Decisionally Challenged

I'm A HORRIBLE Person

2012-01-17T11:34:00.005-06:00

Ima horrible person in more ways than one....This past Christmas I participated in the SSS...I was late shipping my gift and I never blogged about the loverly and wonderful goodies I received! I'm a horrible SSS participant! My camera is broke & I must be last person on the planet who doesn't own a smartphone or even an ipod, so I couldn't take pix that way either!My SSS partner took great care in picking out the gifts she sent me...my favorite B&B works scent,a RAZOR(i'm easy to please),decadent chocolate covered pretzels a beautiful scarf/wrap. Thank You Chris!

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My sweet Abby is getting married this summer THEN moving to San Diego Ca! I can not fathom driving her and her new HUSBAND(did i just type that?) to SD and then turning around and leaving her!!!!!

He 'Joe' is in the US Navy & stationed at the Naval Base there and as customary when one weds another you move in together-start a life together.... justNOThalfwayacrossthecountry see imahorribleperson!

I REALLY want to NOT like this young man...but I can't-he is everything a mom could hope for her daughter. AND his family, oh the horrors!!! They set the example for this fine young man and well as much as I didn't wanna like them either...it's impossible-they are GREAT!

So this summer is gonna be a busy one for this OCD over-planner-who-cant-plan-a-freakin-thing-cuz! I meant that nicely...it's just you never know when your future SIL is gonna get leave and these youngins are, so, well, YOUNG...how will they make it on their own! Roots and Wings!

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Yesterday I had to pick Jess up from her friends house & I let my lil doggers ginger ride with me....when we returned home I may or may not have forgot she rode with me and left her in the car for an hour or so...see imahorribleperson...in my defense she left the comfort of my lap and climbed to the third row to scavenge for food particles

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Reese had a fever blister on his lip and I may OR may not have said put-a-band-aid-onit-cuz-I-aint-spendin-$18-on-abreva...imsonicelikethat!

My Confession for today: I MISS my Mom!

It's not You...It's Me...

2012-01-05T02:54:00.000-06:00

where do I even begin...
I could talk about my new years eve plans....that have come & gone....

I could talk about my daughters upcoming wedding....which is still pending....

I could talk about my youngest daughters love for friggin holiday cookies-yanno the ones...sugar cookies with the faces of whatever holiday!

I could talk about the fact Eric loves levi jeans... but levi jeans dont love him

I could talk about the fact that my son Reese is a handsome yougin & I wonder why he doesn't have a gf.....

But the truth is...I can't find find the funny in anything lately...And believe me, there's a whole lotta funny going on at my house....but...me finding it...not so much!

My emails are insane....seriously...someone wants me to promote their 'tushy' book yep I know right...then I get an email tellin me my site is so good for moms and kids and being barefoot(i'm not linking them cuz...well just cuz).....

At this point I stop and ponder....go ahead you can too....because it gets better...

My New years eve was...adventurous...

My daughters upcoming wedding is gonna be a sweet & simple cer-a-romie...she better tell everyone!

Ah the cookies....do we really gotta buy every single cookie that has a face on it ?

Levi's...really! just sayin....

Bubs I refuse to believe the entire 11th grade isn't in love with you! And a few seniors too!

My confession for today: it's me...not you...

My Confession for today:

2011-12-08T07:01:00.001-06:00

It's time to get back in the swing of things! Posting AND Visiting!

Dear Mom(11.3.11)

2011-11-03T03:08:00.002-05:00

Ohhh mama, so much has happened I know I said that last post but I really mean it....Joe proposed to Abby...he did it...he really did it!

I couldn't be there due to my horrid back issues but Joes mom made sure they got photos taken for the engagement photo...mom, it's an identical photo to mine & tommys....really!

Mama I need ya...just sayin....

Trina-Joes mom is wonderful...she is & you would love her...you would love her for the mere fact she loves Abby like a daughter...

I need you to commiserate with mama...who the hell am I gonna bitch to? Who's gonna listen to me while I am trying to plan a wedding ...

About Abby and her choices...you know she is easily influenced...she doesn't give me any credit....

wanna know who picked out her wedding dress?You know how beautiful dresses look in those plastic bags(bwhahaha)....Abs picked a few and I picked one....my one....is the one....it looks beautiful on her mama...beautiful! She loves it....

I picked a venue...it's lovely... she hates it....

Mama I need you

My confession for today: I miss my mama completely,honestly,wholly...

Yep thats my daughter....Gosh I love her!She is perfect...yes I am 'that' Mom! I love you Abs

Secret Santa Lives!

2011-10-27T16:58:00.001-05:00

As many of you know last year was my grand finale for the SSS. However Coloradolady has graciously taken over the Secret Santa Soiree. Since some of you that have participated in the past may not be a follower of this fan-tab-u-lous lady...I thought I'd take a moment and let you know...it's not to late to join the SSS Just click the links back there...and go sign up...it's a lot of fun!

My confession for today: I really miss blogging!

Dear Mom(10.5.11)

2011-10-04T19:16:00.002-05:00

Dear mama...So much has happened since my last post.Reese hates yung-ins,tomatoes and lasagna...ok so that's still the same...

Mom, Abby just got back from Chicago...Joe graduated basic...I let her go for 5 days with Joe's fam onafrigginroadtrip! They made t-shirts(i felt left out),they shopped,they ate at fancy restaurants. Joe showed them around base...they have a bx. He bought her an iphone...they have their own plan mom...it's serious! He will be stationed in San Diego...I gotta become a Charger fan! They ring shopped! OMG! She loves him...they are so young...Gosh mom I wish you were here!

Mom...Jess is a beautiful mess...she just turned 14 and she got her tregus pierced...okay well I am sure I spelled it wrong but it's a lil flappy ear part! Mom you know Jess...she is so her own person.. it's fair time as in Tulsa State Fair and she has been going and going...she likes a boy...which is different than a boy likes her! Mama I miss you...

Oh dear where do I start with Reese...he is such a good boy mom...is it wrong of me to say he is better than the girls? Okay boys are just easier... Him & His posse are, all 8 of them, going on a road trip to a SOONERS game-they(the boys) invited Eric...I hope he goes with them...it will give me some piece of mind. Mama he is so cute...I know you know this and he has a date tomorrow for the fair to see Mike Posner...

As for me mom...I'm lost...I am working but being taken advantage of...I wish you were here so I could have a sounding board and you could tell me how to handle this situation! Of course I can hear you now sayin..."Gina..." Mama I got strep...srsly & really at 40 I got strep throat! It was awful mom...I thought I had the flu...which I might as well have had...I got a shot in the assa...it was wonderful ...the shot not the strep...

I don't talk to Becky & Laura very much...same ol same ol mom-I think they communicate so you would be happy that 2out of 3 are...I do chat with Barry at least once a week...kinda like when I would call you and you wouldnt be home yet and he would answer...he's havin a rough time of it...but we are trying to help him mama...he will be moving soon, him and all the doggies...mr foxy,lizzie and bandit...I know they miss you too! Although I am not quiet sure anyone could possibly miss you more than me...dogs included...

It's Oct...Halloween will be coming up-Jess wants to be a Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader for Halloween*sigh*...Abby will be 18 in a lil over a month-Joe will be home on leave from the Navy and he will propose to her*double sigh*,Thanksgiving and Christmas will be here before we know it!

Not quite sure what I will do without you for the holidays! Where has this year gone and why did you have to leave us? Nothing will ever be the same now that your gone mom...nothing...you were our glue...

My confession for today:I miss my mama...

Dear Mom(8.31.11)

2011-08-31T14:13:00.001-05:00

Dear Mom,So much has happened over these past two months since you left us to fly with Angels
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Reese got his drivers license! We had to drive him to muskogee and it took him 2 tries but he finally did it! He got a Birthday card from you, 17 one dollar bills in it...Barry is keeping the Birthday tradition going! Mom, Reese is almost 6'3! can you believe that? He is really growing up! He is a junior now and hefriggindrives...we bought him a dodge ram, he loves it!

School started on the 25th and Abby did her senior pictures...they will only cost us $2000 im so not kiddin mom...they are beautiful but I dont know how I am gonna pay for them. I guess I could make Eric take a second job...he wouldn't mind =) Her boyfriend Joe left for the Navy Aug 2nd...I think he is going to propose to her!!!! What am I gonna do? She has decided to move to Enid,go to beauty college and live with Joe's sister Patty when she graduates!!!! What am I gonna do?

Jess is Jess a free spirit who is at that very fun age of ihatemymomeverystinkinday....I know I was NEVER like that =) She is an 8th grader this year...how is it possible that these kids grew up so fast,like in the blink of an eye! She has a new style this year 'preppy-emo' is that possible? She is so beautiful mom and opinionated she reminds me a lot of you!

I talk to Barry at least once a week...so far your a/c has gone out and now your washing machine...Eric is going over on sat to help him move out the old washer and move in the maytag we gave you...remember when Barry griped about us bringing it to you...bet he is glad he has it now! We are looking out for Barry but I do worry about him...we will do our best to make sure he is takin care of!

I talked to Angela a few weeks ago...it looks like you may be getting some company...Roy has inoperable brain cancer. it's so sad...I told her we were praying for them both...

Can you believe I haven't had a computer for over 2 months? I had to sneak Jess's laptop thatiboughther just to type this!

Mama...I miss you so much...I can't tell you how many times I have picked up the phone to call you...stuff about the kids,gripes about Eric and needing advice about work...I still can not believe you are gone...it is unreal to me!

Can you give daddy a hug for me...

I will write you again soon...these teenagers provide endless blog fodder but for right now I can no longer type through the tears...I Love You mom!My confession for today:Grief sucks!

Lost...

2011-06-15T14:45:00.072-05:00

Just a little over a year ago I thought my daddy's passing was hard...I had started to heal,was beginning to feel like 'life' was alive in me again...

Now facing the fact that my mom is gone, is so incredibly sad and hard and I hurt and I cry and cry. I want to crawl into a hole and never come out...

I want a freakin do-over...I want her back! Death is final....I know I won't get that do-over...

We shared so much more than a Mother/Daughter bond....she was my biggest supporter in everything...I just feel so lost, I don't know which way is up,down,around,in,out....

I picked up my phone to call her today...her cell phone rang...on my kitchen table....

I do have great support...friends that would jump on a plane if I asked them too...friends that would leave work to come comfort me... sisters that text me...friends&family that call...a loving husband...3 beautiful children that now sadly know, how truly short life can be...yes even Jess who couldn't stand me a few weeks ago(teenagers) now wraps her arms tightly around my waist to try and keep the tears from falling....

I know time heals all wounds...I am living proof of that...well time and medication...but I am so sad right now...I am not even sure on what level I am functioning....

The one thing on my side is...Mom made sure to raise me as strong-willed....I will get through this...as I have done before...with a little help from my friends...and time....

I want to Thank you all for the emails and cards-they have been a comfort in my time of sorrow....I am Blessed truly Blessed....

My confession for today: I♥youmom so so so much

Dear Mama...

2011-06-07T09:20:00.008-05:00

What can I tell you about my mom....

She believed there was no greater thing on this earth than FAMILY... Her favorite time of the year was Christmas when she knew she would get one day where all her daughters would be in the same room at the same time.

I know this because, Thanksgiving day she and I would start our planning and brainstorming.The mere thought of buying gifts,planning the menu for Christmas day and thinking about all the fun that the day would hold made her so Happy. Over the course of the weeks leading up to Christmas she would be so excited that we sometimes talked on the phone 3 or 4 times a day, It was our time...it was our tradition...

Looking back on those times I can see her sitting in her chair looking around the room with a smile on her beautiful face, so proud of the fact that her 3 baby girls had grown into women and given her the best gift ever...a house full of family!

She was the most giving person I have known...

There wasn't a day that has gone by that she didn't make sure we knew how much she loved us....

She loved unconditionally and boy did she love...

She was my best friend...

She was opinionated....

She had a passion for facebook and reconnected with many of her high school friends, she started a Cards for Seniors drive on FB and she was the first person to comment on a picture or status update you had made.

She was Beautiful inside and out...

She was gracious...

She was supportive...

She was fun & funny...

She was great listener...

She was the best mother a daughter could hope for...

She was the glue that held our family together...

She was so super proud of her grandchildren and she cherished them dearly...

She had a passion for genealogy and researching her family's history...

I have a hole in my heart right now but I plan to fill it with memories of mom and over the course of time I can only hope that I become half as good as she was....

She is my Mama and I have never been more proud to say "Hey, That's My Mom!"

Dear Mom: The world just seems a little smaller now that you are gone and I honestly do not know what I am going to do with out you.... I hope you knew how much you were loved and how deeply missed you will be....

I love you mama...

Love Georgina....

This will be my first post in 5 years where I do not have a confession to make....

Click HERE to visit moms online memorial page

Friends...

2011-05-10T23:29:00.001-05:00

Grab a cushion or carpet square and lets talk friends...

Definition of FRIEND according to Websters online:

1 a : one attached to another by affection or esteem
b : acquaintance

I don't know about you but I have MANY acquaintances that I consider Friends...I have a much smaller pool of friends that I consider attached by affection or esteem...

Those are the friends I want to bring to light...

Do you have a best girlfriend or two or three that you can just totally hang with? One that brings out the best in each of you? No competition...just pure happiness for each other and each others kids and husband and or grand kids....whatever your case may be...

I honestly don't think I ever truly valued a 'real' friendship until recently...let me 'splain...

I am a recluse and well I don't deal well with others...I can't even go to a movie a theater... I know, I know your saying "get therapy Georgie get therapy'

It wasn't until I was put into a group setting that I realized Women are Bitches and Catty and Talk about each other and then I was like wait...I'm NOT in High School anymore...Been there ...done that...right!

So why does that pattern continue? I have 2 daughters that I am trying to raise as good young ladies with morals...I try and teach them that drama is over after high-school...for most it is...for some not so much...

Enter...stage left....insert your best girlfriends name here...your very dearest friend, a friend who has taught you what it means to have patience and understanding and grace-under-fire! A Friend that would do anything for you and yet she knows you would do anything for her. Never with any strings attached...

She isn't afraid to tell you when your wrong and she doesn't get upset if you disagree or tell her the same...you never fight or argue...you compliment each other....always listening to one another....It's like a marriage...only better...

Do you have a friend like that?

I do...and her name is...

Amy Morris Blackwell...and I am a better person because she is a part of my life...and as my daughters witness this friendship I can only hope they are as lucky as I am in the Friend department...

I'm 40 and I am too old to be sayin BFFFLTDDUP and XYZ....

But I do know a good thing when I feel it....

My Confession for today: Friendship isn't work...it's natural...

Feel free to shout out your besties name in the comment section...

Just Sayin...

2011-04-26T00:27:00.001-05:00

Has it been this long since I last posted? I guess my whole Weekend Update is a bust! I can barely be where I need to be at 2:40 when school is out...just sayin...

It has been a whirlwind around here...

Abby has the sweetest boyfriend ever! I know that doesn't define her...she made it for senior year varsity cheer,she JUST wrecked her car,she got a promotion at work, she talks back 40% of the time and she steals my mascara...just sayin...

Reese well he is 6'1 and ummm I'm not... I need written permission to mention him/his name on this here blog...srsly! I think he is a member of the show MOB WIVES...just sayin...

Moving on...

Jessica my sweet lil pretty princess,my baby-the child I almost lost...who hates me...I can do nothing right! She is 13...just sayin...

Are there ANY mom/dad/ parents/bloggers/readers out there that have a teen or two?

Can anyone relate?

My confession for today: I ♥love♥ my kiddos but I'm at a definite handicap...

Weekend Update #1...Continued

2011-03-24T13:18:00.000-05:00

Where was I? Oh yes, I had just slapped my hubs in the face! I also shook his shoulders and promised to break up with him IF he didn't wake up!

He woke up...sorta...yanno that glazed and dazed and disoriented look... well that's what I was dealing with...I asked them not to call 911, again, the selfish side in me so did not want to spend the night in the ER for observation...PLUS the one time I passed out and fell face first into an open dishwasher rack no one took me to the ER...I coulda poked an eye-ball out ya'll!

As soon as he is sitting in a chair and we are asking him all kinds of questions-I yell "pack up my food" Remember we had just arrived before Eric ~~decided to hijack my weekend~~ had a terrible fall.We asked him his name...his reply eeeerrrjeck...we asked him where he was...his reply Thhhe lllummmberrrjacckkkk(close enough babe...close enough)

The wonderful staff at The Lumberyard helped get Eric to the car and I got us back to the hotel. The back of his head was bleeding and the knot was outward protruding not inward...so my goal was to keep him awake for a few hours,ice his head and take care of him...Ididnotsleepthewholenight! It was at about 2am I realized we left the bar and grill without paying!

He woke up Saturday hurting-especially on the left side of his face *snicker* I had to retell him the entire story-he basically had no memory of it...although as the day went on he started remembering bits and pieces...so I knew he didn't have brain damage....

The new owners of the Lumberyard are from UNION! and There was NO WAY this BA TIGER was not gonna go back and pay her bill! We took it easy on Saturday it's the least I could do...right?

He woke up Sunday hurting in places he didn't even know he had....

I will say this was, besides the awful and uncomfortable bed, this was the MOST relaxing trip to ES ever! Okay minus the minor freak out at seeing my hubs laying unconscious on the floor of a bar and grill...

This is a true story I only wish it was a dream or nightmare....

Here are a few photos from our weekend...I hope you enjoy them....

My confession for today: Stay tuned for next weeks post as we celebrate my best girlfriends 40th Bday!

Weekend Update #1

2011-03-22T23:35:00.002-05:00

Recently I have discovered I can not give what is being given back to me in the form of comments and emails...My solution? Do a post, once a week and totally copy SNL and name it Weekend Update...my hope is I will be able to get back in the swing of things and visit blogs and reply to comments...

So this weekend update post is about my lil impromptu trip to Eureka Springs Ar....

Since this was an impromptu trip we left at 6ish PM on Friday and were ES bound...Eric aka Mr GP had been on nights yanno 11-7 not to be confused with 7-11 cuz that's a convenient store

We arrived in town with not so much as a reservation anywhere...but that's the BEAUTY of an impromptu trip ...unless you let your hubby pick the hotel/motel and said hotel/motel has the worst beds EVER! So I am NOT linking where we stayed...just know hard & lumpy!

I hadn't eaten all day when I woke mr GP for this trip(remember he is on 11-7 shift)....~~I will skip the whole trying to pack fast and what we forgot and had to buy once we got in to town~~...and IF you know ES you know the restaurants pretty much shut down at 9pm...so my wonderful hubs had to listen to me whine all the way to Eureka about how hungry I was....I whined the whole two hours and forty five minutes...I may or may not have said..."Are We There Yet?"

So we arrive/pick a place to sleep/look for food and end up with bar food...it's our only option....srsly! BUT let me say we were at The Lumberyard and they have GOOD bar food...I just didn't know i wouldn't get to eat that bar food.....

Right as our food is being delivered Mr GP tells me he doesn't feel well...and being the good wife I am I suggest he go to the bathroom and splash water on his face....

He stands up...sorta...and falls face first into the bar-CRACK...then he does the Nes-tea PLUNGE backwards-CRACK...and this is where I so DO NOT FREAK OUT....all I can say is Oh My GOSH...Eric...I don't wanna spend my ONE weekend away in the ER with you under observation AND I am Hungry....and I hear in the background CALL 911! This is where I slap my hubby so hard in the face....and say WAKE UP!

My Confession for today:TBC....

I wonder...

2011-03-17T00:04:00.000-05:00

Just some things that have been on my mind lately...

I wonder why the conditioner that comes in the hair color boxes isn't on the shelves...itistheBESTconditionerever!

I wonder why they call it the terrible twos because shouldn't it be the terrible teens? SRSLY!

