Einstein soaks up some sun!

I thought I'd give y'all an Einstein update. He's doing great! As a matter of fact we have ended his isolation because none of the other kitties showed any signs of the same issue and he's been on medication for over 48 hours as well as rasp free for 24 hours. He's back to his lively, funny, sweet, crazy ways.

I am so tired. I ran out of energy around 7pm and have been dragging ever since. I don't know what's going on, but I could do with a bit more energy! However, I did manage to get a few things done today, one of which is to pick up another gallon of paint for Daughter's room. This is for the area near the ceiling and around the baseboards. But, it turns out that Chris didn't seal the cans he had already used up very well. I had taken one with me to match the paint formula and the can had a trace amount that settled and then leaked into my jeep. I'll have to shampoo the carpet to get it out. As I was lifting the can I managed to get some on my shirt, too. *sigh* I did manage to get most of it out but am hoping that washing it will get the rest.
Then we were off to MA class. We arrived early so the kids practiced a bit and a couple of soccer parents came by and checked out the kids as they practiced and I answered some questions they had about the classes.
When we were all done, we headed home and met up with Chris. By this time I was dragging and so let him know that dinner was up to him tonight.
As for reading? I haven't had much time today between schoolwork and errands. I hope to find a few minutes tonight before sleep, but am not so sure that's going to work. I only have a couple of chapters left, though.....

Anyway, time to head offline. I hope y'all had a terrific day. I wish a wonderful Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: Zumba.
Fitness Hours: 1.

An oldie, but goofy!

Butterscotch is silly and sweet and has one of the hardest heads I've ever been head-butted with! He's also goofy. He rolls over and over to get your attention, as if to say "Look at me! Look at how cute I am! Pet me!". We sometimes wonder if he's smarter than he pretends to be, but no one could pretend that much! *g*

Well, a rather simple day. I had to run an errand to the DMV this afternoon and good grief! It was hot and crowded and by the time I got through the help desk (where you check in and receive a number and whatever paperwork you need to fill out)(and also where the help desk staffer was actually quite nice) to the window where I spoke with the other staffer (who was not as friendly, think if Grumpy were a middle aged woman with attitude), well, all I can say is that it could have been worse. *knockonwood* We ran out of time to pick up one last gallon of paint for Daughter's room, which means I'll have to pick it up sometime this week because Son had an event at the library. They were making Lego art for a display. They made "sculptures" out of Lego's and then used other blocks like stamps, painting portions or all of them and then making artwork with the impressions. It was kind of a young craft for Son's age group, but the "tween" librarian is trying and really cares about making these kids happy. Ah, well. It was a pretty good class. Although, it was different in style from our regular teacher. I guess it's nice to shake things up every now and then.
Afterwards I headed home and made dinner. Chris worked on schoolwork all night. He had a paper due and is feeling insecure about it. The man is brilliant and yet I know he worries. And by brilliant I mean he knows a lot, just has no common sense.
As for reading? I put the Larsen book on hold for the day because another book in another series I read came in and since I didn't have the Larsen series with me I started this one. It packs an emotional punch and is a touching look at how the past can shape our lives and how sometimes things work out for the best. And now back to the Larsen book. *g*

I hope y'all had a good Monday and achieved all you set out to do today. I wish a terrific Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: Yoga.
Fitness Hours: 1 hour.

Pretty Miss Pepper!

Pepper is as cute as always. And as sweet. Of course she has been known to try and play with one of the other kitties and they have none of it. She doesn't really give up, either. She's also funny because she meows when you sneeze. *g*

Whew! What a night. Late last night I noticed that Einstein was rasping a little and mentioned it to Chris. He grabbed his old stethoscope and listened, but didn't hear anything. I, however, was worried so stayed up to keep listening. He became worse as the night wore on, not as though he were struggling for breath, but definitely has a rough sound to it. I finally fell asleep and Chris woke about 6:30am this morning and noticed his breathing that time. He again listened to Einstein with his stethoscope, this time he heard something. So, we looked up Emergency Vets and found ONE that would be open later Sunday morning at eight a.m.. Chris took him because Son was still sick and I was taking care of him. Chris called a couple of hours later and said they'd run several tests and it looked like Einstein has/had an Upper Respiratory Infection, though blood tests showed other than that he's healthy, if not a tad small at only four pounds. Einstein had a fever and had to stay at the Vet's until it came down. So, Chris headed home and we had high hopes Einstein would be able to come home today (Sunday, this is late.) They gave him antibiotics and kept an eye on him and he was able to come home after his fever lowered to normal. I had done some reading and so made sure that Einstein is away from the other cats. He's hanging out in the MB and while a tad lonely and therefore sticking like glue to everyone who enters the bedroom.We're to give him the kitty version of amoxicillan (sp) every 12 hours for a week. Btw, he HATES the medicine. With a passion. Yikes!
As for the rest of the day? Zumba and load after load of laundry. And Chris clearing and painting Daughter's room. May I just say that raspberry is a dark color, but looks very nice? However, because it's such a dark color we bought two gallons of paint thinking that would be enough. It's not. We need one more gallon. When everything is done and put together her room is going to be very nice.

As for reading? I'm still reading the second Cat Deluca book. I hope to finish it by tomorrow. I hope y'all had a Blessed Sunday. I wish an awesome and well-rested Monday for y'all. (I say this because I'm fighting to keep my eyes open to finish this. *g*)

Exercise: Zumba-tone
Fitness Hours: 1.

Long Day!

As my unoriginal title states, it has been a long day. Chris and I took a CWP class this morning and tested early this afternoon. We both passed with good results. Son became sick this afternoon and is still not feeling well. I'm keeping an eye on him and seriously driving him crazy trying to get him to drink lots of fluids.
Hmm, what else? I haven't had time to read today, other than the coursework. Because as soon as we arrived home I started wiping down every available surface with Lysol wipes to, hopefully, eradicate whatever germs are running rampant in the house. I'm also posting this on my phone because Daughter has commandeered my computer to enter a writing contest.

So, this is it. I hope y'all had a healthy and happy Saturday. I wish a Blessed Sunday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: none. Ugh! Hopefully tomorrow. Sick kid plus de-germing the house left no time.
Fitness Hours: 0. Definitely not a fan of that number.

Meet Angus!

Angus was a part of the talk the local Humane Society gave last week at our 4-H/Homeschool group meeting. He has a home and was never with the Humane Society, but he helps the kids understand the different things that happen when an animal is brought into the Humane Society and what the entire process is from start to adoption. One by one the kids were called up to "help" with Angus, whether it was to pretend to bathe him, to pretend to test his feces for worms and test him for heart-worms to how they are socialized and tested and then spayed and neutered. It was fun and the kids had a blast. Every one who attended (okay, those who chose to remember ) brought in donations of pet food. The kids and I brought in two bags. One for cats and one for dogs.

We got Ruby back today. Turns out the fuel line had gunk in it, so they cleaned it out and the jeep should run better now. Daughter had to work and after we picked her up we stopped at Hobby Lobby for some Fray Check for Daughter's fans. Then to Academy for a couple of things. Then to Target for Son's Claratin and a few other things and then to Lowe's for tape measures (Chris broke two of his and LOST mine somewhere) and also the pain to paint Daughter's room this weekend. It all had to be done tonight because tomorrow is going to busy with something else and again, starts early. *sigh*
But, I have a meme to do! Christine did it on her blog and tagged everyone who read it. *g*
Rules:
1. You must post the rules.
2. Answer the questions the tagger set for you in their post and then create eleven new questions to ask the people you've tagged.
3. Tag eleven people and link them to your post.
4. Let them know you've tagged them!

