OK, starting to freak out just a bit. Gas stations are running out of gas and we don't know when more will be delivered. And this unfortunately isn't some rampant rumor. It's true. Gas prices went up 15¢ between 7:45am (when I filled up) and 10 am. Lines at the gas stations are really, really long. They are saying it could be two weeks before more gas arrives and THEN it could be $4/gallon. Several of the fuel places that deliver gas to all the service stations were destroyed by the damn hurricane. So when we DO get gas, it's going to be shipped from further away than normal. Oh my God. I don't know what to do! We are stretched to the limit financially already. I can't afford to miss work, but won't have a choice if there is no gas. And I can't really afford $2.50+ for gas NOW, much less $3 or $4. I'm just upset about this entire situation. Who should I be upset with? I just don't know. The president? Congress? Mother Nature?
I sure could use that calm place Kelley talks about... Need to work and can't get has to get to work. How much does THAT suck?
Must focus on happy things...focus, focus, focus...
Oh well, back to work.
Wednesday, August 31
We're OK...
For those of you who don't know exactly where in Mississippi I live, I'm about 300 miles from the coast. Which means that with this hurricane, we were without power for 24 hours and lost one tree. And we were lucky! Some people even further north than us have more damage to contend with. And some of my friends and co-workers still have no electricity.
Monday we didn't have internet at work because our service provider goes through a service provider in New Orleans. I never knew that ISPs had ISPs. Interesting. But Aimee worked almost all day Monday to get a backup ISP running and obviously she did. Aimee rocks!
I feel so petty now after actually seeing a bit of the news and realizing the massive destruction of this Hurricane from Hell. We were so put out and frustrated because we had no electricity for 24 hours, no phone for a good bit of that and no water for a time. But we still have a home, safe and sound and jobs to go to. My sister lives about an hour from the coast, but I was able to talk to her after the storm had moved further north and she's fine. The house roof had a leak or two, but that's it. She's safe. Kenneth has a cousin in Biloxi who just returned from Iraq. Haven't heard anything from him or his family, but I feel like they are probably fine, or we would have heard something. It's just hard to take in all the devastation. Looking at the footage, with the news anchors showing me the Grand Casino, about a half mile from where it should be. It just boggles the mind. And then New Orleans...jeez! They said this morning that they were trying to see IF the city could be saved. IF? Wow.
On another little related note: I was FURIOUS to see little bitty babies being rescued from the hurricane flooding. I think that if you have small children and don't evacuate when you are told, you should be charged with criminal endangerment or something like that. Of course, I think busses should be provided to evacuate people who don't have cars, or money for the ridiculously high gas, etc. But children can't make the choice of gambling with their lives and parents shouldn't. If you are an adult and think you can "ride out" a category 5 hurricane, FINE. Be an idiot. But don't endanger anyone else. OK. I'll get off that soap box.
Hope everyone else is doing well. I'll get "caught up" on my blogging as much as possible today. But since I missed work yesterday, I better get busy!
Monday we didn't have internet at work because our service provider goes through a service provider in New Orleans. I never knew that ISPs had ISPs. Interesting. But Aimee worked almost all day Monday to get a backup ISP running and obviously she did. Aimee rocks!
I feel so petty now after actually seeing a bit of the news and realizing the massive destruction of this Hurricane from Hell. We were so put out and frustrated because we had no electricity for 24 hours, no phone for a good bit of that and no water for a time. But we still have a home, safe and sound and jobs to go to. My sister lives about an hour from the coast, but I was able to talk to her after the storm had moved further north and she's fine. The house roof had a leak or two, but that's it. She's safe. Kenneth has a cousin in Biloxi who just returned from Iraq. Haven't heard anything from him or his family, but I feel like they are probably fine, or we would have heard something. It's just hard to take in all the devastation. Looking at the footage, with the news anchors showing me the Grand Casino, about a half mile from where it should be. It just boggles the mind. And then New Orleans...jeez! They said this morning that they were trying to see IF the city could be saved. IF? Wow.
On another little related note: I was FURIOUS to see little bitty babies being rescued from the hurricane flooding. I think that if you have small children and don't evacuate when you are told, you should be charged with criminal endangerment or something like that. Of course, I think busses should be provided to evacuate people who don't have cars, or money for the ridiculously high gas, etc. But children can't make the choice of gambling with their lives and parents shouldn't. If you are an adult and think you can "ride out" a category 5 hurricane, FINE. Be an idiot. But don't endanger anyone else. OK. I'll get off that soap box.
Hope everyone else is doing well. I'll get "caught up" on my blogging as much as possible today. But since I missed work yesterday, I better get busy!
Friday, August 26
Irrational Fear
OK, thought I'd share one of my irrational fears: Finding someone dead. And I don't mean an elderly relative or anything like that, even though that would be terrible. I mean like you're driving down the road and see a body in the ditch. That sort of thing. I think it's probably for two reasons: 1)One of my high school teachers found a dead guy in the woods once and 2)All those darn Law & Order (and other) shows that begin with a person minding their own business and WHAM! dead body. I think I would be scarred for life. The type of scar that doesn't fade with time.
Another is that I'll wake in the night and find someone (or something) standing over me, waiting to kill me or worse! (I know Kelley, too many scary books, right?)
So, what's an irrational fear of yours?
Another is that I'll wake in the night and find someone (or something) standing over me, waiting to kill me or worse! (I know Kelley, too many scary books, right?)
So, what's an irrational fear of yours?
Thursday, August 25
Happy List
Here is a list of things that make me happy right now, in no particular order:
::The pink and black polka dot makeup bag Kelley gave me. (It was the inspiration for this post)
::My bed.
::My Kelley Clarkson CD. It's getting a little ridiculous really, how much I love this CD!
::Ashleigh's happy smile and joyful eyes.
::Kenneth's silly moods.
::Good hair days.
::Days with no complications.
::Dead ants. : )
::Getting my scrapbook idea notebook together.
::A clean, organized, uncluttered home.
::Friends I can be myself with.
::Inside jokes.
::Scrapbook Ideas Books.
::Stand-up comedians.
::A good night's sleep.
::Blogging.
::Photos of my friends and family.
::Pretty picture frames.
::Watching my baby become a little person with LOTS of personality.
::Good books.
::Cheese. (LOL-Aimee!!!)
::Mashed potatoes.
::A full tank of gas.
::Singing along with songs during my drive to/from work.
::Answering my phone at work by saying "Hola" or "Bonjour". (If I answer by saying "what do you want" it's not a good sign!)
I just KNOW there are more I thought of last night that I've already forgotten, but oh well, that's OK!
::The pink and black polka dot makeup bag Kelley gave me. (It was the inspiration for this post)
::My bed.
::My Kelley Clarkson CD. It's getting a little ridiculous really, how much I love this CD!
::Ashleigh's happy smile and joyful eyes.
::Kenneth's silly moods.
::Good hair days.
::Days with no complications.
::Dead ants. : )
::Getting my scrapbook idea notebook together.
::A clean, organized, uncluttered home.
::Friends I can be myself with.
::Inside jokes.
::Scrapbook Ideas Books.
::Stand-up comedians.
::A good night's sleep.
::Blogging.
::Photos of my friends and family.
::Pretty picture frames.
::Watching my baby become a little person with LOTS of personality.
::Good books.
::Cheese. (LOL-Aimee!!!)
::Mashed potatoes.
::A full tank of gas.
::Singing along with songs during my drive to/from work.
::Answering my phone at work by saying "Hola" or "Bonjour". (If I answer by saying "what do you want" it's not a good sign!)
I just KNOW there are more I thought of last night that I've already forgotten, but oh well, that's OK!
Hello All
Just a little note about the appearance of my blog. All my sidebar stuff is where it's supposed to be on my computer. Aimee thinks that maybe it's Internet Explorer that's doing the weird stuff, messing everything up. Who knows? If that's the case, I guess changing web browsers would be the only cure. But if anyone has any different ideas, please do share!!
