*VIRUS ALERT*

Just warning everyone....I have a virus....I'm sneezing and coughing like crazy. My site may contain cold germs, and I don't want anyone coming back to me after they come down with a chest cold, saying I didn't warn them!

Anyhoo, I thought I'd put my two-cents in regarding the "money questions"....

If I won "One Miilllliiionnn Dollars" (Dr. Evil), I would....

Call my husband first. Although, I'd probably keep it to myself for a bit, and just savor the moment....

I would then sell my house, and buy myself a home exactly where I want, ie on a mountain by a lake....

I would buy my Mom the PT Cruiser that she has always wanted....

I would give money to someone who REALLY needed it, like a single mom struggling with kids....and of course to church....

YES, I would definately invest, although I'm not sure where to start....

Now that I have the plan, all I need is the $1million.

More pics....

I just finished reading SunflowerKat321's journal, and she posted some pics of her golden, Berkley.  He's just adorable! So, I thought I'd post a couple of my dog Percy....what a ham. Last night my daughter broke up with her boyfriend....and I'm so sad! He really is a sweet kid with a kind of mixed up family. When he would come over here, you could just see that he loved being around a "traditional" family (mom, dad, sisters, etc.). He was polite and liked what I cooked, went to church and respected Betsy. The problem was that they were really good friends first, then decided to become boyfriend/girlfriend....and now dd doesn't feel the same anymore. She absolutely cares about him and wants to stay friends....but as we all know it's hard to continue a friendship after a "relationship". I just hope things work out. She went to bed last night with tears....because she felt so bad for hurting him. I told her that stringing him along would have hurt him worse in the long run. She understood, but it still doesn't lessen the pain. He apologized for not being the kind of boyfriend she needed (awwwww!), and she reassured him that that wasn't the case. I am so proud of her for being brave and doing the right thing. She wanted to do it online, but I told her he deserved to hear it at least over the phone. This morning when I dropped her off at the bus, she told me she was glad she talked to him and didn't use the computer. It's so hard growing up!

I'm going CAMERA CRAZY!!!!

I picked up my pictures today, and they turned out exceptionally well....so I thought I would share a few with you! I took dd to the doc today for her x-ray and, as I knew would happen, she does not have a broken ankle....yippee!  She is still wearing the brace, but will be fine. She gets to play again on Saturday, which will cause another fight about it with the dh. I need some advice here....she is on a team with all boys, as you know. They are between 9-12th grade....(she is 9th). Yes, they are faster and stronger than she is, and yes she probably has more of a chance of getting hurt....but she could also get hurt playing with girls. The boys are very aware of her, and they all try their best to keep from running her down. Dh says she will get hurt worse next time, and that we should not let her play anymore. I say she will be guarding girls from now on so that lessens the chance, she is learning to be more agressive playing with boys....which is to her advantage, and I don't think we should make her quit if she wants to play. It's a hard call here as she wants to play, yet dh feels I'm not considering his input on the situation. Truthfully, I want her to continue. Any suggestions?

Your morning laugh....

While attending a marriage seminar dealing with communication, *John and *Sherry listened to the instructor. "It is essential that husbands and wives know what is important to one another." He then asks John, "Can you describe your wife's favorite flower?"  John leans over, touching his wife's arm gently and whispers, "It's Pillsbury, right?"

Are you tired of me yet?

Sheesh....third entry in 10 minutes. It's just that I forgot to answer Lanny's question. If I could go back and change one thing in my life....I would have gotten a formal college education. I would have loved to have become a teacher or a librarian. Sometimes I worry about my lack of skills. I toy with the idea of going back to school, but I get nervous. I'm older, what if I don't do well, what will I go for? Of course, if I wait three more years, dd and I can go together.  Matching book bags....outfits....I'm sure she would love that!

Question.....

I just read redhdka's entry and she says she will be 35 in June....so I was thinking....when is everyone's birthday?  I'll go first....I will be 35 on July 3 (however, most of America celebrates it on the 4th....you know with picnics and fireworks, everyone is just so nice to me!;o)

Feelin' Groovy....

Okay, I feel better now. I guess it was just a glitch in my happy mechanism. Of course, what fixed it was the caring of my "journal buddies". If I could, I'd take you all out to lunch!  Wouldn't that be fun if we could all just go out and have a relaxing 4 hour shindig? I think it would be a ball. No hubbys, no kids, just a bunch of women (sorry Lanny ;o) sitting around, drinking, listening to music and shootin the breeze. Soooo....I made a lovely dinner tonight - teriyaki pork roast, mashed potatoes, greenbean portabello mushroom saute and minty brownies. Dh loved it, dd's boyfriend loved it, oldest dd is having cereal and youngest is at church with a friend. I thought it was good, but I think I may have a bug, so I didn't have much. I just finished watching Changing Rooms (BBC America....the original show that TLC copied Trading Spaces from)....it makes me want to paint! DD will be glad to hear that, because her room is next on the list. She wants a celestial theme, which I think will be pretty. I've gotten her a few knick-knacks with stars and moons, and we've picked out the paint....so all I need to do is get off my butt and get going! I'll add it to the list. Anyhoo, I am off to do my bedtime rituals and then perhaps I will cozy up with a book, or maybe play some Slingo....

