BLOGGER TEMPLATES AND Friendster Layouts »

Sunday, December 20, 2009

Disco Duck

Disco Duck still going strongImage by Homies In Heaven via Flickr

When can the killer treasure a betting knight?

Now if this makes any sense to you then let me know. Because for me it is just as good as Disco Duck and The Streak. You see, even though I adore music, I do not like corn ball music. Actually corn ball humor has never appealed to me.

But, of course these have been one hit wonders. So what is your least favorite type of music?

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Let It Be

My life seems to be all about change these days. My children are changing from kids to tweens, and next month a teen. Dan is wanting to change jobs. The house is ever changing, as we try to renovate and improve. The weather is changing from warm to chilly. The friendships in my life are changing as the people around me change. I guess change is part of life.

I am trying to embrace these changes. It's great my kids are growing into healthy, happy, well adjusted little people. A change in Dan's job situation would be excellent and I think take away some of the stress in the house. Getting things done with the house is great as well, I just would love to see one completed project. The weather change is a blessing, bringing in the holidays and hopefully ushering out the mosquitoes. As for the friendships in my life, the evolve as people grow and change.

I just seem to be very out of sorts lately. I guess I am changing, drifting. I suppose that is simply life. All I can do is let it be.

Reblog this post [with Zemanta]

Friday, September 11, 2009

Where Were You When the World Stopped Turning

Never forget.

Friday, August 21, 2009

WildBlue Yonder

A WildBlue Satellite Internet dish.Image via Wikipedia

We lived way out in the country for quite a few years and although I loved it most of the time, there were some things I hated about it. Like the fact that the only internet we could get was dial up. It was so slow, didn't work correctly most of the time, and just drove me crazy! At the time, it was that or nothing because satellite internet was not available. The worst was when people would email us family pics and we could not view them because they were so big that the connection took forever to load them. We were constantly aggravated because even something as simple as checking your email took what seemed like forever!

Now you can get wild blue satellite in even the most remote of locations. It is fast internet, which I would have loved! They offer connection speeds that can be as much as 30 times faster than dial up! Satellite internet is even faster than cable internet! Wild Blue seems to be a reputable company to go with for your satellite internet needs. They can get you hooked up anywhere in the contiguous United States. They are a great alternative for those whose only other option is dial up service. I know I would have been thrilled to have access to faster internet service back then.
Reblog this post [with Zemanta]

Sunday, July 26, 2009

You've Got The Touch

Massage in Frankfurt, GermanyImage via Wikipedia

Dan loves it when I give him a massage. Especially when he isn't feeling well, like tonight. He has just not felt good all day and I feel awful for him. He says nothing relaxes him more than me rubbing his back. Isn't he sweet? I gave him a good back massage, but my hands wear out quite quickly. We need a live in masseuse or a massage chair or something.

Massage is so good for you. It stimulates circulation. It reduces stress, helping you relax. I personally think it helps with insomnia, by getting your mind and body into a relaxed state, something that doesn't happen with me very often. They are also great for those who deal with chronic pain, helping to give sweet relief to the normal pain they endure. My mother could really benefit from massage, as her back constantly gives her fits. She says it is some sort of hereditary condition. She better be lying. Anyway, back to what I was talking about. Massage just helps your body do all the things it needs to do. That's the bottom line. And don't we all want our bodies to function at the best they can? I know I sure do! Heck, if Dan had regular massages, maybe he wouldn't feel so icky right now.

So, I think we need something like these Human Touch Massage Chairs. They are much more affordable than a live in massuse, regular massages at a spa, or even weekly treats at the massage chairs at the mall. I really think they would be a great investment for anyone who finds massage beneficial. Or those whose wife's hand tire out quickly. I would love to get one for Dan as a surprise. I best start saving my pennies!

Do you enjoy a good massage? I'd love to hear your thoughts.


Reblog this post [with Zemanta]

Friday, June 26, 2009

Take This Job and Shove It

Office SpaceImage by Legozilla via Flickr

That is how poor Dan is feeling about his job lately. What he thought was going to to be his dream position has turned into his worst nightmare. He hates it so much and is desperately trying to get a position in a different department of the store. Please keep his job situation in you prayers, it is causing stress for the whole family.

His job troubles have got me to thinking about what my dream job is. I think I might really enjoy something like desktop publishing or design. This is something I could do at home and still be here for Dan and the kids. I think more stay at home moms are looking for jobs they can do it home these days to bring in some extra income. There are elearning courses available on Web Design & Publishing that would be of great help. A little more knowledge of basic computers and general software applications would be useful as well. I think after taking some courses on the computer that my dream job could become a reality.

I am just grateful that I am not trapped in a job I can't stand, wishing I could find my dream job. Being a stay at home mom is a great thing, it just doesn't pay very well! What is your dream job or are you lucky enough to already have it?