So, First are my answers to the Questions Christine posted:

1. What is your favorite genre to read? Romance.
 I prefer lighthearted to angst driven.

2. What is the first romance novel you ever read and how old were you when you read it?
The First romance I read was an old romance series, the one with the white cover(Harlequin?) and gold names and such. As you can tell I haven't read many series romances since then. Then again, is Gone with the Wind a romance? Because I read that when I was 8 years old. Um, Jane Eyre? Anne of Green Gables (the series?)?

3. How many books--paper or ebooks--are in your existing TBR pile?
 [TBR = your To-Be-Read and typically refers to books you already own but haven't yet read]
I'm not like most readers. I don't have a huge TBR, I think there are 8 library books on my bedside table and maybe 3 ebooks on my kindle fire, one of which is a library book.

4. Do you read nonfiction? If so, from which sub-genre?
I read almost everything, so yes, I read nonfiction. I read cookbooks, memoirs, history books and science books.

5. Do you own an e-reading device? If so, which one(s)?
I own one e-reading device and wouldn't have that if hubs hadn't broken the spending rule at Christmas. He was quite generous and gave me a Kindle Fire. I also have ereader apps on my phone: ibook, Kindle and nook.

6. Which one book have you re-read most often?
Hmm, this one's hard. It may be Mr. Perfect by Linda Howard. It makes me laugh and cry and cringe.

7. How many library books do you have out right now?
Heh. I have nine library books out right now. The most I've had in a very long time. 

8. How do you mark your place in a book?
I'm going to get in trouble for this one. I fold down the corners. Very tiny folds, but folds nonetheless. If I remember, I use a scrap of paper or the library check out receipt for a bookmark.

9. About how many books do you typically read in a month?
I can read anywhere between......  10-15 books a month, in a good month.

10. What was the last book that made you cry?
I honestly can't remember. But, I'm sure it wasn't too long ago. I think it was a Kristan Higgins, her latest.

11. What was the last book that made you laugh?
That would be one I recently finished, Liar, Liar by K. J. Larsen. It was so much fun! 

I'm tagging anyone who bothers to read this post! *g*
And my questions for y'all are....
1. What is your go-to book? The one book that can lighten your mood and make you smile?

2. What is the first book you remember reading?

3. What was your favorite book as a teenager? 

4. Hardcover, Mass Market or e-book? 

5. If you could meet any author, who would it be? (Passed/Past or Present.)

6. Have you ever been to a book signing? Book Convention? 

7. What was the book you HAD to read to your youngest family member? (Be it child or niece or nephew, etc.) 

8. How many books are on your Keeper Shelf (Shelves)?

9. Have you ever read a "wall-banger"? 

10. Have you ever read a book just because someone asked you to, even though it wasn't your normal type? 

11. Have you ever read a book that made you sleep with the lights on? 

And there you go! I really hope someone participates. I'm too nosy by far and would love to read the answers.

I hope y'all had a sunny and happy Friday. I wish an amusing and smile-filled Saturday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: *sigh* Chris threw my schedule off today, so no. I knew it would only be a matter of time.
Fitness Hours: 0 <----- NOT liking this number.
P.S. I'm still reading the 2nd book in the Cat Deluca series, Sticks and Stones.

Zombies Beware!

While we were at Academy and Son had a blast with the paintball items, we also noticed this ammo box in the hunting area. As soon as I saw the box I had to take a picture and since Tori said she had Zombies on the brain yesterday.... *g* What you can't see in the bottom right hand corner is where it says "certified zombie hunting ammunition". So, Tori, what do you think? *g*

I have to be honest. I am so tired I can't even think straight. It's been a long day that started way too early to follow Chris to the mechanic's to drop off Ruby. And just went on from there. So. This is it. I'm reading the second book in the Cat Deluca series by K. J. Larsen and we had our usual Thursday. However, one thing did happen. Tonight was the last night for the line dancing class. The teacher is also a H.S. track coach and the class time is starting to interfere with her training schedule. So far there are no plans to change the days for the class, but the idea may be revisited after the new Y opens in April. I'm crossing my fingers!

And that's it. We have a few errands to run tomorrow and need to start taping off Daughter's room to paint it Sunday. I hope y'all had a marvelous Thursday. I wish a fun and enjoyable Friday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: Line Dancing. I took it easy today because I just had no energy.
Fitness Hours: 1 hour.

Ready, Aim, Splat!

As y'all know I don't normally post pictures of Son. He's just too cute and y'all would be overcome to pinch his cheeks. *g* Kidding! But, I figured this picture was too funny not to share, not to mention it doesn't really place his identity in jeopardy. We were at Academy Sports Tuesday and Son discovered the paintball isle. He's heard stories of his dad (Chris) going paintball-ing and wants so badly to try it. He tried on this safety mask/helmet and said all he needed was a paintball gun and he was ready. *g*

Not much to share today. Sorry. Chris took care of a few errands and we spent most of the day home taking care of schoolwork. There was a short trip by the library to drop off some books and pick up other holds that had come in. I now have: Heartache Falls by Emily March, Sticks and Stones by K. J. Larsen. Finger Lickin' Dead by Riley Adams (the library didn't have the first book in this series, but I thought I'd try it anyway) and Out of Eden by Beth Ciotta (a reread for me while I wait on her two new series to be released-a looong wait. Boo!) I've already started reading the Emily March book. It's so easy to be sucked into these Eternity Springs books.

Now I need to get some sleep. I'm up WAY too late and need to get up extra early to help Chris take Ruby the jeep to the mechanic's to have a look-see done since the jeep is so old and Chris uses it to go back and forth to work every day. We're hoping and praying we won't need to do much, maybe change out the plugs and such. 

And that's all. Off to bed I go. I hope y'all had a wonderful and fulfilling Ash Wednesday. I wish a thankful and thoughtful Thursday for y'all.

Exercise: Zumba, Kettlebells.
Fitness Hours: 1hr. 50 mins.  I refrained from too much twisting in Zumba and used a 5lb. weight in kettlebell. If it hurt, I stopped doing it. I'm hoping the exercise helps rather than hinders recovery. Of course I'm also hoping I can walk in the morning without pain. Crossing my fingers! *g*

Sleeping Beauty!

I had a hard time making my bed the other day. Layla decided that Chris' blanket was hers and that heck no, I didn't need to fold it and raise the duvet. Do you know she slept for another two hours before deigning to jump down? *g* Yes, I could have moved her, but I had other things to do and chose to do battle another day.
Well, so far Chris has been home for two days. He's gotten a few things done and had tried very hard not to get on my nerves by disrupting our routine. He had to take this vacation since the time is left over from last year. Kind of a take it or lose it type of thing.
Y'all know how our Tuesdays usually run. The kids had MA tonight and Daughter showed Sensei and the AD her fighting fans. Her AD had a few suggestions and showed her how to do a few maneuvers to use with them. She's having a blast with them. BTW, that's how I knew she wasn't feeling well Saturday, Sunday and Monday. She didn't, not once, even open her new fighting fans.

