From the Beginning

The Day of Surgery:

Hubby and I dropped off the kidlets and headed to the vision center. It is approximately 40 minutes away from where we live, but we made it there in about thirty (thanks to hubby's lead foot). We headed to the Target next door because I'd been so nervous, I hadn't had anything to eat. I knew they would be giving me anxiety meds so a stomach with padding (food) would be best. I had a hot cinnamon and sugar pretzel. Yum!

We headed over to the vision center directly after, with only ten minutes to spare (thanks to an uber slow check-out lady who felt it necessary to learn the life stories of every person in her line). I signed in and the receptionist asked my name. She pulled my file and directed me to a desk directly west of her to make payment. One thousand of the payment came from varied sources, while the remainder (about $2500) went straight to their finance company (no interest for two years). I could hear a girl behind me complaining that her eye felt like it had sand in it. The nurse explained that it was probably the bandage contact lens (must be a PRK patient, I thought immediately).

"Bandage contact? When can I take it out?"

"Your optometrist will take it out in four to five days."

Uh, talk about uninformed! What the hell?! I have to say that the clinic does a great job at letting you know what to expect. When you call to schedule an appointment for your scans, they send you a huge packet to read through. The day of your appointment, you are given a portable DVD player to watch a video on the various procedures and how they work. Then, after your scans, you talk to a counselor who tells you everything to expect. How the heck didn't she know about the bandage contact lenses? I wanted to take her and shake her when I heard her complaining. Hubby was in total agreement. Even he knew what to expect.

My payment taken care of, we were directed to an area I hadn't been to before where we were asked to sit down. "Aurora" asked me if I'd filled my prescriptions and brought my refresh tears. But of course! She then told me that most patients were offered something to calm them down for the surgery. I was nodding even before she told me what she was going to give me. She giggled a bit and offered me a valium. Within minutes, I was taken to an exam room where hubby and I were greeted by the optometrist we'd met at our last visit. He had me read a sheet with information about the procedure (Girl in the waiting room, didn't you read your sheet?). He then performed another eye exam because it had been one month and one day since my scans were performed. Talk about thorough! He gave me a surgical bonnet and booties to wear, then he told me that the doctor would be in to talk with me shortly.

Hubby asked how long the procedure would take, then excused himself once the Aurora assured him she would call just as soon as I was done. The doctor arrived soon after hubby left and talked to me about the procedure. We also made some chit-chat about where I was from, which led him to tell me about his best memories of Nashville (oddly, they were of his first visit to an Outback Steak.house and his dish of their succulent crabs). I asked him about my sensitivity to lenses and how I was worried about the bandages. He asked me to tell the optometrist, once I saw him again, to give me diluted numbing drops. This gave me a great sense of relief.

The doctor left and I was moved to a waiting area where "Makayla" gave me instructions about my drops. Oh, and the Valium was starting to kick in. Great stuff! She told me that everything was on the sheet, since I was worried I would forget. It seemed as if I would be putting in drops all the time.

Behind me were two chairs, which I dubbed "Chair 1" and "Chair 2". There were patients in both. After a few minutes of being in the waiting area, the person in "Chair 1" was escorted into the surgery room. The "Chair 2" patient was moved to "Chair 1" and I was moved to "Chair 2". Makayla added numbing drops (which burned a bit) and my eye lids become very heavy and sticky. After a few minutes, she was back to add more drops. I sat feeling like a drug-head for just a few minutes more, when "Chair 1"'s occupant was moved into the surgery room. I became the new seat-warmer for "Chair 1." Makayla was back with more drops. Goodness! More? The, she took something that looked like a small double-forked prong and headed for my eye. She was going to mark for my astigmatism. She touched my cornea and I reacted.

"Can you feel that?"

"Yep," I informed her directly.

"Okay. Let me get some more drops." Gosh, were my eyes just immune to this stuff? (Later, when I looked at my eyes, I saw two, blue dots on either side of my pupils where she made her markings.) I chatted with the former "Chair 1" occupant's hubby, who informed me his wife was getting mono vision surgery in one eye. In "Chair 2", a very nervous lady sat fidgeting, nervous about her second run with Lasik (it seems one eye was over corrected). Thankfully, this clinic I used covers enhancements.

Mono vision lady appeared and her hubby grabbed her arm, then wished me luck.

"You're up," informed a nurse. I headed into the laser/surgery room where they laid me down on a table. I was asked to slide up and place my head in a cylinder type head area. My knees were raised and I was offered a "teddy bear". The teddy bear was a soft brick with tape all around it. I assumed the tape was to repair where fingernails had dug into it, once too often. I accepted the brick and prepared myself.

The doctor asked me to stare ahead at the green, flashing light. My first thought? The hulk is going to appear! I know, I'm such a nut. There were four, bright lights surrounding the green light, which sort of reminded me of stage lights. I kept my eye on the green light, as I was instructed to do. Again, more numbing drops and this time, I felt like my eyes were really numb. They taped down my bottom and top lashes (weird). Then, the added the speculum to keep my eye open (they described everything they were doing). Next, the doctor put on some sort of cup that placed pressure on my eye. It was uncomfortable, but tolerable. He then added the alcohol which would remove the epithelial layer from my cornea. The cup would keep the alcohol from running all over my eye (weird) and he informed me that the light may disappear while this process was performed (it did). He then washed away the alcohol, and the green light soon reappeared. This process (the alcohol portion) took 35 seconds and I could hear the nurse counting down the time. I got the impression that he was scraping away the epithelial layer that had been eaten away, but he did not say this. I was grateful, but I could certainly tell what he was doing. Next, the doctor informed me that the laser would correct my vision, and this would take 7 seconds. There would be a burning smell (and there was...weird...like burning tires) for the time frame the laser would be working. After the laser, he rinsed my eyes again, put in the contact lens and added an eye drop of some sort. The whole process took about two minutes, tops. It was then repeated on my left eye.

They were listening to the easy listening station and I was very aware of hearing, "Live Like you were Dying" as my surgery took place. How about that for a permanent memory. :) The nurse gave me her hand and pulled me up. Immediately, I could see very clearly. I expected this...I also expected what happened after taking about five steps; total blurriness. I was escorted back to the exam room and asked to sit with my eyes close.

To my great surprise, I heard "Aurora" come in and ask me if I'd like a fresh baked cookie. Heck yeah! Ooey, gooey chocolate chip loveliness was placed in my hand. She even set one aside for hubby. Next, the optometrist came in and took a look at my eye with the "scope". Bright light! Bright light! Man, they weren't kidding about light sensitivity. Yeesh! It was like a burn to the brain! They could see the dead epithelial cells off to the side of each eye. Eww! I hoped all the drops I would be using would wash those suckers away. They asked me if anyone had called my hubby. I wasn't sure. They made me put on my blue blockers then escorted me up front. The optometrist himself began placing the call to hubby when who should step off the elevator? I gave hubby his cookie and my thanks to everyone there.

We went to Sam's to pick up prescriptions (the lighting was horrific, even with the sunglasses), then we went home and I rested with the aid of a percoset. Later in the evening, I ate a bit, talked to my girls, then went back to sleep. My eyes didn't hurt or bother me, but there was a lot of blurriness. The goggles I have to wear for sleeping are crazy and I find myself sweating around the eyes from lack of circulation. I'll be glad when I don't have to wear them anymore (they don't look anything like the protective lenses hubby had to wear after his Lasik procedure. Not sure if these are are step up or not).



