A small Mira Update.

Just a small Mira update. She has gained weight- she now weighs 1.90lbs.. I know this because we had to take her to the Vet Friday because of a nasty ear infection. She's now on two different antibiotics and an ear medicine as well. (As opposed to just the one regular antibiotic she'd been on.) we are anxiously awaiting her growing so that the surgery can happen soon. 

As for this picture? She and Son are best pals and they play together every day. He's holding her in this picture so I could share how darn cute she is with y'all. 

Anyway, that's it. I hope all are well and happy. Blessings, B.

P.S. It just occurred to me that while folks on Facebook know what's going on I've neglected to share news here. I apologize. Mira was scheduled for her cleft palate surgery earlier this month and we were so excited. Anxious, but excited. We dropped her off that morning and they called that afternoon and said they couldn't perform the surgery. After sedating her they were taking a closer look at her cleft palate (a good thing) and noted that her big issue is with her soft palate (another good thing, or so we've been told), but that her throat was just too tiny for any of their tubes (a not so good thing). We have to wait on the surgery until she grows more- they're thinking when she's about six months old. Which is funny because that's what I wanted to do all along, but then she became seriously ill and events took off from there. However, don't fret. She's receiving excellent vet care, we adore her and am taking good care of her and we love her so much. She WILL have the surgery that y'all have made possible, we just have to have her grow a bit more before it can happen. So! Think growing and healthy thoughts for our girl, please. 

We need help! Updated!

Our little Mira is not doing well. I should have posted before now, but I've spent all my time taking care of her and haven't had much left over for anything else besides also taking care of my family. I'll admit to also being depressed. She was doing well, but has another sinus infection as well as an ear infection. The ear infection seems to be healing, but the sinus infection is taking its toll. We switched her antibiotic and that hasn't helped. She is so tired. She sleeps most of the time, though I make her eat and am still giving her meds. I called the vet today to see if we could try yet another antibiotic and was told that there is nothing else they can do at this point and that only surgery would help. We were trying to save up for it, but our fridge decided to die and had to be repaired and then our AC died as well. It's, frankly, disheartening. We are reeling over everything and yet want nothing more than to help Mira get better. For her to be better. Despite her small size, this tiny girl has curled into our hearts nd we don't want to imagine our lives without her. So, today after crying and crying I gave up. Y pride and asked for and accepted help from a friend who has set up a fundraising page for Mira's surgery. The sooner the better, because if she becomes too weak there won't be any hope. And right now we are clinging to the hope that all this works out. So, I'd you can help- thank you. If you can't that's okay, too. Please keep dear Mira in your thoughts and prayers.

Updated to add: thank you so much. We have reached our goal for the first surgery for Mira. Now to get her scheduled for surgery! Our vets nearest schedule date is October 15th. We will be appealing that date as it is vital we get Mira her surgery as soon as possible. If that means another vet- so be it. Praying if that's the case the costs remain the same. We will keep y'all updated as soon as our vet returns to office next Tuesday. (Another vet who doesn't do surgery is covering his office for the next few days.) Again, thank you for your kindness.

Um, not to sound greedy, but prayers or good wishes concerning our AC getting the compressor part in before next week would be greatly appreciated. It's hot and humid here and with no air we are sweltering. The fridge is now repaired, so that's good news!

http://www.youcaring.com/pet-expenses/mira-s-cleft-palate-surgery/83105

Blessings, B.

Scary news!

I took Mira to the vet yesterday. Her energy level was good and the infection was slowly disappearing. But, she was making odd noises when trying to eat. And it seemed to get worse, not better. It interfered with her ability to eat and since she's underweight for her age I wanted an answer. So, off to the vet we went. Everything looked good and then I showed the Vet the video I made of her eating. He started to say that she may have polyps on her throat, but then when trying to look for those -opening her mouth wide- he discovered that Amira has a cleft palate. How it was missed up until now I have no idea, but it explains her nasal issues. The Vet wants to do surgery, pardon me, multiple surgeries (between 2 and 4) at a not small expense. He wants to do them NOW, while she's still young and her bones are still malleable. However! It's very, very risky due to her age, size and weight. If we wait until she's older the surgeries will be safer, but there may be more of them and more expense. We're between a rock and a hard place. We are loathe to risk her life and trying to find the money right now is almost impossible. But, if we wait it will be a more difficult surgery(s) for her, but safer for her life. And those that are reading this and thinking we should have her put down- go away. Every spark of life deserves a chance to thrive when it is as loved as we love Mira. In the meantime we are compiling a list of question to ask the Vet. He suggested getting her switched to dry food as soon as possible. She's being stubborn about that and doesn't want to eat the dry food. It's worrying me. I don't want any progress we've made in her gaining weight. (She's still under a pound.) So, I'm being bad and offering the dry food, when she walks away I give in and give her the canned food. It puts her at a higher risk for another sinus infection, putting us at another impasse. So! Prayers and good thoughts for Amira please!? 

Blessings! 

Aptly named!

Little Mira has been sick yet again. I wish her immune system was working better, but considering she was found at three weeks old, I guess it's as good as its going to get for now. This time she had a bacterial infection. It caused her bottom jaw and mouth, throat and lymph nodes to swell. It was very scary and dangerous for a few days for her. We weren't sure she was going to make it. I cried, prayed and tried to make her possible final moments comfortable and loving. I took her outside (wrapped up) to watch a sun rise ( family joke is that she's solar powered) and to see some flowers. I gently hugged her, petted her and told her we loved her. I thank God that somehow she has pulled through. She still hasn't made it to a pound yet, but she's getting there and we are hopeful she'll make it by e end of the month. Her breathing is better and while there are still some issues she's dealing with (eating isn't easy for her right now due to some coughing whenever she tries to eat) we are Blessed to have her in our family. Best wishes to y'all, B. 

A good excuse!

I have a very good excuse for not posting. I've been working very hard- we're talking blood sweat and tears - to keep Mira surviving. She became ill last week and so began our quest to find out what was wrong and how to make her better. Two vet visits last week and two more this week and we're still not sure what has made her sick. However, we are hopeful she'll fully recover. She's on two antibiotics, though today is the last day for one of those, been given anti-nausea meds and has had to put up with me waking her up every hour and a half to force fluids down her throat. We've added food to that recently so that she can put back on the weight she couldn't afford to lose in the first place. We'd just managed to get her to a little under half a pound when all this started. I'm keeping my fingers crossed, but yesterday she started wanting to eat and played with my necklace. She's still so very quiet, unlike the trilling and chirping we had become used to before all this began.  I took this picture yesterday morning. Big brother Buddy is very patient and loving toward her and kept watch while they looked at the birds in the backyard. Anyway, just wanted to update y'all on what's been going on. I am constantly sleepy and exhausted, but she is so very worth it. Blessings, B.

My Punk!

This is Mira, short for Miracle. And to be honest I've already given her a nickname- Punk. I call her that sometimes because her fur is a character all it's own. It's very fluffy and reminds me of cotton candy. Sorry for the poor quality of the picture. I'll post a better one later. Mira came into our lives one Wednesday three weeks ago. She was tiny, less than a quarter of a pound. Daughters boyfriend found her on a busy bridge overlooking a river. We think someone tried to throw her out of a vehicle. She survived somehow- hence her name. She also came with a surprise we didn't realize at first, we were too concerned with trying to get her to eat, she's polydactyl! Our little girl has thumbs! Suffice to say there have been many trials with her, her lack of appetite at first among them. She was so small, barely three weeks, and felt like holding a baby bird. She was treated for congestion, then ear mites and today we had to take her to the vet again because she became very ill with tummy issues and vomiting. For someone so small that can be devastating very quickly. We had already been to the vet once today, one of our older kitties developed an inner ear infection and has/hadto be hospitalized. Hopefully, she'll be home with us soon. As for Mira, let me just say I adore our Vet. They normally close at 5:30, but we were there rather late and not one bad look or word. Oh, and they all think Mira is adorable. *g* They gave her some meds and sent us home with some sulfide medication to kill anything nasty that may be hiding in her intestinal tract. Please keep your fingers crossed, think good things, or if you don't mind please say a prayer for both our furry family members. 

