Spring or Summer?

This was a weekend of record breaking temps and boy did we feel every degree. Saturday, we awakened to temps in the low 50's, puttered around the house for a bit, then drove to my mother's at around 9:30am. By the time we got there, it was 75 degrees. Wow! By lunch time, it was over 80 and we were certainly feeling it at my house. All the fans were on, the blinds closed and the curtains drawn...all to keep any trickle of sun and heat out. Out of insanity or guilt, we went to the park later in the afternoon. The babe played while I walked (getting my second outdoor workout for the day). It made absolutely no difference to my weight. The steroids, unfortunately, have a very unpleasant side effect...weight gain. Thank God I'll be done with these suckers on Tuesday.

The weight gain was expected, but not expected was the the hefty amount in which it came; Seven pounds in a week? What the hell? Not cool. Not cool at all. Hubby was like, "Well, you lost it once, honey. You'll loose it again." All that work. It's like five steps forward, ten steps back. I'm so frustrated! As such, I'm not going to weigh this Wednesday. I don't want the emotional breakdown that would come with it. All I can hope for is that the trend to loose kicks back in, once I'm off the meds and this extra baggage leaves quickly. I was so close to my next goal, too but I digress.

To continue with the events of the weekend, Friday afternoon, I went to the salon and got my braids back. The color is quite unique, a sort of auburn/blond/bronze blend. Lots of highlights and, I think, very fun and flirty for the warmer months. The color chart is hard to see (even if you double-click for a larger view, the colors aren't very clear), but it is the only one that I can find online with the color I have (F503). Next time, I will do F505 for even more highlights and frost. I had her cut it to my shoulders because who wants pounds of hair all over their back in 80 degree weather. I'm really happy with both the length and color and have already received lots of compliments. I'll have to have hubby take a couple of photos, which I will post later on.

Sunday (another 80+ degree day), we went to church and to breakfast afterwards. It was nice, but rushed. My sister, being the self-consumed person that she is, thought it would be so great to ride with my mother to the restaurant. Neither my mother nor I were planning on going back to church after breakfast, but my sister had to because of previous obligations. It was because of her that we all rushed through our food because she was so worried about being late (not a worry she's ever had before, to my knowledge). Towards the end of the meal, she began to say things like, "I should have brought my own car," and "I probably shouldn't have ridden with mom." You think? Why didn't these things occur to you before we left? Oh, well. That's my sister. At least she's got a job again (but that's another story entirely).

Wednesday's the big day and I'm starting to get a little excited. Who gets excited about air conditioning installation, I ask you? Someone who's just survived 80 degree temps over the weekend without any sort of forced air besides fans, that's who. It brought back the horrible memories of summer and how miserable we all were. I guess I'm just happy that we will be basking in coolness this year without hubby having to get on top of the roof or any of that other horrible maintenance stuff he usually does and that it will be reliable coolness. Not cool for an hour and then sweltering for six hours. I hope that it's a smooth process too because I have no idea what kind of direction to give on this if it happens to be needed.

Spring and summer have me thinking about food changes, too. It's no longer the season for soups, roasts and comfort foods but things on a lighter fair. Hubby and I talked about my famous pasta salad, complete with artichoke hearts and grilled chicken. We were both sort of craving it, yesterday. It's definitely a standard in the house during these months and I'm looking forward to it. He also asked about Baja Beans, more a vegetarian option but very good nonetheless. I'll probably make those this Cinco de Mayo.

I seem to be babbling on so, I'll end with this: it's nearly 6:30am and 71 degrees. Do you think I'd get fired if I showed up in my bathing suit?

I Have One Great Kid

A little over a year ago, we were fretting about what to do with my oldest (the Babe) and her behavior issues. They weren't really issues as much as it was maturity (or lack thereof) that we were dealing with. She is a kid who's birthday falls just before school starts so, when she started Kindergarten in August of 2005, her mental capacity was still very much that of a four year-old. At any rate, it had us frustrated and often times in tears over what would become of her. She was asked to leave her elementary school in Salt Lake...the very one that I bent over backwards to get her in, just so she would be close by in case of emergencies. She was acting out in class, causing issues with the other children, leaving the classroom without permission, refusing to cooperate. The list goes on and on. Then, we had to figure out how to get her to and from school on that wacky half-day schedule, thirty miles away from where we were. It was really tough, but we got through it. By God, we got through it!

For the past few days, she's been coming home with these behavior rewards and recently participated in a behavior party, held for the children with the best behavior in the school. She's been a stellar kid this term and it's been a true miracle, watching her mature into a really great kid. This morning in the car, she informed me that one of her friends received a reprimand and then proceeded to throw the notice in the garbage can. The Babe informed her that it wasn't just for her to know what she'd done wrong, but that she needed to take it home to her parents. Talk about virtuous and noble! I'm so proud. Somebody pass me a tissue!

Dove and Steriods

After my little visit to the doctor, no new information was determined...well, I guess I've determined that I'm a freak of nature (but I already sort of new that). He said that the hives and the tastelessness I'm experiencing don't appear to be in correlation with the penicillin injection I received over ten days ago. He prescribed Prednisone for the next little bit in hopes that it will have an effect on the hives. I've heard from others that this is a temporary miracle drug that, if taken too long, will ultimately kill you. Nice. I remember we prescribed it to the animals, when I worked at the Vet's office, for decreasing inflammation. I suppose that is what this doctor had in mind.

I worked from home yesterday after I picked up my prescription. I was sort of embarrassed to go because the Pharmacy ladies know me now. Yes! They know me and now ask, "Is it for you or the baby?" Ugh! I'm a regular. That's so sad. Anyway, they joked with me and said that my visits wouldn't decrease until the kids were at least fifteen. Only fifteen? Why not make it twenty-four? It might as well be one hundred. Each visit for me is like the walk of shame. I can't seem to keep anyone in my family healthy.

