Kathy:I am who I am

My author page has been updated

2011-03-03T13:46:00.004-05:00

Please visit my updated author page and consider buying Multiple Sclerosis: The Many Faces of the Disease for yourself or as a gift.

My MS author webpage

Moving

2011-03-02T12:59:00.000-05:00

I'm moving again, a week from Saturday or March 12 to be exact. It's been three years since I last moved, but it doesn't feel that way. I feel like I just got settled and now it's time to pack and move once again. The worst part is the packing because it takes a really long time and most of it cannot be done way beforehand since most of the important things get used on a regular basis.

I'm not sure about this move, I have extremely conflicting emotions this time around. My daughter is not happy about it and my son is excited. It is certainly going to be interesting to see how things go. I'm anxious and just hope everything works out for the best.

Book review

2011-02-24T08:46:00.002-05:00

I am proud to say my book has been reviewed and posted on the following websites:

Amazon.com or Amazon.ca - http://www.amazon.com/review/R3ABSVND5EKL6B/ref=cm_cr_rdp_perm
BarnesAndNoble.com - http://my.barnesandnoble.com/communityportal/review.aspx?reviewid=1362191
BookCrossing.com - www.BookCrossing.com/631-7942922
Books.Google.com - http://books.google.com/books?sitesec=reviews&id=xGq3PwAACAAJ
BooksAMillion.com - http://www.booksamillion.com/product/9781432735494?id=4697485320733#customer-reviews
Face Book Visual Bookshelf - http://apps.facebook.com/facebookshelf/books/200004238641-kathy-reed-multiple-sclerosis-the-many-faces-of-the-disease?ref=search-title
Gather.com - http://www.gather.com/viewArticle.action?articleId=281474978181449
PaperbackSwap.com - http://www.paperbackswap.com/book/details/9781432735494-Multiple Sclerosis The Many Faces of the Disease
Reviewer's Personal Blog - http://4theloveofreading.blogspot.com/2010/04/multiple-sclerosis-many-faces-of.html
Reviewer's Twitter Account - http://bit.ly/aqYZKh

They're all the same review, but located in various places to help draw in readers. Please consider visiting one or multiple links to let me know what you think. If you feel like buying my book, even better! Happy reading!

Book contest

2011-02-14T10:28:00.002-05:00

I published my first book: "Multiple Sclerosis: The Many Faces of the Disease" in July 2009. Yesterday a friend called me to talk about my aunt and discuss her story from the book. It made me excited that someone actually read it and enjoyed talking about it. I never wrote the story with the intent of making tons of money, but sales have not been great. Therefore, in an effort to spread the word about my book, I have decided to do a book contest for my blog readers and twitter followers. If you know someone with MS, are living with MS yourself, or simply want to support me - please consider participating.

Rules: You may either post a comment here, send me an email at logsdon.kathy@gmail.com, or reply to me on twitter. Your comment(s) should explain why you would like a copy of my book or what it would mean to you to receive a copy. The winner will receive one, free, autographed copy of my book ( I wrote it under my maiden name so the last name will be different). The contest will begin as soon as I publish this post and will end on midnight (US Eastern time zone) on Sunday, February 20, 2011.

Amazon reviews:

4.0 out of 5 stars A Must Have for Anyone Touched by MS, April 18, 2010

Beverly Pechin (Pennsylvania, USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Multiple Sclerosis: The Many Faces of the Disease (Paperback)

As someone who has Multiple Sclerosis (MS), I knew that this book would be something that I would either love or hate. I tend to be very harsh on anything that comes out discussing this disease, simply because I have it and know the facts. While no 2 people with MS are the same, we do share many similar symptoms. All too often the first words you read in any book on MS is "MS doesn't kill people" and while this may be true to some degree, it angers me because it's like saying "that Mac truck didn't kill him when it hit him"... technically it didn't, but the results OF that hit were what killed him and often the symptoms of MS are what take someone down. That doesn't mean we have a death sentence, I'm proof of that, but don't dismiss the disease with such nonchalant comments. Of course that's my opinion, but I'll stand by it! So, when Reed's book didn't start out with this big introduction of how MS isn't a death sentence, I was impressed on that fact alone!

Multiple Sclerosis - The Many Faces of the Disease is really a wonderful book to keep handy for anyone who has MS, especially when someone comes into your life and is clueless what MS is really about. While I personally didn't find it helpful for my own use, simply because I've had the disease for so long, I would have LOVED having it available to me at the time of my diagnosis. I wish I had known about it or had it available when I was diagnosed in 1995! For this reason alone, I highly recommend the book to anyone newly diagnosed with the disease or with anyone who's recently come into the life of someone with MS. You need to know the truth, the facts and the stories behind the faces of MS and Reed provides just this opportunity!

Reed has some particular cases she talks about, discusses the disease itself in the most basic of ways and gives some pretty comprehensible descriptions of what MS is and how it can act. The book is small, concise and covers just about every aspect you can imagine about MS from what the disease is to what some people can do to keep the disease under control. It's honest and not at all frightening to the reader, which is a huge plus with this disease. I'd highly recommend it to anyone who wants to explain the disease to someone in their life (children, spouse, family, new romantic partner, co-workers) that could really use some enlightenment on what MS is and how it works. Keep a copy in your library if you have MS or better yet, if you know someone who has MS that may need the help in explaining this confusing disease and all it presents to their life to someone they care about.

Kudos Ms. Reed in a book that was well thought out, well written and simple yet concise!

4.0 out of 5 stars A sensitive and practical introduction, March 13, 2010

Helen J. Bacon "Joan" (Nazareth, PA USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)

Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)

This review is from: Multiple Sclerosis: The Many Faces of the Disease (Paperback)

Although this is a rather short book, it was powerful in its message. It begins with a real life story about the author's aunt, in her struggle with multiple sclerosis. The rest of the book is a discussion about the disease itself, the types, the treatments, causes, drugs and therapies. I definitely recommend this reading for anyone with a family member or friend who is afflicted with MS, as it provides some very important information that is easy to understand, rather than trying to sift through huge medical journals to find relevant information. The story about Suzanne, the author's aunt, truly personalized the experience both for how she courageously grappled with its increasing affects on her life, but also for the impact on those around her as they in their own ways went through this with her also.

More information is available at:
Amazon Page or Outskirts Press or My aha moment

Thank you and good luck!

Funny things my daughter says

2011-01-26T10:30:00.000-05:00

Me: Come on we have to go to the store to pick up a few things. Her: Mommy, can I please stay home by myself? I'll be good and not make a mess! Me: No honey, you're too young to stay home alone. Her: You always have to be older to do everything! Me: I'm sorry honey, but don't wish your life away. Her: Well, I just want to get 16 and then stop. I don't want to be an adult and pay bills and stuff!!

In a recent school unit, they studied about Rosa Parks and Aurea discovered Rosa was born in 1913. She informed the teacher that she had a Granny who was born in 1913, but she died in 2009. The teacher later asked me if she was right - and she was! Then Aurea asked if Granny knew Rosa Parks! LOL I seriously doubt that!!

Her: Mommy, how old is Debbie? Me: Debbie who? I don't know a Debbie. Her: You know, little Debbie - from the snack cakes. Me (looking bewildered): I have no idea. After some internet research, apparently Debbie is Debbie McKee-Fowler who was 4-years-old in 1960 when her face became the Little Debbie logo. Therefore, she would now be about 50 (or 51 depending on her birthday - I couldn't find that).

My daughter has asked about many other things that seemingly came out of nowhere or made me wonder where in the world she comes up with this stuff! I can't think of them all right now, but I know there are many.

French toast anyone?

2011-01-20T14:21:00.000-05:00

Some co-workers and I were outside talking earlier and joking about French toast. No, not because we love French toast so much. We were actually laughing at the local school system for dismissing schools two hours early today for a "proposed snowstorm" later this evening. In other words, it is not snowing now and there is no snow on the ground, but they are expecting it later. Therefore, the schools decided it made sense to simply close early. I don't see the logic in this. However, everyone is now running to the grocery to pick up the essential items -- bread, milk, and eggs. You know, the ingredients for French toast! Amazing how a little bit of snow (or lack thereof) suddenly makes everyone want French toast. Okay, so maybe that's not why they buy these items, but it certainly was an entertaining discussion.

I've been re-reading old posts today and some of them were really beneficial. Other posts brought one thought to mind: The more things change, the more they stay the same. I feel like I could simply do re-runs of my posts from 2007 when I was moving back home to live with my parents. Guess what? I'm moving back AGAIN in March! Due to family issues and my job ending soon, it seems like the logical solution. Unfortunately, it does not shed a positive light on my life or the fact that I'm right back in the same place I was a little over three years ago.

I have made many friends in Lexington this time around, so it's going to be even harder to move again. Plus, Aurea is in third grade now versus kindergarten when we last moved. I keep trying to point out the positive aspects (being closer to family, no more school uniforms, etc.), but it still really hurts.

On the bright side, I am seeing a great guy from there so it means more time together and I will have more help with being a single mom. I will also be better able to handle Adam's 15-year-old issues he's been struggling with over the last few months. It has been very exhausting. Since I found out my job was ending, I have been looking for a new one. I'm not sure if it's the economy or the fact I'm two hours away, but I have not had much luck so far. If anyone still reads this, please keep your fingers crossed that I find something soon. Thank you.

Snow go away

2011-01-12T16:16:00.000-05:00

It seems like all the weather has done this winter is come down hard on everyone across the country. I've heard stories of people in the desert getting snow, that is just ridiculous! I have never been a fan of snow myself. Personally, if it weren't for my kids, friends, and family all being in Kentucky - I would pack up and move someplace warm and sunny - preferably with a beach and sand. Oh well, a woman can dream. It certainly beats looking outside and seeing four inches of snow on the ground. The north has gotten much more than that, but I'm just cold and tired of winter and it's only January!

Okay, now that I got that out of my system I can get off my winter soapbox.

Life has been very interesting, but very hectic recently. Without getting into all of the personal details, life has changed a great deal and is about to change even more over the course of the next few weeks. Partly due to family issues and partially due to my job ending in 4-6 weeks, we have decided to move back to my hometown, which is about two hours south.

It was a very difficult decision, but one I think (and hope) will work out the best for my family in the long run. It's scary to uproot and start over once again. I see advantages and disadvantages to both ends of the spectrum. No matter what happens though, we have each other. My children are the most important people in my life - all I want is for them to be happy. I really hope it does work out in the end.

Update on the kids

2010-11-11T14:43:00.000-05:00

I am so proud of my daughter. She recently auditioned in vocals for the School for the Creative and Performing Arts (SCAPA). She was very excited to audition, but I'm sure it was also extremely nerve-wracking. Approximately 500 kids auditioned for 54 spots. It was a closed audition, so I was not allowed in the room. The only feedback I got was her smiling face and positive attitude after the audition. She said, "If I get in then AWESOME, if not, I tried." I am so proud of her just for putting forth the effort. I cannot imagine being 8-years-old and going to a room with three people I've never met to answer questions, sing the musical scale, and perform a song all on my own - that took courage in itself. We will not know the outcome until late January or early February. Either way, she put her best foot forward and made a great effort.

My son turned 15 on Halloween. We went to a haunted house and haunted trail and then went to the movies to watch Saw 3D. He loves having a Halloween birthday! We enjoy "scary" stuff and it's our special time together. Aurea enjoyed Halloween this year too. The local towns couldn't decide what day to have trick-or-treating since it's apparently a sin to have it on Sunday. She went with her grandmother tick-or-treating on Friday night and then a friend of mine took her in Lexington on Sunday night. It was certainly interesting. I'm ready to get rid of the candy though, it's too tempting lying around the house.

Unfortunately, Adam has been getting into trouble lately. I will not provide details because I don't want to air all of his personal details to the whole world. Any advice on how to deal with a teenage boy refusing to listen though would be greatly appreciated. I'd like to end this before it gets too far out of control and can't be undone. I just can't seem to say or do the right thing to get through to him!

Life has been very busy and shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. This is actually fairly normal this time of year and will slow down sometime in the spring.

Fall is here

2010-09-17T13:06:00.000-04:00

I have gotten really bad at keeping this blog updated and I'm not even sure anyone reads it anymore. I actually considered quitting, but I do enjoy the occasional chance to vent or announce important events, so I guess I'll just stick to updating from time to time.

The aha moments video went well. Since my last entry I have been very busy. The kids started school in August. My daughter is in 3rd grade and loves it. Adam has never liked school and was not looking forward to starting high school this fall, but he really seems to enjoy it, or at least as much as he will ever like school!

I've been traveling and doing recruiting fairs for work on top of trying to get back into the school habit and all of our fall activities. My schedule has been hectic, but the month of September usually is for us. I'm glad things will be calming down soon and we are going on vacation in October.

I have never been to Florida and I'm taking the kids to Disney World this year! We are all so excited and it couldn't come at a better time. Just as Kentucky weather is beginning to cool down and show signs of fall, we are going to Florida. I can't wait!!

My aha moment

2010-07-29T09:24:00.000-04:00

On July 14, I was approached via email by a Mutual of Omaha Representative. This very nice lady found my website and blog online and contacted me about doing a video of my aha moment. For those who don't know about aha moments, this comes from the Mutual of Omaha website:

proud sponsor of life's aha moments

What is an aha moment? It's a moment of clarity, a defining moment where you gain real wisdom - wisdom you can use to change your life. Whether big or small, funny or sad, they can be surprising and inspiring. Each one is unique, deeply personal, and we think, worth sharing.
Mutual of Omaha celebrates and honors these moments and the people who act upon them. We're proud to have the products and services that can help people insure their possibilities.

The next day, I went to Cheapside Park in downtown Lexington and recorded my aha moment in the 34-foot airstream studio. The new experience was exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. However, I completed the video and would like to share it here:

Please check out my aha moment:

Please feel free to provide feedback! Thank you!

Summer Vacation

2010-06-04T10:28:00.000-04:00

My children go to different schools in separate districts. Aurea finished second grade yesterday and Adam completes eighth grade today. I cannot believe I am going to be the mom of a high school freshman in August! That really makes me feel old even though I know I'm not old.

Aurea was so excited to be out for summer vacation that she did not want to go to bed last night! I couldn't get her to understand that just because school is out does not mean mommy gets to stay home from work and play all summer. The joys of single parenthood! We still have to get up and go every morning. She will just be going to the YMCA to swim and have fun and go on field trips instead of sitting in a classroom all day. Unfortunately, the Y decided not to start childcare until Monday. Seriously, why in the world would you not start childcare until Monday when school is out on Friday? Therefore, we have already had a chaotic morning. I drove downtown just to find out it wasn't being held. Then, I called numerous friends in search of a sitter. My neighbor finally called back so I had to turn around and drive back home and then back across town to work! At least I found someone, but that was really aggravating this morning.

Adam is thrilled to be getting out for the summer and could care less about going back in the fall, high school or not. Aurea loves school. It's amazing how contrasting two children can be, but they are both wonderful!

Either way, it's summer vacation and I'm going to love getting to go swimming and do more fun stuff in the evenings and on the weekends. We started off with a big cookout and pool party at my mom's Memorial Day weekend. Hope everyone else has a safe, fun summer also.

RIP Granny: December 31, 1913 - April 26, 2009

2010-04-26T15:54:00.000-04:00

It has been one year ago today since the Lord decided to call my Granny home. I truly believe she went back to be with her husband, my papa, in heaven. They were married for 60 years! That is a long time to be married, I am so proud to be able to say that, especially in this day and age! When he died in 2001, we thought for sure she would be right behind him. Luckily, we were able to have her here on Earth for 8 more years. I am particularly grateful because I was pregnant with Aurea when papa died, so he never got to meet her. Granny got to know her for the first few years of her life anyway. My son still remembers both of them well. He loved Granny, but he was closer to papa. Growing up on a farm, my papa would take my son, Adam, riding on the tractor and doing all kinds of things around the farm. To this day, Adam is more about 4-wheelers and dirt bikes than anything else. Granny Gladys was 95-years-old and lived a good, long life. It was certainly her time to go and I'm glad she went peacefully. Unfortunately, I still miss her. I only have one grandparent still living, but I was fortunate to have the other three until 2001, 2005, and 2009 respectively. I cherish the time left with my grandma and the fact that my son got to meet all four of his great-grandparents (at least on my side) and my daughter got to meet three of her four great-grandparents on my side, that is so rare. Even though it hurts that she is gone, I will try to simply cherish her memory for the rest of the day and be grateful for the time we had together.

Happy belated holidays

2010-01-04T16:17:00.000-05:00

Okay I'm really behind. I hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I have been housesitting without internet for most of my time off of work! However, we had a very nice break. One advantage to working at a university is being able to have a week and a half off of work for the holidays.

The kids really enjoyed it, especially sleeping in and staying up late every night. Adam got the Harry Potter six-disc DVD collection for Christmas, so one day was nothing but a Harry Potter marathon. Aurea got a DSi and Wii Fit. Needless to say, she was extremely occupied.

The three of us took turns playing on the Wii Fit and I certainly got my workout. I guess it's what you make it (like most anything these days), but I certainly have been getting my daily workouts by using it. After the first three days I was extremely sore. The best part is that I enjoyed it and I hate to exercise!

Our New Year's Eve was pretty boring. Adam was with his dad so it was just me and Aurea. She decided to watch Disney's New Year's Showdown while I watched Dick Clark's New Year's Eve show where the ball dropped in Times Square. That's it, just television for us. At least I got to spend midnight with my daughter, but it was a quiet and uneventful evening.

I would love to say so much about our exciting adventures and everything we did over break, but that didn't happen. What did happen was a lot of catching up on sleep and favorite television shows, playing the Wii and DSi, and seeing family. While it might not have been eventful, it was peaceful and relaxing. I was really glad for the break.

Unfortunately, it made it extremely difficult to get up and going this morning. The 13 degree temperature and snow falling on this cold, dark morning did not help our spirits any either. Thankfully, Monday (at least the workday part of it) is about over and hopefully the rest of the week will be much easier.

I hope everyone else had a good break. Enjoy 2010!

Boyz II Men

2009-12-21T16:23:00.000-05:00

Saturday night I had the incredible opportunity to see Boyz II Men (Nathan Morris, Shawn Stockman,and Wanya Morris) in concert at the UK Singletary Center for the Arts. I have loved this group for years and finally got to see them live, 5th row. The best part was when Shawn and Nathan came out carrying red roses as the song "I'll Make Love to You" began. Those of us in the first few rows dashed to the stage and I got a red rose from Shawn! I know I sound silly, but it was really exciting and I have that rose on display now!

The concert was great. They sang everything from "On Bended Knee" to Lonestar's "Amazed." They even sang songs from their latest Love album. It was fantastic and they really got the crowd involved in the music. I had a wonderful time.

I also went to a graduation party after the concert for a friend who graduated that morning. As a single mom, nights like these are rare. I got a chance to get out and have some "me" time for the evening. It was a relaxing and much needed break.

Now I only have two days left to work this week and I'm off until January 4th. I feel really good.

Aurea's 8th birthday

2009-12-07T11:20:00.000-05:00

This is Aurea's Wizards of Waverly Place birthday cake from her party this weekend. I'm not posting party pictures for the sake of privacy of the attendees. However, there were about seven children there ranging in age from 4-8. My beautiful baby girl is now 8-years-old! I still can't believe it.

Aurea's birthday was on Friday. Barnes & Noble hosted a special night for her school. The children had the opportunity to sing songs, listen to a storyteller, watch a magician, and shop for books. Plus, 15% of the proceeds from purchases went to our PTA. It was hectic, but fun.

After Barnes & Noble, we went to see the Disney version of "A Christmas Carol" with Jim Carrey in 3D. It was really cute, but 3D movies have gotten expensive! The theatre is close to the mall and was also playing "New Moon." Needless to say, we had to park in the nearby shopping center and walk over since the parking lot was completely full. Walking wasn't bad since it was not that far, but it sure was cold. She loved the movie and fell asleep on the way home.

Saturday was her party and our first snow for the season here in Kentucky. Fortunately, it was only a mild dusting with no ice. Everyone made it to the party and had a great time. My parents and niece drove up for the party and stayed the night with us. They took us out to eat that evening and then Aurea and her cousin spent the evening playing.

Things finally calmed down yesterday after my family left and I put the house back in order. I finally got a chance to relax for a bit last night before coming back to work today. I'm proud the kids had a great time at the party and Aurea had a wonderful weekend, but I'm grateful next weekend will not be as hectic.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-30T11:29:00.000-05:00

Yes, I realize I am a few days late, but I hope everyone had a very happy and safe Thanksgiving. I went home to Glasgow to eat turkey and spend time with the family. My sister became a stepmom when she got married in September, so I finally got to spend time with my new step-nephew also. My niece was very happy to see me and Aurea. My nephew could care less that I was there, but he and Aurea had fun playing on the computer after Thanksgiving dinner was finished.

We came home on Friday. Aurea was supposed to be in the Christmas parade with Girl Scouts, but too many of the girls were sick and we decided it was too cold to go. Instead, we stayed home and put up and decorated the Christmas tree. Saturday we went to Southern Lights. It is held at the KY Horse Park and you drive through and get to look at the creative, festive trail of lights. At the end, we got to go inside where Aurea got her picture made with Santa. Back outside, she was excited to get to ride a real camel!

All in all, we had a great long weekend and a nice Thanksgiving. I hope everyone else did as well.