I know I promised to post here more, and I've really meant to, but Mira has taken up so much of my time these past few weeks. She was only sleeping two hours at a time and the eating so I'm still not caught up on my sleep and she will need to be watched closely for the time being, so the lack of sleep thing continues. 

All that said, please forgive me for being so absent here lately. I won't promise this time, but will truly try to post more. I wish a beautiful week for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B. 

P.S. I've gotten hooked on a new to me author, Craig Johnson. He writes the Walt Longmire series that the A&E show is based upon. I'm on book seven now and have no desire to stop! 

Aka, my sweetie pie!

Aka is a true sweetheart and definitely a Mama's boy. His favorite thing in the world right now is a toss up between his canned food dish or the catnip stuffed carrot I bought today. He played with the carrot all night long and looked sad every time another cat would try and play with it. Such a cutie! 

I started this blog as a weird combination of diary and place to reach out to others. I've failed on both counts lately. I'll admit Facebook has made it easier to pop over and drop comments about something I find interesting, but I have missed this outlet. 

I need to vent a bit. I picked a new Doctor this week. Mostly out of necessity as I need a prescription filled this week. But, also because its rather daunting to pick a new Doctor from the many offerings in our area. I desperately wish our Doctor hadn't moved last year. She was almost perfect. Her practice was small enough where you didn't feel rushed through. Her front desk was staffed by her nurse and the Doctor would sit and listen to you and answer any question you had no matter how long it took. My appointment Tuesday was vastly different, big business. I waited for over thirty minutes before being called back by a nurse. She took my history and asked a few questions and me being me, my blood pressure was HIGH because of the stress. She gave me a few minutes to calm down and took it again- a way better result that time. The Doctor came in asked one or two questions, told me to undress and left for a few minutes. Came back, performed the exam, told me my blood would need to be drawn and that they'd X-ray my elbow (it's been hurting and popping like mad lately, almost a "forced" popping) and thn left. The exam took less than ten minutes. Another nurse came in to take my blood and then send me to X-ray. After the X-ray I was told I could go, but was made to make another appointment in six months. They also were rather aggressive in getting the address where my records are currently residing. All this took about three hours. You read that right. I ended up with a huge bruise where blood was taken (four vials!), spent an entire morning there, spent maybe fifteen minutes with my supposedly new Doctor and was made to feel like I was taking up their time. I was kind of in shock the entire time. Doctors visits aren't easy for me, anxiety is a major issue and so I just followed along. It all felt so..... mechanical. Like a well-oiled large factory. I hated every minute of it. I don't want these people getting my records. I want a different Doctor. NOT this place. Its conveniently located, but I hated every minute of it. And rather than call me with my results I was sent three different letters. One for my X-ray results (normal- which is weird, and nomfollow up on what couod be done to find out what could ve causing it) one for my pap, and one for all that blood work. I wasn't even told if my prescriptions are going to be filled, though they asked for my pharmacy info when I was there. Is this how Doc offices are run now, at least those affiliated with a hospital? (Do not get me started on the three major hospital systems in our area. One is a joke, one is greedy and one is good but slow.) at least I know I'm healthy, except for my elbow. Turns out my blood work looks great, go figure. They're keeping my current numbers for my thyroid prescription. At least that's what the letter said, though I was never told for how long the prescription might be good for- if they even put it in. 

In good news? I have fourteen books stacked up on my night side table. My library has been scarily awesome this week. I'm not sure how I'm going to read them all since over half are new releases and therefore due in less than two weeks. ;) But, I'll give it a good try. 

Again. I am sorry about not posting more, it's just are getting back into it and also not boring y'all with our every day lives. Best wishes and Blessings to each of you. Goodnight, B. xoxo

Another catch-up!

Harley is "pretty". That's our code for not very bright. Of course, she's also sweet and loving.,she adores Butterscotch and Layla and will plop down right next to them to garner their attention. If that doesn't work she'll sleep as close to them as she can get before they get irritated and stalk off and she'll look after them with a quizzical look on her face. Did I mention she's very pretty? *g*

I hope everyone had a lovely holiday weekend. We went hiking again and then Sunday the Out-laws came over for a visit and we had dinner together. I spent the afternoon before they arrived taking care of the yard work. I must be weird because I always feel satisfaction after looking over all that was done. I like to make things look neat and orderly and pretty. Yeah..... Makes me wonder if my family's joke about my OCD tendencies have merit. :) 

I am very lucky to have a small stack of books on my nightstand this week. Three of those are new releases. I am very lucky that my library is pretty good about ordering books. Granted, they can't order every new book released, but they do a decent job in their selections.,at least, for my interests. When people started saying that libraries would become obsolete due to ebooks and electronic papers I was worried. But, libraries are much more than that. Yes, that is the most important thing they supply, but our libraries are also community meeting places as well. We have story time, homeschool group, teen and Tweens groups, older groups, computers and computer classes, book and film clubs and even offer yoga and Zumba in community rooms on the weekends. So, I am remaining confident and upbeat that libraries aren't going to become extinct any time soon. 

Eh, I am rambling again. Oops. I wish a happy and sunny week for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Taki Girl!

This picture is of Taki and was taken by Chris this morning as he was getting ready for work. Taki decided she wanted to go with him and crawled into his computer bag. It probably doesn't hurt at he has a laser pointer that he uses in his classes and plays with the kitties with as Red Bug at home. She knows exactly where he keeps it and what it looks like. Smart girl!

I've been terrible about posting again. I apologize. Chris had last week off to take care of a few household things, but as usual not many we're done. However, he again was able to see exactly what my weeks are like and he only did all the driving! However, it was nice not to have to drive much for a week and it was nice to have him home and rested. He also trimmed a tree in the backyard that was looking more like a big bush, but we can now tell its a tree. If only we could remember what KIND of tree it is. :)

I have noticed a difference in the pain in my hands and wrists now that I'm using the iPad every day instead of my computer. I'm having a lot less pain. It's hard to believe my computer was at fault. I don't think it was totally, but I've made a couple of changes along with limiting my full sized computer usage. I'm also taking yoga twice a week now and plan to add a third class in sometime soon, 

We had planned to go hiking this past Saturday and woke to pouring rain. That's the third Saturday in a row it's rained. Crossing our fingers, but it looks good for this coming weekend. Sunday I attended Zumba and then mowed the lawn and spent another hour and a half after that edging/weed-eating and weeding. I received a compliment from our neighbor about the yard- the second in two weeks from two different neighbors. :) It's nice to know the hard work is paying off. Chris and I looked for a couple lavender plants at Lowes on Saturday to plant in the backyard, but they were sold out. I picked up some seeds since we're still slightly in the window so hopefully that will work. 

As for reading. That suffered while Chris was home, I was only able to read two books, the last of which was the new Lynn Kurland time travel- Roses in Moonlight. I have been reading her books for years and this one did not disappoint. It was sweet in nature and I appreciate that since most romances these days seem to contain more and more sex scenes, I'm not against them, but even four years ago they weren't as common as they are now. I think that's why I've read more YA in the past two years than before. 

Anyway, y'all are caught up. We're not the most exciting people. But, we still manage to entertain ourselves. :)

I hope y'all had an excellent week. I wish a delightful week ahead for y'all. (And I'll try to be better a out blogging.) Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Another catch-up!

