Self Portrait Sunday - July 31, 2010

Oh, my poor little meme has never quite caught on. So sad. Funny, people just don't like taking pictures of themselves but when we are old and gray and have a lot of people pictures of obscure things what then. I much prefer to think I am going to live into my Golden Years and will cherish all photos of me looking younger and full of life's promises.

Here I am after coming back from dinner with my little family in town. We went to a "new for us" place. It was just Ok. Nice view, OK food but the atmosphere was a bit old and pathetic.

Join me this week and show your smiling face.

Camera Critters - The Mutant Fly

For the past 3 years, Goddess has had a fascination with insects. It could be all the bug catches I got them from the age of 1 because I wanted to show them their world but whatever it is, Handsome does not have the same fascination.

We catch everything we spot outside in a bug catcher so Goddess could get a better glance at it.

Teach and Goddess came rushing in last weekend while I was on the phone with my girlfriend Teresa (funny, she actually tossed a drink one day while here to capture a bee for Goddess to see. It was strictly instinct because she runs from bees usually). The fly was huge. It was bigger than a horse fly and just ugly.

The bug catcher had been outside and was full of moisture so it was hard to get a good photo.

Here is one I took of it in the catcher.


Teach is a bit braver (hell he is the one who caught it) and opened the lid and snapped these.




So, I did a bit of researching and I believe what we have here a March fly, horse fly, deer fly.

BTW...I had no idea!

Saturday 9: Bad Day

1. Is there anything that you tend to do to cheer up when you are having a bad day? I just hang around my kids. My kids never really see me in anything other than a good mood but if it happens, getting hugs from them or just listening to them talk changes everything. However, if they are the ones who put me in a temporary bad mood, like my daughter and her little while lies lately, all bets are off. Reading a trash mag usually does the trick.

2.What’s the last card game you played, and with whom did you play? It was Go Fish with Goddess. She can't hold the cards so I see all of them and have to ask for things I she doesn't have because that would be cheating to always win.

3.What’s the last board game you played, and with whom did you play? Lauri and her son brought over the Twilight board game last week. 

4.What’s the last computer game you played, and with whom did you play? It was Webkinz and I played all by my little lonesome. It has been over 4 months. I  really need to check those animals.

5.Is there somewhere you’d like to visit but have not, and where is it? I would love to visit so many places. Not a good flyer but I would love to see Ireland, Scotland, Italy, and Canada but only for the opportunity I want to take pictures.

6.Think of your favorite movie (or a movie you really like, if you can’t think of a favorite). Some people say that the reasons you love your favorite movie are related to what you value in romantic relationships. How is this true or untrue in your case? I don't know about any of that mumbo jumbo. I like The Notebook because even after his wife couldn't remember who he was, he remained devoted to her and he felt finding the memory for her was his duty. He loved and adored her enough to remain with her even after she couldn't remember him, even as a "friend" until the moment she knew him.

7.What physical attributes do you find the most attractive? Body height, eyes, jawbone, lips, teeth, flat, muscular stomachs, and strong arms and shoulders.

8.How many people live in your house? Tell us about them. There are 4 of us here. My husband/friend. My son and daughter.

9. Ever punch someone in the face? Never!

Dracula, My Love The Secret Journals of Mina Harker by Syrie James

Picture this, 1992, Jersey City, NJ I headed out to see a movie entitled Dracula, starring, Gary Oldman, Winona Ryder, Keanu Reeves and Anthony Hopkins.  I loved it and saw it 2 times before finally buying it on VHS.

The story of Mina and her betrothed Jonathan, the costumes, the score, the castle, Dracula! What was not to love? The movie won 3 Oscars and with another 8 wins & 12 nominations was a fantastic movie. If you have not seen it, see it!

Now, here I am almost 18 years later reading Dracula, My Love which is based on Bram Stroker's Dracula.

What I Can Tell You: This was a fantastic read. Was it because I loved the movie so much? Ummm...hard to say. Usually it is the other way around; you love the book and hate the movie because the movie comes out after the book, usually! It was fun to read because it stayed very close to the movie. The storyline was the same, the secondary characters mostly the same, however we learn so much more about Mina.

While Mina is deeply in love with her "Jonathan", she just can't get Dracula out of her mind.  Like the movie, I am also left unsure as to whether Dracula is a good guy or a bad guy.  Syrie James has done an incredible job with Mina's turmoil, decisions and thoughts; the information we could not get from the movie.

The book is passionate and powerful! Perfect read for those who love historical fiction, romance, contemporary vampire fiction, or adventure.

Memory Rewind - 2008 Goddess

Here is Goddess and me enjoying a quick moment at the park while Handsome was at preschool. Can't remember if she was cold or if this is strictly Goddesstude because she had to leave the park.

Judging by this one, it may have been right after she told me how much she didn't want to leave. Finger pointing, Umm....I'll have to ask her when she wakes.

