christmas 2010

Sparkling Scarlet Snowflakes Christmas

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One For The Money

Yes, It is finally time.  Janet Evanovich's book "One For the Money" is finally being made into a movie.  I'm a little torn over some of the casting though.  I always thought that Sandra Bullock would have made a terrific Stephanie Plum (main character).  Katherine Hiegl got the part.  I've seen a few pix from the filming and I think she will fit the part well.

Ranger is my favorite guy...and the guy they picked to play Ranger- SMOKIN!  Daniel Sunjata.  Dude, this was the best casting ever!  Morelli is being played by Jason O'Mara.  He doesn't look like my version of Morelli, but maybe he can pull it off.  And Sherri Shepherd is playing Lula.  Well done, Casting director.

This movie doesn't come out until next July, but you can bet that I will be there opening weekend!

packing up, going to a wedding, and watching TV

Hello, my fellow bloggers.  It's been a while and I just wanted to update you all on, well, ME.  I started packing up my office today.  My last full day here is next Wednesday (Sept 8) so I figured I'd start slow.  So as to not traumatize my co workers or myself.  I'm really looking forward to my new job, and time off during the week!, but it will be a bittersweet change.  That's another reason why I wanted to do it slow.  And I can guarantee that my photos won't come down until about 4:30 on the 8th.  I don't think I could work here if all my "decorations" were gone.

It's less than two weeks til my best friend's wedding (Not the movie, a real wedding).  I got to see some of the flowers yesterday.  They are really cool.  The maid of honor's is slightly different from the brides and the bride's maids are slightly different from the maid of honor.  This weekend we are having a cookout in lieu of a bachelor/bachelorette party because, let's face it, at 40 something, who really needs to do that who gig.  It will just be hanging out, eating and drinking, and laughing.  I'm sure I will have lots of photos from the party and the wedding (Lyric, Jazz and I are all involved in the wedding) so I will post some of those.

And finally, my newest guilty pleasure:  "Growing Up Twisted".  Yes, that's right.  Dee Snider and his family on reality TV.  (I've also been known to watch "Gene Simmons' Family Jewels").  I love the Snider family.  However "real" they are for TV, they seriously have had some ups and downs.  And Jesse Blaze is awesome.  You may have seen him come in second on VH1's "Rock The Cradle".  He's married now and has a very cute little girl.  I don't know why I watch this stuff, but I do.  Thank goodness for DVR.  :-)

Back To School TIme

Things are kind of, sort of, maybe falling into place for me, finally.  School starts on Thursday.  I  have class two days a week.  I should be starting my new job in a couple of weeks and that will make my life a titch less hectic.  My girls start next Tuesday, and I still can't believe that Lyric is a sophmore.  HOLY CRAP!

I meet with my lawyer next week.  Hopefully in a month or so the divorce thing will be done.  I just feel like I need things to be finalized and settled.  I'm tired of worrying about what Fisher is going to say or do everyday.  I know that I will still worry, but at least if the divorce is final, he will know that I'm not coming back and maybe he can move on.

With all the changes, I see lots of stories.  And I do intend to share them with you.  However, I will probably only post 1-2 times per week. Don't worry, I'm not ignoring you.  I'm just focusing on school and my family for a little bit.  Besides, pathopysiology is going to kick my butt!

Stay tuned for the good stuff!

On The Air

I just did a segment for Mom Talk Radio.  It was great!  I don't know for sure when it will be on the website, but I did a little roundtable about teenagers and independence.  Check it out and let me know if you have any other suggestions.

Carnival of Madness

Althought this would accurately describe my life right now, that is not what I am referring to.  Yesterday I took a road trip into Chicago for the Carnival of Madness tour.  This was no Rick Springfield concert, but let me tell you, it was a great show. (and a venue that I would love to see the Rickster perform at)

The opening band was 10 Years.  I had no idea that this band had been around for so long.  According to wikipedia they have been around since 1999.  Who knew?  Due to some unforseen traffic and road construction, we didn't actually get to see them, but I have heard them on the radio and they sound decent.

The next band was sevendust.  I like these guys.  Have been listening to them for awhile.  They were very entertaining, good stage show but something needed to be turned down at the sound booth.  I could hear everything well enough, but I couldn't understand most of the words because they were being drowned out by the music.  I'm a fan of sevendust for a few reasons.  1) they rock.  2) they let Chris Daughtry record a song with them. 3) they let Mark Tremonti record a song with them.  (as you should know, I am a huge Chris Daughtry fan and an even huger* Mark Tremonti fan.)  They also did a song with Myles Kennedy, who is the lead singer for Alter Bridge, which is a band that Mark plays in when he's not playing with Creed.

Next up, puddle of mudd.  I wouldn't say that I was a huge fan of theirs but let me say, this was my favorite band of the night.  The sound was great (almost as clear as on the CD), they guys were definitely having a good time on stage and the music rocked.  Very good show.

Then we got to see chevelle.  For only three guys, they were awesome.  Great sound, good stage/light show, and the songs, well, rocked.

The last band was shinedown.  we actually left before they started, so I have no idea how their show was, but I do know that I have 30 Shinedown songs on my ipod, so they are decent.

We hit huge traffic coming home due to some construction (at 10pm!!!) but got home safely and with some new found respect for these musicians.  I'm so glad that I went.

Weekend Update...and not the SNL verison

Friday night the girls went with Fisher.  This is the real start of our every other weekend thing.  I had signed the girls up for some volunteer work.  Fisher got to take them.  he tried to get out of it on Friday.  I say, if he really didn't want to do it, he should have said something earlier in the week. 

Then when he picked them up, he said it would be okay if they didn't want to spend the night on Saturday.  This from the man who wants to stick to the schedule and get as much time with his kids as possible.  Weird.

Sunday morning he called to see if he could keep them longer so they could go to a local fair.  I said sure, because I'm totally cool like that.

Then after they got home on Sunday,  I took them to my friend's house to swim.  The girls had a blast...so much so that we went back after Lyric got done with small group (for church).  I should probably mention that Fisher thinks I'm "dating" the afore mentioned friend and I think he probably drove by and saw my car there.  (because he does stuff like that). 

