A Very Happy Mother's Day

I had a wonderful day today. I woke with a spring in my step and a sparkle in my eye. The girls were good (not one moment of bickering all day) and everyone spoiled me. First, we went to church and our pastor delivered a wonderful sermon to the"off-spring" rather than mothers. Several mother's were paid a tribute of beautiful, white roses -mother over 80, mother with the most children, mother with most generations present [my mother received that one] and the mother with the youngest child.

The girls came home and watched a movie, while mom paid tribute to dad by uploading the videos she took of his competition on YouTube and Facebook (I'm very proud). When hubby came home from work, we went to the Mongolian Grill for dinner. It was divine and I actually maintained my self control. There were big bowls of cabbage, cucumbers, celery and green onions with minimal meat, since I couldn't weigh at the restaurant. This was the only meal I had today (I didn't want to tempt fate).

After dinner, we went shopping for shoes. My favorite sassy sandals tore up, the other day, so I've been on the look-out for a replacement pair. Haven't found any I really like (What's up, DSW?!), until this evening. Hubby spotted those and new sneakers for me at the Ross Dress for less. I have a feeling my knee will be feeling a lot better, now that I have better support.

This evening, hubby and I spent some time "dreaming" and "visualizing" about some of the places we would like to vacation to. The Bahamas, St. Croix, Hawaii, Cancun, Montego Bay were all part of our wish list, as we perused various all-inclusive sites. We have this wish to go somewhere together, without the children. This may sound harsh but, we never had a real honeymoon. We're certainly over due. Besides, the kids travel with us everywhere else. I know I wasn't fortunate enough to go with my parents on a cruise for a vacation. They've got it pretty good.

Anniversary Getaway

Hubby has planned a little anniversary getaway for us, later this month. I'm so excited! It will be the first time we've gotten away without the kids in a coon's age. Friends of his are going to keep both of our girls. I'm still reeling over that! Hooray! "Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!"

We've decided to go somewhere neither one of us has ever been before; Lava Hot Springs. I'm anxious to see these springs, the Portneuf river and remnants of the Oregon trail. It should be a fun trip with lots of photo opportunities. Maybe hubby will even let me video tape him. Uh, okay. Well, here's to hoping

I love having trips to look forward to. A side dream is to have one getaway to look forward to each month. It doesn't have to be out of state, but somewhere unique and away from the everyday of life. Perhaps, in the future, my "away" will be to far off places. Again, here's to hoping.

On with the Show

Hubby left this morning to participate in his second body-building show of the season. He's going to Idaho and I'm very excited for him. He's been in such great shape this season and his new regime has really done wonders for his overall appearance. Interestingly enough, he's getting more criticism about whether he truly is natural or not. I think it's quite the compliment! He's actually showing that you can have nice muscle mass without the need for steroids. Rather than criticising, they should take the hint.

The weekend will be somewhat lonely without him but I'll have plenty to keep me busy. The girls and I will spend tomorrow cleaning house (sweeping, mopping, vacuuming and giving the bathrooms a good scrubbing). I'll also go back over areas of my carpet that I recently shampooed, since the dog decided to vomit in various places. Ugh! He would do it two days after I'd shampooed all the carpets and rugs in the house. Nice.

Saturday, the eldest has to take dance pictures. One of the sittings involves "casual wear" this year. Casual for my tween is a little too casual for the everyday observer, so I'm going to take her shopping for casual that doesn't make her look like a ragamuffin. Even some of the Bermuda shorts that are out now should work nicely. The thing to stress with her is lotion; some pictures have her looking oh, so lovely but ashy, ashy, ashy!

Sunday we'll go to church and then await hubby's return. He wants to go somewhere nice for dinner that night and mentioned one of the local Brazilian restaurants in town. I love them, but they don't differentiate pricing with age too much. The youngest would be free, but we'd still be looking at around $70 for dinner. That's a little too rich for my penny-pinching blood.

I'm really starting to look forward to our vacation this summer. We're going to the location pictured on the right. The eldest keeps asking things like, "How long is the drive to our vacation," and "What will we do when we get there?" Can't kids just be happy with surprises?

