slacker mom II

June 30

2011-06-30T07:35:00.000-04:00

As I look at the calendar this morning, I realize that our summer is almost over! WHAT! How can that happen? Our schools end on May 27. A mere month ago! Where does the time go? The girls start band camp July 18 for two weeks, they have a week in between, then on August 8, M will start her senior year. C will be a freshmen! Time just flies!

July 10, C will be attending a mission trip with our church. She really wanted to go. She knows a few of the teens that are going but not "friends' with them. I am so proud of her that she is going and really wants to go. It will be hard dirty work. She will come back a different girl-more of a giving heart. She already has a giving heart but I believe this experience will change her.

M is looking at colleges seriously now. She wants to go take a look at North Georgia and Lenoir Ryne in NC. Her first choice is Mercer but she is starting to rethink that one. If any of my readers have teenage seniors, please let me know what you are going through.

This weekend, we will party. On Friday, my little friend, MK will be coming with her family to swim along with 2 other families that we are friendly with. I am really looking forward to seeing my little MK. She is stinking adorable. Saturday, we are heading to L and E house for an early 4th celebration-looking forward to visiting with them. Sunday, one of my preschool families will be joining us here to swim and I went ahead and invited 2 other families to join us. I have been telling them, I will be inviting them over to swim. Monday is our annual 4th of July party that we host. This year, we are doing simple! I always go way overboard with the food-with J and his unemployment issues this year, and me not getting a paycheck during the summer, we are going simple! To begin our fun filled weekend, tonight we are meeting some friend at the local racetrack to watch the races , then one of the best fireworks show!

June 30 is today-today also marks the first time M walked by herself. You ask, how do I remember something like this-let me tell you-Joe N birthday is today-he used to rent our apartment and M just loved him-he was coming home and M saw him and got up and "ran" to him-we all sat there in amazement-she was only 81/2 months old. She has been on the go ever since. Happy Birthday JOE!!

The Casey Anthony trial has really taken some strange turns. Did she or didn't she kill her own daughter? To tell you the truth, I am undecided on whether or not she did it. To listen to all the family members talk, they are all disfunctional. There are so many questions, that twitsts and turns in this trial. The defense is certainly putting the down the path of the jury finding her not guilty. CRAZY!

Enjoy your last day of June, 2011!

D

Judging Others

2011-06-29T18:56:00.000-04:00

Today as I read one of the triplet blogs I enjoy, she had written about her daughters recital she went to yesterday. Here is one of the songs that she had to watch. I found it to be disgusting for 6/7 year old girls not only listening to this song but to have to choreograph it. Then we wonder why this country is going down the sewer real quick.

While I was watching The Price of Right, the president interrupted the program for his comments on the state of union. At first, I was disappointed I was missing my show, but decided that I would listen to what he had to say, after all, hubby has been out of work off and on since December. What I found today, is that Obama is very good at "masking" certain items.

Lets take the Immigration bill that is going into effect here in GA on July 1. He would not answer the multiple reporters questions regarding immigration. I have thought long and hard about this hot topic that people have been killed over. Do I agree with it? I don't have a problem with immigrants-its the way they live here. My grandparents came over to America on a boat through Ellis Island. All four of them were immigrants. They came here legally and lived the American dream. Why do these new immigrants feel it is there right to get free services, but do not pay for any of these services through payroll deductions as both my husband and I do each paycheck. They get food stamps. I looked into getting food stamps-I would get $200 a month in food stamps because my husband is receiving a unemployment check which we would prefer not to. If the employers would make sure they are legal here in the US and pay according to the law, we wouldn't have this problem today. I am sure there are many that would disagree with me-that is fine-I live in America-where I have the right to my own opinion.

He then went on to say the US needs to obtain new businesses here to get employees. Well how do you suppose that we do this if most US companies outsource as much work as they can do overseas. I say for one, for everyone that a US company pays for outsourcing a position here, they need to pay a fine and a hefty one at that. Wake UP America!!! We are slowly becoming a country of complainers and excuse makers. I was brought up with if you don't like something, then do something to change it!

My daughter who is a straight A student with great grades/SAT scores will go to college. She will pay for it with grants/loans/scholarships. The girl in Kennesaw who is an illegal immigrant gets to go for free because its her right. Where is my daughters rights in there? How does that become fair? Do I feel for the girl in Kennesaw-absolutely? She was brought here illegally at a young age by her parents. Everything I do for myself has consequences for my children.

I will moderate the comments so keep them clean!

Happy Summer!!!

D

This is Summer!

2011-06-21T06:59:00.000-04:00

Today is the first day of summer so the calendar tells me. I sit here and wonder what summer will be for me. Get yourself something to drink and sit back and read what has been going on in my world. Warning-not sure how much complaining I will do!

J has lost his job once more. This job loss has really rocked my world as I know it. He is a good person, responsible, and knows his stuff. If you looked at his resume, you would think long and hard why to hire him with his resume for the past year. Anyway, this last job he had heights-very high heights! J will do anything but heights. So suffice to say, this job was not a perfect fit for him. He is awaiting to hear when he will be working again. He has been offered a position with a great company, however, we are just waiting to hear when he will start, pending the results of drug and background check.

M is doing great. She sits around all day and lays in her bed. Last Friday, her and best friend, B, wanted to have a party at our house. Of course, I told her yes, but realized it was the same night, J and I had a date so we canceled our date and stayed home to be chaperone's for her little party she was hosting.

C is having a time of her life this summer-no not really. She is eagerly waiting to go on a mission trip with our church. C will be in marching band with her sister which will start with band camp immediately after she arrives home from her mission trip.

I am so glad school is over. This year was not a good year for either one of my girls. Junior year lived up to all the stresses that everyone before me has mentioned. M did great in school and I couldn't be more proud. C did ok in school and could have done much better if she applied herself. This year, she will be 15 in September. She will be able to obtain her driving permit according to the state. I have told her driving is a privilege and not a right. She has to prove to me she is responsible to drive. By doing that, she needs to maintain straight A's. My rule not the states.

This summer break (remember we have been out of school since May 27), we have spent numerous hours in the dentist office. Both girls had cleaning, cavities to be filled and poor C had 2 teeth pulled. Yesterday we were given our walking papers for another 6 months. We had to use a new dentist because of insurance and oh my-what a great office.

We also have gone to get our eyes checked. Both girls eyes have decreasingly gotten worse so glasses/contacts are to be worn at all times. The DR reprimanded me for the loss of C's eyesight. He was not very nice about it and the girls heard him in the waiting room. I felt like a child again at the principals office-not that I ever know anything about that. My eyes are also a lot worse but I am getting old so what do you expect at my age.

This past weekend, we hosted a surprise 50th party for a good friend of ours at our house. We enjoyed the day. Our house looked nice and the backyard was finally cleaned up from all the storms we have had. Tree limbs were all over the yard. My flowers are starting to grow nicely.

Some news that makes me want to shake my head and say really:

A little girl in a neighboring county was left in a daycare van for over 3 hours in this heat. The poor mom was called and told her that she needed to get to the hospital immediately where she was told her daughter had died. She was 2 years old. Working with children on a daily basis, I count and count and count. When I can't find one of my little people, I panic for a split second. That is just going from my classroom to outside or to another room in my little school. There are so many questions that need to be answered.
The Batchelorette- This season is crazy. Ashley is so hooked on Bentley. I wish Chris would show her the outtakes of Bentley before he left. Next week is proving to be lots of drama involved with Bentley coming back and the other guys not feeling it. Stay tuned on this one.
Hermann Cain will be running for President. Go Hermann!

A few years ago, Lisa Forss was someone I found on caringbridge. I do not know her personally but I had asked for prayers for her a few times in my posts. She portrayed herself as a young mother who has cancer and very little family support. I felt bad for her. I then started receiving messages that Lisa is not who she is portraying. She lied about having cancer. This morning when I woke up I received another message about her. She is back to her "old" games asking for support on a site on FB for cancer patients. We do need to pray for her sickness-just not the one she is portraying to have. So sad!

I have to go back to my life now-as you see, I am overwhelmed with excitement that summer has arrived today!

D

Milestones

2011-05-25T18:07:00.000-04:00

In two days, a milestone will be achieved. My baby will end her middle school career and my oldest will be a senior in high school. Where does the time go? It seems as if yesterday, we were driving M to preschool with Miss Dominque and leaving her with complete strangers. C went to a preschool in a new area when we moved to GA and I left her with more complete strangers.

Next year, as I have told Maureen, we have some pretty big milestones happening in our lives. J will be 50, I will be ~~40 ok~~ 50, we will be married 25 years, M will graduate, go to college and turn 18-yes in that order. C will turn 16 which means she will be driving a CAR-where does the time go.

For all of this, I am thinking of a cruise. My friend, MaryAnn is going Thanksgiving and would love to go with her and her family. She was my first boss way back when I worked at Dime Savings Bank in Walt Whitman Mall-seems like yesterday we met. 30 years later we still are friends. Our other friends are going on a different cruise that week and have asked us to go. Not sure if that is the time I want to go to celebrate all these milestones.

It all starts March 2012- with our anniversary-do we just go on an extended weekend by ourselves and celebrate, do we invite our friends and some family to a nice dinner to celebrate with us, do we let the day go by without any fanfare. When my parents were married 25 years, my brother and sister and I gave my parents a huge party. I was working so money was not an issue for the party.

May-M will graduate from HS. I like to plan parties so this must be a great party to host.

June will be J's birthday-do I have a party inviting friends and family or just hang with him and invite his Godfather and wife for a celebratory dinner.

August-M will be moving to her dorm room in some college away from our house. I will most likely be on anxiety meds by this time.

September - C will turn 16-big party for her big day-whatever she wants will work for us. She will also get her license to drive this month.

December-MY Birthday-what to do...

My question for now is do we celebrate once and do it big or do we small little things to celebrate each milestone for what it is. Only time will tell what we end up doing but any suggestions would be welcomed.

Oh Happy Wednesday!!!

Mothers Day

2011-05-08T10:24:00.000-04:00

17 years ago, I celebrated my first mothers day! Prior to this most glorious day in my life, I would spend this day with a pasted smile and would want to hang out under the blankets and wish this day over.

J and I were married in 1987 and M was born in 1994. As long as I can remember, the only thing I wanted to be was a MOM. Month after month, my desire to be a mom grew. We went to a fertility treatment doctor only to find out that there was nothing wrong with either of us. She put me on fertility pills, spent countless hours trying to conceive a child. Days turned to months, months turned to years. It was very frustrating to me. I couldn't control this one desire. In December of 1993, I turned to the Blessed Mother and prayed that if it was God's will to let me have a child. The next month, I was so sick and thought I had the flu, the rest is history as they say. I had the 9 month flu.

I remember my first mothers day card-it was from Sue's mom. Sue being one of my best friends! It made me feel so special. I was so happy to have a baby. When M was delivered, it was by far one of the best days of my life. My C was born 22 months later and not a day does not go by , that I do not thank Jesus Christ for my children. I have been blessed in ways, I was never able to manage.

I know we all think our own children are the best, but to be honest, I know I have the best girls I could have. They are both beautiful, caring, kind and smart. Everyone loves them! They are respectful! I love my girls with everything in my heart.

Thank you J for giving me the children I have always desired!

Happy Mothers Day to all the moms out there! Ones who fill in when the "real" thing is not there.

Promises

2011-01-04T18:20:00.000-05:00

As I sit here and read the numerous blogs I do, I wonder what I want to promise myself this year. Should I be a better wife, a better mom, have a better relationship with my Lord and Saviour, or a better friend. Lets take each one separately and I will openly or not openly agree with your opinions. This is my blog so I can delete anytime I want to. Here goes:

J and I met in August 1982-that seems like an eternity some days and then some days not so long. We have been through alot and have certainly had our ups and downs throughout the years. When something major in my life happens, who do I go for the support-J. He is a no-nonsense kind of guy-he will eat up alive if you dont' agree with him but he can be so supportive of you if you need help. For now, I am in need of help so he is my rock. He makes everything better! I cook dinner for him almost every night. This is the one thing he asks for all the time. He likes to eat at home and I suppose after all these years, he has adjusted to my cooking. He likes a tidy home-most days it s tidy and clean as I like a clean home as well. That is the extent of my expectations from him for me. So what is the problem you ask-not sure-any comments!

M is my oldest! She makes me very proud of her. She is a straight A student. She is just simply beautiful. She does whatever I ask mostly without me asking over and over. Of course, we have our little arguments but for the most, she is the daughter anyone would want to have. I am so blessed to have been chosen to be her mother. She knows what she wants our of life and enjoys life. So you ask what the problem is- she is stuck on a friend of mine (long story and I am not in mood to chat about that) who has treated her poorly- yes she is an adult. She has told her son he can not talk to M and that has brought great grief to her. I tell M to move on and don't worry about what others say or do as you can not control others. So for now, she has been in a funk since October about this.

C is my baby-not really she is taller than me and at age 14, knows everything there is to know about life. She is gorgeous. She is smart-but doesn't like to apply herself in school. She would rather be social than study. So for now, we have an understanding-lower than a B her phone is mine. I wouldn't trade C for anyone. She brings me so much joy with her witty personality and her smile on her face just melts my heart every day. I am thankful I am her mother. I am so lucky. C does not bring me any trouble so whats the problem? NO problem, she will just study more this year.

My Lord and Saviour- I have been Catholic my entire life. Lately (the past 4 years) I have been feeling left out of the Catholic church-not belonging there. I know that there are many churches who have hypocrites but for some reason it seemed as if my church had many more hypocrites than the norm. I have a relationship with Christ and would like it to be stronger. I pray for peace within myself. I pray for health and happiness. I thank God every day for my husband and my children. We have been going to a new church and I happen to enjoy it very much. I feel at "home" there. M does not like the church that much, C enjoys going there. J - well that is another post as well one day. After the Christmas Eve service, I doubt he will going back anytime soon. His loss and for now I will continue to pray for him that he gets to know and feel the love of Christ. I am not sure if I want to "dive" in the bible studies they offer there but for now, we will continue to go on Sundays as I joke that the preacher is talking directly at me every Sunday.

Friends for me come very easy. I tend to always want to meet and greet new people. I am not overly friendly but I would hope that you would agree I am welcoming. I have a few friends that over the years, I have found are not the friends I thought they were so I just remove from my life. I have some really good friends who I enjoy spending time with. Recently, I was telling C that I used to be a nicer person. I would remember to call/send cards for birthdays. Now it is all I do to remember a birthday is coming up in the month but not the day. I would randomly make or bake an item and drop it off just to say Thank you for being my friend. I miss doing those things. If I saw something in the store, that I would know a friend would like, I would purchase, bring home and wrap so carefully and deliver to the friend I purchased the item for. Where and when did I stop doing this? Not sure but I don't like the place I am in with my friends.

I am not making a resolution to make these better but now that they are out there, maybe just maybe I can be a better person this coming year.

I know I have a great life but always look at the negative and not what I have. This is my promise to myself to be more positive in my daily life.

"D"

Happy New Year!!!

2011-01-03T14:14:00.002-05:00

Hello my bloggy friends! I am back (not sure for how long) but for today, I will update you on what has been going on in my life.

Anna- our foreign exchange student left us in June. With mixed emotions, we took her to the airport and cried and held on. We went through alot while she was here. I am sure she thinks we are crazy Americans as our life is nothing as they portray on German television. We had some good times as well as times-well lets not even talk about that. We miss Anna very much and wish her the best with her life.

School started in August for all of us. I now have a junior in HS and an 8th grader at the middle school. My girls are both in band and for the most part enjoy being a part of the band. M is in the top of her class and makes us very proud. This school year has brought us some challenges with both girls. C is smart but she likes to have fun so that causes us some grief in the house. She doesn't get into trouble, she just chooses not to apply herself.

September was C birhtday. She turned 14. We didn't too much for her birthday as band consumes most of our time in the fall. We celebrated with cake and some gifts for our sweet C.

In October, our house went through some changes. M turned 16 and with turning 16 came a drivers license. I am proud of M. She drives a mustang which her dad bought her for $850.00, then promptly restored the car to its beautiful grace. Her "Sweet 16" party was held in September at our house. She enjoyed her day. We then had a bonfire for her actual birthday party. Maureen came for 2 weeks so celebrate with us.

November brought us my nephew living with us. TJ has had some issues in FL and decided that living with us and working here, life would be good. He was able to obtain a job within his union and off to Atlanta he went. We loved having TJ here but while he went home to discuss some options with his attorney, the union offered him a job with more money. As sad as we all were to see him go, we know he is better off living in his environment.

December is a busy month all around. I started it off at our church with Advent by Candlelight. I have always enjoyed this beginning of Advent. It prepares me spiritually. This year, it was a bit different and only had one speaker. She started off speaking of her puppy (which I do not like dogs) then she tied it all together to have Love, Faith, Hope, Joy. It was a great evening. We were busy at school, making all the ornaments we do. This is one of my favorite times of the year with my class. They are so adorable when it comes to Christmas. I had my annual Christmas Bingo party. I had a great time this year. There were lots of gifts and lots of laughter, not to mention lots of wine going around.

The middle of the month, J got offered and took a position with a previous employer. YEAH!!! More money, promotion and closer to home-almost forgot day hours! What more can we ask for. At this point we do not have health insurance so no one can get sick around here. We decided that paying $1100 a month on COBRA is excessive.

The end of the month, did not bring me good news. Everyone is healthy and I am very thankful for that. ON my birthday, we received notice from an attorney our house is foreclosure. OH MY! is I was able to think when J called to let me know. After figuring out what has happened, our payments have not been applied. I called the bank, talked to numerous people and have come up with a solution-however, it will take some time to clear up as they do not move that quickly.

The last day of the month, we received a letter from the IRS. Apparently our accountant didn't include my salary with our income. I am sure it will handled appropriately-again more paperwork. At this time, I am waiting for a phone call from our accountant to see what we need to do. Not sure who is responsible for this but it did not make for good New Year's Eve. I am glad this came in 2010 to end our year. I am looking forward to only good things happening in 2011.

My friends mom, Gale, will undergo some more tests this month to see how far the cancer has spread. AT this time, she is comfortable and will determine what the next course of treatment will be if any depending on the results.

Yesterday, SM and I spend the afternoon together. WE talked about our blogs, other blogs we read and what to do with ourselves this coming year. My goals for this upcoming year is to more organized and to lose weight. I am not going on a diet but a life style change. I hope to do this for myself. I read other blogs and see how other people have lost weight and they do it for themselves. I need to do this for me!

Have a Happy New Year!

"D"

Gale Warnings!

2010-06-29T07:51:00.000-04:00

Gale is my friends mother. She has been battling cancer for a while now. As of December, she was cancer free. She has had her monthly, then bi-monthly scans - all clear. A few weeks ago, she went into the hospital to have minor surgery to repair a hernia. All good! When she came home, she couldn't stop vomiting. Back to the DR. They found nothing wrong with her so they sent her to specialist to specialist meanwhile, she is losing weight, attitude is changing and frustrated in general.
Yesterday, she had surgery which they removed a blockage, but found a tumor. A biopsy is in order. Please keep Gale in your prayers. She is great person who has alot to offer to this world. No one should have to suffer like this.

"D"

Just another Monday

2010-06-07T07:24:00.000-04:00

The oil spill in the Gulf is one of the worst disasters if not the worst disaster. I am so thankful for going to the Gulf in the spring. Everyone has always told me how beautiful the water is and the sand is white as snow. The water is so beautiful. While we were there, it was windy which brought beautiful waves for the kids to ride in. Where is the public outcry on this disaster. Why can't they find a solution to this? I am sure someone has a solution but the BP officials don't want to listen. BP will most likely end up in bankruptcy. This is going to cost billions to clean up. The pictures that I see are sickening. Look at the poor birds and fish that have washed ashore. As one clean up guy has said, it looks as if the birds are being dipped in a fondue. How sad!

Today, Chrissy is working at VBS as a volunteer. She will be working with my friend, A, in the crafts. Chrissy is very excited to be a volunteer. This is the first year, she will be able to help out. The last two years, during VBS, we were on a vacation so woohoo, Chrissy.

I am an avid fan of FB which I have caught up with so many friends from my hometown. Some days, I get homesick from not seeing my friends on a regular basis. One of my friends, I have reconnected with is Annie. Annie and the KING dated before I met the KING. While we were dating, Annie was still hanging around which did not make me happy. After we made plans to get married, she married Tom a few months after us. On Valentines Day, she was beaten and left for dead with a hammer. Her head was smashed and it was touch and go for her. Her husband was the prime suspect of the attack. He was strung out on drugs and everyone told her he had to be the one who did it. She went along with everyone as they knew better. 23 years later, she has doubts. He did hard time in the NY state system. Annie and I became friends and good friends at that when Michelle was born. She had a daughter at the same time. She was married to someone else at this time. Tom and Annie are talking on FB, even I became friends with him. He seems like he is broken, his life is ruined as he can not get a decent job because of his record. Annie has relived that dreadful day in her mind every single day. She is not sure if he did, he is not sure if he did it. One thing, they do know is they love each other very much. Some people might think they are crazy. I have my own feelings and I think Annie is happy when she is with Tom. It is not for me to judge her or him. While he was in jail, Annie went and visited him numerous times, wrote letters and talked on the phone. She had moved on and married a friend of the KINGs family. They have since divorced. For now, I support her.

One thing that is going on in my life is my nephew has been arrested. Yes, arrested. I haven't talked about this to anyone as I am so saddened by the latest turn of events in my nephews life. He is a good boy with a wicked temper. From what I have gathered, is he was working at a bar as a bouncer to make extra money while going to school, and someone sucker punched him. He went off on the guy like a lit firecracker! The guy ended up in the hospital, with 12 stitches and 4 missing teeth. My nephew is going to jail for a minimum of 5 years his attorney has told him. My brother left him in jail for 5 nights before posting bail. I have had numerous conversations with my nephew and he is remorseful for what happened but has little support. His parents, my brother and wife, are letting him stay with them but are not supporting him in any way, my parents who have always thought he was the greatest will not discuss it with him. For now, I will support him in the way he needs to be supported. I have been praying for an outcome that everyone can be happy with and hoping that the guy he hurt will find it in his heart not to be revengeful towards him. Please keep all those involved in this situation in your daily prayers.

Happy Monday!
"D"

Good bye Anna!

2010-06-06T15:27:00.000-04:00

I doubt Anna will ever read this but maybe one day she will find it.

Dear Anna,

You came to our house under very difficult circumstances. You were removed from a family that really wanted you to live the American Dream or experience. You came to us because we wanted you to come live with us. The first night was so difficult for all of us. We didn't have a bed for you, only an air mattress. We said we would make it work. Michelle was kind enough to share her dresser and half her closet with you.

