Whimsy Family Jewels

Where Have You Gone Joe DiMaggio?

2012-01-19T11:12:00.000-08:00

Well I am not sure where Joe went but I am certainly aware of where I went, off the face of this planet. It has been a busy, busy time lately.

Short recap (with pictures to follow at some point)

The summer ended with the kids finishing up their last bit of summer camp getting ready for school in the fall. I had a great time last summer because on Fridays I only worked a half day so I went down to the community pool with the kids and swam with them every week. That is the great thing about living in a small community, I had no fears of hanging out at a public pool, that and the fact I lost over 100 pounds. I felt a bit more comfortable being around "strangers" in a swim suit. Anyway the kids honed their swimming skills and bombed off to the big kid pool! They are officially swimmers. Wahooooo!

Fall came and so did a new year with the little kids starting first grade and Kat starting third grade. Wow, where did the time go. My kids are becoming full fledged humans. Homework is harder, reading is bountiful, AND they have started some elementary algebraic mathematics. No rest for the wicked parent and I definitely had to get a book to help refresh my old dusty memory how how to work a word problem.

The start of fall also means the beginning of the soccer season. My little Whimsys were in full regalia this season. The boy, a dynamo one boy show. He can throw the ball in to himself, retrieve the ball, press down the pitch and score. He has found his calling athletically. Bitsy has toughened up as well, she actually with assistance from her brother scored 4 goals this season. This is a long way from last year sitting in the middle of the field picking flowers. I think she has found her confidence. The Kat played on her first all girl power soccer team this year as well. She is getting stronger by the minute and had a good season working the mid and back field of the pitch. Kat had a wonderful season.

Halloween approached and with that my little kids turned six. Six! It is amazing to me that just six short years ago those little buggers were housed in my body sucking every bit of food I could eat. I find pictures of them and can't believe how much they have grown. Kat was beautiful witch, the Big Easy was Captain America, and Bits was Jasmine. As the month came to a close so did the soccer season.

November brought trinkets of corn, pilgrims, and chilly days. Smack dab on November 1st the kids are already pulling out the Christmas tree and the hunt is on. We had to get a new tree due to the fact there was a break in from a pack of hooligan field mice into the storage box. Chewed branches, chewed light cords was a calling card for a fire disaster so I had to make other arrangements. Although, now that I think about it ..... hottie fire fighters, in my house, the whole save the distressed woman scenario....hmmmm.

So once the new tree was in place and the ornaments adorning the branches it was time to sit back and bask in the colored glow of lights. That is until a 3 pound orange ball of lightening fast fur decided he needed to learn how to climb. Driven by ancestral genetics for stalking prey from the high vantage point of a tree sat our little orange love. Eyes a blaze, twitching tail, and a circle of ornaments lying on the floor instead of the branches they originally were sat upon. Sadly I must report there were a few casualties. I guess this being his first Christmas and all the sights and smells overwhelmed him.

The tree looked sad, this little bugger has successfully bent, yes I said BENT, every branch on the lower quadrant of the tree. He had a growth spurt and went from 3 pounds to about 8 pounds. I have never seen a tree shimmy and shake as much as ours did. The kids were in full swing of holiday tunes, belting out carols of all sorts in the house, in the car, EVERYWHERE! I successfully added the Big Man in Red to my phone (speed dial of course), NORAD Santa tracker app, NORAD Santa tracker site saved on the desktop, wish lists in hand the kids felt I was fully prepared to negotiate with the Big Man.

So when the Big Guy showed up at the local firehouse (remember I said hotties work there) the kids had a game plan. This time they made a decorated gingerbread man and bum rushed his lap with token gift in hand. The plan seem to work, for little did they know their wishes were materializing. So now we are well into December, I finally get some time off after the semester finished at work. Ahhhhh, time to breathe, nope not gonna happen. NORAD Santa tracker was turned into a 30 minute lesson in time zones, maps, continents, and how to add the hours on and off.

If y'all could have seen me in action, I actually surprised myself. All three understood and the countdown could commence. Big Red was still in circling the small islands in the Southern Hemisphere and the kids knew they only had a few hours before they must slumber.

The new year is upon us and we are all hoping for a brighter year. Things have been tough for us the past two years, and hopefully we can finally settle into a nice groove of stability for awhile. The Kat was recruited for a winter soccer league, she is one of two girls whom have received a invitation to participate. The rest of the team are boys. Amidst the chaotic training schedule all three of my brood are now moving into the Martial Arts world. I have held off as long as I could but now I think they are ready for that kind of responsibility. It is nice to have all three of them in the same class, it is nice to see the smiles and attentiveness the kids have while in class, it is nice to see the kids active for a full 60 minutes. Sensei wears them OUT! Listen, any activity that a kid can participate in while also learning a life lesson for respect, honesty, hard work, while building a self confidence I am all in.

Ok here is the soap box portion of the show, I played sports all my childhood and part of my adult life. There is good with the bad, however the good that came from my adventure in sports was this. I learned to lead from within, I learned I am capable of many spectacular things, I learned to work with others, I learned it is ok to have fun while working hard, I learned that you can't take things for granted, I learned there is a camaraderie amidst teammates, I learned you can build trust and friendships. I want my kids to be able to share in that exhilaration of competition, I want my kids to share in that happiness. If it gets them a scholarship into college then that is an added benefit but I am not blinded to a singular future for them. As long as they love to play, they will play. If they want to change and experience something new, I am all for it. The benefits of any activity is what the parent and the child put into that activity. Thus endth my speech.

So here we are in the middle of January and it feels great to write again. Did I say this was a short recap? I guess the faucet finally became unclogged.

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

He Who Shall Not Be Named

2011-07-12T09:49:00.000-07:00

A guilty pleasure I know. I am on pins and needles. The anticipation is exciting. Who's coming with me?

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

Have you EVER heard of.......

2011-06-09T12:27:00.000-07:00

This is the coolest thing I have seen in a long time. Apparently there are industrious folks out in the world who have taken crafting to new level. I can't imagine spending the time to knit a scarf let alone cosy covers for tree stumps in the middle of a city. But WOW! Look at this! This picture immediately brought a warm smile to my face and lends me to believe there are ninja crafters out in the communities spreading happiness. Question: Why arn't there any of these folks in my town?

Yarn Bombing is happening all over the world right under our noses. These pictures are just a few examples of creativity and beauty exploding in lots of cities. I even found out there is a International Yarn Bombing Day! Whodathunk?! Take a look at their site, absolutely fabulous and well needed.

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

Holy Hell to the NO!

2011-05-24T13:14:00.000-07:00

The community that I am forced to drive to everyday SUCKS! This town is the dregs of humanity, actually there is no humanity within the city limits. I am sickened by the lawlessness and caviler attitude of the miscreants roaming the streets 24/7. It is simply not safe to go anywhere in this town without feeling the weight of anxiety of whom may come around the corner when you are distracted for that slightest moment.

I for one am finished. And let me tell you my friends a little piece of advice. DO NOT CARRY EVERYTHING OF IMPORTANCE ON YOUR PERSON IF IT IS NOT NECESSARY! DIVERSIFY YOUR IDENTITY!

Some of you are puzzled and wondering why I would give such a warning. I was mugged on Saturday night. I am physically fine however my psyche is not. The overwhelming feeling of such powerlessness is something I do not wish for anyone. This is not to say I did not contribute to the fleecing of my belongings. I participated unknowingly but from now on I will be on guard of my actions.

This blight on society was waiting. He was waiting for that stupid person to fill his criteria for theft. He had it all set up because he had his bicycle set up down the street. I think the one thing he did not expect is for me to follow him. If I had a taser or tennis shoes on the end game may have been different.

The stuff I lost was not important as the information contained within my phone. What I mean is this, I am trusted with information of friends, family, and colleagues (phone numbers, email addresses, addresses, etc) and I inexplicably let them all down. For that I am sickened, ashamed, and truly apologize for any complications. My misery has yet again spilled over to unsuspecting folks.

I feel violated, and I am sooooo very tired of all the effort I have had to endure so far to replace the pieces of my life which are complicated. I am still not done. I am in day 4 of my ordeal.

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

Kat Smiles

2011-05-18T16:36:00.000-07:00

What can I say, I get lost in those deep brown eyes. She is truly magical in every way.

Oh boy how I love that little girl.

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

Birthday Bedlam!

2011-05-01T00:24:00.000-07:00

And then they were asleep. Finally. I never thought it would happen but after 2 minutes of stillness I heard the golden sound I was looking for, the even breathing of three little girls snoring. HALLELUJAH!
I have never heard so many giggles in one place for a very long time. This reminds me of how I feel when I am with my best girlies on a coffee night. Pure joy, pure friendship. To my best girlies, I love more than words can say. To my daughter, love you across the universe and back again in infinity.

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer.
~ William S. Burroughs

Happy Birthday Miss Kat!

2011-04-25T08:12:00.000-07:00

This little face brings me a tremendous amount of joy. Today is a very special day, today is my daughter's 8th birthday. I am amazed by her everyday, she is so full of life, full of wonder, curiousity and just plain sweet. I love this little girl who is no longer my baby and will soon be my young lady. I will cry the day she will not let me hug her and kiss her little sweet face as much as she does now. So to you my dearest my heart is yours.

Ever Thine,
Mommy
Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

Funny the way it is........

2011-04-13T09:25:00.000-07:00

I was having a conversation the other day with some friends and my dad came up. It is funny the things we choose to remember and the things we put on the shelf. The shelf stuff for me is pretty tough. My internal closet has everything, and I mean EVERYTHING, I experienced with my dad during my childhood and part of my adult life on those shelves. I rifle through those shelves, searching, looking for some answers of why I am the way I am. Amidst the heartache, tears, and anger (what child agrees with everything their parents do) I look for the lesson. I firmly believe there was a lesson somewhere in each experience. What I am trying to say is that he may not have always delivered the lesson in a positive conventional way but the lesson was there none the less.

When I look at my children, this is the time when I try to find the lesson so that I can impart the wisdom to them. The things I did not like about my childhood I try to redirect so they can have a different experience. I am not always successful but I whole heartily try to make their childhood happy, healthy, and purposeful.

Now with all that being said, the other side of the closet contains all the outlandish, unbelievable things my dad's life brought to the forefront. Those moments are jewels and reasons why he was not allowed to be on his own at the house without supervision or at least a ride to the emergency room.

1. He cut himself out of a tree. Three times.
2. His own truck ran over him.
3. While burning brush on his property the fire had reached a heat point where the surrounding trees were catching on fire. To which he instructed my younger brother to fetch hoses. My brother enters the house and said to my mom, "Where are all the hoses? Dad needs them."
4. The property has water storage containers which are very large and tall Tupperware pitchers. The hole at the top is just big enough to have a small man fit to get inside. Guess which small man fit?
5. The surrounding area had a large fire which burned hundreds and hundreds of acres. The CDF worked extremely hard to contain the fire from destroying many homes in the area. One of the entry points was down my parents road. Dad decided to "take a gander" at the carnage. End result: small man, large truck stuck in soft soil in the middle of burn zone. CDF had to helicopter his vehicle out of the area. He was escorted back home to which they warned mom not to let him out of the fenced yard.

This is just the top five. There are many, MANY more "jewels" to tell. It is funny the things we remember. The sounds in our heads of the one lost in our world. I still hear his laugh, his sputtering when he was about to tell a tall tale, I remember the lines in his face, his eyebrows furrowed in a tight ball in the middle of his forehead, the thump of his boots on the floor. Most of all I remember the tears in his eyes when he found out his dad died, the tears in his eyes when he found out about the twins on his birthday, the day I graduated from college, the day Emma Kat was born. I remember him.

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

Happy Birthday Dad!

2011-04-11T12:14:00.000-07:00

I have written before about my dad. Not a perfect man but a memorable one none the less. When I can compose myself, I will write a bit more. Tonight, the kids and I will be releasing a balloon with our special messages inside. This is great this year because the kids can write their own messages. I can't wait to see what they will put. Happy Birthday Daddy! I miss you more than you know.

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

It happened one morning......

2011-03-25T11:30:00.000-07:00

I have been flipping through the handbook all morning. NOTHING! You know, THE HANDBOOK? The handbook for moms with multiple daughters in the house. Yeah now I see the expression on your face change. THAT HANDBOOK. Well, the handbook has nothing on what I saw this morning. The feeling I have in my stomach is that I will be spending a lot of days with my hand over my forehead asking myself repeatedly "Why?"

This morning was not unlike any other morning before school. Kids up, working on getting dressed for the day. Nothing unusual right? WRONG. See this morning was tilted by a generous donation from a family friend of clothes to the kids. So I had gone through and separated by size (by the way 95% of the clothing was Bitsy LaRue size) and made little piles for each of the kids. Wonderful stuff, it is going to be great.

So Bits finally gets around and asked me if I would help her pick something out from "her" pile. I said yes and she wanted to wear leggings with a long sweater dress. Sure, why not, the kids are starting express themselves by what clothes they want to wear and hey it could be worse. So far I am lucky the worse thing they choose may be a mismatch shirt and pants, it's not like they want piercings or a mohawk. I have bigger battles to fight so I let it be. Bits is very happy and strutting around the house. She does look cute. How could she not, have you seen her? Then the Kat comes in and asked me to help her. Now her pile is a bit smaller (maybe 4 items) but there is a cute brown skirt and I say Kat you can wear this with some leggings and a long sleeve shirt. She complies and comes out looking Kat fab as usual.

