Happy Halloween!

These are the kids and Chris' pumpkins. They look good, don't they? Bet you can't guess whose is whose! No? Okay, Chris' is the kitty on the left, Son's is the Mac symbol in the middle and Daughter's is the Assassin's Creed Symbol (game) on the very right. I am so proud of them and think they all did a great job.

It's been a nice day. This afternoon Chris and I went to the Y to work out. I took Zumba and he worked out in the gym. As soon as my class was over we left and headed to the next city over. We decided to get an early start on more of the Christmas shopping for the kids. Our first stop was Kohl's. We found an awesome leather and feather bracelet and a pair of earrings for Daughter. Next was Target. We found a shirt (I don't normally buy the kids clothes for occasions, but this is a Star War's Shirt I know he'll love. Oh, and I do usually get them jammies, though.) and a Star War's light saber for him, too.
After that we went home and I made chicken pot pie for dinner. I also roasted some pumpkin seeds for the kids. Daughter has never been a fan, but Son loves them. I flavored them this time. They were chili-lime flavored. Son really liked them and Daughter tried them, but said that she still isn't a fan of pumpkin seeds. *g*
I've done laundry and ironed tonight as well. And yes, have not had time to read. *sigh* Today just went by so quickly! I hope to grab a book tomorrow off my shelves to read. Because yes, I tried to read The Stand again, by Stephen King and I made it to the prisoner and had to put it down. Yeah. *sigh* I really like the movie, though I know it's old and a tad on the cheesy side. I want to like the book, but it just isn't for me. Oh, well. At least I tried, right?

That's all from me. It's quite late and I am very tired. I hope y'all had a decent and restful Sunday. I wish a pleasant and low-key Monday for y'all. Goodnight and (because it's so late) Happy Halloween, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Zumba
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4

Sparkly Girl!

I know I already posted a picture of Layla wearing the sparkly hat. But, it wasn't this picture and I wanted to post another one. Because I can. *g* And because I think she looks adorable. Funny enough it matches her collar. *g*

Well, it's been an interesting day. We had to hurry out of here today because Daughter couldn't get her fanny in gear so she didn't get to eat lunch. I did make her grab a snack to take to the Y while she was at work, though. The kids and Chris' inability to function on a small time-table annoys the snot out of me. I am punctual. To the point where if I'm not early I become anxious. I'm not sure how, mostly God's Grace I'm sure, that we arrived at the Y on time for her to be five minutes early so she could change.
Chris and I took Son down to the dojo and had him practice for the upcoming tournament. I recorded him several times so he could look at it while we were there and see what he needed to work on. He liked that, it helped him to see himself and find what he knew he needed to correct instead of me just saying "Look here, you need to work on this". He practiced for over an hour and then we all went swimming. After an hour I sent Chris to the Men's Health Center to take some allergy meds and sit down in the quiet for a while because he had a sinus headache. We've noticed that both of us tend to have a lot of sinus issues right after it rains and is windy. Guess what? It rained yesterday and was very windy today. I ended up with a sinus headache as well, but am too stubborn to give in. That or too stupid to slow down. I kept Son entertained and he and I swam laps. When it was about time for the pool to close he and I headed to change and met back up with Chris. Did I mention it was chilly today? I only say that because the AQ Director left the heater in the pool on too long and it was 94 degrees when we got in this afternoon. It was like taking a bath. I LOVED IT. It took a bit getting used to at first doing laps, but it started cooling off a tad by the time it closed and felt nice.
After Daughter was off work we headed to Academy Sports. Son wanted a dive mask because he likes to dive at the pool for weighted sticks. We found one, even though the season is obviously over.
We then headed to a local grocery store that we don't usually frequent because I had seen an advertisement for their pumpkins. We always buy three and that can become expensive. Not to mention I'd seen an articles this week that said that the local pumpkin patches pumpkins were already starting to rot since our weather had been so warm up until a couple of days ago.
The cats were curious about the pumpkins when we brought them home. Especially Wicket. She kept smelling them and crawling between and around them. *g* The kids decided they didn't care that it was getting late after we ate, they wanted to carve theirs tonight. Daughter chose the Assassin's Creed (game) symbol and Son wanted the Order of the Jedi symbol, but decided he wanted to look around a little more first. Chris decided on a pattern, but also that he was going to wait until tomorrow to carve his pumpkin.
And as for my reading? Again, nothing. We were so busy today and this evening that I never picked up a book. I didn't even have one to put in my purse today and let me tell you, it felt weird. I kept glancing at it all during the day and it seemed to be missing something. It's sad when I have more time to read during the week that the actual weekends that I'm supposed to have "Off". And tomorrow? I will at least take the time to put a book in my purse!

Normally I'd put something like this in the p.s. section, but I really wanted to make sure it was read. Yesterday Melissa and her family were excited to open their arms and their hearts to a kitten her sister found. He was taken to the Vet and declared free of FIV, always a worry when you have more than one cat. Sadly, the kitten passed away unexpectedly today. Please take the time to comfort Melissa and her family. I'm just glad the kitten knew comfort and love before it passed.

And on that rather sad note I am headed offline. I hope y'all had a nice Saturday. I understand many of y'all had snow today! I send warm and safe thoughts your way. I wish a peaceful Sunday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 2 hours swimming.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 8.

Art or Graffiti?

The view on the side of the trail we were walking last weekend, during one portion anyway. The trail we walked spans two miles, but actually connects to more trails that covers most of the state. The railroad tracks you see are non-functional and were quite fascinating to Son. *g* And I know it sounds absolutely strange as I couldn't actually SEE it, but I could swear I could smell mulberry as we walked this section.

We've had an unlikely visitor this week. For the past couple of days there's been an opossum on our porch. He hides behind the storage bench we have. My guess is he's here for the cat food I put our for the strays. He went away for a day, but is back now. I hope he's okay. He's very timid. He's scared of the strays. Yes, I am aware he's a wild animal. That does not mean I have less compassion for him, though.
As for the day? We finally feel like Fall! We never made it past 54 degrees today and since earlier this week we saw temperatures in the mid to high 70's? Yeah. The weather was gray and chilly, but it certainly made the Fall leaf colors stand out more. I guess since they didn't have to compete with the sun they could shine their own "light" today.
Son and I took Daughter to work this afternoon and then he and I went to Sam's and bought groceries and fuel. We also purchased Halloween Candy. I waited until a few days before Halloween so that they would actually last until Halloween. It's not because of me, btw. *g* After we dropped those off we headed to WW and picked up most everything else, though I will have to visit the two other stores I also purchase groceries and items from later this weekend.
After that Son and I brought everything home and put everything away and then headed back out to pick up Daughter. You'd think that would be it. You'd be wrong. I then took Daughter by the bank so she could take out some money so she could attend the local H.S.'s football game tonight with her friend. Chris arrived home and he took Daughter to meet her friend and he and Son stayed and watched the game. I stayed home. I separated the meat I bought today into single meal servings and vacuumed and did laundry and took care of a few other things. I also watched Grimm. I LIKED it. I liked it a lot more than Once Upon a Time. Chris and the kids arrived home toward the middle of Grimm. The football game was still going on but it had rained and it was quite chilly out and they had had enough. *g* We ate a late dinner and have since headed upstairs. Chris and I registered the kids for the tournament online tonight. We're anxious and excited for them.

As for reading today? To be honest I haven't had the time and when I had the time I didn't have the energy. I am feeling better, but am still dealing with some jaw/ear pain. *sigh* I took my last antibiotic tonight and am worried that if today was my last day and I still have pain, does that mean that I will have to go on more? Because I sincerely hope not. This stuff is doing a number on me, I hate it. And y'all know I don't use that word lightly. Hopefully, tomorrow will be even better and I will have the time AND energy to read. It sounds stupid to say I don't have the energy to read, right? *sigh* Eh.

Anyway, I hope y'all had a enjoyable and happy Friday. I wish a delightful and amusing Saturday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: Heh-heh. No. No time today.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 0 <--------- I don't like that number. Non-number? Hmm....

Sharpen the Fangs, too!