The Happiness Project - What Makes You Happy

This is so easy but also so very hard. There is a ton of stuff that makes me happy.

A good sale
Amazing weather with a slight breeze
A good hair day
A good book
My husband in a good mood
My kids asking me to lie down with them
My girlfriends phone calls
Ahhhhh the list goes on and on

This is one of my favorite pictures of all time. I call it scene stealer and it is from 2008. I was taking the picture of Handsome but after downloading the photo, it was Goddess that caught my attention.

New Month Has Started For the Top Commenter Prize

My Top Commentor section has rolled over to a new month. Last months winner as of yesterday was Clary with 41 comments this month.

Clary, please head over to the Best of 2010 section here and select a prize. Thank you for being my friend and my top commentor.

To all my readers, the floor is open for someone else to take the top seat. I have been remiss in picking top commentors because we never knew when the tally rolled over. Now we know for sure because yesterday the top commentor was Clary and she had 41 when I shut down at 9:30 last night.


BTW..entering comments on giveaways do not count unless they are strictly a comment about the giveaway not entries. Giveaway entries should be in the form not in the comment section.

Bring Story Time To Life And Your Child Will Love Reading

Thankfully I have children who love reading, we read all the time, Handsome reads on his own and Goddess has loved books read to her since she was under a year old. It might have something or nothing to do with the fact that mommy and daddy forever have a book under their nose or arm.  However it wasn't always like that. Handsome preferred to flip all day through picture books but if I ever tried to get him to sit down so I could read one line he was out of there!

What worked for him were books that included characters he could hold while we read them.

What I Can Tell You:

The photographs are colorful, fun and incredibly detailed. We loved each picture. The first time you read, I suggest not reading the book and just going through the pages. Goddess wanted to talk about each page and what she was seeing in the middle of my reading. I had to stop every two words. Best to let them look at the book and then bring on the story. Benjamin Middlemouse, Bumper and Sir Pouncelot (tee hee) will make you smile.

Now for the best part, you and your child can make their very own Benjamin just by using a sock and some supplies. This is such a great way to use their little baby socks that you have kept (ok, maybe that is just me). Creating a child's very own Benjamin helps the story take on a whole new life and it is super easy.

ABC Wednesday - B

Yeah I know, it's gross but it's different.
B = Bloated

Goddess was very interested in this dead fish. "Mommy, can I poke it with a stick? I want to see what it feels like!"

B = Beach

This is where you will find the kids and I on most days.

B = Blurry

Here is a blurry picture of the fireworks this past July 3rd. I headed down to the beach to take some photos. I was alone and afraid of stepping into someone so I never really took the time to settle the camera before snapping.

B - Bounce House

It's been too hot to have it up lately but we love the bounce house.

Ruby Tuesday - Lonely Munchkin

Street Angel Earring Giveaway - Etsy Shop

As some of my readers know, I am Street Angel on Etsy.Com. I really enjoy making jewelry and especially seeing it on someone other than me.

You can see why I started Etsy on my interview with myself (tee hee) here.

Because it
is summer and the last giveaway I hosted for Street Angel was in March, I think
it is time to offer my readers a chance to win a pair of earrings of their choice.

Sunday Stealing: Meme Of Many Odd Questions, Part Three

45. Favorite color? I love all the blues

46. Have you ever slapped someone? Yes, my son. Not something I am proud of but he had just thrown paint all over, I was on 3 hours of sleep and the baby was screaming in my arms after over 6 hours. I just lost it.  I cried for about 2 hours after that and had Mommy Guilt for about 3 days.

47. Is your hair curly? It is wavy!

48. What was the last CD you bought? Embarrassing! Probably the CD from the very first American Idol

49. Do looks matter? Uh duh...yes...the key here though, is what you find hot someone else may not like?

This guy from the Zoosk commercial is Thierre Di Castro and he is smoking hot!

50. Could you ever forgive a cheater? This is hard because while we all tend to say NO. Never! I know a lot of woman who thought they knew how they would act but then acted differently.

51. Is your phone bill sky high? No but my cable bill is!

52. Do you like your life right now? I love my life.

53. Do you sleep with the TV on? I prefer it off but my husband would love to leave it on. I have a sensory issue and find it hard to not concentrate on the TV.

54. Can you handle the truth?  Everyone has a problem with the "truth" in a way. We don't want to hear what people think is their truth about us. Perception is key. So, personally, I don't care to hear your truth of how you perceive me.

55. Do you have good vision? I am legally blind and have to wear contacts or glasses to walk.

56. Do you hate or dislike more than 3 people? No. I dislike one person these days. He has never said anything to me personally, I just don't like him because of how he is to his wife and kids. He is just a bad seed.

