Parading...

Tonight is our town's annual Halloween parade.
The parade route is right in front of our house, which makes for fantastic parade viewing. I'm not a parade person at all, but the fact that I can come inside my house anytime I feel like it makes this parade different. We usually end up with a houseful of people, tons of food, and a lot of fun. So, today I've spent all day so far getting ready for tonight. I could have done most of it yesterday, but didn't feel like it. I'm not stressed out or anything, so it's all good.
Bathtub chili's become a Halloween parade tradition. If I say I don't feel like making it, I get evil looks and whines. What's bathtub chili, you ask? Well, it's chili, with a little bit of everything thrown in. I usually clean out the fridge when I make it (and no, I don't put anything that's growing hair or nasty in it. I do have my limits). It's never the same twice.
Tonight's chili contains last night's cheese-cracker chicken, corn, rice, 5 kinds of beans, sausage, hamburger, mushrooms, onions, peppers, leftover spaghetti sauce (yes, it works-you can't even tell spaghetti sauce is in there.) and hot pepper tomatoes. I stopped myself from putting in the leftover beef stew. I think that's probably a good thing. My stock pot is full - almost to the top.
Almost everything is done, and I'm thinking it's time for my to crash on the couch for a little while. I've got a little while before people start arriving.
That's all from here.
Behave!

Meh Monday

Just one of those days...
It went fast...too fast.
Kids are off school, and they've been busy doing their own thing. They're off tomorrow too.
But...tomorrow will be different.
Tomorrow will be crazy running around and cooking and some last minute cleaning (that wouldn't be last minute, if I'd have gotten around to it today! ha!)
So, I find I have nothing much to say today.
That is all.
Behave!

Tagged!

Beth tagged me...
I'm supposed to list 5 things about each of the 5 items.
Let's go then.
10 Years Ago:
Still having babies.
Stay at home mom.
My oldest was the same age my youngest is now.
We would have just been getting back from the beach.
Seems like only yesterday.
Today's "To Do" List:
Take a nap.
Start dinner in the crock pot.
Scouts.
Write.
Laundry.
5 Snacks I enjoy:
Queso and chips.
Popcorn (but only if it's made the right way-not microwave!)
Cheese & crackers
chocolate
Fruit
5 Things I would do if I were a millionaire:
(A million isn't a lot of money anymore!)
Help my friends out.
Secure my kids college educations.
Secure our retirement.
Buy a beach house.
Pay off debt (duh).
5 Places I have lived:
Westminster, California
Kansas City, Kansas
Kansas City, Missouri
Napoleon, Missouri
Oskaloosa, Iowa
5 Jobs I have had (or still have):
Chicken packer
Cashier
Deli clerk
(and the best two of all)
Mom
Author

-I'm supposed to tag 5 people, but I'm going to leave it open. If you want to take a crack at it, go for it!
Behave!

Maybe That's It

... I wouldn't technically call it a block, but there's definitely some reason I find a million other things to do instead of opening the document. I even cleaned. That ought to tell you something. I'm working on it though. In my mind. ha! No seriously. I am. And it's not writer's block. It's writing apathy. Or something. Or maybe it's just because it's the weekend and there's a thousand other things going on.
Who knows.
Behave!

Feel Good Friday

And actually on Friday!
My feel good list for the week:
In no particular order...
1. On sale Homecoming dresses and shopping adventures.
2. Gatherings with friends.
3. Visiting gnomes.
4. Supernatural.
5. Chatting with friends afterwards.
6. Friends who understand my mood and instead of trying to talk me out of it, fall into line with how I'm feeling and end up making me laugh.
7. B, for the same reason and so many more.
8. After everything that's happened this week, still being able to make this list when I didn't think it would happen.
Now I look forward to the weekend and to the kids having a few days off school. Sleeping in. Yay.
That's all for now.
Behave!

Nic! The Visiting Gnome!

Nic, Draumr's Publishing Gnome, came for a visit after having a wild vacation at Misty Simon's. He arrived just in time for our farm trip, but as soon as he caught sight of the cows he locked the doors and refused to come out of the truck. I did catch him staring at the ducks with longing, but when he saw me looking he hid inside my bag. He did ask about getting a ride on one of the tractors as we were leaving. When I told him he'd have to get out of the truck, he changed his mind. Or maybe he was only freaked because of the dogs and cats. As much as I tried, I couldn't convince him to come to the barn with me. I don't think farm living's his thing.
I caught him under the hood of K2's truck when she was checking the oil, but he disappeared too fast for me to snag a pic. He was also trying to take K2's truck for a joy ride. K2's very possesive of her vehicle. She told him, in no uncertain terms, that no one but her was allowed to drive her truck. He couldn't talk her into taking him to look for chicks either, since she's not allowed passengers for a little while yet. I did get the one on the upper left. Preening. I'm pretty sure that's before he found out there are no fairies in my yard, and before K2 refused to take him to look for fairies. In fact, he was bummed that the yard gnomes were as hard up for female companionship as he is. Sorry, Nic. Not my job.

He went sliding. I think he wanted to claim the house as his love nest, but K2 talked him out of it when he asked for a bean bag chair, lava lamp, disco ball, bead curtains, and if we had any Barry White CD's. Again, this was before he found out we didn't have a fairy population here. He did spend some time hanging with the gnomes in the garden. I had to put him to bed after an all night card game that included copious amounts of Captain Morgan and bottom-shelf whiskey. The other gnomes said he was a lightweight since that's their nightly thing, but they also said he was welcome back any time he wanted to visit. I think that might be because he lost a fortune in pennies to them. Apparently, Nic sucks at poker. Not that the other gnomes really have anything to spend their money on. Though, I wonder if there's some kid of squirrel mafia going on in my yard. Protection money, baby. That was the night I had to talk him out of the tree in the back yard. It wasn't pretty, so we'll just leave it at that - except to say B really didn't appreciate Nic trying to climb into bed with us and the dog wasn't happy with Nic's suggestive comments.
I have to say, Nic was kind of a trouble-maker during his visit. I don't think he was as misbehaved for me as he was for Misty, but then I don't have any fairies to harass.
Here's a shot of him writing on my Alphasmart. He was working on an erotic short story about fairies and gnomes when it was time for him to travel to Vicky Burkholder's.
I hope you enjoyed Nic's adventures at the Smith household. I know I enjoyed having him as a houseguest. He's welcome back whenever he wants. My couch is always open for him.
Behave!

More Unplanned!

...This amused me greatly!
Behave!

Unplanned Tuesday

Yes, unplanned is a synonym for random, but it fits how the puzzle pieces of my mind have suddenly clicked into place.
Sometimes all it takes is hanging with like-minded individuals to fully round out your perspective on a lot of different things. Sometimes the inspiration from such an event doesn't happen for hours. Sometimes the inspiration hits you out of the blue with such force that you have no idea how or why you didn't realize it could really be that simple. And sometimes that inspiration comes even though the subject was only barely touched on.
I know I'm talking in riddles, but I have a new plan. Well, I'm working on a new plan, but in the few minutes since this plan began taking shape I feel the spark I've been missing. That spark is tiny right now. It needs nurtured and protected, but I feel it - growing.
And I like it. Much.
Oh, how I have missed that spark.
That's all for now.
Behave!

Ha!

See number 4 of the below post!
It feels good to know it's not just my cat!
Behave!

