Quiet to Read!

Remember the area outside the children's floor of the library I was telling y'all about? This is it. Isn't it pretty? There are lots of benches to sit and read and grass, and a cute statue and it's all in the middle of downtown and looks like it's a pretty yard somewhere. It's quite lovely and I'm glad the main branch of the library has this area for the kids and others to enjoy.

It's been a busy day! We took Daughter to work and Chris and I played racquetball for a bit and Son played basket in the kids gym which is right next to the racquetball courts. I kept checking on him and after 40 minutes I gave up and took Son to the aerobic room and told him that since he needed to practice teaching for Karate (they all have to have so many teaching hours before they can earn a Black Belt) that he could teach me. So, he put me through the paces and taught me punches and kicks and part of a kata and stances and such. He got a chance to practice and I got a chance to see what the kids do in class first hand. After a half hour or so of that Chris joined us and we worked on helping Son practice a few take-down moves and then raced with Son and then we decided to go the library again. Chris wasn't with us yesterday and hasn't been to this branch in a long time. We had a good time again and I explored the reference/non-fiction section for a bit and found a cool book in Craftsman/Bungalow type houses. We ended up exploring the main library for almost two hours. After that there still was time before Daughter was to get off work so Chris, Son and I decided to try a trail nearby and walked on it for two miles. We had fun and didn't come anywhere close to completing the trail but with Son with us and time constraints we were okay with that. We saw a few dragonfly's and a couple of cicadas. (Which have to be one of the ugliest looking bugs ever. Kind of pre-historic looking. Ugh.) We passed a Coffee roasting company and a local EMS place and a Skate Park, too. We had fun and hopefully wore Son out a bit. *g*
Then it was time to pick up Daughter. We headed home and since the kids have been bugging us we packed up some of their games and traded them in at GameStop. We usually purchase their game system games used. It saves a LOT of money and today was no different. And if you had the thought that we may have bought them a Star Wars game? You'd be absolutely correct.

We then headed home-again-and made dinner and spent what was left of the night quietly together. And that's our day. Semi-busy-ish. But, we exercised had fun. *g* Oh, and as for reading I finished the Bobbie Faye book and am still reading the Tesla book.
That's it. That's all there is to our day! Oh! I forgot to tell y'all that my computer arrived back today! YAY! I'm so happy to have my computer back! So far everything seems good. Besides the inverter and framing around the screen, they also seem to have replaced all my keys and mouse. It feels different, but not bad, so I'm good.
NOW that's it. *g* I hope y'all had a relaxing and amusing Saturday. I wish a peaceful and Blessed Sunday. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.


Exercise: 40 minutes racquetball, 30 minutes karate, 2 miles walking the Swamp Rabbit trail.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 6.

A beautiful but not old, oldie!

I love this picture. It is what I aim to be able to do with a camera one of these years. It's, pardon the pun, hauntingly beautiful. SIL is the woman wearing black with the flowers and BIL is the "ghost" touching her shoulder. I have a print of this picture and I keep meaning to frame it, posting this is a good reminder.

A rather boring day here. Daughter had to go in to work for a short time for an "in service" meeting. Meaning they were talking about some of the changes that were going to be made to the Aquatics program and how they were going to be spot testing the guards with the help of some of the Y members. Fun times for Daughter ahead! *g* (All this has come about because of the situation that took place at a Boston, MA city pool a while ago.)
While Daughter was there (for two hours) Son and I headed to the main branch of our county library system. It's five minutes away from the Pine Y and three stories tall (um, closer to four-but that one is not open to the public). The top floor is for reference materials and non-fiction. The main floor is for the teen area, the music and DVD/Video room and the new book area with a LP area along with the regular fiction area. There are also meeting rooms and conference rooms and small computer rooms scattered around. The bottom floor (the one part open to the public) contains meeting rooms and the children's area. It also contains a small outside park area with benches and grass. Son was most interested in the manga area as well as the DVD's. But, I also ended up checking out a couple of DVD's. I now have the first season of SOAP. *g* I remember watching the show when I was a kid and thinking it was hilarious. (And I would swear that was when it was in syndication.) We spent over an hour just looking around. There was an awesome photography exhibit on the Grand Canyon we looked at while there. It's a traveling exhibit and the photographs were just outstanding. There was one where there were layer upon layer of pine cones with the newer ones being lighter on top of the darker older ones and I couldn't help but thing that it would make a great puzzle. *g* And as stupid as it makes me sound, I never gave much thought to the fact that it does indeed snow there.
After a while we went back to the Pine Y so I could get a small workout in while Daughter finished up. I played racquetball. I had to do something that I could do with Son there without having to put him in the childwatch since I don't know the care-givers there and he got checked out a racquet and ball and played, too.

It wasn't the longest workout ever, not even an hour. But, I managed to get a small workout in and don't feel guilty over it and that's good. When Daughter finished she even gave it a try. And they ended up trying to find one of the balls on the second floor. *g*

As for reading? I'm almost finished with the first Bobbie Faye book. I own the third one so if I want to reread it I won't have to worry about checking it out. *g* I'm also still reading the Tesla book. He was quite a fascinating person. And luckily I have books to read after that too, thanks to the library.

After we were done at the Y the kids asked to go by a local comic book store and daughter ended up purchasing a James Patterson graphic novel. (Did I mention she received her paycheck today and deposited/cashed it? *g*) We then headed home and had dinner and the kids watched a bit of an Anime they had checked out earlier this week. (Ben 10.) And that's our night.

I hope y'all had an enjoyable and laughter filled day. I wish an amusing and smile-filled Saturday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: At least 30 minutes racquetball. (closer to 40.)
Fitness Challenge Miles: 2.

All oldies all the time!

I love this old picture of the Out-laws. This was taken either not long before they were married or not long after they were married. Weren't they cute together? And as it is with Chris and Daughter, there is no denying that Chris is related to his Dad. *g* Is it sad that I wish I had a dress like that?

Today has been another off day. After lunch I decided to heck with whatever freaky allergic reaction I have and I went out and weeded the garden. Um, stupidly I did this before lunch. Before eating much of anything today actually. Not SO stupid that I hadn't had plenty of fluids because while some other areas of the country may have cooled down, here? Not so much. But, I found out one of our watermelon babies died and the other? Has quadrupled in size. Wonder if he sucked the life out of the other one? What? Can't you see the caption now? Cannibalisitc Watermelon devours own kind. Heh. Oh, sorry. (I keep telling y'all my sense of humor is a tad warped. *g*) Anyway, I weeded for about half an our managing to unfurl part of the watermelon plant from yet another plant. It's tiny curls are adorable and very grabby. Something has gotten hold of the squash plant, not sure what, but am keeping an eye on it. However, I think it'll end up dying soon as it looks similar to whatever killed last years plant. My tomatoes just don't want to grow this year, luckily I have the Out-laws and family who are supplying us with many Yummy tomatoes. When I was done and went inside I was sweating and hot and made sure to drink some water but my legs felt wobbly again. I took my blood pressure and it was a little low, and yet not. Something around 116/86. It started to rise as I cooled off and ate lunch. Whoops! Of course then the rest of the day worried it would happen again I've been snacking all day. *sigh*
Oh, the Doc's office called. All my blood work came back normal. I'm to continue the level of thyroid meds I'm on now and I show no signs of diabetes or anything bad. Though I am to watch my triglycerides because my cholesterol test came back ONE POINT over normal. No problem. Oh, and she wants me to take a mulit-vitamin and Vitamin D and Calcium. Hmm, guess my dislike of milk shows up in my bones?
After we managed to get some things done at home we left and made it by the library because yet another one of my holds had come in! Not to mention that after rereading the second Bobbie Faye book yesterday I wanted to reread the first one again. *g* So, we dropped by and now I have Original Sin: A Sally Sin Adventure by Beth McMullen (I have been wanting to read this book ever since I found a synopsis online!) and Bobbie Faye's Very (very, very, very) Bad Day by Toni McGee Causey. I know the author of the Bobbie Faye books is now writing in another VERY different direction, but I wish she had more books like these in her backlist. *g* They make me smile, and with the week I'm having that's a nice thing indeed.
After the library we quickly made it by the pharmacy and dropped off my new prescriptions (Doc asked me to hold on to them until the blood work results) and then headed to the kids MA class. I watched the class and the kids learned how to fall safely when being taken down along with a couple of simple moves to push the opponent. Daughter had to work (she actually had to leave class ten minutes early to make it to the pool on time) so Son and I left her there and headed to the other Y after class. I had fully thought I would try Cardio Agility today even though I wasn't sure I could make it through the class, but after arriving there I knew there's no way I could go through it all. (She makes you WORK hard and I just didn't have the energy.) I have been so ticked off at myself this week. I know I should cut myself some slack and maybe even take a couple of days to not work out at all, but I'm just the type of person to push myself and with no real results this past year on the weight loss front? (Eight pounds, that's it. *sigh* In a YEAR! Grrrr.) I feel like I need to find a way to step it up even more and this week I just don't have the energy. And yet another annoying thing my ears are still clogging up, just one at a time, and it's annoying me. If one unclogs the other clogs. Driving. Me. Batty.
Oh. Sorry. Don't mean to be so whiny.
Anyway, at the Y I did work out on my own, I worked out for almost an hour and then Son and I headed home. We met Chris at home and he left to pick up Daughter and yet again play racquetball. I wish I shared his enthusiasm for the game, but it just doesn't hold my interest.
While Chris was gone I made dinner- Chicken Club Salad! Yum! And I sliced a whole tomato onto mine. What? Funny enough the hubs, who says he likes tomatoes on burgers won't eat them on a salad. Daughter? Who will eat a whole tomato sliced and on a plate with salt and pepper won't actually eat tomatoes IN things (unless I trick both her and Chris and chunk up a tomato and put it i spaghetti sauce or chilli or goulash. And Son won't eat them at all. That's okay. They'll be mine. All mine...... *g*

Have y'all ever watched a show called Ancient Aliens? That show is CRAZY. But, Son loves it and he had a blast watching it tonight and telling me loony the people were. I think he's right. I did watch a show I know he's like Legend Quest on Sci-Fi. (After everyone else had gone to bed.) It was interesting and anything involving legends is a definite attention draw for me.

