Birdsong

Wicket loves to sit at the kitchen door and look outside. We can't allow her outside, but she enjoys watching the birds fly over the yard into the neighbors flower garden. She looks content.

It's.... it's been a sucky day. It had a brief moment of brightness at Zumba because the teacher was kind enough to play a few of my favorite songs and was encouraging us to be silly. But, it never really recovered except for that.

So, this is it from me tonight. I am going to crawl into what I hope is a good book and try to find something to smile about again today. Blessings to each of you. Goodnight, B.


Exercise: 1 hr. Zumba, 15 minutes jogging and suicides (forward to a point and back and forward to another point and back and more forward to the end point and back).

Ferocious Kitty!

Midnight looks pretty fierce here, doesn't he? Look at those teeth and claws! He gets pretty excited when playing and snaps his teeth together so much he looks like one of those old Japanese movies that have been dubbed into English. It's actually pretty funny to watch. *g* One of these days I swear I'm going to make a short video of him doing it and dub something over it. *g*

Not too bad of a day here, but not great either. It was.... even. The heat is really messing with me these past few days. I don't feel like I cool down well enough and sometimes feel sick. Now I know why Spring, Fall and Winter are my favorite seasons. (And really? Fall tops them all.) Daughter had to work this afternoon so Son and I took her to work and then ran errands after wards. I HAD to run by B&N today. I know I received a whole box of books last week, but today a book was released I know my library is not getting and I have been waiting for over four months to read. I now have, and have already started to read, Mystical Warrior by Janet Chapman. This is the third book in her Midnight Bay series and there's a little bit of everything in it: Magical creatures, evil, Men willing to fight to protect and women who are NOT TSTL. (I speak from reading the other two, I don't know how this heroine is going to behave yet. *g*)
I've given up on the Cove book I was reading. It was just not for me. I don't understand the rave reviews for it, but then again I read things other people don't like, so I don't judge. To each their own.
And trust me, I was SOOOOO tempted in B&N. There were two other books on the shelves I wanted, not to mention there are two coming out next week I want as well. But, I'm being good. Darnit.
After B&N Son and I headed by the Drugstore and then the grocery store and home. I was very glad to be home. And also very glad I freeze my water into slushies. *g*

Son and I goofed for a bit and had lunch and then before we knew it, it was time to head back out. We went by the library since he and I had holds in. Remember I am trying to gather info on possibly making Daughter a few bracelets? (She likes the leather cuff look with sparklies.) I put a book on hold for that and also one on stamped metal jewelry. So, I picked up Stamped Metal Jewelry: Creative Techniques & Designs for Making Custom Jewelry by Lisa Niven Kelly and Leather Jewelry: 30 Contemporary Projects by Nathalie Mornu. (Some of the leather jewelry are seriously funky.) Daughter has already looked through them this evening and likes a few things from each book. Whether or not we gather the courage to try to create anything? Well, I have no idea. *g*

We met up with Daughter after her shift at the Y and waited for their MA class to begin. There's about an hour lag between the two, so we went ahead and went to the Dojo so the kids could get ready and have some downtime. The MA Director sent Daughter on an errand to grab the extra sparring gear, but she couldn't get the door open. So I went and while the door stuck a bit, I was able to gather everything.
Now, here's the thing. There's a tunnel the Pine Y is an OLD hodgepodge of buildings. They are connected by rooms and tunnels. One of those tunnels connects the old gym from the newer (Ha! I don't count 20+ year old as newer, but whatever.) kids gym and raquetball courts. It's one of those clear tunnels overhead? With no air. And it leaks. And is hot. The MA Director said they jokingly call it the Greenhouse. yeah. Then through the old gym-again no air, to the old Dojo-again no air. Fight the door, fight the difficult lock on the equipment storage container and then carried everything back through the tunnel and down. I was SO hot afterwards. Ugh. I seriously felt sick. It took half an hour before I could think about bouncing around in Zumba without feeling sick. Bleh.

After my class and the kids class we headed home and the rest of the evening has been pretty quiet. We've enjoyed Combat Hospital (Chris and I) and I'm enjoying my bit of quiet for the day. *g*

All that said, it's time to head offline. I hope y'all had fantastic day. I wish a wonderful Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 1 hr. Zumba. I have to say if I hear Boom Boom Pow one more time.........

Our Silly Kitty!

There is not a day that goes by that Wicket makes us laugh or smile big. Here she is in front of the kitchen door stretching out and trying to grab Butterscotch as he walks by. As you can see she is still quite lanky. We estimate her weight around 5lbs. and because she will never absorb the nutrients the way most cats do, we'll continue to give her canned kitten food and dry kitten food every day, even though she's 8 months old. Wow, it's hard to believe we've had her for seven months! She's an honest Blessing in our lives. Not sure the other cats would feel that way, but we do! *g*

Not much to talk about today. It's been rather slow, and to be honest, I've enjoyed it. Of course the regular Monday activities were attended to and I made it to yoga-always a good thing. Though I could have done without the two phone calls during the end of class. Not that I resent them (not from family, they know better, only emergencies), but they were from a guy Daughter works with who wanted to see if she'd work a shift for him this week. And since Daughter is saving for her Katana and a new iPod Nano, I knew she'd agree so told him so. But, one call didn't seem to be enough. I guess he was nervous, because he called again. *sigh* I guess I could have told him I was in class, but I had told him I was at the Y and didn't think of it. Ah, well. It was all settled. And after the second call, I had thought one would be enough, but was wrong, I put my phone on vibrate. Good timing because the Outlaws called after that! What the heck? No one ever calls me! It's usually Chris or the library. No joke. That's it. When they couldn't reach me they called Chris. So, at least there's that.

After class I headed home and by the time I arrived-a fifteen minute drive- I had a sinus headache and felt sick. Ugh. Add in that Chris and Daughter wanted hot dogs for dinner and I was SO not in the mood for dinner. Son and I don't like hot dogs (you read that right, I do NOT like hot dogs), so I made him dinner and after a decongestant felt okay enough to eat something small. I like the sun and the way Summer just shines and makes me happy, but I can do without pollen and such.

As for reading? I am trying to get into the Cove book. It's sweet and simple so far. But, it reads like I've read it before and I know I haven't since it's a a new book. It's kind of formulaic. And I don't like feeling that way about a book I know an author has worked hard on. *sigh*

Anyway, that my/our day. I hope y'all had a comfortable and pleasing Monday. I wish a terrific Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 1hr. Yoga.

A semi-oldie but goodie!

Doesn't Layla have the prettiest pair of blue eyes you've ever seen on a cat? She looks rather sweet in this picture. I love how she holds her paws towards her chest with her paws facing up and her "necklace"-the stripes that start right below her chest. As a matter of fact, a lot of her markings have names. (Learned from an article I read.) She has mascara lines around her eyes and beauty marks on either side of her nose. What's really odd is that when she was a kitten, she was mostly a cream color with darker paws, feet and ears. As she's gotten older her fur has darkened every year. Oh, and she doesn't jsut have stripes! She has spots, too. *g* That's my girl. A true original. *g*

Another semi-busy day. But, y'all would be proud of me. I took some time and just read. It was nice. And I finished the YA I picked up yesterday. It was such a cute read! The main theme being friendship and acceptance of others and self. It was set in the South and had a beauty pageant, beach clean up, Southern snobbery and some grief over a parents past death. I thoroughly enjoyed it and hope the author either writes another book featuring the heroine, or at least another book set in the South. Next up, back to the book I was reading before picking this book up. Oh, and in other book news I joined Goodreads tonight. I'm not sure why, except I've been reading synopsis' of books from Goodreads that are linked from a reviewers site I like to check out at least once a week. I had fun exploring the site tonight.
As for today? It was compromised of laundry (because I can never escape it),  Zumba (had a blast!), and I washed, vacuumed and detailed my jeep (oh, remember when I said I'd let you know when I found a nickname for my jeep? I keep coming back to muffin. *g* Because the jeep is the color of a blueberry and I associate those with muffins. (and cobblers and bread and jam..... never mind.)). And I washed Chris' jeep, too. But, I really did sit down and read (finished) a book today.

And that's our day. I'me exhausted and yawning and hoping this post makes sense. I hope y'all had a Blessed Sunday. I wish a low-key and promising Monday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 1hr. Zumba-had a great time, 1hr. 30min. car detailing and washing. (I vacuum, wipe down the interior with armorall, and then wash. Music helps. *g*
Fitness Challenge Miles: 10.

Pretty Patches!

Patches is such a sweet looking cat. We call her our Dowager Duchess. It's the attitude, not the age that we allude to. She is more than willing to hand out paw smacks to any kitty she doesn't agree with. And by agree with, I mean because she feels like it. *g* However, she has the sweetest meow and adores Daughter.