Day 2

I woke up to blurry vision and dry eyes. Hubby took the children to school and trained his client, while I rested in bed. I listened to my book on CD (Thrill) and ate myself into oblivion. Stress/boredom eating is not good when you're trying to get back into your two-piece. As the day wore on, the dry eye issue worsened. I met with my optometrist who was convinced I'd show up, pimp slap him and cuss him out (I thought that was pretty funny). He was amazed at how well I was doing and said that the epithelial layer was growing back nicely. After checking my vision on the chart, briefly, he said I was around 20/30 to 20/25 vision,

"But you understand it will get worse before it gets better."

Indeed. I understood this well. I told him about the numbing drops and how I hadn't used them yet, since the optometrist at the vision clinic informed me that it would hinder the epithelial growth. I told my optometrist that I would only use them as a last resort and that I would mainly rely on my refresh drops and percoset for pain management. He told me not to hold back and I assured him I wouldn't. ;)

Day 3

Ugh! The agony! Based on every story I'd read about PRK, this was to be the worst and, for me? It certainly was. Everything was so blurry and jumpy. My eyes felt like there were sand particles in them and I had the sensation that I was viewing everything from under water. I had to get the babe ready for her dance performance and apply some semblance of make up, before my mother arrived. My mother ended up putting on the lipstick because I couldn't focus on both the child's lips. Crazy! I took a percoset mid-day and slept to try and get past the day. I listened to From Dead to Worse on disc, along with a bit of Thrill. Hubby was very attentive, seeing to all my needs and generally being a good husband. I was on my drops like a crack addict, just to try and help the recovery process along. Overall, day three really sucked. I just prayed I'd get through it without being too much of a bitch.

Day 4

So much better than the day before. I even felt up to driving. Bad idea. The road was jumpy and the vision was super blurry with lots of ghosting. Good thing there isn't a lot of traffic on Sundays. Hubby wasn't impressed that I took it upon myself to get behind the wheel of a vehicle. How could he stop me, though? I, at least, brought home a stellar breakfast for everyone to enjoy. I ate with the family and enjoyed the company of my hubby and girls. By breakfast's end, I was ready to rest again. Hubby joined me in the back on his laptop (the ultra bright screen turned away from me, thank you very much) while I listened to the last of my Sookie Stackhouse book. He provided me with drops every hour, on the hour and helped me keep up with my drop-schedule from the doctor's office. I was off the Acular by this time (although, I never noticed it removing any pain). I really didn't have pain during any of this, per se. It was more discomfort than anything. Great discomfort on day three, but never pain. (blurry vision = blurry picture...sorry, folks)

Day 5

I drove my kid to school without too much difficulty. I then took Netflix videos to the post office, then back home for my drop-schedule (Here's an observation: the Omnipred feels the best...not surprising, since this is the steroid. Also, the drops run down my nose and throat, sometimes. They taste god-awful). I then took the youngest to the park, briefly (too hot). So, off to the library where she picked out her first book (on her own) to check out. It took a little persuading to get her to put the book on the counter for scanning. She just didn't want to let it go!

I've stayed on my refresh drops on the hour every hour and what's funny? I totally don't have to watch the clock. I know when it's time. The dryness is unmistakable. Can you believe I have to do this for the next month? Only after a month can I back down to refresh drops every two to three hours. It's totally necessary, though. Until the eyes learn how to produce their own moisture naturally again, this is what I'll have to do.

I suppose I'll limit the PRK updates to once a week or so. I believe my description here gives a pretty clear picture on what to expect. Everyone is different and healing is a long, slow process. I am optimistic, however. Every time I get a glimpse of visual sharpness, I think, "Woohoo! That's what I have to look forward to."

Post PRK Day Four (Sort of here...)

Phew! Things are mighty blurry. I'm typing in the dark and I've got my doctor-prescribed pseudo blue-blockers on (remember those?) trying to create this post and I don't think I'm going to get very far. Basically, this is the best day yet since surgery (yesterday was the worse). I'll do a day by day, once I feel a little more confident in my typing.

Thanks to you all for the extra prayers and thoughts. I couldn't have made it through without them. This was the single most bizarre experience of my life, but I am beginning to see the benefits. I hope by tomorrow, I can document what I've experienced and learned right here for your reading pleasure (as if I'm oh, so exciting). Lol!

It's the last day of May. Can you believe it? Spring is nearly gone and summer is knocking at the proverbial door. It also means we're about six months away from the new year. Even freakier! Where does the time go?

T-24 hours (approximately) and counting. These have been my glasses for nearly three years. I bought them the summer my mother-in-law came to visit. I remember going to my visit and, not only buying these glasses, but contacts as well. Many of the contacts are still in my closet. I never could wear contacts well, since I always (always) feel them. It seems weird that tomorrow will be the last day I wear them. I'm getting anxious, not just about the surgery itself, but about the fact that they haven't called yet to schedule. It's supposed to be some time today. Will they call this morning? Will it be this afternoon? What if they forget? I've already taken the time off and it was tricky, at best, to coordinate with hubby. Hubby suggests calling them, myself, at 10:00am, which I plan to do. Then, do I call my optometrist to see what time he wants to see me on Friday? Will their office call me today? Tomorrow? Yeah, anxious is an understatement.

I'm almost done with True Bloo.d. My goal was to have it finished before I couldn't see again. I was also going to finish my novel (Fantasy Lover). I don't think that the latter will happen, since I've got the Babe's hair to do and an oil change to try and squeeze in. I'm nearly 200 miles over and I can see the gas just leaving, as a result. It's always the same; late oil change, horrid gas mileage.

The babe was supposed to perform this Friday and Saturday (yep...more surprise performances), but because of the surgery, we were scrambling to figure out how to get her to the locations. My mother is covering Saturday, but Friday was proving more and more difficult. Finally, I emailed the director back and asked for suggestions. She emailed me and, much to my surprise, told me there was nothing to worry about. That they had their karate group performing too and that she would look for an alternate dance group to perform. She insisted that they just couldn't do it without my little one, but understood my scheduling conflicts. My mother said, "But, of course! She is the best, you know." Wow. If the Babe's head gets any bigger, will have to move out to the country for the space.

Booked

The resort, the flights and now the car for our vacation are booked. It really takes a load off...wondering when and where to do it and if we're getting the best deals or not. For the car, we watched the rates for four days with steady amounts. Last night, when I checked, rates had begun to creep up and hubby became nervous. I inadvertently stumbled onto the Hotwire site, while clicking around on "this" and "that" deal. I don't use them often, since you don't know what you're getting until the end of the transaction. Nevertheless, I found a rate lower than what we'd been seeing. So, we jumped on it. Turns out Hert.z was our rental company and it had been high, high, high for days (like $430 for six days, high). Our price? $198, including taxes and fees. Woohoo!

I neglected to post that, for Mother's day, hubby presented me with gift cards this year. One for $25 to Bath and Bo.dy Works and another for $30 to Ross (I still have about $40 on my other Ross card, the one he gave me for our anniversary, along with the shadow box). So Friday, we tripped on over to the mall where I spent the card and a bit of my own money to revel in their latest scent: whit.e citrus. It is heavenly. I feel the same way about their Se.a Island Cotton. Both are very fresh, crisp and clean smelling. I'm grateful to have my summer scent supply fully stocked.