Moaning Monday

Today has not been very fantastic so far.
No, I'm not going to go into it. Trust me, you really don't want to know.
Except...
1. I forgot to get something out for dinner and now I have no time to defrost and properly cook any of the choices in my freezer.
2. K4 spilled an entire cup of milk on herself. While sitting on the couch.
3. The dog is a super-spaz right now and won't stop running around and "talking". If she's out she wants in, if she's in, she won't stop barking.
4. The cat keeps trying to get out the back door so he can go eat green things and then puke all over my house. I've had to get him back inside three times already and it's getting old.
5. My sister is at the beach and I am not.
6. I overslept this morning.
7. Every thing I touch either breaks, spills, or is empty. Or I drop it.
8. Traffic is hell.
9. I can't decide if I'm hot or cold.
Okay, that's enough and that's just the easy stuff.
Never mind.
Behave!

Feel Good Friday, The Sunday Edition

Sorry I disappeared for a few days. Between this cold, social stuff, and life, well, I'm sure you understand.
Here's my happy list for this week:
1. My writer's group.
2. Friends who show up at the door out of the blue and end up hanging out all evening.
3. A husband who's mechanically inclined and able to fix most issues with the vehicles.
4. Writing friends.
5. Wireless Internet.
6. Sleeping in.
7. Supernatural
8. Crazy children who make me laugh.
Yeah. It was a little harder to come up with a list this week. Probably because I spent most of the week in a cold-induced hazed. This cold has really knocked me for a loop and I just want it to go away.
That's all for now.
Behave!

Do You Think I'm Procrastinating?

I think I am...
This is so me today!
Behave!

Funny!

Behave!

Falling Inside the Black - Supernaural Video

For your enjoyment!

Behave!

Thursday Things

A random collection of different things and nonsense.
1. After taking Natalie's advice, I stopped paying attention to other customers when I use the self-scan at the grocery store. I haven't gone through with a big shopping yet, but my grocery store experience has been much nicer since I do everything myself. And, remember, big shopping is relative - I shop for 6 people, so a quick grocery store run means a small cart shoved full.
2. Having a cold/flu (whatever this is/was) sucks hard.
3. Yesterday as I was dropping K4 off at school, this high school kid on a little bike flew through the intersection without waiting for the crossing guard. I don't know what happened, but the next thing I knew he was on the sidewalk with the bike on top of him. He got up and took off in a hurry, but I felt bad for him. All I saw as a badly scraped up knee and a lot of embarrassment.
4. Hey! It's October already! Yeah, I know I'm a day late on that. But, wow, like usual. I love October.
5. Don't hurt me, but I'm looking forward to snow. I'm not interested in Christmas yet. It's just the idea of snow.
6. I've decided Friday's will be "Feel Good Friday" on the blog until next summer when "Fiesta Friday" resumes. And I'm working on bringing "Tall Tale Tuesday" back. Honest.
7. Supernatural is on tonight. I'm so excited!
8. I should be working on my wip instead of writing this blog post.
9. It is very noisy in my neighborhood this morning.
10. I'm done now.
Behave!

I'm Alive!

Still not quite back to normal, but much, much better than I was yesterday.

Guess how close I was to these cows?

Well, there's no fence separating them from me. In fact, I was in their pasture. The girls had disappeared farther in and I walked down to find them building a fort out of fallen branches and stuff they found in the small stretch of woods. I could have walked over and touched this one, but she really didn't seem interested in friendly gestures.

That's all I have for today!

Behave!

Still Sick

Here are some cows for you to look at. They're the tiny black and white dots. Consider this a commercial break while I suffer and try not to die.

Hopefully this stupid illness doesn't last much longer.

Behave!

Haunted?

This house is on the way to the farm. In all of the years we lived up there, and all of the years we've visited up there, I have never seen anyone really live in this house.

Renovations would start and then stop - several times. The barn always appeared to be in use, and the grass was cut with frequency. But...I don't know...

I like to think it's haunted and that whatever spirit(s) reside inside aren't friendly. But that's just me.

Anyway. Short one today since B gifted me with his lovely illness and I feel like a big ole pile 'o crap.

Behave!

Mud and Fun

Our friends on the farm rescued several horses not long ago. They're skinny and unbroken, with some health and other problems, but they're the sweetest things. This one is my favorite. It looks like a giraffe and is really shy. It'll come over for petting, but doesn't linger for long. The other one with similar markings always has its head out of the stall and is very tolerant, despite the scars on its nose and neck from a halter that was left on as it grew. I'm not sure if they're planning on breaking them for riding, but I'd like to be there if they do.

The kids had a blast running around, and of course, we all came home kind of muddy and tired. I have pictures of goats, chickens, ducks, cows and buildings - which you'll see throughout the coming week. We ate stromboli (she makes the best stromboli ever), talked, laughed and talked some more. I lingered in her craft shop, checking out stuff I might need. It was a very cool day.

Then it got dark. As I was standing outside taking in the lack of car noise, people noise, and light, I realized that's one of biggest thing I miss about living up there - the quiet.

It's a place that will always feel like home to me. (not that there's a chance of us moving back with the current price of gas)

Behave!

Saturday Sickness

B has a cold. It's no wonder given the amount of weird hours he's put in at work this week and because pretty much everyone at his work is also sick with the same thing. He's at a definite disadvantage since he's allergic to the main active ingredient in cold medicine, leaving him with not many options for relief. He can take Benadryl, but not much else, and he hates the way Benadryl makes him feel. I'm always nervous when he tries something new because I don't relish the thought of an emergency room visit after how he reacted the last time he took something for relief.
Anyway.
His symptoms started Thursday so by now, after days of congestion, fatigue, fever, and aches, I'm beginning to question his sanity. Especially after he just came through here talking about snot and how he'd going to come up with something that will make your snot taste like your favorite thing.
Chocolate flavored snot anyone?
I'd been setting here wondering what I was going to blog about today. So there you have it. What I live with made even more weird by the ravages of a head cold.
We're heading back up to the farm today. Hopefully I'll have some pictures for the week. I'll definitely have some mud!
Behave!

So That Explains It!

Now I know why my entire house overslept this morning! ... Behave!

Happy Things

I think this is about the time I decided to quit the year last year and I gotta tell you I'm having the same feelings. This year hasn't been too much better than last and I wholly believe it's time to move on. Or it will be soon. I'm willing to give 2008 another chance to prove me wrong and make me say "this is the best year evar!". It's seriously been one thing after another around here. Again. I still think our last name should be Murphy, and I wonder if we're in some kind of cosmic payback for wrongs we did in another life. Or that we're in some really bad sitcom and don't know it. Seriously. Ha!
Anyway. Yesterday was a pretty darned crappy day for me. Everything I touched turned black and crumbled in my hand. I never made my dental appointment thanks to a backup on the highway, so I still have stitches in my mouth. My morning got derailed when some lady was chasing a three-legged dog around my back yard (no kidding). And a whole bunch of other stuff you don't want to hear about.
But then, Supernatural came on. (No, this is not a post about Supernatural. Though it was a fantastic, absolutely fantastic, episode) After it ended, several of us chatted online about the episode and stuff in general and by the time I signed off, I had a totally different view of the day. As I was laying in bed (trying not to grumble too much about the remote being missing - which drives me nuts, but that's a subject for another post), I realized I need to focus more on the things that make me happy instead of letting the trials of life tromp me into the dirt.
So, here is my happy list for today. The list of things within the past twenty-four hour that make a lot of the crappy stuff fade:
1. My best friend/husband and his weird sense of humor.
2. Pumpkin spice candles.
3. Laughing with friends.
4. Putting new words on the page. (even if sometimes it feels like those words are coming directly out of my coronary artery)
5. Fighting kids - because at least they're here and not out with people I don't approve of.
6. Today's plans and weekend plans.
7. Rain and cool weather.
8. Wireless Internet.
9. A semi-clean house.
10. Goals to keep me focused.
And, of course...
11. Supernatural.
yeah. It's a mostly lame list, but you get the picture. I don't expect it to make a lot of sense to you. Consider it my effort to climb out of the dark pit I've been in before more black mud fills my mouth.
And most of all...
Behave!