Blah

Well, dd has a sprained ankle and will be getting an x-ray tomorrow to make sure it isn't a chip fracture. DFH is "suggesting" she not play on the team anymore. He is afraid that she will get an arm or nose broken next time. AOhell is not working properly this morning, it keeps freezing. It is FREEZING outside today. Yesterday it was 77, right now it is 40. I am behind on my sewing and need to do my taxes. My new web cam is a piece of crap and won't work. Dfh is unsatisfied with his job and is taking it out at home by being unsociable and generally mean. My diet isn't working. I grocery shopped yesterday and spent more than I wanted to. I have no direction in life and feel the need to do something, but don't know what. I went to bed angry last night. My Mom is stressed and sad and my Dad is dying and there is nothing I can do about it. I didn't write anything that is funny or happy. Yet, there is this little window in my soul where sunshine is pouring through. The nagging voice in my head is not saying bad things, but good things. I feel a tiny thread of hope and love and goodness. It's calling for me to reach out and hang on....I can only assume it's the hand of God. He is calling to me, saying, "Give it to me, let me handle it....it's what I do."  And I so want to do it, to see life as good and wonderful and a gift. I think I do, I just get overwhelmed at times. This is one of them. I do believe I will grab that hand....

I give up....

AArrrgggghhhh!  I am so freaking frustrated right now I could scream.  I was a nice mom today, and bought a new web cam.  So, I bring it home, set it up, follow the directions to the "t"....and the m&%$#@ F&%^*# WON'T FREAKING WORK!!!!  What is up with this thing?  It either says the "camera is not hooked up to the computer"....DUH....I think I can plug it into the port....or some crap about the system.  I already e-mailed the "tech support", which is probably some chick named "Tiffany" sitting behind a desk saying, "How could I have mail?  *Giggle* The post man hasn't come yet! *Giggle*"  I am so dang mad....don't even ask me how my evening with the hubby went.  There were no pelicans in sight, but he was STILL a shi* hea*!  Untill tomorrow everyone....

Tidbits....

I just finished answering SunflowerKat's little questionaire.  I have to say, I love those stupid things. Actually, I love the responses I get. It's fun to learn silly things about your friends....things that wouldn't come up in everyday conversation. So, on that note, I thought I'd treat you all to a few odd tidbits about the one you know as JBCoupe....

My middle name is Lynn....I wish I could have another baby....I hate flowers in my house, yet like them in my garden....I would love to be well versed in something....my favorite personal time of the week is the hour I spend in church, remembering what is really important....I love to sing, but I'm not really good at it....I would love to write professionally (who wouldn't?)....I wanted to be a lawyer with no kids when I was in school....I would prefer a 100 year old farm house on a few acres to a million dollar home....I find comfort in whimsical art....I love Hallmark stores, even though they don't carry anything I particularly like....I love scented candles, but the scent has to match the season (there will be no burning of pumpkin spice in July!)....our first house of 950 square feet was my favorite....I miss my children as babies....I love my children as they are now....I don't like Oprah!....I have few friends and am not an outgoing person....I'm lonely a lot....I love learning about history....I'm strangely attracted to men with no hair (they look dangerous)....I'm a procrastinator, but do my best work at crunch time....I love cartoons....I'm going to stop now....but I'd love to know more about everyone else!  (Did I mention I'm nosey?)

Internet Snafu's......

What is up with AOL?  Suddenly my font on my journal is miniscule, my dd's toolbar comes up on my desktop, and after leaving a comment for me, JBCoupe shows up instead of her screen name. You know, if I'm paying $23+ a month for AOL and $35+ for broadband, you would think they could get it right!  Although, I have to say that after 3 months of no aol expressions, I finally have them. They just appeared yesterday!  Everyone was very excited, as we gaily searched through the themes, finding just the right one to express our personalities. DD chose the "NBA" theme, while youngest chose the "shark" on the front of KOL. What did I choose, you ask? Well, I went to the "patriotic" section and guess what I found? A British background!  WooHoo! It's a Union Jack flag with the scripted words "United Kingdom" on it. I actually made dh get up from his movie and come in here to see it. Here is the exchange: "Honey!"..."What?"..."Come here and see this!"..."WHAT?" ..."Just come here!"..."I just sat down after being on my feet all day."..."But you have to see this."...(whining) "Why do you always do this to me just when I get comfortable?"...I then hear the creak of the recliner as he gets up, and the slam of the tv controller. "What is it?" He asks, looking at me. I smile and say, "SEE?", pointing excitedly to the monitor. He looks at me as though I've sprouted a third breast...."Oh brother." And then he returns to the den. Apparently he wasn't as excited as I was. Well, I have to give him credit for at least coming in and seeing it. Such a good bloke he is!  

I spoke too soon....

It's raining!!!!  Yeaaaahhhhhh!!!!

Good Monday to you all....

I've been waiting for rain all day, and it hasn't come!  How disappointing.  We actually had some nearby wildfires last night, which were due, in part, to the lack of precipitation.  Parts of I-95 were closed for a few hours. It's been very warm here and muggy today....a balmy 77, which is weird even for this part of Florida.  It will be back down in the high 50's to mid 60's for the rest of the week. Not much happening today. I did laundry, cleaned the house, organized youngest dd's drawers....you know, the usual fun stuff. The oldest stayed home today, as she was sick. I couldn't get her into the doc till tomorrow at 6 pm, and the youngest brought home a note from school, saying that the flu is running rampant in the schools, and gave a list of symptoms to look out for, before sending the kids to school.  Yeah, like I'm going to send my hacking, fevered child to school to share with others. Sheesh!  Well, I had better go close my windows since the flu is going around....yeah, a friend of mine is down with it, she opened the window and IN-FLU-ENZA!  LOL....