My neighbor did it again. Ugh! She is something else. I woke Indy up to go and pick up the babe from school, yesterday afternoon. I hate to do it, but it is what I have to do. I try to make sure she goes down early enough that the disruption isn't too rough on her quality of sleep. So, I've got her all dressed and ready and begin to head out the door when my phone rang. I knew it was her and I knew what she'd say, but I answered anyway:

"Hello?"

"Hey! Hi, Enchantress. This is A****."

"Hi."

"Hey, I just woke up and E**** (her son) is still asleep. Can you pick up A**** (her daughter) for me?"

"Uh, yeah. Sure. I can get her."

"Thanks."

What the hell?! Your ass is home all day, everyday. From what we've observed, she sleeps a big portion of each day...leaving her youngest (who will be three in a couple of weeks) to his own devices. I worked a crazy-ass day at work (from home) and had major stress going on. I really don't have a problem picking up her kid, but it's the principle. What is her freaking problem? She quit her job because her manager was "mean". So the hell what! You suck it up and get past it. Now, they are in debt up to their eyeballs and have to sell their house. They are moving back in with grandma (her mother-in-law). Like I've said, I hate waste and irresponsibility is right up there with it, too.

She's very nice, but I can't say that I'm that upset about their moving. Is that wrong? Honestly, I feel like I've become somewhat responsible for her own children! The youngest runs out into the street all the time and I'm the one freaking out about it, while they don't seem to notice at all. He was ill this winter and had to be hospitalized for a bit, but it could have been prevented completely. How? Oh, how about a jacket on him when it's cold or shoes on his feet, when he runs out into the yard? Of course, I've chronicled the illnesses of the daughter, here on this blog. It seems she has something every week that prevents her from going to school. If momma is depressed and dispondent, don't bring the children into that madness. I think a lot of the time she keeps her eldest home so she'll have someone to talk to. I hope the oldest makes good choices for herself in the future. It may mean the difference between being and active, vital citizen or detaching and becoming a hermit like her mother.

On a happier note, with almost ten pounds down, I am starting to look and feel a lot better. Hubby wants to train at the park together. Do I dare? We'll see. And thanks to Tasha, I've got a new ringtone. I'm so excited! (Shame on you for posting this site, girl. I'm so addicted!)

Being Natural, My Kids and Preparing for Surgery

I took my hair down over the weekend. It's been two months and boy, was it looking rough! I ordered hair the very day I took it down (the same type as the last, only much lighter for spring/summer). I will also make sure she cuts it a bit shorter. Sort of a shame, considering how much I spent for it. Anyway, as I took my hair down I reveled in the length. I just can't believe that I was nearly bald only two years ago. I'll have as much hair as my oldest in no time (way too much). Since it's natural (but I do color) I redyed it all so that when I have the latest extensions put in, it won't look too crazy. That and I just like going a bit lighter when the sun comes out. The color above appears on me, just as it does on the model. It's a bronze color with lots of light reflecting highlights. Very pretty.

I am amazed at how much I miss my hair out, free and natural. The braids have been protective, giving my hair a chance to rest, grow and be untouched for a while. After I took out the braids, dyed, washed and cleared my hair, I was so happy to just run my fingers through all my twists and coils. It really is beautiful close up. How come I never noticed? Traditions can be so blinding. I look at perm kits on the shelves in stores now and just thank God I don't have to do that anymore. I'm so surprised at how I feel. I didn't chronicle this journey like I initially planned, but I will say that I am happy with my choice. I use the glycerin and water on my hair as a moisturizer (the Castor oil, on me, gave my scalp the itchies). My skin is different from my kids. They seem to handle the Castor oil nicely. I also have Carol's Daughter.'s hair butter. I'm not crazy about the smell or the product for myself, but my girls love it. I actually prefer Silken Child for me.

Like everyone says, it's certainly trial and error. There are things I will never put in my hair again, and things I'm sure I'll just love, love, love (but can't find in freaking Utah). On vacation, I plan to stock up. Hubby's all about making space for all the stuff we'll buy out of town. It's very frustrating living somewhere where "our" resources are so limited. I'm glad I got my Sally's card (since that's really the only alternative I have). Since I seem to spend money there every month, might as well get a discount. If you don't have a card and you find that you shop their often, invest in the card. You'll be glad you did.

Monday during lunch, I picked up several CDs on hold for me at the library. I didn't realize that one of the reserves I chose was a children's book. Not being deterred, I brought it home and ripped it to the computer. When I put the discs on the counter to take back, my eldest saw them, yesterday morning after breakfast and read the cover.

"Can I listen to these?"

"Sure. They're actually children's stories...but, they're supposed to be scary. Can you handle it?"

"Yeah."

So, off she went into our sitting room and popped in the first disc. I could here the eerie music with each tale. The fall and rise in the narrator's voice (along with cackles and screams). Where was this last Halloween? She was totally into it. Checking in on them about twenty minutes later, she and her sister were curled up on the couch with a blanket and stuffy listening intently. A few minutes after that, baby sister comes back whining and hugging me saying, "I don't want to be scared anymore." Poor little thing! I found something else for her to do. What sacrifices we'll make to be with the one we love, huh?

So, the books on CD that I've reserved over the past couple of weeks are to get me through healing time. Eight days till the big day. Sigh....As I continue to read recover stories across the web, one of the things I saw mentioned (only once) was having books on CD. Since I won't be able to see to read a book, a t.v. or computer, I thought this was a great suggestion. The final Sookie book is in that mix (well, the final before the latest that just came out this month).

Tru.e Blood on video! I was so excited, I headed on over to the local video store to pick it up. Hubby and I watched the first episode last night. I like the brassy Tara character, but she's nothing like she's described in the book. I like who they've chosen to play Bill and I'm really pleased with the filming location (are they filming in Louisiana? I'll have to check). I hope the fan base stays strong because there are so many books. I'd love to see all of Char.laine's characters come to life. I was filling in hubby on all the vampires, shape shifters, weres and other supes. He was more into than I thought he would be. It's a sexy tale, too so the eldest can't read or watch these right now. She's really bummed out about it. I'm actually really happy at how eager she is to read everything!

Watching a little titillation must have gotten hubby in the mood. Okay, no. He's always in the mood. He's been in the mood for the past four days. Maybe he's getting it all in before I'm completely incapacitated. Nope. I think he'd go for it, whether I was partially conscious or not. What a guy!

*Update* I just called and checked on the status of my hair order. Back ordered. Back ordered?! Why didn't I get an email, a phone call something! Ugh! So, now I've got to spend more money to buy more hair. The stores here don't carry the hair I want. So, I'll either have to die my hair black and get what's readily available or find a substitute that won't break the bank. I am not cancelling my appointment. I am so irritated!

Fight the Good Fight

This really is worth watching. If you didn't see it, I hope you'll take the time at some point to do so.

Awesome Wife Award

(Also titled on the other site). Yesterday, I jumped on a Hom.e De.pot sale and bought my hubby an early birthday/Father's day gift. I convinced the eldest not to talk about it, but really,where in the world would I have hidden a grill? So, we got it home, I asked a neighbor to help me get the box on the deck, then I spent a an hour or so assembling that sucker. Not too shabby, if I do say so myself.

After assembling, I made his favorite pasta salad. I then took the kids to the grocery store to pick up some "practice" steaks for him to try. When we got home, I put them in a peppercorn marinade for seasoning. They are, at this moment, still marinating in the fridge. Dear hubby wants to study the manual, first. Good idea, hubby. :)

When he got home, I heard his car in the garage. So, I ran into the garage like a crazy woman and said (in a panicked voice); "Oh, thank God you're here! I can't believe this has happened! You've got to come out here quick. What the hell are we gonna do?!" I left him breathless and distraught in the garage, then darted to the back of the house and out the back door.