Yay! It's Thursday!

Behave!

Wednesday Why?

Questions on my mind today.
1. Why is it that when you send your teenager to the store for one thing and give them ample cash, they tell you there wasn't enough money? (I saw the receipt, but I didn't pay that much two days ago!)
2. Why does this week seem so darned long?
3. What happens when your 8 year old decides to clean out her Barbie box in your living room, and decides the Barbies need a bath and gets a bowl of water to wash their hair, and then forgets about the huge mess to play outside? Or maybe the right question is, why?
4. Why am I so tired all of the time, but can't sleep when it's bedtime?
5. Why does it seem like Thursday will never get here even though it's tomorrow?
6. Why are my kids still stuck on survival shows?
7. Why do all the light bulbs in my house burn out at the exact same time?
8. Why are there socks everywhere I look?
Okay, I'm going to stop now before I get any stupider!
Behave!

What I'm Doing...

I've crossed off about twelve things from my to do list since last night (and no, I don't put things like "go to bed", "get up", "brush teeth" on it! Ha!). I'm kind of moving slow today though - watching Supernatural, surfing the web, looking at the other million-and-a-half things left on that list, but making no movement toward crossing them off.
Oh, and I'm writing - or I will be in a few. I'm ready to rock and roll, the document's open and the cursor's on the right line. Working on this book is like walking on glass right now though. I keep trying to think of other things to write or edit. I think that's because of how much I deleted. I mean, I was already done with the book and cut over half of it. That's significant, and sucky. The rewrite is going better than I expected, but there's this...I don't know...fear, disenchantment, dread...or something that's blocking my path. I try to write through it, and do fine, but as soon as I have a non-writing day, all of it comes back with a vengeance. Which is where I am right now. Monday's are typically non-writing days for me right now. I had fantastic output on Sunday thanks to B taking over Scout duties for me so I could write, and when I found out (much to my disappointment) that my Monday evening plans had changed, I figured I'd spend the evening writing. Only it didn't happen. I was paralyzed or something. I never even opened the document.
So that's where I'm at. I guess recognizing the road blocks are half the battle though. And I am really close to the end. Except I have no idea where the book is going now. As much as I'd tried to prevent it by the extensive plotting I did for this book, I'm back to flying by the seat of my pants. Oh well...
Behave!

Monday's List

Since I have a big to do list, you're getting one too. My whole life seems to revolve around this list of mine - with good reason. If I didn't have it, the likelihood of me actually remembering anything right now would be slim to none.
Out of twenty items - yes, twenty - originally there was close to thirty - 10 are household admin duties, 5 are writing-related, 3 relate to my scout duties, and the rest fall into the "other" category. Will I get all of these things done today? Bwah ha ha. Ahem. No.
Anyway.
Here's my Monday list of things that would be awesomely cool:
1. A television channel that showed Supernatural/SamDean related stuff with no commercials 24/7.
2. Laundry that does itself.
3. Self-cleaning houses.
4. A radio station that plays only my favorite songs. (I know, it's called an iPod. I don't have one.)
5. Vehicles that never need gas.
6. Vehicles that never need repaired.
7. A pantry that stocks itself.
8. Having a private chef.
9. Going to the beach.
10. A nap.
Okay, so you can see what kind of mood I'm in. It's probably related to my burdensome list and the fact that I've been sleeping like crap lately.
But, on the good side only 3 more days until new Supernatural. Only 4 more days until Friday. Pizza for dinner. Kids doing chores. Pages written. Cool weather. Pumpkin bread.
Behave!

Cows and Baby Ducks...

As soon as we pulled into our friends yesterday, we realized something was amiss on the farm. There were cows where cows don't belong. So, we headed into the field to help round them up. The kids weren't too sure about it at first, especially when a big, black cow came crashing out of the corn field right in front of us, but they ended up acting like old farm hands and really helped get the cows back into their pasture.
From there, they ran around the barn, chasing the barn kitten (and begging me to bring it home), feeding the goats, (cute baby goat!) chasing ducklings (I got to hold one. It was so cute! K2 chased it down just so I could hold it.) and petting the horses. They played in the hayloft, on some equipment, and with the dogs. K2 got in the pen with the calves and was talking to them to get them to moo. They didn't want to leave. And K2 ended up being late to work. It was a blast.
I think my kids should have been farm kids.
And, there's not a single picture, because, while I did bring the camera, I forgot to get it out when we walked up to the barn.
Maybe next time.
And we've been made to promise there will be a next time in the very near future.
Like I said...I think my kids should have been farm kids.
That's all.
Behave!

Saturday Stuff

Bad me for thinking we'd have a mostly relaxing day. I really should know better!
I slept in a little bit, but the effect was lost since I dove in to what needs done right away. I'm still not completely caught up, but I kind of doubt I'll ever be, so I'm just doing what I can.
For one, we have to drive B's car to our exhaust mechanic who's an hour away. While we're there, we'll stop in to see our friends, and then rush home to get K2 to work on time. Then, we head over to my folks house for some birthday celebrating. I'm not sure if everyone's going to be there yet. I haven't heard and I've been too busy to ask. I hope so. We haven't all been together for a long time.
Anyway.
A birthday shout out to my Daddy. (it's his birthday we're celebrating. I know it's confusing with the amount of birthdays we have to celebrate around here and this is peak birthday season for our family) I'm not sure my dad reads this, but I'm still writing a shout out. Ha! My dad is an awesome guy. He's always been there for me, through good times and bad. I honestly believe that if it wasn't for his tough, but patient, guidance during my teenage years, I would have taken a far different path and would probably be in a very different place right now. And probably not a good one either. I distinctly remember the day I stopped fighting his wisdom and actually listened to what he was trying to tell me. There's so much more, but I'm going to stop here before I get all sappy and write a way too long post. But...Happy Birthday, Dad!
And now I'm off to jump back on my to do list.
Have a fantastic weekend!
Behave!

Talk Like a Pirate Day!

Avast!
I be forgettin' about this memorable day. K1 jangled my line earlier to remind me. It's time to talk like a pirate. You can even drink some rum if you want.
Me and me hearties be scurrying around the deck doing some swabbin' and fixin' some vittles and lookin' yonder to a rest post a long bunch o' days afore. There's a fair wind blowin' and respite ahead.
I miss celebrating this day with me beach hearties - the scallywags. Now 'tis a sad wind blowin through the pirate talkin' with no beach journey on the horizon.
tee hee...
You have to admit, "Talk Like a Pirate Day" is a very worthy day! I love it!
Behave!

Supernatural Friday!

What a fantastic episode!
I'm so glad the boys are back!
I was riveted throughout the whole episode. The way Dean crawled out of his grave - though why his was buried with his lighter is curious. I guess Sam wanted him to have everything he needed just in case he was able to find a way to bring him back. The reunions were beautiful. Dean pulling up his shirt to check for hell hound wounds, absolutely beautiful. Sam's powers. The angel. The reason Dean was pulled out of hell. The confrontation with the demons in the diner. The burned out eyes. The great lines. And holy cow, is Dean bowlegged or what?
I hope we don't see a brother against brother thread going on. I can live with Dean being darker and having some issues after his time in hell. I can deal with Sam being harder after living without Dean for so long. But I can't deal with the brothers being at odds. I don't want them to lie to each other any more and I want Dean to finally accept Sam's powers.
But, I guess that's not up to me.
Next week's episode looks fantastic!
The boys are back and all is right in the world!
Behave!

