Yesterday I went for a reiki session with dear Rose -it was amazing. I haven't felt this good or relaxed in a long time. We then sipped tea and visited before I headed to the grocery store. I timed it just right and arrived home when the kids arrived from school so I had help unloading the car.
Hubby took oldest to DMV for her learner's permit but they close that at 3. He was not happy. He's going to pick her up early from school Tuesday and try again.
I picked youngest up from tutoring to bring her to a friend's house. They were going to Girl Scout night at the Wolfpack game (hockey). She was so excited. I would have taken her but this was supposed to be my tree hugging visit with my girlfriend at the farm - rescheduled indefinitely. When I picked her up she asked if I had her back pack as she was spending the night. I said yes and that I even brought her money. I got a hug hug and a kiss. She wants a foam claw (similar to the phone fingers you can wave at the game).
I made the beef stroganoff and headed to bed after dinner. I was so tired and relaxed from the reiki session. I was in bed by 6:45 and didn't wake up for 12 hours. I feel alive again. This morning I vacuumed level 1, cleaned the bathroom, put away the clean dishes, washed the pots that were soaking, and I'm on laundry load 4.
Tonight oldest makes dinner. It's an individual lasagna like ziti dish. Her boyfriend is coming and so are mother and father-in-love. Oldest is nervous grandma and grandpa won't like the boyfriend. It's so cute. Mother-in-love is bringing dessert. I also made a batch of Granny Annie's rosemary cookies.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Friday, January 30, 2009
going well
Things have been going really well the past few days.
Youngest is still having problems sleeping at night and crawls in with me.
Son made a few under the breath comments about hating court. He's never been there - he is opposed to the idea that they make laws.
Oldest has been laughing and smiling and sociable again. Last night she wanted to know - if the condom breaks and you get your period a few days later could you still be pregnant? Real case situation - her girlfriend. Possible yes but most likely not. And you? Hell no, I don't want to be pregnant at 16 - I want to go to college. I'll have to open that conversation up a little more. I'm not sure hubby could have handled a more in depth discussion at this point.
Work is finally over for the week. I head for an oil change and then a reiki session. And then off to grocery shopping. Tonight will be beef stroganof.
Hubby is taking oldest to DMV after school to get her learner's permit. She then has driver's ed Saturday and Sunday (which if she was with bio she wouldn't be able to do). Her boyfriend is coming for dinner Saturday.
Hubby took Saturday night off in case there are any problems with bio leaving on Sunday. We thought we might take all the kids to the movies in the afternoon to take their mind off of it (or ours).
Thank all of you for your prayers and well wishes. This is not over yet - just the lull before the next storm. I'll enjoy it while it is here.
And today they are home and they are safe!
Youngest is still having problems sleeping at night and crawls in with me.
Son made a few under the breath comments about hating court. He's never been there - he is opposed to the idea that they make laws.
Oldest has been laughing and smiling and sociable again. Last night she wanted to know - if the condom breaks and you get your period a few days later could you still be pregnant? Real case situation - her girlfriend. Possible yes but most likely not. And you? Hell no, I don't want to be pregnant at 16 - I want to go to college. I'll have to open that conversation up a little more. I'm not sure hubby could have handled a more in depth discussion at this point.
Work is finally over for the week. I head for an oil change and then a reiki session. And then off to grocery shopping. Tonight will be beef stroganof.
Hubby is taking oldest to DMV after school to get her learner's permit. She then has driver's ed Saturday and Sunday (which if she was with bio she wouldn't be able to do). Her boyfriend is coming for dinner Saturday.
Hubby took Saturday night off in case there are any problems with bio leaving on Sunday. We thought we might take all the kids to the movies in the afternoon to take their mind off of it (or ours).
Thank all of you for your prayers and well wishes. This is not over yet - just the lull before the next storm. I'll enjoy it while it is here.
And today they are home and they are safe!
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
told the kids
We sat the kids down and told the kids that they will not be visiting mom. We said we talked to the lawyer who brought it to court and decided this was best for now. The girls were weepy. Son is angry. But, you had a verbal agreement with mom that the girls could live with her when they got their period. Ah, NO! In what world does that even make sense. They have all gone off by themselves to deal with it. That's OK.
They are home and they are safe.
They are home and they are safe.
Monday, January 26, 2009
signed, sealed, delivered
Affidavits filled out, motions filed. The judge not only signed the restraining order forbidding bio to remove any of the children from the state but suspended all visitation until further notice. A court date has been set for after her departure. Things are looking up though we are not out of the clear yet. What oldest thinks will weigh heavy on the decision making of the court now that she is sixteen. Bio was served tonight. Tomorrow when all the kids are home we will sit them down and explain that they will not be seeing bio or moving anywhere. We have notified the schools and faxed over forms so she can not reach them there.
And they are all home and safe!!! Yippee!
And they are all home and safe!!! Yippee!
All Shook Up
Oldest was in a better mood after drivers education. She talked a little bit on the way to the play -with prompting. The play was awesome. It was so much fun. The lead looked so much like my cousin's son I had to check twice what his real name was. She talked a little bit on the way home about the play.
Hardly anyone at the house has much of an appetite and I have a ton of leftovers. I froze the ham bone to make soup at a later date.
I was in bed early reading and then to sleep. Youngest didn't crawl in until about 3. I have to wake her up early so my girlfriend can put her on the bus and we can go to the lawyer. My husband joked that this could be our date. We'll do lunch and head to the next lawyer. We had already made an appointment in the afternoon because our wills are ready to be signed. I made notes of items to ask the lawyer about the kids and visitation.
They are all home and they are safe today!
Hardly anyone at the house has much of an appetite and I have a ton of leftovers. I froze the ham bone to make soup at a later date.
I was in bed early reading and then to sleep. Youngest didn't crawl in until about 3. I have to wake her up early so my girlfriend can put her on the bus and we can go to the lawyer. My husband joked that this could be our date. We'll do lunch and head to the next lawyer. We had already made an appointment in the afternoon because our wills are ready to be signed. I made notes of items to ask the lawyer about the kids and visitation.
They are all home and they are safe today!
Sunday, January 25, 2009
pamper
Sometime yesterday morning I decided for sanity's sake to think of one minute at a time - and right now everyone is home and safe. That is my mantra. We see the lawyer first thing tomorrow morning and the what ifs are really pointless.
Then I went to Rose's holistic pampering workshop. It was wonderful. I met new friends and caught up with old ones. The time flew by and we left with a bag full of homemade goodies to pamper ourselves with. Youngest made supper and I suggested a movie pampering night. Son and oldest went for the movie part and watched one down stairs and had pop corn. I made some hot cocoa from scratch and added a touch of cayenne pepper, cinnamon and ginger as suggested at my pampering class. It was yummy. Youngest and I watched Flubber. I put the herb filled hot pad on her neck and filled a tub for her feet to soak in. While she soaked I used my miracle grains to cleans my face and then prepared an herbal steam. By the time my face was steamed youngest was done soaking. I clipped her nails and rubbed in moisturizer. Then I soaked my feet. It was a fun night.