A few seconds later, hubby appears in the doorway and I let out my happy early birthday surprise and cheer. He was completely speechless for ten seconds. Then, he was oohing and ahhing over the new, shiny appliance. I let him know that everything was assembled, but I had not yet attached the propane. He pulled out the cover and lovingly draped it over. What a site!

So, steaks for dinner tonight? We'll see if he gets his studying done.

It's Coming Together

We're planning our vacation and I'm really excited. We've given ourselves a 3K budget this year, which has me just a bit nervous (I really don't spend money well...then, there's my hubby...). On the other site, I'm documenting my work to get tone again. I'm realistic, and began my journey at the end of April. Hubby was telling me that there are people who actually say stuff to him like, "Hey, how can I lose forty pounds in two weeks, so I can be ready for my vacation?" Are they serious? They must be high. Even if you could do that, you'd probably pass out on the vacation. Not good.

The school year is nearly over and hubby, quite by my surprise, signed Indy up for swim lessons. Yeah! She's going to be thrilled. She loves the water (taking to it much faster than her sister did at her age) and I'm sure she'll be a fish in no time. I signed up the Babe for acting/swim camp this year. It's a week long and she has no idea. It's best that way with her, or she'll drive me nuts!

She asked me this morning, ironically, if I ever went to camp as a kid. I explained that my elementary school became a camp each summer. So, the thousands of dollars my parents shelled out during the school year, could continue throughout the summer, except the curriculum became "camp like" instead. This was how I went on all those field trips to Disney.land, Knott.s Berry Farm, Magic Mountain and Sea World. She was mighty impressed. If only there were something like that here. They should get smart because with the hordes of children, somebody could be getting rich, rich, rich.

It's oil change time. Blah! I guess I wouldn't mind so much if I weren't pressured, every time I went, to perform every known service under the sun. I know they're due and I'll take care of it when I'm ready. Leave me alone, why don't cha! If it's sunny in your neck of the woods, I hope you enjoy your weekend.

Scaring the Normals

So, I made myself (and hubby) a disc the other day; Thr.33 Ring.z. I am having a ghetto fabulous week with this disc! Yes, I know he uses auto-tune and I know lots of people take issue with the use of the device, but growing up with Roger and Zap.p, I'm easy to forgive. I think it adds his own style and it's obviously making him a trunk load of money.

I've been blasting this disc, jammin' hard on my way to work (the two days I drive in) and around the neighborhood with my kids (I am trying to be a good mom, skipping the harsher tracks when they're in the car with me). Turns out hubby has been too, and on our way to the Targe.t yesterday evening, I noticed the stares we were getting. Yeah, the black family was blasting hip-hop...and? Does that mean we're degenerates or potential cell-block residents? Hell, no...but that's what the looks were saying. Of course, when the pigmently challenged are blasting their stereos, it's supposed to be a testament to their coolness, right? Wrong. If we look utterly ridiculous, than it's twenty times worse when they do it. At least our car has rhythm (even little Indy, she just moves rhythmically in circles).

All this has reminded me of how stifling living here can be for me, some times. I don't conform because it goes against everything I am. Hubby is the same way. I feel it in moderation only, but there are times when I'm talking to someone or when we're around other people...the differences. For example, people will just say things to my hubby when we're out and about. It's obvious that their scared, so they say something to him to alleviate their fears. Punk asses! It would be so easy to call them on it, but we're always polite and easily show that we're not as scary as we look. Hubby sometimes calls himself "The G.I. Joe Action Figure" because there are those who sort of see him as their "doll" to show off. Crazy, right? This definitely didn't happen when we lived in Nashville.

For me, I see their fear of the "Crazy Black Woman" emerging...and, it has on occasion. This is rare and, thankfully, I keep "her" in check because I seriously don't need that kind of a reputation. Then there's the stereotypical stuff people are trying to read from me and from hubby. I'm not naive. We do know that stereotypes originated for a reason...so many of them are gospel (but some are not, of course). Here's an example; hubby and I were at a dinner party, not long ago. There was a discussion about how one of the couples met, a lot of details were included, but I got the impression (once the story was over), we were expected to deal ours out in the same way. Hubby and I are usually so quick to share our story, but there was hesitation from both of us this time. What else were they looking for? Hmm... I also notice, when people are admiring his physique, they're looking at me. Not in a way like, "Why aren't you ripped-up like him," but, "Man, what do they get into?"

Further elaboration with this? Our kiddlings. When we're out together as a family, some one always says something about the girls. Always. Every single time. Whether it's how beautiful they are (which, of course, they are) or how well behaved they are. Sometimes, people just randomly give them stuff. What the hell is up with this? Again, this would never happen back in Nashville. I'm convinced.

So, are we just different or are we truly scaring the normals? I guess I'll never know.


(On repeat in the car.)

Spring Pics!

As promised, from my post a few days ago:

Aging Parents

My parents are very different. In fact, I used to wonder as a child how they ever got together in the first place. I see there differences multiply further the older they get. My mother, the consummate diva, would rather die than give up her fabulous new size 6 and size 8 clothes, so she works out like a crazy person to keep the pounds from creeping back on. She's also careful about what she eats and keeps active with her dog. She is a career woman and revels in the accolades she receives from her peers. My father can barely walk now, uses a motorized chair to get around (or a cane), is diabetic and probably suffers from high blood pressure as well. (He'd have to, with the kind of foods he eats.) He is a minister, but hasn't had a real job in I don't know how many years. I honestly am unaware of how the bills are paid each month. His M.O in the past was to rob from Peter to pay Paul. (BTW, my mother is six years older than my father).

Earlier today, my sister called and informed me that he has just had a stent placed in his coronary artery. She had no idea, until she called to just see how he was doing after, what she thought was a regular doctor's visit. He's resting and she encouraged him to seek out a home-nurse for a while (his wife is older than he is and is having her own issues). She asked if he has medicare and what sort of insurance he uses (she is in the medical field now and was trying to be helpful). She couldn't figure out why he was so hesitant to talk to her about such things. He just kept saying, "I'm fine," and encouraged her to stop worrying. I told her that it would be a cold day before he'd give up that kind of information. My father has always been incredibly paranoid and doesn't share personal information freely. She didn't understand this, and I told her I was just as in the dark about it myself.

I think we're faced with issues now that we really weren't prepared to deal with until much later. My grandmother (his mother) was placed into long-term care earlier this year and is approaching 90. With the depression from being there, I don't know how long she'll hang on. What happens if she passes? I would be heartbroken at losing her, but she's lived a long and happy life. But what if her own son's failing health gets the better of him, is it back to Nashville for me for his funeral? I know I probably sound very insensitive, but I just hate waste. If my father passed, I would be more angry at him than hurt at the loss. He knows better. In fact, he spent a big part of my childhood working out and following good eating habits. Vitamins were all over the house and at 3, I knew who Jack Lalane was.

Perhaps it was his lifestyle as a musician that kept him working so hard at his physique and health, or maybe it's where he lives (everyone in Nashville seems so large to me, now that I don't live there anymore). The temptation to eat out and eat horrible things is everywhere. Southern-style, deep-fried, grease dipped cuisine is everywhere and no one is really concerned that you weigh 300 pounds plus. It's not like L.A. where a perfect-body culture drives people to look good and think thin (of course, this type of thinking can also drive folks to the other extremes, unfortunately). I'm so flummoxed about it all. I think I need to think on things a bit.