Sunday, June 21, 2009

Tough Little Boys


Have I told you about my Dan? He was my first crush. He was my best friend's annoying older brother during our middle school years. He was my night in shining armor in high school. He is the love of my life. And he is the father of our amazing kids. He is the most beautiful soul I've ever known and I know I am so blessed to have him. Happy Father's Day to my amazing husband! We love you!


Well I never once
Backed down from a punch
Well I'd take it square on the chin
But I found out fast
That bullies just laugh
And we've got to stand up to them

So I didn't cry when I got a black eye
As bad as it hurt, I just grinned
But when tough little boys grow up to be dads
They turn into big babies again.

Scared me to death
When you took your first steps
And I'd fall every time you fell down
Your first day of school, I cried like a fool
And I followed your school bus to town

Well I didn't cry, when Old Yeller died
At least not in front of my friends
But when tough little boys grow up to be dads
They turn into big babies again

Well I'm a grown man
But as strong as I am
Sometimes its hard to believe
How one little girl, with little blonde curls
Could totally terrify me

If you were to ask, my wife would just laugh
She'd say "I know all about men
How tough little boys grow up to be dads
They turn into big babies again"

Well I know one day, I'll give you away
But I'm gonna stand there and smile
But when I get home, and I'm all alone
Well, I'll sit in your room for a while

Well I didn't cry when Old Yeller died
At least not in front of my friends
But when tough little boys grow up to be dads
They turn into big babies again

When tough little boys grow up to be dads
They turn into big babies again

Reblog this post [with Zemanta]

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Cottage For Sale

No our home is not for sale. I just love this song because it makes me think of what our house once was and how I hope it will be again. It is a sad song of an idyllic cottage that is now for sale because the marriage is over. I do not see that happening here, but the way the cottage is described is just perfect. The lyrics describe the tidy house, perfect lawn, lovely garden. It makes me imagine our house with all the landscaping done, the house painted, pretty yellow exterior shutters, garage redone, goldfish back in the pond, and so on. I really hope this place will one day be an idyllic cottage once again. Some days it seems like it will never happen, then I remember how much better the place looks than this time a year ago. Slowly but surely we are getting there. But, in my mind I keep seeing our perfect cottage...holding onto the dream.

Thursday, May 28, 2009

Behind Closed Doors

"No knows what goes on behind closed doors." Ah, I love Charlie Rich, but that is not the point of this post. I was thinking about how the stuff going on behind our bedroom curtains, yep we don't have doors, can use a little kick starting. So, if you are looking to heat things up "behind closed doors", then pop over to Our Chaotic Life, or Simply Stacie, or Barely Domestic Mama , or Busy Mom all blogs that are currently doing Eden Fantasy giveaways. I've seen so many of these all over the blogsphere and am so envious of these ladies for getting to do these great reviews. Eden Fantasy seems to offer something for those who are a little naughty to those who just enjoy romance. A little something fun for everyone. So, go check out some great giveaways & good luck!

Tuesday, May 12, 2009

The Best Day

I am a little late getting this up. Mother's Day was fantastic. My darling hubby and kids fed me, did all the housework, and were in general just wonderful to me all day long. We all just really enjoyed our time together and it was fantastic!

It seems we spend less and less time together today and it makes me sad. Tristen will be a teenager in November. It's like you blink and your babies are half grown. All too soon they will be leaving the nest. Makes me want to hold on tight and never let them go!

There is a beautiful song by Taylor Swift called The Best Day that brings tears to my eyes. It talks about how a daughter feels about her mom. Even when I am at my wits end, I love being a mother. There is no more important job out there. I just hope I am letting my kids know how much they are loved, how amazing they are, and how proud I am of them! I pray that the lyrics of this song will one day express how my kids feel about me. And it sums up my Mother's Day this year, it was The Best Day!

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Luckenbach, Texas

Guess where we are planning to go for our anniversary this weekend? I cannot wait! I've only been once as a child, and I a convinced it will be much more fun as an adult! Dan has never been so this will be a first for him. I still dream of renewing our vows at Luckenbach...how country am I? LOL. Anyway, I am really lucky forward to doing something fun for our 13th.

This song is so good and is so true of how most people live these days. Dan and I want so badly to slow down and live a simple kind of life. Take things easy, enjoy our family and each other, not be so materialistic. We are slowly but surely getting there. To me the song talks of getting back to what we really need, love and each other.

Plus, the four men singing it in this video are phenomenal! Does it get much better than these country music legends? I find all of their voices incredibly comforting. On my worst day, any one or all of them can bring me back to a good mood. Oh, and the Hag, he can do it to. I find them incredibly soothing. So, if you enjoy great country music, be sure to check out the video of Waylon, Willie, Kristofferson, and Cash. They were amazing together!

Monday, April 27, 2009

Ain't To Proud Too Beg ~ Musical Monday

I just happened upon Musical Monday and it seems like a fun idea! The theme for today is Best Song From A Movie. This one is hard for me, as I have a serious thing for movie soundtracks and there are so many great ones! After much deliberation, I chose Ain't To Proud To Beg from The Big Chill. It's one of my favorite movies ever, and the song is during one of my favorite scenes. Enjoy!