Beside reading and making it about halfway through the first Bobbie Faye book, not much else to share with y'all. Until I get my computer back from Apple all the photos I post will be older pictures. It'll be fun revisiting them.

I hope y'all had an interesting and smile-filled Thursday. I wish a cheerful Friday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 7 miles stationary bike at level 11, 1.16 miles treadmill at a 5.5 height.

An Oldie But Silly!

This picture never fails to make me smile. Oreo was after a moth and ended up looking like some frat guy during a house party. You've never seen anything like it if a bug manages to get in the house. They never escape unless we capture them and put them outside. At least it gives the cats something to do?

This feels weird. I'm typing this up on Chris' computer and I'm not used to his keys. They're smoother and inset whereas mine sit up a bit. The good news, or bad news depending on how I choose to look at it, is that my computer is away for a short trip. *g* Chris took it to the Apple store this evening after work and they sent it off. It seems an inverter needs replacing as well as a cable. All I know is it has something to do with the screen on my MacBook. And luckily, the warranty is still in effect and covering the cost. I won't have it back for 3-5 business days since the outer casing around the inside of the monitor will have to be replaced as well. But, they gave the option to have it shipped to the house. I hope that's a good thing, but I never know how our schedule will play out so we'll see.

Daughter's friend, and our neighbor needed a ride to work today so I dropped her off. This afternoon we stopped at the library quickly on the way to take Daughter to work and I now have two books to read. Finger Lickin' Dead by Riley Adams and one of my holds came in With a Little Luck by Caprice Crane. AND a CD I had on hold came in as well, 21 by Adele.  I can't wait to listen to that in the jeep. After dropping Daughter at work Son and I headed to the other Y for his KidFit class. Anyone who says homeschooled kids don't have socialization skills needs to look at my kids. Between MA, Daughter's volunteer work and now job and Son's KidFit class they have TONS of socialization. No to mention friends in the neighborhood. While Son was in class I worked out in the gym because the teacher I am not fond of was teaching Zumba. I thought I was fine to start back working out. I felt tired on the bike, but pushed through. Then the weight machines. I was sweating a bit more than usual, but credit the fact that it felt warmer than usual in the gym. By the time I was done and went to pick Son up I felt shaky and weak. I leaned up against the wall while they packed up all their equipment to be put away and then thought I would be okay so grabbed the dolly with the Bosu balls and wheeled it down the hallway back to the room where they're kept. My knees felt a little wobbly. I stood outside the room and waited for some of the other things to be put away and leaned, again, up against the wall. And felt tears at my eyes. Geez, I hate when this happens. And I forgot to tell the Doc about it. I'm pretty sure  my blood sugar dropped. But, no worries. We made it home and I had a handful of pretzels and something to drink. And I hope I remember to tell the Doc about these "episodes" next time I'm there.
Anyway, Chris picked up Daughter this evening. He left early and played racquetball first, though. *g* I'm just glad he's found something he likes to do!

And that's the day. As for reading, I'm rereading a copy of Bobbie Faye's (kinda, sorta, not exactly) Family Jewels by Toni McGee Causey. I needed the laughs today since I haven't quite kicked this cold yet. Nothing else to share. Sorry. We're pretty boring. Well, I'm pretty boring.

I hope y'all had an excellent day. I wish a Happy Thursday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 7.25 miles stationary bike at level 11, 25 minutes of weights.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 3. Not doing so well with those this month. *sigh*

Learning by Osmosis!

Layla decided that Son's report was just the right spot to take a nap. And yes, I still make them do some things during the summer. It keeps their brain from rotting. *g* Maybe Layla is trying to learn by osmosis? Eh, doesn't matter. She's cute either way. *g*

Well, I'm not sure what I'll be typing up my post on tomorrow. There's something loose inside my screen and the slightest movement makes it go dark. Since it's still under warranty Chris is taking it to the Apple store tomorrow (Wednesday) evening after work for me. (He made an appointment.) He did warn me it could be a few days or even a week or two before I get my computer back. I looked at him like he was crazy! He's being nice and is letting me borrow his MacBook Pro until mine is returned. I did ask him to make sure the issues we still have with the casing are addressed as well. I think he wanted to be the one to take my computer in since the last time I was there to see a technician they were rude to me to the point Daughter got upset on my behalf.
I feel better today. Definitely my head feels better, not so much like a vise is squeezing it as much as everything is stopped up. Even my ears. Ugh. But, no fever today! Yay! That meant I could work out today and I did after watching the kids in their MA class for a few minutes. (Their Sensie is on vacation this week and the AD is teaching, but was late. Daughter started the class as highest ranking belt and got them started.) I enjoyed watching the kids, and then headed to my own class. Of course I also didn't want to overdo, so since I knew that my normal Tuesday Zumba teacher was on vacation and the older one would be back today I figured the more moderate workout would be okay. It was. It was also boring in a way, but I made the most of it and that was sort of okay-if not annoying.
Met up with the Outlaws after the Y. They brought us some tomatoes from Chris' aunt's garden and also some home-made salsa and coupons. It was nice of them to think of us.
After heading home we ate dinner and then enjoyed some time together. I've taken care of a few household things. On one hand I'm glad to be feeling better. But, on the other? It was nice to forget about doing laundry for one day. *g*

Anyway, time to head offline. I've finished the Leary book. It was a bit out of my comfort zone, but I enjoyed many parts of it. I will warn that there is strong language in the book, but I kind of skimmed over those words. Next up? No clue yet. I need to check my keeper shelves and see if anything strikes my eye since the library hasn't gotten anything in for me yet. I hope y'all are reading something great. Please tell me about it so I can see if my library has it! *g* I'm always looking for good book recommendations.


I hope y'all had a marvelous day. I wish a enjoyable Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 1 hour moderate zumba. So, I cut it down to equal 45 minutes.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 3.

This and That!

How do you smile and lick your face at the same time? That's the question I have for Fireball. I somehow caught him in mid-lick tonight and thought it was pretty funny and that I needed to share. Because I'm special that way. *g*

So, went to the Doc today for my yearly and this is the new Doc I picked a few months ago. She's very nice and her office is nice as well. The desk lady also serves as primary nurse and she is quite friendly, too. I called before my appointment first thing this morning to make sure they still could do the appointment considering I was sick. No problem. So, go in and they measure my oxygen using a finger thing. Cool. Blood pressure was good. Then came the weighing. No weight loss. *sigh* Good news is no weigh gain, but considering how hard I work out and watch my food intake by keeping a food diary and still no weight loss? Weird. Then came the paper vest. Fun. With a new added twist. This Doc likes to do an EKG on any patient over 30years of age for a baseline for later visits when coming in for a physical. Again, unexpected, but cool. Then they realize that hey! I'm sick. They noticed because I wasn't as perky/smiley as usual. That's kind of neat. They remembered me. Here's the thing. When I woke this morning I had a fever and took some tylenol. Chris drove me because he took  the day off to keep an eye on me. (I think it freaks him out when I get sick.) On the way over I was telling him I was hot. He turned the air on to an arctic breeze all the way over there. My temp by the time we got there? 98.1. *g* I usually run at 98.3. *g* So funny! So, by the time I got there no fever and I was just less chipper than usual. They offered to let me come back and do the exam later, but I said since I was there and with Daughter now working and not knowing her schedule from one week to the next...... So, exam went okay. Not fun, but they never are. Blood work is off. Cross your fingers everything is okay. Especially the thyroid and cholesterol (which sometimes is higher in thyroid people for some reason).
This afternoon after another dose of tylenol I took Daughter and her friend to B&N. Her friend needed some books for school reading and I offered to take her to the B&N in the other city because her parents already went to the one in the smaller city which didn't have the books they were looking for and hey, I don't need an excuse to visit a bookstore, neither does Daughter. (I made this offer yesterday afternoon before I started feeling really bad. And I don't like to disappoint.) She bought her books and I signed up for the Educator's Discount. I bought Daughter a book on Mythology. Well, I bought it for the both of us.
After heading home I collapsed on the couch and catnapped for half an hour. I was just so darn tired.
I managed to perk up and spent some time on the internet for a while and then Daughter left for a meeting at the library and I flaked out and catnapped again because I was so tired. I do not like being so darn tired. Ugh.