An Unforgettable Mother's Day

Friday started the weekend with an emotional bang. I woke up, began work and my day as usual for a Friday. I then prepared the girls for their day. I noticed that the Babe wasn't looking all that well, even after Thursday's day of rest and regrouping. I gave her some IBU for some achenes she was feeling (attributing it to growing pains). I later took her temp and discovered it was 103.5! Freaking the hell out, I took her to the emergency room...convinced she was the first Swin.e Flu discovery for our county. We later discovered she had strep (something curable, much to my relief).

I spent the day tending to her like any good nurse, making sure she was trying to eat (even if just a little bit) and was drinking her fluids. I checked her temp regularly (where, at it's highest, it was 104.9...never in my life have I seen temps that high before). She rested all day, never getting out of bed unless she had to go to the bathroom. I was pleased with her obedience (despite her desire to go to school).

That evening, we risked a show to see the Lipizzaner Stallions which she enjoyed immensely, but I could tell she still wasn't herself. My mother had already paid for our tickets and both of us wanted to go. I figured sitting for a couple of hours wasn't too extraenous for her. It was also quite an opportunity that I didn't want her to miss.

Saturday was her last competition. I explained that she didn't have to go, but with all the meds, she felt up to it. We went, she performed and back home to the bed she went. She was looking loads better and feeling better as well. Her performance was a smash and I think she felt good about her contribution to the team. I was very proud of her.

Sunday was nice, although I did end up giving her a Naproxen at church (it was all I had). She begin to feel achy during service and I had a low-dose sample in my purse. By benediction, she was looking like herself again. Being ill puts her into a complacent state (a welcome change for her mother). She was so much so that she listened to the sermon. Wow! We actually had dialogue about it in the car, upon our departure. We went to breakfast, where my sister treated us. Nice! The rest of the day I spent finishing the Sookie books I have (discovering, to my delight, that there is yet another one to read before the new one that just came out this year- I have that one on reserve at the library :) ) and starting a new book entitled Moon Called, which I'm still not certain about. The genre is the same as the Sookie Stackhouse books and I like all of the supernatural aspects, but the verdict is still out on this author's style (I'm a little over half-way through the novel).

Today, I'm dealing with TOM issues. I am glad it appeared a little earlier than I expected. This means I'll be bitchy around the time of my surgery and after, so hopefully the pain meds will just make me "babe complacent" for hubby and he won't have to deal with my hormones.

Play Nice, Girls

I'm putting that statement on myself and how "mothers" can sometimes be so trifling.

My daughter dances with five other girls in her group. They are either a year older or younger than she is. One of these girls, who is in second grade, has grown to like the Babe very much. She has asked me several times if she could sleep over and I've put her off for now, simply because there isn't time. I have assured her that it will happen and that I'll make plans with her mother. It's the end of the school year and the girls seem to be gone every weekend for competitions. Anyway, before I even knew who this girl was, I met her mother. We were making very idle chatter one night, but she seemed very preoccupied (and a bit snobby, to my way of thinking). She almost seemed to look through me as she talked. I wrote it off, thinking she probably had a lot on her mind.

Later, we met again and I didn't connect that it was the same person because, 1., she looked very different and 2., she was very talkative. So much so that I thought she was sharing way too much. Then, she began to criticize the girls dance and critique them to no end (which totally turned me off). She sort of apologized for being such a perfectionist, but by then, I wasn't really paying much attention to her. She was sounding too much like a pageant mother and they have issues.

At one of the competitions, I was sitting on the bleachers and she came past me. She said hello, but it was hollow again (like she was looking through me). Last night, the girls performed for a high school group. This time, I came up the bleachers and I didn't see her until I was on the row behind her. She said hello, as did I. Then, I mentioned that her daughter had asked me (yet again) for a sleep over. I told her mother I thought she might not approve of a "school-night" sleepover and that we should wait until all the competing is over and done with. I smiled a lot and hoped she would agree. She just looked at me. No nod. No vocal recognition. She smiled slightly, then turned away. Huh?!

So, now I'm wondering if she's nuts or if it's me. Am I crazy? What is this woman's deal?! Could it be that when she was having her "come to Jesus" moment and I turned her off, she turned me off? Could she be trying to figure me out? Is she the snob I think she is? (She bragged a bit about where her daughter takes gymnastics and how they moved from "Fruit Heights" - a very well-to-do area, to the city where the school is located now...almost like she had taken a step down). I know she's in real estate, as is most of their family. She provided the babe with her business card, so that we would have their number and yeah, the family is pictured on the card. Her daughter that dances with my daughter is also her youngest (she has a child in college, which I learned during her "come to Jesus" session).

My hubby says not to worry about it. That I know people here are generally a little weirder than others and that, "She could be crazy," and to "watch myself." Great. I'm thinking, my daughter wants to play with her daughter, who is a sweetheart and a doll and I'd love for them to play together, but I still have to deal with her mother, in order to do make this play date or sleep over happen. I'm not trying to be friends. That isn't necessary, but I'd at least like to be civil and not feel like I was the gum on the bottom of her shoe. Is that asking for so much?

She doesn't strike me as the type of person to rationalize things with. Again, I'm not trying to be friends; however, being cordial and polite would make for easier arrangements all around. I almost don't want to call her but, her daughter is incredibly persistent. What to do...

Meanwhile, the babe was up several times last night. Nightmares, sad thoughts, lots of crying, despondent. Hubby tried to talk with her and sent her to bed after each talk. I've just ushered her into the bathroom for a shower (mind you it's like 5:15am and she's up again). I hope she can make it through the school day. I hesitate to give her a caffeine boost, cause she'll just crash and things will be worse. What a night! Is the moon full?

Spring has Sprung

We had the wettest April on record, but now the sun is out and the flowers are gorgeous! We've got a row of tulips on our front strip that have an alternating pattern of color (hubby and the Babe planted them last year). I'll try and post a picture soon because they really are lovely.

Before hubby came back from his hiking adventure, I took a look at our yard (wild kingdom) and did something I've never done before in my life; I mowed the lawn. Holy crap was I tired afterwards! The back yard is the worse, being on a rocky slope with uneven terrain. I felt lucky just to get it done. My arms and back certainly got a work out (didn't need to add the extra one in the evening after this project). The yard looked pretty good when I was done and hubby was ecstatic. I thought he might wet himself in the excitement.

The babe has to perform at a high school tonight for the director's drill team's performance (the director of the dance school, that is, is a coach for this high school). She picked her three, favorite groups to perform. What an honor! My little one has certainly received a lot of attention this year. So, where's the agent from Disney, begging me to move to California? (lol!)

Did you use your KFC coupon? We did. We printed off four and all received dinner on Oprah, last night. I hope people are sharing these coupons with homeless folks and such. This is an amazing opportunity for everyone (and the chicken is pretty good, too). I kept mine "light fare" by ordering sweet corn and a dry-side salad, along with a corn muffin instead of a biscuit. The coupon lasts until mid-May, so there's still time. Heck, you could print that sucker everyday if you wanted to. I imagine chicken would get pretty tiring for some (my hubby, however, is probably in hog-heaven) .