{And Liz, your blog looks fine on my computer!}
{And Liz, your blog looks fine on my computer!}
Wednesday, August 24
Peek-A-Boo
Last Friday night, Ashleigh starting playing peek-a-boo with us! And I decided to post this because Aimee, the cool internet knowledge queen, showed me how to change the blogging features in Flickr. She showed me a few other things, like how to get the clock to the right. If you want one, just move your mouse over it for a second and a link to that website will appear, then click and you are there!
This and That
Just a few things:
::Yesterday Aimee told me she was going to shove me up my own butt! Maybe you guys get as big a kick out of that as I do.
::Don't you HATE it when some jerk pulls out in front of you, almost causing an accident, only to turn at the next intersection OR go about 20mph?
::For the first time ever, a Dean Koontz book is giving me the heebie jeebies! It's called Winter Moon. Last night, one character opened his back door to find the rotting corpse of his wife on the other side, inhabited/animated by some sort of oozing alien-type creature!!! I didn't have nightmares of that nature, but sure did have weird dreams!
::I hate hot weather. Can't wait for things to start cooling off around here. Which MIGHT be October, if we're lucky!
::When you're cooking hamburgers, do you ever get those icky little booger things? It's like the grease oozes out the side and gets stuck somehow and turns into disgusting gunk. GROSS, GROSS, GROSS!!!!
:: I love sweet tea!!!!! Kenneth and I go through about a gallon every 2 days, more on the weekends when we're home all day. If it's not sweet, it's disgusting and not worth drinking, TO ME (LOL, Kelley!). How many of you like tea? And do you like it sweet or unsweet, hot or cold? I'd like to know.
::I can't stand to drink anything hot. Not even hot chocolate and I LOVE chocolate. It just seems wrong to drink hot things. I do love soup though. Weird, huh?
Just a few little idle thoughts I felt compelled to share. Oh, and one more:
I'm so loving this whole blog thing!!! Having great fun with it.
::Yesterday Aimee told me she was going to shove me up my own butt! Maybe you guys get as big a kick out of that as I do.
::Don't you HATE it when some jerk pulls out in front of you, almost causing an accident, only to turn at the next intersection OR go about 20mph?
::For the first time ever, a Dean Koontz book is giving me the heebie jeebies! It's called Winter Moon. Last night, one character opened his back door to find the rotting corpse of his wife on the other side, inhabited/animated by some sort of oozing alien-type creature!!! I didn't have nightmares of that nature, but sure did have weird dreams!
::I hate hot weather. Can't wait for things to start cooling off around here. Which MIGHT be October, if we're lucky!
::When you're cooking hamburgers, do you ever get those icky little booger things? It's like the grease oozes out the side and gets stuck somehow and turns into disgusting gunk. GROSS, GROSS, GROSS!!!!
:: I love sweet tea!!!!! Kenneth and I go through about a gallon every 2 days, more on the weekends when we're home all day. If it's not sweet, it's disgusting and not worth drinking, TO ME (LOL, Kelley!). How many of you like tea? And do you like it sweet or unsweet, hot or cold? I'd like to know.
::I can't stand to drink anything hot. Not even hot chocolate and I LOVE chocolate. It just seems wrong to drink hot things. I do love soup though. Weird, huh?
Just a few little idle thoughts I felt compelled to share. Oh, and one more:
I'm so loving this whole blog thing!!! Having great fun with it.
Afraid of the Dark
OK, I'm afraid of the dark. But not the way you're probably thinking. I'm not afraid of boogy men or anything like that. What I'm talking about is when the electricity goes out. And it's just ten times worse at night, because then you can't see what you're doing! About 7:15 last night, our power went out. No storms or anything, it just went out. Still don't know why. Well, it started getting stuffy by 7:20. Trust me, Mississippi in August is NOT a good place & time to loose electricity! Ashleigh was immediately fussy and needed constant attention. But as the minutes crept by and it got darker, she got fussier. Kenneth decided to go ride down the road and see if he could find the cause. He finally got home just as it was getting really dark and Ashleigh was freaking out. I figured she was getting sleepy, so I tried to get her to go go sleep. She just cried more and more, louder and louder. It was like the newborn days. Except she's even louder and heavier now!! Oh well. That's life. A little after 8 the lights came back on and my screaming child was suddenly happy. Great. So is she scared of the dark? Or freaked out because it was completely quiet? Or hot? Only she knows, and she's not telling.
So after the lights came back on, I got her to bed. THEN found the ants from hell. Then scurried around to do a few things, only to fall in bed, quite tired. And prayed that the electricity NEVER goes out again. HAH! Fat chance of that one coming true, but you gotta try, right?
So after the lights came back on, I got her to bed. THEN found the ants from hell. Then scurried around to do a few things, only to fall in bed, quite tired. And prayed that the electricity NEVER goes out again. HAH! Fat chance of that one coming true, but you gotta try, right?
Plague of Ants
I think ants must be Satan's little "gift" to the world. I mean really, do they serve any useful purpose in this world? If they do, let me know. It might make me feel better, but I seriously doubt it.
When I got out of my truck yesterday, a little ant bit me on my toe. Hurt like the dickens, too! Little did I know this was a sign of things to come. After dinner, etc. (I'll explain the etc. in a different post) I noticed ants in the widow sill above the kitchen sink. Argh! Killed them and cleaned up the mess. Poured bleach down the sink drains in case that's how they got in. (A trick an exterminator told me about.)
This morning after my shower, I go into the kitchen to get a drink and feed the cat. OUR KITCHEN COUNTERS ARE COVERED WITH ANTS. And I do mean covered. And we have lots of counter space, which I normally am happy about. It took me about 45 minutes to seek and destroy the majority of them. They hadn't gotten into my canisters or the bread, but that was about the only good thing I can say. OK, not true. Ashleigh slept though most of this. My mother-in-law brought over some ant spray to hopefully stop the onslaught. And sweet woman that she is, insisted on taking about 3 loads of laundry back to her house to wash & dry for me today. Have I ever mentioned I LOVE my mother-in-law? So I guess I have 3 good things to say!
I got to work almost an hour late and now I feel like ants are on me!!!!!! Ick, ick, ick!
Oh well, good morning to me! Hope everyone else's got off to a better start.
When I got out of my truck yesterday, a little ant bit me on my toe. Hurt like the dickens, too! Little did I know this was a sign of things to come. After dinner, etc. (I'll explain the etc. in a different post) I noticed ants in the widow sill above the kitchen sink. Argh! Killed them and cleaned up the mess. Poured bleach down the sink drains in case that's how they got in. (A trick an exterminator told me about.)
This morning after my shower, I go into the kitchen to get a drink and feed the cat. OUR KITCHEN COUNTERS ARE COVERED WITH ANTS. And I do mean covered. And we have lots of counter space, which I normally am happy about. It took me about 45 minutes to seek and destroy the majority of them. They hadn't gotten into my canisters or the bread, but that was about the only good thing I can say. OK, not true. Ashleigh slept though most of this. My mother-in-law brought over some ant spray to hopefully stop the onslaught. And sweet woman that she is, insisted on taking about 3 loads of laundry back to her house to wash & dry for me today. Have I ever mentioned I LOVE my mother-in-law? So I guess I have 3 good things to say!
I got to work almost an hour late and now I feel like ants are on me!!!!!! Ick, ick, ick!
Oh well, good morning to me! Hope everyone else's got off to a better start.
Tuesday, August 23
If you had a super power....
what would you want it to be?
On the way home yesterday, I thought of several things that would be good to put on my blog. Of course, I forgot all but one. I was thinking it'd be really cool if I could make people feel what I felt, even if it was for a brief time. I guess I was thinking of this because I had a REALLY bad case of heartburn. So bad I wondered if that's really what it was, or maybe I was having some sort of cardiac problem. And I thought that if I could make someone else actually physically feel what I was feeling, I could get some answers. When I have a really bad headache, I could make Kenneth feel how bad I felt. Because he is so lucky, he rarely has headaches and usually a couple of Tylenol or Aleve rid him of them. And think how easy doctor's visits would be! When he askes what the problem is, just make him/her feel it for themselves. And when I was pregnant, I could have let Kenneth (and whoever else) feel what it was like to have Ashleigh's booty crammed up under my left rib for 6 weeks! Of course, there is the dark side of this. Like when you have a really bad headache or something, you could make someone who was irritating you have the same headache. I'll admit, that would be very tempting for me. And Kenneth would have definitely felt some of those contractions during labor! : ) Love ya, babe!