Kathy:I am who I am: Happy Veterans Day

2009-11-12T09:11:00.000-05:00

Kathy:I am who I am: Happy Veterans Day

http://www.glasgowdailytimes.com/archivesearch/local_story_289132807.html

Happy Veterans Day

2009-11-12T09:06:00.000-05:00

I know I'm a day late, but I want to say Happy Veterans day to all of the men and women out there who serve/have served in the armed forces. It is also a good time to remember everyone in Ft. Hood. My hometown created plaques for veterans to be displayed, I think that was a great idea - especially since both of my grandfathers now have memorial plaques there. In honor of all veterans, I hope you had a great Veterans day and thank you for all you do.

Halloween weekend

2009-11-03T13:29:00.000-05:00

Halloween is one of my favorite and busiest days of the year. My wonderful son, Adam, was born on Halloween afternoon 14 years ago. I cannot believe he is now 14, but he is and he certainly acts like a teenage boy. When he was little, we would go trick-or-treating and say, "Trick or treat, it's my birthday!" He always got extra candy and presents from houses of close friends or family members. When my daughter was born and she began trick or treating as well, he used it to get extra candy for both of them.

About three years ago, Adam decided he was too big to go trick-or-treating and would rather go to haunted houses. We began a tradition where the two of us go to various haunted houses or attractions. Aurea's grandmother or father take her trick-or-treating while Adam and I either hand out candy, go out to eat, or otherwise celebrate his birthday. Then, we go to the haunted places. This year we chose ScreamPark (www.scarylexington.com), Terror on Tates Creek, and Nightmare Haunted House (www.2scary.com). ScreamPark was new this year and supposed to be the best new attraction. It featured three haunted houses in one indoor warehouse. Unfortunately, it was not scary at all and a complete waste of money. Terror on Tates Creek was an outdoor "haunted" trail. It was fun, but not the best. The best attraction was Nightmare Haunted House. They change the theme every year, this year was Mercy Hospital. It still wasn't scary (can you tell we don't scare easily?), but we had a great time. Despite the lack of scarefest, we had a great night and Adam had a lot of fun. We came home and watched horror movies on TV.

Unlike most years, I had plans with Aurea on Sunday night just for us. She wanted to see Miley Cyrus in concert. I bought tickets months ago and she has been excited about seeing Miley Cyrus/Hannah Montana in concert. Unfortunately, Hannah Montana is long gone. Instead, Miley attempted to reach an older audience with newer songs Aurea did know very well. Some were good, others not as great. The lights and effects were great. She rode a Harley suspended from the ceiling over the heads of the audience; this made me a little concerned, but it was certainly entertaining. The biggest problems I had with the show were Miley's choices concerning clothing and dancing. I would NEVER let my daughter wear tight, leather, barely-there clothing at any age! Her clothes got skimpier as the night went on and her dancing more provocative. Metro Station (Miley's brother is the lead singer) opened the show and the band was also not child-friendly. The show was entertaining, but it was not geared toward young children. Miley is no longer a wholesome, family entertainment choice and I'm sorry I took my daughter. She had a good time, I just hope she never learns any of those dances and she will not buy any of those outfits.

We had a fun, but extremely busy weekend. The kids really enjoyed themselves and now I'm ready for a day off just to catch up with stuff I need to do. Unfortunately, that will not be until this coming Saturday.

What was I thinking?

2009-10-19T15:31:00.000-04:00

I try to be a good mom and stay involved in my daughter's life and especially her school. Since she is only in second grade, school is the main portion of what she does anyway. I like to know her teacher and stay in constant contact. I also enjoy being actively involved in the PTA so we can make the most of the program and be aware of what is going on with PTA and with the school.

Sometimes being an active member is difficult since I'm not a stay-at-mom who can drop by the school on a whim to volunteer in a classroom or help organize an event. Therefore, I often have to say no to requests to be involved. When the PTA President mentioned the elementary school student directory, I agreed to take on the responsibility of putting it together since it could be done from home.

Little did I know the amount of time and work this directory would entail. Let's just say her school has an enrollment of 461 students. While not all of them elected to be included in the directory, it was still a major undertaking to design and layout the directory while adding about 300 names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, and parent/guardian names. Needless to say, I did not do much else the entire weekend.

I finally finished my directory thanks to Microsoft Publisher (Microsoft Word was very uncooperative) and emailed the PTA President to let her know I just needed to double check everything before sending it to her. She then informed me the school decided to overlook the deadline because students were still turning them in and they didn't want to leave anyone out and she has several more forms for me. Unfortunately, it's not as simple as just plugging them in due to the design, but at least the bulk of the project is finished. Now I'm just wondering what I was thinking when I volunteered to do this project.

The swine flu

2009-10-09T13:28:00.003-04:00

This week has not been fun at all. Sunday night Aurea started feeling bad and it got progressively worse on Monday. We went to the doctor Monday afternoon where she was diagnosed with swine flu (they called today to also say she has a staph infection!) and she wasn't able to go to school or do anything fun. She missed school M-Thurs. and finally went back today. She has been taking Tamiflu and cough medicine. They are giving her the weekend to make up her homework, but that doesn't make for a fun, exciting weekend -especially after being sick and not being able to play with her friends all week. I stayed home with her Mon. and yesterday and her dad stayed with her on Tues. and Wed. Needless to say, it's been a difficult week for all of us.

Mon. when I was home I at least got some stuff done around the house while she rested. Yesterday though I started feeling badly and did not get anything done. I don't have the flu, but I just feel really tired and run down. My allergies have also kicked in. I think I have the rainy, nasty Kentucky weather to thank for that.

Tuesday afternoon I left to go to Franklin, TN for UK Preview Night for work and then stayed the night. I got up early on Wednesday morning and drove 4 hours back here and went straight to work. That probably did not help my immune system any either.

Luckily, I was able to work today and Aurea is back in school. Now we have the weekend to rest and regroup. Hopefully next week will be much more fun and nobody in the family will be sick.

Which is more important?

2009-09-29T13:37:00.003-04:00

The last time I posted was almost a month ago, but that seems to be the way it goes. I would love to blog every day. Unfortunately, even if I have something to write about - I don't always have the time. One of the joys of being a full-time, single mother and a full-time employee.

My sister got married earlier this month. I was not thrilled about it since I was really close to my ex-brother-in-law. They were married for 10 years so it was hard to see them get divorced and even harder to watch her get remarried. The wedding did not start out so well since it came a huge downpour up until the ceremony began (it was an outdoor wedding) and pushed pictures until the end. Once the rain lifted though, everyone was able to gather under the tent. The ceremony went well and the reception was a load of fun.

Aurea is back in Girl Scouts and Upward Cheerleading signups just began. Between her stuff and everything I've got going on at work lately, the fall is going to be extremely busy! It gets hectic sometimes and I wish it would slow down a bit, but then spring comes and we have nothing going on and I miss it. The Academic Team hasn't even started yet either!

The few warm days we actually had of summer have officially faded. The high today is 59 degrees, in September! That's ridiculous for this time of year.

Last night I was supposed to attend a meeting (the optional kind without children, the kind parents actually look forward to attending) and told Aurea she was going to my friend's house for a couple of hours. "A couple of hooouurs!?" she whined like it would be for days on end. I told her it wouldn't be very long and she would be okay, but she decided she wanted to stay home, in her house, with me and she was NOT going anywhere. Then, I told her I had a meeting I really needed to attend. She gave me a sad look and asked, "which is more important - me or your meeting?" Needless to say, I did not attend the meeting last night. I just don't know where kids come up with this stuff. She is only seven for goodness sake, she shouldn't be able to con and guilt me like that!

August is gone

2009-09-02T11:13:00.003-04:00

August flew by, where did the summer go? This was unusually cool summer anyway, but it seems gone already. The kids are back in school and the crazy schedules have already begun. Aurea loves school, but gets frustrated with her math homework. She is great at reading and enjoys basically anything unrelated to math, but she gets so upset over math homework. It is frustrating and heart-wrenching all at the same time. We had our first PTA meeting that went really well. These meetings aren't generally well attended. I hope the nice turnout at this one is a sign of things to come and not just due to the fact that it was the first meeting of the year. We have also begun our first PTA fundraiser for the year. Doesn't take long does it?

I'm glad to report my book has officially sold 16 copies. While I'm glad it has sold, 16 is not a significant amount and those are from family members. If you know of anyone with Multiple Sclerois, has a family member with MS, is merely interested in the topic, or simply wants to support me - please tell them about "Multiple Sclerosis: The Many Faces of the Disease." It is available at barnesandnoble.com and amazon.com. You can find it at www.outskirtspress.com/multiplesclerosis or by going to amazon.com and typing in the title or author (Kathy Reed, FYI Reed is my maiden name). I would really appreciate it. Also, if anyone reads it and likes it, please post a review. Reviews help in listing strength on amazon.com.

We went to the Jonas Brothers concert here in Lexington. There were approx. 17,000 young girls whose screams erupted throughout Rupp Arena. I am not a Jonas fan, but they did put on a nice show and Aurea loved it. Likewise, I'm not a Wonder Girls or Honor Society fan. However, I do enjoy listening to Jordin Sparks and she did a great job as well. It was a long night, but the look on Aurea's face was worth it. I'm glad she loved her first concert.

This coming weekend is Labor Day weekend and my sister's wedding. I'm not looking forward to all of the family time this weekend. However, I have to work close to my hometown Thurs. night so I am taking Friday off and staying down there. Therefore, I have a four day weekend to look forward to. Now that is something to get excited about!

School is back in session

2009-08-13T11:12:00.004-04:00

It's official, school is back in session. My children started school yesterday, but the differences amaze me. Adam is 13 and no desire to go back to school. He could care less and was less than enthusiastic about getting up, going, and starting 8th grade. Aurea is 7 and was overly excited and anxious for school to start. She got up half an hour before the alarm clock went off and said she couldn't wait to start 2nd grade! After school, he decided school "sucks, it's middle school." She could not stop talking about the afterschool Prime Time program. I'm still not really sure what either of them actually did in school all day! I do know she had a great first day of school and was wide awake again this morning. I'd like to think she would stay this excited all year, but somehow I doubt it.

The next few weeks are going to be extremely busy at work and at home. As most of you know, I work at the University of Kentucky. Classes at the university start back Aug. 26th and we are preparing for all of the commotion and chaos surrounding the beginning of a new semester. My cousin and her two girl, Aurea, and I are going to see the Jonas Brothers in concert next weekend. They will be coming up here to visit for the weekend so we will be busy. Labor Day weekend is my sister's wedding in Glasgow. Therefore, I will be spending this weekend shopping for dresses and shoes for me and Aurea so we don't wait until the last minute. The weekend after Labor Day is my birthday and I'm going out with the girls. I think I have a few weekends free before birthdays and holidays start, but I'm sure school events, friends, and family will quickly change that.

The weather outside might still say the season is summer, but all of the hustle and busy schedules of fall are certainly here!

It's almost August!

2009-07-27T10:56:00.002-04:00

I received my author copies of my book! I'm really excited. Now I get to pitch it to stores in hopes they will agree to place it on shelves. Right now, it is only being run as print-on demand. While this is great and cost effective, I'm hoping to actually see it sitting on shelves in bookstores. I have one store buyer who has agreed to review it and then let me know whether or not they will carry it. I will not name any names yet, but I'm keeping my fingers crossed. In the meantime, it is available at: www.outskirtspress.com/multiplesclerosis.

Life is starting to become hectic once again. I have a very busy week this week. My daughter's back-to-school bash is next week and then they start school on Aug. 12. I can't believe school is only two weeks away! That just does not even seem possible. I'm sure life will be extremely busy once school starts. I guess that's all part of the fun though.

I'm still trying to adjust to being single. It's only been four months, but it feels much longer. I do not have a problem with single part - I actually enjoy being able to come and go as I please and work my schedule around myself and the kids. It's also nice to have time just for myself. The problem is that this can be very lonely, especially at night when the kids are in bed and I'm awake and alone. I'm adapting and taking it one day at a time, but some days are easier than others.

An Awesome Weekend

2009-07-20T09:59:00.003-04:00

This weekend was wonderful. It has been a really long time since I was honestly able to say something like that. I'm so happy things are finally starting to look up for me. After everything that has happened in the last few months, I'm glad to have good news for a change.

It's official, my book is published! I found out last night. Since Outskirts Press is a cross between traditional and self-publishing, the book is not on shelves anywhere. However, it is on barnesandnoble.com and amazon.com. The title is "Multiple Sclerosis: The Many Faces of the Disease." It is the story of my Aunt Suzanne and her battle with MS. The author is listed as Kathy Reed. Please do not think you are in the wrong place, Reed is my maiden name. As soon as I receive my printed copies in the mail, I can take them and actually pitch the book to local stores. Hopefully, my book will be on actually shelves soon. Regardless, it is available on the World Wide Web. I met a lifelong goal and I'm thrilled!

I bought a car on Saturday. I spent most of the afternoon at the dealership, but I drove away in a 2008 Pontiac G6 GT. Thanks to a wonderful friend and employee of the dealership, I got a nice discount and I tried in my old Daewoo. I got a great deal on the car and I'm very excited about it. I'm having fun just driving around now. Unfortunately, I am stuck at work right now, but this afternoon will be nice.

Saturday night I took my daughter to the Bluegrass Fair. I was really impressed with her. I paid for her to ride the rides. However, she is usually scared of anything tall or fast, so I did not expect her to ride many of them. She did though. She even did Ring of Fire, a ring roller coaster that goes upside down. She didn't like it and swears she will never do it again, but she braved it for the one ride anyway. That's not bad for a 7-year-old! She had so much fun that I had a hard time getting her to leave.

The kids both had wellness checkups on Friday afternoon. Aurea is 4'10" and Adam is
5'2". They will both be passing me up in no time! They both received clean bills of health. Yeah, that is always good news to the ears of a parent.

All in all, things went great this weekend and I'm just hoping this week is just as great and productive. I hope everyone else has a great week!

Summer

2009-07-15T11:39:00.002-04:00

July 4th was great. I did end up going over to my friend's house. We had a nice cookout and fun listening to music and talking. I met a couple of her friends who were really nice. Even the fireworks were still fun, despite the rain that decided to pour down just as it was getting dark enough to actually do them! After the fireworks, we still visited for awhile. It was a great night.

Aurea has decided that she wants to play soccer. I'm concerned because she has never wanted to play soccer or been very athletic. She quit gymnastics because she couldn't listen and focus enough to actually learn anything. She did great in cheerleading. She expressed no interest in soccer or any other sport until we received a brochure in the mail from Upward (the church program where she cheerleads for basketball in the winter) for soccer registration. Now she suddenly wants to play soccer. I don't mind her trying new things, I just hate to pay a huge registration fee just for her to start and then back out. I guess we will see how things go.

Adam is doing great. He is so excited that the new Harry Potter movie starts today. This is "our thing," we always go to see the Harry Potter movies together. I was hoping to take him tomorrow night. Unfortunately, I probably won't have a babysitter tomorrow night and I don't think Aurea could handle the movie. We will see it sooner or later though.

Aurea has a dentist appointment today and both kids have wellness checkups on Friday. Fun, fun! Seriously though, I'm trying to get doctor appointments, errands, and all of the not-so-fun stuff out of the way before school starts back. Hopefully, this will prevent having to go during the school year and kids having to miss classes. That is the plan, let's just hope none of the appointments require a follow-up a month from now (school starts Aug. 12)!

Happy 4th of July

2009-07-02T15:17:00.002-04:00

I am excited that a long weekend and the Fourth of July are almost here. It doesn't seem possible, but I am looking forward to it nonetheless. I am going to a cookout both tomorrow and Saturday night with friends. Saturday will also include fireworks and meeting new people. My friend invited me to her house. I won't know anyone there except her, but I guess it's about time I met some new people and get to socialize a little. I feel like I've been living in a bubble this past year. I think part of my new socialization is due to being single. Part of it is also due to simply living here long enough to finally start meeting people. I have probably met more people and been more socialable in the last three months than I have been in a very long time.

The kids are having a great summer and can't wait for fireworks this weekend either. Aurea has been creating an ongoing wishlist of things she "just has to have." I don't believe a 7-year-old needs a new computer and the dsi is slightly expensive, along with the huge trampoline and several other items she rattled off. I am considering the dog, but I just don't know yet if I'm ready to take on another pet right now. Then, a couple of nights ago, she asked for a baby brother or sister! After I explained that was not going to happen, I started thinking a trip to the Humane Society didn't sound so bad. I'm still debating on the dog, the baby is seriously out of the question!

I love that Aurea is still young and able to fantasize and not fully grasp certain aspects of life. It shows innocence, but it can also be frustrating at times. That makes me glad Adam is old enough to understand babies don't come from storks or from simply wanting one to appear. He also understands more about life. It's amazing to see the difference six years age difference truly makes. They are truly miraculous and I learn something new from them constantly.

Anyway, one hour until my three day weekend - I'm ready! I hope everyone has a safe and happy Fourth of July!

King's Island

2009-07-01T16:22:00.002-04:00

Wow, I can't believe it's July already! Where has this year gone?

Last weekend was great. Aurea went to visit her dad and my mom and got to attend a weekend dance camp. She and my niece had a ball at the camp and can't seem to stop talking about it. Adam and I went to King's Island. The two hour drive there wasn't so bad since we left early in the morning, but the drive home was annoying since we were exhausted and our feet hurt. It was so much fun though.

I think the best part of King's Island was Boomerang Bay (the water park). We went down almost every water slide or ride they had and got a great suntan in the process. My shoulders even got a little sunburned, but it was worth it. UK had a special day there with a picnic for students/faculty/staff/alumni with reduced price admission to the park. The food was great. I am afraid of heights so I'm not big on roller coasters. Adam did get me to ride Vortex, but I could not do Diamondback. Sorry, just couldn't! The Drop Zone was the only ride he went on without me. We did so much though. We left our house at 8 am and got home around 11:15 pm. I was in bed by 11:40!

Aurea is enjoying her new summer babysitter and getting to swim everyday. Unfortunately, she's been asking for a puppy and last night she asked for a baby brother or sister! That is NOT happening, guess it's time for a trip to the Humane Society.

Hope everyone is having a great summer!

This is not June as I know it

2009-06-18T11:16:00.002-04:00

This summer has been very strange. All it seems to do anymore is rain, the only upside to all of the rain is the appreciation I feel when the sun is actually out and shining brightly. Wednesday night, my hometown got hit with three tornadoes. My dad and uncle run a dairy farm and lost two cows and a calf in the storms. Several trees and fences were uprooted and thrown. The kiddie wading pool (full of water)in the backyard was lifted over the house and dropped into the front yard (still full of water). My dad says the family farm looks like a warzone, that is awful! I'm just grateful nobody was injured in all of the damage. The electricity was out for a few hours though. Seriously, this feels more like March than June!

Aurea got stung by a bee the other day while playing at the babysitter's house. Apparently, a piece of moistened tobacco and a penny applied to the sting eliminate swelling and reduce pain from a bee sting. I never knew that!

Everything else is going okay here. We are just staying very busy. I took the kids to Red Robin Monday night for dinner. I had never been there before. They have the best burgers and bottomless fries, I really recommend going if you get the chance.

The kids are now gone to visit family members for a few days and I am home alone until they return (probably Monday). I really don't know what I'm going to do for four days with no children! I will miss them, but I know they are having fun.

Next weekend, Adam and I are going to King's Island, so that should liven up the summer a little. I managed to get concert tickets to the Jonas Brothers in August and Miley Cyrus/Hannah Montana in November for Aurea. My kids should be happy, instead they are bored! Go figure!

Kathy:I am who I am: NAMIWalks 2009#links

2009-06-12T10:51:00.001-04:00

NAMIWalks 2009

2009-06-12T10:44:00.002-04:00

I am participating in an event that is both very important and very exciting to me. It is NAMIWalks for the Mind of America, NAMI’s signature walkathon event that is being held in Lexington , KY at Kentucky Horse Park on October 10, 2009.

I walked last year and it was a difficult journey, but I made it through and was very proud of myself for achieving my goal. I am registered to walk again this year.

I would like to ask you to come and walk with me or to donate to support my participation in this great event. Visit my personal walker page to sign up: http://www.nami.org/namiwalks09/LEX/klogsdon. It features a link to my team's page where you can see who else is walking with me. There is also a link so you can donate directly to me online. Donating online is fast and secure, and I'll get immediate notification via e-mail of your donation. Any amount would be greatly appreciated, since it is going to a good cause and will allow me to participate.

NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, is the largest education, support and advocacy organization that serves the needs of all those whose lives are touched by these illnesses. This includes persons with mental illness, their families, friends, employers, the law enforcement community and policy makers. The NAMI organization is composed of approximately 1100 local affiliates, 50 state offices and a national office.

The goals of the NAMIWalks program are: to fight the stigma that surrounds mental illness, to build awareness of the fact that the mental health system in this country needs to be improved, and to raise funds for NAMI so that they can continue their mission.

NAMI is a 501(c)3 charity and any donation you make to support my participation in this event is tax deductible. NAMI has been rated by Worth magazine as among the top 100 charities "most likely to save the world" and has been given an "A" rating by The American Institute of Philanthropy for efficient and effective use of charitable dollars.

Thank you in advance for your support.

June update

2009-06-09T15:29:00.002-04:00

For Mother's Day, Aurea gave me some green tea and a poem. I loved the poem, I have it put up safely. However, I'm not a big green tea drinker plus I kept forgetting about it, so I hadn't consumed it. Yesterday though, she told her new babysitter that mommy hurt her feelings by not drinking her tea! I felt so bad so I went home and fixed supper and had the tea with my supper. You should have seen her smile! That smile made it worth the tea and just reminds me of how little things excite children so much.