Saturday, April 25, 2009

Simple Man

My sister in law Abby recently posted about the poem If by Rudyard Kipling and how it said all the things she wanted to say to her son Milo. I agree it is a wonderful poem and does make me think of what we all want our children to be when they grow up.



But, when it comes to my own sweet little boy, that poem is not the first thing that pops into my mind. Tristen makes me think of Simple Man. I realize that it's a huge leap from Kipling to Lynyrd Skynyrd, but just roll with me on this one. It's a beautiful song with a mother telling her son what she wants for him. There are no fancy words, frills, or anything like that. It's simple, straight forward, and brings me to tears every time I hear it.

I want Tristen to realize there is more to life than money and things. To know the love of Our Father. That it is the ones you love that are important. To be true to himself. To be a man he can be proud of!

So, Tristen my love, this is my song for you.
Mama told me when I was young
Come sit beside me, my only son
And listen closely to what I say.
And if you do this
It will help you some sunny day.
Take your time... don't live too fast,
Troubles will come and they will pass.
Go find a woman and you'll find love,
And don't forget son,
There is someone up above.

(chorus)
And be a simple kind of man.
Be something you love and understand.
Be a simple kind of man.
Wont you do this for me son,
If you can?

Forget your lust for the rich mans gold
All that you need is in your soul,
And you can do this if you try.
All that I want for you my son,
Is to be satisfied.

(chorus)

Boy, don't you worry... you'll find yourself.
Follow you heart and nothing else.
And you can do this if you try.
All I want for you my son,
Is to be satisfied.

(chorus)

Monday, April 20, 2009

Forever & Ever Amen

We had a wild weekend! We took a trip up to Lubbock to visit the in laws. The whole family met up at Garcia's Mexican restaurant for a family dinner. Dan and I split beef fajitas; they were yummy. But, suddenly while chewing a piece of steak, the steak sorta fell down my throat without too much chewing. And the craziness ensued!

I couldn't cough it up, believe me I tried. Apparently coughing requires inhaling, which was not possible. So, I stood up, wrapped my hands around my throat, and preceded to give crazy desperate looks to those around me. Dan says I hit him repeatedly in the arm, but I don't remember this. He didn't know the Heimlich maneuver so he started beating my on the back. Not the thing to do, but it was all he knew to do. I didn't feel it at all and during the whole ordeal I didn't look over at him. I'm not sure why. I do remember thinking that I didn't want the other half of the table to see me, as that is where my kiddos were at. I worried about scaring them. At some point my wonderful sister in law Abby yelled out something about me turning blue. This came about the time I had decided that this was the end. I was blacking out and heading towards the floor when my other wonderful sister in law Tammy pushed Dan off me, wrapped her arms around me, and Heimliched me. She did it twice and that beef flew out of my windpipe. My sisters in law rock!

Folks, I 'll tell you I have never been so freaked out in my life! I am told that he whole incident lasted about a minute, but from where I was out it seemed like hours. I kept thinking that my kids were going to sit there and watch me die in front of them. Panic is not the word. Neither is fear, they just don't seem adequate to cover the range of thoughts and emotions going through my brain.

The next morning I felt terrible. I have a wicked bruise between my shoulder blades where my loving husband desperately tried to save me. He told me he was very afraid that he was going to lose me. The only good thing that came of it is he is being so much more affectionate and considerate than normal. I hope that behavior sticks around :-) He sang me to sleep Friday night to the tune of Forever & Ever Amen. I am a truly blessed gal!

So, now I am going to make the whole family take a CPR/first aid class. I am certified in CPR/first aid, but when it's happening to you, it is very hard to remember what to do. I think that the Heimlich at minimum is something everyone should know.

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Tight Fittin' Jeans

It seems all my jeans are tight fitting these days. I really hate it. I've always been a large gal, but it is getting ridiculous. I am starting to have trouble keeping up with my kids and that is unacceptable in my mind. For the first time in a long time, I am putting a lot of effort into losing some weight. And so far it's getting me nowhere!

I'm trying to be more careful about what I eat and am making an effort to move more. The Wii Fit has helped me to get more active, which is great. I do not like to exercise, so anything that can make it more fun is great in my book! I think my main problem is when it come to eating. If I eat at all during the day it's at breakfast, but normally I only eat breakfast a few times a week. The norm is for me to eat nothing until dinner. So, at around 3 in the afternoon I am starving. Thank goodness we don't keep much junk food in the house or I'd be binging on whole boxes of it! My eating habits, and basically making myself eat healthy meals during the day I know would make a difference. I'm just truly usually not hungry in the mornings. Maybe I'll make my self do Slim Fast in the mornings or something. I've got to take control of my eating habits, my weight, and my overall health.

Do any of y'all struggle with weight issues? I'd love to hear from y'all any good diet and/or exercise tips you may have.

Monday, April 13, 2009

Take The Money And Run


Take the Money and Run, one of my favorite Steve Miller songs. Heck, I like most Steve Miller songs. But, this post is not about Steve Miller.