Of course, if I could really choose a superpower, I think it'd probably be to make my bank account have a very healthy balance that never depleted, no matter how much we spent. THAT would be very good indeed. Then again, to have a perfectly fit and trim body while never exercising and eating whatever I wanted would be good too. But that's just dreaming...
Let me know what superpower you'd want! And it's OK to be totally selfish. None of this saving the world stuff, LOL! That would just make me look bad.
On the way home yesterday, I thought of several things that would be good to put on my blog. Of course, I forgot all but one. I was thinking it'd be really cool if I could make people feel what I felt, even if it was for a brief time. I guess I was thinking of this because I had a REALLY bad case of heartburn. So bad I wondered if that's really what it was, or maybe I was having some sort of cardiac problem. And I thought that if I could make someone else actually physically feel what I was feeling, I could get some answers. When I have a really bad headache, I could make Kenneth feel how bad I felt. Because he is so lucky, he rarely has headaches and usually a couple of Tylenol or Aleve rid him of them. And think how easy doctor's visits would be! When he askes what the problem is, just make him/her feel it for themselves. And when I was pregnant, I could have let Kenneth (and whoever else) feel what it was like to have Ashleigh's booty crammed up under my left rib for 6 weeks! Of course, there is the dark side of this. Like when you have a really bad headache or something, you could make someone who was irritating you have the same headache. I'll admit, that would be very tempting for me. And Kenneth would have definitely felt some of those contractions during labor! : ) Love ya, babe!
Of course, if I could really choose a superpower, I think it'd probably be to make my bank account have a very healthy balance that never depleted, no matter how much we spent. THAT would be very good indeed. Then again, to have a perfectly fit and trim body while never exercising and eating whatever I wanted would be good too. But that's just dreaming...
Let me know what superpower you'd want! And it's OK to be totally selfish. None of this saving the world stuff, LOL! That would just make me look bad.
I Hate Spaghetti
Just thought I'd share with you the amusing photos of my daughter letting me know that she did NOT like my spaghetti! She is such a drama queen already. I can't imagine where she gets it from! : ) And do you SEE that look she's giving me in the last pic? My oh my...the toddler years will be interesting for sure!
Birthday Girl
This is Caiden, the little girl who had her 2nd birthday party Saturday. See those cute little yellow hair bows? No wonder Ashleigh had trouble resisting them!
Caiden is such a sweet and loving little girl. And such a miracle too! She has heart problems and has already undergone several heart surgeries in Cleveland, Ohio. She has another one coming up sometime this fall.
Having this little girl be a part of my life is a constant reminder of how blessed I am in my life, as well as the fact that anything can be endured when your heart is full of love.
Caiden is such a sweet and loving little girl. And such a miracle too! She has heart problems and has already undergone several heart surgeries in Cleveland, Ohio. She has another one coming up sometime this fall.
Having this little girl be a part of my life is a constant reminder of how blessed I am in my life, as well as the fact that anything can be endured when your heart is full of love.
Monday, August 22
Out Of Sync With The Universe...and getting peed on
OK, who else got peed on this weekend? Anybody? Or was it just me?
Here's the story:
Friday night, I ran the water for Ashleigh's bath, then got her undressed. When we entered the bathroom, I realized the stopper wasn't working properly and the water was leaking out. So I sat down on the edge of the tub, with Ashleigh in my lap (naked-her, not me, LOL) and tried to fix it. Suddenly, I notice this perfect little arcing stream. AACK!!! It was like one of those little cherub fountains. Excecpt with pee, and it was getting all over her bath supplies! So I spin around and instinctively (but stupidly) try to put my hand in front of her to stop it, I suppose. But all that did was get my hand icky, not to mention deflect it all over my lap and down my leg. Of course, I'm laughing uncontrollably, so Kenneth comes to see what's happened. I laughed so hard I almost peed on myself! At least she didn't pee in the water....
Fast forward a few hours. Kenneth and I are in bed and he gets irritated with the covers and informs me that I have the sheets out of sync with the universe! My, my....that's a bit serious, wouldn't you think? Besides, it was his fault anyway. This was after a hilarious conversation we had in the kitchen, but he might kill me if I tell. Well...maybe if I don't give all the details. Basically, I was asking him some off-the-wall (according to him, I think they're perfectly valid) questions about his, um...member. He just couldn't believe I was asking such things, but I told him since I didn't have one, I had to ask him. How else is a girl to know? I have an enquiring mind, what can I say!
The rest of the weekend went pretty well. Had a great time at Caiden's birthday party. Ashleigh was very well-behaved the entire time, except for trying to pull Caiden's hair. But those pretty hair bows were just too tempting! Sunday I got a bit of organizing done, and got alot more work done on my scrapbook idea binder. Had a horrendous headache most of the afternoon and evening, but I think (knock on wood) it's finally gone now.
ASHLEIGH UPDATE: I tried feeding her some of our spaghetti Friday night. She did NOT like that at all. Have some funny pics to post, maybe tomorrow. She had her first cake & ice cream Saturday. In small quantities-Kenneth was afraid she'd choke. I was afraid she might get a tummy ache. But she liked it. I had tomato soup with cornbread Sunday night for dinner and she wanted some, and LOVED IT. Who'd have figured? AND...drum roll please....she hasn't had a bottle since Friday night! She is doing so well with her sippy cup, I figured I'd see how far we could go with it. She didn't miss her bottle at all. We'll just see if her Grandma keeps her on a sippy cup today.
Here's the story:
Friday night, I ran the water for Ashleigh's bath, then got her undressed. When we entered the bathroom, I realized the stopper wasn't working properly and the water was leaking out. So I sat down on the edge of the tub, with Ashleigh in my lap (naked-her, not me, LOL) and tried to fix it. Suddenly, I notice this perfect little arcing stream. AACK!!! It was like one of those little cherub fountains. Excecpt with pee, and it was getting all over her bath supplies! So I spin around and instinctively (but stupidly) try to put my hand in front of her to stop it, I suppose. But all that did was get my hand icky, not to mention deflect it all over my lap and down my leg. Of course, I'm laughing uncontrollably, so Kenneth comes to see what's happened. I laughed so hard I almost peed on myself! At least she didn't pee in the water....
Fast forward a few hours. Kenneth and I are in bed and he gets irritated with the covers and informs me that I have the sheets out of sync with the universe! My, my....that's a bit serious, wouldn't you think? Besides, it was his fault anyway. This was after a hilarious conversation we had in the kitchen, but he might kill me if I tell. Well...maybe if I don't give all the details. Basically, I was asking him some off-the-wall (according to him, I think they're perfectly valid) questions about his, um...member. He just couldn't believe I was asking such things, but I told him since I didn't have one, I had to ask him. How else is a girl to know? I have an enquiring mind, what can I say!
The rest of the weekend went pretty well. Had a great time at Caiden's birthday party. Ashleigh was very well-behaved the entire time, except for trying to pull Caiden's hair. But those pretty hair bows were just too tempting! Sunday I got a bit of organizing done, and got alot more work done on my scrapbook idea binder. Had a horrendous headache most of the afternoon and evening, but I think (knock on wood) it's finally gone now.
ASHLEIGH UPDATE: I tried feeding her some of our spaghetti Friday night. She did NOT like that at all. Have some funny pics to post, maybe tomorrow. She had her first cake & ice cream Saturday. In small quantities-Kenneth was afraid she'd choke. I was afraid she might get a tummy ache. But she liked it. I had tomato soup with cornbread Sunday night for dinner and she wanted some, and LOVED IT. Who'd have figured? AND...drum roll please....she hasn't had a bottle since Friday night! She is doing so well with her sippy cup, I figured I'd see how far we could go with it. She didn't miss her bottle at all. We'll just see if her Grandma keeps her on a sippy cup today.
Friday, August 19
Finally Friday!
Well, I'm so thankful it's Friday. I'm sure that most of the rest of the world is as well. : )
Nothing to interesting today just a few little odds & ends:
::Ashleigh started crawling last night! We've had many "almosts" and "nearlies" over the past several weeks, but she's finally actually crawling.
