Have you ever heard something completely bizarre and just accepted it at face value? My oldest turned six this month and I stopped in at the local "dollar store" (which actually sells absolutely NOTHING for a dollar - I looked) to pick him up some balloons. They boys love balloons and we always get a helium one for birthdays.
After I made my selection the girl who was assisting me told me that there was a worldwide shortage of helium and that as a result the cost of helium balloons in the store had increased to EIGHT dollars per balloon. HOLY FRIJOLES BATMAN. EIGHT dollars. This is MORE than double the cost.I decided to go ahead and get one helium balloon and four filled just with air so I was still taking some home.
It didn't make sense to me that the world would be short of an element - my understanding of high school chemistry taught me SOMEthing - but who am I to say if there is a shortage of helium or not? So I paid the price for the balloons.
As I walked out of the store the wind caught the balloon bouquet in my hand and blew them into the door. The helium balloon popped.
OF COURSE it popped. Well there was no way they were replacing it and no way I was paying another 8 dollars for a balloon, but I was slightly skeptical that simply touching a door was enough to pop a balloon that wasn't defective or overinflated - but whatever.
It was frustrating that I had just released a balloon full of precious helium into the air for no good reason - I didn't even get to suck any and make my voice sound like a chipmunk, but I still had balloons so it was good enough. As I got into the car and put the balloons into the car another one popped. Nice.
When I got home and took the balloons OUT of the car ANOTHER one popped. So I started out with five and before I even got to see Max I was down to two.
I took them inside and gave them to him and instantaneously another popped. These are balloons filled with AIR we are talking about here. I have honestly never known balloons to pop so quickly. I think the shortage in the world is of good latex balloons, not helium. In any case, the popping balloon scared Max and he didn't even want to hold the one remaining one long enough to get a photo taken of him with his balloon bouquet. CJ played with the last one for a minute or so and then it also popped. Shocker.
Needless to say I will stick to blowing up balloons myself . I consider myself and expert since I blew up a million balloons (by MOUTH) when I was a Carny at the Minnesota State Fair one summer.
AND I googled the great helium shortage to determine if it is in fact a true story or just a way for the "dollar store" to gouge me further.
HERE is some info if you happen to be interested at all.
Thursday, September 27, 2012
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Outside my window: September
Outside my window...
I am thankful for... A beautiful fall.
From the kitchen... unfortunately nothing lately. I need to bust out some ideas from pinterest and give them a try but I am so dang busy it isn't funny.
I am wearing... Shel's red sweatshirt.
I am creating...a plan for a bathroom renovation - I HOPE
I am reading... White Wolf by David Gemmell
I am hoping... that the trip to the city is a good one and we can arrange fotrsitters for everyone.
I am hearing... silence at the moment. The calm before the storm.
Around the house... I am catching mice and they are driving me insane.
One of my favorite things... fall weather
Max had a birthday this month and I picked up some balloons. The kids LOVE balloons, unfortunately these were the shortest surviving balloons we have ever had. This one was the last to burst and I think it lasted about six minutes? At least there is evidence that we DID have some fun.
I am thankful for... A beautiful fall.
From the kitchen... unfortunately nothing lately. I need to bust out some ideas from pinterest and give them a try but I am so dang busy it isn't funny.
I am wearing... Shel's red sweatshirt.
I am creating...a plan for a bathroom renovation - I HOPE
I am reading... White Wolf by David Gemmell
I am hoping... that the trip to the city is a good one and we can arrange fotrsitters for everyone.
I am hearing... silence at the moment. The calm before the storm.
Around the house... I am catching mice and they are driving me insane.
One of my favorite things... fall weather
Here is a picture I am sharing...
Max had a birthday this month and I picked up some balloons. The kids LOVE balloons, unfortunately these were the shortest surviving balloons we have ever had. This one was the last to burst and I think it lasted about six minutes? At least there is evidence that we DID have some fun.
Monday, September 24, 2012
Sunday Stealing
From the Blog Sunday Stealing here is this weeks meme:
Today's meme was ripped off a blogger named Dark Trinity from the blog Sparking Beach. He states he got it from DA.. But, it was probably stolen there as well. So, of course, that will be as far as we go. Tracing back our theft's thieves might take some time.
1. Ever been given or received an engagement ring?
I have been given an engagement ring and I gave it back!
2. Longest relationship?
I am currently in a relationship which has lasted since 1997.
3. Last gift you received?
My sons wrap things up and give them to me as presents. I think the last thing they wrapped was a measuring tape or an e-reader.
4. Ever dropped a mobile phone?
Yes, and broken the screen on it. I dropped my i-phone on the kitchen floor this weekend.
5. When is the last time you worked out?
Couldn't tell you.
6. Thing(s) you spend a lot of money on?
My sons, but are they really "things"?
7. Last food you ate?
Noodle soup which I shared with my sons.
8. First thing you notice about the opposite sex?
Height?
9. One favorite song?
Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol. I LOVE music and have many, many favorites. Apparently - according to songpop, I am not good at naming them very quickly!
10. Where do you live?
In a house, on a road, without close neighbours, where I can see the stars at night.
11. High school attended:
Walter Murray - In Saskatoon
12. Cell phone provider:
Telus
13. Favorite shop:
Any bookstore.
14. Longest job:
I am currently working in a job I have held for close to ten years.