And now, we haven't heard from Fisher.  Not a phone call or a text to either of the girls or myself since about 4:00 yesterday...and let me tell you, bloggy world, that is just plain weird and totally out of character for Fisher.  I'm a little worried.

Back To School

Next week is registration week for our school district.  All the schools, all week, all at once.  Which is hard enough for me, but I feel bad for the families with 3, 4, or 5 kids.  You have to pay all registration fees at registration.  Who has that kind of money?? Not to mention school supplies and clothes and lunch account money and school pix and yearbooks orders....my head is spinning.

This year, Jazz is the one who is excited about going back to school.  Lyric is sooo not into it.  But she did have a bad year last year, so I think there's a little stigma from that.  She is, overall, doing better.  We have gotten her off two of the meds that she was on before.  And the doctor is hoping at some point that we can get her off of at least one, if not two more.

Jazz is going into 6th grade.  In most places that is middle school.  MIDDLE SCHOOL! The thought makes me want to cry.  She's my baby.  I can't even believe she's old enough to go to middle school.  Thank goodness our district has 1st through 6th at the elementary school.  It gives me one more year before I have to panic.  Which I totally will, because when Jazz goes to middle school, Lyric will be a junior.  And being a junior is just one year away from being a senior.  And I really, really don't feel old enough to have kids that grown up.  Wasn't I just in high school like 5 years ago??

Anyway, I bought notebooks, folders and pencils for the kids.  Now I need to break out the list and go get the rest of the stuff.  Glue, crayons, markers, paints, etc, etc, etc.  Now if I can just get my work/school stuff figured out...Then some of my stress will go away.

Planning...to have no plan

As you all know, things in my life are pretty freakin crazy right now.  The "best" (or maybe the worst) thing right now, is that school starts in 3 weeks and I don't have a new job.  Let me give you a smidge of backstory.  The job I have now (which I love) is Monday through Friday from 8 - 4:30.  Period.  I'm planning to take two classes this semester.  There is not an option to take different sections.  The classes are when the classes are.  My classes are Thursday from 10-11:50 and 3:30-6:30 (this is the lab) and Friday from 8-10:50.  Not bad for class times, however, I can't continue in the current job I have and take the classes that I want.

So about 4 months ago, I started applying for other positions within the health system where I work.  Nothing is panning out.  Nothing.  To add to the stress/drama, my position is posted and we have started interviewing for my replacement.  yup.  My replacement may be set before I even leave.

I had a nice talk with my manager the other day.  She really has been a great supporter of my goal to go back to school, and with all the crap I've had to go through with Fisher.  But she also has to look out for her department.  I can't fault her for that.

She has put in a good word for me with the manager of the area I have two applications in for, but I just don't know if that's enough.  Or if we can make anything happen in three weeks.  I just don't know. If the job thing works out, I will have to coordinate the girls after school because I will be working 3 - 12 hour shifts a week.  (And I must say, I love, Love, LOVE the idea of this schedule!) But I'll have to make sure Jazz has a ride home when I have to work. 

One of my co-workers is convinced that it will all work out last minute.  Hello, have you met me??? I'm a planner, an organizer, not a last minute person.  However, in this situation, I may have to be.  And it's driving me crazy.

But I guess this is just one of those life lessons.  You can't always plan everything.  So, my plan for the next month - no plan.  Let things fall where they may.  If the job thing doesn't work out, then I know that I'm not really supposed to be a nurse...but I won't give up my dream of a college degree.  That will happen...

American Idol....and So You Think You Can Dance

So last week I headed up to Milwaukee.  Twice.  We went on Monday to get Lyric's wristband, and then again on Wednesday for the actual audition.  The Monday trip was nice.  Easy in, easy out, thanks to my parents' GPS.  Tuesday night, I got the girls into bed at 9pm....don't know when they fell asleep but when the alarm went off on Wednesday morning at 3am, they did actually get up.  We were in the car by 3:30am and off to Milwaukee.

We pulled into a parking lot at 5am, and walked a couple of blocks to the Bradley Center.  There was a ton of people there already but the Bradley center people and the American Idol people really were organized.  We got into line and then sat for about a half an hour.  Lyric and I are huge people watchers so we were having a great time with that.  After a while, we were moved around the building and then waited again.  And for some reason then we were moved back to where we started, well, actually, we were moved back around the building and were let in.

We were in our seats around 7:30am.  At 8am, the AI producer/MC dude announced that he wanted everybody in their seats so we could "Get started".  It took just a few minutes and then Matt Giraurd was on the floor....a few second later, Danny Gokey.  The girls were stoked.  Matt was always Lyric's favorite and we had just seen Danny the week before.  They helped get the crowd pumped up and we did some group singing and what not.  Then Ryan Seacrest came out and the crowd went wild!  We didn't get done filming until 10am.

Then they set up the floor with the tables for the judges.  12 tables.  Sectioned off.  And then they started lining people up for the auditions.  Lyric didn't get in line until around 3:30/4:00.  and we were out of there by 4:30.  Lyric didn't get picked, but she texted me as soon as she was done and said "I feel great". 

I'm so proud of her for even being able to get up there and try.  She's already talking about trying out again next year.

And now Jazz is looking forward to trying out for So You Think You Can Dance...stage mom, anyone?!?!?

Court Part 2

Well, I'm starting to realized that the whole legal system is s.l.o.w.  Our first courtdate, we discussed custody and visitation.  The second one was all about child support (which I got more than I expected, so I'm pretty stoked about that).  I don't know what will be next, but could this crap be over soon please.  For one,  I can't keep paying my lawyer (but I will because he is awesome), and for two, I'm so over all this crazy BS.

In all my brilliance, I figured I would get there early and have my lawyer put me into a conference room like he suggested.  Half an hour early, an Fisher was already there!  So I went in and sat down.  I will admit, I should have sat farther away, but I thought a couple of seats between us would be a bit of a buffer.  Nope.  He started in talking to me.   I tried to shut him down, but he kept going. Then, he asked a very silly question. 