What happened next was frightening. I could not move from my coffee or couch cushion. The Kat saunters up to Bits who is sitting at the table eating breakfast and says "How do I look?" and she pops her hip to the side. From the looongggg emphasis on the "I" it was on like Donkey Kong. I stopped breathing. The next few minutes of implied pleasantries between the sisters was booming like tympani drums in my head. Silky, ooozy, quietly sardonic words leaked from their lips. As Kat turned to get her breakfast I saw the smug smile on her lips, while Bits in the background gave her the "as if" once over as she walked away.

The encounter was over. I know it is only temporary. The upcoming conversation is coming quicker than I imagined. The whom will be cuter competition is here. As I sit here looking at the cover of the manual I try to imagine how I would write that chapter. I think I am doomed. I didn't grow up with a sister. I have sisters now, my friends are my sisters. Thank goodness we met as adults because if this is what goes down with young female sibs, Lord help the boys who attempt to date my daughters and Lord protect those girls whom try to out "SNAP!" Kat and Bits because they will eat them for lunch and dinner.

And for those of you wondering about the boy? Well he kept his head down, finished his food and went to put his shoes and socks on. How wonderfully, perfectly simple my boy is. He is so smart he makes himself invisible to the potential raging estrogen and I even got a good morning hug and kiss as he passed by.

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

Chatanooga Thriller Style

2011-03-03T08:14:00.000-08:00

This is was surprising to hear about this morning. I think this is fantastic and I am hopefully going to convince my local department to come up with their own PR opportunity. It is true, fire fighters can do ANYTHING!

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

Orchard Style - Part Duex

2011-02-24T14:53:00.000-08:00

Just a few more shots from our recent outing. Enjoy!

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

Adventure...Orchard Style

2011-02-23T16:41:00.000-08:00

After a LONG weekend of not feeling well and holed up in the house mending our health the first opportunity to get outside arrived. I have been meaning to pick up my camera again so I concocted the plan to have an adventure in our neighborhood orchards. What I thought would eat up about an hour of time turned into Gilligan three hour tour. At some point I had to ask myself was this really worth it. Alas it was, I had a great time and the kids got to see a real jackrabbit.

Although my kids are like a herd of hybrid Cat Elephants (much meowing and spitting at each other and the tromping of heavy feet through the leaves) the rabbit had no choice but to run for its dear life. What must it had thought of all the noise in the serene orchard. No matter, the trip was FUN!

Bitsy LaRue's bestie took flight for the higher branches. It wasn't a pretty sight. So much taunting from one little ooh ooh.

Laugh it up Ooh Ooh

The final happy of the day was a ride in one of these bad boys! Thank you guys for welcoming us into your working home. The kids and I had a grand time!

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

Not just another day....

2011-02-21T11:19:00.001-08:00

Amidst the mundane days the jewel waits. That special moment where it takes my breath away. The jewel could be anything, a kind word, a hug, walking outside to see the spectacular color of the sky, finding my keys, all the kids getting to school on time and safe or just simply a hot cup of coffee in the morning. I get excited if my favorite show is not in a rerun. I am a simple gal, it doesn't take much to bring a smile to my face. The other day was different.

My Friday was hectic, full of mishaps and a deep need to concentrate on the tasks at hand. On my way to pick up my little ones I just kept going over and over all the adult pressures in my head. I was "what if.." to death. All I could do is growl. Growl loud.

I walk into the door to a chaotic ocean of kids, backpacks, and NOISE. In the sea of kids I started my terminator scan looking for the signature life forces of my brood. Their auras are quite lovely by the way. In mid scan, I hear the voice "MOMMMY! YOU'RE HERE!" Ahhh a warm welcome, my heart is a bit softer. He comes running with his arms wide open and a big smile on his face. So handsome and sweet my son is growing into a lovely person.

"Mommy, I have something for you. Close your eyes."

"What do you have?"

"Mom, just close your eyes, it's a surprise!"

"Ok." So I close my eyes.

"Here Mom, you can open your eyes. I got you some jewelry"

I open my eyes to the most beautiful piece of jewelry I possess. I can't think of a prouder mom at that moment. My boy knows me so very well, and although I know it is one of his favorite characters too, he is an excellent padawan learner.

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer.
~ William S. Burroughs

THIS IS SPARTA!

2011-02-03T19:22:00.000-08:00

This guy is a GENIUS! I laugh out loud with the kids every single video. This is better than tv and a fun thing to do with the kids.

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

Ninja Cat

2011-02-01T16:56:00.000-08:00

This video makes the kids howl with laughter. EVERY. SINGLE. TIME.

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

The Tale of Bitsy LaRue

2011-02-01T15:55:00.000-08:00

The Bits (AKA Frankie Lightfingers or Bitsy LaRue) as she is known is spunky, smiley and more often than not very cuddly. She is very eager to please, throws a frequent "I Love You Mommy" my way (I am greatly appreciative) and can be VERY bossy. There is housed in this 37.5 pounds of little girl body the attitude of a 350 pound line backer for the Chicago Bears. Combined with this attitude is the Mensa genius from MIT who is incredibly sharp witted and knows no fear.

Imagine playing a chess game for every word you utter to Bitsy LaRue, she retains and hits the save button on every sentence, every eavesdrop from the hallway and frankly just up in my grill for every little thing. Needless to say, I am on my game for every second of the day, forced to plan my next 15 moves before our next encounter. Keeps my mind sharp, this is better than crossword puzzles and I see this as a foreshadow of what is to come in the, dare I say, teenage years.

She is a leader and an architect of trouble, but make no mistake this all part of the myriad of reasons why I love this little girl to my core. Armed with her monkey in one arm and a twinkle in her eye she is a natural force of nature.

Her main weapon is flashlights...and monkey! Her two weapons are flashlights, monkey and cute smile. Damn I will try that again, her three weapons are flashlights, monkey, cute smile and her snuggieness. DOH, amongst her weaponry are such diverse things as flashlights, monkey, cute smile, snuggieness, fierce determination and ruthless sense of style. No one expects the arrival of BITSY LARUE!

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

A brief moment of weasel speak

2011-01-27T11:11:00.000-08:00

Weasel speak: Mom, can I have a snack?

Mommy: No, I am fixing dinner right now. You will be eating in 15 minutes.

Weasel speak: (groans, head drops back, body slumps. In an instant body language changes moods) Mom, I know we are going to eat but do you think I could just have two crackers, I have been working very hard at school today and my teacher told me that I should have a snack when I come home because it will make my body strong so I just wanted to ask you if I could just have a very small snack and it won't spoil my dinner because my body has been working very hard and I promise I will eat dinner and Mom what is it your fixing for our dinner? I will eat it no matter what but I just want to know what kind of food it is. (takes a well deserved breathe, displays big doe eyes and cocks head to the side like the RCA bobble head dog)

How did all of that come out of one little brain? Calculating, logical, working all the angles. This one will make a FAB lawyer or corporate raider some day. I am in awe and frankly a little frightened. Even with all that effort the cash prize of a snack before dinner was not obtained but damn I gotta give my little weasel stylie points for trying.

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

Where have you been?

2011-01-24T16:58:00.000-08:00

Well on the road to oblivion of course! Where else would I be? Maybe Interzone but I have been there once and did not have a great time. Burroughs totally lied and made it sound grander than it really was. Plus there were too many bugs.

Anywho, it has been a world wind few weeks. Totally grateful for the time off but woeful not willing to come back to the chaos. But alas, here I am, entrenched into another semester of brain dead souls wandering the hallways looking for someone to tell them what to do and then resenting it. Vicious cycle. Can't be help I suppose.

The kids and I had a wonderful time, played, slept, watched movies, ate and generally enjoyed each others time together. For me the best part of the whole time off was getting to work in the classrooms for a whole week. Man, I have not had that much fun in years! Those kids have the swankiest cafeteria EVER! I had to bring lunch money and everything. They have a salad bar. Honest to Abe a portable salad bar with a bevy of fresh fruit, veggies, and a little ranch to squeeze on the plate. All that AND a bag a chips for a $1.75 which I don't think I ever had a hot lunch that good.

Kids are fun, but really it gave me an appreciation of what their teachers do every day. It is tough to wrangle 20 eight year old kids and have them focus on the task at hand. Think about having 20 five year old kids to focus! Needless to say, I was tired. Mostly from playing outside on the playground with the kids. I had a mean game of tag/red rover, red rover going on. Those kids have no mercy on the old. At least I got my exercise in for the day. It is good to know I can easily make friends with little kids. They are sometimes much more fun than adults and generally like my sense of humor. Where a goof can be a goof and appear to be cool.

Be back soon for more tales.........

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

Welcome to the POLAR EXPRESS!

2010-12-17T09:46:00.000-08:00

Patiently waiting for the ride of the season.

He had their full attention for over thirty minutes. The Kat was putting this guy through his magical paces with the appearance of little green foam balls into their hands. I think he was a little daunted by the packing techniques of my children. Afterall they are little wolverines!

Who could that be behind all that hair?

Why it is Big Red himself! Have YOU been good this year?

Why yes, Mr. Claus, Mommy only had to text Mrs. Claus twice last week. We all have been very good this year.

Do you believe?

I BELIEVE, I BELIEVE!!!!

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night. May your dreams come true and bask in the hue of the family's love light. Where ever you go, take comfort to know, a child's smile makes the heart bright.

Love to you all.
-K

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

October Blitz Recap

2010-12-17T08:57:00.000-08:00

Delayed response to the wee ones birthday way back in October. Just a few shots of flying kids screaming their lungs out! I think Bitsy is looking for a spot in Cirque de Soleil with her mad acrobatic skills on the flying trapeze.

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

Hallelujah!

2010-12-08T09:49:00.000-08:00

I know I have not written anything as of late but I have been busy. The holiday season is upon me and getting happier by the minute. With every ornament going on the tree, every twinkling light, every additional item added to the "Begging the Santa" list, my heart gets warmer. As I said before, music is healing for me. Holiday music hits every chord of my heart just right and a Capella music multiply that by ten. So for this brief interlude enjoy this video to help raise your holiday spirit.

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

A little bit of the funny

2010-12-06T16:54:00.000-08:00

I find this absurdly amusing.

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

Home and Hearth

2010-12-02T11:34:00.000-08:00

Heredity

I am the family face;
Flesh perishes, I live on,
Projecting trait and trace
Through time to times anon,
And leaping from place to place
Over oblivion.

The years-heired feature that can
In curve and voice and eye
Despise the human span
Of durance -- that is I;
The eternal thing in man,
That heeds no call to die
~Thomas Hardy

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

How can you not feel the love?

2010-11-27T22:47:00.000-08:00

Just a sneak peek into a wonderful, fabulous, soul filling day with family. This is only a sampling of the cousins early on in the day. To feel this much love I have to say is extremely lucky. Our lives are truly blessed. More photos to come....stay tuned.

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

Christmas Songs

2010-11-15T15:38:00.000-08:00

1. Jingle Bells - Diana Krall
2. Let It Snow - Diana Krall
3. The Christmas Song - Diana Krall
4. Winter Wonderland - Diana Krall
5. I'll Be Home For Christmas - Diana Krall
6. Christmas Time Is Here - Diana Krall
7. Santa Claus Is Coming To Town - Diana Krall
8. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas - Diana Krall
9. White Christmas - Diana Krall
10. What Are You Doing New Year's Eve? - Diana Krall
11. Sleigh Ride - Diana Krall
12. Count Your Blessings Instead Of Sheep - Diana Krall"

I totally suggest this album, she is smokey, silky voiced AWESOME!

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

Tis' the Season, OMG! Seven Weeks Left!

2010-11-05T11:11:00.000-07:00

As I browse the calendar and make mental note of the following:

1. This weekend ends Daylight Savings Time. What I have learned in the past few weeks (to which I have been apparently ignorant of) is that when you call the East Coast during those lovable months where time is moved forward, one must indicate to Easterners to call you back using DST not PST. PST or Pacific Standard Time is for those chilly months where time moves backward. I can't tell you folks how worried I am about all those East Coasters I have simply confused over the years not indicating the correct crazy Cali lingo and movement of time and space. I shudder to think about it. Really, I do. It is a wonder I can look myself in the mirror.

2. I must take down the Halloween house garb and promptly replace said decorations with Christmas. Pass directly over Thanksgiving and go for the gusto. The kids, who shall remain nameless in this narrative, have already started the chorus of "when are we putting up the tree? How is Santa getting through the glass? Can we put lights in my room?" Their custom Holiday CD is already in the player in the car and will begin the long loop of songs right to the bitter end. Holy Mary full of Grace, help me make it through the month. If ever I shall feel I shall scream with another chorus of Alvin and the Chipmunks All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth or muppets screeching Deck the Halls, let it be lessened by the soothing baritone of Bing's White Christmas or Johnny Mathis' Chestnuts Roasting over an Open Fire. Holy Mother I implore you let my season be bright.