15. Do you own a smart phone? Why?
Is an i-phone smart? Because that's what my spouse has and we wanted to share apps and play games together.
16. Do you prank call people?
No
17. Last wedding you attended?
My sisters wedding in Utah and I had a LOT of fun.
18. First friend you'd call if you won the lottery:
The first person I would call would be my mom. I don't know which friend I would call. Unfortunately my friends aren't good at answering the phone when I call. It would serve them right if I called to say I won the lottery and they ignored me.
19. Last time you saw your best friend(s)
When I was at my sisters wedding in Utah I saw my best friends. I miss them.
20. Favorite fast food Restaurant:
I don't really have one. I like certain things from different fast food places. I like Wendy's chili. I used to be a fan of Chick Fil A but alas I am not anymore, and there isn't one close to me so I haven't eaten there in MANY years. I also like In N Out burger - I went there 2 years ago when I was in Utah.
Today's meme was ripped off a blogger named Dark Trinity from the blog Sparking Beach. He states he got it from DA.. But, it was probably stolen there as well. So, of course, that will be as far as we go. Tracing back our theft's thieves might take some time.
1. Ever been given or received an engagement ring?
I have been given an engagement ring and I gave it back!
2. Longest relationship?
I am currently in a relationship which has lasted since 1997.
3. Last gift you received?
My sons wrap things up and give them to me as presents. I think the last thing they wrapped was a measuring tape or an e-reader.
4. Ever dropped a mobile phone?
Yes, and broken the screen on it. I dropped my i-phone on the kitchen floor this weekend.
5. When is the last time you worked out?
Couldn't tell you.
6. Thing(s) you spend a lot of money on?
My sons, but are they really "things"?
7. Last food you ate?
Noodle soup which I shared with my sons.
8. First thing you notice about the opposite sex?
Height?
9. One favorite song?
Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol. I LOVE music and have many, many favorites. Apparently - according to songpop, I am not good at naming them very quickly!
10. Where do you live?
In a house, on a road, without close neighbours, where I can see the stars at night.
11. High school attended:
Walter Murray - In Saskatoon
12. Cell phone provider:
Telus
13. Favorite shop:
Any bookstore.
14. Longest job:
I am currently working in a job I have held for close to ten years.
15. Do you own a smart phone? Why?
Is an i-phone smart? Because that's what my spouse has and we wanted to share apps and play games together.
16. Do you prank call people?
No
17. Last wedding you attended?
My sisters wedding in Utah and I had a LOT of fun.
18. First friend you'd call if you won the lottery:
The first person I would call would be my mom. I don't know which friend I would call. Unfortunately my friends aren't good at answering the phone when I call. It would serve them right if I called to say I won the lottery and they ignored me.
19. Last time you saw your best friend(s)
When I was at my sisters wedding in Utah I saw my best friends. I miss them.
20. Favorite fast food Restaurant:
I don't really have one. I like certain things from different fast food places. I like Wendy's chili. I used to be a fan of Chick Fil A but alas I am not anymore, and there isn't one close to me so I haven't eaten there in MANY years. I also like In N Out burger - I went there 2 years ago when I was in Utah.
Monday, September 17, 2012
Sunday Stealing
The last install of Sunday Stealing taken from HERE
69. Song you're thinking of
right now?
Blow me one last Kiss by Pink.
70. Want someone back in your life?
One of my friends from when I was on my mission in Seattle - Leuyeni. She was a great friend and funnier then hellfire. I would love to have her back in my life. It's been more than 15 years since we lost touch.
71. Will tomorrow be better than today?
If I get some sleep tonight it will be!
72. What's the color of the underwear you are wearing?
Flesh coloured?
73. Who was the first best friend that you ever had?
My cousin Tracy
74. How do you react when someone disappoints you?
I am very sad when someone disappoints me
75. Is there anyone who understands your sexuality?
Only truly my partner.
76. Are you a naturally happy person? Or is your happiness forced?
I am a pessimist, being happy is not "easy" for me even though I enjoy being happy.
77. Is there anyone you wish would fall in love with you?
Nope
78. What do you wear when you sleep?
Blankets
79. Are you obsessed with something right now?
Songpop
80. The first person you loved is?
Well my first "boyfriend" was Simon Taylor. I still have a love letter he wrote to me.
81. Something terrible happened with you?
I think terrible things happen to everyone.
82. You are locked up with your celebrity crush for days, what happens?
Lots of laughing and nudity.
83. If you could wish something, what would it be?
For my boys to be healthy and healed of their medical problems
84. Ever try to force someone to do something?
Yeah. It doesn't work.
85. When you are alone, what do you think about?
86. How was your first sex?
87. What's your favorite music genre?
That's a hard one. I am fond of 80's for the memories. I know all the words to songs from the 80's!
88. Are you happy I only wrote 88 questions?
No, I could answer questions more easily than I cam come up with things to write myself lately.
Blow me one last Kiss by Pink.
70. Want someone back in your life?
One of my friends from when I was on my mission in Seattle - Leuyeni. She was a great friend and funnier then hellfire. I would love to have her back in my life. It's been more than 15 years since we lost touch.
71. Will tomorrow be better than today?
If I get some sleep tonight it will be!
72. What's the color of the underwear you are wearing?
Flesh coloured?
73. Who was the first best friend that you ever had?
My cousin Tracy
74. How do you react when someone disappoints you?
I am very sad when someone disappoints me
75. Is there anyone who understands your sexuality?
Only truly my partner.
