Showing posts with label misc.. Show all posts
Showing posts with label misc.. Show all posts

5/4/10

Waiting for It?

No essays or writing experiments this time- sorry. It's all me this time, folks, since attempting to go about my business and live my life is just.. never.. good enough. So, by popular demand, I'd say the bitch is back. Miss me?


I'm tired of explaining myself. Explaining, finding justification for, life. It is what it is, and that's honestly the best way to describe anyone's life. I'm tired of worrying what repercussions will come from making memories and sharing them with my friends and family- because there is one, every time. I'm tired of taking shit and keeping my mouth shut- whatever life is, it isn't a game. Mine isn't anyway, and my kids' lives aren't either. I'm tired of it being ok for everyone else in the free world to do and say whatever they want- to stick their nose in, stir the pot or nudge someone else to... and there isn't supposed to be anything coming from it? Especially when keeping my mouth shut and being uninvolved with dramatics is apparently not good enough, because then it has to increase, or change course. But, if I really think about it, I don't have to say a lot. I really don't- it isn't as if I'm fighting the tide. No one is blind... or at least, not anymore. The last couple of months have opened a lot of eyes, and not from being angered or stressed, or having something to prove... you see a lot when you pay attention.


Now it's time to deal with this idiot school, again. Because of drama, because of stress, because of things I've sat back and been quiet about, things I've attempted to let “run their course”- well, it has run its' course. The fact that I'm having to go rounds again with the same people who were so bound and determined to isolate my kid last year... I'm done with this. No one isolates or upsets my kids. You aren't messing with their minds, their emotions, their balance. It just isn't happening- not while I'm steering the ship. And you can call me a bitch, you can think what you want to- it really doesn't matter. Yep, I'm horrendous. We are just awful! We're so horrible that our kids are well mannered, well liked and praised everywhere they go. Our two older kids are on the honor roll and mostly enjoy school. They are friendly, personable and the only issues we have ever had stem from our son's behaviors and patterns due to his autism. My oldest daughter is a teacher's helper, and has never been even reprimanded in school- when it comes time for conferences, I get a note, every time, stating she is doing so well I don't need to come in. They have friends, they have family who love and appreciate them. Our toddler is bright, engaging and right on schedule. She's friendly, outgoing, and thinks that everyone is her friend- because everyone she is surrounded with, in her daily life, is a friend to her. They get in trouble and lose their privileges like any other kid.. they're kids, after all. They fight and cry, yell, scream, run their mouths and there are days when I can't wait for bedtime. We have the typical issues- cleaning up after themselves, no it doesn't matter how many times he/she looked at you, you can't punch him/her. It's typical. Life in this house is messy, loud, chaotic and at times insane. Hell, I'm messy,loud, chaotic and at times insane- I'm a mother. It's part of our job to be all those things- if we didn't learn to bend, as well as learn as we go, we'd mess it up even more than we're bound to already. We make mistakes with them, and we learn from it. But the important part is we teach them- we give them the cushion they need to know that when they fall, however they fall, their mother is standing right there with them. I won't always agree with them, but I will support them. To do any less... what's the point of having a child if that, too, is conditional?


You know how I spend my day? In between apparently pissing people off and being so awful I mean? Tell me if it sounds familiar to any of you. My day never really “begins” because, as a parent, your days never really “end.” Putting them to bed doesn't mean it's over- there are bathroom trips, drinks, nightmares, upset stomachs.. you name it, it happens. Usually in the middle of the night. I think it's possible only after midnight for a child to actually get hit with a bug- they feel fine all day, go to bed and then WHAM! So you sleep with one ear open, always. And, as someone who “doesn't work”, I sure do sit around on my ass a lot- in between doing the laundry, getting snacks and meals, cleaning up after animals and a two year old all day, then three kids and the same animals at night. It's housework, homework, wrangling them for showers, backpacks, finding toys, dirty socks... I am the chef, the waitress, the maid. I'm the doctor, the surgeon for injured toys as well as children. I'm the judge, the defense attorney, prosecution and jury at the same time. I'm the referee, the counsel, the conscience. I'm their audience, the co-star, the dress up buddy. Back up dancer, bubble blower, boo boo kisser. I'm the entire staff here, because of the hours he keeps. I have so much extra time on my hands, obviously. My day “ends” before eleven PM and I consider it a good day. And that's the norm- that's not meetings and issues, emails, phone calls, family, friends. I'm the plan maker, activities coordinator, bag packer, diaper changer, potty trainer. I am their Mother. I do my job. How I do it is obviously working- my kids are a perfect example of doing something right. And if they defend themselves against someone and that's an issue- they are a lot like their parents. They don't go out of their way to start anything- but they sure can finish it can't they?