Lazy Sunday afternoon....

Ok, what did I expect letting my daughter play in a basketball league with 60 boys and 4 girls?  Yesterday was her first game, and I must say she did really well.  She got in there and ran, jumped, and was basically ignored.  However, at one point there was no one open, so one of the boys threw her the ball, and she made an awesome shot....nothing but net!  The coach from the other team yelled out, "WHO is guarding the GIRL?"  It was great.  The coach and assistant coach were on the sidline, and when the ball went in they both yelled, "All right!"  I could tell from that point on, she got her confidence and played hard.  Of course, it wasn't two minutes later that she was slammed from the back and went down.  She jumped right back up and went on for the rest of the game....however, when we got home she showed me her ankle, and it is about 2 times the size it normally is.  Sigh.  I went today after church and got her a bandage to wear, and she says it's helping. Today was a gorgeous day outside.  It was sunny and warm, around 73 so we decided to cook out. Steak and salad and baked beans and tomato/feta relish and ice cream for dessert.  I can't believe it's January! Back home we would be huddled under blankets in the house. Well, dd wants me to watch Funniest Home Videos, so I'm off for some quality time....

The scoop on the poop....

Okay, well, I went outside and scooped up the offending pile and looked to see that no one was watching.  Then I ran across the street and dumped it in the yard, right next to the driveway.  I guess I chickened out on actually placing it on the driveway. So, this morning I get up and what do I see????  The two big dogs have escaped the backyard and are in my front yard.  Sheesh!  The people weren't home, and I caught them before they were able to make a deposit....I just shooed them away and then went out to rake.  They didn't come back, and I didn't find anything. What is with people?  I would never let my dog do that.  And if he did go in someone's yard, I'd be over there cleaning it up. Anyway....I don't feel good today. I'm nervous and anxious and dizzy.  What's up with that?  I've had anxiety problems before, and I haven't felt like this in a long time. I should just go and lie down for a while. My dd's game is this afternoon, so I need to feel good within the hour. Have a lovely day everyone....it's 70 and sunny here....I hope everyone up north is keeping warm! 

Dogs in my yard....

Okay, I just looked out my front window, and there is that stupid dog out there, pooping in my yard!  And where is her owner?  Standing at her door watching!  Excuse me, but does my yard have a sign on it saying "Public Pooch Toilet?!" What is with these people? They have three dogs, 2 marmaduke dogs and a small black one.  They have a fenced back yard, so why do they let them out the front and shoo them toward my yard?  I've seen the guy do this....and when he saw that I had caught him, he stopped doing it during the day....but did it at night!  Now, my dh is a yard fanatic.  He keeps it manicured and beautiful.  These people cut their grass once every two weeks and it looks like crap.  (Isn't there always one house on the block that does that?) So, perhaps the dogs prefer a more picturesque place to "deposit" their "goods".  Well, I'm sorry, but this executive bathroom is closed.  I am going to go out there, scoop the poop, and place it strategically in their driveway.  I think they will get the hint.  I was going to open the door, and let my dog out to chase it away, but her little boy was outside....he has stayed home two days this week "just because".  He is home at least once a week because she oversleeps.  I asked him why he was home yesterday, and he said, "Oh, I wanted a day off." Hmmm.  Then he tells me he's bored, and all he has to do is help the repair man....he has a habit of talking to strange repair men in the neighborhood....no supervision whatsoever.  Did I mention he's in kindergarten and has been doing this since we moved in a year and a half ago?  Okay....I'm done ranting.  Enjoy your day everyone, I'm off to scoop!

What the?????

What is with the journal fonts?  I need a magnifying glass to read these things! 

Another lovely day....(*sarcasm alert*)

Well, it's the end of another day....big whoop.  Let's see, this morning my youngest didn't want to: get up, get dressed, get hair combed, and didn't study for her science test which is tomorrow and consists of a 4 page study guide.  After I get her on the bus, I come home and clean, then spend 2 hours on the internet, surfing and talking with my Mom and sister.  I then clean some more, get dressed and go to the high point of my day....the massage parlor!!!!  Ooohhhhh, ahhhhhh,  yeaaahhhh, that's the spot.  It was heavenly....and I fell asleep for a few minutes.  I've had a cold for 2 days so the warm, relaxing room really was nice.  I then ran to Hallmark for a ty card for my aunt for watching my dog.  I returned to the homestead and made homemade oatmeal rasin cookies and the parents stopped in for a visit.  My Dad is getting so bad.  It took us 5 minutes to walk across the familyroom to the bedroom so he could lay down.  I hate seeing him so frail and sick. Kids came home and I made a lovely dinner....waiting for dh to get home and praise my cooking/baking....but alas.  I hear something outside the door and when I open it, he is scraping his shoe on the mat and says, "I just F*&%^$% stepped in a pile of &*^*%$^ dog s&^%&!  I am going to F%^*#$@ kick that guy's A$$, if he lets his F&%^$#@ dogs in our yard again!"  Well, good evening to you too, honey.  So that is where it stands now.  He ate dinner and grumbled about work, and basically made the evening suck.  I know he's been working a lot of hours, and he's the only one who seems to care about the business....I know he's frustrated.  But why take it out on me?  Because I'm here. Oh well....tomorrow is another day.

