9/12/2007 10:15:00 AM
I've been working at the College for well over two years. A semester ago, a new Coordinator came on at the Writing Center who was more conservative and rigid than the others. She deemed my tops to be too low cut. WTF??? I ALWAYS dress in business attire; however, sometimes I'm a little more relaxed in the summer when it is too hot to suit up. However, I don't dress like a bum. Yesterday, I was feeling especially pretty, and I even took time to shave my legs in the morning. Then, when I got into work, people told me that I looked pretty and I felt really good-for about an hour. Then, the Clerk at our Center told me that my dress was too low cut. She said that they have talked to me before about it, and that I can't wear anything that shows my breasts.
I have big boobs. Large Hooters, Grande Ta-Tas, Huge Melons. Unless I wear a turtleneck, they draw a bit of attention. I have actually been told that what I am wearing would be okay if I had a flat chest. After complaining to one of our coordinators, I was told that he "didn't want to see a line." He was of course, referring to my cleavage. Again, unless I wear a turtleneck, you are going to see "a line."
I am getting especially frustrated because at this point, I feel like they look at what I wear everyday and scrutinize my cleavage. Also, I feel like I am being discriminated against for being a "big girl." I HATE to throw that out there, but when someone actually says, "it would be okay if you were flat-chested," then that, to me, sounds like I am being singled out because I am endowed with large breasts. I even had the same coordinator tell me that I was the reason that one of our mentally disabled students was unable to focus; he was distracted by my chest.
So, here's me in my dress yesterday. Tell me what you think. I'll listen, I promise.
Peace Out,
Mom
9/11/2007 04:46:00 PM
When assaulted with feelings of desperate unworthiness, and when I feel like I can't do a single thing right, I yearn for the times when I am home, and my children think I am the smartest, prettiest, most capable person they have ever met. Sometimes I really just need to be home.
9/10/2007 02:11:00 PM
My Oldest started football practice in July. Saturday was his first game, and to be honest, I was a little nervous. He played receiver, and although the ball was never passed to him, he was still involved in much of the game. I noticed that my mom was turning his head when it even looked like he was going to be involved in a tackle. I was trying to be brave and supportive, but GEEZ! I would much rather he play the piano or something. He's really very good at it, and he looks so handsome in his football gear. I'm just being silly, really. They lost the first game, which was hard on them since they had won all of their scrimmages, but it was good to get that first game under his belt. I'll post pictures later...I'm at work now without the camera!
Peace Out,
Mom
9/05/2007 05:25:00 PM
All of these jobs, school, and family are slowly killing me. I'm just so tired. I really thought I was strong enough to do all of this, but perhaps I'm a bit too old for this. I'm tired of complaining about being tired. I miss my kids. This isn't fun. I know that it is temporary, so that is maybe what is keeping me going. And my big scary mortgage staring me in the face. And these boys eating more the older they get. Whatever. I'm just tired.
Peace Out,
Mom
8/27/2007 05:29:00 PM
My little man started daycare last week. It really is heart-wrenching for me! At first, he really wanted to go, and he wanted me to leave him there. However, now he cries because he doesn't want to go. We wake up very early, and God knows he is not an early morning kind of guy! So, he starts off the day in a foul mood. By the time we get there, he has told me about 45 times that he doesn't want to go. He also says really heart breaking things like "why do you want to leave me momma?" and "Will you miss me all day?" Geez, talk about a guilt trip. Believe me, I would MUCH rather be with him!! He is the first of my children to go to daycare, and I'm really torn up about it. I don't like it at all. The facility is fantastic, and the teachers are wonderful, but I would just rather be with him, you know??? So how long will this protest last??? Will there come a time where he just goes to daycare without all of the fuss? Oh my, this is going to be interesting.
Peace Out,
Mom
8/21/2007 12:05:00 AM
I got my new D.ell computer in the mail today. No, I did not go the M.ac route. I found what I needed in this inexpensive laptop and I am very pleased. I don't need it for anything fancy; I just need it for school and work. I finally figured out how to get it hooked up to our wireless Internet. My husband thought he was being safe when he set up our wireless Internet service at home with a password he could never, ever remember. Cute. It took me forever to figure out how to access our stuff!!! Getting older does some interesting things to your memory. Anyway, even though I have many jobs, a few classes, and some ornery boys, I'm hoping this will help me out some. Tomorrow, I will post about my little man's first day of day care. I almost threw up...really.
Peace Out,
Mom
8/15/2007 02:03:00 PM
A new semester is starting next week.
I applied for a new job and I am impatiently awaiting news.
I was offered a fourth job, and I am going to take it.
Little man starts all-day daycare next week and I am very nervous.
I am going to Legoland tomorrow with little man and a friend.
Peace Out,
Mom
8/07/2007 09:39:00 AM
We went camping last weekend at Cuyamaca. It was great fun; we even brought the dog. She was pretty awesomely dirty! My husband threw her in the lake a couple of times to try to get some of the dirt off of her, but I don't think it helped much! We had a great time with the kids. Everyone really had a good time spending quality time together. We played cards and cooked things on the open fire. We went for a couple of walks and paddle-boated on the lake. Mostly, we talked and relaxed. It was nice to be away from things for a while and chill. My camera is broken, which really super sucks, so I don't have any pictures. Sadness.
Peace Out,
Mom
8/02/2007 09:39:00 AM
After a great night, a thought crossed my mind...One of the downsides to being married is that I can no longer call my girlfriends and share with them how great the sex I have is. Once you get married, you move from being a sexual being to someone who is a wife and mother. Sometimes I'm just itching to share intimate details of my marriage...let's say that I just want to brag. BUT, I have noone in my life that wants to hear about it. Bummer.
Peace Out,
Mom
7/25/2007 10:54:00 AM
I am so very happy to report that the spoiler that I read last week before the book came out was a complete fake. A good fake, but it was still a fake. So, I read the book with a joyful heart. I'm not going to post any spoilers because again, I don't do that sort of thing, but it was pretty darn good. I pattern my mothering skills after Mrs.Weasley. I think she was an awesome, real character. I don't know how I fell about the ending, but I do know that I am sad that the series has ended. While reading the book, I openly laughed, wept, and cheered. JK Rowling really has an amazing imagination. She has created a world with complete backstories, amazing characters, and a serious attention to detail. Anyway, to sum it all up...It was great. Bye, Harry...I'll be seeing you again when I reread your story to little man in a few years!
Peace Out,
Mom
7/19/2007 01:20:00 PM
(Don't worry, I'm not posting any spoilers here. After all, I am a true fan...)
I looked at spoilers a couple of weeks ago that were obvious fakes. I found them amusing, really. People are so hungry to find out how it all ends, you know...I guess I was just curious to find out other people's theories. So Tuesday, I happened upon a new "leak" and read it... Kept reading...Scrolled down a bit...And there it was, actual pictures of the new book. I was reading what happens in the new book!!! Son of a b*!! I found out later that some internet company had "accidentally" sent out pre-ordered copies early. And these people posted them all over the internet. It serves me right for being so GD curious! I'm still excited about the midnight release of the new book. Really, I am. I'm just a little sad that I know how it all ends. I should have been patient. *Sigh*
Peace Out,
Mom
7/16/2007 06:27:00 PM
So, I am here at work and it is very, very slow...It is a beautiful day outside, and I'm really longing to go out and enjoy it, but I won't be out of here until 8. Then, it's time to get the kiddos ready for school tomorrow. I don't know why I am so happy for them to return. Looking back, I'm always shocked that I am happy they are returning to school, but I don't really know why. This time, they were bickering with each other in the end. Also, middle son has taken to arguing with little man. It's really ridiculous considering they're seven years apart!
Last week, My hubby and I went out on a little date. We dropped the kids off at G-parents and went to the batting cages. Now, I haven't been to the batting cages in eons, so I forgot all the rules. Number one rule being: Take off your wedding ring before you proceed to bat. I was rewarded with a nice blood blister on my left hand. Yeah, gross.