3. OH MIGHTY OF ALL THAT IS HOLIDAY THERE IS ONLY SEVEN WEEKS LEFT! Did the space/time continuum change up on me? Have I entered a worm hole? Black hole? Rabbit hole? The commercials have already started the frenzied, large pupils, and Cheshire cat grins of three unnamed weasels. In the arsenal of "look how damn cute I am" they have mastered the tilted head, round eyes, and softly spoken "Please Mommy, May I?". Ok, how do you fight that one? My resolve is weakening. Not fair, not fair, not fair! Alright you over processed holiday season, you overstuffed tinsel toting entity, I will have my day in this life or the next for THIS IS SPARTA! Ok, so I mixed a couple of my favorite movies lines in there for drama. Can you guess them?

I have not even begun or considered the inevitable event of heading off the stores for shopping. My least favourite thing to do and really the only big stresser to overcome. What do I get, will they like it, should I include the return receipt in the package. Honestly, I am a fan of gift cards. The way I look at it, between the time anyone mentions the infamous words "I really like that" by the time the day comes, they may not like it so much anymore. Some think gift cards are impersonal, showing someone they really don't "know" them, pishaw, I think just the mere fact you thought of that person and giving them an opportunity to pick something up for themselves is a wonderful thing. Especially for little kids, yeah they like the glitz but actually going into the store and making a choice is learning experience too. In short, I have got seven weeks to figure it all out.

What are you thinking about?

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

Random 101

2010-10-15T15:17:00.000-07:00

They never cease to amaze me, bleary eyed in the dark of the early morning (BEFORE COFFEE) I go to the refrigerator and find this.

You never know when you will need a car and what ever the orange thing is, like in a hurry. It is better to keep it chilled, on the down low.

We had a special visit from the East Coast Familia, their great Aunt endured our loudness and spent a few days with us. The kids are over the moon for her, everyday before she arrived they would come home from school and ask if she was waiting at home for them. It has been too long and now it is our turn to visit them.

This is the boy pulling his signature moves, he is a soccer machine.

The Wonder Twins have entered the building! The dynamic duo brings a rare united front line.

"Sisters, sisters, there were never such devoted sisters......." The song runs through my head every time I see these two interacting. One of my favourite movies for the season. Nothing like a little Rosemary Clooney and Vera Ellen to brighten the Holiday Cheer.

This is Howdy. Howdy is optimistic. Howdy is exuberant. Howdy is attempting to stare down a plane flying at 30,000 ft. How this dog saw the plane that well to keep him captivated in this pose for at LEAST a minute. I had no idea, nor did I hear the plane. I had to try to find what he was looking at.

Finally, I have his attention. I don't think I could have sustained the squirrel imitation much longer. And yes, he is that goofy. Lovable but goofy none the less.

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

No, I do not sit there nude. Although there was this one time.......

2010-10-08T12:25:00.000-07:00

I have no idea who made this or how I came into possession of this lovely diddy. To those who made this video or shared this video with me, I am sorry I am unable to give proper credit due to a faulty memory. For the rest of the folks, here is a summary of my "day" life. This makes me giggle every time I stumble across this song.

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer.
~ William S. Burroughs

And the wind cries Mary.....

2010-10-06T16:45:00.000-07:00

because Lisa was out to lunch.

Trying to put it all together, will post soon.

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

Welcome our newest monkey to the family

2010-09-20T16:19:00.000-07:00

Our family had a wonderful event, a new little monkey to love has come into our world at last. I can't wait to hold my little nephew, give him kisses on the cheeks and smell that sweet "baby-ness". Congratulations my sister!

Here are a few more pictures from Miss H's little monkey shower.

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

A few shots from Miss H's baby shower....

2010-09-14T15:16:00.000-07:00

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer. ~ William S. Burroughs

Musical Repair?

2010-09-09T12:30:00.000-07:00

Music is a big part of my emotional state or reorientation of the current state. I have been listening to much music to get through my days, my thoughts, my process of dealing with my wee ones, getting through a work day, getting through a mundane household task. Sometimes it makes the event fun, sometimes it makes my mind calm and concentrate. Sometimes, sometimes music allows my soul to breathe.

Whether it is the notes that amend to my story or lyrics that speak my heart, music as a whole is healing. I have go to genres of music for situations, Funk for fun, Jazz for stability, Classical/Opera for soothing, Pop/Alternative for the touchy feely moments, and everything else for in between.

This song, particularly the lyrics bode well for me at the moment. Don't go far, it will change soon, kind of like changing my socks. Oh, I don't wear socks. Well that just sucked, bad analogy, ok, let's go with changing hair styles. DAMN! I don't do that either. Stay with me, I'll get one, hold on, it's forming in my mind........LIKE CHANGING MY SHOES! YES! And for those who know me, know me well, this is a good analogy that fits.

Too many shadows in my room
Too many hours in this midnight
Too many corners in my mind
So much to do to set my heart right
Oh it's taking so long i could be wrong, i could be ready
Oh but if i take my heart's advice
I should assume it's still unsteady
I am in repair, i am in repair

Stood on the corner for a while
To wait for the wind to blow down on me
Hoping it takes with it my old ways
And brings some brand new look upon me
Oh it's taking so long i could be wrong, i could be ready
Oh but if i take my heart's advice
I should assume it's still unsteady
I am in repair, i am in repair

And now i'm walking in a park
All of the birds they dance below me
Maybe when things turn green again
It will be good to say you know me
Oh it's taking so long i could be wrong, i could be ready
Oh but if i take my heart's advice
I should assume it's still unready
Oh i'm never really ready, i'm never really ready
I'm in repair, i'm not together but i'm getting there
Lyrics & Music by J.Mayer

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer.
~ William S. Burroughs

21 days and counting.......

2010-08-30T16:35:00.000-07:00

He is almost here! I am buzzing with anticipation and can not hardly stand to wait. I feel like the old Mervyn's commercial with my face pressed against the window, tapping my fingers, saying "open, open, open".

I know weird imaging but I am so excited to be an Auntie again! This little boy has multitudes of love and kisses to get through when he gets here and the first in line is his wonderful mommy. My bud, my sistah in arms, the pea to my carrot, Lucy to my Ethel will bring another wonderful little person into this world very soon.

We (Vitamin D and myself) hosted a baby shower this past weekend for the lovely Miss H. Lots of fun, laughter, ooohs and ahhs and happiness to be welcoming a new little face to the family. For those who were not able to come, we missed you, for those who came thank you , and Miss H, we love you.

I took photographs, I swear, I just have not gotten all of them out of the camera. I will post them soon.

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer.
~ William S. Burroughs

Oh, the places you will go.......

2010-08-22T18:36:00.000-07:00

Oh, the places they will go,
all the things they will know,
the papers they will collect,
the teachers and classmates to respect.

The lunches to be eaten,
the tether balls to be beaten,
the jumping and the swinging,
the laughter and squealing.

I watch my three move silently away from me thinking "oh, the places they will go and the friendships that will grow". How charismatic them have become, everyday will be so fun, to see their minds flourish as they grow into the knowledge of the world has to bestow upon them.

This week has been one of reflection for me, not truly believing all that I have seen in the three I cherish to my core. The tenderness of a sister for her little siblings, the silent support of one another as they start a new adventure (no naps are required to the pleasure of Big Easy). With each step, each breath, each day they move silently away from me. This is not the end, this is only the beginning of something wonderful, their independence is my success. This is an indicator that I am doing something good in this world.

After a week of school and soccer practice, today I actually shed some tears. These moments with them, these little wonders make my life complete in so many ways. The "adult" pressures I have melt away for a few moments when we are together. Those things don't seem so important for me, and I gladly sweep them to the back of the closet. Being a kid is to be happy, no one should ever take that away from them, not for an instant. Live life, love life and capture life. My kids taught me that. I owe them everything for reminding me of those simple words.

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer.
~ William S. Burroughs

Team Whimsy!

2010-07-31T17:04:00.000-07:00

It has been a big week for team Whimsy, the little kids had their first soccer practice. I can't say enough great stuff about the coach and his helpers! He is making this first go around very fun for the little kids and still teaching them fundamentals as they go. By the time the second practice hit yesterday, the kids woke up and immediately put their gear on. When I came home from work they still were wearing the cleats and shin guards. It was a struggle to tell them they still had five hours before practice. Unbridled enthusiasm, you gotta love it.

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer.

~ William S. Burroughs

Mommy why?

2010-07-26T16:32:00.000-07:00

Ok, remember that little sappy post a couple of weeks ago where I went on and on about how wonderful my children are? Well, they are still wonderful but holy cow on a stick what is up with the million and one questions?

For the most of the questions, I have a answer, backed up with hard science or some theoretical ideas at least. Why is the grass green, why is the sky blue, what is that water on your windshield called, why can we see the moon, why do we need water, why do we need sleep, how does our body grow, why does she have a belly button, why do I have to go to school, what is the largest sea animal, why don't we have fur, why do we have to brush our teeth?

But lately, I have actually had to do some research. Geez, the questions that are coming at me are becoming more sophisticated each day. Now when they are all in school, please just send a little prayer out for me. You know, just a little good thought sent out in the world for me, to give me some kind of clue if I have to go back and get my M.A. degree or take some "parent has been out of school for a long, long, long time and even if they went back to school the kids will be doing theoretical physics in second grade and the parent won't have a snowball chance in hell" class.

Is there such a class? How do I brush up? Does anyone have a suggestion of books I should be reading or adding to the kids reading list? Dawkins, Hawking, Shakespeare, C.S. Lewis, Dr. Phil? What? Should I be boning up on paradigm shifts? Revisionism, revolutions, guns, the Krebs cycle?

I'll take the History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire as perceived by a 8 year old for $800, Alex. Yeah, I am on the long rode of trial by fire.

Give me a bone of hope people, what do you think?

Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer.
~ William S. Burroughs

There and Back Again, a Mommy's Tale

2010-07-15T09:04:00.000-07:00

Today is very special to me. This day is an end and a beginning.

The beginning was seven years ago on a warm summer morning. I had been a mom for 3 months. I was tired, still off work, going to school and waiting in a long line with a lawn chair to sign up for daycare. There I sat with my baby, my dad as a backup, and multitudes of other moms hoping to secure the coveted spot in the facility. Between filling out insurance papers, shot records, pay stubs, applications, every three hour feedings, pumping milk (I know TMI but it was totally part of my current life), diapers, no sleep, no sleep, and finally no sleep.

The morning I returned to work was the day I brought my baby girl Kat into the infant room at my work site daycare. I sat on the floor with my girl for 45 minutes, I showed up early because I wanted to check out the women who would have their paws on my baby. I sat on the floor, hot with anxiety, running the same script in my head over and over again. "A lot of women have to work, a lot of women have to use daycare, make the time you spend with her count. Don't worry, you aren't abandoning her." I cried everyday for two weeks. I went everyday on my lunch hour to play with her for 3 years.

Then I found myself filling out forms in triplicate. Taking home truck loads of art work, plastic bottles filled with beads, sand, water, boo boo reports, and wet clothes. I continued to go on my lunch hour to spend time with the kids, splitting up my time through out the week with each one. I only cried every other day. Running the same script in my head, replacing "her" with "them".

Today is the ending. After 4 more years my babies are going to kindergarten and my girl is starting 2nd grade. I realized this will be the last day I will be walking into the pre-school that has been a part of our lives for the past seven years. Each and every teacher face I know well. They love my kids as much as I do. The proverb of "it takes a village to raise a child" is true. The support and guidance I received from these skilled women has been invaluable. For that, I am indebted to them and grateful.

My children helped me grow and learn as a mom, so did the advice and time I spent in the classrooms with the kid's teachers. Everyday is a new challenge, I look forward to each one. The evenings sitting and doing homework, trying to make veggies look more appealing, open houses, field trips, sleepovers, watching my children walk toward their classrooms while I stand at the gate and see their future open wide with each step they take.

I am the luckiest mommy to fabulous, mischievous, inquisitive, happy children. I love being a mom. But most of all, I love my kids.

Follow your inner moonlight, don't hide the madness. ~ A. Ginsberg

LA ROJA ESPANA!

2010-07-11T11:31:00.000-07:00

IT IS HERE! THE FINALS, don't call me for the next three hours. I wouldn't hear the phone anyway over the vuvuzelas and my cheering. I have taught the kids to cheer for Espana in Spanish!

VIVA ESPANA!

Follow your inner moonlight, don't hide the madness. ~ A. Ginsberg

Old Glory, anew!

2010-07-07T09:06:00.000-07:00

The most beautiful flag I have ever seen! How I love the Red, White, & Blue! I hope you all had the best of holidays, I know this was a special time for me and the kids.

Follow your inner moonlight, don't hide the madness. ~ A. Ginsberg

Get your 4th ON!

2010-07-02T11:24:00.000-07:00

Just want to wish my friends and family a safe 4th of July weekend. I can already smell the dogs, burgers and sulfur. AAAAHHHHHH....isn't it GRAND!

Happy Independence DAY!

Follow your inner moonlight, don't hide the madness. ~ A. Ginsberg

Not sure where my head is today......

2010-06-28T14:37:00.000-07:00

I could not give up the visualization technique today. I thought I would share the wealth my brain hath given me to make this duldrum of a Monday pass by. Enjoy.

Follow your inner moonlight, don't hide the madness. ~ A. Ginsberg

Wish I was here....