I figured it out!!!!

As you may have noticed, I finally figured out how to put a picture on my "about me" section. (thanks to redhdka!) However, the pic is too wide, so I will need to get another one.  I tried to adjust it but I ended up looking like a.) a conehead or b.) a basketball with eyes....so I just left it as-is.  My dd will be proud that I figured it out without her sitting here giving me directions.  *sigh* "Mother, I said RIGHT click, not left click...."  Speaking of my darling daughter....I am mighty proud of her.  We went to the basketball practice last night, and it turned out that she was the only girl on a team of rather large boys. (9th-12th grade co-ed church team) And being that we are new to the church, she didn't know any of them. About half way through the practice, I could see that she was not happy.  I'll tell you, if it had been me at that age, I would have turned around and walked out!  I have to say, the coach and assistant coach were both really nice; they came over and talked to me, saying that they understood how she felt, and would help her to fit in. Apparently, each team has between 1 and 3 girls, so she will be guarding a girl when they play their games.  During a break I went onto the court to talk to her.  I told her how proud I was of her for sticking it out and that she was doing very well.  I said to just get in there and play like she would on the girls team....show those boys what she was made of.  I also told  her that I would stand behind whatever decision she made; sticking with the team, or deciding not to continue.  She went back out there and played well....making a 3 pointer or two!  After the practice she told me that she wanted to stick with it.  She said once the nervousness wore off, she realized that she would learn to be more agressive playing with the guys.  I was so proud of her for not giving up.  I would like to think that it was my loving and uplifting parental pep talk that helped in her decision making.....however, it was probably the hottie that stopped her as we were leaving and said, "It was really nice meeting you Betsy", that did it. 

The day after the vacation....

Go ahead, ask me what I did today.  Sit around and relax? No... Go for a pedicure/manicure? No.... Do 5 loads of post-vacation laundry?  Ding-ding-ding-ding....You are correct!  I am just sitting down now to relax before the hubby gets home, I rush through dinner, then take the oldest to basketball practice.  And not just any practice....it's the $65 practice that she doesn't want to go to anymore because there are only two girls on the team and she figures she won't get any play time.  Well, play time or not, I paid and she's going!  Actually, I'm sure she will enjoy it once she gets there. 

It's been a crazy day all around.  My dh accidentally took my cell phone to work with him.  So, when "my" phone rang, and I answered to a woman asking for him, I was a bit perplexed....until I figured out what happened. (btw, she was confirming his physical appointment!)  Then, later on, his buddy from work called.  I told him what happened, so he was going to call my dh and pretend to be the "other man".  I can't wait to hear from my dh....although, what will happen is this.  He will come home and I'll say, "Did anyone call for me today?" and he'll say, "No." and I'll say, "Not even my boyfriend?"  and he'll look at me funny, then say, "Oh, you mean Randy?  Oh yeah. Very funny.  What's for dinner?"  You know, a woman would like to have her man act at least a little jealous every once in a while.  Oh well.  I'll just console myself with a pile of ironing.  Ahhhh, who doesn't envy the life of a sahm?

Home again....

And, so ends another trip to the Carolinas.  It was a wonderful trip however, with so much to do in so little time. We left the IHOP at 9:07 this morning and arrived home at 3:30....so we made good time. (Oh, I had the "pancake platter" which consisted of 3 buttermilk pancakes and 4 pieces of bacon, and I chose the boysenberry syrup....wonderful!)  When we left it was only 26 outside and we had winter coats on.  By mid-Georgia we were down to t-shirts and open windows.  The trip was good, but the youngest got car sick.  We had done so much driving in the mountains that I think the drive home sent her over the edge.  Luckily she hung on till we got home, and is now resting in front of the tv.  The strangest thing happend on the way home.  We were about 10 miles from the GA/FL border, and it was cloudy and rainy where we were.  But up ahead, we could see a line of light in the sky.  As we came closer to the border, it got brighter and brighter until we had to put our sunglasses on as we were crossing into the sunshine state!  It was so weird!  We definately knew we were home!  So, now, I sit at my computer, frantically reading journals, as my aunt's cable connection went out on her computer after my last entry.  It's amazing what you can miss in only two days!  Anyhoo, I am going to finish reading a few, and then go to bed....I feel a sore throat coming on!  (BTW mrscheesestix....I forgot the coupon in NC....AAAAhhhhhhhh!)

What a spooooky day!

As you know, today was "haunted tour" day.  It was fun.  We went to a B&B which used to belong to Mr. and Mrs. Reed, the lawyer to the Biltmores.  During thier lives they had nine children, 5 of whom died.  It is said that guests have heard children playing in the halls, and the sound of billiards being played at night....even though no one is too be seen.  Then we went to the cemetary where the family was buried.  It was a gorgeous cemetary with rolling hills and winding roads, surrounded by old trees.  The cemetary was established in 1869, so most stones you couldn't read.  We drove and walked around for about 45 minutes before we found the grave site.  Very spooky!  After that, we went to a castle that was supposed to be haunted by a woman who's daughter died in a fire there.  We couldn't go in, but it was so neat to see.  It was up on the side of a mountain.  We decided to abandon the tour and go out to eat at the Moose Cafe.....yum!  Chicken and dumplings with carrots and beans was the choice of the day.  We went to a huge antique mall afterward, and then it was home.  My aunt has been playing dominoes with the kids for about 3 hours now, and hubby and I are watching movies by the fire....how romantic!  LOL....we watched "Death to Smoochy"....OMG....what a hysterical movie!  I highly recommend it.  Well, that's about it from here.  I took my benadryl and it's beginning to kick in.  Until tommorw fellow journalers! ;o) (BTW, in case you were wondering, there is still no snow....dang it.)