57. How often do you talk on the phone? I used to be able to answer this often. Now, it is rarely.

58. The last person you held hands with? My daughter walking to the car this morning.

59. What are you wearing? Clothing!  Black shorts and a army green top

60. What is your favorite animal? I like horses, eagles, owls and cats the most.

61. Where was your favorite picture taken at? My son's baptism

62. Can you hula hoop? I used to be really, really good at it. Now I think I would be lucky if it stayed up for 30 seconds. Have to try.

63. Do you have a job?  Yes. I am a mom

64. What was the most recent thing you bought? Food

65. Have you ever crawled through a window? Yes...sadly enough a few times to open older neighbors doors when I was younger and than in my 20's when a guy didn't answer the door, I crawled though his sisters window, crept through her apartment and up to his. Crazy Bitch.

Self Portrait Sunday - July 25, 2010

Oh, my poor little meme has never quite caught on. So sad. Funny, people just don't like taking pictures of themselves but when we are old and gray and have a lot of people pictures of obscure things what then. I much prefer to think I am going to live into my Golden Years and will cherish all photos of me looking younger and full of life's promises.

Here I am in the bad air quality that has been our weather lately. Felt like 105 today but I think we were only at 96. See the hair and the mascara melting under my eye?


Join me this week and show your smiling face.

Camera Critters - Dreaming and Wishing for a Pet

It has been a while since I have been able to participate in Camera Critters. Here are my two loving on my girlfriend's pets. They want a dog so bad.

And because she heard the camera, she just had to do a Goddess face.

Growing Up I Wish I Had A Geek Dad

What I Can Tell You: I am proud to say that my kids have a Geek Dad. We look to him for all the cool ideas.

Geek Dad is chock full of DIY projects that are not just geared to dads. Moms can have a great time with this too! 

Each section gives you easy to follow directions that even the Non-Geek (me)  mom can follow.  Ken Denmead has taken each project and broken it down by the materials needed, the cost of the project, the level of difficulty and the amount of time necessary to complete.

Personally I really liked the section on making comic strips using toys and the cyborg jack-o-lanterns. Look for mine this Halloween.

Today's generation of dads grew up more tech-savvy than ever. Rather than joining the Little League team, many grew up playing computer games, Dungeons and Dragons, and watching Star Wars. Now with kids of their own, these digital-age dads are looking for fresh ways to share their love of science and technology, and help their kids develop a passion for learning and discovery.

I am going to leave this book out and hope that my husband takes a gander at it. Really great book.

Friday Fragments - Life In General

This weeks Friday Fragments, is just complete randomness.

Question by Goddess this week: "Who made God?" My answer: "No one made him, He just is!" Grr....I have no idea how to answer some of her questions.

I cannot wait for this weeks Bachelorette. Not because I am anxious to see who she picks because I have little faith in the relationships of the show but because I hate myself for watching it. Two or three years ago I vowed to never watch again but while at the hospital with nothing on, I got sucked into it.

Would like to visit Blogher this year. Still not sure. Mostly because I am so far from city girl and heading there alone just sounds crazy to me.

Feeling old with all my scheduled procedures. Biopsy of uterus this month and colonoscopy next month. I guess I will be fitted with false teeth and orthopedic shoes by October at this rate.

Dog sitting this week. My kids love it. Makes them feel grown up and they take turns opening the door to let him outside. I love watching them work together and talking to the dog. "Ok, Rocky. We are here. Here you go boy. Good boy. Come on buddy. Not on the road Rocky. Come here boy." It makes me think about getting them a pet for like 2 minutes then sanity kicks in and I am good until next time.


My niece is at Comic Con in San Diego and just wrote on my Facebook page:

Andy is super hot. He has a hard, firm handshake--btw. :)

Damn it. She better not wash that hand until I can shake her hand. Don't know who Andy is? 

Hope everyone had a great week!

Affordable Style Brings Me Some Bling

Thanks to Family Review Network and Affordable Style Network I have finally updated my look. Not with a haircut or total wardrobe transformation but with some really awesome sunglasses covered in bling!

I am one of those one rocker type chicks who wears black or John Lennon sunglasses (round with colorful lenses). It was totally time for something more feminine and prettier. Color was totally in order and I wanted some bling!

These glasses are completely what the doctor ordered. These are Rhinestone Sunglasses for Rock Stars

I don't know that they are really me but I have gotten loads of compliments on them. In fact, woman, kids, and men all seem to like them. While at a birthday party this weekend the guys were all trying them on. I think it was the pink.

My review was for SunglassWarehouse.com. Sunglass Warehouse carries more than 1000 designer-inspired styles and colors of sunglasses, all starting at just $7.99!  At those prices, you can get a pair for your every mood!

Beside these awesome glasses you will find women's sunglasses, men's sunglasses, even kid's sunglasses.  You can even choose the right sunglasses according to your skin tone or choose sunglasses for your face shape. Now, this really is a one stop shopping website. Check out the Sunglass Warehouse blog for tons of eye fashion advise.