I'm tired of it. I'm tired of being questioned, challenged, f'd with. And here it is, in plain English, black and white- I don't give a damn what the issue is, what he said, she said, so and so thinks, wants and feels. You don't live in this house, you don't pay these bills. You don't raise these kids, or share in this marriage, or this life in that way. Back off. Schools, people, phone calls, letters, drama, bullshit. It's not happening- I'm not putting them through any more shit, any more games. I have a kind heart, not a gullible one. There's a difference. And I'm done. I'm tired of getting slapped every time that other cheek is turned. Some things are changing, and some are staying exactly as they are. That's the beginning and end of it. All I'm trying to do is live my life with my family, with happiness and joy and memories they deserve- I suggest everyone else do the same..

4/5/10

Simple

In trying some new things, writing wise, I keep coming back to these essays of sorts. They aren't really stories, yet they are. It's kind of odd, and very new, but I'm going with it. This is one of the newest.. THE newest, actually... and all I could think when I wanted a title was "Simple".


She wants to stand at her back door and eat a hot dog. It's really that simple. It's quiet, but for the music and comforting hum of the dryer- but the thunder is rolling in. And all she wants is to stand barefoot in her kitchen, back door open wide,hot dog in hand and listen to the storm. Yep, she really is just that easy to please.

It's the little things, the ones that take her back to being a barefoot kid playing in the rain. The memories that come back with a sound or a scent, a lyric or a perfect storm rolling in just when it's time to get comfy for the night. Just in time to curl up in bed with a book or a movie playing low in the background. All that's missing is a glass of wine and the perfect snuggle, but she isn't too concerned- she knows she'll have one of those things, the important one, before much longer.

It's like new again, this enjoying the moments that come when you need them most, when you least expect them. She's proven something to herself lately.. and that's where that counts, too. In proving to herself that she could... she absolutely could. That was a mountain she never thought she'd see the other side of... it was almost a miracle, that knowing she could... the actual miracle was looking past that and seeing that she didn't have to.

She doesn't get that, not really. It's probably something she will never completely know, or hold onto. Time and experience are funny that way. They take a lot of your absolutes... but they give a lot of them back, too. Those are just harder to find, harder to accept, and so much more worth it. Those are the ones that stay, she thinks now, the ones you learn with some age and some experience. She doesn't think of it as jaded, she thinks of it as being just a touch more realistic than she once was.

She isn't sure how she feels about herself just yet- she's still finding pieces and dusting them off, or reaching for the ones she's ignored til now, finding a place for each one. She knows it isn't perfect, not all the pieces match, but they definitely go together well.

None of that matters tonight. Tonight she is thinking of something else, that one moment when it all clicked into place, in a way it really hadn't before. That ground under her feet is pretty solid as she stands there, barefoot, watching the storm roll in. It's really that simple. And neither one of them knew it until now.

10/11/09

Um.... Yeah....

Since it may be awhile before I post something even remotely interesting, and even longer before I post any actual "writing", I send you all to this creative writing post I did ages ago. Like I said then, the story itself had nothing to do with the article posted, or anything even remotely in common with the actual events. The rest of the explanation was almost 100% true. I DO have a manuscript in 8th grade handwriting that resembles this piece. I DID (and DO) have a friend named Teresa Kawa and that bet did exist. But, stories change. People change. And this entry will never cease to bring me to tears. For every reason.

9/22/09

The Way I Am

First off, for any unanswered emails, unreturned phone calls, etc., I apologize. I have been on the internet only to play mindless games on Facebook the last few days. LOL You are not forgotten, I am simply taking a moment to collect myself and have some space.

I think if I were to have a "group response", if there was such a thing in the varying circumstances I'm dealing with right now, I would be able to say the exact same things to 99% of the people I HAVE dealt with in the last week. That is kind of sad, to me. But I think that it's a perfect example of how a lot of people feel sometimes.

It's almost as if people paint their own portrait of you, of who you are, and sometimes they get a little right. Sometimes a lot. But, still, it's their portrait- and nine times out of ten, they paint you as they need you to be, for them. Not for cruel reasons, for the most part. But to fill a space, to fit a need... there are a million reasons people do things.

But they just don't get it, you know? They see pieces, but never the entire painting. Never the entire person under the surface. They don't want to. That makes you more real, and sometimes that isn't shallow enough for people to look. People don't want deep. They say they do, think they do. But they don't. Deep isn't safe. Deep is having and keeping, not wanting and thinking. There is a very big difference there, one I am smart enough to notice now.