Whew! It's been a long day. This morning Chris and I both woke with sinus headaches, what a great way to start the day! Oh, well. This afternoon we took Daughter to work and made a few stops on the way home. One of those stops was Hobby Lobby. Daughter likes leather bracelets and finding ones she likes (usually ones that sparkle) are sometimes costly and sometimes hard to find well made ones. (I do not recommend buying the ones Target has, we gave her one there for her Birthday and the darn sparklies on it keep falling off!) I figured maybe we could find or make a couple from materials purchased at Hobby Lobby. I found a Celtic looking charm that's was about two inches long and a braided leather bracelet and bought them and put the charm on the bracelet for Daughter. It was our gift to Daughter for doing so well with her job. She's being responsible and never complains, even when having to work Saturday afternoons (Birthday party time at the Y right now-with lots of screaming kids.). After Hobby Lobby we headed to Target. I needed new athletic socks. I don't know how, or why, but I wore out the heels on four pair of socks over the past few months. So, strangely, I'm excited to have new socks! *G*
Then, ahhh, one of my favorite places ever. The library! *g* I had two items in, one a CD I've been hearing one of the songs off of in Zumba-the new Jennifer Lopez CD. Also, a YA book titled Never Sit Down in a Hoopskirt by Cricket Rumley. I started reading the first few pages this afternoon and already it's more interesting than the book I was already reading. I'm not kidding. I'm not naming the book in this post, but I will say so far it's been rather slow moving and I am hoping it improves and moves forward.
Chris, Son and I then headed home. Chris was supposed to mow the lawn for us and our neighbors today, but it was so hot he was waiting until after 5pm. After a brief respite I left to pick up Daughter leaving Chris and Son home. I think the errands and heat had gotten to them. *g* I do have to admit even I was ready to stay home, but it's not like I could leave Daughter at the Y! *g*
When Daughter and I arrived home it was to find Chris pale and sick looking on the couch. He had gotten some popcorn from Target's snack bar for a snack for he and Son and turns out that something in the popcorn was a trigger for a Migraine for him. So, I made him take a nap to go along with the pain meds he took. And I went out and cut the neighbors lawn. I wore pants because of the allergic reaction I've been having this year. And let me tell you, it was seven o'clock when I started and 89 degrees with a feels like of 96. I was HOT. Gah. But, it needed to be done and this is where I'm going to sound like a loon, I enjoyed it. I like being outside and under the sun and accomplishing something. I liked helping my neighbors. After I finished with their yard (and I made a promise to myself never to complain-out loud at least *g*- about the hill in our yard because they have one that's WAY worse) I new Chris wouldn't be up to mowing our lawn. But, I checked anyway and he still felt really bad. I downed a bottle of water-it was hot, remember? And then tackled our yard. I have missed mowing my lawn! I'm crossing my fingers I don't end up scratching until I bleed, again.
All in all, Chris ended up sleeping until bedtime. *g* I hope he'll be able to get some sleep tonight without feeling bad tomorrow. I don't like it when he doesn't feel well and we thought we knew what most his triggers were, but it's appears we have a new food to add to his DO NOT EAT list.

Well, that's another boring day for me. Not boring for me, but for y'all to read about! However, I feel good about today. I accomplished a few things. Daughter likes her bracelet and so far Chris still has a headache, but it's down-graded. All good. I hope y'all had a good Saturday. One filled with pleasing sights and sounds. I wish a peaceful and restful Sunday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: I didn't get a chance to exercise, but am counting the mowing because of having done BOTH of them.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 7.

Nutso!

Really, what can I say about this picture? Besides the fact that Butterscotch is certifiably crazy? See the paw in the  left corner? He will sit like this and open and close his paw. For no particular reason. *g* But, he's sweet. And definitely lives up to his nickname of Twinkie. *g*

Nothing much to talk about tonight. The kids and I made it to three different grocery stores and Petsmart this afternoon. I'm not sure how we packed everything into my jeep. Including the kids. *g* Somehow I seem to be a packing freak. *g* It was really hot here today, but cooler than we have been. We also had yet another thunderstorm this afternoon. It's great for my garden and keeping our grass green, but as for getting out to cut the grass? Chris hasn't had a chance this week since it rains by the time he gets off work. And I? Would love to mow the lawn. (There's something twisted about that, right?) But, not to the point where I want to claw my skin again. And I did before. I really am scared to get to that point again, so despite the HUGE urge to just get out there and get it done, I haven't. Does that make me weird?
Anyway, because of the heat today and the constant movement and loading and unloading the jeep on top of icky drainage and by the time we were home and everything was put away I felt sick. Ugh. It took a while, but I finally felt better and Chris and I made dinner together.

As for reading? I've only managed to read a few chapters in the book I mentioned last night. I didn't have time today between groceries, laundry and everything. Hopefully I'll find time this weekend to just sit. Though I'm pretty sure it's not tomorrow. We'll see.

That's it from me. I warned y'all that I didn't have a lot to share and what I did wasn't very interesting. I hope y'all had a fun Friday. I wish an amusing and smile-filled Saturday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: I really want to count the 3.5 hours of grocery shopping. *sigh*
Fitness Challenge Miles: 0.

Candy Sushi!

I told y'all I'd post this picture of Daughter's candy sushi and then totally forgot! Was that last week or two weeks? I have no idea, some events just run together sometimes for me. The base used were rice krispie treats, but fruit roll-ups made for a good substitute for the seaweed paper normally used. (Can't think of it's name right now.) They also used gummies and even marshmallows. *g* I thought Daughter's were pretty good considering she won't eat real sushi and would fight you if you tried to force a piece on her. *g*

I am loving the new dojo! It's so nice not to feel like you're suffocating in heat just watching the kids practice-let alone how they must have felt. And there is even a viewing balcony (yet again, we're using racquetball courts-these are just newer, as in not 50 years old-closer to 20 years old) where parents can watch. Which is what I did today. They were doing take-downs and  Daughter was flipped a couple of times. She hit her head once, but the floors have padded mats on them and she was checked over and found okay.
After the kids class I let them burn some energy off and play around in the dojo kicking some of those aerobic balls around (you know those BIG bouncy ones). They and a few of the other kids had a blast and played a version of kickball but with a 'everyman for themselves' type of thing. *g*
After that we left and headed to the other Y for my class. I worked hard and some things really are hard during that class, and yet after-wards I feel like I had a great time. Weird, eh? Oh, funniest thing! I needed a partner for a couple of things tonight and my usual partner wasn't there and Chris wanted to observe the class. So....... I roped him into doing the partner things with me. Oh, I didn't make him take the partners turn for certain things (Having him do the least amount of effort-I didn't want to scare him from the class, I'd like him to consider taking it sometime!). I have to tell y'all every class is different, something I really enjoy; we never know what to expect. Tonight one of the partner exercises was something called horse and cart. Using an exercise band. I was the horse-meaning I needed to run as hard as I could-with Chris being the cart-holding the band handles from the band hooked around me. He's supposed to exert negative force by leaning back a bit to slow me down and make me work harder to move forward. I had a blast! And I think he may have enjoyed it, too. Although, the other exercise with the medicine ball freaked me out because he has WAY more upper body strength than I do and could throw that medicine ball hard! *g*

After class we headed home and made dinner together. Grilled chicken and spinach salad. YUM! I have been craving one of those for a week, but Chris and Daughter are of the red-meat fan club. And then? Well, I relaxed a bit. *g*

Oh, as for reading? I finished the Karen Rose book. GREAT read. Her books are just so filled with suspense and mystery and yet has a bit of romance. And now? I've started reading one of the two remaining library books I have left, Summer at Seaside Cove by Jacquie D'Alessandro. AND Hip Hip Hooray! I have a TBR Pile! An honest to goodness Pile! WOOOOO! I won some books at a lovely authors website a few months ago (Hi Melissa! Melissa, writes the most romantic-well, romances. Go check out her website and buy/try one of her books sometime.) and the books arrived today and I just wanted to hug them all. Seriously. *g* I wanted to dive into the box. Um, I kind of did. *g*

That's all from me. That and reviewing improper and mixed number fractions with a nine year old? Not easy, all I'm saying. I hope y'all had a thoughtful and thankful Thursday! I wish a fun and fantastic Friday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 90 minutes of Circuit Interval. FUN!
Fitness Challenge Miles: 6.

Oh, good grief cat!

I know this isn't the best picture, but I had taken quickly because I knew if Layla knew who was tucked up against her back she'd have a hissy fit. Literally. *g* To say she's not fond of Butterscotch is accurate. Which is weird because she loved tolerated him when he was a kitten. I don't know if he thought he was hiding or what. After all, I keep telling y'all HE'S STRANGE.

