book about a Pier and a woman who had corporate burnout and a guy who deserted revenge. But, I have to say, the "way of the water" stuff is annoying me. I'm not sure why. I don't remember it bothering me the first time I read this book. Have y'all ever had that happen? Totally forget a big portion of a book and then be annoyed by that portion when you pick the book up again years later? Ah, well.

I forgot to mention that this past Sunday? It has been twenty years ago this past Sunday that Chris and I met. And tomorrow (Really today since I'm up late again. What? Someone has to keep an eye on the kids.), Tuesday January 18, is Chris and my Anniversary. We'll have been married 18 years. I've been married to him half my life. And I would not have it any other way. I still remember the night we met and still adore those blue, blue eyes that stole my heart and still steal my breath. Do you know what one of my favorite sounds is? Nestled up and listening to his heartbeat. (Just FYI- a cats purr and my kids laughs are my other favorites. What are yours?)

Time for me to get some sleep. A quiet day yes, a day of stress-yes. I hope y'all had a pleasing Monday. I wish a terrific Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 7.10 miles on stationary bike at level 11 (didn't have as much time tonight as usual), 1 Hour Flow Yoga.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 5

Pepper is so cute!

Pepper makes me smile. All I have to do is look at her and I smile. She is so sweet and funny and has her own little quirks that make us laugh. (Slow motion walking when something in her environment has changed or the ice hockey game.) And out of all the kitties in the house she's the one that makes Fireball back up when she smacks him. *g*

Another day come and gone. At least it was sunny and unseasonably warm for this time of year here. We hit 55 degrees today and it while it was weird, it was nice. There's still snow/ice on the ground in many places around here, but today has helped to melt some of the remaining patches of ice on the roads.
Son woke feeling better today. He's not 100%, but he had color in his face and seemed like he had more energy than any other day this week he's been sick. I sent him off to bed after a steamy shower and a chest smeared with Vick's, the baby kind because Son doesn't do well with strong smells.
This afternoon I went to Zumba and had a good time. We had two different teachers, one for each half of the class. The last one killed me. We did squats through almost two songs and while that doesn't sound long, it sure felt like it! Ouch!
Afterwards I headed home (And yes, I'm still driving the car. I have no choice.) and took care of laundry and ironing. Chris was kind enough to make dinner tonight so took time to do something I don't normally take the time to do in the evenings when we're all together. I read. I finished White Lies by Jayne Ann Krentz. I'm not sure what I'm going to read next, but am grateful I have a choice thanks to my library books.

That's about it from me this evening. (Well, late evening/early morning. I'm up late again. Gotta love stress on top of being an already difficult sleeper!) I hope y'all had a Blessed and Peaceful Sunday. I wish a pleasing and low-key Monday to y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Zumba.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4

Toyota Failed!

WARNING if you dislike negativity avoid this post!)
A copy of the email I sent to Toyota (using their automated system): I haven't a question but rather a comment about the quality of the car we purchased from a local Toyota dealer. We are a single income family and as such are very careful with our money. We THOUGHT Toyota made a good product. We were wrong. My husband purchased a used 2005 Toyota Matrix and was assured by the dealer that the car was in great condition. In the past year the transmission failed horrifically and while the dealer fixed the transmission (at cost to us) it made us cautious and leery. We haven't owned the car a year yet and last week the AC Compressor stopped working and now the car is making a horrible sound emanating from the engine. Fixing the transmission drained our available funds. For a car we have owned less than a year I am saddened and disgusted that so many issues have arisen. As a company you have failed. You have failed to honor your commitment to your customers to make a quality product. You have failed by putting profit before safety. You have failed me, my husband and my children because we use the Matrix to drive our children to their activities. It will be a long time before we ever think of purchasing a Toyota product again. We won't be fooled into thinking you made a safe and reliable vehicle and will be sure to share our experiences with this vehicle with our family members and friends.


I will also be printing out a copy of this complaint and sending it to the company in letter form. We won't be able to fix the vehicle for another 5 weeks. Five weeks I am scared the car won't make it. I am disgusted and ticked off and upset and scared. Disgusted that this is happening again. Ticked off that this car has failed us. Upset because I wish to honor my commitments to my children. And scared the damn car will fail while out with my kids.
B.

Regular Post below this one.

View for Butterscotch

Butterscotch was so curious the other day as I was cleaning the downstairs windows. I'm not sure what he thought of the snow and ice left on the ground, but he was happy that I let him sit in the window for so long. Of course I had to clean nose prints off the glass afterwards (again), but it was worth it to make him happy.