Here's the backstory: My best f riend's son's graduation party is this weekend.  It's Fisher's weekend to have the girls.  we had talked about it the night before. The party run from 12-3 and I told him to come at 2pm to pick up the girls.  He said "I was invited to the whole party".   I asked if he was really going to come and sit there for 3 hours and he said maybe.  Now, anybody who has ever been to one knows that graduation parties are like open houses- you go a for a abit and then leave.  But whatever.  He's gonna do whatever he wants. I told him that people would probably be really uncomfortable with us both there for three hours (I'm helping with the set up, clean and general party stuff)

Silly question from Fisher:  "Why do you think people would be uncomfortable?"

I got up and walked out into the hall.  I stood there, just to be away from him.  A few minutes later, he came out.  Pretty convenient that his lawyer was out there.  So, then I went back into the waiting room.  A few minutes later, he came in and sat down two seats away.  I turned my back to him when he asked "Can we talk" and said that we could not.

When my lawyer finally got a chance to "rescue" me, he put me in a conference room.  We talked for a bit and then he left to check on some things and I stayed.  After about 5 minutes, Fisher stuck his head in and asked if we could talk.  I said "no,  I'm waiting for my lawyer.  You need to go." and he said (another funny thing) "Well, I just though we could do this amicably."  yeah, right.

Fisher's lawyer is good as stalling.  They wanted to hagle over the child support amount, how I would get it, and even suggested a reconcilliation hearing.  My lawyer said "My client doesn't want that but file if you must".  Ultimately, we came out of there after about an hour and I was $75 a week richer that I expected.  NICE.

I don't know when part three will be but I will be sure to keep you posted.

Rick photos and help issue

Here's a couple of pix from the weekend.  If anybody can help me with setting on my camera so the pix aren't HUGE when I upload to the computer, that would be great.

this one I played with the settings in my computer.  not a great pix but a pretty cool tool

This one is a fun one...great smile.

Court Today

I've got great Rick pix to share and a funny story or two about the weekend, plus next week is Lyric's American Idol audition, but today is our second court date.

The first one, Fisher ended up behind me as I parked, and he walked into the courthouse with me and sat by me and talked to me and tried to convince me the whole time that we should not be doing this.

I met with my lawyer a couple of weeks ago and he said I could ask to be put into a conference room.  Sweet!  I've had enough of being badgered by my "was-band".

Last night he dropped the girls off at 9 and wanted to talk. again.  he always wants to talk.  Always wants to tell me how much he loves me and how much he's changed and how thing will be so different and so wonderful now that he's sober.  (which I only partially believe.  I don't think he's quit drinking 100%).  I gave him a few minutes of my time, unwillingly, but ultimate had to ask him to leave.  Kicked him out really.  I feel bad for him for not realizing that things were so bad and I was so unahppy, but I'm not going back now.  I don't even like to be in the same room with him, let alone try to "fix" our marriage.

Then this morning I get "I can't do this without you".  Too freakin' bad.  Because I can do this without you, and there is no way in hell that you are going to guilt me into coming back.  I feel so much better about myself since I moved out.  I feel freer, smart, happier.  I don't have to hid parts of who I am (like my Rick "issue"), or who my friends are, or what I think and feel.  I don't have to worry about how clean the house is, because I only answer to me.  And guess what, I like me.  I get along great with me.  I make me happy.  And that is a wonderful thing.

So, court update and Rick pix to come....stay tuned.

A Second Date With My "Boyfriend"...

For those of you that know me, you know I am a very organized person.  I've even stepped up the organization recently, and it's almost a little scary.  At least I can find stuff easily (except that one little piece of paper that I really need to find).  I'm a planner and a list maker. 

Saturday I'm going to see my boyfriend for the second time this year.  Out of town.  Without my girls.  And I really don't have a plan in place.  I know, I know, you can all pick your chins up off the floor now.  It's two days away.  I will figure it out.  So, I have to wonder:  am I mellowing out in my old age?  or am I just so overwhelmed by life in general that I don't care?  Either way, it's all going to work itself out.

But the week of the 19th I have about 500 things* to coordinate.  Check in with me next week and see if I'm pulling my hair out yet.

*disclaimer:  500 might be a bit of an exageration, but I have A LOT going on that week.

Someday My Prince Will Come

But until then, I'm growing one.  LOL  I will have photos soon.  My friend's bought me a "grow your own Prince" this weekend and it's the funniest damn thing ever.  It's almost fully grown, and then I will post the photos.

I had a decent weekend.  Went a little overboard with the alchol on Friday, but not too awful of a hangover on Saturday.  Then, Saturday evening was a fun time with good friends and good food and lots of laugh.  (Not that there weren't lots of laughs on Friday as well!)  Sunday, the girls came home from their dad's in decent moods and that was a very nice surprise.  We went to a cookout/pool party Sunday afternoon.  Lyric swam, Jazz did not.  We were scheduled to go to the parade, and then it started to rain.  The rain stopped and ultimately, we did end up going to the parade and the fireworks.  I don't think any of the 8 kids were into the fireworks but we stayed til the end anyway. :-)

Monday was a holiday from work for me, so after I slept in, we cleaned and then ran errands.  I got stuff done and felt pretty accomplished.  Now it's back to work...for a little bit anyway.  July is a super busy month for me.  I will try to keep you posted on the what's and how's but right now I'm just trying to make things make sense in my own head.

Happy Fourth of July

I know that technically it's only July 2nd, but I'm guessing I won't be online much since it's the holiday weekend.  The girls are going to Fisher's tonight (friday) and Saturday, instead of the previous plan of Saturday/Sunday.  I've been invited to a cook out on Sunday and they want to go with.  Fisher was generous enough to let them switch.  He also hasn't forced the Thursday overnight issue, which is great, because the girls are having a hard enough time adjusting to the weekend thing.  It sounds like they did have a nice visit yesterday though.

Saturday I will be cleaning, doing laundry and then going to a cookout/fireworks party.  Should be fun times.  Sunday is the aforementioned cookout.  Monday is a whole lot of nothing.  just hanging out with my girls...and maybe getting them to do some chores.  :-)

So, everybody have a great weekend.