::We get to go to a birthday part tomorrow and I'm all excited about that. This will be Ashleigh's first girl birthday party! This will be her third, she's quite the party animal. My good friend Rachel's daughter is 2 today and the party is tomorrow, of course.
:: I MUST wax my eyebrows tonight. I'm beginning to look a bit to wooly in that area.
:: Must buy groceries...ugh! Especially since a shoestring budget would be a step UP for us this week.
:: I think that the importance of putting a new roll of toilet paper on the holder should be drilled into every person's mind beginning at an early age. Teach that not doing so will make very bad things happen to you...
:: I saw where some high school seniors (I hope that's who it was) spraypainted " '06 " on a stop sign. Do you remember that feeling of joy and elation? Knowing big changes were coming and you could basically do anything with your life? Back when driving a car made you feel cool? I miss that. Don't get me wrong, I wouldn't go back or change anything. But all that excitement was nice.
Nothing to interesting today just a few little odds & ends:
::Ashleigh started crawling last night! We've had many "almosts" and "nearlies" over the past several weeks, but she's finally actually crawling.
::We get to go to a birthday part tomorrow and I'm all excited about that. This will be Ashleigh's first girl birthday party! This will be her third, she's quite the party animal. My good friend Rachel's daughter is 2 today and the party is tomorrow, of course.
:: I MUST wax my eyebrows tonight. I'm beginning to look a bit to wooly in that area.
:: Must buy groceries...ugh! Especially since a shoestring budget would be a step UP for us this week.
:: I think that the importance of putting a new roll of toilet paper on the holder should be drilled into every person's mind beginning at an early age. Teach that not doing so will make very bad things happen to you...
:: I saw where some high school seniors (I hope that's who it was) spraypainted " '06 " on a stop sign. Do you remember that feeling of joy and elation? Knowing big changes were coming and you could basically do anything with your life? Back when driving a car made you feel cool? I miss that. Don't get me wrong, I wouldn't go back or change anything. But all that excitement was nice.
Thursday, August 18
I Didn't Do It!
This was the first time she got into a basket of toys and dumped them over. (I know, the cuteness will wear off after a couple of years!) I just love the "I didn't do it" look on her face! I'm sure I'll see that countless times in the future!
There are actually a few pictures I didn't post, if you want to check them out.
There are actually a few pictures I didn't post, if you want to check them out.
New Hairstyle?
OK. Rubbing her food in her hair is cute, but I wonder how long it will be before shampooing her hair won't be mandatory after dinner each night!
Visiting Papaw Smith
We visited my parents this weekend, Daddy's birthday was Tuesday. Happy 52nd birthday Daddy!
{I changed this to B&W because the color was all funky for some reason.}
{I changed this to B&W because the color was all funky for some reason.}
What's That Smell
I know this isn't the best quality photo, but it's the only one I have of her making this face! She does it for no apparent reason, I think just because she figured out she can.
Happy Balance
Yep, Ashleigh sits like this quite a bit of the time. She doesn't always have her feet this high, but she hardly ever has them sitting on the floor. A physical therapist working with her great-grandfather said that she had incredible balance to be able to do that at her age!
Little Pauper Girl
Oh please buy my flowers so I don't have to sleep in the cold and eat snow for dinner! LOLOLOLOL I think Kenneth actually said something about buying potatoes or vodka or something. This picture is funny, but the whole thing was HILARIOUS in person!!
Fashion Shoot
Took this Sunday during a little fashion shoot. This is the dress I THOUGHT might be next year's Easter dress...yeah right! It's still too big right now, but I don't see her fitting into it next spring. Oh well, guess we'll have to shop for another one, darn it! ; )
Have a little fun...
come on, you can do it! I promise it won't hurt a bit! : )
Seriously, WHY would anyone want to go through the day with a sour expression on their face? You're going to get wrinkles anyway, might as well make them laugh lines!
Don't get me wrong, I have my share of bad moods, but some people LIVE in a bad mood. WHY? Nothing is that serious. I think you'll be a lot happier if you don't take yourself so seriously. Laugh at yourself, because everyone else is going to! Like yesterday, I kept doing boneheaded stuff all day. (More than usual.) I could have gotten frustrated, but I just laughed at myself. And called Aimee a heifer head all day long. he he.
Maybe your entire day can't be a laugh fest. (Although I think you should make that your goal.) But look for humor wherever you can find it and latch on. And usually, humourous things are all around, it's just too easy to get all caught up in the stupidity (which also abounds), ignorance and just plain old meanness of others. Instead of getting all upset, just thank God that YOU aren't that stupid or mean, and be glad that you can still have fun.
Seriously, WHY would anyone want to go through the day with a sour expression on their face? You're going to get wrinkles anyway, might as well make them laugh lines!
Don't get me wrong, I have my share of bad moods, but some people LIVE in a bad mood. WHY? Nothing is that serious. I think you'll be a lot happier if you don't take yourself so seriously. Laugh at yourself, because everyone else is going to! Like yesterday, I kept doing boneheaded stuff all day. (More than usual.) I could have gotten frustrated, but I just laughed at myself. And called Aimee a heifer head all day long. he he.
Maybe your entire day can't be a laugh fest. (Although I think you should make that your goal.) But look for humor wherever you can find it and latch on. And usually, humourous things are all around, it's just too easy to get all caught up in the stupidity (which also abounds), ignorance and just plain old meanness of others. Instead of getting all upset, just thank God that YOU aren't that stupid or mean, and be glad that you can still have fun.
Wednesday, August 17
See what I endure?
Check out Aimee's Blog and see what she has to say about me. Keep in mind this is just a small glimpse of what I put up with on a daily basis. ; )
Just for the record, her name is now "Heifer Head."
Some days we have just way too much fun here. Good thing or we might go postal....
Jackie
Just for the record, her name is now "Heifer Head."
Some days we have just way too much fun here. Good thing or we might go postal....
Jackie
Migraines Suck
Suck the life right out of you!!! For those of you who don't have them, you are blessed. For those of you who do, I feel your pain. Literally.
Remember I said I felt all blah & crappy Monday? WELL....it's been so long (thankfully) since I've had a migraine that I didn't recognize what was happening. I woke up at 11:30pm with a full-blown migraine and suffered through the night. Kenneth took Ashleigh to his Mom's Tuesday morning and I was in bed most of the day. By last night I was feeling some better and I'm obviously back at work today. Still feel very tired and run-down, but at least I don't feel like there is a heavy metal band playing in the middle of a raging thunderstorm IN MY HEAD.
To answer a couple of questions left in comments:
::Unfortunately, I have to work full-time. Wish I didn't, but finances require it. But I'm lucky that my mother-in-law keeps Ashleigh every day. I never have to worry that she's getting all the love, attention and care she deserves! My in-laws live next door to us, which makes it even more convenient.
::My lack of commenting on other's blogs is for two reasons: 1) we've been pretty busy off and on at work and 2)Our internet service has been incredibly crappy lately, as in we don't have it half the time! And of course, as soon as we have some downtime, the internet goes down too. BLAH! I'll try to get caught back up. This blogging is very addictive!
OH! Another fun thing: we've gotten update programs here at the office and it's so much fun playing with them, getting back into the 21st Century! If anyone knows of any good sites to get FREE Photoshop brushes, please let me know.
Also, I've been thinking about organizing an "Idea File" for scrapbooking. I have a 3-ring binder currently, but haven't added anything in ages. I've decided that once I read a magazine, I will go through and take out all the ideas I really like and want to copy. But I need to have all this organized in an easy-to-use format. Any ideas? Because if I have to spend 15 minutes looking through just to find something, I'll never use it. (Which is kind of the case now.)
Remember I said I felt all blah & crappy Monday? WELL....it's been so long (thankfully) since I've had a migraine that I didn't recognize what was happening. I woke up at 11:30pm with a full-blown migraine and suffered through the night. Kenneth took Ashleigh to his Mom's Tuesday morning and I was in bed most of the day. By last night I was feeling some better and I'm obviously back at work today. Still feel very tired and run-down, but at least I don't feel like there is a heavy metal band playing in the middle of a raging thunderstorm IN MY HEAD.