The meds seemed to make a difference within an hour. My itching wasn't as bad and I could taste a bit of Indy's french fries...not well, but enough to enjoy them somewhat. My Healthy Choice breaded chicken meal wasn't too bad either. The breading had a lot of pepper and I could certainly taste that. By evening, I was feeling pretty good. I took a shower, hoped into bed and began to itch like a mad woman! I broke out the Cortaid spray and Aveeno Cortisone cream with a quickness. The itching never really subsided, even with the topicals. I had a thought: "What if I'm reacting to my new body wash?" It never occurred to me that this could be because I've used Dove forever! Seriously. The first body bar I was ever able to read at maybe four or five was D-O-V-E. Dove. That's what my family used. Not Zest, Irish Spring, Dial, Lava, Caress...just Dove. When they started coming out with their body wash line (around my college years), I began to buy those with just as much success as their bars.

A couple of weeks ago, we were shopping at Shopko and stumbled upon marked-down Dove body washes. Two were new: the Massage brand and Green Tea. I'd already had experience with the Green Tea bar and loved the fragrance so, we picked that without hesitation. The Massage one smelled nice and had these pearl massage beads included in the formula. It sounded heavenly. The new body wash made it's way into my shower quickly and I began using it right away. This morning, I took another shower but with my Dove bar, not the body wash. The itching went away. Bingo! Sadly, this wash will have to go for it seems I have determined the source of my speckled hivey loveliness.

In other news, I've been going through a Robert Altman phase as of late. One my early goals in my weight loss program was a movie from my half.com wish list. I chose a movie that I've been enamored with for years: 3 Women. It's a disturbing tale with some phenomenal acting by a very young Shelley Duvall and Sissy Spacek. I remember seeing it in high school really late at night, and later seeing it again as an adult. At that time, I taped the movie and try to watch it once a year. If I were a film professor, this would be in my stable of movies to teach. If you can netflix it, I highly recommend it. It will definitely stay with you...an unusual movie indeed.

This past weekend, I watched another of his masterpieces, Nashville, which was a little slow but very good. Being that this is my hometown, I was eager to see if I recognized anything...the turn of a highway, a landmark. So much has changed since 1975 but the Parthenon? Timeless. I knew it and Centennial park right away. The story revolves around 24 protagonist...seriously. You gotta keep up. It's a myriad of themes with the characters all coming together at the surprise ending. I really enjoyed it, but I don't think I'll own this particular Altman.

For the past two days, I've been watching snippets of Brewster McCloud with increased zeal and interest. Mr. Altman was definitely a man about metaphors. The inside and outside jokes, the oncologist narrator. It's one wild ride of a movie and one I hope to own someday. Next week, I think I'll try and find the original Mash and see what that's all about.

Why Me?

I'm getting really, really frustrated. I was frustrated in February, so I've about hit the edge with all this illness crap. So, Friday the 13th was my big poke with the penicillin needle to get rid of my Strep throat, right? Well, last Friday (042007), I sprouted a speckled red rash or hives in various places on my body. Saturday, some areas seemed to mellow out while others sprang to life. By Sunday, I was completely covered. And it's not kind. I itch and am miserable. Cortisone seems to do nothing except cause me to feel sticky and messy. Along with this side effect rash (or whatever it is) I have completely lost my sense of taste. You never know how much of a blessing that is until it's gone. There is absolutely no pleasure in eating now. Ugh! I hate it! (and I don't use that word often or lightly). I eat until I'm full, then I stop. Granted, it's great for my eating and figure but I really do miss the tastes of things. I ordered pancakes and ham for breakfast yesterday on the off chance that I might be able to taste it? Nothing. I could smell it and feel textures, but that was about it (and definitely not enough). I even tried rinsing my mouth out with warm salt water (really salty water), and nothing. My tongue burned and tingled from the salt, but I couldn't taste it. Dammit! I couldn't taste the salt at all!

So, today? I will call the doctor who stuck me and ask if this is normal. If not normal and they want me to come in, well, there's another sick day gone. Hubby thinks that they'll just say, "Oh, those are just side effects and they will pass." I seriously hope that he's right. Hope...hmmm. I'm really starting to loose that ability and it's so sad. I'm an extremely optimistic person, seeing the brighter side of most things, but now? Gosh, I dunno. I'm feeling a might helpless and it's scary. I don't know what to do if they tell me this is worse than what we (hubby and I) thought. Measles? Shingles? It may be time for therapy again...seriously. My happiness is fleeting.

On a lighter note, I did get "mine" last week with hubby, but now he seems to be suffering with a major cold. Hell must be freezing over because he never gets sick. He's been coughing and sneezing like there's no tomorrow. He even made one of my hot toddies last night, poor guy. The girls seem to be feeling better, though. I suppose that's the best thing of all. I'd much rather they were healthy and I was sick any day. Well, at the top of the list, we'd all be healthy and no one would be sick. What's this now? Month four? It really sucks.

Watch My House Take Shape and Other Ramblings

This weekend is going to be filled with sawing, pounding and shoving into place. No. It's not "Wild things that can be found in my Bedroom" but the possible completion of the tiling in my basement. Hubby is nearly done and there is only the edging in the great room and the tiling in our office that is left to do. After that, I guess we'll haul everything upstairs in our current living room, downstairs into our new living room. I'm actually excited! It will be nice to have the room upstairs made into a nice sitting room. I didn't plan on putting a t.v. in there, but hubby is adamant that we get the t.v. out of our room again.

When we were first dating, he always told me, "The only thing that I want turned on in the bedroom is you or me." That changed soon after the first child arrived. He got it more so for me, so that I wouldn't have to leave the comfort of our room to nurse, feed, change or whatever to the baby. He really only watches the news in our room. Other than that, he's never really enjoyed watching movies on the 32 inch. He'd much rather stretch out on the couch and watch it on the 52 inch instead. Now, he'll get his way again. I guess I'm okay with taking turns, and the reasoning behind it completely makes sense.

So, he and the new neighbors across the street will be working on the basement this weekend. The neighbor down the street will then complete the electrical work he began a couple of years ago. After all of this is complete, we will call the contractor to begin work on our air conditioner. Should be an interesting next few days.