The Eyes Have it

Monday, I spent the day (or at least part of it) at one of the larger vision centers here specializing in Lasik. It was scan after scan after scan, a counseling session, an optometry visit, another scan and then a final consultation. They were incredibly thorough (I guess they have to be). Hubby said when he had his surgery, the center he used wasn't nearly so thorough. I suppose I should be grateful.

The verdict? It was recommended that I receive PRK rather than Lasik. I was completely frightened to hear this prospect. The healing time spooked me and I was totally convinced that I would just throw caution to the wind, wimp out and just do Lasik. I even told my regular optometrist that I was going to be a wienie and he could understand. Then, I started researching and thinking through things clearly. PRK would be the best and, although the healing time is longer, I would achieve the same results and, perhaps, prevent future troubles for my eyes.

So, I've been waiting to hear back from my counselor today to see if the date we've chosen will work. I've talked to my boss and informed him of the "down time" I may experience, and he is supportive. My mother is happy for me and wishes she had done it when she had the chance (she's over sixty now so the options for her aren't as pleasant, since her prescription is very high).

What else is happening? The babe has been asked, with her dance group, to perform at a high school program next Wednesday. This after I bragged on Tuesday that I only had one more competition to endure and then the recital. Now, I've got to play mom taxi an extra time. Oh, well. She's certainly having loads of fun and getting a lot of use out of her costume. For years we've shelled out money for these things, only to have her wear it once or twice in public and retire it to the "dress up" drawer. Yeesh! Those are expensive play-dress up clothes.

Hubby is taking a weekend to go back down to St. George for some sun and recreation. He's going to hike the red rocks and be an outdoors man. It will also give him time for thinking and pondering. I'll miss him while he's gone, but I'm happy that he'll have some time for himself. I think we both need it. The stresses of life are certainly taking their toll. If only we could send the kids on their own vacation.

The swin.e flu has us rethinking our vacation plans. We shelled out money for passports, just so we could travel outside of the country this year. Thank goodness they last a while. We've decided to stay inland. Who knows where this thing is going to go. We don't want to spend tons of money on a vacation, only to be told we can't go. June is nearly here and no one has a handle on what this virus is doing. It's just to risky.

Is Blood Thicker than Water?

There's a lot of drama happening with my extended family (and a bit with me) presently. So much so that it has tensions raised high in my household. I think I'll be needing an intervention, soon...well, mental intervention. With everything that's going on, I've actually left the wine/spirits alone. Amazing!

My sister-in-law (my hubby's sister, who is in her late thirties) has been going through some incredibly trying times. Not only did they lose their mother this past January, but her husband was brought up on an arms charge in February. He is now incarcerated. She will find out for how long in May. This man has lots of kids (he's in his late fifties). Most of them are grown up and living their own lives; however, the two youngest (a boy and a girl) live with he and my sister-in-law. They are her step children, but she is the only mother they have ever known. The young boy has lots of issues and even more so, now that his father is out of the picture. He spends his lunches with the principal of the school and has been tested for a number of learning issues. He has also exhibited violence towards his teacher (he is in the second grade).

His older sister, who is one year older, has been "handling" his departure pretty well, but her mother opted for counseling for her. She and my eldest are the same age and have a great time together.

Recently, my nephew admitted to lying and theft, which was just another stress added to the pile. His mother "disciplined" him with a belt, and he showed up at school with the evidence. When she arrived home and asked her sister (who is visiting from Missouri) about the kids, she indicated that they did not come home. My sister-in-law arrived at school to find the kids there with the principal, the teacher and an officer. My nephew was removed from the home that night. A couple of sleepless days and nights later, the state removed her daughter. Their mother has been ordered to attend parenting classes along with anger management. Whenever she is evaluated again, she may be able to get her kids back.

Without directly asking us, she believed we (family members) could take the kids for the up-to-six-months time frame they are usually removed. Hubby and I talked and, with our own issues, just couldn't see bringing in those children. Our schedules alone would have prevented it and summer is nearly here (we pay for summer daycare for our kids two days per week). When hubby went to talk to her to explain why we couldn't, he was met with silence and dissension. He knew things were different.

I asked him if he thought things would be different if they were blood relatives, and he said that it doesn't matter. They are still our family. We are just not in a position to take on this tremendous favor. As I thought about it, we provided so much for her in the past. She lived with us for over a year, then her then boyfriend lived with us (which I wasn't too thrilled about). We provided after school care, when we discovered they were at home alone until she got home from work. We really didn't have to do any of those things. I hope my hubby realizes this soon and gets control of his frustration and anger. She has to come to this realization as well. If the reverse had happened (heaven forbid!) she wouldn't be able to take on my children. Her situation wouldn't allow for it either. It's been a harrowing past few days.

Having a Meaningful Relationship...

...with my scale. You'll recall that we "broke up" a while back, well we're trying to work things out. It's going to be a hard road, but I've been down it before. I'm optimistic.

How Things Change

I've been thinking a lot about the people I went to school with (college). Normally, this is not a subject of deep thought for me, but I wondered about a couple of people in particular. Yesterday, my hubby was on the phone with one of our class mates (his best friend) and mentioned the name of someone I hadn't thought about in years. We (the girl he mentioned and I) were strangers until I began my masters program. She and I found that we shared many classes together and soon became pretty friendly. I thought she was brilliant and funny, but lacking in the communication arena (that girl did not know how to call people back). Of course, that's when I relied on the phone for most communication outside of face-to-face. How far we've come!

We would run ideas past each other for papers, talk movies, books and music, and generally just hangout out. We pledged "rival" sororities, so we would give each other lots of crap (all in good fun). I remember her being very nervous about one of our professors who contracted Hepatitis. He later died and a general "unease" spread through the English department.

So, I googled her today and found out that she's an assistant professor teaching English. There were pictures and she pretty much looks the same (except for much shorter hair). The bio didn't go into her personal life; whether she was married, had kids, pets, her hobbies etc.... It's too bad too, cause I was very curious. I don't know if I'm brave enough to email her. I think, after her illustrious career, she won't know who in the heck I am. It was nice to see that she is doing well and I am happy for her.

This investigation led me to wonder a bit about high school folks, too. I'll be at my twenty years in just a breath's time. Will it be worth it to go to the reunion? I skimmed through old year books and found that I associated more with people in other classes than my own. My senior year was the year I really got to know my own classmates (three or four of whom were my "running" buddies). I discovered that many people stayed within the same area. Only a few have branched off or left entirely (I would be in the latter group, of course).

So thinking about all of this, what would I want to know? Would I really be interested or care? Would I remember who they were or would they remember me? So much has changed and we certainly aren't the people we were in 1993 (at least, I hope we're not). I suppose if they plan something, I'll see what my thoughts and feelings are then. I've got a little time to ponder it all.

We leave for the big dance competition this week (this couldn't come at a better time...I need a break!). The weather isn't looking too promising for here or down south. I was really hoping we would leave crappy weather behind. I suppose Vegas will be where we'll find the sun again, since were' planning an afternoon excursion there at some point. They're predicting snow tomorrow and Thursday. What happened to my pretty Easter weather? I really don't want to drive in the snow. I hope the forecast changes...

Spring Break, but not a break for me

The oldest is home on spring break and she's already driving me nutty. How is it that the oldest child doesn't assist in the care, but makes for more drama? She tries and tries to help, but it completely backfires. It's usually just a matter of her not thinking before she acts. We try to impress this upon her, but it doesn't seem to "stick". Wow, it makes my head spin to think the brilliance that would spill forth if she only thought before she acted.