76. Are you a naturally happy person? Or is your happiness forced?
I am a pessimist, being happy is not "easy" for me even though I enjoy being happy.
77. Is there anyone you wish would fall in love with you?
Nope
78. What do you wear when you sleep?
Blankets
79. Are you obsessed with something right now?
Songpop
80. The first person you loved is?
Well my first "boyfriend" was Simon Taylor. I still have a love letter he wrote to me.
81. Something terrible happened with you?
I think terrible things happen to everyone.
82. You are locked up with your celebrity crush for days, what happens?
Lots of laughing and nudity.
83. If you could wish something, what would it be?
For my boys to be healthy and healed of their medical problems
84. Ever try to force someone to do something?
Yeah. It doesn't work.
85. When you are alone, what do you think about?
86. How was your first sex?
87. What's your favorite music genre?
That's a hard one. I am fond of 80's for the memories. I know all the words to songs from the 80's!
88. Are you happy I only wrote 88 questions?
No, I could answer questions more easily than I cam come up with things to write myself lately.
Friday, September 14, 2012
back to school
All of a sudden it is the middle of September. How did that happen?
Life at home has been INSANE.
In the weeks before school starts I am so busy at work I literally don't stop even to go to the bathroom. We have lists upon lists upon lists of things to check and recheck and complete before the students move in.
Then college starts, the kids arrive and our kids all go back to school in the same few days.
I WISH I could say once the first week in September passes that life settles into a routine, but things seem ever crazier than ever. Of course I get calls from work around the clock to deal with issues, but HOPEFULLY that will settle down in a month or so.
The foster kids have had home visits every week and that creates a world of chaos at home (remind me to blog about that later), CJ needs to be picked up from school every day at noon, school lunches, homework, a new bus driver, doctors appointments, specialist appointments, eye exams, immunizations.... the running never ends and there seems to be no end in sight.
CJ has felt particularly displaced since the two little ones arrived and he is needing extra mommy attention each day.
Max has been having nightmares which wake him up SCREAMING which begins a chain reaction of kids waking and crying and needing to be put back to bed. This all translates into no sleep for the spousal unit and I. It's all a wicked spiral.
I am HOPING that this next week we will settle into somewhat of a better routine and thing will calm down in our crazy lives.
Anyway - here are some photos of the beginning of the school year for the boys.
Maxies first day of grade one.
Max and mom
Max getting the bus the second day of school.
CJ's first day of stepping forward
CJ's first day on the bus. He has been waiting TWO YEARS to ride the bus and he was so thrilled he could not stand himself. I didn't even manage to get a photo of him because he was away like a shot and on the bus without even looking back!
This was the only photo I got of the bus the first day Max and CJ rode together!
Life at home has been INSANE.
In the weeks before school starts I am so busy at work I literally don't stop even to go to the bathroom. We have lists upon lists upon lists of things to check and recheck and complete before the students move in.
Then college starts, the kids arrive and our kids all go back to school in the same few days.
I WISH I could say once the first week in September passes that life settles into a routine, but things seem ever crazier than ever. Of course I get calls from work around the clock to deal with issues, but HOPEFULLY that will settle down in a month or so.
The foster kids have had home visits every week and that creates a world of chaos at home (remind me to blog about that later), CJ needs to be picked up from school every day at noon, school lunches, homework, a new bus driver, doctors appointments, specialist appointments, eye exams, immunizations.... the running never ends and there seems to be no end in sight.
CJ has felt particularly displaced since the two little ones arrived and he is needing extra mommy attention each day.
Max has been having nightmares which wake him up SCREAMING which begins a chain reaction of kids waking and crying and needing to be put back to bed. This all translates into no sleep for the spousal unit and I. It's all a wicked spiral.
I am HOPING that this next week we will settle into somewhat of a better routine and thing will calm down in our crazy lives.
Anyway - here are some photos of the beginning of the school year for the boys.
Monday, September 10, 2012
Sunday Stealing
Here is the last of the installments from Sunday Stealing Stolen Meme.
46. What are your LEGAL initials?
JCB
47. Who's the first B in your contacts?
ME! funny
48. When was the last time you laughed really hard?
49. Your number 1 top friend walks out of your life, do you go after them?
A few years ago (about 16 years ) the person who I THOUGHT was my top friend walked away from me. I did try to go after her and it was a huge disappointment. In the past year or so she friended me on facebook. I accepted the friend request, but I have no desire to even try and rekindle any friendship. I guess I accepted the request because I was curious where her life had taken her.
50. Explain your last awkward moment?
I don't remember it?
51. Are you afraid of the dark?
No, just afraid of what I can't see in the dark. I used to be more afraid of the dark than I am now.
52. Do you have good vision?
Excellent vision
53. Have you ever tripped someone?
I believe I have.
54. Have you ever slapped someone?
I think so.
55. Are you Irish?
My last name is a very Irish name but my ancestors are mostly from Liverpool England and my ties to Ireland and VERY distant.
56. Do you use chap stick?
I do not like it, but at my last doctors visit I was told to use it and to never let my lips dry out. When I use it my lips feel claustrophobic.
57. Do you have any scars?
Internal and external.
58. Is there someone you will never forgive?
There are some "things" that I will never forgive, but I don't think people that I will never forgive.