AND, in the process of carrying the treadmill upstairs, I dropped it on my foot. This getting healthy things sucks. Or is it getting old that sucks? Whatever.
Peace Out,
Mom
7/15/2007 11:03:00 PM
My oldest is going back to school tomorrow!!!! Thank God for year-round school!!!! Middle Boy goes back on Tuesday. This is going to be a glorious week. I can just feel it...
Peace Out,
Mom
7/11/2007 10:15:00 AM
I went to the midnight showing of Harry Potter last night, and boy am I tired. The little man did not want to sleep in this morning, so I am running on empty and I look like a zombie! :-) HP5 was really fantastic. I think it is one of the best HP movies yet. Of course, just like the rest of them, there are parts left out that I thought were important, but hey, what do I know?!? I'm really getting too old for staying up late and getting up early, you know?
Anyway, I took the two big boys, and my mom and sister went, too. The line was wrapped around the entire theater an hour and a half before the movie started. I had a friend who went to a different theater's showing and she had been there for four hours! I was really hoping for more costumes, but alas, there weren't too many nerds out last night! I proudly wore my "Dumbledore's Army" shirt, as did my sister. I love it!
I am now re-reading the sixth book, so that I will be prepared when the next book comes out next week. I swear, if she kills off Harry, I am going to organize a mass "book-sending-back-party!" I don't know if I'm ready for it all to end...
Peace Out,
Mom
7/03/2007 07:38:00 PM
My middle son is now 11! I'm a couple of days late with this post, mostly because it took me this long to recover from the slumber party that took place at my house to celebrate his bday! There were five extra boys over, so altogether, there were seven boys! I was lucky enough to get my oldest sent off to a friend's house! They were little beasts all night. It started after they got there, and my sister's boyfriend picked up a knife off the floor that one boy had dropped. I identified the owner of the knife and assured him that it would be kept in a safe place until he left my home. What kind of 10 year old carries a knife??? WTF??? What kind of parent allows their child to carry a jackknife? He's also the same kid who bought my son fish for his birthday. Live fish. Aren't parents supposed to call before they do such a thing??? Needless to say, this child has been put on my list of children not allowed over. Another reason for this is that he, and another boy, were up long after the other boys were asleep and proceeded to go under my kitchen counter and get cleaning products to spray in the sleeping children's faces. This was their way of hazing them for falling asleep first. Again I say, WTF???? What happened to dipping hands in water??? Am I just getting old, or what?
Aside from all of this, my son is happy and older. I adore him. He is so imaginative and optimistic, and so ready to have a good time. He loves to read and share his stories with all of us. He's a good brother and an awesome son. I am so happy to have him in my life. So, Happy Birthday my wonderful middle child! You make me proud.
Peace Out,
Mom
6/25/2007 07:18:00 PM
I hope one day that everyone will be able to marry whomever they want, regardless of their gender, and no one will give a damn. The definition of family should just be a group of people who come together in love. I'm weary of right-wing conservatives imposing their beliefs on the masses.
So, although I am not gay, I support everyone's right to love, get married and create a family. Happy Pride Day Everyone! Write to your Congressmen and tell them your beliefs!! Right Now.
“Heterosexuality is not normal, it's just common” - Dorothy Parker
Peace Out,
Mom
6/24/2007 10:43:00 AM
My little man is getting so big! Today is his fourth birthday!! When he was born, he was only six pounds, six ounces. After two months of nursing, he weighed 15 pounds! In the picture on the top, he was only four months old! And now, for the past year or so, he has been a pound an inch. So now, he's 42 inches and 42 pounds. Time is going by so fast. He is getting big and rough and smart. He wants to read and play outside and do all the big boy things his brothers do. I remember cradling him and kissing his fat little cheeks while he was bundled in his blankie. I remember making coffee at the business while he was nestled in his snugglie on my chest. I also remember that his cry was the fiercest of my boys' cries. He had this way of hitting some inner nerve in my head with that cry. That may be why he is so spoiled. When he cried, everyone rushed to give him whatever he wanted, just to stop the shrieking! Happy birthday, my little man. I love you so very much, and you make me so very happy.
Peace Out,
Mom
6/19/2007 10:39:00 AM
My Father's Day post is a little late this year. These three men effected my life in different ways. My dad taught me what a man is supposed to be. He taught me how a man should treat his family. When I was younger, and in the throes of my teenage years, I would often scream and shout and say that I hated him. Looking back, I know those words hurt him, even though I don't think he'd ever admit it! When my kids were born, I realized just how much I put him through. He is such an invaluable part of our lives now. He is still a great dad, a great grandfather, and a wonderful husband to my mom. My husband says he's not too shabby as a father in law, either!
My Father-in-law raised my husband to be a wonderful man, so I must give tribute to him, as well. He passed away last year, and I don't think our lives will ever be the same. My husband has changed since then, and it has changed the way we all think about life and love. When I knew him, he was quiet most of the time, but never afraid to offer up his opinion. He held strong beliefs and I admire him for that. When he passed, the curch overflowed with people who had come to pay their final respects; that has to say something about how well-liked he was.
My husband is just awesome. He is a wonderful provider and an amazing father and husband. I write about him on here all the time because he is just so fun to spend time with and he makes me happy. I'm not one of those freaky women that maks her life revolve around her husband, but I do enjoy spending my free time with him. He's fun! He is raising my sons to be good men and showing them what a father is supposed to be, which is so important!
SO...Happy Belated Father's Day!!!
Peace Out,
Mom
6/14/2007 05:42:00 PM
I was driving back to work this evening, listening to my John Legend CD, when I noticed that dandelion petals were blowing in the breeze. I was stopped, waiting to turn right and I was next to a hillside covered with wild brush. Of course, it is a beautiful day in Sunny San Diego, about 76 degrees with a wonderful breeze, and I am sitting in my car with the air conditioner running. So, I rolled down the windows and felt the glorious breeze blowing through the passenger-side window and rushing over me. In came the dandelion petals and I looked to my left to watch them tumbling over the hoods of the cars stopped at the light. I wondered how many people noticed.
Now peace is so hard to find
We're terrorized and victimized
But that's when I close my eyes
And think of you to ease my mind
You take me to another place
There's no more war (no more war)
Just love and grace
Baby you restore my faith
I know the struggle's not in vain
You know and I know
Through all the battles
Baghdad to Israel
There's one thing I know for sure
When it's cold outside
There's no need to worry cuz
I'm so warm inside
You give me peace
When the storm's outside
Cuz we're in love I know
It'll be alright
Alright it's alright
It's amazing that, even in the middle of all of the rush and worry of real life, I can feel the love of my family and the glory of life all around me. My husband is the light and heart of my life. I listen to John Legend and I hear my husband. I hear my sons' laughter and see their smiles. On the way to work, while driving the same ordinary path I always drive, dandelion petals tumbled over my car today.
Peace Out,
Mom
6/14/2007 09:53:00 AM
I have some time on my hands. I'm applying for other part-time jobs because the Writing Center hours are limited in the Summer, and I need money. I was thinking last night about how I hate the idea that money rules most of what we do. I want things, and even though those things don't directly cost money, they need money to work. For example, I really want another baby. Really. The boys talk about it all the time, too. And I made a promise to myself that I wouldn't have another one after I turned 35, which is two years away. Not only for my health and the health of the baby, but because who wants an old mommy and daddy?
I also need to finish school.I want to get on with my life. BUT, I don't know how much school I could get done with a new baby. I don't know. Maybe I'm incredibly selfish.
Really, I'm very happy. My family rocks and my marriage is just wonderful. My husband is the best. We have begun the process to have him adopt the big boys. They have considered him their dad for so long, it seems silly to have to jump through all these hoops to make it happen. It's time that they have his last name. We're a family.
Anyway, everything is good. Just thinking out loud.
