Harley's Cone!

I know I shared this picture on Facebook Wednesday, but wanted to share it here, too. Poor Harley. She was not a fan of the "cone of shame". And turns out this was was too small (not deep enough) and we had to make another that did work. We kept the cones on both girls until today and at night they slept in our bathroom so they could rest and have time away from the rough and tumbe boys. But, today we took the cones off for a trial time and they both did well so no longer need the cones and seem to be feeling much better.

I want Fall. Summer can go way away. I've always disliked Summer, but right now I not only hate it I loathe it. We reached 105 today breaking records and 110 with the heat index. Ugh. I closed the drapes today to try and keep things cool and to keep from using the AC non-stop. I didn't have to go out until late this afternoon, but that was at the top of the heat for the day. We were only out of the house for about an hour, but it was too much. By the time we arrived home I felt slightly sick. And we have at least two more days of this weather and even then it won't cool down much.
But, in good news...... I finished the Karen Rose book. I really enjoy her books, which is weird since each features a serial killer and those who work hard to capture them. One of the killers in this one (slight spoiler, sorry) was actually a sympathetic character and while it took forever to sort of meander to the ending, but the tale getting there was interesting.
Anyway, that's about it from me. I dread tomorrow and while I want and need to work out I am not sure I can gather the courage to leave the house to do so! I hope y'all had a fun and enjoyable Friday. I wish an amusing and agreeable Saturday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: day off after 11 days straight of working out.
Exercise hours: 0. Not happy with that no matter how sick or tired I felt today.

Look! Books! YAY!

Guess what I have? My library has been very generous over the last week or so. I have a TBR Pile! (To me this is a pile, humor me. *g*) On top is the book I am still currently reading, the Karen Rose. Under that:
Wicked Business by Janet Evanovich, Giant George: Life With the World's Biggest Dog by Dave Nasser, Alice On Board by Phyllis Reynolds Nayer (YA), Virals by Kathy Reichs (YA), Fated by Benedict Jacka, Wish You Were Here by Catherine Clark (YA), Bloodlines by Richelle Mead (YA), The Anti-Prom by Abby McDonald (YA), and Pug Hill by Alison Pace. Now I just need to find the time to read all these!

Not much to share with y'all tonight. It's late again. And it's been another long day. The kids and I have been at the Y for most of the day because Daughter had to teach both MA classes today as both the AD and Sifu were out of town. And we had new students! During the second class I had my own class. I had a blast again. I can really appreciate the difference in all the different Zumba teachers and classes. One is more of a hip-hop style with latin mixed through, another is with light hand weights, another is regular Zumba and now this new chair centric class. The thing is we don't sit and dance, the chair is more a prop and for balance. I think I relate to these classes do much because of the music. Music has always been a big part of my life. With lessons in piano, guitar, drums and then choir and then the singing group while Chris was in the A.F.. Did music play a part in your lives? I'll freely admit there are types I don't like, btw. But, they are few. *g* Oh, and the Y is offering a Zumba Master Class next week. I'm actually thinking (crazily) of trying it. What do you think? I'll probably not make it through the hour, but it looks fun....

That's about it. Time to head offline. I hope y'all had a lovely Thursday. I wish a fun and enjoyable Friday for y'all. Goodnight, B.


Exercise: Zumba Zentao.
Exercise Hours: 1hr..

Silly Buy!

Not a great picture, I know. But, I'm tired. It's late and Einstein always makes me laugh. Here he is letting loose and being goofy on my bedroom floor. Silly boy. Oh, I do have new pictures I've taken, but I just need to upload them to the computer.

It's been a long day. The girls were spayed today and had to be at the Vet very early this morning. Daughter also worked this morning. This afternoon we all went swimming when Daughter was off work. My sunburn still hurts, so it felt good. After that we went by the Out-laws again. FIL was a bit more chipper today. MIL loaded me down with yellow squash to bring home. Daughter loved that because it means I'll make her  a squash casserole. *g*
After that it was off to pick up the girls. I was so happy and relieved to see them. I knew they should be fine, but it took seeing them with my own eyes to feel that stress finally lessen. We headed home with a short stop by the library (a quick run in for Daughter to grab our holds while Son and I stayed in the jeep with the kittens and the AC running) and then home. By the time we arrived home I was feeling sick. Between the sun and heat today I'd had enough. I had wanted to go back out tonight and attend a power yoga class, but made the decision to just rest. On one hand I'm glad I did it, but on the other I feel guilty for not getting more exercise today.
As soon as Chris arrived home we made dinner and settled together and kept an eye on the girls. We've had to make our own "cone of shame" for each of the girls. We had one for Teddy and Einstein, but it was a tad too big for the girls even at it's smallest point. So, Daughter made them using paper plates. We added air holes just for air flow and they seem to be working well. The kittens aren't happy, but as long as they're no longer trying to bother their sutures it's worth it.
Oh, as for the holds we picked up? One of them is the new Janet Evanovich Deisel book- Wicked Business. I'm still reading the Karen Rose book so it will have to wait. I am so blessed that the library has been so prompt in getting my holds in this week!

Anyway, that's all from me. I need sleep. I swear I never feel like I get enough. I hope y'all had a beautiful Wednesday. I wish a thankful Thursday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: swimming laps.
Exercise Hours: 1hr..

Hanging Loose!

Not the best picture of Einstein, sorry. I just thought it was funny how he was lying on the top of the cat tree. One leg over and paw dangling. Almost looking like people used to do with arms out of car windows. Kind of a "what's up?" look to him.
It's been a very long day and a tiring night and so this post will be kind of short. I managed to check a few things off my "to do" list today, one of which was to mow the lawn, weed and edge. I did all this in the morning trying to beat the heat and keep my direct sun exposure to a minimum. However, I was to find later I failed in at least one regard. Part of my back and shoulders look hot pink. HOT pink. *sigh* I was so worried about putting on bug spray (the mosquitos seem to be plentiful, hungry and large this year and they LOVE me) that I didn't think of sun screen other than to wear a hat and sunglasses. At least I was wearing pants. Mostly because my grass allergy seems to be just as strong as last year.
Anyway, before I felt the sunburn I had some lunch (and found out some weird and wild news about plans for the house next door where Mrs. M lived.) and then we headed to the Out-laws. Late last week she'd called and asked if I'd help her haul off some yard waste/brush. We had no trouble doing so and rather than saying she let me drive the truck, she handed the keys to me and said "here you go". *g* So, at least I got to drive the very big, very powerful and fun as heck to drive truck this afternoon. I always love the looks I get when the landfill guys figure out that a girl is driving a Hemi. So much fun. *g* FIL is looking a little better, but still not as good as before the surgery a couple of months ago. He's still quite pale an doesn't have his appetite back. I'm just hoping he starts to feel better soon.
After helping MIL the kids and I headed to the Y and around this time I discovered my sunburn. Ouch. So, instead of Zumba this evening I went swimming instead. The water felt deliciously cool against my skin. I swam laps with no problem and am grateful to be able to do that tonight.
After the kids were done with MA class we all headed home and had a light dinner and all of a sudden I felt as thought someone were holding me down, I felt so tired. Oh, I did manage to read another few 'chapters' in the Karen Rose book. Her way of defining each is pretty cool on one hand, but on the other-when it comes to finding a spot to put the book down for a second- it's hard. *g*
Which leads me to now..... time to head offline. Another busy day tomorrow. Oh, please cross your fingers for the girls (Harley and Zoe). They're being spayed in the morning and I am a nervous wreck. I always am, but still. They're in my heart and I want them to be safe. So, good thoughts, please?
I hope y'all had a bearable and beautiful Tuesday. I wish a gorgeous Wednesday to y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: swimming laps.
Exercise Hours: 1hr..