In January, I rescued a full blood dachshund from the local pound. She had all her shots, was spayed, and absolutely adorable. Was I looking to adopt a daschund? No. But, we were looking for a small dog to join our family. Lucy came home with us because she'd been in the pound here since November. The pound here is awful...the worst one I've ever seen. The conditions are repulsive and our "animal control officer" does not allow volunteers to work out there. He says he can handle it all himself. It's shameful! The place is dirty, smelly, and the poor animals get no socialization or human interaction at all. I paid for Lucy's city tag and got her out of there. My plan was not so much to keep her, but to find a daschund rescue to take her. I knew there had to be a no kill shelter or rescue somewhere and I just could not leave her there.

So, last week I realize that she is just not a good fit for our family. She hats the kids. She hates the cats. She hates the other dogs. She needs a family that can be an only dog household. I'm think a retired person or couple looking for a lap dog. She is yipping at me now because my computer chair does not let me have a good lap for her to sit on. Anyway, we call a few rescues and the closest no kill shelter and no one will take her. I decided to put an ad in the paper in an effort to find her a proper family. I prepared a whole bunch of questions, expect references, the who nine yards. She is a special girl and deserves a forever home.

The first call I get is a relay call, from a hearing impaired person. I'd never received a call like this before and getting through it was a challenge because it's very different from just talking on the phone. I finally get an email address and we start communicating that way. The man says he lives in Ohio and wants to have Lucy shipped to him. I replied back that there was no way she was going to a family that had never even seen her. At the time I was thinking "Aren't there daschunds in Ohio?" He replies back that he will pay me $100, double my asked for adoption fee, if I'd reserve her for him, plus he'd pay shipping costs. Via CHECK, written for over the amount of the adoption fee. Then I was to WESTERN UNION the difference to the "shipping company". I bet you could hear the alarm bells going of in my head. I did an IP check on his email. He was on the third floor of an office building in Nigeria. Lovely.

So, I started doing some research. It seems using the relay phone system for the hearing impaired is the new way these scammers operate. They can call you and you have no clue they are from another country. The poor relay operators have to take the calls and do their job because they have no way of knowing who is legit and who isn't. It seems the puppy scam is one of many similar scams. I am so thankful I realized what was going on really quickly, but I wonder how many hundreds of folks fall for this. I would have been sent a check for say $500, taken to the bank & cashed it, them wired the $400 to the "shipping company". Then the check would bounce because it's a fake, I'm out a lot of money, and the crooks have taken the money and run! Apparently, these types of scams take a lot of people everyday. Worse yet, it doesn't seem that US law enforcement can do anything about it! All sorts of scams, especially work at home ones are on the rise it seems. I guess so many people are looking for extra income during this economic down turn, that they are sadly easy prey for crooks.

So, be on your toys y'all! I cannot believe how low these guys will stoop!
As for Lucy, the scam phone call is the only one we've received. I do not know what we are going to do, but we just cannot keep her. She's such a sweetie, but she needs a new family. Keep your fingers crossed that I can place her soon!

Tuesday, April 7, 2009

Make Her Fall In Love With Me Song

Gruene Hall,
the oldest dance hall in Texas.
Photo by Lodigs.

I want to take you back 14 years. Fourteen years ago, I was a cutie! Rockies, Wranglers, boots, belts, if it said country/western, I loved it! And I looked good in my tight jeans and boots. I so wish I could still say that. Anyway, I loved country boys. My idea of a great time was scootin' across a sawdust floor in the arms of a hottie in Wranglers, a hat, and smelling of Stetson cologne. I danced blisters onto my feet more weekends than I can count! I loved it so much! Cowboys were my guy of choice and I seldom ever strayed.

Enter Dan. Dan, who I developed a crush on at age 9. Dan, who played golf of all things! Dan who has my heart and has for years. Did you see those things I listed above? He does wear Wranglers, just not the tight, creased, starched variety. And he does wear Stetson, which makes me oh so happy. But, he does not now and never has, danced.

Our 13th wedding anniversary is next month and in all those years the man has never scooted me across a floor. I've never swayed in his arms to a slow song. There is no fox trotting, jitter bugging, or twisting going on around here. Dan does not dance! It makes me insane!

I love to dance and miss it so much! I heard this song by King George today and was two steppin' with a mop. The song sure brought back some great memories! I don't so much miss the cowboys, just the fun & dancin'! I'm afraid my only dance partners for the rest of my days will be cleaning implements. What a bummer!

Does your significant other not do something you really enjoy? Surely I'm not the only one in this boat?

If you haven't heard this song, go check out my playlist. It's wrongly labeled Troubador for some strange reason!

Monday, April 6, 2009

Forever & For Always

My DH turned 32 yesterday. I spent the day with him, so am just now getting around to posting. I am incredibly blessed to be loved by this amazing man! There are so many songs that make me think of him, but this one says what I want to say him today. I love you so much Dan!

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

I Love NASCAR!