Anyway, the big thing tonight? I read a book at the Y and finished the last chapter at home. It was a cute YA instead of the Senate book because I wanted something light to read. However, that's not the big thing. Instead of picking up the Senate book after finishing the cute YA I picked up the newest Mary Stanton Beaufort and Company mystery, Angel Condemned. I was shocked and horrified to discover whoever had checked out the book before me had written in the book! The writings are in pencil, but they are there. They corrected something on the Cast of Characters/locations page. And now I've found that they've "edited" other things. Granted, they are things an actual editor should have picked up on, misspelling of character names, a phrase out of order, etc. However, I'm only at the third chapter and am sure there are going to be more instances. What the heck gives someone the right to WRITE and correct a library book? If it were their own book? Fine! Write to your hearts content, correct away. But, this book doesn't belong to them. It's property of our county and other people would like to read the book without being distracted by someone's corrections. It just smacks of an egotistical mind, to me anyway. Someone more concerned with their own intelligence and importance than the property they've defaced. Look. I don't like happening upon grammatical or misspelling errors in books. Truly, sometimes it bugs the snot out of me. However, it's not my place to take a pencil to an almost brand new book that is NOT MY PROPERTY and deface it with my corrections of an authors work. What would you do? Ignore the mistakes or do what this person has done and correct everything in pencil in a library book? (At least it wasn't ink! *g*)

Sorry for the mini-rant, but defacing library property seems to have hit one of my "hot" buttons. I hope y'all had a happy and lovely day. I wish a wonderful Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: I knew there was no way I was up to Zumba, so the upright bike was my friend tonight. 14 miles.
Fitness Hours: 45 minutes.

An Elephant by any other name....

Poor Teddy. Son found the elephant hat that we had for the cats. He decided to try it on Teddy. Teddy wasn't happy about it, but dealt with it after a few minutes. Kittens are adaptable that way. *g*

Well, Daughter is feeling better. She still is taking it easy, but has been eating a little better. She tried a little chicken today, but decided she wasn't ready and went back to soup. Then again, she also decided the cookies I'd picked up for her were okay, so there's that. *g*
My back is a little better, too. Thank goodness. I couldn't have handled another day like yesterday. I did go to Yoga this evening, though. I thought the stretching portion would be good and it did seem to help a bit. The big test will be tomorrow.
This is the first day of Chris' stay-cation. (What a strange word.) He ran errands today and tomorrow he's making appointments to have the jeeps tuned-up. Sometime this week we also have to make a trip to Lowe's to pick up paint for Daughter's room. She's decided on a raspberry color. It will work well with the white trim, black duvet , large white bookcase and pewter bedside table she has in her room.

Hmm, in reading I've just finished a fun and wacky mystery, Liar, Liar by K. J. Larsen was filled with crazy characters along with a fun mystery. I say fun because I figured out pretty quickly who and what the "dead man" was and a few other things. I can say I'd kind of like an Uncle Joey. And the wake for the car? Weird as heck, but funny. Trust me, if you like oddball mysteries, you'll love this one. *g* Up next? Another oddball mystery. *g* This one is Love You to Death by Melissa Senate. (While I wait for the library to get in the second book in Larsen's Cat Deluca series.) I'm only a few pages in, but so far it seems quirky enough to hold my attention while it sets up the book.

That's it. Nothing else to share. Oh, we are enjoying watching The Voice as a family. All the joking and quips by the judges make it personable and the singers are usually good to hear. One didn't make it tonight that we all thought should (the one with the red tie and red shoes, he was GOOD). I sincerely hope someone noticed him tonight that can help his career.

I hope y'all had a nice and low-key Monday. I wish a marvelous Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: Yoga.
Fitness Hours: 1. 

Beautiful and Dangerous!

Hmmm, that's probably a good description of Daughter! *g* Here are Daughter's Chinese Fighting Fans. Aren't they gorgeous? They have a black background with a colorful Phoenix on them and the fan also has iron metal pieces (they look like shiny steel) that aren't black but look like that in this picture for some reason. The iron is the actual weapon part, it makes the fans heavy and perfect for nerve attacks. She's already mastered the art of flipping them open and closed with both hands at the same time. Although, her practicing had to take a back seat yesterday and today. She's felt too bad to play around with them.

It's been a boring and quiet day. And you know what? It's been nice! Because my back hurt so badly when I woke this morning (I admit I may have overdone it yesterday trying to take care of everything) that I needed help getting dressed and Daughter had a sore throat and still felt sick we stayed home all day and have done nothing. (Well, a little more laundry, but nothing else.)  I've enjoyed the time spent with my family and especially Chris. I better enjoy it today because he's off this week, taking a week's vacation to do a few things around the house (painting Daughter's room for one thing) and having the oil changed in the vehicles. All the things we can't seem to get to on the weekends. *g*
As for reading? I admit I took an actual pain pill (those things are scary) and ended up involuntarily cat-napping on the couch this afternoon. But, I still have a little time and plan on picking up a book to read for a bit.

No more from me. I've bored y'all enough. I hope y'all had a restful and peaceful Sunday. I wish a pleasing and sunny Monday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Go Get'em!

If you weren't familiar with cats you'd wonder if maybe Einstein was angry with his paw. Because you can see his tiny teeth as he bites his tiny nails. And look at those pads! He has the funniest pads of his paws. I'll try and get a picture of them soon.

Well, to say today was eventful would be an understatement. Daughter woke feeling sick, but chalked it up to drainage. She became ill, but insisted that she felt better afterwards. We kept an eye on her and dawdled for a while to make sure she was okay and after an hour or so we went ahead and left for errands. Unfortunately we should have listened to our own parent intuition instead of Daughter's words. She became ill in the jeep. Luckily we were about 15 minutes from home. We headed home, cleaned up the jeep, made sure she was comfortable and settled on the couch (after a shower) with a bucket.
However! Chris and I had grocery shopping to do as well as picking Daughter up a new set of sheets for her new mattress. Her old sheets didn't fit so she wasn't able to use them last night. We made sure that Daughter was feeling okay, loaded her up with sprite, and headed out quickly. We picked her up a new set of sheets and also a new duvet (This is part of her Birthday, but mostly? She has been a good Daughter and her wants are sometimes pushed aside for her brother or because something else comes up that needs dealing with. We wanted to make sure she has a pretty room she can feel comfortable in.). We purchased all our groceries and headed home. I did pick the kids up some treats.

As for reading? I really haven't had time today. I've done five loads of laundry, cleaned out and detailed the interior of the jeep and ran errands as well as tried to anticipate Daughter's every need when we've been home. She's feeling a little better now and hasn't been ill in four hours. Always a good thing. (Ginger-ale is a wonderful thing!)

That's it. I'm exhausted and my back, while feeling a little better earlier, is now hurting. So, offline and to bed. I hope y'all had a nice Saturday. I wish a peaceful and restful Sunday. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: None.
Fitness Hours: 0 <---- still not fond of this number, but feel like I've been too busy to complain about it.

This face calls for a bow tie!

Einstein aka Mr. Mittens aka Crazy Cat is sweet as can be, but definitely has issues. When he has a toy, no one else is allowed to play with that toy and he'll run away with it growling until he's left alone and grows bored with his toy. (But will play with others and also chases the "red bug" or wand with others.) He also has decided that he wants to insert himself between Layla and myself at night. If I'm petting Layla as I fall asleep he tries to clime between her and I. Silly boy, he'll soon learn that Layla is Grande Dame` around here!