59. Are you dating the person you last held hands with?
I am married to the last adult I held hands with, but the last person I held hands with was my son on the way to the school bus this morning.
60. Name the last person to text you?
My spouse
61. Would you marry someone 8 years older than you?
I am married to someone more than 8 years older than me.
62. Can you go in public looking like you do?
I am in public right now and I have been out looking like this. My spouse did check my hair this morning though. Apparently I have crazy hair issues.
63. Have you ever kissed someone whose name started with a A?
Not that I can recall.
64. What side of the bed do you sleep on?
We switch sides depending on where the bed is located in the room. I am currently on the left side.
65. What's the first thing you'll do on your wedding day?
I was married a long time ago and the first thing I did was wake up!
66. Do you fall for people easily?
I don't think so.
67. Has anyone put their arms around you in the past 5 days?
Yes
68. Do you miss the way things used to be?
No
46. What are your LEGAL initials?
JCB
47. Who's the first B in your contacts?
ME! funny
48. When was the last time you laughed really hard?
49. Your number 1 top friend walks out of your life, do you go after them?
A few years ago (about 16 years ) the person who I THOUGHT was my top friend walked away from me. I did try to go after her and it was a huge disappointment. In the past year or so she friended me on facebook. I accepted the friend request, but I have no desire to even try and rekindle any friendship. I guess I accepted the request because I was curious where her life had taken her.
50. Explain your last awkward moment?
I don't remember it?
51. Are you afraid of the dark?
No, just afraid of what I can't see in the dark. I used to be more afraid of the dark than I am now.
52. Do you have good vision?
Excellent vision
53. Have you ever tripped someone?
I believe I have.
54. Have you ever slapped someone?
I think so.
55. Are you Irish?
My last name is a very Irish name but my ancestors are mostly from Liverpool England and my ties to Ireland and VERY distant.
56. Do you use chap stick?
I do not like it, but at my last doctors visit I was told to use it and to never let my lips dry out. When I use it my lips feel claustrophobic.
57. Do you have any scars?
Internal and external.
58. Is there someone you will never forgive?
There are some "things" that I will never forgive, but I don't think people that I will never forgive.
59. Are you dating the person you last held hands with?
I am married to the last adult I held hands with, but the last person I held hands with was my son on the way to the school bus this morning.
60. Name the last person to text you?
My spouse
61. Would you marry someone 8 years older than you?
I am married to someone more than 8 years older than me.
62. Can you go in public looking like you do?
I am in public right now and I have been out looking like this. My spouse did check my hair this morning though. Apparently I have crazy hair issues.
63. Have you ever kissed someone whose name started with a A?
Not that I can recall.
64. What side of the bed do you sleep on?
We switch sides depending on where the bed is located in the room. I am currently on the left side.
65. What's the first thing you'll do on your wedding day?
I was married a long time ago and the first thing I did was wake up!
66. Do you fall for people easily?
I don't think so.
67. Has anyone put their arms around you in the past 5 days?
Yes
68. Do you miss the way things used to be?
No
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Sunday Stealing
Here is part two of Sunday Stealing.
I did the first part last week. I KNOW it is Wednesday, but HOLY have I ever been busy!
I think this is the busiest week of my year to date.
ANYWAY. Since I am already late I had better get answering the questions without further ado......
23. Why do you think so many people cheat?
Do they?
24. Tell me what's on your mind?
When will life settle down or is it going to be this busy from now on out? I'd like to take a nap. Shoot. I'd settle for a decent night's sleep.
25. What are you looking forward to in the next three months?
My mom is coming to visit in November. My son turns 6 this month. I hope sometime before the end of September I will get a nap.
26. Have you ever worn the opposite sex's clothing?
I don't know what would be clothing of the opposite sex. I guess since I wear boxer shorts and there is a hole in the front of them for no body part I have then the answer is simply yes.
25. When did you last talk to your BFF?
It's been a while. I called and left a message this week.
28. When is your next road trip?
Um... I have no Idea. I do not have one planned.
29. Do you have someone of the opposite sex you can tell anything to?
Yes.
30. How's your heart?
It's been a rough week.
31. Have you ever felt like you weren't important?
Yes. Until I had children.
32. Do you think somebody's secretly in love with you?
Since I laughed out loud when I read that I would say no.
33. What are you planning on doing after this?
Go to work
34. Last time you yelled at someone?
Yesterday I yelled at one of my kids. I don't know why I do it. I need to stop.
35. Have you told anybody you loved them today?
Yes
36. Who do you not get along with?
A woman by the name of Jane.
37. What does your most recent text say?
I have two incoming texts from 8.24 pm. One of them says "Thanks, Sure does."
38. What are you wearing right now?
A t-shirt, black pants and birkenstocks.
39. You're locked in a room with the person you last kissed in high school, how is it?
I did not kiss anyone in high school. True.
40. When's the last time you had a grilled cheese?
Last week?
41. What's your favorite boy and girl name?
I like Kate for a girl and Max for a boy, but i don't know if I have a real FAVORITE.
42. How did you feel when you woke up?
As though I had barely fallen asleep - because I had!
43. Do you wish someone would call or text you right now?
Nope
44. Do you think Clint Eastwood would have been better talking to a table?
Not a fan of Clint Eastwood. Would prefer not to ever have heard him at all.
