You know that dream home I want?

No? You mean I haven't talked to you about that? Well............there is one. LOL I'm really dreaming when I write this, but I want a nice house on the beach or in the mountains. I don't care where it is. Not really. Anyway, I've been dream decorating it. I have found some really really wonderful chandeliers that I'd like to have in this dream home. I'm not usually into chandeliers, but I've found that they don't have to be the gaudy ones that you see in those huge houses/mansions. There are some really tasteful ones out there that aren't too pretentious. I can definitely go for those. ;-)

I want one

Okay, so I have to have a house first, but I would love to have an outdoor fireplace. My aunt has one at her house in Florida. It is so nice to sit outside on a nice cool night and stay warm. We tend to gather around it until all hours of the night laughing, remembering and singing a little karaoke. We also do a little drinking around it, but I don't recommend that unless the person manning the thing is sober. ;-)

The Great Smoky Mountains

Ever been? Ever wanted to go? It's absolutely beautiful there. I've only been a couple times in my life, but I loved it each time. I want to go back soon. The shopping is great and there is so much to do. It can also be very relaxing. I suggest staying in a cabin while there. The views are spectacular. A great place to rent a cabin is Pigeon Forge cabin rental. They are giving a $50 gas discount right now when you book online. That is a great incentive with gas prices the way they are right now.

Well kids.....

I'm off on vacation tomorrow morning. I'll be gone until July 8 so no more posts until then. Unfortunately I will have no internet access while I'm gone. I'm not sure what I'm going to do without it. I'm addicted ya know. LOL

I hope everyone has a wonderful 2 weeks and don't get into too much trouble while I'm gone. I'll post pics and give you all the relaxing beachy details when I return. ;-)

Whew!!

Well Dawg fans, we will be getting one more year of the great Larry Munson. The AJC (that's the Atlanta Journal Constitution for those who don't know) is reporting that Munson will call home games only this season. I'm afraid that this indicates he will be retiring at the end of the season though. Only those of you who have been listening to him for years can understand the sadness this causes. I am, however, thankful that he will at least give us home games this year. We need to make it a fantastic year for his send off! I hope my boys understand that! ;-)

Struggling students?

Is your child struggling in school? Many children struggle. What some parents don't know is that there is help out there. Sometimes teachers and parents can't do it alone. Some children need the one on one attention that they may not be able to get at school. Don't be afraid or embarrassed to get your child the help he or she needs. Check out the tutors at Innovative Tutor to see what they offer struggling students. It could just be the push that opens up a whole new world of learning for your child.

More Pacman Jones news

Well, according to ESPN, Pacman faces felony charges in the Las Vegas incident. Kinda figured this was going to happen. So now what? Do you think the NFL will kick him out? Will the Titans cut him? I guess only time will tell.

Quiet time....easy enough, right?

Not in my house. I swear Joshua does not know the meaning of the word "quiet." He no longer takes a nap (most days), but he has a quiet time movie in his room while Ari takes her nap. Today he can't seem to remember that he is supposed to be quiet. He is yelling for me, yelling his answers to Dora when she asks questions on the video, playing with his Weeble Wobble Castle which is incredibly loud! I'm about ready to turn off his tv and make him take a nap too. If he wakes his sister from her nap before she is ready it is going to be ugly around here until bedtime. UGH!!!!!

I need a vacation

Being a mom of two very young kids, a wife, and a teacher there are times when all I can think about is getting away. Sometimes I don't have a destination in mind. I just want to get away from my responsibilities for a couple of days. I have learned that it is important to take time out for myself to re-energize in order to be a better mom, wife, and teacher.

As important as it is for me to get that "me" time it is equally important that I get some quality time with my husband. When we want a nice relaxing weekend we like to go to a nice bed and breakfast in the mountains. A place were we can relax, go hiking or horseback riding, and if we are lucky get in some fishing (okay, the fishing is just for me. LOL).

How do I find my oasis of peace? I look online at Cheap Hotels. If I don't have a particular destination in mind already I can go on this site and search for cities by drive time. You can book an entire vacation package on one site. You can book a cruise, flights and rental cars too.

When you click on a particular city/cruise the available packages and their prices come up on the first page. You can compare prices without clicking on each individual one. It's great! You can make your reservations online or by calling an agent, whichever you are most comfortable doing. You can save up to 70% on your get away. They even offer incentives!! They offer up to a $100 rebate for a 12 night vacation and you can get a gas rebate of $30. Can't beat that with gas prices what they are these days.

So, if you are ready for a vacation just click and start relaxing.

I'm impatient. I know this.

I hate waiting on anything. Whether it's waiting on something I ordered to come in or waiting on approval for something. Even waiting on my kids to get dressed by themselves (I know I could get it done faster. LOL) and my classroom kids to finish their work so we can move on. I'm trying to work on it. It's hard to change that though. Anyone have any tips on gaining more patience?

Say it ain't so...............PLEASE!!!

Larry Munson (you know, the guy who calls the UGA games) is 50-50 on whether he is coming back this season!! I can't even begin to imagine listening to a game without him! He brings the games to life for me. When my mom wouldn't let me watch UGA games on tv I turned to radio and that is where I first heard Munson call a game. I was enthralled. After that I would watch on tv and listen to him whenever possible. I've missed listening to him since I moved to TN. Kinda ticks me off that I can't listen to him up here. I can listen in Jacksonville. Last year I got to listen to him call the game against Tech. Christian was with me and got to hear him for the first time. He really enjoyed it. He was amazed at how well Munson pulls the emotion out of the fans. You are listening, but it's almost like you are there. I think that is because Munson loves the Dawgs as much as we do and he feels what we are feeling at any given moment. It will be a sad day for the Dawgs and the Dawg Nation when Larry Munson steps down. He is the best in the business. Please Larry, don't retire yet. My kids haven't had a chance to appreciate what you do yet.

Oh yeah, did y'all know that Larry and I share a birthday? ;-)

This CBS News story made me cry

We don't really hear much about the good things our soldiers are doing in Iraq. I don't get into the politics of it all because it just isn't my personality to talk politics. This story wasn't about the war though. It was about children. Orphaned special needs children being mistreated/neglected by the people who were supposed to be caring for them. A group of soldiers came across the orphanage and at first thought that the small bodes they saw lying around were dead. They soon found out that they were not. Click here to see the rest of the story and what our soldiers did to help these defenseless children. It was incredibly heartbreaking to see this. I don't understand how anyone could treat children this way. I'm so glad that these soldiers found them and then did something about it.

I'm feeling somewhat better today

It's been a good month for tips so we have a little extra and now that I am "taking control" of the money I feel better. We are still struggling, but now that I feel more in control I feel like we can do this. KWIM? It really does make you feel better when you know exactly where your money is going. I'm determined to get us out of this hole and then keep us out! I'm sure I'll have more down days (like yesterday), but it will happen and we will make it. I just have to stick to the budget and keep my eye on the goal. If I'm writing it all down I can see more clearly how we are crawling out. It's a slow process, but as long as I can see it happen then I think I'll be able to keep motivated.

I've done really well with groceries the last 2 weeks. I have been spending $130 and sometimes more, but last week I spent $46 for the entire week and I think Michael only had to pick up another loaf of bread (I'm gonna have to start buying 2 loaves). This week I spent $76 and I had to buy a few extras that I don't normally have to buy weekly. I am going to have to sit down and plan out our menus especially when school starts back and I'm packing lunches for me and the kids. I think I'm going to cut out the SmartOnes meals and such and just go with sandwiches or left overs. It will be cheaper. No eating in the school cafeteria either.

Our power bill was a lot less this month too. Not sure how that happened though. Usually it runs around $130 (I have a problem with this since our house in Murfreesboro didn't go that high except in the coldest and hottest months.........we are in an apartment now and it is consistently that high.). This month it was only $95. So that was more money that I was able to put towards a different bill. I like it when that happens. :-)

Well, here we go again

Looks like Pacman is in trouble (possibly) again. This time in Atlanta. Apparently he was at another strip club and there was another shooting. Right now it is just a possibility, but just the fact that he was there disappoints me. This shows that he isn't even trying to change his image. If he were trying he wouldn't be in these situations. That and I think the guy needs to find a new set of friends. The ones he has, well....................