Adam and I are going to Kings Island the end of this month, he is really excited. So am I, I've never been. I can't wait to go have a day just the two of us. It's also UK Day at King's Island so we got reduced price admission and picnic tickets. It's going to be a lot of fun. Aurea might be going to a dance camp that weekend.

Outskirts sent the interior proofs of my book and everything is finally coming together. It won't be long now until my book is officially ready to sell. It is so exciting! I can use this good news right now.

Everything else in life is crazy and chaotic right now. I'm glad to have some small stuff in there to help see the silver lining.

Memorial Day Weekend

2009-05-26T09:06:00.013-04:00

I hope everyone had a great Memorial Day weekend. We had fun and the rain didn't come in until yesterday afternoon. The rain has been a constant lately, so I was glad it held off for the most part. It did sprinkle Sunday, but not for long.

Anyway, I took Adam and Aurea to Guntown Mountain and Dinosaur World on Saturday and they had a blast:

Sunday, I went to my grandmother's house and collected a few items. Then, yesterday I kept Korey and played with her, Aurea, and Aurea's friend all day. It was a nice long weekend.

Back at it

2009-05-18T11:34:00.005-04:00

Well, it's Monday and I'm back at the office. I am not a big fan of Mondays, or of mornings in general for that matter. I miss the weekend already and it's not even lunch time yet! I guess I'm in for a long week. I believe part of that comes from the fact that next weekend is a long weekend and I'm ready for 3 days off. Unfortunately, one day will be spent cleaning out my grandmother's house. I miss her, but picking through old furniture and found "treasures" does not sound like a fun day. On the bright side, it is a long weekend so I still have two days for other things.

This weekend was good. I took Aurea and we met Jennifer and Korey and went to Korey's school playground to let the girls play. Most of the weekend, Aurea spent outside playing with her friends or playing her new Wii game. I printed some photos with the new PhotoSmart printer I bought a couple of months ago. I also put up some pictures and reorganized some things around the house. I guess being single again does have some advantages.

The interior proofs for my book are almost ready! I'm really excited. I hope that means we are close to being ready to sell it. I can't wait! It will be on amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com, outskirts' press website, and whereever else I pitch it and get it accepted.

Now, I need ideas. Being down to one income is not helping my life at the moment. While I hope my book comes out and sales wonderfully, I'm also realistic that that may take awhile. In the meantime, I would like to try to do something from home to make a little extra money. The problem is, everything I find on my own is some pyramid scheme or a complete scam! Any suggestions?

My chaotic life

2009-05-14T08:32:00.002-04:00

I haven't felt like blogging much lately, so thank you to any people actually still reading this. I have had so much going on in my life that blogging just had to take a backseat to it all. I'm glad to be able to come back and write about some of it. I won't get detailed though since it is mostly personal.

I learned in March that you don't necessarily know someone and what they are capable of as well as you think, even after three years. Some people just do not have respect for other people and do not see what is wrong with hurting them. I will not go into detail, but it is now an ongoing situation I will have to deal with for months or even years to come.

My grandmother passed away in April, she was 95. She lived a nice, long life. It hurt when she went, but we all knew it was time. I was just grateful I had the opportunity to say goodbye.

My life has been very chaotic since March and I'm ready for things to settle down. It is much quieter at home without a man around. Work has also calmed down since UK had its graduation last weekend.

Aurea is doing well. She is ready for school to be out. However, due to makeup days for snow and ice, she won't be out until June 4 this year. Adam is enjoying track and school events, but he is ready to finish school too.

The publisher sent the cover proofs for my book. I'm really excited and anxiously awaiting the interior proofs so we can finish production and get this book ready for sale!

Carrots, Eggs, & Coffee!

2009-05-06T15:59:00.000-04:00

Carrots, Eggs, & Coffee!

A carrot, an egg, and a cup of coffee...You will never look at a cup of coffee the same way again.

A young woman went to her mother and told her about her life and how things were so hard for her. She did not know how she was going to make it and wanted to give up, She was tired of fighting and struggling. It seemed as one problem was solved, a new one arose.

Her mother took her to the kitchen. She filled three p ots with water and placed each on a high fire. Soon the pots came to boil. In the first she placed carrots, in the second she placed eggs, and in the last she placed ground coffee beans. She let them sit and boil; without saying a word.

In about twenty minutes she turned off the burners She fished the carrots out and placed them in a bowl. She pulled the eggs out and placed them in a bowl. Then she ladled the coffee out and placed it in a bowl. Turning to her daughter, she=2 0asked, ' Tell me what you see.'

'Carrots, eggs, and coffee,' she replied.

Her mother brought her closer and asked her to feel the carrots. She did and noted that they were soft. The mother then asked the daughter to take an egg and break it. After pulling off the shell, she observed the hard boiled egg

Finally, the mother asked the daughter to sip the coffee. The daughter smiled as she tasted its rich aroma. The daughter then asked, 'What does it mean, mother?'

Her mother explained that each of these objects had faced the same adversity: boiling water. Each reacted differently. The carrot went in strong, hard, and unrelenting. However, after being subjected to the boiling water, it softened and became weak. The egg had been fragile. Its thin outer shell had protected its liquid interior, but after sitting through the boiling water, its inside became hardened. The ground coffee beans were unique, however. After they were in the boiling water, they had changed the water.

'Which are you?' she asked her daughter. 'When adversity knocks on your door, how do you respond? Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean?

Think of this: Which am I? Am I the carrot that seems strong, but with pain and adversity do I wilt and become soft and lose my strength?

Am I the egg that starts with a malleable heart, but changes with the heat? Did I have a fluid spirit, but a fter a death, a breakup, a financial hardship or some other trial, have I become hardened and stiff? Does my shell look the same, but on the inside am I bitter and tough with a stiff spirit and hardened heart?

Or am I like the coffee bean? The bean actually changes the hot water, the very circumstance that brings the pain. When the water gets hot, it releases the fragrance and flavor. If you are like the bean, when things are at their worst, you get better and change the situation around you. When the hour is the darkest and trials are their greatest do you elevate yourself to another level? How do you handle adversity? Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean?

May you have enough happine ss to make you sweet, enough trials to make you strong, enough sorrow to keep you human and enough hope to make you happy.

The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the most of everything that comes along their way. The bright est future will always be based on a forgotten past; you can't go forward in life until you let go of your past failures and heartaches.

When you were born, you were crying and everyone around you was smiling.

Live your life so at the end, you're the one who is smiling and everyone around you is crying.

May we all be COFFEE!!!!!!!

March Update

2009-03-18T15:14:00.002-04:00

I'm worn out today after walking all over campus running errands. I'm just glad the weather is finally nice, I hope it stays this way. I could handle 70s, much better than the nasty cold we have been having.

If any of you read, Because I Said So, the blog by Dawn Meehan -- Her book is finally out! I'm really excited. It wasn't supposed to be out until April 1, but Amazon.com sent an email a few days ago saying my order was scheduled to arrive sometime around March 19th - I actually got it yesterday. I was happily surprised to come home and see the package on the doorstep. I can't wait to actually read the book now.

Speaking of books, mine is coming along slowly. My author rep and I are at that stage - yes- insert picture here, no - don't add that there, etc. It's a lot of picky stuff at this point, but I'm glad to be here. If you don't get through the picky stage, you don't get published!

The kids are doing great. Aurea finished Upward Cheerleading for the season. I am really glad. She had fun, but it was busy for awhile. Adam finished soccer in time to start track! They are both busy kids. Aurea is taking voice lessons and that is it for right now. Spring Break is right around the corner. Actually, the University is on Spring Break this week so campus is really quiet. My kids, however, have a couple of weeks left before they get off.

My family is driving me crazy yet again. I really don't want to go into specifics on here, but let's just say some of them like to get into business that is no concern to them. It's really frustrating.

Otherwise, things are pretty calm these days.

I'm getting published!

2009-03-04T22:16:00.002-05:00

It's official, my book is in the early stages of publication. I really don't know when it will be out yet, but I'm excited just to reach this point. My dream growing up was to publish a book on or before the age of 30, I have until September to get the book out and meet my goal! LOL I think it will be out before September, but if not, it's still coming and I'm very happy!

Adam has strep throat, but he is recovering. I hate it when the kids are sick. Aurea was sick last week. I think a bug is going around or something. It could also be weather-related. There is an expression in Kentucky, "If you don't like the weather, wait 30 minutes!" This especially applies this time of year when Mother Nature just can't decide if she wants to make it snow, rain, or be 60 degrees one day and 30 the next. I will be glad when Spring is here to stay.

Saturday is Aurea's last week of cheerleading for Upward. She's going to miss it, but she is now taking professional voice lessons, so I think she will be okay. Her last academic competition is this weekend too. Adam finished soccer. We are slowly wrapping everything up.

Everything else is going okay. I would write more, but I really need to go to bed.

Don't Quit

2009-02-04T20:13:00.002-05:00

A friend sent this to me a few years ago, but I've kept it because it helps me when I'm feeling down. Even if I'm not down, it's still a great reminder we can all use. I think in tough economic times this really applies. I really hope everyone enjoys this poem.

Don't Quit
by William Murray Angus

When things go wrong,
As they sometimes will,
When the road you're trudging seems all uphill
When the funds are low and the debts are high
But you have to sigh
When care is pressing you down a bit
Rest if you must,
But don't you Quit.

Life is strange with its twists and turns
As everyone of us sometimes learns
And many a fellow turns about
When he might have won had he stuck it out
Don't give up though the pace seems slow.
You may succeed with another blow.

Often the goal is nearer than
It seems to a faint and faltering man
Often the struggler has given up
When he might have captured the victor's cup
And he learned too late when the night came down
How close he was to the golden crown

Success is failure turned inside out
The silver tint of the clouds of doubt
And you never can tell how close you are,
So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit
It's when it seems the worst
That you Mustn't Quit!

January

2009-01-30T09:55:00.003-05:00

I'm back again. I'd really like to post more, but it just doesn't seem to work that way! Christmas was pretty good here. I'm not a big fan of holidays, but the kids really enjoyed it and I had some time off from work to spend with them.

The best gift I received for Christmas was both one money can and can't buy. No, I'm not crazy (at least not about this LOL!). My wonderful son used money he had saved up, had my mom take him to the store, and picked out and paid for a beautiful watch for me. Yes, the watch is gorgeous and my son has great taste in jewelry. I love being able to show this watch to people. However, it is about so much more than a piece of jewelry. A 13-year-old boy picked out and paid for a watch for his mother for Christmas. He could have had my mom buy something and put his name on it or he could have picked out the watch and asked somebody else to buy it for him. No, he did it all on his own. He spent more of his money than I think he should have, but it is the thought and love that went into this gift that means so much more than the gift itself. I am so proud of my son. He truly made me feel loved and blessed.

Santa brought Aurea the Wii for Christmas and she has been on it continuosly every since. Adam got a new weight bench from Santa. I really don't see the need or desire for him to lift weights, but hey, he wanted to get fit before football season comes back around. I think he and his friend had more fun putting it together than they ever will actually using it! I finally joined the 21st century, Kevin bought me my first MP3 player for Christmas. There were more presents, but I think everyone gets the general idea.

I came back to work on Jan.5th, but it has been nasty weather ever since we got back. It has snowed this entire month. Monday we got snow that has since been followed by more snow, ice, freezing rain, and a basic state of emergency as thousands lost power and countless trees fell to the ground. School has been out all week, something that Fayette County does not do. Also, UK cancelled classes and shut down the University Wednesday, which it has not done in years. We were on a two-hour delay Tues. and Thurs. Today is finally back to a normal schedule, but the snow started back up again, so who knows what this afternoon holds. I know my road is still ice, it's awful! I will be really happy to see Spring come. Right now, I'd just be happy with temperatures climbing above the 30s!!

In other news, I got notification from Outskirts Press that my manuscript has been accepted for publication! Below is the email they sent for my acceptance:

Dear Kathy,

Thank you for submitting your book to Outskirts Press for evaluation. We are honored you have chosen us to publish your book with us. On behalf of our manuscript review team, I am pleased to report that we have accepted Multiple Sclerosis for publication. Congratulations!

The next step is to assign one of our professional Author Representatives to help you through the publishing process. You can get started today with a deposit (just $35) that is applied toward your publishing package.

Before I explain some of the options and services at Outskirts Press, I’d like to touch on our thoughts about your work. You have an interesting and timely composition. Your organization and thesis are clear, which compliments your voice to create a tangible, poignant narrative. You use this along with solid sense of dialogue to really let the reader ‘in’ on what’s important. That creates value. Overall, your work demonstrates strong writing with a dialogue that paces and develops nicely. Your writing has an air of eloquence as you write about this difficult topic of Multiple Sclerosis that is especially notable, your sincerity is obvious and I think many readers will gain valuable insight from your research and experiences watching Aunt Suzanne suffer through this disease’s progression. Your book is well written and it’s clear that you have put a good deal of thought and effort into the planning and presentation of your manuscript. I see you have included some images, so you’ll be happy to know that Outskirts Press has a graphics review team that will help review and format those images to the best print production quality possible for publication. Based on your goals, there may be extra fees involved, and your Author Representative and production team will help with those and any permissions required when the time comes.

With that being said, you are in good hands with Outskirts Press. Unlike other self-publishers, you never really do anything yourself with us. Along with your Author Representative, your book will be assigned to a production team to handle interior formatting and cover design. And after publication, you will have access to the strongest base of optional marketing services and author support in the industry. Take a peek at some of what our Author Support department is doing now: http://outskirtspress.com/marketing.php

One of the main advantages of publishing with us is that you always keep 100% of your rights, 100% control, and 100% of the profit. No other publisher out there will offer you the level of value, flexibility, and customization that we do. So, while services like editing, custom cover design and Book Reviewer Submission Service are highly recommended, they are completely optional.

In all cases, it is important to consider your goals. Do you hope to see your book featured at a local bookstore or are online sales sufficient for you? Either way, we have custom pricing plans for you to choose from, and options that can help you meet your goals, like the Retail Returns option available with our Diamond, Pearl , and Ruby packages.

Outskirts Press takes pride in offering the best of both worlds: combining the advantages of independent self-publishing with the advantages of a traditional book publishing company. And you have an invested friend to guide you along the way.

Congratulations again on your work. When you’re ready to start publishing with the help of your personal Author Representative, simply log-in to your Author Center at http://outskirtspress.com.authors.php and click on the large START PUBLISHING button for your next steps. We look forward to working with you.

Sincerely,

Manuscript Evaluation Team

www.outskirtspress.com

I'm a little nervous about the whole self-publishing aspect and have not made a final commitment one way or the other. However, I'm just really excited that someone appreciates my work and accepted it for publication!! If anyone has any advice, please let me know.

December

2008-12-18T13:45:00.002-05:00

I can't believe it is almost Christmas! Where has this year gone? The whole month has been nothing but rain and snow, yuck! I'm ready for Spring already. Guess I'm just out of luck on that one.

December 4th was Aurea's birthday, so we had McDonald's for dinner. That child could live for the rest of her life off of nothing but chicken nuggets if I let her! That was her birthday treat. We had her party on Saturday, despite the first big snow of the season. Now Kevin's car broke down the week before so keep in mind we had this car (Kia) less than a week and still had dealer tags when getting ready for the birthday party. We were driving on a the next street up from our house and waiting at a red light to turn left. A Ford F150 fishtailed in the rear side of our car! Thankfully, nobody was hurt and it only scuffed the car (amazingly), but Kevin was really upset about the car. Not to mention it set us back. The police merely said to get each other's information and go on since nobody was hurt and there were wrecks everywhere.

We managed to get the cake picked up and to get to the birthday party with no further issues. The party was at Gattitown and almost everyone showed up, despite the snow and ice. I was impressed. My parents even drove up for the party. Aurea loved her Hannah Montana cake and all of the presents. Then, the kids split up throughout the game room and proceeded to be wild and crazy. Unlike last year, Aurea actually got on the bumper cars this time and had a ball. It was fun, but when we finally got home, Kevin and I curled up on the couch (after undoing a million twist ties) and Aurea went upstairs to play.

Aurea started Upward Cheerleading the following week. She is really excited. We got the uniforms at practice Tuesday night and now all she wants to do is dance around the house in her uniform practicing! It's really cute though.

Adam starts indoor soccer at the YMCA next month. I'm not really sure why he wants to play since he's never really liked soccer, but if it's something to try and he wants to do something different, go for it.

I had 3 of my wisdom teeth pulled on Friday. One was just pulled, the other two were extracted and then pulled. I'm still sore and ready for the pain to go away. I'm glad tomorrow is Friday, maybe I can rest and finally feel better this weekend.

I'm almost done Christmas shopping, hopefully I can finish this weekend. I hope everyone else is done or almost done as well. If not, be careful, it's chaotic out there!

Thanksgiving

2008-12-03T09:05:00.003-05:00

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving. Mine went well, although very unusual. Normally, I drive back to Glasgow and have dinner at my grandmother's home with the whole extended family. Then, we have a full day and get all tired and have to drive back. I didn't do that this year.

Adam wanted to have Thanksgiving with the whole extended bunch, so he got to do so. Aurea and I stayed in Lexington and had Thanksgiving dinner with Kevin's family instead. It was much quieter than I'm used to. There were only seven of us, whereas I'm used to a house full of noise and chaos and many more people. Also, there was no football game or anything I'm used to on Thanksgiving.

This is not to say these are bad things, they are merely different than I'm used to on this holiday. We still had a great meal and everyone was really nice.

I picked Adam up on Friday morning and brought him to Lexington. We didn't do much for the weekend - I'm not a Black Friday kind of person, but we had a nice weekend anyway. He had a friend stay over Saturday night and let me tell you, two 13-year-old boys can demolish a chocolate cake and eat everything in sight!

I was glad to have four days off from work and to be able to spend time with the kids. I hope everyone else had a great Thanksgiving also.

I have an editor

2008-11-23T12:14:00.002-05:00

I mentioned before that I was working on a book about Multiple Sclerosis that has been several years in the making. I finally reached a point where I was ready for an editor. The good news, I found one! Thank you Damama for your help, your links and advice truly paid off. I now have an editor and she sent my first round of edits to me yesterday. Some of them are simple clarifications and/or revisions and some will entail some more work. Regardless, this dream of mine is finally coming to light. I am extremely excited about how things are coming together. A couple more rounds of editing and I'll be ready to submit to a publisher. If anyone has any suggestions on this other than randomly sending my manuscript to every publisher in the country, it would be greatly appreciated. Either way, I am really happy and glad to see my hard work is finally paying off. Thank you.

My job

2008-11-17T15:18:00.003-05:00

I finally landed a job I love in September. I am now working at the University of Kentucky in the Undergraduate Education research department. My supervisor is a wonderful woman who is not only easy to get along with, but also understanding about family life. She is willing to work with me on meetings and appointments during the day. Although my position is temporary, it is guaranteed until Dec. 2009. Hopefully, it will become permanent in July when the new Fiscal budget comes out and the department grant is renewed. If not, I will be eligible for other positions within the university. Regardless, I finally have a gym membership where I take Yogilates, dental insurance (my wisdom teeth come out Dec. 12) and vision insurance (I get glasses next week). I hope to stay here for years to come and I am finally able to be proactive about my health. Now just to get permanent so I can have health insurance!

On a personal note, Adam turned 13 on Halloween! I am now officially the mother of a teenager! He acted like one before then, but now it's official. We went haunted housing to Nightmare Haunted House, Trail of Terror, and Terror on Tates Creek. The first and last were great, the middle was a huge waste of time and money. Regardless, we had a blast. Nov. 1st I threw him a surprise party at the house with an Ohio State theme (his favorite football team). Three of his friends stayed the night and they had a great time playing football and XBOX 360.

Aurea is getting ready to turn 7. Hopefully, I can update again before her birthday, but we are having her party on Dec. 6th. She is really excited about the party. She is also on the academic team at school and starting Upward Cheerleading in December.

We have had some family issues since moving back, but I won't get into my dysfunctional family issues. All-in-all, we are doing well. I love my job and Lexington and the kids are doing great.

What is wrong with this world?

2008-09-27T09:14:00.002-04:00

I went to pick Aurea up from school on Thursday as usual. No big deal, until I pulled into the parking lot and saw several police cruisers and five or so policemen standing at the front of the building.

Aurea got in the car and told me the school was on lockdown because the police were "chasing the bad boy." She is 6-years-old, so that is really all I got from her. The note home from the school explained it a little better, but here is the newspaper article on it (I've taken out the names of the schools and stuff though).

Posted on Thu, Sep. 25, 2008

Two (local) schools sent letters home with students Thursday following separate incidents: a brief lockdown after fourth-graders allegedly saw a man with a weapon and a high school student's "personal medical emergency."

______ Elementary School was placed on lockdown for about 45 minutes Thursday after some fourth-grade students reported seeing a man with a weapon as they were going inside after afternoon recess, according to a news release.

School district officials and (local) police determined the facility was safe after a search of the building and surrounding grounds. An investigation continues.

"We are very proud of the students who did the right thing by alerting adults to the situation and we want to remind our kids that anytime they have any safety concerns they should tell an adult immediately," said a news release from the school district.

Meanwhile, at ____________ High School, an ambulance was called after a student experienced a "personal medical emergency" Thursday morning.

The district said privacy laws prevent them from sharing more details, but said rumors that the students was a victim of violence or criminal activity are untrue.

Okay, the kids did the right thing by reporting the adult with the weapon. I'm also glad the school was put on lockdown so they could check for danger. However, the police stayed the rest of the day, well past 45 minutes to ensure safety. I'm also glad they were being cautious. What bothers me is that a man with a weapon would even be near an elementary school in the first place! It also bothers me that the school didn't call parents.