Deep are the people who have had your back, always, without question. When you are at your lowest, sinking, and the world is crashing, the people who stay with you are the ones who want deep. They want the good and bad, the shit and the roses, and all of the in between. Friends, family, significant others... if they walk with you through the shit holding your hand, they've looked at the portrait you paint of yourself. If they turn their backs on you, disappear? They see a flaw in the portrait they painted, and that? Isn't someone who has your back.

I attempt to surround myself and my children with the deep ones, though those are few and rare. Although I have made errors in my judgment on who those are and are not, at times. I am not weak, or stupid. I'm simply someone that only a small handful of people in my life have taken time to actually see. And I'm as guilty of it as anyone else, I'm not saying I'm the poor misunderstood one. We all are, in our own ways. I'm just tired of people's bullshit. I'm tired of my own bullshit.

I figure at this point, I'm going to let the chips fall. I know who I can truly count on, at the end of the day, and that is all that matters. I'm all about the black and white right now. I have too many things to do, without dealing with other people's shades of grey.

7/27/09

Tunes

Been awhile. Again. Summer is winding down... but I'm thinking it won't be going out without a bang. I may be absent (again) for awhile as things unfold, or I may ramble here and make no sense to those of you not living this with me. either way....

Right now it's all about the music. I figure everyone can use some new tunes once in awhile, so I've complied a list of what I'm listening to right now. Check these out, they're great cleaning songs, and great energy burners. Enjoy!

Battlefield- Jordin Sparks
Bleed It Out- Linkin Park
Sometime Around Midnight- The Airborne Toxic Event
Snuff- Slipknot
Beautiful- Eminem (will be on my playlist forever I think!)
Knock You Down-Keri Hilson
Gives You Hell- The All-American Rejects
Trust Me-3oh!3
99 Problems/One Step Closer- Jay Z / Linkin Park
Candle (Sick and Tired)- The White Tie Affair
Wishing Well- The Airborne Toxic Event
Take What You Take- Lily Allen
I Don't Care- Apocalyptica
Best Days- Matt White
Angels on the Moom- Thriving Ivory
Careful What You Wish For-Eminem

Some of these are oldies, but there are a few new ones (or new to you, maybe?) as well. I'll give you a real post soon, don't think I've completely abandoned you! Things are just busy with back to school, end of summer, and lots of "lasts". Soo.... get some of these tracks! You need them! Cause I said so! ;)

5/11/09

Ya Know it's Monday...

Happy Mommy's Day to all the super moms out there. a little late (as usual) but I was with my family all weekend doing a whole lotta nothing and enjoying every minute. LOL I hope all of you were pampered and spoiled this weekend, lavished with homemade cards and stories that you will keep forever, and didn't have to lift (barely) a finger!

I have to tell you, I am so excited by one of my gifts this year- I finally got the stand mixer I've been drooling over for awhile now. I've had hand mixers, and a wooden spoon, but now that I'm baking and cooking so much more, trying new recipes, making my own as I go, this will make life sooo much simpler! And who doesn't want simpler, really? I think I'd marry the thing if I could- all twelve speeds of it. Wait.. that sounded... eh. Well. Moving on....

The mixer came with a recipe disk. This is where it gets more exciting. For me. It's filled with easy cakes, cookies, frostings, etc... and everything but the frosting starts with a cake mix. There's a how to, there are photos, and you can make your own recipe book, add your recipes, pics, etc. I'm in heaven over here with it all. And I now know how to make bunny cakes, cat cakes and sandcastle cakes. Seriously, diagrams are a must- I'm craft-impaired. I may end up with a deformed rabbit cake, but I'm planning on trying, because stuff like that is so fun to do with the kids. And then you can blame them if it looks funny... LOL!

I'm going to start taking more pictures as I do cook, and posting more- it's a promise. I'm committing to more posting, more pics and more recipes. Except my lasagna- never will I share that, it's my secret weapon. It goes up there with the rest of my arsenal, and is off limits. Everything else is up for grabs. Be forewarned, though- I'm not a gourmet chef. I'm not going to make a rack of lamb here, guys. But I can give you easy, inexpensive and very picky family friendly. And when I say picky, I'm not exaggerating- my kids are PICKY. Alyssa won't even eat pizza or peanut butter. I can't make things without sneaking things in, and I've learned that spices and seasoning are my best friends.

So, that's all. I'm rolling some ideas around in my head, and we may be looking at a more domestic not so domestic. But, I'm going to be doing it with the music blaring and a glass of wine in hand, probably with a sink full of dishes and kids running wild. So.. not too much is changing. ;)

Stay tuned... the party is just starting!