Tonight!

I'm so excited!
In about 6 hours I'll be settled in and ready for Supernatural to start! I can't wait.
If you've never watched it, tonight would be a good time to start. Seriously.
In other news, I spent all morning in the dentist's chair getting my broken tooth fixed some more. I am now the proud owner of a brand new root canal, and I have stitches in my mouth. Even though I wasn't in pain before it feels so much better to have a complete surface back there again. (even if I can't really eat anything right now) (and I'm starving) The numbness is starting to wear off and the niggles of pain are weaving their way in, but I'm hopeful it won't be too bad. We'll see.
Tomorrow's Friday. Thank goodness.
And, hey, guess what? No weddings this weekend! ha!
Watch Supernatural. Tonight at 9 on the CW. Seriously.
Behave!

Quote Thing

When you see this, post another Supernatural quote in your lj (blog). Let’s see how long this can go on.
Sam: "What are you calling me a bitch for?" (What Is and What Never Should Be)
Very hard to pick just one! But that's one of my favorite episodes!
ONE DAY until it starts!!
I can hardly stand it!
That's all I have. Supernatural is pretty much the only thing on my mind right now. Heee!
Behave!

Tall Tale Tuesday

Is going to take a brief hiatus.
It'll be back - maybe even with prizes!
Life has me a bit overwhelmed at the moment and I need to figure out how to streamline and organize my time a little bit better. I can't wait until the very last minute to come up with a post. I love Tall Tale Tuesday, so this won't be a permanent dismissal. Hopefully, it won't be too long. Thanks for understanding.
But it is Tuesday...day two down in another very long week only made better by tonight's plans, and by Thursday's season premier of Supernatural!
That's all...
Behave!

Monday Ramblings

Another picture from the reception. Those little candles were on every flat surface. I have to admit, I did wonder about the amount of hairspray on some heads and the possibility of someone going up in flames, but that's just how my mind works.

Anyway.

Lots of little irritations here and there - like: the cashier at the grocery store missed three of my coupons and gyped me out of four bucks off my bill. Dang it. K4 needed chapstick, so we picked up some at the store, and don't you know, she lost it before we even made it to the car. Crying commenced. K4 had homework to do that required scissors, and believe it or not, I can't find a single pair. I guess I hid them too well. We ended up using crazy craft scissors to cut out her homework. Fantastic. The desktop computer is dying on many levels. Not only is is horribly slow and cranky, the monitor is changing colors - right now it's a pleasant blue, but it's been known to turn yellow and red depending. Like I need that.

But...the weather is gorgeous. There's a fantastic breeze that reminds me of the beach.

There's a lot to look forward to this week, too...(my next dentist appointment not included)

Tomorrow night I'm meeting the participants of the summer writing challenge for dinner - to celebrate our hard work and hang out. I can't wait. Then...Thursday...Brand new Supernatural!! Fantastic! I've seen two videos of different clips from the episode. Both just make me want it even more. More I can't wait!

Okay. So that's all for now.

Behave!

Wedding Recap...

Weddings are weddings. Each the same and each different with the obvious bride, groom, locations, ect. Wedding guests are the same, too. They clump together with the people they know, they dance, they're friendly to other guests, and they feel honored to have been invited.

The first wedding we went to was one where I'd only met the groom a few times, and never the bride. I spent most of my time hanging with my hubby and observing the other guests.

The second wedding was close friends - friends that are really, truly family. Those are the best weddings, hands down, because you have that connection - not just with the bride and groom, but with most of the guests. You're hanging out with friends and celebrating.

The third wedding was a cross between the above. The groom is Godfather to our children, and even though he and his new wife have been together for quiet a while, we haven't had the opportunity to really get to know her. Our lives have taken different paths over the past few years, so the ability to socialize has been nonexistent making part of that connection awkward and lost, but underneath that the reason the friendship was formed is still there. It was a beautiful wedding, and one of the most unique receptions we've ever been to.

The picture is of the reception site, an old tavern built in 1794 that has been restored over the past few years. There was food throughout the building - a kids room - chafing dishes of mac n' cheese and chicken fingers in a bunk room complete with beds and an old wood burning stove, coffee room, and various appetizers in each room. Guests were encouraged to investigate the building, take pictures, and find a place to hang out. Tables were spread through each of the rooms and outside. Candles were everywhere (I don't think the main house has electric). It was kind of hard to see, but not too bad (for adults - it stressed the younger K's out, big time). As the place filled with people, it got horribly hot - bad enough K3 nearly passed out and had to go outside for some air. We ended up leaving early because of that and the general fatigue of the younger kids.

And now, for now, we're done with the wedding circuit. As of right now, the next wedding on the horizon is my cousin's - which will have to travel for, but it's not for about 18 months or so.

The recent weddings just bring home that one day we'll most likely be the parents of the groom and bride. And that'll be a totally different perspective on weddings.

I only hope it's not for a long while!

Behave!

Like I Have Time For This...

Go here to see what I've been spending too much time on today.
I love my blog here at Blogger, but Word Press offers the option of making pages, so I'm using that one like my website.
Check it out - let me know what you think.
I'll be playing with it as time allows, but so far, I'm digging it!
Behave!

Another Wedding Saturday

This one's the last for now.
And since it's not until evening, we can take our time getting ready. Which is different from last week's hurried shower train and run around-ness. Except K2 has a 16th birthday party this morning and she's stressing me out with the details and needing directions. But, that's beside the point.
Oh. A point? Do I have one?
Do I ever? Ha!
Bob's car goes into the shop next week for some exhaust work, so I thought this was appropriate! .... What can I say? Life is reasonably boring at the moment...
Behave!

Friday!

No more Fiesta. That's a summer term and can't be used after Labor day. Kind of like white shoes or whatever. ha!
It's raining here, compliments of Hurricane Ike. I love it. Or I will once I've finished the running around. Looks like the perfect night for movie watching.
Let's see...There's not a lot going on today. So I'll leave you with this: Behave!!

Stay Off the Sidewalks!

There's a new driver on the streets!
K2 nailed her driving test. She took it in the Suburban and parallel parked that beast like it was a tiny little car. As soon as I saw that (I was hiding behind the building so she wouldn't see me), I knew she had it made. She was positive there was no way she was shoving our tank into the allotted space. But I knew she would - it only looked smaller because instead of cones the area is surrounded by those huge highway barriers.
She already has plans to borrow the Suburban tonight. I'm sure I'll cry when she drives away - just like I did with her brother. Another step toward total independence. It's a good thing. And a sad one for Mommy. Kind of.
Last Thursday before new Supernatural! Whoot! Tonight is the rerun of the season finale and since I don't have my season 3 DVD's yet, you can bet your behind I'll be glued to the television making everyone around me be quiet.
That's all...
Behave!

Answers!

The correct answer: 1
A horse took me on a wild ride over uneven terrain and huge piles of brush.
It was a very long time ago. Friends of ours had a beautiful white mare. She had a lot of spirit despite being up there in years. We were outside, clearing some brush on our property. They'd ridden over to check out our progress and say hello. Now I'd ridden this horse many times before and was comfortable with her. Apparently, she felt like trying to freak me out because she took off like a rocket. It was all I could to do hold on. Honestly. I loved it.
The other two were complete and total lies. Nothing similar has even remotely happened to me.
So. Anyway. I know. Lame.
I already told you about my week. No, it hasn't gotten any better, but we are on the downward slide now. New Ghosthunters is on tonight and that makes me happy. AND one more week until new Supernatural.
That's all I have for now.
Behave!