Whew! What a day! I was home, but not home for a good portion of it. Sounds confusing, right? We had two different Summer Reading events at the library today. So, we left early this afternoon for Son's (This is where I'm glad we live about 10 minutes away from the library-by car.) Program which was on Mexico. The kids had a teacher who is also from Mexico come in and she read them a folktale and another book on counting in Spanish. She brought quite a few items that were from Mexico with her to let the kids touch and look at, she taught them the Mexican Hat Dance (That was hilarious to watch-all those kids tried so hard, but good golly!) and they made maracas from small water bottles, colored rice and wooden dowels. OH, and a local Mexican restaurant donated chips and salsa for the kids. Everyone had a good time. And Son must have some kind of personal charm going on because he was talking to the lady who presented the program and telling her he thought the money was cool (paper and coins) and was telling her about his favorite coin she had brought and she gave it to him. Seriously.  It's gotta be the red hair, right? No one can resist the red hair. *g* And no worried, he thanked her several times.
After Son's program we headed home for about 45 minutes and then BACK to the library for Daughter's Program which featured a local teen author. A teen who wrote a YA book, actually. Son and I again headed home for a little over an hour. We then picked Daughter up and headed to Son's KidFit class and I worked out and Daughter went swimming. Son and I met up with Daughter and Chris finally showed up and we all swam together for a while. Then yet another big fanny storm rolled in. We've had one every day for the past three days and are supposed to be getting at least one a day for the next foreseeable future. FUN! But, we all had time to have fun, so we were fine.

We all headed home and have enjoyed a rather uneventful evening. The storm passed quickly without much damage and we were happy to be inside while it did so. I do have to say all these storms are bringing in high winds and they are stirring up pollen and it's messing with my allergies. So, yeah, I'll be glad when they pass. Sometime in September. *g* Our Summers are so hot this is pretty normal for our area. At least my garden is getting some rain without me having to water it. Speaking of the garden, something is messing up my strawberries. None of them are coming to unharmed fruition. A few are withering and turning hardened brown. Anyone have any idea? BUT, our Italian squash (aka Zucchini Squash) are doing fine. We picked one about the length of Son's forearm Sunday. And some of our tomatoes are already turning from green to a light orange. Though the heat we've had has made the skin crack and split while growing, so they're not pretty. They still taste good, however.

As for reading? Well, I'm still reading the Karen Rose book. I am about halfway through. I just didn't have enough time to read last night or today and it's made me antsy. Heck, the most time I've had to sit and read today was when I was on the stationary bike this evening. *g*

Not much else from our day. It's been pretty normal. I wish I had the gift of words that would make this post less than mundane, but I don't. So, y'all have to deal with me. *g* You know, sometimes I have these ideas of blog topics and then talk myself out of them because they're either too serious or not quite what you're used to from me. One of these days I'll get brave, and better with words, and put them out here. Maybe.
I hope y'all had a lovely Wednesday. I wish a thankful and thoughtful Thursday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 8.55 miles stationary bike-level 11 (stuck there since my knees are bugging me lately), 20 minutes weights, 45 minutes swimming laps (some of those with a kickboard since my right shoulder is making a weird popping/rubbing/cracking noise lately).

My Purry Sweetie!

This picture may look familiar, however, it's a new picture. By familiar, I mean that there have been several pictures of Layla and I in this exact pose that I may have posted before. But, this picture was taken Sunday afternoon. *g* Layla is my sweetie and I love her very much. I think it shows. *g*

It's been an average day. I don't mind. I prefer average. Daughter had to work this afternoon so Son and I took her to work and then headed home. He and I worked on a few things and before we knew it, it was time to head back to the Pine Y.  We met up with Daughter and waited for the kids MA class to start. (We were early.) We waited in the Dojo until we were happy to hear they were moving the MA classes downstairs for the rest of the year (hopefully) into a shared space with the their FitKids class area. It has AIR CONDITIONING! WOOOO! You have no idea how happy everyone was to meet in a space that had a/c considering it was 96 degrees with a feels like of 103 degrees today. And the kids regular dojo has no a/c because it broke last year and since they're building a new Y they won't pay to replace the a/c unit. Luckily the new Y should be finished within a year.
 Right before the kids were to start class I talked with the Aquatics Director, who is also the MA Director and is in classes with the kids (He holds several black belts and is brown in this type of MA.). I talked to him about Son and asked his opinion, since he's in class with the kids a lot. He did say Son lost his temper last week, BUT that he didn't think it was anything to worry about, that Son just needs to control his emotions better when he's hurt. I agree and feel a bit more at ease. The MA teacher last week really had me worked up, probably not on purpose, but still. 

While the kids were in class I was in Zumba. I had a blast! The teacher is sweet and energetic (probably because she's so young) and we learn a lot of fun and yet authentic looking club moves to some of the newest songs. Her routine to Immabe by the Black Eyed Peas is a thigh and ab burner. And the newest today was Pause by Pitbull. That was just fun. *g*

Anyway, as for reading? I forgot to mention last night I've begun reading the newest Karen Rose book, You Belong To Me. I'm about a third of the way through it tonight and have to day parts of it drag a bit, but other parts are quiet discoveries which make it worth it. One thing I like about her books is that we already know who the bad guy is and his motivations. We just learn more about him and how twisted he really is along the course of the book.

And that's our day. Oh, I did catch a bit of the new ABC medical show set in Kandahar in 2006. It kind of reminds me of a mix of MASH and China Beach. I like it. Which means I better not become too heavily invested in it-most shows I like on ABC are usually canceled. Well, except for Castle. *g*

I hope y'all had a terrific Tuesday. Or your version of a good average day. I wish a wonderful Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

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

Oreo the Stalker!

I love all our cats, even the really crazy ones. Oreo is definitely not your average normal cat. She's attached to me like super-glue. If Layla weren't my big 'ol baby she'd be really happy and has been known to try and smack Layla because she's jealous. However, she's a good girl (most the time) and it doesn't bother me that she watched my every move when we're upstairs. As a matter of fact, she' sleeping at my bedside waiting for me to get up for anything. And the picture is showing how she likes to spend at night, right before bedtime. She sits on my side-table and just watched. It creeps Chris out, but it doesn't really bother me. She looks like a psycho penguin. *g*

A rather slow day to return to the week. I am a TGIM type of person. I prefer a routine and Monday is always welcome here because of it. As a matter of fact, sad that it may be, today was 'Mopping Monday'. So nicknamed because every Monday I sweep, mop and vacuum the floors. (Though I end up vacuuming several times a week.) I also made a big dent in the shredding of old papers today. We cleaned out our files (meaning I cleaned out our files) six months ago and then our old shredder died and just in the past couple of months have we bought a new one. Of course I never get to finish shredding everything. I ended up shredding so much today I over-heated the shredder and had to stop. Jeez, you'd think they'd make them better than that!
We did make it by the library this afternoon, though I had nothing new in from Hold and nothing was catching my eye so I ended up leaving empty-handed. The kids on the other hand ended up picking up a stack of different mangas.
After all that we headed to the Y. I worked out a bit before Yoga class. Thank goodness our regular teacher was back. I felt so much better after her class! Though the sun was still bright when we left and headed home. By the time we arrived I had a sinus headache. Ugh.
So, I came across something tonight and I need y'alls input. I had to run out to the grocery store this evening and ran into a vaguely familiar looking woman. I could not place where I knew her from (I thought the Y.). Turns out she's the mother of one of Son's 4-H Homeschool group memebers. I think I played it off pretty well, even though I didn't remember who she was until I was out of the parking lot. Did I do the right think pretending I knew who she was? Or did I do okay in just leaving her assumption I knew who she was. (She looked familiar.) What would you have done?

As for reading? I finally put the Graham book down as a DNF. The dialogue between the hero and heroine was driving me insane. I swear it almost read as though one or both of them were stoned for a couple of paragraphs every chapter. It was just driving me loony. I have found that a lot of this authors book are hit or moss for me. I like some and dislike others. She's one of the few readers I sometimes have a DNF with.

That's all from me. It's been a long day, it's late and I'm tired. I hope y'all had a low-key and laugh-filled Monday. I wish a terrific Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 5.06 miles stationary bike at lever 11, 1 hour Yoga.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 5.

She's a climber!

Wicket is a climber. Every time we open the sliding door to the back patio she loves to stare outside and listen to the birds and capture anything flying outside through the screen. Here she is this afternoon. She made it all the way to the top. And no, she doesn't just drop down, she climbs as carefully down as she did up. Funny enough Chris just replaced this screen last summer. Looks like he'll have to replace it again within the year. (Though she barely weighs enough to pull on the screen.)

Not quite as busy a day today. The kids and I made cards for Chris (Son's was funny, it had a drawing of Chris on the front and in it he's sitting on the couch with his feet on the ottoman and a computer in his lap looking at the tv. SO, SO Chris at night.)
After doing some laundry this afternoon I headed out to the Y for Zumba and had a blast. Chris and the kids met me after my class and we went swimming. For about twenty minutes. Seems the weather went from clear and sunny to dark and gray with lightning in a short amount of time. The pool deck was cleared and we headed home. Chris has done schoolwork for most the day. He's taking an Business Accounting course this month and he's not   natural with this subject like he is with Computers so he's having to work hard.
All in all it's been pretty quiet this evening. I even had time to read for a bit-the Heather Graham book. I think I've figured out why it's taking me so long. It's a nice read, but not demanding of my attention and therefore too easy to put down and do something else for a while. I'm about 3/4's of the way through and hope to finish it tomorrow.