Anyway, this is it. Besides telling y'all I'm about two chapters from finishing my Denis Leary book. He's shocking and funny and if he's even one tenth of the guy in person as he is in this book then he's okay. Shocking, telling it like it is, but okay.

My computer is acting wonky. Something with the monitor and it shutting the screen light off if it's any higher than it's lowest setting. I've NEVER had issues with this Mac itself, just the casing so I am freaking out. I live on the computer. Wait, I'm the real me not the shy person who can't manage to speak to someone she's never met before and meet their eyes person on the computer. *sigh* Chris is going to make an appointment this week to take it in. Please cross your fingers it's lasts okay until then.

I hope y'all had a beautiful day. I wish a spectacular Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: It made me sad, but I stayed home from Yoga. Didn't think they needed my coughing and pounding head in class. It would not have been pretty.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 0

Pepper and the too cute stare!

Pepper has the cutest face. She also has the oddest habits. Whenever one of us sneezes she meows. Goodness forbid if you have a sneezing fit because it sends her into a round of meows as she searches the room you're in for the cause. I brushed her for a bit today and one of the reasons I don't do it too often is this, she kept walking around AS I was brushing her so I'd be stooped over and hobbling after her. Silly, pretty, loving girl.

I woke with a sore throat this morning but didn't think too much of it. I knew drainage has been bad yesterday and went about my day with tons of drainage and the sore throat. I even went to Zumba. After arriving back home I did laundry, ironing, cleaned the bathrooms and was thinking of washing the jeep, though at this point my head was killing me and my back started to ache. So, I sat down and before I knew it I was having chills. I should have known something was wonky when I started crying at every tender moment on tv. Took my temperature-fever. Guess it wasn't allergies after all. *sigh* It got worse as the night wore on. The fever rose higher and higher and Chris was taking a HUGE exam for his class so I couldn't bother him. Daughter washed the jeep for me, which was nice. She's never done that for me. I appreciated it and told her so.
I finally took some tylenol at bedtime and am already not aching as badly and my head doesn't feel as heavy or hurt as badly. I have a Doctors appointment tomorrow for thyroid and other things, but am not sure she's going to want to run blood tests if I'm sick. I'm hoping this is a 24 hour thing.


Anyway, I have read some today. I'm about halfway through the Leary book. He's quite funny and oddly enough I find myself agreeing with a few of his viewpoints on kids. Of course I also find myself shaking my head and wondering where the heck he's coming up with some of this stuff. It has been entertaining so far, so there's that.

Time for bed. I'm exhausted and am hoping to fall asleep before the tylenol wears off. I hope y'all had a peaceful and Blessed day. I wish a low-key and pleasing day for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Zumba. *shakeshead* Should have known better.

Just so proud!

This is Daughter at work. I feel okay showing this picture because her face is not shown and I've taken the geo-feature off my phone. This is the Pine Y's only pool right now while they're building the new Y. And no, Daughter doesn't just sit there all day. She walks around and will also will fuss at unruly swimmers and keep an eye on the swim lessons as well.


Wanna guess where we went today? If you said the Pine Y you'd be right. Not only did Daughter have to work, but Chris wanted to play racquetball. Son and I didn't want to play racquetball (I'm very bad at it.) so we went swimming. Chris joined us after an hour and we all swam for another hour and a half. We had a good time and got to see Daughter in action at her job.
It's funny, we left about an hour before Daughter was to get off work to get a snack (no worries we bought Daughter a drink at the Y-it was HOT there and she'd forgotten to take a drink. And yes, the pool is inside, however it's also during construction and they've already taken out the Olympic sized pool and left sheet rock at that opening and the giant fan in the pic above is the only source of forced air in there right now.)  and to run by a store near there (though we didn't find what we need). It's funny, they were having in-service training today for the Life-Guards and so Daughter's boss (the AD) was there. We know him through the MA program. As we were leaving he asked us if we were leaving Daughter there, we said yeah, but that we'd be back for her in a while. Hmmm, guess you had to be there to find it funny-since her shift ended about 6:30pm and it was almost 5:30 at that point.

So, anyway, we picked up snacks (yogurt parfait for me-yum!) and went by but couldn't find what we were looking for at a store. We went back and picked up Daughter and headed for another store across town to see if they had it and ended up not finding it there, though Chris found a new computer briefcase and we had a blast exploring Pier 1. We hadn't been in there in years and had fun just looking around. Like window shopping only inside the store. *g* I found some neat ideas for Christmas stockings for Daughter and Son while in there.

We then headed home and had dinner. And have spent the night quietly. I let the kids play their games on the system for a while and have taken care of a few household things. But, the two and a half hours swimming has worn me out and I'm tired and am going to read a bit and then get some much needed sleep. (I'm also taking a decongestant. I don't know what's out there right now, but Son and I are dealing with nasty drainage today.)
I hope y'all had a good day. I wish a peaceful and restful Sunday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: Did I mention the two and a half hours (almost 3 hours) of swimming? I was sure I did...... *g*
Fitness Challenge Miles: 10.

Monster plant begats moster zucchini!

The huge squash plant I posted a picture of a last week? This is the huge zucchini squash that came off of it yesterday. We had no idea this was under the plant. I mean, the plants huge so it was easy to miss, but c'mon! Since we like zucchini squash but not eggplant (And hi! This thing is bigger than an eggplant.) we're going to use it to make Zucchini Parmesan instead. *g*

It's been a long, very long day. After laundry and making out a menu and shopping list (and waiting on the kids to get their fannies in gear) we headed out early this afternoon to start grocery shopping. We've been to Aldi, Sam's, and WW, and the WW gas pumps.  I can also say that it was HOT today. I don't know the heat index, but we made it to 98 degrees. The humidity was an oppressive blanket. Ugh. However, we tarried on. Home then to put everything away and then to drive Daughter to work. Then on the way home Son and I stopped by yet another grocery store. (That's four grocery stores. I wish to goodness I could order everything and have it delivered. *sigh*) I did more laundry and then Chris arrived home. Not long after that it was time to leave to pick up Daughter. Oh, we were leaving early so Chris could play some racquetball. I ended up playing too so I could stay in the same area and keep an eye on Son. Daughter got off work after a while and then we headed home. I don't feel like I stopped moving until we arrived home tonight.
AND Chris noticed the book I was reading and read the flap and the next thing I know he's snickering and cracking up. HE STOLE MY BOOK! That stinker! I showed him though, I demanded it back. *g* So, now when I'm too busy doing something to read he picks it up and reads it. I guess I should be happy it's not yet another physics book. (Yeah, he sometimes reads those for fun.)

And that's our day and evening. It's late and I'm exhausted. So, I'm headed offline. I hope y'all had an enjoyable Friday. I wish an amusing and happy Saturday. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 20 minutes racquetball. (It would have been longer but I had to brave the maze one in the courts to go back and pick up a racquet and ball to borrow.) I guess a little exercise is better than none.

An oldie from last year!

This picture isn't that old, but I was looking through and thought it was funny. There are still boxes in the windows, and the cats still sleep in them. Pepper seemed to enjoy this box that particular day. She's turned out to be a big, beautiful girl. And her face? Pure adorable. *g*

Today has been interesting. The kids and I headed to the MA class this afternoon and they had fun sparring. Daughter had a blast helping another student test to level up. She was the "attacker" and the other student had to defend using the moves she's learned so far. Daughter whomped her, but since the lady is only testing for Green Belt, it's okay and to be expected that Daughter would win their bout.
After class we (the Sensei, the AQ Director and another adult student and I) were talking about many different subjects, letting the kids burn off some energy (dodge ball with those huge exercise balls is hilarious, btw) and ended up chatting about some of the things they all had gotten into when they were younger. I was the only female and therefore so tame as to be boring. Whereas all the guys? CRAZY. I fear for my sanity with Son if he does a tenth of what the guys got into. Paintball wars, BB guns, bungee jumping 10-15 feet using bungees bought at WW........ I was laughing like a loon and yet am now worried that my sweet boy is going to turn into these crazy guys when he hits his teen years. Especially because Chris has already shared stories with me from his youth. Yikes! Are there stories that would make your kids or family freak out of they knew what kind of trouble you were up to?