Another Picture for You!!!!

You see what happens when you teach someone how to post pictures?  They start posting pics that they think are "cute" and everyone just has to see.  As time goes on, people stop coming to the journal because all it has in it are pictures of the journaler and her family, pets, new shoes, coupons for various donut shops....I will not be one of those photo-fanatical people, but I just knew you'd all want to see my husband and I. 

Today we are taking a haunted tour of Asheville, complete with haunted mansions and cemetaries.  Should be fun!  I don't know what else will be on the adgenda, but I'm sure whatever it is, it will include a trip to the Moosehead Cafe (or is it Diner?).  They have the best food there!  (Hmmmm, how many points in chicken fried steak and mashed potatoes?).  Anyhoo, it looks like we are ready to roll.  I will post later on the events of the day, and if you're lucky, a few pic's too! 

Pictures!!!!

Greetings from the mountains!!!!

Good morning!  We got in last night around 11:30, so we decided to sleep in a bit.  It was an uneventful trip, although half way through, my youngest woke up with a fever!  It figures.  I gave her motrin and she seems to be feeling better now.  She's been fighting a cold/cough for a few weeks, so I hope it's not settling in her ears.  I know, I've been complaining about being warm all the time, and how it just isn't normal to be in the 60's in January....but let me tell you, 28 is really cold!  I guess I forgot just how cold it can get!  I got up this morning and the carpet was cold....I havent experienced that since back in Indiana!  Guess who is kissing my feet that I packed those mittens and scarves????  I'm not sure what the plan is today, but I think we will be going downtown to the girls favorite store, Mast General.  It's an old-time general store with huge barrels of penny candy that you can buy by the bucket.  It usually costs us $10 per bag, for a bunch of candy that usually gets stuck together, dropped and covered with hair, and eventually thrown away mistakenly with the trash.  Oh well....isn't that what vacations are for?  (BTW, after I do my makeup and hair, I will try to take a pic....don't want to scare anyone!  LOL!)  (BTW2....it sounds weird, but I miss my journal buddies! Even though I have internet access....LOL....I'm so pathetic!)

Almost ready to go....

So far today I've cleaned the house, did 3 loads of laundry, one load of dishes, packed my youngest dd's bag, went to Walgreens and stocked up on snacks, batteries and cameras, and even stopped for a root-beer float!  (And I brought one to my dh who has washed and waxed my van for me!)  I tell you, I am ready for my trip!  LOL....weather update....the snow has now been changed to rain.  Crap.  I knew it was going to happen when I saw that it was going to be 71 here on Sunday.  Oh well.  I am still going to hope for the errant flurry!  Well, I should go finish packing and I also have to give dh a haircut.  I'll "see" you when I get to NC....or rather you will see me!  LOL....

I am so smart....s-m-r-t....I mean s-m-a-r-t~Homer Simpson

WooHoo!  I figured out how to put a picture on my journal.  I am practicing for when I have a picture of me to put up....btw Lanny, my picture will not be one of me "in all my glory"....ahem!  Sheesh, give a guy a compliment and see what happens?!  Anyhoo, this is my dh's other love, his 57 Ford.  By comparison, it has waaayyyy more junk in the trunk than me!

Exciting NC update....

Well, the snow is back in the forecast....for Saturday and Monday!  Maybe we will get snowed in!  I also forgot to mention, that my aunt has a web cam, so if I can figure it out, I may be posting some pics.  Now, don't everyone get all excited....I know you are just waiting to get a glimpse of the domestic goddess that I am.  If you can hold on till Friday or Saturday, your patience will be rewarded*!  (*enter sarcasm here).  Actually, I'd love to see pics of a few people.  I already know what a handsome gent Lanny is, the perky and cute Karen, the queen of pictures-about-town Monica, the witty writer that Karen's mom Angela is (and, might I say you have a LOVELY picture! You don't look old enough to have grandkids!)....however I'm in the dark as to others, especially my KK pal mrscheesestix and karensull12.  I can't help it!  I'm just a nosey person!  Anyhoo, that's my entry for this evening.  Now, I am going to, well, I'm not sure.  I have to pack and continue checking my lists....but maybe I'll just stay right here and read some more journals.  Yeah, that sounds like a plan!

Goin on a vacation!!!!