I know a lot of people wanted him gone. I was one who rode the fence. He is such a talent that I hated to see him go, but then he was trouble with a capital T on and off the field. I've fallen off the fence now to the side that wants to see him go. If he can't straighten his act up and get with the program (so to speak) then he needs to go. The Titans don't need these kinds of distractions. They have a Super Bowl to win! ;-)

UPDATE:
Now they are saying that he wasn't involved with the shooting and wasn't around when it happened, but he "may" know some of his entourage who where involved. Whatever. He still shouldn't have been in that damn strip club. He is supposed to be cleaning up his act. He needs to start visiting different establishments considering that he tends to get into trouble at strip clubs. (I really need a rolly eyed emoticon on this blog.)

I'm so disappointed

Tonight my favorite Titan, Frank Wycheck, became a professional wrestler. Now I'm just hoping that it was a one time thing. I just can't see him doing this. It's gross! Even just seeing him in the ring on a sports highlight was enough to turn my stomach. I'm going to be incredibly disappointed if he continues this. *sigh*

I'm in a pissy mood today (or depressed.....can't tell which)

I hate everything and my house is a mess. I just want to go lie in my bed forever. I'm even listening to the new Bon Jovi CD and it isn't helping. *sigh*

I should be feeling good. I spent less than my goal amount at the grocery store and I even had to buy a couple extra things that I don't buy on a weekly basis. This is 2 weeks in row that I've spent less than I planned on. I guess that's good for the new budget I'm trying to implement, right? I won't have to go next week because we leave for FL on Friday. Granted I will be spending more than grocery money, but that is budgeted too. I'm even packing our lunch and drinks for the trip. No stopping at fast food places this time. I'm excited about that. LOL It's the little things, huh?

Today is just one of those days I guess. Not real sure why I'm feeling this way. Just have to find a way to get through the day.

Finally home!!

He's finally home!! Ari and I went to get Joshua today. He doesn't look much different, just a few more scrapes and bruises. LOL He didn't get excited when we got there or anything. I had to go give him a hug, but he did go give Ari one all on his own. You see how high I rate on his list. He had a great time and he even rode the 4-wheeler with my dad. Up until this trip he has always been afraid to get on it. He LOVED it, of course. LOL My dad threw him in the pool (with is wings on) and he went under. He came up screaming and crying. He was so mad at my dad and wouldn't even walk anywhere close to him. Swimming lessons should be fun..........NOT!! He hates to get his face wet.

Anyway, I'm glad he's home. We leave on Friday going to FL. He is already saying he wants to go see his cousins and uncle and Namma in FL. Heck, I just got him home and he's ready to go again. LOL

I hate being broke!

I'm so sick of being broke. I'm tired of trying to stretch money that isn't there to cover everything that needs to be covered. I'm tired of my husband feeling responsible when in truth if I managed our money a little better we wouldn't be in this mess. I feel guilty. He feels guilty. It accomplishes nothing. Now comes the brainstorming on how to make some extra cash. I wish I could have a huge yard sale and sell most of the stuff we have in storage, but living in an apartment makes that impossible. I guess I can list it on eBay and Craigslist. I am rolling all the coins around the house. I'm taking clothes to consignment (Lord knows I have enough to spare). I'm even thinking of doing the whole "Pay-per-Post" thing on my blog. I really don't want to do that, but I have to get some more money coming in here. Anyone have any other ideas? I guess I could sell my body, but I don't think my husband would approve. LOL I don't think I'd get much anyway. LOL

Bon Jovi's Lost Highway sneak peek!

I have a link to the new Bon Jovi album, Lost Highway. It comes out on June 19, but you can listen to the entire thing here! It is a great album! I've already listened to it twice tonight. I can't wait to have it in my car too. I really like Make a Memory, We Got it Going On, Any Other Day, and......oh heck who am I kidding? I love them all!

Go check it out!

I want an iPod

Okay, I've never really cared if I had one or not, but the last week or so has found me drooling over one. I just want the Shuffle. Nothing big. I can't justify the expense for one right now however, so I guess I'll be drooling over them for awhile longer. *sigh*

Joshua funny

So, you know that he is at my dad's house this week. My brother lives right next door with his son (6 years old). Today my dad took the 2 of them (the boys) to pick up some stuff at the store. On the way home they start arguing. Apparently my son can hold his own against his older cousin. My dad says he has a come back for anything Colin says. LOL

The funniest of the conversations.

Colin: PaPaw, I wish you didn't bring him here. I don't want him to stay all week.

Joshua: Ha! I'm here and I'm staying!

I can just see his little face as he said it too. My dad said he lost it. It was too funny. I can imagine. I would have been laughing too. It's good to know that Joshua will stand up for himself. LOL

I give up

After 2 days with no naps, 5 nights of going to bed really really late, not sleeping well, and then up at her normal time I just give up. She can have the paci. I'll try again in a couple months or so to get rid of it. I gave it to her and within minutes she was asleep. When I gave it to her, she went straight to her blanket and burp cloth on the couch to lie down. She is so tired.

It's gone in the car though and she can't have it unless she is sleeping which was always the case.

So, now that we are paci free

Someone please tell me how to keep her fingers out of her mouth. Ugh!!! Every time you look at her she has her fingers in her mouth or a toy. How do we stop this one? Last night she went to sleep sucking her thumb. This is definitely not something we want her to do. *sigh*

Morning #1 without my first born

It seems weird to wake up without having Joshua jumping on our bed. I am sitting in the living room with Ari watching Dora (no Star Wars this week). She hasn't mentioned Joshua yet. I wonder how long it will take her to ask about him? It's very quiet around here without the 3 year old though. One side effect of him being gone is that Ari has stuck really really close. Since he left yesterday she has been sitting right beside me in the recliner if not in my lap. I'm not sure what that is all about. I do know, however, if she keeps it up I'm going to go nuts. It's almost like she doesn't know how to play by herself or is nervous since he isn't here to play with (annoy) her.

I kinda miss the little rascal really. I haven't called him yet. I'm sure I will at some point today to see if he is having fun. I'm sure he is. I bet as soon as he got up this morning he wanted to go outside. LOL

Well, my first born leaves me for a week today.

My dad is coming to get him and should be here around lunchtime. I've gone away on my girls' weekends before, but either he stayed home with Michael or my mom came to our house to keep him. Those were only weekends too. This time he is going away and I am staying home. He is going to be gone for a week. I'm sure he will have a great time swimming, fishing, and riding the 4-wheeler, but I am going to miss him terribly. Yes, even though he has been a royal pain in the a$$ this last week. LOL I bet Ari is going to miss him too. He is so excited right now waiting on PaPaw to get here. He keeps asking me when he is going to come get him. I'm not sure how I am going to handle him leaving though. He has gone over there without me one other time and Daddy came to get him from school. We had a funeral to go to and so my dad kept him for a couple days. I cried when they left. I probably will today too. *sigh*

UPDATE:
They got here around 3pm. Joshua was ready to go! LOL When they left at 3:30 Joshua was blowing kisses and grinning hugely. Ari, however, was crying. I'm not sure if she was crying because they were taking her brother or because they were not taking her too. I didn't cry. I think the only reason I wasn't crying is because he wasn't. He was just too excited. They have called me twice already. I thought I would be the one calling. LOL They just wanted to assure me that he was okay and to check on Ari. The last time they called he was outside playing on the swing set. If they encounter any problems it will be at bedtime, but I think if Daddy goes in with him until he is asleep he will do fine. Heck, he may fall asleep in Daddy's lap watching Star Wars. LOL

Now, what to do tomorrow with only one kid? It is going to feel very weird having to chase after only one.