No dance and no gymnastics this week, either. Both places acknowledge the school districts time off and take the same time off. Of course, that leaves her with no way to exert that extra energy. Too bad the dance competition is next week instead of this week. She wouldn't have to miss school. Anyway, I took them to the park at lunch time and will most likely do the same on Wednesday and Friday (assuming the weather holds out). Thank goodness my hubby will be home on Friday to help run interference with the munchkins. I love them, but my kids may get put out before the week is out.

P.S. We have our sectional in the house and all squared away. You'd never know the boys destroyed the door frame. It looks pretty much the same. Sweet!

Breaking the House

The weekend was chock full of activities...so much so that I was ready to strangle kids, last night. Not so much for anything specific, but because I was in the midst of kid-overload! Hubby was good, as usual, and played interference, once he got home from work.

Friday, hubby found a sectional online that he liked. The lady was selling and had already had offers. Hubby headed over to see if it would work and then called me to tell me he'd put down a deposit. Later in the afternoon, he and his buddy went down to pick it up. An hour and a half later, they were back and incredibly winded. It seems the lady's double-wide doors wouldn't open to remove the furniture, so hubby and his friend had to do this. When they got the furniture here? Only a few pieces would fit. The problem was the doorway. There is now a sectional, section sitting on the deck covered in plastic. Oy!

Saturday was the second competition. The time in was an hour before performance. The Babes' showtime was 3:00pm, so we got there at 2:00pm (not before I realized I'd forgotten the video camera, then had to go back home to get it. I was halfway to my destination when I realized my error). Anyway, we got there and I applied makeup in the changing room. I will not do this again. The lighting was terrible, there were too many distractions and the Babe kept eating all the snacks her grandmother had brought. You can't apply lip gloss if you have granola crumbs everywhere.

So, makeup applied, we went into the gymnasium to watch the performances. I asked my mother where they were in the line up? Oh, they were running an hour and a half behind. Terrific! Two hours later, the Babe performed. Indy was too put out, having had to sit for so long in one place (even if there were big girls dancing that she could watch). I took the kids to get dinner afterward, then headed home. We got home, changed out of our clothes, ate and watched t.v. The Babe was extra giddy, so she talked incessantly (not my idea of relaxation).

Sunday, we went to church then fled afterward (due to a snow storm that hit). Craziness! High winds, rain, snow, sleet and then hail later on. We got home, ate and took naps. After this, I decided I really couldn't wait to purchase Easter shoes, so off to the store we went. I always seem to miss out on the girls sizes, so I got a jump start this year and found matching shoes in their respective sizes. They were both pleased. I also found discount bras on clearance (which is always nice and, no wire. I despise wire). The Babe, again, was asking for stuff. We'd had the, "Don't ask for anything," conversation, but it didn't seem to matter. Oh, well. By Sunday night, I was "over" the kids.

So what's up with the "Breaking the House" title? Hubby and friends are going to break the doorway, bring in the furniture, then build it back up. A carpenter will be in the mix, but I'm still nervous. I guess we'll see what happens.

My Pain and Other Ramblings

I've been struggling with an upper back pain for nearly a week. It gets better, then it bothers me again, then better again. It's just below my right clavicle (but I think the source is in my lats). I was doing bent over rows last week, trying to get back into my weight training in a more regular way. I was sore, but it was manageable. I noticed things got bad after the night I spent hunched over doing my daughter's hair.

What is it with this aging crap? Ten years ago, I would have rebounded with no trouble. Now, it's taking days and pain meds to make me feel better. And, why does it start so early? I guess I was delusional in thinking that aging wouldn't be noticeable in my thirties. So much for that. It's noticeable and has been for a while. Ugh!

I found out last that the Babe placed third in her competition category. She didn't seem to care, she just kept talking about how fun it was (my girl). The teacher was miffed and I was trying to understand, along with her, how the other group placed ahead of them. The other group was cute, but they didn't look like they were having as much fun nor were they as energetic. I guess, like other competitions, it could be who you know. I noticed at last night's practice, one of the mother's was being very critical of their dance routine. I don't do well with psycho-competition (or pageant) mommies. She turned me off really quickly with that stuff.

This Saturday, I hope she still has a good time. I now have details. They are the last group to perform from their studio. Luckily, it's at 3:oopm, which is earlier than last Saturday's dance time. The location is also closer. Cool.

My coworker is still gone and boy, am I feeling it. You really need two (maybe three) people working in this position. She's having a good time and I'm so happy for her (really, I am), but I miss her and her help. She'll be back on Friday. I'm hopeful that she'll just jump right in and not take two or three days to get back into the rhythm of things. Sometimes, that can happen.

Dancing Daughters and Competitions

So, Saturday went really well. I was happy that we only had the one performance because we could be there for her performance only, then leave right afterward. Nice. So many other parents were there from sun up to sun down. I can't even imagine. I suppose when it gets to that point, the Babe will be old enough to drive and pay for her own classes. I can't wait for the day!

We spent the bulk of Saturday resting and hanging out. I had her lay down at noon, but she couldn't sleep (of course not!). By one, she was up showering and prepping herself for the event. Three layers of lotion, thank you very much. That child is ashy (lol)! Costume, tights and oil layers on, I put her in the make-up chair, using the new haul I'd acquired for her. I put all the practicing I'd done in the past month on myself to the test. She was fierce! Here's what I did:

1. Applied base to her skin with a make-up wedge using Revlon Colorstay base in Mahogany.

2. To give a satin finish, I dusted her face with Black Radiance loose powder (in dark tone)

3. I colored in her eyebrows with eyebrow pencil, then brushed them out for a natural look (Chol.a eyes are not cute, despite what some people think).

4. To prepare her lid, I covered her whole eyelid in MAC Shadestick (sharkskin). I used the dark color to bring out the red I planned on using.

5. The lower lid was covered in red matte eyeshadow (from the Wales set I bought her). The upper lid, I used a bronzey orange and highlighted her brow with a shimmery coral.

6. Next, I went over her eye with barrier spray (lightly with a Q-tip) then covered the lower lid with red eye glitter pigment. I covered the upper lid, except for the brow highlight, with a pearlescent orange glitter pigment. She sparkled!

7. Black eyeliner was applied to the lower lid and water line, finishing off her eyes with a light coat of mascara.

8. An orange blush from the apple of her check to the temple (blended well), then a light coat of Revlon lustrous lipgloss. She was ready for the stage!

When we got to the location, everyone went gaga over her eyes. Hubby was like, "Keep it up and they'll be asking you to do a workshop." (you think?) The other girls weren't too shabby themselves. We only waited about an hour then on with my girl! She was working it and all of her group looked like they were having a blast. I was so proud. I videoed then, subsequently posted my child on you.tube. Why? Because I can. ;)

She has another competition this Saturday and, again, I have no details. Again, I'm hoping for more information tonight at dance class. Again, I'm hoping it's an "in and out" situation like last Saturday. We'll see how it goes!

Protective Style

Last night, I was sitting in the salon chair getting new crochet braids. Here is the hair I used (F1b/350, not the color shown here). Anyway, my hair-dresser is a trooper. I was in and out in two hours flat! I love her! Gone are the days when you're stuck at the salon from sun-up to sun-down, listening to all of the dredge and gossip of the neighborhood. My lady doesn't put up with that crap. We talk about the news, our families and other topics. No gossiping there. Can you imagine? It's terrific!