It's been a very long day. Son woke not feeling the best today, but it was already too late to call our company and tell them not to come. So, Son didn't feel well, but made a good effort. Our company today was Bio-Dad who visited with us for about four hours again. I had him to the house this time since Son hadn't felt well this week and also so Daughter would be comfy and we wouldn't take up space in a restaurant and also to make it friendly on our budget. The visit went well.

Afterwards we stayed home. Son was coughing a lot this afternoon and triggered his gag reflex again. Poor thing. Chris found a decongestant for him and that seems to be helping him out a lot. I think he'll be fine if he can just get rid of all the drainage. Chris and I went by the library and picked up my holds today. I now have: Morning Glory: A Novel by Diana Peterfreund, Cancer Schmancer by Fran Drescher and The Other Side (an anthology) with a short story by J.D. Robb. I also picked up White Lies by Jayne Ann Krentz to reread.
I haven't said anything this week, but the car is now making some odd noises and I am freaked out. Mostly I'm freaked out because whatever is wrong with it has to make it last for another five weeks or we are in a bad way for the kids activities. After that we're talking of fixing it and getting rid of it. We've kept it in proper repair with fluids and oil changes and good gas, but we've had so much trouble and I'd rather it went bye-bye. Now. I honestly don't know what we've done to attract so much trouble from our vehicles and life just seems to spit on us with regularity despite trying to be good people. I am honestly scared of what the next five weeks will hold, but must go forth anyway. It's things like these that make me feel like a failure in life. And in the meantime is it bad that I've actually looked at cars online tonight and practically drooled over a station wagon? (Enough room to hold all my groceries! Or to hold the kids MA bags!) Granted it was loaded and pretty.

Well, as for reading today? I've finished Dawn in Eclipse Bay by Jayne Ann Krentz. And yes, I do seem to be started on a Krentz kick this weekend. But, she's been one of my favorite writers for years. I have an entire shelf (and a third of another) of her books on my keeper Shelves. The only other author with so many books on my shelves is Nora Roberts. *g* I've already begun rereading White Lies this evening at bedtime and it's just as good as I remember.

That's about it from me. It's been a pretty slow day. Chris has had fun playing with the iPad he brought home from work and the kids enjoyed playing with the Wii right before bedtime. I'm fighting a sinus headache and haven't managed to exercise today making me feel like a schlub. However, there's a Zumba class tomorrow and no company expected so I'm looking forward to attending that at least.

I hope y'all had an amusing and relaxing day. I wish a peaceful and restful Sunday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: none. *sigh*
Fitness Challenge Miles: 0

Patches Relaxes!

I don't talk about Patches much because she's really Daughter's kitty. However, since we have added Wicket to our family Patches has decided that she'll take attention where ever she can get it, even if it means having Chris pet her. We don't know why, but up until a couple of years ago, she wouldn't even let Chris touch her. We don't know why, but think it has something to do with her from before she came to our family. Last night however, she didn't have trouble crawling into Chris' lap and being petted for over half an hour. She looked like she loved it! *g*

Son woke today with another fever. He was so upset he started to cry. I felt so bad for him. I ended up giving him some tylenol and placing him on the couch downstairs with a blanket, pillow and some 7-Up. (We're out of ginger-ale.) He did okay today, took a nap late this afternoon and did well until this evening where he began coughing so hard he triggered his gag reflex. *sigh* He hasn't been blowing his nose despite being asked to repeatedly and tonight it added up to make him sick. I placed him in a steaming shower for half an hour tonight to help him not only breath better, but to dry up his sinuses a bit. And it worked. He's feeling much better now.
While Son was on the couch and Daughter was doing schoolwork I swept, mopped, vacuumed, did some laundry, dusted and polished the furniture and picked up around the house. (Meaning I put all the kids things in their separate rooms. *g*)(If they have their own rooms, why does their stuff end up all over the house?) I was tempted to wash the curtains, too, but ran out of time when Chris arrived home.

As for reading? I still have two library books on my bedside table (and had three more holds that came in this week that I need to pick up), but instead of reading one of those I picked another keeper off my shelves to read. Dawn in Eclipse Bay by Jayne Ann Krentz. I think reading her latest release, which happens to mention a character from the Eclipse Bay series made me think of it and I couldn't resist revisiting this series. Other than that, I'm not sure why I've had such an urge to read so many of my keepers lately. But, it's keeping me from thinking about books I can't buy right now, so that's good! *g*

A simple dinner this evening because Son wasn't feeling well. But, I was bad and had some Almond M&M's. *g* Um, the almonds inside are good for me, right? *g*

Anyway, time to head offline. We have company coming tomorrow for a visit and I need to get some sleep. We're not morning people on the weekends and I need to get some sleep. I hope y'all an enjoyable Friday. I wish a relaxing and amusing Saturday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: No. I wanted to stay close to Son.