Oh, this afternoon I also made Son a friendship bracelet. Anyone remember those? They use cross-stitch thread and you basically make rows of knots? The last time I made one I think I was in Jr. High. A LONG time ago, but I remembered how and Son is quite pleased with it. He had seen another one somewhere else and didn't know what it was. I explained what it was and offered to make him one. Luckily I remembered to do so this afternoon! *g* And remembered HOW to make one as well. *g*

And that's my day. I ironed this evening and am happy to have that chore over with. While I admit to a weird sense of satisfaction at making wrinkles disappear, I do have to say week after week it becomes somewhat tedious. Were y'all Moms like mine? I was made to learn to iron when I was barely a teenager. Mom had me iron my Dad's jeans and hankies for practice. I think ironing is becoming a lost skill. Chris can't iron well at all and it's dangerous to let him. You learn new words that way. *g*

I hope y'all had a Blessed and peaceful Sunday. I wish a low-key and happy Monday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Zumba, 20 minutes laps. (I swam in the "big pool", the Olympic sized pool, and it's kept at 74 degrees. Well, that's what the sheets say. In actuality it felt closer to 50 degrees. Brrrrrrrrr! You had no choice but to keep moving to stay warm. *g* I'm guessing that's the whole point considering it's the swim teams practice pool.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 5.

Nap Time in the Afternoon!

I truly wish I had the ability to just cast all my cares aside and take a nap in the middle of the afternoon like the kitties. I don't know how they do it, but I'm kind of jealous! Chris can do it. *g* And as the picture suggests so can Layla (top), Midnight (middle) and Butterscotch (bottom).

Whew! What a day! On one hand I feel like I accomplished quite a bit and on the other I wish I'd had more time to get more things done. Daughter had to work this afternoon so we dropped her off and then headed by a comic book store Son had spotted earlier this week that I didn't have time to stop at before. Chris and he went in (I stayed outside.) and they seemed to enjoy the store. I'm actually surprised I didn't have to go in and drag them out! Son ended up purchasing two Green Lantern comics (I'm thinking between the movie coming out and the fact that he owns a Green Lantern shirt, his interest was piqued.). He read them this afternoon and seems happy, so that's good!
We then headed home where I scrubbed the front porch area of the house. All the siding, windows, doors, gutters, everything. Of course I picked the time to do this right before a storm hit, but hey, at least everything was cleaned. *g* Then I decided that the carpet needed some cleaning and dragged out the shampooer. I popped my earphones in and did both the first floor and second floor. And I still had a little time before we had to leave to pick up Daughter. So I scrubbed the bathrooms. After all that I took a small break and treated myself to a brownie. YUM! *g*
Soon after that we left to pick up Daughter and from there we went by the mall. Remember Foot Locker? They wouldn't refund my money, but would exchange the shoes for ANY other shoes in the store. So, we bought Chris new tennies since it was time for him to have some new ones, too. Seems his shoe size is popular because no sooner than he'd find a shoe he liked then it wouldn't be in stock in his size. However, he ended up finding a pair of New Balance tennies that he liked. From there we visited a small store that Daughter and Son love. It's called Treasure Box and is basically an import store. They have the katana Daughter wants. To make sure she looked at it again this evening and because she was so worried someone would buy it before she could save up for it she placed it on layaway. Weird, yes. But, Daughter is extremely happy no one can buy the katana she wants and I'm happy because it gives her a goal to look forward to in managing her paycheck.
After all that we finally headed home, had dinner, and spent a quiet night. Though I have to say I have been itching like mad today and have to wonder if it happened when I weeded through the monkey grass this afternoon or when I cleaned off the porch.
As for reading? I'm still reading the Heather Graham book. I'm about a third of the way through. I would like to have more of the book read, but weekends are rough time-wise  around here so I am betting I'll finish it must faster by the beginning of the school week.

That's all from me. I'm barely keeping my eyes open, but this was the only regular free time I have. (And am waiting on a load of laundry to put in the dryer.) I hope y'all had an amusing and interesting day. I wish a peaceful and restful Sunday for y'all. Goodnight and Smiles, B.

Exercise: not today, darnit.
Fitness challenge miles: 0<----- I REALLY don't like that number. 

Layla is SO spoiled!

Um, yeah, that title may be awful. But, it's true. I don't know if anyone who reads this cats are as weird as mine. But, I like to freeze my water just a smidge to make it either ice up or become like a water slushie. When I take my drink out Layla likes to lick the condensation on my bottle. I decided to see if she liked ice water. Guess what? Layla LOVES ice water. *g* Plus, it gave me an excuse to get a picture of her pink tongue. *g*

It's been a LONG day. (I spent two hours this afternoon switching around email accounts and creating new passwords for different accounts since Writerspace was hacked and my email was one of those taken and I didn't know it but I had a password registered with them as well. So now EVERYTHING has been changed. Lots of work because some group of hackers could make life more difficult for people and enjoy others frustration and fear. *sigh*) I have been to the post office, to the library (More on that later.) to the BANK to help Daughter cash her first ever payroll check and then we became brave. Normally we save errands for places we have been to before, to areas we have been to before. And save different place to when Chris drives (so I can watch and get there on my own later or because the man is like a walking map and can tell you where to get just about everywhere around here). But, we were brave today because my new cell phone has MAPS! So, and I needed new tennies badly and yesterday I was talking to the Cardio/Agility teacher and she recommended a place in the city next to us. So, with Daughter reading me the direction we headed there. They were so nice! First thing the guy had me do was take off my shoes and socks (Yikes, I was glad my toenails were painted. I've never had a pedicure in my LIFE, but almost felt the need for one then!) He measured both my feet, measured my arch, had me walk away and toward him barefoot and then brought out four pair of shoes for me to try and a pair of inserts to try with a pair as well. I was told I could walk around the store and if it would help I was welcome to run around outside in the parking lot. I settled for a power jump, walking around and a salsa move. (Since the shoes will be for the classes I attend and must be able to withstand me doing all those.) I actually found a pair I liked (Be still my heart!) and so compared each of the others he brought out with those and tried the insert. (The insert hurt my feet, badly.) I ended up purchasing a pair of Asics with gel. (My last pair were Asics, they make decent shoes.) Oh, I did end up telling them about the plantar fascitis that I had last year and how when I first wake up I walk on the outside of my feet because they still hurt in the morning, but as I continue to walk after waking up I stop. He said that was normal. He also said by watching me walk  my stride was right in the middle of my foot, so I don't over-pronate. Which is good. He also suggested stretching my hamstrings several times a day to make sure I don't tighten up because that can cause the tendons in my feet to tighten up leading to foot pain. Did not know that.
But, the best things? Daughter and Son and I figured out how to get there on our own, I have a new pair of tennies (that PLEASE GOD will not hurt my feet) and that Daughter is weird when it comes to reading MAPS. She preferes the actual map. Made it a tad difficult at one point because I wasn't in the correct lane to turn and had to go around the block; whereas I prefer step-by-step directions (so I know what lane to be in!). *g* She makes a decent Navigator, though. 
After that we headed to Petsmart. Wicket has grown tired of the kitten food she's been eating for a few months now. Since it's only offered in one flavor (Iams y'all need to work on that!) we picked her up another flavor in another brand (Science Diet). We then went by a grocery store for Pico de Gallo (I eat it on everything these days, lots of flavor very few calories-awesome on a salad.)  and then by Target for Tylenol and Daughter needed a new notebook and pens (I've mentioned she writes alot, yes?)  At that point I had a bad sinus headache and was a little dizzy when moving around-fun! The Tylenol was a must have.
Then home where I had laundry (Does it ever end? Don't answer that, I might cry.) and other things to take care of. Oh, and Wicket? LOVES her new food. I put all three cans down in front of her and asked her to choose. And yes, I know she can't really do that, but it was fun watching her sniff the cans. *g* When I popped the top and she had her first scent of the new food she went nuts. She rubbed all over me and the side of the can and if I hadn't had a good grip on it she'd have knocked it out of my hand she was rubbing on it so hard. I watched her inhale the new food, so I guess I need to pick up more than two cans of that flavor. *g*

After taking some tylenol and a decongestant I feel MUCH better tonight. But, y'all can see that yet again I am posting this at night. *g* Oh, as for the library? I picked up two books. One was a hold that had come in, Best Staged Plans by Claire Cook (the first sentence made me laugh and definitely caught my interest) and since I was there and saw it on the re-shelving cart I also picked up Summer at Seaside Cove by Jacquie D'Alessandro. I haven't read anything by the last author before, but the premise/blurb seemed cute so I guess I'll see how it reads. When you go to the library do you just go to pick up holds or do you browse the entire library? Do you check the re-shelving carts? Do the librarians LET you check the re-shelving carts? Ours do, but then again they know us by name. *g* I need to finish the Heather Grahame book and one other book and then can try the two I picked up today. But, I have a three books to choose from after the one I'm reading now and that makes me happy.