To answer a couple of questions left in comments:
::Unfortunately, I have to work full-time. Wish I didn't, but finances require it. But I'm lucky that my mother-in-law keeps Ashleigh every day. I never have to worry that she's getting all the love, attention and care she deserves! My in-laws live next door to us, which makes it even more convenient.
::My lack of commenting on other's blogs is for two reasons: 1) we've been pretty busy off and on at work and 2)Our internet service has been incredibly crappy lately, as in we don't have it half the time! And of course, as soon as we have some downtime, the internet goes down too. BLAH! I'll try to get caught back up. This blogging is very addictive!
OH! Another fun thing: we've gotten update programs here at the office and it's so much fun playing with them, getting back into the 21st Century! If anyone knows of any good sites to get FREE Photoshop brushes, please let me know.
Also, I've been thinking about organizing an "Idea File" for scrapbooking. I have a 3-ring binder currently, but haven't added anything in ages. I've decided that once I read a magazine, I will go through and take out all the ideas I really like and want to copy. But I need to have all this organized in an easy-to-use format. Any ideas? Because if I have to spend 15 minutes looking through just to find something, I'll never use it. (Which is kind of the case now.)
Monday, August 15
The Crybaby Bug
This weekend we went to visit my parents. Saturday afternoon, Ashleigh got fussy for no apparent reason and I don't know where this came from, but I asked her if she'd been bitten by a crybaby bug. I picked her up and acted like I was looking for a bite, which she thought was hilarious. Think I'll remember to use this tactic in the future. I've also considered using it on a co-worker or two. How mad do you think they'll get? LOLOL. I'm getting tickled just thinking of that...
Hope you all had a good weekend. We did, although it was too short. WAY too short. But isn't it always like that? I did watch Monk Friday night and The 4400 last night. Those were both good. Anybody else watch either of those?
Well, I'm feeling all sleepy and blah today, so no need wasting my time and yours writing more silly crap!
Maybe I'll be more interesting tomorrow...
Hope you all had a good weekend. We did, although it was too short. WAY too short. But isn't it always like that? I did watch Monk Friday night and The 4400 last night. Those were both good. Anybody else watch either of those?
Well, I'm feeling all sleepy and blah today, so no need wasting my time and yours writing more silly crap!
Maybe I'll be more interesting tomorrow...
Friday, August 12
First Christmas LO
I'm not sure why this one looks so fuzzy, but I can assure you the photos are just fine! Across the bottom are thing we got Ashleigh for her first Christmas. The Pokey Little Puppy was one of my childhood favorites, so I thought she needed it too!
Three Months Old
Another of my sweetie! Not sure how long I'l keep up this photo-every-month thing. Probably until she's old enough to tell me to stop!
One Month Old
It's hard to believe she used to be so little! And her looks have changed so much. Time is just flying by...
Two Months Old
These pics have a Valentine's Day theme, since it was so close. I didn't mention in my previous post, but the some of the edges are cut off because my scanner at home is so small. So when things look "off" that's why.
Four Months Old
Here is a LO I did last weekend of Ashleigh. Please excuse the poor job I did of piecing it together in Photoshop!
Paul & Amanda
This is the sweet couple we had the baby shower for yesterday. Aren't they cute? We had lots of good food and they got quite a few nice gifts. Makes me miss all that....not enough to do it again anytime soon though!
Thursday, August 11
Good Morning!!
At least I hope it is for you guys!
I will have a better day today. Everything I touch will NOT turn to poop. I am determined. I'll let you know how it goes.
I'm all excited about a baby shower we're having today after work. A co-worker and his wife are having a baby after many years of trying. I'm so excited for them, they are two of the sweetest people I've ever met. I've got the gift ready, and I managed to get the cake here safely with no major trauma. Which is a good thing, considering the trouble I had with it last night. I decided to make a layer cake because I didn't have any pretty platter or anything to put a sheet cake on. Got the cake done without burning it. With my crazy oven, that's an accomplishment. But that's another story. Anyway, after it cools, I begin to ice it. Well, the icing is way to thin! And it's store-bought, so this should NOT be a problem. So the cake layers started sliding around. BLAH!!! I put everything in the fridge to firm up the icing already on the cake, as well as what was still in the container. I finally got it all put together and then I had to worry about getting it through the 25-mile drive to work, as well as the trek into the office. After my day yesterday, I was really worried. But I was worried for nothing. Thankfully.
This morning, something happened that has never happened in our 11+ years of marriage. I went in the bedroom to wake Kenneth up and he had a HUGE smile on his face. Then when I told him it was time to get up, he opened his eyes and looked at me, STILL SMILING. Then he mumbled something. I asked him to repeat it twice and I never did understand, exactly. It was "mumble mumble mumble get up." Oh well....it was nice to see a smile from him so early in the morning. He is so not a morning person!
And thanks for all your comments about me feeling as if I've somehow failed when Kenneth does housework without being asked. It's nice to know I'm not alone in these feelings. Of course, it goes without saying: Not a word to the men about all this!!
NEW BLOGS TO CHECK OUT!! Ok, well Rachel'sisn't new, exactly, but she finally got some stuff on it! And, my friend from work, Aimee started a blog yesterday. She is HILARIOUS, so you should really check her out.
I will have a better day today. Everything I touch will NOT turn to poop. I am determined. I'll let you know how it goes.
I'm all excited about a baby shower we're having today after work. A co-worker and his wife are having a baby after many years of trying. I'm so excited for them, they are two of the sweetest people I've ever met. I've got the gift ready, and I managed to get the cake here safely with no major trauma. Which is a good thing, considering the trouble I had with it last night. I decided to make a layer cake because I didn't have any pretty platter or anything to put a sheet cake on. Got the cake done without burning it. With my crazy oven, that's an accomplishment. But that's another story. Anyway, after it cools, I begin to ice it. Well, the icing is way to thin! And it's store-bought, so this should NOT be a problem. So the cake layers started sliding around. BLAH!!! I put everything in the fridge to firm up the icing already on the cake, as well as what was still in the container. I finally got it all put together and then I had to worry about getting it through the 25-mile drive to work, as well as the trek into the office. After my day yesterday, I was really worried. But I was worried for nothing. Thankfully.
This morning, something happened that has never happened in our 11+ years of marriage. I went in the bedroom to wake Kenneth up and he had a HUGE smile on his face. Then when I told him it was time to get up, he opened his eyes and looked at me, STILL SMILING. Then he mumbled something. I asked him to repeat it twice and I never did understand, exactly. It was "mumble mumble mumble get up." Oh well....it was nice to see a smile from him so early in the morning. He is so not a morning person!
And thanks for all your comments about me feeling as if I've somehow failed when Kenneth does housework without being asked. It's nice to know I'm not alone in these feelings. Of course, it goes without saying: Not a word to the men about all this!!
NEW BLOGS TO CHECK OUT!! Ok, well Rachel'sisn't new, exactly, but she finally got some stuff on it! And, my friend from work, Aimee started a blog yesterday. She is HILARIOUS, so you should really check her out.
Wednesday, August 10
I'm not having the best day...
So instead of bring everyone down, I thought I'd share this cute e-mail I got earlier today. If you arent' a Mom, you'll still get it because you have a Mom, LOL! I think the deal is these are the answers elementary school children gave 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 are mothers made from?
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 moms like me.
What kind of 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? 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 goofball.
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 got 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 friend's.
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.
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 are mothers made from?
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 moms like me.
What kind of 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? 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 goofball.
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 got 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 friend's.
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.
Tuesday, August 9
Why Do I Feel Inadequate?
Here's why I ask:
Yesterday evening, Kenneth and I got home about the same time. I was starting dinner and he began picking up/straightening up the living room. I jokingly asked if he was expecting company and he grouchily replied that he was just trying to help me out. {He was grouchy from a day a work, and in his defense probably didn't realize he was so ill-tempered when he responded to me.} He then proceeded to vaccuum! I really appreciated that. It's nice to have some help, especially when it isn't asked for. BUT....