The youngest doesn't care, just so long as we get to stay in a hotel. That's the best thing about traveling for her; the hotel stay. When I was little, I loved staying in hotels, too. Our kids have had the opportunity to, not only stay in hotels, but resort locations. They are truly spoiled and don't know how good they've got it. My hubby tries to tell them but I'm not sure they comprehend the totality of what they have just yet.

The sad thing is that with the way the gas prices are rising, the driving will be the most expensive aspect of our trip. Will we really have gas at nearly $4.00 per gallon by summer? It makes my heart drop just to think about it. I'm trying to remain positive and look forward to the happy times (and memories) we'll create when we go. I'm also hopeful that I won't look scary in my two piece when the time finally arrives.

A Mixed Feeling Week and a Big Weekend

This past week has been very odd, indeed. I've been saying good bye to my in-office coworkers and trying to prepare myself, mentally, for the change in my employment. I've had so many people reach out and say how much they appreciated my work and dedication. It has meant so much to hear from people; some of whom I haven't heard from in months. I suppose I've made a mark in my company. Sometimes, it's hard to know if what you're doing is really making any difference.

Yesterday, my team had balloons, cake and wonderful gifts for me. I was so touched by their kindness, but I held back the tears. Two coworkers, whom I haven't seen for months, came in with their kids for a visit. It was great to catch up and hear about their lives. It was also interesting to see how "out of touch" they both were with the goings on in the company (they both telecommute full time). I now see aspects of the job that will be hidden from me, once I'm home all the time. I don't mind being "out of the loop" where work bureaucracy is concerned.

Hubby and the babe are competing in a show together tomorrow. I'm so excited and nervous for them. Hubby is supposed to be working with the babe on her routine (it has yet to happen). I was going to add my "feminine flavor" so that she doesn't come off too masculine in her performance. I hope they get it together today because she really is feeling a bit insecure. I don't blame her; however, it hasn't shaken her resolve. She's still ready to take on the kid events tomorrow. What a trooper!

We've booked our vacation! I'm so excited but still in disbelief. We bit the bullet this year and spent the money to try something new. I won't go into the details yet but, I'll say this: I think it's exactly what we all need and definitely something we'll do again. I am confident of that.

Hello, November

Did you know that it's Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month? I was unaware until a few moments ago. I don't think I've ever posted about how much that disease scares me; more than cancer, heart disease and even a stroke. My memories are who I am. The people I know and love, the places I've been, the ideas I've dreamed about. I can't imagine having all of that slowly siphoned away. To wake up some days and know who my children are, and others not remembering their names. My feeling is, I can be doped on morphine or whatever for pain as long as I know who I am. I support research and donate whenever I can and I truly hope that no one in my family experiences this (or any other) wretched disease.

It will be a good day today, despite the sour note I sort of started on. I believe this to be true. It's been oh, so busy. October was nuts, but lots of fun. The girls participated in so many wonderful activities and I was happy to play taxi. It's truly about broadening their childhoods and building their memories. Indy will be going to see the princesses next week. She has no idea, but the babe is having a hard time holding her tongue. She's not jealous, thankfully. I did have to remind her, though, that I did all of these sorts of things with her when she was little. Now, it's Indy's turn. The babe got to see a Chor.us Line in September, after all and will hopefully get to see the stage version of A Christmas Sto.ry in December.

Hubby and I are getting away next week, too. He keeps talking about the "plans" he's made without talking about them. I have no idea what we're doing, but I hope it involves a hot tub. Woohoo! I think the last time we went away together overnight, just the two of us, was a few years ago. So sad that it only comes in spurts but it's hard finding care for our kids and they're at such different ages.

We went to Vegas and stayed at the Orleans. I believe Indy was just a toddler. The pictures show a lot of baby weight on me, so I don't believe she could have been that old. We were lucky my mother even agreed to care for both of them. I had no idea we were going. Hubby just told me what days to take off and that he was making arrangements for the kids. Early one morning, we dropped them off and headed out. I love car trips with him. We have the best time. You really don't know someone until you've spent hours and hours with him/her in a car.