Anyway, we ended up letting the kids goof off for so long that I missed the opportunity to make it to my Cardio-Agility class. So, I worked out in the Women's Health Center instead. I ran a couple of miles and then did some free weights. But, best of all I got to see my favorite personal trainer EVER. She was my personal trainer last year and has since taken an AWESOME job working for the Y in the town over from the Pine Y. (Which means a few towns from me.) But, her hubs works at the Pine Y and she was there to see him for a minute-saw the kids and they told her where I was. It was so great to see her! She's a really nice lady and I guess it was meant to be that I missed Cardio-Agility because I would have hated to have missed seeing her.
After I was done I grabbed the kids and we headed home with a small stop by a local Chinese take-out. We had salads tonight and Chris loves those fried wontons on his salads. *g* I'll admit I had a few on mine as well. But, then again, I also like tomatoes on mine and am the ONLY ONE who does. How weird is that?
Oh, and the garden? Has gone wild! The watermelon plant is now a full-fledged vine that spans almost 8 feet and we have two small watermelons on it! They're so itty bitty and CUTE! The blackberry plant is trying to take over everything and the pepper plant is almost 3 feet high. And the squash plant-the so huge it's almost scary squash plant had a squash ready for picking. It's almost longer than Daughter's fore-arm! We're going to make Eggplant Parmesan, but with squash instead. It should work. And I get a meat-free night that I am positive Chris and Daughter will like!

Tomorrow is grocery shopping day here. Plus Daughter has to work tomorrow night so I have a small window of time to get everything done.
That's it from here. Pretty normal, pretty boring. Read a few chapters of the book I talked about yesterday. That's about it. I hope y'all had a more interesting day. I wish a lovely air-conditioned Friday for y'all. (It reached 114 here today WITH the heat index. Nice. *sigh*) Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 2.12 miles at a level 4 for elevation and finished in 32 minutes. Not the best time ever, but I'm not the best runner ever. (I try to mix it up a bit and not do the same things all the time so that they don't get boring.) And 30 minutes of free weights, medicine ball and push-ups and sit-ups.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4.

Scottish Program!

This is the Piper that gave a demonstration and talk at the library today Program today on Scotland. Unfortunately the original Piper who was to give the talk was recently diagnosed with cancer. He is from Scotland whereas this gentleman pictured was not. However, we did enjoy learning all about the bagpipes and their history. That said, that's ALL that was talked about today at the event. No mention was made of Gaelic, of the natural culture of Scotland. Of anything other than bagpipes. I think something was really missing. I brought my Mom's Scottish cookbook, though. The librarian got a kick out of some of the differences in names for ingredients here and there. I also brought my Gaelic dictionary and some shortbread for the kids.

Oh, I will say the gentleman above was quite nice to the kids who were curious and let them try their hands at his practice pipes. Son has decided he wants to learn the bagpipes. *g* The gentleman did say that the Pipe Corps he belonged to does offer lessons in Pipes and Drums. I can't see any way to fit it into our schedule, though. Maybe next year?

After the library program we headed home for a small amount of time and then off to the Pine Y to drop Daughter off for work. Then Son and I went to the MT Y for his Kidfit class and my Zumba class. Then home where we met up with Chris who was up until 3am last night finishing a project for his accounting class. He was tired and didn't eat right today and ended up with low-blood sugar and a headache. He had something to eat and then left to pick Daughter up from work. They picked up dinner on the way back home and we enjoyed Deadliest Warrior tonight together. We loved it! George Washington vs. Napoleon Bonaparte. Daughter drooled over the swords shown and the sword play. *g*
As for reading? My library got in another Denis Leary book for me. I know, he can be foul. But, I read a lot of weird things and his social commentary is interesting. Oh, I did find out another humorous writer I like, Celia Rivenbark, will be in my area in September and doing a luncheon and signing. Unfortunately the tickets are out of my budget, but I'm glad an author gets near here! (It might help that she live in NC. *g*) 

I hot Chris into bed at a reasonable hour tonight. I hope he sleeps well. And speaking of sleep! Time for me to get some as well. I hope y'all had a wonderful Wednesday. I wish a thankful and thoughtful Thursday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs! B.

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

Asleep again!

I think y'all are going to start believing that all Layla does is sleep. While it's true that at least 70% of her time is spent sleeping, she also eats, cleans herself and demands attention for the other 30%. *g* She's my sweetie.
Now for news of Wicket! She came home this morning. I was so happy to go to the Vet this morning and pick her up. Though I was not so happy to hear that her liver enzymes are higher than normal. The Vet's not sure if it's because she may have, or be getting, an infection or if those levels are her normal. We're to watch her and make sure she eats and drinks water and gains her energy back. What I am sure is not helpful is that the other cats are being characteristic idiots because she doesn't smell the same and so they are hissing at her. Poor thing. She just wants her big brother, Midnight, to accept her and he keeps hissing at her. Layla has been the worst. I'm hoping the smell of the Vet's office fades soon, as well as the surgical germ killer they painted on her belly.
When I did have to leave the house today we made sure Wicket was placed in my bedroom with no other kitties. She had access to food, water and a litter box and I even left the tv on for her for company. Oh, I was told she wouldn't eat at the Vet's this morning, but as soon as we arrived home and I let her out of the carrier I placed her food down for her and she ate. Must have been either a different food or the fact that her routine was disrupted. We've talked today and out of all the cats, who like routine, Wicket is the most structured cat we have. Things have to be a certain way and done a certain way for her. Cats are just odd creatures.

After dropping some books off at the library the kids and I went to their MA class this afternoon and they had a blast. They tried a bit of real world sparring/attacks. No pads and in different situations. Example, as if they were alone at home and someone broke in. They had to choose whether to run to the door or try and take on their attacker. It was interesting. A game that could some day be like real life. *knockonwood*
While the kids were doing all that I was in Zumba. The regular instructor was back this week. I was SO happy to have her back and to walk out of class soaking wet with sweat. I know that doesn't sound right, but trust me I was happy.

Since the kids and I were later getting home than Chris; he made dinner. I wasn't complaining.

As for reading? I haven't had time to even crack a book open today. We've just been moving from one thing to another. So, time to head offline and maybe find something to read for a few minutes before getting some much needed sleep. I hope y'all had a terrific Tuesday. I wish a delightful Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

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

It hasn't even been 24 hours....

And we're already missing her around the house. She'll be back in the morning. But, the house seemed so quiet today. Which is funny because she has the smallest meow, more of a squeak. Tonight at bedtime she wasn't there to demand Chris play with her and I know he misses her, too. I'm just hoping when I pick her up she doesn't hold a grudge and forgives me.

I took Wicket to the Vet to be spayed this morning. She practically screamed the entire way there. It's the loudest I have EVER heard her and the guilt I felt could not be measured. I agreed to have extra blood work done on her, too. It was to make sure her organs are all functioning normally. The Vet tech said that since she was so young it wasn't really necessary, but while it makes her bill a bit bigger I felt safer in having it done since we know her intestines have scar tissue. Since they didn't call, I assume the blood-work was okay. I was told I could call after 3pm today and did just that only to find out that they hadn't even gotten to her yet. The tech said they'd been swamped today. I was so angry and upset to hear that. On one hand I know how the Vet cares for the animals he sees. On the other that place just seems so disorganized. Then there's the fact that they charge highly and yet the office looks in shambles. I don't mind if the surgery was pushed back because of emergency visits, they're pretty good about fitting those in. However, if the surgery was pushed back because they just can't keep to a schedule? Argh.
So, lots of lovely stress today. Daughter had to work tonight, so Son and I drove her over and then headed by the library because I had two holds come in and found yet another book while there. I've just finished inhaling Maybe this Time by Jennifer Crusie and have yet another Denis Leary book AND I found a book by an author I know I haven't read before, but whose name sounded very familiar. Turns out she's one of my "friends" on Facebook. How cool is that?
After the library it was off to the Y for Yoga. I really needed the sense of calm that class brings. Heck, I almost felt sleepy after class.
Then, home to cook dinner and Chris, who later picked Daughter up for me. We found out tonight that one of the other Lifeguards quit, but was still on the schedule for Friday, so Daughter will be taking his hours. He called tonight and asked. Daughter is saving for an iPod Nano and said yes. Of course that makes our Friday rather slammed, but we're supportive and agreed.
Besides reading? Nothing much to report on this evening. Drainage is kicking mine and Chris' fanny right now. We both managed to feel sick this afternoon and my jaw and teeth hurt because of it. *sigh* Sometimes I wonder if I'd even know what it felt like to be without some type of ache or pain in a day.

No more from me. Time to head offline. I hope y'all had a stress-free Monday filled with nice opportunities. I wish a terrific Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 15 minutes on stationary at level 11 (was running late at this point) and 1 hour Yoga.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 5.

Mr. Green and BIG!

The Squash plant that ate the garden! *g* Seriously, I took this picture two weekends ago, it's even bigger now. And funny enough, in the right hand corner you can see part of the watermelon plant, that was tangled around the squash plant (I didn't realize that before I took the picture.) I've since untangled it and it's about six feet long stretching over the back of the garden. On the right of the squash is the blackberry plant. It's trying to take over the garden, too. It's threaded it's way under a couple of the squash plants leaves. Strangely, everything BUT the tomatoes are doing well this year.