45. What were you doing yesterday at midnight?
I was laying in my sons room because he was having nightmares. At 3 am he asked for my spouse and we traded places.
I did the first part last week. I KNOW it is Wednesday, but HOLY have I ever been busy!
I think this is the busiest week of my year to date.
ANYWAY. Since I am already late I had better get answering the questions without further ado......
23. Why do you think so many people cheat?
Do they?
24. Tell me what's on your mind?
When will life settle down or is it going to be this busy from now on out? I'd like to take a nap. Shoot. I'd settle for a decent night's sleep.
25. What are you looking forward to in the next three months?
My mom is coming to visit in November. My son turns 6 this month. I hope sometime before the end of September I will get a nap.
26. Have you ever worn the opposite sex's clothing?
I don't know what would be clothing of the opposite sex. I guess since I wear boxer shorts and there is a hole in the front of them for no body part I have then the answer is simply yes.
25. When did you last talk to your BFF?
It's been a while. I called and left a message this week.
28. When is your next road trip?
Um... I have no Idea. I do not have one planned.
29. Do you have someone of the opposite sex you can tell anything to?
Yes.
30. How's your heart?
It's been a rough week.
31. Have you ever felt like you weren't important?
Yes. Until I had children.
32. Do you think somebody's secretly in love with you?
Since I laughed out loud when I read that I would say no.
33. What are you planning on doing after this?
Go to work
34. Last time you yelled at someone?
Yesterday I yelled at one of my kids. I don't know why I do it. I need to stop.
35. Have you told anybody you loved them today?
Yes
36. Who do you not get along with?
A woman by the name of Jane.
37. What does your most recent text say?
I have two incoming texts from 8.24 pm. One of them says "Thanks, Sure does."
38. What are you wearing right now?
A t-shirt, black pants and birkenstocks.
39. You're locked in a room with the person you last kissed in high school, how is it?
I did not kiss anyone in high school. True.
40. When's the last time you had a grilled cheese?
Last week?
41. What's your favorite boy and girl name?
I like Kate for a girl and Max for a boy, but i don't know if I have a real FAVORITE.
42. How did you feel when you woke up?
As though I had barely fallen asleep - because I had!
43. Do you wish someone would call or text you right now?
Nope
44. Do you think Clint Eastwood would have been better talking to a table?
Not a fan of Clint Eastwood. Would prefer not to ever have heard him at all.
45. What were you doing yesterday at midnight?
I was laying in my sons room because he was having nightmares. At 3 am he asked for my spouse and we traded places.
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
word verification on blogs
I would like to be a better follower of blogs, but I have to admit I am not.
There are a handful of blogs I follow faithfully and I try to comment on them as often as they post but I only take time once a week or so to make sure I have posted.
My spouse on the other hand, when she was blogging, commented faithfully and had quite a following of her blog.
I have come to realize that one of the reasons I don't comment more is word verification.
I just tried to post a comment on a blog and it took me FOUR TIMES to understand what the word verification was. I am not a spammer. I am not a computer, I have no reason to post spam to someones blog, but having to try and decipher what a word is on that word verification thing is becoming impossible.
Unless I can understand the letters the first time I am likely not going to stick around and try to guess it again. So if you are one of the three or four places I comment and all of a sudden you notice I am not commenting anymore it is because I am not a cryptologist and I have not one clue what that mess of letters is I am supposed to interpret before posting something to your blog.
By the way - I think I just took my word verification off. I guess I will soon find out how many spammers are out there waiting with baited breath to inundate my blog with pointless comments.
There are a handful of blogs I follow faithfully and I try to comment on them as often as they post but I only take time once a week or so to make sure I have posted.
My spouse on the other hand, when she was blogging, commented faithfully and had quite a following of her blog.
I have come to realize that one of the reasons I don't comment more is word verification.
I just tried to post a comment on a blog and it took me FOUR TIMES to understand what the word verification was. I am not a spammer. I am not a computer, I have no reason to post spam to someones blog, but having to try and decipher what a word is on that word verification thing is becoming impossible.
Unless I can understand the letters the first time I am likely not going to stick around and try to guess it again. So if you are one of the three or four places I comment and all of a sudden you notice I am not commenting anymore it is because I am not a cryptologist and I have not one clue what that mess of letters is I am supposed to interpret before posting something to your blog.
By the way - I think I just took my word verification off. I guess I will soon find out how many spammers are out there waiting with baited breath to inundate my blog with pointless comments.
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Sunday Stealing
This meme was stolen from a blogger named ChibiNatsumi21 from the blog The Unfulfiller of Expectation.
Um - questions that say , what kind of questions do you hate in a meme.
2. If you married the last person you texted, what would your last name be?
The last person I texted was my spouse so my last name would be the same as it already is!
3. Were you happy when you woke up today?
Nope, I was not. Max had nightmares all night last night and kept waking up screaming. He wanted me to sleep by him which is extremely uncomfortable. I finally moved to our bed but he woke screaming again and woke his little brother so they both came to sleep in our bed. I was tired, had no blanket, and was cramped with my butt hanging off the edge of the bed whenI work up. I have hope for better sleep tonight.
4. When were you on the phone last? And with who?
I was last on the phone about five minutes ago with the printer calling to see if the material I ordered was ready for pick up before the students arrive this weekend. It is. He forgot to call ( He NEVER calls when work is ready to pick up) and I will go and get it today.