We could have lived at the Orleans! Everything was there; food, entertainment and therapy (spas). We rode all the coasters at the top of the Stratosphere (Lord, never again!), walked the strip, visited In 'N Ou.t Burger as often as we could, and drank the sweet nectar of life (Mai Tai's are usually my choice, but I think I had more strawberry daiquiris than anything on this trip).

Since we only have one day, I won't get my hopes up for a repeat of our Vegas excursion, but I'll always have those memories (and those dreadful pictures of me screaming my head off on the Big Shot).

I'm looking forward to the holidays and all that comes with them. The girls have already mentioned baking and other mother-daughter bonding activities. I save all that for this time of year, since it's the time I usually use those vacation days I've saved up. I just hope I'll be able to again this year. With a new manager, you just never know.

Well, it's that time to dig in and work, work, work.

(Oh, and my nostalgia moment below. I loved Troop. When Hubby and I married years after they were popular, he told me he and his friends would choreograph dances, using their moves, for parties. Remember when people danced rather than just moved around aimlessly? I listened to the song below, along with My Heart, That's My Attitude, All I Do and I'm Not Souped over and over again.)

Back and Missing My Friends

My trip home was too much fun! I basically lived the single life with my best friend for four, fun-filled days. Now, when I say single, I'm not talking about bar-hopping and running around like some crazed woman. I'm talking about going where I want to go, when I want to go whenever I want to go. I'm saying that I didn't have to put anyone into a booster or car seat, buckle them up and make sure the strap wasn't too tight. I didn't have to wait for kiddlings to finally get out of the car, only to realize they left some scrap of clothing or (heaven forbid) their shoes.

I could also go into places and not worry about hands touching and picking up everything. I could spend time browsing and not worry about brattiness ("Don't touch me!" "She's not listening, mom!" "Why can't we go there?" "I'm hungry!") I missed my girls, but I didn't miss all of this.

I arrived in Nashville, the Friday before last, at around 10:30pm. I picked up my car (a Hyundai Elantra in grey) and drove over to the hotel. Once I checked in, I discovered that I had two, double beds instead of the single King I thought I was going to get. Sweet! I called my friend and told her to bring a bag. Slumber party! When she arrived, we went to pick up a late dinner, came back to the room and talked, talked, talked. The next day, she had to get her hair done. I worked out while she was gone, talked to my dad, and arranged a lunch with my sorority sister. At lunch, my soror, my best friend and I talked, and talked and talked for nearly three hours. I'm sure the wait-staff was ready for us to go.

We hit nearly every hair shop where I spent way too much money. For that Saturday evening? Bowling and Captain D's for dinner. Sunday, it was off to her church for morning service. We left and went to IHOP, where we connected with my dad. He was nearly 45 minutes late (CP time for real!) and then he wouldn't let us leave. Two hours later and lots of rain, we headed back to the room to recuperate. Later, we went back out for dinner and watched "Let's Scare Jessica to Death" on my computer. We were planning on going to a haunted house, but we didn't want to stand in the rain.

Monday, we went to my high school friend's, daughter's junior high to speak for their college week. It was a lot of fun and they asked a lot of very intelligent questions (for the most part). It's junior high, after all. Afterwards, we kidnapped my friend and had lunch at Long John Silvers. Then, it was time to see Zombieland. Awesome! I haven't had that much fun at a movie in a long time. We were the only ones in the theater, talking loud and cracking jokes. It was the best! (I went to see it again with hubby two days later). There are so many great one-liners. We're still quoting them, ever chance we get.

We went to the mall for slurpees and strolled through our childhood hang out, now nearly deserted (due to our lovely economic climate). Her hubby was eager to have her back, so we took her home around five. For Monday night? BB King's House of Blues. Oh, yeah. It was the perfect end to a fantastic trip. We saw the Stacy Mitchhart band and turned into groupies for the evening, grabbing autographs and buying CDs. I love live music and I really hate that I don't get enough of it at home. That's gotta change.

Tuesday was a bit depressing. We picked up breakfast and turned in my car. After which, we hung out at Opry Mills and then had lunch. Then, off to the airport to come home. It's always so hard to leave. My best friend said it best when she described our friendship; "The longer we remain friends, the more we appreciate each other...the harder it is to separate." Ugh! If only I could beam them here when I need them.