WooHoo!  Only 2 more days till our little get-away to North Carolina.  I can't wait.  Although, I must say I am a bit disappointed, as the snow that was supposed to be there on Thursday, has disappeared from the AOL forecast....grrrr.  I already have the scarves and mittens dug out and ready to go. However, it is supposed to be in the 30's the entire time we are there, so we will still need them. When I was in 5th grade, my very favorite aunt and her husband moved to NC, and I was crushed.  She was the "cool aunt", just turned 30, big blonde hair, perfect makeup, cool clothes....and the sweetest woman you'd ever want to meet.  She couldn't have kids, but was born to be a mom, so needless to say my sisters and I were spoiled.  However, I was the "special" one, I guess because I was born first. I was devistated that they left!  I remember crying for what seemed like days. So, from that point on, we went to NC once a year for a vacation.  I went and spent time with them alone during my high-school summers, and when dh and I met, we went there before we were married.  We have always said we want to move there, but the opportunity never came up. It was a 14 hour drive from Indiana, so we didn't get there as much when we lived up north.  From Florida it's only a 6 1/2 - 7 hour drive, so we go about once a month.  My girls love it as well.  I don't know, but those mountains just seem to call to you.  They are so majestic and beautiful.  During the fall we went and the colors were spectacular.  Whenever I think of NC, it gives me those warm, comforting feelings....like you're home.  Someday I hope that I will be able to live there, but for now, I'll settle for frequent trips. I've got about 5 lists going, so as not to forget anything.  I am a pack-hog.  I pack for two days, the same as if it were two weeks. My dh thinks I'm nuts!  I have alotted everyone one bag to take, one traveling outfit (to be re-worn on the return) and three other outfits for the "visiting" days. Hopefully that will be enough.  However, if the snow decides to re-appear the night before we leave, and we get snow bound,I'm screwed.  (And then what will Mr. "you pack too much" have to say, HUH?!) 

Mrs. Clean lives here....

I have a confession to make.  You might be surprised when you hear it, but I feel I must come clean....literally.  My confession? I LOVE to clean. I have been married 17 years and have gone through 5 vaccums.  When I am frustrated or angry, there's nothing like vaccuming. Nothing can lift one's spirits like seeing the "sunburst" pattern marks on a carpet. (Don't get me started on people who leave "random" lines!)  When there's a good movie on, there's nothing like a pile of ironing.  I love dusting and windex-ing and mopping floors.  The scent of pine-sol makes me happy....if it were a perfume, I'd wear it every day!  Oh, and don't get me started on organizing.  I'm usually known to those around me as "the one with the clean house".  I can't help it, it's genetic.  My mother has always taken pride in a clean, neat, and incredibly decorated home. It was from my mother that I learned to use Pledge because Old English is too greasy.  Or that generic Windex may cost less, but it leaves streaks.  And, of course, Bounty wins hands down in the paper towel category.  When I was younger, I thought it would be cool to work in a hotel cleaning rooms.  Imagine the sense of satisfaction one would have after cleaning 100's of messy rooms.  Of course, now that I'm married with a family, I've pretty much learned what it's like cleaning up 100's of messy rooms.  I don't apologize for my addiction, I embrace it. It is part of what makes me who I am. It's one way of showing my family that I love and care about them. Don't get me wrong, you can love your family just as much with a messy home, and on occasion I've had one. Some have said that cleaning isn't as important as spending time with your kids. I agree. But to me, it is just as easy to be neat as it is to be messy. Cleaning inspires me to do and be my best.  I think my kids have benefitted from seeing me take pride in a job well done, and hopefully they will apply that attitude in their lives. Cleaning may not be everyone's cup of tea, but it's mine. (And after that tea, you can bet the cup will be washed with Dawn and put back in the cupboard in proper order!)    

The Answers.....

I know that everyone has been waiting with baited breath, so, I am going to put you out of your misery and tell you the answers....

#1 is TRUE.  My father was stationed in Germany in the 50's and was with Elvis.  We have a picture of them together in the snow.  If I ever figure out how to put pictures on this thing, I will scan the pic for all to see!

#2 is FALSE.  I have never in my life entered a baking contest, although with my new KitchenAid mixer, I could probably win some sort of prize.  Have I mentioned how much I LOVE that thing?

#3 is TRUE.  I was coming down the last hill before my house during the winter, lost control and slid into a sign.  Thank goodness I didn't do a 180 and hit the gas tank!  Ka-BOOM!  (BTW Gordy, Escort?  No way....I loved my Pinto!)

#4 is FALSE.  I was never a cheerleader, nor a contestant in any homecoming dance....I didn't even attend prom!  I know, feel sorry for me....such a wallflower. 

And so ends the "All About Sherry Show".  All participants will receive a home version of our game and a 2 month supply of Rice-a-Roni, the SanFrancisco treat!

 

Majority rules....

Well, since most of the journalers in my "circle" are doing true or false questions, I might as well go along with it and try some myself. Try to guess which two are true and which two are false. Here we go....

1.  My Dad was in the Army in Germany with Elvis.  They had their picture taken together.

2.  In my second year of marriage, I was a finalist in the Pillsbury Bake-off with my "Praline-caramel Crescent Rolls".  I ended up being 3rd runner up.

3.  When I was a senior in high school, I slid on some ice in my red Pinto and hit a sign, doing $500 worth of damage to the front fender (more than the car was worth!).

4.  While cheering for the football team in high school, one of the players while running, tripped and fell into the squad, breaking my finger and blackening my eye....needless to say, I was not homecoming queen that year!

Okay folks....start guessing!

 

 

 

I just couldn't help myself....