5. Who are you excited for?
I am excited for my sons to start school this week. It will be CJ's first experience at school and he has been looking forward to it forEVER.
7. Honestly, who was the last person to tell you they love you?
My spouse on the phone when I talked to her at lunch time.
8. What's the last thing you put in your mouth?
I am drinking Crystal Light Rasperry Ice. I believe in Crystal Lite cause I believe in me.
9. Have a best friend?
I would say I have three (not including my spouse).
10. Were you ever or are you scared to fall in love?
Nope. I am scared to love foster kids, but it is hard not to.
11. Do you think teenagers can be in love?
I think so
12. Last person you wanted to punch in the face?
I would have to say it was Dr. A for his treatment of Shel and I when she was in emergency because her nose would not stop bleeding. He was a jerk of epic proportion.
13. What time is it right this second?
2:30 pm
14. What do you want right now?
For it to be bedtime.
15. Who was the last person you took a picture with?
My sons while we were camping this weekend.
16. Are you single/taken/heartbroken/or confused?
Married with Children
17. When was the last time you cried?
In June when I took my mom to the airport and she flew home.
18. Do you have a good relationship with your parents?
I have an exceptional relationship with my mom. I love my dad but our relationship right now is complicated.
19. Do you find it hard to trust others?
I usually trust people until I am given a reason not to.
20. How fast does your mind change?
Depends on what the topic is. I don't change my mind on topics related to politics or religion or how to raise my family, but I change my mind on what I want to do on the weekend or in the evening regularly.
21. I bet you miss somebody right now. Who is it?
My mom.
22. Can you honestly say you're okay right now?
I am.
camping
We have been promising the boys all year that we would take them camping. We have never gone camping with them and they are old enough that they are really interested in it. An opportunity came up for me through work to go to a divisional retreat and camp with the family. Our original plan was to take everyone and stay in a tent. As it worked out Shel and the little one were not able to join us and I decided to go ahead and take the boys. When we arrived our hostess had set up a camper for us to use. The nights were cold and so we were very grateful to be in a camper and not in a tent!
We stayed for two nights and we had a most amazing time. Friends took quads and gave the boys quad rides galore. Hanging out with everyone was a ball. I can't wait to do it again.
We stayed for two nights and we had a most amazing time. Friends took quads and gave the boys quad rides galore. Hanging out with everyone was a ball. I can't wait to do it again.
Friday, August 24, 2012
Art Banner
This week at work is "PD week".
Usually I endure this week with a pasted on smile and my teeth grinding. With students arriving in just a few short weeks we are knees to the wall with insane last minute work that needs to be done and when PD week rolls around it seems like everyone is busy doing sessions and no-one is in their respective offices and I cannot reach anyone to get any work done if it requires support form other departments.
Sessions in the past have usually been on topics like planning for retirement, First Aid, and other BORING topics which I have avoided like the plague.
THIS year there were some AWESOME sessions planned and I have unclenched my teeth and joined in!
One session was art banners. I missed the first day so I took my banner home to get started on it and joined in on the second day. I haven't finished it yet but I am loving every single solitary minute of it. Here is my progress.
Of course as soon as I cleaned off the kitchen table and laid out my paper I had company.
This is the first time I have ever painted a banner. WE used acrylic paint and according to the instructor I have very nice line work, but I am too slow and my paint is drying on the palette before I can get it onto the banner. It is very hard for me to move faster. I tried!
I wanted to leave the roots of the tree blank, but learned the entire banner has to be painted. I don't know why I didn't paint just straight white - I just thought of that now?
DUH.
This is as far as I was able to get done in the time that I had. I have the banner with me now to complete, and I am going to get some colors from the dollar store that they didn't have in the session.
I will keep you posted on my progress!
Usually I endure this week with a pasted on smile and my teeth grinding. With students arriving in just a few short weeks we are knees to the wall with insane last minute work that needs to be done and when PD week rolls around it seems like everyone is busy doing sessions and no-one is in their respective offices and I cannot reach anyone to get any work done if it requires support form other departments.
Sessions in the past have usually been on topics like planning for retirement, First Aid, and other BORING topics which I have avoided like the plague.
THIS year there were some AWESOME sessions planned and I have unclenched my teeth and joined in!
One session was art banners. I missed the first day so I took my banner home to get started on it and joined in on the second day. I haven't finished it yet but I am loving every single solitary minute of it. Here is my progress.
DUH.
I will keep you posted on my progress!
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Big Foot
This week a monster truck made a stop in our town. We took the boys in to check it out.
They were fascinated and we spent a good deal of time watching the man work on it, but the show was not until late in the afternoon. We were keeners and we got there RIGHT on time for what was advertised, but the advertisement was a little confusing about the times of the show.
I think the boys were thrilled with what they saw but I was disappointed because they didn't get t-shirts or see the truck in action.
There's power in advertising correctly people!
The truck was not the only big foot on location.
Outside my Window : August
Outside my window...
I am thankful for... warm sunny days that we can spend in the yard.
From the kitchen... we have been drinking lots of iced tea and lemonade on these hot days. Summertime is made for lemonade!
I am wearing... what a shocker - BIRKENSTOCKS! I need a new pair
I am creating...a menu for the month of September with my spousal unit tonight. I am looking forward to it.
I am reading... Why Men Lie by a Canadian author for a Canadian book challenge. I am not loving it and DRAGGING through it. It takes too long for me to read books I don't enjoy.