3/6/09

It's a Cat House, Everyone....

I don't even know where to start. With my lost (and now replaced) cell phone? With the light in the microwave suddenly deciding to die? (OK, that's not a big deal, but for some reason, it freaks me out). With the loss of Internet for days due to non-working anti-virus software, leading to malware, Trojans and other lovelies taking up residence on my beloved PC? Or with the cat setting himself on fire?

No, no, you read it right. My cat took it upon himself to jump onto my stove, where my gas burner was on, and proceeded to burn himself. Nothing severe- he was singed, whiskers and some of his neck hair- but no actual burns, didn't hit the skin.... But it scared me half to death. And only seems to have reinforced that whole "don't jump on my counters or stove" deal I have going on. Because when I'm cooking? And you decide you want to get a bite of it? You will burn your ass. And then you will look as if you permed your whiskers, and after the heart attack, I will laugh at you.

There's also the pregnant cat who has taken to sleeping on our porch. The same cat I believe either had or dropped her kittens here last summer. Now, she belongs to someone in the neighborhood, and maybe it's just me, but I think she should be kept indoors right now. She's hugely pregnant, and I wouldn't want my cat outdoors when hugely pregnant. Too many things can happen, in my opinion, and it just doesn't seem the safest thing to do. Also, I really, really, REALLY don't want her having kittens here. I wonder if it was one of my boys that did the job, though, the way she's hanging out with them. **sigh** We don't need more cats, and I know this, logically. But should she have them here and leave them, I know exactly what I'll do. I just can't leave them out there, especially when they're that small and defenseless. And the little guys from last summer were teeny tiny when I brought them in. So, Internet, pray for healthy kittens, wherever they may be born. And pray J doesn't kill me if we end up outnumbered by feline companions....

I will have something more interesting to talk about soon, I promise. LOL Stay tuned- you never know what's around the corner.

2/19/09

Pieces of Me Part 1

So, I had started this post and been writing on it off and on all morning. For almost two hours, I was back and forth, putting together a semi "25 things", because I keep getting tagged on Facebook and MySpace, and on a couple of the blogs I follow. I had decided to do it in parts, because I'm a rambler, and figured 25 things would end up taking up an entire page, so why not break it up. And in the midst of it all, Blogger decided to just delete the whole thing.

After sitting, open mouthed, staring at the screen for a couple of seconds, then telling Blogger pretty creatively what it can do with its mother, father, quite possibly the dog and all of it's neighbors, here I am again.

I've done a few of these before, and I apologize for any repeats, but I'm too lazy to look through the archives and see what I've said about myself before. We'll skip the obvious Oreo obsession, coffee love and NKOTB illness I enjoy every minute of. Although, after seeing them on Regis this morning, I'm sure there will be posts that mention this a few (hundred) times. I will do my best to refrain from mentioning Joe McIntyre's ass in jeans. No promises there, though- they're on the Today show tomorrow, so we all know I may be well into the babbling, non blinking stage for awhile. What can I say? There's something to be said for that man in jeans... a lot of which is very inappropriate, and will remain firmly in my head.

Anyway, where was I... I got a little.. sidetracked. **cough** Oh, right- 25 things. Or at least, a few of 25 or more things. Right.

I'm very passionate about my beliefs. I appreciate diverse views, opinions and ideas, and enjoy a good debate. I don't have to agree with you, you don't have to agree with me. I respect that there are differences for a reason, and I think that's what makes things so interesting. However, I also appreciate the courtesy I extend- don't push what you believe on me as "right" or "true" or "the only way". I don't force my thoughts on anyone, intentionally.

I have zero tolerance for ignorance, racism, etc. I do not understand the theory behind hating someone based on their color, ethnicity, lifestyle, etc. Everyone has the right to be happy, and to be themselves without worry, fear or hatred. why does it matter who we love, what our faith is, where we come from? We're all human beings, and what you think of as so different, or weird, or awful... maybe someone thinks it about you? Ya know?

I love movies, TV, music from the 50's, 60's and 70's. I would love to have been growing up in the 60's and 70's. Woodstock? Would have soooo been there. To see Janis Joplin perform live? Come on, seriously?? I'd have enjoyed the hell out of those decades- I'd have protested the war, burned my bra and been arrested. I'd have had a peace sign big as anything (ok, I did at one point, but for an entirely different reason.. ) worn Lennon shades (again...did.. but for another reason) and probably been barefoot and content.

I am still writing, even though I don't do it as often as I want to. I have three unfinished novels and several outlines and characters waiting for me in my Word program. They mock me sometimes, but I peck away when I can. One of my finished novels, Deadly Vision, I hate with a passion. Hate is too weak a word for it, really. I don't hate it because I think it sucks, I hate it because I revised that damn thing forEVER and still didn't get it quite where I wanted. My "vision", haha, was not great for that one.