Snuggly Wicket

Here's Wicket snuggled up next to Daughter. She is still not growing into those ears and we're starting to wonder if she ever will. She was almost asleep when I took this picture and she was enjoying how warm Daughter was. I was very worried for a while that she's not as big as her brother and sister or as round. She's very lean and lanky and has coltish type legs. But, she's also happy and energetic (O BOY is she energetic! *g*) so I am pretty confident that she's healthy. Not to mention she really likes to eat. *g*

Another day here where Son is still not 100% and Daughter is now a big mess of drainage. Our driveway is still full of ice so again today I haven't driven anywhere. The kids didn't go to MA today due to Son being sick and I'll admit that I'm still nervous to drive. A lot of the roads in our small town still have ice on them in patches. As a matter of fact, the county we live in has cancelled school again for tomorrow due to the ice on the roads.
Anyway, after cleaning and laundry today and starting Son back to schoolwork (he's sick, but still well enough to do schoolwork today) I finished my book, the Susan Mallery, this afternoon.
Chris arrived home this evening and took me to the Y again. I am very grateful he's being so understanding and willing to drive me to the Y. He hasn't been working out, though. He's been sitting in the lobby playing with an iPad from work. He's been loading the device with a lot of their teaching tools/manuals and he suggested to his boss that it would save paper and space to have each of their students be issued an iPad during their courses. It may sound like an expensive solution, but actually considering how much paper would be saved and how much memory each device contains, not to mention they are in a technological field....... It doesn't sound quite so silly. He's been given the go-ahead to try it on one device as a trial.
After working out Chris drove home and we cooked dinner together and watched a bit of tv. And for some reason the two library books I have left just weren't what I wanted to read so I picked a keeper from my shelves, Tempation by Sherryl Woods. While it may be dated, it's still a good read.

Anyway, I know this post rambled. Sorry. By not having a set schedule I feel like I'm a bit discombobulated. I hope y'all had an appealing Thursday. I wish a fun and enjoying Friday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: 8.28 miles on stationary bike at level 11, 30 minutes treadmill at 3.6 speed w/ 5.5 incline.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4.

Slightly spoiled?

This area is the cats area. Most of their toys are aligned along the wall. Layla and Pepper enjoyed their space and toys this afternoon. *g* So, do you think the kitties are spoiled? *g*

Son was feeling better today, no fever and he stayed awake all day. He even wanted to eat! He begged for chicken nuggets from Wendy's, but our driveway is a solid sheet of ice right now and I wasn't so sure how the car would do with it (our driveway slants down into the garage) so I told Son he'd have to have something else until Chris arrived home. After Chris arrived home he took me to the Y so I could work out and on the way home we picked up Son his nuggets. Chris told me I worried over nothing since the car has all-wheel drive, but the roads here aren't thawed out all the way yet and I was nervous. I don't mind driving in snow, I've done it for years. But ice? Ice is scary. And what melted this afternoon refroze this evening. Still it was nice of Chris to take me to the Y. I felt so much better being able to workout. I told Chris and the kids if I hadn't have been able to work out today it would NOT have been pretty. *g*

While Son is feeling better with no fever, he's been a little dizzy. Now, at first I thought it was an ear infection, but he shows no other sign so we're just keeping an eye on him. Chris gets the same way when he has a lot of drainage so we think that's what this is. Poor Son, who knew the snow he enjoyed playing in so much would result in him becoming ill. One days worth of fun resulted in going on three days of feeling bad. Daughter has developed drainage as well today, so we're keeping an eye on her as well.

Normally I'd be taking the kids to MA tomorrow. But, the roads are still icy in spots and Son is sick.... they won't be attending.

I have been able to read more since we've been stuck at home. Who knew our busy schedule was keeping me from reading? *G* I read Then He Kissed Me by Christie Ridgeway last night. And then today I started reading Someone Like You by Susan Mallery. And scary enough, I even have my next book picked out! *g* I know we'll pick up our schedule again soon, but until then I'm enjoying diving into a book.

I hope y'all have enjoyed your Wednesday. I wish a delightful Thursday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 8.18 miles at level 11, 30 minutes of weights, 5 minutes of sit-ups.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4 miles.

Nap time Friends!

I woke the other morning and had to immediately snap this picture. Layla is quite contrary in her love of Fireball. At times she loves his companionship. And at others she will smack him to make him go away. *g* But, funny enough they end up sleeping in the kitty bed together more often than naught.