Um, in other news, I'm really randy...rosey...horny. Seems to happen just before old TOM shows up. I'm sitting in my bed wishing hubby was here. He'll be here this evening, but I'm not sure if I'll still be in the mood. Oh, I love my children but I sometimes miss those days when it was just the two of us and we could do whatever we wanted, whenever we wanted. Now, things seem a bit planned or arranged. Who am I kidding, they are. They have to be! You can't exactly have a nooner or an afternooner on the couch when your six year old is home. Oh, well. I hope to get something in today. Wish me luck (I'll be wishing it back to you).

Oh! The weight loss is going pretty well. I'm getting excited about meeting my next goal: a new outfit or a fetching piece of jewelry. Don't know yet which it will be. Hubby just purchased a slew of new skirts for me for our anniversary, so I'm really not lacking in the clothes arena. Equally, I couldn't begin to find another place to house a new piece of jewelry but you know, there's always room for shoes. (wink, wink)

To Cut or Not to Cut

As I transition from relaxed to natural, I have asked myself repeatedly, "Why don't you just do it? Just be brave and cut it off?" Well, I could. I could cancel my braids appointment and just go for the TWA (tiny weeny Afro). I could bite the bullet and just get it over with but, the truth is? I'm too much of a wimp. I have a little more than an inch of new growth. It's healthy, twirly and strong, but past that is about five or six inches of length. I will slowly trim this away as my hair grows and I'm okay with that.

I don't want to have this blog turn into the many I've seen on going "natural", but I will spend a little bit of time documenting it here. I want some sort of record of how it started, what I went through and any victories or mishaps. I'll also post a site or two of the places I've visited for inspiration, tips and product reviews. Going natural means learning how to take care my hair quite differently than I've done in the past. Truth be told, it won't matter so much while my hair is in braids, but I will need the knowledge and tools once that style comes down. I'll also want to take care of what's growing out while the braids are in.

Our Hair is a site I discovered in my search to learn my particular hair type. They've categorized black hair types into categories L.O.I.S. Unfortunately, there appear to be some links that are dead. I'm not sure if this is my browser or if links are dead only on some pages and not all. I'm still exploring. MotownGirl is hugely popular and I've seen her name on other natural sites, usually in comments where readers are singing her praises. Like many others, she became fed up with the harshness of chemically treating her hair and how thin her hair became because of it. Along with turning to some really unique products, she's created several "homemade" products that have aided her hair growth and health. I created a variation of one of her ideas and it has worked beautifully on Indy's hair. Both of my girls have eczema, but Indy's appears in her scalp more so than the Babe's. A combination of glycerin, Castor oil and purified water squirted throughout twice a day has her scalp flake less, her hair softer and tons more manageable. I guess I'm singing her praises too!

Another site of interest is Roshini's. She's been growing out her beautiful, natural tresses for a few years and has been convincing others to do the same. Her journey is chronicled through many pictures, which are truly telling. If you compare from the first pictures on the site to the most recent, she's really seen a lot of growth and health in a short amount of time.

Interestingly, as I've said, the braids will keep me out of experimentation of products and tips for a bit, but because I have a baby that's natural and does not yet have the length to braid or twist, Indy will be my guinea pig (of sorts). So far, less tears and softer hair. That's saying a lot, I think.

Central Air

Finally, finally, finally we are getting central air conditioning for our home. Now, for those of you who do not live in dry climates where swamp coolers don the roofs for thousands of homes, than you do not understand how grand this change really is for us. For those who live in humid climates and would die if the air was off for even one solitary minute during the summer, you've probably got a good idea of how happy I am.

Our home was built in 1994, but the previous owners (they also built the house) brought their swamp cooler with them from who knows where (and who knows how old it was when they brought it). We bought the home in 2001 with very little wear and tear to the home. One of our musts in buying a home was central air, a rarity at the time in these parts, but still something we wanted. We were willing to overlook that fact with this home since it boasted so many of the things we wanted and the cooler was more than adequate for our needs. It did very nicely for about three years. We should have known that the year it blew it's coolest was the year it would conk out. When it died, it died hard and during record breaking, triple-digit temps. We were miserable, but somehow made it through with lots of fans and my mother's portable air conditioner.

Last year (I think it was last year, anyway) a neighbor who does electrical contracting, brought over a swamp cooler that a new home owner did not want. He was getting central air (lucky bugger). The cooler was hoisted onto our roof and installed, but it never performed quite well. We spent another summer wearing little and cranking the ceiling fans as fast as they would fly. We decided then and there, after taxes? We were getting our central air.

Contractor after contractor has been over to walk around our home and give us estimates for central air. Most have been within the same price range but we were blown away by one company who charged nearly double of what everyone else charged. When he asked my hubby the other rates we received and heard how much lower they were, his response was: "Well, we've been in business for nearly twenty years." Sorry, Charlie. That's no reason to rip your customers a new one.

We've had to educate ourselves on models, sizes and options. It's been interesting, to say the least but we've narrowed it down and I'm really happy. It's been manic weather again...70 one day, 38 the next but once it calms down and those triple digits appear for 2007, we'll be ready. I just hope that once it's in, it's in and doesn't break-down or do anything weird. I know maintenance is something we'll always need to do and we did that with our cooler, I just want a comfortable summer...and maybe, just maybe we'll have one this year.

Plagues of Bibilical Proportions

Thursday was a lovely day. Work was going by quickly and we were anticipating a fine lunch at my favorite Thai restaurant around the corner from our offices. At 11:30, we all climbed into my girlfriend's pathfinder and headed to lunch. We laughed and laughed, enjoying the the company and the amazing cuisine. We even got back to the office on time instead of ten or fifteen minutes late (which is usual whenever we all go to lunch). I sat down at my desk and began to work but noticed my throat felt a little constricted. The lunch I had was sprinkled with peanuts...not a big deal and I have no known allergies to peanuts, but I hadn't had any in a long time. I thought, "Hmm. Maybe I'm having a slight reaction to the peanuts." I continued on through the day, my throat closing up a little more with every passing hour.