Not only did Layla want her nails filed, I think she wanted her teeth sharpened! *g* Layla is weird in that she loves my finger nail file. She wants to chew on it for some strange feeling, hence the nicks and tears in this one. *g* She almost looks vicious there, doesn't she? Ha! Not. It's hard to be intimidating when you waddle when you stalk off. *g*

I'm feeling better, though still dealing with jaw pain and some serious sinus pressure. Then again the reason for the allergies hasn't gone away yet. Tomorrow (um, today) our temps will drop A LOT and we may get some frost which will help clear all that up. Trying to "carry on" as usual has probably not been my best decision in that after taking Daughter to work this afternoon I had to take a nap when Son and I arrived back home. I was just too tired. The only thing that suffered from me taking a nap was that I didn't get the lawn mowed (for probably the last time this year) today. Now it'll have to wait until sometime this weekend.
After we arrived back home I helped Son pick out a secondary costume to wear to the Fall Carnival this evening at the Pine Y. Daughter was volunteering after work so Son and I would be there. He decided to go as a Sheriff's Detective. *g* His "costume" was a pair of dress pants, a nice shirt, tie, his metal Sheriff's badge, handcuffs and a cap gun. All of it came from his closet. I love "costumes" like that. We had to take Daughter's "costume" to her after she got off work. She wore Chris' old AF BDU's. And his boots. It was seriously scary how much she looked like him! I wish I could share the picture with y'all with another shot of Chris in the same uniform! I took a picture and sent it to him at work and he said she looked cute. *g* (I also sent him a pic of Son and he said the same thing, wish I could share that one with y'all, too.)
Son helped Daughter with the game she was over-seeing and I went to my cardio class. We still had an hour left after my class and Son had fun playing the games and being given candy. There was a pumpkin drop ($5 a ticket with the money going towards their Partners with Youth campaign)(mini pumpkins were numbered and whom ever's(sp) was nearest the bulls-eye won)  was along with donations into different employees cans to see who gathered the most. The winner (or loser, depending how you look at it) had to kiss a pig. (Small pig, he was cute and scared, poor baby.)There was a bounce house, a scary house, and a cake walk to go along with the other games.
After it was all over we stayed for a bit to help clean up and then headed home. We had a simple meal and enjoyed the quiet together. Oh, while the kids and I were at the Y Chris went by Ulta for me for a new buff puff. He asked to not be asked to go in there again. *g* He was out of his element. I told him it must have been a scary visit to "estrogen land". (He did say he ran into a lady he works with and it freaked him out. I told him he should have pointed to his wedding ring and told her he was picking something up for me. I think he was afraid she thought he was in there for something for himself! *g*)

As for reading? I started and finished the Kristan Higgins book. I couldn't help myself. I should have known better. I do recommend it. It was a very pleasing read and I liked the heroine. She was funny and sweet and didn't hold her tongue when faced with the guy she'd had such a serious crush on when she was young. The hero had touches of OCD after his wife died and he was in an accident that he walked away from that freaked him out. It felt real to me. The panic attacks and the locking and unlocking doors. The secondary characters? Well, I could have done without the cousin. And one of heroines friends was a bit to frank to be believable, for me anyway. But, loved the heroines brothers SO as a character. He was, pardon the pun, fabulous. *g* Next up to read? One of my library books! I have the new Steve Jobs biography, but Chris stole it from me so I'll have to wait to read it. But, I have a couple of others AND the library just sent me a notice that yet another has come in from hold for me. I swear it's either feast or famine with them!

And that's it. I have nothing else to share. Sorry! It's been another long day and I'm looking forward to getting some sleep. Tomorrow promises to be busy (and chilly-Yay!). I hope y'all had a nice Thursday. I wish an enjoyable and gracious Friday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 1 hour of CadioPump (we did interval training tonight).
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4.

Stair dangers!

We have a two story house. I wanted one because I liked the separation of the bedrooms from the great-room, kitchen, garage and spare restroom. However, a two story home has it's own dangers. One? We are a family of klutzes, at least part of the time. We've been known to slip going down or going up the stairs. And the other danger? The cats. *g* They love the stairs. They play on them and sleep on them and sometimes are stubborn enough not to move when you need to go down them. Luckily Oreo is one of those who will move. *g* Here she is on the landing. Looks comfy, doesn't she? (And yeah, that's the bottom corner of one of our keeper shelves. I need new shelves......*g*)

It's late, so I'm going to try and be quick. I woke feeling a smidge better today. My head didn't hurt as bad, though I'm still having jaw/ear pain. Ugh. Chris woke with a bad sinus headache today and so went into work late-taking a half day. He has to watch his headaches, they tend to make him sick and can slide into a migraine easily.
Schoolwork was taken care of and then Daughter attended a writing workshop at the library. While she did that I took care of an errand. I forgot to mention yesterday that the OTHER arm of Daughter's glasses broke yesterday. The ring/circle that holds the arm onto the hinge just broke. With no warning. It was too late when it happened yesterday to take ask the Eye glass lady at the Eye Doc's office if a part/arm could be ordered. So, while Daughter was in her workshop today Son and I went to the Eye Doc's office to speak with her. She said she didn't think an arm could be ordered, but to give her a second and could she see Daughter's glasses. She had one arm left from her spare parts bag. The only other arm she had that would work with Daughter's glasses. (She has the rimless.) This woman? Is awesome. She's so very nice and did her best to help me/us and I am so thankful to her. Because the arm? Didn't cost a thing. I am very thankful and appreciative of the blessing of this woman. Trust me.

After that Son and I headed back to the library to not only pick Daughter up, but also to give her the fixed glasses and to pick up another hold that had come in for me, the new Steve Jobs biography. What? I may be a techno-goober, but I find people fascinating, especially brilliant people. While there we had a few minutes to wait for Daughter, so we looked over the new books and movies. Unfortunately most of the new book shelves were on carts that had to be shelved and the shelver was slow as heck. (We tend to know where they keep the carts and check them when we first arrive, anyway.) We also looked over the DVD cart. There had to be over 100 DVD's on that cart that needed to be put away. It was driving me crazy and I, um, well, I started to put some of them away. I knew where they went...... I put away about 20 before we needed to leave.
The kids and I then headed to the MT Y for Son's Kidfit class. Since Daughter didn't have to work tonight she swam laps while I worked out and Son attended his class. Chris arrived later and worked out for a while, too. After Son's class (and a while after that, I had him do his rotator cuff exercises) I finished up my workout.
We finally finished up at the Y and after arriving home I made dinner. We spent a normal night together and then I let Chris play one of his games while I took care of things upstairs.
Which leads to now. It's really late and my jaw is hurting again. I'll be glad when the sinus infection is gone. That said, I'm asking y'all to send healing wishes to Melissa. She's not feeling well.
I hope y'all had a wonderful Wednesday. I wish a thankful and thoughtful Thursday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 8.16 miles stationary bike at level 11, 35 minutes weights.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4.

Cute Grass! (Never thought you'd hear that did you?)

This time of year this decorative grass is "blooming" every where here it's been planted; in a lot of decorative beds. I love it. I think it's the cutest thing! It's called Muhay Grass. And it's PURPLE when it blooms. It reminds me of cotton candy. *g* I told Chris I would love to plant some in our yard somewhere. *g* It's too late this year, but there's always next year.....

I gave in today. I woke up feeling so bad the minute I moved my head I thought my head would explode. Sinus infection= not fun, lots of pain. Ouch. I did start the new antibiotic last night. It's a five day dosage program and that's good. What's not is that this stuff is kind of scary. However, if this infection leaves? I'll be happy so I guess it's worth it. I'm still having to take tylenol and benedryl, though. Yay. Sorry, I'm not really whining. Much. *g*
We got a late start today-my fault. But, have managed just fine, anyway. The kids tackled schoolwork and I begged them not to fuss at each other. They agreed. For ten minutes. *sigh* They love each other, I know they do. There are times they are so sweet together and then times Daughter loses her temper and hurts Son's feelings. *sigh* I didn't grow up with siblings. I'm guessing it's normal. It's also why I'm know as the peacemaker. *g* That and I have patience and no one else seems to have any.

After schoolwork we left and made a quick trip by B&N. I still had a tiny bit left on my gift card so bought one book (and wiped out the last of my card *g*), Until There Was You by Kristan Higgins. The premise of this book seemed good to me and I can't wait to read it. I wanted another book, but it's not out yet. Otherwise there would have been a hard choice to make! (Death, Taxes and A French Manicure by Diane Kelly, I've heard good things about it!) But, it wasn't due out until next week and I really, really wanted a book to snuggle up with Friday night. (It's supposed to drop, temperature, this weekend and I refuse to turn on the heat until November. *g*
After B&N we headed to the kids MA class. They sparred and Daughter ended up twisting her knee at the last of the class. She's fine. We iced it for a bit it already feels better. She just needs to limit her knee usage for the next couple of days. Good thing she doesn't work tomorrow!
After class we headed home and Chris made dinner. Which was very sweet. He is pretty good about cooking on days when the kids and I are having late nights because of their classes. Though, I do help with dinner. He likes to cook the meat. You know. Man. Fire. Meat. Good. *g* Tonight's was fajitas! Yum!
After dinner we watched a little tv and he and I moaned and groaned and managed to get off the couch and get a few things done before heading upstairs for the night.

As for reading? I've finished the Lynn Michaels book I was reading and now need to pick up one of my library books. I'm not sure which one I'll read first, yet.