Anyway, time for me to head offline. I still have a couple of things to take care of and then need to get some sleep. I hope y'all had a delightful Friday. I wish an amusing and smile-filled Saturday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: None today, too busy.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 0. <------ I don't like that number.

Wicket and the ribbon!

I know, I know. The title is quite uninspiring. But, I find this picture hilarious and have no way to describe it other than Wicket was playing with the ribbon and carrying it around in her mouth and there's something very cute and funny about it. Silly Kitty!

It's been a busy day and I know I said I was going to try to find time to write this blog other than at night, but tonight is the only time I have to write this one. I'm now remembering why I started posting at night to begin with! *g*
This afternoon we headed to the Pine Y for the kids MA class. AND Daughter picked up her first paycheck. It was less than she expected (Called it!), but mostly because they have odd payroll scheduling. I'll take her tomorrow to cash her check and she'll put half of it up for savings.

The kids MA teacher talked to me after the kids class. (While the kids were out of the room.) He says the kids are hesitant, also Son has a temper when he's hurt. (Um, yeah, I kind of get ticked when someone hurts me on purpose, too. Plus, he's nine years old-it's going to be a while before he has complete control of his temper. And no, it's not an issue any other time.) Oh, and that when Daughter makes a mistake, she stops and wants to start over. I hate to tell him, but that's the sign of a perfectionist. I was the same way when I played the piano. And the drums. And the guitar. Um, and just about every other thing I've done. I don't see these as big issues. Though I can say I have seen a difference in their MA styles since he's taken over as teacher. And not for the better to be honest. He's a great teacher and the kids love him. But, I have to wonder if he's the best teacher for the kids. Not that we have much of a choice right now. He did wonder, as do I, if the hesitancy comes from the fact that both kids have had a lot of physical pain this year. Daughter with her joints (which Son has started showing issues of as well lately) and when Son dislocated his shoulder that may have scared him, both of them. I don't know. But, I did have a talk with them this afternoon after we left. They want to continue on in their MA classes and they will try to work on the hesitancy. As for Son's "temper". I just don't see it as a big issue, but have talked to him about it and he's going to try to curtail it when he gets hurt. *sigh*
After the kids class and our talk we headed to the other Y for my class. Both kids wanted to try the class and Daughter did well for about 20 minutes and quit (her joints were really bothering her today) and Son made it through the entire class. *g* It didn't hurt that the teachers Daughter is close to Son's age and she was trying the class as well. We had a good workout and headed home where I made dinner. And then basically collapsed on the love-seat for a while. My feet are really starting to hurt again, and I'm hoping the shoe store tonight's Cardio/Agility teacher suggested, after I asked, has a way to help me find a pair of shoes. It's a shoe store that supposedly watched how you walk and run and carries a LOT of tennis shoes. We'll see. Cross your fingers.

As for reading? I've begun reading a library book I picked up at the library last week. One of Heather Graham's Bone Island books, Ghost Night. I'm only a chapter in, but so far I am interested to see where the story leads.

That's it from me. I have things to take care of, mainly laundry, now that everyone is in bed asleep. I hope y'all had a good Thursday. I wish an enjoyable and laugh-filled Friday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 20 minutes stationary bike at level 11, 20 minute weights, 1hr 30min Cardio/Agility.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 8.

Midnight and his funny face!

I smile and laugh just a bit when I look at this picture of Midnight. There's something about his face that cracks me up. We already call him "the old man". (Among his other nicknames.) And I'll admit to also calling him Charlie Chan sometimes because his features fit oddly enough. We think it's the eyes and the way his whiskers grow. No matter what we call him, he doesn't mind as long as we love him. And yeah, this is Chris' cat. He loves for Chris to carry him around over his shoulder like a baby. *g*

I may be making a change to the times I blog coming up. Blogging at bedtime is too easy to forget for me lately, so over the next week or so I'll try to find a time to blog that suits me. Funny enough, watch it turn out to be what it has been all along. *g*

I took Dru's advice and asked the Zumba instructor tonight after class what brand of shoe she preferred. Granted, the teacher I asked is (If I'm right.) somewhere in her twenties and quite skinny. (She makes me feel like Godzilla, though is VERY nice.) But, she DID show me a trick to try with the laces so that no matter what shoe I end up with I won't have to worry about my heels slipping up. Luckily Chris was standing there with me at the time and watched her do it, because for the life of me I can't remember! *g*
We wanted to go swimming tonight and no sooner had I started to pull on my bathing suit after Zumba then they declared the pool closed because lightning had been spotted. Ah, well. Hopefully I'll find time to go swimming soon and the weather will agree. The storm tonight was huge and we ended up with downdrafts and hail and there were trees knocked over and power lines knocked over and it was a big mess. We were driving home (the kids and I) and I swear the jeep was pushed a few inches over by the wind and rain, even though I had both hands on the wheel! We had so much hail it almost looked like it had snowed-in June.
And tonight? Well, except for the storm is was okay. Chris and Daughter had hot dogs with chili and such for dinner. I don't like hot dogs, nor does Son so we foraged for leftovers in the fridge. And yes, I knew what I was doing when I bought the hot dogs. I just don't think Daughter and Chris have to not have a food they like just because Son and I don't like them. It felt nice having a meat free day, anyway. (Chris and Daughter LOVE their meat, Son and I can take it or leave it.

As for reading? I'm rereading a book I happened to pick up at the library last week-When Lightning Strikes by Meg Cabot. This is the first book in the 1-800-Missing series. I just felt the urge to reread it last week and grabbed it and again, tonight, felt like reading it. So I grabbed it off my nightstand and haven't been able to put it down. Until I fell asleep with it and woke up and forgot to post and voila' here we are. *g*

So, I want to get at least another hour of sleep. That means I'm headed back offline. I hope y'all had a wonderful Wednesday. I wish a fantastic Thursday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Zumba
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4.

Why walk when you can ride?

I'm pretty sure that's what Wicket was thinking as she settled onto Son's back to be couriered all over the downstairs yesterday. Wicket has this weird habit of jumping on someone's back if it's presented in her direction-intentionally or not. And rather than be uncertain or uncomfortable, she settles down and acts like a young Princess being carried on a litter.

I know I said I'd have something to write about tonight, but unless you want to know about the oh, twelve pair of shoes I tried on today? It's going to be pretty boring. And I know the subject is becoming boring already, but I'm becoming very frustrated. My old tennies are already starting a bad downward decline (I have a small hole in the toe that's not recognizable as such yet, but it's only a matter of time.) and I am afraid of the damage to my feet if they're not replaced soon. If money were no object I don't think this would be as big an issue, but I'm not paying $100 for a pair of tennies that I'll have to replace in 4-5 months because that's how fast I'm wearing out shoes these days considering all the activities I attend/participate in. Gah.

Anyway, I did get my review posted, so that was something good. And the kids enjoyed their MA class today. Tomorrow is when those at the Y are paid, but we have no activities to attend at that Y tomorrow so Daughter is going to have to wait until Thursday for her first paycheck. She's very excited. Though not as excited as when I explained to her that a major portion of her check needs to go toward savings. And if she wanted to save up for something major then she would have to make sure that came out of what was left AFTER savings. No, I'm not mean. I'm being practical. If I let her she'd blow her entire paycheck on little things here and there, snacks, books, a katana...... I don't mind her saving for the sword, but she needs to think beyond that as well. What do you think? Am I being too harsh considering she's earning her own money? What did you do with your first paycheck? See, in this area Daughter is most like Chris. I know without even having to ask what Chris did with his first paycheck-blew it and probably can't even remember on what. I just want Daughter to have a healthy relationship with money.

As for books and reading? I've read my review book and another library book- This Magic Moment by Patricia Rice. The heroine is quirky and can see aura's. Only her betrothed then later husband doesn't believe her about that OR the ghosts that haunt his castle. Yeah, it's a historical. I've read a few of hers years ago and I've read almost all her contemporary books as well. Next up? Another library book. I have two that are competing in my mind of which to begin. One is the steampunk book and another is the new Karen Rose book that came in from hold yesterday. I will admit I enjoy having a choice. I don't have that all the time.

Anyway, that's about it from me tonight. It's late again, no, I'm not sleeping well. No idea why, well, I do know the pollen has picked up this week and I'm itching again and have had several sinus headaches so I'm sure that has a lot to do with it.

I hope y'all had a terrific Tuesday. I wish a wonderful and happy Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: We won't count how precious Son was today dragging me (literally) around the mall today from one end to the other to locate a shoe store. Seriously, he had me by the hand and was pulling! Oh, and 1 hour Zumba.
Fitness Challenge  Miles: 4.

Forgetful! (Placeholder) Now Updated!

This is going to be short and not so sweet. I've had one of those days where I dropped everything and ached and forgot to look up while reading a good book and banged into a wall. So, this is a placeholder because I forgot to post again and while not sleeping great, I do like to try to sleep at least. I'll be back in the afternoon with a post. In the meantime know I adore each of you! Best wishes for a great day! B.

Update!