Some of my friends think I'm overreacting and can't expect the school to call every single parent in this type of situation, especially when no danger was found. That might be true, but it doesn't make me feel any better. Especially the parts about no danger found yet the investigation continues. What does that mean? Does that mean the man existed but left before being apprehended and could come back? The kids were out Friday for records day so should I worry about a repeat incident on Monday? Should I be freaking out or am I overreacting?

A similiar incident happened at an elementary school in Pensecola, FL on Wed. A high school boy was arrested in Oklahoma City on Tues. for bringing a gun to school.

Nobody seems to have these answers. I just know I don't like the situation and it scares me to pull up to my daughter's school and find cops everywhere!

The world is insane and it is extremely scary. Sorry if I'm overprotective, but I think I have reason to be. Something is seriously wrong with the world today.

I'm back

2008-09-14T13:46:00.002-04:00

Obviously, it has been quite some time since I last updated my blog. I have actually been reading the blogs of my friends and fellow bloggers, I just have not had time to respond to each one. I have been keeping up though! I moved back to Lexington in July and I've been using the internet at the library ever since. Unfortunately, the library has time limits so I have not posted or responded like I wanted. I've had way too much to do in a very short time.

We finally got internet back at home on Friday, my 30th birthday! OMG I cannot believe I turned 30, it does not even seem possible. Kevin made it a very romantic birthday though. I got lots of new clothes so I had a new outfit to wear out. Then, we went to Red Lobster for dinner where I received a gold and diamond necklace, it is absolutely beautiful! Then, he took me to Comedy Off Broadway. I love comedy clubs, I laughed until I cried! Then, yesterday I got a manicure and pedicure! I certainly got spoiled this weekend. It makes getting older a little more bearable!!

The kids are doing great. Adam is almost 13 and talks about football constantly. His favorite team (besides his school of course) is Ohio State. Aurea is 6 and loves first grade. She is back at the school where she started with her old friends. Her best friend lives across the street now so I feel like I have two daughters! It's great though because they are always playing with each other and being occupied.

I'm enjoying being back in Lexington and having a fresh start. I miss talking to everyone and hopefully I'll be able to update more often now. Talk to everyone soon.

Tag meme

2008-05-30T19:42:00.002-04:00

BECAUSE I SAID SO recently got tagged for a meme. She didn't tag me or anything, but I decided to use it anyway.

Favorite person (outside family)? Well, I have a wonderful boyfriend who isn't technically family....then I have several friends: Amber, Suzy, Beth are the best -- can't pick just one person!

Favorite food? boiled chicken

Quirks about you? I don't do vomit, I have a problem with not shutting the bathroom door, I'm stubborn

How would the person who loves you most describe you in ten words or less?
IDK, I guess it depends on both our moods! LOL My kids would say they love me I know

Any regrets in life? Yep

Favorite Charity/ Cause? National Multiple Sclerosis Society and National Alliance for Mental Health

Favorite Blog recently? Because I Said So, Dawn is hillarious, I can't wait for the book

Something you can’t get enough of? chocolate, time away from the kids, time with Kevin, sleep.

Worst job you’ve ever had? fast food

What job would you pay NOT to have? I wouldn't pay money to NOT have a job. I just wouldn't apply for a job I didn't want. Duh.

If you could be a fly on the wall, where? Spying on my son (I know that's nosy, but hey he's 12!)

Favorite Bible verse right now? Don't have a favorite, but Psalms are usually helpful when I need it

Guilty Pleasure? Myspace, but I'm getting better

Got any confessions? Yes, but not sharing

If you HAD to spend $1,000 on YOURSELF, how would you spend it? shopping spree

Favorite thing about your house? it's not mine, but I guess that I have a place to go

Least favorite thing about your house? it's my parents, not mine

One thing you are bad at? leaving messages

One thing you’re good at? running the store at work

If you could change something about your circumstances, what? I'd move back to Lexington, I miss it

Who would you like to meet someday? Montell Williams

What makes you feel sexy? depends on my mood

Who is your real life hero? my aunt was, but she passed away

What is the hardest part of your job? working around everyone's schedules

When are you most relaxed? when I'm home in my pjs

What stresses you out? my kids fighting, being late, too much chaos at work

What can you not live without? my kids

Do you agree or disagree with the recent article that reported that blogs are authored by narcissists? I disagree, it's a way to vent and share. Nobody has to read this if they don't want

Why do you blog? For fun, to share with people who can relate

Who are you tagging? I'm tagging no one because there are people out there who do not like to play tag. Sooo, anyone who wants to copy and paste this meme (seriously, what DOES that stand for? How did the name "meme" come about???) and answer the questions, knock yourself out. If you don't want to, then don't. (I kept Dawn's answer, couldn't say it better myself)

Happy Mother's Day!

2008-05-11T19:17:00.002-04:00

Happy Mother's Day to all of my blogger friends! Today has been a nice day. I got up and had coffee with my parents this morning. Aurea made a board with clothespins attached to the front and magnets on the back. I can now put it on the refrigerator and hang notes, how sweet! She also made a beautiful card with a poem and her handprints. My parents bought me a T-shirt.

The kids and I went out to Los Mariachis for dinner the other night in celebration. It was really nice, just the three of us. The food was great, but the service was awful. The margarita was good though! LOL

Anyway, after our coffee, I had to get ready and go to work. My family had a Mother's Day lunch so my dad brought me a plate at work. I love my daddy!! Yes, I still call him that even though I'm grown up! It was really sweet.

Fortunately, I got off work at 5 and was able to come home and relax. Adam gave me a Mother's Day card. It was one of those where you record your voice and then it plays music.

I have the greatest children! I hope everyone else has had a great day too.

Happy Mother's Day!!!!

My links

2008-05-03T20:49:00.002-04:00

My apologies to anyone who noticed that my links and titles didn't all match. I have checked them and believe they are now all fixed. If anyone notices that I missed one, please let me know. It is certainly unintentional. The only thing I couldn't fix though, my computer won't do the upside down question mark. :( I'm sorry.

Otherwise, my life is about the same. Still working and taking care of the kids. School is fast coming to an end, so I'm preparing for summer vacation and all of the extra time around here.

The Derby was bittersweet today. Living in Kentucky, the Derby is a huge event. I was glad to see Big Brown win, but really sorry Eight Belles had to be put down afterwards.

Okay, that's my short and sweet post for the night. Take care all.

Stranger Safety

2008-04-18T10:30:00.003-04:00

Note: Make sure your children are not reading over your shoulder before reading this!

I got the kids up for school yesterday morning as usual, no big deal. Aurea kept talking about strangers though and I wasn't sure why, but we've talked about not taking candy from strangers and knowing what to do if one approaches her. This being said, I didn't think too much about it.

Aurea takes her time doing everything in the mornings. Normally, I send her on out to the car while Adam and I are getting our shoes on cause I know she might actually make it down the deck stairs by the time we get out the door. However, yesterday I sent her out and she stopped on the stairs and started crying and screaming that she was scared.

I just looked at her in shock and was like, "Scared of what!" She said she was scared a stranger was going to kidnap and kill her. I was shocked! I got her to the car and asked her why she was scared of something like that.

Apparently, the D.A.R.E. officer came to school and did a program on Stranger Safety for the kindergarten classes. She was scared to get out of the car at school because she was afraid someone would grab her. When I got home, my mom informed me that the day before after school (I was at work) she went out to swing in the backyard, but wanted the back door open so we could hear her scream if a stranger came in the yard to get her!

I was appalled, so I called the school. I asked her teacher what this officer told these kids because he obviously did not tailor his message to the minds of 5 and 6-year-old children! She said he never said anything about children getting killed. She said he spoke about safety and some of the children started talking about kids being kidnapped and killed by strangers.

I have a problem with this! How do these kids know these things? Do parents really tell their kids about strangers by telling them they will be kidnapped and murdered in their own homes? Do they let these young children watch news reports of kidnappings? Or did the officer really include too much information for my daughter's sensitive ears to process?

I am confused! The teacher assured me she and the aide would talk to the children and try to clarify some of the confusion. In the meantime, I told Aurea last night I was going downstairs while she finished eating but I would be back upstairs in a few minutes to get her bath ready. She flipped out and refused to stay upstairs even though Adam was in his room. She went downstairs with me. My daughter is terrified to even be alone in a room in the house now, thanks DARE officer and fellow kindergarten students!

I tried to explain to her that she didn't need to be terrified. I'm not really sure how to alleviate her fears though without making her think that doesn't happen. I know it does, but I don't want her to be unable to live out of fear. Any suggestions?

Feeling better

2008-04-16T09:33:00.002-04:00

I am feeling much better. Thank you to those who asked. I started my job on Thursday. So far, it is going really well. I like the job and the people I work with. That always makes a big difference. I won't say I love it, too early for that, but I am liking it. I also like getting to be the boss! No, I don't have a big head. It's just nice to finally have a position of authority. I've trained other servers when waiting tables and I managed a gas station briefly. This is much better. I get to make decisions about the store, do paperwork, and I'm in charge of hiring/firing my associates. Not to mention, I get 40% off all merchandise, that doesn't hurt either! We'll see how things go, but for right now, I'm not complaining.

Random

2008-04-09T13:05:00.002-04:00

I'm trying to write something today because I have gotten in a bad habit of not doing so. However, I really don't feel well today. I was up most of the night and let's just say I didn't feel well then either!

Thank you to everyone for the comments and still reading despite the fact that I'm not keeping up well. To Lisa, my book is about Multiple Sclerosis. My aunt died in 2004 from the horrible disease, so it's about her as well as MS in general. Thank you for asking.

I think I have a new job. The lady keeps telling me that anyway, but she has yet to tell me when to actually start! Go figure. Anyway, (assuming I ever actually start) I will be the Store Manager for a local clothing/shoe store called Underground Attitude.

The kids are at school, but they are doing good. Monday was hard on them since it was the first day back after Spring Break. Aurea especially was irritable and not wanting to listen!

Well, I guess that's it for now. Thanks for listening.

I'm a carousel

2008-04-07T12:04:00.002-04:00

I took Damama's quiz and my results are below:

You Are a Carousel

You are young at heart and a truly playful person. No one would ever accuse you of taking life too seriously.

You are definitely in things for the fun. You find joy easily, and you are often building up anticipation for your next adventure.

In relationships, you tend to want to be babied and taken care of.

And while you may be a bit high maintenance, you are incredibly loyal.

Your life is simple and satisfying. Each day you treat yourself to something you enjoy.

You have a lot of emotional attachments, and experiences are extra vivid to you.

You tend to be nostalgic and sentimental. The past is important to you.

Comfortable around all living things, you have a special connection to animals and children.

At your best, you are whimsical, free spirited, and creative.

Even if your schemes seem a bit strange, they usually work out wonderfully.

At your worst, you are spoiled, demanding, and impossible to satisfy.

You've been known to act like a brat if you aren't getting your way!

What Carnival Ride Are You?

I really don't think this fits me, but I took the quiz twice and got the same answer, so I guess it must fit somewhat!

Anyway, I spent the weekend in Lexington with friends and Aurea got to visit her grandmother. I miss it there so much. I thought moving back to Glasgow would be "coming home." While I do have friends and family here, it's not the same anymore. I miss my life there. Of course, that's easier to say now that I'm almost entirely out of debt and back on my feet! I'm just really torn. Except for coming home to my son, I had no desire to leave yesterday. It was hard.

On a lighter note, my book is nearing completion. It's not done yet, but I'm getting close. I just have no idea where to even begin looking to get it published. If anybody has any suggestions on this, it would be greatly appreciated.

Spring Break

2008-04-03T11:21:00.002-04:00

My children have been on Spring Break this week and it's been an interesting week. They are getting bored though, I think they are ready to go back to school Monday, even though I'm sure they will whine and complain when it gets here.

Monday I took Adam to the movies. We went to see "Superhero Movie." It was funny, but certainly not something I would take little ones to see. It was mostly making fun of Spiderman. At any rate, it was just the two of us. As the big brother, Adam rarely gets that one-on-one time with mom so it was a nice break for us both. He actually thanked and hugged me, which is unusual for him since he's 12 and embarrassed by me most of the time. We had a fun afternoon together though.

Tuesday morning Adam left with my sister and nephew to go Sandusky Water Park in Sandusky, Ohio. Aurea and I stayed behind. So I gave her time by going to the mall and Toys'R'Us. She didn't buy much, but she had a blast. She quickly realized the mall did not have a toy store. After getting a beanie baby and a T-shirt, we headed to Toys'R'Us. That made her day more than anything else we could have done, and it was just the two of us.

We didn't do much yesterday but relax at home. I did some cleaning and job searching, she did some playing. We did go get her bangs cut, they really needed it!

This morning, my son and nephew got in, so we now have three kids in the house throwing balls and creating craziness. Yeah, the quiet of one child for a couple of days was nice, but I did miss the boys. I'm glad they had fun and I love them, but I think I'm ready for them to go back to school!

My crazy life

2008-03-26T14:18:00.002-04:00

The good news is: I'm almost out of debt!! I am so excited, you have no idea! I moved back in with my parents because I was having trouble making ends meet as a single mom in Lexington. I was less than excited about it, but it really has helped me financially. Not to mention, the lovely IRS gave me a nice tax refund this year! I am so over credit card debt! With the exception of my student loans and one major hospital bill (3 days in the hospital + no insurance = huge hospital bill), all of my debts are paid off! Now I can make payments on the other two and it is at least manageable debt, before it was chaos and debt collectors out the ying-yang. No more, I heard "paid in full" several times yesterday and literally started jumping for joy!

The bad news is: The drama won't go away. I knew there was a reason I hated small towns! Everybody knows everybody else and everything you've done since the day you were born! My ex-husband likes to start stuff with me. If that wasn't enough, Shawn and I broke up because it just wasn't working, nothing major. Then, he turned psycho! I got over 500 rude/crude text messages from him in 5 days and he posted my picture and phone number along with some other comments on a social networking site for all the world to see (his page is public). I got them removed by the site administrator, but they were up long enough for me to get a few phone calls from a couple of guys believing the trash! This is crazy, I thought I was out of high school! It's really aggravating.

Anyway, the kids are doing well. Adam loves it here and never wants to leave Memaw and grandpa's house. Aurea despises it here and begs daily to move back to Lexington. Since I can't please them both, I'm just taking it one day at a time and whatever happens, happens.

I quit my job. I loved the girls and being there for them, but the hours were too much. My checks for 108 hours in two weeks were nice, but I never got to see my own children. When my son started texting me just to say "hi" and "I love you" I knew enough was enough. So I went to pick up my check Friday and the girls were outside playing volleyball. They yelled for me so I went to give side hugs and say goodbye. Apparently, that is not allowed, I got run off after that because it's against HIPPA or something (even though I know their stories already). At any rate, I did get to say goodbye to most of them.

No Air

2008-03-21T11:20:00.002-04:00

Okay, I'm in one of my moods. I get in them often, but especially right now when I'm dealing with a lot of drama in my life. I just feel lost and overwhelmed right now. Since I really don't feel like discussing everything, I thought I would post another video. This isn't the official video (embedding was disabled on it), but I like the song!!

My deepest admiration

2008-03-17T15:04:00.002-04:00

I send my deepest admiration to all parents of more than two children. Don't get me wrong, having two children is very rewarding, I know, I have the best two children a mother could ask for. However, I also babysat my niece and nephew Saturday night. I had a total of four children ages 2, 6, 7, and 12. The entire night was complete chaos! I'm used to knowing where two children are and what they are doing. It usually still leaves me plenty of time to finish the things I need to do (except during football season!).

Four children is another story. Keeper (my nierce, age 2) wanted constant attention and was into everything. Aurea (my daughter, age 6) was acting like a 2-year-old to try to get the attention Keeper was getting. Hunter (my nephew, age 7) was being the loud, rough and tumble, ADHD child that he is. Adam (my son, age 12) was continuing to show the fact that he is going through puberty with the moods and attitudes.

If one child was not crying or screaming, another one was yelling for me to look at this or that stunt on the skateboard or wanting praise over a video game. Adam has learned to scream just because he feels like it. Aurea and Keeper just want attention.

During supper I felt like I was waiting tables again. Each child wanted something different and wanted to be picky. They all wanted something different to drink. After everyone was settled (or so I thought), they needed various condiments.

After supper, they took turns making messes. At one point, the boys went outside to roll around in the mud and become completely disguisting. Adam thought he didn't need a shower after that. Hunter wanted a milkshake. Aurea was tired. Keeper refused to lay down. Finally, Aurea went to bed, Adam agreed to shower (after a nice long lecture), Hunter sat down to a movie, and I rocked Keeper to sleep.

I love all four children, but it was a very chaotic, stressful evening. I could not imagine having to deal with all of that plus sports and stuff on a daily basis. Therefore, I am even more grateful to only have two children. I also send out my deepest admiration to those with four, six, etc. children who are able to do that daily!

My typing skills

2008-03-15T18:04:00.001-04:00

58 words

Speed test

Thanks Damama! I'm not as fast as you, but it was still an interesting test!

Thank you Damama

2008-03-09T17:49:00.002-04:00

Leave it to Damama to figure out my album cover. It should now read: Technocracy. Any of your business? Strange sounding, but it works! LOL

Well, I worked 64.25 hours this week so I haven't even checked my email in a week! If your comments take time to show up, this is why! Sorry, I promise I'm not ignoring anyone.

School was out Friday for in-service, but would have been out anyway. We got 4" of snow! I know that doesn't sound like much to people who are used to much much more, but that is alot for south-central Kentucky! The kids loved it. Aurea had my niece over Thurs. night and Adam had Griffin stay the night. I'm glad they enjoyed it, I got 2 whole hours of sleep and went back to work (we are short-staffed right now)!!

Adam still thinks he's Ryan Scheckler and hoping for a sponsor. Guess the whole Urgent Care thing didn't bother him much! Aurea is just waiting for summer and warmth, I know the feeling.

I haven't talked to anyone much lately -- on here or in person-- so thanks for the patience and I'm sorry this one is so short. I'll try to write again tomorrow.

My album cover

2008-03-03T09:56:00.001-05:00

CREATE YOUR OWN ALBUM COVER: An exercise in randomness.

Damama had this on her blog the other day.
Here's what you are supposed to do to create your own album:

Go to……

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Random
(The first article title on the page is the name of your band.)

http://www.quotationspage.com/random.php3
(The last four words of the very last quote is the title of your album.)

http://www.flickr.com/explore/interesting/7days
The third picture, no matter what it is, will be your album cover.

Technocracy: Any of your business

Okay, I've seen this done on a couple of blogs and they turned out nicely, everything fit together. While the picture of the little girl is adorable, I'm not sure how that fits with Technocracy (bureaucratic government) or what "any of your business" has to do with anything! Oh well, it was a cute post anyway. Thanks for the idea ladies.

Work, work, work

2008-02-25T19:03:00.002-05:00

I feel like all I've done lately is work. I had a meeting at work on Tues. Wednesday I worked 8.5 hours, Thurs. I worked 12, Fri. I worked 15, and then I went in Sat. at 7 am and got off Sun. at 7 am, yes that is 24 hours straight! It is ridiculous! I love helping the girls, but after a weekend full of constant managements and getting myself all bruised up, I was more than ready for some time off! They tried to call me in last night, but I refused to answer the phone! Tomorrow we have more training and I start my "regular" shift back on Wed. Whew! No wonder I'm so tired!

Last night Adam tried to do a kick flip on the skateboard and fell. We spent 3 hours this morning at Urgent Care only to find out it was merely bruised internally! He got a wrist brace and ibuprofen! Oh well, we got to spend the day together afterwards, just the two of us! It was really nice to get the time out together, I feel like I've missed out on a ton working so much!

I'm debating whether to hang in with this job or not. Until I decide though, my life is really hectic so I apologize if I'm not around as much as I'd like. Thank you to all who have left me comments.

Early Lessons

2008-02-18T15:55:00.002-05:00

This post is about my son and his girlfriends. Although I wouldn't exactly call them girlfriends, he does and it's easier for time and explanation purposes, but I use the term very loosely since he is only 12!

From kindergarten until the middle of 3rd grade (when we moved), Adam had a little girlfriend named Hannah. They talked all the time, it was so cute. Even for a couple of months after we moved, they still kept in contact. Obviously, he moved on after awhile.

We moved back a couple of months ago and he's now in 6th grade. He's had several other little girlfriends since then, including Sarah (the one we took to the movies and bought a V-day present for). Well, he recently found Hannah again and quickly became friends.

A couple of days ago, Adam asked to go spend the day with Hannah and her mom. I asked him about Sarah and he said it didn't matter that he and Hannah were only friends and yes, he would tell Sarah, she would understand.

I told him he didn't understand girls very well, that we don't work that way! He thought I was crazy and decided to tell Sarah about his day with Hannah. Needless to say, Sarah broke up with him!

Did he get upset? No, he called Hannah and asked her out! Go figure. Now that the kids are out for President's Day, he is at Hannah's house spending the day and eating supper.

Kids are so resilient it amazes me, but I still think it was an early, important lesson to learn. Sadly, it is very hard for boys and girls to "just be friends" at any age!

60 Things you never wanted to know

2008-02-17T13:36:00.002-05:00

Happy belated Valentine's Day to all. I hope it was wonderful! I worked most of the day, but spent the evening with Shawn. It was great!

Okay, Dawn from Because I Said So did a 60 things survey in her blog, so I'm using it for my post today. Hope it's not too boring!