Break Out the Calendar

I started this post and had all of my stuff listed out...then decided that maybe it wasn't a good idea to put it out there for the whole world.  Let's just say this:  I'm going to two concerts this month (Rick Springfield and Danny Gokey), I'm going to several cook outs and one small town festival, Lyric is auditioning for American Idol, and I'm taking a trip to Missouri for the Hoops for Life Run/Walk.

Fisher and I have started our new custody/visitation schedule.  The girls are mostly okay with it.  They don't like spending the night during the week but they did have one full weekend so far and that seemed to go okay.  This weekend will be #2.  Cross your fingers that it goes well.  I need all the good vibes in that area that I can get.

Fisher really, really, really does not want the divorce.  I really, really, really don't want to be with him anymore.  Kind of makes things difficult.  It's also hard when he calls me everyday to tell me that he loves me and I'm beautiful and he would do anything for me and he should get a second chance.  It also doesn't help when he asks the girls if I have a boyfriend or when he tells them that he's still trying to work it out.  I've told him all my issues.  I've told him that I don't love him.  I've told him that I don't want to be with him.  I've told him not to talk to the girls about the details of the divorce.  He is not listening.  At.  All.  We go back to court on July 13th to work out some of the financial stuff.  I hope that we only have to go back to court one or two more times to get this all done.

American Idol

Lyric is 15.  American Idol just changed their age requirements, dropping the lowest age to 15.  American Idol auditions will be in Milwaukee.  We're going to Milwaukee.  YIKES!

I always told Lyric that she could try out when she was old enough.  Of course, I figured the show would be done by the time she hit 16.  Well, now the AI people have decided that there's some untapped 15 year old talent and they want to show it to the world.  So, Lyric is on her way. so to speak.

I would really love for her to make it far.  I really would.  This is something that she really wants to do and what a fun experience it would be for her.  I'm very nervous that something would go wrong.  Like they would tell her she wasn't good and she would take it to heart and cut herself again.  So how do I be supportive yet prep her for the worst without making it into a bigger deal than it needs to be?  Any suggestions?

Anonymous - By Tess Moody

Today is a very special day!  My friend, Tess, has stopped by to promote her new book.  You can check out her author website: here. 

If you stop by Tessa's blog between now and July 1 and leave a comment that you saw her here, you will be entered into a drawing to win a copy of the new book.  What are you waiting for?? click here to leave her a comment.

Tess was kind enough to answer some questions about the book, her writing, and more

what is the book about?

Anonymous is about a blogger named Paige McDonald.  Paige's blog is well-known and when one of her reader's obsession with her goes too far, Paige finds herself in danger. Soon, other bloggers start turning up dead. Paige has to decide if blogging is worth risking her life.

Where did you get the idea for the plot?

I'm always thinking of story ideas in every day life events. I like to read big time bloggers blogs and when I had a "troll" on my blog awhile back, I connected the two and came up with a story line from them. Just for fun, I named some characters after bloggers that I read, and used the personality of others.


 Does your family support you when you are writing a book? How?
 My hubby does think that all artist are starving artists, but he knows I have to write and he is ok with it. My dad is a big supporter of creativity, so he has my back whenever I get the creativity itch. Everyone in the family shows up for my book signings for support-that is a big help to me.



Have you written any other books?
Yes. I wrote two other books, The Accident and I'm a Work at Home Mommy-You Can Be Too! (that's a mouthful!)



 Do you have any more books planned?
I do. I have a series titled, The Coconut Hut Club. They are not detectives by far, but they seem to get caught up in solving cases related to their occupations. They share their crazy experiences with each other over drinks at a tacky bar called The Coconut Hut, where they meet once a week.

In The Wedding, (first book of the series) it’s Alex's turn. She’s a wedding photographer, who manages to get caught up in a wild mystery while photographing a high society wedding.


What do you do when you aren’t writing?
I am a mom of three children, Jessica (20), Jordon (14) and Emily (5) and a grandma to an orney two-year-old, Zachary. I'm also a photographer and graphic artist.



If you could meet one author, dead or alive, who would it be?
It used to be J.K. Rowling, but now it would have to be Stephenie Meyer. She is my idol because she's down to earth and she listened to her dreams!



Anything else you want the world to know?
Hmm, I guess if you want to know about a person who likes to look at the funny side of life, read my blog-and I'm always open to suggestions as long as they come with a box of chocolate.

Priorities

I'm really good at wanting to try different things, or putting too much on my plate, or not always thinking things through but I've been doing a little soul searching today.  Mostly because this math class is kicking my butt!  I took it because I wanted to have an associate's degree.  I don't need it, because I've already been accepted to nursing school (which I got reregistered for, BTW).  And it's HARD.  So, I got to thinking, what do I really want?  What do I really want to do?  What is sooo important that I want to spend my time on it?  Here's what I've come up with:

* quality time with the girls, even if that is just sitting down to watch a half hour show per day. 
*I want to be a writer.  I have several books either done or almost done, so with a little effort, I could have them on Lulu by the end of the summer
*I want to be a nurse.  Plans for this are underway.
*raising the girls to be strong, independent, respectful, loving, caring, compassionate people.
*Happiness.  I know everybody's happiness is their own.  I know what I want and need to make me happy.  There is a plan in place, but it's not all up to me.  I'm working toward this goal and I would say, within 12-18 months I will be there.  More on this will come out later, I'm sure.
*I want the girls to have a good relationship with their dad.  I can help facilitate that, but a lot of it is on him. I will support them as much as I can.
*I want to be more organized than I already am.  Some may think that this isn't possible, but trust me, there is always room for improvement.  I need to take a little time to map out some things (activities, paperwork, etc) and then put the plan into motion.
* I want more family time.  My extended family lives about 4 hours away, which isn't really that long of a drive.  So, I'm going to work on getting up to see them at least 2 x a year. 

I think that's enough goals in place for now.  As always, things may get tweaked and changed but it's at least a place to start.

What are your goals and dreams??

Munchkins and More...