I wonder why when a child is on the cusp of eight-teen they think they knowitall!

I wonder why if you get to wear scrubs all week then your job says "It's casual Friday!" I mean can you get more casual than srubs? and what do you wear pajamas?

I wonder why I still "Stop and Listen" every time I hear Vanilla Ice and his Ice Ice Baby?

I wonder if all these earthquakes and hurricanes and unrest in other countries are a sign...

I wonder why most people only eat corned beef on March 17th...it's like sooo yummy! Maybe it's the Irish in me...

I wonder why my doggie is freaking out and growling at the back door right now...I just took her out and no one is in my yard...yet she is very unhappy

I wonder why my daddy had to get a rare sarcoma and die...I miss him so much!

I wonder why senior year is so expensive

I wonder what kind of drugs Charlie Sheen is really taking...."Winning...duh"

I wonder why X husbands are such asses!

I wonder why the ocean spray commercials are so funny!

I wonder why people have to get Dementia or Alzheimer...it's so sad...

My confession for today:I wonder what if...

My Other Gig...

2011-03-08T00:01:00.008-06:00

Today my alter ego "Mrs Bundy" is posting at The RHOK. Please stop by and tell me 'What's in YOUR pockets?'

My confession for today: I am in serious need of a mini weekend trip away

Monday Funnies...(for the guys out there)

2011-02-27T23:03:00.001-06:00

Tom's scrotum":
The pastor asked if anyone in the congregation would like to express praise for answered prayers. Suzie Smith stood and walked to the podium.

She said, "I have a praise. Two months ago, my husband, Tom, had a terrible bicycle wreck and his scrotum was completely crushed. The pain was excruciating and the doctors didn't know if they could help him."

You could hear a muffled gasp from the men in the congregation as they imagine the pain that poor Tom must have experienced.

"Tom was unable to hold me or the children," she went on, "and every move caused him terrible pain." We prayed as the doctors performed a delicate operation, and it turned out they were able to piece together the crushed remnants of Tom's scrotum, and wrap wire around it to hold it in place."

Again, the men in the congregation cringed and squirmed uncomfortably as they imagined the horrible surgery performed on Tom.

"Now," she announced in a quivering voice, "thank the Lord, Tom is out of the hospital and the doctors say that with time, his scrotum should recover completely."

All the men sighed with unified relief.

The pastor rose and tentatively asked if anyone else had something to say.

A man stood up and walked slowly to the podium.
He said, "I'm Tom Smith."

The entire congregation held its breath.

"I just want to tell my wife the word is 'sternum'."

____________________________________________

My confession for today: Go check out Damnyouautocorrect
it's beyond funny!

P.S. My Hubs is in the same boat but it ain't his STERNUM...he is willing to live with one testie

Tool Dictionary

2011-02-16T16:28:00.000-06:00

Tool Dictionary

DRILL PRESS: A tall upright machine useful for suddenly snatching flat metal bar stock out of your hands so that it smacks you in the chest and flings your beer across the room, denting the freshly-painted project which you had carefully set in the corner where nothing could get to it.

WIRE WHEEL: Cleans paint off bolts and then throws them somewhere under the workbench with the speed of light . Also removes fingerprints and hard-earned calluses from fingers in about the time it takes you to say, 'Oh sh--!'

SKILL SAW: A portable cutting tool used to make studs too short.

PLIERS: Used to round off bolt heads. Sometimes used in the creation of blood-blisters.

BELT SANDER: An electric sanding tool commonly used to convert minor touch-up jobs into major refinishing jobs.

HACKSAW: One of a family of cutting tools built on the Ouija board principle... It transforms human energy into a crooked, unpredictable motion, and the more you attempt to influence its course, the more dismal your future becomes.

VISE-GRIPS: Generally used after pliers to completely round off bolt heads. If nothing else is available, they can also be used to transfer intense welding heat to the palm of your hand.

OXYACETYLENE TORCH: Used almost entirely for lighting various flammable objects in your shop on fire. Also handy for igniting the grease inside the wheel hub out of which you want to remove a bearing race.

TABLE SAW: A large stationary power tool commonly used to launch wood projectiles for testing wall integrity..

HYDRAULIC FLOOR JACK: Used for lowering an automobile to the ground after you have installed your new brake shoes , trapping the jack handle firmly under the bumper.

BAND SAW: A large stationary power saw primarily used by most shops to cut good aluminum sheet into smaller pieces that more easily fit into the trash can after you cut on the inside of the line instead of the outside edge.

TWO-TON ENGINE HOIST: A tool for testing the maximum tensile strength of everything you forgot to disconnect.

PHILLIPS SCREWDRIVER: Normally used to stab the vacuum seals under lids or for opening old-style paper-and-tin oil cans and splashing oil on your shirt; but can also be used, as the name implies, to strip out Phillips screw heads..

STRAIGHT SCREWDRIVER: A tool for opening paint cans. Sometimes used to convert common slotted screws into non-removable screws and butchering your palms.

PRY BAR: A tool used to crumple the metal surrounding that clip or bracket you needed to remove in order to replace a 50 cent part.

HOSE CUTTER: A tool used to make hoses too short.

HAMMER: Originally employed as a weapon of war, the hammer nowadays is used as a kind of divining rod to locate the most expensive parts adjacent the object we are trying to hit.

UTILITY KNIFE: Used to open and slice through the contents of cardboard cartons delivered to your front door; works particularly well on contents such as seats, vinyl records, liquids in plastic bottles, collector magazines, refund checks, and rubber or plastic parts. Especially useful for slicing work clothes, but only while in use.

SON-OF-A-BITCH TOOL: (A personal favorite!!) Any handy tool that you grab and throw across the garage while yelling 'Son of a BITCH!' at the top of your lungs.. It is also, most often, the next tool that you will need.

My confession for today:I Hope you found this informative.

5 Pet Peeves-McLinky Monday

2011-02-07T13:46:00.000-06:00

Today on The RHOK Mrs Coco is asking us what our top 5 pet peeves are...

5) People on Facebook that BEG you to vote for their Pagosa Springs Picture so they can win a trip for their 14th Wedding Anniversary...I mean the nerve of some people... I am that person...now please go vote for me

4) Snow that lasts longer than 2 days

3) Bullies

2) Cellulite

and my number one pet peeve is... People who are late!

Wanna join us and share your top five? Just click the link above to link up...

My confession for today: I am craving crowder peas and garlic mashed potatoes
.

Since I'm snowed in...

2011-02-03T10:13:00.000-06:00

I thought I would pop in and say HI! Just in case you were not one of the 30 states affected by the latest winter storm and let you know I am still alive...snowed in and hunkered down but alive....

♥ A lot has been going on since my last real post...aside from record breaking snowfall in Oklahoma, I attended a RHOK OUT and it was a total BLAST getting to see old friends and make new friends. Surprisingly I was not my normal socially awkward self...go figure...

Yes that's me on the end...and Yes I cut all my hair off...I got an inverted bob...I likey!

♥ I have been working A LOT and I love my little job...it makes me smile...

♥ I watched The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo,The Girl who Played with Fire and the Girl who Kicked a Hornets Nest-GREAT flicks even if they were English dubbed...I also watched The Other Guys, Everybodys Fine,The Kids are Alright,Saw 3D,Case 39 and The Sorcerers Apprentice...I'm gonna owe a hefty late fee because I can't return the movies

♥ I threatened a groundhog and I won...YAY Spring comes early this year-YES you have me to thank for that one =) ...however, our crazy local weathermen/lady (We ♥ You Julie Chin) keep trying to tell me we are going to get...are you ready for this???? MORE SNOW!!!! Now apparently they have never been cooped up with 3 teenagers for days on end because IF they had they would be forecasting sunshine and flowers and chirping birds and and, well you get the picture...

♥ I have been forced to listen to Justin Beiber for hours on end so much so that I can now do the 'DOUGIE' in my sleep!

♥ I have been watching or trying to watch(see above) National news, Have you been keeping up with everything happening in Egypt? Did you see the footage of my man AC aka Anderson Cooper being attacked? INSANE I tell ya!

♥ Here are a few pics of our snow storm well it was a BLIZZARD actually!

My confession for today: If you don't hear from me soon send out a search party the kids may have me duct taped to a chair...

P.S. If you are a blogger with a PR4 or + and like the infographics I post contact/email me-They are looking for other bloggers to post on their blogs as well.

I'm NOT here today...

2011-01-20T23:17:00.000-06:00

I am hosting over at The RHOK and I so need your help...Please click through if you read this...we (I) so appreciate your support!

My confession for today: Who knew house hunting could be soooo daunting?!

A SSS Farewell &Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

2010-12-20T20:05:00.001-06:00

As I have done for the past three years after the SSS ends, I am taking a bloggy break until the new year...Before I go and you totally forget me I wanted to let you know I will be around on The RHOK Mrs Bundy will make an appearance or two...it's my second gig ya'll...Please support the Oklahoma Housewives-we are a diverse group of women and we put the RHOK in RHOKlahoma...

SSS was a huge success this year I was honored to be your host the past 3 years and it is with a Happy Heart that I pass the torch to Coloradolady who will be your NEW SSS Host. If you don't know her Please click through to her blog...because she completely ROCKS!

How do I know she ROCKS? Well I have been a long time follower of her blog,she has participated in all the SSS events and this year she had MY name...

Just look at everything she sent me *squeal*

I LOVE it all...she found my favorite perfume of all time, KORS by Michael Kors!!! and she made me an afghan!!!! She found the coolest take on barn stars! Nail polish,finger nail files,a journal,'G' note cards,a gift for my doggie and RAZORS that have been hidden from the girls! So many heart-felt gifts she sent my way...

Coloradolady AKA Suzanne also sent me a BEAUTIFUL heart necklace for my birthday which is not in the above photo because I was wearing it when I took the photo. and after all the bday photos i took my batteries are dead

Suzanne you completely spoiled me! I can not think of a better person to carry on the SSS tradition than you!

I want to personally Thank ALL the SSS participants this year...you ladies and gents outdid yourselves with your gift giving...I saw LOTS of lovely,wonderful and one of a kind gifts being gifted...you ALL complete me...Thank You thank You!

My confession for today: I wish you ALL a Very Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year!

Things I learned on Dec 18th

2010-12-20T06:21:00.001-06:00

This is the truth and the whole truth and nothing but the truth...just some things I learned when I turned 40 Saturday...

My day started out with a very early trip to the mall to do some shopping with my mom. I stopped at a kiosk to look at FOX decals for abbys boyfriend for Christmas

So My mom says to me "Don't you think that's kind of VAIN?" and I just start cracking up and explain to her, no mom he doesn't think he is A FOX...Fox is a racing brand....oh good times good times

I learned that Birthday breakfasts at IHOP rock...

I learned I am too old to party like a rock star...

I learned to NEVER leave your spare keys unattended at home with your 15 & 1/2 and 13 year olds...just saying...

I learned there is nothing like a night out with good friends...

I learned that a loud bar is very hard to conversate in...

I learned while said bar may be very loud so am I and you should NEVER say how hot someones husband is in ears reach of his cute wife YIKES...sorry Misty...as Jaime Fox would say I Blame it on the al-al-al-cohol...

I learned there is a reason I don't do more than ONE shot! see above

I learned I still can't dance....

I learned I gotta remove that 30something badge off my sidebar now

I learned that turning 40 is like turning over a new leaf!!!!

Here are a few pics from my night out...

My confession for today: Good Times Good Times!!!

Secret Santa has Struck

2010-12-15T13:51:00.010-06:00

Many Thanks to everyone who have sent me your DC#s

I finally got my package off today! Wanna know what I sent? It could be coming to your house....

click the photo for a bigger close up view

Lets see what we have:
a tie-dye snuggie and not just any snuggie the NEW DESIGNER version with 'POCKET' Oh SS partner you will be so warm and trendy in the new designer version.

There is a cute little Christmas plate, a coffe/hot chocolate mug, some chocolate toffee covered nuts,3 little Christmas light candies(that are upside down) and a singing mouse(press the tree on the tummy)-it's the closest singing thingie I could find to your bloggy name =)

I have had so much fun shopping for you-I hope you enjoy your goodies

Secret Santa has also been spotted HERE and HERE and HERE and HERE and HERE and HERE and HERE and HERE and HERE and also HERE and HERE and HERE as well HERE and HERE

Could one of those links up there be YOUR SS Gift? Have fun clicking through and trying to guess =)
If you have emailed me the link to your post and I have not linked it yet PLEASE let me know so I can add you to the list.

My confession for today: YES you read it correctly your SSS Host waited until the last day to ship her gift... =)

~~P.S. as of right now ONLY 2 people have not blogged or shipped-I have faith they will contact me soon with the link and dc# This year has been a success Thank you All~~ EVERYONE has contacted me YAY!!!!

SSS 2010 UPDATE

2010-12-11T23:31:00.001-06:00

There have been several SSS posts...Is this your partner?

True Blue Texan

Megryansmom

Serenity

16 of us still need to ship(me included) I will be making the SSS rounds with friendly reminders.... please... email me with your Link to your SS post and your DC#...some of you that have already shipped didn't even do a post about your gift...I am well....bewildered...to put it nicely....that is a shame for your partner..because it is your chance to share on your blog what you sent-and when I post a link....for them to click through and see if what YOU sent is coming to them...I just don't even know what to say...except see my confession for today....

My confession for today: This will be my last year as the SSS Host....It has been fun but it is time to let someone else host this event...

McLinky Monday-Holiday Cookies

2010-12-06T18:36:00.000-06:00

Today on The RHOK Mrs Sinclair wants us all to share our favorite holiday cookie. So I am sharing 2 recipes that my girls and I make every year.

Spiced Shortbread

1 1/4 cups flour

3 tablespoons brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4teaspoon ginger

1/8teaspoon cloves

1/2 cup butter

Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

In a mixing bowl combine flour,sugar and spices.

Cut in butter till mixture resembles fine crumbs and starts to cling. Form the mixture into a ball and knead until smooth.

On an ungreased cookie sheet pat o roll the dough into an 8 inch circle.With a knife or pizza cutter , cut circle into 16 pie-shaped wedges.

Bake for 25 to 30 mintuesCut circle into wedges again while warm.

Cool on the cookie sheet for 5 mintues.

Melt chocolate(almond bark) and drizzle on top of the cookies. I use dark chocolate and white chocolate. Yummy!!!!

NEIMAN-MARCUS COOKIES
(Recipe may be halved)

2 cups butter
24 oz chocolate chips
4 cups flour
2 cups brown sugar
2 tsp. soda
1 tsp. salt
2 cups sugar
1 8 oz. Hershey Bar (grated)
5 cups blended oatmeal
4 eggs
2 tsp. baking powder
2 tsp. vanilla
3 cups chopped nuts (your choice)

Measure oatmeal, and blend in a blender to a fine powder. Cream the butter and both sugars. Add eggs and vanilla, mix together with flour, oatmeal, salt, baking powder, and soda. Add chocolate chips, Hershey Bar, and nuts. Roll into balls, and place two inches apart on a cookie sheet.

Bake for 10 minutes at 375 degrees. Makes 112 cookies.
The childrens teachers LOVE these!!!
Happy baking and eating!!!

My confession for today: I am making the NM cookies on Friday for a Holiday Party on Sunday

Secret Santa Soiree Update

2010-12-05T07:49:00.001-06:00

Just a quick SSS update: several more gifts have been shipped and blogged about

Yogi's Den

Thoughts from MeMes Corner
Crazed Mind
4Lettre Words

Just a few friendly reminders:

♥This year YOU will BLOG about the gift YOU SENT to your exchange partner without disclosing your SSS partners name/blog when you do your post-you will do this with photos prior to shipping

♥Shipping deadline is Dec 15th

♥Please don't forget to send me your DC#

♥The spending limit will be $20

♥Have Fun!

My confession for today: Can not believe it is only 22 days until Christmas

McLinky Monday-Holiday Decor

2010-11-29T05:55:00.000-06:00

Before I get to todays McLinky Monday I just have to let you know another SSS post has been spotted on the big wide world of web! Click HERE to see if this is YOUR exchange partner....

Today over on The RHOK Mrs Edwards is asking us When we put up our holiday decor?

Generally my tree goes up the day after Thanksgiving but this year the tree went up 2 days before Thanksgiving because I had to buy a new pre-lit tree this year and I had to make sure all the lights were in working order. I can with much confidence say the lights all work.

I went with a taller slimmer tree vs the bigger bottomed tree, 2 out of 3 ~~dentists~~ kiddos didn't like the new tree look. Also Eric wanted the black OR purple tree from garden ridge I had to completely veto that, I still have a little tradition left in me and just like I like my hot chocolate with marshmallows and my bagels toasted, I like my trees green...

We were to put up all the tree decorations last night BUT Abby had to go and get herself a boyfriend and wasn't home until after 9pm so my tree still looks like this....

I have 2 huge closets full of Christmas decorations but this year I am keeping it simple and just hanging a wreath outside and decorating the tree...well, provided Reese and Jess don't go getting a GF or BF I will be decorating a tree...teenagers =)

So tell me how much decorating do you do? Or better yet why don't you join us for todays McLinky Monday? It's easy...

1. Answer the question on your blog (or in the comments sections if you haven't a blog).
2. If you answer the question on your blog, add your name and direct link to our MckLinky.
3. Grab our button from the sidebar and post it either in your reply post or on your blog.
4. Follow our blog, if you don't already.
5. Be sure to visit some or all of the blogs who link up and share some comment love.
6. Enjoy and have some fun!

My confession for today: Jessica had her first real photo shoot and got 'cubed'

Secret Santa Soiree Gift

2010-11-27T09:38:00.000-06:00

Our First SSS gift has been sent and blogged about...so exciting...
Could THIS be YOUR gift?

Here is the linky with all the participants

My Confession for today: AH I so Love the Holidays

I'm not here

2010-11-26T00:04:00.000-06:00

photo courtesy google images

I am HERE today...Please stop by as I share my story of loss...there is so much more I could share...like how my daddys passing has affected or is it effected my relationship with my grandmother,my uncle and my cousins...but I imagine that's a whole 'nother post...baby steps...

My confession for today: Please let me know if you click through and read my story...

McLinky Monday-Black Friday

2010-11-22T07:23:00.000-06:00

Today over on The RHOKMrs Albright is asking us....

What your routine is for Black Friday. How do you prepare for it? Do you have a good Black Friday story? Or do you not even attempt to get out and fight the chaos?

I may be CRAZY but I am not a CRAZIE. Typically my BF consists of coming out of a turkey induced coma, eating leftovers and putting up our Christmas tree.

*disclaimer* No offense meant to CRAZIES I respect your need to wake up at 2 am,stand in line,fight the masses all in the name of saving some moolah! My own daughter is a CRAZIE and has been Black Friday' N it up for years with her Aunt Kayleen...

One of my favorite sites to visit before BF is Gottadeal They have some of the BEST forums I have found.

Now we want to know all about your experiences, thoughts, websites, and deals for Black Friday. Here are the rules:

1. Answer the question on your blog (or in the comments sections if you haven't a blog).

2. If you answer the question on your blog, add your name and direct link to our MckLinky.

3. Grab our button from the sidebar and post it either in your reply post or on your blog.

4. Follow our blog, if you don't already.

5. Be sure to visit some or all of the blogs who link up and share some comment love.

6. Enjoy and have some fun!

My confession for today: Our Christmas tree died(well the lights did) last year, so today I am headed out to find a new pre-lit tree

Happy Birthday

2010-11-17T13:53:00.000-06:00

To my most awesome,beautiful,terrific,fabulous,creative,caring,kind,loving and wonderful daughter Abby...she is 17(Nov 18th)...and I feel old...

Then

and Now...

There really are NO words to describe what a wonderful daughter you are my lil ladybug...

My confession for today: I love you Ms Abby Lain

P.S. If you are local and watch KJRH(channel 2 news) then look for her in the AM around 6:20am for our Birthday wishes!