Peace Out,
Mom
6/12/2007 11:09:00 AM
"Moral indignation is jealousy with a halo."
- H. G. Wells (1866-1946)
Peace Out,
Mom
6/09/2007 01:26:00 PM
Oh, the soccer season is over. They had their playoff game today. They were tied for first place, but after a very exciting game, they lost. No worries, they played really well and my boy is getting bettter every week. The next season doesn't start for a whole year, so we are thinking about putting him in AYSO. I liked this league because they weren't overly competitive and it was a lot of fun. Maybe next year, I'll coach. I may have gotten bitten by the soccer bug!;-) His dad was so excited and kept running down the field coaching him on. It was so cute! I think he wanted to jump onto the field to help him out! Anyway, our boy took it really well and is ready to play another season.
Next month, football season starts for our oldest. I can't wait to see how that turns out. I'm letting him start in eighth grade because he wants to play in high school, but I think he needs an early start. His dad is really excited about football because he played in high school. To be honest, I'm a little nervous. We'll see!
Peace Out,
Mom
6/04/2007 04:05:00 PM
Our anniversary was yesterday, and we had a great weekend celebration!!! We got a hotel room overlooking beautiful San Diego Bay and had dinner at Seaport Village. This last year has been a test of our marriage, and it seems as if we came out of it stronger than ever. We had such a great time together and I feel like we really connected again. I think it's important to get back to that place every once in a while...The place where you remember why you got married in the first place. We got married because he's awesome! He's such a great father, a wonderful provider, he's my very best friend, and he rocks in the sack!;-) So, I can't wait to see what the next 50 years has in store for us. It is such a great roller coaster ride, and I'm so happy that I bought the tickets to the theme park!!! Happy Anniversary, honey. You make my life interesting and a lot more fun!!
Peace Out,
Mom
5/25/2007 10:42:00 PM
I don't often blog about things that are happening on TV, but I just can't bear it. It makes me so sad. I hate this administration. I hate this war. It breaks my heart that so many have to die. I want our troops to come home. I am a Navy brat, and I am very proud of that. I love this country, and I support our troops 100 percent. That doesn't mean that I have to support the war or our president. If the war was being fought on our own soil, people would be singing a different tune. It broke my heart to watch the View on wednesday. Not because I couldn't stand to listen to them fight, but because Eliz. just wasn't listening. It was about friendship, and she just couldn't understand. I saw the hurt on Rosie's face and it made me sad. I'm even more sad that she has decided to leave early. People suck.
Peace Out,
Mom
5/15/2007 09:38:00 AM
My big boy. I can't believe that he is 13. I can't believe that I'm the mother of a 13-year-old. I look at him and remember holding him for the first time. I really do remember it like it was yesterday. I used to hear mothers say things like that and just think how crazy they were. Now I know. He is everything I wanted. When he was born, everything that I ever wanted and dreamed for was transferred right over to him. I want him to dream big. He is so very handsome and charming. He is also so smart if he could stop looking at girls long enough to look at a book! One day, he'll know everything that I did to make sure he had the best chance possible. Everything that I am doing is all for him and his two brothers. They are the reason I aspire to greater things. It is an interesting time in your life when you realize that you've stopped trying to make your parents proud, and you are just hoping that you can make your children proud.
Peace Out,
Mom
5/02/2007 12:00:00 PM
To celebrate my 33rd Birthday, my mom, my sister, some friends, and I went to the 20th anniversary showing of
Dirty Dancing in the theater. It was so fantastic seeing it on the big screen again. It brought back so many memories of when I was thirteen!! My sister said, "I don't think I ever saw this in the theater!" I had to tell her that indeed, she had, because I took her when I was dating my first boyfriend so that I had an excuse to go to the movies. I would plant her firmly five rows ahead of us and Darren and I would kiss and grope our way through Baby's deflowering.
I'm sure that last night, our recital of half of the movie's lines did not annoy the movie goers around us at all! And when Johnny said, "Nobody puts Baby in a corner," the audience cheered! It was just so great! So, happy birthday to me and happy anniversary to
Dirty Dancing!
Peace Out,
Mom
4/04/2007 11:38:00 PM
I saw him in concert tonight. Corrine Bailey Rae opened for him. It was so fantastic. He's dreamy. It's so great to spend time with my honey under the stars. (I'm talking about my husband here;-) This is our second time seeing him and every time, he is just wonderful!
Peace Out,
Mom
3/29/2007 11:32:00 PM
I can't help it. I'm addicted. I've got a problem. I know many others have been sucked in by its alluring lights and flashy lifestyle. Now it has me, too. I'm neglecting my schoolwork; I can't turn away. I love it. I love the way it makes me feel. I'm hooked. It's all about the Guitar Hero. I Rock!!
Peace Out,
Mom
3/28/2007 11:15:00 AM
I know that I posted not too long ago that I like change, but it seems that it is now biting me in the butt!! My husband has decided to separate from his business partner (He is a real big a-hole), and we are now faced with what this is going to do to our family. He hasn't decided what he's going to do yet. It may be a new business, or it may be that he goes back to working 9 to 5. The thing about the business is that it has always allowed for flexibility in our schedules. We don't have our kids in daycare, and we are both able to work productively while I continue my education. So I am facing the decision of whether or not to put my little man in daycare. I know millions of parents do it, and kids all over the world are just fine with it, but I really like being the source of my child's formative education and moral values. It's all so up in the air now, and I know it will work out...but for now, it's causing me to feel a bit nervous. We'll see!
On a different note, my sister in law is coming to stay with my husband and children while I am away in Houston. I have mixed feelings about this. She is obviously coming specifically at that time so that she doesn't have to see me (her plane gets in an hour after mine leaves) and leaving before I get back to stay with cousins, before she goes back to NJ. She doesn't have any kids and is pretty set in her ways. Okay...she's pretty mean. I'm the nice fun momma who balances everything out around here, so I'm concerned about my kids being subjected to a drill sergeant for four days. Argh!!! Not to mention, I don't like the fact that another woman is coming into my house and touching my stuff. Plus, she'll probably have a whole lot of opinions about how our house is set up. I'm still trying to think of something that I could leave laying around that will annoy her. If you have any ideas, let me know!
Peace Out,
Mom
3/22/2007 09:21:00 PM
So, here is the Super Surprise Birthday Party Extravaganza. I took my oldest, who is now 13, and four of his friends to Six Flags Magic Mountain. It was so much fun!!! It was kinda drizzly, and a weekday, so there wasn't really anyone there! We were able to walk onto most of the rides, and the kids were great!!! I have stories to tell about the day, but I have to skee-daddle. There will be more pictures to follow. I especially liked this one because (my son is next to Wonder Woman) all day, his friend (the third one from the left) kept telling my son, "dude, Wonder Woman was all up on you!" OMG! I thought I was gonna pee my pants!!! Teenage boys are so much fun. WOW-This is going to be interesting.
3/17/2007 01:32:00 PM
Happy Saint Patrick's Day!!! Everything is so busy here that I'm not quite sure what the heck I'm doing these days. I've picked up another class, work is hectic, and the boys have their own activities. My oldest is already out of school for his extended Spring Break and has been accompanying us to different activities. He sat in on my Brit Lit class on Thursday, which I'm really happy about. He got to see a different side to education. It was really fun for him and he said that he enjoyed it! He also went to volunteer at the big cat sanctuary with my sister, so he was able to see some really cool animals on the ranch. Tuesday is his "Super Secret Surprise Birthday Party Extravaganza". I'm not going to divulge any further details, but it is oh-so-awesome! Next Monday, the boys are going with my mom and sister to Disney's California Adventure. I know that will be fun! Anyway, this Spring Break promises to be full of good times!!!