A big bonus for me is that Affordable Styles Network is that they accept Paypal. Love that!

Toy Time and Upcoming Birthday Gifts

Recently my daughter has decided to start clearing out toys in her room. She holds random things up to me and says, "I don't want this anymore". Usually the toy isn't something that I would be throwing out or giving away, it is usually something that cost me over $80.00. Why can't she part with some of the million stuffed animals in her room? You know, the ones that she won at a carnival or something?

Why is she house cleaning? Well, not because she wants more room to play. No sir, she is shopping for new toys. Recently while shopping for birthday gifts for all the upcoming birthday parties she spotted a few things she wants in the wooden toys section of The Kid Store.

She wants a wooden Noah's Ark toyset

Can't say I blame her. Noah's Ark was one of my favorite toys when I was growing up.

This past weekend, I was at my son's Godmother's house for a birthday party and in her daughter's playroom there was the biggest dollhouse my daughter has ever seen. 

My girlfriend researched long and hard and the reason she purchased this one, was because it was wood and extremely sturdy. I loved it because you could use Barbie's in it. My daughter and I sat in the corner of the room playing for over 40 minutes.

If it were up to me, I would do a whole room for the kids furnished with furniture from The Kid Store. I love their stuff, especially their art stuff.

Could you not be inspired in a room full of this stuff?

Ahhhhh to dream!

Thursday Thunks: None of Your Business

1. What is the most common question that you are asked (in life) that is none of the questioner's business? I don't think I have been asked a question that is no ones business. Sharing experiences and opinions is something I love doing. I say ask away. I have nothing to be ashamed of and you will always get an answer from me.

2. Who makes you happiest right now? My daughter. She is the reason I know there is a God. I knew it from the moment they placed her in my arms that she was something special but on top of that, the question asked for "right now"; she is funny, inquisitive, brings me little gifts, speaks of such profound things, and tells me she loves me at least 25 times a day. Who wouldn't want to be around someone like that?

3. Would you consider yourself to be spoiled? Oh hell no! Spoiled is for someone who gets everything they want. I never want for anything, not because I get everything I want but because I never ask for anything.

4. Do you want to be famous one day? Who doesn't? We all want to leave some sort of mark, some sort of permanent footprint to say we were here and we were important. However, if I am famous in my family history that would be enough for me.

5. Could you handle being in the military? Umm...let me see.......uhhhhhh noooooooo! I could never handle the training. I wouldn't make it through the first day of training.

6. Do you believe in Karma? I am Switzerland on this one. I believe there is cause and effect in life. I believe  if you are a good person you reap the rewards and if you are bad, you will sow that road too, however, I believe in divine intervention which means a high power has to be involved somewhere along the path but then we have free will.....ahhhhhhhh..never mind!

7. What’s the stupidest thing you ever did with your cell phone? Is it stupid to take pictures of your genitalia and forward to your husband? If your answer is no than I guess not. If you think this is just nasty, than yes.

8. Who knows a secret or two about you? There is nothing to know that I haven't shared with the world.

9. Who is the most experimental person you know? Ummm....me!

10. Last thing you did that ticked off your S/O (or if not in a relationship) most recent S/O? Probably something silly like didn't put the milk back on the right shelf. Who knows?!

11. Have you ever purposely been irritating to someone? If yes, explain. Probably.

12. What's crazy to you? There isn't a long list for me because I have a live, let live attitude. Just because it isn't right for me, doesn't mean it's not right for you. I guess, I think people who waste their life doing drugs, being high or drinking wayyyyy to much is crazy. Life is short and being out of the game even for a little while is just plain ridiculous.  I am still pissed that I lost two weeks of my life by being at the hospital.

13. Who (other than the three of us TT writers) writes the most interesting blog? Me. Duh!

Sepia Scenes - Goddess Princess

Oh where, Oh where has my prince gone??

Here is Goddess all dressed up with nowhere to go. I love the little feet sticking out of the dress on my steps. When we bought this house there was something about these steps that I just loved. The main steps of the house are carpeted but the few steps leading to the lower level are hard wood. They provide such character and make the home seem older than it's 45+ years.

Memory Rewind - August 2007

This weeks Memory Rewind is from 2007. Not so long ago but my things have changed. Kids grow up so fast. It is amazing what 2 years can do.

Here is my crazy baby in 2007. Could you tell back then she was going to be some sort of character or what?

My little guy in 2007 waiting for his swimming lesson. So small, now almost as tall as me. Not that that is any great feat. As my husband says, "everyone is taller than you" (I am only 4'11")

The man and the kids going for a little stroll. I had created this little picture for my Blog that was entitled "In The Blink of An Eye". I love this picture. They were so small.