MckLinky Monday: What I Am Thankful For

2010-11-16T10:18:00.000-06:00

Today Mrs ♥Hart♥ asks us what we are thankful for...her post is FanTabuLous!

While I am thankful for some of the same things as you, God,Family,Health,Friends...the main thing I am thankful for is...TIME...it's simple for me today...

For yesterday and the day before and the day before etc...Those are the memories I am holding near and dear...for Today and all that it holds and has yet to be seen, as those will be tomorrows memories ...because we really never know what Tomorrow will hold....so hug and kiss your family,call that friend you haven't talked to in ages,wave at your neighbor and Thank God you have a today...and the time to do and say what you can...

Now it is your turn, what are you thankful for? Join us over on The RHOK

Rules:

1. Answer the question on your blog (or in the comments sections if you haven't a blog).

2. If you answer the question on your blog, add your name to MckLinky so that we all can discover the brilliance that is your mind.

3. Grab our button from the sidebar and post it either in your reply post or on your blog.

4. Enjoy and have some fun!

My confession for today: Tomorrow is Mrs Bundys debut post on The RHOK! Oh the nerves =)

What is your favorite food...

2010-11-12T11:29:00.000-06:00

...on the Thanksgiving table?

Miss Priss over at The RHOK is asking us what our Fav food for Thanksgiving is...this one is EASY for me, without a doubt it is my Mother-In-Laws sausage dressing. I look forward to it every year, it is beyond yummy! If you visit more than one house(like we do) for the holidays this is a nice change...Here is the recipe in-case you wanna change things up this year!

Ingredients:
1# sausage (hot, regular or sage)
2 pkgs. (8 oz. ea.) cornbread stuffing ( I try and find Pepperidge Farm but others will do)
2 slices white bread, cubed
1 cup sliced scallions (or onions)
1/2 cup chopped celery
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
1-1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cans chicken broth (approx.14-1/2 oz. each)
3 eggs, slightly beaten

For Topping:
1 Tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (or 1-l/2 teaspoon dried)
1/2 c. shredded Cheddar cheese

Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Crumble and brown sausage and drain. Combine with other ingredients except for topping ingredients..Pour into 3 quart baking dish, sprinkle with parsley and cheese for topping. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes.

So do YOU have a favorite dish for the holidays?

My Confession for Today: I can't believe that Thanksgiving is only 17 days away!

Mrs Bundy

2010-11-08T00:41:00.001-06:00

As in AL not Ted oh goodness that would be bad bad bad,,,,

So the ladies over at the RHOK asked me to join them and what's any good Okie girl gonna do? Okay so I fidgeted and got hives because it is a commitment...

I can barely keep up here...right? Let alone my new review blog...

However I have faith in the RHOK ,it won't appeal to you all because you will think it is ONLY for Oklahoma bloggers...but it's not...it's more than that ...there will be McLinky Mondays and well other posts that you may wanna join in on...

I know this is a BIG big BIG blogging world...and we all make decisions on who we subscribe to or follow...let me just say as a NEW part of the RHOK I will speak for the lil person,the unknown,the hiding in a cubby hole blogger...because I do believe we ALL have a voice ...I am all of the above...I have blogger-meet-up anxiety, I hide in the cubby hole, I am the lil person....I am the unknown...I am YOU!

This blog will stay the same...I will continue to post about my FAMS and all that goes along with it BUT I would LOVE to have you join us over @ the RHOK too!

My confession for today: Being Mrs Bundy is gonna be a good thing...

photo courtesy google images thankyouverymuch

It's a technology world

2010-11-05T23:48:00.001-05:00

I was gonna talk about the GREAT stuffing VS dressing debate but I posted that on FB...then I was gonna talk about 'editing' on your(meaning MY blog) blog and how, well...how bad my blog posts are(un-edited)...but if you really knew me...you would know this is me, I don't pretend to be someone else...I am NOT trying to catch Hollywood's eyes, I am not trying to become the next Pioneer Woman...when I type 'prolly' I so mean 'prolly'-if you want prim N proper then I am not for you-IF you are the spelling police then I am not for you ....BUT then I shook my head and said who the phuck cares...which leads me, ummm you...IF your still reading, into this lovely segway...

So I was thinking tonight as I texted my oldest child...well I was thinking one of two things...my poor mom OR poor me...

When I was 16 and cruising Fontana or hanging at the Caravan(didn't we all have a local hangout?) I can only assume my mom was sitting up watching SNL because she enjoyed it! Lord knows I came home a time or two soused...the difference is...CELL phones...texting-to be exact...being able to be in constant communication....so tonight as I am watching 'Law Abiding Citizen'(God Bless Gerard Butler) on a FRIDAY night I am texting my oldest child and asking what is going on...where are you going,what are doing,who are you with....

My mom didn't have that luxury...Thank Goodness(yep I said Thank Goodness)...BUT I do...No my child is NOT cruising Fontana or at the Caravan nor is she soused...she is at IHOP,then she may be going to meet up with other friends...my point is, back in the day, we, as parents would NOT have been privy to this info...there wasn't any way for a parent to contact us...

I sooooo need a texting info-graphic....

SCARY...huh? or is it? We don't live in a June Cleaver world anymore...things are not always black N white...maybe I am to(or is it too I know it's NOT two) liberal with my kiddos,maybe I am not...I run on the clock of "Pick YOUR Battles' BUT I sure LOVE being able to get in contact with one of my kids instantly if I need to!

My confession for today: Reality checks are a good thing

P.S. the Secret Santa Soiree is gonna be da bomb this year! yes I just said 'da bomb'!

Secret Santa Soiree Update

2010-11-05T16:09:00.000-05:00

Phew my eyes are crossed from all the double checking and triple checking and I still prolly made a few mistakes BUT everyone should have received an email from me today with your SSS exchange partners info.

IF you don't see the email please check your spam folder and if it's still not there email me and I will resend the info to you.

This is going to be a very exciting year for the SSS participants, I couldn't be more thrilled and I hope you all are very happy with the exchange partner assigned to you. If you need to review the Official SSS 411 Click Here

We have 26 SSS participants this year, I am adding the linky below so you can get to know each other.

My confession for today: Did I mention my eyes are crossed?

Credit Cards & Credit Repair

2010-10-28T15:41:00.000-05:00

CreditCardProcessing.net

_______________________________

CreditRepair.org

My confession for today: We are in the process of paying off ALL credit cards!

Facts about halloween

2010-10-28T15:34:00.002-05:00

[Via: HalloweenExpress.com]

My confession for today:Trick OR treat

Secret Santa Soiree 2010

2010-10-25T12:07:00.000-05:00

I know Halloween isn't even here yet and I am talking Santa and Christmas...I did a post with all the 411 which can be found here

Just to recap:
♥ In order to be a part of the SSS exchange you must be a blogger then you need to email me(on my sidebar), I will send you a Q&A form that you need to fill out asap and hit submit on the form, please do not email me your answers back-I have everything set up in a google doc this is a much easier way to handle groups. I have already sent out forms to those of you that have emailed me, so if you haven't answered the Q&As yet please do so now...

♥ The Deadline for sign ups is Oct 29th. On Nov 1st I will send everyone their partners name along with a copy of their getting to know you info(q&a), you can start shopping and shipping at your leisure just please keep the shipping deadline in mind.

♥ Once you have submitted your Q&A Please sign the McLinky below

♥ The date you must ship by will be Dec 15th-feel free to get creative with your return address while keeping in mind the rules and regs of USPS or your shipping carrier of choice

♥ Everyone must purchase a Delivery Confirmation(DC) and email me with the DC#-This serves as your receipt

♥ The spending limit will be $20(not including shipping costs OR DC cost) if you choose to spend more PLEASE do not be upset if your SSS partner does not. You can spend the money on one item or you can break it down into mini gifts-the choice is yours, be creative, have fun and enjoy...

♥ One thing that sets this SSS apart from others is the fact that it is a SECRET Santa Soiree, meaning you will not/I will not disclose who your partner is...This is where the BIG Change is this year...in the past I have required you to blog about the gift you received-This year YOU will BLOG about the gift YOU SENT to your exchange partner without disclosing your SSS partners name/blog when you do your post-you will do this with photos prior to shipping...(Much Thanks to Coloradolady for suggesting this) the idea is that everyone will visit each others blogs(via the mclinky) during this Soiree and once their gift arrives they will immediately know who to Thank! I will try and do posts letting you know that someone has shipped...

♥ We have 2 wonderful gentlemen(who participated last year) playing along again this year-IF you have an issue sending a guy a gift OR having a guy send you a gift email me ASAP-I can personally vouch for both of these guys, But I do have to ask...ALSO...since I am doing this solo this year, I will obviously know who has my name-hence kinda taking the surprise element out for you...so if you would rather not have my name please let me know as well =)

_________________________________________

So far we have 25 wonderful participants and I am starting to get super excited! If you would like to join us just follow the steps above...if you got an email from me this morning and have not signed the linky below PLEASE do so now...

If you have any questions feel free to contact me♥

If you would like to add a button to your blog here are a couple to choose from...

My Confession for today: Jingle Bells Jingle Bells Jingle all the way...

weird things found at the airport!

2010-10-21T23:10:00.000-05:00

Via: X-Ray Technician

My Confession for today: I'm just here for your entertainment

Secret Santa Soiree Info/McLinky

2010-10-21T14:45:00.002-05:00

This will serve as the official rules of the SSS. Most things will stay the same but we have one small change this year...so PLEASE read through...

♥ In order to be a part of the SSS exchange you must be a blogger then you need to email me(on my sidebar), I will send you a Q&A form that you need to fill out asap and hit submit on the form, please do not email me your answers back-I have everything set up in a google doc this is a much easier way to handle groups. I have already sent out forms to those of you that have emailed me, so if you haven't answered the Q&As yet please do so now...

♥ The Deadline for sign ups is Oct 29th. On Nov 1st I will send everyone their partners name along with a copy of their getting to know you info(q&a), you can start shopping and shipping at your leisure just please keep the shipping deadline in mind.

♥ Once you have submitted your Q&A Please sign the McLinky below

♥ The date you must ship by will be Dec 15th-feel free to get creative with your return address while keeping in mind the rules and regs of USPS or your shipping carrier of choice

♥ Everyone must purchase a Delivery Confirmation(DC) and email me with the DC#-This serves as your receipt

♥ The spending limit will be $20(not including shipping costs OR DC cost) if you choose to spend more PLEASE do not be upset if your SSS partner does not. You can spend the money on one item or you can break it down into mini gifts-the choice is yours, be creative, have fun and enjoy...

♥ One thing that sets this SSS apart from others is the fact that it is a SECRET Santa Soiree, meaning you will not/we will not disclose who your partner is...This is where the BIG Change is this year...in the past I have required you to blog about the gift you received-This year YOU will BLOG about the gift YOU SENT to your exchange partner without disclosing your SSS partners name/blog when you do your post...the idea is that everyone will visit each others blogs during this Soiree and once their gift arrives they will immediately know who to Thank!

♥ We have 2 wonderful gentlemen(who participated last year) playing along again this year-IF you have an issue sending a guy a gift OR having a guy send you a gift email me ASAP-I can personally vouch for both of these guys, But I do have to ask...ALSO...since I am doing this solo this year, I will obviously know who has my name-hence kinda taking the surprise element out for you...so if you would rather not have my name please let me know =)

My Confession for today: I am soooo ready for the Holidays

Did You Know...DYK(it's not a bad word)

2010-10-19T22:18:00.002-05:00

image courtesy google images

♥DYK...that I just opened up my NEW review blog? Which can be found here Go ahead feel free to stop by...just click back there...NO pressure...

♥DYK... I had a great designer So Stylilized...she rocked it out!

♥DYK...That I have already sent out the SSS Q&A's and 'if' you emailed me AND haven't received your Q&A that I need you to email me again...I am beyond fallible AND flying solo this year...so PLEASE bare with me...please...

♥DYK...I am doing the SSS a teeny bit differently this year...more details will follow soon...very exciting!

♥DYK...that this week is Fall break for my kiddos...and this is the first Fall Break I have worked in 10 years!

♥DYK...that I have been horrid at visiting blogs and leaving a comment! I don't do a 'reader'...nope I visit each blog when I can AND comment and lately 'when I can' has been sparse...I have been uber busy, forgive me? please! I promise to get back in the swing of things!

♥DYK...That I will soon have another teenage driver in my household? My son...will be taking drivers ed and I will be, well...Eric will be driving with him...

♥DYK...Lets talk car insurance...

My Confession for today: ♥DYK I have done 346 'different' confessions for today on blogspot... I always end my posts with a confession...

Cyber Bullying~Too Close to Home!

2010-10-15T23:10:00.001-05:00

I don't know 'bout you but I dunno what's scarier than two(2) teenage girls fighting...welcome to my world...thankyouverymuch and...THANK GOODNESS they(plural) made up...yanno I try and teach my girls to be the bigger person, I have taught them we DO NOT talk about others, turn the other cheek, let things go....LET THINGS GO! cuz in the end it's not worth it! The fighting that is, the name calling, the picking sides...sooo not worth it...do you have teenagers?

Abby the golden child knows this...I would take on any parent that would question me(srsly)...I prolly know stuff about your daughter/son/child because abs tells me everything and NOT a skewed version, whether it is she is having sex, cheating,lying, or taking an eraser and tearing her skin apart it's the new thing versus 'cutting'...check your kids parents...check their wrists and legs...

Jessica my baby, the one I know the least about...she doesn't share, she likes piercings, I am ancient...call me with any concerns and I will NOT fight you...I will listen...you prolly know more than I do...see I can keep it real...and be honest...

Reese my only son...my sweet sweet son..my ♥heart♥ he is so my ♥...thinks I know nadda, he is taller than me...sometimes I don't question...sometimes I do...and sometimes mama knows best...he had a case of cyber bullying(he would just say it isn't )...I am sure you have heard of -cyber-bullying that is...it's been all over the news(kids are committing suicide from being tormented)...a kid that attends his school, that he(Reese) doesn't know has threatened him...as a Mom that is SCARY! VERY Scary! ...

It started out as a case of 'gingervitus' (per this kids stalker fb message on Reese's wall) Did you know that redheads are called 'gingers'? Crazy I know, right? This kid used FB as a platform to do some cyber bullying...not just with Reese but other kids too....I won't go into details of the others but this kid assured Reese he could wipe the ginger out of him after school....yep....DON'T MESS WITH MY SON! He is my Heart!

I haven't contacted the school yet...if it continues I WILL...My kids are GOOD kids!!! I am NOT 'one' of those parents...we all know them...hell I know them...the ones that say 'NOT my kid'....I think I have been honest enough up there admitting my own faults per say....BUT....I think I know my kiddos...NO...I know... I know my kiddos!!!! DO YOU know yours...I mean REALLY know yours?

I will take this time to roll into a segway...mamas don't let your kids grow up to be.....tacky?maybe?

My confession for today: Have YOU experienced Bullying? Share it! PLEASE!

Sleepy Town and SecretSantaSoiree

2010-10-13T23:03:00.003-05:00

I don't know 'bout you BUT I just opened up my 4th mini kit kat bar..just sayin....yes we have a huge bowl of Halloween Candy already...I have been pacing myself...next on my list of pacing myself/honey do's is, send Eric out for firewood...I always burn a fire on Halloween night...doesn't matter if it's 90 or 20 degrees I have a fire...my problem is...Eric traded in his big OL' Dodge for a mini 4x4 ranger...moving on...if you wanna join my pity party stay up here...if you wanna join the SSS see below...

The Secret Santa Soiree is back...like I posted a few days ago, things will be a little bit different...if you would like to participate again(keyword) this year then please email me ----------> my email is on my sidebar, in a week or so I will send out a little q&a, we will have a button, things will be pretty much like we have done in the past(PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR BLOG LINK IN YOUR EMAIL TO ME)...with a few minor changes....I am not doing a sign up mclinky-I will add a mclinky once I have sent out out q&a's-for qualified SSS participants to sign,this year will be smaller, more intimate(bigger is not always better) This year I will be flyin solo...(i think that is a song) My partner in crime in past SSS events amybo has her own photog business now, she made it big time! YAY Amy!

Right now we are at 11 total SSS participants, I have 40 total spots open once they are filled I will close the registration process...so this year is an exclusive club... one you won't want to miss out on....If you have any questions feel free to email me...
Here are some buttons...feel free to pick the one you like

____________________________________

Now for some FUN Facts....

My Confession for today: I just finished the last Sookie Stackhouse Novel 'Dead and Gone' I need new reading material advice/recommendations...anyone?

Just so You Know I am Still ALIVE(SSS)

2010-10-09T23:21:00.002-05:00

I have gotten many emails about SSS...I have been contacted via FB about SSS...I have been stalked at my local wal*mart(not really) I want to do something this holiday season but on a much smaller scale....so IF you have participated before and want to again...click over there(sidebar-it says 'email me') to email me(put SSS in the subject line along with your blog link in the email)...things will be very different this year as I have no desire to revisit secret-santa-soriee-gate that was last year...yes I am thinking more exclusive...more intimate...I so don't wanna be the Sue Silvester aka The Grinch but things that transpired last year has left me, well a little Sue... I still have my Naughty list!

*disclaimer* many will apply only a select few will be confirmed-I reserve the right to accept or decline...Are YOU on the List...email me...I don't mean to be rude,blunt,so direct or rude...if you really know me...then you know it's not my nature to be rude,blunt,so direct or rude but amybo and I had a rough year last SSS...something that should be so much fun for all involved turned into...well not a lot of fun for us...I want to avoid that this year...so I hope you will and can forgive my frankness...

And this is the perfect segway into a little bit of info....Brought to you today from the letter M...from the MINT! yes It appears some of the graphics are cut off....not sure how to handle this...

Budget Software - Mint.com

My confession for today: I am in lurve with Bruno Mars...sooo freakin bad!

Favorites

2010-09-13T08:53:00.001-05:00

The ladies over at the Real Housewives of Oklahoma or RHOK for short have a meme for us today...

Favorites:

Favorite Actor
This is a hard one for me because I love some good eye candy just like the next girl or guy...When I was younger It was Luke Skywalker that did it for me...then in my teens I loved me some 'Blackie' aka John Stamos then came the likes of Gerard Butler-Have you seen 300? BUT in the end the guy that has won me over is Jack...

Favorite Actress
Another hard choice because I so enjoy Sandra,Gweneth,Uma,Cameron and Kate however my favorite would be Renee...

Favorite Movie
You all do know I am decisionally challenged right? and narrowing things down is very difficult for me! Under the Tuscan Sun is my rainy day movie but my all time fav would have to be As Good As It Gets

Favorite Band
Like prolly every other teenage product of the 80's I LOVED NKOTB *swoon* and then I got a lil older and it was Bon Jovi and Madonna will forever be a fav... but the fact I am almost a fossil I will have to say Lady as in Antebellum...tryin to be current ya'll

Favorite Musical
I have 2 Grease and Rent!

Favorite Novel
Is there a difference between a book and a novel? because when I think of novel I think of Jane Austin but when I think of book I think of Janet Evanovich...

Favorite Cuisine
Steak,lobster,carnitas tacos,a good burger...food I just like food all food I am an equal opportunity eater

Favorite Wine
Reds,Whites,Blush I like em all

Favorite Store
amazon because they pretty much have everything and anything!