Peace Out,
Mom
3/10/2007 12:17:00 PM
They picked me, yeah!!!! I get to go to the conference for college writing centers in Houston!! That sounds so nerdy. Oh well, I'm excited!!! I feel like such a grown up, going to a conference and all!!! I get to go with my bosses that I adore, and my co-worker/friend that I love. Oh, good times will be had by all! So...if anyone has any suggestions to share about where to go in Houston, please feel free to comment. I think we're required to eat steak while we're there, seeing as it's Texas and all! I'm threatening to wear my pink Cowboy hat, but I think it'll be obvious that I'm from California!;-) Maybe I'll buy a more inconspicuous one so that I might fit in!!! Anyway, it will be interesting cause my wonderful husband is going to be home alone with the boys for about four days. It's a first, and I'm really excited to see how that turns out. (Don't worry, I'm already in talks with the grands to make sure they get them a couple nights!!!)
Ooooh, this is going to be fun!!!
Peace Out,
Mom
3/06/2007 10:34:00 AM
Oh....the politics of the college education system!!!! I'm hoping to go to a conference in Houston next month. We'll see if it pans out...The politics in our little Writing Center can be quite ridiculous. I don't have much time to write about it all right now, but it's interesting, oh yes it is!!!!
Peace Out,
Mom
3/02/2007 12:48:00 PM
This was our day at Mount Laguna. We had to drive quite a bit to find a patch of snow to play in! I feel bad when I watch the news because I know there are many places across the country that are having bad weather, and we are complaining about a little rain every once in a while. If you'll notice in the picture, my husband was wearing shorts!!! Anyway, we had a great time sledding. The little man giggled the whole time he was sledding down the hill. It was great! After we were done, we went to the local mountain town that is famous for its apples and had caramel apples with candied walnuts. Delicious! Anyway...I don't miss the snow. i like our sunny San Diego weather!!!!
Peace Out,
Mom
2/24/2007 09:57:00 AM
In January, we decided to stay close to home for our winter vacation, and we went up to LA to do all the touristy stuff. Our first stop, before we checked into the hotel, was the La Brea Tar Pits. I had always pictured this prehistoric, bubbling, hot area in the middle of nowhere. I was really surprised when we drove to the heart of LA and found the Tar Pits. It wasn't really what I had expected. Sure, it was pretty neat, and there were some spots of bubbling crude, but it just didn't have that effect that I was looking for. It was a nice walk and romp after the car ride, and we did get to see where all the magic happens. BUT-it was a one-time thing. At least now we can say we've gone.
In this picture......
I thought it was so sad because they had a baby on the side of this lake watching his mommy get taken down by the tar pits. Pretty sad, huh??? Anyway, the Tar Pits have now been checked off the to do list!
Peace Out,
Mom
2/22/2007 10:28:00 AM
I heard on "The View" this morning that Wimbledon will be paying the female winners of Wimbledon the same amount that they pay the male winners. Awesome! If only women were on a level playing field in other sports as well! Like golf. I know that women's basketball isn't as popular, so I don't know if I could rationalize the women getting paid the same amount, but when they are doing the same thing, and getting the same amount of viewers...I think they should be paid the same amount.
On another note...I kept telling myself that I wasn't going to comment on the whole thing, but I just can't help myself. Dear God, please let Anna Nicole be buried next to her son and let her lie in peace. The woman bought a plot next to her son...put her in it!!! They need to stop fighting, and just let her go. It is so damn stupid!!! And...swab every man that ever slept with her around the time she got pregnant...test them all...and figure out who that baby's father is!!! We are supposed to do what's best for the children in this country; why isn't anyone stepping forward to do what's right for this little baby???
Okay...done ranting.
Peace Out,
Mom
Update: I heard that the judge allowed the baby's attorney to make the decision. Right on! So, she's going to be buried next to her son after all! Lets hope all is laid to rest with her.
2/21/2007 03:42:00 PM
Emmy got hurt going down the stairs over the weekend. I took her to the vet and 225 dollars later, they told me she had hurt her ACL. Just like a football player! So now, she's a three-legged dog until her injury heals. They told me to keep her still, but she's a four month old pup for God's sake! She's actually learning to maneuver with three legs, and I'm anxious for her to be well. We are not allowed to walk her and I haven't been taking her on car rides, either. She's not a happy pup. She is also very smart and doesn't eat her pill when I mix it with food. I think I've tried everything! My sister suggested peanut butter, but she ate all the PB and left the pill. Smart girl!!! I am convinced that mutts are very smart cookies!
On another note...Since I updated, I am having issues getting my Flickr up. I can't figure the darn thing out! I would also like to figure out how to put little badges on my blog. One day, I'll have time to sit down and learn this stuff.
Peace Out,
Mom
2/21/2007 12:30:00 PM
I upgraded to the new blogger, and I changed the look a bit. I think I was tired of the pink. Whatever. Here it is.
2/17/2007 02:45:00 PM
I'm not having a good day. Sometimes I just want to go back and do a big do-over. I want to travel and not care so much about money. I wanted to change the world. Big time. Not just little baby steps-changing the world around me kind of thing. I wanted to really change the world. It's not really working out that way. I'm working a lot, and I haven't gotten to where I want to be yet. I feel like I do a lot of things impulsively, and I'm willing to uproot and try something new, but my husband is always leery of making that jump. I believe that it will work out...My husband wants proof. It's time for a change; I'm just not sure what that change is going to be yet.
Peace Out,
Mom
2/14/2007 08:35:00 PM
This picture is for my sweetie. Our coffee business keeps us going, and the coffee keeps me moving through my days. When I ran into my husband (who was not my husband at the time) again after not seeing him for many years, he was working at the coffee shop that he now owns...So,I always associate coffee and love! I am a true romantic at heart, and I really do believe in happily ever after! Even though someone/something evil always gets in your way at some point, it all works out in the end! (Hey-it happens in fairy tales! Think Malificent here.) My husband is great. He may not be as much of a romantic as I wish he was, but he takes care of us. He loves me, and he shows it just about every day in our life together. I am happy. It may not be that "on fire" passion that once kept us going, but it has settled into a raging simmer. I like it that way. Sometimes it does fire up, and I like that, too! He's my love, and I adore him. I am so happy to be spending another Valentines day with him. So-I hope all of you had a great Valentines Day. I'm going to go and kiss my husband.
Peace Out,
Mom
2/07/2007 10:38:00 AM
Here she is!!! Since we have a rabbit named Ruby, we have added a new jewel to our family...Emerald. We call her Emmy. She's very cute, and very playful. The house training is making me a wee bit crazy, but I guess it's par for the course, ya know??? My husband called me and asked how it was with the two kids at home...I don't know if he realizes how right on he is!!!
2/04/2007 01:43:00 PM
I've recently returned to church. I thought it was time to give the kids somewhere to go...I thought it was a good idea that they have a good foundation, other than the one that we have already laid for them. I like going to church. It doesn't take much time out of your day, it makes you feel good, and every time I leave there, I feel like I've learned something that I can use in my life.
I've made some observations the last couple of weeks since I started going to church. Because I am surrounded by intellectuals, our conversations often turn to religion and other hot topics. I consider myself a liberal-Most, if not all, of the people I surround myself with are liberals. Most don't have any kind of belief system in place. Really. They think its foolish that I "waste my time" with it. These are the same people that don't believe in Marriage. SO, I've now made the correlation between not believing in God and not believing in marriage. I believe it's a lack of faith.
I feel like I'm surrounded by people that can't put their faith in another person or relationship, and definitely cannot put their faith in a higher power. I don't really know how to feel about it. I feel a little sorry for them. Not because I have that whole "My religion is better than yours" thing going on, but because I feel like you have to put your faith into someone else sometimes. You have to be able to believe that if you falter, someone else will be there to help you out. If you don't, I think it could be a heavy burden to do it all yourself. Don't get me wrong, I consider myself a fiercely independent person, but I know I don't have the strength to do it all alone. It's nice to know I have someone at home, and in my heart to help me out. I have faith that there's someone upstairs who has my best interests at heart. I have faith that He/She exists without ever having seen Him/Her. I also have faith that my husband will be with me throughout the rest of my life. I believe these things. And it gives me great joy and comfort.