Whine..........whine...........whine

My children are driving me nuts!! Is it just a week into summer? Geez!!!! I don't know if I can make it if they continue to act like this. To make matters worse, neither one of them took a nap today. That and the last 3 nights Ari has not gone to sleep until 11:30 or later and she is still getting up at her normal time. She is really starting to show the lack of sleep. Every little thing Joshua does causes major tears from her. Granted some of the things were legitimate today. He bit her finger and he threw a toy and hit her in the head. I think it is a very good thing that my daddy is coming to get Joshua tomorrow and keep him for a week.

Edited:
Oh, it continues. He has now made "puddles" of chocolate milk on the kitchen floor. He has taken a stool into our room and gotten the lone paci (you know the ones we are trying to get rid of) for Ari. He tried to get the scissors to cut the tag out of his underwear. Lord save me.........or him!

I've been tagged

Johnh over at Salem's Lots has tagged me. I am to write 7 random thoughts and then tag 7 people to do the same. So, here goes.

1. One in service down. Only 6 more to go.

2. My house is a wreck. I must clean it before tomorrow when my daddy comes to pick up my 3 year old for the week.

3. Why is breaking the pacifier habit so hard on ME? LOL

4. You know you 've watched Pirates of the Caribbean too many time when you dream about them and you are one of the characters.

5. I wish we would have a good steady rain. The grass and trees are beginning to show their thirst.

6. I'm so glad it's summer. I don't know if I could have handled much more school drama this year. I hope next year is better.

7. I need to update my blogroll. I have a few links that have changed.

Now, I tag Aisby, Beth, Peachsz, Leesa, Lisa, Gina, and Breazy.

My munchkins are too silly!

Ari loves to play princess dress up and Joshua just likes to be silly. Do you like his bowl hat?

No more paci (we hope)

Night 1:

At bedtime we have 45 minutes of crying, "I want my paci." "I want my daddy to give me my paci." "I don't want you lie down with me anymore, go to living room by yourself." I'd say she was mad at me. LOL I left her room and went to the living room. She comes in and we rock for awhile. She finally went to sleep, but woke up in the transfer. I let her lie on the couch for awhile. At 10:30pm we went back to her bed. She stayed awake until about 11:30pm, crying most of the time. She woke up again a little later crying. I gave in and gave her the paci because I had to be up early to help at school with registration.

Night 2:

I let her stay up a little later thinking she would be so tired she would go right off to sleep. Didn't happen. We laid in her bed from around 10pm until Michael got home around 11:30pm. She was wide awake. No crying this time though. She did ask for it a couple times, but she never cried. We came into the living room and rocked again. Again, she went to sleep this time around midnight and woke up in the transfer. I stayed with her and we both went to sleep. I got up at a little after 1am and went to bed. She woke up around 1:45 crying for her paci and me. Michael told her he would get me. As he was leaving her room she rolled over and went back to sleep. She slept the rest of the night.

I'm hoping she goes to bed earlier tonight not only because she needs the sleep, but because I have an in-service in the morning. Really, she is doing better than I thought she would do. I never expected the staying up so late though. I'm tired. LOL

Night 3:

Well, she finally went to sleep at 10:50pm. It was a struggle. She didn't cry the entire time, but off and on. This staying up thing is really going to have to end. We both need our sleep. She is still getting up at her regular time no matter what time she goes to sleep. Maybe I should cut out the naps until she gets back on schedule? I hate to even think about that. Maybe I'll just make sure she goes down for a nap earlier than she has been.

We start our incentive chart tomorrow.

I've come to a point where I can't take the 3 year old behavior anymore. Timeouts don't seem to be working alone so I've decided to try positive reinforcement. I've made a chart with all of our rules we want him to follow. He can earn stickers for following these rules. If he is put into timeout for not following them he gets a sad face. At the end of the week (I'm trying to think of a good reward for each day too) if he has more stickers than sad faces then he gets to go out with mommy or daddy for ice cream. It will be just him and whichever one of us he chooses. (Umm, Michael doesn't know the reward yet.) I just hope this works. I'm tired of yelling. It makes me feel like a bad mom. Something has to change and soon. Keep your fingers crossed for us!

Please NO!!!!!

I've been reading an article that has Frank Wycheck involved with Pro Wrestling. Ummm, yuck!! Please somebody tell me that he is just promoting the event and not actually going to join in on the "fun." I have to confess that I used to love wrestling when I was younger and could/did watch it for hours. I grew out of it though. Now it is just plain silly (I'm sure it was then too.)

How sad is it that......

I have watched the first two Pirates movies several times since Monday? I'm still feeling that after movie "letdown." I almost feel depressed. LOL I keep watching the first two in hopes of snapping out of it. It doesn't seem to be working though. I want to see the third one again! Maybe I can talk Michael into going with me this weekend or if Christian comes this weekend he and I can go see it. *sigh*

School is out!!!! WOOHOO!!

Well, not officially for us teachers, but the kids are done. Today was their last day. Tomorrow is a workday and then the kids come in Friday to pick up their report cards. They have to have them by 9am and then we get to leave at noon. I can't wait!!! I'm in need of a break. I'll be free for the summer. Kinda. I have a couple in services that I have to do and since I'm changing rooms I will have to go back to school and move my stuff. *sigh* I don't guess I get as much of a vacation as I thought.

I went to see Pirates yesterday!!

Warning!!! Major spoilers ahead! DO NOT READ FURTHER IF YOU HAVE NOT SEEN THE MOVIE!!!!!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Have you seen the movie? No? Then stop reading right now!!! It's too good to read the spoilers!!




I LOVED it!!! Although, I have to say that they ticked me off when they made Will captain of the Dutchman! UGH!! I'm glad he didn't die, but it may as well be the same thing. *sigh* I really thought that Calypso would come back and free him from the burden. Didn't happen though.

I thought the whole wedding thing in the middle of a fight for life was silly, but I did love it too!

I loved that they made Elizabeth the pirate King. Cracked me up when Jack voted for her.

I didn't expect Norrington to die.

The part after the credits was pretty predictable considering what had happened earlier with Will and Elizabeth.

I laughed out loud several times and I cried as well. LOL

They left it wide open for a 4th one and I really hope they do. I'm not ready for this story to end.

Can't wait to see this one again though!!


I'm having the same "letdown" feeling I have after a Bon Jovi concert right now. It's almost like I've lost my best friend or something. Kinda sad, huh? LOL

If this is true..........

They need to throw the book at Michael Vick. It has been reported that he is a "heavyweight" in the dog fighting world. He is said to bet 30-40 thousand dollars on fights. This is information coming from an informant who says he saw this happen in 2000. I have to say that this really makes me sick. If it IS true then I hope he not only spends time in jail, but it also costs him his job. It's just disgusting that people do this to these animals.

Swimming lessons are expensive!

I've been looking into swimming lessons for the kids and I'm finding that they are quite expensive. I'm going to have to save money just for them. I've found several for around $150-$160 per child. I thought the YMCA would be a little cheaper, but not really. The Y is $35/session for private lessons, $30/session for semi-private lessons, and $60/session (4 lessons) for group lessons. I'd prefer private or semi-private lessons and that still adds up to a lot of money. *sigh* I did find a place in Hendersonville, Sea Star Swim School, that is somewhat cheaper. I'll give them a call tomorrow. They are $95 for a session (8-10 lessons) for one child and $90 for each additional child. I'd hate the drive, but it would be worth it if I could get my kids swimming. Plus it would make me feel better with them around water.

Do any of my Nashville readers know of anyone else who does private lessons for a good price?

Ever have a day when you just want to go somewhere and scream?

I'm having that kind of week. Work is stressing me out and I'm not getting as much sleep as I should. That is never a good combination! I feel like this school year is never going to end and we only have 4 more days (with students). I'm thinking I may have an ulcer. It's been an extremely stressful year for me and I think it's starting to take it's toll. *sigh*

Titans QB has a birthday today!