Quitting time arrived and I headed out, but without the usual fervor I normally have when the day is done. I picked up Indy and headed home, thankfully through somewhat decent traffic. Hubby was working in the yard when I backed into the driveway. I opened the door, stood up and basically collapsed in his arms.

Now, I just assumed it was some sort of allergic reaction. I dragged myself into the house and took a Benadryl to help open my throat. Super-mommy had kicked in and the babe had to be at dance class (they begin sending notices home around this time of year to remind parents that missing class could potentially keep a child out of the recital. That last few classes are pivotal and the babe would die if she couldn't be in the recital. There was also a school skate party going on that I wanted to take her to after dance class (she'd had such an exceptionally good week and had received two awards for her behavior in school). I took a half dose of Benadryl and took my girl to dance class, then to the skate party. She was so excited to be there and see people she knew and I enjoyed watching her skate around, all the while my body began to ache without mercy.

We left the rink at around 7:30. Once we got home, I put Indy to bed and I fixed the babe something to eat. Hubby called and I told him that I didn't want anything but a hot shower and the bed. That night, I woke up every hour on the hour in miserable pain...taking everything from Ibuprofen to NyQuil. Nothing helped. My temperature was 101.1 and I felt like an Arctic wind was blowing through my house. I filled the tub with scalding hot water (at around 2am) and soaked for I don't know how long. I woke up, still in the tub, drained the water and got back into bed. I seriously felt like death was coming to take me...and in such a horrible way. By morning, I really thought I'd seen the last of my days. Hubby told me he would take the kids so that I could seek out emergency care.

Arriving first, I was quickly taken in by a nurse who reported my temp at 102.9 and elevated blood pressure. In the exam room, I detailed my symptoms repeatedly telling her how quickly they had come on and how I didn't believe it to be the flu. They swabbed my nasal cavity anyway to test for the flu. I didn't have it. The doctor came in and swabbed my throat for Strep. He indicated that the rapidness at which everything had occurred, led him to believe that it was what I had. Fifteen minutes later and a quick nap on the examination table, the tests results were in. Strep throat. Nice.

I could take ten days worth of antibiotics (I really didn't want to have to go through that song and dance again, not after doing it twice already this year) or a shot that would hurt. "Um, I'll take the shot that hurts, thanks." The nurse came in shortly after and injected Drano or something into my butt because it burned and burned. Ugh! I really didn't care at this point, though. All I wanted was to feel better.

I slept all day Friday and most of Saturday. Yesterday was the first day I really got up and out of the house for long periods of time. The babe was complaining a little of an ear ache, so I cleaned out her ear and told her to keep us posted on how it felt. Sunday night, 11:30pm - the babe awakened my hubby with cries and screams of pain in her ear. Off to the emergency room they went. The babe has a second stage ear infection.

So, I'm home again...now playing nurse instead of patient. The babe is resting and watching t.v., but Indy is inconsolable and won't lay down for a nap. Could she have something too? Oh, God. I hope not!

Naturally Me

I'm going to do it. I really am...a little scary, but I'm going to do it. I'm going natural. Yes, I had the opportunity before...full head of natural hair, just after having Indy. Now, it's all processed to hell. I've learned my lesson and, unfortunately, I had to learn the hard way. Sometimes it's the best way.

I've been researching and reading up on the best ways to transition. As I suspected, the braids method is the least stressful, so they're going back in at the end of the month. I've even picked out what I'm going to do and I've decided to be a bit daring (well, daring for me). I've picked a unique color blend that will hopefully scream spring/summer and youth. We'll see.

I created this post a few days ago and much has happened since then. I will repost in a few moments with the details of my tumultuous life.

Happy Anniversary to Me!

Spring Break was, well...eventful. Here's a rundown of the vacation...it's highs and it's lows:

MONDAY - We set out driving at around 7:00am with luggage and kids in tow. As usual, we did not tell the Babe where we were going; however, she did enjoy the portable DVD player showing Nemo and all his adventures as we traveled down the long highway (if we'd only had this when I was growing up, my parents would have been spared the hours of fighting between me and my sister). We stopped in Orem, Utah first and had breakfast at McDonald's...not our first choice, but the kids were happy. If only they could get our order right the first time. After going up to the counter 5 times (no exaggeration), we finally had the food we ordered. Back on the road, we traveled as far as Beaver before stopping for gas. It's so sad to see the prices going up so quickly. When oh when will my hydrogen car be ready?

We arrived in St. George around 2:00pm and had lunch, then journeyed to our resort to check-in. Our room, as always, was lovely and decorated tastefully. The babe was too excited when she saw that our back porch looked over the pool and spa. We spent the evening relaxing and planning for the next day's events.

TUESDAY - We awoke, dressed and got back on the highway...headed now to Vegas. We've been lots of times and it's one of the Babe's favorite cities. This time, however, once we hit the strip...she still had no idea where we were (had it been night time, I think she would have known without a shadow of a doubt). We parked in the Circus Circus lot and walked across the street to purchase some water at the local Walgreen's. We had planned to go to the Mirage to see the tigers, but as we walked, we realized we were running of time quickly (we wanted to leave Vegas before their rush hour, so that meant heading out at around 2:30 or 3:00, at the latest). By 11:00, we had made it as far as the Treasure Island and decided to look for food. Hubby and I began to argue and his cheap side was coming through, even though he said he wanted to eat somewhere in the hotel. Finally, we settled on their buffet and had a marvelous meal (always get to a buffet before they transition...you can get the best of both worlds). Breakfast was marvelous, but lunch was divine.

After eating, we turned back around and headed back to Circus Circus. We went upstairs to try and catch the acts, but ended up playing tons of games instead. The babe found the races and Skee ball the most enjoyable and won a plethora of stuffed animals. She was quite pleased with herself. We left Vegas at around three and headed back to St. George just as the craziness was setting in. Unbelievably, we didn't stock up on booze this time (although I did buy enough hair to start my own shop). Hubby and I realized that Vegas has grown so much, it's somewhat claustrophobic. Our fix has left us less than eager to return to the bright lights anytime soon.