Why does part of me feel like a failure when he does that? It makes me feel like if I was a GOOD wife and mother, the floors would always be spic & span, along with the rest of the house. All done by me. I know that long gone are the days when men worked and women were full-time housewives and mothers. {Well, there are some lucky women who get to be stay at home moms, just not me : )} Since we both work outside the home full-time, it's only fair and right that he help with all the housework. So why do I feel guilty when he does?
Any insight on this would be appreciated. (And don't worry. I'll encourage him to do as much as he wants! I might have some conflicting feelings, but I'm not stupid.}
Yesterday evening, Kenneth and I got home about the same time. I was starting dinner and he began picking up/straightening up the living room. I jokingly asked if he was expecting company and he grouchily replied that he was just trying to help me out. {He was grouchy from a day a work, and in his defense probably didn't realize he was so ill-tempered when he responded to me.} He then proceeded to vaccuum! I really appreciated that. It's nice to have some help, especially when it isn't asked for. BUT....
Why does part of me feel like a failure when he does that? It makes me feel like if I was a GOOD wife and mother, the floors would always be spic & span, along with the rest of the house. All done by me. I know that long gone are the days when men worked and women were full-time housewives and mothers. {Well, there are some lucky women who get to be stay at home moms, just not me : )} Since we both work outside the home full-time, it's only fair and right that he help with all the housework. So why do I feel guilty when he does?
Any insight on this would be appreciated. (And don't worry. I'll encourage him to do as much as he wants! I might have some conflicting feelings, but I'm not stupid.}
8 Months Old
Yep, it's that time again already! Ashleigh turned 8 months old yesterday and was in quite the mood for photos! I got quite a few really good ones, if you want to check them out. Of course, I'm going to think they're good!
She was so sweet last night! And hungry too! In addition to some baby food, she ate some (real) macaroni & cheese, peas, and some strawberry yogurt. And went to bed right on time like a good girl. And woke up in a good mood this morning. I was already running late, so we watched the space shuttle land at Edwards AFB.
I'll try to upload my scrapbook pages today.
She was so sweet last night! And hungry too! In addition to some baby food, she ate some (real) macaroni & cheese, peas, and some strawberry yogurt. And went to bed right on time like a good girl. And woke up in a good mood this morning. I was already running late, so we watched the space shuttle land at Edwards AFB.
I'll try to upload my scrapbook pages today.
Monday, August 8
Icky old Monday...
Okay, not the best attitude, I know, but I'm just not thrilled to be at work. Of course, what I really want (NEED) is a nap, and if I were home, I wouldn't be able to nap either, so I might as well be getting paid to be awake. ; ) At least I've got some cool 80's music to listen to while I work!
I FINALLY got some scrapbook pages done this weekend! Eight, actually. Woo-hoo!!! I'll try to have them ready to share tomorrow. Got to use some of my neat paper, embellishments and alphabet stamps I bought last YEAR.
Saturday morning I did some housework and then Kenneth wanted to go riding, so we did that. It was fun, we looked at some toys I'd like to get Ashleigh for her birthday or Christmas. And with her being so young, we "tested" a few out on her. She was so good! Except she kept turning sideways in the seat and putting one of her feet up on the handle. That irritated Kenneth so much! He kept taking her foot down and turning her around. I didn't really care. As long as she's happy and not in danger of falling, I'm cool with it. But I let him turn her around to his heart's content.
I watched some movies and that was the extent of my weekend. Pretty boring, actually, but I enjoyed it. It's always nice to relax a bit. Although it was pretty hard, especially yesterday afternoon. My wonderfully happy daughter was not so wonderfully happy. She was fussy and crying most of the afternoon and boy, did THAT get old quick! Kenneth was hanging out with his Dad for awhile and I couldn't wait for him to get home. I can honestly say that is the first time she has really gotten to me to the point where I needed a break for a while. After I had it, I was in a much better frame of mind.
I'm also excited that my friend Kelley is back from her vacation to Tahiti! She's probably not that thrilled to be back, LOL, but I can't wait to see her photos and hear all about it. Because I'm pretty sure I'll never get to go.
I FINALLY got some scrapbook pages done this weekend! Eight, actually. Woo-hoo!!! I'll try to have them ready to share tomorrow. Got to use some of my neat paper, embellishments and alphabet stamps I bought last YEAR.
Saturday morning I did some housework and then Kenneth wanted to go riding, so we did that. It was fun, we looked at some toys I'd like to get Ashleigh for her birthday or Christmas. And with her being so young, we "tested" a few out on her. She was so good! Except she kept turning sideways in the seat and putting one of her feet up on the handle. That irritated Kenneth so much! He kept taking her foot down and turning her around. I didn't really care. As long as she's happy and not in danger of falling, I'm cool with it. But I let him turn her around to his heart's content.
I watched some movies and that was the extent of my weekend. Pretty boring, actually, but I enjoyed it. It's always nice to relax a bit. Although it was pretty hard, especially yesterday afternoon. My wonderfully happy daughter was not so wonderfully happy. She was fussy and crying most of the afternoon and boy, did THAT get old quick! Kenneth was hanging out with his Dad for awhile and I couldn't wait for him to get home. I can honestly say that is the first time she has really gotten to me to the point where I needed a break for a while. After I had it, I was in a much better frame of mind.
I'm also excited that my friend Kelley is back from her vacation to Tahiti! She's probably not that thrilled to be back, LOL, but I can't wait to see her photos and hear all about it. Because I'm pretty sure I'll never get to go.
Friday, August 5
Meet my Hubby
{Just a little note to let you all know that Friday has finally arrived and seems to be going well so far! Looking forward to a great weekend with my family. Plus today is payday, that always helps!}
I feel like I really need to take time on here to let everyone know what a wonderful husband I have.
But first, a little background information:
We met the first few days of our freshman year in college and it was NOT love at first sight. I thought he was a hippy freak and he thought I was a snob. But those mistaken first impression quickly changed and we found ourselves falling in love with eachother...even though we had a boyfriend and girlfriend back home. We snuck around for awhile and finally we broke up with our boyfriend & girlfriend and made ourselves an official couple. We've been together and in love ever since. We became engaged a little over a year later and got married a year and half after that.
Over 11 years later, we still have a wonderful marriage. We talk (really talk) every day to stay connected and love to spend time together. Although I will say here that we both firmly believe the secret to a happy marriage definitely includes time apart! We can't be together too much, we get on eachother's nerves! We aren't afraid to disagree and don't put up with crap from eachother, but at the same time, we don't have knock-down, drag out fights either. And when it comes to difficult times, we pull together and get through it.
And watching him be a good daddy has made me fall in love with him all over again! Although he tries to avoid poopy diapers, he will change them when necessary. He never hesitates to go in Ashleigh's room and comfort her if she wakes up crying. Unless he's asleep, because he sleeps like a log and never hears her. But he did get up at midnight once this week to check on her. : ) He picks her up every day on his way home and plays with her and teaches her things. He got her to start waving bye! I usually feed her, but that's because I'm stingy with her. He can feed her just fine. And if I'm cooking dinner and need to feed her, I can ask him to come finish the cooking and he will, no problem. He will even vaccuum now with minimal complaining! He even picked up some groceries the other day and put them all away (in the correct places) before I got home! AND he'll stay home from work to keep her when needed! (I'm usually "it" when she's sick, though, and that's fine with me!)
I suppose to some people, none of this may not seem like a big deal. And don't get me wrong, I do expect him to do all these things. BUT...I don't know if it's the area I live in or what, but he does so much more than many of the husbands/fathers I know. And that he gladly does it without having to be nagged, just makes it 10 times better!
I just wanted to share a little bit about this wonderful man who completes me. He is my best friend, my soul mate, the love of my life.
I feel like I really need to take time on here to let everyone know what a wonderful husband I have.
But first, a little background information:
We met the first few days of our freshman year in college and it was NOT love at first sight. I thought he was a hippy freak and he thought I was a snob. But those mistaken first impression quickly changed and we found ourselves falling in love with eachother...even though we had a boyfriend and girlfriend back home. We snuck around for awhile and finally we broke up with our boyfriend & girlfriend and made ourselves an official couple. We've been together and in love ever since. We became engaged a little over a year later and got married a year and half after that.