Vince Young turned 24 today. Happy Birthday VY!!

My favorite news anchor is retiring

I've been in Nashville since 1995 and from day one I have watched him on News Channel 5. I'm going to miss getting my news from Chris Clark. I wish him well in his retirement.

Titans interested in Keyshawn?

Please tell me it isn't true!!! Tell me that the Titans don't really want Keyshawn! I DO NOT LIKE KEYSHAWN JOHNSON!!! I don't want to see him in a Titans uniform! I don't care how good everybody thinks he is. I don't want him in Titan blue. I'm also sure that if he proves to be an asset to the Titans I'll be reminded of this post. Especially by my wonderful husband who DOES like Keyshawn and would love to see him here. Time will tell, but I just don't feel really good about this one.

Down to only 7 more days!!!

Just thought I would throw out there that we only have 7 more days until....................................


I can't wait!!!!!

What the hell were they thinking?

I mean really! What were they thinking? How can educators ever think that this is a good idea? Haven't heard yet? Well, let me tell you! A school in Murfreesboro thought that staging a fake gunman on the loose to terrorize a bunch of 6th graders was a good idea. As a parent I would go through the roof if that were done to my child. As an educator there is no way I would agree to any part of that. How horrible for those poor kids. I can't imagine the nightmares that this stunt is going to cause those kids. I'm just floored that anyone, particularly people who work with kids on a daily basis, could think this was a smart thing to do.

Punishment for the ones responsible? The Assistant Principal and teacher involved got suspended for the remainder of the school year. Yeah, early start to their summer. (rolling my eyes here) I'm not sure if they will get anymore of a punishment later, but for now that is what was announced.

Happy Mother's Day!

I hope all the moms out there are having a great day! Especially my wonderful mom and mother-in-law!

4 in 4 days

Well, that danged stomach virus that hit my family this week was horrible. It hit every single one of us. Ari had it on Wednesday. Joshua had it on Thursday. It hit Michael on Friday and finally me on Saturday. At least it held off on me until the weekend. I didn't have to miss anymore work. It was horrible though. Michael had to work the night I had it so I was dealing with it and the kids. Not fun! I guess I should mention that he worked for several hours while he had it too.......until they sent him home. I did get to sleep in this morning which I think helped me some. I'm not as weak as Michael seemed to be the day after. My stomach is still a little off though. I've still not eaten anything except a couple pieces of toast. That is about all I'm comfortable with right now. LOL

I think I'm in shock!!!

I never thought I would see the day when Brett Favre would ask for a trade! This will be his 17th year in the NFL and he has always been with the Packers. I just can't imagine him in another uniform. It's just not right!!

Here we go again

It is Joshua's turn now. It looks like we will have another long night. At least we have the required medication and stomach settling (we hope) Sprite. *sigh*

One sick baby

My poor little Ari is so sick. She has thrown up 7 times since 6pm. It is now 8:40pm. I've talked to the doctor and he said to get her an over the counter medication to help with the throwing up. Only problem is that I'm home alone and Joshua is already asleep. We are going to have to wait until Michael gets off work at 11pm before we get any relief. *sigh* My poor baby.

Update: Well, she threw up until around 4am this morning. I was on the phone with the triage nurse around midnight last night. She asked me how many times she had gotten sick. I told her that I stopped counting at 11. I think my biggest concern was dehydration. She hadn't had a wet diaper in over 6 hours. She couldn't keep anything down. Not even the medicine to help her stop throwing up. We were finally able to get her to hold down very small amounts of Sprite. Luckily she had a wet diaper when she woke up this morning. She seems to be doing fine today and hasn't gotten sick again. I'm still giving her just small amounts of Sprite. She ate a couple bites of a peanut butter sandwich, but that is about it. Can't say that I blame her really.

Now I'm starting to feel nauseous. This could be bad with Michael working again tonight. At least I have phenagren if I need it.

I'm still hoping that Joshua doesn't get it. He just wanted to go lie down in his bed though. That is so unlike him. Keep your fingers crossed!!

Only 20 more days!!!!

Captain Jack is coming and I can't wait!!! The new Pirates movie comes out on May 25th. Granted, I probably won't see it on opening night even wanting too as badly as I do. It is just going to be crazy and I don't want to deal with it.


I'm not sad about seeing this guy either if you want to know the truth!!



I'm really going to enjoy watching these two sexy pirates when I get the chance. I'm thinking I will be watching the first 2 movies quite a bit until I get to see the 3rd one. ;-)

Here is the trailer is you haven't seen it yet or if you have and just want to see it again.

New Bon Jovi video is here!!

WOOHOO!! It's a good one too! As my friend Lisa says, "Tub, flowers, bed, Jon! Check it out!"

Enjoy! I sure do!! ;-)

Who watched Jon Bon Jovi on Idol tonight?

For those of you who know me well, you know that I do not watch American Idol. That is until this week! The star power this week is Jon Bon Jovi! Again, if you know me well you know my obsession with JBJ! I don't miss a tv appearance if I can help it.

Anyway, the contestants all sang Jovi songs. I was afraid all night that I was going to be ticked off because they were going to butcher some of my favorite songs. I have to say that I was pleasantly surprised. There were about 3 who really messed them up, but for the most part they sounded pretty good. The only one I really didn't like was the guy who did "You Give Love a Bad Name." He added some rap/hip hop to it and it just didn't do it for me. I think if he would have done it straight he would have done pretty well. He had a good voice when he did do it straight.

LaKisha nailed "This Ain't a Love Song." She went in not knowing any Jovi songs (okay, this amazed me. LOL) and she absolutely nailed it!! She was by far the best. I even had chills during her performance. Says a lot if someone other than Bon Jovi can give me chills while listening to one of their songs.

One of the guys (can't remember his name) didn't know all the words to "Wanted." How in the world do you not know all the words to THAT song?

I was made to feel fairly old. One of the girls told Jon that her mom loved them and that she was going to flip. Ummm, she is 17 and that really makes me old enough to be her mom!!! ACK!!

I think the women rocked much harder and better than the guys tonight. I wasn't impressed at all with the guys. The first one did okay, but nothing spectacular.

I'll be watching again tomorrow night. The band is supposed to perform tomorrow and I think they are going to sing their new single (you know, the one that NONE of the Nashville country stations are playing............I won't go on my rant about that one!).

Did you watch? What did you think?

She fell in the pond today.

Yep, Ari rolled down the hill and fell in the pond. Luckily she didn't go in head first like I was afraid was going to happen. Just her feet and up to one knee. Scared her (and me) more than anything. She has a little mark on her chin where she hit something. I'm not sure what she hit. Probably a small rock or a stick. After I realized that she was okay I couldn't help but laugh. I'd been trying to tell both kids to be careful or they were going to fall in. Does it make me a bad mommy to laugh at my little girl for falling in a pond? LOL

Maybe now they will listen? Yeah, probably not. They will forget all about it within hours. LOL

Who to pick? Who to pick?

So, what are you doing today? I'm sitting in my comfy recliner watching the 2007 NFL Draft. The biggest surprise of the day apparently is that Brady Quinn from Notre Dame is still undrafted. Right now we are at the 18th pick. Doesn't look good for him in the next few picks either since the upcoming teams are not in need of a QB.

My Titans are up next and I'm torn. Considering that our defense was ranked 32nd last year I think we need to look at improving that with the draft. But, I also feel we are in desperate need of a good WR for Vince to throw to. There are a good number of WRs available this year though so I'm not sure if they will go with one in the 1st round. (We are one the clock now.) Ugh, we also need a RB. I guess we have lots of holes to fill. *sigh*

None of my UGA players have gone as of yet and listening to the buzz it doesn't look like any of them will go in the 1st round and maybe not even the 2nd. Not sure how I feel about that other than that if they left school early for the NFL maybe they should have stayed put for another year. LOL That just goes along with my belief that no one should leave college early. I'm kinda weird that way. LOL

Here is the Draft Tracker if you care to see what is going on.