We got in the pool briefly upon our return, but the cool night air had set in and I didn't want to bring home sick children from Spring Break. We decided to try again another day.

WEDNESDAY - On the road again, this time headed north to Zion's National Park. Beautiful! I will post some of the pictures I took soon. It was a hot day and our tempers flared a bit, but despite that, we still had a good time. Zion is nestled far away from the hectic pace of the world...truly, a piece of heaven. I understand now why people travel from all over the world just to see it's majestic mountains, cliffs and natural towers. We spent the better part of the day wandering the trails and talking to people from everywhere. The Babe got tired, but Indy was the lucky one who fell asleep in her stroller. Many a parent walked by us with their weary children, wishing out loud that they'd thought to do what we had. Strollers are awesome!

Zion is adjacent to the small community of Springdale, which boosted many a bed & breakfast, quaint cafes and an elementary school that appeared to house less than fifty students. A picturesque community that, I'm sure, houses many a retired rat racer. I envied their quiet lifestyle but not the remoteness from everyday society. I guess I'll always be a city girl.

THURSDAY - We spent in St.George with the kids. Hubby and I got into it, which made for a not-so-fun day. By the evening, we were pretty well decided that we should separate and end our marriage. Seriously. It was that bad. While he went to work out and burn off some steam, I took the girls swimming and they loved every bit of it. Too bad I couldn't enjoy it as much as they did. I was too worried about the state of my marriage. By evening, we had everything packed up, all the laundry done and everything ready for the ride home. The girls ate and went to bed on time for the first time during our entire vacation. Hubby went for a drive and I went to bed. I missed him already.

FRIDAY - "The Uncomfortable Drive Home". I didn't say much and turned down every offer of food he made, when we would stop for gas, a drink or a diaper change. Towards the last part of our journey, he told me how much he loved and respected me (which I already knew) but that we were in some sort of strange hard patch and the time apart would do us good). I didn't say much at all. When we got home, he kept telling me that he would move some stuff downstairs and stay there, until we could figure some things out. He made this claim several times, but it never happened. That night, we lay in bed and had a hard time not holding hands or each other. This was not going to work.

SATURDAY - My girls went with their uncle to an Easter egg hunt and I had the entire morning to myself (hubby had to work). I shopped for food items, got my nails done, picked up some lunch and watched a movie. Nice. I also had a lot of time to think. Hubby called twice, and even though he didn't say much, I could tell he'd been thinking too. We spent the evening at my mother's for dinner and took our dogs walking at the lake. Later on, hubby an I had a serious heart-to-heart about our communication issues, having patience with each other and not letting our tempers get the best of us anymore. We ended our discussion with vocal passion downstairs away from the kids, again in the morning and later that afternoon. What have I said about making up?

SUNDAY - All of us in our Sunday best (the girls in their cuter than cute white Easter dresses), we went to church and then to breakfast afterwards. We spent the day shopping and laughing a lot. It was a good day and went by entirely too fast. Hubby wished me early happy anniversary several times and said he had plans for the day (I can't wait to see what those are). More delicious making up and promises to do better, we spent the evening in each other's arms.

Today is my nine year anniversary. It hasn't been perfect, or easy, or bliss each moment of the day; however, I have no regrets and I still believe I'm with the man that's perfect for me. Spring Break was fun, stressful, crazy and enlightening. If I learned anything from the last few days it's that life is unpredictable and loopy and sometimes you just have to sit back and see where the ride takes you.

Spring Break!

Yes, it's here and I'm not entering the wet t-shirt contest (okay, maybe in the privacy of my own home). Last year, we didn't do anything for Spring Break because we didn't have to. My oldest was being taken and picked up from school by my sister-in-law. During the break, she just kept her at home with her own two kids, so my work schedule didn't have to change at all. Since then, she's moved to a new city (farther from us than we care to commute to) and her kids attend a different school. In fact, their school only gets Good Friday off and not the entire week. Oh, well.

Hubby and I took the time off, knowing we wouldn't have anyone to care for her during this time; however, it's a great excuse to get away and enjoy each other's company. This will be Indy's first long distance trip away from home and I'm curious to see how she holds up. Her big sister was a trooper with long car rides and never seemed fussy or unhappy about being in her car seat for long stretches. I hope her sister is the same way...the difference is, she'll have company where her big sister did not.

We're still not exactly sure how far we're going, but hubby has been counting down the days until he's off from work. He's so excited! It's like watching a school boy.

In other news, my oldest lost her other front tooth, last night. I had to hog-tie her down to get it, but I didn't a better job than hubby with the other front tooth. When he did it, there were tears and major threats happening. I just rubbed her tooth with oral analgesic, held her head to my chest, and ripped that puppy out. Why does it have to be so dramatic? Because she is...simple as that. She got a dollar for her trouble and made sure to report that she always gets dollars when she looses her teeth. That child has no idea how good she's got it.

Smoothed Out

Friday's commute was horrible...so much so that I called hubby and said, "I'm not going to make it to water aerobics, but I'll come home and help you clean up," you know, cause cleaning up is so much fun. Anyway, I left the office at 4:00 and didn't get home till 6:00...just awful! As I'm backing up into my driveway, I see one of the neighbor girls leaving my house. She waves and I wave back (What's going on?). So, I get in to see that the house is sparkling...immaculate...perfect. Clean from top to bottom, including mopped floors. The guilt sets in.

"I'm sorry, honey that I didn't get home in time to help you. Did you leave me anything?"
"Nope. It's all pretty much done." He points to just the few clothes in the laundry basket that need folding.

Next, he tells me that I'd probably feel better with a shower. Am I foul? Of course not, just take the shower. I take the shower and the neighbor girl is back.

Hubby says, "Put on something cute and comfortable. We're going to go hang out." Right on! We go out to dinner and eat, what else, Chinese! Afterwards, we take a drive into the mountains, then back down the mountains to pick up libations. A bottle of Tequila and Southern Comfort later, we're back home. Kids asleep, blanket in tow, we cuddle on the couch and settle in with our cocktails and a movie. Bliss.