After a few weeks, and life settled down for us, we grew to love you. It was difficult to say the least but not because of you, but because we had an extra person living with us. We always tried to include you in our lives and sometimes it may not have seemed that way. Christmas came to you with us sharing our family traditions with you and some of your traditions with us. I will use your Gingerbread boys that you gave to me, maybe with my class, maybe with my girls.

Winter was upon us full force and we said we would do things, but you and Michelle decided to participate in Winterguard which I know you two had fun performing. At least you got to go to Macon.

You and Michelle will always have a special bond. You came to our house a friend of Michelle's you leave our house a friend, what happened in between doesn't really matter as you two are great friends to each other. Those memories will fade but you will keep the good memories with you in your heart.

We went through a lot and I learned alot from you. I hope you learned a thing or two from us.
I will miss you when you go back to Germany. I have grown to love you and care for you.

Thank you for sharing your experience with us. You continue to shine and laugh. I see you are so happy just being you.

Love,
D

We have had two parties for Anna leaving. One was at the skating rink then coming back to the house to swim and cake. The kids all had a great time . Anna was really surprised that we did that. The following week, her mom was here and we had the adults that were a part of Anna's life here over. We grilled and ate and swam and they used the hot tub. What a great day we had!

Tonight, the girls are going to a local restaurant with a group of HS students to say their goodbyes again. Tomorrow we will go to a little cafe for lunch then they leave for the airport. I am dreading that as that will be our final goodbye. I am never sure if I will see Anna again. My hope would be to see her again but only time will tell.

Prayers for safe travel to a "foreign" country for Anna and her mom.

Happy Sunday friends!
D

Good bye School year!

2010-05-28T12:00:00.000-04:00

AS I tucked my Chrissy girl into bed last night, I said 'This is the last night you will go to bed a 7th grader, for tomorrow night you will be an 8th grader", all in a blink of an eye. Chrissy makes me happy every single day of my life. She is growing into a young lady with different ideas than I would want but she is my child and I will love her forever.

This morning as she waited for her ride, I told her to enjoy her last day of 7th grade which I know she will. They are having Chick Fil-A for lunch. What happens to the kids who mothers don't send in the $5.00 for lunch. They should either make a policy everyone gets or no one gets. This is special. I feel for the kids whose parents either can't or won't send the money in. Why do the kids have to suffer? Fortunately for us, we live in a community that is wealthy so most kids do not do without, but than again, for my girls that is not reality. Another time for this story.

As Ben got into the car today, for some strange reason, I started to cry. Michelle was sitting in the back today and allowed Ben to sit in the front. I just see little Kindergartners,not last day sophomores. Why do they have to grow up so quickly. For those that do not know, Ben is Michelle's best friend and lives close to us. He is the son I do not have. I told them both today, how proud I am of the two of them. They are both straight A's students with a good head on their shoulders and know what they want out of life for now.

Reflecting on this school year, it was great. Both girls had great teachers and have learned much from them. Other than the "crazy" friend that I had, and my co-worker who quit, my year was pretty fantastic. I learned alot. I learned to be more compassionate but not so personally involved. I learned what true friendship is and what is really important in life. I learned to listen to parents.

I can only wish for next year to be better for all of us. Next year, my baby will be a junior in high school. How can that happen, she just started preschool. My little one with be an 8th grader. She was just born and I was bringing her home from the hospital. My oh my, time does fly.

Happy Friday!

"D"

2010-05-27T13:00:00.000-04:00

I have been waiting all week for the rain. Every afternoon this week, the clouds come, gets a little darker and the wind blows the leaves. Hard enough for the tree branch across the street to fall. But no rain. I saw the news yesterday afternoon of the rain storm the North side was getting. Us, not even a drop. Just the wind.

You are probably asking yourself why am I reading about the lack of rain. I am telling you because my flowers are dying. I don't want to water them if we are getting rain. Last night while my friend called, I went outside to water my flowers. Wow! They look beautiful today. Tonight I will do the same.

Speaking of yesterday, I had a phone call from a lady in CO. She asked me if I was "Fit for Life" which made me chuckle. I am not fit for life. I then asked her if she knew Marcus Parker but she said no but was looking for him. Our conversation went something like this:

Me: Are you looking for Marcus Parker?
CO Lady: Yes, I am! I want to add him to my business to business.
Me: Let me tell you about him. He is a scam artist. Last year during the time, my husband and I were talking about modifying our mortgage and MP called from Wells Fargo concerning refinancing. So I gave him my husbands info. The caller ID even showed Wells Fargo. To make a long short, he did not work for Wells Fargo.
CO Lady: Oh, that doesn't sound like a good thing to happen to anyone.
Me: No it really wasn't. He is not a good upstanding businessman. If you ever have the opportunity to talk to him, you can have him contact the Fayette County Sheriff's office.
CO Lady: Sounds like a mess you are in.
Me: Can I ask you how you received my phone number?
CO Lady: Sure, it is in yellowpages.com...
Me: Evil laugh- Are you kidding me? That is why I have been receiving so many calls.
CO Lady: You should call your cell provider and let them know what happened.
Me: That is exactly what I plan to do. Thank you for your help!

Do you believe that? My cell phone number is listed as a business number. I called the cell provider, explained my situation, and requested a new number without a charge. They obliged and now the mundane task of notifying everyone of my new number. I have looked on the bright side, I can get rid of everyone I don't want to talk to you...

I am listening to the President of the US telling the people of this great country that the beaches of the Gulf are clean and safe to use. However, last night, 5 fisherman were rushed to the hospital for respiratory problems . Oh sure, I will feel comfortable swimming with the oil balls and the whatever else they have pumped into the water. Just saying!!!!

Happy Thursday!

My Babies are Aging

2010-05-26T09:03:00.000-04:00

Last night it was just the 3 of us. Me and the girls. The girls and I. I was looking around every corner for A to come bouncing down the stairs or to laugh. It was so different. Michelle was so happy to have her room back but she missed hearing Anna talk. Can you say adjustment Time?

Yesterday as I sat here, thinking about my day. How would I be introduced to A's mom , would she look at me with disgust or would she like me? I worry too much about things that don't really matter. I went and picked up the girls from school and drove to the airport. The Delta side was closed. Of course, you don't realize it until it is too late, so you drive around the airport to the other terminal. Oh joy! Then try to find a parking space in the right lot. I was confused. I normally park on the Delta side since we live in Delta country and fly Delta most of the time. I was on the other side of the airport and had to walk to the opposite side of the airport. As we sat there nervously, we waited and waited. A's mom does not have a cell phone so not sure where she was but knew she had to go through customs.

Finally the moment came, when A yelled out at her mom to see her. There they were, hugging and crying, while Michelle and I stood to the back with tears in our eyes. Just to see A with her mom, warmed my heart. Her mom greeted me with open arms. As we hugged in the airport, two complete strangers, but with the love of a child. It really was an awesome experience. As we pulled away, I couldn't help but notice how much Michelle looked like A's mom. It was uncanny.

After getting them a rental car and following us home, they stayed for a bit until Chrissy came home. She was excited to meet A's mom. We communicated a bit and then they left. A came back last night to pick up some of her important items that she will need for the next week to survive. Today we are going to lunch with them. I am looking forward to it.

With all the excitement of yesterday, I didn't have time to dwell on Michelle's last official day as a sophomore. Where does the time fly? It seems as if it was yesterday on a cool crisp autumn morning in NY, I was dropping her off at her preschool at the age of 2. I went to my car and cried. As I was walking to my car, I said to the mom in the car next to me (Andrea was her name), I am so sad to let me baby go to school and she looked at me as if I was crazy and mumbled something "you are crazy lady, enjoy your time by yourself"...I just cried harder. I always tell new parents, I know how you feel and understand your apprehensions. Just another life lesson I learned for my preschool job. Be nice to parents and be considerate of your fellow moms.

Chrissy is enjoying her last few days of being a 7th grader. She has embraced 7th grade with such grace. She has enjoyed each and every day. She loves her teachers! She loves to be social! Oh to be young again. She is sad that school is ending as she knows her team will be different next year. I am looking forward to her being an 8th grader.

Happy Wednesday!

Bloggy Blues

2010-05-25T07:54:00.000-04:00

I have been blogging for more than a year now. I used to blog something everyday. Now, not so much. I really do not like to write but I feel this is important enough so for now I will continue. As the summer approaches, I realize you do not want to read about my boring days sitting in front of my computer so I will try to write about more important things that concern me.

One thing that concerns me is the illegal immigrant status here in the US. I feel as if you are here illegally you should be deported immediately once the proper authorities are notified. What gives them the right to go to college, go to public school, doctors, food stamps, etc.

Let me explain a bit further. My daughter who is a straight A student, would like to go to a private college. Simply put, we can not afford it. If she was illegal, she would be able to get a grant. Yes, people, a grant! My daughter is not eligible because my grandparents came to this country and became citizens. It makes me so angry as M is very smart and deserves an education that everyone is entitled to.

My other daughter had the flu in September. Our insurance does not cover the bills so now I am responsible to pay over $500 because our insurance is terrible. But if we were illegal, the bill would have been paid by you the taxpayer. So for now, we will have ramen noodles until the bill is paid off.

The class sizes in GA will be larger thanks to the new law that has gone into affect. Some of it has to do with the economy but if you really look into it a bit closer, you will realize it has to do with all the illegal immigrants registering for school.

Now don't get me wrong! I have nothing personal against anyone who comes to this country. Just do it legal. Don't cross the borders in a cow truck or run in the middle of the night. Just go to the immigration office and get the proper documents. AZ has the right idea. Stop whoever, to make sure they have the proper documents. That goes for everyone, not just "Mexican" looking people.

Off of this soap box.

D

Oil Spills

2010-05-24T07:15:00.000-04:00

This oil spill with BP is unreal. For all the money they profit year after year, and have the highest paid scientists they can not figure out how to stop the spill.

The fear I have for the spill is the Gulf of Mexico will become barren. We are suppose to go back to the Gulf this summer but I have held off making reservations because I want to be able to go in the water and now with the oil. Oil is starting to wash ashore in coastal LA. I was looking at the cruise mates group I belong to, and there is mention that Mexican ports have closed their ports to ships that have sailed in the Gulf. The cruise I am looking at, leaves out of Mobile, AL and goes to Mexican ports. Not sure about that either. Time will tell.

As for the scientists and engineers trying to fix the leak. They need to find a fix and quickly at that. Have they seen the birds and fish washed up on the shore. It is very sickening. These people have had enough heart ache over the past few years. What will this latest catastrophe do to the economy? To be honest, I am surprised local gas prices have not been elevated due to the spill.

I watch the news, I read the news, I don't like what they are saying. They do not have a viable solution at this time. So what are the options for the people of LA or AL. Not sure what the answer is.

This can continue for many years to come. Actually GMA, had a BP official on this morning and has said it can be up to 50 years before the Gulf is clean again. OH MY, I will be 98. Doubt that will be done in my lifetime.

Happy Monday!

Another Sunday

2010-05-23T08:14:00.000-04:00

Today my family will rest. We have had a busy weekend.

During the day on Friday, I had to go to my classroom to clean it for the summer. Put things where they belong and organize. I had a dad take everything out of my closet on Thursday during our celebration. We had about 8 large black trash bags filled with trash. I have been in the same classroom for 3 years so there was lots of items we have never used or have no use for. Wish I took before and after pictures of the closet. The closet looks awesome!

Friday night, I took the girls and met John for dinner at Five Guys. It was delicious. If you have never been to a Five Guys, run and don't look back. John went to work and I took the girls shopping. As most of you might know, Michelle loves to shop. Off to Barnes and Noble to purchase books for her summer AP reading. $80.00 later and that is not all of them. As we were walking around the store, Michelle said she wasn't feeling well and wanted to go home. She loves to shop so that was a surprise for me. Home we went! I stayed up to organize my files on my laptop for next year.

Saturday morning, we decided to host a little gathering at my house for Anna after the skating party that Michelle had planned. Errands to run, house to clean, towels to wash and dry. Chrissy decided that all this excitement was too much and decided to stay home from skating. John and I had a date to go to a local restaurant. Our friend joined us for dinner, but she got sick so the night ended early for us. Around 10, the kids came back to our home and the party began. They left around 11:45. Curfew for under 18 is midnight. It is nice when they can drive themselves.

Today, we will meet someone who has been wanting to meet the girls so they can babysit for her and her children. We have been trying to get in touch with them since Wednesday, hopefully everyone is fine! Michelle is babysitting our neighbors boys and will most likely be here later to let them swim. It is going to be a beautiful day today!

Happy Sunday!

Saying Good Bye is Difficult for Me!

2010-05-22T23:41:00.000-04:00

My exchange student is leaving Tuesday. I have looked forward to this day for a long time for many reasons. Well it is here and I am sad. I have been so focused on my preschool class, that I had very little time to dwell on A leaving my home and leaving the great country we live in.

This past Thursday, I had to say good bye to a few of my preschool friends as they are leaving the preschool. I had 4 of them for 2 years and this year, they went to another teacher. I was very sad letting go. It was my privilege to have been one of their first teachers who has molded them to become the best that they can become. It has been a joy to be a part of their lives. I have a special relationship with each one, different and unique. It is hard for me to explain the feelings I have towards those special 4 children.

I had to say goodbye to some of my first year kids as lead teacher as they will be going to other preschools for the 4 year old program. Some I was extremely sad to say good-bye to some not so difficult. I have feelings for these children and hate that one day when I meet them in the grocery store, they will not remember me. Their parents will remember and know that I have touched them in a special way.

I was reading a blog today about a preschool teacher. She was reminiscing about the year and what she could have done with her class and did not. I have often thought about that myself. I could have done....
but do not have the time. She put this is perspective-you touch a child with what you have done not with what you could have done. That is so very true. So for next year, I will focus on the day and not think about what I could have done.

So come Tuesday, as I hand A over to her mom and thank her for sharing her with us, there will be tears. I will see her for the next 2 weeks before they head back to Germany on June 7 but she will not be here everyday. I have come to care for A. I was telling my friend the other day, I was concerned because when I think about A leaving my house, I was not emotional. As I asked her today, what her plans were, I got very emotional. The tears just streamed down my face. As I have mentioned, I like the girl A, I hate the situation. So for now, I will think of all the memories we have shared since November, the good, the bad, the ugly. I will think of all the things we did and not the things we should have done.

Teenagers and Life

2010-05-22T23:27:00.000-04:00

Life with Teenagers! Wow-what a roller coaster ride. I have always prided myself on the raising of my girls. They are respectful and well liked by not only their peers but adults as well.

Having a 3rd teenage girl in my house for six months has changed the dynamics of our household. When one of the girls is mad at someone, they go to the other girl. Easy-not so fast-they hold it against each what is said when they are done with the argument. This experience has taught me alot about my children. Some I am very proud of and some not so proud of.

My older daughter I have decided after this experience is a little selfish. She is very thoughtful but can be extremely selfish. I find it amazing that a child of mine can be selfish. I am very giving and will give you whatever I have. I am struggling with this personality trait of hers.

Meanwhile, my younger daughter is extremely generous. She will do whatever I ask her normally without any grief. She loves to go out with her friends and be social. Update from last post-the liking of boy was not as serious as she made it sound. I think she wanted shock value from me which she tries to obtain daily.

A is a very sweet girl who just wants to have a great American experience. Not quite sure if she has or not. She has been through alot while she has been here. She has been lied to, moved to another home, and not treated well by a certain member of our family which has caused much anguish to me. I have tried to rectify the issues and make them better with different solutions to make it better for me, for which I am always denied the opportunity to try and told they will work it out. It will work for a few days then it gets bad again. I want everyone to be happy.

On a totally different note, my ex-friend tried to commit suicide the other day.

Its Sunday!!!!

2010-02-28T10:19:00.000-05:00

I have had a nasty sinus infectin since October. I have gone to the DR a few times to get antibiotics to clear it up, but this one is very stubborn. Along with the sinus infection comes a dreaded headache. I have had a headache for a while now. This past week, I had felt like crap every day. I went to work on Wednesday, only to be driven to the DR by my friend. My b/p was high-202/110. That is so high. The DR said I now have hypertension. I didn't care what he said as I needed this headache/dizziness to go away. As we talked a bit more and he looked at my records previoulsy, he thinks it is a severe sinus infection. He put on b/p meds as well as a heavy duty antibiotic. The antibiotic cost me $103.00. So much for insurance. I had to go back Friday morning to see how I am doing.

I can feel my sinus' moving around but no drainage so still clogged/stuffed. My b/p is still high, so now he talks to me about what is going on in my life. He asks me is if I am under any stress. I laughed at him. I am under alot of stress. I have always wished I can let things roll off my chest. I can't. We talked about my stress and he nailed the problem on the head. He told me what everyone else is saying. He knew nothing of the band mom problems, just from what I told him. He told me to stop worrying about her and there is nothing I can do to help her. Easy - right!!! So for now, I am trying to think about her.

I am eagerly awaiting Spring to arrive. Not so quick this year. Snow/sleet is in the forecast for Tuesday. I am thinking this will be a snow day....Yeah but not so yeah as we will have to make up ths day at the end of the school year. We only have 2 snow days built in our calendar and we have had the two of them already.

Ladybug has told me she is confused about boys. She wants to date a boy of color. I don't know how to handle this. You can call me racist or whatever, but as I explained to my daughter, the cultures are very different and she would have a lifetime of misery. I am praying about this. I know God will guide us both in the direction that we need to take. If anyone has experienced this, let me know how you handled this.

A has 3 more months here. I wish I had the funds to do more fun things with her. I am a homebody and would like nothing more than to stay home, watch TV, computer or just hang out with my girls. I feel as if I am doing a disservice to her as we don't do alot.

Have a Happy Sunday!!!!

"D"

Crazy People are my life

2010-02-19T08:37:00.000-05:00

As mentioned previously, I met a band mom at band camp last July. We became friends quick, very quick. I threw out all my safely nets and started to drown in the friendship. We called each other every day, I start trusting her. I wanted to have a best friend. I miss having a best friend. Our families got along so you ask what the problem is.....

She is CRAZY!!!!! I attract the crazies. Without going into too much detail to protect her husband and child, she just snapped. She called me collect for the local jail, where she spent two nights. I wanted to be her friend, really I did, but I didn't want the drama that came with her.

This week, as I woke up, I received an email from her along with all other band members. Yes, she decided to slam me along with the other band mom who is supposedly sleeping with her husband. NOT TRUE!!! but C has decided it would be a good juicy story to share with the band families. What purpose did that serve? I am so over this drama. I am leaning towards quitting and Tuesday will be the day I decide what I will do next year for the band.

Her daughter is sickened by the latest events. Did I mention she sent all 5 emails to her daughter as well? What purpose did that serve? Her daughter already doesn't want to talk to her.

How sad would I be if I was in C's shoes and neither one my girls would want to talk to me. It would kill me completely. I often think about that. I always try to put myself in others shoes and think about how I would handle situations. I do know I would not put my girls in the middle of the situation and use them as pawns in the great game of LIFE. I do know, I love my girls more than anything and would not shame them.

Pray for peace, understanding and God's undying love for this family. They need all the support they can get, all three of them.

Since I moved to GA, I have attracted enough crazy people to last me a life time. It all started with my neighbors, S and J. The owners of our house told us at the walk through, that he chased her to this house with a fireplace poker and she was banging on the door to call the police. I just wanted a friend here so I ignored all the signs until her husband screamed obscenities to me in the yard. She would send her 3 children over in the summer at 8am and get them at 8pm each night. He was going to school so he didn't know what was going on . I fed them breakfast, lunch and dinner. The girls were brats and the son was a boy.

Then there was M and B. They were ladybugs best friend. M decided living a life of a SHM was not exciting enough. She went to eharmony or one of those dating services and start dating. Did I mention she was married? When her husband found out, they divorced, but not until M told the school family where both my girls went to the reason they were divorcing is because I slept with her husband. WHAT!!!! I am married and not interested in another man. Unfortunately, I didn't find out for a while and it was too late. People were talking.

I can go on and on but those are the two craziests stories.

Today is my last day of winter break! I had great plans this week but Blue Eyes was not feeling well. Yesterday, my friend E picked me up and we hung out for the day. She came back last night along with my other friend and all the kids so we watched the Olympics. Way to go Team USA!!!

Have a Fabulous Friday!!!!

"D"

Update

2010-02-18T13:04:00.000-05:00

One of my recent posts, I couldn't decide what I wanted to do. What if? I quit being a GS leader after a number of years. I feel as if I am letting some of the girls down, including my 2. I feel good about my decision. When I said it, M was confused and said something like...but you have to get the girls through their silver....WHAT!!!!!!!!!!! Not why, how come? but you have to finish. She is also a leader in the troop. She is a leader by name only. I am the one who plans, who has everyone over, who goes to the store to pickup supplies, etc. There were lots of variables which made this decision to easy to make. One being, I am tired of J telling me what needs to be done. No more will I be bullied.

Now if the band decision would be so easy to make. Lots of activity going on which makes me want to win this argument with band..more to follow about the drama that is ensuing with band parents. It amazes me how moms get involved and hateful towards each other. just AMAZING!!!

Today, we are going to lunch and a movie with my friend, E. I love spending time with her and our kids get along so well. It is just the boyfriend I don't like. AS much as I want to see my friend happy, I doubt he is good for her. He is too controlling for my taste. In my opinion, if you are dating someone for 1 1/2 years, and your best friend has only met him 2x (and he lives in the area) that speaks volumes to me...VOLUMES...Just saying. I love her so much, I hate to see her get hurt again. I will be there for her always.

Have a great Thursday!!!

"D"

Finally!!!!

2010-02-17T07:41:00.000-05:00

Hello bloggers,

I have been trying to sign on for a while but blogger had me blocked. Not sure why, but today, I am able to write.

Our school system is on winter break this week. We had planned to try to go somewhere fun. I really wanted to go to Savannah but the weather is cold and I don't do cold well. So day trips it is. I really need a vacation.

On Tuesday, I went to the Mart in Atlanta with my friend and my oldest daughter. We had a great time and lots of laughs. I had to go to the Fox to pick up tickets for a concert, the husband and daughter were going to. While I was there, my friend drove my car around the blocks a few times. As I done with my business, I was calling my friend to tell her to slow down, but I saw her and ran after her and flagger her down as if I was in NY hailing a taxi. How fun. For some reason, my daughter found that to be hillarious. I bought some things for my upcoming trip to the beach.