Over 11 years later, we still have a wonderful marriage. We talk (really talk) every day to stay connected and love to spend time together. Although I will say here that we both firmly believe the secret to a happy marriage definitely includes time apart! We can't be together too much, we get on eachother's nerves! We aren't afraid to disagree and don't put up with crap from eachother, but at the same time, we don't have knock-down, drag out fights either. And when it comes to difficult times, we pull together and get through it.
And watching him be a good daddy has made me fall in love with him all over again! Although he tries to avoid poopy diapers, he will change them when necessary. He never hesitates to go in Ashleigh's room and comfort her if she wakes up crying. Unless he's asleep, because he sleeps like a log and never hears her. But he did get up at midnight once this week to check on her. : ) He picks her up every day on his way home and plays with her and teaches her things. He got her to start waving bye! I usually feed her, but that's because I'm stingy with her. He can feed her just fine. And if I'm cooking dinner and need to feed her, I can ask him to come finish the cooking and he will, no problem. He will even vaccuum now with minimal complaining! He even picked up some groceries the other day and put them all away (in the correct places) before I got home! AND he'll stay home from work to keep her when needed! (I'm usually "it" when she's sick, though, and that's fine with me!)
I suppose to some people, none of this may not seem like a big deal. And don't get me wrong, I do expect him to do all these things. BUT...I don't know if it's the area I live in or what, but he does so much more than many of the husbands/fathers I know. And that he gladly does it without having to be nagged, just makes it 10 times better!
I just wanted to share a little bit about this wonderful man who completes me. He is my best friend, my soul mate, the love of my life.
Thursday, August 4
Isn't it Friday YET?!?
Well....isn't it?
Man, I'm SO ready for the weekend. Not that it will solve all my problems, but at least I can take a break from getting ready for work and driving here for two days!
Ashleigh still isn't sleeping well. But luckily (I guess) all her problems were before 10pm last night, so I got a decent night's sleep. Of course, I've gotten so used to checking on her so often that I kept waking up anyway!
On a happier note, just to let you guys know that it doesn't take much to make me happy, I was thrilled when I put on my jeans this morning. I found $2.05! That's right. Not enough for much of anything, but I was still happy to find it. Maybe I'll go on a shopping spree, LOL.
Things at work are frustrating. Let me rephrase: my COMPUTER is frustrating. Aimee reworked another machine for me and it still keeps getting bogged down and freezing up, etc. Maybe that means I'm working too hard? Probably not....
Oh well, off to restart my computer AGAIN....
Man, I'm SO ready for the weekend. Not that it will solve all my problems, but at least I can take a break from getting ready for work and driving here for two days!
Ashleigh still isn't sleeping well. But luckily (I guess) all her problems were before 10pm last night, so I got a decent night's sleep. Of course, I've gotten so used to checking on her so often that I kept waking up anyway!
On a happier note, just to let you guys know that it doesn't take much to make me happy, I was thrilled when I put on my jeans this morning. I found $2.05! That's right. Not enough for much of anything, but I was still happy to find it. Maybe I'll go on a shopping spree, LOL.
Things at work are frustrating. Let me rephrase: my COMPUTER is frustrating. Aimee reworked another machine for me and it still keeps getting bogged down and freezing up, etc. Maybe that means I'm working too hard? Probably not....
Oh well, off to restart my computer AGAIN....
Wednesday, August 3
Meet Rachel
I met Rachel several years ago when she first began working here. In the past couple of years, we've become very close friends.
She is one of the sweetest, most giving, caring, fun, silly and upbeat people I've ever known. She seems to always have a smile, no matter how bad things are. (I actually encourage her to be a little more mean sometimes-to stand up for herself more!)
Another plus to our friendship is that she's a Mommy too! And since her youngest child is almost two, she still understands my excitement over certain things Ashleigh does. Like sleep though the night. And she can sympathize with the sleepless nights all too well. And through her experiences (currently potty training) I get a little heads-up on what's to come. (Then hand-me-downs don't hurt either, LOL!)
We love getting together to scrapbook and just hang out, we've even colored eachother's hair! We like to read the same kinds of books, so we can share and talk about the books we've read. We can also relate to eachother in the finance department.
I am so lucky to have Rachel for a friend. She is truly a blessing in my life. {So don't kill me for putting your photo on my blog, OK Rach?}
She is one of the sweetest, most giving, caring, fun, silly and upbeat people I've ever known. She seems to always have a smile, no matter how bad things are. (I actually encourage her to be a little more mean sometimes-to stand up for herself more!)
Another plus to our friendship is that she's a Mommy too! And since her youngest child is almost two, she still understands my excitement over certain things Ashleigh does. Like sleep though the night. And she can sympathize with the sleepless nights all too well. And through her experiences (currently potty training) I get a little heads-up on what's to come. (Then hand-me-downs don't hurt either, LOL!)
We love getting together to scrapbook and just hang out, we've even colored eachother's hair! We like to read the same kinds of books, so we can share and talk about the books we've read. We can also relate to eachother in the finance department.
I am so lucky to have Rachel for a friend. She is truly a blessing in my life. {So don't kill me for putting your photo on my blog, OK Rach?}
The Grass Isn't Always Greener
This sort of falls into the same "theme" as several previous posts.
I realized yesterday that just because what you see & know about someone's life makes you think that they somehow have it "better" than you doesn't mean it's so. What I mean is there are probably things you don't know about that you would never want to deal with yourself. For example, awhile back I got bummed out by someone else's fabulous photography. (instead of being inspired by it, which I now am!) Then a close friend pointed out to me that this wonderful woman has a child with special needs. Whoa. OK, one is not related to the other, BUT that made me realize that her life isn't all roses and sunshine. Everyone has difficulties and obstacles in their lives. This woman I'm speaking of has a wonderful & full life with wonderful children that she loves very much. And while I know she wouldn't trade her special needs child for anything in the world...oh gosh...
Now I feel like anything I say I'm putting my foot in my mouth. I don't want anyone to think I'm talking badly about people with special needs!! Because I don't feel that way at all. For example, Kenneth and I declined some prenatal tests during my pregnancy. They screened for things like Down Syndrome. We felt like if our child was going to have any sort of special needs, we'd find out when she got here. Because we would love our child completely, no matter what. And since Kenneth deals with special needs people in his job, he know about all the programs, etc. we'd need to help our child develop to her fullest potential.
I guess my whole point to all this is that our daughter, at 8 months old, seems healthy and whole in every way. (I say that because I think some things can show up later on.) Now, would I trade that for amazing photography skills? No. Would I trade that for financial security? Not in a million years!
So while I may envy others talents, I should focus on just being inspired by them. And always remain thankful for the blessings I have in my life. And while I think I don't have any talents at all, others see me has having talents they wish they had.
I hope I got that point across without offending anyone!
On a MUCH lighter note, I got Faith Hill's new CD, Fireflies, yesterday. It's alot more "country" than her previous CD or two, but I think I like it.
I realized yesterday that just because what you see & know about someone's life makes you think that they somehow have it "better" than you doesn't mean it's so. What I mean is there are probably things you don't know about that you would never want to deal with yourself. For example, awhile back I got bummed out by someone else's fabulous photography. (instead of being inspired by it, which I now am!) Then a close friend pointed out to me that this wonderful woman has a child with special needs. Whoa. OK, one is not related to the other, BUT that made me realize that her life isn't all roses and sunshine. Everyone has difficulties and obstacles in their lives. This woman I'm speaking of has a wonderful & full life with wonderful children that she loves very much. And while I know she wouldn't trade her special needs child for anything in the world...oh gosh...
Now I feel like anything I say I'm putting my foot in my mouth. I don't want anyone to think I'm talking badly about people with special needs!! Because I don't feel that way at all. For example, Kenneth and I declined some prenatal tests during my pregnancy. They screened for things like Down Syndrome. We felt like if our child was going to have any sort of special needs, we'd find out when she got here. Because we would love our child completely, no matter what. And since Kenneth deals with special needs people in his job, he know about all the programs, etc. we'd need to help our child develop to her fullest potential.