Fighting Back!

I had a scary morning. For about half an hour. (The time it took to see Daughter with my own eyes.) Daughter had to work this morning and except for her allergies bugging her to the point where she was sniffing every few minutes (and driving me batty) she was feeling fine. She even ate breakfast, which is not a normal thing for her because I usually have to beg to get her to eat breakfast. I dropped her off and everything went well. Until two hours later when her boss called me and said that Daughter was dizzy and light-headed and was shaky. I made it to the Y in record time to find her sitting in her boss's office and beginning to feel better. However, her boss said to go on home and rest. So she did. However, to be on the safe side I made a Doctor's appointment for her this afternoon and the Doc's assessment was mild heat exhaustion coupled with her allergies. But, I am glad to say, Daughter is fine. She felt better this afternoon after some rest and lots of cool drinks.

The rest of the afternoon and evening was spent making sure Daughter felt okay and regular household things. I've also started reading the new Karen Rose book. I'm not very far into it, but am already interested. And right now I'm being licked like a lollipop by Pepper! I have no idea why she does that, but I haven't the heart to make her stop. However, a shower is very soon on my list of things to do!

All that said it's time to head offline and do a few more things before bed. I hope y'all had a joyful day. I wish a bountiful and beautiful Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: Yoga.
Exercise hours: 1 hr..

FLying through the Air!

I can't remember if I've already posted this picture of Elvis doing a good interpretation of flying. Isn't there some song about flying upon a trapeze? I can't remember the words, but the the refrain has popped into my head and made me smile.

It's been another long day. However, it hasn't been very interesting. I cleaned, I did laundry, I went to Zumba and then to the other Y to pick up Daughter from work and then we headed home and headed BACK out to another Target because the one we visited yesterday was out of my lotion. Turns out this one was, too. *sigh* I may break down and order it online. However, this time I'm not the only one in search of a product. Chris is looking for certain razor blades and everyone is out of them. Then again, there were quite a few empty spaces in the lotion and razor sections of Target. I wonder what's going on with that?
After the stop at Target we headed home and Chris and I made dinner- together. I did think it was funny as he watched me like a hawk when I made up fresh salsa. I teased him that he was waiting to pounce if I did something different than he does. *g*
I also made a decision to save any computer time until bedtime this evening. Instead, I finished up the book I was reading- Bikini Season by Sheila Roberts. It was a good read, though I preferred the story as a whole with ALL the characters compared to the character who was supposedly the main character. I loved learning more about Kizzy and Angela and Megan than I did Erin, the lead. And I am not happy with how everyone received a HEA except for Megan. Unless that character gets her own book sometime? Everyone else ended up with their guys except for her. Kind of made the ending good but unsatisfying. I'm not sure what I'll read next.

Anyway, time to head offline. I hope y'all had a restful and peaceful Sunday. I wish a stress-free and pleasing Monday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Zumba, Stationary bike.
Exercise Hours: 1hr. 40min..

Bouncing Through the Air!

It must be great to be a kitten and to be able to bounce and jump however you wish. It It must be even better when you're a kitten and watch in awe as your big brother-not too much older than you- can jump really high. *g* I'd give almost anything for that kind of energy!

This is it for me tonight. I am exhausted. We ran errands today. A lot of errands and then went swimming for a bit to help beat the heat. Gah, it was nasty out today. Summer is NOT my favorite time of year. I'm counting down the days until Fall.
Anyway, I'm playing hooky. I need sleep. I hope y'all had a marvelous Saturday filled with smiles, laughter and love. I wish a peaceful and beautiful Sunday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: swimming laps.
Exercise Hours: 1hr..

To Sleep, Perchance to Dream....

(Hmm, badly paraphrased, but you get the concept, right?) There's something so sweet about a sleeping kitty. Especially one who smiles while they dream. Elvis is sweet as can be and has learned to jump! We found him on top of the refrigerator yesterday afternoon. Freaked me out! Awww, the babies are growing up.

It's been a very long, very tiring week. The kids (my kids) AND the other regular MA kids that helped out with the MA camp this week are all tired and very glad that today was the last day of camp. I attended the water zumba class this morning that the lady I know taught and as it was my first time I tried very hard to like it. However, I find I prefer zumba on land- so to speak. It wasn't the teacher- she's a good teacher and very personable and has good music and choreography. It was the fact that there were over 25 other women there and I was (to the best of my knowledge) the youngest one there. *sigh* The "energy" just wasn't there for me. Of course that could have been because the pool deck was hot as heck and humid, too. Ugh. Anyway, I helped her set up and then return everything to it's place and headed to change so I could help with the MA camp. (No laps for me today- too much to do!)
I was asked by the AD/MA Director and the teacher of this weeks camp (all the same person) to video the last bit of camp. They all performed a kata together and it went pretty well. Most all the attendees remembered the moves. That was good.
Afterwards I felt the kids deserved a treat so we went out to lunch. Something we never do. They decided on Cracker Barrel and for a picky kid Son cleaned his plate. Daughter did, too. *g* A quick trip to have Son's hair cut after that and then home because the heat was exhausting. Ugh. We waited to go back out until later to grocery shop. Most everything was picked up today, but there are a few other things that will need to be bought this weekend.
Reading-wise? I read another chapter in the Lowell book and have to say it doesn't suit me. I wish it did because the whole Mayan historical theme was neat. But, I don't really like the main character already and the writing doesn't suit me. This is MY opinion only. On to the next book in the small pile!

And that's about it. There is of course a bit more I could talk about, but no one needs to know about boring stuff. And so I head offline. I hope y'all had a glorious Friday. I wish an amusing and relaxing Saturday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: water zumba.
Exercise Hours: 45min..

Up to No Good!

Huh. I just noticed this picture has three kittens in it, not just two. Guess what they were trying to do? Open the cabinet doors like the big kitties. They sat there for about ten minutes trying and trying to figure out the whole get claw in between door and cabinet and pull deal. Eventually they gave up. Now they're working on jumping.

I wish I had something interesting to share, but the day has been yet another early day with laps and reading and then driving and housework and and on and on. Sorry. I can say this week has been very tiring, but we're at the finish line and while I'll miss the chance to get in an extra workout every day swimming laps, I won't miss the frantic leave-taking from the house because the teenager waits until the last minute to get ready thing. I also will miss watching the older folks at the Y gather in the snack area around one or two tables and gossip and chat. It makes me smile for some reason. It's also quieter  at the Y in the mornings. And less crowded. I REALLY like that. Tomorrow I've promised to attend a water zumba class taught by a woman I know. She wants me there for moral support. *g* Then I've been asked to video/film the last bit of MA camp. They're trying to get the entirety of MA camp attendees to perform one kata all together. Cross your fingers. Oh, this evening I attended my second zumba zentao class. It was so much fun. It's a hard class, but I like a challenge. (It has to be one I have a chance of accomplishing for me to enjoy it, but I do enjoy a challenge.)
As for reading today? I'm almost finished with the YA. For some reason this book is taking longer. I like the book, but find it too easy to put it down and people watch. I DID have another hold come in today from the library- the newest Karen Rose book! I am so excited it's finally out and on my bedside table!

All that said it's time to head offline. I hope y'all had a productive and energetic (as in you had way more energy than I do!) Thursday. I wish a fun and enjoyable Friday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: swimming laps, zumba zentao.
Exercise Hours: 1hr. 45min..

"Me and My Shadow......."