And that's all from me. It's late, again. And I really want to crawl into the shower and then bed. I hope y'all had a delightful Tuesday. I wish a wonderful Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Zumba. Pure willfulness, stubbornness, or bullheadedness kept me moving. Not to mention tylenol is my new best friend.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4.  

Glitter Baby!

Sooo, when we went to Party City! this past weekend to find the special effects make-up for Son's costume this year I happened to look around. I love exploring stores like that. (So does Daughter, they sell individual candy and she spent $3 and got a bunch!) Y'all know I've been keeping an eye out for a Top Hat for the kitties. They were out. Boo! But! They had this cute glitter one instead. I think it matches Layla's fur nicely, don't you? Yeah, I don't think Layla agreed. Maybe she'd have liked a black one instead? (And don't think I spent a fortune on this hat, it was less that $2.) (I may borrow it for the Zumba Halloween Party. *g*)

I would say another ordinary day passed here. But, I felt so bad today it can't be ordinary. Luckily I am the master of ignoring my own ill health and today went on as planned. We had schoolwork this morning and early afternoon. I called the Doc when we were done and let them know I had to switch antibiotics since I had such a weird reaction to the last one (Lethargy, warming sensation in chest, hard to take a deep breath, etc.) and they said they'd call in a new antibiotic for me and then call me back and let me know. Late this afternoon we left to take Daughter to work with a stop by the library to drop off the movies we'd watched over the weekend and picked up The Stand by Stephen King, a hold that had finally come in for me. I try to read it every four or five years-hoping that this is the time I make it through it. Oh, and the books I picked up Saturday: The Cookie Party Cookbook: the ultimate guide to hosting a cookie exchange by Robin L Olsen (a new-to-me author), The Expressologist by Kristina Springer (a YA and new-to-me author), and Revenge of the Homecoming Queen by Stephanie Hale (Also a YA and new-to-me author). The cookie exchange book? Has some FABULOUS cookie recipes in it. As in there must be at least 70 of them. There's even an international section. *g*
After that Son and I dropped Daughter at work and headed by the pharmacy that my new prescription had been called into. I've been prescribed Zythromycin. (I think I spelled that correctly...) I hope I can tolerate this one! It's a shorter does period, but stronger med.
After picking that up we stopped by our regular pharmacy to pick up the refill on my thyroid meds and then to the MT Y for me to work out a bit before yoga. Yes, I felt like snot, but tylenol and benedryl were taking the edge of the sinus pressure and I knew I would feel guilty not working out. Chris arrived and changed and worked out and while I was in Yoga he and Son headed home. I met up with them afterwards and then Chris left to pick up Daughter.
We had a late dinner and watched a little tv. We're really enjoying The Sing Off and of course Castle is/was as terrific as always. Oh, and I took a dose of my new med. I wanted to do it while Chris is home in case I have another weird reaction.
As for reading? Well, technically I've already read the cookie book. But, am still keeping it around for a while longer so I can try out a couple of the recipes. I AM reading a book from my keeper shelves right now, though. I know. I know. I finally have library books and picked up a keeper book. But, I read the other book by Lynn Michaels and wanted to read the other one I have. So, I am. I'm reading Marriage By Design by Lynn Michaels. I haven't thought about this book in a year or so, so I'm enjoying rereading it.
And that leads to now and me needing to get a shower and some rest. I hope y'all had a pleasant and lovely Monday. I wish a terrific and smile-filled Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 8.06 miles stationary bike at level 11, 1 hour Yoga.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 6.

Cats don't like manicures!

Layla looks like she wants me to file her nails, right? Funny enough she didn't move her claws or retract them while I moved the file back and forth. However, what she really wanted to do was bite and play with the file. She's weird that way. If I take out my file and use it she acts like I took out her favorite toy. *g* Why won't she be this cooperative when I get out the kitty nail clippers?

Not much to share for Sunday. I'm up way too late again. I am still having to take tylenol and benedryl for the sinus pressure and jaw/ear pain. I hope the Doc agrees that I went off the antibiotic, but when it feels like it's hard work to take a deep breath and your chest feels warm from the inside? Well, to me that says that the med was bad for me. Cross your fingers she agrees!
Chris took Daughter to work for me this afternoon. It was nice not to have to be the one to rush her out the door. He also stopped and found some inexpensive fuel for my jeep, too. After he arrived home we had a late lunch and then I cleaned a bit. (Wiped down the doors today with antibacterial cleaner.) (Fall and Winter are germ-y months. Ugh.)
Then, off we went to the MT Y. I had Zumba and Chris wanted to work out. Son sat in my class. He likes the music. Especially since we did a few of the songs we'll do for the Halloween Zumba Party. We danced to Thriller, Ghostbusters and Monster Mash. I can't wait to hear what else they come up with for the Halloween Zumba class. *g*
After my class and Chris' workout we headed to the Pine Y to pick up Daughter. After that we headed home and made dinner. We watched another movie after dinner, Thor. I have heard some say that Captain America is better, but I really liked the movie. I recognized the names and Daughter and I had a fun talk about the different types of myths concerning the three main characters. It's funny how much alike we are in the old Roman and Greek myths and now the Viking ones as well. I now wish there were another movie with the Celtic versions that were as popular.
Reading? I just finished Mother of the Bride by Lynn Michaels. I wish the author was still writing. I have this and one other of her books on my keeper shelves. Plus, I've read another. But, I can say I wish the author were working something new. 

And except for lots of loads of laundry that's our day. I'm about to drop, so am headed offline. I hope y'all had a relaxing and sunny Sunday. I wish a pleasing and stress-free Monday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

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

A Beautiful Day!

I took this picture with my phone on the trail Chris, Son, and I walked this afternoon. The leaves were turning on the trail and there were glorious colors and hilarious squirrels to see every few feet. And by hilarious squirrels I mean that one of them decided he didn't like us walking by where he was climbing a tree and started making funny noises and then barking at us. It cracked us up!

After taking the antibiotic last night I had the same warming sensation and felt like I was lethargic and it was too much trouble to take a deep breath. Chris didn't like any of that and it was decided that last night was my last taking that med. I'll call the Doc on Monday and ask nicely for a different antibiotic. And if there was any doubt? I didn't take it today and felt better than when I did take it. (Yesterday was not so much hazy as blurry from fatigue, today I felt normal. Well, normal with sinus pain and pressure, but better than yesterday.) (This is not the first antibiotic I've had issues with.)

So, for our day we dropped Daughter at work this afternoon, walked the four mile trail and then went to the library. I picked up a four or five books, one a cookie book. But, am too tired to list them tonight. I will say the cookie cookbook has so many yummy recipes in it I'm tempted to pick up a copy!
After the library we picked Daughter up from work and then visited Party City! Where Son found the special effects make-up he wanted so that he could look like a Zombie for Halloween. Daughter isn't trick-or-treating this year, but wants to be the one to take Son around the neighborhood. I'm leery of that and believe we're sticking with Chris taking Son around. Daughter WILL be dressing up for the Y's Halloween/Fall Festival at the Y. She's been volunteered by her Boss to help out and she was looking at purchasing a costume, but we've come up with several ideas of things she could wear from all our closets instead.
After that we ran by the grocery store for some soda and then home. (The soda was for me, the fizzy is helping me not feel so sick.) And yeah, the kids may each have ended up with a treat. *g* Then, home! Yay! We made dinner, watched The Book of Eli , a movie that was VERY good. (Warning: violence and a bit of cursing.) (Chris and I watched it, not the kids.) I actually wouldn't mind watching it again before we return it to the library.
And that's my day. It's been good. Probably ordinary, but good. I hope y'all had a good Saturday. I hope you smiled some today. I wish a peaceful and Blessed Sunday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 4 mile walk.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4.

Apple Time!

We picked some honeycrisp apples up at the grocery store last week (Fall is apple time around here.) and have been enjoying them all week long. Layla however does not understand the draw. I guess cats don't want to eat something that's as big as their head? *g*
Not much to share today. After schoolwork this afternoon Son and I drove Daughter to work and then home. The antibiotic seems to have a few weird side effects for me. It makes my chest feel warm from the inside out. As if I'd swallowed a hot beverage. And tired and weak. Not feelings I like. I called my Doc about the reactions. She said the warmth feeling is not one she'd heard of and to skip a dosage and to also lower my dosage (3x instead of 4x a day). She said to see how that worked and to let her know if I just needed to switch meds. (Of course this is also after asking me if it was a heartburn like feeling and if so to take some Malox(sp).)
After picking up Daughter we headed home and I managed to vacuum, get some laundry done and clean the downstairs bathroom. By then Chris had arrived home and I had to sit. I was so tired I ended up having to close my eyes for a few minutes. Chris took care of dinner. I honestly don't know where the day went. I was so tired it's all kind of hazy. I know part of it's the meds and that another part is that I made it to today, to Friday and could finally admit that I did not feel good. I hate having to take all this medication. Benedryl for the congestion; tylenol for the pain; and the antibiotic to make the crud go away. That's not counting my regular medications. *sigh*
As for my reading? I'm still only about a third of the way through my keeper book. I tried to read this evening but just couldn't. Hopefully tomorrow will be better. I am hoping the library gets in a book or two for me soon, too. *g* But, two books I have been waiting on come out next week and I've promised myself to buy them. Normally I wouldn't. But, I still have a tiny amount left on the gift card I was given and that as long as nothing comes up *knockonwood* I will splurge and buy at least one of the two.