Monday, I had gone to help the local GS SU unload the truck of cookies. Over 1500 cases. There were a lot of adults helping so it went by fairly quick. As we started off, the snow flurries were coming down,then it turned to ice pellets. It was freezing. The flurries stopped quickly so it wasn't too bad except for the wind. I just don't get some people. There are so many people who need to be in control at all times and just make things more diffucult that it needs to be.

After we brought our cookies to our designated home, seperated, we stood around and I announce that effective next year, I will no longer be involved in a volunteer capacity for GS. It felt so good to announce that. It just came out. I have been praying for direction to go with GS. I feel this is the best decision to leave now. Amen!!!!

Last night, The King and Michelle went to the Fox to see The Celtic Women. They had a great time.

Today, we go to the movies, tomorrow, Trader Joe's which I am excited about-never been there-I read about it all the time from other bloggers.

Thats about it for now.

Have a great hump day!!!

D

I have a new format for blogger and can not find the spell check. If anyone can help me, I would appreciate it. Thanks

Thoughts

2010-02-06T09:33:00.002-05:00

I have been thinking alot about where I want my life to go. Do I want to go back to school? Do I want to move? Do I want...Do I want...Lots of unknowns lately.

The sudden impulse of what ifs has developed due to the fact that I am miserable in all my volunteering activities. I am not a quitter and that is my problem. I hate to quit and admit failure.

Lets talk GS right now. I have been a GS my entire life. I made first class in 1979. I didn't even realize it was the highest award a GS could make until a few years ago. I am unassuming in those things. I don't brag about my accomplishments unless you push me. I am an assistant troop leader, current co-sud and wear many other hats in the organization when needed. I love the organization and believe in the values they try to convey to young ladies. What is the problem you ask? Ok you really didn't ask but I am answering my own question. I don't like the leader. She is totally self absorbed and a back stabber. I have known this for a long time but can not find myself to remove myself and girls from her. Why? why? why? I have no clue. So I continue to let her talk about me along with my girls. She tells me things that my girls supposedly say and when I question them, they are dumbfounded. So I will pray the decision to quit comes easily.

Now onto the band. When Blue Eyes joined the marching band, I didn't want to get involved. I like to volunteer but with my job, it is more difficult. I entered those waters gently so I thought. By the time band camp was over, I was over my head in the water, volunteering for this and volunteering for that. I was enjoying it and enjoying the people I had met. I had laughs and many more laughs. I always felt as if C was saying more than she was but since no one else was questioning her, I wasn't about to.

The trip to Orlando was more fun as well. Then the dreaded call came that she was arrested for attempted murder of her husband. You ask, how does this affect me. I am about to tell you. I told her from the beginning I am not going to be involved with this. I will listen and that is about it. I thought I was doing good until she came to my house banging on my door and yelling to open the door. Then the stories started. I am not doing a good job with the band, the band director is calling her telling her that, that A is not happy living here with us, the counselor keeps calling her telling her this, that I am supporting her husband and the band mom with their affair (which is not happening) blah blah blah. Thursday night, the band had a concert and it was filled with lots of daggers being thrown between eyes. I don't want to be a part of that. How do I walk away? I know there will always be someone else to take my spot but the bottom line is I enjoy working in the band office. I enjoy getting to know the kids. So what will I do? Not sure.

So as I sit here and ponder whether or not I will continue, I will give it all to God and ask for guidance and direction to make my life more fulfilling.

Happy Saturday!!!

"D"

PS...I think the sun is finally coming out.

I am back...for a bit...

2010-01-31T08:08:00.003-05:00

Wow! It has been forever since I wrote on my blog. I am a facebook addict. Lots going on around here but mostly all good things.

Blue Eyes and I have been sick the past week. I finally broke down and went to the doctor. I have a sinus infection and Blue Eyes had a infection of some sort. She is better...Me...not better.

My assistant, D, quit on a Tuesday. It started off as any day had before. The day before , they had spoken to her about a complaint that was made against her. She came back from that meeting and asked if I knew anything about what they were going to talk to her about. I flat out lied and told her her "NO". I really didn't want to get into it with her about her harshness towards the little peanuts. Tuesday, I was ranting about my crazy friend and said something to the affect that I attract all the crazy people. At that same time, T had come down to gather us to go pray. I didn't go that morning as I was busy doing work. As the kids were coming in, a mom came in with a cake,presents and goodies for our class. She wanted to celebrate her daughters birthday right there and then. NOTE to all parents: check with teacher first before you bring goodies for a good time. As I was trying to rearrange my day in my mind, D came in. As she was walking towards the closet, I said, D change of plans today. She turned towards me and said YEP, change of plans , I know longer am employed here. then walked out with her stuff.

I was stunned,shocked, all the of the above. I told my counterpart, A, that D had just quit. OH boy!!! NOW what....T had come in to make sure everyone was ok and that she would be hanging in my room all day. Meanwhile the mom with the birthday celebration had witnessed the entire episode. NOT GOOD in my opinion.

The first sub they got for me, told me upfront, that she doesn't like to wipe noses or butts. Not good when you work with three year olds. The second sub they got, is awesome. She will be working with me until the remainder of the year. Due to legal wordings, she is the long term sub. AWESOME!!!! I thank God everyday for her. The kids love her. They have bonded with her in the short 3 weeks she has been with me. Amazing!

Christmas was celebrated this year with our German exchange student. A is doing good. We have had some bumps along the way but mostly it has been all good. I keep reminding myself, that I did not raise her and that helps. We had a great time. Christmas Eve we went to our friends, Vera's house. WE have done this since moving to GA. I can not imagine a Christmas Eve not at their house. Vera makes the best prime rib. The fellowship, family and food. What more can we ask for . Christmas Day was great. IT started off with the girls waking us up at 6, 7 and then 8. Yes, they still get excited that Santa Claus comes. Blue Eyes got an IPOD touch and Ladybug received a new cellphone. WooHOO!!! They loved Christmas this year and was so appreciative of all they received. Our friends, E,Band C came for breakfast then stayed until mid afternoon. We always have a great time with them. For dinner, we had 20 people. I made a turkey breast and ham along with stuffed shells. So yummy. The desserts were even better.

Two days later was my birthday. As I previously have mentioned, the KING doesn't like to celebrate my birthday. I guess too close to Christmas. My friend invited us over for dinner and cake. We had a great time, lots of laughs.

New Years Eve was more of the fun. I knew this fun time would be ending for us soon as my break was almost over. WE went to a friends for a party and had a great time. The girls were with us. Blue Eyes is friends with our friends children so all is good.

Thats about it.

"D"

Rain Rain Rain

2009-12-18T12:17:00.003-05:00

It has been raining forever here in GA. I don't think it has rained this much ever. It makes me sad, it changes my personality and all I want to do is sleep. Sleep and more sleep. Unfortunately for my sleeping, I am not able to. I have to shop and clean. It is Christmas time people. I know, I know, it seems as if it was yesterday it was sunny and we were swimming in the pool. It is December 18. Where does the time go?

Today, I get to go shopping with a friend for those last minute gifts that I haven't purchased. Yes, I have to go out in this horrible weather to finish up. I need some more stocking stuffers, sorry I can't tell you what I am purchasing but my little people read my blog sometimes. Hello Blue Eyes and Ladybug!

My preschool this Christmas season did an outstanding job with our Christmas program. The 3's, 4's and K each sang a religious Christmas song, and a fun song. As we processed in, Away in a Manger was playing as each child brought a gift and laid it in front of the manger. It was so touching. Since I teach 3's, we were the first ones up. They all did so well and sang so loud.I was so proud of all of them. I really do love my kids. After they sang, they came down and sat down in a row, so quiet and so well behaved. It was surreal...Have I mentioned how much I love my class this year?

My knee is finally feeling better but still not 100%. I suppose each time, it goes out, it will just take longer to heal. The joys of getting old, but I will take this over the alternative right now.

The girls are doing great, school is out until January 5. YEAH!!! We don't have alot planned but we are going to take them ice skating and hopefully to Stone Mountain or Lake Lanier. The weather will have alot to do with what we have planned. Maybe the World of Coke would be nice. I will not be going to the Aquarium even if someone paid me to go. I would like to go to Warm Springs and walk around one night to look at all the shops and maybe eat at the Bulloch house-even though a friend went recently and didn't enjoy it as much.

Tomorrow is my annual bingo party. I am looking forward to it very much. It is just good corny fun. More on that another time!

Have fun!

"D"

December Happenings

2009-12-06T10:01:00.002-05:00

On Wednesday, while I was "marching" with my kids in my class, I popped my knee. I have been on bedrest since then. I can not afford to be laid up at this time of the year. Yesterday, when I woke up, I felt a little bit better. I had to drive the girls to guard practice, then met some great new friends for breakfast. I enjoy their company very much. Off to the local sports store to look for a letter jacket for Blue Eyes. Oh boy, how many choices to choose from. Not sure what she would like so off we went to Michael's to purchase some "gifts" for our GS party that I was hosting that evening.

I came home, picked up Blue Eyes from guard practice then off to Bath and Body Works to get some inserts for my plug ins. I love that store. What a deal they are having if you are looking for that special gift for the teachers.

When we got home, I realized that my house really needed to be cleaned. I have neglected my house for a while now. The girls had cleaned upstairs Friday night and I told them I would clean downstairs. Well, my knee wasn't allowing that to happen so all 3 of them helped me. German girl helped me out the most. She is wonderful. I feel guilty that she was doing so much, but I realize if she didn't want to do it, then she wouldn't have asked. Ladybug and Blue Eyes helped in different ways. My house was finally clean and was smelling clean. I love clean!

It was time for the GS to arrive. First was the leader. She was not feeling well, a cold. I told her to go home as I do not want to get sick. I can not afford to get sick at this time of the year. I have too much to do. The girls then all came in and enjoyed themselves. They had painted some boxes that we will be giving to a local young girls shelter to keep their "special" items in. We had some snacks, talked about GS for about 2 minutes, then the girls played Christmas Bingo. A good time was had by all.

This week is starting off to be busy immediately. The 2 older girls have guard practice, meetings, a Christmas concert, and more meetings. We had made plans to go to a local church's Christmas production on Saturday night but then Ladybug was invited to go to a party. We are now going Friday night with some friends. I know it will be a great night and a good way to start our season with the great story of Christmas.

My class will be participating in the joy of the Polar Express followed with some hot chocolate and marshmallows. We get to wear our PJ's that day. I bought new PJ's to wear that day. I am looking forward to that day.

I have lots of little things to accomplish with and for my class before the Christmas break begins. We are shopping this week with the kids for "special" gifts for their family members.

I am looking forward to my Christmas Bingo party this year. I have sent out the invites, called some people and have mentioned to few others as the day is fast approaching. I am sure to have a great time.

Hoping my next post will not be that far away.

God Bless Everyone!

"D"

Truth or NOT

2009-11-15T09:52:00.002-05:00

All week, I have thought about my friend, C. I want to believe her but have found out some very disturbing news. She was hosting the German student who is now living withe me. C has mentioned on more than one occasion the local news was going to come out and interview A and the band members as well as the agency who hosts A. Total LIE....NO one knew about this.

Another lie, that was told to me is that if another disruption in band happened, A would be deported back to Germany. According to the agency, they never heard about what happened with DD or the crazy mom with the t-shirts. Nothing...Again-total LIE.....again no one knew about these incidents at the agency.

Apparently, C, would call the agency about A not putting dishes in the dishwasher, leaving dirty clothes around, you know, the normal teenage girl complaints. The agency told C she would need to learn to deal with those issues-which by the way, I have yet to see. Lie or NO LIE? Who knows.....

C was fast becoming a good friend to me. She was kind and thoughtful. She seemed genuinely concerned about me. Funny how things change. I talked to every day. We went to lunch a number of times. I met her at the band room just about every day. So what happened-she snapped. Yesterday, she text me wanting to know if I was working at my seasonal p/t job. I text her back and told her I would be home by 4. Her daughter was at my house with the girls alone- The KING was busy and I was at work. At about 5, the KING took all 3 girls to the movies, around 5:30, I see, C come down my driveway like a bat out of hell. I ran upstairs to tell Ladybug not to make a single sound. She had to leave, I don't want to be involved with her, not to mention, not sure why she was coming here. She is suppose to stay away from her husband/daughter. I am wondering, what if...... she came over before I got home. I couldn't get in touch with her husband to let him know. I called the KING and he stopped over at his house....All OK but now all of us are worried. Why is she in town? I haveyet to text her back nor do I want to know.

What could have happened to make her snap? She had a loving husband , great daughter, great life....looking in, you would think everything was perfect-as perfect as life can be.

Please pray for my friend as she is going to need all the support she can have the next few weeks. Even though, I have decided that I can not have this drama in my life, I also have decided to just pray for her. That she finds peace in all she is going through. That she finds the help she needs. That reality becomes real to her.

Happy Sunday!

"D"

Long 2 Weeks!!

2009-11-08T07:05:00.004-05:00

So much has gone on since my last post. Will my life ever be normal? What is normal?

After Ray died, I wanted to go to NY, meanwhile, Blue Eyes had a competition in Orlando which The KING and I were going with the band. After I canceled my conferences, called a sub for the week, rearranged my schedule with my seasonal p/t job, got tickets to NY, the KING talked to our good friend, Charlie to let him know we (me and the girls) were coming to NY, Charlie thought it would be best if I didn't come. AT first, I was hurt and mad, then I realized it is fine. Things happen. I didn't go to NY, went to work and still canceled my conferences. WTG for a teacher. Wonder what the parents are thinking. So much drama that week.

Went to FL with the band. Had a great time. The band came in 3rd place overall. They did awesome despite the heat. Bus #2 did not have a/c and it was hot. The bus driver told us it was because the bus wasn't on that long as to why the a/c wasn't working. Three children got sick and I ended up with asthma as I couldn't breathe. BAD!!!

Once we got home, I had made plans to go to lunch with a friend on Monday but was exhausted and needed to rest and grieve for my friend, so I sat on the couch all day and just reminisced about Ray and Sue and my life in NY. Tuesday, I received a text from her saying that another friend tried to kill her husband and was arrested and in jail. BAD BAD!!!

I called the KING to see what he knew. It was true. My other friend snapped. She accused her husband of being in an affair-not true. I was devastated. As we were not friends for long, I thought of her as being a good friend. Apparently, she has some mental issues. She called me from jail and keep saying not to believe the stories, which I am not as I realize every story has 2 sides and somewhere in the middle is the truth. This is going to be very bad. Keep her in your prayers.

Meanwhile, she had an exchange student in her home. The KING and I talked briefly about what will happen to her. She is from Germany and Blue Eyes and German girl have become friends, so there was not even a real discussion that she will come live with us until June. German girl is very polite and sweet. She has been through a lot since coming to America and we are going to try our best to keep her safe and enjoy her experience here in the states.

Yesterday, BE and GG cleaned BE's room as they will be sharing. BE's room is a disaster. It will look good once they are done. The KING will be getting a bed today for her. BE's has 2 dressers in her room, so she is clearing one out for GG's items.

I have started my seasonal part time job for the holidays. I have been working there already. From now on, my weekends belong to them. UGH!!!! I want the money so I can get hardwood floors in my living room and dining room. Last year, I worked there just to survive. I have a different attitude working there this year.

Ladybug went to a GS event last night with her other leader. I stayed home as I didn't want to be part of any drama going on at the event. She enjoyed herself. She sat by the fire and helped with S'mores. What could be more fun at a bonfire than that job. Today all 3 girls will be going to corn maze with the GS's so they will have a good time and hopefullly but some of this week behind them and just focus on the fun of being teenagers.

Happy Sunday

"D"

Goodbye Ray

2009-10-28T19:31:00.001-04:00

My title says it all. Ray lost his battle this morning at 7am. I will always remember him as being the happy go lucky guy who loved his family more than anything.

Saddened,
"D"

I love Ray

2009-10-27T23:11:00.002-04:00

Tonight we got some really bad news regarding our friend, Ray, from NY. I finally had the courage to tell Ladybug her beloved Godfather was losing his battle with the big "C". Ray is now in a coma, which they do not believe he will come to. I am saddened by this latest turn. I can not even begin to imagine the feeling Sue is going through. She is young, not old to be a widow. In the past 5 years, she has lost her mom, her father in law and now her husband. What direction will she go to? She will lose her will to live? Will she go into deep depression?

Her daughters are devastated. Her youngest is 21. Not old enough to lose a dad. Her oldest is 27 newly married, just starting her own life.

Their lives forever changed. They are good people. They are God-loving, good Christian people. Why is this happening to them? They sacrificed for so long to make a good life for their girls. It is just the past few years, that life has been good, very good, no worries about money.

Not sure what we will do. I told the KING we need to go to NY to be with them. I know we have lives here but life is short and we may not have a tomorrow.

I love RAY. I will miss knowing he is just a phone call away. He always had a smile on his face. Always.

"D"

After the Party

2009-10-16T07:39:00.003-04:00

Last night we hosted 15 of Blue Eyes friends at a local restaurant. It was such an emotional day for all of us. As I mentioned in my previous post, The KING took Blue Eyes for her permit. He got her so worked up that she was a nervous wreck and failed the test. She was devastated. Not what you want on your child's birthday. After she was able to talk about it, I asked her really what had happened. Of course, she tried blaming everyone and everything. I said, NO, you need to take responsibility for your actions, she came clean and just said, she was so nervous that she couldn't think. I asked her if she wanted to go in the morning before school. So off to the local DMV, once more to get her permit. She aced the test. I knew she would.

B came with us as I drive him and BE to school everyday and thought they would be at school on time. BE was done with the test by 8:05. Off to counter 3 to input her information. Mr. Paul told her to go sit down while they tried to locate her SS # for about 15 minutes. I started to freak out a little as I have a conference with one of my parents at 9:15. Ok, we can make it, the kids will be late for school, but I can still make it to my conference. As of 8:40, they still didn't call us. Kids were coming in, taking the test and then leaving with their permit. NOT US! I went back to the counter and asked if they knew how much longer as I have a conference to attend at 9:15. Now the DMV employee could not find her paperwork, my heart starts pounding as at that moment, I realized I was not going to make my conference.

I tried to start calling my co-workers but also realized at this time, they were all in devotion but with hope and a little faith, I kept calling. I finally reached someone to let them know, I would be late-very late. All this time, I told B and BE they had to go to school. First period was over. OH Boy! not good, do I go to work or do I skip work. What to do. Meanwhile, the employee finds our paperwork and starts inputting the information in the system. One page at a time and 2 minutes per page. This particular computer was in freeze mode. Can they change computers? Can they just reboot this computer? Certainly they could do something to make the whole process faster.

Finally at 9:25, BE gets her long awaited permit. With joy on her face, we got in the car to drive away. They didn't want to go to school. Of course, I did what any responsible law abiding citizen would do-I let them play hookey. WooHoo!!!! They came to work with me, had fun, interacted with my students, cleaned up and had a great time. So much fun, that they want to do this every Thursday. NOT! We then went to lunch , got my hair done and then finally band practice.

My heart would not get into sync for the day. It raced and raced throughout the day. AS I sat in the local restaurant reminiscing what I was doing 15 years ago, I looked and saw such happiness on BE's face and new it was a successful day.

What a day and I am glad it is behind us. For today, we get to clean my house, go talk to the band director about a certain pervert man, and then off to the football game tonight.

Happy Friday!

"D"

Happy Birthday Teresa! Enjoy your day!

Happy Birthday Blue Eyes

2009-10-14T15:40:00.002-04:00

Today is the day that I long anticipated for. I had always wanted children. After 8 long years of trying, my blue eyed baby was born. We are so blessed.

Today, Blue Eyes is the girl that everyone wants to be friends with. She is kind and thoughtful. She is friendly and well mannered. I am so proud of her.

She is the girl who is smart and pretty and doesn't flaunt either one. She just goes on about her business.

She is the girl who is always thinking about the what if's.....

She is 15 today. I don't believe that she is old enough to get her permit. Yes, driving permit. GA allows them to get their permit with some documentation. Do I think she is ready? Do I want her to be ready?

As my husband, the KING is with her taking her test, I sit home eagerly awaiting the phone call. He wanted to take her so off they go to the local DMV to take the test along with all the required documents that are needed. Let's home he brought his D/L with him.

She is my daughter, my first born who I will always love to the moon and back! My little pumpkin who is growing up into a beautiful young lady with grace and wisdom!

Happy Birthday Michelle!

Love,
Mommy

Pray Pray and Pray

2009-10-03T08:57:00.002-04:00

As I woke up this morning, the KING was next to me with a look of sadness in his eyes. He told me we needed to talk.....oh boy...not good...anyone who knows us knows that I am in the early bird.....do I need to go make the coffee, do I need to go the bathroom, do I need to wake the girls,, any excuse not to hear the news he was just going to give me.

Our friend, Ray, in New York has the C word. very very bad. The doctor for the past few months had diagnosed him with some sort of infection so gave him antibiotics. He did not have the infection he was diagnosed with. He has pancreatic and colon cancer. Not good.

Let me tell you who Ray is. Ray is the rock our friendship. It used to be the 6 of us all the time, dinners, vacations, etc..... It was the best years of my life as far as I am concerned but that is another story.

Ray has been married to Sue since 1978. They got married very young, at 20 and 23. They are still in love as much as they were the day they got married. Ray and Sue moved in across the street from the KING and his family as soon as they got married. The KING and Ray soon became good friends. Of course, the KING was still in school so there were limitations of being friends-one mainly being age.

In 1982, once I met the KING, he introduced me to Ray and Sue. I immediately felt a strong bond with them. Throughout our dating years, we just became closer then after we married, just so much closer.

They have 2 beautiful girls who I adore. They are the "perfect" family. Sue is the happy homemaker-nickname-Suzihomemaker. She doted on the girls throughout their younger years, always eager to help with school or whatever there was to be done. Ray is the "breadwinner", always being the most supportive husband, father, friend, son, brother-I doubt he ever met anyone he couldn't like.

Ray and Sue were the only choice we had when we looked for godparents for our Ladybug. He just loved my girls as if they were his own.....then we moved to GA and we drifted away. Not sure why, but we did. The KING is devastated and I am as well. Not sure when we will go to NY but I do know a trip is very near. Do we bring the girls, do we stay for a few days, week, do I want to stay there forever....of course I do.

Keep all of us in your prayers.....

"D"

Mailboxes and Mulch

2009-09-29T07:22:00.003-04:00

My day on Monday started out like any other day. It was a great day for a Monday. I dropped Blue Eyes off at school, then proceeded to my school. I had to change my plan for the day since one of the girls in my class in Hindu and is not allowed to have beef products. I saw they little bologna houses to make. I went and saw Donald at Publix and the BH bologna all meat product has beef in it. I was bummed. Hey no problem!!! We made HIPPO puppets which I am sure they enjoyed so much more than the bologna houses I was going to make.