Link up your Memory Rewind. I would love to catch a glimpse of your memory.

Round 7 of ABC Wednesday Begins Today!

A = Adore.
Can you see how much they adore each other? Or Can you see how much I adore them?

A = Action

Camping My Way

Yesterday, I wrote about how a lot of my friends love camping. They head into the woods with friends, kids, food, and camping gear and don't surface for about 5 days. They come back loving it, full of stories and eager for their next camp out.

I really want to love it too but the last time I camped out, my legs and arms were full of insect bites and heat stroke had me on my back for over 2 days.

As much as I am not eager to do it again, I really want to take my kids camping.

If we do go camping, I would need some serious camping gear! We are talking, a nice big tent, air mattress, toilet, coolers, flash lights, and a way to cook some serious grub.

We would need something like this because I like the idea of the screened in area for eating.

This stove looks like you could cook a full course meal plus coffee which I just couldn't do without.

Come to think of it, this could be fun. I could get tons of awesome fun photos for our scrapbook and my blog.

Maybe camping is in our future after all.

Review of One of the Funniest Books I Have Ever Read

A few days ago I finished Samantha Bees book entitled I Know I Am, But What Are You?

I had to read it a second time because it is hysterical. I found myself reading passages to friends because I just had to share. This is a laugh out loud book that often had my son asking, "what's so funny mom?" as he heard yet another LOL moment.

I seriously need to get this book on audio book and read along. 

What I Can Tell You:
Totally and completely hysterical. I had to read it aloud because Samantha's wit is too damn funny to just be in my head. I needed to hear the words. This has to be the funniest book I have ever read by a woman ever. It is an absolute must read. Samantha is extremely candid, funny and just a little bit crazy, like when she talks about the time her cat tried to rape her. Samantha is no holds barred so I warn you that you will be hearing it all baby! Like the time her father told her what "carpet munchers" are. Or, as she describes her Barbie Dream House Set up "obviously GI Joe possessed the only feasible penis in town but you could always count on Ken looking on and jerking off in the corner." "It was basically like Caligula in there".

I had a lot in common with her, growing up, I also had a crush on Jesus. He looked like Kris Kristofferson to me too from A Star Is Born!  I too had a feathered haircut that never feathered properly. Grrr...

Beach and Lake Safety Tips

In the wake of a devastating drowning at a local beach this past weekend, I felt that it was necessary to post about summer safety.

While you enjoy the water and the beach remember that everyone is at risk for drowning. This is something I have told both my children for the past few years. We love and enjoying the lake at our community beach. However, before leaving the car, I always tell them "safety first, fun second". My daughter is not allowed in without a life vest and this is Handsome's first year without one but he is not a strong swimmer which is why, I am never more than an arms length away.

There are life guards stationed and we never go unless there is one however, I do not put the life of my children in their hands. I stand in the water with my kids and watch both of them like a hawk. Friends come down and I say "hello" but I am not there to socialize. There are probably a few who find me unsocial but my children's safety will always be first. Even at the Mom and Tot group I attended before the kids were in school, I was polite but always just watched my kids.

The life guards at the beach often are texting, reading books, listening to their i-pods or talking their friends. For the past two years I have approached the teens and young adults who guard at my beach to talk to them about drowning. I am no expert by any means but if someone doesn't say something who will? My speeches usually just talk about how children don't shout help when they are drowning. They are panicing and usually don't put up a struggle that would appear as if someone is in distress. They will silently struggle and then slip under the water. My talk falls usually on deaf ears and they probably talk about me as soon as I walk away but I can't help it. It is not that I expect them to watch my child but I do expect them to earn the salary that the community pays them for the season. They are making nice money to sit, eat, talk, read and text. But, if you are going to sign on for this job, BE ALERT!

It is always amazing to me how many of the moms in my local area, read while on the beach, socialize the whole time they are there, or just drop their kids off at the beach. I am not talking about the moms of teens either. I am talking about children between the ages of  5-12. It just amazes me that they trust in the lifeguards.

Teach your child proper beach etiquette and safety. There are things I am constantly telling my two beside Safety first, fun second. They are:

• Never Swim Alone
• Don't swim out too far
• Always wear water shoes
• Never pretend to drown
• Don't scream 
• Don't throw rocks

My daughter is a screamer and I remind her constantly, that if you scream and the lifeguard thinks this is something you do all the time, they won't check on you if you scream and really need them.

Enjoy your beach time but remember to be safe. That book or conversation CAN wait until your children are out of the water.

Ruby Tuesday - True Blood Inspired Earrings

This week for Ruby Tuesday, I have posted earrings I created for Street Angel last week. I love red and black together.

I have so many new beads just waiting for some time to create! The beads have been calling to me but, spending all day with the kids and then reading at night, there is little time for making jewelry.  The moment I open the boxes and sit, hands swarm over and start touching. They want to create too. They have their own beads and crafts but I guess nothing as appealing as mine. Hopefully this weekend I fill find some time.