I hope everyone had a lovely weekend. We were threatened with rain and had to cancel a hiking trip, only it ended up NOT raining until that evening. Oh, we'll. there's always this coming weekend. I spent Sunday doing exactly what I wanted to do. I though I would end up curling up with a book, but instead I attended Zumba, washed my jeep, and spent three hours doing yard work. I enjoyed every minute of it. Especially when Chris went to pick up Daughter from work leaving Son and I home and he helped me clip some branches for me. He was so funny and adopted a maniac lee voice and laugh every time I showed him a branch to trim or cut. Silly boy. Then he decided that one of my bushes wasn't round enough and practically scalped it. Good thing it grows quickly! 

The picture shown was taken tonight of the library books on my bedside table. I've already finished one of the books. :) Lots done today, lots more to do tomorrow. Time to head offline already. I wish a beautiful Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

P.S. I forgot I to tell y'all I ended up teaching a yoga class last week. I was nervous and shaky at first but ended up having a blast. I received many compliments, too. Who, me? :0

xoxo

Catching up!

Sorry about inconsistent posting. I just haven't had much to say lately. And right no I'm dealing with the hubs who is having a huge issue with his allergies. He's been sneezing like mad and his eyes are watering so badly he can't see well. Add in sinus headaches and he's been miserable for two days. Men who don't feel well are..... Well, I love him. Daughter was almost as bad for a few days last week. I'll admit my ears are crackling and I've been sneezing a bit, too. But, the world keeps spinning.

I have been reading and right now am retreading an old Nora Roberts- Secret Star. It's been many years since ice read this one, but the library had it and it just felt right to check it out.

That's about all from here. I hope y'all gas a nice couple of days. I wish a pleasant week for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Sleeping kitties!

Sorry I haven't been posting much. I've been feeling rather boring and while I enjoy writing these things for the most part, I've noticed that Facebook tends to keep us all chatting, too. Since my last blog post Daughter turned eighteen. I have no idea where the years went. It seems she was just thirteen, then fifteen, sixteen...... Time has gone by way to fast. She still is and will always be my little girl, but I know she will continue her journey toward adulthood. She reached the maximum number of hours the Y will let her work until her anniversary of her hire date- in June, so she's twiddling her thumbs at home and driving me a bit crazy. But, I'm going to put her to work. She's going to help me. Not what she wants to do, but ha!

Not much going on here besides that. Luckily, I haven't had any issues with my joints in almost two weeks. Yay! Though I am still going to see a doctor soon. I need to find one I like since my prescriptions will be up within two months. One f my favorite Zumba teachers is a nurse and she recommended a doctor. Cross your fingers!

I have been reading. Several books lately, actually. Right now I have the newest Amanda Quick book and am enjoying the Ladies of Lantern Street series. And unbeknownst to me L.M. Montgomery wrote a book geared toward adults and I just placed it on hold. I loved the Anne of Green Gables book(s) (Anne of Avonlea) when I was young and hope to find that again with this new book.

Well, time to get some sleep. I hope y'all had a nice week and lovely weekend, I wish a pleasing Monday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Pepper says HI!

This picture of Pepper makes me smile. I was talking to her and she raised up on her hind legs to talk to me. She's a very chatty kitty and will even meow at us if we sneeze. We like to think of it as her telling is " Bless you!"
I forgot to post the entire weekend! Oops! We attended a cookout at the Out-laws to celebrate FIL's 73rd Birthday, which is later this week. (So is Daughter's! Ack!) we had a nice visit and it was great to see FIL get around without a cane. Sunday was spent doing yard work. Well, I did yard work. Chris' allergies are even worse than mine this time of year and so yard work is not his thing. That's okay. I like mowing and edging and su h. I like taking the disorder the yard was in and making it neat and orderly again. Yeah, I'm weird.
Today was mostly spent taking care of small things like laundry and I even had to remove a dead bush from the yard. (I have no idea what killed it, but the others look great so I'm trying not to be too upset.) son had an eye appointment and one eye worsened quite a. It. So much so that the Doc wanted to dilate his eyes. Son hated every minute of it, from putting the drops in to the sensation they caused and the inability to withstand sunlight for hours afterwards. Poor thing. And then he and I had to take Daughter to a library event, yes, our library is back open after renovations, and we are thrilled! Back to pick her up then home to drop them off and off to the Y for yoga. Whew. More than enough for my day thanks. But, still a good day. Tomorrow promises to be just as busy so I need to head offline, I'll tell y'all about the books I've read later.i hope y'all had a great weekend, I wish a simple and pleasant week for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Discombobulated!

I know today has been scary and sad and yet made us angry. Angry that someone with darkness in their heart and soul could do something so evil. It saddens me greatly to know that there are those that think nothing of harming others for nothing more than.... What? A cause? A difference? What? I just can't understand the utter hate and cold blooded-ness it takes to know that there are children around and NOT CARE that they are harmed and/or killed. Believe it or not, to me, war makes more sense. A battle- that both sides have volunteers for, that they choose to fight, that makes sense. But, to drag innocents into it? I hope that I may grow enough in my heart to someday forgive. But, tonight? I take comfort that there is a place in hell for whoever is responsible for today's bombing.
*sigh*
Knowing me, I may take this post down later. It's not like me, truly. I guess I need to pray on it. For now I'll pray for those affected, whether they are victims or those involved in caring for, rescuing, and investigating this tragedy. May God keep watch over them all.

Topic change! (I need it.)

Over the weekend, on Saturday, we went hiking in a lovely spot located in a local state park. We had a great time together and I am so pleased we took the time to do it. As a matter of fact, we all enjoyed it so much we want to make it a habit!
I also posted on Facebook on Saturday that I was looking for a recipe for a lemon cake. I was given many helpful suggestions, but today, while watching the news coverage I just decided to make up one all on my own. Chris was the first taste tester this evening and he said it came out great. Too bad I didn't write it down. *g* Though I am sure I could closely duplicate it. I tried it after dinner and think it came out well. (Not bragging.) but, I also think it needed a glaze. I'm not good at those, but need to keep trying until I get it right.

As for reading? I read That Old Flame Of Mine by J.J. Cook over the weekend as well as Some Like It Hot by K.J. Larsen. Both were good reads and while I bought the Flame book, I'm grateful my library finally received the Larsen book. Now they just need to get all the other books on my TBR list. *g* And, if not that, they need to get in the books on my holds list-at least.
That's it from me. Time to get some rest. I hope y'all had a nice weekend and that you'll, if not pray, then keep good thoughts in your heart for those affected today. I wish a better day for tomorrow for y'all. Goodnight, Blessings, B.

Napping in unusual things!

Aka will sleep almost anywhere. Here he is sleeping in the lid for our seedlings. Silly boy. Good thing I didn't need the top anymore!
Not much to share. It's been a long week with our regular schoolwork and classes and errands. Daughter and I did take Son to get his hair cut this evening after MA class. It was strange to walk in and there and there was the branch manager of the Y we had just left across town. He's what we call Daughter's Big Boss. She has her boss, the AQ, and this is her boss' boss. Of course there's a BIG Big Boss- but he's the director over both Y's. Still it was weird!
Um, as for reading. I've been reading, but now I'm out of library books. This is after picking up Reflection Point by Emily March from the library yesterday afternoon. I finished it last night. Time to troll my bookshelves and Amazon's freebies. *g* Any recommendations of any freebies?

And it's that time again. I'm dealing with some joint pain in my elbow tonight, so it's also time to take some ibuprofen. I hope y'all had a lovely and pain free day. I wish a fun and sunny Friday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Growing and sprouting!