Main Entry: 1faith
Pronunciation: 'fAth
Function: noun
Inflected Form(s): plural faiths /'fAths, sometimes 'fA[th]z/
Etymology: Middle English feith, from Anglo-French feid, fei, from Latin fides; akin to Latin fidere to trust -- more at BIDE
1 a : allegiance to duty or a person : LOYALTY b (1) : fidelity to one's promises (2) : sincerity of intentions
2 a (1) : belief and trust in and loyalty to God (2) : belief in the traditional doctrines of a religion b (1) : firm belief in something for which there is no proof (2) : complete trust
3 : something that is believed especially with strong conviction; especially : a system of religious beliefs
synonym see BELIEF
(the above was found on the Mirriam Webster online dictionary)
Peace Out,
Mom
1/24/2007 05:43:00 PM
My parents next-door neighbor that we have known for twelve years was arrested in Tijuana, Mexico yesterday for raping a 12 year old girl. Witnesses heard the girl screaming, and when police arrived, the girl was found duct-taped in the car. They also found drugs and a knife. We have known this man for 12 years, and he has never acted "weird" or given us cause to suspect him of anything unsavory. I feel like one of those neighbors you see on the news that says things like "He was such a nice guy". But dammit, he was! We have always had a good neighborly relationship with him, and I'm really in shock. This makes me feel unsafe and unsure of people around me. I thought that I was a good judge of character, but I'm starting to question that. Ugh. It just makes me sick.
Peace Out,
Mom
1/22/2007 06:18:00 PM
We had a great vacation and now we're just getting back into the groove. I went back to work at the college today and my first student was a little loopy and a lot of work. WOW! They could have at least eased me in, you know?
I learned something over the weekend. I ran into a girl that was in my Spanish class over a year ago. We were at about the same level in our education, so I was surprised when she told me that she is now teaching 2nd grade. WHAT?
ME- When did you get your credentials?
HER- Oh, I only have my AA. You don't need a degree to teach at a private school.
Really? Did everyone else know this except me? Do parents know this?? After telling people about this, I've learned that it's at the discretion of the institution. Who knew?
So, I'm looking into teaching at a private school. We'll see.
Another topic- Today is the anniversary of Roe V Wade. Women, we need to stay vigilant. And responsible. While I believe that every woman should be responsible for their bodies and use birth control when they don't want a baby-I realize that there are some circumstances when that doesn't happen, or when one of those little guys gets through. As a society, we are responsible for making sure that women retain control of their bodies.
Peace Out,
Mom
12/19/2006 11:48:00 AM
Mom is doing much better. She's been home for a couple of weeks and is slowly getting better. I can't imagine what my life would be like without her. Through all of this, it has taught me to appreciate everyone in my life and have a little more tolerance for those that try my patience sometimes. It has also encouraged me to hold the people I love just a little tighter and longer. I have a great family. We may not be a big family, but we're a good one. So, I'm heading into the holidays thinking about my father in law that I lost, my mom that I was able to hold onto, and what the future holds for those that I love. It's a lot to think about! I'm looking forward to some rest. Just a couple more days until Christmas!!!!
Peace out,
Mom
11/27/2006 10:20:00 AM
My mom was in the ICU for about a week. She had internal bleeding, and a pulmonary embolism, among many other complications. This has been a very trying time for my family, and I am hoping that things are on the upswing. My mom is very young-only 52-and we were not prepared for such complications. I have been at the hospital every day, which is hard because they don't allow children. My husband has been wonderful and I don't know what I would have done had he not been here for me. I love my mom very much and I'm not prepared for her to not be in my life. My father in law passed away last month and my mom was on the verge just a week ago. I don't know if we can take anymore of this. It's amazing how your life can change in just a month.
11/15/2006 10:33:00 AM
My mom had surgery on Monday to remove a tumor from her ovaries. They took the ovaries, too. They were afraid that it was cancer, but the preliminary tests have come back negative. YEAH! She is still in the hospital, and I wish I could be there with her all day. They don't allow children, and it's hard for my husband to get away from work. I am there as much as possible, but I still wish I were there more. She was expected to be there until at least Thursday, but I think it looks like she'll be in there a bit longer. She doesn't do well with recovery. I don't do well with my mommy in the hospital.
11/10/2006 12:40:00 PM
I'm cleaning the house for our House Warming tomorrow night. Fun! I can't wait to have everyone over. We never have time to enjoy our friends (and each other, for that matter), but we decided it was time. We have to make time for these things, ya know? It's 75 degrees outside, and just lovely. San Diego is beutiful I'm so glad we live here!
11/09/2006 02:21:00 PM
I went with my middle son on a field trip Tuesday to Balboa Park in San Diego. It was pretty nice. We went to the Science Center and the Natural History Museum, but we were only allotted about an hour and a half at each museum. That wasn't enough time to really learn, you know? Not to mention, the teacher assumed that, because I am a mother of three boys, I would LOVE to be the chaperone of five boys. SUPER! Let me tell you, boys are a handful. AND, I had a wanderer in the group. We're all standing there, looking at an exhibit, and I do my little head count, and one is missing. Crap! "M***!" We wasted more time looking for M*** than looking at actual exhibits. I told the teacher that I will not go on any more field trips unless I get some girls in the group. Really, I have enough boy time at home.
11/08/2006 08:46:00 PM
"Better to beg than to steal, but better to work than to beg."
Nice.
10/13/2006 11:10:00 PM
My father-in-law passed away last week. My husband's father...My sons' grandfather. He was only 67. He was just here in August, when we went fishing, I caught the jackpot fish and his fish was small enough to be my fish's snack. I wish he would have caught the bigger fish, but maybe that made him respect me a little more. I went back with my husband for the funeral last weekend. Here's the sad story...
My husband went back the weekend before because I urged him to go. I told him that I felt like we just didn't know everything. Why was he so sick so fast? Why was he all of a sudden on oxygen at home, with a nurse? They weren't telling us everything. So, he went back to spend some time with his dad and see what was going on. He called me all hours of the night..."He's really sick. I'm scared, honey." He sent an email that read, "I'm worried about my daddy." So, I got worried, too. He came home on Sunday, and told me that he and his sister were going back in two weeks. That's when they were getting the test results, and they would know more. We worried, and waited.
Wednesday morning he got a call from the other sister. "The doctor just left. His vitals have dropped and they don't expect him to live longer than another day and a half". So, he got on the next plane, and so did his sister in Atlanta, and they flew back with hopes of being there with him when he passed. When he was packing, he broke down, and said, "I'm just not ready yet." While they were both in the air, I called back to their home in New Jersey to make sure that my brother in law was picking them up at the airport. "Dad passed away an hour ago." Oh my God!!! After I hung up, I sobbed...My husband was over the US, with the hope that he would get his last good-bye. My heart broke right then, and I booked my flight for the next morning.
The next three days was a blur of funeral arrangements, picking a plot at the cemetery, and looking one last time at the man who made my husband into the man that he is today. I can't even go into the horrific sadness that came over us. I looked at my husband and his family,
my
family, and my heart broke for them. My husband is just heartbroken, and just looking at him makes my heart ache. He's back there this weekend taking care of financial/paperwork stuff, and I am so lonely without him.
This has changed me...Affected me in a way that I didn't see coming. I'm worried. I look at my husband, and I'm worried. What would my life be without him? What would my sons' lives be without him? I look at my dad and I see the man that taught me how men are supposed to treat the women in their lives. He taught me what a husband and father is supposed to be. He taught me how to be strong and to be intelligent, and to look with wonder at the world. My mom taught me how to be a strong woman, and to find humor in the most dreary of days. She taught me to use my imagination and to teach my kids the power of play. I want a better relationship with my sister. I want to see my boys grow into strong, good men. I'm worried. What would my life be like without them? Logically, I know that the world hasn't changed, and when it's our time, it's our time...I just can't shake this feeling. I don't want anything bad to happen.