I don't have much to blog about today. Son woke up feeling awful and running a slight fever and with a headache. I had to send Chris to the grocery store again for some ginger-ale. Son hasn't eaten all day and has slept a lot. I've made him take sips of his drink all day to keep him hydrated. I detest when my kids are sick. I hate that they feel so bad and there's nothing I can do to take away the aches and pains. If I could carry their sickness instead I would.
Daughter spent most of the afternoon over at her friends house and they all made Son a get well soon card. It was so sweet!
And I found out late this afternoon that the Y was actually open this afternoon, but I couldn't go because Son was sick. I could have worked out at home, but drainage made me a bit dizzy and with a headache of my own today. Not to mention when I worked out with the free weights last night one of them rolled off the couch arm where I set it for a second and fell on top of my foot. Woops! I have a humongous bruise on top of my foot today, but at least I was lucky and nothing was injured. I couldn't do yoga today because I was worried my wrists can't take it two days in a row on the carpet and I couldn't walk outside today because while it was okay to walk on the powdery snow, today everything was solid ice. Nice. *sigh* I miss the Y. (We really need to pick up WiiFit.) And I want Son to feel better.
While Son was sleeping and Chris goofed on his computer I read and finished the Fran Drescher book. I've already put her other book on her experiences with her cancer diagnosis on hold. I know I have library books left to read, but I've picked Then He Kissed Me by Christie Ridgeway to read next. I read the first book last year in her Winery/Wedding series and enjoyed it so hope this one is as good as the first.

And that's our day. As I type this Son is sleeping and so are Chris and Daughter is reading in her room. It's time for me to get some sleep, especially since I'll be waking up to check on Son during the night. I hope y'all had a terrific Tuesday. I wish a wonderful and safe Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: Not today. Hopefully tomorrow.

Winter Wonderland!

This is the view from the top of the hill that leads down to our subdivision. The road? Practically pure ice this afternoon. We received around 6 and 1/2 inches of snow in all and around 4pm this afternoon we started getting sleet. Though I have to say, the sleet was so big it HURT when it hit your face. And I dragged Chris out of the house to walk with me this afternoon up this hill. He didn't complain and we laughed like loons as we slipped and mushed our way up. He had his old combat boots on. Me? A pair of old sneakers since Daughter tore up my only pair of boot two years ago. I warned him, because funny enough he was the one slipping, that if he felt himself fall to LET GO of my hand. *G* See, he was being sweet and trying to hold my hand so that he could catch me if I slipped. I never did. *g*
This is a picture of me standing in the snow. (Yeah, I know-Duh!) See how deep my feet are in the snow? *g* Now, I'm a bit embarrassed to admit this, but I dropped into the snow and made a snow angel.

Silly, I know. But, I just had to do it.*g* Afterwards we headed home and made Beef Stew for dinner. Yum! The kids had a blast with all the snow. They were outside for hours! With periodic breaks to come in and warm up. Poor things. We're not used to this kind of snow, so they had mittens and not gloves. Both would come in with sopping wet gloves that had to be put in the dryer every now and then. When the sleet started they came in and stayed in. They watched a movie with a friend. 

Since I couldn't make it to the Y (Ha! The Y was closed as was everything else.) I did a Yoga practice at home and added in some free weights afterwards. I don't normally do free weights, they bother my hands, but I was desperate to get in a decent workout. 

Oh, and Chris took the jeep out. He said none of the roads were cleared except the interstate. And we've heard they won't be for a few days. This means no Y trips for us for a couple more days. Yikes! I need to find some way to workout!

Anyway, it's late. It's been a boring day. Oh, as for what I'm reading? Enter Whining by Fran Drescher. It's the actresses auto-biography, written before her divorce and cancer diagnosis. It's very interesting and I'm enjoying it. 

Time for me to get some sleep. I hope y'all had a good day. I wish a terrific Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 40 minute walk in the snow-up hill! *g* (This cracks me up every time I write or say it! *g*), 1hr10 minutes Yoga, 20 minutes free weights. 

Fitness Challenge Miles: 6 miles

Fireball sleeps with Buddy!

I was too late to get a picture of Fireball sleeping cuddled up next to Buddy the Bear. He heard me get the camera off my bedside table and when I went back he had moved. I guess he didn't want his manliness questioned by having proof of cuddling with a teddy bear. *g* That Bear has a lot of kitty friends. *g*