Are you finding time for crafts this summer???

Summer Update

The kids have had 3 weeks off and it is time to get back to some ed-ja-ma-cation if you know what I mean. Especially since Handsome asked me how to spell his last name the other day. We usually never stop school time during the summer but since this is Handsome's first summer off in 4 years, I felt that he DESERVED some complete free time. He has had it and it is now time to get back to work. We did some worksheets this week and he is still reading to us but...time is a wasting.

Summer should be fun and not spent sitting around the dining room table, doing worksheets so I have been searching for ways to learn while doing crafts and other fun lessons. 

Toyoya Follow-Up

Last week I wrote about my Love of Toyota and who my family all drive Toyota.

My poor little Corolla is in serious need of a vaccuum. We go to the beach every day and can almost make a small sandcastle on by the back seats where my kids sit.

I loved reading my readers, emails talking about how they love their Toyota or how loyal they are even after recalls. My sister-in-law totally recommends heading into Toyota on getting some great deals. She just got a massive great deal on her new car.

My little family has really outgrown my Corolla, hopefully that Rav 4 will be our next big purchase made as a family.

Mellow Yellow Monday - School Supplies Make Us Happy

Not me, but the kids. My son is so excited about his new pencils, folders, crayons, notebooks, etc. He must go through the bag everyday. He sets them up on the table and asks to talk about each one. "Can we talk about this?" Hopefully the enthusiasm lasts until at least December before he starts saying, "I don't want to go to school!"

Blue Monday - Splash Down!

Sunday Stealing: Meme Of Many Odd Questions, Part Two - On Monday

Ran out to a birthday party yesterday and never got to one of my favorite memes, so here it is.

Cheers to all of us thieves!
23. Do you rent movies often? No. I borrow from the library.

24. Is there anything sparkly in the room you're in? Yes, the jewelry I make at Street Angel

25. How many countries have you visited? One! The one I am proud to live in.

26. Have you made a prank phone call? When I was like 9

27. Ever been on a train? Yes. I used to travel by train to work every day for over 12 years. I don't miss it!

28. Brown or white eggs? Whichever is in my fridge

29. Do you have a cell-phone? Yup! I have a PinkBerry!

30. Do you use Chap Stick? Not enough, but not big with the lip issues.

31. Do you own a gun? I do have an arsenal of high powered water pistols and one that shoots Nerf bullets so WATCH OUT.

32. Can you use chop sticks? I use them to eat my Chinese Food but that is about it. For everything else, just regular old fork, spoon and knife.

33. Who are you going to be with tonight? My little old Family.

34. Are you too forgiving? No, I am not too forgiving but I don't believe in wasting a lot of time blaming people for their shortcomings or issues. I feel if people could do better they would. They are doing their best.

35. Ever been in love? Yes.

36. What is your best friend(s) doing tomorrow (or the next soonest week day)? One is on Vacation. One is working.

37. Ever have cream puffs? I have had them, been called one and even thrown one.

38. Last time you cried? When I watched My Sister's Keeper.

39. What was the last question you asked? Did you Step Outside yet?

40. Favorite time of the year? Fall! I love the crispness in the air, the need for a small jacket, less bugs and the colors on the trees.

41. Do you have any tattoos? No! I was supposed to get one for my 22nd birthday. Thankfully the dudes wife went into labor after he finished my stencil and was getting the ink ready (Divine Intervention at its best).  It was going to be over 12 inches long on my back. How the hell would I have explained this to my impressionable children?

42. Are you sarcastic? No but I love when other people are. It doesn't come natural to me. Wish it did. I am really not that funny.

43. Have you ever seen The Butterfly Effect? I have and I actually found it interesting. Come to think of it, I should watch it again. "You can't play God!"


44. Ever walked into a wall? No, but I have walked into a sliding door while dating my first boyfriend. We were at a family BBQ (his not mine), when I walked right into the screen. Thankfully I didn't break it or knock it off track. His father didn't let me forget it the whole day and I just wanted to crawl into a hole.

Shadow Shot Sunday - Red Neck Slip and Slide

Self Portrait Sunday - July 18, 2010

Oh, my poor little meme has never quite caught on. So sad. Funny, people just don't like taking pictures of themselves but when we are old and gray and have a lot of people pictures of obscure things what then. I much prefer to think I am going to live into my Golden Years and will cherish all photos of me looking younger and full of life's promises.

Just back from the beach with the kids. It was a fabulous day.

Photo Time

Here is Handsome on the water-slide. Ahhhh...to be a kid in the summer.

Friday Fragments - Life In General

Went for a pelvic sonogram on Wednesday. Saw the report from the hospital which read, "left ovary not seen". Huh? After the exam the tech informed me that there were no detectable fibroids/nothing that I should concern myself with. Sounds good! Then I asked, "did you see my left ovary?" She said, "Not at first. I had trouble finding it, but I do see it. It is hidden behind your uterus."