So, I don't go again until 2011. She wants to try the skiing thing the next time she's here (2010). I'll be pricing that out, along with hospital stays for when limbs are broken. I told her, "Only the bunny slopes for me!" I just don't want to meet my end tumbling down a mountain, you know?

Wonderful Vacation...Now, Back To Reality

Today marks my first (somewhat) full week back at work. It's weird and I'm not thrilled about it. It's so hard to come back. It used to be that I would vacation and, around the fifth day or so, I'd be ready to get back to it. Not so much. I could have vacationed another month or two. Seriously! I did not want to come back. I think I'm no longer cut-out for career mode, working, the rat-race, whatever. Hubby thinks I should focus efforts on my writing and I'm considering it seriously. Of course, I still have to pay bills. Can't up and quit my job (God, don't I wish!). Lol!

Can you believe July is nearly here? Where did June go? The summer is racing along at NASCA.R speeds. What is up?

Total Drama, but We're Here!

Wednesday afternoon after work was probably one of the hardest afternoons of my life. Next to leaving my first born at the hospital after I was discharged, this is probably next in line. I can't get into all the details because they are not my details to share. I will just say this; I am not opposed to chemical castration. It's a good thing we were going on vacation the next day. I really needed it.

At 4:30am Thursday morning, my household was busy with everyone skittering around, getting ready to leave. We left around 5:20am (really wishing we'd left at 5:00am). No matter. We arrived at the airport in plenty of time, found a space next to the shuttle stop and hopped on, headed for the terminal. We made it...to a line that looked about a mile long. We were fortunate, though. People must be getting more savvy about the airline kiosks. The line moved along quickly and we were done checking in within about ten minutes.

We boarded our South.West flight to Denver with ease. Settled into our unreserved seats and had a good ole time for about an hour. Hubby, with the girls and me on an aisle seat across from him by myself. Sweet! In Denver, we grabbed breakfast at McDonald's then hoped on our next flight to Orlando. Two hours and 44 minutes later, we were still circling the airport. Why? Oh, a massive storm just happened to hit a few minutes before our arrival. Any lighting seen within five miles of an airport and the airport gets closed. Did you know that? We didn't either.

Running out of gas at 10,000 feet is not cool, so off to Fort Myer for a fill-up. We hung around their airport, in the plane, for about thirty minutes (within that time, I learned a little more about my seatmates. A grandmother and her granddaughter, returning from a funeral in Wyoming. The granddaughter was quite charming) then back up in the air to get to Orlando. Via a detour route, we finally arrived in Orlando at 7:00pm...three hours later than our scheduled landing time.

Missing the first Hertz shuttle (because it was just too dang full) we caught the next one to pick up our car. Hubby's driving a 2008 Hond.a Accord. It's burgundy with cream/tan interior. The girls love it! Indy calls it "our red car".

Riding along on the speedy toll road is great...until you hit the tolls. My MSN instructions only mentioned one toll booth but, actually, there were three. Nice. Good thing we thought to bring lots of quarters. The rental has a pass on the window, but we weren't really sure how to use it. We'll be doing a bit of research later today or tomorrow because our plan is to venture back to Orlando this weekend (Sunday and then Monday, maybe).

It's now 8:30pm, Thursday evening. My girls are tired and hungry and we're all just ready to check in and be done with the never ending day. The Daytona Beach Regency resort was to be our final destination, but when we arrived, our desk clerk informed us that there was no room in the inn. Oy! But, never fear! They booked us next door at the OceanWalk Resort. What a good God I serve! Seriously? Our timeshare? Yes!! Hubby and I were ecstatic! You see, we tried to book here earlier in the year, but it was full. So, we arranged for the next best thing. Daytona Regency rated well and was within our budget, but to be able to stay where we're familiar with everything is a nice treat. Oh, did I mention? They upgraded us to a two-bedroom condo with separate entrances. Sweet! We can't even hear the kids when they're acting like monkeys!

The main area has a living room with Murphy bed, 52" t.v., full kitchen, laundry facilities, king-sized master bedroom with 32" t.v., walk-in closets, garden-jetted tub, walk-in shower, and ocean view. The separate room has a kitchenette, 19" screen t.v., two queen-sized beds and pool-side view. We are in heaven and totally teaching our daughter about the virtue of patience and what it can bring you.