Well, today has been pretty quiet. Mostly because I still can't exercise and it's driving me nutty. I feel like a big slob, but am still experiencing pain doing anything physical. After dropping Daughter at work this afternoon Son and I headed to Petsmart to pick up some kitty food and while there Son visited with the birds and reptiles. He's decided he wants a bearded dragon. Um, huh? I didn't say no, but did remind him that the cats were likely to want to attack it and that he needed to do more research before making up his mind.
When we picked Daughter up from work we headed to the next city over to meet up with Chris at Sam's. I needed help with grocery shopping today and he was my hired muscle. We have also been planning for quite a while to purchase Daughter a new mattress and did so tonight at Sam's. It's a Serta Gel Memory Foam. We think it'll be good for her joints and her old mattress was almost as old as Son!
We then headed home and had dinner and set about putting up Daughter's new bed. It was weird, it was shrink-wrapped inside a box and after cutting away the inner wrapper it expanded. Kind of like a those weird things you can buy and add water to and have a dinosaur or something.  *g* But, she's already tried it out and loves it. Yay! We're trying to slowly make over her room. First a new mattress and then painting her room, a new duvet and maybe some new art work for her walls. Oh, and painting her bookshelves and trophy shelf. Good thing paint isn't too expensive.
As for reading? I'm still reading the Competition book and it's still slow going. I may put it down and pick up another book for a little while. I'm just finding it way too easy to walk away from the book.
Oh, Daughter ordered some Chinese Martial Arts Fighting Fans earlier this week and they were delivered today. She's been practicing ever since and playing around with them, trying to form a new weapons kata for them so she can perform it at the upcoming MA tournament in May. I posted a picture of them on facebook, but may post one here, too. They are very pretty and have a phoenix on a black background. She's already learned to snap them open and closed. (I was kidding with her this evening because she was opening and closing them while we drove to meet Chris and said that she must be tapping into her Southern Belle genes to be able to snap those fans open. And I was joking with her. I don't have any Southern Belle ancestors, so it's not that!)

Anyway, time to get some rest. I hope y'all had an enjoyable Friday. I wish an amusing and relaxing Saturday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: Again - 0. Blerg....
Fitness Hours: 0. And I'm going loony.......

Hearts in her eyes!

My Valentine's Day gift from the hubs. Isn't she cute? Don't worry, I'm not into eeeevil. I just saw one of these on a t-shirt one time and told Chris I thought it was cute. It is funny, and kind of sweet in a weird way. I thought that fit me a bit. *g*

Well, I've done it again. I guess I over-did it and now my back is hurting badly. I don't know how long it will take me to get back to where I was before this happened- again. I was just to the point where my back wasn't bothering me and now this. *sigh* I took the day off, so to speak. At least from exercising, anyway. However, I've also been taking a lot of ibuprofen.
We made it to Son's 4-H Homeschool meeting this afternoon. The talk by the person from the Humane Society was interesting. I like how she kept it to their general age level. Each child had a job to do in her demonstration and that was pretty cool. She also stayed on target time-wise. There was also another woman there with her, to help demonstrate some things with her dog. Her dog's name is Angus and he's a black lab. He was very big and very sweet and funny! Oh, and he loved all the treats and attention he received. He licked Son and rolled over for Daughter to rub his tummy. Silly puppy! (Well, I call him a puppy even though he was five years old.)
After that we headed to the kids MA class. In the first class I was asked to chaperone a group of white belts while a young green belt ran them through some drills. I didn't mind. It gave me something to do I felt useful for a little bit. I missed being able to work-out and I know realistically its not possible, but I feel heavier and blah because of it.
During the second class I mostly read the book I'd brought with me and before I knew it, it was time to head home. Chris picked out something for dinner and we all had a chance to relax this evening. And as for reading? I finished up another book! I read the Jennifer Estep YA and I have to say I really enjoy the Mythos academy series. I love mythology and the books are filled with it, but in a modern day setting with modern issues woven through the basic storyline of good vs. evil. I can't wait for the third book in THIS series, either!

I've already begun reading yet another book, The Competition. I don't know how I missed this book years ago when it was released. I can say that it's a little dated. Cell-phones are mentioned, but it's early days for them as well as a few other things. It's moving a tad slow, but I know it's setting the basics in place before diving into the major plot.

And now it's time to head offline. I'm up too late, again, and need to get some rest. I hope y'all had a comfortable and smile-filled day. I wish a fun and enjoyable Friday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: None. Babying the back. Bleh.
Fitness Hours: 0 <------ Dislike this number!

Smorgashboard of Books!

I am seriously loving my library right now and in bibliophile heaven. They've been prompt in getting in many of my holds in the past two days. I had four more come in today! This picture is from last night. It doesn't include the newest ones I picked up this afternoon.

A quiet day here. Schoolwork was tackled and done and then? Nowhere else to be, for the kids, anyway. This evening, after my trip by the library I headed to the Y. I wasn't able to get a regular workout in before my kettlebell class, but managed four miles on the bike. As for the class? It went well, except that my yoga class made my back sore this week (just when I felt like it was starting to get better) and then tonight the different exercises with the kettlebell have made it very painful. Thank God for ibuprofen. After class I headed home and picked Daughter up. She wanted to go to the grocery store (she was paid today) and pick up snacks for when she works. While there I picked up a bag of cat food and a bag of dog food for the 4-H/homeschool event tomorrow. We're having the local Humane Society give a talk on the shelter and pet care and they've asked for pet food donations.
And tonight I started and finished Back in the Habit by Alice Loweecey. I was reading the Estep book, but when the Loweecey book came in today I knew I had to read it. It was, if possible, even better than the first book in the ex-nun turned P.I. partner mystery series. I really hope a third is coming out soon! *g*
As for the books I now have? I have:
Back in the Habit by Alice Loweecey (Mystery)
Kiss of Frost by Jennifer Estep (YA)
The Competition by Stephanie Bond (Suspense)
Angel Condemned by Mary Stanton (Mystery)
Die Job by Lila Dare (Mystery)
Phoenix Rising: A Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences Novel by Pip Ballantine and Tee Morris (Steampunk)
Confessions of a First Daughter by Cassidy Calloway (YA)
Liar, Liar by K.J. Larsen (Mystery)
Rhymes with Cupid by Anna Humphrey (YA)
Diary of a Mad Fat Girl by Stephanie McAfee ( Women's Fiction *g*) The title cracks me up!
Love You to Death by Melissa Senate (Mystery, Women's Fiction)
Sorceress Interrupted by A.J. Menden (Fantasy)

Isn't that a great bunch of books? I've warned y'all several times I read across many genres. *g*

Anyway, one of those is already finished. But, I love the fact that I have a choice of what to read next. Now to pick one! What? It's hard! I've hardly ever been in this type of situation! Probably the Estep book again, though- to finish it.

I hope y'all had a fantastic Wednesday. I wish a thankful and thoughtful Thursday for y'all. I'm headed offline to try and get a little more sleep. (I read and then fell asleep and then woke up and remembered I needed to post and, well, y'all get the idea.)
Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 4 miles stationary bike, kettlebell.
Fitness Hours: 1hr. 15min.

Time for a Walk!