Wait, huh? Behind!?

Let's look at a photo of the female anatomy shall we?!

Does this mean my fallopian tubes are twisted? Did the OB not put me back together properly after my last c-section? Is this why I always have so much pain on my left side? Grrr...

Goddess' teacher told me that I should be very proud. The end of the school year all the kids were talking among themselves while teacher set up for snack. They were talking about when their parents fight at home. Some were saying they hid in the closet, others cry themselves to sleep, another says, his dad grabs his moms shoulders and shakes her.  So, what did Goddess say? "Not me. In my house, my parents never fight, they love each other!" Awwww...my baby! She is right! We never fight. Seriously. We don't!

Reading one of the funniest books I have ever read. I know I am, but what are you? by Samantha Bee (review coming).

Dad called last night to see how I am doing and to tell me about his latest medical issues. His blood pressure is 80/60. He told me, "I'm not long for this world"

Took the kids down to the lake for the first time this year. They are much braver, I felt like I really had to watch them.

My husband kicked my ass at Wii bowling totally blowing away my top score of 214 with 241. I am never going to beat that score and will have to live with him shouting "241" at random times for the rest of my life.

Created 10 new items on Street Angel. Will be hosting a giveaway very soon.

Got a new comforter set for the first time in 13 years. It makes me feel like a Queen. Thank God for Kohls and their massively great sales. $399.00 marked down to $189.00. Nice!!!!

Teenage bear roaming the area at all times of the day. He is slick and doesn't care if you are there are not. Hopefully, I don't run into him while I am in the yard.

I can't wait for The Bachlorette to be over. Hate myself for watching this garbage especially since I vowed to never watch again, 3 seasons ago. Got sucked in while in the hospital.

The kids camped out down in a tent set up in the family room for two nights this week complete with S'smore, TV, blankets, pillows, too may stuffed animals, and glow sticks. At least I don't have to brave the mosquitoes to check on them.

Spent Sunday trying to catch a frog. Daddy couldn't get it so I vowed to capture so Goddess could touch it. When I couldn't get him after the three tries, Goddess headed inside. I saw her through the window drawing something. When she came back to the yard she had this.

When I asked what it was she said, "Here I made a picture of a fly, put it in front of the frog's face and when he tries to eat it, grab him." I told her that I didn't think the frog would buy it. She said, "Well, we've got to try!"

My kooky kids at the gynecologist office this week. Notice Handsome's snaggle tooth and Goddess's crazy eyes.

I hope you all had a great week.

Madeline's Great Adventures on DVD Will Have Your Child Speaking French

Ok, well not literally but after one view my Goddess was saying, "Oui Mademoiselle" "Au revoir", "Merci" and "BonJour".

As a kid, I loved Madeline. What was it, seeing the all the little girls in a row, in their row of beds, the way the spoke, the Dr. Seuss type of narrating? What ever it was, I loved it!

We have one Madeline DVD and a felt toy set which my Daughter has played with since she was 2 years old.

Walking into her bedroom with the DVD in hand, I asked her if she wanted to watch Madeline's Great Adventures with me. She was playing with her Littlest Pet Shop "Co-weck-shion" and said, "no". Telling her "I do!" I sat on her bed and pressed play. Within 3 minutes she was sitting next to me as we watched all 6 episodes. After watching, I walked off to make dinner, she pressed play again and watched it for the second time. Since then she watches it every night and once again plays with the felt toy set that we put away so long ago.

If you loved Madeline as a child, sit with your child and enjoy the DVD with them. Dog Genevieve, Madeline's friend Pepito and the 11 classmates will bring back fun memories for you.

I love movies I can watch WITH my kids.

Thanks to Shout for sending the complimentary copy to me. We are thoroughly enjoying it and I appreciate the memories.

Thursday Thunks: Kitchen Wonderland

1. Billy Mays died about a year ago. What kitchen gadgets have you bought that you've used less than three times? What are they? My food processor. I begged for one 3 Christmas' ago. My husband got it for me and I have used it about 8 times in 3 years. It is big and takes up counter space but if I put it away, I will NEVER use it. Mostly, it has been used to make dough for pizza.

2. What celebrity would you like to shake some sense into, and why? Lindsey Lohan. I just want to save that girl from herself. I am not sure how people get so fucked up but I believe if Lindsey could do better she would. In my opinion, her parents really fucked up. She needs to get her shit together. It amazes me how people will take the possibility of a great career (if you market yourself correctly) and just flush it down the shitter.

3. Jimmy Buffett just did on concert to benefit the victims of the Gulf. Name a Buffett song that you like. I don't know anything except for Margaritaville but I wouldn't call it a favorite.