We chose a safety from Texas, Michael Griffin. So, I guess they thought that defense was the biggest need. I can't disagree with that.

Babies everywhere I turn!!

Talk about giving a girl baby fever! My sister-in-law had a beautiful baby girl last week. A friend of mine from school has a new baby girl as of Monday. There is this really adorable 4 month old boy at the kids' daycare. A 9 week old girl starts tomorrow. There are 2 teachers pregnant at my school right now. One due in July and one in October. This is killing me!!!!!!! I want another baby!! Not right this minute (okay so maybe yeah), but the end of the summer. That way I can be at school the entire (or almost) school year next year. I even have names picked out! How sad is that? *sigh*

Honey?

I am so tired of people taking our stuff!!!

Dammit!! It has happened again. This time someone apparently thought that we had a lot of money or stuff or something. He/she/it broke into Michael's car this time. They left very disappointed though. There was nothing in there. Not even a stereo. They did, however, pry open the door so that is probably going to have to be fixed. I don't think anything pisses me off more than someone taking something that doesn't belong to them. We work damn hard for the things we have. These asses need to get out and get their own damn jobs!! I so wish I would have seen them doing it so I could call the police. I'd have loved to get them arrested as the realized there was absolutely nothing of value in the car they had chosen. Who would have thought there would be anything of value in an old beat up 1992 Honda Accord Wagon with empty Coke bottles and dirty t-shirts (as Michael tells it) anyway? IDIOTS!!!

I hate people. I think that when I win the lottery (notice I said WHEN and not if?) I am going to buy a deserted island for my family and friends. That way I don't have to deal with people I don't like very much. Anyone want to join us?

Nobody wants fans like this (I hope anyway)

Last night during the Braves/Mets game a Mets fan was shining a high powered light into the eyes of a couple of the Braves players including pitcher Tim Hudson. What the heck?! Did this idiot realize that it was against the law to interfere with a professional game? Did he know that doing something like that could really do damage to a person's eyes? He is an idiot and I hope that he is banned from any other Mets games.

Very sad day

It has happened again. This time on a college campus. I'm sure you have heard by now that there has been a shooting on the campus of VA Tech. There were 32 people killed plus the shooter. Many more wounded. This breaks my heart. Will it ever stop? Will kids ever stop killing other kids? What makes someone so angry that they think they are justified in taking the life of others? Where does the anger come from? Is it a disease? Why does it seem to be happening so much more often than when I was a kid? So many questions and so few answers. *sigh*

My thoughts and prayers go out to the families of those lost today and the VA Tech family.

Sweet brother moment!!

So, Ari is asleep and starts crying. I go to comfort her. Joshua comes in and asks what is wrong with her. Ensuing conversation:

J~Momma, what's wrong with Ari?
M~She had a bad dream. Please go back to bed.
J~ I want to give her a hug.
M~Okay.
J~ (climbing on the bed and hugging Ari) I just love her. She is my favorite friend.

He even kissed her on the head and told her that everything was okay.

Go ahead, say it! "Awwwww!!" LOL I did!

2007 Titans Schedule!! WOOHOO!!

OPPONENT DATE KICKOFF+ TV

at Jacksonville Sunday 9/9 12:00 p.m. CBS

INDIANAPOLIS Sunday 9/16 12:00 p.m. CBS

at New Orleans Monday, 9/24 7:30 p.m.

BYE WEEK Sunday, 9/30

ATLANTA Sunday 10/7 12:00 p.m. FOX

at Tampa Bay Sunday, 10/14 12:00 p.m. CBS

at Houston Sunday 10/21 12:00 p.m. CBS

OAKLAND Sunday 10/28 12:00 p.m. CBS

CAROLINA Sunday 11/4 12:00 p.m. FOX

JACKSONVILLE Sunday 11/11 12:00 p.m. CBS

at Denver Monday, 11/19 7:30 p.m.

at Cincinnati Sunday 11/25 12:00 p.m. * CBS

HOUSTON Sunday 12/2 12:00 p.m. * CBS

SAN DIEGO Sunday 12/9 12:00 p.m. * CBS

at Kansas City Sunday 12/16 12:00 p.m. * CBS

N.Y. JETS Sunday 12/23 3:15 p.m. * CBS

at Indianapolis Sunday 12/30 12:00 p.m. * CBS

You know he watches too much Star Wars when.........

The kid watches Star Wars whenever he can. He watches every night during his "quiet time" before bed. He watches in the car. He watches during the day when we are home. Granted, he watches any of the 6 of them, but he is always watching.

Now he goes around humming the Darth Vader theme song! Yep, he watches too much!! LOL

Ari funny

"Ms. Patty, my belly button doesn't button."

This was the comment she made to her daycare teacher today. LOL

I've been a bad blogger lately

I'm uninspired lately when it comes to writing. *sigh* I'm not really sure what the problem is, but I just can't seem to find anything to write about. There really isn't anything going on in my life other than the same ol' work, kids, and home. They aren't providing me with much to write about though.

I guess I could write about the UGA Spring Game and Spring practice or the upcoming NFL draft, but I can't seem to find the motivation for that either. You know it's bad when football doesn't inspire/motivate me. LOL

Here's to hoping that my "block" will end soon and I get back to posting. In the mean time please don't leave me. I promise I will get over it and be back soon. (Fingers crossed and all that! LOL)

7:00pm and I'm done for the night.........almost.

Okay, for those who don't know, Michael is in Chicago tonight for an interview with Southwest Airlines all day tomorrow (Please keep your fingers crossed for him.) What this means for me immediately is that I have kid duty all alone tomorrow morning. I'm not looking forward to it. I think I have it under control though. It is only 7pm and have both kids fed, bathed, and in the bed. The kitchen is clean and lunches are made. Now all that is left is for my own shower. I probably won't sleep well tonight knowing that Michael isn't coming home, but at least I have Georgia. As I will hear every little sound I know that she will alert me if it is an unusual sound. LOL Will she protect us? If you can call hiding behind me protection then yes. LOL

Tomorrow will be a challenge though. Getting both kids dressed, their teeth brushed, breakfast, Georgia taken out, lunches in boxes (not to mention in the cart ready to go), and everybody loaded up in the short amount of time we have is going to be interesting. I know that single parents do it everyday (heck, my mom did it), but I have no idea how they manage. I'd go nuts!!

I'll let y'all know how it goes.

*UPDATE*
Well, things went pretty well. I got everyone up and out the door on time and I didn't forget anything. This is good since I'll be doing it again next Tuesday. LOL

ACK!!!!!

He cut her hair!!!! Luckily you have to look closely to even notice, but OMG!!! He cut so freakin' much of it. I have 2 pics to share. The first one is just the stuff I got off of her and out of her hair just by running my hands through it. The second is with the other that I found when I went into the living room and kitchen.







I'm sure I'll be able to tell more when I wash her hair tonight. If it is more noticeable I will post her pic later.

Brotherly Love

He really does love her! We were at the playground here at the apartments and he was concerned about her falling out of the swing. He had to make sure she was properly buckled in.

Goodbye Pacman?

I figure he will be gone this week. He is being charged in the shooting (not as the shooter) case in Las Vegas. The charges are coercion which is a felony and threat and battery charges which are misdemeanors. This is on top of the 2 felony charges he faces in Georgia. I figure this will be the last straw for the Titans. Wonder how the NFL will deal with it? The owners are meeting with the new commissioner this week and one of the things they will discuss is tougher consequences for players who get into trouble with the law. It will be interesting to see how that plays out.

It is really a sad situation when a great player like Pacman cannot get his life straight off the field.

*sigh*

I'm home! (this is long!!)

This post could have so many titles.
1. I hate traffic!
2. I'm exhausted!
3. Did I mention I was going on vacation?

You get the idea.