I hate reality TV. I watched the first 3 seasons of The Real World eons ago, and enjoyed it. It was interesting, new and not crammed down my throat. Now? Everywhere I look, there's a new reality show. I don't watch if I can help it. I did watch Dancing With the Stars for one season, but ya know.

I have never read the Twilight books. Or Harry Potter. No, not even one. I have never even held one of those books in my hand. Yes, I know. I know.

OK. That's it for the first little bit. Nothing intriguing, I'm afraid, but a little more to know.

Watch the 10 am hour of Today tomorrow! Heh. I'm crossing my finger for jeans!

12/8/08

It's Not Different, Mmmkay?

We've covered a few bases here on music. By a few I mean a vague mention of the music we listen to around here, and then the few (several) posts about those Boston boys I have a little like for (yeah, yeah, it's a sickness, k? thanks) But we've never really talked about the fact that while I may have a slight obsession with those guys, I have a complete obsession for music. Always have.

I love music. I firmly believe music really is the soundtrack of life. I think I've mentioned that before, but it bears repeating. I can go back through all my memories and there's usually music revolving around every moment in my life. Certain songs bring certain things back, no matter where I am when i hear it, no matter what's going on. And that suits me.

I'm not a music snob- I like everything. I'm a lyrics girl at heart, though, for the most part, which explains my dislike for screaming metal- if I can't understand you, I'm not getting it. I love country music, especially Reba. I love a good love song, but i also like the ass kicking, I'm done with your crap stuff too. I'm a rap junkie, too. And yeah, I do like Eminem (it's had a bunch of hits, thanks so much) because angry stuff aside, these guys have something to say. I like when someone writes their own stuff and puts it out there. doesn't matter if it sells a million or five hundred- it's not written to make money. It's written by someone who has something to say.

So, I'm a music person. I love it, I have it on almost 24-7. That said, I'll plunge into the murky water where I may get some hate mail. But, it'll be worth it. Just to get it off my chest. Ready? Here we go:

I hate Britney Spears. It isn't because of her lifestyle, choices, mistakes, whatever- people have ups and downs, and I'm not here to judge. Plus, there are plenty of days where I'd like to beat the hell out of someone or something with an inanimate object. It's not her personally that irks me (but the way people sniff at her for every detail is a little old). It's because of the "music"... and sweet Jesus, I use that term very, very, VERY loosely.

Let's take stock- very pretty girl, in shape, sweet personality, just wants to be allowed to be herself without all the weird shit. Talented- she can dance, and her own voice isn't too bad- when we're allowed to hear it. All that shit they use for effect these days is annoying beyond belief. I don't want to hear some amped up/distorted/echo shit on someone's voice. I want to hear them. Maybe I'm getting old, but that's just weird to me. and a pain in the ass. But, especially with Britney, it's all worked over, all canned, tinny sounding. Fake, in other words. Using that shit makes it sound fake.

Then there's the annoying, icepick sound of the music in general. Her first album was cute, poppy and fun. Yeah, I had it. So sue me, k? It was a year of pop and I went a little crazy. But, it seemed each album became less about Britney singing and more about Britney NOT singing, and being half naked. Yeah yeah sex sells. But, hello? Britney is young. And back then, she was REALLY young. But, nevertheless, there she was with little left to the imagination. Dancing, lipsynching and all that shit.

Then there was a break, when she had her issues and went a little nuts. But now... now she's back. With Womanizer. Which I hear at least nine hundred times a day on various radio stations and on my XM channels. And then, I hear it in my head. It's repetitive. It's not like hearing a real voice at all... every time I hear it, I feel like I'm listening to a damn robot sing.

It's not good music. I don't care how much it sells, how much people are clamoring for it. It's almost like a circus of really bad shit. But, to each their own. You may love it, she may be just your cup of tea.. and that's great. Me? I don't get why people sell out like that. She's the proverbial dumb acting girl with her boobs hanging out hoping the big strong man will take care of it all. And then "singing" about it. Bleecccch.

So, nope, I don't think she's "different", or "fun", or "edgy". I think she's going to be sorry when her looks start going and she has nothing to fall back on. Look at the women singers today- they're gorgeous, sure. Great bodies, absolutely. But they can also sing. Without all the bells and whistles. Now that? THAT's where Britney is different.