I guess my whole point to all this is that our daughter, at 8 months old, seems healthy and whole in every way. (I say that because I think some things can show up later on.) Now, would I trade that for amazing photography skills? No. Would I trade that for financial security? Not in a million years!
So while I may envy others talents, I should focus on just being inspired by them. And always remain thankful for the blessings I have in my life. And while I think I don't have any talents at all, others see me has having talents they wish they had.
I hope I got that point across without offending anyone!
On a MUCH lighter note, I got Faith Hill's new CD, Fireflies, yesterday. It's alot more "country" than her previous CD or two, but I think I like it.
Tuesday, August 2
Being a Grown Up
Lots of things suck about being a grown up.
For example, that wedding in Memphis we were so excited about going to? We can't, because we have to many bills to pay. But we have to be responsible adults and work hard to pay our bills and maybe, just maybe, someday get ahead so that when something unexpected (financially) comes up, we can handle it, with no major juggling or penny pinching.
But instead of dwelling on all the yucky aspects of being an adult (like not getting summer vacation) I thought I'd make a list of things that are good about being all grown up:
:: You can blow bubbles in the house and not get in trouble.
:: You can eat ice cream for a meal if you choose.
:: You can stay up as late as you want and sleep as late as you want. (until you have kids!)
:: You can go whever you want, whenever you want.
:: You can watch anything you please on tv.
:: You can play hookey and not get in trouble. (Unless your boss finds out, LOL)
:: You can have the refrigerator door open for more than 10 seconds without getting yelled at to close it.
:: You can go in and out of the house as much as you please without anyone telling you to stay in or out.
:: When you have kids, you finally get to say, "because I said so" and it's a valid reason!
I'm sure there are loads more great things, these are just what I thought of off the top of my head. Anyone who has any other things you love about being a grownup, please share them with me!
For example, that wedding in Memphis we were so excited about going to? We can't, because we have to many bills to pay. But we have to be responsible adults and work hard to pay our bills and maybe, just maybe, someday get ahead so that when something unexpected (financially) comes up, we can handle it, with no major juggling or penny pinching.
But instead of dwelling on all the yucky aspects of being an adult (like not getting summer vacation) I thought I'd make a list of things that are good about being all grown up:
:: You can blow bubbles in the house and not get in trouble.
:: You can eat ice cream for a meal if you choose.
:: You can stay up as late as you want and sleep as late as you want. (until you have kids!)
:: You can go whever you want, whenever you want.
:: You can watch anything you please on tv.
:: You can play hookey and not get in trouble. (Unless your boss finds out, LOL)
:: You can have the refrigerator door open for more than 10 seconds without getting yelled at to close it.
:: You can go in and out of the house as much as you please without anyone telling you to stay in or out.
:: When you have kids, you finally get to say, "because I said so" and it's a valid reason!
I'm sure there are loads more great things, these are just what I thought of off the top of my head. Anyone who has any other things you love about being a grownup, please share them with me!
Monday, August 1
Creating Keepsakes or Simple Scrapbooks?
Here's my question to any of you who subscribe to either or both: Do you think I'd be wise in letting my CK subscription expire and begin a SS subscription?
Here's why I'm considering: While I LOVE CK, I rarely have time to even look at an issue before the next month's issue arrives in my mailbox. That, and while they have awesome LO's in there, there is no way I'd ever have the time (or inclination) to duplicate many of the techniques, etc. that they have in there. I haven't looked at SS in a long time, but I'm thinking that might be more my speed at this time in my life.
Any feedback would be appreciated. Thanks!
Here's why I'm considering: While I LOVE CK, I rarely have time to even look at an issue before the next month's issue arrives in my mailbox. That, and while they have awesome LO's in there, there is no way I'd ever have the time (or inclination) to duplicate many of the techniques, etc. that they have in there. I haven't looked at SS in a long time, but I'm thinking that might be more my speed at this time in my life.
Any feedback would be appreciated. Thanks!
Sweet Baby
I took this in our yard yesterday evening. It was a VERY short photo shoot because even at 6:30 p.m. it was still quite hot. I took more photos of her during some of her "eating adventures" this weekend, if you want to check them out! Looking at them I realized I have GOT TO wash that high chair seat cover! It's getting pretty gross....Luckily the floors aren't such a hassle. I realized I'm sentenced to cleaning up stray Cheerios & cracker crumbs for years to come...
Productive Weekend....kinda...
How long before I learn that I have to factor in the care of and playtime with an 8-month old into all my plans? I got quite a bit done this weekend, I suppose, but not nearly what I thought I'd do! I was in bed no later than 10pm each night, because Ashleigh keeping me up most of the night all week the week before took a toll. Luckily, she's sleeping much better now.
I got a good bit of cleaning out/organizing done this weekend. Got rid of loads of old magazines that had been tucked away in drawers & cabinets. Kenneth and I made a game plan to get our finances in order, so we officially have no money for the forseeable future. BUT, that's OK. We've been through much worse times, we'll ge through this too.
I did do something this weekend that made me feel all grown-up, LOL! Rachel (a good friend) brought me a bunch of tomatoes from her garden and now I have 11 quarts safely tucked away in my freezer! I did it all by myself. : ) I worked on organizing scrapbook supplies, and tried to plan a few pages so I could work on them, but by then I was just too tired. Mentally tired, you know? So I just hung out with Kenneth and Ashleigh during my down time!
Here's the quandry with my scrapbooking currently. My printer is broken. We can't afford a new one right now. Also can't afford prints, which isn't a big deal because I am spoiled to printing out photos in custom sizes. SO I realized I could plan my pages on my computer so I would know the exact dimensions of each photo, then scrapbook my pages without the photos. And for posting purposes, after I scan the pages in, I can plop the photos on there. Not an ideal situation, I know, but a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do. And I'm getting so behind. If you haven't figured out, I take TONS of photos and I need to start doing better at "keeping up." Plus I need to scrapbook some things besides my daughter's baby album. There just isn't enough time. Ever. Not to work full-time, keep the house clean, laundry done, be a mommy, a wife, a friend AND keep my sanity. Oh well... You know, since I'm so busy, you'd think I wouldn't have trouble losing weight!! ; )
Ashleigh Update: OK, she started waving on Wednesday and Saturday she started clapping all by herself. She also started trying to feed herself with her spoon Saturday. Or was that Friday night? Hmmm..... Have to check the dates on the photos of that one....Anyway, she's getting to be her own little person, and man, are we gonna have our hands full!!!
I got a good bit of cleaning out/organizing done this weekend. Got rid of loads of old magazines that had been tucked away in drawers & cabinets. Kenneth and I made a game plan to get our finances in order, so we officially have no money for the forseeable future. BUT, that's OK. We've been through much worse times, we'll ge through this too.
I did do something this weekend that made me feel all grown-up, LOL! Rachel (a good friend) brought me a bunch of tomatoes from her garden and now I have 11 quarts safely tucked away in my freezer! I did it all by myself. : ) I worked on organizing scrapbook supplies, and tried to plan a few pages so I could work on them, but by then I was just too tired. Mentally tired, you know? So I just hung out with Kenneth and Ashleigh during my down time!
Here's the quandry with my scrapbooking currently. My printer is broken. We can't afford a new one right now. Also can't afford prints, which isn't a big deal because I am spoiled to printing out photos in custom sizes. SO I realized I could plan my pages on my computer so I would know the exact dimensions of each photo, then scrapbook my pages without the photos. And for posting purposes, after I scan the pages in, I can plop the photos on there. Not an ideal situation, I know, but a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do. And I'm getting so behind. If you haven't figured out, I take TONS of photos and I need to start doing better at "keeping up." Plus I need to scrapbook some things besides my daughter's baby album. There just isn't enough time. Ever. Not to work full-time, keep the house clean, laundry done, be a mommy, a wife, a friend AND keep my sanity. Oh well... You know, since I'm so busy, you'd think I wouldn't have trouble losing weight!! ; )
Ashleigh Update: OK, she started waving on Wednesday and Saturday she started clapping all by herself. She also started trying to feed herself with her spoon Saturday. Or was that Friday night? Hmmm..... Have to check the dates on the photos of that one....Anyway, she's getting to be her own little person, and man, are we gonna have our hands full!!!
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