Midnight's favorite thing in the world to do is to go outside for a walk on the leash. If he see's one of us reach into the hall closet to get his leash he meows constantly until he's outside. I would almost swear his meow's sound like he's saying "out". Did I mention that he also likes to lick dog biscuits? I think I have a dog in a cat suit! *g*

I hope everyone had a pleasing Valentine's Day. I'm sorry I didn't send out e-cards this year, but after having my email address hacked last year I stopped using the card service I used because I was too afraid my information and contacts would be swiped. I would never compromise y'alls email addresses that way. So, please know I was thinking of each of you today!
Daughter worked this afternoon so after dropping her off (and giving her money to have her lunch delivered for a treat) I treated Son to lunch out as well. I opted for a subway sandwich, but the boy has a love-love relationship with popcorn chicken and mac and cheese. Yeah, he's a Southern boy all right!
When we arrived home and after eating our lunches I decided to start dinner so that Chris wouldn't have to cook tonight and since it's a late night out for the kids and I, well, I didn't want to have to cook after arriving home.
When everything was done Son and I headed back out to meet up with Daughter before the kids MA classes with a short stop by the library to pick up my holds. I now have 8 books to read! I think this qualifies as a TBR PILE! YAY! Hmm, how many books do y'all consider a pile? I wonder if this is a tall stack instead? *g* I'll post the list of the books tomorrow, it's late and I need to head offline soon.

We don't go overboard for Valentine's Day here. But, Chris liked his jar of caramel creams and his small gift card to have lunch out. Daughter loved her cup and her sparkly lanyard (she needed a new one) and her sour gummy worms. Son also received a cup along with the Star Wars M&M dispenser that has an M&M character dressed up like Boba Fett. *g* I received a car tag that has a skull with a pink bow and heart eyes. She's cute! I'll share a picture of her soon, too.

And that's our day/night. Pretty low-key. We enjoyed NCIS tonight and thought the last, where the one punch felled the villain (not naming names and speaking in generalities in case of spoiling for someone) was pretty cool. Oh, as for reading? I'm reading Kiss of Frost by Jennifer Estep, a YA and the second book in the Mythos Academy series.

Well, that's that. I hope y'all had a good Tuesday. I wish a wonderful Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: Zumba.
Fitness Hours: 1 hour Zumba.

Sweet and Simple!

I know I posted a picture similar to this one within the last week, but Layla is one of my favorite photo subjects. I guess it's because I can almost see what she's thinking on her face. This one? She's wondering why I'm so crazy because don't I have enough pictures of her? *g* (And yes, I realize that sentence wasn't grammatically correct. Give me a break, it's late and my brain is much. *g*)

Another Monday done and gone. MIL stopped by this afternoon with Valentine's Day cards and gifts for the kids. Then later Son had an event at the library. The tween event was to decorate cookies to take home as well as make and decorate Valentine's Day cards. Since I helped during the event and helped clean up afterwards the event coordinator gave me a few of the sticky letters and hearts to take home. I gave two out to two people I thought could use a smile tonight at the Y after Yoga class. I was right, it did make the people I have them to smile. *g*
We watched The Voice tonight while making each other cards. My kitchen table was covered in different papers, stickers, glue, scissors, letters and pens. *g* We had a good time and can't wait to see each others reactions tomorrow.
As for reading? I finished up the Maddy Hunter Passport to Peril book. I am SO GLAD that the series is getting a second life after being cancelled by a previous publisher. It was wonderful to be able to read about characters that become such a part of the series they run around in your head a bit. *g* I can't wait until the next book due out early next year. It's too far away! As for what's up next? Not sure yet, I still have three library books and just put a bunch more on hold. I also spent WAY too much time tonight (as in two hours almost passed before I realized it) playing with Goodreads, again. I found a bunch of books to add to my "to-read" area on there as well as cross checking with the library to see if they had any in the database, hence the added holds. Do y'all do that? Play with the recommendations on Goodreads? (If you're on there?) I still haven't exhausted the recommendations, but gave it a good workout! *g*

And that's it. Sorry, not much else to share. It's been pretty quiet *knockonwood* today. We're due some rain with mixed sleet in it during the night. I'm hoping the roads are safe here in the morning for Chris. I also hope y'all are experiencing good weather and are smiling. If for no reason other than you took a deep breath and relaxed a minute. I wish a terrific Tuesday for y'all. Happy Valentine's Day to each of you. Each has a place in my heart! <3   Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Yoga!
Fitness Hours: 1.

Pillow Pals!

This is going to be short. Not much to share today, but thought y'all would get a tickle out of this picture of Midnight and Einstein! Midnight looks as though he's using Einstein as a cuddle buddy or pillow buddy. I thought it was too cute not to share.
As for the day? Not much out of normal. I attended Zumba and then took Daughter to a meeting for work. Since I was there after the Y had closed and all the employees were in the meeting I ended up having to tell people who tried to walk in to use the facilities that the Y was closed. No wonder it's been assumed I work there sometimes!

And that's it. I hope y'all had a peaceful Sunday. I wish a stress-free and hopeful Monday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: Zumba-tone,  2.55 miles treadmill
Fitness Hours: 1hr. 45min.

Eying the Prize!

Pardon the fuzziness of the picture, but I wanted to take a picture of the kitties and Son's helicopter. Einstein is fascinated with it, but yet fearful of it. He keeps trying to smack it, but will then duck away. *g* Then again, Pepper will chase it around the LR trying to grab it. *g*

A very quiet day here. We took care of household things and then headed out for one errand. I asked the kids yesterday if they wanted to purchase Valentine's this year, or whether they wanted to make them. They immediately said they wanted to make them. That necessitated a trip to Hobby Lobby for supplies. We hardly ever get to visit the store, so we ended up spending over an hour wandering the isles and looking at every thing. We picked up our card supplies on the scrap-booking isles. We picked up stickers and pretty papers and the kids each picked out a stamp, too. Yes, we spent more than if we'd bought cards for each other, but at the same time we love taking the time to personalize these cards every year.
After that we headed home. Our allergies are bad today and Son, Daughter and I woke with sore throats and Son and I had a sinus headache, too. The mild winter means we haven't had a many hard freezes (not since November at least) so pollen has been bugging us. Add in very high winds today and finally cold temperatures and, well, we'll deal with it. Thanks to the high winds we lost power twice early this afternoon. And we have underground power lines in our neighborhood, so that was weird.

Chris and I made dinner together and I went ahead and made dinner for tomorrow night, too. I decided we'd have homemade chicken soup to go along with the cooler weather, not to mention it can't hurt to boost our immune systems a bit! *g*

As for reading? I finished the Rachel Herron book. I don't know what it is exactly about her books that I like so much. I think it's the way the characters come together and yet in the background you get this sense of community and it's all tied together somehow. The characters are always ones that have traits you can sympathize with and while there are HEA's, they are worked toward so you're pretty satisfied with the endings. I can say that while I liked the ending of this book and the sense of HEA, I wish the epilogue had focused more on the main couple. Next up is the Maddy Hunter book. I am looking forward to reading this book as it's a continuation of a series I adore. And Daughter can't wait to read it after me! *g*
It's been a low-key and boring day. There was an upsetting incident early this afternoon, but I've prayed about it and don't know what else we can do. (A cat was hit and was still able to walk, two of it's paws were damaged. Chris tried to call it and capture it so we could see if it could be taken to the Emergency Vet, but the cat jumped down in the storm drains that populate our neighborhood that the stray cats all travel through. He couldn't get the cat to come out and couldn't reach it. We'll keep checking for it, but don't know what else to do.) We are going to be calling the local police department about this because people just speed through the neighborhood and it's dangerous. And it's surprising because this neighborhood is very quiet and we have no crime (*knockonwood*), but yet even parents in mini-vans are speeding down our road. Don't get me started on how UPS and Fed-Ex treat this road. Ugh. We're hopeful that the police will patrol for a while to deter speeders. I wish we had a speed bump, but our road in our neighborhood is one of the few that doesn't have one.