Image by wishymom

The headline read: Obama NASCAR Policy: GM & Chrysler OUT!

I swear there was probably smoke coming out of my ears awhile ago. I read that President Obama was going to mess with my NASCAR. You have no idea how many articles I went through before I found this! Boy was I glad to read it! I love my NASCAR!

I'm sure that NASCAR does costs the auto makers a lot of money, but I'm pretty sure it generates a ton of money as well. I've read a ton of comments saying us "dumb rednecks" would just have to wise up and realize that these are tough economic times, which made me mad as heck! I know how bad the times are! All you have to do is go to the gas pumps or grocery stores to figure it out! But, why pick on NASCAR when big companies are spending millions on sports arenas for everything from football to basketball. I feel that there is way too much money spent on professional sports, but I still enjoy watching them.

Anyway this was one heck of an April Fool's Day joke. Good one, Car & Driver...you had me going there for awhile!

Tuesday, March 31, 2009

She Couldn't Change Me


Have you ever heard this song? It's a fun little tune, scroll down to the bottom of the blog to check it out!

Anyway, it makes me think of me & Dan. We've been together for 14 years and will celebrate our 13th wedding anniversary in May. We were high school sweet hearts and I love him more now than I did then. It was interesting at first, both of us kids suddenly thrown into new adult roles. We both spent a lot of time trying to change each other. As you can imagine, it didn't work out too well.

I suppose we have both changed over the years, but then you do as you grow up. We've changed each other too I guess. For instance, he did not like my "old country" music back in the day, and now he's playing Merle Haggard, George Jones, and Johnny Cash on the guitar. There was a time that I wanted to break all his Eagles vinyl over his head because I was so sick of it, yet I'm the one who bought concert tickets & ended up crying over how exciting it was! I put up with his Skoal ring, he's finally decided I can "feminize" our bedroom. It's all about give and take. And now, I wouldn't change my man for the world!

"I guess when you love someone you just gotta let it be"


Friday, March 27, 2009

Don't Touch My Willie

No, not like that! Shame on you for thinking that. But, I must admit that is the first song that came to mind when I saw the 60 foot phallus 18 year old Rory McInnes had painted on the roof of his parents home on the news today. The really interesting part is that it had been there over a year before his folks found out about it! And I thought Little Man was mischievous!

As for the song, I LOVE Kevin Fowler. His songs remind me of Texas and I can relate to most of them. I'm betting you'll see more of his songs here on my blog, as many are favorites. This song about Willie is a favorite, Willie is awesome! If I need to chill out, Willie is what gets put on the stereo. Although, I'm not ad free with my Haggard and Jones as Mr. Fowler is.

So, here you have a bit of strange news and a silly song to start your weekend off right! Happy Friday y'all!

Kevin Fowler - Don't Touch My Willie lyrics

She showed up at my house at half past nine
In a low-cut dress with a bottle of wine
She said this will be a night you won't forget

She poured us some drinks to get us into the mood
I reached for the lights, she reached for my tunes
She pulled out that Red Headed Stranger, I stood up and said

Don't touch my Willie
I don't know you that well
Help yourself to some Haggard or some Jones
Hell, or anybody else
I don't know what you heard
I ain't that kind of guy
Yeah so don't touch my Willie,
We'll get a long just fine

She said she never met a man like me in her life
Who wouldn't share his Willie on the very first night
I said it's nothing personal, don't take it so hard

I don't pull out my Willie for just anyone
There's a lot of other records that you can choose from
So let me make myself clear before you go too far

Don't touch my Willie
I don't know you that well
Help yourself to some Haggard or some Jones
Hell, or anybody else
I don't know what you heard
I ain't that kind of guy
Yeah so don't touch my Willie,
We'll get a long just fine

Keep your hands off my Willie,
We'll get along just fine



Lyrics Kevin Fowler lyrics - Don't Touch My Willie lyrics

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

I Ain't Drunk

photo by mseasons

Mary Ellen Hause was a teaching aid at Springboro High School in Ohio. She ended up in hot water after a photo of her posing with three teenage cheerleaders was found on one of the girl's Facebook pages. While it is not a crime to have your pic taken with your son's teenage friends, it is a crime to be hanging out with teenagers while they are drinking...the photo shows the girls holding Smirnoff bottles. Hause claims she did not know the kids were drinking when they gathered around her to take the picture. She ended up being sentenced to 30 days incarceration, a $500 fine, 3 years of probation, and 10 days of community service.

The whole incident upsets me on so many levels! How do you not notice liquor bottles in these girl' hands? I think her pleas of innocence are completely bogus and she just doesn't like that she got caught. When I was a teenager, everyone knew whose parents let them drink and would let friends drink at their house as well. Some parents are all about "if you are going to drink, do it here so you won't be out driving". As a teenager, these were the "cool" parents. As a parent myself now, the idea of another child's parent letting my kids drink, hanging out with them drinking, or even knowing that my kids were out drinking and not alerting me to it makes my blood boil. Add in the fact that this was a teaching aid, an authority figure over these kids, and in my mind it makes it worse. She set quite an example for these young people! So, I am quite pleased that she got more than just a slap on the wrist for this. Of course, this is just my opinion. Feel free to disagree with me.