2010-06-28T10:29:00.000-07:00

I am visualizing....the wind whispering in my ears, pieces of hair caught on my eyelashes, warmth of the sun on my face, the melodic crashing of water and fizzing of foam racing across the sand, course granules of earth between my toes, the quiet.

What do you wish for today?

Follow your inner moonlight, don't hide the madness. ~ A. Ginsberg

4 down, 4 to go then the final 16

2010-06-24T15:26:00.000-07:00

What a day, did you catch final "E" and "F" group matches? Heartbreaking and exciting all at the same time. Tears of joy, tears of defeat and two more National teams going home.

On the plate for tomorrow are Groups "G" and "H". The point favorites are Brazil, Portugal, Chile and finally Spain as of now, expecting to move forward to the final 16. But the way the wind is blowing anything is possible so expect some fireworks.

I will need to take a Valium and NOT turn on the radio while at work, but again I AM a wild card. So don't even think of calling me between 6:30 am or 11:30 am, I will be busy. WORKING you silly gooses, what else would I be doing?

P.S. Vitorearé para mis españoles prójimos. ¡España, mece!

Follow your inner moonlight, don't hide the madness. ~ A. Ginsberg

Talk about waiting until the last minute!

2010-06-23T09:42:00.000-07:00

Did you catch the last USA game this morning? What a nail biter! So the USA team struggled through group match the last two weeks to come to this one final match, a do or die moment. USA must have a win to move on the final 16 in the second stage of the World Cup. A draw would be a heartbreak and leave this team ranked third in their group with no further hopes of the cup in sight.

Drama, right?! I think I was on the verge of a heart attack! If any of you know me and my family, well how do I put this gently.....ok we are just maniacs when it comes to sporting events. Generational the behavior lessens, but not by much. My dad, the WORST, me, let's just say I am my father's daughter, my brother is the more composed of the two, my Em, very empathetic to the OTHER team. C'est la vie!

Back to the game, so much on the line and this USA team is fighting back. For a second time the team was disallowed a goal for a non existent foul, but with every hit of the goal post, missed pass, tripping, it finally happened. The late goal in the 91st minute of the game put the team on top. Do you realize how hard it was to keep myself in control where I was at? I should win an Oscar for self control, or at the very least a completion certificate.

Congratulations TEAM USA! Landon Donovan you ROCK!

Follow your inner moonlight, don't hide the madness. ~ A. Ginsberg

My Father's Day

2010-06-21T14:28:00.000-07:00

I know I am a day late with this post, but even though it has been five years since this man physically left my life, I find it very, very hard to speak about him without tears. So here it goes......

My dad was a paradox. While to most who met him he appeared rough around the edges and underneath lied a shrewd intellect. Most of all, in his later years he was a kind man. His family was the most important gift he had been given and he cherished it.

My eldest had only two years to spend with her grampa, she keeps a picture of him under her pillow. Each time a plane crosses the sky she will say that he is flying by to check on her. She was his rosebud. Watching him become a grampa was an endearing process for me. The hard-nosed disciplinarian was a pile of jello under the thumb of his granddaughter. He would get in as much trouble as she when they were together. Usually he would be the instigator.

On his birthday he was presented with a card with two little black and white pictures and a riddle. I giggled furiously inside as I watched my mom and dad try to figure out the riddle. The realization that two more grandbabies were coming was a crazy moment for them. The anticipation of the arrival of the twins was almost more than he could stand. At that time I did not know what I was having, just that double the trouble was coming and grampa better hold onto his hat.

In an unfortunate turn of events just mere months before the arrival of the twins he was gone. The little kids did not get a chance to meet the man my Em had grown to love. I did not get the chance to watch my father become a grampa all over again. The hole in our lives is ever present but the memories have not faded. I still hear his voice in my head, the laughter preceding his mischief, the smile that took over his whole face. The little kids always ask me questions about grampa. I tell them he would love them to the moon and back again. I miss him terribly and when I look at my brother I see my dad as a young man. My dad may be gone but he will never be forgotten.

The picture you see was captured by accident. I had not realized this picture would tell everything about my dad in one expression. At least that is what this picture is to me. All the triumph, loss, happiness, and sadness of his life wrinkled in his face. I see something different each time I see this picture. I find a new strength for me in each line on his face and know in my heart I can survive, just like him.

Happy day to all my father friends.

Follow your inner moonlight, don't hide the madness. ~ A. Ginsberg

Some dear ones to my heart & neat stuff

2010-06-17T11:18:00.000-07:00

I came across these pictures of my dear ones doing what they do best, romping their little hearts out. No matter what we are doing we have a good time. There is something freeing about playing on a playground. Running, screetching, laughing, hanging upsidedown. Simple pleasure, simple happy life. These are some of my favorite moments of the afternoon.

Follow your inner moonlight, don't hide the madness. ~ A. Ginsberg

Ralph

2010-06-15T16:02:00.000-07:00

This is Ralph, AKA Rocky Christmas Cookie, she is the resident neighborhood lioness. No, I did not get confused, SHE is Ralph AND she is a lioness. This cat, and technically she is a cat, however the shear girth of this animal lends a bit of caution, meets the kids and myself every morning before school and every evening when we return home. She is the sweetest outdoor cat we know and despite the size Ralph has the capability of stalking us in our door side garden with ease.

I never hear her, she just appears. That is creepy and I don't like to be stalked by a animal. I think that Ralph has had many hunting experiences and for sure we may be the biggest non-prey animals she has stalked. She is definitely a silent predator.

We love Ralph, we give her kibble and she protects our front porch. I think I am getting a good deal.

Follow your inner moonlight, don't hide the madness. ~ A. Ginsberg

May I have your attention, please.......

2010-06-11T10:31:00.000-07:00

It has begun! This morning 6:30 am PST the anticipated televised event has finally begun! I am soooooo excited I can't stand it!

The World Cup is up on my must see events like the Olympics or the NCAA Women's Softball World Series. I am drawn like a moth to the flame, every inch of my body is ramped up for pure competition. This morning did not let me down.

The opening match was between Mexico and the host country South Africa. The stadium pitch BUZZED, literally, from a packed stadium of locals and visiting fans. Just an incredible sight, I almost wanted to call in sick to work! I didn't, but I did get to hear the game and could hardly stay still in my seat.

It is wonderful to see the opening match be played with skill, respect, and pure joy. The countryside is beautiful, the people are beautiful, and I would give my eye teeth to just be in South Africa in one of the stadium cheering the players on. Even though both teams took the draw, IT IS ON! Later today will be a match up of France and Uraguay (Grp A). VIVE LA FRANCE! Tomorrow we will see England vs USA (Grp C), Nigeria vs Argentina (Grp B), and Greece vs Korea (Grp B).

Even if you are not an avid follower, this is something you should take a little time to see, simply amazing on all aspects. I know you find yourself cheering, you just can't help it!

Stay Tuned!
Follow your inner moonlight, don't hide the madness.
~ A. Ginsberg

Joys of summer?

2010-06-01T17:02:00.000-07:00

The joy of siblings.....when joy is on target wonderful things happen. It is almost magical. When the joy is absent, look out. This happens to be one of the moments when the joy was present in abundance. There was a brief break in the weather where the kids, after successful persuasion speeches, got a chance to use the lawn pool. Happy as three little clams in the sea. This will be a permanent fixture as the summer drones on. I may just partake in the festivities. Note to self....find a swimsuit that fits. Yikes, not a prospect I am looking forward to fulfill.

This is what is was like just a few days before. Hail the size of doughnuts...hmmmm...doughnuts. Oh yeah I don't eat doughnuts anymore. Unusual weather for sure this time of year but hey I can't say I am not enjoying the coolness.

This is my mother trapped in the car. Now mind you, there were two other able bodied adults in the house (my brother and myself) to rescue this poor little grandma from the weather. See her little body sitting in the car waiting for the weather to let up? Poor, poor little grandma. Now you would think a young, strapping young man (son) would rescue his mother. Apparently this is not the case in my family. LOL She just had to settle for her eldest child rescue her from the weather.

I think we should focus on this happy image, better weather, cuter subjects. Summer here we come!

Follow your inner moonlight, don't hide the madness. ~ A. Ginsberg

Very bad attempt at poetry!

2010-05-20T10:45:00.000-07:00

I looked into the mirror today and what did I see? An old woman in glasses looking at me.
Gray hair on the temples, a wrinkle or two.
Oh dear I may have to slab on a bottle of lotion or two
to smooth those ever deepening lines I see.

A chin hair, maybe one on the chest,
forever and a day I am plucking the beasts.
Is this how it is to be 41?

Sigh, yes I believe there are still more to come.
Ah, but the bright silver lining is held in my Abbie, Ethan and Emma Kat faces.
They are the key to exotic places of fancy and whimsy, a whole lot of fun.
It is the best to be 41!

Wonderul things about Tiggers....

2010-05-18T15:56:00.000-07:00

My little tigger, he is such an amazing guy. He likes to cuddle, tells me on a daily basis he loves me, and how much he "misted" me even if five minutes have passed. Oh man, this little boy owns a big piece of my heart, such a dear wee one.

And these two little pixies, they own the other two thirds of my heart. My little girls are sweet, loving, and totally take care of their brother. What a lucky mommy am I. Wouldn't trade spots with anyone.

Randomness

2010-05-14T10:30:00.000-07:00

TWEENS

This little face, this is the newest addition to our little clutch. Sure, the face is adorable. Sucks you in with the warm little "purrling " (this is what the Kat calls purring), the gentle touch of her pink little paws on your face, cute sniffing and snuggling in the nape of your neck. Poor little kitty was abandoned by her birth mom, I just couldn't let her live like that. So with all that going for her, she gets in. The kids are OVER the moon! Kat wraps that little hellion in a blanket and carries her all over the house. Very cute. Now, this cute and innocent kitty has reached tween cat years and between the spiked hair cuts and piercings she is looking to live a life on the outside if Chloe is not careful. Oh yeah, her name is Chloe.

I caught Chloe on the Internet late last night chatting with her cat friends. Needless to say she is grounded and I have instituted parental controls on the computer. She will no longer be posting anymore questionable pictures of how to comb ear hair. I will be calling the parents of the other cat tweeners to let them know what their kittens are doing.

Bowl-a-rama!

I had the fortunate luck to introduce the kids to a new sport.........BOWLING! One rainy weekend, tired of being couped up in the house the GMA and myself carted the kids to the local bowling alley. They had a blast. I forgot how much I like to bowl. The smell of the shoes, the oil film on the ball, crackling sound of the pins being knocked down. Just too much fun. I am thinking I have the league team in the making. How much sounder would my mind be knowing the three of them went bowling on a Saturday night instead of cow tipping?

The Bitsy exhibited true bowler girl form, granny style with glasses to accentuate. There is no messing with this bowler girl. True sass from head to toe.

Beauty Shots (well sort of)

I just wanted to throw in some shots of something pretty. At least I think they are pretty. I have lost my mojo as of late with my beloved camera. She and I must work some things out and come to some kind of agreement. The agreement is I must learn how to USE the camera properly. Yeah, that book, you know the one that's called the USER MANUAL, yeah probably should read that some time. The book might just hold some secrets as to what all those pesky dials are for. Shutter speed, aperture, ISO? PISHAW! Oh if you ever wondered what a kumquat plant looks like, take a gander at picture number 1. They are similar to grape vines, who knew? Well obviously the kumquats farmers. DUH!

Uncle Roughhousing!

The kids are fortunate to have a "young" uncle. Just enough energy and wrestling aptitude to exhaust little kid energy. Their uncle lives in a fabulous place with an acre of running space for a myriad of OUTSIDE activities. I am thinking that his time of being alpha dog in this pack is limited. A few more pounds on each of them and if they figure out how to coordinate their attack, he is crispy critter of an uncle. As it was, they pulled some William Wallace moves on him. He is lucky I was there to cheer them on and take pictures of it. My role was critical. That is what a sister is for, right? Exactly.

It's all fun and games in the beginning.....

His disbelief I would be so care free with the pictorial documentation of his beating. I think he may be a little stunned of their organizational prowess at such a tender age. By next summer, he may need to go into the witness protection program for uncles. Yes, take your beating like a man Unca Nick and how can you refuse such sweet faces as these?

A little eye candy

I leave you with a little eye candy for the brain to filter through out your day.

My Mother's Day

2010-05-07T15:23:00.000-07:00

They are the reason I get up in the morning, they are the reason I smile, they are my Mother's day, everyday. I can't thank them enough for bringing so much joy to my life. My little loves, you own my heart.

Happy Mother's Day Weekend to all my friends, sisters, Meme, Aunties, and especially my Mom. You all rock!

Tiger -VS- Kat = FUN!

2010-05-05T12:48:00.000-07:00

This is Kat. North American Homo Sapiens Jungle Cat. Fierce, loyal, and very smiley. Do not look directly at her, doing so will fill your heart with love and peace. I beg you, please look away. For your own safety, step back from the Kat.

You will notice the absence of the central incisors, this is only a temporary situation. As we speak the Kat is generating enough calcium for production of said incisors hoping the lateral incisors will stay in place long enough for normal eating adventures. Without them, she will be gumming her food for a months. It is not a pretty sight.