Last night? We ate at Bubba Gump's which was pretty tasty. We strolled the Ocean walk area a bit before heading home. It was late, but I made the girls shower and get fresh before bed. They were very grateful for their shower. Seems the humidity factor didn't really hit home until after they'd showered and realized they really needed it. Hubby and I relaxed in the garden tub (gotta get me one of these!). He tried to pick us up some drinks down at the bar in the lobby, but the bartender had announced "last call", just before he got down there. He was bummed, but she encouraged him to come back tomorrow (today) for her Hurricanes. The tub soaking was still nice without the drinks, but that would have been the icing on the cake. We showered off afterwards, then went to bed (but not to sleep, snicker, snicker).

This morning, I took video and pictures of the resort in the light of day. Indy came in and told me that she slept well and I opened the curtain, so that she could see the ocean:

"Mom, the ocean is so beautiful and shiny," my three year-old announced to me.

I agreed and let her know that she would be swimming in it soon. She's so excited. My eldest is bouncing off the walls! We keep putting her in check, but it doesn't seem to be making much difference. She's just so stinking excited. We keep trying to remind her of things she did here, but she doesn't remember. I hope this time, the memories stick.

Later, we went to visit my grandmother. It was as if she'd aged twenty years, but I suppose it's hard to see someone you know who's always been independent, living in a retirement home. She is completely silver-haired. It amazed me! (she's colored her hair for as long as I can remember). Her nails were painted and that made me happy. I told her she still looked glamorous. I was so glad she knew me and seemed genuinely happy to see all of us. This is the first time Indy has ever met her great-grandmother. Hubby took lots and lots of pictures.

So, why am I typing this post on my holiday/vacation? My hubby just left to go work-out at the gym. He's trying to keep his regime. I understand, but it still makes me sad that he left. He called a few minutes ago to tell me that he's not running away from me and that he's having a good time with all of us, he just wants to try and stay on track. I don't like it, but I get it. I laid on the guilt pretty thick and he actually seemed moved...for a moment, then off he went. Sigh.

When he gets back, I'm hoping we'll hit the beach or hit the pool. The oldest has been worrying us to death about the water. I must admit, I am eager to get in there myself. I also wouldn't mind doing a stroll around town. This really is a pretty place with a lot of good memories for me.

Whistle While You Work

We are either incredibly efficient or OCD. I haven't quite decided which. The truth is, whenever we get ready to leave for vacation, we clean. And, I'm not just talking about a little dusting or some glass cleaner, I'm talking rent-the-rug-doctor-and-scrub-the-oven-range-hood clean. Last night, hubby was steam cleaning like a crazy man. The day before, I was dusting, wiping and sucking up dust bunnies that had never seen the light of day. Today, we will divide and conquer the remaining work (laundry, mopping, bathroom cleaning/scrubbing, and packing). We'll need a vacation, just to get away from all the cleaning! The idea, really, is to leave a clean house and come back to one. Who wants to come back to a junky pig-stye after resting and relaxing for a week. It would be utterly depressing (that's why it has never happened in this family).

My mother is away right now, jaunting around Vegas with my sister in her rented, luxury sedan. She hasn't been since the 70's, so I know it was a total eye-opener for her, driving down the strip for the first time (in decades) Monday evening. Surprisingly, she hasn't really toured/visited the resorts. She's simply decided to go brain-dead in the condo and just relax. I can appreciate that. Tonight, they're supposed to see Way.ne Brady at the Venetian. I hope she has a good time. She really deserves it.

Hubby and I had a little evening spat last night over money. It wasn't even over the lack of money, it was just talking about the money that pushed me over the edge. It was 11:00 (way past my bedtime) and we were talking about how much cash to carry on us. We have our budget, so we subtracted all of the money we've spent thus far for the trip. The problem arose when hubby couldn't find the exact amount for the airline tickets. I was trying to pull up the site and do a quick check, but he took my over-assertiveness as a, "You think you're the only one who has ideas," idea. Great! We tried to work through the issue, last night but I was just too tired. I remember telling him that I didn't mean for my actions to be taken that way and that all I wanted to do was just get it done (I really, really hate talking about money). He seemed better this morning, but you never can tell.