Sorry I didn't mention that I was going on vacation. I thought about it after I left. LOL Hope all my readers didn't abandon me thinking I had disappeared. ;-)


Well, we are finally home. It took us 2 1/2-3 hours longer to get here than it should have though. We got stuck in Atlanta traffic. Not once, but twice!! You could really say 3 times, but going through downtown we didn't ever completely stop. On the south side we were about 30 miles outside of Atlanta when the traffic started backing up. I'm still waiting on someone to explain to me how going from 3 lanes to 5 lanes causes a back up. It never fails though. Traffic always gets backed up starting at the 75/675 split. Then it backs up for miles and miles. My thought is that if idiot drivers would just stay in their lanes and DRIVE it wouldn't happen!! Then on the north side they are doing construction and you lose a lane at 2 points so the extra traffic of spring breakers going home really had it backed up too. I don't usually get in bad traffic on the north side so I wasn't expecting it. I was past frustrated at that point.

We had a wonderful time on vacation though. We didn't do much. It was kinda cool with the wind coming off the ocean to spend much time at the beach with the kids, but we went to the play park (that's what the kids call it) everyday. They really loved that. In the afternoons we would go to Aunt Mimi's house to play outside or play in Namma's play park. One afternoon we went shopping. Well, I didn't buy anything, but Namma bought the kids several new summer outfits. Then we went out for seafood. I was able to get my crab leg fix! That is always nice! One night Aunt Mimi cooked us a wonderful roast for dinner. She even had strawberry shortcake for dessert. I don't think I've ever seen my kids eat so much!! On Friday my nephews came over and we all went to the zoo. Let me just say that the Jacksonville Zoo is great!! It's huge and has some of the best animals. We got to see lions, camels, huge alligators, and gorillas. I love the gorilla! He was huge and he was kinda interacting with the people. They have them so that you can be on the same level with only glass separating you. It's pretty cool!! We went to dinner on Friday evening for Namma's birthday and that's when Uncle Payne showed up. Joshua loves Uncle Payne, but Ari isn't so sure. She was really shy and reserved with him all night and the next morning. She did finally give him a hug and kiss as we were leaving though. I hope she gets over that soon. He wants to play with her so bad. I think it's the facial hair that has her freaked out. She is the same way with my dad who has a beard.

I was able to have lunch with a friend from high school. It was great to see him. Maybe next time we can chat for longer.

Even though we didn't do a lot it was a great vacation. Very relaxing. We missed Michael though. And Georgia. The whole way home the kids keep telling me that they wanted to see Daddy. When he opened the van door once we got home Ari just giggled and giggled repeating "Daddy!!" It was pretty cute.

I guess I'm famous now (well, maybe just here in Nashville. LOL)! While I was gone Brittney over at NIT (that's Nashville is Talking for all my non-Nashville readers) linked to me (it is the Bon Jovi post). Wonder how she ever knew I liked Jon Bon Jovi? No really, how did she know? Wonder what else she has learned about me from my blog? LOL

Anyway, it's good to be home. Sleeping in my own bed last night was heaven!! LOL I think the kids were happy to be back in their beds too. Joshua slept an hour later than he did all week and Ari slept 2 hours later. I got to sleep in too. My wonderful husband got up with them this morning.

Now we are off to the park. I hope everyone had a great week and didn't miss me too much! ;-)

My poor Georgia Girl

I took her to the vet today for a routine booster and then I wanted them to look at her paws. She's really been licking on them and has all 4 looking pretty bad. Well, they gave me some antibiotic pills (pills? Did they have to give pills?) for her to take and then a spray to put on her paws. Do you know how hard it is to get her to take pills? I've tried the whole peanut butter and cheese thing. She still spits the pill out. I have to shove it down her throat and that is never fun. She looks at me like I am the worst human in the world. Then I have to spray her paws and that just seems to add insult to injury. *sigh* She won't come anywhere near me at the moment and I completely messed up her nice peaceful night. I was going to put her flea and tick stuff on her tonight too, but I think I'll wait on that until tomorrow. She has been irritated enough for now.

I did it........so what do you think?

I got my hair colored. I've never gotten it done before either. I can no longer say that it is my natural color. LOL I'm not sure what I think yet though. I think it is too red around my face and then the back and underneath doesn't look like it is changed all that much. *sigh* Please ignore that I have no make up on in either of these pics. I'm also thinking that we could have gotten the lighting better.

Before

Why is it......

Why is it that when a kid takes a late nap that kid refuses to go to bed later? I swear they only slept for maybe 30 minutes on the way home from Daddy's today and that was at the beginning of the trip home. They played hard outside all day so you would think that even with just a 30 minute nap they would still be exhausted. Nope. It is almost 11pm and neither of them went to sleep until 10:30pm. I'm completely exhausted. Do you think since they went to bed so late they will sleep in tomorrow? I'm not holding my breath. *sigh*

Wish me luck!!

Ari is in big girl underwear today. I've decided to do the potty training thing for real this time. I'm on Spring Break for 2 weeks so this first week we will be in big girl underwear all day unless we go out and when we get to FL next week we will try it and see how it goes. She has already gone pee on the potty this morning so things are looking okay. Yes, I know that we will have many accidents this week, but it's a start. LOL At least I am doing laundry today!

Yep, you guessed it

Not much going on in the world of UGAgrad. Today was the last day of school before Spring Break. WOOHOO!! Now I have 2 weeks of doing whatever I feel like doing and sleeping later than 5:30am (hopefully, if the kids cooperate). I do have quite the "to do" list for next week before we leave for Florida. Want to see it? Of course you do!! ;-)

1. Hair cuts for both kids (I'm thinking of a cut and color for myself as well). (Kids DONE and mine DONE)
2. Georgia has to go to the vet. (DONE)
3. Fix the hydraulic thingys on the back door of the van (anyone know of a good cheap mechanic?). (Nope, didn't happen. Parts had to be ordered and not in before we leave.)
4. Clean the house. (This didn't work out......Michael will get this job while we are gone.)
5. Wash the clothes right before trip. (DONE)
6. Pack (DONE)
7. Buy a battery for my watch (it died last night and I walked around with it on my wrist all day today anyway.). (DONE)
8. Find my workout tapes for home. (DONE)
9. Manicure, pedicure, and massage for me. (DONE w/o the massage *sigh*)
10. Clean Joshua's old car seat so I can take it to my cousin. (DONE)
11. Laundry (DONE)
12. Go to Daddy's (we still haven't done Christmas with them.......how bad is that?). (DONE)
13. Clean out the van so all the crap........ummmmmmmm I mean useful items will fit for our trip. (DONE)
14. Find time everyday to work out. (This didn't work out like I had hoped)
15. Make dentist appts for the kids. (DONE)
16. Oil change for the van. (DONE)

I'm sure there are other things that I will think of along the way, but I'm feeling a tad bit overwhelmed at the moment so I'll stop now. LOL

As for the weight loss thing. I've finally passed the 6 lb mark. I was stuck there for a couple weeks. Maybe even three. I weighed in this morning and I'm down 8 lbs. Now that being said, I probably gained those 2 frustrating pounds back tonight when we went to dinner. We had Mexican. I have to say though that I can tell I've been eating less. I couldn't eat anywhere near as much as usual. I didn't come close to finishing my plate.

I had a feeling it would happen, but........