Another chilly day here. I woke with a sinus headache this morning and had to start my day slow. But, it finally went away and I managed to get some cleaning, laundry and dusting done. Chris and I went to the MTY, me for Zumba and Chris to work out and the kids begged to stay home to play with the Wii, so we agreed. We weren't gone long and then we all headed out to Lowes where we picked up my cleaner. WW stopped selling it in the large size that you can dilute as did Target, but Lowes still carries it. Since it's a cleaner made with natural products I wanted to stick with it, especially since it doesn't bother the cats like other commercial cleaners.
We then headed home where Chris and I made dinner together and I finally gave in to a craving I've had for over  week and had a piece of cake. We also watched The Cape, a new series starting on NBC. It was pretty good, especially if you grew up watching shows like Wonder Woman, Batman and cartoons like He-Man, She-Ra and Thundercats.  Which is what I did. *g* In other words, don't expect scintillating dialogue, but a good 'ol action show with good vs. evil. I'm not so dense that I couldn't see the bit of the show had with it's "Privatizing" of police forces and jails as commentary on the way our country may eventual head. But, I enjoyed it for what it's worth. Let's hope I can say the same thing next week. *g*
As for reading? I've finished rereading the first Alien book by Gini Koch. I seriously can't wait for the next book due out in April. As for what's up next? I'm sure a library book.

I'm posting this a bit late because, well, I forgot. Sorry, my mind has been a bit occupied. We've been told all weekend we were going to get some snow and yet they aren't sure exactly how much. But, we were told that following the snow will be sleet and freezing rain. Which means ice. The last time we had ice we lost power for almost 5 days and it was bad. Very bad. We're hoping like crazy we don't lose power. As it is, it finally started snowing and within an hour you can't tell we have a patio out back. *g* The kids are ecstatic and all I can think is that I won't be able to go to Yoga. But, unlike the other kids in the area, my kids won't get a snow day off from school. However, I will give them time to enjoy it. And I'm praying the strays we feed find shelter and are safe.

This is it for me. I'm up way too late. (To check on the weather.) I hope y'all had a peaceful Sunday. I wish a pleasing and safe Monday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 1 hour 5 minutes of Zumba. The last five minutes were after class had officially ended and some of us ended up staying for Zumba Battle. FUN!
* Any suggestions on how I can work out in the house? I have a jump rope, some hand weights (though they bother  my hands, usually) and my Yoga mat. Oh, well. Hoping I can figure something out.

Midnight hogs the toy!

I think this picture speaks for itself. Midnight napping, the box of cat toys and some sunlight. Makes for a fun picture and a comfy nap for Midnight. Hope the other kitties didn't want any of the kitty toys! And yeah, I know, they have a lot of toys. *g*

Another long day here. Daughter had a meeting at the Library today for their Teen Advisory Committee. Eight kids signed up saying they'd be there. Want to know how many showed up? Daughter-one. She was the only one to show up, but she said the meeting went well anyway. She gave her opinion on a lot of the Teen Librarians ideas and because the library had bought pizza for the kids who were supposed to show up, she also came home with a whole cheese pizza. Son? Was ecstatic and her best buddy all day! *g* She also talked to the Teen Librarian, who also supervises the Teen Writing Workshops, and explained how she can't make it to the workshops most of the time because they're on Tuesdays at the exact time she teaches a MA class at the MTY. The Librarian suggested maybe Daughter would like to hold a self defense class at the library for the Teens and also that she would maybe move the Writing Workshops to a Wednesday so Daughter could attend them. Both very good things for Daughter! They are truly kind at our Library and we are lucky to have such great librarians.
After Daughter's meeting we headed to run errands. Our first stop was the Mall where we exchanged a shirt that Chris' mother had given him for Christmas. The color was wrong for his tone and he had no tie to go with it, not to mention he didn't need another shirt for work. So, he exchanged it (with a little help from us) for a new belt. After that we left and went to Kohl's where I returned the sweater she gave me. Now, here's the thing. The sweater? Was something I'd buy for myself. As a matter of fact, I have two exactly like it already in two different colors. I think a third would have been overkill. I did look around, but didn't see much today. I'll go back to the store in a couple of weeks and maybe pick something up for the kids.
We then headed to Target where we picked up a few household things. (I am really starting to detest WW more than ever, the hassle of not having items we actually like outweigh the lower prices.) While there I was very, very bad and bought a book. I bought Then He Kissed Me by Christie Ridgeway. We're actually expected to get some snow, along with sleet and ice on Monday and I don't want to be stuck home with nothing to read. *g*

After all that we headed home and watched a bit of tv. It was quite chilly today and with strong winds as well, it left us all feeling chilled and I swear I didn't warm up all the way until I took a shower tonight! We had a "Raid the Fridge" night (I had to get rid of some of the leftovers!) and then we turned the downstairs over to the kids so they could play the Wii. *G*

It doesn't sound like a long day, but it was. Add in more laundry that I swear multiplies by itself and I swear I haven't sat down all day. Tomorrow I have Zumba and am going to drop off the sign-up sheet for Son to do the Indoor Soccer League. I'm looking forward to getting a workout in! How sad is that? *g*

I hope y'all had a relaxing and enjoyable Saturday. I wish a restful and peaceful Sunday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: I'd like to say shopping because my feet are telling me I walked a LOT. *g*

Wicket playing!