Favorite Vampire
I have 2 just like my good friend Dawn and boy are they ever yummy...Alexander Skarsgard and Ian Somerhalder ummm 'Bite Me!' =)

Favorite Primetime TV Series
While I love me some good TV like Modern Family and Parenthood GLEE is the winner

Favorite Time Waster
One word FACEBOOK

Phew this is a long meme =)

Favorite Chore
Hahahaha LOL Hahahaha ummm NO

Favorite Quote
From As Good As It Gets *tear*
Melvin Udall: I've got a really great compliment for you, and it's true.
Carol Connelly: I'm so afraid you're about to say something awful.
Melvin Udall: Don't be pessimistic, it's not your style. Okay, here I go: Clearly, a mistake. I've got this, what - ailment? My doctor, a shrink that I used to go to all the time, he says that in fifty or sixty percent of the cases, a pill really helps. I *hate* pills, very dangerous thing, pills. Hate. I'm using the word "hate" here, about pills. Hate. My compliment is, that night when you came over and told me that you would never... well, you were there, you know what you said. Well, my compliment to you is, the next morning, I started taking the pills.
Carol Connelly: I don't quite get how that's a compliment for me.
Melvin Udall: You make me want to be a better man.
Carol Connelly: ...That's maybe the best compliment of my life.
Melvin Udall: Well, maybe I overshot a little, because I was aiming at just enough to keep you from walking out.

Favorite Smell
The first fire of the season, fall, rain and strangly enough I like the smell of gasoline-prolly a vitamin deficiency

Favorite Vacation Spot
ANY place tropical!!!

My confession for today: I have a dr appt today wish HIM luck-I'm a total mess today!

GrandParents Day- Guest Post

2010-09-10T07:44:00.000-05:00

Today my mom is my guest poster...however she doesn't know she is my guest poster =) I would link up her blog BUT Ireallydon'tthinksheblogsanymore!

She wrote this and emailed it to me yesterday...it brought tears to my eyes for many reasons, for the love she feels for her grandchildren, the fact my daddy isn't here anymore to share in the love of a grandchild...many reasons...

_________________________

Twenty years ago, I found I had fallen in love again. I was captivated by his deep blue eyes, his spontaneous smile and contagious laughter; I was totally under his beguiling spell. My heart was completely taken by him as I acted uncharacteristically foolish with every bit of news about him.

As Grandparents Day on Sunday approaches, my heart is still completely taken by him, and I'm still in love! The first elated joys of grandparenthood have turned into a deep, abiding love and memories of years that have delighted and still delight us.

Now I have eight grandchildren, each one wonderful, uniquely special and very much loved. This year is a landmark year for us because our first grandchild, Casey left for his freshman year at college, his very close younger brother, Trey joined the military and our youngest two grandchildren,Hayden and Colin have moved far away from us to Nebraska. A new stage in life for them. And for us.

We think, as grandparents are prone to do: Has our love, our influence, made a difference in the lives of our grandchildren? Have we imparted any wisdom to them, maybe some shining gem that will help them as they make those important young decisions? And our bright-dispositioned third-grader, Colin: Will he be stronger as he faces the more rigorous demands of childhood because of our presence in his life? Oh, please, let the answer be, "Yes!"

How can we relate to our grandchildren who are separated from us by two generations? Want to talk to them - call or text? Text and you're more likely to get an answer quickly, and yes, you can learn how to text and you'll be glad you did-I did!

We want to connect, but how when the world has drastically changed from the one we knew at their age? Music? (I loved "Elvis.") Fashion? (Well, we had our moments, too; leisure suits and beehive hairdos come to mind.) This is a question worth asking and thinking about.

Although many things change, some are timeless. Our grandchildren, like us, have hopes and dreams for their lives. A friend once told me that she asked her son why he liked being with his grandfather. He said, "He makes me feel special."

"How?" she asked. "He doesn't talk about my brothers when we're together, but about me." Our opportunities to be with them may be limited, so carpe diem - seize the day.

There are, at least in my mind, pearls of wisdom I want to pass on, especially as they leave the comforts and security of home to chart their course in life. Time passes quickly. Abby and Shelby the young teenagers looking at me now from the driver's seat of the car can change in the blink of an eye from the child riding a scooter or laughing as we are making something in the kitchen. In my mind Reese becomes an active little baby in a moment unless I remember he's almost 16. Oh, I just woke up, realized that Jessica and Hayden, have leaped into adolescence overnight.

So I seize the day, trying not to sound like I'm giving a sermon, and drop a few of those pearls on them. Truths we've found important to live by, like understanding you don't have to blow out another person's light to make yours shine; consequences follow actions, so choose well; appreciate the freedoms we enjoy and the sacrifices of those who made those freedoms possible; trust in the faithfulness of God, no matter the circumstances. I could go on but will try not to go on and on.

Without a doubt, our grandchildren have made a profound difference in our lives. They brought something into our lives we never knew we needed. Have we made a difference in theirs? Will they remember those pearls? Yes!

Grandparents can provide a strong arm around their grandchildren, whether now or remembered, which gives them the legacy of inner resources to face challenges, to remember who they are, fragrant memories of supportive family times, and the knowledge deep within their souls that, as a song from our generation and theirs - paraphrased - proclaims, "Oh I know, yes I know, Hallelujah, they just love me so."

My confession for today: That was Beautiful Mom...just Beautiful!

Random Tuesday

2010-09-07T09:56:00.000-05:00

It's Tuesday so that means it's time for Random Tuesday thoughts brought to you by the unmom

♥ Jess cleaned house yesterday while I was at work (Yes on Labor day-I worked) and while I am sure you all are thinking aww how sweet...me, not so much...I can't find anything! There is a method to my madness and she has gone and messed it all up! OH and my freezer...it has NO food in it!!! she threw it ALL out!!! here is the proof...

So she basically saved 2 pkgs of hotdogs and some freezer burnt duck and some freezer burnt mystery meat! Wanna know how I found out she did this? Of course you do...this is riveting people! This morning when I took Reese to school-it was apparent every critter within a 20 mile radius had a party in my front yard last night- digging through my garbage...

♥ Speaking of my lovely daughter, Jess-she blew up my microwave uh huh...yanno those frozen pretzels that you wrap in a wet paper towel and heat for 30 seconds...well she thought it said 30 minutes uh huh...black smoke rolling out of the microwave from every direction...and all this happened while I was at work...'KID FOR SALE...NO REFUNDS!'

♥ While we are on the topic of children...My oldest Abby drove to Owasso Friday night for the BA football game-it is like a 25 minute drive all one highway...she took her BFF, her Brother and his two friends...I am trying to explain how to get there-there is a little tricky part and it is easy to veer right and head to down town Tulsa via 244 when you need to veer left...well she SHUSHED ME! because at 16 she knows it all and since she had been there before ON-A-BUS, she didn't need no help! pfft an hour and 10 minutes later I still hadn't heard from her...so I called-they had just arrived, she had ummm missed where it got tricky and she needed to veer left, instead she took 244 to downtown and instead of turning around at the next exit...she took the scenic drive ALL THE WAY AROUND TULSA....yea sometimes MOMS do know what they are talking about!

♥ They who shall remain nameless moved my Grandma to a nursing home-I am saddened beyond words-this lady whose main job were the children-HER children, my dad and uncle and 5 grandkids has now been tucked away at a friggin nursing home...yea I am pissed! Nothing like going to visit your Grandmother at the rehab facility only to find a stranger in her room...you guessed it they didn't even bother letting EVERYONE know-oh they told 2 people and their reasoning, THEY TEXT! ummm I really don't wanna hear this via a text message and for the record they didn't pass on the info...yep I'm still pissed!

♥ Have I mentioned lately how much I love my job?

♥ I made decadent turtle brownies, they were gone in 2.5 seconds and I didn't even get one-hows that for random

For more randomness go visit the unmom and link up...
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This week I am also playing along with Follow me back Tuesday:

Follow Me Back Tuesday is another day of the week that you can gain more followers and find other great blogs to follow on a weekly basis. Follow Me Back Tuesday is hosted by Survey Junkie, Little Yaya's, Review Retreat and Boobies, Babies & A Blog.

Each week we will choose a random number every week from the blogs linked and add the random blog to the #5 spot to link to the following week.

This weeks guest host for the #5 spot is This week's Guest Host is Nicole from Mama to 3 4 Blessings.

My confession for today: I wonder how police on bikes arrest people. “Alright, get in the basket”

Countdowns

2010-08-31T09:16:00.000-05:00

Where has this year gone? anyone? There are 4 months of 2010 left, now that school has started and I am now working mid-mornings AND evenings these next few months will fly by(at least for me)...Here is a little peak of my countdown...

In 29 days my baby will be thhhhhirrrrrteen-*tears*

It is 61 days until Halloween-so enjoy carving the pumpkins or in my case drilling holes in them

Daylight savings time begins in 68 days-The days get shorter and we gain an hour of sleep

My oldest child will be sevvvvennnnteen in 79 days-*sigh*

It is 86 days until Thanksgiving-gobble gobble

In 93 days my wonderful husband will be 45-Love you babe

In 109 days this goofball will be 40-*ugh*

It is 116 days until Christmas-ahhh the Holidays

A New Year begins in 123 days-2011 sounds so futuristic

*disclaimer* I in no way shape or form meant to leave out any ones specific special day or holiday-it took me 3 hours to come up with this post-Oh I had another post ready to go, it is the rants and ravings of a madwoman just not sure I wanna hit publish...

So what does YOUR countdown look like for the remainder of 2010?

My Confession for today: Life is Good...Very Good...

True Lies(answers)

2010-08-25T08:41:00.000-05:00

Yesterday we played a little game 2 truths and a lie...Today I will reveal the answers...

One person found all my little lies, honestly it comes as no surprise to me that 'this person' knew the answers cuz I swear we were separated at birth, I mean we could be twins and all except for the fact she is 4'11 and I am 5'9 other than that we are identical... wanna know who it was? Click back there and go meet the velvet lush...

Here are the lies:

♥ I hate cooking-I LOVE to cook, would love to own my own restaurant some day, nothing big or fancy

♥ I can't stand candles or scents of any kind- I LOVE scents I burn candles year round(every summer eric swears he will divorce me if I light another candle) air fresheners ,scentsy, reed diffusers, glade plug ins...you name it I got it...

♥ I love to go out and karaoke the night away- TOTAL lie...crowds of any size mortify me and I can not sing...bad combo

♥ I love flying- I have done many posts on how I do not like flying...not now, not ever not even with green eggs and ham

♥ I love lemon in my tea- while I LOVE all lemon desserts and lemon chicken, lemon pasta,lemonade and lemon water I will literally freak out if there is lemon in my tea

so that means I was in a commercial,I did sing all I want for Christmas are my 2 front teeth, My sister and I are the same age for 10 days, I have 2 tattoos, Fall is most definitely my favorite season, YES I sleep with a 'box' fan year round, I have owned 11 different cars, I can't whistle, I used to be a parts runner and sadly when I was 6 or 7 I got an operation piece stuck up my nose and my mama made me sniff pepper to sneeze it out...

My confession for today: ‎"Had I been given all I needed all at once, then I'd have been deprived of what I needed most, faith."

Liar Liar Pants On Fire

2010-08-24T10:58:00.001-05:00

The ladies over at the RHOK have a fun McLinky Monday called 2 truths and a lie...But It's not Monday you say...that was yesterday you say...work with me here please, I am always a day late and a dollar short plus I have been laid up in bed since Friday with a pinched nerve in my back, so a little sympathy,cards,flowers or cash is an appropriate way to show your support in my time of need...

Now on with the show

Today we are going to play a game called Two Truths and a Lie.
I will tell you three things about myself and you try to figure out which one is the lie.

I'll let you know the answer in the comments section or in my next post

♥ I was in a commercial
♥ I hate cooking
♥ I once sang all I want for Christmas are my 2 front teeth in a play

Do you know which one is the lie?
_________________________

♥ My sister and I are the same age for 10 days
♥ Fall is my favorite season
♥ I can't stand candles or scents of any kind

Do you know which one is the lie?
__________________________

♥ I sleep with a Fan year round
♥ I love to go out and karaoke the night away
♥ Over the course of my life I have owned 11 different cars

Do you know which one is the lie?
____________________________

♥ I have 2 tattoos
♥ I love flying
♥ I can't whistle

Do you know which one is the lie?
____________________________

♥ I love lemon in my tea
♥ I got an operation game piece stuck up my nose
♥ I used to be a parts runner for an auto parts store

Do you know which one is the lie?
___________________________

There may be a special lil surprise for the first person who happens to know all the lies... there are 5 total lies, one in each group of 3...

My confession for today: It's raining today, I LOVE the rain and that's No lie!

Back 2 Skool

2010-08-09T09:10:00.002-05:00

It's McLinky Monday over at The RHOK and this Mondays Q is Back to school happy or sad?

Well let me see how many ways I can dissect this question...

With B2S come new clothes but not for me...a few weeks ago we took the hellions to pennys for new undies and bra-ers....I proudly places my new bra and granny panty on the counter when everyone looks at me and someone I'm not saying which someone ~~eric~~ asked me if I had some higher education in my future....

With B2S comes new supplies like paper,pens in every color,rulers,cool shiny folders and notebooks but not for me...I may or may not have accidentally on purpose dropped a bunch of green pens in one, I'm not saying which one ~~Jessica~~ of the kiddos carts implying you reallllly need these right and then she snitched on me...traitor

With B2S comes yearbooks that cost $100, $15 parking permits, making sure lunch accounts have money in them, joining PTA(at 3 different schools), cute motorcycle cops in the school zones,waking up EARLY to make a hot nutritious breakfast so I can help my kiddos get the best start on each day... this so applies to me because my wallet will be raided, I will be up with the roosters-making whatever each child would like for breakfast and I will be smiling and waving at the cute motorcycle cop on my way to drop off at school....by week 2 I will be... throwing a piece of bread and bottle of water at each child as they stumble to my car with boogies in their eyes because they wouldn't wash their face then have to turn around and come home at least twice because someone forgot something like brushing their teeth or a school ID and I am no longer smiling and waving at the not so cute motorcycle cop as I try to get my childrens to school on time without getting a ticket...Homeschoolers feel free to mock me....

With B2S comes Fall and daylight savings and cooler weather and pumpkins and Halloween and firewood...this really has nothing to do with back to school it just makes me happy....

B2S means I won't have to listen to this type of drivel all day

You doucher pro-nounced dow-sher
You dork
Your a Douche Bag-pro-nounced just like massengil would
You whore-DON'T call me the H word!
I'm rubber you are glue bounce off me and stuck on you...over and over and over

Here are the culprits on their first day of school last year...my my my have they ever changed

and so on and so on...just keepin it real folks...they are teens and while I am very blessed that they don't chase each other around with kitchen knives or resort to physical violence...their vocab arguments are insane....

I think I was suppose to be answering a question and my answer is no I am not happy, okay maybe a teeny tiny bit that they are going back to school...and I can tell you why I am not happy...quite simply...it means I am getting older...

My confession for today: I swear I am not vain! But my aching bones and wrinkles tell me otherwise and I really wanna visit a Chiropractor...he can fix anything right?

Need help with a post today? Go visit the ladies of the RHOK and link up

If You Really Knew Me...

2010-07-28T10:12:00.000-05:00

I'm watching this new MTV show...if you really knew me with Abby last night, it is intense,raw,emotional and real...almost hard to watch as these young adults reveal things they have kept guarded,hidden away from the judgmental eyes/ears of their peers...

Abby stands firm in her convictions, knows right from wrong and is very shy which comes across as snobbish, after watching the show she gets on facebook and posts a 'if you really knew me' status update then she proceeds to tell others how shy she is and that there is going to be a 'new her' this year.

Of course I love her just the way she is BUT I get the whole shy factor and how not feeling comfortable in a big group setting can be and I also get how other people can judge you for being a shy, quiet person, it's not until they spend time with you that they realize you aren't a snob or think your better than anyone...

So I am going to do my own version of If You Really Knew Me...

If you really knew me then you would know that...

♥I am a very giving person, if I have it and you needed it, it would be yours no questions asked, I would go without to be able to help someone out...

If you really knew me then you would know that...

♥Even though I share on this blog all kinds of things, in person and in a big group setting I am pretty reserved and always feel awkward never quite knowing how to keep the flow of conversation going...I once set in my car before a big blogger meet-up coaching myself on conversation starters...I still BOMBED!

If you really knew me then you would know that...

♥That shy factor I mentioned up there goes out the door with family...with family I am TOO opinionated and I am in the process of learning to keep my mouth shut...it is a slow process, the need to be in control and know everything that is going on is a powerful thing, but I am working on it...

If you really knew me then you would know that...

♥I often feel like I have failed as a Mother...that I feel like no one respects me in this house especially when all I do is bend over backwards and sacrifice for my children...I am hopeful that one day they will realize how hard parenting is...

If you really knew me then you would know that...

♥A principle of my childrens school once told me I was intimidating, I told her I was offended and I considered my involvement in my childrens education 'passion'...however that statement has haunted me for years...

If you really knew me then you would know that...

♥Due to recent events in my life I had to visit a doctor to get medication for depression and anxiety...

So tell me...IF I really knew YOU, WHAT would I know?

My confession for today: My glass is half full...

Fantasy Island

2010-07-26T11:02:00.002-05:00

The ladies over at RHOK are asking 'What is your idea of a favorite vacation?'

Boss The Plane The Plane....

We have taken many vacations over the years and I have enjoyed them all BUT the question is MY idea of a favorite vacation...

Let's stop and look at the word vacation-

Pronunciation: \vā-ˈkā-shən\
Function: noun
Usage: often attributive
Etymology: Middle English vacacioun, from Anglo-French vacacion, from Latin vacation-, vacatio freedom, exemption, from vacare
Date: 14th century

1: A vacation is a period of time during which you relax and enjoy yourself away from home.

When I am on va-ka-shen I don't wanna do anything but relax NONE of our previous vacations have been about re-lax-A-shen...more like go,go,go

So I give you Bora Bora

photos google images

Sure it's touristy but I look at those photos and go AHHHhhhh...one day my friends one day...lounging on the beach a cool ocean breeze and handsome half nekkid cabana boy at my beckon call bringing me fruity drinks...yep that's IDEAL!

Of course there are several other tropical destinations I would love to visit like Seychelles island off the east coast of Africa,Curacao Located in the Caribbean Sea, or the Pink Sand Beaches of Harbour Island

So what's YOUR ideal vacation?

My confession for today: IF your gonna dream...dream BIG

Grief Support

2010-07-08T12:08:00.000-05:00

They say laughter is the best medicine, but lately I am having a hard time finding my funny bone, with the exception of the other day I was coming out of the bathroom and Abs was coming in and the door collided with my knee, that made me laugh and cry and wince and say farfunuken a whole bunch of times.

Hospice has been sending me grief support brochures,letters,little booklets and I have been devouring them like the pioneer woman's Olive cheese bread.

Don't get me wrong...I am not walking around like a zombie, I'm not sobbing all the time, It's not like I can't function...it's more like a piece of me is missing and I feel empty sometimes.

I will walk past the fridge where Jess has taken it upon herself to be in charge of all 'papa George photos' and every few weeks a new one pops up and I stop and think back to when it was taken, what we were doing...you can see the happiness in their eyes, all 3 of my children sitting on daddys lap-YOU were never to big or old to sit on Papa G's lap, I can almost hear his voice...

Then a tear will fall and I rub the photo and say I Love You Daddy...

I have a point here...amidst all the info from hospice I found they offer grief support groups and even though I may feel like I am 'keeping it all together' I find that I have a need to discuss some things and don't want to be a Debbie Downer to my friends nor do I want to bother my sisters when they themselves are still grieving-

So I attended a group meeting where I could share my frustrations,my loss, why I feel the way I do, Why I think the way I do...I was surrounded by others in various stages of loss, I was welcomed with open arms and no one judged me, if I said something that came out wrong or made no sense no one accused me of anything and the best part...I didn't hurt any ones feelings...something that I have done lately, not intentionally of course...

They let me talk, they listened, they nodded in understanding, they told me the way I was feeling was completely normal, some had been through similar situations. It was nice,it was healing, it helped...

It's a 6 week class where you meet once a week...it's a commitment I intend to keep....