While we were outside, 2 of my boys were playing with each other. They were mimicking each other. Touching their heads, raising their arms, jumping up and down, not anything out of the ordinary. One of them fell down and started screaming, while just seconds before he was laughing as I was. I immediately went over to him and picked him up, brought him inside and assessed the situation. He had a splinter in his knee-no problem-right, well wrong....the piece of mulch went into his knee perpendicular under his skin about 1/2". I realized that I am not trained to remove that type of splinter. We called him mom, she picked him up and immediately went to the pediatrician.

While I was talking to Doris at my house, I had just walked into my garage, and I heard a very loud boom. I wondered what it was and when I walked out of my garage, I saw a blue PT cruiser cruising down my street with my mailbox. I yelled "hey, come back here with my mailbox", as if the driver could hear me. The car then stopped, turned and came back. Meanwhile, my mail was all over the road. I stood there in shock actually. It could have been the KING, as he gets the mail everyday, it could have been Ladybug or Blue Eyes as they walk home from the bus, or one of the neighbor boys who are outside playing. It was an older lady who ran into my mailbox. She claims she was getting a tissue out of her purse and swerved. I think her phone was ringing as she driving on the autobahn. The car was traveling pretty fast as her mirror was pulled off, and her car has side marks all along it. If she was going the 25MPH, she is required to, I doubt the damage would have been that severe.

So that was my day my friends. It could have been worse, but it could have been better.

Here's to hoping Tuesday will be better.

"D"

Hello Sunday!

2009-09-27T09:38:00.003-04:00

I have been so busy these past 3 months, I hardly recognize myself. It all started with band camp. I had originally signed up to work in the office from 8am-10am Monday to Friday. That ended up being 8am-9PM. Yes PM, no typo there. I didn't plan on that at all so my house has suffered since then. I had Ladybug at home to tend to as well. I would go get her around lunch time, bring her back and we would our bones to the bare filing papers, copying papers and making phone calls to parents who really couldn't get the fact that we needed the required paperwork.

The girls then started school. A whirlwind of activity. Tennis, girl scouts, band. OH Boy...never a dull moment. I was out of the house more than I was in the house even with sleep time. Not good for a homebody..LOL

I then started with my school. I feel as I had everything under control until we started. We started the new curriculum this year, which I just love. My 3 year olds ALL know how to hold a crayon the right way. It is amazing. They love the program. We are working on letter recognition. They need to recognize the letter first, then sound it out, then start blending. We will get there with this curriculum. It really is very good and the kids really love it. They have these "corny" songs which are very good for teaching. I am so blessed to be in a loving Christian environment where everyone really cares about each other.

I was in charge of our county marching band exhibition which required most of my free time for 3 weeks. I planned and planned. Then the rains came and came and came. 12 inches in one day. That is rain, not snow. I prayed and had everyone praying for sunshine. Well we got the sunshine. One thing, I didn't think of was how wet the field would be. At 11AM, they had 3 inches or rain at the 50 yard line along with patches of mini ponds throughout the field. They had decided to cancel my event. OH NO!!!! All that work gone in a second. Oh well, we will host the event again next year. Look on the bright side, most of the work will be done and now I will know what to do, when to do it, and have a plan. All my letters have been approved. It will be even better than it would have been this year.

My IPHONE sucks. I have had more problems with this phone than I care to blog about. I am disappointed that Apple does not support their product the way I would like them to. Yesterday, we drove up to the Apple Store in Buford, about 1 1/2 hours away to have my phone fixed. I was not able to turn the darn thing on. It was dead, completely. I know it is only a phone and if that is my only problem, I am lucky. I was not able to get phone calls or texts. It crashed. Why in world would a phone crash. On our way to the Apple Store, there was a ATT store where we stopped to look at new phones for the KING. We met one of the nicest salesman there. He told me the IPHONE is not a good phone but with all the hype everyone thinks it is the best thing since sliced bread. It is all about marketing. UGH!!!!!!!!!! As we walked into the Apple store, we were greeted by the nicest people around. I had the pleasure of being waited on by Denise. She was awesome as I went on and on about how horrible my phone has been since I received it in March. She listened with intent (intent of how to get me out of there as quickly as possible). She had me update the phone, charge the phone, then it did it again....she said maybe it was laptop and we should have it looked at. She lost all her credibility at that point as the KING was me and he is my very own personal PC tech. There was nothing wrong with my laptop. She replaced my phone updated it on her mac and sent me on my way happy. As soon as we got home, I did what she told me to do, and it happened again. I laughed and told the KING, you are not going to believe this. He was not happy and I will not even begin to tell you how unhappy I was at this point. He started to google IPHONE problems. Apparently it is something to do with them, not the phone, not the user, not the PC. That is why she didn't want me to update my phone on my laptop. After a few hours of research and updated, my phone has been restored to its use as of September 3. OH well!!!!

Have a great day!!!!!!!!!!!

"D"

What a week!

2009-09-13T18:57:00.002-04:00

This past week has been a whirlwind of activity. Maureen left on Wednesday which always makes me very sad. Lets start from the beginning on Monday.

Monday we went to our friend V's house. We always have a great time there. We went swimming in her lazy river and then dinner. Dinner at her house is a smorgasbord of culinary delights. So much to choose from. We then had dessert which is always so delicious at her house. Home by 9.

Tuesday, I had to work and leave Maureen home. She was here and so was the laundry so all the laundry was washed and folded. Yeah!!!! I had a GS meeting which I thought I needed to be there but I really didn't need to, that story for another day. I came home, got Maureen and the girls and went to dinner at IHOP. We love IHOP! Home after 9PM.

Wednesday, I went to work, then came home , got Maureen. I had wanted to take her to lunch so off to Applebees we went. It was such a good lunch. I had to take her to the airport which always makes me sad when she leaves. Off to the airport and back, while The KING was picking Blue Eyes up from school to take to tennis. Ladybug walked to a friends house who was also taking her to tennis. Met up with my family at tennis. We had a birthday celebration to go to at the foreign exchange students house. We had a great time with great friends, great food and good cake. Home after 10PM.

Thursday- Went to work, then came home. Remembered I had an errand to run for the band. While I was out running the errand, Blue Eyes calls me to tell me her band director has been arrested. WHAT??????????? It was horrible. She was crying. My first thought was to get to her but I knew I needed to find out more information before I went. I called the booster president and she had confirmed the information was true. How Sad!!! I love the band director...He made a poor choice and that is it for the story. He didn't kill anyone, he didn't hurt anyone....Leave it alone.... We had a regularly scheduled executive board meeting so off I go to the meeting...Home after 9

Friday- work, band room, errands, band room, football game where band is to perform-which by the way, they did awesome. Home after midnight.

Saturday-met some band friends to talk about things. Home by 1PM, took nap until 8PM. I was so tired, I slept most of the day.

Today, the girls and I went food shopping. Blue Eyes has been wanting a fish for so long. I finally broke down and bought one for her. She bough a BETA fish. He is blue. Went to Walmart and Kroger. Been cleaning off and on all day. Laundry and cooking....Band work...school work...so that is my week in a nutshell...

Hoping this week will be calmer for me. I am exhausted.

Happy Sunday!!!1

"D"

Happy Birthday Christina

2009-09-05T08:02:00.002-04:00

Happy Birthday Christina, aka, Ladybug. I can't believe you are 13 today. Yes you are finally a teen. AS I am privileged to be your mom, I am so proud of you. 13 years ago, I got to hold you for you for the first time. I touched every inch to make sure you are perfect. Of course, at the time, I knew you were perfect, because God put you in our lives to enrich us.

The early morning hour you were born, was so beautiful. You have heard the story over and over that you just "popped" out. Dr. Mack and Daddy were in the DR lounge playing Atari. Daddy was telling DR. Mack I needed him. As they walked into the room, DR. Mack yelled and told me to stop pushing. By the time he put those blue gloves, you were born and were screaming as to say "Hello World". You have always had a tough time around your birthday, but this year we are celebrating with our friends and "family". Maureen is here from NY to spend this special day with you.

You are growing into a beautiful lady inside and out. I only wish the best for you forever. You are my daughter and I am proud and honored that only I can say that you.

Happy Birthday, my sweet Chrissy girl. Stay as sweet as you are.

Love,
MOMMY

Hellooooooooo!

2009-09-01T08:47:00.002-04:00

I can't believe it has been more than a month since my last update. I guess I am not that good at updating these days.

Well lets see what I have been up to.

School as started here in HOTlanta. Unbelievable school has been in session for 4 weeks now. Progress reports next week....UGH!!!! My friends in NY haven't even gone back yet. The girls are doing good in school. They like their teachers. That is great for me.

Band is in full swing. Band camp took up 2 weeks of my life from 8am-9pm Monday-Friday. I didn't plan on staying there the whole time but it kind of just ate me up. Of course, I ended up getting backed up on my school work and house work. Laundry started piling up which up to this point, I was going 2 loads a day and folding/putting away. Now it is just back to being piled and when I have 2 hours to do a load, I do one very randomly...

My school started off great. I have a great class. A is no longer working with me which makes me sad when I think about it. I am working with D this year and we are a great team. She has more enthusiasm than I do so it is great. I am still exciting about teaching but it is different. I can explain it as when you meet someone, date, then marry and after a while, it becomes the same thing day in day out. I really do have a great class. They are all so sweet, adorable and fun to be around. They have the cutest personalities.

I have been home the past 2 days with Ladybug since she is sick with the flu. Yes, the flu. She was diagnosed on Sunday. I feel so bad for her. She is feeling better than she did but still feels really crummy.

M is coming today for the week. I am excited to see her only now I have to clean my house. My house that has not been cleaned in about 2 months. UGH!!!! I have no time for anything. I was just thinking about all the free time I used to have but now have none. I am turning into a person who doesn't have an identity. Calgon take me away!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This Saturday is Ladybug's 13th birthday. NO more babies in my house. I have 2 teenage girls....and they are so wonderful to be around. I love them. I am very proud of the young ladies they are growing into. We are celebrating on Saturday at the house with "family". We do not have family here so we are using pseudo family to celebrate. Not a good weekend. I have invited a few people who are unable to attend, so not sure who will be here. We will have fun...

As I met SM in the parking lot today to give her the classwork for today, we talked briefly about my blog. I then realized I haven't updated in quite a while....Not much to write about...school.band.school. Thats about it.

Maybe tomorrow I will update about my IPHONE fiasco. Things only happen to me...only to me....I am still seething mad since Sunday with my phone. Now the damn thing is dead....Not sure if I can resurrect it or not.....

Have a great Tuesday.....

D

Friday Follies on Saturday

2009-07-25T11:37:00.002-04:00

I have been busy helping at Band Camp all week. Sorry for the delay. I know all my followers -all one of you- have been waiting patiently for this weeks follies. Enjoy---and in case you can't figure out what we are talking about - it is a bed....Enjoy your day!!!!

Plush or firm? Water
What size bed do you have? Queen
How old is your bed? 6 years ol
comforter or quilt? Comforter on now, but we have a beautiful Amish quilt
Print or solid? Print-stripes
Do you make your bed daily? Most days
How many pillows do you sleep on? Two
Do you eat in bed? Watch TV? Read? Watch TV and Read
What kind of sheets are on your bed right now? Dirty ones-they need to be changed
How many beds are in your house? Three

Happy Saturday!!!!
"D"

Good Monday Morning

2009-07-20T05:11:00.002-04:00

3 weeks left until my girls will officially be a sophomore in HS and a 7th grader in middle school. Another summer has gone by. I do not wish my life away but it seems as if we are always waiting on some event to come. I have mixed emotions with this coming school year. I have enjoyed having my girls home. As in the past summers, we didn't go anywhere to make a summer remembering. I really didn't have friends over as much as I said I would.

Now that band camp starts today, my summer is over. Not officially but my own time. Running to the HS to drop off, pick up, work in the office.

I told Ladybug that Wednesday we might go to the movies. I would like to see "Ghosts of Girlfriends Past". It is playing at the dollar theatre which is always a great bargain especially if you go to the first showing-.50. And it always cool in there so why not?

Getting ready for my upcoming school year. I have lots of little things to do before we start. Who says, teachers have the summer off, should be shot. I have looked on the Internet for ideas, suggestions on for classroom management, ideas on crafts or not crafts, effective discipline, etc. Since I am the lead teacher this year, I feel responsible to have everything completed by the time school starts. I don't like to wait until the last minute for anything. My Welcome Back to School is almost done. D might come over today so we can complete it and get it out in the mail.

I told Ladybug to call a friend to come over so she is not bored. Not sure if she is.

My godson is in town, but haven't had that much time with him. He is the cutest 4 year old. He is staying with his grandparents and at his aunts for the weekend. I was really hoping for some one on one time. But NOPE...maybe nest year.

I took the girls shopping yesterday at Target. I was looking for some school supplies, they didn't have what I was looking for so today is another day.

Happy Monday
"D"

Friday Follies

2009-07-17T08:31:00.003-04:00

I know you all have been waiting patiently for FRIDAY FOLLIES. Here they are!!!

Dyed or natural? A little of both
Favorite craft. My Cricut, hands down....
Brief, bikini, or thong? Brief-apparently you don't me that well....
red or white? Red
How long have you been using your digital camera? Since Christmas, the King bought it for me
What game show would you love to be on? Jokers Wild
How many miles a year do you put on your car? 20,000
What was the last movie that you saw? "Race to Witch Mountain"
Dancer or wallflower? Wallflower
plain or with butter? With butter

I am looking forward to your answers.....Have a Fabulous Friday!!!!

You deserve it.....

"D"

Just a quick update

2009-07-16T17:01:00.002-04:00

My eye is still twitching. It is more than 3 days. I guess I need to call the DR but what kind of doctor do I call.

Blue Eyes finishes her babysitting job tomorrow. She is happy about that, but then band starts Monday morning for her-bright and early.....

Ladybug is bored this summer. I have told her numerous times to call her friends but she doesn't want to. Wonder why?

The KING is making a space ship-maybe he will be going to Mars some time soon.....

Have a great Thursday!!!!

'D"

Twitching Eyes

2009-07-13T08:37:00.002-04:00

My right eye has started to twitch on Friday...So what do I do...I google eye twitching. Basically it can be due to stress. Now what stress am I under. None really...no more than normal for me.

Can it be that school is starting in 4 weeks? I only have 4 more weeks to do nothing and only what I want to do nothing more, nothing less. I have to get myself on a schedule for school. Write letters, get a supply list, name lists, etc....

Can it be that I have not looked at band stuff in a few weeks? I have committed to more than I need to. I have to type the notes from the last meeting. Easy-peasy...

Can it be that I offered my house for a night of Margarita's with the ladies I work with? I have felt so guilty about the whole Emily thing, that I have gone overboard with trying to be nice.

Can it be that I will have 2 teenagers in the very near future? Have I mentioned 2 girl teenagers? They are good sweet girls but come on now, they are girls. Hormones!!! Lots of hormones....

Can it be that I am getting a new co-worker? I am extremely pleased with the choice of D, however, she is not A. A kept me grounded. She always saw the silver lining...Her glass of lemonade is always full.

Can it be that I have no money? The king has a job. He is making the same $ as his other job, but we are paying dearly for health insurance now. Before we only paid $32 a week, not we pay $300 a month. He is driving further which costs more with the price of gas going up. I have watched we have spent this summer but it never seems like it is enough.

Can it be I will be 47 this year? I have realized my life is more likely less than half over and I don't like where I am at. I know I need to change things but it is more difficult than it seems. I want more out of life. I want to be happy. I am miserable these days. I can not go into why at this point but maybe in the future, I will feel more comfortable to share.

Can it be that I have realize my mom doesn't know me? My mother doesn't have Alzheimer's. She is so distant to my family. I love my mom because she is my mom but that is where it stops. I have found some things out about my family recently which puts things into perspective but it doesn't make it any easier that I am the "black" sheep. She thought Blue Eyes graduated HS as if I wouldn't have let her know that. Then her next conversation about BE, was something as to say "is she going to HS this school year" WTF, she doesn't even know what grade or school she goes to. Anyone who knows me, knows I always talk about my girls with every detail. My mom has always babied my brother and has always treated my sister like the baby of the family-could be because she is. I have never asked my parents for any help. I have never depended on them for anything in my life. My mother has never gone overboard with my girls as she does she my nieces and nephews. OK! enough about this for now. This definitely needs a post for itself.

Can it be I really miss my friend Cathy? I haven't seen her in almost 2 years now. Cathy used to come quite a bit but now that her kids are getting older, they are involved with everything and anything to keep her busy. I talk to her but I need to see her. We have known each other forever.

Can it just be....what we call life?

Have a great Monday!

"D"

Not so Smart

2009-07-12T06:56:00.005-04:00

Not sure what in the world is going on with my blog. I noticed my Picture of the Day has all figures but no picture. I clicked on the "picture" and it enlarged. Not exactly what I was looking for today. I had received an email from the KING last night that he received from my father. I have been sitting here for about 1 hour trying to copy and paste that email. It would not allow me to paste it to my blog. I thought I would "outsmart" the program so I copied and pasted it to word. NOPE...it will not allow me to copy and paste. I then saved it a picture to my picture folder. Ok, thought I was going good. NOPE not yet. What would happen is that you can only save a few lines then paste it to my blog. It was paste in sections and I have no idea how to change the order around. So for now, you get to read my ramblings.

Today we are going over to the KING's godfather's house for dinner. Tim and Elijah are coming in from CA. I have not seen them in a year. Elijah is our godson. I am very excited about seeing them. Wishing Laura can come with them, but school and work are in the way of a vacation this year. We will probably have a busy week with them hear. Elijah is then staying for an additional few days before he heads back to CA.

Saturday, A came over and we went shopping with the girls for the majority of the day. We ended up going to the mall. With Blue Eyes working this summer, she has some dispensable income, something her parents do not have. Teenagers.... I look on the positive side we are not going to have to purchase her any clothes for school which starts in 4 weeks from tomorrow. Bittersweet for me.

I enjoy having the girls home for the summer. This summer has been strange with Blue Eyes working. She is babysitting for a family of 3. The kids are 9 and 12. The 9 year olds are girls. stepsisters....12 is a boy...doubt he is enjoying his summer-always around girls-no friends. I have tried to make things a little easy for him. I go pick them up and bring them to tennis, movies. lunch. parks, and my house to swim.

We went shopping this past week and picked up some more FROG items for my classroom. I need to really sit down and start organizing our stuff. We should get our class list by the end of this week and send out welcome letters to our kids. I have gone back and forth about the supply list. I feel that since the parents are paying tuition, we shouldn't ask for supplies but then why not? We always have asked for supplies. Suggestions anyone?

Ladybug and I are going school shopping one day next week for her school bag and basic books. She will not get her list until we go to Meet the Teacher on August 8. Not entirely sure how I am going to do pull this one off. Both girls MtT is at the same time at different locations. This is the only year that this will happen. They change the times for HS each year. Last year, during HS, we were there the entire time. I may leave BE's at the HS with some checks then take Ladybug to the MS to go meet her teachers.

For now, Have a Happy Sunday...

"D"

Friday Follies - A day late

2009-07-11T19:34:00.002-04:00

I have followed Kat (sunshineandlemonade.blogspot.com - sorry I tried for a long time to link it for you but gave up) for a while now. She has done Friday Follies and I have wanted to join in on the fun so for now, I will use her questions...

Facebook or Twitter?

Favorite berry?

Favorite salad dressing?

Pizza or chinese?

aerobics or water aerobics?

gold or silver?

shoes or barefoot?

Book on the top of your to be read pile

How long have you been texting?

Have you started back to school shopping?

Kat has been in inspiration to me. I do not know her personally but I feel as we can friends in "real" life. Maybe one day we will meet. She lives here in Ga. How cool would that be. She has 2 girls, however, they are younger than my 2. When I first start reading her blog, she blogged everyday, sometimes 2x a day. Then January came around and things had changed. Her husband had a near death experience and her priorities have changed. Her husband is back to normal now-Praise God but Kat does not blog everyday. Her writings are so eloquent. Her blog is fun.

Looking forward to read your answers. Lets see how much we have in common...
Happy Saturday....

"D"

Evil People

2009-07-08T08:07:00.002-04:00

As some of know, I have been lurking about the cyber world for quite some time now. Hate to admit it, but at least 4 years that I can remember. When Ladybug was 1 year old, I had a terrible bout with pneumonia and found solace in playing SLINGO online. While online, I would chat with different people, I even went so far as to setting up "dates" to play games with some of these "friends". I met this gal, Ro, from Boston. We were both under pseudo names that night. Our lives were so parallel is was very scary. At first, I thought it was The KING, playing games with me. Her birthday is a day after mine, her anniversary is a day before mine, she has 2 children, her husbands birthday is the same as mine and the list goes on and on. We became online friends. WE had talked about meeting in Mystic, CT. I can take the ferry over and she would drive. Then we went ahead and moved. WE still keep in touch but have never met. My point to this, is that I trust people and I don't ever want to think people are not who they say they are.

As I lurk about the cyberworld, I read more and more about people being strange. I have followed a caringbridge site for quite a while now and the mother just wrote and password protected her site, that neighbors are questioning her as how she handles her child with these special needs. My feeling is if you don't like what you are reading and do not agree at all, then you need to stop reading that site. I have followed some blogs and the same thing. I am interested in hearing what other people are going through. If I really don't like what they are writing, DELETE...Why can't others see this for what it is. Not everyone is going to agree with your opinion but that is not a reason to write mean and ugly words on their private blog or site.

As for security, The KING does not want me to use our names. I don't write about very personal things even though sometimes I want to. As some of you know, we are going through a tough time. I want things to work out for us. We have been together for many years now and have been through alot. A person can only take what they can take. I am not going to discuss my private personal life on here at this time but if you are praying person, I would appreciate your prayers for peace and understanding for all of us.

As I go back and read and reread this post, I am all over the place.

Yesterday, I had the opportunity to go to Preschool and talk to my directors. We have two and they both are wonderful ladies. I am so blessed to work them. T told me yesterday, I will be getting a raise as I will be the lead teacher this coming year. I am excited for the coming year. I have been trying to get ready to get my ducks in a row. D who will be my assistant is coming tomorrow so we can work on some projects I have in mind. My theme will be frogs in my classroom. Any ideas on catchy phrases? I am open to anything you will want to offer. Remember, it is my blog and if I don't like what you say-delete...HAHA

So for now, I will leave you to have a great HUMP DAY!!!