These are the seedlings that Chris and I started last week. I wish I'd known that some seeds are actually GMO before purchasing them. But, growing my own veggies as to count a little, right. I did find it interesting that out of all the seeds we liked and planted- most came from other countries. Oh, one row is sunflowers, however they're RED sunflowers.
This weekend was spent taking care of house and yard. Saturday I mowed, edged, and cleaned. Today I finished up a little yard work, did laundry and washed my jeep. I'm a little weird about my jeep, I hand wash and then towel dry it. Towel drying is something I picked up when we lived in California- the water would leave icky spots if left to air dry there so I stared towel drying and have kept it up. I find it funny that of all the things I could have inherited doing from my Dad it's the car upkeep that is what has stuck with me all these years. Anything y'all do that you copy from one or both of your parents?
I've also been reading. I've read Fancy White Trash by Marjeeta Geerling (a YA and new-to-me author) and Going Vintage by Lindsey Leavitt (also a YA and new-to-me author).both were interesting and the unique voices given to the heroines are what made them readable and enjoyable. I'm not sure what's up next to read, but I have a handful of choices. Cross your fingers the library gets good things in for me soon! *g*
Time to get some rest. I hope y'all had a beautiful weekend. I wish a joyous return to the beginning of the week for each of you. Goodnight and hugs, B.

Taki naps!

Not much to share with y'all. My left hand has been bothering me this week. Lots of pain and swelling. I couldn't unbend a few of my fingers and the top of my hand looked deformed from the swelling. However, a course of anti-inflammatories (ibuprofen) for 24 hours seems to have helped bunches. I know I need to see a doc about this, it's just hard to find one I can trust after that other bad doc. I wish my most recent doctor hadn't moved......
As for the picture? That's Taki all stretched out at the foot of our bed. She looks quite comfy, doesn't she? She's such a funny and sweet girl. Right at this moment, though, besides typing this- I'm playing fetch with Einstein. I made him a toy ball out of two chenille pipe cleaners and he's having a blast. Actually, this is the third ball I've made him because Teddy stole the first one and Harley stole the second one. *g*
I have been reading. I just finished Dangerous Gifts by Gaie Sebold. This is the second book of the Babylon Steel series. Hopefully it won't be the last. I love the world-building. The different characters and the story within a story the author manages to weave together. I find the heroine fascinating. I mean, she's a former avatar turned soldier of fortune turned Madame. NOT your average heroine. And yet, it works. She's likable and while tough, can be caring. It just all fits together and works to make a great read.
Time, yet again, to get some rest. I hope y'all have had a good week so far. Best wishes for a fun Friday. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Unusual kitty!

Einstein likes to play fetch. Yes, you read that correctly. We have a cat that will play fetch and LIKES it. However, as he is a cat- there are rules. The only thing he will play fetch with is a fluorescent orange chenille pipe cleaner. It has to be made into a circle and you have to throw it on "three". If all those are met he will play for a half an hour. Smart, weird, sweet and funny- that's our Einstein.
I know y'all have noticed a fee more errors in my posts than usual lately and I apologize for them, Chris bought me a tablet a coup,e of weeks ago due in large part to the trouble I'd been having with my hands. The keypad is taking some getting used to, but since today was a day it was needed, I'm learning.
Not much else to share. I read the newest Heather Blake Wishcrafter book. A good, satisfying cozy read. Now in reading Going Vintage by Lindsey Leavitt. It's a YA and by a new-to-me author, but so far I'm liking it.
Time to head off, sorry. I've been so tired today- to the point of groaning and dragging muskeg around. I'd better get some rest, and so should y'all. I hope y'all had a terrific Tuesday. I wish a wonderful Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: I borrowed energy from tomorrow for today. Zumba.
Exercise hours: 1 hr..

Nosiness!

Not much to blog about. Saturday was spent running errands. Son picked out this model of Leonardo de Vinci's catapult at Hobby Lobby. He somehow talked Chris into building it for him and then tested it out with clay (provided) balls. I'm glad he enjoyed it and was able to learn a little history while doing so.
Today was spent having lunch at the Out-laws for lunch after Mass. MIL also invited Daughter's BF as well, so we picked him up on the way. We had a nice lunch and MIL gave me some monkey grass to plant in my yard. After lunch we headed back to the house where I cleaned out and detailed the interior of my jeep, laundry, baked an apple cake and planted the new monkey grass. All in all, a pleasant day.
I just finished reading Jack Reacher's Rules by Lee Child. I enjoyed the insight into the Reacher character and a look at some of the military-isms. (Those were familiar, though some were different per branch.) strangely, I haven't actually read any other Reacher books by Child. I became curious because of the movie released last year.

Time to get some sleep and hopefully start the week off right. I hope y'all had a lovely weekend. Blessing and love to you all. Goodnight, B.

My beautiful Layla and her amazing new self!

Can you tell that Layla has lost weight? (In a good way!) She moves a lot more quickly now and seems to have more energy! I love my Layla girl, no matter the size, but am glad she's healthier.

They should call having been selected for jury duty 'hurry up and wait'. I arrived, waited in the cold for a while with about 40 others and then we were told the judge was running late and to come back after lunch. (Traveling Judge. What can I say, we're not a big town.) I headed home, spent time with Chris, who had to take time off because.... Grrrr. Don't get me started. After lunch I headed back, to wait again with everyone. They let us in the building and we sat while roll was called, we signed forms, answered questions, and jury selection began when names were drawn from a basket! And received either a swear or strike from either counsel. I kid you not. Small town, remember? All in all I wasn't called and/or chosen, so I was told I could leave. (With over half the others, as well.)
After all that I took care of some things at home and we headed out for a few errands. We ended up being bad and grabbing burgers for dinner, but while I feel guilty- it was ever so yummy. *g* especially since I've been craving red meat like crazy lately. Which is VERY odd for me, I don't eat a lot of red meat, or even meat, usually. Guess this is my body's solution for being so tired lately. Trust me when I say Chris and Daughter don't mind. *g*
As for reading? I've begun the newest Heather Graham book, Let The Dead Sleep. This is the first in a new series, but set in New Orleans like a lot of her other books. I don't mind, I like the other books set there and since I've been there it helps make it a little more real for me.
Annnnd. That's it. Time to get some much needed rest. I hope y'all had a lovely Wednesday. I wish a thankful and thoughtful Thursday for y'all! Goodnight, B.

P.S. Vickie's mom came out of surgery and is now home again! Yay!

Too silly?

What do y'all think of my new headband? Too silly for someone my age? I saw it this Friday and while I normally don't splurge on accessories, this one made me smile. It's sparkly (I like some sparkle.), and cute and I couldn't resist. Not too bad for a little under $10? I have a feeling Daughter may like to borrow it sometime.
Sorry about not keeping up with the blog. Lately I don't know what to blog about, I mean there is only so much about MA classes, the Y, the ligrary and our household I can share without y'all snoozing over your computer (or however else y'all read here).
I can share that Chris and I had one of our "date" errand afternoons today. *g* We had a good time. After all these years we still smile and laugh and hold hands. He treated me to some books at BAMM and then there were the regular errands like the pet store, Target, WW, and a local grocery store. By the time we were done, we were both tired, but had a nice time together.
That's about it. Time to get a little rest. I hope y'all had a nice week and a happy weekend. Blessings and Sweet Dreams, B.

Normal Day!

My new purse! What do y'all think? I manage to fit everything in there AND a water bottle and book this afternoon. It's a gift. *g* when y'all were young did you carry a small purse or a big one? I carried a small purse, but when I had kids that had to go. However, I never could bring myself to carry one of those that looks like it could double as an overnight bag. Heck, when each of my children were babies I didn't carry a traditional diaper bag. I carried backpacks.
Today has been okay. My back is slowly healing, though last night and tonight has not helped. Chris went in later to work today and so I took care of his normal chores as well as a few other things. This afternoon I weeded and put out some new mulch. Then later this afternoon we headed to the kids NA class. I didn't take my regular Zumba class, I knew it would be too much. Instead I rode the stationary bike and walked on the indoor track.
And as for reading, I am about a third into The Heart of a Hero by Janet Chapman. I'm enjoying the merry chase the heroine is leading the hero on, though irritated at how the heroine is too prideful. Hopefully she eases up soon.
And that's our day. Normal and kinda boring. I hope everyone had a pleasant Tuesday. I wish a wonderful Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and hugs, B.