Einstein is still my shadow. (And you're welcome for the ear worm. *g*)  He likes to follow me around and is so silly about it. If I take a shower and shut the bathroom door he meows almost the entire time. He's also a little jealous of Layla. He tries to usurp her position, but doesn't seem to take offense when I move him from in front of her. As a matter of fact Layla will lick his head as if to say: "It's okay, I love you, anyway."

Another tiring day. The kids are really enjoying the MA camp, though. It's funny. She's being paid to help out, but not under her lifeguard code or even her MA department code, but as a camp counselor. She said she's being paid to work in three different departments at the Y. *g* Son is loving helping out, too. He carries a whistle to camp with him so that he can get the kids attention. And I? I'll admit it's giving me time to read, the one thing I have missed a lot in the past couple of months as our schedule became busier. I am also revving up my workouts a bit by swimming laps every morning along with my regular workouts. I'm not sure if I told y'all or not but I've gained about five pounds and for the life of me have no idea how. I keep to a certain calorie budget per day. I exercise at least six of seven days a week and my clothes still fit and I don't look any heavier. I just don't get it. (As a matter of fact, my waist is more defined now than a year ago.) I'm thinking of trying to add more lean protein to my diet. I'm not a big meat eater and that may be holding me back.
In other news we're going to have the girls (Zoe and Harley) spayed soon. We're going to try and get them in within the next week. They're 14 weeks old now and it's time; before they go into heat. There is nothing more manic than watching a cat in heat. Woo, not fun.
As for reading? I am halfway finished with the YA by Melissa Jensen. I am enjoying the heroine. She's not perfect, as a matter of fact-far from it. But, she's definitely quirky as she has a crush on a long dead painter (no, it's not a ghost story) and the title of the book is based on a game she and two of her friends play to bring fun and yes, honest truth to their lives. As soon as I finish this book I'll start on the Lowell.

And that's it. I mean, there was more to our day, but it was mostly boring or routine. I need to get some sleep and throw one last load in the dryer. I hope y'all had a wonderful Wednesday. I wish a thankful and thoughtful Thursday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: swimming laps, ZumbaTone.
Exercise Hours: 1hr. 30min..

Catnip Dreams!

Small kitty pile pictured. Here are Buddy, Elvis and Harley. I have no idea where Zoe was when I snapped this picture, but rest assured. She probably wasn't far away for long. And I know how these kittens feel right now. I need sleep!

I have to be honest. Our schedule this week is exhausting! And I know today has to be the roughest for Daughter as she helped teach the MA camp this morning, worked this afternoon and had to teach MA class tonight because their regular teacher won't be back until the 10th of July.
Because of the schedule I haven't been online today at all except for my phone and that was sporadic as well. Son and I came home for lunch and then kind of vegged for a bit. This afternoon he and I went by the bank and then by the library again. I'll have to post a list of what I picked up from hold later. But, I know one was the new Elizabeth Lowell book. I don't think I've ever read anything by her before, but this one looked interesting. Oh, and I finished the Rachel Gibson book. It was good, but not my favorite by the author. I've just barely started reading the other book I mentioned, the YA tonight. At least I'm getting some reading done in the morning right now.
Anyway, I'm sorry, but I'm ready to just close my eyes. So, time to say goodnight. I hope y'all had a fabulous Tuesday. I wish an amusing and smile-filled Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: lap swimming, Zumba.
Exercise Hours: 1hr. 45min..

An Upside Down Night!

Buddy is quite the sleeper. This kitten just doesn't know how to sleep without looking as adorable as possible. Buddy is a sweetheart with a purr that can turn on like a switch and tends to sleep in the oddest poses. Did I mention he lets Son carry him around the house like a baby being cuddled? *g*

Today has been tiring. Son was so excited to have Martial Arts camp this morning he bounded out of bed as though he had springs. *g* Daughter on the other hand almost made us late. And myself? Could have used some more sleep, but managed to get everything done before we left that couldn't wait until this afternoon. On the way to the Y this morning I received a call from Daughter's boss the AD. Now, remember he's also over the MA department and her boss there as well. He called to ask if Daughter was coming in with Son this morning. (She didn't have to, but wanted to help out and maybe have some fun of her own.) Turns out that while not many (nine or so) had signed up for the MA camp from this Y, 70 had signed up from the MT Y and were being bussed in. He was a tad discombobulated and was relieved to know that Daughter would be there to help- AND she's getting paid to help out all week. She was happy to be paid, but don't tell the AD I think she would have helped at least a couple of days for free. *g*
Remember how I supposed to pick FIL up from rehab and take him home this morning? Well, turns out MIL had the dates of her appointment wrong and she was able to pick him up after-all. So, I spent the morning doing something I don't usually get much time to do these days! I READ! I finished up the Stephanie Bond book and then went lap swimming. By the time I was done and redressed it was time for the kids and I to head home for lunch. 
This afternoon passed in a tired blur, but Daughter did have a Summer Reading Teen event this afternoon. They played some kind of balloon game and had ice cream. She also injured her wrist. *sigh* It's not bad, she fell on her tush and used her hands out on either side as she landed. I keep telling her not to do that, but hey. It should be better in the next couple of days and she'll wear a brace for a few hours every day to help. While there with her I picked up two more library books that have come in" Rescue Me by Rachel Gibson and The Fine Art of Truth or Dare by by Melissa Jensen (a YA and a new-to-me author). Oh, and the books I picked up yesterday? Virals by Kathy Reichs (YA) and Wish You Were Here by Catherine Clark (a YA). And I still have a few more books due in some time this week. 
Nothing much else to share other than I've started reading the Rachel Gibson book. I need to head offline, so this is it. I hope y'all had a delightful Monday. (I know, but it's worth it to at least try. You know?) I wish a fabulous Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.


Exercise: lap swimming, yoga.
Exercise Hours: 1hr. 45min..

Layla is Teaching Me to Relax!

Layla is relaxing enough for all of us! She looked quite comfy next to me on the loveseat the other day and I knew I'd have to share her with y'all. She's something else and I wouldn't have it any other way.

Not a lot happening today. Chris loved his gift, a game for the X-Box. And his little nerf gun we gave him. (It's tiny-fits on a key chain.)
This afternoon I went to my class and he played his game and had a blast. (I'm just not a game system type of gal.)
After my class I headed home and picked up the family and we made a quick stop by the library. I picked up a couple of YA books, but I'll have to post those titles later.
Afterwards we all headed to Target so that Daughter could return the headphones she bought yesterday and purchase yet another DIFFERENT pair because the ones she bought yesterday just weren't what she wanted. Gah! Picky teenager!
And tonight we just relaxed together. It's been a mostly restful weekend, something we've needed since we're usually so busy.
Tomorrow, though? That's going to be something. Son has his partial day MA camp and Daughter is helping at that. I'm also picking FIL up from a rehab appointment for MIL. All before I've had my caffeine in the morning. Wish me luck! *g*
As for reading? I haven't read much today. Earlier this week at the library I picked up an old Stephanie Bond book I didn't remember reading and have begun reading it this evening. I'm hoping Got Your Number makes me laugh. I need a few laughs right now!

Time to head offline. I hope y'all had a glorious Sunday. I wish a pleasant and smile-filled Monday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: ZumbaTone.
Exercise Hours: 1.

Boys Will Be Boys!