My husband's words are echoing in my head..."Not yet"...I'm ashamed for feeling this way. The grief is my husband's. I should get over it. When he's around, I wear a brave face, and I am the supporting wife, but inside, I'm just so worried. When he's away, I just want to shout at him to come home! I know it will get easier over time, but for now, it hurts. And I'm worried.
9/26/2006 10:39:00 AM
My dad bought a boat last week and has gone out on the water many times since. We were lucky enough to have some time to go out on Sunday, and we had a really great time! The boys loved it, and my dad was joyful sharing it with us. He had a grin on his face the whole time. I know he has always wanted a boat, so it was nice to see him so happy. It's amazing how different our beautiful city looks from the water ways. It could have been a Mediterranean city from the perspective we had! It was amazing. San Diego is such a beautiful place to live, and that beauty just continues out into the ocean around us. We had a great time and the boat is just so cool. I wasn't afraid of falling out at all, really. Not even when my dad let my middle son do donuts in the water. Nope. Not scared at all. Yeah, okay, maybe a little bit.
9/12/2006 02:55:00 PM
Today, I taught the first workshop of the semester on campus. I was very nervous because I was doing it on my own this year. It actually went very well. For those of you who are interested, it was on Run Ons and Comma Splices. Interesting, right? I think I did a pretty good job! Hopefully, when I teach the one on Thursday, it will go even smoother! And after that, I will have more free time. I may even get my Lit homework done early. I may even put those two dressers from IKEA together! The possibilities are limitless! I look forward to blogging more often, one day. I would like to find some extra time for myself and my family. Extra time. What does that even mean??? Spare time. Like it's just laying around and I can pick it up. I have my middle son's conference in an hour, and then I have my math class until 6. Maybe when I get home, I'll find some of that extra time on the floor. I'll be looking for it.
Peace out,
Mom
8/30/2006 09:13:00 AM
So, I have a new condo and I am oh-so-happy with it. It really is a lot of work to move into a new place, even though it's not far from the old one. College started back up last week, I'm still working nights at Mervyns, and I go back to work at the Writing Center on Tuesday. They've also asked me to teach the first workshop of the semester on Sep 11 and 13th. I really do have a full plate. I'm hoping things will calm down now any day. (yeah, right...) With all of that going on, My NH and I were still able to sneak away to the American Idol concert on Friday. It was soooo much fun!!! The performers that I knew would be really good were, and the others were just kind of there.
Mandisa was soulful and wonderful (she started the show). Really, she has a beautiful voice. I know during the show, it seemed like she was belting it out unnecessarily, but on stage, it sounded wonderful.
Then Ace came out and looked dreamy. He's not very good to listen to, but he sure is pretty to look at. (BTW, if I had to put money on it, I'd say that he's batting for the home team, if you know what I'm sayin' *wink, wink*)
Anyway...then it was Lisa followed by Paris. Lisa was kind of boring...She played the keyboard and sang Elton John.
Then Paris came out and I was kind of surprised. Don't get me wrong, she wasn't very good vocally, but that little mousy girl came out shaking her ass!!! She sang "Crazy"(Beyonce) and was doing her best Beyonce/Janet Jackson impression. She was all over the stage, and let me tell you...That girl loves her ass. She was putting her back to the crowd and popping her back and bouncing her booty all over the place, yo!! Still...Not very good.
Next up...Bucky. Boring. Really. And I like country!!! Then I heard a Grease song start, and I was like, what??!!???!!
Out came Kelly Pickler in jeans and a leather jacket with knee-high black boots. The girl is hot! They sang "You're the one that I want" together. It was cute, not great, but cute. They even did the down-the-stairs-moves-with-their-thumbs-hooked-in-their-belt-loops-strut. When Bucky went off stage, Kelly sang a few more songs, and she was all right.
Then....Du-duh-du-du...*Fanfare**glitter*(not really but I was feeling dreamy eyed;-)
Chris...God he's good. And hot. He was really fantastic. All rocker sexy and shizz. He announced his new album and upcoming tour. Honestly. Hot. He sang a couple songs and then it was his big Bon Jovi number, which was really good. Then, he started singing this song that I never heard before, and it was AWESOME...And Elliott came out to sing the duet with him. Their voices were like magic together! They meshed together perfectly and it was so beautiful. When it was over, MNH (who is no AI fan) leaned over to me, and said "WOW! Nice, really.
Elliott was just what I expected. Perfect. He should have won, really. People should have been able to look past his quirky looks. He sang effortlessly. It was beautiful and I was moved. He is my American Idol. I'd buy his CD in a second. Awesome.
Then was Kat. Okay, yes she is hot, and yes, she has a good voice, BUT, it all sounds/looks so contrived and boring. She sang the same GDarn songs she ALWAYS sings, and I just didn't care...Black Horse and a Cherry Tree, and Somewhere Over the Rainbow. Yeah, yeah, yeah. But, she did look amazing in the black dress cut way down to there and backless. I'll give her that!
Last, was Taylor, who walked right in front of me on his way to the stage, singing. He was just okay. He's a great performer and can play a mean harmonica, but his vocals are eh. He dances like my middle son and that makes me giggle. MNH and I were marveling at the likeness in the dance moves. Disturbing, really.
Of course, they did their encore "We are the Champions" and the men came out and sang a Guns and Roses song together, which was pretty good.
All in all, I had a great time and I'm glad that I went. I can't wait for the next season!!!!
I'll post about the new house soon. It's beautiful and I am oh-so-happy!!!
Peace out,
Mom
8/05/2006 12:45:00 PM
We went fishing last night with my father-in-law, who is visiting from New Jersey, and I caught the jackpot fish. Which means my fish was the biggest/heaviest on the boat. He was a great big halibut and he was really a tough guy to bring on the boat. My arm is still spasming!! We go out many times throughout the year, and I really enjoy it. My husband got me into it, and I never thought that I would like it as much as I do. The greatest part about catching the biggest fish on a boat full of men is how they all just chalk it up to luck or a fluke. Becuase if not, they would have to admit that a woman is better than them!!! Anyway, it was a great time and we are going to eat a delicious fish for dinner!
The link to Islandia Sportfishing in San Diego is up top...check it out!
7/27/2006 01:39:00 PM
Yesterday, Andrea Yates was found not guilty by reason of insanity in the drowning deaths of her five children. I could not be more unnerved and disgusted. She murdered her children, all of whom thoroughly trusted and loved her. I keep dwelling on the idea that the last thought in each of their minds was most likely, "Why?" When this first happened about five years ago, I was so upset and obsessed with this story. I was relieved when she was found guilty, thinking that maybe there was some justice in this F'd-up judicial system that we have. Then, when I found out she was being re-tried, I thought for sure that it was just a technicality and they would get it right again. Imagine my dismay when I read the news. It's just gross. Now I know that nothing will bring those children back, but Yates should pay for what she has done. Furthermore, her now ex-husband standing by and supporting her makes me sick. Anyone touches my kids and you can be sure they are immediately damned to hell in my mind. I comfort myself by thinking that he is so ashamed of himself for not noticing the telling signs of her frustrations and depression, that he is now standing by her in an attempt to make himself feel better. If she truly felt remorse and has since realized her sickness and is saddened by it, she should have accepted the guilty plea and spent the rest of her life in jail thinking about what she has done. That would be justice.