Exercise: 10.56 miles bike, walking
Exercise hours: 1hr..

Catching Up!

Einstein is the strangest kitty! He thinks he's a puppy. He likes to lay fetch. And he comes when called. As a matter of fact one of his nicknames IS Puppy!
Sorry I didn't get to post earlier. I've been so tired lately, though that's not the best reason. And ten when I would have posted this evening I was at the ER with Chis. He had a nose bleed that wouldn't stop. In the end it was three hours before it stopped and that was with two hours in the ER. The stress of it all also raised Chris' blood pressure- something the ER Doc said was common.
But, to catch y'all up..... Did I tell y'all we finally found me a purse? (Not the best sentence, sorry.) This past Saturday I went back to T.J. Maxx and finally found one! It's not my normal thing- it's not plain black. But, it's cute as heck because its black with polka dots. Best part of all- it fit MY budget criteria. Chris had dragged me back to the store with the intent of buying the more expensive one we'd seen the week before. Um, no. The purse I ended up with has all the qualities I wanted and drags me out of my staid and boring regular thing. It makes me smile to look at it.
While there we also picked up Son some shorts and polos. Don't feel Daughter was left out, because we bought her a cute shirt. She didn't see any shorts there she wanted- said they were all too short. And, best of all for Saturday? Chris had my brakes done! Just in time, too. The mechanic said there was only 30% of the brake shoes left on the front. Ack! Our last vehicle had a warning light when it was time to have them serviced. The jeep doesn't seem to have one of those. I just thank goodness we had them done!
Yesterday wad spent running errands for groceries. I hurt my back with a bad yoga class this past Thursday and it really hurts. I even broke down and took a pain pill, but it didn't really do anything for the pain other than make me loopy and tired. Ugh. Chris was even tying my shoes for me on Saturday! I missed my favorite yoga class today because of it. And I am hoping that it gets better soon.
As for reading? I read Deck the Holly by Marni Bates this weekend. It's a YA, though toward the 18 year old end of it. The book was a cute, funny read with a plot of "misunderstandings" throughout. But, it ended with a happily for now ending and I was okay with that. I also retread an old Nina Bangs book. It was one set at the Woo-Woo Inn, my favorites of hers. Next up? Not sure yet.
Time to get some sleep. It won't be much, but should be enough to keep me going. I hope y'all had a lovely weekend. Sweet dreams, B.

I know I need to post, but its later than I meant it to be so consider this a placeholder until I have time sometime tomorrow (Monday). Thanks for bearing with me. I hope y'all are well. Love, B.

Rambling!

I think I've posted this picture already, but this weekend has left me discombobulated. Between trying to find a purse, dealing with a teenage daughter giving me attitude like she's a cast member from the Wizard of Oz ( and no, I'm not talking about Glenda), figuring out how to take care of getting my brakes fixed without coming off as clueless as I really am and regular household things... I'm done. I need a week of sleep. When I'm not sick- that is. So, you have a cute picture of Layla and Taki cuddling and I bought and read Jana DeLeon's new ebook, Lethal Bayou Beauty. Of course I loved it. It was just the thing to brighten my night. I can't wait until it's on Goodreads so I can add it. The Sinful Ladies Society are up to their shenanigans again while trying to prove Fortune innocent of murder. Of course hijinks ensue, making for a fun, light read.

Time to try and get some sleep. The stupid time change has messed up my internal clock, so this promises to be a rough Monday. I hope y'all had a sunny weekend. Goodnight and hugs, B.

P.S. Melissa and her family lost their beloved kitty Rocket to his illness. Please keep her and her family in your thoughts and prayers. www.melissamcclone.com

Making Room!

This picture is my bed on a Saturday night. Yes, there are four cats vying for space on my side of the bed. On Chris' side? None. Somehow that doesn't seem fair because as you can see I didn't have enough room to uncross my legs. However, that they love me so much they felt the need to be near me? Warms my heart. As for which kitties are pictured, starting at the top: Teddy, Taki, Layla and Elvis.

Not a lot to share. Daughter and boy bestie are now dating. I kind of saw this coming and am okay with it. As long as it's on terms we are all comfortable with. I don't think they realize how badly this could go if they decide to stop dating. At that age it's hard to go back to being friends. I hope it's worth it. It's been hard this week trying to catch up with cleaning and events and such after being sick last week. As Son and I were the only ones who became ill, we're lucky in that respect.
Yesterday I was very, very bad and for the first time in a long while I bought three books at B&N. I needed a pick-me-up and books are my go-to. Plus, I don't do this very often. (Trying to offset the guilt of buying three books, it's not working, but at the same time. BOOKS!) I now have the newest Erin McCarthy- Seeing is Believing, Janet Chapman's The Heart of a Hero , and Midnight Blue-Light Special by Seanan McGuire. A little all over the place as far as genres. But, that's me to a "T". I've begun reading the Erin McCarthy and am not very far into it as I just picked up and finished the newest Deborah Coates book- Deep Down. As with the first book, I inhaled it. The character is just so compelling and you want her to be okay. To be settled. However, that doesn't seem meant to be. I felt like this book was the ending for this character, but I like her too much for that. Has that ever happened to you?

Daughter worked today, we ran home for lunch and then back to the Y for the kids MA class. I had Yoga while they were in the latter part of their class and was resigned to having a teacher that sets my teeth on edge (I know, the opposite of what I need from yoga, but I needed the class and was going to try and make the best of it.) I was delighted to walk in and have one of my two favorite teachers at that Y. She challenges me and I learn new things and though I walked in with a headache after half an hour I didn't notice it anymore. I left class feeling good, except for the headache which returned. Ugh. (Don't worry about the headaches. I've been dealing with a lot of sinus stuff lately and it's connected.)

Time to get some rest. And maybe read a chapter or two. I hope y'all had a nice week. I wish a fun and enjoyable Friday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: Yoga.
Exercise Hours: 1 hr..

Light Action Team Reporting for Duty!

It doesn't take much to amuse cats. Here they are fascinated by the reflection of light off the top of Daughter's phone. Taki will chase that light like it's an obsession. Here are Zoe, Teddy and Aka on top of the cabinets above the refrigerator watching and wishing they could catch the light. Silly kitties!