I'm not happy about it. Drew Bennett is no longer a Titan. All through the season I kept saying that he wasn't playing up to his potential (he missed a lot of balls that he would normally catch) and that I didn't think he would be around next year. Seems that I was right. He has signed with the Rams. This makes me sad. He was one of my favorite players. I guess I should be happy that he didn't go to the Ravens. LOL

I love baby showers

I just got home from my sister-in-law's baby shower. It was a lot of fun. We went to the Savannah Tea House for afternoon tea. The food was delicious and the company was fantastic. I always enjoy socializing with that group. There was lots of really cute baby stuff to look through. Makes me catch baby fever though. LOL I can't wait until Evan and Ashley's little one arrives. Maybe holding a new baby will hold me over until we decide if we are actually having another one or if I have to learn to live with not having another. *sigh*

Severe weather threat

We dismissed from school 2 hours early today due to the severe weather threat. Luckily, we didn't get the bad weather they were expecting. It sounds like it all hit south of us. A small town in Alabama was hit pretty hard and at least 15 high school students were killed when the ceiling of their school collapsed. This is not only sad, but scary. We tell our students that one of the safest places they can be during weather like that is at school because they are so sturdily built. I know it's true, but having that happen scares me for myself and for my 2 kids since they are in a school building as well and I'm sure if my students hear about it they will freak out the next time we have bad weather. It will just add another hat to the many I wear as a teacher, I guess.

Instead of the Oscars.......

I'm watching Pirates of the Caribbean. I love me some Captain Jack!!! Johnny Depp as a pirate is just way too sexy!! *sigh* Oh and I can't forget about the ever handsome Orlando Bloom. *sigh*

Once again tragedy hits the Denver Broncos

Running back Damien Nash with the Denver Broncos has collapsed and died after playing in a charity basketball game. Click here for the story. This comes less than 2 months after another Denver player, Darrent Williams, was shot and killed. My heart and prayers go out to the Nash family as well as the Broncos family.

Nash also played for my Titans. He was a 5th round choice in 2005. He played in 3 games for the Titans.

Feeling better

Whew, that was rough, but I'm feeling much better today. I still have a sore throat, but it is bearable unless I sneeze, cough, or yawn. Then it really really hurts again. I'm not as tired today. I may have overdone a little bit yesterday. Michael let me sleep in which was much appreciated (thanks Honey, I love you!). After I got up I went shopping. I had to go get a baby shower gift, something to wear to said baby shower, and then groceries. I was completely exhausted when I got home. Even though, I still did laundry. Luckily I don't have much to do today. I have an errand to run with Michael and then I have to pick up one thing that I forgot yesterday. Then it is back to work tomorrow...................with no lesson plans. *sigh*

Sickness has once again come to our house.

No, it's not the kids this time either. It's me again. It started around 11pm last night with a massive sore throat. I woke up this morning with the same sore throat and a little headache and body aches thrown in (and they weren't from working out although I have some of those too). I made an appointment at the clinic as soon as I got to school. I went at 10am feeling like I'd been run over by a Mack truck. I have strep throat. This is only the second time in my entire life I've ever had it. Let me just say that it SUCKS!!! I've found out that you don't have to have a fever to feel completely miserable. I had the body aches, pains, and chills like a fever, but no fever. That did hit once I got home and went to bed though. I've been ordered to stay home tomorrow as well as leave work early today. I hate not being at school. The work just piles up horribly. I haven't even done lesson plans for next week. That means that Monday is going to be lots of fun. Watch, that will be the day that the principal comes around checking!

This seems to be the year of crazy sicknesses for me. I usually get sick in September with a cold and stay sick pretty much until spring. Not this year though. I've been pretty lucky in the cold department, but I've had pleurisy and now strep this year. I've been out of school 5 days because I was sick. That seldom happens. If I'm out it is usually because one of the kids are sick. I hate this!! I feel so guilty being out when I'm sick. Especially if I start feeling even a little bit better. Then I feel like I could have gone in. Know what I mean?

Innovative idea!!

I've decided that someone needs to open a drive through grocery store. I needed just 3 things from the store today and I really didn't want to go. I had worked out after school so I was tired and I had both kids with me. It is always a pain to get them out of their car seats just to have to put them back in less than 10 minutes later. Who do I need to talk to about this? LOL

Saddened, but not surprised

Once again Pacman Jones is in the news. This time he is wanted for questioning in a shooting in Las Vegas. *sigh* This really really saddens me. I nowhere near surprises though. Trouble seems to follow him around or he seems to find it. I haven't figured out which it is yet. One thing for sure is that he is headed down the wrong road and the Titans need to figure out if they want to travel that road with him. The saddest part is that he is living his dream (I assume), but he isn't living it responsibly. We can say that he is young and he will eventually grow up, but if he doesn't do it quickly he may find himself out of a job or worse yet at the end of his life.

I will be interested to see how the organization handles this one.

Ari refuses to get off the couch!

Since the carpets were torn up to dry and fans put to blow air under them she hasn't gotten off of the couch without being carried. Heck, she doesn't even like it if we leave the room and leave her alone on the couch. I guess the wavy carpet is freaking her out. LOL I hope they get here soon to fix it so she can get down and play. Well, that and this place is a mess and I can't take it much longer!! They should be here today to replace the padding and reattach the carpet. Please let it be soon!!

Here we go again.

---

It is 4:25am and I am sitting in my living room very very sleepy. At approximately 3:30am I wake up to this crazy noise. I get up to see what it is. I find water shooting from my laundry room across the hallway hitting the wall. *sigh* This is a lot of water people. Both hallways are soaking (L shaped hall), it has gone under the wall into Joshua's room, it is halfway across the living room, and in the kitchen. Maintenance is here working on it now and the carpet people are on the way, but this only means that the kids are going to be up incredibly early with that noise and I'm not sure what we are going to do today. We really can't be here with that much floor wet plus the air dryers are going to make it cold in here. There are places we could go, but then the dog wouldn't be able to go. I don't want her here alone for 2 reasons. 1. She would freak out with th noise of the fans. 2. I hate not being able to let her out to potty. Well, I guess there are 3 reasons. 3. It is going to be cold in here and I don't want her cold. I don't know what we are going to do. I'm so tired I can't think straight.

Oh, and the water was going inside my dryer. Are the apartment people responsible for replacing it if it is ruined? If not, will renters insurance cover it?

UPDATE: Joshua got up as I was typing this and Michael took him to our room so maybe he will go back to sleep. Crossing my fingers.

Friday weigh in!

Well, I stepped on the scale this morning and I'm down 5 pounds!! WOOHOO!!! I worked out 4 days this week and made sure I watched what I ate. I'm feeling pretty good. Yes, I realize that the first 5 lbs are the easiest to lose and the next few are going to be more difficult and it's not going to happen as fast. I'm just excited that I stuck with it all week. LOL I even resisted the Valentine candy!

We worked out again today and I'm not quite as sore. My abs are still hurting, but nothing unbearable unless I cough.............which of course I started doing today! We have a 3 day weekend this week so hopefully if I am coming down with something it will pass over the weekend and not prevent me from working out next week. I'm also hoping I can keep the eating thing in check over the weekend. We will be stuck inside with snow (so they say) and I tend to get the munchies when I get bored so it may be a little difficult. *sigh* I will try though!

Bad day for a teacher to be on a diet!

Yep, I've decided that Valentine's Day is a bad day for a teacher to try to be on a diet. I got so many pieces of chocolate and other assorted candies that I lost count. I was good though. I only ate one piece of chocolate and a cupcake without the icing. Luckily, I was able to work out after school. That makes me feel somewhat better.

Speaking of working out..................I'm not quite as sore today. We did Pilates though and worked our abs a lot so I'm sure they will be screaming by morning. LOL My inner thighs are still sore too, but bearable. I will, however, be glad when this soreness goes away. I think we are going to take a break tomorrow. I think our bodies need it. At least I know mine does!!

Owwwww!!!

OMG!!! I'm so freaking sore!! We did an instructional Tae Bo workout yesterday and the real thing today. I had some sore muscles from yesterday's workout, but nothing compared to today! Part of it may be that I've been sitting still since I got home and just now made a move other than my hands on the keyboard. LOL I know better than to just sit and let my muscles tighten up. Ugh!!

I'm fighting a craving to eat right now too and not just something good for me. I want good stuff, not good for me stuff. I'm fighting though and determined to win. I do need to figure out what is for dinner though. I may have to have a Coke today too. I didn't have one yesterday and I'm paying for it with a massive headache today. I'm thinking that I will drink a Coke every other day. It is better than what I was doing, but I still get the caffeine and the wonderful taste of a nice ice cold Coke. LOL

I hope that I am able to move tomorrow and workout. How long does this soreness last when you first start working out?