Tall Tale Tuesday

Sorry I'm later than I intended to be. I won't post the answers until late tomorrow.
Let's see. I'm a little brain fried still, so give me a sec to come up with something at least partially interesting...
Okay. Got it.
How about....
Topic: Random
Which of the below is true.
1. A horse took me for a wild ride over uneven terrain and huge piles of brush.
2. I was chased by bees after accidentally smacking their hive with a stick.
3. We were at a wedding reception at the same hotel where a celebrity was staying and I was mistaken for her.
Well, it might be lame. I'm sorry. It's been a long week already and it's only Tuesday!
Behave!

A Monday List

I haven't had a list for a while, and since my brain is totally fried today...
Ten Reasons I Love Fall:
1. Cooler temperatures.
2. The leaves changing.
3. Pumpkin scented candles.
4. Pumpkin bread.
5. The return of heartier meals, like soups, stews, and all the stuff you don't feel like eating when it's millions of degrees outside.
6. Sweatshirts.
7. The way it smells outside.
8. Halloween!
9. Bon fires.
10. Snuggling under a blanket.
There you go.
Behave!

Weekend Wrap Up...

Well, we lived through the weekend.
What a blast.
The wedding was fantastic, even with the pouring down rain brought by Hanna. And, boy, did it rain hard! Crazy. We actually started out our weekend on Thursday when we went to the bride's parents house for dinner. Then, Friday was the rehearsal dinner, which was a lot of fun and a late night. Saturday morning we were up early to start the shower train (remember 6 people, one bathroom, two teenagers). The rain started right before we left, but it didn't dampen the day one bit. We danced, laughed, and carried on until late. And we decided the new couple should name their first daughter Hanna in honor of their wedding day. Ha! Who knows if they'll agree with that, but we thought it was funny. Also, my mom's been losing weight and when she got out of the car at the wedding I was shocked. I guess I didn't realize how much weight she's lost! She looks fabulous and she had on some kickin' shoes! The younger K's had a blast. They danced, ate cake, and ran around with the other kids.
Oh, and I need to make a minor adjustment to my previous post. Jo took offense to me saying she was our adopted child this weekend since she's not a child. So, she was our house guest and traveling companion. Hopefully that makes her happier.
My pictures aren't that great so I doubt you'll get to see any of them. If I can figure out how to upload one from my phone, I can show you the tower K1 made during dinner Friday night.
This week's a busy one. Lots going on.
Stay tuned, and...
Behave!

Fiesta Friday!

Well. It's Friday. Again.
Let me just back up a minute and say...Wow. September. Already. How did that happen? Ha!! I love fall, so I'm psyched. Kind of.
We have a busy weekend ahead. Not like that's anything new.
Our oldest friend's daughter is getting married tomorrow. We've been friends with them since I was still in high school. B was in their wedding. T was in ours. I used to babysit the bride, so this is kind of weird. It's also only the second wedding most of the K's have been to. K4 is nervous because she doesn't know what to expect. I'm more nervous about waiting until the last minute to find their nice clothes and see if they fit. Yes. I have. ha! K2 is taking care of the guest book and programs, which means we have to be there early. Not to mention, Jo is playing at the wedding and since she's our adopted child this weekend, we have to be there early for her to get set up. And all of that means I'll miss my meeting tomorrow, which makes me a little sad, but the wedding and subsequent after party are sure to be a blast!
And that is all. I doubt you'll hear from me again until Sunday, but hey, you never know! I'm going to remember to take the camera, so maybe I'll have some pictures of the frivolity.
Behave!

Ha!

Behave!

Rambling

Can't do anything about the spots on the picture, but I think you can still see it okay. That's the camper. I'm not sure what day it was, but judging by the minimal amount of towels hanging on the line, I'm going to guess it was Saturday.

Today I'm waiting.

K2 and I ordered new cell phones. Well, she had to get a new one - hers shuts off while she's texting and since I was eligible to upgrade as well, I said what the heck. The phones were free, the shipping was free, and the only thing we're paying for is one activation fee since they waived one. Pretty sweet. Except I can't really go anywhere until they get here since I have to sign for them. And I need to go to the grocery store. Oh well.

Oh, and look on the sidebar there. You can sign up to follow my blog! You can do it anonymously if you want. Don't leave me with zero followers, I feel pathetic enough!

What else?

2 weeks until new Supernatural! I can't wait. There's a new trailer up. It's so awesome. Season 3 came out on DVD Tuesday. No, I didn't get it yet. It'll probably go on my Christmas list.

I cracked my elbow pretty good last night and now it hurts really bad. I don't notice it too much when I'm typing, but bending it more than the minimal amount I have to bend to type hurts pretty bad. Like I needed that on top of the tooth stuff.

That's all for now.

Behave!

Answers!

Okay, so that one wasn't hard.

The answer is:

1. The loss of Internet services.

This. Drives. Me. Crazy. As you well know.

2. Untied shoes - whatever.

3. Barking dogs - definitely annoying.

4. Sirens - loud.

5. Not being able to find the TV remote - doesn't bug me downstairs, but if I can't find the one in my room I get cranky.

And...

To the left is one of the pictures I took over the weekend. I swear, I have enough pictures of Jo to post one a day for a month. It seemed like she was always in front of my camera. And, like she said in my comments, every picture is blog fodder.

So there you have it.

Feeling a bit pitiful right now thanks to the beginning of what is probably going to be some lengthy dental work. Yay me.

Behave!

Tall Tale Tuesday

Here we are again.

Ready?

The subject: Things that irritate me.

Which one of these irritates me the most?

1. The loss of Internet services.

2. Untied shoes.

3. Barking dogs.

4. Sirens.

5. Not being able to find the TV remote.

Yeah, I know I gave you more choices this week.

Still no prizes.

Isn't that picture pretty? We were surrounded by wildflowers this weekend. Our creek-front property was loaded with yellow and red flowers. B picked me a huge bouquet of all different types of flowers and put them in a coffee cup from the beach. Beautiful and perfect.

Behave!

Back From the Wilds

Again! And for the last time this year. Well, probably for the last time this year.

Anyway.

I have lots of pictures and lots of stories to share.

We didn't have as many nights this time because of rain, but we still had a blast. Well, if you don't count the fact that I almost blew up the engine in my truck and my broken tooth.

That's all for now. I'm weary, filthy, and have a million and a half tons of laundry to take care of!

Behave!

Sunday!

And we're picnicking at the meadow!
Hope you're having an enjoyable holiday weekend! I know we are!
I'll probably have some pictures to post over the coming week! The camera's already packed and ready to go.
Behave!

Blogiversary!

It's my two year blog anniversary! Who knew I'd still have something (nothing) to say!! Ha!
Picture cracks me up. I don't know where that street is, but it reminds me of the time B and I were driving around hopelessly lost. The macadam road turned to stone, then to dirt, then to barely a path. We saw a road sign "cemetery lane" and turned down thinking it had to lead back to civilization. Only it didn't. We ended up in a really scary place - like we'd been led there to die. There was an old cabin with sheets hanging in the glassless windows and a man standing on his front porch with a shotgun. The road ended right in front of the cabin, and no, there wasn't a cemetery around at all.
No. I am not lying.
Enjoy Saturday!
Behave!

Fiesta Friday!

It's a good question!
I want to live in that lighthouse!
That's all for now!
Behave!!