Anyway, that's it. I'm so tired my eyes keep closing and I keep making stupid mistakes. I hope y'all had a fantastic Friday. I wish an amusing and lovely Saturday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: not today.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 0. I'm not happy with that number.

Big Brother's Love!

Midnight is pretty good about being a big brother to Wicket. He taught her how to tumble and play and how to cuddle. I'm betting he's wishing he taught her how to hold still to be cleaned, too. He tried the other night, but after a minute or two she was having none of it and smacked him and tried to jump on his head. *g*

Whew! What a day! This morning I had a Doctor's appointment. I finally reached the point yesterday where I couldn't handle the headaches, jaw, and ear pain anymore. Turns out I was right. I have a sinus infection with a complication of pressure on my right ear. Ha. Go big or go home? *sigh*I came away from the Doctor with three prescriptions. An antibiotic, a decongestant (that I'm not filling there's a warning for thyroid disease patients-even though I asked the pharmacist and he said it was okay I'm still worried about this one) and ear drops (another one I'm not filling). I didn't ask for ear drops or decongestant. I'm fine with the decongestant I'm taking now. I didn't have time to fill the antibiotic prescription this afternoon. We had Son's Homeschool 4H group meeting. This weeks was on Popcorn. All about the history of, a few kind of, games and crafts and a science experiment, too. We had to leave from there to make it to the kids MA class. Today was sparring. Daughter didn't do as well as her Sensei would have liked, but then again she was up against the AD who outweighs her and is 6ft3in.. All he has to do is wait for her to get close enough and reach out and smack her on the head. One of his kicks can send her reeling across the room! I think she did pretty well, though yes, even I could see she could have been a tad faster. However, I know she didn't feel good today. Her shoulder has been bothering her this week. It upset her that her Sensei thought that and she was moody after class.
I went to my cardio class though I wasn't feeling the greatest, either. The kids attended their other MA class and sparred again. Daughter did her best and that's all I ask.
We then headed to a local grocery store because their pharmacy was open later than our regular pharmacy. And then home for the rest of the evening.
Book-wise I've finished the historical christian book. It was a nice read. The mystery was a good portion of the book along with the relationship between the hero and heroine. The ending felt right and the epilogue was a welcome look at the couple years down the road. I like how it had a character from the book in it in a surprising role, too. As for what I'm reading now? I've grabbed an old keeper off my shelves, Mother of the Bride by Lynn Michaels. It's a fun, funny, sweet read and I'm enjoying revisiting the characters.

That's it from me. It's very late and I'm not feeling the greatest and need some rest. I hope y'all had a thankful and thoughtful Thursday. I wish a fun and fabulous Friday. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.


Exercise: 1 hour CardioPump
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4. 

An Oldie, but cute pick me up!

I needed a smile tonight. And this picture of Pepper never fails to make me smile. She's just too cute and funny! We love her sweet and silly self.

The reason I needed a smile? I'm tired of the discomfort of my jaw, top row of teeth and ear. It's driving me batty and I'm tired of having to take a decongestant every five hours to keep it at bay.  It's either an ear infection or a sinus infection and I want it gone. A week of this has been enough.

As for today? It's gone fine. I promise, nothing bad, just tired of not feeling good. We had a good afternoon of schoolwork then off to take Daughter to work at then to take Son to KidFit. He had a blast and I worked out. Chris arrived about fifteen minutes before Son and I left so he could workout and Son and I headed to the grocery store for milk. We go through a lot of milk. I can honestly say it's not me. I could probably use the calcium and Vitamin D, but I don't like milk. Which is weird because I love yogurt.... Oh, sorry. Anyway, Son and I picked up milk and headed home and met up with Chris. I made dinner. A nice hearty chili because it rained all night last night and all morning and while the rain stopped late this morning it brought in some chilly weather. A perfect night for a warm dinner.
Chris picked up Daughter from work and we spent a quiet night.

I'm enjoying reading the Gist book. The historical setting is during the early period of the phone lines and features a train robbing gang as the back mystery bringing a Texas Ranger to the heroine in an undercover setting. So far it's been cute. Then again I'm only about a third of the way through it.

And that's it. It's been a long day, though not too much going on. Unlike tomorrow. Which is going to be insanely busy. So, off to sleep for me. I hope y'all had a happy Wednesday. I wish a thoughtful and thankful Thursday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 8.26 miles on stationary bike at level 11, 35 minutes weights.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4.

My normal day!

This is a scene from my normal days. Layla at my side, my computer and a Diet Cherry Dr. Pepper (one of two I allow myself a day. Don't start. I need caffeine!) What you can't see is where Daughter and Son sit with their schoolbooks. Yes, we do schoolwork at the kitchen table. That way I can see everything. *g*

Speaking of a normal day... Today we had schoolwork and then the kids MA class. We stopped by the library on the way to the MA class and I picked up two holds that had come in. Don't get too excited, they were movies. *g* But, I did see a cute book on the shelf, Love On The Line by Deeanne Gist, a new-to-me author (whose name is really familiar...). It's a christian historical, but the premise has a bit of mystery to it as well as romance. I'm hoping it's as cute as the back blurb made it out to be. If not I'll just grab something from my keeper shelves.

The kids MA class went well. They sparred, which my kids love. They're weird that way. *g* They are nervous, but are looking forward to their tournament next month. While they were in class I went to Zumba. Only. It wasn't my regular zumba class. We didn't know it at first. We just thought our regular teacher was late. Oh, no. If only she was. She had a meeting so we had a sub. The same one from a couple of months ago. The one where people left? Like they did today. She normally teaches the Zumba Gold classes for the, um, more advanced in years members. I tried to make the best of it. I really did. I amped up the dances (with her permission-before she even started teaching). I wasn't the only one. She's a nice lady, but they need to realize they can't send a slower paced teacher to do the VERY high energy class we're used to. The best thing I can say about the class was that it was a workout. I'm sure in ten years I'll think her class is great. Tonight I had to force myself not to constantly roll my eyes. Yeah, I know. I take my (somewhat) youth for granted. I try really hard not to. My Mom passed when she was 52. Why do y'all think I work so hard at staying fit and being healthy?

After class and picking up the kids we headed home where we met up with Chris. Who also went to the Y (the MT Y, the one closest to the house) after work. I am so proud of him! He made dinner, too! Trust me, I know exactly how lucky I am. Even though I had to smack him several times last night to roll over because he was SNORING so loud. *g* I missed the end (and the beginning) of NCIS, who shot the Coast Guard person? (A shower was more important to me, but I am curious what happened.)

And that's our day and afternoon and night.... I hope y'all had a terrific day. I hope the sky was gorgeous for you. Because if it was like ours you'll be getting rain tomorrow evening. *g* I wish a wonderful Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Zumba. (I made sure it was a decent workout.)
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4.

What Can I Say?

Ah, Butterscotch. Not exactly the smartest cat we have, but definitely the weirdest cat we have. Here he is wearing the Pirates hat and he wasn't thrilled. But, while smarter cats may have shaken their head and flung the hat off he just decided to sit there. And sit there. Finally, I took pity on the silly boy and took the hat off. Son says that Butterscotch is a lot like Odie from Garfield. I agree.