My confession for today: Confession is good for the soul...

I was nekkid in a Bass Pro bathroom

2010-06-28T10:53:00.001-05:00

If you follow me on facebook then you know this blog was down, gone, poof (if you don't follow me, then why not? hint hint sidebar links make it easy)...it was the worst feeling ever. I am hesitant to say much more for fear I will be flagged again...so instead I will just do a lil chair dance and be happy I got all my content back!

Has it really been a month since I last posted? Thanks Seth for the reminder...and I quote him here because it/his email made me laugh...

Um, it's been over a month since your last post.....WHAT IN THE CORN BREAD HELK IS GOING ON!?! GET TO POSTING!

I have the BEST friends, both online and off...for the past 2 months you have lifted me up with your phone calls,emails and text messages. Your words of encouragement and support have made me smile and filled my heart with love. I adore all of you and I Thank You for your friendship, It means the world to me...

Now on with the show...random variety...it's riveting ya'll...

♥ Abby got a job...very exciting for her and I! I watch as my oldest child becomes more and more independent, she is not a little girl anymore...she is responsible and has the same disorder as I do...NEVER being late, we would rather stab ourselves in the eye with an ice pick VS being late to anything! Anyways she works at a local tanning salon, she loves it and she loves the almost $400 she is getting bi-weekly...I am SO proud of her!

You wondering about the title of this post?

♥ I got a job as well, I am beyond excited, after 11 years of being a SAHM I am re-entering the working world. It is in the home health field, GREAT pay, GREAT hours and right up my ally.

♥ Jess dropped and broke my 6 month old Nikon...I am just hoping they will fix it since it is under warranty...in the meantime I have confiscated her little Nikon...

Told ya I had riveting stuff to post...

♥ Reese turned 15 on Fathers Day, which was a bitter sweet day for me-I had the mindset to be all sad and weepy on Saturday so as not to ruin his Birthday OR Fathers Day for Eric on Sunday. He got a newly decorated room, we bought him paint and paint brushes and tape and said have fun...I know we are so cool like that but I told him it would build character then I hugged him and said 'wax on wax off' A little later we checked on him and gave him his real BDay gift a new flat screen tv...

♥ I am pretty sure I have IBS, which has nothing to do with the title of this post but in my never ending quest of 'keepin it real' I felt the need to share so those of you out there that suffer as well can join in on my ~~pity party~~ support group...

♥ I'm gettin implants... not these kind ( . ) ( . ) but these kind =) ya see I grew up on well water great tastin' but not so good for the teeth...I'm just gonna be real honest NOT FUN! It is a slow process because I don't have Donald Trumps cash and each implant costs $2500...

♥ We took a small summer vacation to Branson, which when you think about it...really isn't a vacation at all...it was go go go gooooo, it was hot hot hot HOTTTTTT....I was forced yes forced to ride a rolla coaster(intentional misspelling back there so no need to call the grammar cops on me) and it wasn't the kiddie coaster I got away with a few years ago...it was Thunderation at Silver Dollar City-it has forwards or backwards seats-I rode forwards and the kids rode backwards so they could laugh at me AND laugh they did all I heard was cackle cackle cackle...Eric told me I said OH SH** (rhymes with SPIT) the whole time...I got whip lash,lost my sunglasses-later found on the floor by my feet and was nauseated the rest of the day...NEVER AGAIN! For realsies...

♥ This is where I'm gonna 'splain the title of this post and GUYS and I do mean GUYS as in MEN the 'Y' chromosome, as in ♂ ...I beg of you, take your cursor, move it up to the top right hand corner of your screen and for petes sake CLICK X NOW!!!

While on vacation we visited the Branson landing, it is a lovely little place, with lots of shops and restaurants and a Bass Pro...here are a few pics to give you an idea....

Remember this bench it plays a role in the story

See the landing is a nice place...so I wasn't feeling real good and I am sitting on a bench like the one above with Jess...when I get up,turn around to get my purse and shopping bags I notice every woman's nightmare staring me back in the face... I started my period and my shorts are half white...I look at Eric, I look down at the bench, I look at Eric he thinks I have developed a case of tourettes...right as I am giving him 'the look' Reese goes ewwww MOM you are GROSS ....

Let me stop here and say *UGH* I throw my overhalffulljustbought frozen lemonade at Eric and say wash the seat I'm going to the bathroom...

I pray as I'm discretely half running then walking very fast then running that THIS bass Pro is like the one at home and has a handicap stall with a sink...

It does...so I strip from the belly button down and am half nekkid in the Bass pro bathroom washing out my shorts and panties in the sink...When the even more coulditgetanyworse unthinkable happens... a mommy comes in with her little boy who needs the larger stall and the little boy is peeking in the crack of the door and I hear 'Mommy why is dat laydee nekkid in da bafroom'...I freaking kid you NOT!
I get things as clean as they are gonna get, apologize to the mommy for scaring her peeping tom of a son and rejoin my family outside bass pro...and I will have you know that my uber understanding family was ready to shop some more...when I proclaimed Hell to the NO because I am soaking wet I was met with grumbles and something about ruining someones vacation...pfft

And that my friends...if you're still my friends after reading my horror story...that is why I was nekkid in the bass pro bathroom...

My confession for today: I do things so YOU don't have too!

Where are you going?

2010-05-24T10:55:00.000-05:00

So those wonderful ladies of RHOK are at it again this week...with the question "Where are you going on summer vacation?"

Hold on a sec I gotta savor the moment...SUMMER is here!

Okay let's talk summer vacations...when the kiddos were younger planning a vacation was much easier-except for the car sickness-that wasn't fun at all OR all the flat tires, we are always guaranteed at least ONE flat tire on every single trip we have ever taken...last yr I was blessed with 2 flat tires on one trip...lovely...I know you wanna be me =)

Eric and I got to pick where we went and no one complained, we just strapped them into the car seats and away we went...fast forward to present day where EVERYONE has an opinion...

Since all 3 of them have reached the age of hormonal imbalance and OMGosh mom we are in a dead zone my cell doesn't work, we have taken ONE vacation that everyone loved...last years trip to Tombstone,Grand Canyon,Pagosa Springs and Taos-that trip had something for everyone. Lots of smiles...

We have taken them to South Padre and Abby hated it, the seaweed freaked her out...it was my favorite trip, I wanna go back...

Cue Eric...he dislikes the sun and not a fan of the ocean...he is constantly cramping my style with grumbles under his breath of skin cancer....ummm hello sunscreen...He is a Mountain Man and I the Beach Bunny...

So here we are trying to decide where to go...one wants to go to Hot Springs, One to Gulf Shores and one to Branson...so I put the 3 choices in a hat and the destination is Branson...a place we have been more times than I can count...but the biggest kid I own eric LOVES rides so Silver Dollar City it is...I was really hoping for Gulf Shores but BP anyone...

I don't ride, rides you can read about one of our previous trips to Branson Here and see the ONLY ride I rode...I had my hands in the air and everything...

Branson has some great shopping,lots of shows,good food,go carts,mini golf,wax museums, and it's not a bad drive over...we still travel with a puke bucket...just in case...

So tell me...what are your summer plans? Have a favorite destination? Ever been to Branson?

My confession for today: Now to pick lodging...this will be our first year that we need 2 rooms YIKES!

Did you know

2010-05-12T10:14:00.002-05:00

Did you know blogger in draft now offers tabs/pages? Yes they do and apparently they have since Jan...I have been a blogger in draft( yes there are 2 different blogger versions-I prefer blogger in draft over the regular version) user since I met deb at postcards from the edge and she helped me make my comments appear under my post instead in a popup window. I ♥ Blogger in draft, now I need my personal blog stylist to help me with tabs because well she rocks and ummm she did my blog and I don't know html which I need to know in this case because I had a blog stylist design the layout...ooooooo amybo where are you?

Blogger Pages lets you to publish static information on stand-alone pages linked from your blog. For example, you can use Pages to create an About This Blog page that discusses the evolution of your blog, or a Contact Me page that provides directions, a phone number, and a map to your location.
You create a page similar to how you write a blog post. From Blogger in Draft click the Posting | Edit Pages tab, then click New Page. (Note: you can create up to 10 pages.)
Once your page is published, you can link to it from the new Pages widget. The Pages widget lets you add links to your pages as tabs at the top of your blog, or as links in your blog's sidebar.
In the Pages widget, you can decide which pages will have links, and in what order they will appear. You can also choose whether or not you want links automatically created for pages when you create them by checking or unchecking the box to the left of Add new Pages by default.
Finally, for those of you that have custom templates, your custom template may not automatically support Pages as horizontal "tabs".

Cool Huh!

In other did you know news...

♥ We have 7 more days of school left-well not me I don't go to school, but rather my childrens so that affects me too...that means sleeping in,no more homework,no teacher conferences...can I get an AHHHHH

♥ I am even more confused after watching last nights LOST epi

♥ That we have 3 house phones and I can not find any of them

♥ That I should be outside pulling weeds from my flowerbeds

♥ Did you know...I'm not

♥ That I was beyond bummed that 'The Cowboys' Jet & Cord didn't win the amazing race!

♥ That I think Kelly Ripa needs to eat a turkey leg or 10

♥ That Jess dyed some of her hair blue and Abby did purple streaks

♥ Did you know I have to pick my battles... that it's only hair

♥ That I think you all are extra special and I appreciate each and every one of you!

♥ My mothers day gift was a Pike Pass for those of you who couldn't figure out my hangman clue

♥ Did you know...I actually liked it

♥ Did you know I will be having an upcoming CSN giveaway for a $50 gc to their site

♥ Did you know CSN has over 200 stores to shop from...I am very excited look for the giveaway in the next week or so

My confession for today: Happy Hump day!

photo courtesy google images

A to Z...Get 2 Know Me

2010-05-10T09:59:00.006-05:00

So those lovely ladies over @ The RHOK do this mclinky monday where they give you a question and you answer it. This weeks q is Know me from A-Z...

so in an effort to help you get to know more about me using the alphabet... here are some lil tidbits...

A is for Abby my beautiful and sweet oldest daughter, I was so elated to find out I was having a little girl. I had her name Abby Lain picked that same day and never wavered...

B is for Bag Lady I LOVE bags,purses,handbags,totes,clutches. I am embarrassed to tell you how many I own. Right now I am coveting this lil beauty and you can be summer ready with your own Beach Bag too.

C is for Coffee it makes my world go round and round. Oh how I love thee with Hershey's

D is for Doggers my lil loyal companion is Ginger, she never back-talks and loves me no matter what

E is for Eric my husband. Who lets me boss him around and lets me think I am always right, who loves me in-spite of all my flaws..

F is for FaceBook I ♥ FB...friend me or join my decisionally challenged page-links are on my sidebar

G is for God, my Rock and Savior

H is for Housewife more specifically The Real Housewives of....on Bravo, my guilty pleasure

I is for Italy a place I would love to visit

J is for Jessica my youngest,my baby, she was to be named Ashlyn Morgan had her name picked out for months even had stuff monogrammed with that name...then the day she was born Eric tells me he doesn't like that name UGH-well he liked Morgan b/c that was his very good friends last name it was Ashlyn he didn't favor, we were literally leaving the hospital and the staff is saying YOU MUST NAME THIS CHILD FOR THE BC!

K is for KISS the band,the movie Detroit Rock City(great movie) and Gene Simmons Family Jewels another guilty pleasure...all KISS related

L is for Laughing Cow Cheese LOVE this stuff! It comes in the perfect portion size and it is YUMMY!

M is for Mom... my mom whom I would be lost without,she is one-of-a-kind,she is beautiful,she has a kind heart and soul she is my Mom

N is for New York Style Bagel Crisps one of my favorite snacks-try dipping them in hummus

O is for outlaw and I am related to one Belle Star aka Myra Belle Shirley

P is for punctuality, I am always on time or early for everything-being late is not in my vocabulary...just ask my mom

Q is for Quirks I have many and I enjoy hearing other peeps-a few of mine I dip my fries in real mayo,I can't sleep without a fan blowing and not a ceiling fan but a box fan,I dip my popcorn in tea,I can not watch a movie in a theater I wait for the DVD release...make me feel normal...PLEASE share some of your quirks...

R is for Reese my son, my sweet son who looked like an alien when he was born with his cone-head, he was suppose to be named Ethan but I've never met an alien named Ethan...he was 2 weeks early weighed 9lbs1oz and 21inches long...he is my baby boy and I don't think he looks like an alien anymore

S is for Sisters and I have two Rebecca and Laura and I love 'em more than KISS,Laughing Cow Cheese and NY Style bagel Crisps

T is for Two Hours-that's how long it has taken me to make it to the letter T...T is also for Twitter and I am not a tweeter I have an account but rarely check it

U is for Umbrella...I do not own one-I do however like Rhiannas song Umbrella

V is for vacation, summer vacation ahhhh, I am trying to come up with a fun destination for this year-it will be hard to top last years trip to Grand Canyon National Park,Tombstone,Taos and Pagosa Springs

W is for Wii which is currently collecting dust

X is for kisses as in X♥X♥ and I love giving them and receiving them

Y is for Yearbook photo-heres mine BA Class of 89

Z is for Zany...that's me....

My confession for today: Guess what I got for Mothers Day...go ahead I'll wait....okay I'll give you a hint hangman style:2 words: P_ K_ / _ASS

*disclaimer* I screwed up my very first time to participate in a RHOK event... go figure...I didn't know I was suppose to answer specific questions-they'll prolly never invite me back...so sorry to anyone visiting from RHOK so to help you out a little... I will be 40 this year,I have a queen size bed which i am still pissed that i allowed eric to talk me into downsizing,green is my favorite color,I awake at 5:45am,I prefer silver to gold,I'm right handed,I am 5'9 but I'm so round you can't tell it, I do wear undies me and the granny panty are like this &, I'm NEVER late(see above) I love ALL veggies garden fresh tomatoes being my fav,I love all the animals at the zoo except the snakes, I am decisionally challenged and obviously can't follow directions...

Daddy...I Remember...

2010-05-02T11:51:00.003-05:00

As Most of you know my daddy passed away Saturday April 24th...If I told you that just because we knew this day was coming makes/made it any easier I would be lying...fact of the matter is, we thought we had more time...Isn't that always the case?

As I sit here trying to process the past 7 days...I realize...I can't...I was in a daze, my mind in disbelief-clouded in fog and my heart broken...there are images I am fighting hard to remove from my memory, I have guilt that I wasn't there sooner...did I do enough...did he know how very much he was loved...did he know how much I loved him...

I thought I understood loss,pain and hurt when my Grandpa passed away 8 years ago...I didn't...

I called my daddy at 9:10am to let him know I was on my way down, he didn't sound good but mornings were always rough for him...I detected an urgency in his voice that will haunt me for the rest of my life...I called my Uncle Tommy and asked him to go take daddy some breakfast and check on him and that I would be right behind him...

By 10:30am Daddy was in Heaven wrapped in the Lords Wings basking in his Glory...

This is where I say It isn't fair and I want him back...my heart aches,my eyes red and swollen...Loss leaves you feeling empty...so empty...

__________________________________

A few weeks ago I asked daddy to make a message for his answering machine-he had the standard preset message playing. He bulked at first but when I said 'daddy maybe when you are in town and can't get to the phone maybe I wanna hear your voice' We made a GREAT message and I had no idea how many times I would be calling his house the past 7 days just to hear his voice...one more time...

Over the past 2 years I have shared my daddy with you all through this blog...so if you don't mind I would like to share a little bit more...

My parents divorced when I was around 8 years old but these are some of the memories I hold dear...

I remember him carrying me a mile and a half to our closest neighbors house 'The Blues' to wait for the school bus because we lived so far back in the woods that his truck wouldn't make it down the road when the weather was bad.

I remember one Christmas Eve hearing santas sleigh bells and a Hearty Ho Ho Ho and running down the stairs to see a tree full of presents

I remember him taking us to see Star Wars and The Color Purple in Muskogee

I remember riding on his horse Goldie where he packed us a lunch in his saddle bag and shared an afternoon together just me and him

I remember Rhinestone Cowboy playing on a little radio while he put horseshoes on his horse in the front yard

I remember eating dog food while he worked in the horse barn outside our modest house on the farm

I remember falling off the bunk bed and cracking open my eyebrow and he took care of me

I remember that we didn't have a phone but rather a CB and I would say 'breaker breaker 1-9...flintrock you out there?'

I remember he bought me a total of 4 cars...a mustang that was a lemon, broke down on the turnpike the day he bought it, then a pea green 3 speed duster that I shared with my sister, then a big 4 door white impala and last a red camaro

I remember how much he loved us and that there wasn't anything he wouldn't do for us...

I remember that everyone knew my dad and if they didn't it wasn't long before they did

I don't remember my dad ever spanking me and I don't remember him ever raising his voice in anger I do remember the kindest soul anyone could ever hope to meet...

As I was older...I remember my Wedding Day where daddy walked me down the grass isle while family and friends sat on bales of hay...

I remember daddy being at the hospital for all 3 of my childrens births

I remember daddy never judged another human being a day in his life

I remember our trip to Schulenberg Texas last Summer...oh how I remember that I wouldn't let you change a flat tire-that I made you wait for AAA...it was because I loved you daddy...not because I didn't think you could do it...it was dark on a busy highway...I worry to much...

I remember a fair and honest man

I remember the Greatest Man in my life and he will not be forgotten...

Daddy I LOVE and MISS you dearly...

__________________________________

♥George Wayne Shirley, 63, passed from this life, Saturday, April 24, 2010.
During his declining health he never complained and he held on to Gods
promises. George was born October 6, 1946 to W. J. and Elvira Annie (Kunz)
Shirley in Muskogee. He grew up on the family farm and was a graduate of
Okay High School, class of 1964.

He served his country in the signal core of the United States Army for 2
years, with a tour duty in Europe. Once home he dedicated 44 years of his
life to Container Corp where he had life long friends.

George was an avid horseman, from an early age and that passion carried
into adulthood where he spent many hours being a scout for the Okie-Arkie
trail-riders and cutting trails. He never felt more at peace than when he
was riding his loyal companion, his horse Kracker whether it was in the
mountains or the pasture.

George was a devoted father, son, brother, grandfather and he will be continually missed.

He was preceded in death by his father. He leaves behind to cherish his
memory, three loving daughters and their husbands, Georgina & Eric Johnson
of Broken Arrow, Rebecca & Chad Graham of Bentonville, AR, Laura & Will
Fairchild of Checotah; eight precious grandchildren, Abby & Reese Lawley,
Jessica Johnson, Hayden & Colin Graham, Casey, Trey & Shelby Fairchild;
his mother; brother & sister-in-law, Tommy & Marilyn Shirley; two nieces,
Michelle & Renee Shirley and a host of other family and friends♥

My confession for today: Time may heal all wounds BUT it is God who gives you peace and comfort while you are waiting to heal...and today I need to be carried...

Friday Fragments

2010-04-23T09:14:00.001-05:00

It's Friday-YAY! I haven't played along with Friday Fragments in a long time and since that's all I seem to be as of late...one big walking fragment, I'm joining in today...a quick disclaimer to my wonderful male readers you may wanna skip over the first 2 fragments-of course saying that just prolly made you wanna read them all the more...but you were warned...just sayin...

♥ I have 2 daughters they are the joys of my life except the week prior to a certain time of the month. I mean I can barely tolerate ME a week before a certain time of the month. Factor in those two and it is a cat fight that could rival Uma Thurman and Daryl Hannah (Kill Bill Volume 2). Only thing missing is a black mamba snake.

♥ Let's talk leggins... yanno those thicker than tights,footless,typically made of lycra and oh so comfy attire? Well I own a pair, I love them...one of my childrens, who shall remain nameless, says to me... hey MOM nineteen eighty called they want their clothes back...REMIND me to NEVER wear certain articles of clothing during a certain teenagers time of the month! VICIOUS I tell you....cycles that is, not one of my oh so sweet daughters...