I stood in the store, eyes ahead, refusing to look to the side as the candy stand was right there.  Seconds ticked away like hours, as I tried to resist turning my head.  Suddenly, a sound.  A soft, subtle whisper; "Sherry....Sherrrryyyyyy".  I turned but no one was there.  However, a flash of yellow caught my eye.  I tried, oh Lord I tried not to look, but I was like a deer caught in the headlights.  It was beautiful.  A bright, vibrant yellow bag, with rich brown lettering-"Peanut M&M's". I tried to look away, but couldn't.  As if posessed, my hand reached out and caressed the package.  It was like silk under my fingers.  It teased me, toyed with my emotions as I fought to resist.  Consumed with a need that I have never known before, I grabbed the bag and threw it onto the register belt.  As I watched it slowly inch toward the cashiers waiting hand, I knew I had one last chance to stop the madness.  However, I did nothing, and shivered with delight as it passed over the scanner, the electronic beep reverberating in my head.  I kept my eyes squarely on the bag the cashier placed it in, so as not to lose track of it.  The two minute walk to the car seemed like a lifetime.  I finally made my way through the sea of automobiles to my van.  My hands shook as I tried to unlock the door, the keys fumbling against the lock.  Finally, I was in the drivers seat, package of candy in hand.  Slowly, deliberately, I opened the bag, inhaling deeply the intoxicating scent of chocolate and peanuts. Hands trembling with excitement, I reached into the bag and picked a shiny, red orb.  I raised it to my lips, and slipped it into my mouth. A flavor explosion ensued....I may have blacked out for a moment, I'm not sure. As I finished the bag, the veil lifted, and the spell was broken.  I realized what I had done....I had cheated.  The only thing left to do was drive home in shame, and enter my insolence into my meal plan for the day.  I leave you now, a guilty woman....and hope that tomorrow will be a better day.

I can't sleep....

I am tired, yet I can't sleep!  I got up this morning at 6:25, and it's 11:18 now.  I just watched a rather disturbing "Law&Order SVU" and I'm not able to fall asleep.  Dang it!  I just love that show.  I don't know why, it's just good.  Hubby makes fun of me every time I have it on.  For those who have seen it, or the others in the "Law&Order" series, you will recognize the "DUN-DUN" that accompanies each change of location.  So, if we go from "Assailants Apartment - Tuesday, November 3" to "Interrogation Room - Wednesday, November 4", you will here the "DUN-DUN" sound.  So, of course when dh comes into the bedroom and finds me watching it, he has to do the "DUN-DUN" as he walks from hall to room, room to bathroom, bathroom to closet, closet to room, then finally to bed.  He thinks he is hilarious....I think he's annoying.  The first time it was funny.  The second time, mildly amusing.  Now, it just gets on my nerves. So, since I can't sleep, I went to the girls rooms, checked on them, put away some dishes, and now I'm here on the computer.  Hmmmm, let's see....what to talk about.  Well, tomorrow I was supposed to get a haircut, but I cancelled because dd needs to go to the eye doctor.  Her contact prescription ran out, and they wouldn't give me any more until she saw the doc.  So, I couldn't see paying $45 for my hair, then $85 later on for her checkup.  I wonder if my dh realizes what I give up to save him a few bucks!  Now my hair will be out of shape and unruly for the next week or so.  But, he wants me to grow it out, so I suppose he will be happy. My youngest dd told me today that she gave the boy that she likes a Christmas sucker.  He asked her, "Are you sure?" and she said, "Yes, take it."  So he did, and then she said as he was leaving the classroom, he looked back at her and smiled.  She told me, "It was beautiful Mom."  I said what was?  and she said, "His smile!"  Oh man, I am not looking forward to her dating years!  Well, I am getting sleepy now, so I guess I will try to go back to bed.  Good night all!  "Sherry's Bedroom - 11:32pm - January 7....DUN-DUN!" 

Brrrrr......

I can't believe how cold it is!  It's 38 outside right now at 7 am.  My oldest dd was leaving for the bus stop at 6:30, dressed in jeans and a sweatshirt.  She mentioned how cold it was, then started putting on her shoes.  I asked her where her coat was, and she said she didn't need one.  Excuse Me?  It's freezing outside, and you are going to walk to the bus stop in a sweatshirt?  Well, as you can imagine, that lead to an argument.  We went to her room, she tried on the coat and said it looked "gay".  Then she stood there telling me that she didn't want to wear it, why does she have to wear it, come ON Mom....so finally I said, whatever....freeze your butt (although I might have said a$$) off, get a cold, I don't care.  Of course by that time, it was late and I had to drive her to the bus stop.  (It's about a 5 min. walk).  My youngest dd was practically sleep walking to the car, wrapped in a blanket.  So, as we got to the bus stop, two of her friends were there.....with jeans and sweatshirts on.  I should have known.  So, I told her she didn't have to wear the coat.  Am I weak?  I don't think so, because she spent another 2 minutes asking me if it was really okay to take it off....do I hate her for not wanting to wear it....am I sure she didn't have to keep it on.  I know she knew what she should have done....only now she can't blame me when she starts sneezing!

2-4-6-8-I hate losing weight!!!!