Another regular Monday here. We had schoolwork and Daughter worked in the afternoon and then I dropped the kids at home to take care of any leftover details for schoolwork, like Son had some underlining to do in History and Daughter had a lecture to listen to. (She says the American Literature lecturer is funny, but that her English lecturer is boring. *g*) I headed to the MT Y where I worked out on the stationary bike before Yoga It's pretty sad, but the time on the bike was the longest interrupted time I've had to read in a while. I was able to read for a total of 8 miles! *g* It was nice. Working out like that is the only time I get for myself some days, whether it be on the stationary bike or on the treadmill or weights (can't read on those, though). Can't read in Zumba, either, but that's totally different. In that class I get to be who I am not. I get to let go a little and have fun. I don't have to the person in charge and can let loose a little. *g*
After Yoga I headed home and met up with the kids and Chris. Chris had gone by Academy and picked up the skateboard for Son for Christmas, after work. I sent him a picture of the board and the cost and he picked it up for me. Sometimes cell phones are really awesome. Because if I'd tried to describe what it looked like there's no telling which one he'd have come home with. *g*
Dinner was pretty simple tonight. The drainage I've been dealing with makes cooking and smelling food not fun lately, so cold foods for dinner! Daughter is dealing with the drainage from allergies right now, too. She, too, was not eager for dinner. However, thank goodness for cherry 7-up because somehow the fizzy settles our tummy.
After dinner we enjoyed watching a bit of tv together. We love The Sing Off. We all love music and I've been singing since I was a teenager.  Though I haven't had anywhere to sing except the car or house since we had Son. (Oh, and Church. *g*) I miss singing......
As for reading? I read earlier at the Y and a couple of chapters since I've been home. Oh! I forgot to mention WHAT I'm reading! *g* I'm reading Animal Attraction by Jill Shalvis. I adore her books. Her sense of humor in each book is fun and enjoyable and the characters are interesting. Having read Animal Magnetism (the book before this one, connected but can stand alone) I already had an introduction to the characters in this book, but not a big one. It's fun discovering the backstory for both the main characters and revisit with the characters from the first book.
No more from me. I don't have anything else to share. I am pretty sure I over-share, anyway. Sorry about that. I hope y'all had a pleasing day. I wish a terrific and sunshine filled Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 8.05 miles stationary bike at level 11, 1 hour Yoga.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 6.

Waiting for Daddy!

Midnight was supposed to be Son's cat. However, above all others he loves Chris. He loves to be held over Chris' shoulder and to sit on Chris' chest or lap. The past four days have been hard on Midnight. Chris was away on business and Midnight missed him very much. I think he was looking for Chris out the window in this picture. He decided to stick to me while Chris was gone, even going so far as to sleep against my legs every night. Poor big baby. He's happy now, though. *g*

As the above paragraph mentioned Chris has been out of town on business again. We missed him, but while away he was able to visit one evening with one of his cousins that he hasn't seen in a very long time. Since Chris usually becomes homesick by the third day he was happy to be home this afternoon. We weren't sure what time he'd arrive back home, so I went ahead and attended Zumba this afternoon and the kids stayed home to practice their katas for the upcoming tournament. I had a good time and was happy to see that Chris arrived not too long before I arrived home. We had to take his rental car back to the rental company, which for us is located at the airport. It's one of those times I'm glad we only live about ten miles away from the airport. And I can say that we have a very pretty airport, though it's also quite small. *g*
After that, unfortunately for Chris, I had to run a couple more errands. Daughter wanted to visit Dick's Sporting Goods to look at tennies and finally found a pair she liked. They were very expensive and since the ones she had were still in quite good shape she was told if she wanted them she'd have to pay for them. (Somehow I don't think she really needed new tennies, she wanted new tennies.) So. She did. Oh, and the shoes? The new Reebok with the zigzag pattern on the bottom. She ended up having to buy a pair of men's tennies because the womens selection was kind of sad for her shoe size and she and I knew that she could also wear men's shoes since her feet were, well, what they are.
After that we went by Lowe's. I need some furniture mover things for carpets. I tried to move the couch a couple of weeks ago to vacuum behind it and also vacuum the back of it and that couch weighs a ton! Now I can just slide it out. Of course getting the sliders under the feet was another hard task!
We had one more stop on the way home. The grocery store where we buy our produce. We picked up some tomatoes and Chris made fresh salsa to go along with dinner tonight. Yum!
Oh, I was telling Chris how my jaw on my right side was hurting and how my ear has been hurting on and off and how if I yawn there's a crackling noise. He thinks I may have an ear infection. Do I know how to have fun or what? Allergies suck. Just saying. 

In my reading I finished the Stephanie Perkins book. It was cute and a nice read. I enjoyed the main character. If I had to break down the book I'd say it was like a young Garcia-ish (from Criminal Minds) character reconnects with a Reed (also Criminal Minds) type character. Meaning she dressed like Garcia with the addition of wigs and he was the brilliant but also somewhat clueless character. *g* Personally? It worked for me. I love stories where the characters are quirky. Granted, there were a few times I wanted to either smack the girl or hose her down, but she seemed genuine and very, well, teen-like. Next up? I have the Jill Shalvis book. After that? No idea. Crossing my fingers the library gets some books in from my holds list soon. *g*

And that's all from today. We're very happy to have Chris home again, though I could do without the snoring. The first night I actually missed it, but tonight I wanted to smack him. *g* (Which is usual.) I hope y'all had a peaceful Sunday. I wish a low-key and pleasing Monday for y'all. Please don't forget to send Dru get well wishes! Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Zumba. Had a blast, but now my shoulder is killing me again. *sigh* I'd like one day where NOTHING hurt.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4.

Lovely Girl!

Ooh, I just love her face. Pepper has the most adorable clueless look to her. She's actually sweet as can be, but while not clueless she's not the most brilliant cat we have, either. She sleeps near me when I sit in the LR and she loves to play the ice game when she hears me get ice for a drink. It's an every night at bedtime thing. *g*

It's been a pretty low key day. I took the kids with me when I went to the mall this afternoon. I went because I wanted to see how a fleece jacket would fit-the way it was shaped and the seaming. I can order it online cheaper, but the one bad thing about buying online is that you can't try it on before buying. I liked the fit, loved the sleeves (tried on a fleece jacket at Sam's Friday that had sleeves that were too wide-felt like bat wings! *g*). But, am still dragging my feet on buying one. I'm trying to put it off as long as possible. I wore Chris' fleece all last winter, but I looked like a kid wearing her Dad's clothes, ya know? I don't know. Maybe I'll wait a little longer.
Anyway, after that we went to Target. WW has redone their stores and took a bunch of different types of things off their shelves and because of complaining started adding some back in. Unfortunately the dryer sheets I like weren't one of the things they added back in! I also needed armorall- car interior protectorate. WW happened to be out of that as well. Then to Academy (across the street from Target) where Daughter tried on tennies. Good golly! She wears a size 11! Do you have any idea how hard it is to find size 11 tennies that are well made and that she can wear to play sports in? It's HARD! She could only find about 5 pair of shoes to try on. Most were too narrow. (She has her Dad's feet.) While there I also had Son look at the skateboards. He's been saying he wants a new one for Christmas, but there were SO many to choose from and some were more than I was willing to pay. He picked out one he liked, though he doesn't know that I took a picture of it for future reference. *g*
Then home. Yay! We had a quiet evening and the kids listened to music while I watched a little tv. Though to be honest I wasn't paying much attention to the tv, just resting.
Ah, as for reading? I picked up the YA from the library the other day. Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins is so far a little more adult than I had expected, but at the same time still cute. I'm only about a fourth of the way into it, but so far am enjoying it. The lead character is rather quirky and has a non-traditional parenting couple. She's facing the reappearance of her first big crush and heartbreak and pressure from family and friends to stop a relationship with an older guy.

And that's it. Tomorrow promises to regular day. Oh, and MIL was not upset that we didn't go to the picnic. She called this evening and seemed okay, though said she missed us there. I hope y'all had a happy Saturday. I wish a peaceful and Blessed Sunday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Does walking/errands/shopping count?
Fitness Challenge Miles: 0.

P.S. Dru isn't feeling very well. Please send her lots of hugs, love and healthy thoughts!

Long time, No See!

It's been a long while since I've posted a picture of Athena. She tends to keep to herself and is a very quiet kitty that way. (But, if you talk to her? She jabbers right back at you as though carrying on a conversation.) However, she adores her big brother-Midnight. She thinks he hung the moon and stars and follows him around a lot. We say out of all the kitties she reminds of most of an owl when she twitches her ears back. And yes, while her and Wicket's coloring are similar, they couldn't be more different in shape, size or personality. Oh, and the reason you can't see her paws? That's her tail curled around them. We call it her monkey tail. *g*