I'm actually better, but getting back into that rhythm of before being sick is hard. And I still have residual issues. Lots of drainage for one. Ugh. This weekend was spent rather busily. Saturday was spent looking for a new dishwasher.  Ours has been broken/dead for six months now and we were finally ready to replace it. We checked out an outlet store and were not impressed. We also looked at Sears and online and Lowe's and a service that Chris gets through work that gives us a discounted quote. We liked a couple of the service's site, but they were all back order and we are at that point that we NEED a dishwasher. So. For what we wanted we ended up getting one from Lowe's on Sunday. Chris installed it and by that night it was able to run. Yay!
Saturday we also picked up new tennies for me, new unmentionables for Daughter and since Son was sick, nothing for him that day. However, today was spent running numerous errands. I bought Son new sparring gear and tennies and Daughter new sparring gloves. We also picked up my contacts and made a stop by Target and then had Son's hair cut. Whew! It was a long afternoon. I tried on a few things at Academy and Target- work out wear. While mine is still in decent shape I was looking to beef up my work out wardrobe from the same three pair of pants and three tank tops. However, work out wear just doesn't seem to be made for someone of my size. I'm not huge, but I'm definitely not tiny and most workout wear is cut small and made me feel huge and unattractive. *sigh* Oh, well. I guess it's not mean to be. By the time we were done with all the errands I had a monster headache and needed to sit in a dark room. Ugh. I still went to Yoga because I know I most always feel better after class. And I did. I just feel exhausted. I thought since most everything else had passed I'd be all better and back to normal. Not. I am still easily tired and am having to work around that.
Anyway, I've read a couple of books over the past few days, as well. One was The Girl with the Great Personality. This book is a YA and while the sentiment expressed in the beginning of the book was (personally) well received, this book just didn't end the way I'd have liked, but yet it did. I know that doesn't make sense, but there you are. *g* The other book I read was The Best Man by Kristan Higgins. It was a thoroughly enjoyable book. I like that, to me, the title meant more than the obvious and that this book was mostly about two people coming together with preconceived notions about the other than turned out to be false. The strong core of family running through the book was also enjoyable and the grandparents practically steal the book- comically. *g*

Anyway, that's it. I know posts haven't been regular. Sorry about that. I can't promise they will be again, either. It's just too hard some days and something has to give. Not to mention that gets pretty boring, right? Right. I hope y'all had a delightful weekend. I wish a lovely week ahead. Blessings and Best Wishes, B.

Exercise: (tonight) Yoga.
Exercise Hours: 1 Hr..

She's not mean, promise. (Not a great picture.)

Not the best picture of Pepper, but she's still cute to me. Her eyes are so hard to capture on camera. They glow a blue color when the light hits them and most of the time her pupils are fully open. She's so darn sweet and has a habit of licking me when I pet her. I'm not sure why she does that, but don't have the heart to make her stop.

Still feeling the effects of being sick, but the biggie is being so tired. Even more than regularly. I've been taking NAPS. You KNOW that doesn't happen here unless I just can't stay awake. Add in that the tendons in my left hand decided to mess with me today and I am very glad that it's heading toward the weekend. Hoping grocery shopping tomorrow goes well, too. Also, the stress is piling, y'all. Layla has been ill this week, too. I'm keeping an eye on her and it's nothing so drastic as to take her to the Vet, however, she is my sweetie and I've been worried. I changed up her food and it seems to be helping. What is NOT helping is that the food we normally purchase for the cats has recently been changed to "new and improved". Says who?
Not much else to share with y'all. Chris has been out of town this week. He had to give a talk on technology in the classroom at an out of town seminar/convention thing. He did quite well and got the attention of a few higher ups in his company. Something I knew he deserved and told him to go when he tried to cancel the trip when I became sick over the weekend. You never know when the impression you make can come back and benefit you later and since EVERYONE was complimentary to him on his speech/talk, I know it was the right decision. So, for those wondering why he wasn't taking care of me? He wasn't here because I made him go. *g* But, I will admit to being very glad he's now home.

I have been reading, but to be honest, I already turned the books back in to the library system. One was a modern Cyrano de Bergerac set with teens. The other was the newest Karen Rose. It just wasn't for me, though. I think I just wasn't in the right frame of mind for it. Being so tired and missing Chris made it rather depressing to read and while I normally love her books I found this one "meh". Up next? Another YA, Revenge of the Girl with the Great Personality by Elizabeth Eulberg.

Time to get some more rest. I need to be back to normal. Now. *sigh* I hope y'all had a good Thursday. I wish an enjoyable Friday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Sick Days

Taki liked watching a show on Animal Planet titled Too Cute! the other day. I had to admit to being transfixed by the show as well. There were puppies and were adorable.
Sorry for no posts. I thought I had a cold, but it's turned out to either be a cold on steroids or the flu. Fever, nausea, headache, aches.... all the "fun" stuff. Ugh. All I did was sleep yesterday. Today's not much better. I have to get it together, though, because it's not like Chris can drop everything.he has a presentation to give to a lot of people on technology and it's use in the training department on Thursday and has to get ready for it. Cross your fingers! I have every faith he's going to do well. He was voted Best Trainer at a seminar he attended last week. We're very proud of him.
All that and no actual content. Sorry. My head is killing me. Time to head offline. I hope y'all are all happy and healthy. Hugs, B.

Blessings!

I'm counting my blessings tonight. I do this to remind me that things aren't always bad on days I'm in pain- like today. My hand has been hurting all day so.... here goes:
I am thankful for my family - people AND furry.
I am thankful for y'all.
I am thankful for our library system.
I am, of course, thankful to/for God and my faith.
I am thankful for my home.
I am thankful for my health.
I am thankful there are authors.
I am thankful for books.

There are more, but I feel better now.
I hope y'all had a fabulous day. I wish a thankful and thoughtful Thursday for y'all. Goodnight and hugs, B.

Another Time Out!

Pepper was at it again the other day. I don't know why she likes to sit on my phonebook/library book box, but she does and as she does and naps she paces her head against the refrigerator as though in time out. So funny, so cute. *g*

This is it for me tonight. While I am feeling better I am tapping out this post with my good left hand and a, for some reason, swollen right hand and painful wrist. I tell you what, getting old sucks.

I hope y'all had a lovely Tuesday and I wish each of you a delightful Wednesday. Love and Blessings to y'all. Goodnight, B.

Exercise: Zumba. (Doesn't require hands.)
Exercise Hours: 1hr..

Books: Picked up a Steampunk Frankenstein at the library. Very cool pictures!

The Curve in the Road!

One of my favorite scenes to see almost every day. As we leave or return to our neighborhood I love to look over to this road. The way it curves and the white fencing and field beyond somehow call to me. Some days there are cows n the field and they, too, make me smile. I hope soon to take another picture of this curve in the road. This time maybe when the sun is setting. It just makes me imagine the possibilities.

I'm not feeling as sick today. Yay! Still have a sore throat and tons of drainage and pressure, but the nausea is letting off every time I move. So much so that I attempted yoga tonight. Granted, I made sure I took a decongestant before class and was careful because my balance was off. And we didn't have our regular teacher, however the sub was one I don't mind and we had a decent class.
I had an exciting morning! My neighbor from across the street called this morning to tell me there was a Sheriff's Deputy coming to talk to me about our other neighbor. The other neighbor is a policeman with the city and has applied to the Sheriff's Dept. The Deputy asked me about my neighbor's behavior and activities. (Making sure he didn't run wild, as he put it.) Basically, they're running a background check on him. My neighbor is a good guy. His son and mine are buddies and his oldest daughter is nice. His youngest is not quite two yet and he's on his second marriage. I forgot to tell the Deputy that my neighbor helped me plant the "monkey grass" I have along my driveway. *g* I hope he gets the job!
Chris had an eye appointment this morning. He's noticed a small issue of things up close not focusing as clearly. For a man who prides himself on his better than 20/20 vision, this bugged him. Not to mention I've been nagging him to make an eye appointment every since he's been out of the Military. Turns out he still has almost perfect vision. He just has that thing that bothers a lot of people after they turn 40. I'm sure you've seen it. The one where you hold a book or paper further and further away to read the small print? Yeah, that. *g* Of course, Chris being super vision man doesn't even have a bad case of it. As a matter of fact, it's so slight it can't even be corrected with lenses. However, he's at ease knowing his vision is fine. And btw? He's one of those people who freaks at the talk of eyes. He can't watch me put in my contacts and we've been married twenty years. One time he had to have eye drops because he scratched his cornea not long after Son was born and I had to SIT ON HIM to hold him down to put the drops in for him. Silly man.
My eye appointment is Wednesday. The only issue I have is that I don't like it when they dilate my eyes and since I'm the one driving I can usually get out of it. They do some weird drops and he holds what looks like a jewelers loop up to each eye and checks them that way. Works for me and I can drive afterwards. How about y'all? Do y'all have issues with the eye doctor? Are y'all as blind as a bat as I am? *g* (Legally blind without my contacts.) Son is on his way to having vision as bad as I have. I apologize to him for it every year at his visit. *g*
What else can I bore y'all with? Hmmm. I've been reading! I have started and am just about to finish An Affair to Dismember by Elise Sax. This is a cute book. It takes a while for the action to really get going and the book tends to meander, but at the same time there are scenes that made me laugh like a loon and the heroine is the type you can sympathize with. There are TWO love interests and I have to say I'm rooting for the mystery guy because the Chief of Police (one of the two) is a total jerk. But, there's something you can't quite put your finger on that keeps you from totally disliking him. The heroines Grandmother is funny and is mentoring the heroine in the matchmaking business, though we usually read her advice rather than "hear" it. The murder mystery is pretty straightforward. The author drops red herrings everywhere, though I have it figured out. (I checked after I was sure and was right.)
All in all, a very cute read. It's being compared to Evanovich's, but I'd have to say more along the lines of her early books, not the Plum books.