I'm watching the cats FREAK out right now. We had to pull the cat food and water up because the kitten is going to have her surgery in the morning and we 'free feed', meaning we feed the cats three times a day; once in the morning and once at night with a half bowl downstairs in the afternoon. With so many kitties, we can't set out many different bowls different times a day, so we do what we have to do. Anyway, point being, that cats are wigged out that their routine is disrupted and I keep getting weird looks. Geez, it's just over night. You'd think their whole world was turned upside down.

It's been another semi-busy day. Daughter took a day at work from another co-worker who needed the day off. So, Chris took her to work and played some racquetball while Son and I stayed home. I woke with a sinus headache, but could eat today so it worked out.
After Chris arrived home I left and went by the library and picked up a CD for Daughter, two books for Son and a book for me that had all come in from Hold. I have already read the book, it was incredibly short, but funny. Suck on this year: lyao @ 140 characters or less by Denis Leary. He's rather caustic and sometimes vulgar, but in small doses he cracks me up. The book is a compilation of a selection of a years worth of tweets by Leary.
After picking that up at the library I headed to Zumba. My very favorite instructor taught today. She has so much energy and verve that she just makes you smile. Granted, she makes you sweat even more! I ended up talking with the lady who was supposed to teach last weeks Zumba class, but we had the older lady instead. I was telling her how many walked out and she wasn't shocked. Before I knew it I had to leave to pick up daughter.
She and I headed for home and Chris and Daughter agreed to a meat free dinner tonight-Yay! We've just been eating so much red meat lately (lean, but still red meat) that I just did not want any meat at all tonight. So, bean and cheese enchiladas! *g*

And tonight? Nothing much. After dinner I sat down and started to watch this very interesting show on National Geographic. I had the remote, so I chose. *g* It was about a theft at a tomb in an ancient Egyptian Pyramid and how the crew of thieves were able to get through all the different booby-traps set up by the ancient Egyptians.  There was a panel of Egyptologists, an engineer, a a crime expert. Chris doesn't share my love of anything ancient Egypt as much as Daughter does, so I got a 'look' when I first turned it over to the channel. However, within twenty minutes he was so engrossed I think he may have forgotten to blink. *g* And I? Missed about twenty minutes of it because no sooner did I get comfy to watch it than my eyelids became heavy and I could not keep them open. I napped for about twenty minutes and felt better. I could NOT stay awake. I guess I was exhausted.
I wanted something sweet after my unexpected nap, so I made home-made vanilla wafers. *g* And that's our night. Oh, and not only did I read the library book today, I finished the latest Vintage Mystery book by Annette Blair. I already can't wait for the next book. Especially after the sneak peek in the back of the book! So unfair! *g*

Anyway, I hope y'all had a peaceful and restful day. I wish a low-key and pleasant Monday for y'all. Cross your fingers and think good thoughts for Wicket. She has her surgery tomorrow and (unfortunately) has to stay at the Vet's tomorrow night. (Normally we use a low-cost spay/neuter clinic, but with her previous health issues when she was a kitten we decided to have our Vet do her surgery. His policy is that the animals having surgery must stay over-night. I am hoping it's for the safety of the animals and not just to eek out a boarding fee from clients. Though he doesn't really strike me as that type of person, but who knows.)
Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Zumba
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4.

Hang in there!

Is it just me or does Wicket look kind of like a right side up bat? She's a long and skinny girl and the smallest, still, of all our cats. I joked with Chris today; is it that she's so small, or that we're used to gargantuan cats? And I'm freaking out just a bit (considering all the health problems she had as a kitten) that on Monday morning I take her to the Vet and leave her to be spayed. And she'll stay overnight. Even Chris is freaked by that, they have a routine to for him to play with her at bedtime. But, we know it's what's best for her.

You know how I had hoped today would be less busy? Hahaha. Chris has been wanting to try racquetball and since we were taking Daughter to work today he had a chance. (The Pine Y is the only Y, in the system we belong to, that has racquetball courts.) So, Daughter headed down to the pool and we stopped at the desk because the Pine Y is way awesome in that they loan racquets and balls. Chris took one court and Son took the other and I watched them for a while. Son became tired and then I played for a while-and if you think I was following the official rules-ha! My main goal was to keep hitting the ball. *g*
We were there for quite a while, but by the time we were done (exhausted and sweaty) there was still time before Daughter was off from work so we headed to Academy Sports where I picked up new mouth guards for the kids and we looked at racquets and such. We also looked at a target for our bow and arrows, but whew! Those are expensive! I may just buy another small hay bale like we did last year.
After Academy Sports we stopped by Sam's (right next door in this town) and picked up a couple of things. By then it was time to run and pick up Daughter. On the way home I started to not feel well. Drainage is a pain in the fanny. It took a decongestant and something fizzy and me sitting on the couch for a bit to feel better. Even then, dinner was not fun. Maybe I'll feel better and like eating tomorrow.

And as for reading? Well, I had a chance to read a chapter today, but not much more than that. I'm hoping to take a little time tomorrow to just sit and read. We'll see how that goes.

And that's our day. It's been a busy day. I hope y'all had a fun and happy Saturday. I wish a peaceful and restful Sunday. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: 45 minutes of racquetball in 15 minute increments.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 3.

P.S. I posted a pic of Chris playing racquetball on Facebook and referred to him as Mr. Brandy. I don't know if I've mentioned, but that's what they call him at our library since they see me and the kids all the time, but rarely see Chris. *g*

Strange Bedfellows!

If I didn't have photographic proof taken by my own self I wouldn't believe it if someone had told me they'd seen these two napping together like bosom buddies. Layla never growled, hissed, smacked or otherwise twitched as she and Butterscotch snuggled together one afternoon this week. And he? Seemed to enjoy every minute of it. Silly cat.

Ever have one of those days that almost felt like a twilight zone episode? Now, imagine living in the South in July and having record heat this week and then waking today to rain. Rain that had been falling for a few hours and that had nothing to do with lightning or thunder. Just a simple rain. Also imagine my wonder and delight when checking my phone upon waking to discover that it was 67 degrees! And we never quite made it over 71 degrees today! Of course even after the rain there was about 100% humidity, but it was so lovely. And odd. And delightful. And strange. Eh, whatever, I loved it! *g* 
The rain stopped around noon. But, it's damp and chilly after-effects lasted all day. This afternoon the kids and I drove to the Pine Y for Daughter to pick up her check. She also signed up for Direct Deposit today. She'll have one more paycheck and then we don't have to worry about driving over there to pick up her check every two weeks. See, I was nice. I could have made her wait until tomorrow, when she works, to pick up her check. But, I knew she wouldn't have been able to deposit it or have cash until then as well. (Her shift starts AFTER her bank closes tomorrow-they only have morning hours on Saturday.) Since we were there anyway I got a workout in and Daughter and Son swam. They had fun and I pushed myself today by running for thirty minutes straight on the treadmill. (I was on there for an hour, the last half hour was half running have brisk walking.) I ran the most pathetic times, but at least I pushed myself and feel pretty good about it. Oh, and I worked out in the Women's Health Center again this time. It's just so quiet and peaceful in there. And the dressing rooms have hair dryers and fans. How cool is that? The other Y doesn't have hair dryers. (Unless you count the ONE hand dryer mounted high on the wall for people to be able to walk under to dry their hair.)
After I was done the kids got out and dressed. And we headed to the nearest location of Daughter's bank we could find. (It was getting late at that point.) She filled out her first deposit slip and even remembered to list everything in her register. She did good!
After we were done and arrived home the kids friends congregated at our house in the back yard and played some football. I noticed something scary. Son is starting to grow. His shoulders are widening and he's taller than he was a month ago. While the kids were here I snapped a few pictures so that when they're older they'll have pictures of their friends. I miss not having more pictures of my friends and myself.
As for my reading the Graham book. I tried today. I really did. But, I couldn't make it beyond the first two chapters without wanting to just stop and not read any more. So, I opened up the book I bought a couple of weeks ago, Skirting the Grave by Annette Blair. I'm having a much better time reading this one.
And that's our day. A bit more driving than I would have liked, but Daughter now has money in the bank-and in her wallet. *g* I hope y'all had a sensational day. I wish an amusing and entertaining Saturday. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 65 minutes on the treadmill. The read-out also said, since I had the height up, that I climbed over 400 vertical feet. There were a few other strange things, too. But, I can't remember them. *g* Also, when we arrived home this afternoon I weeded my monkey grass for over half an hour. I could. not. stop. *g*
Fitness Challenge Miles: 6.

Yummo!