The handsome boys enjoying their young curiosity! Buddy is sweet as can be (he's the ginger) and purrs at you if you start talking to him or touch him even with one finger. Elvis is also sweet, but has to be the most curious cat we've ever had (next to Einstein). Both are love-bugs. Buddy? Well, Son must exert some hidden force because Buddy adores him and lets Son carry him around like a baby. (Maybe because they both have ginger hair? *g*) Elvis has just learned to jump/climb the counter in the bathroom. He's fascinated with the sink, but is too chicken to get anywhere near the water. *g*

It's been a good day. I felt much better and if I told you and have forgotten, please excuse me, but we traced back to what made me feel so bad (besides allergies). The piece of cake I had had three different types of soy in it. I can usually handle soy lethicen(sp), but can't handle any other soy and I let my sweet tooth get ahead of me before reading the ingredients. Whoops. It won't happen again. I am trying to be better about baking my own treats, but sometimes there's just something about a bakery sweet..... Oh, well.

Anyway, today. Chris and Son went to the movies as part of a Father's Day gift for Chris. They went to see Men in Black III and from what they've said afterwards, loved it. Daughter and I went on a girls shopping spree. Only, I didn't spend anything. Daughter did. She just received a nice paycheck and after placing some in savings wanted a few things. We ended up going to Charming Charlies, the best accessories store EVER (trust me, truly awesome). She ended purchasing a pair of sandals that are hot pink and have sparlies and feathers (not too overdone, rather cute) and some headbands. After that we walked next door to Ulta where she purchased some fingernail polish and a buff-puff (she lucked out there, I had points built up and with them she received $3 off her purchases. Then we walked to B&N (all these shops are in the same complex) where we both looked and drooled over all the pretty, pretty books. She ended up purchasing the latest Manga Maximum Ride by James Patterson. After that we headed to Gamestop where we picked up a treat for Chris for Father's Day. I won't say anything here right now other than he's going to love it. Then to Target because Daughter needed yet another pair of headphones (she leaves them laying around and the cats chew them up). Don't ask how many pairs this now makes that she's had to purchase. *sigh* Well, it's her money. One day she will learn the lesson behind leaving them out, right?
After all that I started to feel sick from drainage and so we headed home. The fellas didn't beat us home by much, but were waiting to tell us all about the movie.
Chris made dinner, but strangely using the same ingredients we ended up eating two different meals. Well, three if you count what Daughter ate. With grilled flank steak we each had (Chris): steak sandwich, steak fajitas, steak salad. How funny is that?
As for reading? I have news! I finished The Witness by Nora Roberts. It was a good read. The first third went rather quickly once it started moving, the second third was rather slow and the third part moved forward a little more quickly again. Each part had it's own feel and yet it all meshed into one good book. Then tonight I started (and just finished, meaning this post is late because I became engrossed in the book) After the Fall, Before the Fall, During the Fall by Nancy Kress. Told in different times this book spans over twenty years, but jumps from the past to the future throughout. The main characters are teenage Pete, who time travels to scrounge for either supplies or children and Julie who has just figured out the pattern in the kidnappings and how their lives converge in one time for one dramatic visit. It's..... I really don't know how to explain it, but I could not put the book down until it was finished and I'm still thinking about it. I don't want to give too much of it away, but The Gaia effect is mentioned.

And.... that's it. Not much else to share. I hope y'all had a happy Saturday. I wish a Blessed and Peaceful Sunday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: 0. Took the day off to spend with Daughter.
Exercise Hours: 0 <------ I don't like this number, but recovery is essential every now and then. Onward to Sunday!

Snuggle Buddies!

I caught Layla snuggling with Elvis the other evening. I don't know if she knew he was there, or whether she knew and just ignored him. But, I thought it was cute and it lasted almost half an hour, until he woke up and tried to play with her tail. *g*

I haven't felt well most of the day. I've been extremely tired and ended up taking a nap this afternoon. I did try and swim some laps today, but could only last about 45 minutes until I just wanted to cry.
Turns out when I splurged and had a piece of cake last night from a local grocery store bakery I should have checked the ingredient list a little better. There were three different types of soy in it. *sigh* I such a dummy.
Anyway, it's been a long day and I've rested (though not by choice). I am hoping tomorrow is better and so I'm headed offline for some sleep. I wish a relaxing and amusing Saturday for y'all. Goodnight and Healthy wishes, B.

Exercise: swimming
Exercise hours: 45min..

The Breathing Statue!

Oreo is a strange girl. She likes to stand as still as a statue on the chest in front of the tv. She just stands there. And has a blank look on her face most of the time. I'm used to her doing this as she takes this exact post (only, facing me) on my bedside table at night before sleep. She's a good girl with definite quirks.

A slower paced day today, thank goodness. The kids and I didn't have to go anywhere until we left to drive to the Y for Daughter to teach her MA class. I did manage to get some things done today, though. Laundry, cleaning the floors and cleaning the microwave (why am I the only one who does this in my house?) and the litter boxes (not to give too much info, but we scoop several times a day. I just like to scrub them out and wash them with soap every couple of weeks) as well as dusting.
When we left we dropped off a few items at the library and then headed to the Y. Daughter and Son headed to teach the MA class and I? Tried a new class. I was worried I wouldn't like it, or wouldn't be good at it and had heard a bit of scary news (pardon my language, but was told she was a hard@$$) (She's a zumba instructor, too. Meaning she teaches Zumba teachers how to teach. Yeah, I am aware than sentence barely makes sense.) about the teacher. But, I gathered my tiny bit of courage and tried it. And loved it! Oh, guess I should tell y'all the class. It's Zumba with a twist, basically with a chair. And no, you don't dance sitting in the chair the entire class. It's called Zumba Sentao and uses the chair as balance, as a tool and well, it's hard to explain. But, we did squats, leg lifts, crunches, triceps arm exercises, push ups, etc. AND we danced like you would in Zumba, sometimes around the chair. The teacher was kind of like they say, but it was more funny that scary. If she didn't think you were giving it enough ooomph she'd stop and sit down and kind of lean back in the chair and quirk her eyebrow and watch the class until the energy level went up (no more than a few seconds). I thought she was nice and while I wish to goodness I could move like her, she didn't have anything but encouragement to say to anyone after the class.  It was only the second week the class was offered and the room was PACKED. There had to be over 40 people in there and as word gets out it's only going to become more popular and more packed. Hopefully they'll offer it more than once a week soon.

As for reading? I was too busy cleaning and then ran out of time tonight, too. I WILL find time to read tomorrow. I WILL make time to read tomorrow. But, right now staying up to read means losing sleep and while I like this book, I don't love it enough to do that. I'm just too tired.
So, this is where I head offline. I hope y'all had an excellent day. I wish a fun and enjoyable Friday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: Zumba Sentao
Exercise Hours: 1hr..

Sleeping Weird!

I have no idea what it is with this kitten and sleeping in weird poses and positions. He was half in and half in the cat bed the other night and I had to share this picture. As I was taking it he looked up at me sleepily. Silly, but cute, boy!