I know I keep telling y'all that Butterscotch is strange and y'all are probably thinking I'm imagining it. Well, here's evidence. He just SAT THERE. For at least five minutes. Not doing anything else, just sitting there in the box. And then he climbed out and walked off. I keep telling y'all he's "spe-shul". *g*
This is being updated later than I intended (and I have had a total of about 5 hours sleep which is not bad), but I've been running around this afternoon more than I thought I would be. Son and I have taken Daughter to work an then took yet another pair of tennies back that were purchased over the weekend (this pair from Academy Sports). I am having the hardest time finding a pair of tennies that can support my high arches, narrow heels and provide enough cushioning for the high impact activities I participate in. In the past month I've tried on over thirty pair of shoes. Heck, today I know I tried on at least 10 pair today alone. *sigh* I've never had THIS hard of a time finding tennies before. Maybe I'm asking too much to not, you know, be in pain while working out? And now Chris is growing frustrated with me over all this. *sigh*

Anyway, as for the book I had a hard time pulling myself out of last night? I was reading a book I was supposed to read and review a couple of weeks ago but the kids schoolwork and last week totally blew my plans out of the water. However, I will have it done sometime tonight. I hope.

As for yesterday? I had been dreading attending Yoga because my regular teacher is on vacation and her suitable replacement is cutting back on teaching and we were supposed to have this fellow who is more concerned with strength and holding the poses until you QUIVER and hurt. BUT, at the last minute they called in another teacher. One of my favorite sub's! She's an older lady and is an awesome teacher. (Not as great as my fav, but close.) Class was good after that! *g*

That's all for now. Funny enough I'll still have at least one or two things to talk about tonight. *g* I hope y'all had a pleasing Monday and I wish a terrific Tuesday for y'all. Have a fabulous day! B.

Another Oldie, but Funny!

I took this picture sometime last year and came across it tonight and had to post it. Layla and Patches seem to be trying to come to a decision on which one of them was going to venture into the bag. This is the bag I kept the catnip ball in so it wouldn't become lost. Want to know what happened to the catnip ball? I would like to know, too, but have no idea where it is right now. Though if I had to guess I'd say under my stove. *g*

Another day, another hot summer day. What? I am by no means eloquent and considering that I was asleep and had forgotten to post and then woke and remembered? Yeah, this is as good as it gets. Sunday was spent doing a few different things. We went to the Y this afternoon so I could attend Zumba and the kids and Chris went swimming. I wish I could say I had a great time at Zumba, but the teacher that we were supposed to have called in another teacher instead. Called in the teacher I don't like as a matter of fact. And I would have skipped class, but had already walked in and put my things down when she walked in. And I didn't want to hurt her feelings. At least I got a decent workout in. Though not a very fun one. After class I met up with Chris and the kids and had changed and was swimming a few laps when a storm broke and lightning was seen and they closed the pool. Yay. We've been having a lot of storms in the afternoon lately due to the hot temperatures building. They don't last long, and do a great thing by dropping the temps outside by 20 degrees within a half an hour, but they have caused some damage around.
After we left the Y we headed to Lowes to pick up Lawn and Garden bags (WW wanted a fortune for a small box.) and then headed home where I made dinner (Gulash, we hadn't had it in a while and it was a big hit with Chris and Daughter.) and I also made a pound cake. I had a slice later and it was yummy. *g*
As for the rest of the evening. I also vacuumed and ironed and after that I read the last book in the 1-800 Missing Series by Meg Cabot. I really enjoyed that series and while I discovered it when I was an adult, I feel like I've watched the main character grow and evolve from a quick-to-anger, sullen teen-ager to a wiser and weary college-student. But, best of all, she had her HEA in the last book with the boy she'd loved all along. And that? Is worth a reread at least once a year. *g*

And that's our day. Tomorrow, Monday, really today is a return to schoolwork and testing for the kids. At the end of the week I have to give them a CAT test and adhering to the strict rules of the test means that I may end up giving a portion of it next week as well. But, to be honest, the kids are looking forward to the CAT test. Weird, right? Daughter feels like she's going to ace it and Son? Well, Son isn't quite as confident, but then again isn't worried.
Anyway, I hope y'all had a peaceful Sunday. I wish a pleasant and low-key Monday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Zumba, 10-15 minutes swimming laps.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4.

P.S. Melissa's son has an infection in his leg. Please say a prayer for him that treatment in successful in eradicating and healing the infection. 

Beauty!

No matter how busy I get ferrying the kids from one activity (or job) to another I still take time to enjoy the beauty around me. Last Tuesday as we were finally returning home from MA class we were greeted with this gorgeous sunset and I asked Daughter to take a picture of it for me. Because sometimes, even though you may be tired, or frustrated or just want to be home already-there is always something around you to make you smile. You just have to notice it. (One thing I wish this picture could have showcased better is that rather than the golden hue featured here in this picture the sky was a fabulous array of oranges, yellows and even pinks.)

Today I wouldn't have minded not having anywhere to go, but instead we had another busy day. Daughter had to work this morning so Chris was kind enough to drive her for me and on his way home he attempted to return a pair of tennies I had bought this last week upon my request. (I can handle returns most the time, but sometimes my inner shy person asserts and then he handles things for me, like today.) See, I am having the hardest time finding new tennies. I bought a pair at Dick's Sporting goods last week and then returned them because they made my feet hurt by not having the right amount of arch support. While returning those I checked out Foot Locker-because they had the largest array of women's tennies I'd ever seen. I know I tried on at least six pair of shoes and eventually bought a pair exactly like the pair I had right before the pair I'm now replacing. However, I wore them on our walk last weekend and then again to Zumba Tuesday and it sounds stupid now, but they hurt my feet in a familiar way. Like when I first started to have trouble with my feet last year. Why do I say this was stupid? Because you'd have thought I could have figured out last year that my shoes were contributing to the issues I was having. So, I made sure the shoes were clean and checked them over and they looked as though I had just walked out of the store with them. And then Chris tried to return them for me. Turns out Foot Locker won't let you return items unless it's for the exchange of whatever you purchased. Meaning I would be returning these shoes for shoes exactly like them. Um, no. I blame myself. I should have checked their return policy before purchasing them. But, the fact is that I now own a pair of shoes I can't wear without damaging my feet and theirs nothing that can be done about it. Yay me. Yeah, this week has definitely had it's sucky moments. I don't know what to do with the shoes, but I can't wear them to class, so have no idea. Any ideas?
Anyway, after he arrived home we had lunch and I took care of a few household things and all too soon it was time to pick Daughter up from work. We all trooped out this time and we dropped Daughter off at the library because she had a Teen Summer Reading program-Candy Sushi! I'll post a pic later. She made really cute fake sushi out of fruit roll-ups, rice krispie treats and gummies and marshmallows. (I wish the library did something like that for the Adult Summer Reading program!)

After picking Daughter up from that, we headed to the mall. Daughter has been saying lately that she'd like her hair cut and maybe cut somewhat different than normal. I was game. It's time she tried something different with her hair. Don't most teenagers? So, off we went. (And while there found out it will cost $250 to replace the earring I lost. Yikes! I guess I'm stuck wearing my pearls for a LONG while.) (Some good thoughts on finding my earring would be most appreciated, please.) We settled on a salon for Daughter and she and I discussed what we thought she'd like. We even looked through a few of the hair styling books they had, but stuck with our original idea. She now has a little longer than chin length bob in the front and it's only about an inch or two shorter in the back. It frames her face and leaving the front longer lengthens her face as well. (Since she has my round face and apple cheeks.) And best of all? I didn't cry this time! (Of course her last short haircut was MUCH shorter and didn't look as nice.) Oh, as for her hair style itself? Think Chelsea Kane from DWTS this past season only a tad longer. Very polished and yet still youngish looking. After that we left (and I continued to swing her hair around. *g*) and headed home.

I did take time tonight to finish my book, Wrapped by Jennifer Bradbury. I thought the book was quite good. The author captured the position a young upper-class woman would be in in that time period-preparing for a debut so she could be married off whether she wanted to or not. Because it benefited her station. However, the heroine-Agnes, is not your ordinary miss. She has a talent for languages and is quite intelligent concerning the politics surrounding her at that time. If you like regular regency romances you'll probably like this book, though the romance is somewhat tame (which I liked) and the mystery was nice-though I knew who the baddie was from his introduction. All in all I liked it. Next up is another library book-probably the steampunk book since it's new and not available to be checked out for as long.

And that's our day. A mish-mash of activities and some reading. I think it was a pretty nice day over-all. I hope y'all had a nice Saturday. I wish a peaceful and restful Sunday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: None, just a lot of regular walking. Should have used the pedometer that has been downloaded to my cell phone. Oops.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 0.

Cranky Kitty!

I took this photo tonight for two reasons. I was testing the camera on my new cell phone (and it's weird how clear it is in iPhoto but not here) and I wanted to share with you Layla's cranky face. This is the "don't mess with me unless you're willing to lose a hand" look. *g* But, never fear. She just snorted and not ten seconds later rubbed her head against my hand to be petted again. Silly girl, but my big baby.