Daughter took this picture of Wicket the other day. The cats have a cardboard scratcher and they've been destroying it lately and here she is with a chunk of it. And note how HUGE her ears are! We've also taken to calling her our little monkey because if you're standing near the counter she will climb up your leg to get to the counter! It's so funny, but we're discouraging her.

Good golly what a day! After schoolwork we headed out for grocery shopping. Now, I love my hubby but he tends to slow me down when shopping. I'm a 'get in get what I need and get out' type of person. (For groceries. For books? Yeah, NOT! *g*) He did his best not to slow us down today, but people here have heard that it's supposed to possibly snow on Monday and like most Southerners, they've gone a bit batty. I don't get it. The stores just seemed more crowded than usual and a lot of people were just standing around blocking isles chatting. Drove me batty! By the time we were done, I wanted as far away from other people as possible. It was funny to watch Chris and Daughter eat their way through Sam's with all the samples. *g* Even Son got it on it with two samples. *g* But, we're pretty much done and now the rest of the weekend can be spent on other things.

All in all it took hours and an extra trip by the house. By the time we were done we didn't even want to think about cooking so we had yummy sandwiches (I love a hot ham and cheese!) with apples and chips. Well, chips for Chris. Since we've ben home I've also taken care of laundry, written out our new calender for the year (With space to add things as they come up.) and a few other things. I'm hoping to finish up the first Alien book and then on to my library books.

I'm glad y'all like the new template. I wanted something I felt a bit of connection to and this one fits the bill. And it fit my most important criteria. It was free. *g* And pretty. *g*

Time for me to get some rest. I hope y'all had an fun Friday. I wish a relaxing and enjoyable Saturday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: Nope, no time, too busy shopping for HOURS. I guess I could count all the lifting, walking and such. *g*
Fitness Challenge Miles: 0

Pretty Pepper!

I finally, FINALLY was able to capture a picture of Pepper when her eyes looked big and the flash didn't make them look otherworldly. Doesn't she look so innocent, and yeah, a little clueless? She's a total sweetheart, though. And loves to play the ice game and will play with Wicket, though doesn't like it AT ALL when Wicket wants to cuddle up and sleep with her. She prefers to sleep by herself. Well, sort of, as I type this she's asleep at the foot of our bed. *g*

If all has gone well, this is my first post with my new template. What do you think? I've always felt a connection to tree's, so I felt like I still had to have one and I like the colors and the moon, as well. And if y'all think I did this all on my own-you'd be so very wrong and don't know me at all! *G*

As for today? Well, I tried to get everyone out of the house on time today, but there's something about having Chris at home that makes my schedule run off course. We were about five minutes late for the kids MA class at the Pine Y today and I don't like that. *sigh* Oh, well. While the kids took class Chris and I worked out. I think he may finally understand that I have worked HARD to just drop the dress size that I did. He tried to keep up with me, but didn't quite make it. Ah, well. At least he got in a workout!
After our workout we spent some time in the dojo with the kids and I had Daughter show me some karate moves and we had fun with the Target. I practiced the kicks and punches she taught me and Chris tried a few as well. Both kids showed me basic attacks they've made up on their own (a requirement for testing) and they are pretty good! We had to stay because Daughter had to teach the 6pm-7pm class. But, we were told that as of next week Daughter shouldn't have to teach for a while, unless it's as a help in class. The young black belt is going to be teaching the 6pm-7pm classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays. And the MA Director will be teaching the 4pm-5pm class on Thursday. (Daughter will still be teaching at the other Y on Tuesdays.) And the MA Director is still searching for other teachers to come in that actually teach the kind of MA the kids have been learning. I'll give it a month. If it doesn't work out, we'll switch the kids out to another type of MA. I just hope they don't lose rank. *sigh* And I'm glad Daughter won't have to teach the late class on Thursdays anymore because we're looking at doing the Indoor Soccer League for Son. It's practices are on Mondays and Thursdays. I'm hoping we can really work this out for Son. He deserves to try different things.
Anyway, after heading home Chris and I made dinner together and we were able to enjoy Chris' favorite show The Big Bang Theory while cooking.
As for reading today? Well, I needed a book that would fit in my purse and I only have trade size and hardbacks from the library so I grabbed one of my keepers off the shelves. I wanted to read it since finishing the second book in the series, so I went back and started to reread Touched by an Alien by Gini Koch. I seriously adore this series. And it fits in my purse! *g* What? I refuse to carry a big bag-ish type purse. As it is I have to carry my wallet, my sunglasses in hard case, my coin purse, a comb, a camera, a pen and Chris' emergency migraine meds. That's just right inside. I won't mention the pockets. Oh, and it fits my Ipod Touch in it's case. *g* I've UPDATED with this picture to prove to Author Gini Koch that I can indeed fit everything in my purse. *G* (In the purse are: Touched by an Alien by Gini Koch, cell phone, iPod in case, earphones, hand sanitizer, gum, emergency lollipops *g*, sun glasses in case, St. Francis prayer card, swiss army knife, comb, wallet, coin purse, two pens, neosporin spray (I have kids.), chapstick, lip gloss, two sets of keys, Chris' emergency migraine meds, and my camera.)