"d"

Summer Rain

2009-07-07T08:40:00.002-04:00

It has not rained here in more than a month. Our grass is burnt and not growing at all. We have lots of weeds in our grass along with trees that have decided to grow in our grass. My flower beds have tons of weeds...How do they grow while the grass does not..My flower beds around the pool look horrible. We have moved some daylillies and black eyed susans this past year, so now I have gaps in my pool area. We moved them to the other side of the deck by the pond. It looked so nice until the weeds started to come back...Help...I need help with the weeds. Now I know if I go out there, it will take about 1 hour to make it look presentable but I hate yard work in GA. In NY, my yard always looked impeccable. My neighbors would stop and let me know how great everything always looked-so you ask why I hate working in the yard here. First, we have clay not soil...Then there are snakes in the gardens....In the back, we have a wasp nest growing in the pool area. Those are just a few of the reasons.

When we moved to GA, I kept telling the KING I didn't want a big yard that was messy. WE bought a house with a messy yard...What the hell where we thinking about it. I will tell you...We were living in Newnan in an apartment complex where there were more than just living going on there-drugs/gangs/etc...It was a nice complex but lots of issues going on. Then Blue Eyes had started going to K while we lived there.. She has always loved going to school and never cried a day in NY about going to preschool or K. She came home crying, went crying. I had a conference with her teacher. Nothing... Until we moved into our house, the stories started...The teacher caller her a Yankee, she pulled her hair and was not nice to her at all. Blue Eyes would tremble for a long time after that experience if we said anything about Miss Loreen.. She was not a good teacher and not welcoming at all. What did I know,,,Blue Eyes is my oldest.. I had nothing to compare it with previously, but now I would be all over Miss Loreen. I hating living in Newnan-very different than New York=major culture shock. I threatened the KING that I was moving back to NY if he did not find me a house to live in. So he did...He found the house we are in all by himself. Don't get me wrong... I liked the house we bought..It was so much bigger than we had in NY...it needed some TLC...which I was willing to give..but things changed in our lives (another day-another post) so nothing has really been done in our yard or inside our home.

Back to summer rain...It has rained the past 2 days. Hopefully it will give me strength to go out and pull some weeds...

Have a great Tuesday...
"D"

Thursday Night Thunder

2009-07-03T07:15:00.002-04:00

Last we night we went to Thursday Night Thunder for their annual fireworks show. Of course, you have to go watch the races first. It was really alot of fun last night. It was so gorgeous out. No humidity, not hot. What can you ask for?

We were completely one of the requirements needed for completing an IP. Even though the girls would never admit it, they all had a great time. Blue eyes had her best friend with her and ladybug is friends with the girls in the troop.

As with everything else due to the economy, the fireworks show was not as long as past shows but it was good. When will the economy turn? Has the economy affected you? Which way?

Today, the girls are going to go to tennis which they have not been there in a few months due to scheduling conflicts. After tennis, we are going shopping to Newnan. They want to go to Aerepostle and I need to go to the School Box.

Yesterday, I took all the kids to the movies. I took Ladybug and the boys to go see "Race to Witch Mountain". It was action packed. Great movie! I love going to the local theatre for the first showing.....best part .50 for the ticket. We got popcorn so the cost of going to the movies yesterday for 8 people cost $10.00. What a bargain....They then came back to my house to swim.

Happy 4th...Stay safe!!!!

"D"

Drinking and Working

2009-07-02T07:05:00.002-04:00

I was reminiscencing about my younger years the other day and I have many good memories. One of the them being...

As my friend, Jeanette, came over and picked me up, we decided we were going to Chatterly's- the local bar, to wallow over our failed relationships. Have I mentioned we were only 18 at the time? Yes, yes, we were able to drink at 18. Back to the story, as we sat at the bar, we were chatting with the bartender and one thing led to another and before you know it, my legs were gone.

He had introduced us to the famous Long Island Iced Teas. They are so delicious. I have no idea how many I drank that night nor do I care. All I know is that we closed the bar down drinking away our sorrows. We sat in the parking lot deciding who was better to drive home. We couldn't stop laughing and we laughed. At one point, one of us decided it would be better if we walked home.

As I entered my home very drunk, I tried to be quiet as to not wake up anyone in my house. I have no idea why mother wasn't waiting up for me. I left around 7pm and here it was 4AM. We were drinking the entire time. How I didn't die that night from alcohol prisoning is another miracle.

I fell in my bed and before I knew it, it was time to wake up-6AM to get to my job at the bank. I had my own office so I knew I could close the door and sleep. It was Monday morning and hopefully it would not be a busy day I thought. I got up, showered, dressed and drove to work 45 minutes away-drunk. Yes I am very sad to say, I drove drunk to work. I didn't realize I was so drunk. I am sure now that as I am older, I stunk of alcohol but didn't really care that day. I had an important job to do.

As I drove up to the bank, my thoughts were I can go back to sleep, I will just close the door and no one will know I am sleeping. My co-worker was waiting for me outside which was odd. I wondered why, the wondering didn't last very long-the auditors were there to join me my in my office to make sure all of our ducks were in a row. My co-worker and I were the same age and we had alot of responsibility. I worked in the "control room" at Dime Savings Bank and had the task of creating procedures at the new branch they had just opened. They gave me alot of responsibility at my young age.

As I was walking in, I had to straighten up. Co-worker went to store to get coffee and gum. I entered the building and introduced myself to the auditors who were all middle aged men dressed in dark suits with white shirts. I had been through audits before so I wasn't worried but this day,however, this day they scared me. It could be because I was still drunk and probably slurring my speech or because they were there to search through office for any improprieties. I do remember we had a great audit. Some minor changes but we were good to go....

I have not gotten that drunk until July 18,2008, almost 30 years later. I don't drink often. A glass of wine here and there is about it. I have found the love of Corona's, maybe one a month.

There you have it!!!

Happy Thursday...

"D"

Mora BOA Saga

2009-07-01T07:21:00.003-04:00

Today is Wednesday and the charges are still pending which equates to NO COLD HARD CASH!!! I had the pleasant or unpleasant task of going into a local branch or as they call it "Banking Center". I waited and waited for someone to help me. Finally the a rep called me. She was quite pleasant and as we chatted for a while, I noticed that wasn't asking me for ID. I just told her someone had my card number and was using it in Topeka. So it became a game for me. I waited and waited for her to ask me for my D/L as she processed a new card for me. NOPE...so I hung around and made a statement how sad it is that anyone can come in here and get a card without showing proof who they were. She looked at me dumbfounded and said "Have a nice day!" and " dont'worry you are fully protected to get your money back." Again, I just looked at her as to say WTF are your talking about...I left shaking my head.

Wondering what I would have done if I was still working at the "banking center" as a customer or client comes to me to advise me that my card has been used erroneously in another state with numerous debits. I would hope I would be smart enough to ask for ID. UGH!! Way to go Bank of America!!!! I feel safe and secure knowing anyone can go in and tell them that this card has been used and receive a new one without once asking for any personal information.....

I ended up going over to a band members house yesterday to work on a program for the local band exhibition. It was suppose to be about 2 hours, but ended up being about 4 hours with much more work to do at home. Where is everyone else?

Last week while I was at GT, I feel off a curb-didn't see it. My left foot hurt immediately. I really don't want to go to the DR so what do I do- self diagnosis. Torn ligament. I put the boot back on and immediately less pressure and boy did it feel good wearing it. As I took off the boot last night, I felt it feeling better already so for now, the boot and I will be best friends.

Happy Wednesday!!!

"D"

No more toilet paper

2009-06-28T08:42:00.003-04:00

As I logged onto my bank yesterday, I noticed both my accounts are in the red....Not a good feeling when you need toilet paper. I click on my checking account and notice that there are lots of charges for out to state. I went upstairs and woke the KING up out of a dead sleep and asked what in the world is he buying or renting. OH boy!!! He denied all these charges-of course I knew he would.

I call BOA =yes-that damn dreaded bank I have called home for the past 10 years. UGH!!!! The rep was very pleasant and completely understood the predicament this criminal has put me in. I have no available cash at this time, at least until these items clear....For now they are pending. I have to go to the banking center Monday morning to get a temporary card -for what since I am negative- a little bit of sarcasm there-. I know the drill...They will ask me to complete these forms for each charge to determine whether or not they are legitimate. I just don't understand how they can use my card if I have my card in my hand. My brain just doesn't work this way.

So for now, you will find me by my pool since I have no gas, no toilet paper and no cash.

Why do these things keep happening to me? Does this happen to anyone else? I am frustrated, however, I am laughing. I have to find this hilarious.

For now, if you have an extra roll of toilet paper drop it off.....HA!!!!

Happy Sunday!!!

"D"

Hot Hot Hot

2009-06-25T17:36:00.002-04:00

While we were at GT yesterday,I realized we live in a hot climate. The tour I thought we were going to go on was on a trolley. The tour we went on was a walking tour. The whole campus. From East to West to East. At one point, I had tripped over a curb and landed on my left foot-remember the foot I broke last year. Yeah from that point on, I had only one thing on my mind. GET TO THE CAR....I asked Blue Eyes if the car sounded like a great idea. She looked at me as if I had double heads. She was enjoying the tour. "M" said she would finish the tour while I found my way in the student center.

The tour started with all the degrees GT offers. There were some I didn't realize they offered. Some I was familiar with. They then went to explain the tuition. Good thing we live in GA is all I am going to say if this is the school Blue Eyes wants to go to. We then broke into different groups and started the walking tour. Did you know when GT was opened, it was the tallest building in the Atlanta area? Once all the buildings were being built, they added a gold tip to the first building. Also, does anyone know the colors of GT? Bits of info I was not familiar with...

We went to a mock dorm which looked more like a jail cell then a dorm room. They could make it more appealing to teenagers. My opinion only. Then we walked while the guide gave more info to GT, but I was in the back and since we were outside, I didn't hear alot of the info. Blue Eyes and her friends heard alot. We then went ot the Recreation Center. WOW!!!! They have a pool with a slide, a lazy river, Olympic size pool and diving areas. WOW!!!!! The gym has every imaginable piece of equipment to stay in shape. WOW!!!!

As we were walking around, summer session is in, I noticed the students. They for the most part seemed well mannered, dressed well -no dress code-, and most had some sort of laptop device. While I was waiting in the student center for the girls and M to come back, I had more opportunity to look around. I ended up talking to a guy who is charge of parking. He said at this time, he is not popular. It costs $650 to park for a year. Of course, Blue Eyes was questioning how she would get around or get home for that matter. I told her she can call me and I would go get her. It is about 1 hour away. Not bad....

All in all it was a great day. The girls learned a little about college life and what they have to look forward to.

On the foot front, it hurts alot. Not sure if I will go to the DR or just try to the boot once more. Today, I have stayed off of it as much as possible. It just feels as if there is a knife in there.

The Godfather had minor surgery today. Pray for a speedy recovery. Thanks...

Happy Thursday!!!

"D"

GT and the such

2009-06-24T06:51:00.002-04:00

Today I am taking Blue Eyes down to GT to look over the campus to see if this is what she is looking for a college experience. I know I know she is only 14 and a sophomore. Let me explain...

One of the requirements for the Gold Award is to go on a tour of a college and ask questions. So I offered it to the girls to go with us. 3 are going and one of the other leaders. It will be an interesting day to say the least.

These girls are so smart, they all scare me. I am sure that all 3 will get scholarships to any school they want to go to.

GT is a great school to go to. I still don't get this whole school thing in the south. In the north where I grew up, you just went to a school for its location not for the history of the schools football team. I just don't get it....I feel old....

Ladybug will spend the day with her friend as she doesn't want to join us for a fun filled day. They will most likely come back down here and swim. It has been hot and hot here the last few days. I can see my electric meter spinning off of my house. It is spinning so fast.

The girls are still getting acclimated to the time here in the east. It has been hard on them to get back to normal. Monday we had to get up at 7am to be at our event at 8am. Today we are leaving at 8am and not a minute later. I do not want to be late. Hopefully there will not be alot of traffic going downtown.

Have a great day....

"D"

Celebration after Celebration

2009-06-23T07:24:00.002-04:00

First we celebrated the girls came home safely from CA. They had a great time, so great in fact, Blue Eyes wants to move there. The pictures are fabulous. I would post the pictures or at least some of them , but I don't know how to do it on my laptop. I need a course. My old laptop was very easy, this one, not sure where to put my card....

Our second celebration came in the form on Fathers Day for the KING. Since he pretty much has everything he wants, there wasn't much I could buy. The girls brought him a shirt from CA about an ATM and a bank and a DAD....I ended up spending my money foolishly on him....a card that sings to him, about the KING going to his throne...very funny card.....

Our third and final celebration was the KINGs birthday. I had no idea what to get him so I went to K-Mart to get his birthday gifts. I went there since that was where I was at. I had to go sit at a GS event for the day at the leader, so as one of the other leaders came early, I high tailed it out of the meeting and went shopping for the KING for the birthday. I cooked him a great dinner and bought a cake from Publix which was delicious.....His work bought him a cake and pizza for lunch which was very nice.

For today, D will be coming over to show me some preschool stuff she has bought for our classroom. I just wish I could be as excited as she is. Don't get me wrong, I am excited that I am going to be the lead teacher, but I am not as excited as I was the first year I was hired....

I have been looking at a cruise to go on in November during Thanksgiving break. This cruise leaves out of Tampa and will last 5 days. There are 2 sea days as well as 2 stops at different ports in Mexico....All for one low price of.....$1300. I am looking into it. If anyone wants more info, let me know and I will get it to you...NO, I am not going into the travel business but I will forward you the link.

Onto a subject that will most likely cause some controversy, but then again that is my middle name. Our local paper, has had some comments about a soldier who was coming home. He is a triple amputee from Iraq ( I believe) From what I get from reading all the articles, here is what I found. He was suppose to get a house from a non profit group in MD. While he was waiting for the house to be completed, he received $100,000 from the US government for his service to his country. He and his wife decided to purchase homes here in GA, for income purposes. Whether to rent the houses, or flip the houses. This is where it gets sticky, he was not allowed to own property in order to be eligible for the house in MD. He had submitted his application prior to purchasing the homes in GA. So it was basically all about timing. I feel for this soldier. Who cares if he owns 2-3 houses here in GA. He gave his life for our freedoms here in the US. I know first hand how the government treats the military once they come home stateside. We need to support our military even if you don't support the war.....

Jon and Kate are getting divorced....no surprise there. She needs to get a reality check. I feel for the children because ultimately they are the ones who get hurt the most. I have a feeling, this will get ugly before it gets better. Kate reminds me of a very good friend I have. She is a very strong willed opinionated woman. What is wrong with that especially in this world. She knows what she wants, however, I think she is in dreamworld about the divorce.

Happy Tuesday,

"D"

Passwords and Bank accounts

2009-06-20T06:32:00.002-04:00

The trend is still alive and well with Bank of America (BOA). Last week, while I had to pay my mortgage, I inadvertently, paid another vendor in error, the full amount of my mortgage to a paid off line of credit we had. Of course, I didn't have the card to get money with or any type of check to withdraw my overpayment. So what does any good American do, call the company in India. Of course, I spoke with "Mary" first. Mary told me that it would cost me and cost dearly. I explained that it was in error and that I want my money returned. No more, no less. NOPE, can't be done she said. So because I made a mistake, it cost me close to $100 to get my money back. Because of the failing economy, they take the interest up front along with transfer fees. BOA then charged me a fee of $12 for the wiring of funds. WHAT???? All it is is a transfer of funds from one bank to another bank. They are all scammers.

The KING has his money from his side business in another bank which now has been taken over by the FDIC. The bank will open this morning under a new name. UGH!!!

I try to use the same password and username for everything. Sometimes it works and sometimes they ask for more than I am willing to give. That is where the problem begins. I thought I would be smart and write it all down so I would have all the passwords and usernames. Trust me, don't do that. It will just cause grief in the future.

And speaking of grief, my IPHONE is all messed up. Yesterday, Apple rolled out a new application for the IPHONE's so I updated. As my phone was updating, I went along my morning business. So imagine my surprise when I went back to retrieve my phone and it said "phone needs to be restored, click here". So I click and I click and I clicked away all my info. See when you restore your phone, you are restoring your phone to your original factory settings. Why don't they tell you all of this when you purchase the phone? Supposedly you are suppose to update the phone quite often. The guy who sold us this phone never mentioned that little tidbit of info which is extremely important for the phone. The phone is awesome but....it does have its drawbacks. Not sure how I would feel if I didn't have the phone in the future.

The girls are having lots of fun in CA and I can't believe in less than 24 hours they will be back home. They have gone to Hollywood, Universal Studios, Sea World, and just sight seeing of San Diego. For reasons, I do not feel comfortable posting, they will not be going into Mexico for a visit. I have spoken to them everyday. I have been keeping busy this week but I do miss them alot. They are my little shadows ok big shadows.

I went to see 'The Proposal" yesterday. Great movie, funny, whitty, sad all those emotions to make a movie a good movie. Go see it!!!

For now, Enjoy your day.

"D"

Finally, It's Saturday

2009-06-13T07:32:00.002-04:00

Well here is the day, the girls are leaving me for a week to go cross country. I am excited for them. They are excited. Please keep them in your prayers specifically for safe travels.

Yesterday,Ladybug told me she needs shoes so off to the stores to get shoes. Her friend, C, spent the night, so she came with us and we met up with her mom. Ladybug ended up with a really cute pair of sandals and a pair of pink converse which look adorable on her.At one point, I said to E that we should have stayed home and sat at the pool. It has been so beautiful here. The girls have even mentioned that it doesn't feel like summer since it has not been that humid or hot yet. They will feel the difference when they get back from CA.

While we were shoe shopping, Blue Eyes called us to tell us she would be home, so off we go get her to finish shopping with us. We went to Belk, where they are having a great sale. All 3 girls were having a great time trying on the clothes. Blue Eyes had purchased a pair of shorts. They looked so adorable on her. When we got home and she was taking the tags off, she noticed that the shorts were the wrong size. We are going to try taking them back today and exchange them.

The KING will be working today so he can not join us as we go celebrate his godfather's grandsons birthday. As we leave the party today, I will take all 4 to the airport and drop them off. The girls were a little disappointed the KING was not going to come with us and spend the day with them.

Have a great day!!!!

"D"

Can you?

2009-06-12T06:47:00.003-04:00

Last night while we were together as a family, Ladybug asked The KING if he can show her how to hotwire a car. WHAT??? I still have no idea why she asked that, but she was serious. She is a hot live one these days. She is definitely coming out of her shell and becoming quite the comedian.

As we were driving home, we kept hearing little toots along the way. Blue Eyes was laughing so hard I thought she had stopped breathing. Of course that got me laughing hard as well. Apparently Ladybug and friend had one of those "fart noises" blog of gob. We were all laughing so hard....so why I am telling you this....because.....the KING....put a squash on our fun laughing time. He told us to stop laughing.....Party Pooper....Not sure but he needs to laugh more. All Serious / No fun....

The girls want to go shopping today for a few items they need for their big trip. They do not need anything. If I can go 3 weeks without doing a stitch of laundry, and they still have more clothes in the closets and drawers they do not need more clothing. They are overpacking. I have told them not to bring everything but the bathroom sink but you know they will not listen. Live and Learn is my motto...They will figure it out.

Last night I had the privilege to show my patriotism for a fallen soldier, John Beale. He is a casualty of the war. He is a husband and dad. I had received numerous emails asking for support to line the streets as the motorcade drove through 3 counties to his hometown. It was extremely emotional. I am proud to say where I stood it was crowded. Please keep all service men in your prayers, regardless of your views on the war. They are doing a job to protect us and our freedoms. I tried to explain to our girls why it was important to support our troops. I think they understood. There were lots of kids and I can honestly say as the motorcade started to pass us, you can hear a pin drop.

As I leave you today,
Enjoy your Friday, hold your children tighter,

"D"

2 days to go

2009-06-11T07:29:00.002-04:00

On Saturday, my girls are going way across this beautiful land we call USA. They are going to arrive in San Diego for 8 days. The excitement in this house -well lets just say...it is overwhelming.

The KING and I are not going with them. OMG...What was I thinking agreeing to this trip. They are going with the KING's godfather and wife and stay at our friend's house who live in SD.

They have 7 days of fun filled activities. They are going to Universal Studios/SD Zoo/ Legoland/ They will take a ride up the coast, stay in a hotel overnight, go to a marina. -sorry can't remember the name.

I know they will have fun. They deserve to enjoy themselves.

I will clean my closet and take down the wallpaper in their bathroom. Fun for me...

Pray for safe travels and fun....

Happy Thursday!!!

"D"

Cell Phones

2009-06-10T11:10:00.002-04:00

As most of you know I have an I-phone. I love my Iphone but I have limitations. I wish they would make it mandatory to have a cell phone class for when you purchase any phone. This class in my opinion would teach phone etiquette and proper use.

When it comes to phones, I have lots of pet peeves you can say.

Here they are:

1. Do not answer the phone when you are with someone unless you have told who you are with that you are waiting for an important call. I understand that sometimes you do need to contact someone and you are waiting for the call but all the time. I find it rude. As with everything else, the rules can be broken for exceptions but in moderation. When you are in a car with someone for over 1 hour and you spend the whole time on the phone talking nonsense, that is what I am talking about.

2. Text-Do not do when you are driving. I have no idea why anyone would text while driving. It is dangerous people...What are you thinking. For the record, I can not text on my phone while driving so I do not do it.

3. Do not talk on the phone while in the movie theatre. The other day while we were at the movies, there was an older lady (around 50) chatting on her phone about what she had done the night during the movie. Again, if it was before the movie started, I wouldn't have found it to be as rude.

4. Texting while you with your friends. Why do you feel it necessary to text the person next to you. Talk Talk Talk to them. It will not kill you. Just recently, a friend told me that her daughter said to her "IDK" instead of I don't know...I really was flabbergasted. The next generation will have no social skills without their phone.

5. Use common sense when you are on the phone. I don't really want to hear about your evening with your boyfriend while I am shopping at the grocery store or any store for that matter.

6. Unless it is an emergency, do not answer your phone during a meeting. Are the people you are with any less important than the ones you are sitting with? Again, use common sense when answering the phone. You can figure out if it is an emergency or not.

7. Do not call your child while they are in school. I have always wondered what the parents are thinking if they call their child during school hours. Do they not realize school is in session? If it is that important, they need to contact the office and have the office track your child down.

Cell phones need to be used in moderation. I find myself using my phone more that I have the I-phone. I can check my email/facebook/weather. But I will not sit there and be on the phone while I am socializing.

Just a few thoughts on this middle of the week. Do you have any thoughts?

Enjoy and be sensible.

"D"

Preschool Thoughts!!!