7/20/2006 01:16:00 PM
I'm happy. There is peace in my life, even though there is so much going on. I read my profile and I realized that it sounds like I don't have any free time or family time. Not true. I work only about 30-35 hours per week. I am fortunate in that my kids are not in day care, and are taken care of by my husband and I. I have had quite a few people ask me lately when I am going to put my youngest in day care, implying that he is required to be in day care. I don't plan on it. I don't chastise those who have chosen that option. I also realize that for some, it is necessary in their lives. Not so for us. This is what works for us. Please don't tell me that it is necessary for my child's development for him to be around other children and learn from them. It will be time for Kindergarten soon enough. He is always around other children, and is quite sociable. I'm not worried, and you shouldn't worry, either. He'll be fine. Better than fine, actually. I've even heard people say how bright he is and that I should put him in school sooner to expand his education. People don't even consider that it might be a reflection of how much time we spend with him. Could it possibly be that he is so bright because of us? Oh no, of course not!;-)
Life is good, really.
Peace out,
Mom
7/15/2006 12:29:00 PM
We got the house!!!!! Well, it's a condo, but we will still own it!! Here are a couple of pictures(The furniture is not ours) We are stressing a bit about the mortgage because it is over twice as much as our rent, but we are determined. I picked up a night job which I don't really like, but I feel like it's necessary. I don't mind working, especially when it will help us out. So now, it's time for me to say good-bye to all of my frivilous shopping habits and expensive food. Here comes shopping with coupons and watching sales. Good-bye to impulse trips to San Francisco and Vegas. I'll miss you. Good bye to year passes to the San Diego zoo and tri-yearly trips to Disneyland. Hello to free museum days at Balboa Park and trips to the beach. Hello to picnics in the park and swimming at the community pool. Hello to nightly walks and more time spent with friends and family. The boys will get to ride their bikes outside and walk to their grandparents' house. They also are in the best schools in the district and I couldn't be happier about that!!!! Well, I guess it doesn't sound too bad after all.
Peace out, Mom
7/03/2006 08:55:00 AM
Yesterday, we did it. We put in two offers on condos in the same area. I'm so nervous. They have three days to respond, but since tomorrow is a holiday, it could be Thursday before we know anything! ARGH! I am so excited at the prospect of owning our own home. I am sick of this sh!t hole that we live in. I hate that our kids can't ride their bikes, skateboard, or roller blade. I hate that our neighbors blare music at 7:30 in the morning on a Sunday when you really want to sleep in! We will live within walking distance of the elementary school, and MO will be able to go to the middle school and high school that we want him to go to! No more inter-district transfers! Yeah! This is one of the most stressful things that we have ever done. What was weird is that, after we put the offers in, a lot of that stress went away. We had all the information, made a good decision, and handed it over. It felt good. Hopefully, it won't get stressful again. (Yeah right, when we get that first mortgage payment, we may weep!)
Peace out,
Mom
6/18/2006 12:40:00 PM
I've always honored my dad on Father's Day, and I think that it's important to acknowledge what he did/does to make me the person I am today. I really do think my dad is a great guy... We had our issues when I was growing up, but that was normal teenager crap. When I was a grown woman and had to move home to escape a horrible marriage, he and my mom took us in. He provided the role model that my sons needed. He showed them that not all men scream and hit. He showed them that some men even did dishes and changed diapers. They even hug, nuzzle, and kiss! He is smart, funny, caring, and loving. All of that together equals one wonderfully sarcastic, witty man!
When he walked me down the aisle on my wedding day, he put me at ease with his sense of humor that I admire so much. That's one trait that I admire in myself...He taught me that through it all, we have the ability to laugh. Whatever is thrown our way, there is always something to laugh about, and something to look forward to.
He has always been good to my mom, and because of that, I realized what I wanted in my marriage. They always hold hands and kiss, and I know that he would rather spend his time with her than with anyone else. I will never forget the time that she needed him most; when her mom died. He was out on a ship in the middle of the ocean and was sent home on a helicopter to be with her. She had been in her room all morning, and when he came home, my sister and I were sitting on the couch in the livingroom. After talking to us for a few minutes and telling us about when his grandfather died and how he felt, he asked where my mom was. We told him, and he headed down the hallway to their room. When he stepped in the room and closed the door, I heard my mom cry. It was a raw, heartbroken cry, and I could tell that she waited for him to come home so that he could comfort and protect her. That's when I really knew what the love between a husband and a wife was supposed to feel like.
When I first got in a relationship with my husband, my dad was leery. He was worried that this man wasn't good enough. Not only for me, but for the grandsons that he loved so much. Over the years, he has sized him up, spent time with him, and eventually gave him his stamp of approval. How do I know this? Well, he lets him eat his steak. He even buys dinner when we all go out once in a while. They sit next to each other on the couch and exchange jokes. They laugh together, and they keep up with each other's wit. That's important in our family! My dad supports our marriage and loves our sons. He is everything that we could ask for in a father, father-in-law, and grandfather. So, Happy Father's Day, Daddy. You are really appreciated and loved.
5/24/2006 11:07:00 AM
So much is happening, and it seems I have few free moments. I have been writing so much for class that I don’t have any time to write on here!
Finally, the semester is over, and today will be my last day of work for a few weeks which is nice, if it weren’t for the fact that I could use the money. Hopefully, I will be getting a night job soon so that I can continue on in the manner that I have grown accustomed to!
My oldest son will be graduating from 6th grade in a couple of weeks, and I am feeling really old. The last few years have really pushed me into that middle age bracket, and I don’t know how I feel about that! I still have friends that are quite young, and some of my friends my age don’t even have any kids. Sometimes I get a little jealous, especially when they tell me about dodge ball games, softball, paddling, improv theatre, independent film outings, nights out watching a band play, and trips to Vegas. Sometimes I wish I had done some of that before rushing into the mommy role. Then sometimes, I look at them and I forget about all that and enjoy our outings together. I enjoy the camping trips, Disneyland, trips to the zoo, and Disney movie nights. I love when they kiss me on the cheek before bedtime. And I swell with pride when I look at my sons and sometimes see a glimpse of the men they are becoming. I have liberal views on politics, I believe in the power of women, I hope for the future of our country while realizing it’s going to take a lot of work, pray for the men who are fighting a war that has been going on for hundreds of years, and hope that I’ll be able to change just a little corner of the world. All of this, I’m passing onto them, and that gives me such great joy. Those are the times when I don’t forget about my age, but I do realize that I just don’t care as much.
5/24/2006 08:51:00 AM
This is the reason he should have won...because he can sing, ya'll!!!! I have heard from people that saw him live at AI that he was the best performer with the best voice. They say it is oh-so-powerful live! Poor guy didn't look hot enough, so he got booted!:-(
Anyway, enjoy
4/24/2006 11:43:00 AM
Am I about to win the Mother of the Year Award or what???? I have a mountain of essays to write, and a presentation to get together for work, and I am spending countless hours staring at the computer and neglecting my little Bubba. So, he is alternating between Dora the Explorer and playing cars(which he loves). I sing to him and get up every once in a while to kiss and hug him, but I know that's not enough. I've decided I'm going to really buckle down and do all this work when I don't want to, so I can get it done soon and focus on other things. I think I am focusing on so many other things and not really concentrating...so, that's what I'm going to work on!!!!! Argh!!!! I should just take my own advice and not watch Medium tonight, or read that really good novel that I like....I should just focus on boring old American History and get these essays done!!! Also, my birthday is this Saturday and we're trying to buy a house, so I have a little stress build-up, ya know?????? Back to work...
Peace Out, Mom
BTW....I got Bubba to say "peace out", but he says, "A-peace out":-)
4/18/2006 02:04:00 PM
So, we are trying to buy a new house. Right now we rent a three bedroom apartment, but we would really like to own our own home. It is not too easy a feat in this southern California market where the median home price is around 650k. We are waiting on the loan approval, and we have already started to look at homes, mostly four bedroom condos. I'm starting to stress a bit. It is exciting...I like the thought of painting walls and designing the interior of a home, but the money aspect is a little overwhelming. The kids are excited, mostly because they want a dog. I hope NH and I can make it through all this without killing each other!
On a different note...I am teaching a workshop next week at the college, and I am stressing out about that also. I also have a 20 page story, and eight page research paper and three essays due by next week. Good God, what am I thinking????? I would really like to go to Earth Day this weekend at Balboa Park to unwind(I almost typed rewind:-) We'll see how everything's going!!!!