Time for me to head offline. It's been a long day. I've had fun today and laughed a bit. I won't ask for anything more than that. *g* I hope y'all had a Blessed Thursday. I wish an enjoyable and fun Friday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 10.50 miles on stationary bike at level 11, 30 minutes weights, 5 minutes sit-ups, and 30 minutes Karate. Gee, wonder why I'm so tired? *G* And I just need to remember all this when I wonder why I'm so sore tomorrow. *g*
Fitness Challenge Miles: 6 miles.

An Oldie and Comfy!

This picture of Layla never fails to make me smile. I adore her and she loves to find me with an empty arm or two to snuggle with. (When she's in a good mood, anyway.) She looks quite content in this picture, doesn't she? *g*

It's been a very long day. And yet again, to get some time to myself I've had to stay up later than I should. Then blogger decided I needed to quit Safari and retry before it would let me post this evening. Nice. Ah, well. After schoolwork this afternoon we all headed to the MT Y where Son attended KidFit, Daughter went swimming and I attended Zumba. Chris decided that since he still is dealing with some drainage he'd just watch Son take his class. Well, at least he has spent some time with us this week. Though that list of things I was told he was going to tackle? Yeah, not one thing has been crossed off. I need him to do some of those things, but it looks like it's up to me to take care of everything. *sigh* When do I get vacation time? (And I mean not just from schoolwork, but from cleaning, taking care of everyone else, laundry, playing chauffeur, etc.)
Anyway, we had a good time at the Y and then headed home where we made dinner together. We decided to fool around with a recipe for chicken enchiladas and they came out pretty well. Oops, forgot to mention we stopped by the library on the way to the Y and picked up a hold that had come in for me, Goddess of Legend by P.C. Cast. I really like the Goddess Summoning series and this book deals with King Arthur and Camelot. I can't wait to read it! As for what I'm reading right now? I haven't picked anything yet! I have choices again and it doesn't help to narrow them down by library book status, because they are ALL library books! *g* How do you choose when you have a small stack of books? I'll probably just read the first few sentences and pick whichever grabs my interest the most. *g*
Oh, and while at the Y we found out they're going to have an indoor Soccer league for a month or so for kids Son's age. We're thinking about it because it doesn't interfere with our MA schedule.

Heard from Bio-Dad tonight. He has a cold and I have a hard enough time understanding him on the phone to begin with so it was even harder than usual. I did understand that he'd like to visit in a week or so again. I'm okay with it, I just don't know what we're going to talk about. I don't talk well with others outside my family and even then I'm usually the one who sits and listens. I'm the same on the phone which makes for some very awkward phone calls! *g*

Anyway, that's all from me. Tomorrow is yet another busy day. I hope y'all had a wonderful Wednesday. I wish a thoughtful and Thankful Thursday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Zumba
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4

P.S. While I love my blog template I'm having an urge to change it up,  just a bit. So if you come here within the next few days and it's different, don't freak out! *g*

Wicket engrossed!

I know I said I wasn't going to post too many pictures of Wicket, but when she's this cute it's kind of hard. Here she is playing with the bouncy puff ball again. Her look of concentration is so cute and it was very hard to actually get a picture of her sitting still. She attacked the puff ball for over fifteen minutes. She's very lucky I moved it, I had to put it in the middle of the floor because she almost jumped head first into the wall trying to attack it! We already have one cat that needs a helmet, another would just be ridiculous. *g*