Monday, March 23, 2009

You Can't Always Get What You Want

photo by rizkapb

This is the lesson Little Man is learning tonight.

He was a terror this morning and it took all the self control I had not just to snap! He kept saying no to me, got in my face, and was incredibly disrespectful. When DH came home and we decided on a punishment for him, Little Man threw yet another fit. Parenting is such a challenge at times!

He was sent to his room for the rest of the evening after stealing half of his sister's dinner off her plate. He's in there pouting and telling us we are the meanest parents in the world, while we are making banana splits. Life is so unfair!

Saturday, March 21, 2009

Here for the Party!

Ultimate Blog Party 2009

I cannot believe I didn't find this until today! 5 Minutes for Mom is hosting the Ultimate Blog Party 2009! I love blog parties! You always find so many new blogs that become must reads and meet so many great new folks! I am going to visit as many of them as I can. The house will run itself while I spend a week attached to my computer, right?
.
There are awesome prizes as well. My top three favorites are:

*A Blog Makeover by Southern Girl Blog Design. (INTL 33) I've been searching for a blog design I could afford for weeks and found her site. She is one talented lady!

*A blog design by Sassy Chic. (INTL 28) She does great work too!

* A blog design by Sara's Pixel Studio. (INTL 36) I wish I could do the amazing things she does!

I also would be completely thrilled to win INTL 23, INTL 35, USC 16, USC 26, USC 63, or well winning anything would be fantastic!

So, click on over and check out the UBP! You will find cool blogs, meet new people, and maybe win something awesome!

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Hey Jude

Melanie has been my best friend for about 18 years. She lives in Oregon with her hubby and four kiddos. I miss her terribly. Not a day passes that I do not think of her and wish we lived closer. Anyway, we were talking on the phone yesterday while she was getting her younger little ones ready to go pick up the oldest from school. In the middle of talking to me, she pauses and I overhear the following:


"Jude! If that's a booger on your finger do not put it in your mouth, on the couch, or on me!"

For some reason this strikes me as absolutely hilarious. Maybe it because my little kid days or over, I don't know. What really got to me is it was one of those, I can't believe we actually have to say these things sometimes. Back in the day, we would've sworn we'd never utter such a phrase.

Rewind to sixth grade. The two of us were part of a group of four. We were the cool kids. The in crowd. The "it" girls. A clique although we never would've admitted it back then. Everyone loved us, from the other kids to the teachers. I remember that time as us doing whatever we wanted, whenever we wanted. I once looked back on that time in my life fondly, then i started reading Queen Bees & Wanna Bes and suddenly became rather ashamed. I don't remember us being mean, but we probably weren't as kind as we could have been. But, I've stumbled off the subject here. Back in the day we were super cool and it was a lot of fun!

Now I'm 30 and Melly will be in May. In November, I'll be the mom of a teenager. I currently say things like "No, you may not watch a rated R movie!" And Melly says "Hey Jude!". It sure seems like a long fall from "it girl" to here.

Sunday, March 15, 2009

Unconditional

Oh boy, I have a feeling these teenage years are going to be a wild ride!Tristen is already getting into the brooding, cranky, general moodiness that seems to accompany the teen years. One minute he wants us to treat him more like an adult, the next minute he says we expect to much of him. He's happy one minute, in tears the next. You never know what will cause a door to slam or, my personal favorite, an "I hate you!" to be shouted. Add to all this teenage hormonal angst the fact that he is severely ADD and it makes for a very tumultuous home at times.

Today he thinks we are all out to get him. DH and I are purely evil because we expect him to finish a job that he promised would be finished over a month ago. He wanted $25 for a school book fair, but we told him he had to earn it. This was met with a ton of promises that it would be finished over that weekend. Fast forward to now and guess what? It's still not done. And he just flat doesn't want to do it. So, in and out of the house he goes. He's gotten mad and punched something, torn down the curtain that is our bedroom door, and is in general behaving horribly. He is to the age that disciplining him is becoming quite a challenge. It really worries me at times.

Why can't children realize that we are not here to make them miserable? I just want to teach him responsibility. Isn't it every parent's ultimate goal to raise their kids to be responsible, productive adults? That's all I want. Last night we tried to tell him that we truly do not ask that much of him. DH asked him to imagine what it would be like to live on his own and have to work for money like DH does, and cook, clean, do his own laundry, all the shopping, and everything that we as a family do together...but doing it all on his own. I think it made his constant "I can't wait until I move out!" sound not quite as appealing. At the very least, it sure made him think about how bad he has it here at home. Or it least I thought so at the time.

But here we are today, full of the poor, pitiful me act again. Mom who have already been here, does it get better? Please tell me it does! All I can do is try to be the best mom I can be, pray a lot, and love him unconditionally.