Writing Challenge Stats

I talked about the writing challenge going on with a small group of my writing friends. It's over now, and our results were incredible.
June was a tough month for all of us. Daily writing was difficult and finding a routine seemed impossible. Hence, the birth of the writing challenge. We used page counts for five out of seven days - so if you worked all seven, you kept your five highest count days. That left ample room for summer fun/obligations. The scoring was: one point for each page of new work and one point for five pages of edits/revisions. We all kicked in some cash for the prizes, and at the end of the week, the winner got a nifty Barnes and Noble gift card.
Everyone won at least once. Some of us won twice (raising hand), but what's really amazing is the amount of work we did. We didn't count critiquing, even for each other.
Between the five of us in seven weeks:
We wrote a total of 1, 050.50 pages. (translates into 262,625 words)
We edited a total of 4622.50 pages. (which is the equivalent to about 12 books.)
Together, that's about 14 books between 5 people in less than two months! We even impressed ourselves. I'd just made a comment about feeling like I didn't get anything done over the summer. Then, our fantastic spread sheet guru sent the tallies. And remember, this challenge started after the fourth of July. We had an entire month before that without reporting in.
We also did critiques for each other and our other critique partners. I did four full-length books, two partials, a short story, and several chapter critiques. But, like I said, those numbers weren't counted because the point of the challenge was to get new pages/revise our own stuff. Forward progress.
I'm still amazed at how awesome we did.
Now that school is back in session, we won't need such a high motivator all the time - just an occasional kick here and there.
So, there you have it.
I have to tell you, I feel pretty darned lucky that these ladies are with me on this journey. They keep me moving, help me keep my hope, refuse to let me burn frustrating manuscripts, tell me when something sucks hard, and hold my hand when life hands over crap.
Enough sap. I need to get to work.
Behave!

My Kid

I usually don't post pictures/videos of my kids, but this one's a little different. I also refrain from religious or political commentary, but this, too, is different. K2 is in this video. She plays the lead girl. This is the performance that was recieved so greatly that they've performed it at other venues. It highlights the struggles teenagers go through on a daily basis. Grab some tissues.

Behave!

Answers!

No one guessed correctly!
The answer...
Number 3.
I have never had a black eye.
I may have had a bruise somewhere near my eye, but as far as I can remember I've never had a swollen, purple and black eye.
I don't know the exact amount of stitches I've had during my lifetime, but it's not fifty. Probably closer to half that.
No one ever recognized me in the emergency room. Not even back in the day.
So, this one was harder as promised. Heck, it was even hard for me! ha!
Next week I'll do silly things.
Getting in the swing of the school routine just in time for a long holiday weekend. Go figure.
That's all.
Behave!

Tall Tale Tuesday

Okay. Here we are again.
Two lies. One truth.
You figure out which one is true.
Today's subject: Injuries.
1. I have had an approximate total of 50 stitches in various places on my body.
2. At one time, they recognized me in the emergency room.
3. I have never had a black eye.
Hopefully this one is hard enough. ha!
Answers tomorrow.
Behave!

And They're Off!

First day of school!
We sent them off - three different schools, three different times...new experiences.
K2 couldn't stop saying that this is her second to last first day of school. It's hard enough thinking about next year being her last year of school. It's hard enough thinking about her being a junior this year. But, they're all off to their respective schools, and B and I are hanging out for the day. Which is kind of a lie, because I'm on the computer and he's on the phone taking care of work business. But, we have plans for lunch and other running in a little while, so it's really not a lie.
And I'm completely weirded out that school is in session again. It just does not seem like we even had summer. I think back, look over my previous posts, and still wonder what the heck happened. I don't know. Usually, I'm ready for the routine to start again, but I don't think I'm quite ready for that yet. I think the kids were though, so that's all that matters.
Anyway.
That's all for today. Excuse me while I wander around the house, reveling in the silence while I miss the chaos and the summer I feel like we didn't have.
Behave!

Saturday...

Once again, I went somewhere interesting, and once again, I forgot the camera.
Figures. I would have had some good pictures, too.
We had B's company picnic today. This year, they had it at a camp and all the camp amenities were available for us to use. It was a blast, but man, am I tired.
So, I'll tell you the pictures I would have had.
K4 all by herself in a kayak for the very first time. (she loved it and didn't want to get off the lake)
K3 nearly falling out of his saddle on the trail ride. (he'd never been on a horse before, but caught on quickly and had a blast.
K2 and her "friend-that's-a-boy-but-not-her-boyfriend" (this is what we call him) soaking each other while in kayaks.
Horse butts.
Trail poop. (I know you would have loved both of those)
The top of a mountain. (awesomely cool to be there)
This little stone thing with a tiny little door.
The roof of a cabin with what looked like the entire inside contents on top. (It looked like a youth group camp out. And I'm assuming the boys did this to the girls from the pink towels and pillows on the roof. Very amusing)
A huge pile of steaming tan bark. Huge pile. (I wanted to drive over it, but B said that was a bad idea. Go figure.)
There you have it. I'll bet you already have some mental images for the horse butts and trail poop.
ha!
Behave!

Friday...

Don't know what happened to yesterday...I appear to have that issue on Thursdays. And it's not like anything was really going on around here anyway. It was a long, crappy day for the most part, full of house cleaning, laundry, and minor kerfluffles.
Today's the last Friday of summer vacation and we're heading out for school shopping.
Yeah. Pray for me.
I have three very detailed, very long lists of required school supplies and clothing. K2 has her own separate list of stuff she wants, which she will be funding, but requires my vehicle services and patience while I wait for her to make her selections. I have my own list of required items, that they'll have to be patient through. And we have to do the "meet and greet" thing with K4's teachers this afternoon. Then, there's the grocery shopping, which is probably not getting done today. I'm almost sure the only visit to the grocery store I'll make today will be to grab what is absolutely necessary over the next two days. The thought of coupons and long, detailed lists, hauling numerous bags inside and putting them away is like a nightmare on a regular day.
At worst, I'll have some interesting blog fodder from our adventure. ha!
That is all.
Behave!

Answers!

Okay, so this week wasn't as well received as last week, but whatever. I'm having fun doing it, so it'll continue.
The winner? My mom.
She tried to post a comment (and for that she gets tremendous credit), but it wouldn't work for her. Of course, she knows me very well, so it's obvious she knew the answer. Only she wasn't 100% sure. She said she had a vague memory. (You know there's no prize, right, mom?) ha!
The answer:
3. I once helped with pig birth.
It was when we lived in Iowa, so I was in 6th grade. I had a friend who lived on a working pig farm. Right now I can't remember her name. I'd spent the night and sometime after we'd fallen asleep, her mom woke us and said we were needed in the barn. It was cold. (the whole time we lived in Iowa it was winter! I swear!) The steam in the barn was weird to me. The sow was having problems and all hands were needed to take care of the piglets. I'd never experienced such a thing before, but after being shown what to do, I did my share of airway clearing and piglet care. It was a very cool thing.
As for number 1. Ha ha ha...I can sew buttons and patches, but if I ever tried to make my own clothes I'd look like I was wearing a sack. Then there's that pesky time issue Vicky B. mentioned. ha!
Number 2? I'm reasonably versed in the basics of engine mechanics (meaning old car engines-not newer ones), but definitely not auto body repair.
So there you have it!
Come back for more lies same time next week...
Behave!

Tall Tale Tuesday

I think the quiz last week went well. We'll see how long it is until I run out of lies...or maybe that's truths...ha!
Ready to try again?
Same format as last week.
Two lies and one truth.
Here we go.
1. I make most of my own clothes, though not underwear or socks, or jeans.
2. I am reasonably skilled at auto body repair.
3. I once helped with pig birth.
There you go.
Which one is the truth?
Still no prizes, but eventually...
Answers tomorrow.
Behave!