This is Panthera Tigris Tigris. One of the largest cats on the planet. Normally located in Eastern or Southern Asia, but for today Vallejo. That is Southern right? South Bay counts right? These animals can consume 70 pounds of raw meat in a kill setting. In captivity, they can consume 15 pounds of raw meat in 1 minute. They are strong, quick and agile. They can power through the water with grace and determination.

And I let my kid feed one. On a stick of course! What are you guys NUTS!? Geez, at least she got the stick, bare hands were completely out of the question. And they added in the protective fencing to boot. This is a top notch establishment. What kind of mom do you think I am?

In all seriousness, this was a cool exhibit. Informative, entertaining and the Kat was tickled pink to be chosen for such a special memory. Before the handlers let her go over and feed the tiger, they told her that the tiger would not be fed anything the handlers wouldn't eat and the Kat would have to eat it. At that point the guy brought out a chunk of raw meat and motioned as though he would hand it to Kat. Kat in typical Kat style reached out to take a bite, the handlers were taken by surprise at her willingness to give it a go! They and myself got a big chuckle. For all of Kat's efforts she was awarded the coveted Shouka toy.

This was a fabulous day, for me, the Kat, her siblings and grandma. Spending time with my kids is the best, we had a ball running from ride to ride, show to show, and the myriad of questions from the kids. This was primarily a school function. The Kat and her classmates had a fund raiser a few months ago to sponsor this trip. We were fortunate enough to turn this into a family adventure. Although Gma would not venture onto the coaster/water splashing rides (much to the chagrin of the little kids) it was fabulous. They were amazed by the animals, stunned by the availability of a running fountain that was specifically designed to squirt kids, and the fact they had a jungle gym to romp around on. Here are a few more amazing sights we had that day.

Letter to my Kat on her Seventh Birthday

2010-04-23T12:31:00.000-07:00

Letter to my Kat.

Where has the time gone? Just a few moments ago, I was holding your squishy, 7 lb body in my arms watching your sweet face as you sleep. Wondering to myself what your voice would sound like, what color your eyes would be, envisioning what your future would be. All I ever hoped you would grow to be has exceeded beyond my wildest dreams.

Everyday, I look into your eyes I love you more. Everyday you tell me about what you did at school I love you more. Everyday I see you care for your brother and sister with tenderness I love you more. Everyday I see you triumph in a milestone I love you more. Everyday I see you rise from a failure and try again I love you more. Everyday you hold my hand and snuggle next to me I love you more. With every please and thank you I love you more.

My dearest Kat, I am one lucky mommy and I can't imagine my life without you in it! It has been a wonderful seven years my love, Happy, Happy Birthday to you!

For the love of Dr. Suess

2010-03-05T13:02:00.000-08:00

For those of you who have younger children, this week was Dr. Suess' birthday. My little one, the Big Easy, his class invited me to read to them for circle time. I was very excited and chose three possible stories to read.

One of the stories was of course The Cat in the Hat, in French Le Chat Au Chapeau, in Spanish El Gato en el Sombrero..... oh I got lost there for a moment. Which is my son's FAVORITE story. When I say FAVORITE, I mean the boy has memorized the whole book. He is four. He can't read. He committed a whole book to memory. I can barely remember to get my car keys.

Anywhoville, I get to the classroom with the books, the big E is happy to see me and we gather all his little friends to the reading area. He is feeling special so he sits next to me on the chair while I pull out the book.

I open to the first page, I get through the first sentence and WHOOSH, the boy is in action. Somewhere around page twenty three I am wondering why I even came, big E could have handled this himself with his cool self confidence and story telling bravado. Did I tell you he can do voices? Multi-talented guy. So my little man, read The Cat in the Hat to his friends with a little help from me here and there. And let me just say for the record, the boy recited the text from the correct page that was being displayed.

Big E let me stay through two more stories and after 45 minutes of reading, I was tired. The voices really hard to keep track of. I think I may have filtered into a old Irish pub owner with the Lorax, then came in for my close up with Mr. DeMill, finally channeling a ancient Gold Rush miner. I ran the gambit.

So to Dr. Suess and his family, thank you! Generations of rhyming and chiming and fun, fun, fun. Working on literacy is never done!

“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go.”

Dr. Suess

Oh to dream a little dream......now for something completely different

2010-03-02T08:39:00.000-08:00

EPIPHANIE GIVE-AWAY! :) This folks is a little dream of mine, a contest worth entering with a little pot of camera heaven on the other end of the rainbow!

Check this out, for the camera gal on the go, and you all know who you are! Stylish, sassy camera bags that make you look good as you roll around on the ground attempting to capture the "it" photograph of a lovely child.

Everybody Gets Knocked Down

2010-02-24T09:36:00.000-08:00

I saw this on another blog I read. I thought this was really cool. It is true, everybody gets knocked down, but the degree to which we allow ourselves to stay down is our choice. I chose to get up and move forward.

Right now, I can think of one young man who chose not to stay down, and is fighting to stay up. He is only 26 years old and has more conviction and courage than anyone I know. He's not staying down and never would. Blue, stay cool and keep kicking some butt! I look forward to seeing you soon!

If you're interested, the song in the video is called "Ali In The Jungle" by The Hours.

The sound heard all over.........

2010-02-08T16:01:00.000-08:00

The day is grey, full of anticipation of an event in its 40th year of existence. The male of the species has gathered in mini clusters for the viewing of a spectacle of intense anticipation. Three and half long quarters have passed, the score is CLOSE, very close.

There is a flicker, then the powering down of appliances. I step outside to see if there are others in the same boat. As I open the door and walk outside I hear very clearly a collective ......."NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!"

I swear every male in the neighborhood began to howl all at once. That must have been the longest 30 seconds of the day to create the sound heard all over the neighborhood.

The forgiveness power of tuna fish

2010-01-30T14:21:00.000-08:00

Tuna, for centuries has given its eaters pleasure of taste and nourishment. Tuna has another purpose, forgiveness, at least for a cat. See my cat, she was dirty. She would look at me with golden eyes taunting me with the arrogant look that I would never think of bathing her. She was wrong. So today, with the purpose of tidying up loose ends, I filled the kitchen sink with warm water. The titan struggle began between me and my cat.

The cat weighing in at 10 pounds, and me, well I won’t say what I weigh in at, struggled for control. Thank goodness for opposable thumbs, that really gave me the advantage. Not to mention my cunning wit and keen sense of strategy. The cat and I engage.

The first moments of realization for her that the sink was filled with water was a shock to say the least and the deep guttural meows of displeasure of her predicament yielded to the end result of a rather wet and clean cat.

After a good towel drying, I knew I must make peace with the cat. What could that be? Talking wasn’t working; the promise of a good brushing was not working either. Ah HA! Tuna, a cat’s weakness will be the ultimate bribe. She still will not look me straight in the eye but I know I made a dent in the forgiveness wall with the offering of tuna fish. So folks, if you have a cat and the animal needs a bath, have a can of tuna at your fingertips. I will let you know if she plots my demise tonight while I am sleeping. I may have to lock the bedroom door.

The Kids are Alright

2010-01-29T10:17:00.000-08:00

These kids are alright! We had a break in the weather where the sun actually made an appearance, so we took the opportunity to do some old fashioned puddle splashing. I grabbed the camera, which I have not done in awhile, and the kids graced me with standing still for a millisecond.

They make me laugh, they make me smile, I am grateful for their silliness. The best part of puddle splashing is the warm chocolate milk, a bath, warm snuggly clothes and good movie.

How to Wrap a Cat

2010-01-27T09:05:00.001-08:00

We all need a laugh sometime

2009-10-29T15:32:00.001-07:00

Look out Pele, here comes "The Kat"

2009-09-17T10:10:00.000-07:00

So I am going to be upfront with this information. I am COMPETITIVE! I can't help it, especially when it comes to sports. No one is harder on me than myself. The push to perform consistently and well. I played sports, intramural and in community leagues. Softball was my main thing but I dabbled in volleyball, broomball, and everything else in between. Well except golf. Golf is a whole other post.

So what I am trying to say is that with the excessive competitiveness comes the ugly triple headed sports mom. Now, I have seen them, watched them and told myself "pfheww, I will NOT be like that with my kids", however that little monster peeked her ugly head out of the shell last night. I scared myself.

That realization that I had just made a complete ASS of myself in front of others (it is bad when you do that in front of the people you love, but a whole different matter when it is people you don't know) I felt the hot eyes. And I fully deserved every bit of disdain I received. I own the ridicule.

I was a hard on the Kat. I forgot that this is her first year playing, I forgot she is not physically conditioned yet to keep running, I forgot she does not know about protocol and procedures.

Luckily this league is forgiving to these young athletes and are more understanding of a young six year old and her propensity to over dramatized her fatigue for the masses. Not all of it was pure exhaustion. Learn from my mistake and turn the lesson into how can I help her and keep the triple headed sports mom in the van.

Here are some shots of the last two games. In the end, they had fun and so did I. The Kat is a great defender, she has had two halves of playing the goalie and kick some rumpus. These kids make this game sooo much more exciting than any sporting event with adults. Pure joy of being a kid let loose and kicking a ball. Autopilot all the way, and they always travel in a pack, aka "bunch ball".

I need to work on my action photography.

Excellent job, my dear. I am soooo very proud of you and all the hard work.

Friday Morning Whimsical Musing

2009-08-28T10:09:00.000-07:00

Picture a mother and her children commuting to work and preschool. The day is fresh and cool, children are chatting away in the back of the van. Mother entertaining the little folk with games of "What letter starts the word ......."

Scene:

The girl: Mommy, Mommy, what letter starts the word trees.

Me: The letter t, tuh

The boy: Mommy, what letter starts the word.....uhhhh......pointer?

Me: What?

The boy: Pointer!

Me: Pointer?

The boy: Yes, yes, the word pointer.

Me: The letter p, puh

The boy: (small pause before speaking) Mommy, what letter starts the word tall man?

Me: (confusion) Tall man?

Then I look into the review mirror to see this vision of lovlieness. My son, my only son, the sweet little guy, from whom I get many "I love you Mommy" giving me the tall man.

TMI Moment, I know....

2009-08-21T16:08:00.000-07:00

Ok, I am sharing this only because, well, you guys are my friends and friends don't judge.

So, I am feeling sort of sassy today, nice shirt and pants, hair is looking pretty good, and I sit down at my desk surveying the work to be done. I happen to run my hand over my neck/collarbone area and feel something poking from my skin. What the hell is that? Did I have a piece of food, a booger, stuck to my skin? So I promptly grabbed hold of the object and pulled. I grabbed my hand mirror to inspect what the hell is going on. Geezus Louezzus, it is a frickin grey chest hair.

How long has that bad boy been hanging out there? What did my body suddenly decided the estrogen wasn't enough? Ok, Ok, I get the hair on the upper lip thing, I get the occasionally hair under the chin, but the chest? Come on man, it is not like I don't have enough issues to deal with while I am getting OLD!

So, there it is. My TMI moment for the whole world to read. I, Whimsy, had a grey chest hair. Just sayin'.

Whatcha got growing on you?

Blink and there it was.......

2009-08-20T10:51:00.000-07:00

One of the most recent hanging out with the kids and taking pictures weekend came with it a bribe. The condition put to me by my eldest was that she would only let me take her picture if and only if I pinkie promised to try to get her picture in a magazine. Without thinking or blinking I sealed the deal with a curved pinkie finger. DONE.

OH NO, WHAT IN THE HOLY MOTHER HAVE I PROMISED? The wheels turned and turned, search and searched all over the Internet. Who would be charitable enough to indulge a foolish mother pinkie promise to have her kid's picture printed in a magazine?

Well thankfully, not only is there a magazine, which is local, and my friend had her picture on the COVER, I went to the website and sent in a picture of all three of my monkeys. I waited. Waited some more and finally just gave up.

Lesson learned, don't make promises with kids you can't keep. Then just when I was digging my hole a little deeper for another reason, I get an email. My friend says (and I am paraphrasing) "OMG go look at this link!" For her a great moment because she was awarded the cover and for me, another great moment, go look on page 29!

I am truly happy and honored to have my photographs in print in a local magazine of my three monkeys. I know they have limited spots and a bagazillion entry photographs. So I got to keep my pinkie promise and "Look Mom, I am Famous"

So please enjoy, I am off to my next adventure. First Grade Back to School Night! Pictures will follow this event, stay tuned.

Finished! After 6 years and 4 months, give or take a few days

2009-08-18T08:31:00.000-07:00

Hallelujah, the sea has parted and I can see the promised land! After 6 years, 4 months I am finally, FINALLY, finished potty training.

I have three autonomous potty kids who stay dry all night long. Everybody breathe with me now, whewwwwwwwww!

I don't want to see another diaper, pull up, a little plastic bag full of fun from school, or a damp sheet. No more wiping butts, wait, what is that feeling I am having? What is that pang in my chest? OH DAMN IT! ::sniffling:: MY BABIES ARE GROWING UP! ::sniff, sniff::

I know what you are saying, Woman you can't have it both ways, I get it. I really do, so where one door closes another window opens up.

Now I have to make good on the Disneyland promise.

Where hath she gone?