11/20/08

Dear Internet

I am not dead. I've skipped a couple days here and there in my NaBloPoMo. It isn't you, Internet, it's me. It's a zany little thing called life and its love of throwing curve balls at my congested head. It's sleep deprivation due to sick child. It's never ending piles of laundry and dishes. It's opening Word and tentatively tapping a few sentences, then a paragraph, then another... and feeling a little of that old friend, Creativity, finding his way back home. It's a number of things, Internet... but it's not you. :)

That said- there's a lot I could write about lately that I just haven't found time, or words, for. Not a lot surprises me these days, but sometimes I guess I surprise myself- in good ways. Sometimes there are things that seem so hard, like they are impossible to get over- like a mountain of emotion, I guess. and then suddenly, when you aren't paying attention, you realize- you've made it. Quietly, unnoticed, you've found the other side. And I'll tell you what- that feels pretty damn good. Bring it on Life- I've done what I thought impossible. I've conquered something huge. What's next?

11/18/08

Oh The Weather Outside is Frightful...

We've started snowy season here in Small Town Ohio. There was a little white on the ground yesterday morning, but it melted by afternoon. Last night, it snowed off and on throughout the evening-night, and man did it look impressive at times. Wind whipping, flakes flying. This morning it's icy and snowy... and the kids have school. On time, no delays. That's weird, because usually, they get the two hour delay deal with less weather issue than this. J drives them, and he saw an accident on the way to drop Jake, and saw someone almost spin out on the way back. Beautiful weather.

I was talking to my friend last night about how funny it is, the way your feelings for things change as you get older. when we were kids, we were all about the snow day. No school, playing outside until we were half frozen, coming in to hot chocolate or hot tea. Sometimes, it was apple cider with a cinnamon stick. We lived for those days- what was better than a free day to run wild or hang out with your friends all day long? And if those snow days happened on a Monday or Friday- a long weekend? Sweet!

Now that we're the adults, it's a little different. How bad will it get? Do we have everything we need in case it does get bad? Flashlights, batteries, etc., in case the power goes... and oh my God how long will they be out of school? LOL And those are valid concerns considering the last few winters I've wondered when Ohio became New England. 2 years ago (I think it was 2) they were out of school for around three weeks. Yeah. and the snow we've had hasn't even been the fun kind- it's so cold that it ends up crunchy and liable to cut your damn hands off. Snowballs? Sure, if you want to give someone a concussion. (Hmm... )

I'm not ready for the snow just yet. It seems like fall went too fast- we had a pretty mild summer, and then fall stopped in for a minute, if that. It was pretty warm up until the beginning of this month- a few cool/cold days scattered in, but winter has appeared with a bang now. Yippee. Do you feel my joy? LOL

So there is a nice fluff post about the weather. As usual (does it ever end??) there's a lot going on in my head, but nothing I seem able to put into (the right) words for a post, or even a conversation right now. So, it's weather. For the moment. Like everything else, it seems. For the moment.

11/13/08

And Now, The News

Doctors say marrow transplants may have cured AIDS.

This would be.. a miracle, I suppose. I'm not going to give you stats and numbers. I don't know exactly the amount of people affected by, living with, or who have lost their lives... but I know it's staggering. A cure would be an amazing thing, something I honestly believed would never happen.

Here's to hope- in all of it's packages!

Tired Doesn't Cover It....

Well, I'm like three minutes late for my every day posting deal I have going on. In my defense, I have a first birthday to plan, the school situation that never ends, and my brain is fried.

So, I'll give you another edition of the top searches leading to the blog here.

Autumn (insert last name here) Diva - thanks for knowing it, man!

And yet again, a similar to last time- "Joe McIntyre wife". Man, oh man. Two searches in a few days for those things that led you here. I love it. It's fun and funny at a time when that sort of thing is appreciated. Like I said though, not the wife. Sorry to disappoint. Although, if someone had told me oh... eons ago.. that someone someday would look for that and find me, but I wouldn't currently be in that position? I'd probably have laughed in your face.. after punching you in the nose. :)

Anyway, I'm exhausted, I have to be up early (meeting tomorrow first thing, countered with a night of sick Jake) and I have this kiddo who's turning one this weekend... So, I'll catch ya later, Internet.

Signing off,

Not Joe's wife ( I really do enjoy that too much....)

11/9/08

Award Time!

I'm finally getting around to passing out a couple awards... ahh, procrastination may really be my only talent.
I got these from Whiney Momma- go check her out. and following her lead, I'm passing these out to everyone on my blogroll-I never can choose who to hand out awards to!

11/6/08

Another One Bites the Dust....