Okay, I know it's only the first day of the diet, and I know I should have more than 24 hours of will-power....but I don't!  I hate being on a diet!  Of course, my title is a bit misleading, as I have never actually lost weight....or at least any significant amount.  I'm such a wimp.  I equate food with every emotion that I have.  The smell of a freshly brewed cup of joe=comfort and happiness.  The smell of a bakery=childhood memories of mom in the kitchen, the house warm with love and a feeling of security that will never be matched again.  The smell of maple syrup and pancakes=well, I think it might be what Heaven smells like.  I know I am an emotional eater, and that is probably the worst kind.  But it's true what they say....food won't let you down.  It won't judge, it will never leave, and it is always consistant.  My usual excuse is that life is to short to deprive yourself of the good stuff.  I still believe that, but I also want to feel good and look good.  I'm not huge, I am a size 14/16, which isn't bad, but I am not comfortable with it anymore. My husband says,  "Let's diet together, so we can be skinny one more time before we are old." Gee, what an uplifting thought!  I say, lets try to "get healthy" so we can "get old".  Anyhoo, I just needed to vent.  I feel better now.  And on the upside, I stayed within my point range and managed to do the 2 mile walk this morning.  At least my eating is done for the day....and breakfast is only 12 hours and 32 minutes away! 
 

I am a soon to be loser....

Well, I went and did it....I joined Weight Watchers.  I checked online and they are running a special.  One week free, then $59 for three months and $14.something a month thereafter.  I figure, I would have probably spent more than that, trying to buy healthy food on my own, so I might as well spend it on something that might actually work.  So far, it looks pretty dang good.  It's true what they say, you can eat anything you want, as long as you stay in your point range.  And according to mine, I can eat 4 McDonald hamburgers a day with all the diet soda I want!  LOL....not that I would, but it's nice to know I could if I wanted to!  The coolest part is that they will give you a meal plan every day to follow, and it isn't some strange "tofu-stir fry with sprout salad".  There is REAL food on the list.  I have a feeling I might be able to stick to this one.  I sure hope so.  I would like to get back to my pre-baby weight....which is a mere 50lbs. away.  Sheesh!  That looks terrible in print.  I am going to go into this with a positive attitude....and hopefully come out with a beautiful bod. (By the way, mrscheesestix, I could have 3.5 Krispy Kreme's as my food for ONE day....I think I will be giving them up!)

I feel like a traitor....

During the fall this year, I was having a very hard time adjusting to the weather.  Halloween has always been my favorite holiday, and I love to decorate with pumpkins, leaves on the windows, etc.  However, it's just not the same when it is 80 in October.  My holiday spirit was gone.  My kids thought I was ill, as I didn't decorate anything except the front walkway.  Thanksgiving day was a hot 80 as well, although the day after was in the high 60's, which kind of made up for that.  December came, and we had to wear mittens and winter coats to the bus stop on most days, and the week before Christmas, I drove my dd to the bus stop every day because of the cold.  Then, something happened.  I don't know what it was, but I started getting irritated that it was cold.  What the heck?!  I am a NW Indiana girl.  I grew up where it started snowing in November and didn't stop till March.  I love sledding and the beauty of the first snow fall.  There's nothing like the smell of wet scarves on a cold, blustry day.  But....I am kind of getting into this warm weather thing.  Is this wrong?  Today was absolutely gorgeous.  It got up to 82, no humidity, the sun shining brightly, God is in his Heaven, all is right with the world.....so help me I was enjoying it!  I actually suggested that hubby and I take a short drive on the motorcycle.  When I asked him, he looked at me as though I had asked him to run naked around the block....and then ran outside to get the bike ready.  It was a gorgeous ride, and he stopped at the park, and we walked onto the pier that overlooks the river and the marina.  It was heavenly.  Now, don't get me wrong, I will always be a snowbunny at heart.  But, I feel my disdain for perpetual summer melting away....and it's a strange feeling.  I suppose it was bound to happen eventually.  Oh well.  I suppose I should just get over it and enjoy the weather.  I just checked the forecast for my hometown, and they are in the middle of a snow storm....9-10 inches expected. I guess they won't be grilling out tonight....but we will! 

Good Morning....

Since the holidays are over, I am returning to my original color....which I think this is.  I can't quite remember, but it looks about the same!  My daughter's friend is safely home again....which I am thankful for!  Her flights were great, as they upgraded her to first class on both legs of the trip!  Not bad for $285 round trip!  For some reason, our reservation didn't show up as having any seats picked for her (although I did pick them), so they chose for her.  She called when she got home and was so excited.  I asked her what the difference was between first class and business, and she said she had more room, a blanket and pillow, and was eating crackers before they got off the ground!  I had to laugh.  Only a teen would say that the best thing about first class was more crackers!  LOL.  Anyhoo, yesterday I took down the 4 remaining trees and cleaned out the house.  Our poor garbage men will have sore backs tonight!  I tell ya, I got rid of tons of things.  I still have a lot to do, but I've made a start.  I was watching one of those organizational shows and they said that if you haven't used/worn it in a year, toss it.  So, I went into my dd's room, and put that theory into practice. I've got two huge bags for the GoodWill, and that's not even clothes!  Well, I should get my butt up and doing something, so I will say goodbye for now.  Enjoy your day, everyone!

It's 2004!!!!

Well, another year is here....and so are we.  So, I suppose we should all be thankful!  We didn't do much partying last night.  We ordered Chinese food, then sat around watching tv.  My youngest went to her friend's down the street and spent the night (they even got to do fireworks!), my oldest and her friend sat in her room talking on the phone, and revving up for the sad "goodbye", as Melinda will be flying home today. Hubby ended up falling asleep in the family room watching tv, and I did the same in the bedroom....around 10:00.  I know, I know, you are all thinking, "Boy, what wild people they are!"  Well, next year I promise to tone it down.  I have to go....time to head out to the airport.  I hope everyone had a safe and fun NYEve!