Youngest had problems sleeping again and crawled in with me. It seems we're all having those issues.
I was up early this morning and was able to call my parents before the rest of the household woke up. We were able to talk for almost an hour. It felt good.
And thank you dear readers for the support, hugs, good wishes and offers for tea. I may just be calling.
This afternoon oldest and I go to the Thomaston Opera House to see All Shook Up. It should be interesting. I made dinner though instead of going out. I have a ham to put in the oven, scalloped potatoes and green beans all prepped.
Then I went to Rose's holistic pampering workshop. It was wonderful. I met new friends and caught up with old ones. The time flew by and we left with a bag full of homemade goodies to pamper ourselves with. Youngest made supper and I suggested a movie pampering night. Son and oldest went for the movie part and watched one down stairs and had pop corn. I made some hot cocoa from scratch and added a touch of cayenne pepper, cinnamon and ginger as suggested at my pampering class. It was yummy. Youngest and I watched Flubber. I put the herb filled hot pad on her neck and filled a tub for her feet to soak in. While she soaked I used my miracle grains to cleans my face and then prepared an herbal steam. By the time my face was steamed youngest was done soaking. I clipped her nails and rubbed in moisturizer. Then I soaked my feet. It was a fun night.
Youngest had problems sleeping again and crawled in with me. It seems we're all having those issues.
I was up early this morning and was able to call my parents before the rest of the household woke up. We were able to talk for almost an hour. It felt good.
And thank you dear readers for the support, hugs, good wishes and offers for tea. I may just be calling.
This afternoon oldest and I go to the Thomaston Opera House to see All Shook Up. It should be interesting. I made dinner though instead of going out. I have a ham to put in the oven, scalloped potatoes and green beans all prepped.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Friday, January 23, 2009
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Over at Devonshire Design you could win a $50.00 Barnes and Noble gift card and a book.
things look hopeful
Hubby took oldest out to dinner last night and they had a long talk. He felt much better when he got home. He said she seemed much better as well. Today he contacted the lawyer and we have a meeting first thing Monday morning.
This afternoon hubby found oldest printing information off on how to become an emancipated minor. I don't know if she is just curious or where her head is at. She hasn't been able to look me in the eye at all. It's OK I am the wicked step mom after all.
Tomorrow she starts drivers education. Youngest is having a friend over. I'm going to a class on pampering. I try really hard to take care of myself but, this class could not come at a better time.
Good news is for the first time in my life I've lost my appetite. I didn't think that would ever happen. Good thing I have lots of fruit and good things around. At least the little I'm eating is good for me.
The kids keep putting Sammy, our dog out on the lead and forgetting her. It's not until she starts barking and wining that I realize she is out and let her in. I feel so bad.
And I want to thank all of my readers for their prayers, energy and kind words of support. It really does help. Blessings to all of you and your families.
This afternoon hubby found oldest printing information off on how to become an emancipated minor. I don't know if she is just curious or where her head is at. She hasn't been able to look me in the eye at all. It's OK I am the wicked step mom after all.
Tomorrow she starts drivers education. Youngest is having a friend over. I'm going to a class on pampering. I try really hard to take care of myself but, this class could not come at a better time.
Good news is for the first time in my life I've lost my appetite. I didn't think that would ever happen. Good thing I have lots of fruit and good things around. At least the little I'm eating is good for me.
The kids keep putting Sammy, our dog out on the lead and forgetting her. It's not until she starts barking and wining that I realize she is out and let her in. I feel so bad.
And I want to thank all of my readers for their prayers, energy and kind words of support. It really does help. Blessings to all of you and your families.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
police called or fitfull sleep
Welcome back dear readers and if you haven't read dawning of a new day below please read that first.
Later that cold winter's night... the kids went to bio for a visit. Hubby went to pick them up and get more details on the departure. Oldest pulled a big brother and said she was not coming home. The police were called. I was called to bring a copy of the divorce papers. Bio ranted about all the sins hubby had supposedly committed - nothing of which was true or pertained to the situation at hand. Damn 8 years later and she is still angry about the divorce - did I mention she is the one who left though hubby did file first. And what bio ranted about was all the things oldest had been parrotting to her dad. All the anger bio has against my DH she has poured into oldest. Hubby went outside the apartment and loaded the other kids into his truck (plus a friend of son's) and waited with the police. I arrived with the divorce papers and took the other kids home. They are pretty unfazed by the events at hand. After reading through the divorce papers the police collected oldest and sent her home with DH. The ride home was very quiet. She did ask hubby if they could talk alone today - without (the evil - my insertion) Kim.
I held a sobbing hubby in my arms and tried to sooth him and explain that it will be alright. He did ask if I had my girls doing their spirit work. I explained with one blog entry we had prayers from around the country on our side. Thank you, thank you, thank you dear readers.
Hubby had to go to work. I slept in fits when I finally dozed off. I called out of work today. I will go in tomorrow instead. Hubby is going to take oldest for dinner tonight so they can talk.
Oh, and LOL bio said she could have me arrested for signing papers as the kids mother. DH shut her up when he told her I did that under his direction. And she wrote hubby a letter saying that this was oldest's birthday wish and she was granting it for her. She wants the other kids for the entire summer and every Christmas break. Hubby was scare at first and then I reminded him that she would have to petition the courts.
Later that cold winter's night... the kids went to bio for a visit. Hubby went to pick them up and get more details on the departure. Oldest pulled a big brother and said she was not coming home. The police were called. I was called to bring a copy of the divorce papers. Bio ranted about all the sins hubby had supposedly committed - nothing of which was true or pertained to the situation at hand. Damn 8 years later and she is still angry about the divorce - did I mention she is the one who left though hubby did file first. And what bio ranted about was all the things oldest had been parrotting to her dad. All the anger bio has against my DH she has poured into oldest. Hubby went outside the apartment and loaded the other kids into his truck (plus a friend of son's) and waited with the police. I arrived with the divorce papers and took the other kids home. They are pretty unfazed by the events at hand. After reading through the divorce papers the police collected oldest and sent her home with DH. The ride home was very quiet. She did ask hubby if they could talk alone today - without (the evil - my insertion) Kim.
I held a sobbing hubby in my arms and tried to sooth him and explain that it will be alright. He did ask if I had my girls doing their spirit work. I explained with one blog entry we had prayers from around the country on our side. Thank you, thank you, thank you dear readers.
Hubby had to go to work. I slept in fits when I finally dozed off. I called out of work today. I will go in tomorrow instead. Hubby is going to take oldest for dinner tonight so they can talk.
Oh, and LOL bio said she could have me arrested for signing papers as the kids mother. DH shut her up when he told her I did that under his direction. And she wrote hubby a letter saying that this was oldest's birthday wish and she was granting it for her. She wants the other kids for the entire summer and every Christmas break. Hubby was scare at first and then I reminded him that she would have to petition the courts.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
dawning of a new day
Everyone survived the plan crash into the Hudson. Obama took the oath of office (and I was able to see it on TV along with the speach. And bio is moving out West. She has convinced oldest that she can come with her now that she is sixteen. Oldest is all packed. Her grandmother bought her a ticket. One tiny problem - if she goes bio an amber alert will go out and bio will be arrested on the way to the airport or as she gets off the plane.
Hubby spent the afternoon with a tearful oldest who told him how much she hates it here and how much she hates me. She also parroted back quite a bit of bio speak. I don't take it personally. Bio has been mind fucking her for years and prepping her for her 16th birthday escape. I will notify the schools so they can be on the look out for problems and maybe talk with the school psychologist. Once bio has departed and the head games come to an end I think things will settle down.
The big day is February 1. She is taking my oldest son - the one who lives with her. That is for the best.
So, my dear readers I ask for prayers and healing energies that things go smoothly through the 1st and we don't have to issue an amber alert. I also ask for good energy for the kids. As much as I and the sane world knows how toxic bio is, it is still their mother and this will be hard on them.
Thank You!!!!
Hubby spent the afternoon with a tearful oldest who told him how much she hates it here and how much she hates me. She also parroted back quite a bit of bio speak. I don't take it personally. Bio has been mind fucking her for years and prepping her for her 16th birthday escape. I will notify the schools so they can be on the look out for problems and maybe talk with the school psychologist. Once bio has departed and the head games come to an end I think things will settle down.
The big day is February 1. She is taking my oldest son - the one who lives with her. That is for the best.
So, my dear readers I ask for prayers and healing energies that things go smoothly through the 1st and we don't have to issue an amber alert. I also ask for good energy for the kids. As much as I and the sane world knows how toxic bio is, it is still their mother and this will be hard on them.
Thank You!!!!
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Birthday
Two friends came - both were very nice and welcome back any time. I took youngest to the craft store to give oldest a birthday break and to take advantage of some really good sales. Youngest came home with modeling clay with the last of her Christmas cash. I made pigs in a blanket for the kids to munch while watching movies. I made a huge rainbow salad (minus blue until I used the blueberry dressing)to go along with the spaghetti, sausage and meatballs. The brownie swirl cheesecake came out really good and it was so easy.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Great blog and a Give A Way
If you don't already read Annie's blog Writers, Witches and Words Oh My what are you waiting for? She is awesome with words, stories and day to day living. Plus she is now hosting a give away to celebrate her 600th blog. You have 40 blog entries to read and comment on for a chance to win a package filled with goodies.
Books and Movies
I finished Eat Pray Love this past week. It was a fun fluffy read. I'm sure that is not what it was meant to be. I enjoyed the first section Eat the best. I love food and cooking and reading about food. I kept thinking it must be nice to loose all of your money and get enough of an advance to take a year off from life and do whatever you want. OK, that is the accountant in me trying to do the math while I read.
Hubby and I went to see Gran Torino with Clint Eastwood yesterday. I enjoy Eastwood movies though that surprised Hubby. But really, how many times can you watch The Good, The Bad and The Ugly? Hubby and the kids can watch movies over and over and over and..... I've never understood that. Anyway, the movie was really good and I admit I did shed a tear towards the end.
Kids are home now. Nightmares started again. Youngest came home in sweat pants that looked more like knickers and no socks. We had a high temperature of 24 yesterday. When asked where her clothes were she said bio packed them so she could move. This has been going on since October. Now, call me crazy but if I was packing my kids clothes I would go through and get rid of items that no longer fit. But, then again I know what size clothes my kids where. And for the full visual she had on a camouflage turtle neck that used to be her brothers and bright blue sweats. They did not have cake for oldest's birthday because that would cost too much money. They did say happy birthday. Youngest also had a tummy ache - hmm could be the boxed fried spicy chicken for breakfast, the soda and frozen pizza? Hey, she was at least fed this time.
So, today is the big birthday. I need to make the meatballs and the cake.
Hubby and I went to see Gran Torino with Clint Eastwood yesterday. I enjoy Eastwood movies though that surprised Hubby. But really, how many times can you watch The Good, The Bad and The Ugly? Hubby and the kids can watch movies over and over and over and..... I've never understood that. Anyway, the movie was really good and I admit I did shed a tear towards the end.
Kids are home now. Nightmares started again. Youngest came home in sweat pants that looked more like knickers and no socks. We had a high temperature of 24 yesterday. When asked where her clothes were she said bio packed them so she could move. This has been going on since October. Now, call me crazy but if I was packing my kids clothes I would go through and get rid of items that no longer fit. But, then again I know what size clothes my kids where. And for the full visual she had on a camouflage turtle neck that used to be her brothers and bright blue sweats. They did not have cake for oldest's birthday because that would cost too much money. They did say happy birthday. Youngest also had a tummy ache - hmm could be the boxed fried spicy chicken for breakfast, the soda and frozen pizza? Hey, she was at least fed this time.
So, today is the big birthday. I need to make the meatballs and the cake.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
me time
I love my Claude Monet art of the day. He is my all time favorite. I've even discovered a few new paintings. Yeah!
Yesterday I met a girlfriend in the morning and we headed to Stew Leonards to grocery shop. Neither one of had been there before but heard great things. It truly is an experience with music, displays and homemade food being made in front of you. They have their own dairy so all of the milk and yogurt is their own and they make fresh mozzarella right there. They also make fresh potato chips while you wait. The only problem is the have very little "groceries" mainly meat, produce and dairy so we had to go to a real grocery store for the rest. We had lunch out and enjoyed each others company.
In the afternoon I wet to a Grandmother's Council - a Native American ceremony. I was blessed to sit with Grandmother Death (change and transformation) and Grandmother Midwife.
Hubby and I enjoyed steaks and my rainbow pasta for dinner. I mixed bow tie pasta with red tomatoes,orange peppers, yellow peppers,green escarole and purple onion. I sauteed the peppers and onion in olive oil until they started to soften, added garlic and cherry tomatoes and stirred a minute, I added the escarole and covered until it wilted. I stirred in a can of black beans and the cooked pasta. Yummy! I could make a meal of just this.
Yesterday I met a girlfriend in the morning and we headed to Stew Leonards to grocery shop. Neither one of had been there before but heard great things. It truly is an experience with music, displays and homemade food being made in front of you. They have their own dairy so all of the milk and yogurt is their own and they make fresh mozzarella right there. They also make fresh potato chips while you wait. The only problem is the have very little "groceries" mainly meat, produce and dairy so we had to go to a real grocery store for the rest. We had lunch out and enjoyed each others company.
In the afternoon I wet to a Grandmother's Council - a Native American ceremony. I was blessed to sit with Grandmother Death (change and transformation) and Grandmother Midwife.
Hubby and I enjoyed steaks and my rainbow pasta for dinner. I mixed bow tie pasta with red tomatoes,orange peppers, yellow peppers,green escarole and purple onion. I sauteed the peppers and onion in olive oil until they started to soften, added garlic and cherry tomatoes and stirred a minute, I added the escarole and covered until it wilted. I stirred in a can of black beans and the cooked pasta. Yummy! I could make a meal of just this.
Friday, January 16, 2009
no school
Son asked for egg salad for lunch today. The alarm went off and I groaned which is very unlike me. I just wanted to go back to sleep but, I needed to boil eggs to make his lunch on time mean mommy that I am. Eggs boiling - the temperature is reading -4.7 degrees. Yes, that is negative 4.7. Usually calls start at 5:20 if their is no school. Well, not today, today the HS waited until 5:30 to say there would be a 90 minute delay because they couldn't get the buses started. Then the elementary school calls at 6 (by now I'm back under the warm covers reading) to say there is a 90 minute delay but she will call back in 15 minutes if they close the school because the buses can't start. 15 minutes later the HS calls to say school is canceled. 30 minutes later the elementary school calls. I have now finished my book and would love a nap but the storm trooper aka my son is tap dancing above my head.
I trudged down to my office and did some work at home for a co-worker. I computerized his bank reconciliation when I was first hired and it has been my baby ever since. It only takes an hour and I do get paid so, I don't mind.
Monday oldest turns sweet (I use that term very loosely) sixteen. After asking for weeks what she wants for dinner and if she's given any thought to it she decides she wants to have friends over - she thinks. I ask again as I need to grocery shop to make whatever cake she wants. She has invited people to the house. I don't mind this fact but, was she going to tell me the house would be overrun with teenagers. She told them between 10 and 11 in the morning. There is no school because of Martin Luther King Day. And they're staying for supper. OK If people arrive at 10 and they are staying for supper - lunch must be in there as well? Just a thought. After all the hard decisions she has decided on spaghetti and meatballs and sausage for dinner. The cake is a brownie swirl cheese cake. She's been birthdaying her way through my cheesecake cook book.
So, if all of these people are coming to the house and you have today off and you will spend the week end with bio then... you can clean today. The kids have been dispensed to clean their rooms and their zone in the bathroom. Oldest has been given the chore of cleaning the play room as well if that is where they are all hanging out.
I trudged down to my office and did some work at home for a co-worker. I computerized his bank reconciliation when I was first hired and it has been my baby ever since. It only takes an hour and I do get paid so, I don't mind.
Monday oldest turns sweet (I use that term very loosely) sixteen. After asking for weeks what she wants for dinner and if she's given any thought to it she decides she wants to have friends over - she thinks. I ask again as I need to grocery shop to make whatever cake she wants. She has invited people to the house. I don't mind this fact but, was she going to tell me the house would be overrun with teenagers. She told them between 10 and 11 in the morning. There is no school because of Martin Luther King Day. And they're staying for supper. OK If people arrive at 10 and they are staying for supper - lunch must be in there as well? Just a thought. After all the hard decisions she has decided on spaghetti and meatballs and sausage for dinner. The cake is a brownie swirl cheese cake. She's been birthdaying her way through my cheesecake cook book.
So, if all of these people are coming to the house and you have today off and you will spend the week end with bio then... you can clean today. The kids have been dispensed to clean their rooms and their zone in the bathroom. Oldest has been given the chore of cleaning the play room as well if that is where they are all hanging out.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
nanno seconds
OK, oldest almost had a smile and yeah, a nanno second was a little much to hope for. Bio showed up to pick the kids up. She had to walk up the driveway as "her" car was parked at the bottom. I asked if it was registered. Yeah! I walked down (in my slippers) to check. It was registered but, the car was shiny and clean and their was a man driving. I introduced myself and explained that I wanted to make sure the car was registered before my kids got in it. He, Scott, said yes, HIS car was registered. I did get the license plate number. Bio later told the kids she sold the car. And indeed she did. Scott and his wife used to be neighbors and bought the car. Now, bio walks to work and must rely on friends to pick the kids up for visitations. Hmmm!
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Getting a lot done
By 8 this morning I had made the kids lunches, walked two miles, finished washing one load of laundry and started a second, vacuumed the downstairs, mopped the bathroom and the kitchen, cleaned the bathroom (toilet, sink and tub), washed the dishes, dusted the hutch and all of the dishes on it, pulled the shelf down in the bathroom washed it and the knick knacks on it and made my breakfast. Whew! Now, I can sit back and enjoy my clean house. I still have to decide what I'm making Hubby and I for dinner. The kids will be at bio's tonight. Something really warm - maybe soup and grilled cheese. Hubby has to work tonight in this bitter cold. With the wind alarms were going off all night with doors being blown open.
Hubby made a bunch of phone calls to driving schools. They are really expensive. The local school called back today. He is a former federal agent and with his discount to law enforcement he is only $50.00 more than the school. And he has classes on the week end so oldest would not have to stop babysitting. She can start her class next week instead of waiting until February. I think she'll go from being mad at me to happy for at least a nanno second. She will get her license sooner and still keep her babysitting job which she will need to pay for insurance. Plus, she still needs a car. If I put enough people on the job we should be able to find one she can buy for cheap. And it will still be better than her mother's. Yeah, because it will be registered and the exhaust system will be working (without tin cans holding it together).
Hubby made a bunch of phone calls to driving schools. They are really expensive. The local school called back today. He is a former federal agent and with his discount to law enforcement he is only $50.00 more than the school. And he has classes on the week end so oldest would not have to stop babysitting. She can start her class next week instead of waiting until February. I think she'll go from being mad at me to happy for at least a nanno second. She will get her license sooner and still keep her babysitting job which she will need to pay for insurance. Plus, she still needs a car. If I put enough people on the job we should be able to find one she can buy for cheap. And it will still be better than her mother's. Yeah, because it will be registered and the exhaust system will be working (without tin cans holding it together).
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Hectic Monday
Hubby sat on the truck committee for the new fire truck for what seemed like years. Last year they received a grant and the truck was finally ordered and is in production. He missed the trip to PA for the prebuild due to work. Friday he received a call they were going to check out the truck on Monday as it nears completion. I had to work. He sulked and moped and what have you. I finally said their are other options you could get someone to pick youngest up from the tutor after school and my girlfriend said I could drop her off any time and she would put her on the bus. He perked up. Can you call? No, you want to go - you make the arrangements. And he did.
So, mother and father-in0love came down and picked youngest up from school. The other kids went with bio. Bio can't be bothered to wait for youngest. And now that she's not driving and Dan the man is (her car still isn't registered) I don't think he wants to wait. I came home to freshly picked up take out pizza, ate and then went to pick up the kids from bio. I dropped oldest off at the fire house and hubby was home by the time I arrived home again. I went to bed early and he picked oldest up from the fire house.
Bio informed oldest that she does not have the money and will not have any money to pay towards drivers education. We've been calling around to see if the school really is the cheapest option. So far it seems to be. The other issue is it is Tuesday and Thursday's for an entire semester. The two days oldest babysits. So, as we discussed the options tonight I asked who was paying seeing bio is to irresponsible to pay anything for her children. At this point I don't really care if this might upset oldest. Contrary to what bio thinks we are not rich. We just work really hard and budget our money. Wow, what concepts. So, we have a few more driving schools to check out and it may be summer before she takes a class. Have to wait for your license - blame bio.
So, mother and father-in0love came down and picked youngest up from school. The other kids went with bio. Bio can't be bothered to wait for youngest. And now that she's not driving and Dan the man is (her car still isn't registered) I don't think he wants to wait. I came home to freshly picked up take out pizza, ate and then went to pick up the kids from bio. I dropped oldest off at the fire house and hubby was home by the time I arrived home again. I went to bed early and he picked oldest up from the fire house.
Bio informed oldest that she does not have the money and will not have any money to pay towards drivers education. We've been calling around to see if the school really is the cheapest option. So far it seems to be. The other issue is it is Tuesday and Thursday's for an entire semester. The two days oldest babysits. So, as we discussed the options tonight I asked who was paying seeing bio is to irresponsible to pay anything for her children. At this point I don't really care if this might upset oldest. Contrary to what bio thinks we are not rich. We just work really hard and budget our money. Wow, what concepts. So, we have a few more driving schools to check out and it may be summer before she takes a class. Have to wait for your license - blame bio.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Art Journal and Cooking
Yesterday morning I headed to Michael's with youngest for some art supplies. Gesso, glues, mod podge and Golden's gel medium found its way into my cart. A few things to experiment with that I've never used before. I cleaned out a stack of forgotten magazines and started pulling out pictures and words that caught my eye. The rest went in the recycle bin. I pulled out some pretty folders that I bought ages ago for a few cents because someday I might need them. They are now labeled and holding my collage material in a ordered fashion. I started on a page devoted to health and had to make it a two page spread. I'm on layer two at the moment and it doesn't seem quite done. I'm not sure what else it is calling for yet.
Last night was son's turn to make supper. It was a chicken corn chowder that everyone enjoyed. Youngest and I ate the last of it for lunch today. I've been trying to eat a rainbow a day and have come a color short all week. Today, I will have a complete rainbow. For breakfast I made bacon, maple sausage, eggs and home fries. Lunch was chicken corn chowder. Tonight I've made a macaroni and cheese with cubed smoked pork mixed in. Instead of a crumb topping I topped it with chopped, toasted pecans. On the side I'm making my creamy Brussels sprouts (and carrots). And for dessert a blueberry cake is fresh out of the oven. So, red onions, orange carrots, yellow corn, green Brussels sprouts and blueberries.
Oldest's boyfriend is here for the afternoon. Nothing else to say there other than he could gain a hundred pounds and not have to buy new clothes.
Last night was son's turn to make supper. It was a chicken corn chowder that everyone enjoyed. Youngest and I ate the last of it for lunch today. I've been trying to eat a rainbow a day and have come a color short all week. Today, I will have a complete rainbow. For breakfast I made bacon, maple sausage, eggs and home fries. Lunch was chicken corn chowder. Tonight I've made a macaroni and cheese with cubed smoked pork mixed in. Instead of a crumb topping I topped it with chopped, toasted pecans. On the side I'm making my creamy Brussels sprouts (and carrots). And for dessert a blueberry cake is fresh out of the oven. So, red onions, orange carrots, yellow corn, green Brussels sprouts and blueberries.
Oldest's boyfriend is here for the afternoon. Nothing else to say there other than he could gain a hundred pounds and not have to buy new clothes.
Friday, January 9, 2009
work and recipes for Rose
The sit down at work went well. I don't have to take on the nightmare client and the few things I do for that client have been delegated elsewhere. I gave up my frustrating client and took on one of my boss' clients. We are also taking on a new client and I will get that as well. I should be plenty busy setting up the new client and learning the ropes on mu boss' client. I like being busy.
The pork loin came out really yummy. I love the crock pot. I can make supper in the morning. It lets hubby sleep a little longer and not have to worry about dinner. I never make the same "recipe" twice. OK, I have no recipe. This time I put the pork in, threw in some onion, carrot and celery, an astragalus root, sprinkled the pork with a cinnamon chipolte rub, poured in some chicken stock and put sliced cabbage on top. It cooks from 6 until 4 when I have the kids turn it off. We leave the lid on and eat when I get home at 6. I just make gravy from the wonderful stock. Basically, I clean out my vegetable bin of my fridge. Sometimes I use jam or applesauce instead of the spices. It works really well with pork and the gravy comes out a little sweet. It was so good youngest didn't even know she was eating cabbage.
The pork loin came out really yummy. I love the crock pot. I can make supper in the morning. It lets hubby sleep a little longer and not have to worry about dinner. I never make the same "recipe" twice. OK, I have no recipe. This time I put the pork in, threw in some onion, carrot and celery, an astragalus root, sprinkled the pork with a cinnamon chipolte rub, poured in some chicken stock and put sliced cabbage on top. It cooks from 6 until 4 when I have the kids turn it off. We leave the lid on and eat when I get home at 6. I just make gravy from the wonderful stock. Basically, I clean out my vegetable bin of my fridge. Sometimes I use jam or applesauce instead of the spices. It works really well with pork and the gravy comes out a little sweet. It was so good youngest didn't even know she was eating cabbage.
youngest and work
Youngest is feeling better. The cause of the upset tummy was grieving and not viral. I finally got her to open up and she had a few complaints about mean people at school but, then after asking her about Zanny (the dog bio gave away) she burst in to tears. She said she never wanted to leave the house again or see friends, that she didn't want to tell any one at school that she would never see her dog again. After reassuring her that it is OK and normal to feel this way and some heavy, snot pouring down the face sobbing she seems to be much better.
Today my boss will sit with me (and several others) to determine how to redistribute the work. My boss is so overloaded and stressed she eats herself into a stupor. I've been trying to take stuff away for a long, long time but she is too busy to explain it. We also have one nightmare client - OK several but this one is hopeless. How they stay in business when they are so clueless is beyond me. Three accountants and none of us can balance their bank statements - it's that bad. It's the hot potato - no one wants to work on it. I refuse to take it. It should be interesting to see how this goes.
Today is Friday and Panera Bread day for lunch. Everyone in the office (well, almost everyone) is watching what they eat. It may just be salads for everyone. I have a pork loin in the crock pot for supper and the week end is off to a good start.
Today my boss will sit with me (and several others) to determine how to redistribute the work. My boss is so overloaded and stressed she eats herself into a stupor. I've been trying to take stuff away for a long, long time but she is too busy to explain it. We also have one nightmare client - OK several but this one is hopeless. How they stay in business when they are so clueless is beyond me. Three accountants and none of us can balance their bank statements - it's that bad. It's the hot potato - no one wants to work on it. I refuse to take it. It should be interesting to see how this goes.
Today is Friday and Panera Bread day for lunch. Everyone in the office (well, almost everyone) is watching what they eat. It may just be salads for everyone. I have a pork loin in the crock pot for supper and the week end is off to a good start.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Yellow
I figured out how to rotate the pictures. I'm so proud of myself. This is my study in yellow. I started with the striped page a few days ago with all my yellow paints. I've been having fun going through old magazines and clipping stuff that catches my eye. It is either words (and quotes) or nature. Very few people have made it into my pile for future art pages. And, at the same time the magazines are being used up and put in the recycle bin so I'm eliminating clutter as I have fun.
I watched a u-tube clip of SuziBlu this morning and she gave out two questions to ponder in your art journal and ultimately come up with a few key words for your goal. The questions were 1) pretend you are really old and looking back on your life - what are you most proud of? 2) If you have only six (healthy) months left to live what would you do? Find the themes in these two questions and live your life as such. I'm paraphrasing her questions and I will have to find her link to put here. After journaling and thinking I've come down to these six themes in particular order:
1) Health
2)Relationships
3)Cooking
4)Books
5) Travel
6) Happiness
And that is what I will do in 2009 and beyond.
Ice bound
Now that I fixed last night's post - the one I didn't think posted - I can write about today. I woke to the sleet that was predicted and knew the kids would at least have a delay. I didn't want to make lunches if it school was closed so I went on line to check as it would be another 20 minutes before the automated call at 5:20. No school - I could go back to bed once I got the dog back in the house. The clip was frozen so I let her out without tying her up. After a tour of the neighborhood she came running to get out of the cold. I still crawled back in bed for an hour though I didn't really sleep.
33 minutes and two miles on the tread mill flew by this morning. Yesterday it seemed like five hours. I called work and said I would be in Friday instead of today. It's so nice only working three days - I can change them up at will. Besides no one does my job when I'm gone so I don't feel bad about sticking any one with my work. It will just be piled there when I get back. Laundry is started, plants watered, kitchened cleaned, blogs read, e-mail read. I'll be making lunch soon.
Youngest feels icky. She's got no energy and says her tummy bothers her. She has no appetite. But, she feels well enough to play with her Nintendo DS and watch TV. Hmmm. She's now doing her homework that was due today. I'm such a mean mommy.
Seth called. He says DMV won't give him a photo ID with his birth certificate because he was born in Korea (at the army hospital). He wants hubby's social security number and army paperwork so he can get a passport so he can get a photo ID. With him living with bio - I don't think so. I'm sure if he checked into it he could get an ID without hubby's social security number.
33 minutes and two miles on the tread mill flew by this morning. Yesterday it seemed like five hours. I called work and said I would be in Friday instead of today. It's so nice only working three days - I can change them up at will. Besides no one does my job when I'm gone so I don't feel bad about sticking any one with my work. It will just be piled there when I get back. Laundry is started, plants watered, kitchened cleaned, blogs read, e-mail read. I'll be making lunch soon.
Youngest feels icky. She's got no energy and says her tummy bothers her. She has no appetite. But, she feels well enough to play with her Nintendo DS and watch TV. Hmmm. She's now doing her homework that was due today. I'm such a mean mommy.
Seth called. He says DMV won't give him a photo ID with his birth certificate because he was born in Korea (at the army hospital). He wants hubby's social security number and army paperwork so he can get a passport so he can get a photo ID. With him living with bio - I don't think so. I'm sure if he checked into it he could get an ID without hubby's social security number.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Tagged
I was tagged by A Sense of Humor is Essential (and boy it sure is). So, if you're tagged have fun with it or not...
1. Go to the 4th picture folder on your computer.
2. Post the 4th picture in that folder.
3. Explain the picture.
4. Tag 4 more people.
This is a picture of my BF at her farm. The very one I get to visit at the end of the month. Yeah!
I would like to tag
Rose
The Amoritization of Goodwill
Mrs. B
Walking Within the Spiral
Four is a sacred number in many cultures and religions including the Zia tribe of New Mexico, The Four cups of wine drunk during Jewish Passover, The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, The Four Noble Truths of Buddhism. We have many examples in biology and nature. The four chambers of the human heart, a four leaf clover, hmm, it's wonderful to meditate on this.
Monday
It started with a 90 minute school delay because of the ice. I made Granny Annie's pot roast and stuck it in the oven before taking youngest to the bus. I added fennel, leeks, bay leaf and astragulus root too. It was really good and quick when I got home from Girl Scouts. Especially since my hair dresser was coming shortly there after.
In the morning I went shopping with a friend to see what bargains may be around. I think things were cheaper before Christmas. But, I had coupons - like that is a surprise. So, for 97 cents I got a sweater twin set, another sweater, a pair of jeans and a long sleeve T. The T is for oldest's sweet sixteen and the rest is for me. Youngest is now approaching a girls size 16 because of her long legs. Most kids stores go up to 14 and I'm not sure what the equivalent to a 16 is in juniors. I'll have to find out.
Any way, the day went well and other than hubby forgetting his cell phone and me waking up at 1:45AM to the sounds of police sirens (his ring tone for his police dispatcher buddy) life is good. Today is back to work.
In the morning I went shopping with a friend to see what bargains may be around. I think things were cheaper before Christmas. But, I had coupons - like that is a surprise. So, for 97 cents I got a sweater twin set, another sweater, a pair of jeans and a long sleeve T. The T is for oldest's sweet sixteen and the rest is for me. Youngest is now approaching a girls size 16 because of her long legs. Most kids stores go up to 14 and I'm not sure what the equivalent to a 16 is in juniors. I'll have to find out.
Any way, the day went well and other than hubby forgetting his cell phone and me waking up at 1:45AM to the sounds of police sirens (his ring tone for his police dispatcher buddy) life is good. Today is back to work.
Monday, January 5, 2009
My art journal
I can't figure out how to rotate the pictures yet, but you get the idea of what I've been up to.
Gone to a Good Home (I hope)
Zanny is gone. Bio got a dog a while back and the kids named it Zanny. It is a cross between a chihuahua and who knows what. She is full of way to much energy to be cooped up in an apartment. I think bio got her because youngest kept asking for a dog and really had no reason to visit bio. Well, she explained to the kids that if and when she does move (because the eviction finally happened) that she can't take the dog. Why can't she ever tell the truth and say she can't afford the dog. It always has to be some one's fault - she never takes responsibility for her actions (or lack there of). So, Zanny went to a sister of a friend. Hopefully to a really good home this time where she has room to run and play.
The unregistered car is moved again. Since the apartment building was sold and the new owner insisted bio pay rent (go figure) she has not been allowed to park in the driveway. It's a six apartment house and the driveway fits two cars. He put all the trash and recycling cans in the drive. When the weather was good she took her chances and parked on the street. When the weather turned bad she moved to the commuter lot a short walk from the apartment. But, now that the police are starting to take notice she has moved it to Kmart's parking lot. This is a couple miles a way from the apartment. Oooh, just how I want to live. NOT!!! Dan brought the kids home.
I didn't work on my art journal yesterday even though the paint was dry. I paint - I'll have to take pictures - my kindergarten teacher would be proud. Any way, the latest creation is a work in yellow. I pulled out my yellows and painted stripes of yellow on the page from light to gold and orange. Now, I have a background for my collage. My collages are mostly cool quotes I've pulled out of magazines over time and just had stacked in a pile.
I did make soap with a friend. She gifted me with a jar of orange blossom lotion. I showed her my first attempt. Not bad. We compared notes and are going to get together at her house to make lotion. We discussed the International Herb Fest and our desire to attend. After checking with her hubby she has decided she is going and he is not. So, I have a roommate. Because when I told my Hubby (who definitely had no desire to go) said money was no problem and I could go. I think he just likes seeing how excited I get. He does get a gold star no matter what his motive. Plus he folded the laundry and hung my pictures for me.
The unregistered car is moved again. Since the apartment building was sold and the new owner insisted bio pay rent (go figure) she has not been allowed to park in the driveway. It's a six apartment house and the driveway fits two cars. He put all the trash and recycling cans in the drive. When the weather was good she took her chances and parked on the street. When the weather turned bad she moved to the commuter lot a short walk from the apartment. But, now that the police are starting to take notice she has moved it to Kmart's parking lot. This is a couple miles a way from the apartment. Oooh, just how I want to live. NOT!!! Dan brought the kids home.
I didn't work on my art journal yesterday even though the paint was dry. I paint - I'll have to take pictures - my kindergarten teacher would be proud. Any way, the latest creation is a work in yellow. I pulled out my yellows and painted stripes of yellow on the page from light to gold and orange. Now, I have a background for my collage. My collages are mostly cool quotes I've pulled out of magazines over time and just had stacked in a pile.
I did make soap with a friend. She gifted me with a jar of orange blossom lotion. I showed her my first attempt. Not bad. We compared notes and are going to get together at her house to make lotion. We discussed the International Herb Fest and our desire to attend. After checking with her hubby she has decided she is going and he is not. So, I have a roommate. Because when I told my Hubby (who definitely had no desire to go) said money was no problem and I could go. I think he just likes seeing how excited I get. He does get a gold star no matter what his motive. Plus he folded the laundry and hung my pictures for me.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Relaxing Week End
Completed the grocery shopping and hubby helped me unload the car and put stuff away. When you have a family of five and shop every two weeks this is a project. One I confess I really enjoy.
I spent the afternoon reading, painting and cooking. How much better can you get than that? Hubby went to the hobbie store and found more models to work on.
I love the lotion. It needs some tweaking for next time but, I love it. I dribbled a tiny bit of lavender essential oil in but, it smells faintly of coconut from the oil and a hint of the sweet almond oil.
Today a friend is joining me to make a new batch of soap. I haven't bought the essential oils yet so, I'm not sure what "flavor" they will be yet. I have one batch of moisturizing soap made for hubby so this will have clay in it for me and the kids.
And tonight I am going to play with the cedar sheet wraps I found and make cedar smoked salmon for me and shrimp for hubby.
I spent the afternoon reading, painting and cooking. How much better can you get than that? Hubby went to the hobbie store and found more models to work on.
I love the lotion. It needs some tweaking for next time but, I love it. I dribbled a tiny bit of lavender essential oil in but, it smells faintly of coconut from the oil and a hint of the sweet almond oil.
Today a friend is joining me to make a new batch of soap. I haven't bought the essential oils yet so, I'm not sure what "flavor" they will be yet. I have one batch of moisturizing soap made for hubby so this will have clay in it for me and the kids.
And tonight I am going to play with the cedar sheet wraps I found and make cedar smoked salmon for me and shrimp for hubby.
Saturday, January 3, 2009
lotion
I said I would do it and I did. I made my first batch of lotion yesterday. When we took the kids shopping I had hubby stop at the health food store so I could stock up on supplies. I mixed the oils and the water separately and put them both in my basement office to cool and come to the same temperature. Later I whipped the oil and drizzled in the water mixture and - it worked. I'm so excited!
Bio has not registered her car. We told her the kids were not allowed in it until it was registered. While we were taking the kids out to lunch yesterday afternoon (to make sure they had one good meal before the week end) she called oldest to see if we were dropping the kids off to her. NO!!!! First, she should be calling hubby and not putting the kids in the middle. Second, it is not our responsibility to transport them. She is an adult (chronologically only) and should be responsible enough to make sure she can get her kids. That means at 2 in the afternoon she had not made arrangements yet to pick the kids up at 3:30. Dan to the rescue again. He is an older gentleman that lives across the street from her. He drove her over to pick up the kids. This should get old pretty quick, after all she has to bring them back as well. Of course all this meant we had to explain what registering a car means and why they are not allowed in her car.
This morning I went through holiday totes and made a pile of stuff to go. Then I packed up the ornaments, the tree and all the decorations. I vacuumed and moved the furniture back. Ah, it feels lighter already. I'm on my second load of laundry and walked 2 miles. Hubby is still sleeping. After being up for some 24 plus hours he usually sleeps late his first night home. Sammy's been fed and let out and I will have to start remembering to take her collar off at night. Today is grocery shopping day. And that is all I have to do today. Yeah!
Bio has not registered her car. We told her the kids were not allowed in it until it was registered. While we were taking the kids out to lunch yesterday afternoon (to make sure they had one good meal before the week end) she called oldest to see if we were dropping the kids off to her. NO!!!! First, she should be calling hubby and not putting the kids in the middle. Second, it is not our responsibility to transport them. She is an adult (chronologically only) and should be responsible enough to make sure she can get her kids. That means at 2 in the afternoon she had not made arrangements yet to pick the kids up at 3:30. Dan to the rescue again. He is an older gentleman that lives across the street from her. He drove her over to pick up the kids. This should get old pretty quick, after all she has to bring them back as well. Of course all this meant we had to explain what registering a car means and why they are not allowed in her car.
This morning I went through holiday totes and made a pile of stuff to go. Then I packed up the ornaments, the tree and all the decorations. I vacuumed and moved the furniture back. Ah, it feels lighter already. I'm on my second load of laundry and walked 2 miles. Hubby is still sleeping. After being up for some 24 plus hours he usually sleeps late his first night home. Sammy's been fed and let out and I will have to start remembering to take her collar off at night. Today is grocery shopping day. And that is all I have to do today. Yeah!
Friday, January 2, 2009
Poor Sammy
I was up way past my bedtime last night - energized by my two mile walk in the morning and laughing until I cried with friends at Pagan studies. I fell asleep reading Collage Journeys - inspiration for my art journal. I've been playing with different paints I have around the house. It's been fun.
This morning I was trying to sleep in - something I rarely do. First storm trooper son was marching above my head. His bedroom is above mine. Then instead of feeding the dog, Sammy, who was jumping to the ceiling trying to get his attention he went down to the play room to watch TV. Sammy tried again with youngest to no avail. Her tags clanging against each other and her jumping apparently means nothing. I'm almost always the first one up so I feed her and let her out. Knowing that sleeping in was out I got up and made the kids take care of Sammy. I then started breakfast - cheddar buttermilk biscuits and sausage gravy. I found a new biscuit recipe and they come out flaky and buttery and oooh so yummy. Hubby walked in at this point and I nearly bit his head off over a simple question. I apologised as I was still annoyed with the kids and his timing was all off. So, at breakfast I asked if we should give the dog away or have her put to sleep (neither one is really an option)? That got the kids' attention. They are now scrubbing their bathroom while hubby takes a nap. Then we will take them shopping as their gift cards are burning a hole in their pockets. Well, mainly youngest's but after holiday shopping they all find fun.
This morning I was trying to sleep in - something I rarely do. First storm trooper son was marching above my head. His bedroom is above mine. Then instead of feeding the dog, Sammy, who was jumping to the ceiling trying to get his attention he went down to the play room to watch TV. Sammy tried again with youngest to no avail. Her tags clanging against each other and her jumping apparently means nothing. I'm almost always the first one up so I feed her and let her out. Knowing that sleeping in was out I got up and made the kids take care of Sammy. I then started breakfast - cheddar buttermilk biscuits and sausage gravy. I found a new biscuit recipe and they come out flaky and buttery and oooh so yummy. Hubby walked in at this point and I nearly bit his head off over a simple question. I apologised as I was still annoyed with the kids and his timing was all off. So, at breakfast I asked if we should give the dog away or have her put to sleep (neither one is really an option)? That got the kids' attention. They are now scrubbing their bathroom while hubby takes a nap. Then we will take them shopping as their gift cards are burning a hole in their pockets. Well, mainly youngest's but after holiday shopping they all find fun.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
100 things to give away
Check out Crazed Mind for her 100 things give a way to celebrate her 100th blog post. And her new year's breakfast is making my mouth water. Yummy!
New Year's Day
How to start a new year off. Hmmm! This year I did it the way I wanted with a good nights sleep. And for me that means before midnight. Hubby and I picked the kids up from bio's and stopped at a "party" of a friend. We had pizza and munchies, visited with a few good friends and played games with the kids. We left at 9:30 after some awesome cheesecake so hubby could get ready for work.
This morning I made baked oatmeal filled with lots of fruit and molasses instead of sugar. I pulled a ham bone out of the freezer and put it in the crock pot with all kinds of veggies and beans for soup. At a warm 14 degrees, it's a soup kind of day. I say warm because it was 6 degrees when I awoke this morning. House is vacuumed, bathroom cleaned and laundry started. Holiday decorations are gathered in one location to be put away. I plan to go through totes and eliminate things before putting things back. This will go much smoother when youngest is not home so, that will wait until Saturday. And after breakfast settled a little and hubby stopped hogging the tread mill I logged two miles. This afternoon I will work on my new art journal, get my hair cut and head to pagan musings to discuss paradox.
I don't make New Year resolutions. I do take stock of where I've been, what's worked, what hasn't and set goals to adjust course. This past year I've been living healthier. Eating better, exercising more and stressing less. Some things have worked well and some need to be tweaked. This is an on going process. I do feel better than I did last year at this time. I'm moving more and have more energy. Most people think I'm a ball of energy but that's because I'm falling in bed by 8 every night. I put youngest to bed so I can go to bed. So, the goal is to continue paying attention to my body and what it needs. It has served me well and I want to do what I can to help it continue to serve me well.
I feel really blessed. I have a wonderful husband who loves me, supports me and pampers me. He lets me be me which is the greatest gift. And he clears the way so that can happen. I have great kids. They are healthy, caring and finding their wings. I have the best friends. Friends that I could call day or night and they would be there. My parents are happy, healthy and traveling to their hearts content. They are there if I need them and at this point in their life they are enjoying it and don't need me to take care of them. I hope they enjoy many, many years of this. I have the best in-laws(loves) anyone could ever ask for. And I have a job where I pick the days and hours I'll be in. I always said my job paid for my life and wasn't my life and now, I'm in a position to fit it into that life.
This morning I made baked oatmeal filled with lots of fruit and molasses instead of sugar. I pulled a ham bone out of the freezer and put it in the crock pot with all kinds of veggies and beans for soup. At a warm 14 degrees, it's a soup kind of day. I say warm because it was 6 degrees when I awoke this morning. House is vacuumed, bathroom cleaned and laundry started. Holiday decorations are gathered in one location to be put away. I plan to go through totes and eliminate things before putting things back. This will go much smoother when youngest is not home so, that will wait until Saturday. And after breakfast settled a little and hubby stopped hogging the tread mill I logged two miles. This afternoon I will work on my new art journal, get my hair cut and head to pagan musings to discuss paradox.
I don't make New Year resolutions. I do take stock of where I've been, what's worked, what hasn't and set goals to adjust course. This past year I've been living healthier. Eating better, exercising more and stressing less. Some things have worked well and some need to be tweaked. This is an on going process. I do feel better than I did last year at this time. I'm moving more and have more energy. Most people think I'm a ball of energy but that's because I'm falling in bed by 8 every night. I put youngest to bed so I can go to bed. So, the goal is to continue paying attention to my body and what it needs. It has served me well and I want to do what I can to help it continue to serve me well.
I feel really blessed. I have a wonderful husband who loves me, supports me and pampers me. He lets me be me which is the greatest gift. And he clears the way so that can happen. I have great kids. They are healthy, caring and finding their wings. I have the best friends. Friends that I could call day or night and they would be there. My parents are happy, healthy and traveling to their hearts content. They are there if I need them and at this point in their life they are enjoying it and don't need me to take care of them. I hope they enjoy many, many years of this. I have the best in-laws(loves) anyone could ever ask for. And I have a job where I pick the days and hours I'll be in. I always said my job paid for my life and wasn't my life and now, I'm in a position to fit it into that life.
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