Saturday, March 14, 2009

Little Houses

Love may grow best in little houses, but brothers & sisters grow best in separate rooms. I think I've mentioned before that the kids have been sharing a 20ft+ long room, divided buy a big curtain my oh so fabulous Nanny made for them. In the past week, we managed to get the Princess moved into her own room. It's painted lavender and she's loving it. Today DH built a wall where the curtain once hung, giving Little Man more privacy and making the room that was once the Princess' our new dining room. We are all so excited! Since Little Man is nearly a teenager, having his own space will be a great thing. Plus, having a dining room that is located so near the kitchen is really making me happy! DH sure is doing a lot with our little house! I can't wait to see which project he tackles next!

Friday, March 13, 2009

You're The Reason Our Kids Are Ugly

Now, don't freak out! I do not think my kids are ugly! It's just the phone conversation DH and I just had made me think of this song.

You see, it's Friday and DH just wants to get home from work. I said something along the lines of I was sorry he had to be there. He replied, "It's all your fault. Yours, Little Man's, and the Princess'". At first I was taken aback by this. Then I said 'Yep, and the three of you are responsible for me being elbow deep in dish water while I'm talking to you". Indeed, when you have a family you tend to find yourself doing things that you sometimes wish you didn't have to do, but I would not change a thing! Life may not be perfect, we may not have gobs of money, yet as the song says "I love you just the same".

I think part of having a family means sacrifice. You may not have everything you want, but does it really matter? Our family has all that is important: food, shelter, clothes, and each other. We do not really want for anything. Sure, more money would make life easier, but I doubt it would make us happier. My happiness is the happiness of my family. I love being a stay at home wife & mom. There is nothing I enjoy more than taking care of my family. I feel it is what I was meant to do.

Now, I'm not June Cleaver or Donna Reed and I do sometimes get overwhelmed by doing everything on my own. Sometimes my family seems to think that mom and slave or indentured servant are one in the same. I do not appreciate having to pick up after the whole household like the are toddlers. I am completely aware of the fact that everyone in this house sometimes takes advantage of dear old Mom. "Just leave your plate on the table, Mom will get it" etc...But I really do feel like taking care of my family is what I am here to do. I don't mind the laundry, dishes, cooking, cleaning, more laundry, scrubbing, dusting, yet more laundry...at least most of the time. I will freely admit there are times when I need a break or wish I had a sick day, this job never ends after all.I am sure there are lots of moms out there that get overwhelmed with all they have to do in a day, everyday. It's a big job taking are of a family. So, even though I sometimes need a break, I truly love what I do.

I have a dear friend who thinks I'm brain washed. I think she sees me as a slave to my husband and kids, like I wait on them hand and foot, which is not the case. I am also a bit too into my absolute belief that DH is the head of this house and that I should submit to him. She does not like that. Strangely enough, this was never something he pushed on me, in fact I'm not sure we've ever even discussed it. It is just the way things are, and in my mind the way they should be. He is the head of our family and I am his helpmeet. And you know what? I am happy. I think that's what it all comes down to. I do not feel like a miserable slave. I am a happy homemaker. True, I might get overwhelmed, but who doesn't? I love my life, just the way it is.

You're The Reason Our Kids Are Ugly
Conway Twitty & Loretta Lynn

You're the reason I'm a-ridin' around on recapped tires.
And you're the reason I'm hangin' our clothes outside on wires.
And you're the reason our kids are ugly, little darlin'
Ah, but looks ain't ev'rythin' and money ain't ev'rythin'
But I love you just the same.
You're the reason I've changed to beer from soda pop.
And you're the reason I never get to go to the beauty shop.
You're the reason our kids are ugly, little darlin'
Ah, but looks ain't ev'rythin', and money ain't ev'rythin'
But I love you just the same.
I guess that we won't ever have everything we need
'Cause when we get ahead it's got another mouth to feed

And that's the reason that my good looks and my figure is gone.
And that's the reason that I ain't got no hair to comb.
And you're the reason our kids are ugly, little darlin'
Ah, but looks ain't ev'rythin', and money ain't ev'rythin'
But I love you just the same
I guess that we won't ever have everything we need
'Cause when we get ahead it's got another mouth to feed

--- Instrumental ---

Conway, why in the devil don't you go
And shave and put on a clean pair of pants?
But Loretta, look at yourself. Now I wish you'd take them
Curlers out of your hair and go put on a little makeup
And get out of that housecoat before supper.
Ha, well let me tell you something,
Conway, considerin' everything that I went through today,
I look like a movie star.
Eh-he-yeah, Ruth Buzzie.
Thankyee.
Besides that, all our kids took after your part of the family, anyway.