It's been a rather long day. I can say that because by two o'clock it was "feels like" 100 degrees outside. Yeah. It would have been nice to stay home inside in the A/C tonight. Or it would have been nice to go swimming at the Y. But, I had to go grocery shopping. It's that time of year where we had to pull the big cooler down from the attic to keep the meats we buy cold until we are done shopping. But, first I had to cajole Son into taking his last Quarterly Spelling test. Son's least favorite subject is handwriting (and trust me it shows-I have to keep reminding myself that boys handwriting usually doesn't improve until 5th or 6th grade), but Spelling isn't so bad for him until test time. *g* The funny thing is, he knows the words. He knows how to spell them. He just drags his feet on the actual test portion. *g* Eventually we were able to get out of here and made a quick trip by the library for Daughter to pick up some graphic novels and a DVD. AND I had a DVD come in! The one I've had on hold since last October FINALLY came in! YAY! Patience pays off! Now I just need to find the time to watch it.
After the library we headed to the first of four different grocery stores, Aldi. Now, I can't do ALL my grocery shopping at Aldi, there are just some foods that shouldn't be generic, or at least shouldn't be done generic by them. However, they have good prices on cereal and a fabulous price on lean ground turkey. Then to Sam's for some other things (Plus I picked up some Apple straws-YUMMY chip substitute with sandwiches or burgers. Especially if you don't like chips like me.) The on to WW where we met up with Chris after he was off work. Good thing, too! We needed the space in the back of his jeep! After WW I sent Chris home and made one last stop at another local grocery store. And now? I'M DONE! *knockonwood* Except for a trip for milk in a few days-I just don't have a big enough refrigerator for 4 gallon jugs of milk at a time. And regular milk jugs don't freeze well. I miss when they came in paper cartons per quart-those froze wonderfully. Oh, well.
I can say I've noticed a trend in grocery shopping lately. Oh, not for the food itself, but for the prices of it. My budget has been upped because the same groceries I was buying a year ago now cost me almost $40 more total. WTHeck? *sigh*
Anyway, after arriving home and putting everything away I had to sit down for a few minutes. We made a quick dinner and it was nice to be done and relaxed. Only, I was still doing laundry. *g*
As for reading? I haven't had much chance today and didn't at all last night. I was too tired. I hope to get a few chapters read tonight so I can finish this YA and get it back to the library.
And I still haven't found my earring. And we took a look and can't replace it right now. I feel so bad, guilty and I just feel so incredibly sad that I don't have it anymore. Silly to feel that way over an earring, right? I can't help it, Chris gave them to me. And he's not the greatest gift giver, but they were one of the best gifts he's ever given me. Ack.

Anyway, I have to get up early. Daughter has to work in the morning and then has a candy sushi event at the library in the afternoon. I'm hoping to fit in a workout somewhere in there, but am not holding my breath. I hope y'all had an interesting and enjoyable Friday. I wish an amusing and friendly Saturday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: I wish I could count the three hours and four grocery stores I spent my day at. Not to mention the walking, lifting and organizing. *g*
Fitness Challenge Miles: 0.

The Before Picture!

This picture was taken before Wicket decided Butterscotch didn't deserve to sleep in the box. He looks rather peaceful doesn't he? Of course Wicket woke him up move, but as soon as she tired of the game she had created (bugging Butterscotch) and walked away-he crawled right back into the box and went back to sleep.

Another hot, long and boring day here. The kids had MA class this afternoon. I feel so bad for them considering the rooms where class is held have no A/C. It broke a little over a year ago and since they are building a new Y they aren't going to bother fixing it. Especially since the cost would require a new A/C compressor. So, it was in the "feels like" range of a 100 today and the kids were closed up in a room with no A/C and only a small fan to try and cool off. And sadly, it's only going to get worse as the months of summer heat up.
After MA it started to storm- BIG storm, I I drove the kids home where Chris could watch over them while I went to Cardio/Agility (Which they're now called Circuit Interval for the summer.) We did a lot of drills, but I have to say the most fun was when we took a pool noodle and some rubber bouncy balls and had to hit them to the other side of the room against another team whose objective was to do the same thing.
After class for me it was time to go home. Chris made dinner this evening. They were just what 'the doctor" ordered. And now? Time for me to load one last load of laundry and get some sleep. My eyes are starting to cross-that means I am exhausted. So, I hope y'all had thankful and thoughtful Thursday. I wish a fabulous Friday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.
P.S. The earring hasn't turned up. I looked down on my hands and knees around the house last night and again today. I'm terrified to vacuum. And Chris called the Y for me this morning and when I was there this afternoon I asked when I first arrived. No one has seen it. If I think about it too much it brings tears to my eyes. Think good thoughts, okay?
I hope y'all had a thankful and thoughtful Thursday. I wish a fabulous and fun Friday for y'all. Goodnight and Have a gret day, B.

Exercise: 1hr 30min. Circuit Interval.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 6.

She wants to play!

Either that or she wants the box. For some reason Wicket took offense every time Butterscotch tried to take a nap in the box. I don't think she really wanted the box for herself so much as she didn't want him to have it. Here she is trying to smack at him and he leaning far back to avoid her. Wicket is a funny cat who shows no fear of the other kitties despite their being much bigger than her.

I haven't felt well all day. I'm not just sore from the new class yesterday, but I'm also exhausted. Both classes back to back really just took too much from me. I've been dragging all day.
After taking Daughter to work today I took Son to his first Summer Reading Program. Today's was "Critter Keeper". There were several types of snakes (ugh!), Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches, a Bearded Dragon, a Scorpian and a few other creatures presented. Son loved petting the snakes and had a good time. After his program was over we headed home and had a late lunch and before we knew it, it was time to pick up Daughter. We went straight from the Pine Y to the MT Y and Son attended KidFit. Normally I would have taken Zumba, but it was the new teacher I don't like and I could have worked out in the cardio area, but instead read and watched Son. After his KidFit the kids and I went swimming and had a nice time. I felt a little better in the water, probably because I felt lighter and less heavy/stiff. We stayed for a little over an hour and then headed home to meet up with Chris who was DOING YARDWORK. I'm glad I didn't have to bug him to take care of it today. He became a bit over-zealous and trimmed the trees and edged a little wider than I usually do and because he had to wait until the heat dissipated this evening he ran out of time before he could mow. He says he'll do that tomorrow. I'll believe it when I see it.
I was bitten outside mosquito's while Chris was showing me all he'd done and ended up with three bites I know about. But, something was making my ring finger itch on my left hand and I ignored it and didn't think much of it. Until I went to take my rings off to take a shower tonight. (I don't like the soap gunking up my rings,) My ring finger was swollen and I could barely get my rings off. And no, my hands weren't swollen-JUST my ring finger and my knuckle was red, and the part below the knuckle felt weird. Seems whatever bit me earlier caused a reaction. I took a benedryl and the swelling is going down-slowly.
While in the shower I was wetting my hair down when I felt something fall. I looked down and it was my earring back. I immediately reached up to my ear lobe and felt and my earring was GONE. I lost it. I love those earrings, they were an anniversary gift from Chris and I wear them every day. It breaks my heart that I can't find my earring (and trust me-we've searched the house). I feel somehow incomplete without it. I had to take out the other stud and pop in another pair of earrings and it just doesn't feel right. I know this sounds silly, but please, if you don't mind, could you say a small prayer I find my earring. I'm afraid it's gone down the drain and it makes me sick, really-I feel sick. I know I had them on in the pool because I checked the backs on them while in there. So, it was sometime after I arrived home. Chris even checked pipes under the sink for me-just in case.
So, I'm heading offline now. Except for Son's fun time at the library, it's been a sucky day and I'm ready for it to be over. I hope y'all had a Wonderful Wednesday. I wish a Thankful and Thoughtful Thursday for y'all. Also, Dru hasn't been feeling well, if you could send healing thoughts her way, please! Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 1 Hour Swimming
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4.

Gorgeous Book Covers! (And a regular post.)

This is the book I am currently reading. The cover caught my eye first. Then the blurb, mentioning an Egyptian Mummy, a mystery and set during regency times. All pluses for me. Add in the fact that it's a YA and I had to read it. So far I am quite pleased with it and the heroine, while a seventeen year old, is not quite your average regency Miss. *g*

This is another book I picked up at the library just yesterday. Look at that luscious red gown! And the actual steel looking corset! This book is also a YA and a historical. However, this book is STEAMPUNK! I admit to being a tad picky about the Steampunk books I read and so I decided to try the sample on Goodreads. I was hooked. I can not wait to start reading this book!

Aren't both the covers gorgeous? They are a true example of what covers should do for a reader. Draw them in and make them curious enough to read the books blurb and that's kind of like a salesman getting his foot in the front door. *g* Do you consider covers important? I will admit, if there's a nice cover I'm more likely to try a book. However, while a cover may draw me in, it's the blurb that usually seals the deal. Are you the same way?