Today Chris saw first hand what our Tuesday afternoons are like today. I'm not sure what he thinks, but I think he now understands why I come home tired Tuesday nights after schlepping the kids from one Y to another. He decided to stay in the MA class that Daughter teaches to see how well she teaches while I worked out and then we drove to the other Y for the kids MA class. Luckily Daughter didn't have to teach, well, not alone. The kid with the black belt showed up again and while he was the main teacher, Daughter assisted since he is still so confused on a lot of the moves the students have learned that are called different things from what he learned. He's a great kid, but not great teaching material. But, he's kind and willing to listen to Daughter and he's there if she needs help, so that's good. I'm guessing there was a mix up between him and the MA Director and Daughter, because he had no idea he was supposed to have taught last Tuesday. I have to say, I'm becoming more and more frustrated with the MA Director.  His disorganization is driving me batty!
After class we drove home and had dinner, Chicken Paprika a family recipe that I taught Chris, and settled to watch a little tv. Only, nothing was on we wanted to watch so we watched a few episodes of the Second Season of NCIS. And I read. Tonight I finished Alien Tango by Gini Koch. I adore this series. The heroine is strong, smart and quirky. She takes no gruff from anyone and protects those she loves fiercely. It doesn't hurt to read about all the gorgeous Alpha Centaurians, either. *g* Right after finishing I realized I was shaking and felt funny and without thought went into the kitchen and ate a couple of chocolate candies. A few minutes later the shaking stopped. Seems my blood sugar must have dropped! It doesn't happen often, maybe two or three times a year and I have no idea why. But, I've read some people with Thyroid problems have issues with blood sugar. (Having had gestational diabetes when pregnant with both kids, but it went away after delivery. My blood sugar is tested every time I go to renew my prescriptions.) I feel fine now, so I'm not that worried. I work out hard and I guess sometimes I don't eat enough when I have worked out.

And as exciting as all that is (HA! We're SO boring.) it's time to get some sleep. I hope y'all had a terrific Tuesday. I wish an excellent Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: 8.05 miles on stationary bike at level 11, 30 minutes of weights, 5 minutes of sit-ups.
Fitness challenge miles: 4

Simply Sweet!

Butterscotch is as good as his name. He is simple and sweet. He is also crazy, but I've been telling y'all that for years. Example? He was sitting or sleeping on the bannister last night and FELL OVER onto the half flight of stairs underneath. Cra-zy! He freaked himself out and went and hid behind the couch afterwards and Chris went and checked on him, no worries there-he's okay. He's now down a cat-life, though.

Today was supposed to be a return to a normal routine. Our normal routine before the Holidays. But, alas, Chris needed to use up some vacation time left over from last year and so went in for a half day and is off for the rest of the week. Ack! Don't get me wrong, I love him-truly. After all, our 18th Anniversary is coming up this month. It's just that he always makes big statements of what he's going to accomplish while he's off. And in all actuality he won't accomplish anything and will mess our routine up. *sigh* It's only a week, and then the kids and I will really be back to our normal routine. We can make it one more week. Right?
Anyway, after taking care of schoolwork and cleaning a bit it was time for me to run by the library to pick up some of my holds that finally came in and then go to the Y to workout and attend Yoga. I am so glad to have: Every Boy's Got One by Meg Cabot (this book is told through emails, notes and a travel journal. *g*), Confessions of a Rebel Debutante by Anna Fields (new-to-me-author, this is a memoir), To Have and To Kill: A Wedding Cake Mystery by Mary Jane Clark (I haven't read one of this authors books in years.) and Enter Whining by Fran Drescher (also a new-to-me author, her first autobiography-before the cancer. I've been watching old episodes of The Nanny and wanted to read about the actress. The first two paragraphs are hysterical. *g*) I still have two other holds that are due in within the next couple of days and then others that may take a while.
As for what I'm reading? I started Every Boy's Got One by Meg Cabot this evening. I wasn't sure how much I'd like it considering it's written in so many different formats, but I am still drawn into the story and am enjoying the characters.
I did want to ramble a bit on why I haven't written any reviews on my other blog lately. We have been extraordinarily busy and my reading habits haven't been as prolific as they used to be because of it. But, there's also another reason. I've been reading articles on how a reviewer is supposed to review books and I? Well, I don't write that way. I started to feel self-conscious and kind of lost my nerve. But, I am trying hard to gather my courage to write my way anyway. And am hoping there's a book out there that I just HAVE to write about to help me along. *g* Any suggestions for a GREAT book? *G*

This evening after picking up my books I drove to the Y (Chris and the kids stayed home.) and was surprised at first, though I shouldn't have been, that the parking lot was packed. Jam-packed. It's always like this at the first of the year. People make New Year's Resolutions and I applaud them for that. Though I don't like feeling like those of us that have been going for years are being shoved aside. Ah, well. I was still able to get in my short work-out before Yoga. And Yoga was great. It always starts my week with a sense of well-being. Is there anything in your start to the week that you do to help you face the week ahead? A routine? A practice?

I hope y'all had a good beginning to this first week of the New Year. I wish a terrific Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 8.04 miles on the stationary bike at level 11, 1 hour Yoga.
I've joined Christine's Fitness Challenge 2011 and have today earned: 6 fitness miles.