Last Monday

This time next week, the kiddos will be sitting behind their desks in the great halls of learning. Weird, because usually I'm so ready for school to start again - not because they're driving me nuts, but because the lack of schedule has taken a toll. I don't have that urge for some reason this year. Go figure.
I had wanted to use this week for total relaxation and a last bit of summer fun. Then I looked at everything that's on the schedule. Ha! Between orientations, schedule pickups, teacher meet-and-greets, school shopping, appointments, and other obligations...ha ha ha. We'll see what we can manage...
On the writing front...
I *think* I may have taken the challenge last week. Not sure yet, the final totals aren't up yet. If I didn't, it's not for lack of trying. This week is the last week and since most of us have the same pre-school events and obligations, the winner will be anyones guess. The new pages are finally flowing the way they should. I'm not in mourning over anything but the wasted time anymore. This week will be more pages, some owed critiques, and then more pages, though I am taking a more relaxed approach due to everything going on.
Tomorrow is another "Tall Tale Tuesday".
Look for it. Comment.
Bear with me as I fine tune it.
Behave!

Sunday...

(I see that the video I tried to post last Saturday finally arrived dated as Friday. Weird stuff.)
The coming week is the last week of summer vacation.
I've been thinking about what I expected out of this summer, and what actually happened.
So here's a list:
1. Sleeping in - expected it, and happened. Though going back to getting up at o'stupid-thirty doesn't make me happy.
2. Pool time - didn't happen as much as we thought it would thanks to schedules, rain, and other stupid stuff.
3. Fiesta Fridays - Only a few, they were fun, but still...a bust
4. K2 getting her license - hasn't happened. Yet. That's thanks to conflicting schedules, vehicle difficulties, timing issues.
5. Weddings - still working on them.
6. Grilling - happened a lot, then a dry spell, now we're back to it.
7. Camping - we had a nice extended weekend and two other "supposed to" weekends that didn't happen. There's still one on the horizon.
8. Writing time - I managed okay with this. Did more than I thought I would, but not as much as I would have liked to. If that makes sense.
9. Relaxed pace - ?? Bwah ha ha ha ha
That is all.
Behave!

Thinking!

Behave!

Supernatural

Behave!

Fiesta Friday!

A Friday list:
Ten random things I'm thinking about.
1. What's wrong with my caller ID? It's not working.
2. I'm out of stamps.
3. What to make for dinner.
4. Where the download cable for the camera is hiding.
5. Why my son is wearing two t-shirts and shorts. He says he's cold, but that doesn't make sense.
6. Pumpkin bread.
7. Where is the mail person?
8. One more week of summer vacation.
9. How much stuff is on the calendar over the next month.
10. Where is the sun?
Busy day. Lot's of administration duties and running around.
Behave!

Thursday: Writing Challenge, School

So, we're still going strong in our writing challenge. I'm in second place for the week, having been recently knocked out of first. We still have days though, (and another week) so I'm not giving up hope of another win.
My problem is...the book I finished recently? The one I'm working on revising? The one I mentioned going in strange directions? Well, it has to be mostly rewritten. Dang it. The first (nearly) half is fine. But the second half? I hit the delete button.
Now my struggle is getting over trashing that much hard work. And crafting new pages. It's kind of like trying to jog through quicksand. There's an emotional punch there, self-inflicted, of course, but still there. Worry, dread, fear...deleting that much work feels like a failure, even though it isn't really. At least the garbage is out of my system and I know what I don't want the story to look like. But...
Yeah, I know. Get over it.
I am. Honestly.
Anyway.
On the home front...
We have a little over a week until the first day of school. K2 is excited. She already has her schedule. She'll be a junior this year, so the world is kind of hers at this point. K3 starts middle school, and besides being a little nervous, he's really looking forward to school starting. Then, there's my baby...
In first grade, she decided she wasn't going anymore. She said she was moving to 'the french'. Last year wasn't too bad, probably because her teacher was one K2 and K3 both had, but we did have our moments. This year...sigh...she's got issues with pretty much anything that relates to going back to school. Pencils, reading challenge material, lunch money, a different hallway to go down, the earlier start time of school...you name it, she's worried about it. This all translates into high drama. On a daily basis.
Fun stuff...
We'll see if I get through it with my sanity intact.
Behave!

Answers!

Thanks to everyone who commented!
Vicky B! You guessed right! And I guess A. too, even though you knew the answer and questioned the truth of the truth. ha!
The answer is....
2! I once was attacked by a Maine Coon.
Cat. (and yes, A, I was really attacked!)
I was 14 or 15. My friend, Wendy, had gotten a new puppy. We took the puppy over to her neighbors, (I carried him) who had these 2 huge Maine Coon's. I'd never seen a cat that big in my life. And they weren't happy with our presence. They kind of slunk around the edges of the room, watching us and growling a little. We decided we should go, and just as we were opening the door, one of the cats jumped on me. It was hanging off my back trying to get to the puppy. Then, it bit my left wrist. I had claw marks on my back and leg, and a pretty good bite mark. Scary! In retrospect, we should have known better than to take the puppy over, but what can I say...
So there you have it.
I have never taught a dog training class, and I was born in a hospital.
Look for more lies next Tuesday!
Behave!

Tall Tale Tuesday

Remember when I first started this blog and had the bathroom quiz?
And how said quiz ended abruptly when multiple weird things stopped showing up in the bathroom on a regular basis? (Not that I don't often find strange items in there)
Anyway. I started thinking about an alternative, and I came up with Tall Tale Tuesday. Every Tuesday (providing I remember - ha) I'll post lies. Either in multiple choice format with one truth thrown in, (you'll have to figure out what's true and what's a lie) or I'll tell you a story (you'll guess whether or not it's the truth). No prizes yet, but that's a future possibility.
Sounds easy, right?
Okay, then. Here we go.
Today is multiple choice. You tell me what's the truth.
1. I used to teach a dog training class at a local pet store.
2. I once was attacked by a Maine Coon.
3. I was born in the backseat of my parent's car.
So...have at it. Two are lies. Only one is the truth.
Tomorrow I'll give you the answers - even if no one comments! (come on, people, comment - I know at least some people read this! You don't need a blogger account!)
Behave!

Adventures in Grocery Shopping...

1. Getting out the door to do shopping is nearly impossible here on a usual day. Today is was way worse. Certain people decided to get in the shower just as I was ready to head out the door. Ack.
2. The store was busier than I've ever seen it on a Monday.
3. New kinds of Poptarts make my kids really, really happy.
4. Some people have absolutely no sense of humor and do not appreciate the way in which we shop.
5. There will always be a screw up at the check out when you have a very cranky baby. (this happened to the woman in front of me)
6. When you buy a box of pre-cooked bacon and it feels empty, it probably is. Luckily, the cashier mentioned how light it was and I opened it there. Not a thing inside. I would have been ticked off - amused, but ticked off - had I waited to open it while preparing dinner.
7. People get really mad if you mess with their gas points. Also, this has nothing to do with me, just an observation. But since gas costs so much, it's completely understandable.
8. I wonder if it's a good idea to shop where people know you. Just sayin'
9. I'm getting really tired of being asked "can I get something at the checkout?". Luckily, school starts in two weeks and I'll go back to doing the shopping gloriously alone.
10. I hate shopping.
That's all. Another stupid list from me.
Behave!

Ha!

Behave!

Sunday!