Saturday, my mother and her dogs along with my kids and our dog, head to the lake for a walk. It was lovely, until the mosquitoes-from-hell showed up and nearly duplicated a verse from Exodus (the ten commandments, if your into movies). They were everywhere! Mom was like, "We can walk with a can of Raid next time." It was great exercise and fun for all, otherwise.

Back to my mother's for snacks and water for the dogs, we chatted for about an hour. I noticed my kids getting that "spaced out" look and new it was nearly time for their nap. I picked up their lunch, they ate, then off to dreamy land. Later, we went back out to pick up diapers, get an oil change, and pick up some hair to do the babe's hair. Pictures of the end result are here...not to shabby for two and a half hours worth of work.

Sunday, church and relaxation. Off to the park in the afternoon for a picnic with my niece, nephew and sister-in-law. It was good to see her and she finally seems happy. I was glad. That evening? Hubby breaks out the new KY massage lotion and "rubs me the right way." I returned the favor with the upgrade of a happy ending. I think I'm a good wife.

Grandma Swore by It!

I had a discussion with a coworker of mine about tried-and-true methods of old. You know, remedies that grandma or mother swore cured everything from a bee sting to a broken heart. The subject of a cold remedy that I dare type it's name came up and we reminisced about how effective it was in removing the worst of colds.

"I haven't seen it in years. Do you think they still make it," she asked.

Of course, I was on the case...searching away to see if I could find the elusive cold remedy. Low and behold it appeared (see picture). Burns like 'hell' going down (no pun intended), but it does get the job done. I took some from a friend when I was having major cold drama in college. I've never owned a bottle myself. I think I'm a little afraid to have this sitting in my medicine chest.

We also discussed hot toddies. Most people make them with tea and a bit of Whiskey. My coworker's mother put a teaspoon of the above medicine, whiskey and tea in hers. Then, her children would "sweat out" the illness. I used brandy in mine and my girls and husband believe full-heartedly that it cures what ails them.

Other remedies? Chris Rock has a comedy sketch that goes on and on about Tussin (the generic version of Robitussin). For my home, it was Mercurochrome (or sometimes Merthiolate, I think that's how you spell it): the red medicine that seemed to get everywhere! As a child who played outdoors a lot, I saw my fair share of several bottles of this stuff. It always perplexed me that the contents were so bright...about as bright as the bleeding injury I would bring to my mother or father. I suppose it worked because I have very few scars and those that I do have are hardly noticeable.

We didn't talk about it, but it reminds me of one other remedy I know works well; Palmer's Cocoa Butter (in the jar, thank you very much). I spent several months with my grandmother in Daytona Beach, Florida and during that time became the meal of many a mosquito. She kept telling me not to scratch but of course, I scratched the hell out of myself and ended up with dark circle scars all over my legs. As soon as my grandmother realized I had not heeded to her advice, out came this magic cream in a jar. She would slather me down each day; first thing in the morning and right before bed every day. I don't know how long she did this or how long it took, but one day I looked down and there were no more marks. Seriously. You would never know that I was an ugly-legged child. It's great stuff and you can still purchase it.

I used a bit during my first pregnancy and I know that's why I have very few stretch marks. I forgot to buy some during my last pregnancy, but since my body already knew what to do, I came out in the clear (thank goodness!). They have a bunch of other products, but the stuff in the jar seems to be the best of all their line, in my opinion.

Things are Better

Hubby and I had a several hour, heart-to-heart last night after I sent him my email of incoherent/coherent thoughts. It began with a call to my cell phone, as I traveled home from work and ended in the best possible way (four hours later...that was some talk!). We have promised to try to communicate better with each other, especially when arguments bring up old stuff that we thought had been squashed.

Random stuff:

• I've been listening to The Evolution of Robin Thicke, a CD I purchased exactly one week ago today. Being the son of actor/musician parents, he's got all the goods and I'm digging his style. Favorite tracks: "I Need Love", "2 the Sky", "Ask Myself", "Everything that I Can't Have", "Angel", and "Shooter". Really, the whole CD is amazing. Sample some tracks, if you have a moment.

• It's spring rain-time here in Utah. I like it and it's warm enough not to distract from the springiness that's happening all around (my Quaking Aspens look like they'll have leaves very soon).

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• We went to the IRS page yesterday to see when our refund is coming. Huh, now we know...technology, man. Gotta love it.

• I wear lipstick more than any other makeup and have found Maybelline Wet Diamond Shine colors look the best on me. I find them sporadically now. Do they even make this line anymore?
  

• I've been feeling more and more like my old self again. Still not working out as much as I'd like to, i.e., the weight is not falling off as fast I'd like it to, but my body has changed shape again. That's the best part. Things don't swing, roll or bounce as much. Funny that I notice these things and nobody else, does...including my husband, who has seen every part of me.

• I wore a simple pink blouse yesterday and received compliments from people I don't even know. I knew pink looked fairly good on me but, wow! Mental note: Gotta buy more pink.

• Many of the newscasters on our Fox network affiliate wear too much make-up and try too be to "hip" for their own good (transition music from and to commercials could be anything from Kool and the Gang to Gwen Stefani). I know movie companies own many of the news stations now, but come on. What happened to class and style...and Connie Chung, since I'm on the subject?
  

• This Farel print is in my bedroom and we have plans to add others. They remind me a bit of the smokey jazz clubs from my childhood, or at least, the glamorized memories I have of them.

• Why do so many children get lost in the woods, lately? Do their parents not tell them to keep up? Stay with a buddy? I heard that all the time when we were out on field trips or away from home.

• Sexual slavery is alive and well. How sad.

• My eldest brought her report card home, yesterday. She did quite well, but is struggling a bit in math. I've put hubby on the case, since that's his specialty. They were drilling on math flash cards, when I got home yesterday (very cute).

• I'm in the mood for a cappuccino...it sounds pretty good right now.