2009-08-17T13:08:00.000-07:00

I woke up at the crack of dawn, lumbering into the shower, all the while puzzled with sleepiness and pure exhaustion, ignoring the pending activities for the day. There are some markers in life that alone do not seem to be a big deal, today's proved to be a big one for me.

My baby girl has started first grade. She bounded out of her bed, chanting "first grade, first grade, yeah, yeah, yeah", completely wound up and ready for action. She completely pissed me off with her aloof behavior this morning but even through my frustration, something was gnawing at me. Dressed, teeth and hair brushed, breakfast eaten, and by 6:30 as I was walking out the door with my little ones, I looked over my shoulder to get the last glimpses of my baby.

I know I am being overly misty about the whole situation, but I have invested 6 years and nine months into this relationship, nurturing her little body and mind, expecting to always see the big cheeked darling smiling back at me. But instead there is a whole other person standing in front of me. Staring back with her big, brown doe eyes, questioning everything, already putting the wedge between me and my baby. UGGGGGHHHH!

The truth is she is not always smiling at me, in fact more often than not, she is thoroughly pissed with me. And well, I do deserve the snarky looks sometimes, not ALL the time, but some of the time. I go back to the core of it all. The core being, she is always loved, she is always cared for, she is offered a listening ear, she is disciplined when warranted and through all of the toil, in the end, she will be a better person and hopefully someday say thank you and really mean what she says.

I can't wait to hear about her day and find out how "cool" everything is, what friends are in her classroom, and all the homework I will need to find a tutor for myself in order to help her.

Does this anxiousness ever go away?

Morning Whimsical Musing

2009-08-07T12:03:00.000-07:00

So the morning routine is for the most part the same. The alarm goes off before daylight even considers to make an appearance, the kids are dragging their bottoms up and down the hallway getting dressed in between whines, and I am thinking getting up this early STINKS.

While we (the little kids and myself) are commuting to work and school I look in the review mirror and see grumbly faces. Because the little kids are little and have no concept of the passage of time, days, weeks, hours, I help them remember their birthday by telling them when the pumpkins start to appear their birthday is coming. Well they remember the pumpkin part and coincidentally we happen to pass a field which is growing pumpkins.

So I start making funny voices and goofing around by asking them whose birthday is coming and the pumpkins are coming and look there is a pumpkin patch. So the frowns start turning into smiles which makes the ride a bit happier and the Big Easy starts in what he would like for a birthday present.

I say ok buddy tell mommy what you would like.

Big Easy says "I would like a hippopotamus and flies that work."

Me: What? You want what?

Big Easy: Yeah, I want a hippopotamus and flies that work. The hippopotamus will eat the flies and I want them to work. Maybe we can get a bag to put in his stomach to catch them.

Me: Very puzzled and still trying to drive.

Big Easy: And I would like to have a soccer ball to play with after the hippopotamus is done.

Me: Ok

Bitsy: Mom?

Me: Yes

Bitsy: I would like to have Sleeping Beauty slapstick.

Me: Slapstick?

Bitsy: Yeah, I want slapstick, you know for my lips.

Me: Anything else?

Bitsy: No, just slapstick.

Me: Ok

As you can see, I have got some shopping to do.

The wailings of a 1st grader's mother

2009-07-30T13:46:00.000-07:00

It's coming, the month of August is approaching quickly. Some of you would ask, what is so special about August. August is a nice month, still quite warm, still plenty of days for swimming, doesn't get dark until after eight at night. Sure, that is all swell, but that is not the reason I am grousing about August.

August, Latin origin, the eighth month on the Gregorian calendar originally named for the Roman Emperor Augustus Caesar in 8 BC. August was originally known as sextilus on the Roman calendar. But I digress, with the approach of the month of August this means there will be only 17 days before she wakes up, gets ready for school, AND STARTS THE FIRST GRADE! HOLY COW FOLKS THIS IS BIG!

Has time sped up? Have I dropped into a worm hole? What the hell, my kid will in the first grade and I have turned 40. These things, my age and she starting first grade, are to the best of my feeble mind not compatible.

I look at her and she is different. I think I must reconcile with myself there are many, many more events to which I will look at my dear, darling daughter and not recognize her. I am still looking for the pudgy cheeked baby and before me is a strong, agile little girl. I am not sure my heart can take it. I am as nervous as a cat on a block of ice in the middle of a pond. New teacher, new kids, more opportunity for her to become independent of me. I want to keep her snuggled under my arm, kissing her forehead.

So I am taking suggestions. How do I keep her little. Is that an option? This is legal right?

Help me,

Disenchanted, discombobulated parent in the burbs

P.S. Please send all sympathy cash, gift cards to me. Do not, I repeat do not put The Husband's name on any of the envelopes. Really, just send it to the P.O. Box I have provided, he doesn't have the number or any idea the mailbox exists.

P.S.S. Just in case for those who may have put The Husband's name on the envelope, or if The Husband happens to read this entry, please don't make multiple mention of the incoming envelope. He has a short attention span and really if a squirrel would run by the window he will be distracted and days will pass before he senses there may have been something he missed.

P.S.S.S. To the husband, you really didn't read anything. OH LOOOK!!! A SQUIRREL!

Hello Mommy Dearest!

2009-07-27T16:50:00.000-07:00

This is Bitsy. This is Bitsy using her toy cell phone, making important phone calls, about her latest novel which is perched in her lap. Although she has a room, she has chosen to place her office in the laundry basket I keep the clean socks in. Yes, I am that lazy to keep the kids' socks in the laundry basket rather than putting them in the drawers.

This is Bitsy catching me taking her picture while she is in the middle of her pitch meeting for the latest mommy dearest novel. I am hoping it is fiction. The look she is giving is telling me she does not consider the book to be fiction. I think she is giving me the stink eye. Oh boy, don't look her straight in the eyes, that would be dangerous.

This is Bitsy giving me the business. Bitsy is informing me that I have interrupted her meeting and can't I just stay out of the way. This is Bitsy letting me know that her laundry basket is not open for visitation and that I need to give her some privacy. Why did I not know that?

Go Speed Racer, GO!

2009-07-14T16:39:00.000-07:00

We have cool neighbors. They are young, hip and very sweet, especially to my weasels. So our neighbor is outside and the kids frantically climb out of the van when we get home and start yelling his name. He graciously comes out of the garage to welcome my little whirlwinds into his life for a few moments. Of course their garage is filled with cool stuff like a ATV! Oh geez, I am fear for my medical bills.

Oh those lovely little faces........

2009-07-06T12:26:00.001-07:00

I recently took the kids on an excursion with their gma to a local park. Somehow I convinced them to let me take some pictures. The eldest darling made me pinkie promise to send her photo to a local magazine in hopes it will be chosen to grace its pages. I am honour bound by the pinkie promise. This is just a sneak peek of the day. I am just in love with these shots of my monkeys.

Monkey Spotlight: My Emma Kat

2009-07-01T14:10:00.000-07:00

This is my eldest monkey Emma the Kat, Big Curls, Sweet Pea, Rosebud, Cakes. Oh vey, look at this face! I could not love this little girl any more than I do.

The Basics

She is the eldest monkey of three. She came into this world with a wholelotta hair, dark brown eyes, and the sweetest smile. My main monkey girl weighed in at 8 pounds and some change, 20 inches long. This baby girl would whirl in utero to her own drum beat and even now she has her own Salsa dance to perform each day.

The Special

She is fierce, strong willed, head strong, passionate, SMART, joyful, loving, cuddly, silly, and that is all in the first five minutes after she wakes up in the morning. You know how there are some people you are just drawn toward? Em is one of those people, she is just dynamic. There is always a good time to be had with this monkey.

The hair, oh how I love the hair! Geez, this kid has the best hair! Thick, soft, long and ringlets at the bottom. She came in this world with a full head, and never lost a piece. I find myself snuggling with her and braiding her hair when she is very still.

She is a hoarder. Now, this could be a problem later but the damn gene is strong in this family! Although she has a million stuffed animals, crayons, pens, books, dollhouses, whatever it is, she has all her stuff organized with precision. One night Emma went to bed and I walked in a few hours later to check on her. I opened the door, looked at the bed, no Emma. I thought, this can't be, I sent her in the room, I could have sworn she climbed in the bed. All I saw was a pile of stuffed animals. I moved closer, what I saw was completely amazing. She had built a fortress of animals, and she was curled up in the middle. I will share the picture another time.

She is an artist. She paints, draws, dances, acts, and loves to tell stories. One of her favorite things to do is make her brother and sister laugh. She plays kitty cat, puppy, queen, fairy princess, Jedi Knight, anything, she loves it. I see musicals in my future.

Her smile and dimples are beyond all cuteness for me. I fall in love with her all over again. Those round apple cheeks are so kissable that she has to put me on time out. I could just hold her and kiss her face all day long. Just love this little lady beyond crazy.

She is thoughtful, Emma demonstrates great compassion. There was a few days when I was not feeling well and in bed. Emma would bring me tea, sit with me and ask me how I was doing. She would hold my hand and tell me I would feel better soon. Just so caring, as Emma would say "it made my heart grow". So for her kindness I let her paint my face. It is a good thing I did not have to work the next day, I looked like a raccoon.

What can I say, for six years I have been the luckiest mom to have healthy, loving kids. These kids make those awful days I've had not feel as bad. So to my Monkeys, I love you more than luggage. ::smile:: Thank you for all the thrilling hours of loving you, making me smile, and all the belly laughs.

Now GO TO YOUR ROOM!

Monkey Spotlight: My Ethan Taterbug

2009-06-29T12:30:00.000-07:00

This is my monkey Ethan Taterbug, Hootie, Dr. Destructo, the Tank, Ethanator. I wanted to share some some things about my baby monkey.

The Basics
He is a twin, born last in line by only a minute. This little "Big" guy came into this world a whopping 6 pounds, and some change. He was incorrectly measured at 19 inches but I believe he was only about 1/2 inch shorter than his "older" sister. He is a "man" amidst a harem of women. If and when the boy gets to speak, his sisters do most of the talking, it is usually very important boy business. He was sooo very blond when he was born it took almost two years before we saw eyebrows.

The Special
His personality is very sweet and gentle. He is my lovie, every day I get the biggest of hugs and an unsolicited "I love you mommy". He melts my heart and God help the girl that tries to marry my baby boy. When he hugs you, his little fingers give an ever so gently pat on your back. His spirit is genuine, he loves and protects his sisters. This is not to say he won't give them a what for when they push his buttons, that is what brothers do I guess, he is not afraid cuddle on the couch with his girls and watch movies. He also is a willing participant to play Prince Charming in many adventures to save the damsels in distress. I think he is well on his way to being a good man.

When he was a infant, because as you all know he is still my baby, he would softly hoot when feeding. This is how he got one of the many nicknames Hootie. He has not hooted in awhile, well since he stopped drinking from the "nottle" (a mixture of homegrown milk source and the manufactured style).

The boy does not like change in his environment. Now, he succumbs to the event, but on his own terms. I recently made some decorating changes to his room, since the boy light turned on I thought I would make his room a little more masculine. The Husband and I got decorations for the walls, trains, you know, boy-ed it up. So when he came home from a weekend at Gma's house, got excited and oohed and ahhed, then just at the last few moments before going to sleep he said to me, "Mom, take the stickers out of my room" I say "Son, they stay on the walls", he said "no, I don't want them in here" I said, "Son, the glue is permanent". Still if any of us leave items in his room which do not belong there, shoes, towels, whatever, you will find a little pile of stuff outside of his bedroom door.

He is very ticklish! It doesn't matter which part you go for, neck, tummy, toes, the result is the same. Total pee in the pants laughter. His little face turns red and he sounds like a wind up toy. I only have faint memories of laughing that hard, courtesy of Doc, Heather, Bambi, and Godzilla. After he begs you to stop, he promptly asks "Tickle me again!"

Dreamy blue eyes. The boy has hound dog, round dreamy blue eyes. They twinkle, and if I ever get to be a great photographer I might be able to produce a picture to prove it.

All boy, all the time! The light came on, so fast in fact he went to sleep and the next morning I was being invaded by boom sticks. How do they know this stuff? He is hard pressed to even take a nap, uncorked amount of energy could light an entire city.

He is a man of few words but when he speaks he has something to say. He recently has been developing a collection of stories he tells me in the car about when he was a baby, and how he had to go down the tracks. It is very similar to Abbiedo's one time at band camp. The story usually starts, "Mommy. MOOOMMMY! This one time when I was a baby I had to walk a very long way across these tracks."

He L.O.V.E.S. trains. Can not get enough of them. On a weekly basis he would like to take a ride on a locomotive. If only I lived closer to a train museum, I think we would be there every weekend. He will sit in his room for hours playing with his toy trains, loading the cargo cars, standing over the tracks so the train will go through his legs. Like I said, all boy, all the time.

I love this boy. My children are very special to me, but a mom and her boy, that is special too. I will dearly miss those days when the hugs and kisses are not as plentiful or freely given. So for now, I will take what I can get.

Monkey Spotlight: My Abbie Doodlebug

2009-06-25T10:10:00.001-07:00

This is my Abbie Doodlebug. I thought I would take some time to share special things about my little monkey.