2009-06-09T07:53:00.003-04:00

As I am getting ready for the next school year, there are many emotions. I had subbed at the preschool for 2 years prior to being hired. Once I was hired, I was so excited about working there. I had so much to offer. After 2 years of working there, A is leaving which left me the decision of becoming lead teacher or staying assistant. I didn't have to give it much thought and now I will be the lead teacher. I am very excited about my next chapter in my life. I am just not sure I want to close my last chapter quite yet.

Our preschool will be changing the curriculum that they have used in the past. Actually we are adding another component while keeping what we have used in the past. I am excited about the new curriculum but the fears of teaching this for the first time is a little daunting.

I have so much to think about which I promised the director I would not do all summer but I have at least once a day.I think I might be a little OCD. What will our class mascot be? How to decorate the room? What should I discuss at "meet the teacher"? Will the parents/kids like me? and the list goes on...yes I have a list for that as well...

I had always wanted Ladybugs for my classroom so what I thought was a no brainer, became a bit of a challenge. I went to the store and found that they didn't have alot of ladybug items but they did have lots of Frogs-you know Fully Rely On God. So I felt that HE was talking to me. So my class with be frogs as the mascot. I am very excited about that. I have started working on my weekly newsletter. Any ideas what I can do to make my newsletter exciting? I will take any suggestions....

I will be working with "D" this year. She has subbed at the preschool for the past 2years. I know we will work well together. She is a grandmother whose granddaughter was enrolled in our preschool.

I am looking forward to this coming school year, however, I am enjoying my summer and not wishing it away. I really have enjoyed spending one on one time with my girls. It is amazing how much you learn about your children just by spending alone time with them.

For today, we are sitting by the pool and working on our tans...

Happy Tuesday....

"D"

Hey You Yes You!!!!

2009-06-08T08:18:00.002-04:00

As I sit here and reflect about my decisions about church, I realize that God is always talking to me. I have subscribed to this daily devotions. I am suppose to receive this email daily however, I do not. I receive the ones that God is directly talking to me. I trust in the LORD each and every day. Sometimes I just need to be reminded that God is the pilot and I am the passenger on this plane called life. I go to church and I believe the priest is talking only to me-never mind the 1000 other people sitting and standing with me. Does God talk to you? I also believe God puts people in your life for a reason or a season. Your time for the season is not determined by earthly seasons but the seasons of heaven. Anyone put in your life for a reason or a season?

I have lots of people that I know who I am not sure are my friends for the season or the reason. I do know that people have been put in my life for a reason and a season. It is always hard when people leave your life. I have had many heartbreaks with people. I give myself unconditionally when it comes to friendship but lately, I find myself very guarded. I do not like. I am afraid to say things that may or may not be misconstrued. I do not like that I can not be the person I am. Why do I care so much about what other people think about me? I am surrounded by good people who love me for who I am but then again I don't appreciate those friends. What is up with me.

Yesterday we were invited to go our friends for dinner and swimming. I really enjoyed myself. I brought my book while the girls and the KING swam in the lazy river. Ok, not exactly swam but went around in the lazy river. It was really a great day.

Today, I am going with my friend to Macon so she drop her son off with his grandparents. He will be fishing for the week. After he gets dropped off, we will meet her mom for a late lunch/early dinner. Her mom is battling cancer for the 3rd time. Keep her in your prayers. She is so full of life.

Have a great day!!!

"D"

200 Posts

2009-06-07T09:41:00.004-04:00

Don't worry, I am not going to write 200 things about me. That would bore all of you to death and trust me I don't want to happen to my followers. What I will post about today is the good things have happened to me in my life- I am sure there are more than 200 but for now, here goes...

The one event that always stands out in my mind is the Sunday, my neighbor came over with an envelope for me from her church. I started thinking about the events of the past week. She had just started going to this church. She had asked if my girls can go to VBS with her son, so he wouldn't be alone. I said sure but I did want to go check it out since it was a new church in the area and she didn't know anyone that good. So off I go. While I was standing outside the sanctuary this man - who I later came to realize is the pastor of the church-came up to me and started talking to me about Church things until he noticed my necklace. He said something about me being Catholic, (sorry don't remember) but I was saddened by his words. So I did what any mother would do-leave her girls and go home. Meanwhile The KING was out of work and was sick. Fast forward to Friday night where this church has the family come and listen to the kids sing the songs they learned. The pastor came over to me and started to talk to me. He had asked where my husband was and I sang like a canary-told him he was home sick,no job, blah blah blah...oh yea get back to story..my doorbell ringing it was my neighbor with an envelope. After she left, I wondered what in the world would be in the envelope. It was the pastor's check for the week. He gave us his paycheck with no affliation to his church or works. How Awesome is that!!!!

Happy Sunday
"D"

The Movies

2009-06-05T08:06:00.002-04:00

As a child, I never enjoyed going to the movies. Actually, I find myself getting grossed out with the filth that is being harbored in the dark places. As an adult, the feelings have not changed.

Yesterday, I took the girls and friends to go see " A Night at the Museum" Great movie. Lots of laughs and history thrown in for good measure. It was a great day. My feet didn't stick to the bottom of the floor. It didn't smell as if the popcorn sat there for years on end. It was clean. The seats were great-they have cup holders along with rocking chairs. So comfortable. All in all, great experience.

The experience was so good, we are going back today to see "Land of the Lost". Hopefully, the movie will be good. I loved the series when I was a child.

Happy Friday...
"D"

Bee Stings

2009-06-04T08:06:00.002-04:00

On Tuesday night, while Blue Eyes was talking to her friend outside, she came running into the house screaming that she got stung by something. I looked at it and thought, Gee that looks bad...She had 2 welts with a lacey rash around the bite site. I looked at the KING and said should I take her to the ER (of course it was after hours) He said NOPE. So I listened while my mommy instinct was saying not good...Anyway, yesterday, she babysat and she wouldn't let me look at the site so off she goes. Around, 4, she texts me and tells me it is about the size of her hand, and it is hurting. She comes home around 5 and I take one look and look at the KING as to say "WELL not what?" I decided at the point to take her to the minor ER. They are so nice there... Anyway, we go and they take one look at it and say allergic reaction to sting. They give her a shot and then she has a reaction to the shot and gets really dizzy. So we sit and sit....She is washed out completely. Poor baby. She is fine today...Still has the welt and very itchy but feels better so she says...

Sat at the pool yesterday with a friend and her 2 children. I am really trying to be busy this summer as not to get to stagnant with myself.

That is about it...

Happy Thursday....
"D"

8 of my Favorite Things

2009-06-03T07:38:00.002-04:00

I follow a few blogs and found this on Kat's blog. I hope you enjoy!!!
8 things I'm looking forward to:

1. Going back to school in August

2. Sleeping in while the girls are in San Diego.

3. August 10th

4. Going on another cruise

5. My friend Cathy coming to visit me.

6. Ladybugs 13th birthday.

7. The lazy days of summer

8. July 4th in PTC

8 things I did yesterday:

1. 2 loads of laundry, folded and put away.

2. Went over where Blue Eyes is babysititng to help her out with the pine straw man

3. checked Facebook

4. My friend, A, came over with her kids and swam.

5. Ordered pizza for lunch for 10 kids.

6. Went to Baci for dinner with the KING.

7. Read blogs.

8. Watched CBS-NCIS and The Mentalist.

8 things I wish I could do:

1. Lose weight. Easily.

2. Have enough money not to worry about.

3. Laundry would be done all the time

4. Travel more.

5. Speak another language.

6. Sew.

7. Chose my friends wisely.

8. Exercise. Happily.

8 shows I watch:

1. NCIS

2. Law and Order (all of them)

3. Judge Judy

4. Big Love

5. The People's Court

6. Extreme Home Makeover

7. Army Wives

8. Charmed

8 places I'd like to travel to:

1. Australia

2. Tahiti

3. Ireland

4. Japan

5. Scotland

6. The Keys

7. Cape Cod

8. The Gulf of Mexico

8 places I've lived:

1. Brooklyn, New York

2. Copiague, New York

3. Plainview, New York

4. Fishkill, New York

5. West Babylon, New York

6. Copiague, New York

7. Newnan, Georgia

8. Fayetteville, Georgia

So...if you haven't played yet...play along...and change one of the categories.

Post your answers....It makes you think.....

Happy Hump Day!!!!

"D"

What in the world

2009-06-02T07:13:00.002-04:00

As I was talking to my friend last night about Jon and Kate plus 8, we had a discussion/debate on multiples. I have an opinion on just about everything, you just have to ask....

Here is mine on Jon and Kate....

They need to stop the craziness of exploiting their family on TV. As I am a fan of Kate, I don't feel bad for her as she says she has to do everything herself. For example, on the season premiere, she said so many times, she had to plan the 5th party by herself, she had to plan by herself...Lets see, she has a personal chef, so no cooking for her, she has an assistant-for what not sure, she has production people who help her, she has a nanny (fancy word for babysitter) who she said her children referred her to the nanny.

They do not have to discuss their lives on TV and state their cases as to why they should or shouldn't stay together. They have to stop!!!!

As for the show, I like watching it. They used to grounded and had good family values. When did it change/how did it change. I always tell the girls, every action has a reaction. So what was the action that has caused this reaction. There are many reactions on this show.

Yes, they were young when the children were born, but alot of people are young when they have children. I would have loved to have children when I was younger but it wasn't in my plans. I went through years of fertility testing. I was done or should I say THE KING and I were done when I finally got pregnant with Blue Eyes. Those were decisions we made.

And lets not forget about Octo-mom. I would have loved to have had more children but since we are adults and know our financial obligations, we knew we would not be able to afford anymore children. So now, I am helping octo-mom with her 14 children. That is the size of my preschool class. I can not imagine being in my classroom 24/7. She does have help from different organizations. It makes me angry that she is so selfish to those children. I pray they will have a normal childhood.

Happy Pondering!!!

"D"

Weekend Craziness

2009-06-01T12:08:00.002-04:00

AS the summer begins so do the crazy days of summer at my house. I love to have company so I am not complaining...Friday night, Ladybug had 2 friends over while they swam and ate pizza, I reflected on what the school year brought me. Saturday, Blue Eyes and I met a friend of mine to get some lady pampering. We had our toes done and the dreaded eyebrows. I am an eyebrow Nazi and only like to go to one place. Not sure why as the same girl doesn't do it but I know I will walk out looking human and not some android looking freak. In the afternoon, Blue Eyes had some friends over. The KING didn't realize that some of her friends had cars which led to a discussion. They swam and ate as well. I reflected as to where my life has gone and where I need it to go.

Sunday, my friends came over. I have a wide variety of friends and know them from different parts of my life here in the south. V/G are from NY and were transferred about the same time as we moved. We met in NY and the rest is history. The Kings godfather moved to GA about 30 years ago, so he and his wife came over as well. We just love them. Then A/M came over. Again, they are from NY but I met A in a bible study that I was in a few years back. Her girls are the same ages as my girls. WE sat outside and ate. We all went in the pool as it was hot here yesterday. Not summer hot yet, but it was hot and the pool was refreshing.

Do you see what I will be doing this summer? Eat/Swim/Eat/Swim....

Actually, I have planned to have plans everyday this summer. I am going to be more diligent in inviting people over, make plans to do things, go to the movies, etc. Lets see how that works. I am secretly challenging myself to be more hospitable.

So for today,my plans are to get my laundry under control. I have so much to do...Help me out S....I told Ladybug to invite someone over or maybe we will go to the movies. She wants to see "UP", I have never even heard of it so not sure if we will go. I want to see Mall Cop. It looks funny...Anyone????

Wednesday, my friend is coming over with her 2 children to swim. See..swim/eat!!!!

For now,have a great day.....

"D"

Summer Plans

2009-05-31T06:52:00.002-04:00

My summer plans have changed a few times already. I was suppose to leave for sunny Florida Monday morning. Blue Eyes was called a few weeks ago to see if she would want to make some cold hard cash this summer watching 3 kids. Of course, her answer is YES!!! Last week, the dad emailed me and wanted to know if she could start this Monday morning. Drama ensues.... I had the unfortunate task of calling my mother to let her know that we couldn't go down to visit her for the week but we will come at the end of the month. She said no, that wouldn't work for her. We would go on June 23. She said sorry, we are getting company on June 28 and it wouldn't be fair to the girls. WTH....not sure what that means. I then said ok, we can come around July 13-didn't have a calendar but whatever that Saturday is to the following Saturday- oops she says...your sister will still be here- actually for the month...oh well...life sucks right now...I am not sure if I ever discussed on here my relationship or lack of relationship with my sister...Another time....

So for now, it will be Ladybug and I all summer doing WHAT you ask....Not sure for now, but one thing is that I have told her she needs to call friends over. We will go to the movies and bowling and possible Stevie B's....We will go to Stone Mountain and possible a quick trip to the beach.

Friday was the girls last day of school. Friday, Ladybug had 2 friends come home with her to swim and have some pizza. They had fun. Saturday, Blue Eyes had her annual year end party. They had fun....Fun is the key word. Today, well, I have my friends coming over to swim...Fun... Ladybug went to her friends community pool on Saturday and saw a few of her friends there so she was happy. She is very social and apparently she is social at school as well. She received the "Most Social" award at school. Not sure exactly what it means. I am proud of her for doing so well at school this year. She has struggled all year but once I put my foot down, she excelled. She is smart, but doesn't apply herself. I am anxious to see how she did on the state tests-CRCT. I don't put much stock in that test, but I do like to see if she is learning anything...

My preschool is changing the curriculum for the coming year. I will be researching the program as well as planning those cute little projects, I so love to send home. Ladybug had the best preschool teachers. If I can be half of what they are, I would be happy. I am very excited about next school year. A is leaving so that an opening for my class. More Drama!!! I will be working with D. She is older than I am, which will be different than working with A but I do believe it will be a great fit for the 2 of us. I initially wanted Ladybugs as my classroom mascot but when I went to the store, they didn't have alot of ladybugs so I went with Frogs. As you know, I always read lots of caringbridge sites and Frogs are a common theme among the sites...Fully Rely on God....So I will have a newsletter with a catchy phrase--suggestions anyone???

Happy Sunday
"D"

Graduation Blues

2009-05-30T07:29:00.002-04:00

Last night, Blue Eyes was required to go to the graduation at her HS. She is in the band and the band plays music for the graduates.

It made me think back to the day I graduated. My first graduation was very exciting. I went to a Catholic school for 8 years. Most of us went there for 8 years. We were very close. At the beginning of 8th grade, we realized the administration had divided our class up-smart and not so smart. Not really but it seemed that way. I had been placed in the not so smart class. I was removed from all of my friends. They were all in the smart class. You still with me here- on graduation day - they gave us our awards. I received the gold cord- for smart people. As we entered the church, I was beaming- I am smart was all I thought. As we sat throughout the ceremony, Sr. John and Sr. Grace handed out awards. They called the valedictorian - Mark Petrizzi.clap clap clap. then they called the salutatorian---slackermomII...clap clap clap...hey thats me.. I was stunned. I was the 2nd smartest in our class of 100. Wow!!!! I had to get up on the alter and receive my gift (money) and say thank you..... It was so surreal--and awesome to say the least...Our school didn't release the names of the award winners until the graduation so there were no long boring speeches.

My HS graduation was uneventful. I was in the top 5% of my class so they recognized us but that is about all I remember. I was on facebook last night, talked to one of my friends, Bobby, and asked if he remembered graduation. He said nope, I wasn't there...Shock...why not???? I had to ask...apparently the year we went to the Catholic high school (that post is for another day)- he screwed up big time... so he ended up going to the summer school and obtaining his GED. How come I never knew this? I went to school with Bobby for 13 years and never knew he wasn't at our HS graduation. I remember is was so hot inside the gym. Why didn't they do it outside on the football field. NOPE inside the gym where there are no windows or doors to open and no air conditioning. And for the record, he remembered our 8th grade graduation.

In 3 years, my oldest will graduate from HS. It seems as if it was yesterday, I walked her to the bus stop for the first time. Where does the time go? Ladybug will graduate in 6 years. Time will fly and before you know, both of our girls will be in college. One wants to go out of state. How sad will that be for me? I wish time can go back and they can be little again where I was in control of their every being. Oh well!!!

Have a great day!!!!

"D"

Follow Me!!!

2009-05-17T09:26:00.002-04:00

Today, my post will be all over the place so just follow and keep reading.

My laptop is in total disrepair (is that a word). It all started with my space bar. It sticks ALOT. One day last week, my "C" fell off. AS I was working on the end of the year preschool slide show, it decides to slow down- slow down. I finished the slideshow but not the way I really wanted it to look, but it does look good for the very first one I have ever done by myself if I might say so myself.

Last week was one of those weeks where it was such a blur. I had so many irons in the fire, that nothing was done with 100%. Monday night, I had to attend a Bronze Award ceremony for 3 girls that I was there advisor. My friend, AM, did an awesome job organizing the ceremony w/o the help of the other 2 moms. It was going well until one of the moms wanted the other 2 moms to follow her by placing a piece of cake in the girls face-similar to the wedding cake fiasco which I am and never have been a fan of. It was disgusting and not sanctioned by the GS, I am sure. Call me a party pooper or whatever- not appropriate for this type of ceremony...

Tuesday, I had to meet on the band booster moms to help me out with the SCRIP orders for this month. My friend, M, created a super Excel program to help with the SCRIP, to make it more efficient.It has made my life so much easier for the accounting purposes.

Wednesday, we got to stay home while I tried to complete my slideshow. It was almost done with the exception of 2 classes. The teachers gave me a disk from local stores but for some reason, I was unable to load the discs on my laptop. I had to get their cards for the pictures.

Thursday, when I came home from school, I worked on the slideshow while planning on getting my thoughts together for the big band meeting that evening to discuss the budget. It was a 3 hour meeting on the budget....Wow!!!!

Friday, I had off from my CBS job, so I took BlueEyes and B to school, came home and cleaned my house from top to bottom with clorox. There is nothing like a clean house with clorox. WE had our year end GS ceremony at my house. Last weekend, we cleaned up the yard, did some weeding, planted flowers, moved some black eyed susans, and daylillies. My backyard is looking a little like paradise once more.

Saturday, we had our annual Band Info Fair which for some reason, I offered to organize. What in the world was I thinking. I had to be there at 8AM on a Saturday morning to set up. We had a few moms/kids/dads to help us out. Saturday night we had a GS event which Blue Eyes organized for our local SU so girls can earn the bridging requirements to cadettes. It was a great night. Blue Eyes did a great job in organizing.

Today the girls get to go be victims for the local CERT training exercise. They had so much fun the last time they did it. Blue eyes best friend has completed the teen CERT program and today is the day they have the simulated accident. They were talking about the accident and what it will be. One time, it was a plane crash, a car accident. Great program. If your community has a CERT program, you should look into it and get trained.

Have a great Sunday...

"D"

SLIDESHOW IS COMPLETE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Falling apart

2009-04-25T11:31:00.002-04:00

Last year I feel off the bottom step in the pool and broke my foot. It still hurts and most days, I am aware of the pain. I was shaving my legs in the shower and when I stood up, my back went into some type of spasm and still now hurts. All week, I have been doubling up on my allergy medicine. I have no idea what the pollen count is but I am sure it is very high. While I was sneezing last night, my right lower side of my stomach went into some type of contraction. I called for the girls to come downstairs which they did. I told them to call the KING. He was about 1/2 hour away so I had them call the next best thing-SM. She came down immediately. I was holding my side and everytime I took the pressure off, it hurt. Not sure what it was or what it is. It is still very tender to touch. Maybe a pulled muscle.

While SM was here, I told her it felt like I was having a contraction. Well in her most southern drawl, she said ""I don't know nothing about birthing those babies, Miss Scarlett" I couldn't stop laughing. Of course THE KING was on the phone at this point, and all he heard was laughing. Sure his wife is in pain he was thinking.... My girls really think Miss Lucy and Miss Ethel have lost their minds completely. I refer to myself as either one. One of us are always coming up with some hairbrain idea and the other one follows so we are very interchangeable.

Thank you SM for rushing down here as the ambulance driver. I really do appreciate your thoughtfulness, kindness and most of all your friendship.

Have a great Saturday....

"D"

Follow UPS

2009-04-23T07:19:00.003-04:00

I-Phone- I love this little gadget. It is one of the greatest inventions. When it first came out, I thought who in the world would need this phone. Then my friend, J, received it for her anniversary. I looked at it and thought again, why does she need this phone. She doesn't work, she homeschools her kids, etc. The KING and I were looking at phones during our weekend getaway when the salesman brought up the IPHONE, I thought NO WAY!!! Lets look at the VU once more. Blue Eyes has the phone and it is nice. The salesman asked me why I didn't want it. I told him the phone intimidated me. He said come over here and lets go with it step by step. There began my affair with the phone. I decided to get the IPHONE. Great phone. So much to do with it, but to date, I have not found everything to do with it yet. Summer vacation for me is only 17 more work days...YEAH YEAH!!!!!

Blue Eyes- Yes she is being inducted into the BETA club at a local church next Thursday. I am so happy for her. I am proud of my daughter trying so hard to maintain her grades and doing what she needs to do to get it done. She is truly turning into a well rounded beautiful adult.

Ladybug- She is still struggling with her MS years. She is trying harder and realizes her actions will result in reactions to her which she does not like. Her band is performing at a local HS tomorrow. I truly am proud of her.

Rain/Weather- For now the rain has stopped here in GA. The weather has been so beautiful. I thought we were going to blow away at the beginning of the week. My grass (weeds) look so beautiful. It is so green and luscious looking. This weekend is going to beautiful and I am working in the yard. It really needs some TLC.

GS- It is the time of the year the we are winding down. I am looking forward to year end celebration. I think I am turning in my resignation for troop duties for next year. I need a year off from GS. The girls will still be in the troop so I will be involved but not as much. NO planning for me. Just go and drop off and work. We meet at the church where I work so I will go to my classroom and work.

Summer Plans- The girls and I are going back to FL for about 2 weeks as soon as the girls get our of school. They are going to San Diego for 8 days the middle of the month. I am very excited for them. I am not going but I think I will be visiting a friend for the week. Still working on that.

This is about it for now.

Happy Thursday...

"D"

"Mom, I am being indicted"

2009-04-14T21:11:00.002-04:00

Not the words I would want to hear come either one of my daughters mouths. Apparently Blue Eyes is being inducted into the BETA club at her school. I am very proud of her. The KING and I talked to her about the difference between being indicted and inducted. WE all had a good laugh about that one.