A few weeks ago I mentioned I don't really like potato chips. (I can count on one hand the number of times I've had potato chips in the last two years.) Last year I discovered apple chips and love them. However, they're pricey and while I could make them at home if I had the time (which has been sparse lately), sometimes it's just better to be able to grab some. However, a few months ago I discovered these at Sam's. They're all natural and go perfect with a sandwich or a homemade burger. *g*
 (This picture brought to you courtesy of the fact that I ran out of new kitty pics and need to upload some from my camera and phone. *G*)

It's been yet another long day. Last week the ottoman broke and we had to have someone come out and fix it. Today is the only day they could come and we were given an appointment time between 7am and 11am. First off, what kind of company makes appointments for 7AM? But, at least if it had to be early it was WAY early because the guy called at 7:15 for directions. Service people always call for directions. If their maps are brand new, no problem, but I've noticed they don't update them often, so they call for directions and until this past year I had to have them call Chris to get them. Well, that or I called Chris and related his directions. I'm just not good with road names, highway names, highway exits, etc. I can tell you to go a mile past the HS and turn at the restaurant right before the railroad tracks, but I forget street names. Yeah, I know. That's bad. However, something FINALLY clicked for me last year and I can now tell them to go a mile past the high school and turn onto *street name* then turn onto *street name* and that our street is two streets on the left. What? It's better than before!
Luckily for him, or me for that matter, Chris was still home this morning when he called and gave directions. The guy fixed the ottoman within an hour (Did you know there's a saw that can run off the engine of a truck? How cool is that?) and I was a tired mess the rest of the day.
When we arrived at the Pine Y for MA class this afternoon it was to find that the kids teacher couldn't make it to their class. He's working third shift just to be able to teach the classes and there was a busy night last night. Um, have I mentioned that the kids teacher is an Medical Examiner? (Is it sad that it cracks me up that he has a sticker on his jeep that says "I see dead people."?) Anyway, the AD taught class, but he was late so Daughter started class. He's firming up the date for the Tournament later this year. It'll be sometime in November. (And yeah, I'll be volunteering again.)

After the kids class Daughter and Son stayed a little later to help two others with their kata's. I am so proud of them for taking the time to help others. When they were done we headed to the MT Y for my class. She wore me out tonight. We had 9 or 10 stations and in-between those we had partner exercises to do. Oh, and then there was ab work. I joked with her that I have no abs. I was only half kidding.
By the time we arrived home I was a quivering sweaty mess. Ugh. A shower perked me up a bit. But, it was a bad time for the WebMD page I'd read a few months ago to pop into my head. The page on symptoms of a woman's heart attack. *knockonwood* Fatigue is one of those. Well,  heck! I'm always tired and wouldn't know a day without a pain. I'll never know the difference! Don't worry. I talked myself down off that crazy ledge. Lack of sleep plus physical exertion is, of course, going to equal tired. But, you can kind of see some Doctor's aversion to the internet for their patients. (which is funny considering I diagnosed myself with the erythema nodosum that I have and was later diagnosed by my then Doc..

You know, I have no idea why this post is so all over the place. I blame a tired mind. And on that note it's time for me to head offline and get some sleep. I hope y'all had a delightful Thursday. I wish a Fabulous Friday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 1.5hrs Cardio-Agility (Have I mentioned I love the agility ladder? I want on so badly.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 6. 

Hanging around!

I know some of y'all don't let your cats climb the screen. We normally wouldn't. But, Wicket doesn't weigh enough to actually tear the screen, so we don't mind much. Oh, and as for Wicket being in heat? Yeah, that lasted about 3 days. Which is not normal, btw. It must have something to do with her size. I tell Chris when she hangs on the screen like this she reminds me of a bat. (The small face and big ears have a lot to do with that.)

Another semi-busy day here. Add in lack of sleep and I'm just tired. The heat we're having isn't helping. By noon it was 91 with a feels like of 104. Did I mention I've always wanted to live in Alaska?
This afternoon after taking care of household things the kids and I headed out. We mailed off the CAT tests, and since when do Post Office employees get to be surly and nasty when you want to PAY THEM to mail something off? After that off to library. I read an interesting article on Cleopatra in this months National Geographic as well as an article about the seed bank in Norway. I also picked up yet another Hold that had come in, this one is an Inter-library loan. I three other library books to read, but I always read the Inter-library loans first since they are from another system and I don't like keeping them long. This time the book is a reread for me, Summon the Keeper by Tanya Huff. Out of all the series this author writes (and I like a LOT of them) this series is my favorite. Wait, can I call it a series when there were only three books? Hmm.
Anyway, after that we dropped Daughter at work at the Pine Y and then drove to the MT Y for Son's KidFit class. (Son likes the teacher at the MT Y and the class is FREE at the MT Y whereas at the Pine Y it's NOT free.) Today was the day the teacher I do not like was teaching Zumba, so I worked out in the gym. I had to stop one weight machine because my shoulder has been bothering me this week, at the joint, and one machine made it pop, pop, pop every time I lifted the weights. I could handle the ache in my wrist all day, mostly, but the popping freaked me out.
Son and I then headed home. We beat Chris home for a change! When he arrived he made dinner since I had to give in and take some ibuprofen and wear my wrist brace. He even volunteered to pick up Daughter from work.
Son and I stayed home and Son had a friend come over and they played baseball in the back yard. I? Sat on the couch.  It was nice. *g*
As for reading? You have to know the answer to that question! I am, of course, rereading the Huff book. *g* It's due back before the books I picked up earlier this week. Plus, I've been waiting for it to come in for a couple of weeks now.


And that's it for tonight. I've posted early enough where I can grab a lime bar from the freezer. I hope y'all had a nice Tuesday. I wish a wonderful Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

P.S. Please wish Tori a Happy Birthday!

Exercise: 7.54 miles stationary bike level 11, 30 minutes weights.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4.

She's selfish that way!

Little Miss Wicket decided that no, mama could not have time on the computer today. She demanded her attention and would net settle for a scratch, she wanted to be hugged and snuggled and adored. So now not only does Layla demand her attention, we've created a monster attention addict with Wicket. I though cats were supposed to be aloof? *g*

Tonight's post is going to be all over the place, I'm just warning y'all now.

- I'm wondering if I gave a quasi friend good advice tonight. Granted, I'm not the only one that told her what I told her, but I am so worried I somehow made her feel bad that it's tearing me up. The situation is this: (We'll call her J.) J was leaving MA class tonight (She's at least my age, but takes classes with my kids, and is not the only adult, either.) and she was saying how she'd like Daughter to help her with their Kata's, maybe train together and she'd pay Daughter. We told her if she really needed help we'd try and be there a bit early every class and that there was no need for payment. They she says she has to run before her boyfriend calls her to check up on her, that he doesn't trust her (she's the sweetest woman with a few physical limitations). Then her shoulders slumped, she sighed and her face looked stressed. She said that she doesn't understand it, but he calls her constantly to check up on her to see where she is and who she's with. And all the while telling me this, she's standing there like a whipped puppy. She says he's talking marriage. Um, what? And this is where I stuck my big foot in mouth, I just couldn't stop myself. I told her it wasn't right. That without trust there isn't a good foundation for a relationship, that he sounded controlling and that it was obvious just by body language alone he was stressing her out and making her unhappy. She said her Mom even talked to the guy about his always needing to pinpoint her whereabouts and who she was with. About this time another adult student comes out and asks if she wants to practice with him (he's married and just nice that way-he knows she wants to be better at class). She says she can't and breaks down and comes to me for support. So, I'm standing there holding her and he asks her what's wrong. She tells him and he says she needs to get away from the guy. Then Sensie comes out. He was worried and wanted to know what was going on. So, the other guy and I break it down for him. He's a great guy and I will forever admire him for having the guts to say what I couldn't. He told her that is sounds like psychological abuse and if she needed to talk he'd always take time for her. I told her that we could all talk to her, but that the person she needed to please was herself and that she needed to talk to her Mom. I also told her two other things. To not let this guy take her spark. (Her happiness; when she talked about him she didn't smile, her eyes didn't light up and her shoulders slumped-not good.)  I also told her I'd pray for her. So, did I put my foot in it? Should I have kept my mouth shut?

- Daughter. Daughter is driving me crazy. This past year of homeschooling has been tough for me dealing with her. I don't know if it's her testing her boundaries or what. I think maybe that the growing up process between teenager and adult is one of the hardest things for teens.

-Reading. I'm reading a book, no not the Graham book. I've been carrying the Graham book around with me for a couple of days in my purse and I have read a few pages, but it's like I'm scared to get too involved with it. Scared that it won't be good. The last couple of books by this author have been pretty hum-drum for me and every now and then one will be a really good read. It's getting to that good one through the few bleh ones that's driving me loony.
Anyway, the book I'm reading now. It's about a former military sniper (the heroine-how awesome is that!?) who has returned and suffers from PTSD nightmares. She owns her own business and hires a builder to add on to the business' building. The heroine comes from a straitlaced religious background out in the middle of podunk and hated it. That's why she joined the military. To get away. So, her parents don't approve of her job and have NO idea of what she did in the military. Now, I'm 2/3rds of the way through this book and so far she says constantly she hated living where she grew up-vehemently. And yet, I admit, I peeked at the back of the book. She ends up married and living in the backwoods town she came from. WTHECK? How do you change a character that much in the last third of the book? How do you do it and not make the reader want to throw the book against the wall because all along this character is independent, hot-tempered and straight up and down swears she'll never live in her podunk hometown again? I'll stick with the book, but that doesn't mean I won't end up throwing it against the wall and swearing off this authors books for a while. *sigh*

-Then there's Zumba class tonight. Our regular instructor is on vacation this week. I love her classes. She's fun, energetic and her classes are high energy. But, the substitute? Well, she was funny-there's that at least. She was over 50. She teaches the Zumba Gold classes. For those not familiar those are the Zumba classes for seniors. So, you take a room full of people looking forward to a high energy and modern workout and you give them a teacher who while funny, just can't give the energy and what do you get. You get a class where everyone under the age of 30 walked out by the half way point of the class. I stuck it out, but only because I wanted to stay near the kids and it was too late to head to the other part of the Y and give notice to the kids where I was going. But, I'm surprised my eyes aren't stuck rolled up into my head. I don't know whose bright idea this was (I KNOW it wasn't the regular instructor because I know she wanted someone else specifically for the class. I spoke with that person and she said for some reason the Fitness Director scheduled this other person.) After the class I had a workout, but felt frustrated because I know how much better the regular class is and how great it would have gone with the other person first asked to sub.. Does that make sense?