This morning I could not get up.  I've been setting the alarm a few minutes later since the kids don't have to get up for school, and that's not working out so well, since they still have to get up.  Lyric is babysitting Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday and volunteering on Wednesday.  Jazz is still going to the sitter, she just goes all day.  So I still have to get us up and out the door on time. 

I haven't slept well recently due to tons of stress. Stuff with the girls, stuff with Fisher, stuff with school.  it's alot to handle, and one of these days, I will post some details.  Last night, I slept great.  And couldn't get up.  And the girls couldn't get up. So we were pushing it to get everywhere we needed to be this morning.  Gonna have to make some changes to our bedtime routine to help make our morning routine go smoother.

Anyway, as Lyric was getting out of the car this happened
Me: "Have a good day, Munchkin." 
Lyric:  Did you just call me Munchkin?"
Me: "yup"
Lyric:  "I like it"
She's 15 and she liked it.  That's cool.

Make sure you stop by next week. I will be having a special guest and you don't want to miss it!

What's In Your Planner....

I am a planner. An organizer.  A list maker.  There is nothing more exciting to me than checking things off a list.  Which is why I like to be able to carry my calendar/planner with me.  So I use the 5.5 x 8 inch size.  It seems though, about every 6 months, I feel the need to try something else.  I once spent $30 on the full size planner that would let me keep track of my whole families actitivies.  Yup, used it for a few months and then threw it away.  It was too big to be effective because I couldn't put it in my purse.  I've used the Franklin Cover 7 hole daily and weekly styles (thanks, Mom!).  I have found that weekly works best for me, but I like to have a monthly view for things like birthdays and anniversaries as well.  I try to write my "to do" lists in my planner as well, because, seriously, if  I don't write it down, it is sooooo not going to happen. 

But I have to wonder, is this the best system for me??  It seems like I am still missing/forgetting somethings.  It also seems like there might be more that I should keep track of (or maybe not).  So, I am asking you, my bloggy friends, what type of planner/calendar/organizer system do you use?  and do you feel that it really works well for you??

Just because I am feeling generous, there will be a special something for one poster (but only if you leave me an email addy I can reach you at)

Catching up

Wow!  I didn't realize that I hadn't posted since YAH.  Ms Lyric didn't place.  She was actually tied for third, but when we did the "cheer off" the other girl won.  She was a great sport about the whole thing....and I hope that she really enjoyed the experience.  Her performance is up on youtube.  Search for AmyK93.  She sang "Somebody to Love".

We added to our family yesterday.  We got two kitties.  Bella and Bondi (my girls renamed them) came to live with us and as soon as I can get them to come out of hiding and to face the camera, I will post pix.  They are 8 years old, sisters, and very pretty kitties.  I'm hoping that the "pet therapy" will be a plus for Lyric and for Jazz. 

This past weekend some really crazy stuff went down with Fisher.  I probably haven't said much about it, but we are getting a divorce and it is definitely not what he wants.  But it's what I know is best for me.  Maybe someday I can tell more of the story but right now, that's enough.

So, there's the latest and greatest from the Random House.

JA Konrath is Da Bomb

Cherry Bomb, that is.  He has a whole bunch of really cool stuff in the works, and instead of praise, Publisher's Weekly does  this. (there's a link within the blog to read the article)

I've been a fan since the first Jack Daniels book.  He's written some other stuff that is a bit too creepy for me, but the fact of the matter is, Joe is an excellent author.  He is also a very smart business man.  And he is not afraid to help others learn from his lessons.  He is always winning to share what is working for him (and what is not)

The PW article just goes to show that you can say anything, even if it is only partial truths, and get away with it.

young at heart idol

Lyric is a finalist in the first annual Young At Heart Idol Contest.  She will be performing May 29th and if she wins she gets $200.  (Second place is $100 and third is $50).  She is in the 11 to 15 year old category.  (There is also 16 to 20 and 21 and up).  Winners are decided by audience reaction, so we are rallying the troops: our friends, family, friends of friends, friends of family, co workers and whoever else we can think of.  My mom and I are going to make posters this weekend.  I'm so excited for her to have this wonderful opportunity.  I know she will do a great job.  I would love to see her win!  (Duh, what mom wouldn't)  I just hope that I can hold back the tears.

Water, water everywhere...

I hate water!  I didn't used to hate water.  I actually like a nice shower, long bath, soak in a hot tub, and even sometimes swimming.  But I've had water issues in my basement two times since I moved.  A month ago. 

The first time was the weekend we moved in. It was because there was a big hairball in the pipes.  (I didn't see it, that's what the guy told me)  Jazz was taking a shower and all of a sudden I hear water.  Lots of water.  So I go to investigate and both my kitchen sinks were full, the floor was a puddle and water was leaking into the basement!  It was awful.  Thank goodness the maintainance guy came over right away.  But it didn't get fixed the first time.  they had to send the plumbing guy back a few days later. Since then, it's a been good.

Then yesterday morning, I went downstairs to get some clothes and saw that the floor was dirty.  Investigated a little further and stepped in a puddle.  Investigated more and realized that I had a huge mess down there.  So I did my best to squeegie the water toward the grain, get stuff up off the floor, and see what I could save.  Called the maintainance guy to let him know that not only was there water in my basement, but  I could see it dripping down one of the walls.  He headed over to check it out.

Now, a lot of the stuff down there was in rubbermaid type containers.  There were a few things on the floor that I could not save.  No big deal.  Until I got home last night and really started looking at what got wet.  Somehow, one of the buckets that I keep the girls' school papers in got wet.  Not just wet, but WET WET.  I started pulling out papers and as the water was dripping off the art work and report cards, the tears started dripping down my face.  I saved a few select things, hoping that when they dry out they will be semi okay.

The kicker is that the kids probably don't even care about that stuff.  But there were so many cute art projects and stuff that I never photographed.  And now they are just gone.

So, leasons learned: 1) photograph kids art work right away, 2) even in rubbermaid, stuff is not save from water, 3) don't leave cardboard boxes on the floor in the basement, 4) be thankful that nobody got hurt.