Nothing else to share. And what I have shared is pretty darn boring! Sorry! I hope y'all had a lovely day. I wish a Blessed Sunday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: None today. Headache and sore throat made for a careful day.
Fitness Hours: 0 <---- Not fond of this #.

Simple Love!

I love this face. Of course, I love more than her face. But, you have to admit. She has a rather direct gaze. Besides Chris, she is my best friend. She's a great confidant because she never tattles. *g* And when I'm feeling blue her purr always makes me smile.

I had a good day. Daughter worked this afternoon so when Son and I dropped her off we picked up a few small things for Chris for Valentine's Day. (I've had hers for a week now.) While out I saw the perfect and cutest thing for Son so I snapped a picture (Because he was a good boy and didn't leave my side the entire time so no sneaking anything into the basket.) and later sent it to Chris so he could pick it up on his way home from work. (Oh, the thing? An M&M dispenser with an M&M character dressed as Boba Fett. He's going to love it and it adds to his Star Wars collection.)
When we headed back to the Y after Daughter had gotten off from work they swam for an hour or so while I worked out. I met the nicest lady while working out and we chatted for a while. For the third time in two days I was told I didn't look old enough to have a sixteen year old. While I'm not vain, I have to admit I enjoy whenever someone tells me that. *g* It's funny. I'm still shy, but I am so comfortable at the Y that I almost feel at home there. (To the point where sometimes it's assumed I work there, well, at either one. *g*) My normal shyness isn't as bad there, so I can smile freely and I sincerely hope every smile and "good day" I say makes someone else happy. Because I am usually happy when I'm there, even when I'm exhausted.
As for reading? I'm still reading the Rachel Herron book. I'm about halfway through. I hope to finish it this weekend, since I picked up two more books that had come in today from the library. I now have Angel Condemmed by Mary Stanton and Sorceress Interrupted by A. J. Menden.
As for tonight? We made dinner and later I made blonde brownies. I made them because I needed something sweet and I've decided I won't buy anything sweet any more. If I want something I'm going to have to take the time to make it. I figure that will make me think more about it since I'll have to decide on something and take the time to put it together and bake it. If after all that I still want it? Well, at least I'll know what's in it and that there are ingredients I control in it.

That's all. Time for bed. It's very late. I hope y'all had an excellent Friday. I wish a laughter and smile filled Saturday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 14 miles bike, 15 minutes weights.
Fitness Hours: 1.

Souvenir from our Walk

Rather innocuous, right? But, I find it strange to live in a state that feels the need to remind everyone where they live. Then again, I am also kind of proud because they're actually kind of pretty. Yeah, I know. I think too much sometimes.Okay, most the time. *g*

While today wasn't quiet, it was at the same time. Sounds odd, I know. I guess you could say that while the day was okay I was the quiet one. Allergies were kicking my fanny today. I woke with a sinus headache and felt tired and sore all day. Part of it was the class last night, but the other? Everything has just felt like too much. But, I don't let myself get away with that and tend to push myself anyway.
This afternoon we headed to the kids MA class. Daughter taught part of the class, though Sensei was there, he wants her to have experience. During class they practiced stances and then worked on actually thinking about the moves they might make instead of actually making the moves. It was a very different experience for most the kids. (Visualization.) They then worked on breathing by doing a few Tai Chi exercises. It was different and the kids responded well. The AD is actually looking for a Tai Chi instructor to add classes to the Y. I hope he finds someone, I'm interested in trying it.
When the kids attended their second class I worked out on the bike and then started line dancing class. Yes, I know I said I was tired. But, I really wanted to take the class. However, not long after, on the way home, I finally hit my wall and had to muster energy to get out of the jeep when we arrived home.
Thankfully, dinner was quick and Chris and I vegged for a bit afterwards. We all really like the show The Finder. The lead character is quirky and frank, but brilliant.
And during the day I had the chance to read, as well as when I was on the bike and watching the kids in class. So, I've finished the Sharon Sala book and have started reading Wishes and Stitches by Rachel Herron. I read another book by this author a while back and enjoyed it. So far I'm enjoying this one as well. The lead is a Doctor who is socially awkward and keeping secrets she really doesn't need to keep, nor knows how to disclose. She comes off as standoffish and really is just unsure of herself. I find myself connecting with her.
Well, that's it from me. Time to get some rest and sleep. I hope y'all had a thankful and thoughtful Thursday. I wish a fun and enjoyable Friday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 10.60 miles bike, 1 hour line dancing.
Fitness Hours: 1hr. 35min.. 

That's the spot!

Midnight likes to play Mommy. He makes sure the kittens are clean and happy and even plays with them. He's weird. Then again, he's not the only one. Butterscotch is sweet to them as well. It just strikes me funny that whereas females are usually caregivers two of my fellows enjoy helping care for the kittens.

Today was very quiet. We worked on schoolwork most the day and then this evening I headed off to my kettlebell class with a short stop by the library to drop off books, and also pick up one that had come in from hold. Next of Kin by Sharon Sala sounded interesting. I hope so!
I worked out on the treadmill for a bit before class and as I did last week, I had a blast in kettlebell class. I like the challenge. The teacher gives us parameters to meet and then times us as we do the exercises and I enjoy trying to not only meet my goal, but to surpass it. Yeah, I've always been weird that way.
And for reading? I started and finished another YA. I began reading it last night and finished it this afternoon. love? maybe. by Heather Hepler was a cute, but not quite light contemporary. The lead is cynical of all things love due to her parent's divorce and then the divorce of her mother from her second marriage. She is responsible, always helping her mom, friends, boss and siblings. And yet, pushes everyone away because of a fear of being hurt because, well, love hurts. Add in a secret admirer, the fact that her birthday is Valentine's day and her life seemingly spiraling out of control and she learns that yes, love can hurt, but love can also be full of hope. I liked it. *g* And since finishing that book, I've begun and just a few minutes ago finished Lucy March's A Little Night Magic. It was a fascinating book filled with magic and love and acceptance. I didn't want to put it down until I finished it and I can't wait to read the next book due out in this loosely based series due out in 2013.

And that's about it. A slow day, but one where I had a chance to read! Yay! I hope y'all had a wonderful Wednesday. I wish a Thursday filled with small but positive gestures for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 2 miles treadmill, 1 hour kettlebell.
Fitness Hours: 1hr. 30min.

The Captain's Lair!

Spot the kitties! Can you count them? Want a hint? There are four kitties on Son's bed, a highly unusual event. Clockwise we have: Fireball, Butterscotch, Patches and Wicket. And the reason for the cozy nap on Son's bed? A cool day and a warm room. *g* It's warmer upstairs in our house than downstairs (We forgot to switch the attic blower around and since Winter has been so mild we've just left it that way for now.)