Tomorrow starts the dreaded CRCT's for Ladybug. I have no idea how she is going to do on them this year. In years past, the teachers would send home papaer after paper about the CRCT. I didn't even realize they start tomorrow. Hopefully she will do fine. She has always excelled on all the standardized tests.

I am still working on my slideshow for the preschool. Lucy, where are you...its me Ethel...Why do I offer to do these projects. Not only am I doing the slideshow, I have voluntered to host the year end awards ceremony at my house for GS, along with some band duties which will be on the same weekend as the year end ceremony. Even though I look at my calendar before I offer, events get changed...HELP ME>>>>

Happy Tuesday..

"D"

MY Easter Story

2009-04-12T06:39:00.003-04:00

When Blue Eyes was born, we had hoped to have traditions for the holidays. My family is big big on traditions, the KINGS, nope.

Our Easter traditions starts on Saturday with me cooking all day. No worries, I love to cook. I always make pierogies and kielbasa for dinner, my Polish roots at its best. The KING and Blue Eyes have some kind of Italian. After dinner, we dye our eggs. Last night, we dyed 24 eggs. We used the Dudleys Sparkle dye. So much fun.

Our tradition has always been for me to have Easter dinner. Our friends in NY would always get together Saturday night at my house for a good Polish dinner. After dinner, all the kids and the moms/dads would sit around the dinner table and dye our eggs. Everyone would bring how many eggs they would want to dye. Ray and Sue had the oldest of our children so it all started with them. Before our children were born, Lynn and Charlie and us would go over to Ray and Sue's to color eggs with Kerry and Katie. So that is how our egg dying had started.

After dinner, I sent the girls upstairs since I had "Easter bunny" duty. Our tradition carries over to the night. While we lived in NY, we always had a trail from the girls room to their baskets. Maybe, just maybe, we used 30 eggs total. Fast forward to GA. The first year we lived in our house, I tried so hard to make things "normal" for the girls. I got down my eggs and then it dawned on my. 30 eggs will not be enough. What is an Easter bunny to do? Go to Walmart and get more eggs or end that tradition. I decided to go to Walmart and get more eggs/candy. I think we are up to 45 eggs each.

This year, I decided that the only candy the girls would get would be what was in their eggs. I bought them carryon bags for their trip this summer. (more on that another day) They also received some bracelets I had bought.

Since moving to GA, we have picked up some other traditions along the way. Our friend, Vera is Eastern Othodox. Her Easter is normally after our Easter so we celebrate twice. One thing she likes to do is play a game with the eggs. We take the eggs and "knock" them on the bottom to see whose eggs crack. If your egg cracks then you are out and get to chose another egg. We always have so many laughs.

Our other tradition included us going to church. Today will be different since I am a church homeless person. I do not feel the calling to go to our church today. SM suggested I attend the Lutheran church. I might just do that. I know someone who goes and one of blue eyes friend attend. Maybe, just maybe it would be a good fit.

The Easter story at preschool has always been a difficult subject to teach. How do you explain that Jesus was beaten and put on a cross to die for our sins. They are three year olds. Not an easy task. Well this year, our director did an outstanding job. She talked about the serious side and the fun side. She talked about the "bad" men who didn't like Jesus. She then talked about him dying and being placed in a cave. She ended it with Jesus' friends going to the cave and finding that Jesus was gone and their was angel. How fun and exciting. Everyday, we talked more and more about the Easter story with the kids. I think they got it this year. During circle time, we talked about the serious side along with the fun side. I would ask them to tell me one thing about Easter and whether is fun or serious. They got it...I love when they get it...

Happy Easter

"D"

Happy Easter

2009-04-11T12:05:00.002-04:00

I want to wish you all a Happy Easter....

We are staying home and having some friends over. When we first moved to GA, our friends said Easter would be my holiday to cook. Have I ever mentioned before, I love to cook. This year my menu includes, Ham, my very own Easter potatoes, rice/broccoli casserole, veggies and lasagna. I am making some appetizers but nothing time consuming. I have gotten lazy this year.

The first couple that is coming are my friends V and G. We have known them since we moved here from NY. G and the KING worked together at Photocircuits which brought us here to GA.

Second on my list is my friend S. Her husband is working so where else should she spend Easter, with her friends. They have 2 children, a girl 14 and a boy 6. S is bringing the desserts at my request. I did ask her not bring anything ethnic tough. She wanted to bring some chopped liver and gelfeltich fish(sp?).

Third on my list is my C. Her husband is doing duty in Irag/Kuwait. As soon as I realized he would not here, I felt I could something nice so invite was there. They have 3 girls 17/15/12. All the girls at my house. I may need to run away....

Anyway, I know we will have a nice day celebrating the true meaning of Easter. Christ rising from the dead.

Still looking at different options for church. We have a small Presbyterian church down the street from us that I would like to go to. No idea why but it just seems inviting everytime I drive by there to go South. Any suggestions? What are the beliefs of Presbyterians? See I am lost right now...Help ME!!!

Have a great day...

Happy Saturday..

"D"

Spoiled - Take 2

2009-04-09T08:09:00.005-04:00

March 28 was our 22nd anniversary. I wanted to do something nice for the KING. I decided we would go away for a nice romantic weekend. We needed time alone to reconnect. I first wanted to go to the OMNI in Atlanta. One of my friends said that the hotel is not in a good area of town. WHAT??? We go there often and have never felt unsafe. Off my list now. Then she suggests the Westin. I thought maybe but it is in Buckhead. I thought, Buckhead is not my thing. On Monday, lets just say, I found where the Westin is located. Across from the OMNI. What??? I was not happy, actually sad. I had wanted to go to Atlanta and spend a weekend there like the tourists. OH well, we always have next year.

I decided on Macon. Yes you read right. I had gone to Macon once before and thought it would be a perfect weekend. Until the rain had come. We were going to the Warner Robins AFB Museum. (btw-free-didn't know until we got there) Our plans were to spend the day on Saturday there, but nope, the rain was coming down. WE ended up going to the Macon Mall-pretty nice for a mall-lots of storefronts empty-very sad. We went to the ATT store to look for a new phone for me. I had wanted to get the Matrix- so I can text with my daughters. The sales rep talked to me for a while-really took his time. He sold us on the IPHONE. I thought, I don't want to pay for it. But now, that I have it, I love the IPHONE. You can do almost anything with it. It evens has a level in it. I can facebook, I can check my email, I can update my blog...

While we were in Macon, The KING mentioned that he hadn't bought me anything since he didn't win on ebay. He was looking at the Cricut Expressions-yes SM, a cricut. I see us sitting around scrapbooking this summer. With your stuff and my cricut-look out...Ok back- well he finally won the bid on Tuesday night. WooHoo!!! It will be arriving on Monday. The girls and I went out yesterday and went scrapbooking shopping. OH boy!!!! The trouble we can get into. I bought cute little baskets to put all of our new finds in. I want to clean our bonus room to make a scrapbooking space for us to scrapbook. The KING has bought me a camera for Christmas so I have lots of pictures now. I may take my friends (SM again) idea to take a picture a day.

He has spoiled me in the past few weeks with items I never even thought about getting. He really is very happy in his new job. Thank you God....

Speaking of God. I have some issues right now. I was brought up Catholic. My girls are being brought up Catholic. So you ask-what is the problem? I feel lost spiritually. I have not gone to church in a while. I miss it but I don't miss the Catholic church. I have been thinking about going to a non-denominational church. How do I find one? Where do I start? I have never visited a church before. Unless you count the times I went with my friend Lynn to her Lutheran church. I liked it there. I liked the pastor. I thought about converting. The KING put his foot down and said No, our children will be raised Catholic. I was OK with it since that is what I know. Now he doesn't nor did he ever go to church but he was baptized Catholic. We got married in the Catholic church. I am not bashing the Catholic Church. It is not where I am at at this time. Any suggestions?? Anyone??

Happy Wednesday!!!

"D"

HELP I need HELP!!!!

2009-04-08T12:28:00.002-04:00

OK Now that I have your attention. I do need some help. I have "volunteered" to do the end of year slide show for my preschool that I work at. I love playing around on the computer. I have decided that I am using powerpoint-that is what I have. I have so many pictures for my class alone. I will be getting more pictures from the other teachers.

Last night,I decided that I better start getting things together. This is where your help comes in. How do you decide which pictures to use? I don't have favorites but I do have friends whose children are in my class. I don't want anyone to think I favored one over the other. How would you handle this?

I have no idea how to add music so if anyone has the ideas, please let me know. We had talked about having the kids sing some of our favorite songs to be played for background music. What do you think about that? or Should I just download some childrens songs from some site and add that as a background?

While I am asking for the help, how do you change background so that each slide has a different background? Not a huge problem but I do beleive it would get boring after a while looking at the same background.

And did I mention that while I was playing around with my cool slideshow, I lost all the pictures. Now the pictures will show when I play the slideshow but when I look at the slides, there are no pictures. Any ideas????

Now if this is the least of my problems for the day, I am blessed.

Now off to the GS office to pick up items for our troop. IPP"s, uniforms, etc...I am bribing the girls with a lunch if they come with me...LOL LOL It always ends up costing me money....

Happy Wednesday...

"D"

Detention and Tickets

2009-04-07T09:52:00.003-04:00

Last week was definitely one for the history books of our family. On Wednesday, April Fools Day, Blue Eyes gets off the bus. Her cheeks are crimson red. I thought immediately, "Oh no, she is sick. I don't have time for this." She got in the car, and I asked how her day was. She told me it was one of the worst days of her life. She got detention. I immediately thought and said "Funny, April Fools joke" She said nope, and proceeded to take the detention slip out of her bag. Apparently, while in Spanish, she was telling the girl to be quiet and the teacher gave both of them detention. Now, I know you are thinking, she deserves it. She is one who has never had to pull her clip/move her pin/move the bee, etc..... She was devastated.

Then the KING calls me and tells me "You are not going to believe who is behind me" I said "you are right, who?" The police with the lights on. He gets a ticket supposedly for going through the stop sign, not even stopping. I find that hard to believe, but he was not going to argue with the cop, so now we are the proud donors of $150 to the local police department. UGH!!!!!!

I have been thinking about my life lately. The turn of events that have transpired the last few months in ours lives. How good God has been to us. How thankful I am. Life has been so good to us. Sometimes I wake up and think to myself "Is this real? Pinch me." I am so thankful for everything we have.

We are on spring break but it feels more like winter break. I have heard that we have some snow flurries today. My heat has been on. The pool is ready. What is wrong with that picture? Today we are hanging out.

Happy Tuesday...

"D"

Hey!!!! Is anyone there?

2009-04-05T09:57:00.002-04:00

Lets see!!!It has been almost 2 months since my last post.

I took the girls out of school on the day I drove to FL. We had a great time and didn't want to come home from my parents. They moved to a new home which is smaller but cozier. My mom was so surprised to see us. She thought we were coming on Sunday but we got there around 9PM on Friday night. We went to the Flea Market which is one of the best ones I have been to. We went to the pool just about everyday which was enjoyable. I ended up reading 3 books. WooHoo!!!! I love to read but never have the time. I sit on the couch with my laptop.

We came home on the following Friday of which I thought we were never going to get home. Why does it always take us 8 hours to get there but 10 hours to come home? Anyone??? Feel free to answer.

We had a snow storm here in GA. The schools were closed. Not sure why since the time we woke up, the streets were clear. It looked so pretty. I thought I had pictures saved but I don't. Maybe next time. Heard on the weather report, we might be in store for some snow tonight/tomorrow morning.

The KING is enjoying his new job. Thank God!!!! He is treated with respect and they trust his judgement. He has been told he is doing a great job. I am so proud of the KING. He can do anything. He has been busy with his side jobs. He was suppose to go to nights but they have layed off the 3rd shift so for now he is on days. I like it so much better. We have alot of family time which is very important to me.

The KING and I celebrated our anniversary in Macon. The weather was horrible but we had a great time. We went on Friday night. I had gone to Macon a few years ago with the girls to drop them off at a museum and was told of a great Italian restaurant. I was determined to find it for the KING. I did. The food was great. We had a great time that night. Saturday morning, the weather was treacherous. We decided to forgo our original plans and to the Macon Mall. We went to O'charleys for lunch. As we got to the mall, we ended up at the ATT store. I have been doing research on a new phone. The KING suggested I get the I-Phone. I talked to the rep about it. He was so nice about it, and took his time showing us all the features. I am the proud owner of an I-Phone. It is awesome. I can do almost anything with it.

The only catch was we had to switch numbers with Blue eyes. She was in Gainsville with her friends. I had to call her and tell her that her phone would be disconnected until we can give exchange the Sim card from my phone. Let's just say, my daughter was possessed by a spoiled brat that day. She held a grudge for a few days. Which a few of them, her phone was taken away...

On Sunday we went to the Air Museum at Warner Robins AFB. It was really cool. We didn't have alot of time since we needed to get home to get the girls. We are planning a day trip for the future with the girls. Hopefully we will get to spend more time than the 2hours we did.

All in all, we had a great weekend get away. It was well needed.

Hoping all my bloggy friends are enjoying the spring weather. I will update on the girls soon.

Happy Sunday!!!

"D"

Playing Hooky

2009-02-13T06:56:00.003-05:00

Hello All my faithful blogger friends. For some reason, I have been in a mental blogging block. Yes, like many others, I have found Facebook. I have reconnected with so many of my childhood friends. It is important to know the daily musings of people I have not seen in 30+ years. Who is paying the bills, going on business trips, passing time. I did reconnect with my first love,Tommy. We chatted about our families, got caught up and now I have no desire if I ever talk to him again. How strange is that.

I am so blessed. The KING loves his new job. He is valued there. They value his opinion. At his previous job, they treated him like dirt. I thank God everyday for giving us this opportunity to open this door. He is getting calls from previous customers of his for his little side jobs, in addition to his current side jobs, he has committed to. I am finally able to sleep a little better knowing our monthly bills will be able to be paid. How awesome is that.....

Today, the girls are playing hooky. We are going to Fl to visit my parents today. The girls are not going to school this morning. I was going to take them out once I left work, but they are coming with me so we can leave as soon as I get out of work. The anticipation of getting to Fl is overwhelming for me today. WE are surprising my mother today. She thinks we are coming in on Sunday. In 22 years, I have never left the KING for any type of holiday so this is definitely a first. I know, I know, it is only Valentines day but.....

As always, with 2 teenage girls, there is lots of drama. More from the little one then the big one. That is what they are affectionately known around here. The little one is trying to find herself in the MS. Of course, I need to keep reminding her that she is a good person, who is surrounding herself with dogs. And you know what happens when you surround yourself with dogs, you wake up fleas in the morning. Lets just say, it has been interesting around here.

Blue eyes has received her class ranking---18 out of 422. Way to go Blue Eyes. She does work hard to maintain her grades. I am so proud of her....

Lets keep the Continental Airlines Flight 3407 in our prayers. All those families that have been affected with this tragedy....

I will keep you posted about my trip to Fl. Stay tuned. Hey you may even get some pictures....

Have a great Friday...

"D"

What a Weekend!!!

2009-02-02T07:16:00.002-05:00

What a great weekend. We spent time together. Saturday, I went to a friends house with the girls for the afternoon. It was great. I very rarely socialize anymore. It is always for a reason that I get together but not socialize. Different....

We came home, had dinner and the girls wanted to watch The Curious Case of Benjamin Buttons. What a movie...Too bad I didn't finish watching it. WE all fell asleep for the night by 8PM. Do you think we were tired?

Sunday, we waited for the KING to come home. We then went shopping for him. Oh how much fun did we have. Belk is closing to move to another location and oh boy!!!What a sale... We bought so much for so little. Not for the KING but for the girls. We ended up at Wal-Mart to purchase pants for the KING. We went to different stores but he wasn't spending $30.00 for each pair of jeans. He needed new clothes for his new job.

We then watched the Super Bowl. What a game....We were rooting for the underdog. OH well. There is always next year.

"D"

A leap of faith

2009-01-31T08:35:00.003-05:00

Life has been crazy around here but then again that is nothing new. Leave the job, keep the job, leave the job, keep the job.

The King was told about 3 weeks ago, his company had to downsize by at least 40 people. He was "safe" from what he was told, but he was extremely unhappy with his job. So the question arose " Do I leave my job and take the package or do I take my chances to leave and hope for the best?"

So what do we do? I prayed all weekend for guidance from God that He would direct us in the direction that we need to be at this point in our lives. The KING just tossed all night wondering what in the world would be the right decision for our family.

Monday was the day he needed to make his decision. He woke up early and came down stairs. I was on the phone with a friend and he was pacing in front of me. I hung up and said whats up. The KING said we need to talk.

He started with, "I am not sure what to do about leaving?" I am sure he is thinking this is going to go south and the argument is going to erupt. NOPE, I did what any loving wife in a middle of recession would say "QUIT, your job. God will provide" He had such relief on his face at the time. I had a peace within me, a peace I have never felt before. It is such a God thing. He went to work and put his papers in. IN the meanwhile, he was saving someone else's job.

On Thursday of the same week, he recieved a call from someone who works with him who is still freindly with a manager who left his place of employement a few years ago. As soon as "D" heard that the KING was leaving, he told "S" to give the King his phone number at work since he has an apportunity for the KING. So the KING calls and he gets an interiview. He goes on the interview. He gets the job. HOW AWESOME is that. God is so great.

We took a leap of faith, had the most peaceful feeling and let God.

Last night was the KINGS last day of work at his job. Monday he starts his new job. OH, and the best part of this, he gets 5 months of full pay...WooHOO>> I see the Caribbean in my future.....WooHOO!!!!

Praise God and Let God.....

Have a great day!!!!

"D"

The First Date

2009-01-16T17:19:00.000-05:00

The FIRST date

If you didn't see this on the Tonight show, I hope you're sitting down when you read it. This is probably
the funniest date story ever, first date or not!!! We have all had bad dates but this takes the cake.

Jay Leno went into the audience to find the most embarrassing first date that a woman ever had. The winner
described her worst first date experience.

There was absolutely no question as to why her tale took the prize!

She said it was midwinter...Snowing and quite cold... and the guy had taken her skiing in the mountains outside
Salt Lake City , Utah . It was a day trip (no overnight). They were strangers, after all, and had never met before. The outing was fun but relatively uneventful until they were headed home late that afternoon.

They were driving back down the mountain when she gradually began to realize that she should not have had that extra latte.

They were about an hour away from anywhere with a rest room and in the middle of nowhere! Her companion suggested she try to hold it, which she did for a while. Unfortunately, because of the heavy snow and slow
going, there came a point where she told him that he had better stop and let her go beside the road, or it would be the front seat of his car.

They stopped and she quickly crawled out beside the car, yanked her pants down and started. In the deep snow she didn't have good footing, so she let her butt rest against the rear fender to steady herself.
Her companion stood on the side of the car watching for traffic and indeed was a real gentleman and refrained from peeking. All she could think about was the relief she felt despite the rather embarrassing nature of the situation.

Upon finishing however, she soon became aware of another sensation. As she bent to pull up her pants, the young lady discovered her buttocks were firmly glued against the car's fender. Thoughts of tongues frozen to poles immediately came to mind as she attempted to disengage her flesh from the icy metal. It was quickly apparent that she had a brand new problem, due to the extreme cold.

Horrified by her plight and yet aware of the humor of the moment, she answered her date's concerns about' what is taking so long' with a reply that indeed, she was 'freezing her butt off' and in need of some assistance! He came around the car as she tried to cover herself with her sweater and then, as she looked imploringly into his eyes, he burst out laughing. She too, got the giggles and when they finally managed to compose themselves, they assessed her dilemma. Obviously, as hysterical as the situation was, they also were faced with a real problem.

Both agreed it would take something hot to free her chilly cheeks from the grip of the icy metal!

Thinking about what had gotten her into the predicament in the first place, both quickly realized that there was only one way to get her free. So, as she looked the other way, her first time date proceeded to unzip his pants and pee her butt off the fender.

As the audience screamed in laughter, she took the Tonight Show prize hands down. Or perhaps that should be 'pants down. 'And you thought your first date was embarrassing.

Jay Leno's comment...'This gives a whole new meaning to being pissed off.'

Oh and how did the first date turn out? He became her husband and was sitting next to her on the Leno show.

A Funny Airplane Story

2009-01-11T22:27:00.003-05:00

When Ladybug was about 1 1/2 years old, I decided that I would take both girls to Fl from NY to visit my parents. I really have no idea what I was thinking except that I would have a vacation from parenting. HAHA!!!! I decided I wanted to go in the winter. So off to Laguardia we go. First we get on the plane first, find out seats, for some reason they had me put the stroller under the seat-I am still trying to figure that one out 12 years later. WE are getting ready to take off, pilot comes on "Ladies and Gentlemen, We are sorry for the inconvenience but it seems as if the bathroom is not working properly so we will have to switch planes. Thank you for flying TWA." So off to switching planes with both my daughters who are 3 1/2 and 1 1/2. My stroller is stuck under the seat and the workmen are starting to arrive to fix the bathroom. All the flying personnel have left me. I am thinking now, oh crap, I am going to miss the plane. Finally after what seemed like an eternity,the stroller got unhooked and I left the plane for the other plane on the other side of the terminal. Now I am hauling some ass to get to the plane. I get there and they tell me that there are not 3 seats available and how did I get me stroller. I told them that the stroller was under the seat and that was the issue for me getting there so late. She continues with we don't have 3 seats available. What in the world would you like me to do with my babies. Just drop them off and let them sit by themselves. Now I am getting agitated. The gate agent is getting agitated. She finally goes on the plane and asks is anyone would like to move so a mom and her 2 girls can sit together. A nice man and young man moved so we can sit together. Now they were the lucky ones. The older lady in front of us was grumbling about how long it has taken to take off (about 2 hours at this point) and it was all my fault. I just sat there.

I have ever mentioned that when Ladybug was a baby she hated to travel or be put in her carseat.

So off we go in the wild blue sky...screaming ensues. SCREAMING I say from this sweet child of mine. She doesn't stop. The lady in front of us, kept turning around and mumbling something to the effect "Shut that damn child up" I just smiled at her. and smiled. and smiled. SCREAMING, smiling this goes on for the entire trip to FL yes the entire trip. While they brought us the snacks (this is in the day that they gave us snacks) one of the items was yogurt which was her favorite snack to eat at the time. I figured I would try that. NOPE, the yogurt ended up being flung into the lady's beehive hairdo. Yep, the lady you told me to shut my damn child up.

We finally landed which seemed like an eternity. I knew my parents would be waiting for me at the terminal so as I got off the plane, my parents said to me "please tell us it wasn't our granddaughter who screamed the whole entire trip" I said" I wont tell you but where is the nearest bar for a double martini". Looking back, I learned alot about traveling with 2 small children.