A little Excitement and a Rick Concert too!

Friday morning, while I was working away, trying to get everything done before I left for Milwaukee, I got a phone call from Lyric's school.  She might have broken her ankle.  So, I bolted on out of work, drove to her school and went back to work.  (I actually work next door to the immediate care clinic).  An hour and a half later, we were out of there.  X-ray'd and splinted.  No break, just a sprain.  (But a very colorful one at that)

Got her home and settled and then ran all the errands that I was already planning to do.  I was able to get everything done that needed to be and we headed out of town.  Here's a few of my fave pix.  (This new camera is pretty awesome!)

this is the view with no zoom

singing his heart out

super cute smile (Nice to see him sporting the scruffies!)

I love this one for some reason...

singing and smiling

This one turned out pretty dang cool, I think.

T minus 12 and counting

Yes, people, it's that time of year again.  Birds are singing, flowers are in bloom, nights are getting warmer (or at least they are supposed to) and I am off to my annual Girls Night Out to see this guy.  I'm heading up this afternoon for the show and if all goes well, staying for the charity softball game tomorrow.  Kelley and I are staying over night and I expect to have a really great time.

In case you were afraid to click the link, here's a hint...

(I'm sorry I don't remember who took these pix.  If they are yours, I would willingly give credit)

Yes, it's time for RICK SPRINGFIELD! 

Trying out my new camera tonight, so hopefully I will have better pix than in previous years!  I will post as soon as I can, but it probably won't be until Sunday because Jazz's birthday party is tomorrow after I get home.

Happy Friday, everybody!   it's time for me to get my Rick on.

A winner and a new giveaway

I'd like to congratulate Marsha for winning the Hot Locks doll.  She has two little girls who I think will love playing with this cool new toy.

I'm also going to start doing regular giveaways in the blog.  at least once a month.  This month's prize is:

Avon's Skin So Soft, Bug Guard Plus.  A must have for summer if you are going to be out doors at all.
Repels mosquitoes for 8 hours. Provides effective protection against gnats, no-seeums, sand flies and biting midges. DEET-free, dermatologist-tested, hypoallergenic. 2-in-1 protection.* Aerosol spray, 4 oz. net wt

*All you have to do to enter is:  leave a comment telling me what your favorite outdoor activity is.  Please be sure to include an email address so I can get back to you if you win.
*For an extra entry:  post this giveaway on your blog and comment here with the link.  ( I will be checking)
*For another extra entry:  go to my website:  www.youravon.com/akrueger8895 and comment here with your favorite item.(it might just show up as a giveaway!)

(No pressure to order but if you see something you must have while you are surfing around my website, you can order and have it shipped right to you.  enter code "FSANY" to get free shipping.)

This giveaway runs from today, April 29 until Thursday, May 6.  I will draw for a winner on May 7th, before I head out to the Rick show.

Where's My Diginity?

I wrote this last fall.  I think that it could turn into a really good story.  Let me know what you all think.

     "Hey, it's jsut me.  I left something at your house last night.  Could you let me know if you find it?  It's my diginity."
     I couldn't believe how I had behaved.  I had been at a cook out at my friends' house.  Luke and Sarah.  Sarah and I have been best friends since high school and Luke is her prince.  Dotes on her.  Pampers her.  But let's her be herself.  Luke's best friend is Matt.  Matt is my ex.  And he was at the party.  With his new girlfriend.
     My name is Theresa and I'm a complete mess.
     Matt and I dated about five years ago.  Right after I got out of college, Sarah and Luke fixed us up.  It was great at first.  We hit it off and it seemed like we had a lot in common.  But after about six months, he gave me the "it's not you, it's me" speech and broke my heart.
     He's had a few girlfriends since then.  I know this because Sarah feels the need to keep me in the loop.  He's repeatedly dated Debbie, his high school sweetheart.  Let me tell you, she's no sweetheart.  But she has some sort of power over him that I just don't understand.
     So, back to last night.  I knew that he was going to be there so I dressed my best.  Low V neck, slinky top, tight jeans, sexy sandals.  Hair up, because that was how he had always liked it.  i looked great, felt good, was nervous.
    I got there at six and nobody else was there.  Sarah and I did a shot and then I cracked a beer.  I needed to take the edge off my nerves.
    Other people started showing up.  Mike and Julie, Steve and Shelly, Terry and Megan, Matt and Kris, Jason, Tony, Bill.  Yup, it was mostly couples but there were three bachelors there and I intended to show Matt what he was missing.
    While Luke was cooking, I focused my attention on Tony.  Tony worked as an engineer at a local hospital.  At work he was all business.  Outside of work, he was the most laid back, down to earth person I know.  He was a great guy.  We talked about sports, his neices and nephews, and how Luke and Sarah should just get married already.  i had often wondered why he had never asked me out.  He always seemed so interested.  A few months ago, Luke let it slip that Tony was gay.  That would be why he didn't ask me out.  But he was still nice to look at and hang out with.
    I barely acknowledged when Matt and Kris showed up.  She didn't care, but he gave me a glare.  Good.
     After we ate, the party moved to the pool deck.  And I moved to Jason.
     Jason had alwyas been like a brother to me.  Great to hand out with but not to date.  He'd do anyting for a friend and was alwyas there to porect or stand up for a friend.  Jason was a bartender at my favorite bar.  We started talking about who we could throw in the pool first.  I wanted it to be Matt, he wanted it to be Sarah.  We laughed about it and decided not to throw anybody in.
    I stole a few glances at Matt and was not happy to see that he still looked good.  i tried not to obsess over whateve had gone wrong between us,  but I never really could understand it.
    His girlfriend was cute and nice and that made me mad.  I wanted her to be mean and bitchy so I could as why he was with her.  But they actually seemed well suited for each other.  I hated it.
     Bill and I had known each other as long as Luke and Sarah.  He was going through a divorce and just needed a fun night with friends.  He was also a great guy and I couldn't figure out his wife.  Why would she leave him.  I guess you never know what goes on behind closed doors.
    Bill and I started dancing.  Probably not a great idea when you are on the pool deck and you've had a few drinks, but I had poor judgement.  One wrong step back and I was in the pool, fully clothed.
     Everybody got a good laugh out of it, including me.  It was a good thing that Sarah and I wore the same size.  She gave me some clothes to change into and I returned to the party.
    I had drunk just enough at that point that my snarky side was coming out.  I was throwing little jabs at Matt.  Things that nobody else really understood.  He made one comment and it was all over.
    "Really?  really, do you want to go there, Matt?"  I was standing toe to toe with him.
    "Go where?" He wasn't smart enough to say no.
    "You said that I was the best thing that happened to you.  You said you saw a future for us.  You said you loved me!  It sucks that you either lied or could only see your future in weeks, because a month after that we were done.  When you lamely broke up with me, I was crushed.  Crushed!  I loved you,too.  And I saw our future more clearly than you.  And it was wonderful.  But you lost out.  You screwed up!  You left me."
    "I didn't leave you," he tried to reach for me, but I pulled away.  "I didn't leave you, Tessa.  I was just so afraid of how intense things were.  It seemed like we were moving so fast.  I had to get out."
    "You are an asshole!  I could have used that information five years ago."
    "I didn't know how to tell you."
    "Screw you!  You broke my heart.  It killed me.  I spent the last five years trying to figure out what's wrong with me. You ruined me."
    Everybody had been silent during the exchange.  His poor girlfriend had a deer in the headlights look and I wanted to punch her.
    "luke, can you take me home? I need to get out of here."
    Matt tried to reach for me again and I flinched.  "Do. Not. Touch. Me.  You lost that right a long time ago.  everybody, I'm so sorry that you had to witness this craziness."
    Luke and Sarah walked into the house with me.  Sarah gave me a hug and said,"  I'm sorry."
    "It's okay.  I knew that he would be here and I can anyway.  I'm sorry for causing such a scene."