OMG! I have hair! Even before the extensions were put in, my TWA (Teeny Weeny Afro) was rocking a really close look. My hair-dresser confessed later that she wasn't sure I'd have enough to even braid up when she saw me (she laughed and said, "I thought I'd have to send you home and say, try again later."). When I sat in the chair, she began to pull it out a bit to see the length (if any) and let me tell you, there was plenty. Two years of rocking it natural and I've got about five or six inches of growth since going almost bald in May of 2007. It's so healthy, too. I'm very pleased. With this protective style, it should really gain a lot of length in the next couple of months.

Tonight, I take down the Babe's hair. Ugh! If I have half a foot of hair, she's got at least a foot. That girl has so much hair, we could make a rug. The hardest part is "clearing" it after I wash it. Inevitably, there are tears and I don't ever mean to hurt her but damn! The hair is thick, thick, thick! Tomorrow, I'll be braiding it all up and making it "fly" for competition on Saturday.

Speaking of which, I got all of my questions answered. Why did I only find out Tuesday night? They really need additional help. Using the family members and hording the money is not working anymore. You gotta spend sometimes to save. Friday, I'll also be throwing down $30 for more dance shoes. Yeesh! She's gonna be cute, though. The girls each represent a country. The Babe, of course, is representing the Mother Land. Oranges, reds and browns (earth tones look so good on her). When I talked to the other little girls about their costumes, only one seemed happy about hers. The others looked like they were unimpressed. I'm anxious to see how they all look together. I am not anxious to be at this competition from 3 in the afternoon to ten at night. I'm not sure if we'll make it to church on Sunday or not. At least Indy will be hanging with her grandmother. I don't know how I would be able to do this with both girls vying for my attention.

Happy St. Patty's Day

I've got my green on and green glittery eye lids (many comments about the latter). Shall we have green eggs and ham for dinner tonight? It sounds kinda good to me. I bet the kids would get a kick out of it.

We're in the market for a new sectional for our basement. We've sold our couch and the money is there for the new purchase, but we just haven't found anything we really like, except for this:



It's also mind blowing how much furniture stores want to charge you. From place to place, the prices are all across the board (one place wanted nearly $4,500 for something very similar to what you see in this picture. Ouch!). Hubby found someone online that sells direct, so that person may be our final stop. We'll see.

I've been kind of stressed out, lately. My coworker who manages the same area with me has been out of the office for now, almost two weeks! She's become a first-time grandmother and is tending to her daughter an new grand-daughter. I'm thrilled for her, but things have been crazy hectic on my end. My boss isn't helping by throwing more projects in my direction. He just doesn't get how nuts our inbox is and how I so don't have time to do all of his projects. There were 1100 messages this morning and I nearly cried when I saw that number.

The Babe's first competition is this Saturday. I would be really excited, but that's got me stressed for the following reasons:

1. No costume. We were supposed to have the costume two weeks ago, but they didn't come in. So what, my kid is supposed to dance on stage naked? Nice.

2. Where is the competition? They told us it would be Salt Lake Communi.ty College, but there are Annexes all over the city. Which one? Which building? Where do we park? What time are we supposed to be there?

3. The babe outgrew her dance shows this year. I have yet to buy new ones because I've been waiting to hear about the costume (why risk having to buy two pairs, when I could by one and buy the color to match the costume...whatever color that is).

4. Is there a fee for others who want to watch?

I talked to another parent whose kid had a class last night. He said that, at least, now she knows what time. Well, the babe's class is tonight and you better believe I'm drilling someone with these questions. I know they're busy, but we're paying enough money to take care of an administrator/clerk, something. This is so ridiculous! I have a hard time with disorganization.
They really better get it together.

Hubby is off again. Seems like I blink and he's off. He must really love this shift. I do too, but it's hard when he's off and I'm not. Oh, well, it's really a small complaint.

More makeup...

...along with the last of the Babe's stuff that I ordered; a matte eyeshadow palette to compliment the glitter pigments I bought her. My packages came yesterday (and much earlier than I expected). It came with 50 pigments, nail decals, 2 pairs of falsie eyelashes and makeup brushes. Here are some pictures of the haul:

Sookie Sock it to me!

Well, I'm hooked. Yet another book series. After finishing up Twilight (well, not really since I'm now reading the books aloud to the babe), I found myself talking "vampires" with my hygienist. She told me that S. Meyer, the author of the Twili.ght series, read a set of books before she wrote her own. The series is the Sooki.e Stackhous.e series by Cha.rlaine Harris. I ordered the complete set from Amazon and started in almost immediately. I didn't even realize the Tru.e Blood series on HBO was based on these books. Now, I'm itching for the release on DVD (nope...no HBO at su casa). These are fast reads and not as heavy on description as the Twiligh.t books (although, Cha.rlaine gives ample description...she's just not as wordy) and the dialogue is terrific! She's also an "adult" writer, where Stephanie is writing for young adults. This is very evident with all the "F" bombs dropped in Charl.aine's book.

I'm really enjoying the characters, the background stories and the locations. There are loads of similarities and it's a wonder there isn't copyright infringment; however, they handle things so differently, I'm sure that's enough to make the stories unique.

1. Sooki.e is an "every man" character who has nothing exceptional going for her. (like Bella) She's attractive, not a supermodel, but she knows she cleans up well. Whether by insecurity or lack of confidence, Bella does not consider herself attractive at all, but the other characters remark on her looks all the time.

2. Sook.e has a "disability" that she can use on everyone except Bill. She considers her ability a hinderance, until midway into the first novel. Ed.ward has this same ability, considers it a part of who he is and uses it at will. Unfortunately, he cannot use it on Bella.

3. Vampires live among us, they are hot, have the ability to fool us into doing things we wouldn't normally do and generally don't have to worry about money.

4. Vampires are still killers, despite the fact that they want to be "mainstream".

There are more but I don't want to give away too much of the stories, especially if you haven't read them. One of the differences that I appreciate with the Sook.ie series is that the relationship seems plausible and real. The Twiligh.t relationship is sureal and fantastic. Both are enjoyable to read about, even though they are so different. Check it out of if you're looking for a good read. Neither are too violent and there's a detective series feel in the latter. Enjoy!

More pictures..

Leishi eye pigments:













These are the golds/yellows with one on the very far right end that I couldn't categorize. It's got flecks of pink and looks somewhat bronzey.





These are the pinks. There are four here in the photo that look very similar, but I promise there are differences in lighting and tone.
















These are the blues. I can remember my mother putting blue, matte eyeshadow on me from lid to brow for recitals. Ah, those were the days. I would hope that I'd provide enough trend mixed with class that the babe won't be horrified in the future with pictures I take of her made up for dance.









These are the purples. You'll see the upper right is the one that "gave up the ghost" during shipment. I found pretty purple sparkle everywhere in the packaging. Bummer.








These are all very iridescent, with flecks of silver, purple, pink and even pewter. I think these will make a nice brow highlight or "dust" over the entire eye.










These are the silvers and whites.















Finally, the greens. Towards the back of the row, they become more turquoise. So pretty!

The colors are numbered rather than named underneath each 5gram container. I noticed that I had every number (1-40) except number 19 and a duplicate of 6 (I'm sure a packaging error). I placed my order and wonder, due to it's being a different seller, if the same process works for their company. I guess I'll find out in a couple of weeks.

It's March and around 50 degrees here. Spring is slowly making it's appearance and I couldn't be happier. Of course, for those of you allergy sufferers (I see you GC), I hope the blooming goes quickly for you. :)