Well, they've done it! Both kids were promoted in MA class tonight! They were shocked and had no idea it was happening until the teacher called each up. *g* Of course my telling them things like, "Y'all better practice if you want to rank up next month", helped keep them from guessing. I hid Son's belt until the very last minute the teacher asked for it and the look on his face was one of complete shock! *g* I wish I could share the pictures I took!
Since I knew I would miss my workout so I could watch the kids get promoted I talked them into swimming before class and I swam laps while they goofed off. It was still a good workout and I actually like shaking up my routine a little. It's also a little sad that I am excited I have kettelbell class tomorrow night. *g*

Not much else to share today, sorry. It's been a normal day here for the most part. Chris made dinner this evening and we enjoyed our evening. Now it's time to head offline and get some rest and hopefully some reading will fit in there as well. I hope y'all had a terrific Tuesday. I wish a wacky and wonderful Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise:  lap swimming.
Fitness Hours: 45 minutes

A Fun Walk!

This picture is from our walk yesterday. It was nice out and while on one side there were clouds that looked a more than a little grey there was a sunset on the other and a nice breeze as well. We really enjoyed ourselves and it's so cute how the family is STILL talking about the walk and how they want to go back this coming weekend. *g* I think I started something! *g*

Well, another busy day. Daughter worked today and there was lots of things to take care of around here. Then later this afternoon after picking Daughter up she had a teen meeting at the library. They were doing Improv tonight! While she was there Son and I ran errands and then afterwards I dropped Daughter and Son at the house and headed to the Y for Yoga. I had to take a benedryl before class, though. Drainage is awful! Oh, and I signed up to take the rest of the Kettlebell classes this month. I can't believe how much I enjoyed that class!
Chris and I made dinner together this evening and later we all watched The Voice. That show is fun to watch. The judges are funny and the contestants are, for the most part, very talented. And Castle? Was fabulous! I loved the noir feel. And at bedtime? There was a big to-do and Daughter helped me clip ALL the cats claws. If you think of how many paws per cat and how many claws per paw that's a lot of nail clipping!

As for reading? I finally picked up a book from my library pile, a YA. It's the book due the next nearest date. Oh, it's Sister's of Isis by Lynne Ewing, the aforementioned paranormal YA. I'm not very far into it, but it's already captured my attention.

Tomorrow is the kids belt promotion. I'm trying to figure out how to be there to watch the promotion and not arouse the kids suspicions..... Because I'm usually in Zumba while they're in class at that time and if I miss class they know something important is going to happen. Well, that or I'm sick. *g* Wish me luck in coming up with a plausible excuse!

Time to head offline. It's late, again, and I'm tired. I hope y'all had a lovely day. I wish a terrific Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Yoga.
Fitness Hours. 1

Einstein, aka Mr. Mittens

I will say that I find Einstein very photogenic. *g* I think it's the crazy eyes. Well, eyebrows. They seem to make him seem surprised at everything. It's very cute and quite funny. And a sweet thing about him? I woke up the other morning and he was sleeping ON MY NECK. Strange fellow, but cute.

Yesterday was busy, though we ended up having to curtail things for a while yesterday morning and afternoon. Chris woke up dizzy thanks to drainage and I woke with a headache thanks to the same reason. Ugh. Tree pollen and mold spores are high right now. They say that grass and weed pollen are low, but I beg to differ since the weird weather we've had all winter has been, well, weird. I say a forsythia bush try to bloom today. My weeping willow has green leaf buds on it already and there are weeds (mostly dandelions everywhere).  Sorry to ramble....
Today was another weird day, though, weather-wise. We made it to 70 degrees. After Zumba this afternoon I somehow talked the family into walking up to the library with me to drop off a few items. Round trip it was 4.6 miles. We had such a good time, that Chris has suggested that we do this every Sunday. *g*
As for reading? I finally finished The Relic by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child. It was a little slow going to start. The first fourth of the book kind of dragged a bit for me, but I did eventually get into it and have noted that it's not the last book to feature Pendergrast. I may look them up. As for what's up next? I haven't quite decided yet. I have a few library books to choose from.

We watched a little tv tonight, as in the Superbowl. Or, rather, most of it. We stopped after the half-time show. The commercials were pretty good and the half-time show was.... sort of good. I'm not a Madonna fan and thought a lot of her physical tricks were unnecessary and made her look..., um, anyway. I especially enjoyed the ending with Cee Lo Green. After that we watched a few episodes on dvd.

And that's it. A relatively nice day with time spent with my family without running everywhere. I hope y'all had a nice day. I hope y'all enjoyed yourselves. I wish a pleasing and low-key start to the week. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Zumba, 4.6 miles walk.
Fitness Hours: 2hrs. 30 mins. (Walking with a nine year old, Son, and Chris slows Daughter and I down. *g*)

My Girl, Layla!

Isn't she pretty? *g* Layla and I have decided to take the night off from blogging. (It's been a long day.) We'll be back Sunday! I wish a Blessed Sunday for each of you. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

An upside-down world!

I sometimes wonder what Einstein thinks. He seems to march to the beat of his own drummer. He can be incredibly sweet. Sometime too much so when you're trying to sleep! But, he's also freaked out by the strangest things. Like my dust-broom. I have to sweep the bathroom floors several times a day because of cat litter and (I can't stand to see any on the floor.) I was sweeping today and he jumped back and ran away when it came too close. Unlike Teddy who has to investigate EVERYTHING. (Einstein hid from the satellite guy upstairs between Chris and my pillows while Teddy practically crawled all over him trying to figure out what he was doing!)

Today? Was very busy. Daughter worked this afternoon and after dropping her off Son and I went to Sam's for grocery and fuel. Then home for lunch, then out again to the bank for Son to deposit some money into his account. (Daughter paid him for doing some of her chores. Don't judge. At least they're getting done and the two of them are happy with the arrangement.) Then to the library where I picked up Dutch Me Deadly by Maddy Hunter (YAY! SO VERY GLAD a new passport to peril book has been released!), and the book the new series GCB is based upon by Kim Gatlin. Then we were off to have Son's haircut and stopped into a store next to the hair salon and picked up a gift for Daughter for Valentine's Day. By that time we needed to pick up Daughter, but I still wanted to work out, so the kids swam while I worked out for a bit. It was hard getting them out of the pool!
We had to rush home to meet Chris and then we all headed to WW for the rest of the groceries. I'm just glad that afterwards we headed home and could have dinner and rest for a bit.
Tomorrow promises to be another heck of a day and to be honest I would rather just do one or two things instead of the six or seven things that need to be done. And I accidentally ended up staying up too late and am headed off line to get a little sleep.
I hope y'all had an enjoyable Friday. I wish a happy and smile-filled Saturday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise 12 miles stationary bike at level 10, 15 minutes weights.
Fitness Hours: 1 hour.

Pretty, er, Handsome?

Butterscotch thinks he makes a beautiful Princess, er, um, Prince. *g* Son decided to see how long he'd wear the small tiara and he sat there for five minutes not moving and let me take multiple pictures. This cat? Thinks he's quite pretty. Er, handsome. *g*

Well, today went okay. Though I was sore in areas I had no idea I'd be sore in. I felt sure my wrists and hands would ache today (and they do), but the area where my kneck meets my shoulder is sore, as are the muscles around the bottom of my thigh near my knees). Those Turkish delights are responsible for the thigh soreness and I'm guessing the bow's were responsible for the shoulders. But, you know what? I really had a good time and I think I'll go back next week!
This afternoon the kids and I headed to their MA classes and once there I went up to the observation area to read and watch the kids. They sparred today and things went quite well. After their first class I headed to the women's health center and chatted with a woman I've met in another class and rode the stationary bike. Before I knew it, it was time for Line Dancing. The kids met up with me about fifteen minutes into my class and after taking off for snacks they headed for the break-room until my class ended.  What they don't know? Is that their Sensei circled back around after they'd gone and let me know that they'll be promoted to the next level up next Tuesday! Daughter will become Brown Belt with a second degree and Son will become Brown belt third degree! Now I just need to find time this weekend to pick up a brown belt in Son's size without his knowing (Daughter will keep her belt and receive a second stripe on hers.). I'm not exactly sure how I'm going to manage it and find out what size his belt is, without his knowing. (Or Daughter!) I can't wait to see their faces! I have to find a way to sneak my camera in, too. (They've figured out that when I have my camera, something's up.)
After class we ran by B&N. There was a Manga out that Daughter wanted and she also picked up a book as well. We then headed home where Chris and I cooked. After dinner Chris and I made up our menu for the next two weeks. Tomorrow is grocery day. Yay.