I'm feeling good!

I ate well today(didn't even have a coke.........I'm sure I will pay for that with a massive headache tonight or tomorrow) and worked out. The ladies from school and I did some Tae Bo which I am feeling right about now. I've been sitting down for about an hour now and I'm starting to feel the pain of working out. It feels great though. I weighed in this morning and it is pretty embarrassing. I'll post weight loss on Fridays to see how I'm doing.

Watching the Pro Bowl

*sigh* Last football game of the season. This makes me sad. I'll have to put a countdown ticker on the blog for the first game of next season.

I'm watching my current favorite QB, Vince Young, play for the AFC right now. He just led a drive down the field for a touchdown. It was pretty much him and L.T. Did you know that V.Y. is the first rookie QB to go to the Pro Bowl since my all time favorite QB, Dan Marino, did it in 1983? Yep, I know how to pick 'em. LOL

Anyway, go AFC!!

Update: AFC won!! WOOHOO!! Just barely though. A field goal got it with no time left on the clock.

And, can I just say that I really really want to go to Hawaii. The scenery shots they were showing were awesome!! One day I will get there!!

The journey begins

The weight loss journey that is. A group of us started working out today after school. It was somewhat hilarious, but it was fun and we can all motivate each other and kick each other in the butt if we don't show up each afternoon. We are accountable! This is a good thing for me. Otherwise I will get lazy and decide not to go.

I've decided that I am going to set mini goals. Like 10 lbs at a time. That way I can celebrate after each 10 lbs and feel like I am making progress. I've started this journey many times in the past and have failed miserably. I'm hoping that this time is different.

Keep your fingers crossed for me.

I'm going to say it again!!

I LOVE EMMITT SMITH!! LOL

I'm sitting here watching mindless tv and who has a cameo appearance on "How I Met Your Mother" but Mr. Smith. It was a nice surprise. I'm missing Dancing with the Stars about now. *sigh*

Edited to say: Must be retired football player night on CBS. Jerry Rice just had a cameo on "The Class." It's a good night for an avid football fan! LOL

Lost a Super Bowl wager last night. So................

Sal, you are a football god!! No one knows more about football and picking winners than you do. I will never doubt your football prowess ever again. I bow down to your superior knowledge of all things football!
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Enjoy it while you can Sal! A new football season will be here before you know it. And, just so you know...............I never really expected the Bears to win. I just didn't WANT Peyton to win. LOL My college football blood just won't let me do it.

Snow Scenery

Michael got some pretty cool shots today in the snow. The pond shots haven't been uploaded yet, but I'll add them when they are done.

Snow Day #2~With actual snow this time!!

We finally got some snow. It's not much, but school was out again today and the kids were excited about the snow. Joshua more so than Ari, but they both had fun. We went walking to see the ducks at the pond, Joshua threw snowballs at Daddy and ate his first snow. He really enjoyed his time outside today. Here are some pictures from our day.




As Michael said...........Even the grill was happy about the snow. LOL



Joshua asking for someone to come play with him!



Ari wasn't too sure about all that white stuff.



Just looking out admiring the view.



Joshua having a good time and Ari still unsure.


Heck, even Georgia loved the snow.

Unplugged!!

What is it about this man? He's been my "crush" since I was 13 years old. I'm glad I have an understanding husband!! LOL

Here is the unplugged version of Lay Your Hands On Me. *sigh*

WOOHOO!! Snow day!!

We are home today for a snow day. I'm not really sure why since there is no snow on the ground at my house. Granted the county I live in didn't close school, but all those around us did. The one I teach in did. I'm not complaining! The kids are playing nicely for the most part. Michael is sleeping off the "man cold" that I hope doesn't turn into the flu. He was feeling pretty achy this morning. I have chili on the stove (it smells really really good!) for lunch and I'm still sitting around in my pjs at 10:30am. Can't beat that.

Supposedly we are expecting more of the white stuff tonight, but considering we were expecting 1-3 inches last night I'm not holding my breath. I could deal with another snow day though. ;-)

Happy Birthday Baby Girl!!

Well, today my youngest turns 2 years old. I can't believe she is already two! *SNIFF* *SNIFF*




These two pictures were taken at the hospital the day she was born.




This is her 1st birthday.




This picture was taken this past summer and is one of my favorites.




This was taken during this year's Christmas card photo session.


She has grown so much. Her personality has really emerged in the last few months. She is definitely all girl. Her favorite color is pink and she loves shoes. She can be loud and very demanding, but she still has that shyness. I'm not sure I know how to deal with a girly girl. She is beginning to fight back when her brother or friends take her toys or just irritate her though. It has been so much fun watching her become a little girl and leave the baby stage behind. It is also a little sad for me. She is, after all, my baby.

Happy Birthday sweet girl! I love you very much!!

I'm about to jinx the hell out of us!! LOL

We are FINALLY getting some winter stuff!!! It supposedly comes in on Wednesday night/Thursday morning! I'm so excited! They are calling for a couple inches of snow. Okay, those of you who get lots more than that can just stop laughing now! Yes, we in the south are pretty pitiful when it comes to our snow excitement. LOL Heck a measly little 2 inches will keep us home from school!

Name 3 things you want to do before you die.

I have a pretty long list, but these are my top three:

1. Visit every NFL stadium and watch a game.
2. Visit every major theme park and ride the roller coasters.
3. For one season go to every UGA football game home and away.

What do you want to do?

Damn I'm good!!

The bunk beds were delivered today right before Michael had to go to work. So, it was left up to me to get them put together so Joshua would have a place to sleep tonight. Only problem was.............no instructions!! Turned out not to be much of a problem though. Once I was able to determine which screws went with which part the rest was a piece of cake. Well not so much keeping the kids out of the room so they wouldn't get hurt. At first it was easy because I put the bottom part of the top bunk at the door and they couldn't move it. LOL Anyway, the beds are put together and ready for a 3 year old to sleep. We still need to get the twin mattress for the top bunk, but at least he can sleep on the bottom for now. There is quite a bit more space in his room now too.

We put Joshua's old bed in Ari's room because we are missing the rails and slats for the wrought iron bed. They are at Granddad's house in his attic so as soon as we get over there to get them I'll trade those beds. I put her new comforter set on..........the one she picked out and let me just say that man it is PINK!! I also bought her a lamp with a pink shade and when it is turned on the entire room has a pink glow. For a mommy who doesn't like pink that much it's not a place enjoy being in! LOL I do love that it looks more like a little girl's room now though. We will see how she sleeps in a big bed tonight. Hopefully since she didn't get a nap today we will have no problems.

Anyway, both rooms are done.........for the most part. I'll post pictures when we get them completely done.

Do you believe in ghosts/spirits?

This question was posed to me tonight so I am asking you. Do YOU believe in ghosts?

I believe. I have never had a real experience with ghosts other than a Ouija board experience that made a whole group of us (grown men included) swear off of them forever. I've had feelings that I wasn't alone in a room and such too, but I've never seen anything. I have a cousin, however, who did. She lives in my grandparents' old house and she was sleeping in my grandmother's room. She saw Ma one night. She has refused to sleep in that room since then. No matter that we tell her Ma was there to check on her and that she would never do anything to hurt her she just can't bring herself to sleep in there anymore. I swear that my kids can see my grandparents. There have been many occasions where they are looking off at something/someone laughing, reaching up and playing and I can't get their attention. One night I was putting Joshua to bed and he was looking over my shoulder just talking and laughing. He wouldn't look at me. I just sat there watching him and wishing I could see them too. When he was finished playing (or they were) he smiled and said, "Night night!" Then he looked at me as if surprised I was sitting there.

Have you ever had an experience with a ghost? Do you believe? I'd love to hear your story.