• I want to go the balloon festival this year and hope to secure a room before they're all taken. Keep your fingers crossed for me!
  

The Good News - I've been Tagged!

This is from God's Child, a delightful young woman whose writings will one day inspire the masses!

1- Can you cook? If yes, do you like to cook?
Yes I can and yes I do, when there's time.

2 - When does your whole family come together to eat?
My immediate family tries hard to eat dinner together nightly. My mother, sister and other extended relatives, always get together for the holidays. Easter and Memorial day are coming up, so there's ham and BBQ to be had in the near future!

3 - What do you have for breakfast?
(GC, did you know Bagels can stay in your colon for days? An interesting fact from my personal trainer hubby. Now, knowing this, I have a hard time eating them) I try to eat Raisin Bran or something with a heck of a lot of fiber. I'm doing that low glycemic thing and it helps stave off hunger. If there's no raisin bran, I usually do scrambled eggs, ham and raisin bread toast.

4 - When, where and how do you eat during the week?
I eat at my desk, standing in the kitchen, at the coffee table in front of the t.v. (terrible), and in my bed.

5 - How often do you eat out?
With co workers? About twice a month. At restaurants? Every couple of months, if that.

6 - How often do you order-in or take-away?
On the weekends, typically, we'll pick up light Chinese (my fave and one of the few things I can eat without blowing up like a Macy's Day float).

7 - Re: 5 & 6 - If money was no question, would you like to do it more often?
Yes and no. I'm with you, GC. If I eat out a lot, I eventually feel sick. I do okay with portion control, but after the Christmas break I had, home-cooked meals were so appealing after all that junk.

8 - Are there any standards that make regular appearances on your table?
Brown rice, asparagus, ramen noodles (my oldest is obsessed with these), veggies, organic shells and cheese, salmon, tilapia, chicken, chicken, and chicken (oh, did I mention, chicken?)

9 - Have you ever tried a recipe from another a food blog?
No, I haven’t. I do frequent sites like Kraft Foods, The Food Network, Family Time and Recipezaar for ideas and recipes.

10 - Are there any quarrels because of food?
Not too often. Most everything I've prepared has been pretty tasty. If there's something I'm not fond of, it doesn't get made often or ever, if I can help it.

11 - Are you vegetarian or can you imagine living vegetarian?
I was vegetarian for a while in High School. I spent a year "trying it on for size" to see if I could do it. I didn't eat chicken or red meat. Fish, I allowed myself. I don't remember feeling any different, but I was proud of myself for doing it and succeeding.

12 - What would you like to try out that you haven’t dared yet?
Same here! There's so much I'd like to try, if I had the time. I'd love to try and make homemade fudge for the holidays. I've always wanted to and have come close, but it hasn't happened yet.

13 - Do you rather cook or bake?
BAKE!!!

14 - What was the most terrible mess you made in the kitchen?
My mother lent me a little electric grill a few years back. The grill sat inside a coriander based that needed something directly underneath when cooking. Yours truly forgot to put the "something directly underneath" one time and began to smell a strange sort of burning. My counter top is totally ruined, but we found a cutting board the same color that covers it nicely. We will one day recover the counters (in granite, if I'm lucky). We'll have to. That's one ugly spot!

15 - What do your kids like to eat best?
Ramen Noodles, Kraft Mac and Cheese, Cheese pizza, string cheese, pasta and cheese (these kids love cheese) and pot stickers. My oldest has even found a taste for sushi, as of late. Pretty cultured for a six year old.

16 - What would your kids never eat?
Having never had liver or Brussel sprouts myself (because my mother hated them), I probably will never feed them to my children. My eldest is picky already, so it's hard to narrow down foods she won't eat. She will try things at least once, she's promised.

17 - What do you dislike most?
See my post from a couple of days ago.

Tag! RN-Buffoon, Icey, Southern Writer and anyone else who has a hankering to try this out.

2 Posts: The Bad News

Nothing is eternal. My high-ride with hubby ended abruptly on Monday afternoon, when he called to tell me he was on his way home from work. We were talking about the fact that I had worked a half-day from home and the rest of my day was spent just enjoying my time with the kids. He made a comment about, if he'd known I was going to be home all day, he would have asked me to do such and such. Well, I didn't answer. He did know I was going to be home and he didn't ask. (I can't even remember what the request was, now).

So, then he starts going on and on about all that he has to do and how he's trying to finish the basement and get the air conditioner installed. Oh! I just remembered! He wanted me to call around and get estimates on air conditioner installations. Well, I did that last year and I told him the quotes were still downstairs. Amidst all this discussion, I reminded him that he worked with a friend to get an air conditioner (which is currently sitting in my shed that I discovered quite by accident, over the weekend...he said it was a surprise) and have it installed more cheaply. I had expressed my concerns over this the night before, so this began his tirade over the phone about calling for quotes.

I told him that my concerns were just that; concerns. He could take them or leave them. The world need not be altered because of concerns. If he felt that his "boy" or whoever could do the job and do it well, then so be it. I trust him. I then told him that I didn't want to argue and he insisted that we weren't. Uh, huh. So, he asks again about getting quotes. I continued in silence until he said, "Well?" I had decided that I would go ahead and make phone calls, but then before I could get it out, he accused me of "not doing anything." WTF?! Are you serious?!

I immediately told him good-bye and hung up on his ass. So, working full-time, taking care of two little girls and trying to maintain a household is not doing anything, simply because I'm not laying tile (which I offered to help him do, BTW). I was livid and didn't speak to him when he came home, later in the day or that night. In fact, I didn't speak to him again until yesterday afternoon when he called my mother looking for me (traffic was bad, I pulled over and stopped at her house until it let up. I also wanted to check out her new dog...different story, I'll tell it later).

"So, were you going to call or were you just going to show up," were his words. Well, I had been in a good mood until that. I hate when he turns into a royal jack-ass. It's rare, but it burns me up when he does. My mother was sitting right across from me, so I couldn't say what I wanted to. Oh, well. I ended my visit with my mother shortly thereafter and headed home. I did have to see about my eldest, after all.