A wedding list:
1. When only one of you really knows one of the people getting married, it's a bit awkward.
2. Having just your spouse to hang out with at such a wedding is worth it.
3. Waiting in hotel bars for the reception to start brings back memories of traveling to weddings and makes you nostalgic.
4. High heels suck - especially when you slip them off and then forget them because you're not used to wearing shoes at all.
5. Eating late and eating stuff you normally don't means you feel like crap the next day.
6. Rushing from a wedding reception to a surprise wedding shower is more fun than it sounds.
7. Especially when a wrong turn is made and you end up having to ask a state trooper who thought he was hiding for directions.
8. Catching up with old friends is good.
9. Having an entire afternoon and evening with just your spouse is awesome, even if you didn't get to dance at the reception.
10. Having a bloody nose and not being able to get it stopped and get your makeup put on will make you have to rush to get to the wedding on time. And it sucks.
And yes, all of it really happened.
A nap is definitely the first order of business for today.
Behave!

Kitties!

Behave!

Fiesta Friday!

Don't know what happened to yesterday.
So, today there's not much Fiesta-type stuff planned, but it's still Friday so the title is adequate.
This weekend starts the wedding circuit. I guess I should figure out what I'm going to wear. ha!
On the writing challenge front...I'm just a few points behind Simon (I think). We have a spreadsheet guru who keeps track of our daily reports and yesterday's totals aren't all quite in yet. She got me by 3 points yesterday, but there's still three days of challenge left for this week. To even be in the running this week we have to bypass someone else and she's pretty far ahead of us.
I finished my edits. The book's resting right now. I'll pick it back up next week and figure out what's next. I spent some time yesterday re-reading older manuscripts. Started editing one I really love, then the pull of revising the book I finished a few weeks ago reared and due to logic/book types, I changed my plan, or maybe it's really that I stopped procrastinating. I've had a new opening for the story for a few weeks and it was time. It's been time - when I think about the changes I want for the story I know I'm ready to tackle them. It's not going to be an easy trek though.
And let's see...what else?
Not much. I do not want to talk about school shopping. I do not want to talk about the fact that my Suburban's in the shop and needed more than we thought. I do not want to talk about finding something suitable to wear to this wedding.
That is all.
Behave!

Random Business

1. One of the hamsters died. The funeral commenced last night after much sorrow from K3 who had been taking care of the poor little critter. Said hamster had not been well for a while.
2. K1 gets the stitches out of his ear today. It's healed quite nicely and he's eager to get them out.
3. Kids fighting. Fighting. Fighting. No one can seem to leave anyone alone. Ever. K4 is quietly playing by herself and K3 will not stop pestering.
4. Fighting gives me a headache.
5. It's a beautiful day today. Not too hot. Nice breeze. I swear I had to use a crowbar to get the K's outside though. Go figure.
6. K2 has made the decision not to return to her arts school. There were many factors behind the choice and it's taken her quite a while to come to her final conclusion. I'm a little sad, but also relieved because of the travel/schedule conflicts. The courses she'll pick up in high school will serve her better for her college choices.
7. Thinking about colleges gives me a headache.
8. Even though there's over 2 weeks before school starts, not an hour goes by that I'm not asked about going school shopping.
9. School shopping gives me a headache.
10. Revisions are coming along nicely. I made a lot of progress yesterday, and plan the same for today.
11. I miss Supernatural! When I sat down at my computer there was a lovely picture of the boys with their "anti-possession" tattoos. It will take all my strength not to spend the afternoon on you tube looking at Sam and Dean videos.
That is all.
Behave!

A Little More Awake...

And it's time to get back to work!!
I'm about 1/3 done with my revisions and I'm eager to get this finished. I already have my document open, and have my handy dandy editing notebook ready on the proper page. I'm getting there - just moving a little slow despite getting a superbly good sleep last night. We went to bed at an insanely early time for us. I was sure I'd end up tossing and turning and not sleeping since that's been the norm this summer, but I crashed shortly after I convinced K2 that she needed to stop coming in our room and trying to talk to me about plans for tomorrow. Not plans for today - Tuesday - but plans for Wednesday. Anyway.
So, I do have to get busy, especially since I was tough-talking Simon about our weekly writing challenge. I've won once. So far. And so has she. We'll see who takes this week. Should be interesting. Except I've been spending far too much time reading author blogs about the national conference. I need to stop that and set my sights on the next conference, which means staying focused on my writing.
Oh, and a late birthday shout out to my sister-in-law! I remembered all day that her birthday was yesterday...until I blogged, and checked email. I did send her a note, but it was later than I'd planned. And I should have called her, but time got away from me in a major way. So...Happy Birthday, S! Now you're as old as me!! Ha! (and yes, I can get away with stuff like that, because not only is she my s-i-l, she's been my friend way, way longer.)
That is all!
Behave!

The Party's Over

And we're finally back home!
We spent all day yesterday and last night at my sister's house. Today we said goodbye to my cousins (they're both cousins now since they're engaged - makes it easier). We had a really great visit with them - lots of laughter and carrying on. But I'm tired. Very tired. And we have stuff going on tonight, so there won't be much rest to be had.
Tomorrow we head back into our usual routine - which isn't really a routine except for the sleeping in part. School starts three weeks from today. I can't believe that. I'm not sure if I'm ready for it quite yet. I feel like we haven't even started summer and now it's almost over.
Stupid me forgot the camera all weekend, so I have no pictures for you.
That's all my tired brain can think of!
Behave!

Where to Begin?

First off...I forgot to say...Wow! It's August already! Ha!
Except now it's August 2nd, so there's really no point in lamenting July.
There you have that.
Today was my RWA chapter meeting. Always a blast. I get to see friends, laugh, and I usually always get chocolate (we get chocolate for rejections). I also threw my hat into the ring for our upcoming elections. I've been the chapter librarian for many years, and I'm ready to try something new. So...if it all works out, I may get elected for vice-president. We'll see. I'm excited about the opportunity to force myself out of my shell. It may not appear so, but I'm a very shy person and public speaking and I are not friends.
Anyway.
From there I rushed home to gather some things and the dog before heading over to my folks house. The younger K's were already there, thanks to my mom watching them for me this morning. My cousin and her fiance were also there. (Whoot! Recent engagement!! Fun wedding on the horizon!) My brother was there, but sadly, no one else from his family due to work schedules. Neither of my sisters were there due to previous obligations. It was still fun. We hung out, cooked some food, made my dog do goofy tricks, and laughed - much like last night. (which went really, really well. We had a blast.)
K2 arrived back home. Thank goodness. She had a fantastic time on her trip, but she's totally exhausted and was ready to head for home even though she took a nap while we were watching this really dumb movie about sharks with huge brains. uh...whatever...
And here I am. On my bed with my handy dandy wireless Internet. Ha! Watching an episode from season 2 of Supernatural, and thinking really hard about working on some revisions. Except I'm tired - exhausted really. Tomorrow promises to be even busier than today, but with more fun, more food, sangria, and lots of hanging out.
That's all for now.
There might not be a post tomorrow, but then, who really reads this anyway?
Behave!

Fiesta Friday!!

Yay!
I don't know what happened to yesterday's post. I posted a Supernatural vid, but it never came through. Go figure.
So, today is really a Fiesta Friday!
My cousin should be rolling in here sometime late this afternoon. I'm nearly as ready for tonight's festivities as I can get, sans the shopping. We're heading out to take care of that in a few though.
This is going to be a weekend of Fiesta! I have my RWA chapter meeting in the morning. K2 comes home tomorrow afternoon. We're gathering at my folks tomorrow. Then Sunday is more gathering and hanging out.
I kind of doubt I'll have time to post, but, you never know. All this fun stuff doesn't bode well for my revisions, but it is summer and I am still making good progress. I'll fit some in if I can, but am not going to freak if it doesn't happen. We'll get back into our same old routine soon enough.
That is all.
Enjoy the weekend! I know I will!
Behave!