Whew, what a day. And I don't mean that in a good way. I don't pay much attention to the tv in the LR unless it's at night. However, for some reason today I was sitting in the LR and decided I wanted to hear other voices (besides Son's. Who will talk just to hear his own voice. A lot.). I noticed what looked to be a large piece of lint on the screen and when I went to grab a cloth to wipe it off I noted that it wouldn't. Wipe off, that is. I felt the area. Turns out it's a gouge out of the screen. I knew immediately what had happened. Last night when I went to take an early shower the kids were goofing off with their shurikens and knowing they weren't supposed to mess with them in the house they threw one. It bounced off whatever they were throwing at and hit the tv. I confronted Son who said that he wanted to tell me, but that Daughter told him maybe I'd think one of the cats did it. Um, excuse me? I am not that stupid. Not to mention where the heck are the morals and values I've been teaching them all her life? My guess is she knew Chris would go ballistic and was afraid to tell us. However, I have grounded both of them, taken away the shurikens and they are writing a long, very long apology letter to be read aloud to Chris Sunday evening. I had to call him and tell him what was going on and while he was angry at least he now has time to cool off before fussing at them. I also researched ways of minimizing the gouge and will experiment to see what works.
After dropping Daughter at work this afternoon Son and I made it by Sam's where I not only purchased fuel, but groceries. Then home to put everything away and Son to take his Spelling and History tests. Before I knew it, it was time to run by the library. Son had an over-due movie and assured me (after searching the house completely) that he had already turned it in when we went by on Wednesday. I thought maybe they'd made another mistake and I was going to ask them to check the shelves when I asked him to check again, only this time check under the passenger seat in the back seat in case it slipped under there when we returned the other materials on Wednesday. Sure enough there was the stupid movie. We turned it in and headed to pick up Daughter.
After picking up Daughter and going over her and Son's punishment with them (including grounding from the European Car show that will be here this weekend), no gaming system, no outside activities unless it was education in nature. No, they won't be missing MA. I pay by the month and won't have them wasting my money this close to the tournament. On the way home MIL called. There is a family picnic tomorrow and she wants the kids and I to attend. No thank you. The kids are grounded and since Chris couldn't be there with me I'd feel uncomfortable. She wanted me to push the kids punishment to start on Sunday! What? Did she forget what it's like to have kids and set boundaries? *sigh* I told her so and she just wouldn't take my answer as a definitive no. She asked that I call her later this evening. Look. I love them, but they had my weekend last weekend, plus no. The kids are grounded. That means no fun and no possible enjoyment for them.
So, we stopped by the house to pick up my coupons and then headed to Aldi's and then to WW. I forgot to call MIL before it was too late. I did say no, several times in fact, so she shouldn't be upset I didn't call back right? I honestly forgot until after 8pm..
Anyway, we headed home, put everything away and made a simple dinner and enjoyed a quiet evening. Well, I was quiet. The kids decided it would be funny to squirt each other with their water guns in the kitchen.
Reading-wise I finished up the mystery. It was reasonably cute, however I'm not sure I'd read another in the new series unless the designer name-dropping was toned down. Way down. I felt like a slob the entire time I read the book! Well, slob is the wrong word, I do try to be neat. I felt frumpy reading the book. Right now I've just started Lola and The Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins, a YA. So far it's kind of cute.

And that's it. A rather boring but ho-hum day. I'll take it. Except for the kid gouging the tv thing. I hope y'all had an enjoyable day. I wish an amusing and smile-filled Saturday. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 1-2 hours walking, shopping and transferring the groceries from cart to counter to cart to jeep to home and then putting them all away. That has to count, right? Especially when you consider the cat litter I buy? Is the 42lb. kind. *g*
Fitness Challenge Miles: ?

Outtake!

This is actually one of my outtakes, but I had to share it because it looks like Layla is so very embarrassed to be wearing the pirate hat. Which is funny because the paper pirate hat we made last year and she wore was the reason we bought this one (On sale. I love the cats, but I don't pay full price for kitty pic fun.) Awww, poor Layla. Don't feel too bad for her, though. She just looks too cute in the hat! *g*


Another day passed! It went pretty quickly, I had to help Chris with something this morning and then our afternoon went as usual. We went by the library this afternoon because the kids had items in from Inter-library loan and then we headed to MA class. The kids Sensei and I talked and it's okay with him that the kids wear their white gi's for the tournament. I, um, kind of think he saw my facebook post about it. Or maybe even reads here? I never think anyone that actually knows me personally would be interested in reading here, so I never even give it a thought most the time. I mean, seriously. I'm one of the most boring people I know! See, y'all, the friends I've made through the internet get the highlights. You don't have to see me live it. Thank goodness, right? *g* Anyway, that's cleared away.
I wish I could say I woke feeling great, but I just ache like crazy right now. Add in sinus pressure (no, not a cold or the flu-just achy) and the headaches that go with that and I was not my usual robust self today. I tried. I tried to act as though nothing were wrong, but I was very glad to be headed home this evening. I did attend my CardioPump class and pushed my way through it.
The kids and I headed home and because they attended the second class and then stayed even later to practice and help others practice for the tournament we didn't even leave the Pine Y until almost 8 o'clock. So, we cheated. We stopped at Subway to pick up dinner. Subway needs to have a 'good HEALTHY food fast' slogan. We were in and out with our sandwiches in about ten minutes. *g* AND I have lunch for tomorrow! How cool is that for $5 for a foot long sub? (This month only on that price, darnit.)

And in reading? I've been reading! Cool, huh? I let another Mom have my regular seat (She's 6.5 months pregnant and went into preterm labor, that was stopped, over the weekend. Heck yeah she gets a chair!)(I rounded her up a chair, I usually sit on the floor.) and opened my book and just read. So much so that I am almost through with it! I do have to say that all the mention of designers for clothes is becoming rather tedious. I think that's because I don't pay much attention to designers and so all the name dropping doesn't mean much to me, though I do recognize the names. The heroine vacillates between wanting to solve the murder and picking her outfits. I would like it if she didn't seem more flighty and more interested about the prospect of her boss being investigated under suspicion of murder.  But, then again, to give her the benefit of the doubt it somehow makes her almost more relate-able.

Anyway, time for me to head offline. It's late and I need to take care of one last load of laundry before closing my eyes. I hope y'all had a thankful and thoughtful day. I wish a fun and enjoyable Friday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 1 hour CardioPump
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4.

Faded Blooming Rose

This is probably the last month for my rose bush (tree *g*) to bloom. This may be one of the last faded blooms. The color is so delicate, yet the thorns on this bush mean business. Quite a contradiction! But, still lovely to see.


It's been an okay day. The kids were a tad aggravating. I had to keep Son on point today and he just seemed easy to distract today. This year his schoolwork has been added to-he has a couple more subjects than last year and it takes more focus. We're in our 6th week and I know that he'll settle down and become used to the extra work before too much longer.
This evening Son and I drove Daughter to work and then he and I went to the MT Y for his KidFit class. He had a blast and I worked out. I'm just going to say that stress is not a friend to my body and I am feeling the effects of being upset last night. That also means this will be a semi-short post as my wrists and arms are aching all the way to my elbows.
After KidFit Son and I headed home and met up with Chris. He was happy to have the new update to the iphone and talked about it for a while this evening. Even talking me into putting it on mine tonight. I'm not as happy with it, but it's just a couple of small quirks with the new OS that I have issues with.
He picked Daughter up and we ate a late dinner together when they arrived home.
Good news is that I finally finished my book! I am so glad I took the time to finish. The bad guy turned out to be who I had thought it was, but it was an interesting and entertaining story getting there. I think the funniest scene in the whole book took place in a Vampire Bar with a fake vampire, the heroine (an actress) and her agent. Seriously, it was hilarious and those who have read and liked vampire romances before now had best stay clear of this one because it brings to light a few things even I'd never thought of before! *g* I know the author used historical back story to help set the scene, but since it concerned a character who wasn't as much a part of this book as before. The hero in this one also a lesser part of this book than the other three. However, I still really enjoyed this read and can't wait for another by the author soon! That said, I've already begun reading a new book, Shoe Done It by Grace Carroll. I first noticed this book a couple of weeks ago at B&N, but waited to read it because I wanted feedback about from a good friend. With her encouragement, I know it'll be a good read.


All that said, time for me to head offline. I hope y'all had a lovely Wednesday. I wish a thankful and thoughtful Thursday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 8.06 miles stationary bike at level 11, 30 minutes of weights.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4.

Rrrrrrr Matey's!

Sorry, couldn't resist. Midnight looks rather like a fiendish pirate doesn't he? Strangely enough he doesn't mind wearing a pirate bandana around all day, but isn't too keen on hats. *g*

I'm all mixed up tonight. I'm upset and angry and sad. Nothing from the actual day, this all happened this evening. Our day went okay. I took care of some household things and laundry and the kids did their schoolwork.
This evening I took the kids to their MA class and then went to my Zumba class. I had a good time, though felt my energy flag toward the end. Afterwards I walked back to pick the kids up at their class and heard the Sensei tell them that for the tournament next month they will be required to wear black gi's and white t's. *sigh* Every single teacher the kids have had has said that when competing white gi's are required. In preparation of the tournament I bought the kids brand new white gi's over a month ago. Just a couple of weeks ago they were still saying white gi's. Now they are saying black gi's because most of the new students coming in have bought black gi's. They won't even be competing! New students never compete. And the students that have been there longer and are competing all have black AND white gi's. The tournament is three weeks away (and if I order the gi's they may not arrive in time). Son and Daughter's black gi's are too small. *sigh* So, on top of the Tournament fee's, spectator fee's and that months MA fee's all due at the same time I have to find another $40-$50 for new gi's? Hello? One income family here! And Christmas is close after. This is just making me upset. I want everything for my kids and can't deliver. I feel like a bad mom......