We exchanged a few words, before he left for the gym. He had prepared dinner and fed the babe already, which was good but I was still highly irritated. I have not seen him again since then (he came home after I went to sleep. I heard him, but I didn't see him). I plan on sending him an email, since we can't discuss the events over the phone. Cubies make privacy almost impossible. I could go outside, but who wants to ruin a perfectly lovely spring day with arguments. I want to wish the whole thing away, but that's unrealistic.

Truly, I don't even know what to say to him. I'm out of words and thoughts at this point. I guess I'll start typing and see what comes out.

Putting My Weirdness Out There

Issues with Foods - Jello, yogurt, pudding, marshmallows, and eggs (I like eggs, as long as I haven't cooked them myself). The textures of these foods in my mouth just make me want to throw up ("Like chips in Vegas," Lil' Wayne). I can tolerate marshmallows in rice krispy treats or burnt to a crisp and I do love hard-scrambled eggs, as long as I'm not the one that cooks them. It seems that if I've seem them in their previous, uncooked state, I cannot eat them. Oh, and I can't eat them any other way than scrambled, boiled or deviled.

Until recently, I couldn't eat whipped cream either, but I no longer have a problem with it. (I would scrape it off or have my parents scrape it off the tops of those KFC parfait buckets when I was little). Ironically, my kids and hubby love all this stuff with a passion.

Another Quality Teaching Day at Home

My hubby and I are convinced that the teachers use these days for hanging out, drinking lattes together at cute bistros, bad-mouthing all of their not-so-stellar students, shopping for hours, taking in a show or enjoying time at an amusement park. Oh, I'm sure they really do use these days to prepare but, it's fun to imagine them doing all this while we struggle to figure out what to do with our kids when these days come around. Luckily, this is the last one of the year. My kids are currently in the living room watching Bob the Builder while I finish up my half day's work. I occasionally here the youngest crying (she's usually ready for a morning nap around this time and I'll probably put her down for one, once I'm done).

As I predicted, the weekend was uneventful. Indy had a raging fever when I picked her up from daycare. "You got here just in time," was the daycare manager's remark when I walked in. Temps over 102 are sent home and that's exactly the temp Indy had, poor thing. Geeze! Can I have one week where someone in my house isn't sick? What's up with that?

She carried her fever into the next day and didn't eat very much until lunch time (when the meds kicked in and she began to feel better). Ham fried rice must have hit the spot because she was scarfing it down like it was going out of style. I was glad that she was eating anything. She was might sickly looking those first two days. Sunday, she was a different kid, but I didn't want to risk anything so, we stayed home from church. I usually feel really guilty when I do this, but the guilt was minimal this time (thankfully) and she seemed to be better because of it.

Today, I don't know what I'm going to do with these kids. I'll probably send the oldest one outside while Indy naps. Perhaps I'll get a workout in (Lord knows I need one! I went to my water aerobics class and I'm so stiff! Nothing like additional body punishment [I mean, workouts] to loosen one up). My money is on lock-down, since we have to be ready for the vacation in a couple of weeks, so no splurges. I think I need a hobby.

I Must Have Been Nice in a Previous Life

Oh, lovely pleasures. They've been mine all week this week (accept Tuesday, but we were both tired that night). Last night, it was sweet, tender and passionate. A lot of focus on foreplay, where I was amazed that it could last longer than 10 minutes. Seems like we're usually in such a hurry to get to the final experience, we miss the ride.

This morning when hubby called, he talked about his continuing cough and what he might need to get rid of it.

He said, "Since you had your tongue down my throat, did you notice anything? Are my tonsils swollen? Are there any lumps, bumps or bruises?"

Oh, you're a funny man (I thought).

The series of "love" nights definitely helps to keep the peace in the home. As I've said before, when that's lacking, everything goes to hell at our house. Now, if I could only stop TOM from coming once a month (but I really don't think I'm ready for menopause just yet).

The lovely spring-like temps continue and I've noticed people smiling more and are generally in a better mood. We had our office lunch, yesterday which included BBQ sandwiches (shredded beef BBQ on a sourdough roll/bun, a variety of thick salads and baked beans. I saw fudge for dessert, but I didn't eat any.) People were pretty pleased with the spread and they've now started thinking about those in the office who may be vegetarian. It's taken getting to over 200 people for that to happen but at least now it's happening.

No plans for me this weekend. The Gemagic I ordered for the babe arrived a week and a half ago, but I was so sick, I didn't even tell her or show her how it works. I may set her loose with it and give myself some "me" time, if possible. If not, we may make our rounds to the park.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Back to the 90's

That's what I'm digging today on my work Live365 tunes. When I get here early enough and all the VIP members haven't saturated the system, I can pretty much pick any station I want to listen to and I was lucky enough to get this one today. Ginuwine, Total, Snap, Chris Isaak, Smashing Pumpkins...it's all 90's and it's awesome (but making me feel a little old, too).

I am so ecstatic! I've lost a total of 16 pounds and I am seriously floating, today. I feel great and I'm stoked to keep going and get back into the rest of the my clothes. I saw an outfit this morning, when I was grabbing the red dress I'm sporting today, that I wore two years ago. It's super cute and springy and I'm jonesing to wear it. I also have my goal outfit (that's a bit further down the road...the 25 pound mark, actually) that I'm really excited to sport somewhere.

Last night, me and hubby watched Smokin' Aces last night (a friend lent it to him and no...It hasn't been released on DVD yet. I have no idea where he got it.). At any rate, it was wild and action packed. I thought it a bit hard to follow at first, but maybe that's because the volume was down for the sake of the sleeping kids and I'm sort of dependent on caption when that happens and there was none on this DVD. I did, eventually, pick up on the meat of the story and was along for the ride. Alicia Keys was pretty good, for her first role and (as always) was stunning as a bad-ass hit-woman. Ryan Reynolds is in it too and, I have to say, I'm becoming more and more of a fan. If he keeps up with the versatility, this guy will go places.