-One nice smile filled thing tonight. As we were driving home we saw fireflies everywhere along the rural route we take home. They especially seem to love the kudzu. *g* They look quite like what I think dancing faeries would look on a dusky evening with an almost full moon overhead. 

So, I guess you could say today has been filled with frustration and uncertainty. Yay. *sigh* And that's all. A pretty long post, sorry. Once I started it all tumbled out.

Awww, nap time for the Goober!

Midnight looked so cute taking a nap in the cats favorite box the other day I had to take his picture. He even had his chin resting on his paws. *g* I wonder what he was dreaming about? Unlimited cat nip? His favorite jingle bell ball? *g*

Today has been so brain smashing it's not even funny.  I had to give the kids their CAT tests, finally, today. Timing them and having to keep their different times straight on top of Son talking non-stop, Daughter finishing each section so quickly she had to sit and twiddle her thumbs after rechecking her work, etc. By the time we stopped for the day I was tired!

After that Son and I drove Daughter to work and then we went by the library and then to the MT Y for my Yoga class. He and I arrived a bit early so I was able to get a quick workout in before class. Afterwards he and I went home and met up with Chris WHO MOWED THE LAWN-YAY! I didn't even have time to eat dinner before I had to leave to pick up Daughter. Then home again. A late dinner and Rizzoli and Isles were my rest before having to sweep, mop and fold laundry. And someone please tell me why all the GOOD tv shows are on on the same night? Eureka, The Closer, Warehouse 13, Alphas and Rizzoli and Isles were all on tonight. And I missed most of them, though Chris and I watched the repeat of Alphas after the news and really liked it.
I haven't had much time to read today. I'm only a few pages into the Heather Graham book I picked up from the library and when I went by the library today two of my other holds had come in (one is a reread for me, I saw a copy at BAMM this weekend and wanted to reread it). I now have added to my library books Death by Chick-lit by Lynn Harris (a new to me author)and Bobbie Faye's (Kinda Sorta, Not Exactly) Family Jewels by Toni McGee Causey (the reread). Oh, I finished My Foolish Heart by Susan May Warren last night and when looking the author up noticed that she wasn't a new to me author like I had thought. I had read a couple of books in another series by the same author. *g* Oops. *g* (Before I kept records of books read.)

Nothing else to share tonight. I'm tired and sore (shoulder is bugging me) and want to try and read at least a few pages before falling asleep. I hope y'all had a low-key and smile-filled Monday. I wish a terrific Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 5.05 miles stationary bike at level 11, 1 hour Yoga.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 5.

Wacked out for shoes!

Oreo is a strange kitty. I've detailed her odd bedtime habit of following me around and then sitting on my bedside table. Here she is playing with Daughter's shoes. She was hugging them  and "jack-rabbiting" the toe of Daughter's shoe. Kind of like when kitties fight. It was so funny and odd and by the time she was done Daughter's shoe had white fur all over the tip of the toes. *g* In the bottom corner of the picture is Wicket staring at Oreo and probably wondering exactly when she lost her mind. *g*

It's been one hot day! Whew. I weeded the garden this afternoon and took some pictures to share with y'all of Chris' squash plant and the watermelon plant. The watermelon plant is so funny! I had thought it was winding it's way toward the rose bush and it was, but it also managed to WRAP ITSELF AROUND the squash plant. I spent a few hairy moments this afternoon gently unwinding it from the squash plant. AND not the watermelon plant we thought would be small since when we purchased it was only one tiny leaf, is now over four feet long. *g* And I was happy to note it has three flowers on it! I'm losing the battle with a type of grass and keeping it out of the garden. *sigh*

I went to Zumba this afternoon and had a great time. And then after class after most had left we then danced to "Wobble". It's a fun dance. *g* After that I headed home and picked up Chris and he and I went to Lowe's for some mulch. I like Cedar Mulch because it's also a natural bug repellant. But, in an enclosed space when after five o'clock it was STILL over 104 degrees? Ugh. I felt sick by the time we arrived home and had to sit down for a little while with something fizzy.

Tonight after ironing Chris's things I ironed on a pair of metallic wings for Daughter she picked up the iron-on design at Michaels last weekend. There were a LOT of detailed instructions to go through but it came out nicely and Daughter was pleased.

As for reading? I'm now reading another library book (instead of the Annette Blair) I feel like I should read the books that have a due date on them before I read the one that I have bought. That's just how I usually try and do it. How do y'all manage your book reading? Oh, and the library book I'm reading is My Foolish Heart by Susan May Warren. It's a faith based book, meaning a sweat romance with a message. But, so far it isn't shoved in your face. I like some faith based fiction books, but not ones that are more preaching than sharing a sweet story. Does that make sense?

Anyway, that's mostly our day. Of course there was cooking and cleaning and laundry. But, unless that takes the vast portion of my day I don't even bother sharing that anymore. Although..... I did bake a cake for the family tonight. It has been nicely decreased in size already. *g* I hope y'all had a restful and peaceful Sunday. I wish a low-key and smile-filled Monday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 45 minutes weeding, 1 hour Zumba.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 7. 

Last Summer's Blooms

We won't be having sunflower blooms this year. Out of the four sees we planted three grew and then a fierce storm came through a while back and broke the three stems. We know it was a storm and not vandals because other veggies were affected at the time and the sunflowers were pointed in the same direction. We have an issue with wind shear off the back of our house since our yard is so big and the back of the house is so flat. And also the patio umbrella was also facing the same direction as the broken stems. I'm going to try and plant a few more sunflower seeds since our summer lasts so long-we stay warm into the middle of October to almost the end of October. I feel bad for Son. He loves these flowers.
Oh, and our tomato plants are doing well this year. However, the sad little watermelon plant is now HUGE and trying to take over the rose bushes area. And it has a bloom. *g* The blackberry plant is also headed toward the rose bush. I'd almost feel sorry for the rose bush but it's over 6 feet tall and has thorns that are so scary and sharp they've split one of our screens. Chris' squash plant is the size of a large dog. It's HUGE, too. I have no idea what's going on with the tomato plants, but I've sprayed bug spray and put out plant food. Maybe there's still hope. AND Son's apple tree had three small apples on it, but I had to cut them off because some pest had gotten to them. *sigh* I sprayed his and Daughter's tree today as well. Speaking of today! The weather here? Was like stepping out into a wet, hot blanket today. Ugh. But, that's nothing to how Tuesday is foretold to be like. Yay.

Today we dropped Daughter at the library for her Teen program and while she was there we went to have Chris' hair cut and then by a local grocery store that rents console games. Son was excited to pick out a game to rent. Before we knew it, it was time to pick Daughter up. Today's program was "The Pharaoh's Curse", it was a mystery and Daughter WON! She won a $10 GC to Burger Kind (which she gave to Chris) and four books. She was most excited about the books. *g* After picking her up we went to look at unfinished furniture. Daughter needs a desk, but we want one that will fit within the confines of her room and able to hide her mess. So, we were thinking something like a Secretary desk. Turns out they really don't make many of those anymore. Since we were just looking we still have lots of time and maybe I can find one somewhere else. We then went by BAMM, where I picked up the latest issue of RT magazine. I haven't had a chance or been able to read the magazine for about 6 months so I was very excited to get my hands on one. Daughter bought two books from the clearance section and I found a book Son wanted to read right before Christmas but never had the chance to read. It was on clearance for $4. You know I picked it up to put up for later. (Either Christmas or some other occasion.) We then went to Target (allergy meds for me-darn skin issue with grass is not going away) and then on to Petsmart for cat food. We went by Ulta (same shopping area) for my buff-puff, but Ulta was out of the one I use so I guess I'll send Chris back later this week since it's just a few miles down from where he works. Then? HOME! YAY!
We watched a movie and then let Son play his rental game. He picked out a teen rated game (we checked why it was rated for teens before agreeing), but he got to a certain point and couldn't move forward so asked Chris to help. Unlike Daughter who will take over and not give back the controller-Chris helped and then handed it back. *g*

As for reading? I'm almost finished with the Olivia Munn book. We've been busy today and I haven't has as much time to read as I'd like, but I'm slowly getting there. *g* Heck, I even took it with me today and read while Chris had his hair cut. *g* Do you take a book wherever you go? I do. I don't leave home without a book either in my purse or in the door of the jeep.