♥ My son recently attended a Church man retreat for a weekend, a cool rainy weekend-that he under packed for-wouldn't listen to me when I offered helpful advice about long sleeves and trash bags, he came home soaking wet,exhausted and covered in poison ivy...but it was worth it, he has been the kindest, most polite, charming young man. It is like I have a different child. I had considered sending him to military school or signing him up to be on the show Worlds Strictest Parents. But now I have the youth Pastor on speed dial... who knew all I needed to do was drop him off in the middle of nowhere, when rain is forecasted with a bunch of 7th-12th graders to get him to realize his status on the totem pole...

♥ So much has happened over the past month I forgot to shamelessly brag that my Abby made the BA Varsity cheer squad for the 2010-2011 school year. So let me take a moment and say Abs we are so PROUD of you, we may have to take out a second mortgage, sell my car and start riding bikes,eat more ramen to pay for this year of cheer but dagnabit it will all be worth it watching you cheer from outside the gates during Friday night lights...I kid I kid Love you Abby *RAH*

♥ My Grandma aka Ena got a hearing aide,she fought it, said she didn't need no stinkin' hearing aide. She has complete hearing loss in one ear and the other ear needed a hearing aide and let me tell you just one reason why...I lost my ena in wal*mart one day, I only turned around for a second then *POOF* she was gone. Jess and I split up walking around the store calling out her name Ena, Enaaaa, ENAAAAA....all I could think was great my family will never forgive me for loosing our Grandmother-it didn't matter that some little 4 year old in the bra and panty section was mocking me by saying Ena Ena or that people were giving me strange looks...so I do what any good grand daughter would do... walk up to customer service and beg them to issue a code Adam, they looked at me like I was crazy but srsly I had visions of her wandering around the parking lot with her cart of stolen groceries and I didn't have bail money...They offered to page her over the loud speaker...Elvira, Elvira Shirley please come to the CS desk your party is waiting...she never came....My cell phone rings and Jess says she has her cornered in the automotive department...I rush back there Thankful we found her and ask her what she is doing in automotive....HUH? she couldn't hear me...I told her we had been paging her over the loud speaker...HUH? she says...when my heart rate returned to normal I very loudly said WHY ARE YOU IN AUTOMOTIVE...her reply...I'm looking for elastic I have a pair of pants that are too big and I am going to put in some elastic...

♥ Just call me Mrs Robinson...I have a serious crush on Jason Ritter...

For more Fridays Fragments please visit Barb from Half Past Kissin Time

Last but not Least my dear sweet bloggy friend Hallie from Wonderful World of Wieners Lost her precious son CJ, Please keep this family in your thoughts and Prayers or click over and leave her a comment-I am at a loss as to how to properly convey my sadness...Hallie I ♥ You!

My confession for today: Only 4 more weeks of school left *squeals* I am SO ready for Summer!

Life... it's just a rough draft...

2010-04-07T17:26:00.000-05:00

*disclaimer* this post is all over the place-meaning I'm a nervous wreck-read at your own risk*

I really dislike doom and gloom but sometimes life deals you your hand and you have to make the most of it. I like to think of myself as a strong person, a realist even, a never let 'em see you sweat kinda gal... even though 'secretly' I am the biggest freaker-outer you will ever have the pleasure of meeting.

Through everything we have been told over the past two weeks, I kept my sweaty pits and nerves at bay while secretly at night I would cry into my pillow-it's not that I don't wanna show emotion...believe me I can get 'fired up' real quick but rather I have been trying to be strong...strong for my sisters,strong for my children...just strong. Strong is over-rated ya'll...

I call my daddy 2 or 3 times a day to remind him how great I think he is-to tell him I love him how very much I Love Him,we spent Easter with him, our entire family...it was fun...it was what we all needed. BUT we need more...more time,more days like Sunday,more memories....more more more...it's not fair...he's only 63...we all live on borrowed time I guess...

I got sick on Easter-I thought it was nerves then Abby got sick as well, then Tuesday Reese starts feeling bad...we can't be around daddy IF we are sick. So I have not been able to go down and stay with him...he is pretty much home-bound he will get out and ride his 4-wheeler to get his mail(which he probably shouldn't be doing-BUT are you gonna tell him no? me either!) He doesn't drive now,which means someone has to take him food and or come get him and take him to town...us country folk say 'goin to town' I may live in the city but I will always be a country girl at heart....it will always be...goin to town...

To say I am scared is an understatement...to say I am disappointed that I haven't been able to stay with daddy is also an understatement...so last night when I called him, he asked me to contact MD Anderson in Houston for a second opinion, I knew I could tackle that...Daddy is a fighter...so now we wait for MDA to get all his medical records and see if they think they can help him...I hate waiting...but I did what I could...

I know how bad things are, but I have to keep the hope alive and have faith, in the meantime the realist in me comes out and knows there are things we must face and deal with...like funeral arrangements,music for the celebration of ones life and I wrote my first obit last week...yes full of my bad grammar & poor punctuation skills-that I was once mocked for and I left important things out-the paper is covered in doodled ♥hearts♥...but it is just a rough draft...isn't that what we all are...a rough draft...of something bigger and better to come? I must have faith that it is...

Can I ask a favor? Please keep my dad in your thoughts and Prayers...please...I don't like all this sadness I have been posting, I am trying to re-find my happy,my weird sense of humor,my posts about my lively,crazy but lovable childrens, Lord Knows I'm trying...

My confession for today: I can Only Imagine... by Mercy Me

Time...

2010-03-30T09:29:00.000-05:00

Is it harder knowing that your days are numbered vs a sudden death? I mean when you know that you just have a few months left it gives you time... time to say what you might not have gotten the chance to, time to say I Love You a million times, time to hug, time to celebrate memories and time to create new ones...knowing gives you time to process and grieve slowly...time to find Salvation...

Time is a funny thing, sometimes it is easily wasted as it drags on and other times it flies by.

As I have tried to process the past 5 days time has given me so many emotions, like a roller coaster with it's ups and downs,highs and lows, Hope depleted but replaced with Faith...

I have debated writing about this but if I don't get it out I feel like I am going to explode...

A lot of you have followed my daddy and his story through this blog, then there came a time when I couldn't blog about him and what was going on with the cancer, it was to hard to face, the knowing what was coming and now that daddy is facing the end of his life it doesn't make it any easier to blog about BUT I have this sudden urge to tell you about the Greatest man in my life...

Like if I document it, it will make it go away, time will stop,stand still...I know that time does not work that way...

My daddy is one of a kind, he makes an impact on everyone he meets, daddy doesn't know a stranger...anyone that has ever had the pleasure of meeting him is a better person because of it...

My daddy is George Shirley, I am named after him, I am so PROUD of that fact...
My daddy is a fighter...
My daddy is kind...
My daddy is fair...
My daddy would do anything for you...

I LOVE MY DADDY!

Daddy gets to go home from the hospital today, hospice is being called in and in the coming weeks our entire family will be there rallying around him...reminding him how much we love him and that he is the Greatest Man in our lives

So I am going to take some time off...I'd like to take this time and ask for your Prayers

I want to leave you with a song that daddy requested every Sunday in church when he was a child...

Church in the Wildwood

There's a church in the valley by the wildwood
No lovelier place in the dale
No spot is so dear to my childhood
As the little brown church in the vale

Chorus:
Oh, come to the church by the wildwood
Come to the church in the dale
No place is so dear to my childhood
As the little brown church in the vale

Additional Verses:
How sweet on a clear Sabbath morning
To list to the clear ringing bell
It's tones so sweetly are calling
Oh, come to the church in the vale

There, close by the church in the valley
Lies one that I love so well
She sleeps, sweetly sleeps, neath the willow
Disturb not her rest in the vale

There, close by the side of that loved one
Neath the tree where the wild flowers bloom
When the farewell hymn shall be chanted
I shall rest by her side in the tomb

My confession for today: Time is not always on your side...so make the most of it everyday...

29 Days of Giving Challenge

2010-03-23T08:16:00.000-05:00

I was catching up on FB when I came across So Wonderful So Marvelous latest blog post. She is doing the 29 days of Giving Challenge and has in turn inspired me to do so as well.

The premise is simple really, everyday do something for someone else... from the ning site, 29 Gifts is a global giving movement with nearly ten thousand members in 42 countries. Our collective mission at 29 Gifts is to revive the giving spirit in the world. We change lives—and change the world—one gift at a time. Give one thing away each day for 29 days. Your 29 Gifts can be anything given to anyone... money, food, old sweaters, smiles, your time, kind words or thoughts.

This appeals to me on many levels, but mainly because I think (at least for me) it is so easy to get caught up in our own lives and sometimes live in our own little 'me,me,me world'. By joining the challenge I am holding myself accountable gaining an attitude of gratitude and hope to make an impact on someones life everyday, no matter how big or small. Plus I will hopefully set an example for my own children, who, after all, are a 'reflection of me'.

I won't post every day but I will update my facebook status every day, so if your not already my FB friend just click the FB icon on my sidebar so you can follow my journey.

If you would care to join me and many others on this journey just click below

My confession for today: I think I just did my first act of giving...in the form of SILENCE-while Eric was smacking away on his cereal *ugh* I did not once sigh heavily,roll my eyes or leave the room...I just bared it...I think I am off to a good start =)

Visit 29-Day Giving Challenge

Calling all Okies

2010-03-19T12:41:00.001-05:00

My friend Amy, my High School friend that I reconnected with this past summer is a real go-getter when it comes to causes and she has recruited me to help, help in a small way...Please read on...

Tulsa’s Twenty New Leaders
benefiting The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
April 1, 2010
Renaissance Hotel

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease affecting approximately 30,000 children and young adults in the United States. More than 10 million Americans (one in 31) are symptomless carriers of the defective gene. When the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation was founded in 1955, few children with CF lived to attend elementary school. Today, the median age of survival for people with CF is more than 37 years.

The Foundation is one of the most effective and efficient organizations of its kind. It has received a four star rating for sound fiscal management from Charity Navigator, the largest independent charity evaluator in the United States, and is an accredited charity of the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance.

The Sooner Chapter of The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation will host the 8th annual “Tulsa’s Twenty New Leaders” fundraising event on April 1st at the Renaissance Hotel. Over 400 guests will attend

This event features a distinguished group of Tulsa’s young professionals who exemplify leadership qualities, are active in volunteer roles and contribute to the Tulsa business community. Each honoree is required to raise $3500 in donations to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Jo Ann Winn, Executive Director, expects the event to net over $100,000. The Sooner Chapter annually raises over $1,000,000 net to help fund CF research.

Each honoree will be featured the night of event with an award presented by the Sooner Chapter Junior Board president, Brad White, a commendation from Governor Henry and a proclamation from Mayor Bartlett.

This black-tie event will feature an exclusive live auction with several exciting packages including: A foursome Golf Outing at Southern Hills Country Club, Dinner for Six at a Tulsa Fire Station, VIP tour tasting for 4 to Far Niente and Nickel & Nickel Wineries with a collection of private estate wines from both wineries, 2009 CFF Event Package, foursome golf package at area golf clubs, Progressive Dinner Packages. The silent auction will have over 75 items including: golf outings, dinner gift certificates, spa packages, concert tickets, tires, yoga, and much more.

The evening includes a seated dinner and music by the Steve Liddell Band. Our bid for a cure speaker will be Miss Lo Detrich. Lo was diagnosed in 1984 with CF. She has had 2 double lung transplants and has been an ambassador for the CF Foundation her entire life. Lo’s speeches are uplifting and inspirational to all those around her.

***There will also be a raffle drawing of a wonderful dining package that includes 4 gift certificates valued at $250( That's $1000 total in fine dining) each to Elements Steakhouse and Grille, The Ivey Rooftop Wine Bar and Lounge on Brookside, Mahogany’s Prime Steakhouse and P.F. Chang’s China Bistro. This is where I am asking for your help, I am helping sell raffle tickets for $10. I know we all can't attend BUT we can have a chance at some wonderful fine dining while helping out a Great Cause. If you live close to the Tulsa area and are interested in a raffle ticket please email (email on my sidebar) me and I can meet you to get you your ticket. If you are a little to far to meet me you can still help by contacting...Jo Ann Winn or Amy Blackwell at the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, (918)744-6354 or purchase tickets online at Tulsa CF

The winning raffle ticket will be drawn by the 2010 CF Ambassador Miss Hannah Nicole Hoffman. Hannah is a beautiful 7 1/2 year old. She was diagnosed at the age of 15 months with Cystic Fibrosis. Her family has been blessed with her being a healthy CF child. She takes medication (enzymes and breathing treatments). She enjoys Gymnastics and Broken Arrow Cheerleading. Hannah also takes guitar lessons with her father and wants to be the next Taylor Swift. She loves playing with her friends, her cousin Mckenzie, and her sister Harlee. Hannah is involved at church and has many friends who pray to find a cure for CF.
In the below photo are Heather, Hannah, Angie and Amy

Abigail Thomas is the chair of the event and Justin Lund is the Auction Chair. The committee is compromised of the Sooner Chapter’s Junior Board:

Brad White, President

Abigail Thomas, Vice President

Kathleen Barrett

Jessica & Erik Block

Amy Bradshaw

Carly Bush

Lauren Carter

Marla Carter

Amanda Clinton

Jenny Collver

Krista Derby

Kristi & Josh DeBoer

Lo Detrich

Matt Foste

Whitney Hoskins

Laurel Johnson

Janna Lemons

Justin Lund

Adrienne & Dave Nathman

Roy Nelson

Emily & Ryan Neurohr

John Richer

Andrew Shank

Sara C. Smith

Honorees include:

Charles Bendana, Ben-Trei Ltd.
Kaitlin Bullock, Medical School Student
James Cooper, Center 1 Market
Deborah Croisant, Muse Intimates
Brandon Diles, University of Tulsa
Tiffany Ellis, River Spirit Casino Amy Ellman, Community Action Project
Patrick Graham, Clear Ridge Capital
Shondel Heald, Senior Star
Dr. Robert Herman, Dr. Robert J Herman, DDS
Paul Iskat, Northwestern Mutual Life- Oklahoma
Joe Millspaugh, Samson Resources
Kym Morellla, Blue Cross Blue Shied
Andrea Myers, Williams Companies
Margaret Rosene, Bank of Oklahoma
Seneca Scott, US Representative, District 72
Terrell Siegfried, Hall Estill
Matt Stiner, Tulsa Veterans Treatment Court

Premier sponsors of the event include Anonymous in Honor of Lo Detrich; Debbie & Mike Allred, CMark Resources, LLC, James A. and Mary P. Bush; Mesa Products, Ralph and Frances McGill Foundation/Trust Company of Oklahoma, Senior Star Living, Williams Companies, WR Thomas and The Anne and Henry Zarrow Foundation.

Event contributors are: auctioneer Jay Litchfield, emcee Justin Wilfon from KJRH channel 2; Ralph Cole Photography, Williams. And Petroleum Club

Table sponsors include:

Honoree Sponsors: Ben-Trei, Ltd and Dr Robert Herman, DDS

Chairman Sponsor: Williams Companies

President Sponsors: Don Thornton Cadillac HUMMER Saab, Rosebury Charitable Trust

Director Sponsors: Abigail Thomas, Anonymous in Honor of Amy Ellman, Hesselbein Tire Inc, Eller & Detrich, OND Financial Solutions, University of Tulsa, and Winston Company.

Sponsorships are still available to support an honoree. Table sponsorships are available for a donation of $3500 which will include two VIP reserved tables for ten guests, a donation of $2500 will include two VIP reserved tables for eight guests, a $1500 sponsorship will include a table for ten guests, a donation of $1000 will include a table for eight guests. Individual tickets are $100.

My confession today: I really hope my email box starts overflowing with your generous offers to help...Thank You!

A Much Needed Trip

2010-03-16T15:06:00.004-05:00

Just returned from 2 glorious days in Eureka Springs-that cooler weather nor drizzle could dampen. We arrived early and our Inn keepers at Candlestick cottage Inn were gracious enough to allow us an early check in. We had private/room specific parking for The Peaches suite.

Day 1

This little gem of a B&B is wonderful, our suite(1 of 4) was spacious, overlooking the hollow below where deer roam. Sitting on the patio outside our room in the evenings you could hear the music waft up from the downtown area. Heavenly!

Due to the Inns perfect location we were able to park our car, walk the one block to all the shops in the downtown area-this luxury probably saved us close to $15 in parking fees since we spent the entire day downtown, shopping,snacking and finding the perfect spot to watch the St Paddys day parade.

We needed fuel for our bodies-so we headed to Mama Rouxs only to discover they were closed BUMMER because I really wanted to try their muffalatta, we moved on to Chelseas to have some of their famous pizza, again not open when we tried for lunch. Thankfully I did my research and had a backup plan we headed to The Pizza Bar for their very reasonable lunch buffet. Some of the BEST pizza I have ever had. around $6pp

We stopped by Eureka Live for some adult beverages-a very cool underground location with tin ceilings LOVE the tin ceiling. There is a huge table with hats all kinds of hats for you to wear while you are there, from a marketing standpoint I found that genius! The service there was out of this world, the owners formally from a town in Oklahoma worked behind the bar and in front of the bar delivering bowls of candy to the patrons and complimentary juicy fruit shots. Eureka Lives tag line is 'What Happens underground...stays buried' Love that!!!

We had plans to go to Autumn Breeze for dinner but due to the fact Eric had been on 19 straight days of nights he was exhausted, so for dinner we opted to get Bubbas BBQ to go and enjoy in our room.

We hadn't eaten at Bubbas BBQ in years and after I devoured my ribs,slaw and baked beans I was left asking myself WHY WHY WHY had we not been back sooner? The ribs were perfect IMHO the smokey flavor was spot on. I LOVED their slaw(I am still dreaming about the slaw) and beans and the sauce was divine! YUM-O Bubbas gets 5 stars from us. Ribs for 2 with sides and bread $26...no photos because remember I said 'devoured'

Some random ES photos from our trip

Day 2

Breakfast at Candlestick cottage Inn is served at 9am on their treetop porch. Upon arriving tables were preset with plates,water and juice then you are offered coffee,hot tea, hot chocolate or mochas. Our first course was vanilla yogurt with strawberries and bananas, then came a warm blueberry muffin and to round out the 3 course breakfast we were served non-greasy bacon(my bacon always comes out greasy-this actually looked healthy) and a very large portion of egg/hash brown casserole. The Innkeepers shared stories with us about their travels from California to ES.

I just can not say enough about this Inn and it is one of my new favorite places to stay...

We had reservations at another property for our second night The Tree House Cottages, so we had to say our goodbyes and pack up for a new adventure...

While waiting to check in we shopped the attraction district, took a tour of the Quigley Castle-which was incredible, just the story behind how the house was built was fascinating-From the website:
Elise Fiovanti, was Italian. She came to the Ozarks when she was nine. She loved the outdoors and began to collect rocks as she walked along a creek bed to school. When she was 18 during the depression she married my grandfather, Albert Quigley. He was the type of fellow who brought her rock collection with them to the site of his farm and lumber mill. They lived in a lumber shack and had five children. My grandfather promised her a house with the lumber cut off their own property. In 1943 she designed a house that would allow her to bring nature indoors. It would be her dream house. The lumber was cut and drying in a long chicken house below the shack. However, WWII was going on, and supplies were rationed. My grandfather thought they should wait to build the house, especially as the design called for 32 large windows, and glass was rationed. They argued about it for several months. In June, when my grandfather left for the mill, grandmother and the five children, three of them teenage boys, tore the lumber shack down. She moved them into the chicken house...read the full story HERE
Tour prices were $6.50 for adults and children 14 and under are free. Here some photos of Quigleys Castle

We had lunch at Cafe Soleil-if you have never been to this restaurant don't walk... run it was FAB, they make their dressings in-house, the parm dressing on my salad was a flavor explosion in my mouth, the hubby had the Fish taco wrap $10 plus $2 if you sub pasta salad for a house salad and I had the Old Chicago sandwich $8 both were very good!