Whew! Another hot day here! I saw the funniest sign outside of a Church while driving Daughter to work today. It said: Whoever prayed for an early summer-you can stop now. *g* It reached 98 here today, at least that's what the bank I passed had on it's sign. What? I'm detail orientated, I notice things. After dropping Daughter off Son and I headed home. We're still working on finishing up for the Summer and it's going to be at least another week. Especially since Son is dragging his feet with all his tests. And he owes me one last book report and getting this kid to write a book report is as hard as shaping a block of clay.
I meant to get more done today, but a couple of loads of laundry is all I could manage with Son needing supervision as he worked on his tests. However, we did run-yet again- by the library because I had two more books come in. I have/had over 16 holds and they're trickling in one or two books at a time. I now have Beauty Queens by Libba Bray (yet another YA-I think I'm on a YA kick, and a contemporary) and Just Like Heaven by Julia Quinn (a historical and NOT a YA *g*). As for what I'm reading right now? Look above. *g*

After the library Son and I headed to the Y to meet up with Daughter as she clocked out. She and Son headed to the dojo since I decided to try a new-to-me Yoga class. (They were only half an hour early for their MA class.) I thought since I've been practicing Yoga for five years I'd be okay. I was WRONG. OMGosh! I don't know how I survived the class the teacher described as a Flow class (I can kinda see where she got that description, but I've been taking Yoga from a teacher who also teaches "Flow Yoga" and it was no where near as physically taxing as this class was. I guess I'm too stubborn for my own good because I stuck it out and here's where it gets funny. Or scary if you're me because I sweat so much during yoga I was soaked (and my mat now needs to be washed) and then right after, and by right after I mean a minute or two after, was my regular Tuesday evening Zumba class. I have NO idea how I made it through that class after the first. My energy was GONE. But, again, I am too stubborn to give up. After the Zumba class I was talking to the teacher and told her I was sorry to have "limped" through the class (I don't know why I felt the need to do so, it's just how weird I am I guess.) and explained that I had taken the Yoga class right beforehand. When she heard who was teaching she told me that the Yoga class I attended was more like a Power Yoga class. Well, that information might have come in handy! It wasn't listed as such on the schedule and she said it was because of who the instructor was, that if anyone else had been teaching it would have probably been a regular yoga class. All I know is, that class kicked my butt and I'm too scared to try it again! *g* Hey, I tried it and I swear I deserve a t-shirt that says I survived it, but I'm not crazy enough to do that again.
I met up with the kids in the dojo. They had stayed to watch and try out a new move. Daughter's first try? She kept the opponent from locking his leg around her neck. It was automatic on her part, but a good move. She was shown how to perform the move and then practiced doing it and did pretty well. Son only practiced how perform it. He was hot, sweaty and ready to go home at that point. I don't blame him their dojo has no air conditioning and it was quite warm in there.
Soon we headed home and met up with Chris and had dinner and I cut Son's hair. Chris was nice enough to look at my computer this evening. Seems the new security update for my Mac OS is a PITButt. It made Safari quit seven times this afternoon and clicking on spotlight would sign me out-OF MY OWN COMPUTER! He managed to find a way to make the annoyances stop this evening. Thank goodness for being married to a techno-geek. Though right now I am a tad annoyed with him. He's snoring and I've already hit his arm three times now and NO he has not woken up. *g* (Ha! Fourth times the charm, he stopped.) Funny enough he won't remember me hitting his arm to get him to roll over tomorrow. Well, he will when he reads this post. Hi Sweetie! Love You! Stop snoring! *g*

Daughter works again tomorrow. She had an easy day of it today. The pool was closed for her entire shift. *g* Turns out there was something wrong with the pool filter and she had to use the pool vacuum and by the time her shift was over the pool opened back up for swimming lessons. I doubt her day will be as easy tomorrow. *g* And yeah, so far she's really loving her job. Can't say I blame her!

Anyway, that's our day and the books on my bedside table. Hey, it just occurred to me. I have a TBR pile! A small one, but I'll take it! I hope y'all had an interesting Tuesday. I wish a wonderful Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Power Yoga, 1 hour Zumba. (I wonder if Power Yoga burns more calories than regular yoga? If you go by sweat and exertion-heck yeah!)
Fitness Challenge Miles: 8. And I deserve every one of them today.

An Oldie, and Cutie!

Technically this picture isn't that old. Only six months ago our home and hearts were taken over by Wicket. It's hard to believe she's been with us that long and we can not, nor do we want to, imagine a time without her. I am concerned however, that her small stature may have complications. She's still very small (but, mighty!) and she will always remain small according to the Vet. She has an appointment to be spayed this month. Normally we have the cats spayed/neutered at a low-cost clinic that does only those surgeries. But, Wicket is still so small and has scarred intestines so we are having our regular Vet (and it will cost us three times as much) do her surgery. Though, strangely, at seven months of age she has yet to go into heat and we're thinking she won't at all. She absolutely was, and still is, a cutie. *g* And crazy, let's not forget crazy. Ooh, and spoiled. *g*

It's been a busy day! Sort of. The kids went to the movies early this afternoon with MIL. She took them to see the new Pirates of the Caribbean movie. (They enjoyed it immensely.) While they were gone I had the house to myself and I must admit the idea of a nap was tempting since I am, again, not sleeping well. However, I just don't nap well. I almost think it has to do with a sense of obligation to other things. Weird, I know. So, instead I goofed off and read almost all the blogs I visit (instead of the few I comment on) and I swept and mopped the floors. I also did some laundry and then. Ha. Then I decided to clean my jeep. So I vacuumed it, cleaned all the glass on the inside, detailed the inside and the washed (and hand dried) the outside and then detailed the outside. Did I mention I did all this in 94 degree weather? Not my smartest move, though my jeep is all sparkly and clean. *g* I joke that I got some of the guy jobs in our marriage-and I LIKED doing all that. I worry over the tire pressure, oil level and keeping it clean. I should have known how it was going to be because when I met Chris his car looked like he lived in it (he didn't, he's just a slob). However, Daughter is my bug killer/catcher/relocater. *g*
When we arrived back home this evening after a trip to the Y I pulled weeds out of my monkey grass for so long that my head hurt and my back was sore and I couldn't un-bend for a good five minutes. And I still wasn't done. Chris had to make me forget them and come inside. Oh, not big weeds. Little, tiny weeds that blend in quite well. It take a good eye to spot them. But, they bother me. *sigh*

Oh, this afternoon we did run by the library. I had a book come in- The Girl in the Steel Corset by Kady Cross. This book is by a new-to-me author and a YA and it's also a Steampunk! The cover is absolutely gorgeous. I'll have to share a picture with y'all of it. And as for what I'm reading right now? Another book by a new-to-me author and also a YA, though this one has a historical setting. Wrapped by Jennifer Bradbury also has a gorgeous cover. I'll have to share it, too.

That's about it. Not a very exciting day, but I have a small sense of accomplishment for what I did manage to get done. I'll take it. I hope y'all had a simple and pleasing day. I wish a terrific Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Yoga, officially. Not officially- an hour and a half working on the jeep and another 30 minutes weeding.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4. (Unless the others count, then a little more.)

Fun Ride!

This is a picture of the kids riding the "mule" that SIL&BIL have. And yes, that IS a gun on it. What can I say? They are authentic collectors and don't have kids. *g* No worries, it wasn't loaded. Though I do sometimes wonder if SIL&BIL are on some kind of 'Watch List'. Well, they do also own a cannon....... Son made Daughter crack up laughing while they were riding. He made the "rock on" symbol with his hand and said it at the same time and he also shot her a peace sign saying "Peace!", but in a funny voice. That's my boy! *g*

It feels as though today were a long day. I woke with another sinus headache, a small one this time that quickly went away. We must have some kind of pollen out again. *sigh* We have been outside a lot in the past couple of days and SIL&BIL live out in the middle of nowhere so lots of woods and land to inhale pollen from there and then Chris and I took that long walk yesterday. Eh, it was worth it.
I did manage to get quite a few things done today. I made it to Zumba and had my favorite teacher, I picked weeds out of the garden and then layered hay over the ground in the garden (to help hold in some moisture and protect the soil), I re-potted a plant, made dinner, uploaded some schoolwork for Son, ironed and did a couple loads of laundry and washed the windows outside on the first floor. Oh, and I cut Chris' hair tonight, too. At least I was able to get some things done! I like the sense of accomplishment that comes from checking things off my mental list. *g*
What I didn't do? Read. Although in the past couple of days I did finish The Sweetest Thing. The way the book moved was kind of obvious after the first chapters foundation, but it was still a nice, sweet read. I felt so bad for the main character. Her life was turned upside down when she was young and she tries so hard to make it right and then new changes threaten her world order and she.... well, I won't give it away. Suffice to say she does some growing up and while the end isn't quite an HEA, it does make you hope for a bright future. Next up? Another library book! *g*

I need to head offline and get some sleep. I hope y'all had a peaceful Sunday. I wish a pleasant and sunny Monday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Zumba, 45 minutes weeding/laying down hay.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 7.