The Basics

She is a twin and a middle child all rolled into one powerful package. My introduction to my Abbdo was that she firmly kept her brother at the bottom of the womb right up to the time she stated unequivocally she was coming out first. Even in utero she and her brother have been squabbling for space and attention. She weighed in at 7 lbs and some extra change, 21 inches, with a good run at a head of hair. Oh man, thinking about it, I can hardly remember the tiny little body I held in my arms, I know she smelled good.

The Special

Her personality is powerful. She may be small but this little girl is determined. I knew from day one this baby was going to give me a run for my money. Little miss bossy is in the house! Born to organize, tell people what to do, fiery temper, easily negotiable for better terms for her benefit. This one will watch the action and find the right combination of buttons to bring down her selected targets. Brains before brawn is her motto.

Her sweetness is beyond comprehension. As loving as she is fierce, there is not a moment when this one will pass up an opportunity to lay on the smooches and hugs. She is cuddlely, genuine, and motivated to do for others.

Her laugh is like a toy doll. To get her to laugh, I mean really give a belly laugh, is often hard work. She makes you earn the giggle or two. But when the laughter begins, it is all you can do not to giggle because of the itsy bitsy laugh filling the room.

She will be 4 years old in a few months and she can still wear clothing from 18 - 24 months. She is within 1/2 inch of her brother, and consistantly 10 pounds lighter. Eats a lot, but hardly puts on a pound.

She has Bowie eyes. One is blue and the other is green/brown. I used to think it was lighting issues when I would take photos, but when I really looked at her eyes, by golly they are different colors. Her eyes are just as unique as her personality.

She has a bald spot on her left temporal. She was born with this little bald area, well there are baby hairs, but the rest of her hair just grows longer and covers the spot. Sometimes it makes styling her hair a little difficult.

This little girl is a talker. She has the capacity to talk or sing for hours, and when I say hours, I literaly mean HOURS. Road trips are interesting, the other two will drop into slumber and this one will talk her way into sleep. She can go into a routine of "This one time I was walking on the ice.........." her version of the time at band camp.

I love this little girl, my life is richer and more challenging with her in it. I am so curious to know what life brings before her, I know that she is going to kick life's ass.

Emma's Spring Pageant

2009-06-09T15:36:00.000-07:00

I was not fortunate enough to be able to make her spring pageant so I am grateful to Brian for taking these pictures. I know they are a little fuzzy but Em was dressed up as a ladybug and her group sang the song "She's a lady". This is more of a reason to have my own business with my own hours. Stuff like this comes once around and I am missing it. DOH!

My little Prarie Rose

2009-06-09T15:29:00.000-07:00

She is too freakin' cute. One of her aunties had made this hat for her daughter and gave it my little bitsy. She wears the hat everywhere. If only her mom could take a decent picture oh vey!

Get me some gold lame' and call me Cha Cha

2009-06-09T09:13:00.000-07:00

I had it all planned out, this was an opportunity for hearty belly laughs. I lingered at the left mouse button, sweat upon my upper lip, agonizing "should I or shouldn't I?" The imp in me hit the mouse button to confirm my purchase. Immediately, the pains of buyer's remorse hit me like a Mack truck. OMG WHAT HAVE I DONE! THE HORROR, THE HORROR, SOYLENT GREEN IS PEOPLE! (that was three movies all rolled into one quote)

The deed was done, I was committed to a night of laughter. Robin Williams would be in Vegas and I treated the ole ball and chain to a night of comedy. I was pretty stoked after the initial purchase trauma wore off. I said to the Husband; pack thy bag ole naive, we are hitting the trail for funsville. Like he needed any prodding. There you have it, one big father's day shindig for my loving gorilla. I had hit the peak. Then, the storm came in.

A mere two weeks since the infamous clicking of the left mouse button, the news came. “Weapons of Mass Destruction Tour to be cancelled due to heart surgery; all East coast shows to be rescheduled”. Ok, I thought well, Vegas is a little farther west and hell maybe he will get better by then. Nope. Now don't get me wrong, I wish the man well, and I am happy his heart is healthy again and he is going to continue to tour. WHEN ARE YOU COMING BACK TO VEGAS?! Apparently, not in the too distant future, or even in this calendar year. Yeah, all I am seeing on his website is the East coast. WTF! See the obsessive compulsive side just went to the site again just in case.

Ok, so now we are committed, got plane tickets, hotel, car rental, there is no stopping the trip. So we leave. Got on that jet plane, knew when we would come back again, and tried to figure out what are we going to do. Well what the hell else are you going to do, you go to the desert.

Let's take a look shall we?

One of the places we didn't see on our last trip was a place called Valley of Fire National Park. Anyone we ran into while there in Nevada the last trip said "You have to see it! The colors is spectacular". Well, they were right. The rocks were amazing, only in nature can these colors come to life.

Almost every rock surface had holes, burrows, or some kind of cave like dwelling. Brian loves holes so this was really fascinating and compelling for him to climb into one. I know, you counseling types, you can analyze him later. I have my own theories.

I was excited to take pictures again, I seemed to have lost my mojo as of late and cannot seem to get my camera to do what I want it to do. It is a constant argument with myself and the camera. So far, the camera is winning. Winning big.

The road into the park is small, winding, and HOT! Yeah, I tried to lay down on the asphalt to get the "arty" shot but I burned my biscuits. My biscuits are too old to be burned in that manner.

My homage to the burning bush. I felt a little like Moses for like a second. I was hot, bothered and looking for some water. Funny thing about the desert, even when it is overcast, still FREAKIN' HOT!

One of the attractions besides the amazing colors of the landscape was the 3,000 year old petroglyphics of the indigenous Basket people who lived in this area. The preservation is outstanding and apart from the visiting chuckle heads that think they are being funny carving into the rock and defacing a state park, it is truly amazing to see how people who lived thousands of years before you communicated. I am awestruck in the pictorial detail and care that went into the drawings.

I am still wondering how the hell did these people survive here? Man, there is no visible water sources, I am told there are two kinds of food pods growing wild in the area but to find something that small would be a miracle at best. This is tough living folks.

I told Brian to jump, for once he did what I asked him to do. ::smiling:: And as you can see below, MY man found himself a hole to climb in. Can you tell he is squealing like a little girl on the inside?

One of the local residents. Luckily this guy was hanging out in the visitor's station in the middle of the park. I like them but getting this close is allowed when they are behind glass.

The local color, bright and beautiful.

Proof that I have a husband. He often claims I don't have enough pictures of him. The Pigeon, looking cool as always.

Another local resident ran up to my feet while I was taking pictures of the flora. These guys are fast.

This was in a place called Mouse's Cave. This was on the 1 mile round trip trail to an area where a renegade would escape and be able to find water. At the end of the trail, there is a natural collection bowl in the rocks where he would be able to stay in the area for months. When we arrived all we found was a insect infested pool of dirty water. Geez, I guess if I was thirsty enough it would do.

Brian also likes to climb rocks. He is one with the rock. You can never take the boy out of the man. I sat at the bottom and took pictures.

On the hike back to the car, these guys showed up. I was not afraid to get close and they were not afraid of me. Actually I think they enjoyed the posing. I even got a little head bob from the big one.

This guy looked a little worse for wear. He was molting and there was a little evidence of a fight in the recent days. Tough little bugger.

The road out of here was barely a road. At some points it was just gravel and no way to contact anyone. I think we may have even wandered into Arizona, but I can't be sure.

I treated Pigeon to a pedicure the next day. He was in man heaven. Someone was willing to massage his feet. I think I created a monster.

Open House

2009-05-13T15:37:00.000-07:00

This my girl. My girl who still lisps her letters "v" and "b". My girl who lights up a room with her smile. No, she is not Mary Tyler Moore, she is my Em. This is her first year in elementary school. It has been an adventure for both of us. Starting over is hard, probably the hardest lesson we ever learn. New school, new kids, new rules, and HOMEWORK. I have to say she has done really well, and most of the time it is her parents who have to stay late and clean the chalkboards. This picture makes my heart ache, because these steps are not the only ones I will see from this angle. This was the end of the year open house for her classroom.

Em is explaining the life cycle of frogs and butterflies. I am seeing a budding scientist. This might help her with the missing caterpillar in the van from a year ago.

I take reading for granted, but to watch her eyes as she is sounding out her words is magical. I can almost see the neurons firing.

The class has a speaking stick so that they can go to the board to read their sight words.

I don't remember studying photosynthesis at this age but I am older than dirt so things must have changed.

My Girl, MY GIRL!

2009-05-13T13:44:00.000-07:00

Who is this masked dynamo? Steel eyed, focused, ready for action. I suddenly heard a voice say "Uh, maam, uh, unless your a coach you really should not be on the field." Yikes, have I really turned into that parent? Apparently I have, the one that makes a complete fool of themselves as they are completely wrapped up into a euphoric moment when your kid is participating in something you love. Dad, believe me I am making you very proud. I have embarrassed Em numerous time in her first season of baseball.

This is my lovely girl. She is having a blast and I could not be more proud of her tenacity. She runs like a cheetah, and pounces like a jaguar on any ball in her vicinity.

I don't get tired of looking at this face.

I love it because she asks to play different positions. Last week she learned how to back up the first baseman. In this game she got to play first base. Those beautiful ribbons you see in her hair, they were made by Lorie.

They all line up like little ducks, what is cool is that each one gets a chance to hit. The teams don't switch until everyone has had a chance to bat. This particular day was hot, and the game was during most of the kids' nap time.

Funny Wednesday - Kids are GENIUS!

2009-05-06T08:22:00.000-07:00

Welp, Ole Mom's day is coming and in the fine tradition of Mr. Pudding Pops himself, kids say the darnedest things. Please enjoy!

WHY GOD MADE MOMS
Answers given by 2nd grade school children to the following questions:

Why did God make mothers?
1. She's the only one who knows where the scotch tape is.
2. Mostly to clean the house.
3. To help us out of there when we were getting born.

How did God make mothers?
1. He used dirt, just like for the rest of us.
2. Magic plus super powers and a lot of stirring.
3. God made my mom just the same like he made me. He just used bigger parts.

What ingredients are mothers made of?
1. God makes mothers out of clouds and angel hair and everything nice in the world and one dab of mean.
2. They had to get their start from men's bones. Then they mostly use string, I think.

Why did God give you your mother and not some other mom?
1. We're related.
2. God knew she likes me a lot more than other people's mom like me.

What kind of a little girl was your mom?
1. My mom has always been my mom and none of that other stuff.
2. I don't know because I wasn't there, but my guess would be pretty bossy.
3. They say she used to be nice.

What did mom need to know about dad before she married him?
1. His last name.
2. She had to know his background. Like is he a crook? Does he get drunk on beer?
3. Does he make at least $800 a year? Did he say NO to drugs and YES to chores?

Why did your mom marry your dad?
1. My dad makes the best spaghetti in the world. And my mom eats a lot.
2. She got too old to do anything else with him.
3. My grandma says that mom didn't have her thinking cap on.

Who's the boss at your house?
1. Mom doesn't want to be boss, but she has to because dad's such a goof ball.
2. Mom. You can tell by room inspection.. She sees the stuff under the bed.
3. I guess mom is, but only because she has a lot more to do than dad.

What's the difference between moms and dads?
1. Moms work at work and work at home and dads just go to work at work.
2. Moms know how to talk to teachers without scaring them.
3. Dads are taller and stronger, but moms have all the real power 'cause that's who you got to ask if you want to sleep over at your friends.
4. Moms have magic, they make you feel better without medicine.

What does your mom do in her spare time?
1. Mothers don't do spare time.
2. To hear her tell it, she pays bills all day long.

What would it take to make your mom perfect?
1. On the inside she's already perfect.. Outside, I think some kind of plastic surgery.
2. Diet. You know, her hair. I'd diet, maybe blue.

If you could change one thing about your mom, what would it be?
1. She has this weird thing about me keeping my room clean. I'd get rid of that.
2. I'd make my mom smarter. Then she would know it was my sister who did it not me.
3. I would like for her to get rid of those invisible eyes on the back of her head.

Check it!

2009-04-28T13:30:00.000-07:00

There are a few sites I go to enhance my my knowledge that I know nothing about photography. I learn stuff, some things way over my head and others makes for some cool stuff. Anyway, this photographer, Zack Arias (Atlanta based photographer) was a guest blogger on a website run by Scott Kelby who is a Photoshop Guru. The visual is stunning, I even turned the sound off and just watched the pictorial story and was moved. There are some great, creative artists out there. Check them out.

Just call me TECH-GIRL! ::Updated::

2009-04-28T09:40:00.001-07:00

I am testing out a new feature to make updates to my blog a bit quicker. Wowzer, technology is amazing.

UPDATED: I am goofing around this morning, because we all know that Tuesdays are just as bad as Mondays for productivity. The little diddy above is a test of my new phone and my critical thinking skills. Oh, and the ability to use a keyboard the size of a dime. So as you can see the little test was successful.

What was I testing? SMS, I say. Now I have just opened up myself to blog about something, anything, anywhere I happened to be because this snazzy new phone I have will allow me to do such things. Please view the animal of which I speak!

Mobile blogging, who knew I was capable of such things. I know, for some of you techie-chic people, I hear the collected "psssts and pishaws" but listen, this is big for me. See, you can teach an old dog new tricks.