    So, I left the message for Sarah and headed to the shower.  I was a little hung over but doing okay.  When the phone rang, I assumed it was Sarah and quickly answered it.
    "hello?"
    "Hey."  It wasn't Sarah.  it was Matt.
    "Hey,"  I answered softly.
    "How are you doing today?"
    "You care because?"
    "Because I do.  I've always cared about you."
    I laughed out loud.
    "Okay,  I can see how you might not believe that, but it's true."

Time for a Tattoo

Amy at Escape to Thought posed a very good question.  If you were to get a tattoo right now what would it be? I've actually considered getting a tatttoo off and on over the years, but I wanted it to be something special and meaningful.  If I was to go today, I would get a tattoo of a dotted eighth note with a pair of dance shoes hanging from the flag.  It would be on my inner left arm, up near the elbow.

I know you are thinking that's kind of weird and unusual.  Let me tell you a little bit about why this would (and probably will be) my tattoo.

About a year ago, a situation occured within my family that shook it to the core.  Without going into the gory details (and to protect those involved) one of the outcomes was that Lyric started cutting herself.  At first the story was that she fell, and I almost bought it, but then I opened my eyes a bit more and realized what it really was.  So, for the past 11 1/2 months we have been dealing with that.  She gets angry/frustrated/hurt and she has the urge.  She hasn't cut herself for almost a month now.  This is great news.  But I worry all the time that she will have a bad day and cut herself, or worse.

Lyric's favorite music note is a dotted eighth note.

Jazz is a dancer, hence the nickname.  Since dance is a big part of her life, I would incorporate the dance shoes. 

It was either this or have a tattoo for each girl and I'm not quite ready for that yet.

The placement on the arm is because that's where Lyric has done most of her cutting.  There is also a to write love on her arm movement. 

Binders

Binders, binders, binder.  You know:  1 inch, 2 inch and 3 inch plastic covered cardboard with three rings and comes in diferent colors!?!?  I love binders.  i use them for everything.  I have one for information about my new apartment.  One for my Avon business stuff and one for my Avon customer information.  I have one for my friend's wedding plans and one for all my school information. 

I have binders at work for notes about my job, payroll, department charges, and more

I use binders to keep all kinds of things organzied.  I prefer the ones with the plastic sleeve on the front so you can give it a pretty cover.  But even the plain ones you can slap a sticker on so you know what's in it.

I have a nice little stash of extras and i add to it at school supply time when they are on sale for like 50 cents.  some binders get reused and others will hold their information for years.

What's your favorite organizing tool??

I'm late, I'm late, for a very important date

Bet you thought this was going to be an Alice In Wonderland post, didn't you?!?  Well, it's not.  This post is all about how getting up in the morning sucks!  My alarm goes off and I hit the snooze a whole bunch of times.   I don't count because 1) I'm not a morning person, 2) I barely function without my coffee, 3) I barely function before 9am, 4) there's nothing I hate more than that annoying sound (which does not explain why I continue to hit the snooze- I get to hear it over and over and over.

Unfortunately, this must be genetic as Jazz and Lyric are most definitely not morning people.  Jazz used to be: early to bed, early to rise, just like her dad.  Not so much anymore.  Lyric has never, ever, ever been a morning person.

In the morning, I try to be nice when I wake them up, but really the only way to get them to move is to be loud...repeatedly.  This makes mornings at our house one big fat pain in the hind end.

So, let me ask, does anybody have any ideas on how to help this part of our morning run a little smoother (or quieter)?  I'm open to suggestions.

Avon Open House

I am finally all moved into my new apartment.  Not all unpacked, but all moved.  This weekend I am having an Open House to help support my Avon business.  For all my bloggy friends, you can help too.  Go here and click on "eParties".  You will be able to browse through a virtual catalog and order any Avon products you like.  When you are done shopping, check out and enter "FSANY" as the promo/special code.  This will get your items shipped directly to you, for free!

If you would like to earn some free Avon products, you can schedule your own eparty.  just leave a comment here with an email address and i will get back to you.

Party on!

My Insightful Daughter...