Take lots of benedryl with me on the next trip. Don't take early flights. Don't go to Fl from NY in the winter...

Happy Monday

"D"

OH NO!!!

2009-01-11T11:26:00.003-05:00

While I was brushing my teeth last night, I felt something strange. At first, I thought my tooth came out. Then I felt the hole. My filling came out. You know what that means, the dreaded dentist. I have not found a dentist that I really like here in GA. After 9 years... My dentist in NY, lived down the street from me,his office was in his house. Turns out we went to ST. Martins together, though he was few years older. Dr. Bob was the best dentist.

Since moving to GA, I have gone to 5 dentists. Yes people, 5. The last one I went to, drugged me to the point, I didn't even know my name, just the truth. That was after he poked my face with his picking tool. It got stuck and then he pulled it out, my face was bleeding and I had a hole. I went back the next day to get the tooth extracted by his partner. Now that was fun.NOT!!!! I don't want to go back to them.

The dentist before them, was extremely gentle. He is in practice by himself and the office staff is wonderful..So you ask..what is the problem...He didn't diagnose an infection in Ladybugs tooth. He had me going all over town to find a pediatric oral surgeon-lots of luck on the southside of Atlanta. He told me nothing was wrong with her. Then there is the problem with S's friend who went to him. I know they can not trace anything to his office but lets just say her friend was in the hospital for a long time on life support after a visit to see him. Thankfully her friend is well. NO thank you...

The dentist before them overbilled us for treatments they didn't do. When I questioned them about the billing-they were accepting whatever the insurance paid them - no payments from me- they severed the relationship. OH Well....they paid back the insurance money - so maybe they are not that bad afterall, but....

The one before them was the first one we went to here - the office was filthy. So dirty that I was afraid to let the girls sit down anywhere. This is when we first moved here and the smell is still embedded in my nose. At the time, I thought they were next to a animal hospital- it smelled that bad. Adios Amigos after the first visit.

The girls go to a pediatric dentist now and I love going there. Unfortunately they do not take care of adults.

So people what is a person to do. I need to find a dentist that will serve all my needs to way I need to be served. I have 2 names of dentists that my friends go to but one has been having a hard time with scheduling and billing. The other one is a little further away but it may be worth the trip...

Have a Super Sunday...
"D"

Welcome my friend S

2009-01-10T10:35:00.002-05:00

Yesterday while I was at work, I mentioned I had a blog. So my 2 co-workers who happen to be my friends wanted the blog address. I had to think about that since my blog is only known to one of my friends, SM. I came home and thought about it. Well after careful consideration, I sent "S" the link.

Lets welcome S to my blog. I know she will keep my secrets safe as she is very busy these days cleaning her counters.....LOL LOL

I met S when the PTO was forming at SHM. She was from another school just wanting the best for the new school. After talking to S a few times, I found she was from NY and then Chicago or maybe it was the other way around but she will correct me. We have not always seen eye to eye on everything but when the sun goes down we forget about it and wake up the next day like nothing ever happened. Now that is a good friend. As some of you may remembering reading out my annual bingo party. S lives for it. Not sure why, but she is so excited about that party. She of course has tried to change the rules but nope we don't change the rules with the Christmas bingo..LOL LOL

Welcome S to my blog. Hope you enjoy it.

On the homefront, Blue Eyes still has her headache. What to do..I have talked to a few people and they think it is form of the flu. I will wait until Monday and see how she is feeling. She has missed 3 days of HS-not good. Thankfully she is a great student so I know she will catch up quickly. Friday was report card day. I am so proud of Ladybug. She has improved all of her grades. Now I am really wondering if it was the contact/glass issue, sitting in the back issue/or just plain MS issues. Anyway, looks as if we are back on track and I can breathe a little bit better. BE didn't get her report card but I know her lowest grade was 96 so I guess I can say she is doing awesome.

The KING took us out to dinner last night at the local IHOP. WooHOO..Actually we like eating there and we had a coupon. I ended up running into one my student's grandmother. No matter where we go, I end up seeing her. Maybe God is telling me I should be her friend...

It is going to rain her in GA today so not a good day - I like the sunshine- but then again it is a good day to lay around with a blanket and relax. I have to go food shopping since I have not gone since before New Years Day. We are down to the stuff we really don't like, then again why do I buy things I don't like. What is wrong with that sentence.

New Year-new eating habits. We all need to become healthier. I will let you know more about that in future blogs.

For now, enjoy you day and hug those children and tell a friend HI.

"D"

Hopefully this is the last post about Lisa

2009-01-09T12:56:00.002-05:00

Lurkers and Friends....
I have stated previously I do not know Lisa personally nor have I spoken to her. I found her caringbridge site over 2 years ago from another site. I am not even sure how I found her, all I know I did. Once I start reading her site, I felt for her. I was duped into thinking this poor girl has no one to help her financially. How sad that she lives with her mom and step dad and they refuse to help her. (First of many um um's)

Over the many months of her updates, I never left a message. I finally left her a message something like "I will keep you in my prayers. Don't close your site down because people are saying unkind words. No one forces them to read or send you anything." (um um )

Then the posts started getting stranger and stranger. She is sicker but then she is at bars drinking and with her boyfriend. Lets not forget the drinking of the orange soda shots. ( UM UM )

She put a password on the site. I got her password from a fellow caringbridge site person from my lurking experiences. I continued reading about her, prayed for her while she went to CA to receive this experimental treatment for her "cancer". (ummmm)

Now the site is deactivated and Lisa is no where to be found. I read on a blog that she had deceived many people. She has admitted to never having cancer. How dare she do that (that is for another day to rant) From my readings of different blogs/sites/facebook pages, Lisa wanted to die like her friend who died from cancer. She has drug issues as well as alcohol issues. How sad is a person's life who has to lie to strangers to have friends.

Basically that is the story as I know it. I hold no ill feelings towards Lisa. I can understand why people would be mad. She preyed on peoples feelings to get money and or gifts. Lisa did post numerous times on her site, I am not asking for money or gifts but I do appreciate your kindness and thoughtfulness. I may have felt differently if I sent her money. Please don't hold hatred towards her. It will just eat you up and make your heart cold and hateful.

I have previously posted that I have been praying for Lisa for the help she needs. She apparently needs our prayers for something more than she requested. Only God knows what her needs are.

Blue Eyes still is not feeling well.

"D"

God is Good

2009-01-08T14:07:00.002-05:00

Last night, I received a phone call from the KING about his job. His JOB, our livelihood. They were going to have an impromptu meeting. They had decisions to make about their future. The choice given is take voluntary dismissal or take your chances on a job. OH BOY!!! I called my friend, I called my boss , I called my mom. I didn't know much at the time but I knew I needed to talk to someone. I didn't want the girls to know what was going on until we knew all the facts.

God is good to us. The KING will continue with his job. 3 of his colleagues will not be so fortunate. I am so grateful that the KING will continue working. I feel horrible for our fortunes while 3 will have misfortunes. I will continue to pray for them as well as the KING. This economy has to change. IT has to get better. IT has to...

I have had more hits on my blog but no comments. I apparently get lots of lurkers looking for Lisa Forss. I do not know her personally. I have never sent her money since my budget does not allow it. I would have if I had extra to spare. As I have mentioned in previous posts, I will continue to pray for Lisa because she needs my prayers. God knows what specifically Lisa needs. It is very sad that she used so many good people by duping them to believe she was so sick with cancer in the final stages. How sad must a person's life be to write about this experience. Please keep Lisa in your prayers.

Blue Eyes has been home for the past 2 days with dizziness, headache and nausea. Hopefully she will be feeling better. I hate when my children are not well. I think she has a touch of the flu. This is the first year in a long time that she has not had the flu shot. I am transferring her records over to my doctor and of course that is one thing I have procrastinated over. Maybe tomorrow.

"D"

What is this world coming too?

2009-01-07T17:24:00.004-05:00

Last night, before I went to bed, I start reading about a caringbridge person, Lisa Forss, who I have requested prayers for in the past. She is the single mom who claimed to have had cancer and in the final stages. How sad that she lied to everyone. She duped people into sending her money. Many times on her site she would say, I am not asking but.... These kind people sent money/clothes/gifts for both her son and herself. How sad is it when she lied, LIED. I had a feeling for a long time she was not very truthful but was afraid to voice it. It was my decision to keep following her site. No one forced me. She needs our prayers. God knows what she needs prayers for and I have always left it to God.

I feel sorry for Lisa. She has lied to people. For reasons, unexplained. I read on her site, that her friends had gone up to the hospital to see her. Why was she in the hospital? Where her friends who said they had visited her in on the conspiracy.

I hope one day, Lisa will come to these fine caringbridge friends and explain her behavior. DO I wish she would get arrested? NOPE. I want her to get well with the disease she has.

Please remember to keep Lisa in your prayers. God knows her needs.

In lurking on Lisa's site, I have met some really nice people. One in particular is Gina. She is a single mom who has 4 boys. I have looked at her site for a few years now, never leaving a message. I emailed her about Lisa and she explained to me what was going on. Thank you Gina for updating me. Gina has health issues as well as her boys so lets keep all of them in our prayers.

Have a great day....
"D"

What is this world coming too?

2009-01-07T17:24:00.001-05:00

Meatballs with Brown Gravy

2009-01-06T19:53:00.002-05:00

Tuesdays in the Kitchen
Today, I have another family favorite:

1 lb. chop meat
1 small onion
1 tbsp dried parsley
1 egg
1/2 cup bread crumbs
1/2 cup milk
salt and pepper to taste

2 jars brown gravy ( or cans)

Chop small onion into small pieces, add to meat and remainder of ingredients. Mix well. Make little meatballs ( I use a melon ball scoop) brown either in oven or on stove until browned.
After meatballs are done, drain off grease. Add to 2 jars of brown gravy. Simmer until done.

I usually serve this over buttered egg noodles. My family loves this and I do not make it often enough for them.

Enjoy!!!

"D"

Generosity

2009-01-05T14:42:00.005-05:00

Generosity. What does the word mean? The dictionary says is the habit of giving without coercion. Often equated with charity as a virtue, generosity is widely accepted in society as a desirable habit.

My parents this Christmas season were especially generous given the current state of the economy. I had recieved gift cards to various eating establishments, grocery stores and Starbucks. In addition, I recieved many cookies/candy/bread which were all so delicious. I recieved various candles. I love candles. Each one is special to me. I do hope in the future, I will remember who gave me what. I also recieved ornaments. My living room tree is all red and white. All the ornaments I received this year were red and white. How could they have known?
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Last night, we had the opportunity to go to out to dinner using one of my gift cards. We went to Red Lobster. I had shrimp. I love the shrimp at Red Lobster. The KING does not like any type of seafood so he chose the steak which was one of the best steaks ever. The girls shared the popcorn shrimp dinner. Too much for one. The service was great. While we were there, we were discussing phone etiquette. How late should you call someone? How about boys? Is texting the same as speaking? So I put it out there for my fellow bloggers, what are you thoughts on cell phones and phone etiquette? Am I "old-fashioned"? Help me....

So it seems as if this year, I have been asking alot of my fellow lurkers alot of questions. I know you are lurking, I see you on the right side. I know you where you are from, what you are looking for, so make yourself known and answer me. I need help. I am spiraling.........

Have a great Monday...Stay tuned for Tuesday in the Kitchen with me....

"D"

Lazy Days of January

2009-01-04T13:13:00.002-05:00

Here it is the 4th of January and my tree is still up. I have asked the KING numerous times over the past week to bring the boxes down from the attic to no avail. What's a woman to do?

Blue Eyes needs shorts for PE that she will have this semester at school. She is not looking forward to PE since she has to run some miles in 20 minutes or less. Lets just say she is not a runner. She is in marching band and she plays tennis so she gets exercise. She is not overweight, she just doesn't like to run. Hopefully she doesn't go into asthma with all this running she has to do. OH yeah, back to shopping. We have to go to mall today to get some shorts. Have I ever mentioned that the mall is far away? You have to plan your day around going to the mall.

Ladybug spent the night at her friends last night so are eagerly awaiting her arrival to get to the mall.

I am lazy today. Like today is any different from any other day. My left foot is still hurting me. Last night, it kept me up so much. Everytime I moved, it woke me up. I am planning on going back to the DR. Except for one thing, the KING's insurance has changed effective January 1. We still do not have the new cards. The copay has gone up. UGH!!! First things first, I will call the DR and make an appointment then get the info from the king's employer. It hurts when I walk and has gotten so much worse since I started my p/t job. I hope I haven't done irreversible damage.

While I sit here, the sun is coming out. YEAH!! ok maybe short lived. It has rained for a few days here. Sometimes I think I live in the Pacific Northwest.

Have a good one...

"D"

Friends

2009-01-02T08:32:00.002-05:00

Last night, the KING and I had gone over to our friends whom we haven't seen in a long time. The girls still have friends over, so off we went by ourselves. We had the best time. WE laughed and no one wanted us to leave.

My friend A and her husband M are originally from NY. They are good people. I had met her at a bible study I was in a few years ago. Our husbands get along. They love to travel. They have 2 girls who are very close in age to our girls. What more could you ask for in a friendship?

Last night we talked about living here in GA. The changes that are taking place in the county we live. The school district. The girls. The families. We had so much to catch up on. Have I mentioned that I enjoyed myself

Today we are having a lunch at my house ( if I ever get moving to get lunch) for the KINGS godfather and his family. I love T and C as if they were my own parents. His daughter and SIL are coming with their family. I am looking forward to entertaining. For tomorrow, life is going to be back to normal for me. I have to go to my p/t job. It has been so nice to have a week off from the jobs. The best part is spending time with my girls.

They both have had a freind over since Wednesday. I do not mind since their friends are so good. They helped around the house yesterday to clean up from the night before. They helped with breakfast,lunch and dinner.

Happy Friday....

"D"

Help Needed

2009-01-01T15:53:00.002-05:00

I need help all you lurkers out there. Lets say....

If you had a friend who always tries to live her life in the almighty ( you know the type- yes you do) I met a friend who told me some disturbing info about this friend. This news can and will destroy her reputation. I have heard this previously from other friends but never wanted to say anything for a few reasons. My friend (no SM it is not you) would be mortified and embarrassed if she knew that these so called "friends" were talking about her in this very negative way.

Here is my dilemma:

Do I just break down and tell her with risk of losing my friendship with her?
OR
Do I just keep this between me and your fellow lurkers?

I really would like to know how you would handle this. HELP ME!!!!!

"D"

Today is the DAY

2009-01-01T08:52:00.002-05:00

This is the day people all over the world make resolutions to change their lives for the better or they think. By the 2nd week of January, you are back to your normal life doing all those bad things that you promised you were going to change on New Years Eve. Why is the magic on New Years Eve so magical? Last night, as I watched the ABC festivities with Dick Clark, I thought to myself that he looks horrible-almost dead looking. (Did anyone else think that?) AT first I thought what in the world was ABC thinking putting this man on TV looking like that. Then after careful consideration (and the KING's comment) I changed my mind on ABC. I am proud that ABC felt strong enough NYE would not be the same without Dick Clark. He is a legend. He has defied the odds with his stroke. He does look good for an 80 something year old man. Sorry to Dick Clark for doubting your ability. He was joking that Kelly Pickler was screaming. How funny!!!!

So my resolution this year is just to be myself. Don't change who I really am. Be kinder to those around me that love me for who I am. Be more gentle to my girls who are growing in leaps and bounds right before my eyes. I hate that they are growing up so fast. It seems as if it was yesterday, I was changing endless diapers, getting bottles ready, giving baths and cleaning up mounds of toys. I was wishing it away at the time. I want to go back to that time. Like I always tell "A", little people have little problems, big people have big problems. You can also interchange problems with expenses.

My blogger family, I wish you well in 2009. You all deserve it. You have made me realize that my family is normal. That everyone has problems. You make me laugh. You make me cry. Most of all, you keep me entertained for hours. Thank you!!!!

"D"

HOPE

2008-12-31T08:04:00.002-05:00

I received this from my daily devotions. I am placing all my hope in God this coming year for THE KING"S job, my sanity and enough money to pay our bills. God Bless all my lurkers (and friends)

But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:31 (NIV)
I remember it so well – the night I lost all hope. I had been hoping that my prodigal son was not lying to me. While I was 99% sure he was, I still clung to the 1% chance he was telling the truth. My heart simply refused to give up that final thread of hope.

As a condition of living in our home again, we asked that our 21-year old son attend a weekly support group meeting. We wanted him back home; his other living choice was not a good one. But we needed to establish boundaries, offering a safe place to live without tolerating or enabling his destructive behavior. We wanted to start rebuilding the trust we had lost. One building block was his Friday night support group meeting. Though our son said he was attending, in my heart I felt something was wrong.

One night I just had to know if he was living up to his commitment. I drove to the place where his meeting was held and my fears were confirmed: he was nowhere to be found. I went right home and waited. When he came home I asked about his meeting. “The meeting was fine. I’m tired and going to bed.” I had caught him in a lie!

Hope left me and discouragement came quickly to replace it. I couldn’t even confront him – at least not yet. I needed time to wrestle with the loss of the 1% of hope. It was just a tiny bit of hope. No big loss, right? … Wrong! That last 1% of hope is what I held onto the tightest. I was so angry and crushed. But then, God spoke. He chose a friend to speak His Words to me the very next day. She had no clue what was happening with our son. She just prayed what God prompted her -- for me to have HOPE! She emailed me her prayer:

“Father, You are the God of all hope. Your Word tells us that those who hope in You will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, and they will walk and not be faint. I pray this for Elaine this morning … that she will place her HOPE in You and You alone …”

Reading her prayer, it suddenly became clear to me. My hope had been in my son and in that weekly meeting. The hope I had lost – that 1% I’d been clinging to – was human hope. That kind of hope is in limited quantity, and when it runs out, you are left drained, discouraged, disappointed and …hopeless! Oh, it may masquerade as “hope,” but it is completely different from the hope that God provides. God’s hope renews and refreshes. It empowers, uplifts, and strengthens. God’s hope does not disappoint! There is an unlimited supply of God’s hope.

God knew I had been clinging to human hope, and He knew that last 1% of weak, feeble hope would run out. He wanted me to cling to Him, the God of true, lasting, unlimited hope. So, as I wiped my tears, I waited as the winds of God’s hope blew my way. My circumstances were still the same, but my heart was now filled with the hope that only God can provide.

Dear Lord, Thank You for Your wonderful, everlasting hope. Please help me always put my hope in You and You alone. Thank You that with You all things are possible. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Do you know the Giver of hope?

Divine Prayers for Despairing Parents by Susanne Scheppmann

Finding Hope in the Midst of Depression by Mary Southerland

Join us for more Everyday Life Encouragement

Application Steps:
Pray today about a situation you’ve considered hopeless. Ask God to give you His perspective and His hope.

Reflections:
Ask God to reveal where you are placing your hope. Are you hoping in your husband, your bank account, your job, a program, a promise from someone? Or, are you truly placing your hope in the Lord?

Let 2009 be a year that you place your hope in God alone.

Power Verses:
Psalm 42:5, “Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.” (NIV)

Romans 15:13, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (NIV)

Psalm 147:11, “The Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.” (NIV)

Happy Wednesday.

and Happy New Year!!!!

"D"

Tuesday at the Kitchen

2008-12-30T12:09:00.002-05:00

I have decided that on Tuesdays I am trying something new. I will post a recipe that I have gotten from a friend or just thought of myself. I love to cook and bake. My friend Lynn from NY had made this for us one day and we dubbed it the POOR and DESTITUTE meal. It is not a poor man's recipe anymore.

8 Beef Hot dogs
Instant mashed potatoes
American cheese

Take the hot dogs and boil them until warm. While the hot dogs are boiling, you can start on the potatoes. Follow the directions on the box. For some reason, this recipe only tastes good with instant which I do not make on a regular basis. Getting back- Take the hot dogs out of the water, and slice down the middle. Remember they will be hot so be careful. Fill the hot dogs with the potatoes and top with American cheese. I usually cut the cheese into 4 even slices and place 2 on top.

Put in oven at 350 until cheese browns slightly. Serve peas and that my friends is our easy Poor and Destititute meal.

My girls have loved it since they were babies. My very picky husband loves this meal. Leave a comment what you think.

Happy Tuesday.

"D"

Almost a year

2008-12-29T10:49:00.002-05:00

Last year, I sat here wondering if I should start a blog or not. My friend, SM and I talked about it. We always called each slackers so hence SlackerMOM became. She took Slackermom and I became SlackerMOMII. I had no idea where this blog would end up. I had dreams that my blog would look awesome, that I would write about important and not so important things. I wondered who would read my blog. I wondered if I should have a blog that would ask for prayers. There was so much I wondered about.

I wanted to have a recipe a week. Picture of the week. Joke of the week. Favorite of the week. Friend of the week. Maybe next year, I will be better about getting this part of my blog done. Don't count on it but maybe. Remember, I am a slacker.

I like rereading my blogs from past days. Last year at this time, we were anxiously waiting to go on our cruise. We enjoyed those days out to sea so much, so much that we all want to go back again. Unfortunately at this time we are unable to book another cruise.

With the uncertainty of THE KING's job, we cannot make any plans. I want this economy to take a turn for the best. I hate to hear that people are losing their jobs. It is very sad to hear stories of people losing everything that they have worked so hard for. I know I will have my preschool job but it just will not pay the bills. They asked me at my p/t job if I wanted to continue after the "season" ends. I told them yes, I would like to considered for future employment. I am not happy with that decision however, I need to provide for my family. I may have to go back into the real workforce. I don't want to but I will do whatever I need to do for my family.

I will continue to lurk on blogs and caringbridge sites. I will continue to ask for prayers.

I told the girls they have friends over this week since I am off but they didn't call anyone. Oh well. They must enjoy staying home with me. What more can a mom ask for. I truly enjoy spending time with the girls. They are slowly becoming my friends. I love them both so much and am so proud of both of them. They are becoming young ladies with good values and morals. I hope I can say that in a few years.

Have a great Monday.

"d"

Back to Normal

2008-12-28T22:56:00.002-05:00

Today was a back to normal day sort of. I have off from the p/t job until next Saturday. WOOHOO!!!! So what do I do on my first day off? Watch Lifetime all day of course. What do you do on your day off?

The girls stayed upstairs all day today as if they were hiding from me. I guess all the shopping yesterday wore them out. They only came down to eat.

Monday we will be back to being busy. Cleaning/laundry/putting decorations away....AT one point during the day, I have to catch up with A and go to our classroom to set it up for the new year. I am excited about the changes we will be making. Hopefully it will look good and not take so much time.

"D: