This past weekend, Beauty had one of her most dramatic melt-downs EVER.
My Honey was kind enough to take the kids out for a fast-food lunch. Not only that, but Mr. Nice Guy took them each to their own drive thru. Yeah...Pooper wanted Der Weinerschnitzel, so, that's where they went, and in addition to his dog, daddy let him get chili cheese fries too. Then Beauty wanted El Pollo Loco, so, My Honey drove on over to that place and got her lunch, and A CHURRO. He also ordered a churro for Pooper, because, he's the world's greatest dad.
Now,let me just say...the fact that they got to pick their own fast-food joint, AND got to eat chili cheese fries and churros, well, those were special things.
So, I would have expected my kids to come home just beaming with joy and gratefulness, really.
But, Beauty, instead, went into a crying, body-heaving, screaming, gasping for air, nobody-can-even-understand-what-she-is-saying meltdown. 500 degrees fahrenheit, meltdown.
My Honey was dumbfounded, he couldnt figure out why in the world she was upset. He had given her exactly what she asked for, above and beyond the norm, and she was not happy.
I explained to him, this thing called being spoiled. being jealous. never being satisfied.
I called Beauty over, and tried to understand her words through the gasping for air and tears. It seems, that she was troubled, that Pooper got a "special" food at his restaurant "chili cheese fries"....and.....
and...Daddy said, You got a special thing too, I got you a churro.
yes, but daddy also got Pooper a churro....from Beauty's restaurant, and he didnt get anything special for Beauty from Pooper's restaurant.
Are you following me? It's pathetic!
I took her churro away, determined that she would not have it, unless she could be thankful (*I* never buy them churros...this was a treat!)
I went through the whole she-bang about being grateful, a few times. She did a time out in her room to "think about it"....a couple time outs. Finally, we thought she got it.
Wrong-O!
I gave her back her churro, and as she walked away, she mumbled....through a re-emergence of tears and whining, "Pooper got a churro AND cheese fries!"
And that, was the end of my patience. I then went into my spiel on our Colombian family, who AT BEST, get to eat churro crumbs (from someone else) off the sidewalk, and there was no way I was going to let her eat a churro, for which, she was so ungrateful.
And then, being a good mother, ready to teach every possible honorable lesson, I ate the churro.
This morning, it wasnt churros, or chili cheese fries, no, it was SMENCILS.
My kids attended one of life's most-fun birthday parties yesterday. It was the birthday of one of Pooper's wives. The daughter of my "anonymous" neighbor, Jane
It was at a neighborhood swimming pool, with an Olympic theme, because, you see, my one-day-daughter-in-law is of Olympic Swimming caliber, and at the ripe old age of, Just turned 7, she already has serious aspirations to make it to the games. and she probably will. she is THAT good!
Anyhoo...so, swimming, water balloons, fun relay races, food, etc. and the cherry on top....the gift bag.
The gift bag contained, amongst other goodies, a SMENCIL.
For those out of the loop, a Smencil is a pencil that smells.
This morning, I thought we were having a home-invasion-robbery, what with all the screaming and commotion, but in actuality, it was just Pooper and Beauty arguing over a smencil.
Beauty had the chocolate scented pencil in her bag, Pooper had grape. and they TRADED. And then, naturally, Beauty wanted to trade back.
This caused Pooper great distress, because, as he put it, Beauty had allowed Little One to hold the smencil (in a plastic container) and Little One had "slobbered all over it"...so now, he didnt want it back.
The truth is, Little One held it, within it's protective container, and their was no slobbering, no moisture, nothing. He just didnt want to trade back.
And, while I normally wouldnt allow "trade backs"....I actually dont even allow "trades" AT ALL (can you see why??) and so I simply nullified the illegal trade.
Well, Pooper became incensed (pun intended) and went on the crazy rampage, OVER A SMENCIL.
I pulled him close, and said as calmly as possibe;
Son, you are losing your mind over a fruity smelling pencil. A PENCIL. A PENCIL!
I want you to think just for a minute, about your Colombian brother. Can you imagine him fighting over a PENCIL? He has more serious worries, like, who in the family will get the ONE BLANKET, when they are sleeping out in the snowy streets. That's what HE is worried about, while you fight over a PENCIL.
I mean, really, Pooper was so out of control over this....it was unbelievable.
Naturally, the smencil is now in my possession, as I have vowed to mail it to Colombia.
On a side note, Beauty asked me yesterday.....while looking at the picture of her Colombian sister on our refrigerator.....
Mom, if they dont have anything, how could they have taken that picture because they dont even have a camera?
Excuse me now, while I go take a bubble bath (ha! fat chance!)....instead Ill just curl up in the corner and sniff myself into calmness, with a grape flavored pencil under my nose.
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Awwww Shucks
A huge thanks to JLo-Almost Famous for caring enough to award me this:
We are like lost twin sisters that have been reunited through the internet....ok, not really, but we do have a lot in common.
Most of you know, that Im a USC Trojan, mostly because I flaunt it all football season, when they are kicking everyone's rear...FIGHT ON!
But, before I was a Trojan, I was an SDSU Aztec, and lived in Olmeca Hall.....
Well, talk about a small world, and about the internet bringing people together (thank you AlGore), JLo also went to SDSU and lived in Olmeca Hall. In fact, I would guess, that she also ate Albertos in the middle on the night, skipped classes to go to Monty's and danced at a DU TG...JUST GUESSING! The only crazy thing, is that she went there about a decade after me, so, we never met, until the Super Highway of Information allowed our roads to cross :)
She is a really fun gal and her blog is always enjoyable to read....so, stop by and say, "hi"
Now, Im going to pass this award on to a blog that always shares the love.....
Marey at Elementl-p does a lot to give back to others, and her family and kindergarten-teacher stories are always fun.....so, here's to you Marey.
Now, the rest of you...go congratulate Marey.....and have a great day.
We are like lost twin sisters that have been reunited through the internet....ok, not really, but we do have a lot in common.
Most of you know, that Im a USC Trojan, mostly because I flaunt it all football season, when they are kicking everyone's rear...FIGHT ON!
But, before I was a Trojan, I was an SDSU Aztec, and lived in Olmeca Hall.....
Well, talk about a small world, and about the internet bringing people together (thank you AlGore), JLo also went to SDSU and lived in Olmeca Hall. In fact, I would guess, that she also ate Albertos in the middle on the night, skipped classes to go to Monty's and danced at a DU TG...JUST GUESSING! The only crazy thing, is that she went there about a decade after me, so, we never met, until the Super Highway of Information allowed our roads to cross :)
She is a really fun gal and her blog is always enjoyable to read....so, stop by and say, "hi"
Now, Im going to pass this award on to a blog that always shares the love.....
Marey at Elementl-p does a lot to give back to others, and her family and kindergarten-teacher stories are always fun.....so, here's to you Marey.
Now, the rest of you...go congratulate Marey.....and have a great day.
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Bracing for the storm
Im holding on to my hat, waiting for a storm....a good storm....a storm of interested callers.
A typical Saturday morning in our house, has the kids up and making lots of noise by 7am. They are squeeling in delight as they push each other around the hardwood floor racetrack....driving Little One's baby trike or some other push toy. Laughing until someone gets hurt, then their is all kinds of crying. They have Disney Channel on full blast, until someone wants to change the channel, and then another fight ensues.
All the while, Im laying in bed, nowhere near sleeping, but too tired to get up and deal with the circus below.
Eventually My Honey, a morning person, goes down and tells the kids to put on some clothes (you should see the mismatching that goes on without Mommy to pick out their outfits!) and they all troddle off to McDonalds.
It's somewhat of a routine. And, it's not like I get to sleep in, but I do get to lay there and let my mind drift back to the olden days, when I could sleep in til 10am. Oh....those days.
Anyways, today, I was laying there, and my phone rang.
Me: Hello
My Honey: (lots of loud, McDonald Playland, background noise) I hope you are ready for your phone to ring off the hook!
Me: What are you talking about?
My Honey: You are in page 6 of the paper!
**Recently an article about my Dove Chocolate business was in the local paper, and I got many calls...it was wonderful, and in fact, Ive been praying and thinking, hoping to get into more community papers, for other areas of Orange County***
Me: WHAT??? THE MAIN OC REGISTER?????
My Honey: Yep! Ive already had 3 people from work call me to tell me they saw the article in the paper.
Me: Yipppppeeeeee!!
It's still early, and most people wouldnt call someone this early.....but Im holding on to my hat, bracing for the storm of phone calls.
Im really excited, as this business is brand new (May 2008 for the Western 15 states)....and to be ground level with something like this is a gift, a blessing!
Besides that, the tasting parties are nothing but fun. Ive been inundated with requests for parties, doing at least a couple a week. The word is getting out that they are a blast. Imagine any other "at home" party, but instead of watching someone light candles, or tell you how to coordinate jewelry, I get to do a food demonstrations and the guests sample all kinds of Dove Chocolate treats!
So, Ive got my phone plugged in, charging, and praying that the storm hits big!
A typical Saturday morning in our house, has the kids up and making lots of noise by 7am. They are squeeling in delight as they push each other around the hardwood floor racetrack....driving Little One's baby trike or some other push toy. Laughing until someone gets hurt, then their is all kinds of crying. They have Disney Channel on full blast, until someone wants to change the channel, and then another fight ensues.
All the while, Im laying in bed, nowhere near sleeping, but too tired to get up and deal with the circus below.
Eventually My Honey, a morning person, goes down and tells the kids to put on some clothes (you should see the mismatching that goes on without Mommy to pick out their outfits!) and they all troddle off to McDonalds.
It's somewhat of a routine. And, it's not like I get to sleep in, but I do get to lay there and let my mind drift back to the olden days, when I could sleep in til 10am. Oh....those days.
Anyways, today, I was laying there, and my phone rang.
Me: Hello
My Honey: (lots of loud, McDonald Playland, background noise) I hope you are ready for your phone to ring off the hook!
Me: What are you talking about?
My Honey: You are in page 6 of the paper!
**Recently an article about my Dove Chocolate business was in the local paper, and I got many calls...it was wonderful, and in fact, Ive been praying and thinking, hoping to get into more community papers, for other areas of Orange County***
Me: WHAT??? THE MAIN OC REGISTER?????
My Honey: Yep! Ive already had 3 people from work call me to tell me they saw the article in the paper.
Me: Yipppppeeeeee!!
It's still early, and most people wouldnt call someone this early.....but Im holding on to my hat, bracing for the storm of phone calls.
Im really excited, as this business is brand new (May 2008 for the Western 15 states)....and to be ground level with something like this is a gift, a blessing!
Besides that, the tasting parties are nothing but fun. Ive been inundated with requests for parties, doing at least a couple a week. The word is getting out that they are a blast. Imagine any other "at home" party, but instead of watching someone light candles, or tell you how to coordinate jewelry, I get to do a food demonstrations and the guests sample all kinds of Dove Chocolate treats!
So, Ive got my phone plugged in, charging, and praying that the storm hits big!
Friday, August 1, 2008
Photo catch-up Friday
My IT guy worked overtime last night, and I have some new pictures to show you....
First, let's revisit the lesson on being grateful that I attempted to teach my children.
We got word that the Orange County Rescue Mission was in desperate need for food, so we held a food drive in our neighborhood, and ended up with 2 vans full of edible goods.
My kids decorated a donation box but we ended up getting so much more than that box could hold, it was really wonderful.
Our dear friends, E and N also joined in the fun, and we all went down to the Rescue Mission to deliver the goods.
The kids helped unload the food
They watched the men from the mission weigh the food
The Rescue Mission recently moved into the Old Tustin Marine Base, which was vacated about a decade ago. The men said the facilities are very nice, and they were grateful to be able to have a place to stay, with food, a medical clinic on grounds, and even help getting education and jobs.
And yes, for the record, the guys at the RM did think I was a wacko for taking pictures of everything.
After dropping off the food, we went and got some sandwiches, where my hearts-filled-with-gratitude children complained about their lunches.
**********************************
Beauty and Pooper had their final league swim meet last week, and here are some action shots for you to enjoy....
Beauty doing backstroke
Pooper doing butterfly
**************************************
Finally, a certain, special, sweetie turned 2 this week, and we had a small celebration on Saturday.
Here she is trying to blow out the candle on her Elmo cake
And in deep thought over what it means to turn 2
I recently posted about Cousins and our lack of cousins in the area. What I didnt tell you, is that even though my kids dont have cousins here, I do. So, we celebrated with MY cousins, who are now having little kidlets of their own (literally, as one little baby is 4 days overdue as I type this!)
Here are the kids with their 2nd cousin, Baby P
And we are awaiting the arrival of Baby S (hurry up Baby S!!)
Uncle Dan is getting ready to be a little girls dad (hurry up Baby S!!!)
And here is Elise with her one and only and longest friend.....
We had hoped to round out the celebration with a trip to see Elmo at Sea World on Monday, but Beauty was sick, so that trip will be rescheduled.
Now that I have all my photos, Im off to scrapbooking tonight!! Yippeeee!!
First, let's revisit the lesson on being grateful that I attempted to teach my children.
We got word that the Orange County Rescue Mission was in desperate need for food, so we held a food drive in our neighborhood, and ended up with 2 vans full of edible goods.
My kids decorated a donation box but we ended up getting so much more than that box could hold, it was really wonderful.
Our dear friends, E and N also joined in the fun, and we all went down to the Rescue Mission to deliver the goods.
The kids helped unload the food
They watched the men from the mission weigh the food
The Rescue Mission recently moved into the Old Tustin Marine Base, which was vacated about a decade ago. The men said the facilities are very nice, and they were grateful to be able to have a place to stay, with food, a medical clinic on grounds, and even help getting education and jobs.
And yes, for the record, the guys at the RM did think I was a wacko for taking pictures of everything.
After dropping off the food, we went and got some sandwiches, where my hearts-filled-with-gratitude children complained about their lunches.
**********************************
Beauty and Pooper had their final league swim meet last week, and here are some action shots for you to enjoy....
Beauty doing backstroke
Pooper doing butterfly
**************************************
Finally, a certain, special, sweetie turned 2 this week, and we had a small celebration on Saturday.
Here she is trying to blow out the candle on her Elmo cake
And in deep thought over what it means to turn 2
I recently posted about Cousins and our lack of cousins in the area. What I didnt tell you, is that even though my kids dont have cousins here, I do. So, we celebrated with MY cousins, who are now having little kidlets of their own (literally, as one little baby is 4 days overdue as I type this!)
Here are the kids with their 2nd cousin, Baby P
And we are awaiting the arrival of Baby S (hurry up Baby S!!)
Uncle Dan is getting ready to be a little girls dad (hurry up Baby S!!!)
And here is Elise with her one and only and longest friend.....
We had hoped to round out the celebration with a trip to see Elmo at Sea World on Monday, but Beauty was sick, so that trip will be rescheduled.
Now that I have all my photos, Im off to scrapbooking tonight!! Yippeeee!!
Thursday, July 31, 2008
The Morning Read
As you know, Im a news junkie. I waste my time reading the papers and watching the news on TV, even though it's probably not good for me to learn about all the vile, hateful things going on in the world. Most days, the news is filled with crime, war, and abuse, and for somer reason, my fascination with human behavior keeps me reading.
Today, however, I stumbled upon a few stories that were a little off beat. One is so ridiculous, that I decided to share it with you, and the other sounds rather tempting (maybe Ill do it!) ....see if you can guess which one is which!
Our first story, is about a scientific study by NASA, and they are looking for regular folks to help out. You get paid $17,000 to STAY IN BED FOR 3 MONTHS. I know, The headline alone had me ready to pack my bags and fly to the space station in Texas, and then I read this, and I quote, "They can shower, surf the Internet and watch DVDs, all while remaining in bed." Um, hello.....how quick can I get a plane ticket? I mean, I realize it would be a sacrifice, and Im so obsessed with my daily workout routine at the gym, that it would be tough to give that up...but for science and the wellbeing of mankind, space exploration, etc. I think I could do it.....I mean, you know, I could FORCE myself to stay in bed, surfing the web, blogging, watching TV, sleeping, reading, and sacrificing my body for space....for $17,000, because, Im a good citizen like that. I think a few of you might enjoy this kind of "job" for a while..so, if you are interested, you can read more about it here
The other story, well, it really epitomizes how fake, superficial and sexual our society has become. It's about the popular trend of getting, ...wait for it.... "designer vaginas". Yeah, I know. and, no, it's not like it's going to have a Gucci label, and, apparently, it's not just for porn stars and other such folks that have cameras pointing at their VA- Jay-Jays (sorry JJ the dog!)...it's becoming common amongst "regular folks" and, as things go, apparently, there have been some "complications" as in, surgeries not going so well.....so now, the medical association is discouraging these surgeries.
Now, I realize Im biased, because I think even botox is extreme (yes, call me crazy, but injecting damaging, cell killing bacteria into one's face seems like, not the brightest idea to me.) And, all the boob jobs and such, I think people are better left with what God gave them...but, that's me, and I realize Im in the minority. But, come on, "designer vaginas" ????? People pay (on average) $10,000 for THAT?????? For those of you that want to learn more (and Im sure it's just for the intrigue, not that you actually want one....) you can read about it here.
So, now I think Ill go apply for that important space job, and hey, with the $17,000 I earn, maybe I can get a new Louis Vutton!
***AND, in case anyone thought I was crazy for (begging) wanting a sponsored trip to BEACHES (the resort with Sesame Street characters), in exchange for blogging about our adventure..... Bossy is currently on a sponsored vacation....yeah, she is! ****
Today, however, I stumbled upon a few stories that were a little off beat. One is so ridiculous, that I decided to share it with you, and the other sounds rather tempting (maybe Ill do it!) ....see if you can guess which one is which!
Our first story, is about a scientific study by NASA, and they are looking for regular folks to help out. You get paid $17,000 to STAY IN BED FOR 3 MONTHS. I know, The headline alone had me ready to pack my bags and fly to the space station in Texas, and then I read this, and I quote, "They can shower, surf the Internet and watch DVDs, all while remaining in bed." Um, hello.....how quick can I get a plane ticket? I mean, I realize it would be a sacrifice, and Im so obsessed with my daily workout routine at the gym, that it would be tough to give that up...but for science and the wellbeing of mankind, space exploration, etc. I think I could do it.....I mean, you know, I could FORCE myself to stay in bed, surfing the web, blogging, watching TV, sleeping, reading, and sacrificing my body for space....for $17,000, because, Im a good citizen like that. I think a few of you might enjoy this kind of "job" for a while..so, if you are interested, you can read more about it here
The other story, well, it really epitomizes how fake, superficial and sexual our society has become. It's about the popular trend of getting, ...wait for it.... "designer vaginas". Yeah, I know. and, no, it's not like it's going to have a Gucci label, and, apparently, it's not just for porn stars and other such folks that have cameras pointing at their VA- Jay-Jays (sorry JJ the dog!)...it's becoming common amongst "regular folks" and, as things go, apparently, there have been some "complications" as in, surgeries not going so well.....so now, the medical association is discouraging these surgeries.
Now, I realize Im biased, because I think even botox is extreme (yes, call me crazy, but injecting damaging, cell killing bacteria into one's face seems like, not the brightest idea to me.) And, all the boob jobs and such, I think people are better left with what God gave them...but, that's me, and I realize Im in the minority. But, come on, "designer vaginas" ????? People pay (on average) $10,000 for THAT?????? For those of you that want to learn more (and Im sure it's just for the intrigue, not that you actually want one....) you can read about it here.
So, now I think Ill go apply for that important space job, and hey, with the $17,000 I earn, maybe I can get a new Louis Vutton!
***AND, in case anyone thought I was crazy for (begging) wanting a sponsored trip to BEACHES (the resort with Sesame Street characters), in exchange for blogging about our adventure..... Bossy is currently on a sponsored vacation....yeah, she is! ****
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Happy Birthday Little One
As I sit here, reflecting on your birth, just two years ago, I remember how impatient I was to meet you. And, let's be honest, impatient to just have you off my sciatic nerve!
I confess, Im not very good at being pregnant. I asked my ob, Dr. Melky, if I was his worst patient, and he didnt answer! I told him, "We are all good at different things, we all have our strengths, and it's just fine with me if Im not getting any awards for being the best-pregnant-person award." So what if I didnt wear yoga pants rolled down below my belly, and do pilates everyday. There's no shame in being so unable to walk, that you have to drive in the handi-motorized cart in the grocery store....so what!
I remember clearly, my Dr's appt on 7-26-06. Daddy came in with me, because I told him, that I was going to DEMAND that I give birth immediately, I just couldnt take it (it being incredible pain and suffering) any longer.
While on the table in the Dr's office, I begged Dr. Melky to take you out. He reminded me (again) that the hospital is strict on the 2 week policy, and since I was still more than 2 weeks away from my due date, the hospital wouldnt allow a planned c-section. He did, however, mention that we could always do an amnio, to see if your lungs were developed, and if they were, we could do the c-section on Friday (2 weeks and 2 days before your due date.)
I am so darned afraid of needles, and despite being of "advanced maternal age" for all 3 pregnancies, had never had an amnio before.....
As I mulled it over in my mind....wondering which would be more torturous, a giant needle piercing deep into my belly, or another week of pregnancy.....
Daddy and Dr. Melky had THE NERVE to tell me, that to have the baby early, was SELFISH....
Selfish? I asked....Selfish? when was the last time either of them had someone pinch their sciatic nerve for 10 months straight.....and make them vomit everyday.....and throw their pelvis out of wake, and make them burp and have extreme heartburn......and, let's not forget that I had 2 SHOTS A DAY, FOR THE ENTIRE PREGNANCY, IN MY STOMACH (to prevent miscarrying.)
Selfish??? really????
I opted for the amnio.
The next morning, Thursday the 27th, I had the big needle...OUCH!!
That afternoon, I received the word, that you were fine and ready to come out.
Friday morning, I went to the hospital for my c-section, and shortly thereafter,
YOU, my Little One, my Patty Pat Pat, my Precious, was born.
You were so sweet, and Pooper and Beauty couldnt wait to be with you.
You were a smiley one from the beginning
And early on, you were ready to GO! GO! GO!
Last year you turned one....
and it's hard to believe, that another year has passed.
You have ridden a pony....
Moved into a toddler bed (although, you have since moved into a twin bed.)
and enjoyed many exciting excursions, such as our visit to the Rose Parade floats...
You have achieved many milestones, are always chatty, adventurous and independent.
We are so happy to have you in our lives Little One, and wish you a
HAPPY 2nd BIRTHDAY!!
I confess, Im not very good at being pregnant. I asked my ob, Dr. Melky, if I was his worst patient, and he didnt answer! I told him, "We are all good at different things, we all have our strengths, and it's just fine with me if Im not getting any awards for being the best-pregnant-person award." So what if I didnt wear yoga pants rolled down below my belly, and do pilates everyday. There's no shame in being so unable to walk, that you have to drive in the handi-motorized cart in the grocery store....so what!
I remember clearly, my Dr's appt on 7-26-06. Daddy came in with me, because I told him, that I was going to DEMAND that I give birth immediately, I just couldnt take it (it being incredible pain and suffering) any longer.
While on the table in the Dr's office, I begged Dr. Melky to take you out. He reminded me (again) that the hospital is strict on the 2 week policy, and since I was still more than 2 weeks away from my due date, the hospital wouldnt allow a planned c-section. He did, however, mention that we could always do an amnio, to see if your lungs were developed, and if they were, we could do the c-section on Friday (2 weeks and 2 days before your due date.)
I am so darned afraid of needles, and despite being of "advanced maternal age" for all 3 pregnancies, had never had an amnio before.....
As I mulled it over in my mind....wondering which would be more torturous, a giant needle piercing deep into my belly, or another week of pregnancy.....
Daddy and Dr. Melky had THE NERVE to tell me, that to have the baby early, was SELFISH....
Selfish? I asked....Selfish? when was the last time either of them had someone pinch their sciatic nerve for 10 months straight.....and make them vomit everyday.....and throw their pelvis out of wake, and make them burp and have extreme heartburn......and, let's not forget that I had 2 SHOTS A DAY, FOR THE ENTIRE PREGNANCY, IN MY STOMACH (to prevent miscarrying.)
Selfish??? really????
I opted for the amnio.
The next morning, Thursday the 27th, I had the big needle...OUCH!!
That afternoon, I received the word, that you were fine and ready to come out.
Friday morning, I went to the hospital for my c-section, and shortly thereafter,
YOU, my Little One, my Patty Pat Pat, my Precious, was born.
You were so sweet, and Pooper and Beauty couldnt wait to be with you.
You were a smiley one from the beginning
And early on, you were ready to GO! GO! GO!
Last year you turned one....
and it's hard to believe, that another year has passed.
You have ridden a pony....
Moved into a toddler bed (although, you have since moved into a twin bed.)
and enjoyed many exciting excursions, such as our visit to the Rose Parade floats...
You have achieved many milestones, are always chatty, adventurous and independent.
We are so happy to have you in our lives Little One, and wish you a
HAPPY 2nd BIRTHDAY!!
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Sham What the heck?
I just received a disturbing phone call...
A woman calls, laughing so hysterically, that all I can understand is,
LOL...Sham WOW....Sham Wow....LOL.....Site Meter...Sham Wow....LOL....My blog...Sham Wow....5000 hits this morning...Sham Wow....LOL
After getting her to SETTLE DOWN, Grandma J goes on to tell me that her blog is being inundated with visitors (inundated meaning 5000 by 9:30 am) and they are primarily coming from Google searches of Sham Wow.
She tells me to Google "Sham Wow" and see what comes up, and sure enough, Ask Grandma J is the 3rd on the list.
Sham what the heck? Grandma J hasnt blogged about Sham Wow in some time!
I wonder what all those avid-car washing, infomercial-watching folks think when they stumble upon her sight and read about JJ the talking dog?
Gotta run, the kidlets are home...back from their Saturday morning fun-date with daddy at the local McDonalds playland. There must be new "happy meal" toys, because I can what sounds like a siren going off, and My Honey demanding that someone, "FOR THE LAST TIME, TURN THAT OFF!"
fun day ahead, will share later.
A woman calls, laughing so hysterically, that all I can understand is,
LOL...Sham WOW....Sham Wow....LOL.....Site Meter...Sham Wow....LOL....My blog...Sham Wow....5000 hits this morning...Sham Wow....LOL
After getting her to SETTLE DOWN, Grandma J goes on to tell me that her blog is being inundated with visitors (inundated meaning 5000 by 9:30 am) and they are primarily coming from Google searches of Sham Wow.
She tells me to Google "Sham Wow" and see what comes up, and sure enough, Ask Grandma J is the 3rd on the list.
Sham what the heck? Grandma J hasnt blogged about Sham Wow in some time!
I wonder what all those avid-car washing, infomercial-watching folks think when they stumble upon her sight and read about JJ the talking dog?
Gotta run, the kidlets are home...back from their Saturday morning fun-date with daddy at the local McDonalds playland. There must be new "happy meal" toys, because I can what sounds like a siren going off, and My Honey demanding that someone, "FOR THE LAST TIME, TURN THAT OFF!"
fun day ahead, will share later.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
I missed it, did you?
Season 5 of Project Runway started, and drats! I missed the premiere. I went and read all about the first episode at bravo online. You can read all the bios, see pictures of the first challenge "outfits" and more!
Austin Scarlet was the guest judge, and um, yeah, nice outfit Austin! At least he didnt come dressed as Little Bo Peep (remember that dress???) and let's not forget, he designed the wedding dress for the OC Housewife (Lauri) for her 32nd marriage! (ok, Im exaggerating, but did you see that wedding, with like crystals dripping from the trees? PUHLEEZE!)
Tim Gunn recapped the first challenge, which took place in....wait for it....a grocery store! He was annoyed that most "designers" went for the obvious, such as plastic table cloths....I guess he was looking for more of a coconut bikini???
Here is his accounting of the winners outfit: (taken from the Bravo Website, please dont sue me for plagerism!)
"Kelli WINS! This is, indeed, a great way to being the new season! Kelli created a short, A-line skirt out of vacuum cleaner bags that she bleached and dyed. She paired this with a corset top made out of muslin, the waistband of which was covered with gold thumbtacks and the bust was defined with burned coffee filters. Both garments were secured by using a spiral binding from a notebook as the closure, which was brilliantly executed. From a distance, there was no indicator that this look wasn't fresh from Fashion Week, which was precisely the goal of this challenge. Congratulations, Kelli!"
And, Ill just add, that this looks pretty good. Who would have thought?? Tres Chic!
For some, the grocery store did nothing to inspire the imagination....take for example, this little get-up, and dont forget to read the pain on the models face!
Jerry was AUT! He used a plastic table cloth and plastic shower curtain (ROFL) , and in Tim Gunn's words, she looked like she was going to, "dump chemical waste"...Ouch! Not fashionable!
If you go to the link above, you can see all the runway designs and even rate them, such fun!
For those like me, that missed episode 1, now we are all caught up and ready to roll!
PS. check out my updated, hot out of the microwave, blog roll!
Austin Scarlet was the guest judge, and um, yeah, nice outfit Austin! At least he didnt come dressed as Little Bo Peep (remember that dress???) and let's not forget, he designed the wedding dress for the OC Housewife (Lauri) for her 32nd marriage! (ok, Im exaggerating, but did you see that wedding, with like crystals dripping from the trees? PUHLEEZE!)
Tim Gunn recapped the first challenge, which took place in....wait for it....a grocery store! He was annoyed that most "designers" went for the obvious, such as plastic table cloths....I guess he was looking for more of a coconut bikini???
Here is his accounting of the winners outfit: (taken from the Bravo Website, please dont sue me for plagerism!)
"Kelli WINS! This is, indeed, a great way to being the new season! Kelli created a short, A-line skirt out of vacuum cleaner bags that she bleached and dyed. She paired this with a corset top made out of muslin, the waistband of which was covered with gold thumbtacks and the bust was defined with burned coffee filters. Both garments were secured by using a spiral binding from a notebook as the closure, which was brilliantly executed. From a distance, there was no indicator that this look wasn't fresh from Fashion Week, which was precisely the goal of this challenge. Congratulations, Kelli!"
And, Ill just add, that this looks pretty good. Who would have thought?? Tres Chic!
For some, the grocery store did nothing to inspire the imagination....take for example, this little get-up, and dont forget to read the pain on the models face!
Jerry was AUT! He used a plastic table cloth and plastic shower curtain (ROFL) , and in Tim Gunn's words, she looked like she was going to, "dump chemical waste"...Ouch! Not fashionable!
If you go to the link above, you can see all the runway designs and even rate them, such fun!
For those like me, that missed episode 1, now we are all caught up and ready to roll!
PS. check out my updated, hot out of the microwave, blog roll!
Friday, July 18, 2008
all I want is a stinkin vacation or, why Im not at BLOG HER 08
Here's the deal.
There's a major "blog conference" going on (my non-blogging friends are like, "heh??") But yeah, bloggers gather, sit around with their laptops (which, maybe were provided by their sponsors) and talk about blogging. I know, the excitement from just *thinking* about it has you squeeling!
Im not there, Im blogging from my "office", on the computer that frequently freezes up and says, "your computer is low on memory." And, I made the stupid mistake of dropping a bit of delicious "skin" from my extra-crispy piece of Kentucky Fried Chicken, and now their is an ANT CONFERENCE on my desk.
but, whatever.
Earlier, the Queen of blogging posted about the Blog Her conference, and she showed a picture, and mentioned the parties and "break out groups" and stuff....and, I got a teensy, tiny, tadly bit envious when she mentioned that the topic of one such group was, "how to make money from your blog."
Now, if you dont blog, you're eyes are rolling back in your head by now, and this is, understandably, of no interest to you.
But, if you are a blogger...probably you arent even at Blog Her 08, because if you were, you would be listening to some wildly popular blogger share their insights, rather than reading my little post.
Unless of course, maybe someone is having a "break out" group about me...yeah, a whole group reading my blog and talking about how clever and fancy I am, and how they should all aspire to be a blogger like me. Or, maybe using me as an example of what not to do, unless you want the same 4 readers...and that's it. Ok, they probably arent talking about me. They dont even KNOW me, although I did meet Bossy, and she's there, so 6 degrees of separation and all that......
Back to that break out group about making money from your blog. Um, Im gonna take a wild guess and say that the folks who would most benefit from that info....the folks that might most want to hear that....and glean some fabulous ideas, are NOT THE FOLKS IN ATTENDANCE.
Take, for example, that that gal whose husband quit his job, and the family's sole income source is her blog....PROBABLY, wild guess here, she has no need for that group.
Me on the other hand, well, ever since I met Bossy on her Excellent Adventure tour of the country...the one sponsored by a major auto manufacturer named SATURN, Um, I thought, hey, Id like to make enough money to go to Beaches with the kids.
Not to play the pity card or anything, especially since none of you own Beaches...or, I totally would purposely use the pity card...but we had planned to go to Beaches with Pooper and Beauty, but then he got cancer, and, let me just say, a 2.5 year old with cancer kinda ruins the family vacation plans.
But now, that he is doing well, and we have Little One, who is all up in a fatizzle about Elmo...we would like to go to Beaches...where the kids can frolick with the Sesame Street characters while I relax...IS THAT TOO MUCH TO ASK???
Anyhoo....bossy planted that "sponsorship" seed, and I thought, HEY, if I had a few more readers, maybe Sesame Street or Beaches could sponsor me, and I could blog about our family vacation. I mean, my kids are chalk full of blog fodder, trust me, it would be no different just because Big Bird was there.
So, point being, I would LOVE to know how to make some money, and earn our family a vacation, but Im not there, cause it takes money to get there (hello vicious circle of life!)
but if anyone is there, or is listening to some bootleg pod cast or whatever....and they happend to mention, "how to get Beaches to sponsor your family vacation by blogging about it" at that Blog Her conference....please let me know.
And, just to make sure to take Grandma J's advice, (because Im nothing if not the world's most obedient daughter)..Im gonna throw in some "high traffic" tags, to increase my readership, and get one step closer to a sponsored vacation...here goes....
bossy, pioneer woman, dooce, hannah montana, camp rock, global warming, obama, the price of gas
There's a major "blog conference" going on (my non-blogging friends are like, "heh??") But yeah, bloggers gather, sit around with their laptops (which, maybe were provided by their sponsors) and talk about blogging. I know, the excitement from just *thinking* about it has you squeeling!
Im not there, Im blogging from my "office", on the computer that frequently freezes up and says, "your computer is low on memory." And, I made the stupid mistake of dropping a bit of delicious "skin" from my extra-crispy piece of Kentucky Fried Chicken, and now their is an ANT CONFERENCE on my desk.
but, whatever.
Earlier, the Queen of blogging posted about the Blog Her conference, and she showed a picture, and mentioned the parties and "break out groups" and stuff....and, I got a teensy, tiny, tadly bit envious when she mentioned that the topic of one such group was, "how to make money from your blog."
Now, if you dont blog, you're eyes are rolling back in your head by now, and this is, understandably, of no interest to you.
But, if you are a blogger...probably you arent even at Blog Her 08, because if you were, you would be listening to some wildly popular blogger share their insights, rather than reading my little post.
Unless of course, maybe someone is having a "break out" group about me...yeah, a whole group reading my blog and talking about how clever and fancy I am, and how they should all aspire to be a blogger like me. Or, maybe using me as an example of what not to do, unless you want the same 4 readers...and that's it. Ok, they probably arent talking about me. They dont even KNOW me, although I did meet Bossy, and she's there, so 6 degrees of separation and all that......
Back to that break out group about making money from your blog. Um, Im gonna take a wild guess and say that the folks who would most benefit from that info....the folks that might most want to hear that....and glean some fabulous ideas, are NOT THE FOLKS IN ATTENDANCE.
Take, for example, that that gal whose husband quit his job, and the family's sole income source is her blog....PROBABLY, wild guess here, she has no need for that group.
Me on the other hand, well, ever since I met Bossy on her Excellent Adventure tour of the country...the one sponsored by a major auto manufacturer named SATURN, Um, I thought, hey, Id like to make enough money to go to Beaches with the kids.
Not to play the pity card or anything, especially since none of you own Beaches...or, I totally would purposely use the pity card...but we had planned to go to Beaches with Pooper and Beauty, but then he got cancer, and, let me just say, a 2.5 year old with cancer kinda ruins the family vacation plans.
But now, that he is doing well, and we have Little One, who is all up in a fatizzle about Elmo...we would like to go to Beaches...where the kids can frolick with the Sesame Street characters while I relax...IS THAT TOO MUCH TO ASK???
Anyhoo....bossy planted that "sponsorship" seed, and I thought, HEY, if I had a few more readers, maybe Sesame Street or Beaches could sponsor me, and I could blog about our family vacation. I mean, my kids are chalk full of blog fodder, trust me, it would be no different just because Big Bird was there.
So, point being, I would LOVE to know how to make some money, and earn our family a vacation, but Im not there, cause it takes money to get there (hello vicious circle of life!)
but if anyone is there, or is listening to some bootleg pod cast or whatever....and they happend to mention, "how to get Beaches to sponsor your family vacation by blogging about it" at that Blog Her conference....please let me know.
And, just to make sure to take Grandma J's advice, (because Im nothing if not the world's most obedient daughter)..Im gonna throw in some "high traffic" tags, to increase my readership, and get one step closer to a sponsored vacation...here goes....
bossy, pioneer woman, dooce, hannah montana, camp rock, global warming, obama, the price of gas
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Life Lessons
This morning I received an email from a friend, passing along the e-newsletter from the Orange County Rescue Mission. The Mission houses and feeds many needy people in Southern California, and during these difficulty economic times, they have more needy, and less donations coming in...which creates a problem.
The email asked for donations, primarily of food. I thought, "We can help, and it will be a great way to teach my children about giving back."
I sent an email to friends and neighbors, asking for donations. A neighborhood boutique offered to collect donations at their store, in addition to those left on my porch. The local paper is also going to run a brief article, encouraging people to donate.
I was feeling pleased about this little venture, happy to help, grateful that we have never had to go without.
I put a large, sturdy box on the porch, and in an effort to get the kids involved, I asked if they would decorate it. They both love to color and draw, and were excited about this craft.
We talked about the Rescue Mission, how lucky we are to always have food, and housing, and agreed that happy drawings would be a nice touch to the brown box.
Leaving the kids on the porch with the box, and their markers, I went back into the house, with a content feeling about our little task.
No sooner do I shut the door:
Pooper: STOP IT BEAUTY, THAT's MY SIDE
Beauty: NO POOPER, I HAD IT FIRST.
screaming and crying were already underway before I could even open the door. I stepped out onto the porch and they both went on to tell me that the other had taken their "side".
I calmly explained that the box had 4 sides, and that they could each have 2. And they pointed out that one of the sides has (a small spot of) writing on it, and of course, nobody wants THAT side. After a lesson about letting others choose first, and how God says, "The last will be first"....we seemingly had it resolved, with Pooper offering to take the side with writing.
Thankfully I have angelic children, that allowed me to go back inside while they decorated the box. Unfortunately, said scenario is only in my dreams.
Within minutes, Beauty was crying (aka screaming and howling). I went back out to the porch, and Pooper had blue marker streaks all over his arms. Apparently, she thought it would be a good idea to put blue flowers all over the box, his side included. He disagreed, and a fight ensued, including her threats to color his eyeballs with her blue marker and him hitting her.
What's a good mother to do, but sternly remind her children, that those kids at the rescue mission dont even have food or a house, let alone markers and a box to color. I bet they would be grateful to color any side of a box, even a side with writing, and would be so thankful to God, that they wouldnt then go and brawl over it. After threats to send my children to live at the rescue mission, they were sent to their rooms.
Im not sure if it's all the time spent together during summer (with no school), the heat wave, or just nature itself, but my kids can barely spend 2 minutes together without arguing over some small thing.
Im looking forward to actually taking them to the Rescue Mission, to deliver the donations, and to milking our visit for every possible life lesson.
The email asked for donations, primarily of food. I thought, "We can help, and it will be a great way to teach my children about giving back."
I sent an email to friends and neighbors, asking for donations. A neighborhood boutique offered to collect donations at their store, in addition to those left on my porch. The local paper is also going to run a brief article, encouraging people to donate.
I was feeling pleased about this little venture, happy to help, grateful that we have never had to go without.
I put a large, sturdy box on the porch, and in an effort to get the kids involved, I asked if they would decorate it. They both love to color and draw, and were excited about this craft.
We talked about the Rescue Mission, how lucky we are to always have food, and housing, and agreed that happy drawings would be a nice touch to the brown box.
Leaving the kids on the porch with the box, and their markers, I went back into the house, with a content feeling about our little task.
No sooner do I shut the door:
Pooper: STOP IT BEAUTY, THAT's MY SIDE
Beauty: NO POOPER, I HAD IT FIRST.
screaming and crying were already underway before I could even open the door. I stepped out onto the porch and they both went on to tell me that the other had taken their "side".
I calmly explained that the box had 4 sides, and that they could each have 2. And they pointed out that one of the sides has (a small spot of) writing on it, and of course, nobody wants THAT side. After a lesson about letting others choose first, and how God says, "The last will be first"....we seemingly had it resolved, with Pooper offering to take the side with writing.
Thankfully I have angelic children, that allowed me to go back inside while they decorated the box. Unfortunately, said scenario is only in my dreams.
Within minutes, Beauty was crying (aka screaming and howling). I went back out to the porch, and Pooper had blue marker streaks all over his arms. Apparently, she thought it would be a good idea to put blue flowers all over the box, his side included. He disagreed, and a fight ensued, including her threats to color his eyeballs with her blue marker and him hitting her.
What's a good mother to do, but sternly remind her children, that those kids at the rescue mission dont even have food or a house, let alone markers and a box to color. I bet they would be grateful to color any side of a box, even a side with writing, and would be so thankful to God, that they wouldnt then go and brawl over it. After threats to send my children to live at the rescue mission, they were sent to their rooms.
Im not sure if it's all the time spent together during summer (with no school), the heat wave, or just nature itself, but my kids can barely spend 2 minutes together without arguing over some small thing.
Im looking forward to actually taking them to the Rescue Mission, to deliver the donations, and to milking our visit for every possible life lesson.
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Cousins
During my childhood, I was smothered with familial interactions, with aunts, uncles and cousins. I had a large extended family, and many of Grandma J's siblings and their children lived nearby. So, I have a lot of memories of time spent with family.....
Take for example, the many bike rides, SHARING THE BANANA SEAT, that I took.....all while under the age of 5.....and the driver of the bike with the baby? None other than Beach Bum when she was barely a teen. and I wont even try to describe the craziness of such a bike ride to a farmers house, where he chased us off his property for stealing the pomegranites off his tree.....when I wasnt even 5! Or, Aunt Julianne taking me to high school with her, I think just to show me off and use me as a novelty to win over the new foriegn exchange student that she had a crush on....
Good times, but anyways, I wont share them all now.....
But, my children do not have many local relatives to hang out with, no cousins, or aunts and uncles to put them in harms way. Nope....we are our own little California family. (Aunt Julianne and her crew do live 30 minutes away, but now we are talking 2nd generation....)
So it was a special treat, this past week, when my kids got to enjoy the company of their Colorado Cousins. They were so wound up with anticipation, that I thought they might take flight. They bounced around the house for days, asking ...every few minutes....."how many more minutes until our cousins are here?" This went on FOR DAYS!
When they finally came together, it was a wonderful moment. My kids were all over their cousins, whom they hadnt seen in over a year.
We immediately took Pooper and Beauty to the water park with T and Z. Ill admit, that Little One was left out of a lot of the festivities....due in part to her serious committment to napping.
The Fantastic Four hung out, splashed around, and had a great time. Beauty in particular, could not keep her self from clinging to Z....and, honestly, Pooper wasnt much different witih T....the touchy-feely-ness that my kids enjoy was in full force with their cousins. And, I dont think the cousins minded the love and attention.
Later, the kids enjoyed a BBQ together, Little One, in particular...just look at that face!
By night, we did fun things like set ourselves aflame....just kidding, we roasted marshmallows and savored s'mores.
We also enjoyed a snuggly slumber party each night. (that black stuff is my hurried attempt to cover up Beauty's panties.)
The time together was brief, less than 48 hours. Not enough for my kids, not nearly enough time with their cousins.
The last morning, before my kids headed off to swim team, they all gathered together for their "til we meet again" exchange, and spent the next 10 minutes with a flurry of hugs and kisses, and more hugs and kisses.
Goodbye cousins, we missed you as soon as you drove away.
Take for example, the many bike rides, SHARING THE BANANA SEAT, that I took.....all while under the age of 5.....and the driver of the bike with the baby? None other than Beach Bum when she was barely a teen. and I wont even try to describe the craziness of such a bike ride to a farmers house, where he chased us off his property for stealing the pomegranites off his tree.....when I wasnt even 5! Or, Aunt Julianne taking me to high school with her, I think just to show me off and use me as a novelty to win over the new foriegn exchange student that she had a crush on....
Good times, but anyways, I wont share them all now.....
But, my children do not have many local relatives to hang out with, no cousins, or aunts and uncles to put them in harms way. Nope....we are our own little California family. (Aunt Julianne and her crew do live 30 minutes away, but now we are talking 2nd generation....)
So it was a special treat, this past week, when my kids got to enjoy the company of their Colorado Cousins. They were so wound up with anticipation, that I thought they might take flight. They bounced around the house for days, asking ...every few minutes....."how many more minutes until our cousins are here?" This went on FOR DAYS!
When they finally came together, it was a wonderful moment. My kids were all over their cousins, whom they hadnt seen in over a year.
We immediately took Pooper and Beauty to the water park with T and Z. Ill admit, that Little One was left out of a lot of the festivities....due in part to her serious committment to napping.
The Fantastic Four hung out, splashed around, and had a great time. Beauty in particular, could not keep her self from clinging to Z....and, honestly, Pooper wasnt much different witih T....the touchy-feely-ness that my kids enjoy was in full force with their cousins. And, I dont think the cousins minded the love and attention.
Later, the kids enjoyed a BBQ together, Little One, in particular...just look at that face!
By night, we did fun things like set ourselves aflame....just kidding, we roasted marshmallows and savored s'mores.
We also enjoyed a snuggly slumber party each night. (that black stuff is my hurried attempt to cover up Beauty's panties.)
The time together was brief, less than 48 hours. Not enough for my kids, not nearly enough time with their cousins.
The last morning, before my kids headed off to swim team, they all gathered together for their "til we meet again" exchange, and spent the next 10 minutes with a flurry of hugs and kisses, and more hugs and kisses.
Goodbye cousins, we missed you as soon as you drove away.
Friday, July 11, 2008
Dont mind the brown stuff on the wall
Im sort of getting used to the continuous splatter from the stuff that keeps hitting the fan. I might as well just fasten Pooper's Spider Man umbrella to my head, I mean, hello, can we get a break for just a minute.
Today, I was totally blind-sided. Blind sided by the fact that our MORTGAGE LENDER has been CLOSED, as in NOT OPEN FOR BUSINESS.
Now, I guess if we were just humming along with life, that wouldnt be so bad...but as some of you may remember from earlier blog posts (that My Honey didnt like posted), we are in the process of modifying our current loan.
Modifying mean, I have paid a large amount for 6 months, with the promise that after jumping through those hoops, our loan rate would be reduced to a very nice rate, and locked in for a very long time. Our old rate was decent, and for a long time....no weird adjustables....but this loan would be better, and really give us some breathing room (breathing room from the current strangulation of medical debt.)
So, I was supposed to get loan docs a week or so ago, as the new rates were supposed to have been locked in by July 2nd...but I never got any paperwork.
I called (the typical 3 hour, multiply transferred call)....and was assured that they were just back-logged, and that the docs were being sent out. WHEW! OK.
Well, apparently, that was all a big lie, Because, today, my news-reading self saw that IndyMac is closed, and they are no longer processing loans, door shut.
Im not really sure where this leaves me.
Since I read the papers religiously, daily...Im not sure how I missed this.
Since I called those IM people just this week, again, Im not sure how I missed this....
So, silly me, just go get another loan, right? WRONG.
After the shambles that our credit has become (Im not complaining....Id rather have a healthy son than healthy credit)...I dont think anyone would even give us a loan....certainly not at the really nice rate we were getting with IM.
And, as things go, it's not like Im finding out on a Monday, no.....why find out on a Monday and miss out on the stressful, intestinal-knotting-event that will go on inside my stomach all weekend??? I mean, finding out right before all the banks close on a Friday is really the way to get the optimal ulcer-creating-effect from this situation, dont cha think? Who needs closure??
Besides, it gives me something to look forward to all weekend....I mean, I just cant wait to wake up and try to be the first phone call to the FDIC on Monday, asking what in the heck to do. And, Im pretty sure when they answer the phone, I will hear that sweet recording say something like, "Your wait time is approximately 34235345 bazillion minutes." Because, maybe there are a few other people losing their mind over this.
Im gonna try to go about my life this weekend, and limit my vomitting and migraines, as much as possible.
Farmers Market with Hippo Brigade in the morning....and some scrapbooking after church on Sunday. I promise to have some fun, really, because, I look kind of cute with a Super Hero umbrella -ella -ella on my head.
Today, I was totally blind-sided. Blind sided by the fact that our MORTGAGE LENDER has been CLOSED, as in NOT OPEN FOR BUSINESS.
Now, I guess if we were just humming along with life, that wouldnt be so bad...but as some of you may remember from earlier blog posts (that My Honey didnt like posted), we are in the process of modifying our current loan.
Modifying mean, I have paid a large amount for 6 months, with the promise that after jumping through those hoops, our loan rate would be reduced to a very nice rate, and locked in for a very long time. Our old rate was decent, and for a long time....no weird adjustables....but this loan would be better, and really give us some breathing room (breathing room from the current strangulation of medical debt.)
So, I was supposed to get loan docs a week or so ago, as the new rates were supposed to have been locked in by July 2nd...but I never got any paperwork.
I called (the typical 3 hour, multiply transferred call)....and was assured that they were just back-logged, and that the docs were being sent out. WHEW! OK.
Well, apparently, that was all a big lie, Because, today, my news-reading self saw that IndyMac is closed, and they are no longer processing loans, door shut.
Im not really sure where this leaves me.
Since I read the papers religiously, daily...Im not sure how I missed this.
Since I called those IM people just this week, again, Im not sure how I missed this....
So, silly me, just go get another loan, right? WRONG.
After the shambles that our credit has become (Im not complaining....Id rather have a healthy son than healthy credit)...I dont think anyone would even give us a loan....certainly not at the really nice rate we were getting with IM.
And, as things go, it's not like Im finding out on a Monday, no.....why find out on a Monday and miss out on the stressful, intestinal-knotting-event that will go on inside my stomach all weekend??? I mean, finding out right before all the banks close on a Friday is really the way to get the optimal ulcer-creating-effect from this situation, dont cha think? Who needs closure??
Besides, it gives me something to look forward to all weekend....I mean, I just cant wait to wake up and try to be the first phone call to the FDIC on Monday, asking what in the heck to do. And, Im pretty sure when they answer the phone, I will hear that sweet recording say something like, "Your wait time is approximately 34235345 bazillion minutes." Because, maybe there are a few other people losing their mind over this.
Im gonna try to go about my life this weekend, and limit my vomitting and migraines, as much as possible.
Farmers Market with Hippo Brigade in the morning....and some scrapbooking after church on Sunday. I promise to have some fun, really, because, I look kind of cute with a Super Hero umbrella -ella -ella on my head.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Almost like the Grammys
Well, what a huge success that was! Did you notice the crowded stampede of bloggers, rushing to receive their awards? I mean, wowee!!
So, um, anyways.....thank you Hippo Brigade for stopping by to pick up your award, I think Ill try to sell the other golden-winged statuettes on ebay.
Now, it's summertime, and what a fun time we are having!
This morning, Pooper greeted me with a long smooch, as he tends to do from time to time (and for clarification sake, it is a peck, with a close mouth!) And, I stopped him, as I do, to remind him that such a romantic kiss should be saved for his wife, when he is 30. I asked him (again) where he saw such affection, and he said, "Everyone on tv kisses like that. Sometimes, they kiss with their mouths open too and I figured out what they are doing"...
Me: (aghast and afraid) what?
Him: They are sharing their germs, so that then they wont get sick from each other. (that;s what we get for teaching him about the immune system.)
So, besides the usual routine around here, swimming, blah blah blah, play dates, blah blah blah, the kids had a visit from their Colorado Cousins.
One cute thing that our cousin Zacky said, he looked at Christine and said, "What is that brown stuff on her back??"
and his mom said, "That's her sun tan." LOL, I thought that was sooo funny.
Well, run along now and resume your day....thanks for stopping by.
So, um, anyways.....thank you Hippo Brigade for stopping by to pick up your award, I think Ill try to sell the other golden-winged statuettes on ebay.
Now, it's summertime, and what a fun time we are having!
This morning, Pooper greeted me with a long smooch, as he tends to do from time to time (and for clarification sake, it is a peck, with a close mouth!) And, I stopped him, as I do, to remind him that such a romantic kiss should be saved for his wife, when he is 30. I asked him (again) where he saw such affection, and he said, "Everyone on tv kisses like that. Sometimes, they kiss with their mouths open too and I figured out what they are doing"...
Me: (aghast and afraid) what?
Him: They are sharing their germs, so that then they wont get sick from each other. (that;s what we get for teaching him about the immune system.)
So, besides the usual routine around here, swimming, blah blah blah, play dates, blah blah blah, the kids had a visit from their Colorado Cousins.
One cute thing that our cousin Zacky said, he looked at Christine and said, "What is that brown stuff on her back??"
and his mom said, "That's her sun tan." LOL, I thought that was sooo funny.
Well, run along now and resume your day....thanks for stopping by.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Internet games
Internet games, and Im not talking about the kind that Francisca (God bless her soul) and "anonymous" play on dating websites...no, Im talking about internet games, like "tag" or whatever.....
One of my favorite bloggers, who is also one of my favorite people, but also the person that broke my heart when she told me, "we cant go to Willy Wonka's chocolate factory, because it's not real." is Grandma J , and when I say "favorite" that is generous considering all the times in my life that she made me do chores, with lysol.
Grandma J is into internet games. Games like, "tag, you're it, now go and do X, Y, And Z."
this time, tag is the, "Arte de Pico" award....which is like, pico de gallo in a paint factory, but with gilded angels or something.
Here it is, see for yourself:
so anyways, the way this game works, Grandma J gave posted this award on her blog, "ask grandma J" and then told about 5 blogs and how great they are. One of those blogs was mine...and, it's not as much that my blog is great, but that, hello, she is my mom, she'd be in a bit of trouble if she didnt give the award to me, especially since Im her favorite, smartest, daughter, sorry....but, that's the truth.
So, now, I am to pass along the award to 5 other bloggers.
Let me just get this out there.....if this had happened a year or 6 months ago, I might have been all "gaaa!" over a certain blog. But, that blog has gone soooo commercial, that honestly, the new format caused me to lose interest, and not to mention, HELLO, throw me a $500 VISA gift card or a high end camera printer lady!! And, yes, I know, your fireworks display is better than Disneyland, and your lodge, I know!! Actually, it's a fantastic blog, but, it's not getting any award, sorry.
Nope, my awards will go to those blogs that I hurry to each hour, or day, or however often Ill admit to logging on....
The winners of the Arte de Pico angel with the golden wings award are:
My new friend, hippo brigade Her blog is light, funny, fresh, and well written. It doesnt drag on and on like mine, nope, she is short and very sweet. Go visit, tell her I sent you.
Another tres nouveau friend, Pumpkin Delight is worth visiting often. She is funny, which is a big important thing when I consider which blogs to read each day.
An oldie but goodie, Suburban Turmoil She is pretty much a professional blogger, but I wont hold that against her, because she is funny, and let's face it, there is a reason that people's blogs become popular - they are entertaining!
A blog that is more serious than funny, but that deserves an award: The Running Girl The gal trains for sporting events galore, to raise money for blood cancers....I mean, totally inspirational, but, I dont advise settling in with a box of bon bons or anything, unless you want to feel fat and guilty.
Finally, my favorite; Bossy I realize she is on the cusp of Doocing it, but she hasnt forgotten the little guy...no siree....in fact, I even met her on a her world famous tour, where she met those of us that admire her and stalk her. She was nice! And, her blog is the bomb!
Go check out those blogs, they are worth reading....dont worry if you are at work, the boss will never know. And for the SAHMs, so what about laundry and dishes, grab one of the kids pudding cups and relax, and read.
One of my favorite bloggers, who is also one of my favorite people, but also the person that broke my heart when she told me, "we cant go to Willy Wonka's chocolate factory, because it's not real." is Grandma J , and when I say "favorite" that is generous considering all the times in my life that she made me do chores, with lysol.
Grandma J is into internet games. Games like, "tag, you're it, now go and do X, Y, And Z."
this time, tag is the, "Arte de Pico" award....which is like, pico de gallo in a paint factory, but with gilded angels or something.
Here it is, see for yourself:
so anyways, the way this game works, Grandma J gave posted this award on her blog, "ask grandma J" and then told about 5 blogs and how great they are. One of those blogs was mine...and, it's not as much that my blog is great, but that, hello, she is my mom, she'd be in a bit of trouble if she didnt give the award to me, especially since Im her favorite, smartest, daughter, sorry....but, that's the truth.
So, now, I am to pass along the award to 5 other bloggers.
Let me just get this out there.....if this had happened a year or 6 months ago, I might have been all "gaaa!" over a certain blog. But, that blog has gone soooo commercial, that honestly, the new format caused me to lose interest, and not to mention, HELLO, throw me a $500 VISA gift card or a high end camera printer lady!! And, yes, I know, your fireworks display is better than Disneyland, and your lodge, I know!! Actually, it's a fantastic blog, but, it's not getting any award, sorry.
Nope, my awards will go to those blogs that I hurry to each hour, or day, or however often Ill admit to logging on....
The winners of the Arte de Pico angel with the golden wings award are:
My new friend, hippo brigade Her blog is light, funny, fresh, and well written. It doesnt drag on and on like mine, nope, she is short and very sweet. Go visit, tell her I sent you.
Another tres nouveau friend, Pumpkin Delight is worth visiting often. She is funny, which is a big important thing when I consider which blogs to read each day.
An oldie but goodie, Suburban Turmoil She is pretty much a professional blogger, but I wont hold that against her, because she is funny, and let's face it, there is a reason that people's blogs become popular - they are entertaining!
A blog that is more serious than funny, but that deserves an award: The Running Girl The gal trains for sporting events galore, to raise money for blood cancers....I mean, totally inspirational, but, I dont advise settling in with a box of bon bons or anything, unless you want to feel fat and guilty.
Finally, my favorite; Bossy I realize she is on the cusp of Doocing it, but she hasnt forgotten the little guy...no siree....in fact, I even met her on a her world famous tour, where she met those of us that admire her and stalk her. She was nice! And, her blog is the bomb!
Go check out those blogs, they are worth reading....dont worry if you are at work, the boss will never know. And for the SAHMs, so what about laundry and dishes, grab one of the kids pudding cups and relax, and read.
Friday, July 4, 2008
Happy 4th of July
The 4th of July is a holiday that is a passionate celebration of freedom. For many, it brings forth fond memories, heart felt thanksgiving, and a sense of pride.
Share with us what Independence Day means to you; a patriotic remembrance, a heroes story, or simply your fondest memory of the 4th of July.
Share with us what Independence Day means to you; a patriotic remembrance, a heroes story, or simply your fondest memory of the 4th of July.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Q and A
As I was writing up the last post of loose ends, I realized there are many other unanswered questions that have come forth through this blog.
Sometimes people ask questions, which I expect to answer in an upcoming post....and then I get distracted. Or, there are special things that I elude to and promise to post, and my media guy is too busy to accomodate my requests to put up videos, pictures and such, and then the whole topic goes without explanation.
So, I thought now would be a good time to answer any questions that might be out there....I realize Im not Grandma J but you can still ask :)
Sometimes people ask questions, which I expect to answer in an upcoming post....and then I get distracted. Or, there are special things that I elude to and promise to post, and my media guy is too busy to accomodate my requests to put up videos, pictures and such, and then the whole topic goes without explanation.
So, I thought now would be a good time to answer any questions that might be out there....I realize Im not Grandma J but you can still ask :)
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Loose Ends
To answer Grandma J, no, that wasnt the "end", but it was just a moment, a moment of panic realizing that the toilet was clogged, his rear end wasnt cleaned, and people were waiting.
Not to mention, there is a certain something when it all takes place in Santa Monica, and many of those in line waiting are homeless...which I found out later, is ther reason they never have any napkins or toilet paper, it gets stolen. In fact, the Starbucks guy (I forget their fancy names, not bustier...but something similar) told me that the Barnes and Noble shut down their bathroom, because it became a camp out for the homeless. And, for those interested, one homeless man that we saw throughout the day, was walking around with a princess pinata on his head, so, yeah, Andrew enjoyed the scenery at the 3rd Street Promenade.
Other loose ends.
I have been heartbroken, in a way, and didnt quite know how to break the news, that Francisca has dumped me. Her email account has been closed, all correspondence bounces back. There is a level of patheticism, when even the Nigerian Bank Scammers are turning you down. KWIM?
I have some GREAT Disney stories.....some pics I took of the girl in the , What-Not-To-Wear-To-Disneyland outfit.....
and of course, Pooper's acting showcase video, and Beauty's graduation video, but I am dependent on My Honey to upload things, and his timing is different than mine, especially since (as he recently told me) he isnt a fan of my blog! (insert some emoticon face here.)
Sort of to go along with my Disney photo....the other night, we were walking around Downtown Disney with my father in law (my very healthy, mentally sharp, father in law) who is a trustee (I think) for his county library system, and is here for a convention re: libraries. So....walking around, listening to some live music, compliments of a guy and his keyboard set up along the Disney walk....and this lady, HAD to be close to 100, and looking physically not that comfortable, was dancing.
She wasnt just dancing....she was swaying, lost in the music, and the large circle of admirers was more for her than the music, Im pretty sure. She had little bows in her hair, a mismatched outfit, which included, a tropical peach colored bra...which we could see as she danced, since she only had a colorful scarf on her upper body. She waver her hands, and quite honestly, I think she was still on a trip from 40 years ago.
One of the spectators was videotaping it, and me, not wanting to miss a "blog moment" asked him if he would email it to me (he said he would, but hasnt)....I thought it would go nicely with the photos I took of the gal dressed in spikes and short-shorts....but alas, that moment may never come to your eyes, dear readers, because I am at the mercy of others to provide the media accompaniments.
Those are just some random blog moments.....snippets of my life that seem surreal, or at least funny, or embarassing.
Do you have such moments in life?
Not to mention, there is a certain something when it all takes place in Santa Monica, and many of those in line waiting are homeless...which I found out later, is ther reason they never have any napkins or toilet paper, it gets stolen. In fact, the Starbucks guy (I forget their fancy names, not bustier...but something similar) told me that the Barnes and Noble shut down their bathroom, because it became a camp out for the homeless. And, for those interested, one homeless man that we saw throughout the day, was walking around with a princess pinata on his head, so, yeah, Andrew enjoyed the scenery at the 3rd Street Promenade.
Other loose ends.
I have been heartbroken, in a way, and didnt quite know how to break the news, that Francisca has dumped me. Her email account has been closed, all correspondence bounces back. There is a level of patheticism, when even the Nigerian Bank Scammers are turning you down. KWIM?
I have some GREAT Disney stories.....some pics I took of the girl in the , What-Not-To-Wear-To-Disneyland outfit.....
and of course, Pooper's acting showcase video, and Beauty's graduation video, but I am dependent on My Honey to upload things, and his timing is different than mine, especially since (as he recently told me) he isnt a fan of my blog! (insert some emoticon face here.)
Sort of to go along with my Disney photo....the other night, we were walking around Downtown Disney with my father in law (my very healthy, mentally sharp, father in law) who is a trustee (I think) for his county library system, and is here for a convention re: libraries. So....walking around, listening to some live music, compliments of a guy and his keyboard set up along the Disney walk....and this lady, HAD to be close to 100, and looking physically not that comfortable, was dancing.
She wasnt just dancing....she was swaying, lost in the music, and the large circle of admirers was more for her than the music, Im pretty sure. She had little bows in her hair, a mismatched outfit, which included, a tropical peach colored bra...which we could see as she danced, since she only had a colorful scarf on her upper body. She waver her hands, and quite honestly, I think she was still on a trip from 40 years ago.
One of the spectators was videotaping it, and me, not wanting to miss a "blog moment" asked him if he would email it to me (he said he would, but hasnt)....I thought it would go nicely with the photos I took of the gal dressed in spikes and short-shorts....but alas, that moment may never come to your eyes, dear readers, because I am at the mercy of others to provide the media accompaniments.
Those are just some random blog moments.....snippets of my life that seem surreal, or at least funny, or embarassing.
Do you have such moments in life?
Monday, June 30, 2008
Blogging moments
Im not sure if other bloggers go through this, (I should have asked the gals at our Bossy's Excellent Adventure gathering), but from time to time, or on some days, constantly, I find myself in situations that make me say, "Im gonna have to write about this on my blog!" Sometimes it's in a funny way, and sometimes it's in a no-one-is-gonna-believe-this kind of way.
Case in point. Today.
Pooper got on audition for (and bear with me, I dont even know what this all means...) a "sag, short film, being produced and directed by George Clooney's partner, Grant Heslov."
So, it was off to Santa Monica this morning...with Little One at a neighbor/baby sitter, and Beauty at swim team/play date with a friend, Pooper and I drove the 2 hours to the northern shores of Los Angeles, and he had his audition. As usual, we were in and out within 15 minutes.
I signed him in, and they immediately called him into their office (mom's dont go in, we wait outside in the hall.) I went to the restroom around the corner, and when I got back, he was done. OK.
Then the gal says, "Can you bring him back tonight at 5:40 so he can meet the director?"
I must have looked puzzled, as I wondered things like, "What will I do with the girls?" "Do I have time to go home and come back, and is it worth it with these gas prices?"....
She broke through my gaze with, "Or, if you cant, I can just show him on tape."
Me: Um, No, I can bring him back, Im just thinking......yes, we will be back, but we are not from around here, do you know where there is a place to hang out nearby?
She had the cameraman help me out, and he told me how to get to the 3rd Street Promenade, which is a fancy name for a busy street with restaurants and a theater. Perfect, because *someone* would need a nap, and the theater was our best hope.
We found our way, and had some time before Kung Fu Panda was to begin. We walked down near the water, actually to a cliff over the water, and Pooper became fascinated with the squirrel village that had been created in the cliff. We saw, literally, tens of squirrels, running in and out of holes and tunnels, it was really neat, but made me wonder if the ground beneath us was sturdy.
But anyways, I have not even gotten to the blog moment.....fast forward, to browsing the books at Barnes and Nobles, when Pooper has to go potty. The bathroom is downstairs, in Starbucks. Fine.
We get into a long line, and Pooper begins to shuffle his feet. The man in front of us was kind enough to let Pooper go first, probably when he heard me offer Pooper my water bottle, and Pooper shook his head "NO" and pointed to his rear end, signaling #2.