*skips off to write papers*
Peace Out,
Mom
4/11/2006 10:37:00 PM
Here is the pack at the San Diego Zoo. We had a great time. It's amazing how so many kids with so many different personalities can mesh so well. I enjoy having them all together, and at the end of the day, I don't want to kill any of them! I always tell people, going from one child to two is the hardest. Once you figure that out, the rest is gravy. Especially when there are this many of them. They tend to travel in a pack and look out for each other. Really, it's a blast and I enjoy every one of them.
Peace Out,
Mom
4/02/2006 10:39:00 PM
Just a sample of the new pictures that I added to the Flickr thingy on the right. We went fishing last week with our friends and we caught the jackpot fish! It was a pretty big Salmon Grouper!! We had a great time and only two of our ten-person party got sick. Not too bad. Everyone got a chance to reel in a fish except for my lovely friend who was doing her duty to watch over her children. She helped them reel them in, but never caught one on her own. Maybe next time! I love this picture of my NH and my MS. They look adorable!
3/25/2006 10:17:00 PM
I tried to put this cool evil thingy on my blog and it jacked everything up. So, I changed over to this look! Waddya think? I'm still trying to stay ahead on my homework, which is a chore. My kids went on vacation Friday which means we are going to be spending three glorious weeks together. Yeah. Hopefully, we'll be able to come up with some cool things to do. Right now, we're just being lazy. Tomorrow, we're going fishing with our friends. It should be fun!! I'll post pictures tomorrow! Random thoughts...
3/21/2006 06:28:00 PM
Trying to take too many classes...Kids working on projects...Working...Conferences...Cousin's quincenera...Fishing on Sunday...Last week was Randy's 12th birthday...Good God, I'm the mother of a tween...Took four 11-12 year old boys to the movies and dinner on Saturday and wanted to die...Maybe I can write more tomorrow...
Peace out,
Mom
3/10/2006 08:48:00 AM
I am making my way through the classic authors... I have read so much in my life that was just for fun, and also some stuff that was required reading. However, I have never really branched out to read authors that are legendary. I read Matthew Lewis' The Monk, and Jane Austin's Sense and Sensibility and Pride and Prejudice. I just picked up James Joyce's Dubliners, and John Steinbeck's The Winter of our Discontent. I decided that I shouldn't just read good books, I should read GREAT books. I also just finished Double Indemnity and The Grifters, both of which were required reading. Anyway...I am enjoying all of them. (Except Sense and Sensibility...OMG, it was killing me to finish that book. It was soooo proper. It made me crazy!)
Anyway...I have so much more time for myself and my family now that I'm not spending time with my sister. I knew that she demanded a lot of my time, but I didn't realize just how much. I actually have time to do my homework, and have time with my husband. I'm going out with my friend tonight to watch Brokeback Mountain in Hillcrest, and we're going out to dinner beforehand. Yeah! Grown-up time!!!! It's quite refreshing, and honestly, very nice...
3/01/2006 09:38:00 AM
Today, I am playing along with The Kept Woman(click the title to see her harrowing escape from a semi), and posting my experience with breaking the law.
I was mostly a good girl until I turned 18, then I discovered sex. That was fun. Then, I met the loser who I eventually married and later divorced. When I met him, he was living on the streets. I, being the good girl from a white bread family, thought it was wicked cool to live in hotels. So, I left the comforts of my home to hang around with him and his friends.
Eventually, we all ran out of money and had nowhere to go (yes, I could have gone home, but I was stupid). We started to stay in vacant houses. Houses for sale, rent, whatever. We never made a mess or anything, but we broke in after dark, and basically squatted there until the next morning. We also stayed in motor homes that were housed in a big lot by my house. There, we found canned goods that we did partake in. (I feel bad that they may have later gone camping thinking they were prepared, and then realized we ate all their chili.) There were many narrow escapes from homeowners, and stories about sliding down second story overhangs, but basically, it was all pretty stupid. That was my big crime spree. I eventually went home. Pregnant.
So that's it. If any of you want to remind me of other things I've done, feel free.
2/28/2006 03:21:00 PM
I'm taking a human sexuality class online. I needed an extra "A" to boost my GPA, and I thought this was the road that I could take to that A. No problem there. I have three kids, I know a little about sex. The problem is, all these morons that I am taking the class with. People are still really close-minded and sheltered. People are opposed to so many types of liberal behaviors, that I am astonished that this is a class that I am taking in San Diego. I am assuming that they are all still very young, or that they are very old and hold onto archaic beliefs. Someone actually said that if her daughter "ended up gay", she would try to "educate it out of her"! I mean, really. This is really an eye-opening class. Not because I'm learning anything from the material, but because I am learning things about my classmates. It's really very disturbing.
2/28/2006 11:08:00 AM
I know the title is shocking, but I am soooo mad at her that I can't even stand to be around her. The other night, she called me on my cell while I was at the grocery store and asked me if I wanted to pick her up at the college and take her home. I had ordered something from one of her customers, and she had it, so I could get my stuff and drop her off. No big deal. I had my oldest in the car(reluctantly-he hates going places with me now, he's way too mature and cool). When I picked her up, she started talking about the guys she was meeting on EHarmony. I'm glad she's doing it, she needs to meet somebody.
Everybody needs Somebody, sometime... I digress.
Anyway, I noticed something as she was talking. I interrupted and asked her,
"Did you make one of your qualifications 'only white men'?"
She applied in the affirmative, and from there, we launched into a huge fight!
Racist!
She says she doesn't find herself attracted to anyone other than white men.
To that, I gave her a list of men she was attracted to that were indeed, not white.
She says they were only exceptions to the rule. She compared not liking "darker" men to not liking short men.
Logistics! I shouted.
How can you not like a man because of the color of his skin? You are really limiting yourself, especially in San Diego! I said.
You're just saying that because you're married to a black man! She spat.
Yeah, that's my goal...To get every white woman I know married to a black man. *dripping with sarcasm* Stupid!
I basically threw her out of my car at my parent's house, and I haven't felt the same about her since. I don't want to be around her. I am totally disgusted, and I can't believe someone that close to me is so close-minded!
My oldest was really paying attention to the argument, and I could tell it really bothered him. After she got out, he said..."I don't want to only date one color of girls. I have already liked all different girls."
At least someone is listening to me...
2/21/2006 09:25:00 AM
Yeah!!!! We went to San Francisco! We had such a great time! We took my sister with us because she had never been, and she adds a bit of fun to our travels. I finally got smart and bought our Alcatraz tickets online a couple of days before we went. They were always sold out when we had gone before. It was awesome! It was so interesting. Alcatraz really is a beautiful island, despite what it had been used for. It was very educational, with that fun element of crime and danger.:-) We also ate dim sum in China Town, went to look at the redwoods in Muir Woods, and hung out at Pier 39. We stayed in a real nice Marriott Residence Inn in San Mateo. It had two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a full kitchen(with a dishwasher). It was very nice, and it was plenty of room for all of us. Some people don't like to road trip eight hours, but it really works for us. The kids are pretty good in the car, except for the fact that they ask for a snack every 15 minutes. I think next time, I'll pack them their own, individual coolers! Wow, that's a good idea... Anyway, I'm back at home, with a lot of cleaning, homework, and laundry to do. I better get to it. (Click on the title to get to the Alcatraz home page-it's pretty interesting!)
2/14/2006 11:49:00 AM
Happy Valentine's Day everyone!!!! I love Valentine's Day!!! I wear pink and put my heart earrings on, and I am so in love! I went to my hubby's business and hung home made valentines from the roof. They were so cute, they had pictures of he and I together. He was so surprised! I made the boys valentine's, too! I want them to always feel loved. I am so excited right now because we are seriously talking about taking an impromptu drive to San Francisco this weekend. WOO HOO!!!! I hope it pans out!