Check-in time at Tree House Cottages...there really are no words for this place, The owners Terry and Patsy have thought of everything. We stayed in the Hidden oak tree house with it's gothic arched doorways, this tree house sits 26 ft in the air-you are definitely in the treetops-when you look out your deck it is hard to believe you are still right in town,woods and wildlife are abundant-serene comes to mind. Our tree house had a heart shaped jacuzzi, dimer switches-which are the bomb, tall windows,fireplace, modern kitchen set up, the fridge had complimentary champagne,OJ,sodas, pumpkin spice bread and various other snacks were left for us to enjoy...The Bed was the most comfy bed I have ever slept in! I wanted to bring it home with me...I can so see why this establishment rarely has an open night or rather why they are booked so far in advance...MAGICAL!

We stopped in at the Lumberyard saloon for some before dinner drinks-this has always been one of our favorite spots for great drink specials and friendly attentive service-they didn't disappoint! A few photos from The Lumberyard...these ladies come down for the parade every year! They were a HOOT!

For dinner we stumbled upon a new to us place called Rockin Pig Saloon and come to find out they are fairly new, opened in June of last year. Located in the corner of Gaskins Switch shopping center, don't let the word 'saloon' fool you this is a family style restaurant that does have a full bar, smoking is permitted outdoors only-in the 'Pig Pen' and they gladly welcome families traveling with children.

Is it just me OR does great service make everything taste better? Out of every place we visited and while we did get great service everywhere this place was just a step above-it is hard to explain...perhaps it is better 'experienced'

We started with an appetizer of Smoked Asada tacos-chopped smoked brisket topped with cilantro and onions with a slice of lime served on white corn tortillas , fresh grated cheese and avocado ranch sauce were offered by the wait staff and while the tacos were perfection as is, I gladly accepted the condiments to jazz up my taco. No photos because these babies were 'inhaled'

For our main course Eric being a rib lover had the baby back ribs $11(half rack & $19 full rack) with slaw and sweet potato fries which of course I sampled-if I am comparing to Bubbas they were meatier and had a nice flavor not as 'smoked' as I like and a little to heavy on the salt rub for my tastes but still tasty-I preferred bubbas just because they had the perfect amount of smoked flavor BUT this wasn't my meal LOL it was Erics, the slaw had a kick to it which made the Eric go Best Slaw EVER! and as for the sweet potato fries(which he doesn't even like sweet potatoes- so i was shocked he ordered them) they came with a dipping sauce that the waitress described as 'tastes like Christmas-time' and she was spot on! He thoroughly enjoyed his meal.

I had the Al Pesto pizza $10-which are wood fired, the Al Pesto was an olive oil and pesto base with fresh mozzarella,ricotta,tomatoes and roasted chicken-which I loved my only complaint was the chicken and tomatoes were sparse BUT due to the great service it was quickly overlooked on my part.

Day 3-departure day

We begrudgingly checked out of Tree House Cottages-so did not want to leave, but the real world and no less than 100 text messages from our 3 children called us back to reality.

We stopped at Mud St.Cafe for breakfast, where we passed the largest muffins I have ever seen-I should have bought one for the road-my only regret was that I didn't.

We ordered omelets that were served with cottage fries-the best tasting potatoes with onions I have ever had, I had the Greek omelet-Artichoke hearts, black olives, spinach & feta. The hubby ordered the Mexican omelet-Spicy pinto beans & cheese, topped with sour cream, salsa, tomatoes and black olives. He opted for minus sour cream and plus jalapenos-both were out of this world good!

The perfect way to end our trip...and I am already planning our next trip up...
Thank You ES for making this a relaxing and wonderful experience...I miss you already... yes it is possible to miss a town...

A few more photos of the town...

My confession for today: This trip was just what I needed...I am pretty sure it saved my sanity!

*edited for a disclaimer*: no one in Eureka Springs knows I exist, I was NOT paid for any of the above reviews, I was a wife and mother seeking refuge and ES took me in...and gave me back my sanity... I just chose to blog about it. If you are an Innkeeper,restaurant owner, hotel/motel manager or own a shop in ES I am an equal opportunity tourist...if I left you out this go round forgive me...I am scatterbrained at best...you don't wanna know my worst... I promise to come back again and again I bet I will discover you next time around!

Distance map so you can start planning your trip

Confessions

2010-03-08T11:17:00.001-06:00

This is my confession...if you have one...read on...

The past few weeks have been full of excitement,sadness,joy,disappointment basically a whole gambit of emotions and a whole lot going on.

I have been reevaluating lots of things in my life...I am Blessed with a beautiful, healthy family, I have good friends and a core support group. So what's the problem?

Well there are times I feel like things are spinning out of control and it is like I am on the outside looking in. I always try and make light or find the humor in any situation but lately I have been in a funk-is it early onset mental illness, it runs rampant in my family and I do not make light of mental illness, I understand it is a condition...

Is it the fact my children are growing up which means I am getting older, they need me less and I need them more?

Is this a mid-life crisis?

Do I just need a vacation?

Is it because I have judgmental people in my life?

All these questions are why I am left reevaluating and yes sometimes that means cutting people, family even out of my life or keeping them at arms length...it is not an ideal way to live but it is how I cope...

My little life with my little family is just a blip in the grand scheme of things, I understand there are many more people out there suffering far worse than I...but this is my space, where no matter how jumbled, how crazy I can jot it down. Some of you will completely understand, some of you won't and that's fine...

This is where I open up the confessional, for you, if you choose to share what has been weighing heavy on your mind and heart. If you don't have anything to confess perhaps you could help a confessor, the floor errrr blog is yours...

As always anon confessions are fine...

My confession for today: Confession is good for the soul...

4th Grade

2010-02-24T22:37:00.001-06:00

All through my elementary school days we moved around A LOT. I think up until 7th grade the longest I was at any school was a year and a half and it seems I remember moving twice during one school year. It was hard making friends and all that moving is something that has carried over into my adulthood fears that I carry around like a monkey on my back.

I refuse to move out of our school system because, unlike me, my children have gone to school with the same children since pre-K. I like that, they like that...Eric just wants out of dodge...

I recently reconnected with some friends from 4th grade on FB. When I attended Irving Elementary in Muskogee. Angie had this photo posted on her wall

That's me, top row center. I was very tall for my age. I had boobs and had to wear a bra-it wasn't cool to be the tallest girl and the only one with boobs. That is Mrs Cook, she was my favorite teacher ever, she was also very tall when she was young-well that's what she told me.

I remember Mrs Cook taking me aside because the boys would tease me and snap my bra, she would give me pep talks, never saying anything bad about the boys but rather trying to help me see how unique I was, instead of me trying to make my tall, boobie self invisible. She totally rocked...

That year I won outstanding student in all of 4th grade and Mrs Cook, no doubt had something to do with it. I remember when my name was called, I was scared, not wanting to get up in front of the whole school and walk down the aisle to the front and collect my award, but I looked at Mrs Cooks smiling face and everything changed...I got un-grounded...

I was grounded because we(my sister Becky and I) had asked to go play at someones house after school (about a week before the awards ceremony) Mom said yes...only thing is, we kindasortalied instead of going where we said we were going we went 2 streets over to play at another friends house who had a trampoline. We had deduced that since mom was at work she would never find out, we would be home before she got home...only thing is...she got off work early and came looking for us... not good...

When I won the award my mom ungrounded me and that meant I got to go to the end of the year Skating party. If you were child product of the 80s you know that means combs in your back pocket, suicide pops, and skating to Jam On It, Celebration, Another One Bites The Dust, Rappers Delight and YMCA(just to name a few)...it also meant that IF I didn't put on skates everyone else was as tall as I was...if only briefly...cuz THIS girl LOVED to roller skate...

4th grade and half of 5th were BIG years for me, I had good friends Shelonda and Jorinda were 2 of my closest, I liked 2 boys, Stacy and Randy-Randy would come by my house every morning with a sack full of bubble gum and jolly ranchers. Stacy gave me his arrowhead necklace to wear-which I proudly did on picture day (mom wasn't real happy about that one) I would wear my moms long faux fur coat and high heels to school-THANKS to Mrs Cook helping me embrace my tallness, I apparently felt the need to be even taller. I traded moms diamond ear rings for lip gloss-she wasn't to happy about that one either.
5th grade would usher in a more tomboyish me and it was the first and last time I got 'swats' for spitting spitballs. I collected 'NFL' pencils that were 2 for a quarter down by the office and traded them with the boys. Most days after school I could be found in our yard playing touch football with the boys. I even owned an Oakland As green baseball helmet that I so thought I rocked...then we moved again and I said goodbye to my friends and promised to stay in touch...it just took me almost 25 yrs to get back in touch...

Out of all my grades of school when I look back 4th and the first half of 5th grade are the ones I remember most fondly. Yes even if Harley use to chase me all the way home and call me spider-legs...

My confession for today: Isn't it funny the things you remember from your childhood...Do you have a certain time in your childhood that left a lasting impression?

This Is...

2010-02-24T11:11:00.001-06:00

Slim Shady aka Reese...

He Is...

Smart

Growing a mustache

Funny

Handsome

Dyed his red hair dark brown

Stubborn

Taller than me

This Is Reese...

He is...

Addicted to XBOX

His fruit of choice are Kiwis and Strawberries
Needs to clean his room

When we go out to eat...he orders 2 meals

Has the cutest freckles

Needs one of his eyebrows waxed, srsly!

He is...My son... who when he was born I said he looks like an alien take him back, I'm glad I kept him-he makes my heart beat. Reese is a hard one for me, I didn't have brothers or grow up with boys in my life on a daily basis, so some of the things he says and does leaves me scratchin' my head at times. Eric assures me it is typical boy behavior.

He hates it when I blog about him, so I won't tell you any of the crazy stuff he has pulled over the years...he says he googles my blog when he is at school just to make sure I am not talking about him. So I will just say-in case he checks up on me today, Reese I Love You more than you could possibly grasp right now, every single day a Mothers love grows and deepens for her child and you my son, are SO my child...

My confession for today: We keep passing this sickness around in our house and to be honest with you I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired! I had to reschedule my lunch date with Brandy and Sheila for cryin out loud!

Today I'm playing along with seven clown circus and her Wordful Wednesdays

Gas

2010-02-19T09:01:00.001-06:00

This is Abby...

She is...

Compassionate

Kind

Thrifty

Shy

Well Liked

Gentle

Caring

Active
Has the cutest freckles ever
a shortie
Has a heart of gold
a people pleaser
Grapes are her fruit of choice
and I am considering adding a lil dingy to the list!

My Abby girl calls me yesterday from the gas station to tell me the gas wasn't coming out of the hose

Abby: Mom the gas isn't coming out, I push the yellow 87 button right?

Me: Yes Abs push the yellow 87 button and the gas will start

Abby: Mom it won't push

Me: did you prepay?

Abby: yes

Me: then you need to go back to the window and tell them the pump isn't coming on

Abby: MOMMMMM then they will know I don't know how to pump gas

Me: ABBY...srsly! Just push the freaking button

Abby: ummm mom I'm NOT at Murphy

Me: takes a deep breath...where are you?

Abby: Quick trip

Me: #@*&^%$@(&!!!! then slide the little button UP where you removed the hose

Abby: OH that worked...dad never told me I had to slide anything

Me: Abby?

Abby: Yes?

Me: Is the yellow 87 'button' just a 'sticker'

Abby: Ummmm yes mom....

I guess I should be grateful she didn't put diesel in her gas tank. I typically get my gas at murphy where you just push a button, Eric typically gets gas at QT where there is a 'slider'. We both showed her how to gas up at 2 different stations, thinking this was a good thing...apparently we just confused her more...

My confession for today: I am SO ready for Spring...how bout you?

Sweet Child of Mine

2010-02-18T10:36:00.000-06:00

This is Jess...

She is...

Smart

VERY Decisive

Loyal

Funny

Artistic

Determined

Set-in-her-ways

Private

Never conforms

This is Jess...

She is...

My Baby

Growing Up

Sprouting Her Wings

Use to be Blond

Has one eyebrow that needs some serious waxing

Loves the term 'hippie'

Apples are her fruit of choice

LOVES Summer

She cuts her own hair

Has the most infectious laugh

I look at that second photo and see the young lady she will become, she is the polar opposite of her older sister and she made sure we knew it...she flat out told us 'I am ME and I am not going to be like Abby, I am going to be like ME!'

Good for you darling...you be like you...I wouldn't want you any other way....

My confession for today: Roots and Wings...

Random Tuesday

2010-02-16T11:45:00.001-06:00

I am not feeling well, I have the chills and an itchy-scratchy throat, my stomach feels like I just ate another can of progresso's HIGH FIBER soup...which I didn't(and a lil FYI/PSA don't eat that soup unless, unless well your constipated) but don't tell the toilet paper companies that because I am pretty sure those two companies are in bed or the 'can' together...(I am giving a whole new meaning to word 'clense') just sayin...

So today is a whole bunch of random...brought to you by the unmom

A month ago we spent close to $2000 fixing up my '96 mercury for Abby who said she would rather walk than drive the car, we laughed and said okay, I knew she would be singing a whole new tune when she actually started driving and she did...we showed her how to gas up the car, made sure she knew the rules, no cell phone or texting while driving, only ONE friend in your car etc...

The one thing we neglected to go over 'When lights come on, on the dashboard'. In our defense we just paid a lot of money to have the car repaired we really didn't expect any issues however last week she had been driving around with a red break light on the dashboard and she didn't tell us. It wasn't until Friday that she wanted Eric to show her one more time how to put gas in the car that she mentioned the red break light...

When I asked her, didn't she see the light on? she innocently replied, DUH mom, it means I need new breaks...she blew out something on the rear breaks by driving around with her PARKING BREAK ON and the front breaks would need replacing soon so another $500 spent on a car that is probably only worth maybe $1500 because it has very low miles and has only had 2 owners...I am thinking that one of her electives next year will be car mechanics at the vo-tech...

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Sunday was my 13th Wedding Anniversary, yes valentines day and YES I know it is so cliche'... Eric got me a card, chocolates and cash...the envelope that the cash was in said... Go buy yourself some clothes...LIKE A MINI SKIRT! I laughed and laughed then handed him his anniversary gift...the movie, The Hangover...as a reminder of why it's good to be married...

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Speaking of anniversaries our Eureka Springs trip has been delayed 2 weeks due to our childrens social functions...at least we still get to go...

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I won a contest over at So Wonderful So Marvelous
the coolest 80s book titled Just can't get enough, toys,games and other stuff from the 80s that rocked...
It has brought back a ton of memories not to mention Jess has taken the book over, because in an effort apparently to relive the 80s via gift giving she has many of the toys listed in the book...the look of shock and horror that I was once a kid myself on her face has been priceless...she can't grasp the fact that I played with some of the same toys, Rainbow Bright, Care Bears, Trapper Keepers and sniff stickers, light brites and the game of MASH, she thought Judy Blume was a new book series...She-ra, Strawberry Shortcake and a pogo ball...AHHHHH Thank You Michele we so ♥ the book!

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Last night someone in my lil part of the 'hood' had a lil too much fun on Presidents Day, they took out 7 mailboxes, 3 shrubs and a couple garbage cans, when I saw the first mailbox I was like oh wow they won't be getting their mail today then I saw the next mailbox and streaks in the concrete where something metal had obviously been dragged then I looked down the street and saw all the destruction...I have got to learn to sleep without my box fan...I MISS all the excitement! *disclaimer* I am glad no one was hurt but am a little disappointed I bet there were a TON of cops here last night and maybe even some hawt firemen then there is the small fact that I will still be receiving MY bills today...

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Winter formal is right around the corner, so even though I felt like 'poo' I sucked it up and went dress shopping with Abby. I pride myself on being a thrifty shopper and that I have passed this trait on to at least one of my childrens...so we headed to 12 of 12 as Jess calls the store the real name is NBC aka Name Brand Clothing and we scored... the first dress retails for $225 we got it for $24.50 the second dress(navy pleats) retails for $119 we got it for $12...usually the dresses are samples or have a minor flaw, typically simple fixes, like a strap needs sewn back on but the biggest thing is they are typically one-of-a-kind meaning no one else will be showing up at formal with the same dress because OH THE HORROR if that happened...

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My Olympic Crush is Seth Wescott...who's yours?

image courtesy flickr

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My confession for today: I just realized my beans,my childrens, my kiddos are growing up...don't ask me why this realization just hit me...but it did... like a ton of bricks

Okie Blogs

2010-02-11T08:59:00.002-06:00

I recently found out this blog was nominated for an Okie Blog Award- I am both humbled and honored to be nominated in the category of Best Family Blog. YES it is an Honor to be recognized...Thank You to whoever nominated this blog and CONGRATS to all the nominees

I am in awe of the company this blog was listed with...

918 Coupon Queen
But I Digress
Crash Test Mommy
David in Progress
Dawn's Diversions
Hiccups
Kellyology
Miss Wisabus
Rob O'Hara
Rocks in My Dryer
Sorta Crunchy
Yogi's Den

Just look at all that talent up there and that's just ONE category!

Oklahoma has such a variety of fantastic bloggers and I would like to invite you to discover them, just Click Here and if you happen to be an Oklahoma Blogger you can cast your ballot for your favorites in 24 unique categories.

It took me a few days to get through the nominations but I have sent in my ballot-voting ends Feb 14th

Last but not least a BIG Thanks to jenX67 who had the daunting task of pulling this all together. I ♥ ya Jen!

My confession for today: I've been reading so much about the bad effects of SMOKING, DRINKING and OVER-EATING that I have finally decided to GIVE UP READING! I dunno whose quote that is BUT I like it...

Friday Fragments

2010-02-05T11:01:00.000-06:00

Oh Yeah it's Friday which means it's Friday Fragment time...

I had to get glasses, as if the wrinkles,dark circles under my eyes, and hot flashes weren't already enough to remind me that I'm not in my twenties anymore, I now proudly sport these

Eric laughed at me...he said I picked out grandpa glasses...what, are we like 11? AND this coming from a man who wears the goofiest nineteen seventies glasses evah...pffft

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I just realized I haven't posted since the 29th...that's either a good thing or a bad thing...truth be told so much has happened in my life I am just spent in every sense of the word...

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A friend of Abby's committed suicide last Friday, his funeral was yesterday...the loss of this young man has left me reeling...Parents PLEASE talk to your tweens and teens-Suicide is NEVER the answer...

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Speaking of Abby she has had her drivers license for almost 2 weeks now, it is just so surreal to me, that I have a child that is driving...chalk that one up to making me feel older too...

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Have ya'll been to urban dictionary? It has been going around on FaceBook... Well against my better judgment I went and typed in my name and it told me this:

Georgina = Angel from Above

A beautiful name,(an angel from above) a fantastic name for a girl, Especially when a special someone is amazing in so many ways, kind in heart and soul, but most of all a smile that lights up a dull and dark room. Beautiful in every way.

I was all like awww I have a nice name then I continued to read-which I don't advise you to read past the first definition of your name if you visit urban dictionary because it went on to tell me this...

First there is town called georgina-not so bad...

Georgina (Population 42,346) is a town in south-central Ontario,Canada, eh?

Then it told me...

A person who steals other people's boyfriends, including their friends'.
which I find comical...but just incase, ya'll keep your boyfriends away from me...don't say you weren't warned =)

But that wasn't the end of my name definition-
A Chicken farmer in the reigon of Grimsby ontario who is a slut, likes DC and scares little children away.
I guess back in Ontario I have a reputation of sorts

and lastly...

a girl who has rats/mice in her room
You heard it here first folks...