Kids should come with warning labels. Caution: Will annoy you in no uncertain terms. That was Daughter this morning after I dropped her off at work. See, it had been discussed and planned that NG would drive her brother and his friend (all teenagers)(also good friends with Daughter and Son) to the Y where Daughter works today as they haven't seen the new Y and would love to swim and slide in the pool slide. However, turns out NG didn't actually know how to get there. *headthunk* Texting ensued between Daughter and NG and then me. An hour of texting. (Daughter was at work and can't walk around with her phone in hand.) Anyway, I finally suggested that since I was going over the the Y anyway, why didn't they ride with us. You'd have thought they could have come up with that one on their own. But, no. Everything worked out, though and when it was time to leave so we'd arrive when Daughter was off work we headed out. We get there and Son and I are immediately deserted. I get it. They were excited and wanted to see everything. So, Son and I changed and headed for the pools. I swam laps and Son played in the fun pool and before too long were met up with the others. We all had a good time and somewhere along the way we acquired another teenager whom we didn't know, but liked our group. *g* I finally had enough and headed for the jacuzzi, but the jets weren't working. That's okay, I soaked in the warmth anyway. I changed and headed for the snack area to wait on the kids and waited and waited and waited. *sigh* Turns out they'd headed back upstairs and then to the family fun center and I finally had to round them up so I could take them home before heading to my Zumba class.
After class I headed home and then decided to mow the lawn. Did I mention it had been close to 90 (not counting the heat index and since it was HUMID, well, I'm sure we hit over 90) today? But, I tackled it anyway and mowed and edged and such and wore myself out.
All that said, I read maybe a few more chapters in my book and may eventually finish it. Hopefully before it's due back at the library. *g*
Chris made dinner and afterwards we decided to spring for Sundae's from McD's. It's the first time we've had anything from there in over three months. But, after such a hot day it was nice to have a cold dessert.
And that's pretty close to the entire day. Kind of boring to y'all, but busy and never-ending to me. Now it's time for bed. I hope y'all had an invigorating and pleasant day. I wish an appreciative and happy Thursday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: swimming laps, Zumba, lawn care
Exercise hours: 3hrs. 30min..

P.S. My lab results came in this afternoon. Everything is good. All good were: thyroid, sugar and Vitamin D. No idea why I've been so tired lately, but, at least nothing is causing it.

Something Silly This Way Comes!

I have to say this picture makes me giggle. Einstein decided that the basket in the LR was interesting and sat in there for at least five minutes. Just. Sat. There. Silly boy. Even Elvis is wondering what the heck is going on with Einstein!

Whew! What a day! I always do a 12 hour fast before my blood work for the Doctor's office, because a couple of times I've actually been asked to do that, so I make it a habit. Well, Chris made my appointment for today. For 2:30pm. So since I don't eat after dinner..... it was a LONG time until my appointment this afternoon! Daughter worked this afternoon so Son and I dropped her off and then followed behind her and went swimming. I swam laps while Son had fun with the slide.
At the appointment I talked to the Doc about how tired I'd been after exercising lately and how my hair was thinning and I'm losing half my eyebrows again. I also told her about the muscle weakness and joint pain and so she's also testing me for Vitamin D deficiency along with my thyroid test. You know what I'm going to miss most about this Doctor? She listens! (More than any other Doctor I've ever had, at least.) She also asked what kind of hypothyroidism the other Doctor before her had said I had. Um, yeah. No idea. I did explain that my Mom had Hashi's, so she thinks mine is auto-immune based. Since I already have another auto-immune issue, this would make sense. Oh, and good news! My blood pressure was 124/78.
Son and I headed home afterwards and had lunch. Trust me, I was happy to finally get something to eat! Before we knew it, it was time to meet up with Daughter again. On the way over we hit a BAD storm. Lots of lightning and rapid downpour so much so that there was flooding in some of the roads and at one point we couldn't see more than 5 feet in front of us. We had to sit in the parking lot a while for it to let up. Luckily we weren't late for the kids MA class or my class.

As for reading? I'm about a fourth of the way through The Witness. It's a thick book! Already I'd like to dip the heroine's mother in hot water. Maybe it'd warm the frigid woman up! Grr.

And that's it. Sorry. I almost fell asleep tonight after dinner and so tried to get everyone upstairs earlier tonight. And yet, I'm still late getting this written because I had other things to take care of. Anyway, I hope y'all had a lovely Tuesday. I wish a marvelous Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: Swimming, Zumba.
Exercise Hours: 1hr. 45 min..

Butterscotch Observes!

I bet you were thinking I didn't take pictures of the other cats anymore. You'd be wrong. I also know most people looking back over all these pictures might think I was obsessed with our kitties, but it's not that. I love each and every one of them and the laughter, joy, contentment and yes, sometimes sadness they bring make our lives all the better for having them in it. We're teaching our kids to care for those weaker and smaller and unable to care for themselves. We're teaching them to take each moment and find the happiness or pleasure in it. We're teaching them responsibility by caring for the kitties with their food, water, litter and vaccinations and attention. And in return we laugh. We giggle. We enjoy the purrs and cuddles. And in the meantime I can practice my photography. After all, moving kitties are hard to capture an image of and sleeping kitties are just plain cute. *g* (And yeah, I take picture of the kids, too. I just don't post those. *g*)

While not a busy day, it has certainly been long. Daughter worked this morning and having not slept well, at all, it was not fun taking her to work this morning. This afternoon Son had a Summer Reading Event at the library. They made owls out of pinecones and decorated cupcakes to look like owls using icing, m&m's and oreos. And they played games. To be honest? I thought the pinecone craft a little young for the age group, but recognized it for what it was. After all, they must appeal to the youngest in that age group to the oldest. Son enjoyed himself, and that was the intended goal. And yes, his age group has an Owl theme, something about "Own the Night".

After taking the kids home after the event we met up with Chris and I headed to Yoga. As usual it was a great class. I adore our teacher. We're never bored, she never has a "routine" other than we start out with stretching, move to flexibility and strength, move to balance, work on core and then relaxation. However, the poses are never routine. And some are just plain fun. There's one called "swinging chair" that we sometimes start with that somehow just makes me smile because it feels so silly.

As for reading? I just started and finished the newest Janet Chapman, Charmed by His Love. I know some may call her books fluff, but I find them (usually) enjoyable. The inclusion of magic in this series just makes them even more interesting and I love there's an actual HEA, usually with some sort of epilogue. Not that I require an epilogue, but c'mon. It just helps perpetuate the HEA. Now I've just begun (a chapter or two) the new Nora Roberts book, The Witness.

And that's it. No more from me. I have a Doctor's appointment tomorrow, Daughter works and there's MA class. Not to mention a few other things. I hope y'all had a pleasing Monday. I wish a bright and happy Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: Yoga.
Exercise Hours: 1hr..

Wish they were scratch and sniff!

I'm running behind and have to be up very early in the morning so I thought I'd leave y'all with some lovely treats from MIL's gardens. The first is a camellia and the other is something called a "red hot poker plant". At least that's what I'm told. To me it reminds me of a wooden match top. MIL has some pretty unique plants in her  laboratory gardens. I, for one, am just grateful that the 'Angel Trumpet' plant is now no longer one of her experiments. (That thing stunk to high heaven.)
I hope where-ever y'all live there are lovely flowers and plants for you to enjoy. Blessings for a Happy Monday! Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Zumba, stationary bike.
Exercise Hours: 1hr. 30min..

Well named kitty!