What IS it about me that makes appliances say "screw this shit"? Now, we have to get a new oven. Which, I admit, is bittersweet. Yeah, it sucks because of the money that will be spent. Especially considering holidays and birthdays (Taylor, thanksgiving J, Christmas, New Years then Jake, all in a row). But- this oven was here when I moved into this house. I have always hated it- it's older than God, has never been taken care of (I had to use a chisel and scraper to clean it before using it, ok?) and it has finally taken its leave.

I have never had a new oven. The prospect excites me. This one was gas rather than electric, and I did like it. It proved somewhat easier on cooking in some ways, and I'll have to get another one- I'm too paranoid about the gas lines, carbon monoxide, etc., to trust anyone to fix that properly for me. Plus, when we have power outages, I can still cook- that's come in handy a few times here during storms. Especially winter storms.

But a new, white, shiny oven? Without years of buildup that never fully came clean? Hehehehehehehee. I know, I know- it's an appliance. I should be this excited over jewelry or some such extravagance. But, let's look at my recent birthday-holiday requests: crock Pot, cookware, etc. That's what gets my juices flowing. right now, I'm salivating over a pizzelle maker. I told you I was weird....

I do hope, however, that this is the last major appliance we need to replace for a LONG time. In the past few years, it's been a new washer. Then a new toilet, sink and bathtub. THEN a new dryer. New fridge... you see where this is going. It's insane. Just two weeks ago, we had to get a new microwave (which I adore beyond reason). We need a break on the appliance area, right?

Now, I'm off to ponder whether I want a white oven (to match the fridge) or a stainless steel and black model (to match my new love, the microwave)..... What would YOU do? LOL

10/21/08

11/6 - Blog For Peace

I found this over at Melinda's blog, and it seems like a really, really great idea. And like it says below, it's very simple. Maybe we won't change the world... but maybe we'll change the day, heart or feelings of one person. Yuo just don't know- so what can it hurt.

The directions are below (and add your name in alphabetical order; it seems that's how it's been going).

I am tagging all you who come here- whether you are on my blog roll or not. whether you blog daily, weekly, monthly or even more infrequently. Blog on 11/6. Because you just never know....




**start copy**
Join The Revolution

Here are the rules and the story.
(1) Copy this into a post (2) ADD YOUR NAME to the bottom of the tag list
(3) Tag at as many people as you'd like.

The Peace Globe project began in the fall of 2006 with a simple post from one blog, Mimi Writes. The post ignited a flame in the blogosphere. The flame became a passion. The passion became a movement. It amazingly traveled from blog to blog to blog across the globe. Bloggers wrote passionate articles on what peace means to them, along with the promise of three Latin words scribbled on a globe - Dona Nobis Pacem (Grant Us Peace) - branded with the integrity of their names or blog names. It was positively inspiring to watch. And it began to happen all over the world - from Singapore to China to Afghanistan to Brooklyn.

It was simple. And powerful.

In less than three weeks bloggers from all across the globe will blog for peace.
We will speak with one voice. One subject. One day.
Won't you join us?
November 6, 2008

How To Get Your Peace Globe In 4 easy steps!

1. Right CLICK and SAVE the peace globe below or choose from other designs here.

2. Sign the globe using Paint, Photoshop or a similar graphics tool. Decorate the globe anyway you wish. You can even include the name of your blog. Click
here for hundreds of inspiring examples from previous BlogBlasts.
3. Return the peace globe to me via email ~ mimiwrites2005 at yahoo.com - Let me know your blog's name and url by leaving a comment
here and signing the Mr. Linky. Your submission will be numbered and dated in the official gallery . Your globe and post will be listed on the Official BlogBlast For Peace website and The Peace Globe Posts page.


Here's the most important part.
4. On November 6, 2008 DISPLAY YOUR GLOBE IN A POST. Title your post "Dona Nobis Pacem". This is important. The goal is for all blog post titles to say the same thing on the same day. Write about peace or simply fly your globe.


Go HERE for the other 3 globe template choices!)


If you'd like to help spread the word, take this button to your site. The code is in my sidebar.


I, Mimi Queen of Memes, hereby royally tag the following.......
(Before you copy this list on your blogs, ADD YOUR OWN NAME to the bottom of the list. )

............................................................................................................YOUR NAME HERE.

YOU DO NOT HAVE TO BE TAGGED TO PLAY.

Please passing this meme through the blogosphere. Peace + Power
This is Mimi Pencil Skirt reporting from the lovely land of the Peace Globes.
Memeing the Movement.