We get into the bathroom...the TOILET PAPER-LESS bathroom, and Pooper does his thing. I rush out, to get some toilet paper, only to be told that the entire Starbucks, is out of toilet paper AND napkins, in the middle of the day!
Thank God for my guardian angel, because as I ran back to the bathroom (mindful of the crowd waiting in line) I spotted a stack of paper towels, and snatched them up!
As I was wiping Pooper's bottom, it was one of those situations, where the more you wipe, the more there is. Sorry for TMI, but isnt always when you are in a hurry that you just cant get it clean??? After each wipe, I flushed the toilet, because if I tried to flush them all together, the toilet would clog.
So, wiping the never-ending poopy bottom, and on flush in particular didnt go down, in fact, I thought,
"This toilet is clogged.....there is a line outside, impatiently waiting.....this kid still has poop on his bottom, if I cant get him clean, h e is gonna stink when he meets up with George Clooney's partner....and the line outside is getting restless, and this toilet is clogged now, and THIS IS A BLOG MOMENT."
Case in point. Today.
Pooper got on audition for (and bear with me, I dont even know what this all means...) a "sag, short film, being produced and directed by George Clooney's partner, Grant Heslov."
So, it was off to Santa Monica this morning...with Little One at a neighbor/baby sitter, and Beauty at swim team/play date with a friend, Pooper and I drove the 2 hours to the northern shores of Los Angeles, and he had his audition. As usual, we were in and out within 15 minutes.
I signed him in, and they immediately called him into their office (mom's dont go in, we wait outside in the hall.) I went to the restroom around the corner, and when I got back, he was done. OK.
Then the gal says, "Can you bring him back tonight at 5:40 so he can meet the director?"
I must have looked puzzled, as I wondered things like, "What will I do with the girls?" "Do I have time to go home and come back, and is it worth it with these gas prices?"....
She broke through my gaze with, "Or, if you cant, I can just show him on tape."
Me: Um, No, I can bring him back, Im just thinking......yes, we will be back, but we are not from around here, do you know where there is a place to hang out nearby?
She had the cameraman help me out, and he told me how to get to the 3rd Street Promenade, which is a fancy name for a busy street with restaurants and a theater. Perfect, because *someone* would need a nap, and the theater was our best hope.
We found our way, and had some time before Kung Fu Panda was to begin. We walked down near the water, actually to a cliff over the water, and Pooper became fascinated with the squirrel village that had been created in the cliff. We saw, literally, tens of squirrels, running in and out of holes and tunnels, it was really neat, but made me wonder if the ground beneath us was sturdy.
But anyways, I have not even gotten to the blog moment.....fast forward, to browsing the books at Barnes and Nobles, when Pooper has to go potty. The bathroom is downstairs, in Starbucks. Fine.
We get into a long line, and Pooper begins to shuffle his feet. The man in front of us was kind enough to let Pooper go first, probably when he heard me offer Pooper my water bottle, and Pooper shook his head "NO" and pointed to his rear end, signaling #2.
We get into the bathroom...the TOILET PAPER-LESS bathroom, and Pooper does his thing. I rush out, to get some toilet paper, only to be told that the entire Starbucks, is out of toilet paper AND napkins, in the middle of the day!
Thank God for my guardian angel, because as I ran back to the bathroom (mindful of the crowd waiting in line) I spotted a stack of paper towels, and snatched them up!
As I was wiping Pooper's bottom, it was one of those situations, where the more you wipe, the more there is. Sorry for TMI, but isnt always when you are in a hurry that you just cant get it clean??? After each wipe, I flushed the toilet, because if I tried to flush them all together, the toilet would clog.
So, wiping the never-ending poopy bottom, and on flush in particular didnt go down, in fact, I thought,
"This toilet is clogged.....there is a line outside, impatiently waiting.....this kid still has poop on his bottom, if I cant get him clean, h e is gonna stink when he meets up with George Clooney's partner....and the line outside is getting restless, and this toilet is clogged now, and THIS IS A BLOG MOMENT."
Saturday, June 28, 2008
mosaic
Jason posted a cool mosaic, and invited a few friends to do the same. And, though not invited directly, but always wanting to be part of the "in" crowd, I decided to make one too :)
If you want to learn how to create your own, go to Jason's page....he has simple directions.
Here are the questions that correspond with the pictures:
1. My name
2. Favorite food
3. My high school
4. Favorite color
5. Celebrity crush
6. Favorite drink
7. Dream vacation
8. Favorite dessert
9. What I want to be when I group up
10. What I love most in life
11. One word that describes me
12. My internet name
Now, for those literal types, this is an artsy thing. The idea was to put in the answer of the question into the "flicker" search engine, and then choose a picture that comes up. The picture may not be the actual translation of the word....but, whatever, again, it's a creative thing. I mean, obviously, red dresses arent my favorite food, it's a play on words thing, get it?
Ok, now go make one and then let us all know in my guestbook, so we can go check out your creation.
Ciao. (that's me showing off my left brain again, or is it the right? whatever.)
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Good-bye Uncle Art
As the kids and I prayed this morning, as we sat around the breakfast table, Beauty said, "God I know you are having fun with Artie up in Heaven, because whenever I would visit him we had fun."
And, that really sums up Uncle Artie....fun guy, kind to everyone - even the littlest of kids, and definitely up in Heaven.
Last night, after battling cancer, Uncle Artie met Jesus.
I have so many memories of Art. They often lived close, but even when they didnt, he and my Aunt Joyce were close in heart. They didnt have any of their own kids, but they had plenty of nieces and nephews that they were either spoiling or tolerating, depending.
My Uncle Art was the guy that didnt hide his farts, and gave them a name, announcing his flatulence to anyone that didnt hear the explosive sounds (which was nobody, because, trust me, everyone heard his "slips")
My Uncle Art was the guy that taught me how to bartend, and even how to roll his marijuana into joints (It was the 70's). And he was always a good sport when I lectured him, decades later, about having such substances around impressionable pre-teens. I would tell him he was lucky I didnt turn out to be some drug addict, and he would agree, and laugh, although, maybe inside he might think that preferable to being Miss Goodie Two Shoes and chastising him.
Later in life, Uncle Art developed a strong love of God, a deep relationship with Jesus and a thirst for the Bible. It was wonderful to watch him come full circle, and our family felt privileged to attend his Baptism.
Uncle Art was only in his 50's, still young with a lot of life ahead of him. He had a rough start to life, with some difficult circumstances...but you wont meet a guy with a better personality; happy, helpful, friendly, easy-going, respectful, kind.
This morning, Pooper recounted that it was Uncle Artie that helped him catch his first fish. We were camping, and the boys were out on a boat...fishing, and Artie was probably "slipping" and Pooper was probably laughing...that's how things were with Uncle Artie.
He was everyone's friend. Most importantly, he was my Aunt Joyce's friend. Over 30 years of marriage...some how those two hippies beat the odds. They not only stayed married (a rarity these days), but they still love each other a lot. It was obvious to all that knew them, and even strangers that didnt, that they were best friends, in love, and happy. She was Uncle Artie's "Frog".....she took good care of him, and he of her, they were really good together.
We will miss our Uncle Artie. We know that Grandma Rita and Uncle Jimmy were probably pushing each other over, anxious to be the first to welcome him. I imagine those three will be sitting on a patio somewhere, maybe next to the Oreo Cookie house, chatting, laughing, reminiscing about old times, good times.
We will miss the good times with Uncle Artie, but thank God that we have the assurance of seeing him again.
Please keep my Aunt Joyce in your prayers, as she faces life without Art.
And, that really sums up Uncle Artie....fun guy, kind to everyone - even the littlest of kids, and definitely up in Heaven.
Last night, after battling cancer, Uncle Artie met Jesus.
I have so many memories of Art. They often lived close, but even when they didnt, he and my Aunt Joyce were close in heart. They didnt have any of their own kids, but they had plenty of nieces and nephews that they were either spoiling or tolerating, depending.
My Uncle Art was the guy that didnt hide his farts, and gave them a name, announcing his flatulence to anyone that didnt hear the explosive sounds (which was nobody, because, trust me, everyone heard his "slips")
My Uncle Art was the guy that taught me how to bartend, and even how to roll his marijuana into joints (It was the 70's). And he was always a good sport when I lectured him, decades later, about having such substances around impressionable pre-teens. I would tell him he was lucky I didnt turn out to be some drug addict, and he would agree, and laugh, although, maybe inside he might think that preferable to being Miss Goodie Two Shoes and chastising him.
Later in life, Uncle Art developed a strong love of God, a deep relationship with Jesus and a thirst for the Bible. It was wonderful to watch him come full circle, and our family felt privileged to attend his Baptism.
Uncle Art was only in his 50's, still young with a lot of life ahead of him. He had a rough start to life, with some difficult circumstances...but you wont meet a guy with a better personality; happy, helpful, friendly, easy-going, respectful, kind.
This morning, Pooper recounted that it was Uncle Artie that helped him catch his first fish. We were camping, and the boys were out on a boat...fishing, and Artie was probably "slipping" and Pooper was probably laughing...that's how things were with Uncle Artie.
He was everyone's friend. Most importantly, he was my Aunt Joyce's friend. Over 30 years of marriage...some how those two hippies beat the odds. They not only stayed married (a rarity these days), but they still love each other a lot. It was obvious to all that knew them, and even strangers that didnt, that they were best friends, in love, and happy. She was Uncle Artie's "Frog".....she took good care of him, and he of her, they were really good together.
We will miss our Uncle Artie. We know that Grandma Rita and Uncle Jimmy were probably pushing each other over, anxious to be the first to welcome him. I imagine those three will be sitting on a patio somewhere, maybe next to the Oreo Cookie house, chatting, laughing, reminiscing about old times, good times.
We will miss the good times with Uncle Artie, but thank God that we have the assurance of seeing him again.
Please keep my Aunt Joyce in your prayers, as she faces life without Art.
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