Jeez, change of subject. I'm still reading the same book. I've only had five or ten minutes here or there to read lately. A day off would be nice......  So far the book is good and I wondered if the relationship between the heroine and the cop would even be mentioned after the events in the last book and was glad to see the cop in this book at all. *g*

I'm done. The sinus pressure is bothering my jaw and teeth. I'm headed for a warm shower, some benedryl and bed. I hope y'all had a terrific Tuesday and I wish a wonderful Wednesday. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 1 Hour Zumba
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4.

Ridiculous and Silly and.....

It makes me smile to look at it every night. This past week my bedside lamp bit the dust. Well, it decided to kill every light bulb within a few days that were placed in it. We knew it wasn't the socket, therefore knew it was time to replace the lamp. We went to Marshall's this weekend, always a dangerous place. And I looked at lamps. I knew I wanted something with a clear base since our headboard has the glass knobs and is pewter colored. I also am not a fan of colored based lamps, , I wanted something that would go with anything. This was the only candlestick lamp I liked that was clear. At first the shade drove me batty. See, I am the least frou-frou person you'll meet. I was going to take off the gauzy flower when we got home. However, as I stood it on my nightstand I couldn't help but smile at the sheer silliness of it. So, for now the flower stays. Strangely enough the cats haven't messed with it and the lamp is tall enough that Oreo (who used to rub her head on my other lamps shade every. single. night.) can't reach this shade with her head. Ha! A win for two reasons! (It used to drive me crazy because she'd move my lamp shade and then I'd have to move it back. Every. Single. Night.)

Well, it's a return to Monday. I am a fan of routine, so it was nice to have somewhat of one back today. Being Columbus Day did not mean our routine changed much. We did schoolwork and then Son and I took Daughter to work. He and I came back home and took care of a few more things with schoolwork (he has double the work she has this year-as in double the subjects)(and yes, she's taking a full complement of courses). Before we knew it it was time to pick Daughter up and I realized I felt sick. It was overcast and nice temperature-wise outside tonight so I'd opened the kitchen door to catch a breeze and to make the cats happy. Thank you allergies. Ugh. After picking up Daughter I dropped the kids at home and went to the Y. I was very thankful for allergy meds this early evening! By the time I arrived at the Y I felt almost human again. I packed in a small workout before Yoga and then enjoyed Yoga class. Our teacher placed a thumb with essence of lavender on all of us during (I can't remember the Yoga name for it right now-another sinus headache-bleh.) corpse pose (which I still can't do-it just isn't comfortable to me, so I sit with my legs crossed and hands on my knees- even after over five years of classes....). It was kind of nice. I knew what it was after the first whiff and thought it was kind of her to try and add to the relaxation pose.
After that I headed home and we had a quick and simple dinner. I had to pick up Chris at the airport where he dropped his rental car and then we headed home for a quiet rest of the evening. At the news tonight they did a report on allergies and now I know what to blame for my misery. Ragweed. Putting a name to it doesn't help much, but at least I know I can't be the only sufferer if they're doing a report on it. *g*
As for reading? I'm still only a third of the way through the Laura Resnick book, Vamparazzi. Between the weekend and schoolwork today and everything... well, I hope to find time to read more tonight. I can say I'm really enjoying it and already have my "feelings" about certain characters... *g*

And this is where I head offline. It's been a long day. I have a couple more things to take care of and want to get some reading time in before I fall asleep. I hope y'all had a pleasing and smile-filled Monday. I wish a terrific Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Best Wishes for a lovely night, B.

Exercise: 6.56 miles on the stationary at level 11 (since I was feeling sick when I started I don't feel too badly about this), 1 hour Yoga.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 5.

Ooopsie! and Ahoy!

I just realized, at barely this morning, that I forgot to post last night. No worries here, I was just exhausted and aching and my schedule was a little messed up because Chris was out of town. However, today returns to normal, so I thought I'd post a short, well, post. *g* What do you think of the new hat for the kitties? We couldn't resist since it was 40% off with our Petperks card at Petsmart. It suits Layla, doesn't it? *g* Still on the lookout for a small Derby, though!

Well, you know (those of us who though had decent grades in H.S. still wasn't fond of it for various reasons-mine being shy) that day you wish would never come, but somewhere in the back of your mind you know it's not impossible if you live where you grew up? Yeah, I ran into someone from H.S.. It happened to be someone who was loosely connected to me back then- she was dating a friend of Chris' and was a friend of one of my friends. To be honest, I had hoped to never, ever, see anyone from H.S. again. We will just leave it at I did not like H.S.. But, yesterday in Zumba a new Y member took the class. And she looked vaguely familiar. I put it out of my mind. After class she came up to me and asked if I was Brandy and re-introduced herself. Yay. She was nice about it. I introduced Son to her since he was with me and said it was nice to see her, but I needed to pick up my Daughter from work and Son and I left. (I really did need to pick up Daughter, it wasn't an excuse.) I know I'll run into her again. And I'll have to get over it. However, my bubble of the "new Brandy" I've become has been a tad pierced. I am actually more confident now (scary-right?) and though am shy in most circumstances I am comfortable at the Y now and smile freely. So much so that I'm often asked if I work there! (Especially at the Pine Y. *g*)

Anyway, after picking up Daughter we headed home. I did laundry, ironing, vacuuming and detailed the interior of my jeep. I didn't wash the vehicle because we still had a small drought warning here so I won't use the water for that quite yet. Oh, and I made dinner. After dinner we talked with Chris through face time. (What a marvelous thing!) And then we enjoyed a bit of quiet time before bed.

In my reading? I'm a third of the way through my Laura Resnick book. I wish I were further along, but things keep popping back up. However, I'm sure I'll find time sometime today to read. I hope!

And that's it. You're all caught up. I'm boring and our lives are pretty normal, so there wasn't anything major. I'm pretty happy about that! I could do without drama. (Though having a teenager that's not easy.)

Hope y'all have a fantastic Monday!

Sunday Exercise: 1 hour zumba.
Sunday Fitness Challenge Miles: 4.

One of My Favorites!

This is one of my favorite pictures of the kitties- ever. Kittens just go, go, go until they don't. I swear they only have two speeds. Crazy and sleeping. *g* I think Fireball had been in crazy mode and being as curious as, well, a cat can be he then felt sleepy. Because no. He wasn't just closing his eyes against the flash in this picture. He was asleep. *g* Funny enough, he dapper and sweet to this day.
Whew! What a day. We were going to go hiking, but MIL needed some help with their yard work so we headed over there this afternoon instead. We'd also thought it might be best to wait one more week since Chris is still on antibiotics that require him to stay out of direct sunlight.  So, what did that mean for today? That I used the push mower in the front yard, the old fashioned wheeled clipper in the side yard (those things are kind of fun) and Daughter drove the riding lawn mower through the back yard. She had a blast! If we had one of those I'm pretty sure she'd never complain if I asked her to do yard work. (Not that I ask her now.) But, I'm pretty sure she'd volunteer. *g* Even after she was done she and Son drove the mower all over the back yard since Son is (to us, anyway) too young to drive it on his own. I wore pants, but forgot long socks, so cross your fingers the "itchies" don't show up.
Now for the best news! They put FIL on solid foods today (he's lost 15lbs. since being in the hospital) and took out the stomach pump tube and feeding tube since they let him have solid foods and he tolerated them. So! Tonight they let him come home! We're praying he doesn't have a relapse that will definitely result in surgery. (Did I ever tell y'all what they'd found? That his small intestine had collapsed in one area? And that's why he kept getting sick? But, strangely it corrected itself after a few days. I'm still cautiously optimistic, but worry.) But, Yay! FIL is home!

Anyway, after taking care of MIL's yard and sitting with her for a little while we headed out while she packed a bag of clothes for FIL. We stopped and bought fuel from a brand new gas station. That thing was huge! It also had grand opening prices on fuel, which we loved. *g* Inside there were so many choices of drinks and food it was scary. They even had fresh fruit and yogurt and veggies. Which I think is cool since only one other gas station around here sells things like that.
We then headed to Petsmart and picked up kitten food for Wicket. We didn't have her canned food this morning (we'd run out the night before) and she was NOT pleased. We knew we'd better come home with her canned food or she'd let us know how upset she was. In all actuality, we just felt guilty. *g* We then went to Marshall's (right down the sidewalk from Petsmart) and picked up a new pair of tennies and sweats for Son. He, unlike Daughter, grows so slowly it's not as noticeable as shooting up. But, I catch glimpses now and then of him and can see where his jaw is squaring and his shoulders are widening and his feet are growing. He's all red hair, long arms and long feet right now. *g* But, he still has that cute grin and mischievous look in his eye at all times.  We did find me a laptop bag-a messenger bag style. I like it, but have kept the tags on because I feel bad spending the money on it.
After that we headed to Lowe's. We needed some Murphy's Oil cleaner for the kitchen cabinets and a piece of wood for the kids to practice their aim with their shurikens with.
Then, blessed be home. Because by that time I was tired and my allergies were making me sick. Ugh. We made a small dinner and sat. That was the best part. *g*
And as for reading? I have started the Laura Resnick book. I'm only a couple of chapters in since I've had to take care of a lot of little things since we arrived home. (I'm starting to wish there were a magic cleaners for laundry.) Plus I cut Chris' hair and then had to clean all that up. I don't mind cutting his hair, it's the cleaning up afterwards part. Those little hairs stick to everything. I've taken to sweeping it all up and then getting down on my hands and knees and wiping the entire floor with a damp rag to catch what's left.