**End Copy**





10/9/08

Vinegar and Honey

Cold season has officially started around here. J started it (shocker, LOL), and got rid of it almost as soon as he caught it. the kids are in various stages of sniffling and coughing, and I simply can't breathe. I hate head colds- the full, foggy feeling can knock me down faster than the flu. It was a night for vapor baths and vapo rub- that makes me super popular with the kids, you know. they see it and run screaming in the other direction. They absolutely hate the smell of it, and I can't really blame them I guess. Simple tricks, though- one is to rub it on their feet and put thick socks over it. Seriously, it works. the other? Wait till they're asleep and coat their necks. I'm sneaky like that... but seriously? You'd think I was the most horrible person on the planet for wanting to restore their ability to breathe. Shame on me, right?

I don't really know what to say about everything else. I'm a little uncomfortable mentioning it here right now (thanks Feedjit). When someone finds me here by searching the Net for me by name, it makes me a little wary of just who is reading. So.. nothing new to mention here. Especially considering I don't have a sense of who's actually wearing the white hat anymore. It's all about the tone of voice. And that's all I'm saying.

Besides, it's time to stop beating a dead horse around here. Ther are a lot of positives in the midst of all the negatives, and it's way past time to get back to some of that stuff. It's been way too serious lately, and it's been constant thinking, re thinking, worrying and basically utter chaos. Emotionally, I'm drained. Physically, I'm drained. I'm tired of being tired, and tired of feeling like I need to do just one more thing before I can relax. Being this tense is not good for anyone. I need to step back for a second and realize I'm doing what I can, and that's all that I CAN do. It's all anyone can do, really- make an effort. A real one?

So, back to the normal stuff- more pics, kids, pets, quotes, movies, TV, and all that junk starting tomorrow. Enough of the dark and brooding... and enough of TMI for those who don't need it.

Like I said- it's all in the tone. And that honey-vinegar thing? So, so true.

8/14/08

The One About the Tooth Fairy

OK, so, i have bad teeth. No, we have never discussed this before, Internet, this is a brand new topic. One you will be hearing much about in the coming weeks. Yesterday, I saw the dentist, for the first time in, oh, maybe three years? Yeah, I know, not exactly a good amount of time to steer clear from sharp, shiny dental instruments, icy cold water and air blasting on teeth and the large, somewhat terrifying idea of root canal and Novocaine in large needles. No clue why i waited so long.....

Anyway, I now, at almost not quite but soon to be thirty years old, am having my wisdom teeth removed at the end of the month. and then returning for that root canal I mentioned. And some other junk.... all of which i will be doing in under two months. Why? Because I'm a masochist, ok? If there was ever any doubt before, it should be gone. i will basically be having at least (LEAST) three, if not more, dental surgeries and procedures. Between now and the first of October. (Yes, there is a reason for this. Yes, I realize I am off my rocker. Thank you.)

But it needs done. I have had more dental procedures than any ten people I think. All of my baby teeth, save my four back molars, had to be extracted simply because they refused to come out. Refused to the point where my adult teeth were coming in anyway- behind and in front of the baby teeth. Then came the braces, the bumper guard for the bottom teeth, the tongue guard, the gum surgeries, the retainer, and the various other little things. All from age seven to seventeen. So, needless to say, I hate going to the dentist. I am just unlucky enough to have very sensitive, brittle and apparently angry adult teeth. Almost every single one of them needs something, be it large or small. Yay. Can you feel my excitement?

But, don't fret. At the other end of it is a smile I will be flashing like it's going out of style. One that will possibly be somewhat a grimace until all the pain, and pain meds wear off, LOL. But it will be straight, white and visible to all.

Like I said- get ready,world. I'm coming for you.

8/12/08

Award Time!


My buddy Whiney Momma passed on the Kick Ass Blogger Award to me, and I'm pretty stoked with it. i like being a blogger, like kicking ass... soooo, this is like Christmas for me! :) However!! There are some rules! So, I shall go against my new rule breaking mentality, and attempt to follow them as such.



Here's the rules:
  • Choose 5 bloggers that you feel are "Kick Ass Bloggers"
  • Let 'em know in your post or via email, twitter or blog comments that they've received an award
  • Share the love and link back to both the person who awarded you and back to www.mammadawg.com
  • Hop on back to the Kick Ass Blogger Club HQ to sign Mr. Linky then pass it on!

Grab code's below - don't forget to link up the person who nominated you for the Kick Ass Blogger Club. :)

BONUS: Are you a Mom or Dad Blogger, too? If so, join us at The Bloggerhood!


(150px Width)



(200px Width)




I am going to bend the rules some and pass this on to everyone on my blogroll. I can never think of just five, or less, because everyone that I read gets to me in some way... otherwise, I wouldn't read them! So, now that I've jacked the rules, just a lil bit, it's your turn! Grab the codes and run!