A few things we've recently noticed about Einstein.
1. When we watched the news the other night they were showing the sports report and Einstein tried to catch ALL the baseballs from the tv report.
2. He's figured out how to turn on the X-Box AND to open the tray. And by turning it on? I mean he waves his paw over both areas and KNOWS that they'll turn on and open. We had to unplug the X-box unless we're playing it.
3. He's taught himself to play fetch. No, really. He loves a certain ball made from pipe-cleaners and kept bringing it back to Son tonight to throw. As soon as Son threw the ball Einstein would chase it down and then bring it back to start all over again.
We're thinking Einstein was well named. *g*

I am so darn tired. We started out the day rather slowly, but by the afternoon were running around in the heat. Chris and Son took FIL's truck back over to The Out-laws house (we kept it for them while they were on vacation) and I took Daughter to work and then met them at the Out-laws where Chris and I pulled down and cut down some dead limbs from an apple tree of theirs. We then piled all the branches and twigs onto a tarp in the back of the truck and hauled it all off to the land-fill. (And let me tell you it was driving FIL crazy that he's stuck with the walker right now. I could just see him wanting to jump in and do it himself. I joked with Chris that it was one of those "that's now how I'd have done it" moments for FIL.) We then headed back to the Out-laws to pick up our jeep and Son and headed to a local produce stand for some veggies. While there we received a call from MIL. The pilot light on their water heater (gas water heater) had gone out and could Chris come back and light it? No, I have no idea why MIL couldn't do it, but it's family. So we headed back to their house. And Chris lit the pilot light and noted that there was a lot of leakage and MIL confessed that yeah, it had been leaking for a while now, but she hadn't wanted to say anything to FIL because of everything that had been going on. Chris and I strongly suggested they get someone out to look at it as the pilot light would keep going out until the leak was fixed.
We finally got everything taken care of and headed to the Y to go swimming. Trust me, the cold water in the lap pool felt really good after being in the heat all afternoon. And all I can say is that if this is still Spring, I don't want to know what Summer in July and August is going to be like this year. I may love at the lap pool before Summer is over.
After finishing with the pool we waited on Daughter and then headed home. By this time I was exhausted and ready to sit down for a while. Chris and I both decided it was a "raid the fridge" night, meaning leftovers and/or sandwiches for dinner.

As for reading? I finally finished two more chapters in my bakery book. As tomorrow is going to be even busier than today I am already wondering when I can find time to read it again tomorrow.

And again, time to head offline. I hope y'all had an agreeable and laughter-filled Saturday. I wish a peaceful and lovely Sunday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: yard work-breaking, loading wood, swimming laps.
Exercise hours: 2hr. 30min..

My lovely furr-baby!

This is an oldie, but a favorite of mine. I love my Layla and she is my best buddy and sweetie. Y'all might think I'm weird, but I can't go to sleep at night without hearing her purr next to me or without whispering I love her. (That's a new thing I started after Tiger passed. I didn't want to regret not having said it.)

It's been a rather boring day. And hot, too. While the temps weren't bad at 82 degrees, the heat index was 94 degrees. I had planned to swim some laps this afternoon, but those plans fell through.

I did however manage a trip to Sam's with Son and then home for a bit to put everything away and cool down. Then we headed back out to Academy Sports to pick up a lunch bag/cooler for Son for MA camp in a couple of weeks and then home to meet up with Chris and then back out to WW. I'll say it right now, there's reason I haven't been taking Chris shopping with me lately, but I had no choice today because Daughter was off with Neighbor Girl at B&N. He stopped at looked at everything. My trip to WW took almost twice as long as usual just because he couldn't NOT stop to look at something. When we arrived home I told Daughter, "Never Again!". I love the man, but when it comes to grocery shopping I'm a 'get-in-and-get-out' type person.
After all that we're still not quite done. I purchase my veggies at yet another grocery store (though recently discovered that a Farmer's Market will be setting up on Saturday mornings soon near us. I can't wait!

As for reading? I didn't make it more than one page today. *sigh* I've just spent the day running around from one place to the other and then taking care of things here and I have to find time to just sit and read. I just have a feeling it won't be tomorrow.

Oh, FYI. The Out-laws are back from their beach vacation. I haven't seen them yet, but will this weekend and am hoping that FIL is looking better. I do know he was happy to get home and see his kitty. *g*

No more from me. Time to head to bed. I hope y'all had a fun Friday. I wish an amusing and smile-inducing Saturday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: 0. *sigh*
Exercise hours: 0. Tomorrow! I'd better have time tomorrow.

Dream a Little Dream!

I know I post a lot of pictures of Buddy sleeping, but c'mon. He's just too cute when he sleeps because he is so totally unaware and innocent and sweet and silly. To be honest he's just like that when he's awake, too. But, I wanted to show y'all that he smiles in his sleep as he is in this picture. I often wonder what the kitties dream about. Any guesses?

It was a rather simple day here. Daughter worked this afternoon and on the way home (after speaking with the AD about how the kids wanted more Shotokan in their MA classes) I treated Son to an Icee from a local convenience store. We had lunch and took care of a few things around the house while home and before we knew it, it was time to head back out with a stop by Son's, Chris' and my bank. Chris and I discussed it and we thought it was best to deposit Son's Savings Bonds in his savings account, which is what happened today. Son was quite excited and signed each one with his best cursive handwriting (Someone please explain to me how the child's cursive handwriting is better than his printing?).  He was so excited to hand the teller his savings account I.D. and watched everything with a lot of interest. I explained to Son that a Savings account is a lot like a garden. With time and care (likening plant food and water to his deposits and interest) it grows. That analogy seemed to click with him.
We met up with Daughter, whose new bathing suit arrived this afternoon and I gave her when we arrived, we all went swimming. Daughter and I talked to Son about his swimming and pointed out a few things that would work better and she said she never liked the way the woman who taught his swimming lessons taught anyway and she was going to teach him a few strokes. Um, okay? I'm glad she's taken an interest in her brother, but I knew it was too nice when she mentioned that teaching Son would be good practice for someday when she wants to teach lessons and is certified to do so. Whatever her motives, the result was good. Son had a better grip on a few styles of swimming after spending some time in a pool lane with her.
The kids had to leave for their MA class and I swam another forty five minutes after they left and then spent a few in the jacuzzi. By the time I was done I was so tired I could have gladly taken a nap. However, I still had to get everyone home. *g*
I am so lucky that Chris made dinner tonight. He's great about cooking and we share the cooking duties, but I must confess that while I do cook dinners- my preference is with baking. Whereas Chris doesn't bake. It is funny though, that of all the things we do make over half are recipes or foods, rather, that I grew up with. I've already told y'all how Chris learned to cook because both his parents can't but think they can. However, he prefers the foods I learned to cook from my mother, but with my own spin. Is that weird? If you cook do you cook things you've found or do you cook foods you grew up eating? I'll admit I rarely bake anything I grew up with. Are you a baker or do you like to cook? Or do both?

Ooh, sorry. I tend to blather a bit when tired. *g* As for reading? I've begun reading Cake on a Hot Tin Roof by Jacklyn Brady. I'm not very far into it, but so far I like the main character and her "voice". Plus, I am enjoying the fact that it's set during Mardi Gras. I miss Mardi Gras and King Cakes and beads and floats and parades. Heck, where we lived people would decorate a Christmas tree, carry it into Valentine's Day then St. Patrick's Day and then Mardi Gras and a few times we surprised to see the same tree's decorated for Easter. I swear they would almost leave it up for the Fourth of July!

Anyway, time to head offline. I hope y'all had an excellent Thursday. I wish a fun and enjoyable Friday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: lap swimming.
Exercise Hours: 1hr. 30min..

Sleeping!