So, where are we going? This family is making an east-coast trek to Florida. While there for fun in the sun, we'll also stop over and see my grandmother. My hubby's best friend lives there as well. My hope is to work on some control issues I have, while I'm away. The control is internal and I have a hard time letting go. I really want to let go, have fun, and not stress about every little thing. Can I do it? It will be a better vacation overall for everyone if I can.

I'm hoping the weather cooperates a little better there than what's going on here. I know Florida has had a bit of rain, but when it's 90 degrees, does anyone really notice? We've been getting dumped for what seems like weeks here. So out of the ordinary for this time of year. A coworker told me that a front usually in place over Arizona (I think) is not there this year, so all the weather that typically gets blocked is hitting us full on. Would someone please turn off the spicket up there? Surely, we've gotten enough water.

I've Already Checked Out

Our vacation doesn't officially start for me until Thursday, but I am already basking on the beach. The sun is beaming down on me and a gentle breeze tickles my face, while my children try to dodge the waves. My hubby and I sip drinks with umbrellas and laugh at the man pulling the speedos out of his crack. It's bliss!

Hubby's vacation officially started on Saturday, lucky duck. He's been around for the last couple of days, tidying up, paying bills and running errands. Actually, I think he officially checked-out two weeks ago. He's so excited! It's fun to watch him and listen to him talk about all the things we're going to do. He's such a big kid.

My eldest keeps asking about when and where we're going. True to tradition? She hasn't been told a thing. Boy, is she going to be surprised!

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!)

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.

Nearly A Month, but I'm Here

Wow! Has it really been almost a month since I've posted? I didn't even talk about my vacation (as promised). Well, here it is:

We went to rent the car on a Thursday and were presented with a Mercury Sable. Can we say "Land Yacht, boys and girls?" Holy crud! The car was huge! Hubby decided there was no way we were going to tool around three states with that thing. The gay attendant (who was seriously crushing on hubby) hooked him up with a trailblazer instead. Now, we could take the stroller but not feel like we were in a sail boat.

Our trip began on Saturday, June 14th. We drove approximately four hours to St. George and into triple-digit heat. Thankfully, it's a dry heat and I wasn't too miserable (but hot is hot, right?). Our accommodations were lovely; a third-floor, two bedroom condo with two bathrooms, each with their own jetted-tub. Nice. The patio had dual accesses; one from the living room (adjacent to the fireplace) and one from the master bedroom. The kitchen was tidy and fully-equipped (but we didn't use t much). The decor? Southwestern modern with some questionable art in the master bedroom (questionable meaning, we think it a surreal portrait of native Americans, but it looked more like a six year-old's attempt). We spent the evening enjoying the pool and watching the kids have the time of their lives.

The next day, we were up bright and early. We enjoyed breakfast on the patio/deck (which would be the norm for the next two mornings) then off we went to explore. Most of our time in St. George was really just spent relaxing and eating. The girls and I got in a lot of pool time and I even snuck in a work-out with hubby. Tuesday, June 17th, we packed up our gear and headed south and west; onward to California (but not before stopping in Vegas, first).

In Vegas, we tooled around the outlet mall for a couple of hours, ate our lunch and just enjoyed each other's company. We also took advantage of the Disney outlet and hubby purchased goodies for the girls (they still had no idea we were going). Back on the road, we traveled another four hours to Anaheim and 90 degree heat. Ninety degrees and humid doesn't sit well with this chick. I spent our three days there sweating like I had some tropical disease. It was not attractive.

Arriving at the hotel, we were greeted by customer service oriented staff (always nice). The room? Oh, brother. I couldn't tell if we were just spoiled coming from the condo or if it really was as small as we thought. Our girls were basically in a closet connected to the suite. The hardwood floors were dusty (I learned fast and remembered to keep my house shoes on whenever we were there). I had to remind myself that it was a place to sleep and not to get too hung up on the little things. We didn't do much that evening after all that driving. Aside from grab dinner and go back to the room, we walked over to the California Grand to see how to make our way into Disneyland the next day (the hotel was just across the street).