60 Things You Possibly Didn't Know About Me

1. What is in the back seat of your car right now?
a car seat, de-icer, CDs, fries, papers, misc. crumbs, half full bottles of water, toys, pictures,There's probably more, but I'm not going outside to look!

2. When was the last time you threw up
thankfully it's been awhile

3. What's your favorite curse word?
I say what the h*** alot!

4. Name 3 people who made you smile today?
Adam, Aurea, my friend Regina

5. What were you doing at 8 am this morning?
sleeping in for a change!

6. What were you doing 30 minutes ago?
talking on the phone

7. What will you be doing 3 hours from now?
playing with kids? IDK

8. Have you ever been to a strip club?
Nope

9. What is the last thing you said aloud?
It's right there!

10. What is the best ice cream flavor?
choc. chip cookie dough

11. What was the last thing you had to drink?
Cherry Coke

12. What are you wearing right now?
still in my pajamas!

13. What was the last thing you ate?
pizza

14. Have you bought any new clothing items this week?
no

15. When was the last time you ran?
I work at a residential treatment facility, so I run between houses alot!

16. What's the last sporting event you watched?
??? the kids' baseball games last summer?

18. Who is the last person you emailed?
my loopy friends

19. Ever go camping?
unfortunately yes

20. Do you have a tan?
yes, thanks to tanning bed

24. Do you drink your soda from a straw?
no usually just from the can

25. What did your last IM say?
I love you

26. Are you someone's best friend?
I hope so

27. What are you doing tomorrow?
the kids are off school for President's Day and I don't have to work, so spending the day with them

28. Where is your mom right now?
in the other room

29. Look to your left, what do you see?
TV

30. What color is your watch?
don't wear one

31. What do you think of when you think of Australia ?
kangaroos

32. Would you consider plastic surgery?
no

33. What is your birthstone?
sapphire

34. Do you go in at a fast food place or just hit thedrive thru?
depends on my time and mood

35.How many kids do you want?
just the 2 I have

36. Do you have a dog?
nope

37. Last person you talked to on the phone?
my friend Regina

38. Have you met anyone famous?
does watching them sing count?

39. Any plans today?
vegging

40. How many states have you lived in?
one.

41. Ever go to college?
yes

42. Where are you right now?
here

43. Biggest annoyance in your life right now?
a few things

44. Last song listened to?
Exceptional

46. Are you allergic to anything?
penicillin, erithrymiacin, sulfa drugs, dryer sheets, pollen

47. Favorite pair of shoes you wear all the time?
my tennis shoes

48. Are you jealous of anyone?
I don't think so

50. Is anyone jealous of you?
LOL! They shouldn't be if they are!

51. What time is it?
12:46

52. Do any of your friends have children?
yes

53. Do you eat healthy?
yes. I eat healthy IN ADDITION to eating crap.

54. What do you usually do during the day?
work or home, depends on day

55. Do you hate anyone right now?
I don't think so

56. Do you use the word 'hello' daily?
yes

58. How old will you be turning on your next birthday?
29 again

59. Have you ever been to Six Flags?
yes

60. How did you get one of your scars?
sliding off the back of a moped at age 5!

Snow Day

2008-02-13T10:39:00.004-05:00

Today is our first snow day this year (and hopefully last). Unlike many other bloggers who got tons of snow, we barely got anything and the kids are still out of school! Oh well, Aurea went outside to play in it and Adam is still asleep. LOL

Exceptional

2008-02-11T16:59:00.000-05:00

I know this song is on my playlist, but it is beautiful. It really fits my life and helps me when I'm feeling down. I just wanted to share it.

"The Mayonnaise jar and 2 cups of coffee"

2008-02-05T20:34:00.000-05:00

"THE MAYONNAISE JAR & 2 CUPS OF COFFEE"

When things in your life seem almost too much to handle, when 24 Hours in a day is not enough, remember the mayonnaise jarand 2 cups of coffee.

A professor stood before his philosophy classand had some items in front of him.When the class began, wordlessly, he picked up a very largeand empty mayonnaise jarand proceeded to fill it with golf balls.

He then asked the studentsif the jar was full.They agreed that it was.

The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly. The pebbles rolled into the openareas between the golf balls.
He then askedthe students againif the jar was full..They agreed it was.
The professor next picked up a box of sandand poured it into the jar. Of course, the sand filled up everything else. He asked once more if the jar was full.
The students respondedwith an unanimous"yes."

The professor then produced two cups of coffee from under the table And poured the entire contents into the jar, effectively filling the Empty space between the sand.The students laughed.
"Now," said the professor,as the laughter subsided,"I want you to recognize thatthis jar represents your life.The golf balls are the important things -God, family, children, health, friends, and Favorite passions --things that if everything else was lostand only they remained, your life would still be full.

The pebbles are the other things that matterlike your job, house, and car.
The sand is everything else --the small stuff.
"If you put the sand into the jar first,"he continued,"there is no room forthe pebbles or the golf balls. The same goes for life.
If you spend all your timeand energy on the small stuff,you will never have room for the things that are important to you.

So...
Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness. Play With your children. Take time to get medical checkups. Take your partner out to dinner. Play another 18.
There will always be time to clean the house and fix the disposal.

"Take care of the golf balls first --the things that really matter. Set your priorities. The rest is just sand."

One of the students raised her handand inquired what the coffee represented.
The professor smiled."I'm glad you asked".

It just goes to show you that no matter how full your life may seem, there's always room for a couple of cups of coffee with a friend."

Busy, Busy

2008-02-03T19:15:00.000-05:00

We went last weekend and got Aurea's ears repierced for free! I was not happy with these people. We went in and it took them forever to find our paperwork. Then, they repierced the same hole and made her bleed! Needless to say, she was crying and upset at this point. They finally got it done though and did not throw in anything extra for the trouble. We proceeded to the carousel and then to have ice cream sundaes with some kids from the carousel. She cheered up fast!

Tonight is the Super Bowl as I'm sure everyone knows. Adam is at his own Super Bowl party with the church youth group. He's really excited and thinks his party tonight is the greatest thing in the world! Aurea is just dancing around the house for attention while my mom and I are watching the commercials and talking during the game! LOL

Work has been keeping me really busy. I really like the job and being able to be there for the girls. I passed all of my written tests and my Safe Crisis Management training! Yippee. The bad part is they called me in yesterday and everybody told me to get used to it. Apparently the hours aren't as straightforward as previously told. I guess it's to be expected from a 24-hour facility, but geez I'd like to see my kids once in a while! It is a very rewarding job though. I hope to be able to help and make a difference.

I've seen Shawn a couple of time this week, but it's hard with my schedule to see him much. Things are going really well. I am actually happy though. He's really there for me and listens to me and makes me feel good. This is something completely new to me, I'm loving it!

My new job

2008-01-25T20:23:00.000-05:00

I know, it's been almost a week! You'll understand why shortly...

So last weekend, Adam got his big night out on Friday. Saturday night, Barn Lot Theater (a local community theater a county over) hosted the high school production of High School Musical. Granted, it wasn't the actual cast members or anything, but Aurea didn't care. She just wanted to go watch the play. She had a blast! She sang along to every song and kept getting excited throughout the play. After the play we went to McDonald's. She was so excited to have a big night out with mommy!

Sunday we went to the mall. I needed jeans to start my new job. She got to ride the carousel and finally agreed to let me have her ears pierced! I was so excited! However, as soon as she laid down Monday night the earring came out and would not go back in! They did not pierce it all the way through!! It's okay though, I called and complained to the store and it will be redone for free!! I was highly upset.

Anyway, I began my new job on Monday. I am a Resident Assistant for a residential psychiatric facility for adolescent girls. I am really excited about the job, but I've been so tired all week! I had to work late a couple of days and did not feel like getting on here. Right now I'm training M-F days, but after next week I will be working Wed. 1pm-7pm, Thurs.-Sat. 7am-7pm, off Sun.-Tues. It sounds more complicated than it is, but I'll have 3 days off! Thank goodness I have my parents to help with the kids!

Whew! What a week!!

The double date went well

2008-01-19T12:00:00.000-05:00

Well, last night went well. We were supposed to pick Sarah up before the movie, but her mom called and said they would just meet us in the lobby. Adam still kept trying to leave early though, I guess getting there way early means she will too?! LOL I know, he was just excited.

We got there and got in the ticket line to find out "National Treasure: Book of Secrets" was already sold out! :( Sarah picked the movie, but I think she had a little help from Adam coaxing her! LOL Anyway, this movie was only showing at 6:30 and 9:45 so only two other movies were scheduled to begin before 7:30, "27 Dresses" and "Alvin and the Chipmunks." Guess which one we ended up seeing? You guessed right, "Alvin and the Chipmunks." Adam was not about to watch "27 Dresses!" Never mind the fact he had already seen the movie, he did not want to watch a chick flick. Shawn didn't argue with him either I noticed!

Adam's friend Griffin showed up and sat down right with him and Sarah. Shawn and I sat four rows back. As nice as it sounds to pick another movie and leave them alone, I chose not to leave them alone! So we sat behind them a few rows and shortly into the movie Adam managed to run Griffin off so it was just him and Sarah again! Anybody remember the old yawn and stretch your arm routine to where it just happens to be around the girl?! (yeah I feel old saying that) Anyway, I'm not sure where he learned it, but he used it! I really thought it was sweet though.

They kept singing annoyingly during the movie, but there were so many kids in the theater that nobody seemed to mind! At one point though they thought they would sneak out to the lobby. Why? I don't know, I went out and they were talking to another group of kids. They came right back in though and proceeded to talk for most of the movie. I hope Sarah really didn't want to watch it! LOL

After the movie we went to the game room where they battled each other in Dynamo Hockey and Sarah called her dad. She beat Adam once, he killed her in the game after that! We waited in the lobby for her dad. While there, there were so many kids mingling around, apparently their parents had dropped them off! Are these people crazy?! Maybe I'm just paranoid, but there is no way I would just drop my son off and leave him unchaperoned, but that's beside the point! When her dad got there, Adam wanted to hug her bye but decided not to try with her dad right there! It was cute!

Anyway, he had a great time, I'm so glad! I actually thought the movie was cute, so it wasn't a waste of money or time, I actually had a good time. Now if I could just go on all of Adam's dates! I know I eventually have to let him grow up and go on his own, but for now he's still 12 and too young!

P.S. I just added the music last night Lucille, you didn't miss anything! Thanks for caring.

My double date tonight

2008-01-18T12:55:00.000-05:00

"Mom, can I take Sarah to the movies, pleeeaase?!" Adam obviously really wants to take his girlfriend somewhere. The problem is that he's only 12 and I don't trust 12-year-olds! Sorry if that offends anyone because I'm sure there are great pre-teens out there whom are completely trustworthy. However, I let my son know that I would NOT be dropping him and Sarah off at the movie theater and leaving them! I did, however, agree to chaperone this little "date." I am now asking myself why I agreed to this....Oh yeah, I love him and want him happy, just not alone with his girlfriend at the movies. Therefore, Shawn and I have a movie date tonight (yeah, I suckered him into it too!) with Adam and Sarah. This should be a really interesting or really boring post depending on the night, no in between! LOL

We are going to a birthday party tomorrow afternoon. Then, either tomorrow or Sunday night (since school is out Monday for Martin Luther King Day), I am taking Aurea to Barn Lot Theater. It is a little local theater one county north of here, the local Drama class is performing High School Musical. It may not be the original cast, but she's just as excited to go see it! I bet it will be fun.

Yes, I have a very busy weekend scheduled. There are three reasons for this:
1. I now only have my children every other weekend instead of every weekend so I want to make the most of the weekends we are together.

2. Any excuse to get out of the house works for me. I love my parents, but I already miss having my own place/space, so a chance to go somewhere is very appealling!!

3. The birthday party and theater performance just happened to fall on the same weekend. Actually, the drama class is doing it next weekend too, but Aurea will be with her dad.

Also due to these reasons, if I have more posts about going out on my own, you'll understand why. One weekend is about me and the kids, the following is about me and my friends since my kids will be gone. :(

P.S. Yes, the tooth fairy came on time. Wow, with three adults in the house instead of one, some things are actually easier to remember!

Don't make your sister see stars!

2008-01-17T14:02:00.000-05:00

"Bubby, will you play school with me?" Aurea gleefully asked Adam to play with her. Since he is 12 and doesn't even like real school, let alone pretending he's in school, he rolled on the floor laughing at the mere idea of him playing school with his 'baby' sister! Then, she said the words to light up his face, "You can be the teacher, please bubby." A light went off and the look on his face was one leaving me going, "OH NO, please...."!

He leads her to her room and they start playing school. It starts off calmly enough and I think something's wrong, what is he teaching her? Then, I hear, "Okay Aurea, just stand up here in this chair..." So I run to her room just in time to stop her from jumping off the desk (it's an old fashioned school desk so it was actually the chair she was standing in, she hadn't made it to the table part yet!). What in the world...."I'm teaching her about gravity mom, duh!" Oh no you don't, no more gravity lessons!

They start playing nicely. Danger and injury avoided right? Wrong, I hear a huge THUD!! I can't really describe the sound, but it was not one a parent wants to hear. Aurea had jumped (with a little coaxing) off of her bed and into the hardwood floor head first! Luckily, there was a pillow in the floor and she hit her head on the pillow and not the actual floor!

"ADAM, I said no more gravity lessons!" "Oh no mom, I was teaching her about astronomy!" Not sure if she was supposed to be flying into space or seeing stars after knocking her head off, but it was anything but an astronomy lesson!

I finally kicked Adam out of her room and continued playing school with Aurea, HER way!!!

The Toothfairy comes tonight!

2008-01-14T17:05:00.000-05:00

My daughter, Aurea, is six years old. She lost two teeth in a row when she was barely five and hasn't lost any since. A couple of weeks ago, her top front tooth became really loose to where she could wiggle it. It stayed that way! That tooth got more loose every day, but she would NOT let my mom or I pull it. We didn't force it cause we figured she would come around or it would come out on its own.

As she was getting ready for school this morning, she said, "Look Memaw (my mom), my tooth is wiggly!" Yes it was. So wiggly in fact that it was actually twisted upside down!! I did not know that was possible! Needless to say, my mom pulled it out for her without even really trying. The stubborn tooth finally came out.

Aurea was upset at first because it still bled despite hanging halfway out of her mouth! Once the bleeding stopped and she realized the tooth fairy was going to come tonight, she was really excited! That is all she has talked about since she got home from school.

Awww to be 6-years-old!!

I would love to meet this man

2008-01-09T19:38:00.000-05:00

TO MEET SUCH A MAN (this was given to me from a friend)

I sat, with two friends, in the picture window of a quaint restaurant just off the corner of the town-square. The food and the company were both especially good that day. As we talked, my attention was drawn outside, across the street. There, walking into town, was a man who appeared to be carrying all his Worldly goods on his back. He was carrying, a well-worn sign that read, "I Will work for food". My heart sank.

I brought him to the attention of my friends and noticed that others around us had stopped eating to focus on him. Heads moved in a Mixture of sadness and disbelief. We continued with our meal, but his image lingered in my mind. We finished our meal and went our separate ways. I had errands to do and quickly set out to accomplish them. I glanced toward the town square, looking somewhat halfheartedly for the strange visitor. I was fearful, knowing that seeing him again would call some response. I drove through town and saw nothing of him. I made some purchases at a store and got back in my car.

Deep within me, the Spirit of God kept speaking to me: "Don't go back to the office until you've at least driven once more around the Square." Then with some hesitancy, I headed back into town. As I turned the square's third corner, I saw him. He was standing on the steps of the store front church, going through his sack. I stopped and looked; feeling both compelled to speak to him, yet wanting to drive on. The empty parking space on the corner seemed to be a sign from God: an invitation to park. I pulled in, got out and approached the town's newest visitor.

"Looking for the pastor?" I asked. "Not really," he replied, "just resting." "Have you eaten today?" "Oh, I ate something early this morning." "Would you like to have lunch with me?" "Do you have some work I could do for you?" "No work," I replied. "I commute here to work from the city, but I would like to take you to lunch." "Sure," he replied with a smile. As he began to gather his things, I asked some surface questions. Where you headed?" " St. Louis ." "Where you from?" "Oh, all over; mostly Florida ." "How long you been walking?" "Fourteen years," came the reply.

I knew I had met someone unusual. We sat across from each other In the same restaurant I had left earlier. His face was weathered slightly beyond his 38 years. His eyes were dark yet clear, and he spoke with an eloquence and articulation that was startling. He removed his jacket to reveal a bright red T-shirt that said, "Jesus is The Never Ending Story." Then Daniel's story began to unfold.

He had seen rough times early in life. He'd made some wrong choices and reaped the consequences. Fourteen years earlier, while backpacking across the country, he had stopped on the beach in Daytona. He tried to hire on with some men who were putting up a large tent and some equipment. A concert, he thought. He was hired, but the tent would not house a concert but revival services, and in those services he saw life more clearly. He gave his life over to God.

"Nothing's been the same since," he said, "I felt the Lord telling me to keep walking, and so I did, some 14 years now." "Ever think of stopping?" I asked. "Oh, once in a while, when it seems to get the best of me but God Has given me this calling. I give out Bibles. That's what's in my sack. I work to buy food and Bibles, and I give them out when His Spirit leads." I sat amazed. My homeless friend was not homeless. He was on a mission and lived this way by choice. The question burned inside for a moment And then I asked: "What's it like?" "What?" "To walk into a town carrying all your things on your back and to show your sign?" "Oh, it was humiliating at first. People would stare and make comments. Once someone tossed a piece of half-eaten bread and made a gesture that certainly didn't make me feel welcome. But then it became humbling To realize that God was using me to touch lives and change people's concepts of other folks like me." My concept was changing, too.

We finished our dessert and gathered his things. Just outside the door, he paused. He turned to me and said, "Come Ye blessed of my Father and inherit the kingdom I've prepared for you. For when I was hungry you gave me food, when I was thirsty you gave me drink, a stranger and you took me in." I felt as if we were on holy ground. "Could you use another Bible?" I asked. He said he preferred a certain translation. It traveled well and was not too heavy. It was also his personal favorite. "I've read through it 14 times," he said. "I'm not sure we've got one of those, but let's stop by our church and see" I was able to find my new friend a Bible that would do well, and he seemed very grateful.

"Where are you headed from here?" I asked. "Well, I found this little map on the back of this amusement park coupon." "Are you hoping to hire on there for a while?" "No, I just figure I should go there. I figure someone under that star right there needs a Bible, so that's where I'm going next." He smiled, and the warmth of his spirit radiated the sincerity of his mission. I drove him back to the town-square where we'd met two hours earlier, and as we drove, it started raining. We parked and unloaded his things.

"Would you sign my autograph book?" he asked. "I like to keep messages from folks I meet." I wrote in his little book that his commitment to his calling had touched my life. I encouraged him to stay strong. And I left him with a verse of scripture from Jeremiah, "I know the plans I have for you, declared the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you; Plans to give you a future and a hope." "Thanks, man," he said. "I know we just met and we're really just strangers, but I love you." "I know," I said, "I love you, too." "The Lord is good!" "Yes, He is. How long has it been since someone hugged you?" I asked. A long time," he replied And so on the busy street corner in the drizzling rain, my new friend and I embraced, and I felt deep inside that I had been changed. He put his things on his back, smiled his winning smile and said, "See you in the New Jerusalem." "I'll be there!" was my reply.

He began his journey again. He headed away with his sign dangling from his bedroll and pack of Bibles He stopped, turned and said, "When you see something that makes you think of me, will you pray for me?" "You bet," I shouted back, "God bless." "God bless." And that was the last I saw of him.

Late that evening as I left my office, the wind blew strong. The cold front had settled hard upon the town. I bundled up and hurried to my car. As I sat back and reached for the emergency brake, I saw them.. a pair of well-worn brown work gloves neatly laid over the length of the handle. I picked them up and thought of my friend and wondered if his hands would stay warm that night without them. Then I remembered his words: "If you see something that makes you think of me, will you pray for me?"

Today his gloves lie on my desk in my office. They help me to see the world and its people in a new way, and they help me remember those two hours with my unique friend and to pray for his ministry. "See you in the New Jerusalem," he said. Yes, Daniel, I know I will... If this story touched you, forward it to a friend! "I shall pass this way but once. Therefore, any good that I can do or any kindness that I can show, let me do it now, for I shall not pass this way again."

My instructions were to send this to four people, but I chose to share here instead, that I wanted God to bless. This prayer is powerful and there is nothing attached. Prayer is one of the best gifts we receive There is no cost but a lot of rewards. Let's continue to pray for one another. God bless and have a nice day!

"Father, I ask you to bless my friends and relatives reading this right now. Show them a new revelation of your love and power. Holy Spirit, I ask you to minister to their spirit at this very moment. Where there is pain, give them your peace and mercy. Where there is self-doubt, release a renewed confidence through your grace, In Jesus' precious Name Amen." I sent this to more than four, but this story is so touching I felt each of you would enjoy it greatly.

GOD BLESS YOU MY FRIENDS AND FAMILY!!! Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Hebrews 13:8

Birthday Meme

2008-01-08T12:47:00.000-05:00

Valerie from "Please Don't Put Those Beans Up Your Nose," left an open tag for the birthday meme. Since I haven't blogged in a few days and have no ideas of my own, I'm taking the tag.

So I guess the rules are that you list the characteristics that correspond with your birth month and according to the characteristics at the end. Then, you comment after each characteristic about how that is or isn't like you. So here goes:

September:

Suave and compromising: I am great at dealing with others easily and without friction, as long as they aren't related to me, don't try to tell me I'm wrong, and don't disagree with my views! LOL Seriously, I have trouble being suave around an ex or certain people, but I try the rest of the time. Note, try haha. As for compromising, yeah I'm not so great at compromise.