Happy Birthday My Em! ::UPDATED::

2009-04-27T15:32:00.000-07:00

Oh Lawd, help me. This is a sight I am not ready to see!

This weekend was filled with happiness and celebrations. My little girl is not so little any more. This weekend she arrived at her 6th birthday. When I look back, and picture in my head the little chubby cheeked baby in my arms I never imagined how fast it came to pass. She is a young lady/girl. Loving, funny, goofy, silly, and oh so smart. I love this little girl to the moon and back and that is not even half of how I feel about her.

We spent most of the late morning at the park with a few of her school friends, riding the amusement rides, eating cake, and generally being silly gooses. I am one lucky mommy. I silently watched the devouring of the cupcakes slathered with fun frosting and princesses. I almost picked up Bitsy and licked her face like a Popsicle to remove all the extraneous frosting she was storing on her face for later. I didn't, but I had dreams about it later.

Later in the day, after much needed naps, the family (Moomps and Pfeifles) came over for grub and good times. The kids ran, played dress up, ate cupcakes, again Bitsy was a little to fast for me to catch and lick her face. It was a warm and wonderful time. Thank you to all for helping celebrate my baby girl's birthday.

Bring Laurie Berkner to Town

2009-04-22T15:23:00.000-07:00

This woman and her band make my kids dance and sing. I first saw her on Noggin when Em was little. She is great and the music is fun. To get her to play in our area you gotta "Demand IT" come on it is easy. So far, I am the only one requesting her band to come to town!

View all Stockton events on Eventful

No longer hanging with the Dodo Birds

2009-04-22T09:30:00.000-07:00

You may have thought I have gone the way of the Dodo but alas I have only been hibernating. It is one of those periods where I have a lot on my mind but really nothing to say. I think I have gotten in the habit of posting pictures rather than writing. Avoidance, a theme in my life, which is always a detriment to me.

Anyway, let's start with health. Geez, my health fluctuates like Dow Jones. Way back in October I attempted to turn a new leaf on this subject, specifically eating better. Typical fashion, I would feed my kids better food than I was willing to eat. Remember the old adage monkey see, monkey do? Well, came to bite me in the ass three or four times. Whoever thinks that kids don't pay attention to the littlest things that adults do day in and day out is deluded. I am eating better. I am feeding my kids better when I get the opportunity to cook them meals which is limited to the weekends.

I get some of the stuff to stick in their brains. Carrots good, celery good, broccoli good, marshmallows GOOD! Ok, so I let them have some treats, but it is monitored. My kids, I mean they are great kids, they don't ask for soda, they drink primarily water, some juice, and milk. If I have done anything good, the water thing is HUGE for me. If I get them ice cream I try to get the sugar free stuff, it tastes the same, or sugar free Popsicles. Kids like what you like for the most part. Their tastes change so quickly I need to step the menu up a notch.

As for me, still on a tough trail. I gave up my soda, I am a recovering soda addict. Gave up any resemblance of the foods my twisted fundus craved. Come to find out my fundus had bamboozled my stop eating mechanism more often than not so the result was, well obvious, PHAT. The fundus can't take all the credit, I just like, well like is not strong enough word, how about.....
ache for, covet, cry out for, die for, dream, eat one's heart out, fancy, give eyeteeth for, hunger for, itch for, long for, lust after, need, pine for, require, sigh for, spoil for, thirst for, want, yearn for, yen for

all those wonderful tasting foods that nutritionally are not good for me. But soft! What light through yonder window breaks? It is the East, and carbohydrates is the sun!

What makes all of this soooo bitter sweet is that I KNOW what I am supposed to eat, I KNOW I am supposed to exercise so many times a week, I know this and yet I still sit on my ass. Avoidance, yet again. On the upside, I am eating better, not as much food consumed during each meal and I feel great. I have managed to lose 26 pounds. I did not do this all on my own I had some help but the end result is that I feel better and the kids notice it too. Exercising? Well that is a whole other post.

Just some thoughts for today.

I am alive!

2009-04-13T13:34:00.000-07:00

I am breathing, although not blogging, I will put mind to computer soon. Thanks for being patient.

Happy Freakin St. Patrick's Day!

2009-03-17T09:01:00.001-07:00

Great Moments in Irish History with Denis Leary - watch more funny videos

I as SOOOOOO trying this at home!

2009-03-16T13:06:00.000-07:00

Cats on a Treadmill - watch more funny videos

It must run in the family

2009-03-13T12:40:00.000-07:00

Our house is busy, early mornings, long days, and short evenings. I am not crying about it, just realizing the necessity of having both parents work full time. However, it does make some of the unexpected moments more precious. The kids and I arrived in their classroom a bit early so I had time to hang out and play a bit. All their little friends are running around before they have to get into the swing of the day, Big Easy takes off for a few moments and shows up with a pair of goggles. He made sure to get a pair for his sister, such a gentleman. These two fight like cats and dogs but in the end, they really have a great connection.

I have lots of things on my mind but I am not quite ready to share, so for now, please enjoy the photos. I will attempt to not be so neglectful of the blog and write something worthwhile.

Don't try to take him, HE IS MINE......part Duex

2009-03-13T12:06:00.000-07:00

It all started with a hat. What came next was a mesmorizing display of a one-act of adventure to other lands, treasure, fair maidens, prince charming, and most importantly laughter. The purple ribbon head band? Yeah, not sure myself other than I must warn you ladies, he is mine. I know, where did a girl like me find such a catch as him, just fate I think. Destiny, split aparts, astrology, who knows.

It starts with a wish.....

2009-03-13T10:08:00.000-07:00

This lovely beauty is the apple of all our eyes, rest assured momma, this village will be there to help through the tweens, teens and beyond. Love to Dianah, Scott, and enchanting Delaney.

THE "Question"

2009-02-25T08:24:00.000-08:00

I know many of you were afraid to ask. The sensitivity of the question leaves beads of sweat on the brow, the immense possibility of being in error. How embarrassed I would be, and believe me I have come so close on so many occasions, to have the words leave my lips only to feel the regret immediately.

It's ok, take a deep breath, I won't be mad. Here, let me hold your hand while you muster the courage. Go ahead, come on, it will be ok.

When are you due?

Well, that is a good question. ::gentle nod of support and pat on the hand:: And completely understandable based upon the sizable mass which moves in front of you. Recently I had been feeling a little queer, I have had an insatiable craving for sardines and tuna. I have also been a little itchy, especially around the ears. I can't quite put my claw on it, I just have not narrowed down the source.

After 2,920 days of incubation, I would like to introduce the newest member of our family.

This charming little bundle of fur came to us quite by surprise last Saturday. Em has been asking for a cat for a long time. The emotional me said YES immediately but the Ole man wanted wait. It made sense for awhile, the little kids were still grabby and needed reminding to "be soft" with animals. What was clear was that the kids loved the dog, and would be equally welcoming of a cat. So while we were on a family excursion, I took the kids into the local pet store to pee and walk around while waiting for the dad to finish his shopping. There was Mia waiting to be adopted. Em was in love, my heart was a flutter trying to figure out how I could adopt all seven of the cats there.

After a brief discussion with the husband the green light was given. I asked if we could meet Mia. Em and I went in the back and Mia came out of the cage, she was a little jittery, but I went to pick her up and she turned, looked me straight in the eyes, then licked my nose. She was in.

Among her extensive list of excellent qualities was the fact she can open cabinets, and likes to play with q-tips. PURRRFECT! Her newly added quality, sleeping in sinks. Which makes Em "litter"aly howl with laughter. She loves that Mia will follow her into the bathroom while she is getting ready for school.

She has spent most of her time sleeping under the beds, exploring the rooms like a ninja that she is. Mia is a good fit for the family, although I think she wishes we were a bit quieter of a family. I think it will take awhile for her to get used to our "noises".

Speaking of ninja kitties, please enjoy the one person's joy of being stalked by an animal less than 1/4 of their size. There is something spooky about that.

Vegas - The Strip, Red Rocks, There and Back Again by Kymbo Baggins

2009-02-18T12:03:00.001-08:00

Day three of our Odyssey, we wander outside of the security of the hotel onto the strip early in the morning. Bri and I are old, I say this only because IF we stayed up later than 8 pm we were useless. While the other visitors were partying the night away, we were up by 6 or 7 am. Perfect time to cruise through the streets. I tried to have my "model" work the moving runway but he wasn't very good at taking directions. He claims he couldn't hear me, I think he was being a diva. Just like the my son, all I get is the backside, basically he said "NO CHEESE".

We had this odd conversation about how people wear their clothes. His primary question was how should men wear their pants. I say, a man should wear his pants in a manner that slightly hugs the buttocks, but not soooo tight that the package is squished. I got one word to describe the opposite of what I am talking about.....DeSoiza. Enough said. The Bri-man has got the perfect fit.....purrrrrrrr. Oh did I say that out loud? Well I can say that, I married him.

Ah, Paris. La ville d'amour, lumières et art. Voir la Tour Eiffel majestueuse ?

Le sculpures......

L'arc de triomphe....

Les fontaines avec un homme élégant fouillant son âme.....

simplement beau......

l'architecture......

J'aime Paris, adieu mon ami volage

I think I may have lost myself, how did I get to New York? What time is it?

When the crowds began to awake, Bri and I headed out of town.

Specifically to Red Rock National Conservation Area. What a gorgeous find in the middle of nowhere or what I thought to be flat desert. I guess I should study my geography and topography a bit. The air was crisp, the mountains filled with speckles of snow, just lovely.

In the middle of Calico Basin, where there happened to be a wedding taking place, smoking BBQ's and a little wooden walkway to take a little site tour of the where a ranch once stood, Bri and I hear "CLIMB ON!" or something like that. I don't speak rock climber. Bri became very animated, cause the crazy man, like the crazy men in the picture, climbed rocks with little ropes and metal thingies hammered into the rocks. See I told you, I don't speak rock climber. It took awhile for me to find the little man in crevasse and the little man on top of the big rock guiding the poor soul desperately trying not to fall. Bri attempted to give me the finer points on rock climbing but the only thing I got out of the lesson was:

1. Don't stick your butt in the air, it looks dumb

2. You don't leave behind climbing gear

3. There is some guy called the belay

These are petroglyphs left behind, at first I must admit I thought were fake, but the sign said otherwise.

And now for something completely different...pictures

We moved on to the actual conservation center and scenic route through the canyon. The pictures do not do the coloring justice. The day was hazy, so while I still think the pictures look pretty I can tell you the colors were very vibrant in person.

As you can see, more crazy climbers. I thought Bri was going to jump out of the car to catch up. I will have to send him on a rock climbing retreat. I will take the pictures. Swim with sharks, yes, climb rocks, no.

After a full day of watching other people work hard climbing incredibly shear rock faces, we ran into by accident the best food on the whole trip. This place was owned and operated by Bobby and Linda. Did not expect the kind of food we received nor the atmosphere. THIS PLACE COMPLETELY ROCKED! OMG, the first thing I noticed were the photographs on the wall but as we sat there, the smell of the food, the smiles of the people working there, the whole thing was comfy. The longer we sat the higher the curiousity rose, I said, I want to take pictures and post this place I wonder if the owner would mind. After a bit of prodding from Bri and a build up of courage, I went for it. Bobby and Linda were very accomodating. Story goes, this place is freqented by the rich and famous, Wayne Brady, Dave Matthews, Tommy Lasorda, Jerry Lewis, this is only a few of the list Bobby laid down. This guy made me laugh, down to earth and enjoying life. He gave us a little mini tour of the photos, most of which came from his personal portfolio, pictures of the Yankees, when baseball was appreciated and Joe DiMaggio was a baseball god. They had pictures of family, friends and the famous. Any way the point is, this is a great place to eat and hang out. If you are heading to Vegas, I guarantee you won't be dissapointed, gps the address or visit their website

Our last night we attempted to get some photos of all the lights.

We had a great time, I would go back again. We didn't get a chance to visit the Valley of Fire but it is certainly on the list of things to do.

Vegas - Shark Encounter

2009-02-18T11:38:00.000-08:00

As I said before, Bri and I are not the gambling sort, so the room had a broken tv and we were forced to move among the strip zombies at night. The hotel generously gave a magazine of the local possible attractions available and I decided, SHARKS!

The exquisite creature is a Monitor Lizard floating ever so gently in the water. This guy is about 4 feet in length and completely ignoring the humans. He may have cracked an eye at one point.

This is just after I was lowered into the water. They told me to stay still, not to make too many suddent movements or lots of bubbles. I held my breath in anticipation.

Then it happened. The shadow appear effortlessly into view. There was not a sound, only the subtly pressure movement in the water. I think I may have gasped.

With each pass they came closer, picking up speed with each turn. One eventually grazed against my arm. And just that quick, I was yanked from the depths back to the air.

Were you scared? Were you a little tense? FISH HOOOK!!!!!! Are you kidding me?! They would have never let me in the water no matter how much I begged them. Just bringing a camera was a question of security. No you land lovers, I, Whimsy did not swim with sharks. However, just for the record, I will if given the chance. They had great exhibits in this aquarium, I just wish I was a better photographer.

This was just an added bonus to the night life, from our hotel we could watch the police arrest various "ladies" during the wee hours of the night. Good Times. Stay tuned.