Oh they did, huh? What abouts the ones that's Bald?
(Laughs)
Well, I guess you could say they take after me...
(laughs)
(laughs)

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Rockin' With the Rythm of the Rain


How we needed the rain that has been steadily coming down for the past two days! The kids have been whining about it because with it cane a pretty good drop in temperature, but I'll take rain any way we can get it! It has been so dry here for what seems like months. i honestly do not remember when it rained last. The drought like conditions and wind have made the fire danger a real problem. Although it probably won't stay wet for long, the rain will at least give the land a nice refreshing drink. I am just happy to see water for the garden coming from the heavens rather than our garden hose. So, we'll bundle up and deal with the cold, knowing that the rain accompanying it is a real blessing.


Next week it will probably be bone dry and in the 80s again. Gotta love this Texas weather!


BTW, our first bluebonnets are out in the yard! It seems Spring is on it's way! I'm so excited!

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Write This Down

Yep, that's what I need to do. But in reality, if I wrote stuff down, I'd just lose the list. I am getting so ditzy, it's amazing that I can function at all!

Seriously ya;ll, it's getting bad! I go outside and start laundry, then forget about it when the phone rings. I start cleaning the toilet, then remember the laundry, so I switch it to the dryer & start another load, but never get the toilet scrubbed. I make the bed, dust the living room, remember that I need to finish up a book I'm reviewing so I sit to do that. Suddenly it's 3:15, the kids are coming home and DH is calling asking what's for dinner. Whoops, i forgot to thaw anything! That's just an average, forgetful day for me. I flit from project to project and feel that I never get anything fully accomplished. It's so frustrating!

Am I the only mom & homemaker out there that does this? How do you all stay on task? I have a a household notebook, but I'm not thrilled with it. Plus, half the time I don't know where it is, lol. Tell me, what works for you? And what doesn't?

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Playboys of the Southwestern World

Do y'all know this little ditty by Blake Shelton? If not, it's on MyPod in my sidebar, give it a listen. I promise it was written for DH and his best friend Cowboy. I can sooo see them pulling a stunt like the one the song describes! They were kids together, grew up just a few houses apart. I guess they've been friends over 20 years now. I sometimes think that when they are together, they are still little boys.

Anyway, Cowboy lived in Arizona awhile and when he moved back to Texas, well he brought out DH's inner wild child. To be 100% honest about it, there was a time that I had a "him or me" mentality about him, as I was sure he was driving our marriage straight to ruin. In my mind a self committed bachelor had no business dragging very married DH along bar hopping and chasing gals. But, that's just exactly what he did. Neither man could understand why it angered me so, after all they were just having fun. Did you notice the key word in that sentence was man? Well, I finally got my point across the night he brought home a woman from a bar...to my couch...with my kids there...on a school night! I cannot even put into words what I was feeling or describe the all out scene that ensued. Let's just say it wasn't pretty! He didn't come around much after that, then he moved to way down south Texas and we've not seen him for a year.

Sorry about that, it was not supposed to be a rant. It was just meant to illustrate how Cowboy can talk DH into anything and convince him that I won't be mad at him. Be it staying at a bar until closing time when they told me they'd be home buy 7 or bringing wild women home to bop on my couch. Cowboy can make anything sound like a good idea and can generally smooth talk his way out of any tight spot. DH had not been in a bar before and has not crossed the threshold of one since..see what I mean?

At this point you are probably wondering why I did not seriously injure this man and forbid him to step foot in our house again. My first reason is he IS DH's oldest and dearest friend, they love each other like family. DH would not tolerate me kicking Cowboy out of our lives. Plus, he really is a good man. If he'd just settle down some, he'd be a catch and he'll be a wonderful daddy one day. My problem you see, is he is the most charming, smooth talking cowboy I've ever met. He can melt your heart in less than 10 minutes, no matter how mad you are. Stupid, silver tongued, dimpled Cowboy! You cannot hold a grudge against him it's just not possible!

So tonight my family has driven to a neighboring town to visit Cowboy before he moves back to Arizona. I am so sad that I could not go with them. After all the shenanigans he's talked DH into pulling, I still love him! We all miss him terribly when he's far away! The kids are so sad, they love him so (he can charm kids as well). He's a good old boy, my children's godfather, and my husband's dearest friend. I'm not sure what that makes him to me, but I know he loves us all and would be there for any of us in a heart beat should we need him. We'll miss you Cowboy!

Monday, March 9, 2009

Music Monday ~ Sweet Thing

I apparently live under a rock, because I heard this song for the first time over the weekend. This song makes me smile because DH has called me his ST since we first started dating. This song is so very us! Nothing like a song that makes you feel good all over! I hope you enjoy it as much as we do!



Come join Music Monday and share your songs with us. One simple rule, leave ONLY the actual post link here. You can grab this code at LJL Please note these links are STRICTLY for Music Monday participants only. All others will be deleted without prejudice.




Sunday, March 8, 2009

What I Love About Sunday

I just love Sundays! It is the one day a week when the four of us are all truly together. We may spend the day working on the house, tending to the yard, playing with the dogs, or playing games. No matter what we are doing, we are doing it as a family. It's a day to chill and just be a family. In this busy world, I think many of us tend to not do this enough. I love being with the three souls I love the most! So, enjoy your Sunday! I'm off to fry chicken with Little Miss!