Bright and early Wednesday morning, hubby went for a work out while I got the girls dressed and ready to go pick up breakfast. Why is it that when you go to chain restaurants away from home, they always seem to take twice as long? Denny's brought out our grand slams twenty minutes later and back to the hotel we went. We were way behind our intended schedule, but we ate and made our way to the park as quickly as we could.

I haven't been to Disneyland since I was my daughter's age (around 7 or so). It was quite different from what I remembered, until we got on some familiar rides; Pirates of the Caribbean (now equipped with Jack Sparrow scenes), the Haunted Mansion and Space Mountain. Space Mountain was still as cool as I remembered, if not more so. The babe (due to some interesting circumstances with our fast passes and "wait to ride" cards, got to ride that sucker four times. She was thrilled. We went back to the hotel for a break around mid-day, then came back to ride more rides and enjoy the fireworks. I was quite impressed with my two-year old who never once had a melt down.

Thursday, we took Beach street all the way to Huntington Beach. The girls loved it! Hubby and I,of course, picked that day to let our nerves get the best of us. We weren't speaking much, but I grabbed great photos and video of the girls on the sand and in the water. It was Indy's first time in the ocean. She was a bit apprehensive at first, then really started getting into it. Seaweed and sand for two year olds -- a great combination.

This was the day hubby also stocked up on libations. Liquor is readily available and cheap in California...perhaps that's why they have so many DUIs. Who knows. We're set for a while, at least and with our Albertson.s preferred card discount? We couldn't go wrong.

Friday, we packed up and headed back to St. George. Again, we pit-stopped in Vegas and hubby hit up the Disney store one last time. Despite our arguing, I made out with cute Tinkerbell shirt that I've worn several times since. In St. George, we washed all our laundry and enjoyed stretching out again in our spacious condo. One bedroom this time, but oh, so much nicer than our hotel. We ate dinner and watched a couple hours of the dog whisperer. Interesting memory to make, I'd say.

Back on the road Saturday, I was happier, a bit more tired than I wanted to be but pleased with the arrangements we'd made. It wasn't Florida, but we did have a good time and managed not to break the bank. We came home to a sparkling clean house (we went crazy the night before we left cleaning...hubby even steam cleaned the carpets) and scruffy grass. Our neighbors didn't even notice we were gone (I think that means we did things right). I was glad to know, however, that my mother had stopped by to check on things while we were away. She had also kept our dog who had had an altercation with hers just two nights before we got back. A $100 vet bill later, he was medicated and well on his way to healing (poor doggie).

All in all, it was a better vacation than San Francisco and the St. George vaca we had last year. I'd really like to do something a bit more exotic but I know the reality of our country and I'm not holding my breath. I am, however, hoping that hubby and I will get to see the Virgin Islands some day in our lives. I'm thinking of getting a passport, just so I can be sure it happens sooner rather than later.

Back from Vacation...

and I'll give a full report, once I have a bit more time. Playing the catch-up game at work and I think I'm nearly there.

Summer Stuff

My eldest still doesn't have a summer placement, but she seems to be having the time of her life despite a daily place to go. She stayed with the neighbors last week on the two days I came into the office. This week, she's hanging with a friend. Unfortunately, the friend and her siblings got into major trouble while the babe was over there, but I was happy to hear that my own behaved herself appropriately. She even helped with the sweeping and the mopping!

Yesterday was hubby's birthday and we got him Jumper as his gift. We also took him to dinner where he ate a buffet of authentic Mexican cuisine. He was very happy. Afterwards, it was off to Krisp.y Krem.e for treats. The girls had a blast and in the midst, I got a call from my neighbor (the one who kept my eldest, the babe, last week) inviting her over for a sleepover. We got home and quickly packed her backpack with next-day digs and toiletries. Her very first sleepover (the neighbor's daughter's birthday is today). We all walked the babe over, gift in tow and chatted with them while the girls played.

Back home, hubby and I spent quality time together and enjoyed more Krisp.y Kreme.s (I'm feeling it today...even after the workout). This morning, with just me and the baby, we talked about potty training. She was good about taking off her pants quickly, after the accidents, but she still hasn't gone in the pot. We'll continue to try.