Careful, cautious, and organized: Careful how? I look both ways before crossing the street! Umm cautious -- maybe, depends on the situation. I like to do be not so careful and cautious by speeding, going on roller coasters, and all sorts of things, but I can be cautious when I need to be. Unfortunately, I am extremely organized in the workplace. I actually used to have a coworker pick on me daily -- everything had to be in its place. He would come by my desk and rearrange my stapler, post-it dispenser, and tape dispenser just to annoy me because he knew they each had their own spot! I can't say much about my house right now though since I just moved back in with my parents, I don't think any of us is organized at the moment!!

Likes to point out people's mistakes: Yes, I admit it. I am the editor. If you send me a letter, email, note, etc. I will find any and all grammatical and/or spelling mistakes. I will try not to clue you in to these mistakes, but I usually do anyway because I just can't help myself! This comes partially from my mother doing it for years and partially from obtaining a BA in Journalism!

Likes to criticize: I'm very critical, I try not to be, but I am.
Must control oneself when criticizing: Yeah, I tend to get carried away sometimes.

Stubborn: VERY!!! Once my mind is made up, it's made up.

Quiet but able to talk well: I'm quiet when I first meet someone or in large groups. However, in a small group of friends -- good luck getting me to be quiet! I have no problems talking well.

Calm and cool: Haha, not even close! Ask my kids or my ex-husband!

Kind and sympathetic: I try to be kind to everyone (with a few exceptions ; ) ) I am very sympathetic though. I 've been through a great deal and often misunderstood, so I try hard to relate to and sympathize with others.

Concerned and detailed: Yes, I am a very concerned person and a stickler for details. This can be productive or counterproductive though depending on what you're trying to accomplish!

Loyal but not always honest: I am very loyal. My friends and family mean the world to me. I consider myself an honest person, but I do tell frequent white lies, why tell someone that color makes them look washed out? Why not tell a small lie? Hmmmm.......

Does work well. Sensitive: I grouped these because they describe me and I have nothing else to say about them.

Very confident: NOT! At least not when it comes to self-confidence. I am very confident when it comes to my work.

Good memory: I have a great....ummm what was the question?! LOL On some topics yes, others no.

Clever and knowledgeable: Ummm, I'm book smart! I have no street smarts.

Loves to look for information: Yes, I do!

Able to motivate oneself, Understanding, Fun to be around: I'm great at self-motivation when I need to be, I'm very understanding, and I hope I'm fun to be around. The last part, I guess it depends on my mood -- I have too many mood swings!

Secretive: I can be, oh yes I can!

Loves leisure and traveling: I probably would love traveling if I ever had the money to go anywhere!

Hardly shows emotions and Tends to bottle up feelings: I rarely show emotions, I refuse to let anyone see me cry! I'm actually getting better at this. Therapy has a way of making you open up!! Same goes for the feelings.

Very choosy, especially in relationships: Wish I was!

Systematic: Yes I am!

Okay, I'm done. The rule is to tag 12, but I won't do it to everyone. If you want to participate, I'd love to read it though.

BIRTH MONTH CHARACTERISTICS:

JANUARY: Stubborn and hard-hearted. Ambitious and serious. Loves to teach and be taught. Always looking at people’s flaws and weaknesses. Likes to criticize. Hardworking and productive. Smart, neat and organized. Sensitive and has deep thoughts. Knows how to make others happy. Quiet unless excited or tensed. Rather reserved. Highly attentive. Resistant to illnesses but prone to colds. Romantic but has difficulties expressing love. Loves children. Loyal. Has great social abilities yet easily jealous. Very stubborn and money cautious.

FEBRUARY: Abstract thoughts. Loves reality and abstract. Intelligent and clever. Changing personality. Attractive. Sexy. Temperamental. Quiet, shy and humble. Honest and loyal. Determined to reach goals. Loves freedom. Rebellious when restricted. Loves aggressiveness. Too sensitive and easily hurt. Gets angry really easily but does not show it. Dislikes unnecessary things. Loves making friends but rarely shows it. Daring and stubborn. Ambitious. Realizes dreams and hopes. Sharp. Loves entertainment and leisure. Romantic on the inside not outside. Superstitious and ludicrous. Spendthrift. Tries to learn to show emotions.

MARCH: Attractive personality. Sexy. Affectionate. Shy and reserved. Secretive. Naturally honest, generous and sympathetic. Loves peace and serenity. Sensitive to others. Loves to serve others. Easily angered. Trustworthy. Appreciative and returns kindness. Observant and assesses others. Revengeful. Loves to dream and fantasize. Loves traveling. Loves attention. Hasty decisions in choosing partners. Loves home decors. Musically talented. Loves special things. Moody.

APRIL: Active and dynamic. Decisive and hasty but tends to regret. Attractive and affectionate to oneself. Strong mentality. Loves attention. Diplomatic. Consoling, friendly and solves people’s problems. Brave and fearless. Adventurous. Loving and caring. Suave and generous. Emotional. Aggressive. Hasty. Good memory. Moving. Motivates oneself and others. Sickness usually of the head and chest. Sexy in a way that only their lover can see.

MAY: Stubborn and hard-hearted. Strong-willed and highly motivated. Sharp thoughts. Easily angered. Attracts others and loves attention. Deep feelings. Beautiful physically and mentally. Firm Standpoint. Needs no motivation. Easily consoled. Systematic (left brain). Loves to dream. Strong clairvoyance. Understanding. Sickness usually in the ear and neck. Good imagination. Good physical. Weak breathing. Loves literature and the arts. Loves traveling. Dislike being at home. Restless. Not having many children. Hardworking. High spirited. Spendthrift.

JUNE: Thinks far with vision. Easily influenced by kindness. Polite and soft-spoken. Having ideas. Sensitive. Active mind. Hesitating, tends to delay. Choosy and always wants the best. Temperamental. Funny and humorous. Loves to joke. Good debating skills. Talkative. Daydreamer. Friendly. Knows how to make friends. Able to show character. Easily hurt. Prone to getting colds. Loves to dress up. Easily bored. Fussy. Seldom shows emotions. Takes time to recover when hurt. Brand conscious. Executive. Stubborn.

JULY: Fun to be with. Secretive. Difficult to fathom and to be understood. Quiet unless excited or tensed. Takes pride in oneself. Has reputation. Easily consoled. Honest. Concerned about people’s feelings. Tactful. Friendly. Approachable. Emotional temperamental and unpredictable. Moody and easily hurt. Witty and sparkly. Not revengeful. Forgiving but never forgets. Dislikes nonsensical and unnecessary things. Guides others physically and mentally. Sensitive and forms impressions carefully. Caring and loving. Treats others equally. Strong sense of sympathy. Wary and sharp. Judges people through observations. Hardworking. No difficulties in studying. Loves to be alone. Always broods about the past and the old friends. Likes to be quiet. Homely person. Waits for friends. Never looks for friends. Not aggressive unless provoked. Prone to having stomach and dieting problems. Loves to be loved. Easily hurt but takes long to recover.

AUGUST: Loves to joke. Attractive. Suave and caring. Brave and fearless. Firm and has leadership qualities. Knows how to console others. Too generous and egoistic. Takes high pride in oneself. Thirsty for praises. Extraordinary spirit. Easily angered. Angry when provoked. Easily jealous. Observant. Careful and cautious. Thinks quickly. Independent thoughts. Loves to lead and to be led. Loves to dream. Talented in the arts, music and defense. Sensitive but not petty. Poor resistance against illnesses. Learns to relax. Hasty and trusty. Romantic. Loving and caring. Loves to make friends.

SEPTEMBER: Suave and compromising. Careful, cautious and organized. Likes to point out people’s mistakes. Likes to criticize. Stubborn. Quiet but able to talk well. Calm and cool. Kind and sympathetic. Concerned and detailed. Loyal but not always honest. Does work well. Very confident. Sensitive. Good memory. Clever and knowledgeable. Loves to look for information. Must control oneself when criticizing. Able to motivate oneself. Understanding. Fun to be around. Secretive. Loves leisure and traveling. Hardly shows emotions. Tends to bottle up feelings. Very choosy, especially in relationships. Systematic.

OCTOBER: Loves to chat. Loves those who loves them. Loves to take things at the center. Inner and physical beauty. Lies but doesn’t pretend. Gets angry often. Treats friends importantly. Always making friends. Easily hurt but recovers easily. Daydreamer. Opinionated. Does not care of what others think. Emotional. Decisive. Strong clairvoyance. Loves to travel, the arts and literature. Touchy and easily jealous. Concerned. Loves outdoors. Just and fair. Spendthrift. Easily influenced. Easily loses confidence. Loves children.

NOVEMBER: Has a lot of ideas. Difficult to fathom. Thinks forward. Unique and brilliant. Extraordinary ideas. Sharp thinking. Fine and strong clairvoyance. Can become good doctors. Dynamic in personality. Secretive. Inquisitive. Knows how to dig secrets. Always thinking. Less talkative but amiable. Brave and generous. Patient. Stubborn and hard-hearted. If there is a will, there is a way. Determined. Never give up. Hardly becomes angry unless provoked. Loves to be alone. Thinks differently from others. Sharp-minded. Motivates oneself. Does not appreciate praises. High-spirited. Well-built and tough. Deep love and emotions. Romantic. Uncertain in relationships. Homely. Hardworking. High abilities. Trustworthy. Honest and keeps secrets. Not able to control emotions. Unpredictable.

DECEMBER: Loyal and generous. Sexy. Patriotic. Active in games and interactions. Impatient and hasty. Ambitious. Influential in organizations. Fun to be with. Loves to socialize. Loves praises. Loves attention. Loves to be loved. Honest and trustworthy. Not pretending. Short tempered. Changing personality. Not egotistic. Take high pride in oneself. Hates restrictions. Loves to joke. Good sense of humor. Logical.

My crazy week

2008-01-03T18:06:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year to all!

This week has been really crazy. I went out with my sister and her friends on Friday night. All I will say is that I was the DD so I spent most of the night laughing at everyone else! Dinner at Shogun's was nice! I can't catch shrimp in my mouth straight from the grill though LOL!!

Sunday night Aurea and I stayed at my cousin Amie's house. We had so much fun catching up, playing games with the girls, and watching TV. The girls had a blast playing the Wii and watching movies. I think Aurea was just glad to have girls her age to play with here! Most of my friends have boys! Maggie and Chandler helped her have a great night though and I had fun catching up with Amie.

Monday was New Year's Eve. Shawn and I went out to dinner and then to Heather's party. It was a blast! I had wayyy too much to drink! It was New Year's though so I'm entitled LOL. It was the first New Year's Eve in like 4 or 5 years that I've actually gone out. Usually I end up staying in, especially if I have the kids. Adam was with his dad and Aurea stayed here with my parents. I had a great night out, enough said!!

I've spent the last two days recovering and getting ready to get back into a routine. School started today. Glasgow's computer system was down though. I dropped Aurea off and took Adam to school and then went back to her school. I got to meet her teacher (who seemed really nice), but I was still nervous.

Shawn and I went to Lensey's house in Bowling Green and then I went job hunting today. I hadn't seen Lensey since the night of Coyote Ugly! Anyway, I came home and found Adam here ?? Apparently, the computer system didn't come back up and they couldn't place him in any classes! They called my dad and he picked him up from school at like 9:30! Aurea had a great first day, but she also had homework!

Yeah, I've enjoyed getting to see friends, hang out, catch up, and have a break. Now it's time to get back into school, homework, etc. Now I just need to find a job!! I'm trying though...Wow, it has been a crazy week!

Not so good Samaritans and impatience

2007-12-30T12:40:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas!

Okay, Friday we went back to Lexington to get the rest of my stuff. It was cold and raining all day, but my dad and I actually made pretty good time getting everything loaded, cleaned, and back on the road. The problem is that after we got around Bloomfield, the Chevy Tahoe started having issues and acted up the rest of the way back. It took us four hours to get home! We're not sure if it was the fuel filter or rear end pulling too hard or what, but we would go 10-12 miles and have to pull over for 15 minutes, we'd go 5-6 miles and pull over, you get the idea. We pulled over more than 20 times between Bluegrass Parkway, I-65, and throughout Glasgow. Not once did one single person stop to see if we needed help or they could call someone for us or anything! People are rude and inconsiderate sometimes!! Anyway, it took most of the night, but we finally got everything unloaded so I am now officially moved out from Nicholasville.

Now for the impatient part...I have no patience and a short temper. I know this, I've been working on it. Sometimes I get upset at the kids or people over things I shouldn't, but I am doing alot better. However, I have barely been back a week and I'm hearing rumors that I don't want to be hearing and putting up with the same crap I moved away from in the first place! It is really frustrating!

On a brighter note, I still have not smoked a cigarette, even despite being in a smoky bar most of the night last night! Yippee for me. Hehe I was the designated driver for my sister and her friends! LOL Go figure. I won't even discuss the night except that dinner at Shogun was really good, I had never eaten there before. Okay, I'm going to get off my soapbox now. If you've read this far, bless you!

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-25T23:31:00.000-05:00

Me and Aurea

My Granny, my mom, my son Adam, me, my dad, my daughter Aurea, my sister holding my niece, my nephew, and my brother-in-law.

Merry Christmas to all. Thank you for the comments and concern. I am far from superwoman, but I appreciate the sentiments. Hope everyone has had a great holiday.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!

We're moved...Kind of

2007-12-23T15:39:00.000-05:00

Well, the last few days have been really hectic! I finished work on Friday afternoon and went home to finish packing and load everything up. After hours of loading the truck, we found out my uncle's FedEx truck was not big enough and we weren't going to be able to make everything fit! Not to mention, I was out of boxes so I still had stuff unpacked and cleaning to do and not much time. It was a rough afternoon. We finally took what we could and left the rest, we will go back next weekend or something to get the rest. It was crazy of course if my son hadn't of packed everything and I mean everything (he packed his TV! I'm not kidding I went to bed and he packed literally everything in his room! I was wondering how I ran out of boxes until I discovered this!). Anyway, we got to Glasgow around 8:30 Friday night. No, not Glasgow, Scotland. Although Glasgow got its name from Scotland, it is actually in Kentucky! I moved 2.5 hours away, not across the world! LOL

Anyway, we were all tired and there were things I could not find. We called it a night and made the most out of our first night with limited access to our stuff. Yesterday, we unloaded furniture and boxes into storage and the stuff we needed came to mom's. I then realized my daughter's underwear/sock container was still in Nicholasville! I had to go to Wal-mart to get her some! My mom wanted me to pick up a few things too and hurry back. Yeah right, that place was ridiculous! I think we have all of the major stuff here now, but there is still a lot of work to do! I'm trying to relax today. Tomorrow night is when we do our family stuff (except Santa since he comes Christmas morning) so I know after adding Christmas stuff to the mix there will be even more to do!

Sheesh, the next few days will be really busy too! I'm hanging in there though. I got to spend the evening with Shawn last night so that was a nice change. I wanted to do some visiting today, but my daughter has an upper respiratory infection and can't go out! Oh well, after the holidays....

In case I'm not back on for a day or two, Merry Christmas to all. Hope you have a safe and happy one.

Tomorrow is only a day away

2007-12-20T09:09:00.000-05:00

Wow, I can't believe I am actually moving tomorrow! It just does not seem real. My house sure looks like it though. I know people think I'm crazy when they come over right now because my house is a disaster. But hey, most of it is boxes! Everything's a mess, but who cares? It's all being moved out tomorrow afternoon anyway.

Tychia came over last night to say goodbye and I got a few phone calls. Said goodbye this morning too and I know it's not done yet. It's sad, I hate it! I'm trying to stay positive though, I have a lot of people to see when I get back to Glasgow so that should help!

Today is day 10 of not smoking! Yay me! I'm proud of myself, but it's still hard, especially while trying to move! I got so much done last night though. Shannon kept both kids so I was able to finish Aurea's room without her there to pull everything back out!

Well, I guess this is it. I have today and half a day tomorrow at work and that's it. Then, we're leaving! My life is changing fast!!

P.S. Yes, she is obsessed with Hannah Montana! And the reason we're moving so close to Christmas is so once we get home for Christmas we don't have to come back and do it again. We can just start fresh while the kids are on Winter Break. Thanks for the comment.

Aurea's 6th birthday

2007-12-19T10:45:00.000-05:00

By request, birthday pictures

Yes, summer clothes!

Amy, Mindy, Me, Beth

Melynda, Avrie, Aurea in front center

Me and my baby girl

Hannah Montana sheets

Hannah Montana pajamas

Hannah Montana CD

Aure'as grnadma and her

Avrie's brothers

Aurea and Melynda

Avrie

Avrie and Beth

Aurea, Melynda, and Avrie

Aurea and her step-grandfather

Adam loves bumper cars

My crazy life

2007-12-18T16:09:00.000-05:00

Aurea's birthday party Saturday was fun. We went to Gattitown and the kids had a blast. Not everyone showed up, but the ones who did were thrilled since they got the extra game cards and bumper car or carousel passes. I developed the pictures and scanned them all into the computer so I could post them to myspace only to find out my internet has been disconnected! (I'm at work now!) In other words, I'm going to try to save them to CD and then add them, if not, I guess I'll get them up there eventually. I think Adam had the most fun! He got to ride bumper cars and play some of the arcade games that were above the younger kids. I rode the roller coaster simulator with him, the seat shakes when the screen goes around the turns and loops. It was fun! Aurea spent most of her time on the carousel. Everybody had a blast!!

I'm still not smoking for those who have asked! Yippee, 8 days now! When does it get easier? Actually, it is MUCH easier than it was the first few days, but still not easy.

Three more days before the big move. Mom, dad, and Uncle Abner are coming up Friday morning (yeah it keeps changing) to help finish packing. When Uncle Tony gets done unloading his truck in Louisville, he is coming down. Then we all get to load it up and head to Glasgow. Adam is very excited. Aurea still not thrilled, but starting to come around.

Court was a pain yesterday, I'll spare you the details. Work has been hectic with it being almost the end of the year plus me leaving on Friday. My life is crazy right now, but hopefully it will settle down soon.

Moving/Packing Tips

2007-12-13T15:28:00.000-05:00

onthegomom said...
Happy Birthday to your daughter! Have fun packing. I have lived in my house for 17 years and I have no idea what I am going to do when we move in about year (that's the plan anyway). If you have any good packing tips, you must share!!

--- I should have tons, I've moved enough! Okay for starters, don't plan on moving four days before Christmas! (It can't always be helped, trust me, I know -- but it's not ideal in cold, nasty weather with holidays coming!) Now for the packing tips:

Start early! I waited until the last minute once and it was awful! If you start early (2 weeks for me, whatever works for you, after 17 years you probably have alot more stuff than I do!) you will have time to actually sort things out and get rid of junk and avoid alot of last-minute stress!
Throw that stuff out! If you haven't touched it in like 17 years, it's time to get rid of it! I'm a pack-rat but eventually you get tired of moving stuff you will never ever use.
Plan ahead before actually packing -- make sure you have tons of boxes, tape, and newspaper or bubble wrap on hand (I do not recommend packing peanuts!)
Pack knick knacks, picture frames, and non-necessity items first and in advance. You're not using them every day so why not get them out of the way and then see how things are progressing? Be sure you wrap them well to avoid broken glass/porcelain pieces everywhere.
Fit things together like a puzzle, the more you can fit into a box (without making it so heavy it can't be lifted!) the better. Saves space and time during moving.
LABEL EVERYTHING CLEARLY!!!! I can't stress that enough! It helps to know which boxes go in which room, which boxes are fragile, which ones are most needed, and in my case-- which ones go with us to my mom's vs. which ones go into storage. It makes a huge difference.

What else? I'm sure I have more, but that's all I have for now. Hope it helps!!

A little bit of everything

2007-12-12T11:26:00.000-05:00

Wow! I actually have comments to respond to! I'm responding to a comment because I felt it needed addressing and where else would be a better place? LOL Damama T responded to my poem so Here goes:

Damama T said... Well meaningly, everyone always says, buck up... look at the bright side... hold on, things will get better... it could be worse... etc. etc. But if in your heart you truly feel the way your poem sounds, I am begging you to please find a way to locate a licensed clinical social worker to help you. They differ from psychiatrists and psychologists in that they actually help you learn to live TODAY and get through all its pain, while healing yesterday's hurts. Please take a minute to check out my story at http://damama2all.blogspot.com/2007/12/happy-anniversary-and-thank-you-cheryl.htmland feel free to email me if you have questions.
You CAN make the hurt go away and "let go of the past, my mistakes, my regrets, and all the wasted time" and you can climb into a better state -- You just have to find someone qualified to help you do it.
Good luck. xoxo

Thank you so much for the comment and support. I truly feel cared about. What you don't know is that I suffer from Borderline Personality Disorder:
http://www.bpdcentral.com/resources/basics/main.shtml

The link explains better than I can and I don't want to waste time copying and pasting when you can read it if you're interested. Basically, my main issue is having to deal with constant, drastic mood swings. I experience extreme highs and lows, but more lows than highs. I fit into 9 out of the 10 criteria for BPD (only required to fit 5 for a diagnosis!). Anyway, after my diagnosis by a psychiatrist, I was referred to the UK (University of Kentucky) Undergraduates in Psychology since they work on a sliding fee scale and I didn't have insurance at the time. Long story short I got dropped by my psychologist and stopped my meds.