Please excuse the quality of this picture, but it was taken with my phone at night. Buddy sleeps in the weirdest poses. Here he is halfway in and halfway out of the kitty bed. He's practically upside down and so cute and funny. *g*

It's been too long of a day. I'm exhausted because I didn't sleep well last night. I dislike when that happens and have felt like I was dragging all day. I almost fell asleep this afternoon, but didn't want to take a nap because I knew that as tired as I felt I'd wake up feeling even worse.
This afternoon we mostly stayed home, though I did make a stop at Daughter's bank for her. I gave her the Savings Bonds the Out-laws have purchased for her over the years and she cashed them out and put them in her savings account. She'll get a better interest rate in her savings account, which is pretty sad. I have been a big believer in Savings Bonds for a long time, but lately have noticed that our bank and Daughter's bank give better interest rates for the savings accounts and since Chris and I belong to a Credit Union our checking account even has interest. (However, we don't have any bonds, just the kids.) Since Daughter is now seventeen and the bonds were bought with the intent to help her purchase a car when she was old enough, I felt it was okay to give them to her recently and we talked together about what she could do with them (cashing or keeping).
I also went to Zumba this afternoon. I'm not sure how I kept up the energy to go. Pure willpower I guess. But, after dinner I almost fell asleep and grabbed a shower early.
As for reading? I finished the three Stand volumes and haven't picked what to read next. I'm too tired to pick tonight, though.
And this is where I head offline. I need sleep. I hope y'all had a lovely Wednesday. I wish a thankful and thoughtful Thursday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: Zumba.
Exercise Hours: 45min.. (shorter class because this teacher doesn't know enough material to cover an hour.)

Pretty, pretty floors!

My new floors! Aren't they pretty? While most people might go with light wood, we chose dark wood because it looked so nice on our floors and against the walls and trim. Now, please take in mind that we still have to put new floor molding in place, but, for the most part Chris is done with the LR/Great-room. He still has the hallway, though. (And it's only five feet long, shouldn't take too much time, right? *g*) It only took him three months to get down to installing these and then out of that over a month to actually put them down. BTW, these are "floating floors" aka laminate. We have a concrete sub-floor and therefore real hardwoods were NOT recommended. And those who say math skills aren't useful outside of school? WRONG. *g*

Today has been a little frustrating. Daughter worked this afternoon and after dropping her off Son and I went to the Out-laws to feed and give fresh water to the cat and water MIL's plants. However, the key we have, or thought was their's, wasn't. I couldn't get in to get the cats food and while I could give him time and attention and fresh water he only had the food SIL gave him yesterday. Well, I freaked a little, but called Chris and he said he'd go by after work and see if the key he had worked. We stayed and petted and talked to Rebel, FIL's cat, for about an hour. He seemed to enjoy the attention and then we left. We headed home and had lunch and I cleaned and did some laundry and then it was time to leave and head to the Y with a trip to the Library first to pick up my books that had come in from hold. I now have the graphic novel The Stand volumes 4, 5, and 6. I also have Fated by Benedict Jacka (Son wanted to try it, but since it seems a bit older the deal we have is that I'll read it first and if it's okay then he can read it.) and Dead on Delivery by Eileen Rendahl. I've read the other books in the 'Delivery' series and had to have the library borrow this one from a library in Florida since our library didn't have a copy. I've already started reading the graphic novels. *g*

After arriving at the Y we were all set for me to swim laps and Son to play in the fun pool, only..... the fun pool had to be closed to be cleaned. Um, we'll just say there was a bio-hazard incident that closed it for three and a half hours. The lap pool was still open and they were letting people swim in it for fun, too. I'll admit to being a bit unhappy about that. I waited fifteen minutes for a lane to open up and then before we could get in, a guy jumped in like we hadn't been there before him. Grrr. *sigh* Luckily another opened and Son and I swam laps and when he grew bored I shared the lane with another woman. I didn't stay in the lane very long, but am still trying to amp up my workouts a bit and hope the half hour of laps I did swim were conducive to that. After we changed- Son and Daughter (who had had a snack while Son and I were swimming since she was then off work) got ready for MA class and I headed to zumba.
After class I caught the last fifteen minutes of the kids class and I was not happy. Actually, I haven't been happy with the MA classes for a while now. The teacher switched the kids in the class from Shotokan Karate to a type of Kung Fu and my kids miss the Shotokan. And I noticed today that the teacher had each of the higher ranking belts teaching the new students, but the higher ranking students weren't really learning anything and looking back I've noticed this has become a theme. My daughter and Son have been brown belts for four months now, yet don't feel anywhere NEAR ready to test for black belt, which would be later this year. And yet, we're kind of stuck. There is no Shotokan studio anywhere near us. And we can't afford karate lessons anywhere else. (The prices at the Y are very reasonable and then Daughter gets a discount on her fee.) I honestly don't know what to do. My kids would like to learn, not just teach others-though they don't mind that, they just want to advance their knowledge. Basically, they feel as though they are sitting stagnant. GRRRRR! (Bear in mind, my kids seem to be the only ones unhappy with the change to Kung Fu.)

Then I get a call from Chris. His key didn't work, either. We have no idea where our key to their house is. He couldn't get in to the cats food, but hey, the cat still had dry food left from yesterday. So he went home. *headsmack* He could have gone by the grocery store and picked up a can and given that to him, but he went home. He could have called his sister, who was the one to feed the cat yesterday and see if we could get the key tonight to feed the cat. But, he went home. *sigh* He called MIL(at my urging) and she admitted that a neighbor feeds the cat as well so not to worry about it. BUT, seriously? Chris is the smartest man I know-he's highly intelligent, but he couldn't troubleshoot this situation at all. Grrr.
Add in Daughter has been cranky today? Yeah. I am ready for the day to be over. I'm hopeful tomorrow is a better day. Which is where I leave y'all. I hope y'all had a MUCH better day than I did. I wish a wonderful Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Laps, Zumba.
Exercise Hours: 1hr. 35min..

Looking Back!

Can you believe this was Einstein? Look how tiny he was! While he's still never going to be a big kitty, he's a lot bigger than this. But, he's still as cute! And crazy. *g*

Chris took the day off and finished the floor in the great-room/living room tonight! Yay! It looks so pretty! I will take a few pictures tonight and tomorrow during the light to share. I am so proud of Chris for doing such a great job. He worked hard and for those who say you never use those skills you learned in Algebra, Geometry and Calculus? Yeah, they never had to install wood flooring in a weird shaped entry way!

While I didn't help with the flooring today, I did handle the laundry and cleaning and putting all the items back on the bookcase in the great-room/living room. Daughter worked this morning and then home to do some schoolwork before heading to her first Summer Reading program. They played x-box games on a huge screen as a group and had a good time. I dropped off my third review for the library when I picked her up and received a free re-usable bag that has 'iRead' on it. The review is part of the Adults Summer Reading Program. Each review is an entry to win an iPad. *g*
Speaking of reading, nice segway-right? *g* I finished the Royal Street book. The book was a fun read though the subject matter was emotional. The book is set in New Orleans mostly during the after-math of Katrina. It had magic and other creatures from the Beyond and has a young wizard trying to find her mentor and what may have happened to make him disappear. In the meantime she also has to control those who are crossing from the Beyond into reality and they aren't all friendly, several murders have taken place and she and her new partner must track down the cause. I liked it, mostly because of the heroine- she was inexperienced and at times out....powered, but managed to somehow overcome many trials and tribulations. I hope to see another book from the author with the same characters. As for what's up next? I'm not sure yet. I'll have to take a look at my small stack and maybe eenie-meenie-miney-mo! *g*
I made dinner tonight and even dessert for Chris. We had tacos. And while Daughter doesn't like lettuce on hers, Chris and I do on ours. However, we were out! I somehow missed that. But, I came up with a solution. We had plenty of baby spinach so I chopped some up and we had that instead. At least the spinach has more vitamins and nutrients than lettuce. Have y'all ever had that happen? Having to substitute an ingredient? How did it come out for y'all? I liked the spinach on mine and Chris was meh. Sometimes I can get him to go along with a change and sometimes not.