The eldest came home just a little bit ago and told me about her good time. She wanted to watch the Simp.sons, so I put that in for her. They must have played really hard because she sleeping, sleeping, sleeping (meanwhile, I can hear her sister talking to herself from her crib...silly girl).

Two more days before we're off for vacation. Sleeping in, eating what we like, swimming, playing...can't it start right now?

No Flights? Plan B

Hubby and I made arrangements months ago to go to Florida for our vacation this summer. We booked our room and all that was left to do was find a decent round trip flight for four folks. I guess decent came and went back in December because the rates have steadily climbed ever since. Our booking to be canceled "free and clear" would have to take place today, otherwise we risk loss (and none of us needs to loose anything else these days). So, we started thinking and came up with a plan B; drive. No, not to Florida, but driving would need to be our mode of transportation for wherever we end up going.

I spent a big chunk of yesterday afternoon canceling our current booking and arranging a new one. We spent a lot of money in just a few minutes time, and we haven't even gone anywhere yet! How does that work? It's all for the greater good, though. It will give me a chance to practice having a decent time away from work without having a stick up my butt the entire time. It will also give me, hubby and my girls great memories to take with us for the rest of their lives...although, Indy would have an equally good time playing at the park. She won't remember a thing (or at least, I don't think that she will).

In other news, my mother resigned from her job of 20+ years because of her new "not too bright/big idiot" boss. He doesn't even supervise her in the same state, and everyone thinks he's the biggest jerk ever. She discussed early retirement and lawsuits with me, yesterday. It was one of the strangest conversations I've ever had with my mother. I hope all of this works out in her favor.

I was talking to my neighbor the other day and we were talking about how quickly summer was approaching and how weird it was that school would be out soon. She said that hers is the "house of summer" where everyone seems to send their kid. I thought that funny because she doesn't see to pay much attention to what her own kids are doing. I guess the neighborhood must trust her enough, though, to send their kids over there (she works from home and that's probably the biggest reason). I can't handle my own, much less everyone else's. I'm glad that there are people in the world who have the patience to deal with mountains of kids.

I'm Here!

I have lots to write and will do so soon. Been off enjoying the holidays, food, family and fun since my last post. Today was my first day back at work (oh, the build up of seventeen days is not pretty). Posts will be coming along with pictures until then, happy Monday!

A Simple Question

That's all it was. I asked it of my hubby to simply see what his response would be. I already knew the answer and a simple, "yes" would have sufficed, but it's never that easy with him. The question? "Do you still find me attractive?" With the way my body has expanded and shrunk, stretched to infinity and beyond (thank you very much for that great catch phrase, Buzz Lightyear), I just wondered if he still thought me the cute girl he used to "go with" so many years ago.

We went into this long "thing" about it and I kept interjecting, "It was just a simple question," but that didn't make a difference. He was sweet and kind and delved into his thoughts of unending love. The poet in him burst forth with a frenzy and wouldn't leave. Finally, after being told over and over again about the love and the years and attractiveness being more than just looks, he flipped me over and took me. Nice. Not what I expected, but aren't surprises nice?

I was talking to some people, yesterday, who had recently taken a cruise. They spoke of the constant food, the activities, the sites, the sounds. I was really intrigued (yet again) at the prospect of doing something like this at some time in my life. I mentioned all this to hubby, who is more on board with the idea than he used to be. You see, he can't swim well and has often expressed his Titanic thoughts of being on a cruise ship and having it sink to the bottom, with him clinging to his sheets. He certainly understands that cruise-liners are not what they used to be and that everything is on the "high level" of communication, but it took some time for his entire core to agree that things are safer on boats nowadays. I'd like to do this, but I don't foresee it happening until the kids are older (or at least, the little one is potty-trained). The lady who talked about her cruise described her experience to that of being "treated like a princess." I could go for that.

I'm feeling so much better but I'm not jumping the gun. I won't know what's what until the antibiotics are done and I'm going it alone (drug free). I am hopeful and will remain so. I even plan to workout this evening, if my hubby can watch the kids for a half hour. That's all I need. If he's unavailable, I may just break out the stroller and take my kids for a walk. It's so beautiful today. It's been hard just sitting her in cubieland trying to work.