That's it. Time to head offline. Not quite all better and starting to feel sick. I hope y'all had a great Monday. I wish a terrific Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: Yoga.
Exercise Hours: 1hr..

Snow Day Fun!

These are pictures from yesterday's snow. We had a blast playing and exploring for hours. However, I hadn't felt well Friday night and ignored it yesterday and felt bad most of today. Site throat, drainage, sinus headache, dizziness and nausea every time I moved around too much. So, this is it tonight. I hope to be back and just fine in the morning. I also hope y'all had a nice weekend. I sincerely wish a pleasant and smile-filled Monday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Elvis the Homebody!

Elvis loves to be near people. He sat next to Chris in this picture, just waiting for Chris to notice him and pet him. He is a funny kitty in that he walks around meowing a lot. We're not sure why, but I suspect he doesn't know, either. *g*

Not much to share today, really. It's been a simple and nice Valentine's Day. Chris and I gave the kids each a tervis cup filled with their favorite Hershey kisses. Daughter's was "Fight Like a Girl" and pink with pink boxing gloves (closest we could get to MA gloves) and filled with cookies and cream kisses and Son's was a Star Wars cup filled with regular Hershey kisses. Chris loved his Graphic Novel and we had a simple dinner. Earlier today Daughter worked this morning and after picking her up we headed home for lunch and some schoolwork before heading back for MA class. I took yoga and CardioPump and did a little better with back-to-back classes this time.

And that's it. I told y'all, simple. Busy, but simple. Unless y'all want to know about the sneezing fit I had that was so bad I couldn't breathe through my nose for almost an hour? Fun! Anyway, time to get some sleep. Oh, I finished the Maddy Hunter book. I loved it. Like I knew I would. She never fails to entertain me her characters are hilarious. Now I've just begun The Departed by Shiloh Walker. This is a new-to-me author. But, the premise sounded interesting and something sparked my curiosity. Hopefully, I enjoy it!

All that said, time to head offline. I hope y'all had a lovely St. Valentine's Day. Hugs and Kisses to each of you! Goodnight, B.

Exercise: yoga, cardiopump.
Exercise Hours: 2hrs..

Dangerous Heights for Butterscotch!

Butterscotch and the other kitties like to sit up on the bannister over the stairs. It makes me very nervous, but I have no way to keep them off. A few have overshot their landing and landed on Tge stairs below. Luckily, Butterscotch is not one of those!

Nothing to share today. We saw the Out-laws this afternoon for a few minutes. And we also stopped by the library to drop some things off. Daughter bought lunch for the three of us today. And I've been fighting a monster sinus headache today. All day. Ugh.
That's why there isn't anything to share. And why I'm heading to bed. I hope y'all had a delightful day. I wish a happy Thursday for y'all. Goodnight, B.

Post Helper or Hinderer!

Teddy makes it hard to blog sometimes. Here he is laying on my computer bag. Which is why I'm posting this on my phone. *g* He's such a silly boy. I know he's looking for a feather the somehow yanked out of their "bird" toy that I stuck in my bag.
Sorry I didn't post last night. I thought about it and then sat down and promptly forgot. Don't worry. Y'all didn't miss anything. *g*
I'm still reading Bonnie of Evidence by Maddy Hunter. Having to sneak reading into the day is not easy sometimes. I'm loving the book. It's just as enjoyable and funny as the prior books in the series.
Today was alright. The boys went with us again. I had to intervene when one was talking about speaking with an AF recruiter and the other kept insisting he speak with his Navy recruiter. No matter how much the one boy said he didn't want to speak with the Navy recruiter the other wouldn't give up until I told him to let it go. Did you know an eighteen year old can pout just like a four year old?
Daughter taught MA tonight. Their Siho had a meeting. She taught Line Drills and a few other things.

Anyway, time to get some rest. I hope y'all had a good Monday and a nice Tuesday. I wish a gorgeous Wednesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: Monday- Yoga (One student, a woman I speak with sometimes, said she couldn't see the teacher and so watched me instead!) Tuesday- Zumba (Our regular teacher, the one who just had the baby, attended class tonight. She looks great!)
Exercise Hours: Monday- 1hr., Tuesday- 1hr..

Aka wants to help!

I decided to make chocolate chip cookies after dinner this evening and Aka became curious after I got down my bowl. Silly kitty decided to test out the bowl. I wonder if he wanted to mix the dough? No worries. The kitty was shooed off the counter, the bowl was washed and the dough- and then cookies- was/were made.

Not a bad weekend. Saturday was spent looking for a desk for Daughter. Since Chris and I spent a small fortune redoing Daughters room last year it was decided that anything else she might want would be up to her. So when she received her federal refund she decided to purchase a writing desk. We looked at several places and she decided on a mission style from a wood store we all love. Now she had to decide how she wants me to either stain it or paint it. She does know she wants a silver fleur-de-lis in the middle. Her next purchase will be a lucite chair for the desk. Her room is not large so the clear chair will be a help in making her room look uncluttered.
Today was spent at home. I ended up weeding. (Why does grass 'sleep' in the winter, but weeds continue to grow?) afterwards I played soccer with Son in the back yard. It started to rain on us, but we kept playing. Son ended up winning. However, the stinker cheated! Eh, it was hysterical and fun to play with him. *g*

Chris and I made dinner together and I made the cookies mentioned above and we watched the Grammy's. It has been a nice evening home. I'm already dreading the start to the week.
As for reading? I am a fourth of the way through Bonnie of Evidence by Maddy Hunter. I am already enjoying the return to the Passport to Peril series!

That's it. Time to get some sleep. I hope y'all had a delightful weekend. I wish a pleasant and easy start to the week. Goodnight and Blessings, B.

Exercise: weeding, soccer.
Exercise hours: 1hr..

Nap like an art form!

Do y'all see the top of my computer screen? That tiny paw? That's Taki. She decided my computer would make a good resting spot for her back paw while she napped. Silly girl!

Nothing much to share today. Daughter worked this morning and after picking her up this afternoon the kids and I picked up more holds from the Main library. While I love and adore our local branch it's nice how quickly a lot of our holds are coming in.
After arriving home we sat down to lunch and schoolwork and as the day wore on the worse I felt. By the time Chris arrived home I felt like someone was trying to drive a stake through my head and sadly this was a sinus headache. Ugh. And the irony? Daughter feels/felt good today. While I am glad she feels better I am also unhappy to not be feeling well.
I did read tonight, though. A cute YA with a historical museum backdrop. Pilgrims Don't Wear Pink by Stephanie Kate Strohm. It was a light and fun read, something needed on a day like today. I am putting the next book on my TBR list. I also read a graphic novel, titled IZombie. It was..... interesting.