I am hoping... that camping this weekend is a success.
I am hearing... the sound of the mini fridge I just put back into my office for yet ANOTHER attempt to eat healthier at work and quit eating from the vending machines.
Around the house... we are getting used to granny being gone. It is quiet.
One of my favorite things... summer bar b que
A photo of my boys on the hay bales. We take a picture like this every year at harvest time.
I am thankful for... warm sunny days that we can spend in the yard.
From the kitchen... we have been drinking lots of iced tea and lemonade on these hot days. Summertime is made for lemonade!
I am wearing... what a shocker - BIRKENSTOCKS! I need a new pair
I am creating...a menu for the month of September with my spousal unit tonight. I am looking forward to it.
I am reading... Why Men Lie by a Canadian author for a Canadian book challenge. I am not loving it and DRAGGING through it. It takes too long for me to read books I don't enjoy.
I am hoping... that camping this weekend is a success.
I am hearing... the sound of the mini fridge I just put back into my office for yet ANOTHER attempt to eat healthier at work and quit eating from the vending machines.
Around the house... we are getting used to granny being gone. It is quiet.
One of my favorite things... summer bar b que
Here is a picture I am sharing...
A photo of my boys on the hay bales. We take a picture like this every year at harvest time.
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Sunday Stealing
Interested in participating in Sunday Stealing? Check it out HERE
This was stolen from Fond of Snape
1. You have been awarded the time off from work and an all-expenses paid week anywhere in the United States. The catch is it must be somewhere you have never been before. I would go with my spouse to Texas or to Providence Rhode Island.
2. Name three of your guilty pleasures. A guilty pleasure is something one enjoys and considers pleasurable despite feeling guilt for enjoying it. I have to admit, I don't really feel guilty for indulging in "pleasurable" things! Does that make me terrible? Here are some things I enjoy but I don't like to share with anyone ... Biltong, Peanut M and M's from the USA, Pepperridge Farms Mint Milano cookies.
This was stolen from Fond of Snape
1. You have been awarded the time off from work and an all-expenses paid week anywhere in the United States. The catch is it must be somewhere you have never been before. I would go with my spouse to Texas or to Providence Rhode Island.
2. Name three of your guilty pleasures. A guilty pleasure is something one enjoys and considers pleasurable despite feeling guilt for enjoying it. I have to admit, I don't really feel guilty for indulging in "pleasurable" things! Does that make me terrible? Here are some things I enjoy but I don't like to share with anyone ... Biltong, Peanut M and M's from the USA, Pepperridge Farms Mint Milano cookies.
3. The best kind of Girl Scout Cookie is: Samosa
4. What do you value most in other people? Kindness - I used to say honesty but I think it is easy to be honest and unkind. I have decided that kindness is more valuable.
5. Be honest. Do you sneak some raw cookie dough when you’re baking cookies? Absolutely.
5. Be honest. Do you sneak some raw cookie dough when you’re baking cookies? Absolutely.
6. Have you ever looked back at your life and realized that
something you thought was a bad thing was actually a blessing in
disguise? Not specifically and not off the top of my head. When bad things happen I try to see a lesson that I can learn from it, but I don't actually recall ever thinking that something was a blessing in disguise.
7. What is the most beautiful place you’ve ever visited?
7. What is the most beautiful place you’ve ever visited?
I would say Zimbabwe but I didn't really visit there, I was born and raised there, so I would say the most beautiful place I have visited is Singapore.
8. Are you more of a thinker or a feeler? Thinker almost exclusively.
9. Name three things you are thankful for right now.
My sons
My spouse
The fact that I am employed in an unstable economy.
8. Are you more of a thinker or a feeler? Thinker almost exclusively.
9. Name three things you are thankful for right now.
My sons
My spouse
The fact that I am employed in an unstable economy.
10. Have you ever participated in a three-legged
race? II have and I think I will be again this weekend at our camping trip!
11. When you are at an event that plays the
National Anthem, do you place your hand over your heart? Sometimes, but not always.
Second meme: This one was stolen from NerdBliss
12. What kind of work do you do? I manage a residence facility at a college.
12. What kind of work do you do? I manage a residence facility at a college.
13. During the course of your lifetime, which job or
career has been your favorite or most fulfilling? Working in Youth corrections was my favorite because of the people I worked with and the friendships I made. It was probably the most fulfilling because I believe I actually made a difference in at least one child's life.
14. Do you think it’s necessary in your life to have a
day-to-day “career” that is meaningful and service-oriented or do you function
better in “just a job” with a steady paycheck? I have to be doing something that serves a purpose or I would get bored.
15. Was there ever a time in your life when you wanted
to stay home with your children instead of working, even if it meant less money
in the household? I have thought about staying at home with the kids at various times but never seriously considered it for multiple reasons.
16. Tell us your worst boss story. I have had two bosses that I didn't particularly like, but I don't have a worst boss story. Aren't I boring? STOP THE PRESSES! I was just reminded of a terrible supervisor. I was in college and I worked for UPS loading the semi trucks at the end of the day. I was the only girl in my end of the building and I had a supervisor that was a COMPLETE douche canoe. He would put me alone loading two trucks and double up guys who were friends to work together and stuff like that. He passed me over CONSTANTLY for promotions and better positions on the line that I had earned by working hard and seniority. One day I quit on him right at the beginning of a shift and I hope it really messed up his day. Idiot.