Anyway, I need to get some sleep. We're going to try and get by the Out-laws to visit with FIL before Daughter has to be at work tomorrow. But, that's going to require a lack of sleep I wish I could keep.... Selfish, I know. Sorry. This is where I head offline. (Not that I've been online much today-jeez!) I hope y'all had a laugh-filled and smile-filled day. I wish a peaceful and restful Sunday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: I'm counting the yard work. It was not easy.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4.

A Nice Walk!

These pictures are from a walk Son and I took today! The first is of the new Y being built right behind where the old Y (the Pine Y) is now located. The new Y will be finished within the next 6 months. (So we've been told.) They are coming right along with it and we're happy to have a new space on one hand, but on the other? Not so much since a few of the things we love about the Pine Y will no longer be in the new Y. (There will only be one gym-trust me-this is going to be an issue.)(Also, the Women's Health Center with the small room with machines and weights that doesn't smell like a guys locker room won't be in the new Y, either. *sigh* Going to miss that most of all.) AND we're going to have to fight for space for the MA classes, though they are quite popular. I wish they'd surveyed the members before planning the new Y.
The second picture is of an old whatchamacallit. (Sorry, my brain wants to call it a silo, but I know that's not right.) Son and my walk was a total of 2.5 miles with lots of neat things to see along the way. (I enjoyed the smell as we passed by a coffee bean roaster/manufacturer.) The walk we took is part of a trail that runs through two or three towns/city's. It can be walked, run or biked. And we may have walked quite a ways, but it is WAY longer than the small distance we walked. (But, nine year old boys get tired. Maybe next time I'll bring his bike.)

Why did we walk? Daughter volunteered three hours of her time on her day off to wash cars as a part of "Customer Appreciation Week" at the Y. It was organized by another employee (a friend of Daughter's and a college student). Daughter also participated in the employee pot luck. She made my recipe for Chocolate Eclair Dessert and not one spoonful was left when it was over. As a matter of fact, for a recipe I thought everyone and their mother had, she was asked for the recipe as we left. *g* Don't you love potluck recipes like that? That you think most people have had before and yet they must be a favorite recipe. (And I got the recipe from my Mom, so what does that tell you?)
Anyway, Son and I dropped Daughter off then headed to Kohl's because I need some unmentionables. However, I wasn't happy with the prices of them there, so we decided to give up (yes, after one store, it's not easy to talk myself out of spending money on myself *g*) and headed to Hobby Lobby. I wanted to look over the Autumn/Halloween Decorations. *g* While there we found a decoration for Daughter's room to put up for Christmas and a journal for her for Christmas, too. *g* They weren't that expensive and now I have two more things for Daughter. *g* Of course they're hidden in Son's MA bag in the back of the jeep and now I have to figure out how to get them out without her knowing it sometime this weekend. And then to find a place to hide them.
That's when we headed back to the Y and walked to the trail's beginning (down the road from the Y) and took our walk. I enjoyed listening to Son's prattle. He made me smile and laugh and we had a good time together, just the two of us. AND I am betting he'll sleep really well tonight. *g*
After we were done with our walk Son and I headed back to the Y where they were finishing up with the car wash. I volunteered to help wind up the electrical cord and Daughter went in search of her dessert, finding it empty. *g* We headed home and met up with Chris and went to the hospital and visited FIL. He looked better today according to Chris who visited him Wednesday night. And so far he's improving on his own without the need for surgery. Though they don't have him on solid food yet, so he may still need the surgery. We won't know for another few days. I thank you all for your warm thoughts, comments, and prayers. I hate seeing him in that hospital bed. It scares me. He's always been an imposing figure (and not just because he's 6ft. 3in.), he's always been the family's rock. And to know he's already gone through so much in his life and yet again here he is and is so stoic? It makes me want to cry. I can only hope and pray that he'll heal soon.
After the visit we grabbed some take-out and headed home. We've promised MIL that we'd stop by their home tomorrow and take care of some yard work for them. It's no problem, we want to help. We're hoping afterwards we'll have time to go hiking, but I'm thinking we won't. *sigh* I was so looking forward to the hike-something fun to do just the four of us. However, MIL needs help. Family comes first, before fun.
I promised a reading update. I read a sort of cute book yesterday. I was a Christian romance and while I enjoyed certain parts of the story, there were several I had trouble with. One of which was the death of character that I felt had no real reason for the death. It was used to rush to bring the hero and heroine closer together, but they were getting there anyway and I felt it way too contrived. Plus there were two other issues I had. One was an issue between the hero and heroine and the other just popped out of nowhere. *sigh* Granted, it sort of had an HEA. I just wasn't happy with the way the book was pieced together. Which is why I haven't given the title nor the authors name. Next up? Should be the other library book, but the Laura Resnick book is calling to me, so I may do the bad thing and read it instead. *g*

No more from me. It's late, I still need a shower and to run a load of clothes and get some sleep and manage to wake up early enough to help out at MIL's (hopefully without an allergic reaction). I hope y'all had an excellent Friday. I wish an amusing and smile-filled Saturday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 2.5 mile walk with Son and no, I didn't go slow for him.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4.

Kids at play!

As with most pictures of the kids I'll be deleting this one within the next day or so, but I wanted to share a picture from them during one of their MA classes. There's something about this picture that makes me smile. I think it may be the pure happiness (luckily not too visible to y'all, but it was to me) on Daughter's face as she lets Son try a new move on her. (This was taken right before they receive their new belts.)

Today has been a regular Thursday. Except for the fact that Chris had his last visit with the Doctor who performed his surgery. He's done with them-Yay! He does have to go back to the Dermatologist in  January to have a 'look-over' for other skin issues. (I already do that. *g* He doesn't have anything else. *knockonwood*)
The kids had MA this afternoon and worked on their weapons katas. There are some good students in our class, but I can honestly say-without bragging too much-that Son and Daughter's weapons katas were the best. I think it's because the upcoming tournament is not their first and they know what the judges will be looking for, not to mention they have the experience that the others don't. However, I did warn them not to become too cocky that they should remain confident, but that they should never take their abilities for granted.
After their class was my class and then another class for them. (The extra practice is good for them.) I had one of those episodes where I become suddenly exhausted and shaky and cry-prone towards the end of my class. I pushed through (mostly because I'm stubborn) and afterwards headed to the kids class that was still in session. Their teacher noticed my shakiness and told me to eat something. He said my metabolism had revved up and that I needed to eat something. If that's another way of saying my blood sugar dropped? Then probably.
After the kids class we headed out. Tuesday was a release day for the next Rick Riordan book and while Daughter reads in a higher lever than her age-she still loves his books. So, today, thanks to a coupon from B&N they sent in email, she bought the newest book and saved about half off. She was ecstatic.
We then headed home where Chris was kind enough to have dinner ready. Homemade fajitas with homemade salsa was yummy! Son, however, does not eat fajitas and decided on soup. We're at that point where we let him use the stove for small things. Like heating up the soup he wanted. He did great. He timed it and everything. Unfortunately for me he left the burner on and I ended up burning my right hand as I bent down to pop some brownies in the oven I placed my hand on the stove to balance as I placed the brownies in. It didn't take longer than a second to realize that putting my hand on the stove top was not a smart thing. He'd accidentally left the burner on. Granted it was on low, but still! Ouch! I have a white almost blister burn and have been hurting tonight. Ugh.

Update on FIL! He woke feeling a little better this morning so they're running more tests  and keeping a close eye on him to make sure surgery is his only option. Right now he's at a "wait and see" mode and if I know FIL, it's driving him batty. So, your prayers, good thoughts and such have helped hism so much. I truly appreciate your prayers! And thoughts! We're cautiously hopeful no surgery will be needed, but not sure.

I have to get some sleep. I've typed and corrected so many errors and am sure I missed some things even though I've tried. I hope y'all had a thankful and thoughtful Thursday. I wish a fabulous Friday and more smiles to each of you. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Cardio/Pump.
Fitness Challenge Miles: 4.

I forgot to mention my reading and books. I'll have to pass on more typing tonight and will share tomorrow.