My confession for today: I have a fun hair accessory giveaway coming up next week

For more Friday Fragments please visit Half Past Kissin Time

SeeHere Winners

2010-01-29T10:36:00.000-06:00

We have survived the ice storm, now the snow is moving in...the kiddos are out of school and still snoozin'... apparently 620+ schools around the State are closed today and the weather channel is calling our lil storm in our lil state a 'triple threat' freezing rain/sleet/snow = triple threat...I know I know I am NO Al Roker...

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I have contacted all the winners from the SeeHere contest/giveaway... typically I would upload pictures of random number thingie and the comment BUT photoscape the program I use to screen capture is being contrary this morning...

Here is the order that random number thingie pulled the winners

Comment # 41 Dawn Sollitto-Dawn my email to you was returned(twice) saying your mailbox is full-Please remember you have 24 hrs to contact me before a new winner will be chosen in your place

Comment # 38 Chocolate Covered Daydreams

Comment # 96 Dream Cleavers

Comment # 5 Colorado lady

Comment # 62 Dawn

Comment # 74 Prairiemaid

Comment # 18 Reforming Geek

Comment # 9 Jessica

Comment # 2 Sassy Pants

Comment # 17 Brandy

Congrats to all the winners and a BIG Thanks to everyone that participated. If you weren't chosen a winner of the storybook don't forget SeeHere is having a GREAT Valentines promo:

Offer: 50% off Valentine’s Day Photo Cards

Shipping: Receive free standard shipping on orders of 60 or more photo cards

At checkout, use promo code: vday

Expiration: 2/14/10

My confession for today: I LOVE my husband, he has been an incredible rock for me the past few days and sometimes I don't feel like I say it nearly enough... Georgie ♥ Eric

Laura Ingells I am not...

2010-01-28T09:08:00.000-06:00

We live in Oklahoma and if you have been watching National weather reports then you are probably aware that we are in the path of an ice storm.

A few years ago we ~~barely~~ survived an ice storm that left us cold and in the dark for days. We weren't prepared for loosing power, no firewood,no water bottles,no manual can opener,no water in the tub to flush toilets, no internet, ONE flashlight, no battery operated tv...

We, which actually means Eric had to cut wood from our backyard as tree limbs broke and fell, we lived in our den around the fireplace, playing charades during the day time and telling stories at night to the kids, it was fun in a Laura Ingells kinda way...for ONE day, after that I was so over the no power and now I know I could never have made it 'way back then' yanno when there were outhouses and horse and buggy's and and and...

Ask me if I am prepared for this storm...go ahead I'll wait...

Sorta kinda...we have wood ready to go, we have non-perishable food-including water bottles, all my laundry is caught up-cuz you gotta have clean undies and the dishes are done. I even found our old landline corded phone...I hope it is all for 'naught...

If we loose power I will not be able to check in and announce/contact the winners of the SeeHere contest on Friday-

I will leave you with some photos of our last debilitating ice storm *shivers*

My confession for today: brrrrr it's cold outside

Post It Note Tuesday

2010-01-26T08:49:00.002-06:00

I am playing along with SupahMommy this week.

SeeHere Giveaway 10 photo books

2010-01-22T10:53:00.008-06:00

Some of you may remember before Christmas I discovered SeeHere
and made some very cute Christmas cards. I loved the quality of the photo cards I made and was proud to send them to family and friends...

I also made 2 8x8 photo books for Christmas gifts-which are still being talked about, hard bound, high quality and very easy to make, I got lots of smiles when I gifted these books.

Well today I am excited to announce SeeHere wants to help you discover just how awesome they are. I personally know you have MANY options when searching for a photo site 'with benefits'. I have used almost all of them, but I keep coming back to SeeHere because of quality,fast shipping,customer service and they are a very easy site to navigate and make what you need to make. I'd like to call them a 'customer oriented' site...

For starters they are running a Valentines Day promo:

sample VDay photo card

School children across the country are bringing home their class rosters for Valentines Day. Make this a special Valentines by creating a personalized photo card on SeeHere. With a wide range of Valentines cards to choose from, and the ability to customize each design, your Valentines Card will really stand out this year! Best of all you can get up to 50 free, you just pay shipping!

For about the price of a box of store-bought cards, your child can give something unique this Valentines Day:

Offer: 50% off Valentine’s Day Photo Cards
At checkout, use promo code: vday
Expiration: 2/14/10

Now on to the giveaway...

SeeHere has generously donated (10) printed cover story books size 8x8 (valued at $29.99) to Decisionally Challenged readers. These would make GREAT Mothers Day, Fathers Day or Grandparents Day gifts. Or make a baby/child/teen scrapbook/yearbook, the possibilities are endless...

sample story book

How to enter-

Main Entry (additional entries below-for additional entries to count Main entry must be completed)

Visit SeeHere and tell me what other photo gift you would be interested in making

Additional entries:

Become a Fan of SeeHere on Facebook(1 entry) click here to do so then leave a separate comment telling me you did

Follow SeeHere on Twitter(1 entry) click here then come back and leave another comment

Follow my blog either via google friend connect,FB or twitter(1entry) and leave me a comment saying you did-already follow me just let me know

Contest ends Friday Jan 29 2010 at 8am CST

This contest is open to US residents SeeHere and you do not need a blog to enter-just make sure you leave a way for me to contact you in case chosen a winner of a story book. There will be 10 winners. Winners will be announced and contacted and will have 24hrs to respond or another person will be chosen.

Good Luck to you all

My confession for today: Abby passed her drivers test, I must confess I am very happy for her BUT also nervous!

*disclaimer* SeeHere offered me free products however since I had previously used their site I was able to review their company prior to any free products being sent to me. What that means: I was very satisfied with the quality of the products I had previously ordered from seehere and felt confident enough to do a review for them without free products. Your results may vary.

Freaky

2010-01-20T14:17:00.001-06:00

I got something big in the works...in the mean-time enjoy this....

Sign by Danasoft - Get Your Free Sign

and this...

Sign by Danasoft - Get Your Free Sign

My confession for today: that's some freaky stuff!

Your IP address and other information are only visible to YOU, not to others, but because people see their own IP address and computer information displayed on a blog or in a public forum, they think that their information can be seen by everyone! It can't

The Confessional is Open and WINNERSUPDATED

2010-01-15T08:32:00.004-06:00

UPDATED with more texting options
Before I start whining about my trivial problems and issues....my heart is breaking for those affected by the Haiti earthquake. There are a lot of scams popping up asking for donations, be smart everyone when giving of your money.
JB just brought this to my attention and it is as simple as texting HAITI to 90999- 100% of your $10 donation goes directly to the Red Cross

Courtesy of CNN

Yéle Haiti: Text YELE to 501501 ($5 donation)
United Way: Text HAITI to 864833 ($5 donation)
Intl Medical Corps: Text HAITI to 85944 ($10 donation)
World Food Program: Text: FRIENDS to 90999 ($5 donation)
UN Foundation: Text CERF to 90999 ($5 donation)
Clinton Foundation: Text HAITI to 20222 ($10 donation)
Compassion Intl: Text DISASTER to 85944 ($10 donation)
Intl Rescue Committee Text: HAITI to 25383 ($5 donation)
The Salvation Army: Text HAITI to 52000 ($10

Click here for a you tube video to learn more

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It's Friday and boy has it ever been a long week...

Long for many reasons but mainly puberty and teen angst. Who knew that being a 'mom' meant in actuality a 'leper'. Who knew that 2 years could bring on such changes? I say 2 years because when I started blogging 2 years ago my chil-rens loved me, now I am nothing more than Bank of America with it's revolving doors and ink pens chained to the desk...AND everysinglefreakingthingismyfault!

Forgotten gym clothes-my fault
You stubbed your toe-my fault
School Books left out in the rain-my fault
You started your period-my fault
Your friend is mad at you-my fault
The test you made a 27% on-my fault
Hanging up your clothes-my fault
Eating together-my fault

Speaking of eating together "filial cannibalism" I think I am starting to understand why species like the wolf spider,hamsters and the goby fish eat their young...

I'm not complaining because next week has got to be better right? If it doesn't, I may need bail money...just sayin

On with the show...

You all were so creative with your email suggestions for Eric's new addiction FB. I enjoyed reading them all but one really hit my giggle button and that was...

Of course after I got done being upset about Kritta rubbing it in my face that they were having a heatwave compared to our temps at the time I so LOL'd @ IFBwhilehunting@shotsomething.com
He has a blackberry and after this week of rushinghomeandkickingallkidsoffthecomputersohecouldseeifhehadanewfriendrequest I can so see him sitting in his deer stand FB'n it up...

So Congrats Kritta!!!!

Next Up the Cold Plasma Giveaway...181 of you told me why you needed/wanted this product
I went to the random number generator for help

So who was lucky number 48?

Congrats Deb!!!! I will be in contact...

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Lastly The Confessional Booth is Open!

It's time to purge ourselves of things we would like to say... but can't, want to say... but can't, need to say... but can't.
It's time to turn the blog over to you...as always Anon comments are A-Okay...If you don't have a clue what I am talking about Click Here to catch up...

My confession for today: I am picking the hellions up with my hair in rollers and in my robe...kinda like this...that'll teach em...i think...i hope....maybesortakinda...

Or This-can't decide if I actually wanna apply makeup as the first pic implies

Because I sure as hell don't feel like this...

Wordless Wednesday

2010-01-13T11:24:00.002-06:00

These are my children

Then

And Now

once a blond now a brunette...I'm still adjusting

Once a redhead now a blackie...I'm still adjusting

Once a redhead always a redhead...you can't bottle her color...

My confession for today:ɯǝɥʇ ǝʌo1 ı ʇnq....ʍou ʇɥbıɹ ɥɔnɯ ʎɹǝʌ ǝɯ ǝʞı1 ʇ,uop ʎǝɥʇ

No Water

2010-01-09T01:31:00.004-06:00

So the first time that I can EVER make that NEVER (I am a Broken Arrow Grad of 89' thankyouverymuch) remember BA called off school due to frigid arctic burrrr cold temps...no snow on the ground...no ice...just C-O-L-D... happened on Thursday and Friday...it left me scratchin my head, dandruff? Perhaps, it's cold out, but none-the-less, no school...

No biggie right? That is until you have frozen pipes and have to go without water...uh-huh I said NO water...The schools got it right...it was TOO cold for ANY child to be out in this weather...I surrender I was wrong...I was selfish wanting my Mon-Fri time...hey I am fallible and will gladly admit when I am wrong...BUT I had NO water....

So Then that makes you, well okay 'me' turn to face book like nobody's bidness (is to a word)

My status message was 'NO water...this should be a fun day'

I got Support via,comments,phone calls,private messages,emails, the offer of showers,you offered up your home whether it was 5 mins or 2 states away, your offers of fillin up the 5 gallon buckets-cuz that's how we roll here in Okie-land to flush the commode were abundant...okay one person ~~bestie~~ offered me 'a cup' of water again that's how we roll and I so know she meant I could take over her house if I needed to.

I am quite certain if the world came to an end and according to the Mayans it will in 2012... anyone could find the help they needed on FaceBook... for realsies...

There is a reason I don't twit or tweet very often, mainly because I feel twitter lacks something... I am still trying to figure out 'exactly' what it is 'for me'...but when I glance at my twitter page-I go oooo and ahhhh because amybo designed it.... then I go ooooooooo it is full of tiny earls(thanks to my mom URLS will forever be earls)...the company I keep? Perhaps....BUT I gots more to say than any 140 characters could ever contain...

I have a point here...bare with me please...thank you...

Facebook lets me do that and more...

I got to type white and then later in the day... pink-all you ladies will so know what I am talking about and when YOU typed black, nude, pink with polka dots and commando I was only a teeny tiny bit jealous of your cuter-ness(yes a word) and your desire that posting your Bra colors was for a greater good Breast Cancer Awareness and l clicked 'like' because I support you...like a good bra...whether it be nude,purple,blue,tan or commando...I support YOU!

Facebook is just more personal, at least it is for me...maybe that's the difference...I am not confined or defined by 140 characters...

I gotta tell ya there is NO better support than that of a woman...and Yogi and Seth and Otin (my loyal 3 guy gang)

So as I was ~~yellin~~ speaking softly with motherly concern for their goodies xbox 360,ipod touches,miss me jeans and lord-ta-day every other item laying on their closet floorto/at the childrens to clean out their closets...

I let them-(the childrens-think Madea) know that I was expecting the worst BUT hoping for the best and I had them covered with my handy dandy blow dryer in hand-a girls gotta thaw out her pipes, right?

NO snarky comments please I'm having a moment here.... You ALL were right there monitor to monitor/keyboard to keyboard cheek to cheek beside me....offering support...

THANK YOU!

We got our water back thanks to my blow dryer skills and a little help from my friends....sing it with me....

If we aren't already friends on FB...then let's be...let me support you as others have supported me....as a matter of fact, I am taking the next few days off of posting and am gonna spend it visiting and getting caught up and being neighborly because...that's how I roll...

I appreciate each and everyone of you that reads my dribble or is it drivel.

My confession for today: I can NOT believe It is my 2 yr blogOversary... 2 years I have been spittin out stuff...and yet you read me and come back for more...THANK YOU!!!!

above photo courtesy google images

I have created a monster

2010-01-06T11:41:00.000-06:00

This morning I had an issue with my blog, so I emailed Amybo, because.... that's what I do. My blog wasn't loading properly then all of a sudden you/me/them were swooshed off to some wonky site.

I walked around in circles-as if walking in circles was some magic cure,dried my sweaty palms and under-pits... sat back down and tried loading the page again...still being whisked away...

I started a fire, peed said a little prayer and tried again...still no luck

Giving one more gallant effort I tried to get to my blog via finding myself on your blogroll, would it work...nope...

So I said to myself...

'Self, no biggie you can walk away from blogging'...

Then I went to my mirror-took a long hard look at myself and slapped my face for even suggesting such a thing...

That slap must have worked because I realized it must be some code I have installed, so I slowly started removing html/java script from the blog each time saving and then checking, until I finally found where the issue was...sorta it is one of three things but at least it's gone....

YAY Me-I did it!

Do you think I have issues... when filling out applications, any applications, whether it's for the doctors office or tanning salon... under occupation I put 'blogger'
yiyiyiyi monster anyone?

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A week or so ago I put this as my status on FB

' Is it wrong of me that I am debating whether or not to accept my husbands friend request? '

I wasn't kidding and I still haven't added him...what? The kids haven't accepted his friend request either....

He just got a FB page-he had been asking me what all the hoopla was about so I offered to help him set up an account-cuz he is computer challenged and I'm nice like that...apparently his co-workers (all males) are face bookers too, so they started having a contest to see who could get the most friends....yiyiyi monster anyone?

He calls me this morning and says he has been banned from FB at work, to which I laughed HYSTERICALLY, then I composed myself so he could tell me it wasn't just him but everyone and he NEEDS me to set up a new email for him so his FB stuff can go there instead of his work email...

So I am sitting here thinking of a name for his new email...

EricYESImAddictedtofacebook@ whatever.com
Ifacebookdoyou@ whatever.com
wannabemyfriendonFB@ blahblahblah

Up for a little challenge? Help me come up with a creative email name for the FB monster I have created...my most favorite will win a copy of Kristin Hannahs book Firefly Lane

My confession for today: We are suppose to hit 0 that's Z-E-R-O degrees I think I am ready for Spring!

I Resolved and Failed

2010-01-05T08:44:00.000-06:00

This is my first time ever playing Post it Note Tuesday hosted by Supah Mommy

My phone has a Drawer

2010-01-04T17:50:00.000-06:00

So much has gone on since my Holiday Vacation...things like...

Jess is now referring to Eric and I as "Us People" don't ask...

Reese yet again thinks I am trying to kill him with my cooking-I guess there is a reason this isn't a food blog... but I want to point out, trying to get your children to eat veggies isn't trying to kill them...

My mom got a cell phone...with a DRAWER....some of you may remember when my mom called me and wanted to know what an 'EARL' was...well let me re-clarify, an Earl=an URL...so today I define 'drawer'... it's a slider phone mom, a slider phone...we are Okies, what can I say?

Speaking of my mom, whom I don't discuss often and I am not sure why I don't, cuz she's my mom and I love her...we just celebrated our Christmas with her. It was fun, it is the high-light of my holiday homes to visit, she made margaritas but that's not why it was the high-light...this is....those teeth, those billy bob (no offense meant to ANYONE named Billi Bob) teeth that only a select few get in their goodie bags at moms house.

Then there is this reason...that's my son errrr new daughter named Reese-ella-who is growing a mustache....Let me just say I am pickin' my battles....~~She~~ he never lets me get a photo of ~~her~~ him so I hafta be sneaky...~~she~~ he kinda blends in with the sofa but ~~she~~ he is there...promise...
Thank goodness he is wearing a bracelet that says I♥ boobies-he spent some of his Christmas money on Breast cancer awareness...thats my boy!

Where else could one see such silliness... like this...that's the faloozie....my sis Rebecca-she is gonna never speak to me ever again for posting this pic-all kindsa double negatives and bad grammar back there...forgive me...

Then we have these hot messes-big cheesy grin would be my man, slight head tilt in the not OU shirt would be the faloozies man

They are responsible for these lil hot messes in the making...Hayden...I'll be your agent when Hollywood calls Hayden...

The Girl child NOT the dog child-the dog child is lizzie-see that money jar,beside the lil dr pepper bottle? I won it, that's all I'm sayin...besides... finally....I gotta say finally...okay done...

Here's my other sis Laura...but I call her KATE cuz for some reason she went and got the Gossling hair-cut-oh and that's her beautiful daughter Shelby...whom I take credit for naming because I told ~~Kate~~ ermmm Laura the name Shelby when names were being thrown around...

The man love was flowing....Chad and Willie my Hot messes OF brother in laws

Here's mom with my beanie weanies

I got a NIKON for Christmas and I obviously still have no idea how to use it...my photos which are SOC straight photos out of the camera un-edited are all kindsa orangey then clear...I got a lot to learn!

IF you've read this far then you will know if you leave a comment you are automatically entered to win a $10 gift code to magazineline.com...most creative comment wins no number generator here...

My confession for today: BURRR It is COLD here in Oklahoma-speaking of Okies...it's time ya'll
click here the Okie Blog noms are upon us...There are a TON of great Oklahoma bloggers out there...discover them....

Looking for my cold plasma giveaway? click here

Cold Plasma New Years Day Giveaway

2010-01-01T00:01:00.022-06:00

I interrupt your New Years black eyed pea, mashed potatoes and kraut eating, football and parade watching day... for a little giveaway...

I am so excited to announced that I am teaming up with Perricone MD and they are going to give away one of their products to one lucky Decisionally Challenged reader...

Formulated with Dr. Perricone's patented delivery system, Cold Plasma addresses the 10 most visible signs of aging: wrinkles, enlarged pores, dryness, discoloration, redness, uneven skin tone, impurities, loss of firmness, loss of smoothness and loss of radiance.

Let me just stop and say I can not wait to try this product...

No matter your age or skin type, Cold Plasma delivers what your skin needs to help prevent and correct the many visible signs of aging and impart the look of healthy, youthful, radiant skin.

Want to know how you can win your own jar of Cold Plasma that retails for $150?
Just answer the following question in the comment section...

"Why do you want/need this product?"

Simple Huh?

Contest open to Canada and U.S. Residents
One entry per person Please-make sure you leave an email addy so I can contact you
Contest will end on Jan 15th at 8am CST where I will use a random number generator to pick the winner.
Contest winner will be notified via email where they will have 24hrs to reply with mailing info, if winner fails to reply within 24 hrs a new winner will be chosen-same method as above.

Good Luck to you all!

My Confession for today: Happy New Year Everyone!