However, prior to that, I spent a year in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). It helped me control my anger and to learn to deal with my emotions rather than acting on them. In other words, instead of lashing out at those who care, or more like myself, I channel it. I no longer have the same reactions. Now when I'm upset, I call a friend, play on the computer, write stories, or write poetry (like the poem you read). It helps me release those feelings without actually acting on them.

In other words, I really am okay. Some of my writing may not reflect that, but it's how I express myself. I don't communicate well in actual conversations, but I can write all day long! I probably should still be on meds, but I'm in the middle of moving and changing my whole life so it's too much right now to try to pay for therapy and meds, etc. etc. but I am dealing with my emotions constructively.

I'm amazed, however, that so many people do say it will get better, hang in there, etc. and don't understand (not just here, but people who see me every day!). I guess I just wanted to say thank you for noticing and caring and for the great advice. I also wanted you to know that I am okay. I've learned to take it one day at a time and to live for my kids and not everyone else. It was a hard lesson to learn. : (

Okay, other news: I decided to quit smoking!

Thanks to my friend Heather being the inspiration that she is and to my son nagging about my health (and his), I bought the nicotine patches at lunch Monday. Now as a pack-a-day smoker, this is not easy, but I have been cigarette free for 47.5 hours now!! Guess you gotta start somewhere, but GRRRR I just want to pull my hair out!!

Seriously, I'm doing well, but I am full of nervous energy right now. I probably should not have decided to quit smoking 11 days before moving (9 days now), but I promised Adam I would buy the patches instead of cigarettes when I got paid, so I did! I feel like jumping around or something though, this is harder than it sounds to someone who has never smoked. If you have, then you understand, and thank you.

Men will be Boys

2007-12-07T10:23:00.000-05:00

Boys will be boys....and men will be boys! I don't care how old they get, men never grow out of wanting to take things apart and figure them out. Some have cars, others enjoy sports, some like video games, and some just like to take things apart and put them back together in another format. One of my co-workers enjoys the latter.

I work for an engineering firm and the surveyors often go out and take photographs of drainage basins, drainage ditches, and other things I do not understand. As such, I get the disposable cameras (we don't use digital because my boss worries about the cameras getting lost or dropped into a sanitary sewer, etc.) and take them to Rite-Aid for one-hour developing and then pick up the developed film. Needless to say, I spend alot of time at Rite-Aid. This morning a co-worker asked me whether the disposable cameras are then thrown away or recycled. Of course, I had to ask why! He decided the capacitor that ignites the flash and allows the picture to be taken (please do not ask me specifics on this) could theoretically be used to create a stun gun (only someone in engineering could come up with this!). Why not go to Spencer's and buy a zapper or other device? He says, where is the fun in that. THis would create more zap and I just want to see if it actually works. Yeah, okay. So I asked, they actually send the empty cameras back to Kodak for refurbishing so they can basically repackage the same camera and sell it back to you as new! Go figure. Guess we'll never know if this actually works, but if it does, I'm glad I'm not the unlucky guinea pig!! LOL

Tuesday was my daughter's birthday. She is now six and loved going to McDonald's, eating cupcakes her grandmother brought over, and getting to watch Disney Channel with mommy until bedtime. She did not understand that her party was not the same day. We're actually having it the 15th due to scheduling issues with family members, but that is hard to explain to her! She still enjoyed the attention though and cannot wait for the gifts she gets to load up on 10 days before Christmas!

Wednesday was our first snow here in Kentucky. It wasn't anything to brag about though. It melted as soon as it hit anything so it was basically a cold, wet day with kids saying, "What good is snow if we can't play in it or have a snow day!" Poor things. I'm glad that's all it was, I despise snow, especially driving in it. This time of year, I'm ready to fly south for the winter!

I called Wal-mart on Wed. and was told I could have all the boxes I wanted for free as long as I came in around 11 to 11:30 p.m. when the night stockers would be hard at work unpacking all of those boxes. Wal-mart was still busy at 11:15 p.m. (Christmas is close!) and it was freezing outside! However, I got a lot of boxes and began packing. I'm far from done, but at least I have a good start and I know if I run out of boxes, I can always brave the cold and head back to Wal-mart in the middle of the night!

Moving Soon

2007-12-01T16:02:00.000-05:00

I'm in a dark mood. I am going to be moving soon. Not to a big nice house or across town, but back to my hometown to live with my parents. I'm 29 with two kids and having to move back home! It's really depressing. I'm okay, just more frustrated than anything. Here's my poem I wrote:

As I sit here and wonder what went wrong
how did my life get so far off track for so long?

All I've ever wanted is to be happy and feel worthwhile
so why is it so hard to find a reason to smile?

Why am I unable to find the things I seek?
does trying this hard make me weak?

Am I destined to always fail and face wrath?
how did I ever get on this path?

For every step forward and two steps back I want to scream,
somebody please wake me up, tell me it's a dream.

Where are my friends, love, success, and all the things I should have by now?
I just seem to keep missing them or they are passing me by somehow.

Get a good education and do your best they always told me
I got two degrees and tried hard yet it doesn't seem meant to be

Be a good person you will be loved and you'll go far in life
if this is true, why can't I get ahead, why so much strife?

Why do I live in a world filled with so much pain and fear?
my own seclusion that closes in more with each passing year.

Why do I make mistakes with nowhere left to turn
how many times must I screw up before I finally learn?

I have hurt people and I have pushed people away
For that I am sorry, because all I ever wanted was for you to stay

I want to be happy and share with other in glory
that just does not seem to happen, it is not my story.
I

love with everything I have but I hurt so much more
sometimes I just wonder what all of it is for

I cannot let go of the past, my mistakes, my regrets, and all the wasted time
out of this state and into a better place I wish to climb

I have ups and downs, good times and bad
but through it all I still remain sad

This pain is something I deal with from day to day
One day I will finally find my way

Albus Dumbledore

2007-11-28T10:15:00.000-05:00

Harry Potter Personality Quiz by Pirate Monkeys Inc.

Explanation of the Results:This type of personality test uses four indexes of personality and the combination of the four is your personality type. The first index relates to how you interact with other people Introverted (I), meaning you keep more to yourself. The second relates to how you make decisions; whether you're Intuitive (N), getting answers from within. The third relates to whether you're more emotional and Feeling (F) . The fourth relates to whether you prefer things to be organized, meaning you're Judging (J).

Yep, all me. Thanks for my blogger friend who posted this. I took it and got the above result. I certainly keep to myself more than anything, but that doesn't mean I don't like to get out and have a good time with others. Intuitive is where I get most of my answers, but not all. There is a time and place for intuition and a time and place for being analytical. I'm am absolutely an emotional person! Finally, I'm in judging because I prefer organization. Funny as it is, my house completely lacks organization at the moment, but it's driving me crazy. At work, my area is immaculate and organized to a tee!

Thanksgiving is Over

2007-11-25T00:10:00.000-05:00

Happy belated Thanksgiving to all! I had a nice holiday and I hope you did as well. The turkey and sides were nice. However, it was great to see my family from out of town and to see all of the kids in the family. I was still glad to be done with the hustle and bustle though.

Yesterday was great. Aurea and I went to visit my friend Heather and her son Zack. Aurea and Zack are both five and had a great time playing together. I simply had a great time getting to visit with an adult! lol! Even better, last night, Shawn came over and we stayed up watching movies and talking until about 3:30 in the morning! Actually, I think he left around 3, but I didn't get to bed until 3:30! I can't remember the last time I stayed up that late! Luckily, my mom got up with the kids this morning, thank goodness for grandparents, lol!

Today, Shawn and I went to lunch at a local Mexican restaurant. It was wonderful! I have been home with my parents and daughter tonight. My son went to my sister's for the night. Tomorrow, we head back home. Thanksgiving and the long weekend are almost over. We all get to go back to work and school on Monday....

I'm thankful for:

God
Adam
Aurea
Mom and dad
sisters, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and all of the rest of my family
Shawn
all of my friends, I will not name any for fear of leaving people out or having to name way too many!
Being healthy
All of the blessings in life

Wonderful Weekend

2007-11-20T14:36:00.000-05:00

Not only did I survive the weekend with my parents, but I actually had a wonderful time. We arrived late Friday night, in time to eat, talk for a few minutes, and get ready for bed. Saturday was a full day though. I talked to several friends on the phone. Then, I went to help my sister. My niece's 2nd birthday party was at a place called Extreme Gymnastics. The kids had a blast swinging from hopes, jumping on trampolines, and doing all of the fun and dangerous things to be found a gymnastics/birthday center. That afternoon I also went to run errands and ran into several old friends.

Saturday night was my dad's surprise 60th birthday party. His birthday isn't actually until tomorrow, but we didn't want to do it mid-week and this weekend is Thanksgiving weekend! Anyway, I had a date and we went to the party. Probably not the best idea to have your first date at a family party with a bunch of drunks and seemingly crazy people around! lol! Seriously though, I had a blast and so did Shawn. He keeps thanking me for showing him a great time, awww! Everyone listened to music, played pool, threw darts, and sat around talking all night, it was great!

While we were at the party, the kids were at my mom's with the 15-year-old babysitter, Morgan. Adam said, "Tell her she's here for Aurea, I don't need a babysitter. She's only 3 years older than me....is she hot?!" OMG the life of a pre-teen.... No she's not hot she's the babysitter! Whether or not he decided she was hot, they had a great time. Morgan played on myspace with him and they watched a movie and then she took Aurea downstairs to play while Adam watched TV.

Sunday I lounged around and basically did nothing all morning. We left early afternoon so we could get home before dark and get some things done around the house. Of course as my luck goes, I got pulled over on Bluegrass Parkway! Thankfully, the sheriff was really nice and did not give me a ticket! Yeah, maybe my luck is getting better........

Adam is finally ungrounded. Last night was the Premier Jewelry party. Tonight is Girl Scouts meeting. Tomorrow we go back to Glasgow for Thanksgiving on Thurs. Can we say busy?! But it's really been fun, I needed that. I guess that's it for now, if I don't get to post tomorrow, I wish everyone a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!!

3 Bathrooms...Nowhere to Go!

2007-11-15T10:26:00.000-05:00

I live in a three bedroom, two-and-half bath townhouse. The members of my family include myself and my two children (and sometimes my boyfriend, but that's another story). Anyway, there are three rooms in my house which include a toilet and a sink. With no more people than this, we should never have issues over bathrooms, yet we do.

I was getting ready for work the other morning in the half bath and my daughter announces she needs to go, "go upstairs." Yeah, I could've shared, but it's a small room and I'm clausterphobic to begin with.... Anyway, a few minutes later I'm curling my hair and my son comes in and starts wetting his hair and making a mess. Hello, I'm getting ready here! He says he needs to get ready too, umm there are two other bathrooms in this house, pick one! What is the deal here?! I'm not sure, but it's crazy to squeeze two or three people in one tiny bathroom when there are two larger ones upstairs! I can't help it nobody actually wants to exert the energy to climb those stairs and find those mysterious bathrooms! lol!

Anyway, my son is 12 and really frustrating. I love him, but he knows how to push my buttons and sometimes I just want to scream. He got grounded for getting in trouble on the bus at school and for running his mouth. He then decides to call my parents who live almost 3 hours away and inform them I am mean and I am beating him! I would NEVER do such a thing to my child! He thinks being beaten means having his stuff taken away from him. If he only knew what other kids out there have to deal with.... Telling him this does no good though. Of course my parents call concerned (not that I'm beating him because they know I would not do that, but because he's upset and they are too far away to help). My mom's answer, "If you can't handle him, maybe he should come live with us."

Excuse me, that is my child. I can handle him, he's just 12 and mouthy and upset that the Playstation 2, DVD, TV, VCR, and pocket rocket are no longer in his room! Man the things kids have these days... He wants attention and my mom has a great way of giving it to him! I don't mean to rant here but I have to vent sometimes. It's hard enough to be a single parent without my mom deciding I can't handle it!

In other recent events, my internet got disconnected at home. I now have internet only at work (luckily, I have a job with alot of free time!). However, if I don't post as often as I like or don't get back to someone immediately -- I apologize. I am limited to whenever I'm free at work. Some days this is all day long, others, not at all. I hope to have it back soon, but who knows... When you have to pick and choose bills, internet is not the priority -- even though I'm addicted to the internet!

We are going out of town this weekend to visit my well meaning parents. I hope it is actually a nice, fun weekend since we get to go back down Wed. night to be there for Thanksgiving! Wow, I have a lot going on the next couple of weeks...

8 Random Things About Me

2007-11-13T08:57:00.001-05:00

Christina from: utmomof5 tagged me. I'm new to this and I've never tagged or been tagged so I hope this works like it's supposed to, if it doesn't, I apologize. Anyway, check out her blog, I love it.

There are a few rules one must follow to play the game. When tagged, you must link to the person who tagged you. Then post the rules before your list, and list eight random things about yourself. At the end of the post, you must tag and link to eight other people.

8 Random Things About Me:
1. I LOVE Ranch dressing! We're not talking I get a salad and dab on some ranch, lol. No, I love ranch and eat it on almost everything. Some people think I'm crazy, but hey -- I am who I am and I love ranch!

2. I cannot ride a bicycle. I know, I know, how can you grow up in the 80s in America and not be able to ride a bike? Well, I'm stubborn and demanding. I did fine as a kid with training wheels. One day my daddy took off the training wheels and I kept falling down to the point of not wanting to ride at all. Finally, I told him I never wanted to learn and wanted nothing to do with a bike! He didn't push and by the time I decided I might care, I was ready for a car! To this day, I still cannot ride a bike!

3. I am addicted to the internet. In addition to blogging, I frequent myspace, ebay, and yahoo. I also download and play games that my son calls nerdy and girly. Oh well, I have fun in my spare time and I enjoy them thank you very much!

4. I suffer from Borderline Personality Disorder, aka major mood swings. If you read one day and I sound really depressed and another I sound really elated, yeah it's the mood swings! I'm okay, really.

5. I love to read. I don't read like I used to because work, kids, house, bills,..... I just don't have the time, but I do enjoy it. Right now I'm reading "The Street Lawyer," by John Grisham.

6. I'm writing a book. It may be ten or twenty years from now before it is finished, but I'm working on a story about MS, in honor of my aunt who passed away from this dreadful disease.

7. I got pregnant/married while in high school. I hope my kids learn from me rather than repeat me, but I guess there isn't a lot I can say if they do. I just don't want them to face the same hardships I have faced.

8. I'm a great listener. Yeah, I am, running out of other things to say, sorry....

Here are the poor souls I have choosen to tag. I can't figure out how to do it any other way...
http://whosgoingtotellyou.blogspot.com/

http://rollinwiththepunches.blogspot.com/

http://jenatwork.blogspot.com/

http://familylifeinthedesert.blogspot.com/

http://theresainmerida.blogspot.com/

http://3boysundermyroof.blogspot.com/

http://catalystforsuccess.blogspot.com/

http://allmomentsremembered.blogspot.com/

Mommy, Can I go to bed now?

2007-11-09T14:12:00.000-05:00

I think I have the only five-year-old in the world who actually comes in the room and says, "Mommy, Can I go to bed now?" Of course you may honey, if you're sleepy. Yeah right, like I'm actually going to tell her no! It's amazing, my son always wanted to sleep with me at that age. Even at 12, he no longer wants in my bed, but he doesn't want to go to bed at all either. I have to make him go to sleep. Not Aurea. Ever since she's been old enough to walk, she has gone to bed on her own. I remember once when she was two or three (I was still with her dad then), her dad and I had friends over playing cards in the kitchen. Aurea walked in and grabbed my hand without saying a word and walked us to her bed! We did go through about six months of not wanting to go to bed, but it was right after we moved, so I think it was more of a security issue. Anyway, the other night I was on the computer and she uttered these words. I just looked at her and she said, "I'm sleepy." I sent her up and promised to follow for story/tucking in time. It was so sweet. She doesn't do this every night, but even the nights I say "bedtime" loudly she does not argue, she goes and lies down until I come to tuck her in. Awww! Works for me!

The 12-year-old, on the other hand, is a night owl. He wants to stay up late and then sleep in. This is of course when he sleeps, I remember a recent slumber party where there was no slumber involved! Of course, being a boy and almost teenager, he didn't calll it a slumber party -- but that's what it was!

Anyhow, his Pocket Rocket finally arrived (FYI: If walmart.com says something will arrive in 7-10 business days, expect 11-12)! It came in Wed. even though his birthday was Halloween! Hey I drove around five counties looking for this thing before finally giving up and ordering it online! He was so excited that he had it out of the box and fully assembled and charging before I could finish cooking dinner! I was impressed! Not to mention, I didn't have to assemble a thing. lol

Well, his birthday is over and Thanksgiving is almost here, so that means...My daughter's birthday is next! Poor thing, three weeks before Christmas is hard. I try not to tie it in too much with Christmas, but I'm always broke around her birthday, it's hard. Of course, then comes Christmas....I'm ready to have summer back!!

One, Two, Freddy's Coming For You

2007-11-01T15:20:00.000-04:00

Ghosts, goblins, ghouls, oh my! Happy belated Halloween to everyone. Yesterday was not only Halloween, but also my son's birthday. It was an interesting day, but then having a Halloween baby always makes it more fun. I love shopping for the Halloween/Birthday cards and doing all the "scary" stuff.

My daughter dressed up as a unicorn and went trick-or-treating with her dad and Nana (his mom) and got to spend the night with Nana. I picked her up and took her to school this morning - she had a blast and got tons of candy. They forgot to take pictures of her dressed up though, :( Guess I'll have to stage a couple! lol!

Anyway, so I got off work last night and went straight home and got there earlier than usual since I didn't have to stop at the daycare. Adam had a birthday card and money in the mail so he was excited. Then, we decided our night: McDonald's, Nightmare Haunted House, Trail of Terror. How exciting! Most parents know the joys of McDonald's so we'll skip the details there.

Nightmare Haunted House is held in an old warehouse between Lexington and Frankfort where the Kentucky Paranormal Investigations host the event. The story is about a girl named Sarah and her terrifying nightmares that still haunt the house despite Sarah's death. For more on Sarah and the story, go to http://www.2scary.com/

Anyway, we get there and Ghost Ship is playing on the movie screen while you wait in line. There was the option of the last ride simulator, but I'm clausterphobic, no thanks! We get in and hear the tale of Sarah and some girl chants her name in the mirror 3 times. Then, "Sarah" pops out and tells everyone to get out of her house. She told Adam to go trick-or-treating and leave her house NOW! It was funny. We continue through the house with Sarah's grandma yielding a machete and all of your normal Halloween stuff. (Note to all: I HATE chainsaws) The chainsaw man doesn't scare me and I make smart remarks to the actors so I have them laughing too hard to chase me or anything. Adam tells one guy he looks like a mutated Easter Bunny! Then, we enter Nightmare Theatre. Ok, it's a simulated movie theater full of (fake) dead bodies and Texas Chainsaw Massacre is playing on the giant movie screen. We are in the middle of the theatre, so I'm looking around expecting one of the "dead" bodies to jump at me or the ground to start shaking. NOOOO, the Texas Chainsaw guy jumps out of the movie screen (I'm in the very back of the group) and starts chasing me through the theatre and the house! Needless to say, I didn't stay the last person for long, I screamed and ran!! After he quit chasing me, I got back in the back of the line. We went across a swinging bridge with room spinning disco style and got dizzy! We went through a maze too. It was cool, we had a ball and Adam loved it!!

Next, we went to Trail of Terror at Jacobson Park. Jacobson Park is a huge park with playground, ducks, paddle boats, you name it. At the back of the park is a small lake and wooded area. The Trail of Terror is a mile long haunted woods. We entered and walked along, la la la. Oh look, it's Freddy, it's Jason, oh cool the girl from Saw with her head in that contraption! Then, we get to a small house with moving floors and these things squeezing us through like a carwash sponge or something. Yep, more chainsaws and girls behind me screaming like crazy. The moving bridge was much easier than the first one. Then, we're walking and come up on "Welcome to Camp Crystal Lake" so we're walking and looking for the next chainsaw guy or something and "Jason" pops out of "Crystal Lake" and runs up the bank after us!! Finally, we go through the bus of horror (mainly ghostly sounds) and come out the other side.

We get home and Adam wants to watch "Halloween" so I say I'm going to take a quick bath first. Quick it was, remember the phone syndrome? Well, as I get in the tub, my phone starts ringing like crazy. Everyone wants to wish Adam a happy birthday and I'm upstairs and he's downstairs (I only have a cell phone, no home phone). So I assure everyone he will call them back and take the world's fastest bath to head down and watch scary movies. He was ready for bed shortly into Halloween H20, but hey it was a fun and interesting night. My son loved his 12th birthday and I enjoyed having just the two of us!

The Phone Syndrome

2007-10-29T13:58:00.000-04:00

I'm calling it the phone syndrome. Yesterday I'm sitting around the house and it's nice and peaceful. Adam is outside playing ball with friends and Aurea is up in her room playing quietly. I decide to pick up the phone and call my mom for a little chat, here comes Adam, Drew, and Devon running in chattering then Aurea comes downstairs and decides she needs attention and wants to talk my ear off. Later on, I get a phone call, Aurea is hungry, thirsty, and sleepy all at once as soon as I start talking. What is it about the phone that suddenly makes kids need attention? I call it the phone syndrome. Ok maybe receiving a call where they hear the phone ring would grab attention, but they do it when I'm making the calls too! I just don't get it....Anyway, both phone calls ended up going well despite the interruptions.

Tonight is the football banquet, this should be interesting. Pot luck banquet at that, guess I better come up with a side dish really fast! Hopefully, girl scouts is tomorrow if we have our room yet.