That's all from me tonight. It's late, yet again, and I need some sleep. I hope y'all had an enjoyable Saturday. I wish a Blessed and Peaceful Sunday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: No time today, luckily it's back to Zumba tomorrow. WHOOOO!
Fitness Challenge Miles: 0 <--------- Hopefully it won't say this tomorrow. *g*

Blurry and Cute!

I know this picture is blurry, sorry! But, I HAD to try and take a picture of Wicket as she carries the ribbon around. She picked it up and carried it onto the counter, onto the floor, up onto the table, bounced off the refrigerator and then into the living room. Ah to be young and energetic. This picture was taken last week, btw. This week? The kitten we thought would never go into heat-has. At nine months old. But, she's not a raging loon like Athena was. And she has an appointment set up for next week. (She was supposed to be spayed last month, but something came up time-wise.)(Plus, she's our baby and so small and delicate looking and we freaked out a bit because the Doc wants to keep her overnight when she's spayed. We're wimps, but we're working on it.)

Today was rough. Daughter had to work this morning at theY and the kids and I were up at the crack of dawn to get her there on time. Daughter is NOT a morning person. Well, Daughter is not a person who does well for the first hour she's awake. She's a lot like Chris or my Mom that way. Chris isn't aware when he first wakes. He does things by habit/memory.
After dropping Daughter off Son and I headed home and did some laundry, read a bit and had some breakfast. Before we knew it-it was time to pick Daughter up! On the way back across town we went to Sam's. (It's grocery shopping day.) Took everything home and put it away and then headed back out and had Son's haircut. Then on to Aldi and WW. Did I mention it was 90 something with a feels like of over 100? *sigh* a HUMID over 100? Gah.
After getting everything put away we just.... sat for a bit because it had been so hot we were desperate to cool down.  Unfortunately I have more errands to run tomorrow. We just ran out of time today.
Daughter has a program at the Library tomorrow afternoon so we need to fit that in, too. Sorry, don't mean to sound so whiny. I've managed to hurt my fanny climbing down from a chair I used to get something down from a higher cabinet (no short jokes please, I've already heard them), bruise my foot today on the inside of the foot near the pad, sleep funky on my neck last night and my head is still sore in two places where I managed to bang into the rear lift-window of the jeep. Once on the right temple and then once on the left temple. Yeah, klutz city. I feel like one big sore spot. 
In good news I'm almost finished with the Olivia Munn book. It's been an interesting read. All over the place as far as the essays contained within. I'm not sure I'd ever read another book by her, but this one has certainly been different and in some spots quite funny to read. (And shocking in others.) And today before getting Daughter's hair cut we ran by the library and picked up two holds of mine that had come in: The Green Hornet DVD-Chris wanted to see it and also My Foolish Heart by Susan May Warren, a new-to-me author. The premise of the Warren book sounded cute. And the best way to try new authors? THE LIBRARY! *g*

Okay, that's it for me. I'm tired and my eyes are trying to close on their own. I hope y'all had a fun and enjoyable Friday. I wish an amusing and smile-filled Saturday. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: No time today, but I carried a lot of heavy things long distances, does that count? *G*
Fitness Challenge Miles: 0.

Oreo the Whacko!

Is it just me or does she look a peeved? Check out those ears. She's just an odd, odd cat. She wants to be in the middle of everything, but doesn't want to be touched unless she wants the attention. Yup, she's just weird. *g*

Today was okay. Actually it was quite fun. This afternoon at the kids MA class I watched the kids work on their sparring and ground fighting.  Son is the smallest kid in the class. Not the youngest, but the smallest. Well, not the smallest. The slightest? I think just about all the other kids out-weigh him. And that causes some issues when he is taken down. He has a hard time, but not an impossible time, getting out of the holds. So, he's going to work on building a little strength. He was able to get out of one hold today, so that's good.
Daughter did very well today. She had aimed one kick and managed to get it over her opponents head, and only over his head because he was tired and slumped down. She received a point for it and then another for the back-fist she used as a follow-up. By the end of their match she had 5 points to his 1. Ha!
After class I talked with the teacher. I had been asked to speak with him by another adult student because she was angry that two of the other students were being tested for yellow belt when they don't know their katas perfectly. She felt she had to work a lot harder. Here's the deal. She has taken the class for over a year. BUT, only until the last few months has she taken the class seriously. The kids that were being tested not only pay attention, but they attend an extra class AND they are working hard on their katas, they just get nervous when they know someone is paying attention to them. But, I gave her concerns to the teacher. He wouldn't promote the boys unless he thought they were ready. I don't know how I've become the one to talk to, but at least I can see both points of an opinion objectively and then share them. I feel like a Den Mother or something. *g*

After all that the kids and I headed to the MT Y for my Cardio Agility class. The kids practiced in the empty aerobic room while we were in the gym. She worked us hard tonight, but it was fun. Or maybe it wasn't fun for everyone, but I had fun. *g* Oh, and while I am losing inches here and there, I'm only down 8lbs. in a year. *sigh* It's driving me crazy. But, I guess it's just the way my body behaves.

As for reading? I've almost halfway through the Olivia Munn book. It's funny and irreverent and I can appreciate that not everything has to be taken seriously. I think it's because I'm so serious all the time. *g* No, really. I'm learning to lighten up a bit, posting here and other places help. I'm trying not to be so panic stricken around people, too. I smile and wave hello to people at the Y now when I recognize them from classes. But, starting conversations? Yeah, no.

Now I'm off. I have to get up extra early in the morning. Daughter has to work early, early tomorrow morning. Yikes. Oh, tonight I did bake two loaves of banana bread. Our neighbors are due back and when the backlog of mail was delivered today I brought it home and then tonight sent it over with Chris along with a loaf of banana bread. This way if they get in in the middle of the night they'll have something to nibble on either tonight or in the morning.
I hope y'all had a thankful and thoughtful Thursday. I wish a fun and fantastic Friday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 1hr. 30min. Cardio Agility.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 6.

Comfy and Silly!

I took this picture tonight because I felt I had to share it. Layla decided to keep me company while Chris picked up Daughter from work tonight. She looks comfy doesn't she?

A busy day for us. Son had a library program for the Summer Reading Program and this weeks was on China. Unfortunately it could have been handled better. The library has adolescents give the presentation and they were not prepared at all. Heck, I almost knew more things to tell about than the two kids and I'm not Chinese. *sigh* I'm hoping next weeks program is better. I did ask the Children's Librarian (who also organizes the Homeschool events that will begin again in September) about a topic I was thinking of for the school year. She was actually quite excited and will see about fitting it in.
After the program we headed home for a little while, but all too soon it was time to take Daughter to work and for Son and I to head to the MT Y for his Kidfit class and my Zumba class.
I don't know why, but for some reason this particular Zumba instructor has bad luck with the stereo. It tends to overheat for her. No clue why. So, the Zumba portion of our class was cut fifteen minutes short. But, this teacher doesn't let that stop her. Oh, no, we then did 15 minutes of ab work. OUCH! *g* Even after all that she's still one of my favorite teachers because she doesn't let this type of thing phase her. She just switched gears and kept going. Plus she's so sweet it's hard to not like her. *g*
After class I helped Son's class clean-up and put away the equipment and then he and I headed home. We met up with Chris and made dinner and before too long it was time to pick up Daughter. Chris picked her up for me tonight and the funniest thing happened on the way home. He as stopped. By a cop. Who thought Chris wasn't wearing a seat-belt. But, he was. See, Chris took my jeep and I keep the belt slid low so it doesn't choke me. It doesn't bother Chris, but since he's taller than me it sits on top of his shoulder and makes it look like he isn't wearing a seat-belt from behind. So, Chris wasn't in trouble at all. *g* But, I still say it's funny since he had a speeding ticket last year. *g* I told him he better hope this is the only stop he gets this year. *g*

Oh, at the library two of my holds came in! I was able to get them while there for Son's program. I now have: Suck It, Wonder Woman: The Adventures of a Hollywood Geek  by Olivia Munn (with Mac Montandon) and Heart of Evil by Heather Graham, part of the Krewe of Hunters series. The Munn book? Is written by a host of a G4 show. I only know her thru the live coverage of Comic Con last year. I was looking at Wonder Woman books the other day online and the title caught my eye and I just had to put it on hold. And the Heather Graham book? I'm crossing my fingers I like it. Her books have either been hit or miss for me lately and it's kind of sad because several of her books are on my keeper shelves and I've enjoyed even more, but lately not so much. I was going to start the Annette Blair book but I just checked out the first page of the Munn book and was hooked, so I'm reading it first. (Not to mention it's a library book and I prefer to read those first.

And that's our day. I've done a LOT of driving today and tomorrow is another day of the same. I hope y'all had a wonderful Wednesday. I wish a thankful and thoughtful Thursday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: 45 minutes of Zumba, 15 minutes ab work.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4.