Here's what Lyric has to say about herself:

I am 14.
I'm insane.
I love liek crazy and don't hate too often.
Once I love you, I'll probably never stop.
Unless you REALLY screw with me...
I won't forget you if you were ever once in my heart.
I believe that everyone should have a chance to prove what they're worth...
The last year of my life has really kicked my ass.
But it's taugh me a lot about life too.
I'm trying my best to fix what I don't like.
That's extremely hard, but I won't give up...
I love my closest friends to no end.
I have godparents.
My godfather ditched me a while back...
so I disowned him...
my step godfather is kick ass.
you can call him Christopher Minnick...
I call him loser :-)
My godmother is Kelley Minnick
I love these two people with my whole heart.
My mother is my number one hero.
I have a little sister.
She's great.  I couldn't live without her. :)
Chris and Rhea are the best cousins EVA! :)
Yes, I believe in God.
Don't mess with the power of prayer...
I've seen miracles and done stupid things...
I've experienced so many emotions at one time...
I don't regret what I've done.
I just learn.
I'm learning everyday what it means to live and love.
I love my life...
No matter how shitty my day was.

I am me. Plain. Simple.

Countdown to the Wedding...

My best friend is getting married in September.  I have known her since I was 14.  I was the maid of honor for her first wedding.  and I get to be maid of honor for the second (and hopefully last!) one.  We got together with her mom and my mom over the weekend and started banging out some plans.  She is completely and totally overwhelmed. She said we asked too many questions.  LOL

Anyway, the wedding is this fall.  The colors are red and black (she's wearing black, we are wearing red).  It's going to be basically outside. The ceremony will actually take place inside but the other stuff will be outside.  I will post pix of stuff as it comes about.  We are going on the 17th to pick out our dresses.  we are looking at picking patterns and having the dresses made.  each girl will be able to pick a pattern they like and we will get the same material for all.

Both of my girls are participating as well.  Jazz is going to be a junior bridesmaid, Lyric is going to sing and play the keyboard.  (We are calling her the wedding pop star).

I'm excited for my friends, even with all the mess that is my life right now.  They have been together for 15 yeras and been through a whole lot of crap. I'm happy to be able to help support her and celebrate with her.  Maybe someday she will be able to return the favor.

101 things that will make you smile

Found this article on Yahoo today.  101 small pleasure you can enjoy everyday.  Thought I'd share will you all because who doesn't need a reason to smile throughout the day.  I'm highlighting some of my faves.

coloring (yes, grown-ups can do it, too)



crisp cotton sheets


soft skin


old family recipes


the first daffodils of spring


sleeping in


an exercise endorphin high


window boxes


a perfect cup of coffee


a genuine compliment (giving or receiving)


the way babies smell


a handwritten letter


waking up in a good mood...for no real reason


singing in the shower


finding a couple forgotten dollars in your pocket


doing something nice for your neighbor


a home cooked meal


laughing


movie theater popcorn


playing hookey


a bubble bath


swimming


an afternoon nap


street musicians


your favorite song


saying thank you


helping someone in need


old fashioned photo booths


fresh whipped cream


inspiring blogs


a glass of wine


rainy afternoons


the funny things kids say


a novel you can get lost in


finding the perfect piece of clothing...on sale


clean laundry


the wind in your hair


treating the person behind you at the drive-thru


sharing an umbrella


the smell of lavender


a long walk that clears your head


a bear hug


The Beatles


smiling at a stranger


eating with chopsticks (Chinese food optional)


butterflies


staying in your pj's all day


singing along to the radio and knowing all the words


fresh herbs


ordering in pizza


happy endings...even if they're fictional


flying a kite


puppies


root beer floats


holding open the door...


...or having someone hold the door for you


fountain soda


white, fluffy towels


sunshine


spending an afternoon at a museum


really great advice


green lights all the way home


the sound of rain hitting the windows


sitting in a booth


holding hands


a great hair day with no effort


building a fort with your kids


when someone falls asleep with their head on your shoulder


fireflies


the perfect taco


geraniums on a windowsill


slow dancing


the smell of fresh-baked bread


cheesy, uplifting musicals


great stories


the smell of gasoline


the cold side of the pillow


love letters


old friends...


...new friends


a pull-through parking space


a baguette -- crisp on the outside, airy on the inside


when a dog licks your hand


sitting at the counter at an old-fashioned diner


using your favorite dishes


reading your child a bedtime story


Girl Scout Cookies


flossing


kissing someone you love


the smell of onions and garlic cooking


hot chocolate


jumping in puddles


old photographs


birds hopping on the sidewalk


Ella Fitzgerald


a spoonful of peanut butter straight from the jar


your softest t-shirt


a new magazine in the mail


fireplaces


having exact change


bacon and pancakes cooking on Saturday morning
 
so what are some of your small pleasures??  Is there anything that should be added to this list??

hats, hats and more hats

In the course of a day we, as moms, wear many different hats.  Today I have already been:  an alarm clock, a pharmacy, a taxi, a mom, a daughter, a secretary, and a scheduler.  By the end of the day I will also be:  a girl scout leader, a friend,and a taxi (for the other child).

In general I am also: a music fan, a laundress, a cook, a nagger (I mean come on, can somebody please clean up their room???), an advocate, a writer, a reader, a bill payer, a sister, an aunt, a niece, a granddaughter, a great granddaughter, a motivational speaker (for the kids!), and Avon representative.

I'm sure there are more that I am missing, but that's what's coming to mind right now.  So I ask.  As a mom-
What hats do you wear?? 

Hot Locks Giveaway

Last week, we were lucky enough to get to trial Hot Locks.  Jazz got to play with Morgan, and Lyric actually messed around with her too.

She's very colorful, very funky, and you can do lots of fun stuff with her really, really long hair.  She's a little bit of a doll, which is nice for keeping busy in the car.  But even just sitting on the bed messing with her hair was a time waster* as well.

Not only did we get one of these super cute dolls to try, we got one to give away!  if you would like Nahla to relocate to your house, just leave a note in the comments.  You must include your name and an email address.  (how else will I get in touch with you when you win!?!?)

I will take comments from today until 3/21, with the winner announced 3/22.

To check out more about these super cute dolls, go here

*Time waster=keep them busy and out of mom's hair.