That's mostly it. Not all, trust me, this house doesn't run without me. However, I didn't accomplish all I would have liked to today.
I hope that wherever you are you are safe and comfortable and in good health. I wish a weekend of relaxing and happiness for y'all. Goodnight and hugs, B.

Exercise: none. Feel like I have a head cold. Blerg!
Exercise hours: 0. Back to it soon.

Sun bounces off Teddy!

Teddy, or Mr. Ted- as we've been known to call him- is a big attention stealer. If I'm petting Layla or another kitty he'll come and try and lay on them so I'll pet him instead. Such a silly boy! And he's turned out to be our biggest kitty do far. Fellow is solid as a rock and weighs about that, too!
Daughter is still dealing with nausea. It's been going on since Sunday when she wasn't feeling well. I called the Doc today and the nurse suggested ginger-ale and crackers. Um, duh! She feels better when she takes some Benedryl since she had no fever, but does have drainage. I told her I wanted to make her a Doc appointment and she asked to wait until Monday. I've agreed as I am trying not to be that parent that panics at the slightest thing. And I understand where she's coming from because I started feeling the same way tonight. *sigh* it's not the flu, or a cold, or the norovirus. That much we know. I guess we'll wait and see.
Today was an okay day. I attended yoga this afternoon though I wasn't thrilled since I knew who was to teach the class and am not fond of her teaching. But, was pleasantly surprised to have a different teacher. Class was interesting and had new poses that I am eager to retry. Afte that class I attended CardioPump. However, I just didn't have the energy to give the class like I usually do because of the yoga class. While I was doing all that the kids had MA class and then went swimming.
As for reading? I had to put the Devaraux book down. It just wasn't for me. I'm now reading Bad Hair Day by Carrie Harris. This is a YA and new-to-me author. So far I like the "voice" of the heroine. And another character is already setting off alarm bells as the bad guy. But, the premise is cute and sounded interesting. I'll let y'all know how it goes.
And that's it. Nothing much more to share unless y'all want to know that I shampooed my upstairs carpet this morning? No? Okay then. I hope y'all had a thankful and thoughtful Thursday. I wish a fun and enjoyable Friday. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: Yoga, CardioPump.
Exercise hours: 2hrs..

Attention Hog!

I know I've posted either this picture or a similar one before. Harley adores attention. Whether it be from one of us or another kitty, she craves attention to the point of being obnoxious. Layla puts up with her as do the others, but it's funny to watch them with her.

I know I didn't blog last night and I apologize. Time got away from me and by the time I remembered it was either get some sleep or blog and I was very tired. And to be honest, nothing special happened yesterday. It was what is now a normal Tuesday. The kids had MA and their friends tagged along which meant after their class (and mine) I drove them home. I swear I feel like I spend most of my time behind the wheel these days.
When I woke this morning my hip was hurting, and that kept me from working out tonight. I was afraid to aggravate it and knew my regular Wednesday workout OR my back up work out might. Back at it tomorrow, though. And I can say I am dang tired of these joints hurting for no apparent reason lately. I don't know if it's because I'm getting older, or because of something else. But, whatever it is I don't have time to deal with it right now.
In other news, book news, I finished the Fortune Cookie book. It was..... okay. I'm now reading the newest Jude Deveraux, Moonlight Masquerade. I haven't gotten very far into the book. I spent most of today with the kids and their schoolwork. They just couldn't pay attention today and early this evening Chris arrived home bringing a couple of stress balls shaped like baseballs. They started a little war with them throwing them at each other as hard as they could. Son even used his Nerf battle ax to smack the stress balls to add force for when they hit his sister. I will say it's rarely boring here. To me, anyway. I sat in the middle of it all and was secretly glad they were blowing off steam and having fun with each other. Their age difference will become more of an issue the older they get, for a while at least. I'm not looking forward to that time. However, for now I am not borrowing trouble and am enjoying the camaraderie between the two of them.

And that's my day. Well, aside from some household things. Nobody want to hear about that, though. *g* I hope y'all had a marvelous day. I wish a thankful and thoughtful Thursday for y'all. Goodnight and Hugs, B.

Exercise: Tuesday- Zumba. Today, None.
Exercise Hours: Tuesday- 1hr.. Today, 0.

My Girl and Shoes!

I saw these at Target this weekend. I immediately thought of Daughter. Her favorite purse is the same pattern and when I sent her the picture to her phone I already knew her reaction. *g* I have a feeling they'll be in her closet after her next paycheck. *g*

Not much to share today. I couldn't sleep last night and so have been functioning on a tiny bit of sleep. (About an hour and a half.) With help from lots of caffeine and sugar.
I did read a good book, though. Sweet Talk by Julie Garwood. There were times the heroine seemed TSTL. And hero a little too Alpha. But, the plot was good and I liked the 'sisters' and hope to see more of them in the future.

And that's it besides household stuff, homeschool stuff and yoga tonight. I hope y'all had a delightful Monday (asking too much?). I wish a terrific Tuesday for y'all. Goodnight and Sweet Dreams, B.

Exercise: Yoga.
Exercise Hours: 1hr..

Bendy Girl!

Not the best picture of Taki, but one of the weirdest. I know cats have extra vertebra allowing their spines to bend more than ours, but good golly! This just looks wrong. She's such a sweetie and makes posed like this look normal. Silly girl!

Sorry to have dropped off-line for a while. By the time Friday arrived I was exhausted and going through the motions. It was also grocery shopping day, but turned more into visit B&N and The Treasure Box and then Costco day. Daughter naught a beautiful journal at B&N and I used a gift card I'd gotten for Christmas for a graphic novel Chris will like- for Valentine's Day.
After that the kids wanted to visit their favorite store, The Treasure Box. Daughter ended up purchasing a new sword at a steep discount since the store is moving. Son also made a purchase, a new set of throwing knives. Yes, we are an odd family. After that was Costco and finally home for a bit. I was supposed to go back out for more grocery shopping, but made a quick trip to Petsmart and then home. I do wanted to go to bed early, unfortunately it didn't happen.
Daughter had re-certification training Saturday morning and achieved her certifications again. Chris was kind enough to drive her allowing me to sleep a little more. While at her meeting Daughter learned some upsetting news. Rather than keep the boss she has now, now that the other of the two she had had transferred to a different department, they are bringing in another boss and demoting the single of the duo. We can't understand why. He had done a great job, but they're bringing in the Aquatics Director of the other Y we attend, the MT Y. I can only hope and pray that the guy being demoted finds a new job with an organization that appreciates what a great guy he is. I suggested to Daughter that he should work for The Red Cross. He already teaches CPR classes as well as Life Guard training classes. He's a great people person and excels with the public.

Saturday afternoon I detailed the interior of the Out-laws truck and we returned it, picking up Daughters friend, who I will refer to as Big D from now on, on the way. Oh, and she's back 'dating' the Boy Toy. *sigh* She said he apologized. He better have! Anyway, the kids goofed off outside at the Out-laws for a while and MIL and FIL taught Chris and I how to play a card game called Hand&Foot. And an off shoot of that game called Partners. It was interesting. There were a lot of rules to remember and the game uses six decks of cards. But, it was kind of fun.
After all that we dropped the kids at the house and Chris and I went grocery shopping. We picked up pizzas on the way home and settled in until Chris and Daughter drove Big D home.
Sunday has been spent resting and being lazy. We watched an NCIS marathon and I made soup and did laundry. Daughter hadn't felt well all day. I hope she feels better tomorrow. Ginger ale and home made chicken noodle soup seemed to help.
That all leads to now. I have to be up early and am up late. I can't sleep, but am tired. Grrr.
Time to try for a few hours sleep. I hope y'all had a good weekend! I wish an appealing Monday for y'all. Goodnight and Blessings, B.