As for reading? I finished the Kauffman book. I enjoyed it more than the first of the connected books. It was a "sweet" book. The lead characters were scared of a relationship, but one more than the other-having been hurt dreadfully in the past. They explore their attraction to one another and while the book was rather slow in that regard, it worked somehow. It seemed very realistic in that the one would be so wary as to not want to begin and the other while understanding was still deeply attracted.

And that's all. Time for some sleep. It's late and I have too much to do tomorrow to not get any sleep. I hope y'all had a nice Thursday. I wish a fun and enjoyable Friday. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 10.52 miles, Line Dancing
Fitness Hours: 1hr. 35 minutes.

Cookie Theif!

Einstein stole my cookie! I had decided that if I were truly in the mood for something sweet from now on- I'd have to make it. (Trust me, the time and effort alone would make me pause.) Well, tonight I was in the mood, so I made peanut butter cookies. Son brought this one upstairs right before bed and Einstein decided that he wanted to try it. He smelled, he nibbled and finally he chomped! Silly kitty!

Well, today wasn't as busy as the rest this week, for which I am grateful. The satellite repair guy was actually almost spot-on for time. He also happens to live in our neighborhood! How funny is that!? He, hopefully, fixed things by adjusting our satellite and installing a new cable and left and then before I knew it, it was time to take Daughter to her Socrates Cafe/Teen Advisory Council meeting at the library. Son and I returned home long enough for me to take care of a few things and then he and I picked her up, as well as some of my holds that had come in! Yay! I HAVE BOOKS! I now have:
Sweet Stuff by Donna Kauffman
Die Job by Lila Dare
A Little Night Magic by Lucy March (love her Bettyverse website, aka Lani Diane Rich)
love?maybe. by Heather Hepler (YA, new-to-me author)
I couldn't help it and started reading the Kauffman book while at the Y tonight.
Oh, yeah, from the library we headed to the Y for Son's KidFit class. They offered a new class starting tonight for the month- Kettlebells. I really wanted to try them, but the class was a little later. Which was okay with the kids, so we stayed. I? Had a blast! The class is not that hard, but takes effort and a little coordination. The trainer had me use a 15lb. kettleball. What is it with people? Just because I'm overweight does not mean I can lift weights like the Hulk! And I know 15lbs. doesn't sound like much, but when you're doing it at least 60 times per arm? Yeah. We concentrated on three basic poses tonight, the Windmill, the Turkish Delight and Bow something or other. The Bow one was cardio, the Turkish Delight was full body and the Windmill was concentrated ab work. I now am sore, but happy. I think it's weird that I like a challenge like this class, but I found it fun. *g*

After class the kids and I headed home and I made dinner, Chili! Well, Turkey Chili. *g* After dinner I made the aforementioned peanut butter cookies. And before I knew it, it was time for bed. Which I am now up late. Oops. Time to head off. I hope y'all had a wonderful Wednesday. I wish a thankful and thoughtful Thursday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 1.75 miles treadmill, 1 hour kettlebells.
Fitness Hours: 1hr. 30 min.

An Oldie, but pretty!

Patches is truly a beautiful girl. She's a calico and they are usually small and dainty and very loyal and sweet. Of course they also have lots of spunk and boy-howdy! Patches surely does. *g* Funny how such a big girl can sound so small and tiny, we call her meow her Minnie Mouse voice. *g*

Talk about another trying day. Not ten minutes after Chris left for work this morning the satellite stopped working. I was listening to music on it (I like the Zen channel.) and both boxes no longer could connect. So, I had to call. Now, y'all know I hate calling anyone on the phone. I truly do. I think it's a hold-over from when I had my very first job selling picture packages for Olan Mills over the phone. (I was 15yrs. old.)  But, I think it has more to do with my personality. I am painfully shy and so the sense of exposure is greater on the phone because you HAVE to talk to someone. However, I called and went through the stupid electronic menu and finally after doing everything the computerized voice told me to do I had the chance to speak with a person. We went over several trouble-shooting maneuvers and then she accidentally (I'm guessing.) hung up on me. So, I had to go through all that again to reach another person. 45 minutes on the phone at that point. Then I get another person who I tell about all the other maneuvers  I had tried with the other person and she then informs me that I would have to pay to have a service tech come out and look at everything. Um, what? I've only had the new system for a day over two weeks. I asked to speak to her supervisor who looked up the contract and she informed me that we didn't have to pay and that she would escalate it to some other tech department and that they'd call me back within two hours. I agreed and hung up. Within ten minutes I got a call. Um, did I mention I had gotten a little ticked at the second person and the supervisor and while perfectly polite, I did let them know I mean business. Anyway, they're sending someone over tomorrow to look, though strangely not five minutes after speaking with the supervisor the satellite miraculously worked again. Weird coincidence? Oh, and I managed to be polite and somewhat cohesive with under five hours sleep.
Next up! Daughter had to work today and Son still had a headache, so on the way to taking Daughter I made him an appointment. I won't say anything about the visit except to say the Doc we saw was not our regular pediatrician and wasn't helpful at all. (And didn't listen.) But, she said to keep treating as we had been with sinus meds and advil and that if he didn't feel better after a couple of weeks (seriously?) to bring him back in. Ugh. Trust me when I say if he's not feeling better by the end of the weekend I'll be taking him to see our pediatrician. (I had to accept first Doc with an available time slot today.) I am positive Son is having sinus issues and this will blow over, because we're all having sinus issues right now. (Turns out cedar and elm and some other tree pollen is very strong here right now.) We spent some time at home and then went to the Pine Y early to meet up with Daughter for the kids MA class.

The kids had MA tonight and the crazy lady was there. She totally ignored Daughter and Son and myself and while I know it's for the best I can't help but feel a little hurt because I tried so hard to be a friend to her. Oh, well? But, the kids did have fun learning about pressure points. I had fun in Zumba. Wow, the first of the year classes are packed! Not to be pessimistic, but I'm pretty sure that attendance will drop off around the first of March. (It always does, at least from observation over the years.)

As for reading? Yeah. I've only managed another chapter in the book today. I hope to have time tomorrow to read. I may try here in a minute, but I'm so tired I just wanted to go to sleep when we arrived home tonight and am not quite sure how I've made it this far. I've hit the crying stage of tired for me. I'm not sure if it's the lack of sleep or the accidental ingestion of something with soy in it last night.

Anyway, this is where I head offline. I hope y'all had a marvelous Tuesday. I wish a fantastic Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: 1 hour Zumba.
Fitness Hours: 1. (And a very high impact one, too.)