Not the highlight of my week

2007-10-26T11:38:00.000-04:00

I went to the doctor the other day for my annual exam. Supposed to be routine and normal right? Wrong! She said I had a uterine fibroid, but it's just a fibrous tumor and may or may not require surgery, don't worry. Yeah right! I'm a worrier!! Tumor and surgery is all I heard. Afterward though I calmed down and did some research. So yesterday I went to the hospital for an ultrasound.

The good news: I do NOT have a fibroid on my uterus! Yippee! Now I'm thinking, I took off work half a day to spend 3 hours at the hospital having two different ultrasounds and being really stressed and uncomfortable for nothing. After we were done, the radiologist came in to tell me I didn't have a fibroid. I asked him why all the symptoms and pain then, he said, "Well a lot of women have heavy periods." What! That is the least of it, it's about more than that and he said he didn't need to know all that and left! What would he know about it?!

Anyway, I asked the ultrasonographer (or whatever she's called) if it wasn't a fibroid causing my problems then what was it? She said she didn't know that all the ultrasound showed was no fibroid or abnormality except for my uterus being tilted too far forward and pressing on my bladder. She then told me my Gyno will get the results and I can call her Tuesday to see what she says. Then, she said I'd probably either be referred to a specialist or sent for a CT Scan. In other words,I really don't know a thing.

So I leave the parking garage which costs (yes the hospital charges to park!) $2.25 for 1-3 hours. I get my money out and the lady at the booth says $3.00. What? I was here for 3 hours and she corrects me, "No, you were here for 3 hours and 1 minute, that will be $3.00." UGH
Anyway, I came home still an hour earlier than usual and went straight to the bathtub to make myself feel better.

Don't get me wrong, I am relieved that it wasn't a fibroid. But if that isn't causing my problems, what is? Guess I get to continue to wait....For now I'll be glad it's not a fibroid and try not to think about calling Dr. Saunders on Tuesday...

Did I mention on my way home from the hospital, I get a message from my son that he HAS to have a poster tonight to finish his math project for tomorrow? Exactly what I felt like stopping for on my way home! At least I didn't have to pick up my daughter too (her dad got her for the night) and then drag her into the store to whine for everything in sight. I love my children, don't get wrong, but I did not feel real great yesterday so having only one child (who knows when to give me space) for the evening was great.

Of course being the mom, I still got to help with the math poster. It was actually really cute when he got finished. The report card came home yesterday too, 2 A's, 3 B's, 1 C, I'm not a C fan, but he did work hard, not to mention, it was one point from a B. Way to go son, maybe now you can be ungrounded since deciding to call people in my phone book you don't like and telling them never to call me again! Yeah, he did that. Gotta love puberty!!

I must be crazy

2007-10-21T16:10:00.000-04:00

"Mom, can I have a boy/girl dance for my birthday?" This came from my son several weeks ago when deciding on a birthday party. Of course my first reaction was NO!!! but I was his age when I had my first boy/girl party so I said ok to a small party. After going back and forth on where he wanted it, he finally decided like 3 weeks ago. Of course, having a child born on Halloween means we have to compete with Halloween parties, especially waiting until the last minute! So of course, the place he wanted was booked through the end of the year. After many calls, I finally booked a place for Oct. 20th (yes, yesterday), since everything else was taken. Then, I bought invitations and he sent out like 40! OMG what have I gotten myself into!

I spent time preparing, buying refreshments, getting another chaperone, etc. So on Thurs. I realized I forgot to order a cake! My friend who makes cakes needed more than two days notice! Luckily, Wal-mart bakery only needed 24 hours notice, and that's exactly what they ended up getting! The kids had been at mom's for fall break so I was able to do everything Thurs. and Fri., the problem was that the Pocket Rocket Adam wanted for his birthday was nowhere to be found. Believe me, I spend 4 hours Thurs. night either driving to or calling every Wal-mart, Mejier, Target, Toys'R'Us, and Dick's Sporting Goods in four counties! (Why do I procrastinate -- oh yeah, can't take him shopping with me!) Anyway, I finally gave up and ordered the pocket rocket online complete with 7-10 business days for site-to-store shipping! Ahhhh!

Anyway, mom brought the kids home yesterday after I spent all morning cleaning and gluing a picture of a pocket rocket into a birthday card! After doing all the preparation, picking up the cake, and fielding calls from people wanting to know where the building was located, my other chaperone cancels on me!! We picked up the skater cake and went to set up the party.

Unfortunately for Adam, but fortunately for myself (the only chaperone), only 15 kids showed up to the party! For three hours, I chased kids who decided to run outside the building and let other kids try to lock me out (luckily I had keys, if you're ever in this situation, keep building keys on you at all times!!) while I'm running around. Then, rather than dance, it is apparently more fun to throw ice down people's shirts and then try to slide across the now wet floor without falling! They also like stealing each other's shoes and taking turns talking on cell phones!! How old are these kids? Ages 10-12, what's up with the phones and crap?! Ugh they just keep getting younger.

Adam was disappointed only 15 people showed, I was happy. One friend got back from vacation mid-party and came straight from the airport! I am grateful to his mother who decided to stay and help clean up afterward so we could finish on time and get my deposit back!!

It was certainly an interesting night! We got home and unloaded around 11:30, they wore me out!! Glad that's over. Now for his real birthday, haunted housing on Halloween! Oh and did I mention my gratitude to my mother who stayed home with my 5-year-old daughter during all this? Thank you.

Puberty comes more than once

2007-10-17T15:49:00.000-04:00

I once heard someone say to be grateful that puberty only comes but once, this person obviously did not have children! I am going through puberty again, not my own, but my son's. Did I really give my mom that much grief? Was I that moody and stubborn and know-it-all? Probably, I'm sorry mom. The trouble is that I understand it in girls and I'll be ready when my daughter goes through it (at least I think I will, but I doubt any parent is ever really ready), but it's different with boys. I have no brothers and my dad didn't discuss boy changes with me, I was a girl! So when my son's voice cracks and he asks how long it will take to change -- I stare at him dumbfounded. He says I should know this, of course, I'm Mom Almighty the all wise one who knows all! Unfortunately, I don't know these things, but I try. I made the mistake of laughing when his voice cracked, "It's not funny mom!" Well, actually it is, but I'll try not to laugh out loud the next time!

My daughter has a beautiful voice and sings so well, her music teacher even said she had the best voice in the class! Wow, she didn't get that from me! Adam used to have a decent singing voice, but it's hard to sing with your voice cracking between notes! I can't sing a lick. Last night, Aurea was singing "Free Fallin" and friend said she was too young to know that song, hey, it could've been "Last Dance with Mary Jane" or one of my many Akon songs (I listen to a wide variety of music) but I do pick and choose what I let her hear! Hey, I can only listen to Hannah Montana and High School Musical so many times, I have to stop and listen to my music once in a while and since she's usually with me, she hears it. I can't help it that the child can hear a song once or twice and repeat back like almost every word!

On a more somber note, I went to the doctor the other day for my annual exam. Supposed to be routine and normal right? Wrong! She said I had a uterine fibroid, but it's just a fibrous tumor and may or may not require surgery, don't worry. Yeah right! I'm a worrier!! Tumor and surgery is all I heard. Afterward though I calmed down and did some research. According to

Medline Plus:
"Uterine fibroids are the most common non-cancerous tumors in women of childbearing age. Fibroids are made of muscle cells and other tissues that grow in and around the wall of the uterus, or womb. The cause of fibroids is unknown. Risk factors include being African-American or being overweight. (go figure, I'm neither one!!)
Many women with uterine fibroids have no symptoms. If you have symptoms, they may include
Heavy or painful periods or bleeding between periods
Feeling "full" in the lower abdomen
Urinating often
Pain during sex
Lower back pain
Reproductive problems, such as infertility, multiple miscarriages or early labor "

Well, I've had almost all of these symptoms, but didn't know this was the reason. I self-treated for bladder infections and crap thinking it was nothing or too much caffeine or something. Who knows?!

Anyway, they put me on medication and I go for an ultrasound next Thurs. the 25th (happy birthday mom!) so they can determine if I simply need to continue medication or have surgery. Now it's minor surgery but the idea still scares me! The hardest part is waiting and then waiting after for the results! ugh! I also have a GI appointment in December.

This really sucks!!! Any women out there with those symptoms, DON'T self-diagnose, go see your doctor immediately! I know it's a pain, but it could help you. Then, write me if you want to vent. I understand!

And they're off....

2007-10-11T09:39:00.000-04:00

Here comes Wiggles squirming and wiggling around while Roxanne tries to take care of her, Shadow is trying to run and explore, Aurea is chasing Shadow who is now chasing Wiggles...Robert the maintenance guy is trying to work but here comes Shadow around the corner, ohhh time to chase Wiggles who is now trying to hide and under everything, Shadow is now upstairs, go Aurea go run!! Ok, I'm being silly, but that is sort of what my house was like last night.

After work, I had a parent-teacher conference at Aurea's school, we have a lot of work to do! She's just not where she needs to be, and I'd say her vision issues contribute to that a great deal. Then, we get home and cook and eat while trying to play scavenger hunt (sending Aurea to find things in the house that start with a certain letter, I thought it would be fun when I made it up, she didn't!) and the phone ringing. Adam is on the phone, Aurea is whining and trying to find stuff, I'm trying to cook and talk on the phone...

After supper, Roxanne came over with Shadow (her ferret), she's going on vacation soon and I'm ferret sitting so she wanted Shadow and Wiggles (my ferret) to be around each other, get their nails (claws? whatever) trimmed and all this stuff before she actually leaves. She was trying to cut Wiggles' nails for me, by the way, there is a reason she is named Wiggles! lol That ferret would not be still and was trying to get to Shadow. In the meantime, the maintenance man comes to fix the sink which is apparently clogged by a grease chunk (ewww) and a popsicle stick! How did the popsicle stick get down there to begin with? Ask Aurea, I'm sure that was her doing! Anyway, he goes to wash his hands in the bathroom and gets cornered by a ferret (can't remember which one), which I'm sure he loved.

Adam is yet again on the phone, Aurea is chasing ferrets around the house, Roxanne is helping with the ferrets, I'm trying to watch Aurea and the ferrets and listen to Robert and the stupid phone is still ringing! Finally, Robert leaves and the three days worth of dishes can be done after Roxanne hunts down Shadow and heads home! Adam helped me with dishes and Aurea, thank you!

Then, Adam says tomorrow is the pep rally for the big football game, East vs. West (go East!!) and he wants his face painted, pleassse mom! So I paint his face and help with homework before sending the kids to bed and finally getting a little peace and quiet.

This morning, I got to touch up the face paint half his face is green with a blue E (East) and the other half is blue with a green J (Jaguars), he looked ready for football! Tonight is the big game and we're done with football! Yippeee!!

Random thoughts and updates

2007-10-05T10:54:00.000-04:00

Let's see, my cousin Chris and his wife Carla had their baby. Her name is Brooklyn Ann, Jeff and Jeanie's baby Gracie is doing good. Yes, Chris and Jeff are brothers and both have new babies! I feel sorry for Aunt Margie and Uncle Terry! Mom just told me last night Carla had a C-section because Brooklyn was breech, that's about all I really know right now. Too bad I'm not in Glasgow to go to the hospital. :(

Anyway, last night was Adam's football game and homecoming, he got really excited. We won 20-0. Go Jaguars!! Tonight, Aurea starts Girl Scouts. Both are doing well. Adam's ready for fall break and his birthday. Aurea is always asking for her birthday, poor baby, I can't help that I had her 3 weeks before Christmas and she has to wait a whole year for either one!

Still job hunting, I had a couple of interviews this week, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed. I really want one of them... I guess that's really it. Just working and coming home to two kids and an otherwise empty house, sigh! I need to make more friends or get a boyfriend or something, I'm so bored and lonely at night now! I love my kids but they aren't much on conversation except Hannah Montana, football, and middle school happenings! I love some aspects of being single and despise others, I guess that's life huh?

October 1, 2007 - Monday
In remembrance:
Six years ago today, Adam was 5 and I was 7-months pregnant with Aurea. Shannon, Adam, and I lived in Cave City. Mom got Adam off of the school bus. I'm not sure why, but Shannon and I both went home before picking up Adam that day. As soon as I put my stuff down, the phone rang and it was mom. I thought she was going to be upset I wasn't there yet, but I answered and she just told me to get over there right away. I knew something was wrong so Shannon and I both got in the car and drove to her house....

My grandfather, Truman, had been through a lot. He had had a heart attack recently and the doctors told him to rest. However, it wasn't in Papa to rest. He wanted to farm, it was in his blood, that's what he enjoyed most. Oct. 1, 2001 (the day mom called us over) Papa Truman went out to farm that morning. When he got hot he sat at a picnic table to rest, that's where he was found lying...

When we got to mom's house, she told us that Papa Truman had passed. It was hard. We weren't really that close, but the only death I had ever dealt with until then had been my great-aunt and uncle, whom I loved, but didn't know real well. It was the first time someone that close to me passed away.

I'll spare the rest because I'm sure everyone can figure out the funeral and everything that followed. Every year after until I moved, I would go with Granny Gladys and daddy to Metcalfe County (where the family cemetary is located) to visit Papa's grave on this day. I can't go this year, but I will go the next time I'm in Glasgow and able to drive over to Summer Shade.

It doesn't seem like it's really been six years. I miss him dearly. Adam and Madison are really the only great-grandkids to know him and they were little (Adam was 5, I think Madison was 4). Hunter and Brandon were born but they were less than a year old. It's funny though that even though Adam was so little, he can still remember riding the tractor and farming with Papa Truman!

Anyway, I better stop this stroll down memory lane. I just wanted to remember Papa on this day.

September 27, 2007 - Thursday
Updates
My poor baby! I have been worried about Aurea's eyesight for awhile and when the doctors said she might need surgery I was even more worried. Fortunately, they decided to wait awhile to see if there were any changes. There have been changes! Yesterday I got to daycare and they asked if she had vision problems. "Her eyes cross and both eyes are 20/40 and....why, what happened?!" Apparently, she got off the daycare van and ran into the brick wall. My first reaction, she's a kid she wasn't paying attention and watching where she was going right? No, her eyes blurred and she actually did not see the side of the building before running into it and busting her lip! Now I'm really concerned. I called the doctor this morning, we have an appointment next week.....

Adam has a football game tonight and my dad is coming up to stay the night and go to the game. I'm excited, I know Adam will love having grandpa at the game. Also, school is out tomorrow for inservice or something so they get to spend the morning together before dad has to go back to Glasgow!

I'm just being bored and lonely as usual. My job sucks. My boss seems to think I'm a complete idiot. One day she's awesome and lets me do pretty much whatever I want. The next day she jumps down my throat for the least little thing. I know we all get in moods (Lord knows I do!) but geez, it's really annoying sometimes. For example, I'm allowed to keep my cell phone on and take calls as long as my work gets done and I don't stay on it all day (usually), but yesterday Aurea's school calls and she yells at me for being on the phone-- this is work! Hello, my daughter comes first and the one time you decide to bitch about the phone it's the school! I didn't say that or anything else actually, I bit my lip instead, but I wanted to say a lot of things!!

Random:
I went to Speedway on my lunch break the other day and saw three ducks waddling across the parking lot. I have no idea, there is no pond (to my knowledge) anywhere on Tates Creek Road, but whatever, it was interesting.

Still trying to find a new job, day care assistance raised my co-pay again and I'm broke-- why do they go by gross income anyhow? And when were these rates set, the 60's?
Ok, I could go on all day about the last one but I have other things to do today...

September 25, 2007 - Tuesday
Thoughts for the day
Received this in an email, but I thought it would be fun to post here:

Things to think about that you probably have never thought about and will never think about again:

Can you cry under water?

How important does a person have to be before they are considered assassinated instead of just murdered?

Why do you have to "put your two cents in".. . but it's only a "penny for your thoughts"? Where's that extra penny going to?

Once you're in heaven, do you get stuck wearing the clothes you were buried in for eternity?

Why does a round pizza come in a square box?

What disease did cured ham actually have?

How is it that we put man on the moon before we figured out it would be a good idea to put wheels on luggage?

Why is it that people say they "slept like a baby" when babies wake up like every two hours?

If a deaf person has to go to court, is it still called a hearing?

Why are you IN a movie, but you're ON TV?

Why do people pay to go up tall buildings and then put money in binoculars to look at things on the ground?

Why do doctors leave the room while you change? They're going to see you naked anyway.

Why is "bra" singular and "panties" plural

Why do toasters always have a setting that burns the toast to a horrible crisp, which no decent human being would eat?

If Jimmy cracks corn and no one cares, why is there a stupid song about him?

Can a hearse carrying a corpse drive in the carpool lane?

If the professor on Gilligan's Island can make a radio out of a coconut, why can't he fix a hole in a boat?

Why does Goofy stand erect while Pluto remains on all fours? They're both dogs!

If Wiley E. Coyote had enough money to buy all that ACME crap, why didn't he just buy dinner?

If corn oil is made from corn, and vegetable oil is made from vegetables, what is baby oil made from?

If electricity comes from electrons, does morality come from morons?

Do the Alphabet song and Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star have the same tune?

Why did you just try singing the two songs above?

Why do they call it an asteroid when it's outside the hemisphere, but call it a hemorrhoid when it's in your butt?

Did you ever notice that when you blow in a dog's face, he gets mad at you, but when you take him for a car ride; he sticks his head out the window?

Do you ever wonder why you gave me your e-mail address in the first place?

Parent Job Description
..>
This was sent to me in an email too, but I thought I'd share, it's funny

PARENT - Job DescriptionThis is hysterical. If it had been presented this way,I don't believe any of us would have done it!!!!

POSITION :Mom , Mom my, Mama, MaDad , Dad dy, Dad a, Pa, Pop

JOB DESCRIPTION :Long term, team players needed, for challengingpermanent work in an often chaotic environment.Candidates must possess excellent communicationand organizational skills and be willing to workvariable hours, which will include evenings and weekendsand frequent 24 hour shifts on-call.Some overnight travel required, including trips toprimitive camping sites on rainy weekends and
endless sports tournaments in far away cities!Travel expenses not reimbursed.Extensive courier duties also required.

RESPONSIBILITIES :For the rest of your life.Must be willing to be hated, at least temporarily,until someone needs $5.Must be willing to bite tongue repeatedly.Also, must possess the physical stamina of a pack muleand be able to go from zero to 60 mph in three seconds flatin case, this time, the screams fromthe backyard are not someone just crying wolf.Must be willing to face stimulating technical challenges,such as small gadget repair, mysteriously sluggish toiletsand stuck zippers.Must screen phone calls, maintain calendars andcoordinate production of multiple homework projects.Must have ability to plan and organize social gatheringsfor clients of all ages and mental outlooks.Must be willing to be indispensable one minute,an embarrassment the next.Must handle assembly and product safety testing of ahalf million cheap, plastic toys, and battery operated devices.Must always hope for the best but be prepared for the worst.Must assume final, complete accountability forthe quality of the end product.Responsibilities also include floor maintenance andjanitorial work throughout the facility.

POSSIBILITY FOR ADVANCEMENT & PROMOTION :None.Your job is to remain in the same position for years,
without complaining, constantly retraining and updating your skills,so that those in your charge can ultimately surpass you.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE :None required unfortunately.On-the-job training offered on a continually exhausting basis.

WAGES AND COMPENSATION :Get this! You pay them!Offering frequent raises and bonuses.A balloon payment is due when they turn 18 becauseof the assumption that college will help thembecome financially independent.When you die, you give them whatever is left.The oddest thing about this reverse-salary scheme is thatyou actually enjoy it and wish you could only do more.

BENEFITS :While no health or dental insurance, no pension,no tuition reimbursement, no paid holidays andno stock options are offered;this job supplies limitless opportunities for personal growthand free hugs and kisses for life if you play your cards right.Forward this on to all the PARENTS you know,
in appreciation for everything they do on a daily basis,letting them know they are appreciated for the fabulous job they do.........>

Awww!!

2007-09-22T20:19:00.000-04:00

I feel so good. I worked hard cleaning this house today, no big deal right? Yeah, it's usually one of those have to things I never get credit for. Anyway, tonight Adam told me the house looked awesome and Drew came over and looked around and just said "Dang!" Awwww, thank you guys. It's nice to actually have little things noticed sometimes.

Last night, Shana took Adam, Drew, and Tiffany to City Limits. It's this little place in town that hosts dances for middle school students every Friday night. It's like a club, but it's only for kids in local middle schools and it's chaperoned so it's great for the kids. I went and picked the kids up at 10 p.m. after the dance. They were going nuts! Talk about girlfriends and boys and everything, it was crazy. I feel old! My Friday nights have been reduced to picking up pre-teens from a dance and listening to gossip on the way home! Oh well, the kids had fun and it's all part of being a parent right?!

Nobody reads these so I don't guess it matters what I say, I'm just bored and lonely and sitting home on a Saturday night. I got to go out a couple of weeks ago so I guess I really shouldn't complain. It just stinks. Amber moved to Florida and I don't have a lot of other friends here. Sure I have plenty to call and say hi, but none to really talk and hang out with. I really need to make friends here, but it's hard. I work all week and then stay home with kids all weekend. Even if I don't have kids, I really don't want to go out on my own. I know, strange I guess.

I'm really okay, I just get in moods. Blame it on the BPD!! The joys of mood swings and depression. I do okay most of the time, but sitting home alone typing on myspace really doesn't help lift my mood. We're going to church tomorrow so hopefully getting out of the house other than grocery shopping or work will help. I guess that's it since I'm starting to ramble. If anyone actually reads this, thanks for listening.