4. How did you feel about Ringo Starr turned 70? So! It is right up there with how I feel about a slug making it's way through my back yard. Whatever.

5. What sport do you absolute see no point in watching?  Bowling. It's great to play but to sit and watch! Why. I had a brother-in-law who used to record bowling on TV and rewatch them over and over again. Really?!

6. Trivia time. Do you know the first names of the French twins? NOPE! Pepe and Le-Pew

7. You are in the best seafood restaurant in Canada. What type of meat do you order? Lobster and Ribeye, perfect together

8. How far would an electric car have to go without a recharge before you'd buy one? 1 month

9. Did you see that a high court ruled that you can swear on regular TV? What word can you just not wait to hear? Really!? What? This is crazy. I never swear in my house. They can now say the 7 dirty words?

Stop! You are lying to me Bud. So my kids will never be able to watch TV again, is this what you are saying? Howard had to go to Satellite Radio and now the words are OK on TV?


I miss you George Carlin (RIP)

10. You are in the finest steak and rib joint in Kimberville (Arizona). What seafood dish do you order? Lobster and King Crab on the biggest plate imaginable, BTW..there better be some Ribeye on that plate.

11. What was the last concert that you attended that really sucked? I haven't been to a sucky concert. I have been to a Guns and Roses concert where we had to wait almost and hour for them to go on but once they did, it rocked!

12. What type of accent would you like to have, if you were forced to change yours? British or southern! When I read by myself out loud, I like to do voices. Depending on the book I change my voice to fit the story but only if I am alone.

13. Kimber's got four kids with chicken pox. Berleen is not feeling the love today, so I was asked to host. What do you miss most when neither originator of TT is asking the questions? I don't care who asks as long as the question isn't boxers or briefs?

Sepia Thursday - The Carnival

It is amazing how much Sepia changes a photo. This was taken this year, the rides are old, the day was beautiful, I shot it in color but change the photo and it may as well have been taken in the 1940's.

Weekday Photos - Bench

I love this stone bench at the Botanical Gardens. It just looks so rustic and makes me wonder who has sat here to rest for a spell. Was it the lady of the manor? Perhaps, the workers who tended the garden, or lovers having a quiet talk? It has been around since 1846 and I am sure has many stories to tell, if only it could talk.

Memory Rewind - July 2004

This weeks Memory Rewind brings us to 2004. I have been a mom for a little over a year and I am so happy.

It is the first year that my niece, Samantha comes to spend the summer with me. She and I have been close since the start. I adored her from the first moment I met her.

Here is Sam and Handsome sitting in s blow up train ball pit that used to take up half of my dining room. Handsome loved it. He would sit in there for hours and look at his picture books, he would take naps in there and drink his milk there too. My how times have changed. It seems like a life time ago that the train was here.

Here we are heading out to a local farm.The bear was a gift from his Aunt Marta and since she lived in California, I made a conscience effort that this would be his lovey. When he was an infant, I would hold him to while he was upset, or rock him to sleep at night, while I did, I also held the bear. It worked and the bear is still a prime too in his life. I love how he is holding onto that bear and I love the bare little toes sticking out of the overalls.

Is there a special memory for you?
Join me for Memory Rewind every Thursday and use those archived computer photos and document why that moment was special. I hope to see you here.

We Are A Toyota Family

I have been driving Toyota for over 16 years.

My first Toyota was a Tercel. I purchased it from my sister-in-law wayyyy back when she got her Rav4. I drove the Tercel until it literally, passed out at the dealer the day I was heading into buy my Corolla which I currently drive.

Whenever we start talking cars in my circle of friends and family, I always say, I am a Toyota girl. The reason: My car is 10 years old, has 145, 000 miles and still (knock on wood) has never given me trouble.

• I love my car for so many reasons but mainly because:
• It is the car that drove me to the hospital to have my babies and also drove us home.  That first ride home with a newborn in our newly installed car seat was one of the most nerve racking days of my life.
• It handles well and saved my life two times when  I spun out on black ice while driving to work in the early morning.
• While pregnant with Handsome a tree branch fell on my windshield during a rain storm 4 minutes from home. I was scared, never lost control, and drove the remaining distance with a small part of the branch still lodged in my windshield. The window simply buckled in leaving very few, tiny pieces of glass on my dash, 1 tiny cut on my arm and 1 tiny cut on my cheek. Thank God, nothing worse than that.
• It is great on gas - I fill up once every 7-8 days depending on the week.
• Big enough for the four of us to get around in and used to hold a massive carriage in the trunk and still had room for my groceries.
• Needs very little maintenance. Just a check up every year.

All of these reasons are why I am a Toyota Girl! Before my Corolla, I wanted the Rav4, then I wanted the Sienna, now I want the Rav again. Hopefully, eventually, I will get that Rav.


What are you driving?