And that's our day. I still have laundry to take care of (I washed the curtains today. I do it a couple of times a year- I'm allergic to dust.) and need to head offline. I hope y'all had a beautiful Spring day. (Yes, it's still Spring until later this month, despite the heat!) I wish a terrific Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: Yoga.
Exercise Hours: 1. Not a lot, but better than none.

Kitty Baby Pictures!

A blast from the not so distant past. Can you guess who this is/was? This was Teddy as a kitten. He's still adorable, sweet and did I mention he's sweet? He's also not quite smart. But, we love the furry boy, anyway.

It's been an okay day. This afternoon I went to Zumba and had a good time. Then came home and did laundry, cleaned the bathrooms and mopped. I also helped Chris as he used the table saw to cut the planks for the flooring. He needed me to "catch" them as he pushed them through.
I also made dinner. We had homemade pizza and it was pretty good, if I do say so myself. I even made breadsticks. Son loved it and both Chris and Daughter thought it came out well, too.
I didn't read anything today. I just didn't have the time. I hope to find time tomorrow, but today was just too busy.
Also, please visit Melissa's blog. She lost a very dear friend this weekend. I hope she knows that she and her friends family are in our prayers.

Anyway, I hope y'all had a good Sunday. I wish a pleasing and stress-free Monday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Zumba.
Exercise hours: 1.

Elvis is in the Building!

Elivs was kind enough to pose for me using photobooth. He always looks sad and/or worried to us, but here he just looks proud. And maybe mildly curious as to what I was doing.


Not a lot to talk about today. Daughter picked up the shift that the guard who quit with no notice (five minutes before he was due for shift. Seriously? Don't parent's teach their kids responsibility anymore?) was to have today. After dropping her off Chris, Son and I went to the main library. I picked up a few more books this time: The Stand Graphic Novel volumes 2 and 3 (I've already read Volume 1.) , After The Fall Before The Fall During The Fall by Nancy Kress (a new-to-me author), and Cake on a Hot Tin Roof by Jacklyn Brady (new-to-me author). Chris picked up a couple of manga and Son picked up a graphic novel. The good thing about the main library is that they separate adult graphic novels and manga from the tween and teen graphic novels and manga.
After the library we visited with the Out-laws for a little while. We also noticed the apple tree in their backyard will need to be trimmed very soon. There are a lot of dead limbs on it. We also offered to take off some brush for them and since they'll be going to the beach soon I'll be feeding FIL's cat and watering MIL's flowers for a couple of days and SIL will do it a couple of days, too. I can say that we're not liking the way FIL looked today. He was pale and looks like he's lost more weight. And right now he doesn't need to lose more weight. I know the torn ligaments and muscles he just injured are hurting him, but I am worried.
After visiting with the Out-laws we headed home for a little bit and Son played with his best friend for a while. Before we knew it, it was time to pick up Daughter. On the way home from picking her up we stopped at Academy Sports because she needs a new swimsuit and they have the best selection right now. Unfortunately they didn't really have much she can wear for work. She likes the swim-team type, but they've become too constricting as she's, um, grown. So, she was looking for a sporty two piece instead. Nike had one, but the top was white. As in WHITE as a sheet of copy paper white, if not whiter. Considering how pale Daughter is this was NOT a good color for her. Darnit. We checked online tonight and found a few to research a bit. And to her delight they have Life-Guard on them. *g*

As for reading? I read both graphic novels I'd picked up. And I am still reading the Royal Street book. But, instead of reading tonight I watched a movie with Chris and the kids instead. We had a nice evening.
And that's it. Sorry, but it was a, thank goodness, low-key Saturday. Tomorrow promises to be a bit more productive. Chris has said he'll finish my LR floors tomorrow, so we'll see how that goes. Cross your fingers. *g* I hope y'all had a gorgeous and fun Saturday. I wish a peaceful and Blessed Sunday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: None.
Exercise Hours: 0. While I don't like this number, it will be better tomorrow.

Smiles and Super-Heroes!

I swear Buddy was posing with Harley when I took this picture. It's almost like he was trying to look as cute as possible. And Harley is a pretty girl and can move like lightning. Even funnier is that we've started believing these kittens can fly. When they're playing they leap with such height and force they look as though they should be wearing super-hero capes as they fly across the room.

I've been fighting a nasty sinus headache all day long. I took the day off, so to speak, and decided to try and rest and be a little lazy. Um, I don't do lazy well. But, it was kind of hard to actually do anything when my head was in a vise from the headache. I managed a few things, but not as much as I would have liked today and didn't exercise at all. I feel so darn guilty about that. And also that because of how bad I felt today I didn't make good food choices, either. I had carbs and sugar. Not good. Which amps up my guilt.
Daughter isn't feeling too well, either. She's had drainage all day and it's left her feeling dizzy and sick. We're hoping she isn't coming down with something and that it's just allergies.
As for reading? I finished the Jill Shalvis book. I loved it. I actually think of the, now, four Lucky Harbor books this one is the best. The hero is great hero material with a little angst. Then there's the heroine and her motivations are believable and knowing exactly what it's like being called the "good girl" all my life I could REALLY relate to her. And I am so excited to have been able to read the next two books in the series excerpts in the back. And now I'm back to reading Royal Street. 


That's all from me. I had to medicate the headache earlier and while that worked there's still a dull heavy feeling in my head. I'm hoping a good nights sleep will take it away.
I hope y'all had a healthy and happy Friday. I wish an amusing and smile-filled Saturday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: none. Don't like that.
Exercise Hours: 0. Not a fan of that number.

Got My Mojo Working (Actual Elvis Presley Song Title)

Elvis is a sweet cat. I think of all the kittens he may be the sweetest. He is a love-bug and enjoys being cuddled. He also loves to play and will do flips and flops and jumps and leaps playing with his brother and sisters or with a toy. Tonight he had fun with a simple coke bottle cap (Chris'.). (And please pay no attention to the picture background.My bedside table is a mess.)
Another full day here. Although I managed to grab a  45 minute cat-nap this afternoon. I don't know about y'all, but for me a cat-nap means I can still hear everything going on around me, but yet I am at that edge of sleep where I can rest. I don't nap often, but it sure was needed today. This heat is wiping me out. At least that's what I think is going on. Either that or my thyroid is acting up. I choose to believe it's the heat. With the heat index today we made it to 97 degrees. In May. Granted it's the last day of May, but still. If it continues on this way I'm going to grow webbed feet because I'll never leave the Y's lap pool. (It's kept around 82 degrees.) However, today I didn't swim, there just wasn't enough time. While at the Y (while Daughter was teaching) I rode the bike and to pass the time, as usual, I had a book with me. Not the one I started reading last night (I'm still reading that one.), but Jill Shalvis' new release Lucky In Love. (Chris knew how much I wanted to read the book and the library isn't getting it in, so he bought it for me over the weekend.) As with most Jill's books I started snickering and even laughed at loud at one point. At which the guy on the bike next to me gave me a weird look. *g* I love Jill's books. Most are lighthearted, but not fluffy. The characters seem real and as a reader you feel as though you are looking through to a real couple's relationship. But, best of all- her books are enjoyable. They make me smile and I really feel like I need that right now. So, the other book has been put on hold until I finish this book and smile while doing so.

Anyway, that's it from me tonight. It's been a long day and tomorrow promises to be just as long. Daughter is working a double tomorrow. A friend from work texted tonight and has an unexpected trip to Texas tomorrow and asked her to take his shift. She gladly agreed. Not just for the extra hours, but because she really wanted to help this person out. Too bad she doesn't feel as generous helping me out at home!
I hope y'all had a satisfying day. I wish a fun and happy Friday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Bike, 11.06 miles.
Exercise Hours: 36min..