17. Have your ever been the boss? I am currently what could be considered a supervisor. I report to a boss who reports to a boss who reports to a president, but I am responsible for a number of staff, a budget, etc.
18. What is your dream
occupation? I have always wanted to do two things: 1. Teach at a University, and 2. Run a Bed a Breakfast with my spouse.
Monday, August 13, 2012
Sunday Stealing
Check out more people who participate in this by linking HERE.
1. How long have you been
blogging?
On this blog since 2007 but I blogged elsewhere before coming here.
On this blog since 2007 but I blogged elsewhere before coming here.
2. Did you go to college?
Yes, Yes I did. OH right. Until my thesis is complete I STILL DO.
3. Where have you traveled?
Parts of the USA. Parts of Canada. England. Zimbabwe.
4. Which celebrity do you get
mistaken for?
I USED to get mistaken for Stefi Graf back when I was thinner and she was still playing tennis.
I USED to get mistaken for Stefi Graf back when I was thinner and she was still playing tennis.
5. What are your three biggest pet
peeves?
1. Grocery store baggers who put heavy things on top of my bread.
2. Walmart employees.
3. Homophobes.
6. What is your favorite
movie?
Nottinghill or Memento or Crash.
Nottinghill or Memento or Crash.
7. What is your drink of choice;
wine, beer, or liquor. Or Water, Soda, Tea?
I don't drink liquor. Soda is my first choice of the others.
I don't drink liquor. Soda is my first choice of the others.
8. What is something you enjoy to
do when you have me time?
Cross Stitch.
9. What is your biggest
phobia?
I don't think I have a phobia.
10. Share with us an embarrassing moment of your past?
I wore my blouse to work inside out recently. ALL DAY. No-one noticed or if they did they didn't say anything to me.
11. What day would you love to
relive again? Why?
My wedding day. I would kick the ass of my "friend" who was playing music but editing out the songs that reminded her of her and her ex. I would have lived more in the moment and done more for Shel and I.
12. If your life was turned into a
movie… what actor would your best friend think should play you?
Gosh. My best friend is a bit twisted. I don't know who she would choose......probably someone obnoxious like Roseann Barr.
13. What are the jobs you had in
high school/college/the early years?
I delivered newspapers and I worked in an architecture firm for a summer when I was in high school.
14. Show us a picture from high
school or college.
That's me in high school - second from the left.
15. If you could travel anywhere in
the world, all expenses paid, where would you go?
My spouse and I would go to Africa.
16. Where do you
see your life 6 and 1/2 years from now?
My oldest son will be 12. I hope we have a lawntractor, a new roof on the house, and a fence around our property.
I would have to say 28 or 29, but with all the experience I have and the family that I have now. I would have liked to start parenting younger.
So high school... Here are five songs....
1. Cindy Lauper - True Colors
2.INXS - Need You Tonight
3. Roxette - The Look
4. B-52's - Love Shack
5. Information Society - Pure Energy
19. Romney picked Paul Ryan to run as his veep. Any thoughts?
Romney who?20. Your chance: Pick a meme you've done for us to steal. Bud and Judd will visit EVERY post today. Feel free to say, "Bugger off", or anything like that.
You mean I have to go looking through my archives? .....
Canadian Book Challenge: The Orphan King
This is book one (obviously) and Book 2 is not due out for another year or so, by which time I am certain to have forgotten what this book was about or that I was even mildly interested in reading more.
I say "mildly" because I feel in a way as though I was tricked by this book. I believe all books with a religious slant should come with a warning - the way music comes with an "explicit lyric" warning for consumers. Unfortunately there was no such warning on this book and of course I was more than 100 pages in before the whole "why would a loving God allow this to happen" conversation and "preaching" took place.
On one hand I am glad I picked the book up because it turns out the author is a Canadian and I am committed to reviewing some books by Canadians in the next year, but had I know Brouwer was a well known author of evangelical books I would have passed on this one.
Thomas was raised in a monastery where he was ill treated. His mother (who he was taught never to reveal ans anything but his nursemaid) has taught him to read and write in French and Latin and he has continued to read and learn past her death. Without knowing his full role in fulfilling prophesy and unaware of his allies and enemies he leaves the monastery and begins to follow a path laid out for him by his mother prior to her death.
He is joined in his journey by a pickpocket, a knight and a beautiful deaf and mute girl. One is an ally, one is a spy and Thomas knows nothing about any of them, nor of their role in his life.
All in all the book is a quick read, I finished it in a few hours. People who are less sensitive than I about religion and being preached to may not be offended at all by the religious undertones of the story, but unless you want to wait another year for the second part of this tale I would recommend waiting before picking this book up.
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
making tracks
We have been taking advantage of sunny days. Max is most happy when he is workiing on a project. He started out by attaching a snowshovel to the back of his bike so he could make tracks and dust as he rode. Yesterday he added a snow sled and put the trike onto it so he could pull the two little ones behind him as he rode.
Friday, August 3, 2012
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
And then we were six
We got a call a few weeks ago saying some children were likely coming into care and would be placed with us. Then we got another call saying it was happening within a few days. The way things usually work with foster care is that they call to see if you are open for a placement and sometimes the placement never happens. We have learned not to get too excited or too prepared because until they show up at your door the placement is not guaranteed. In one instance they even showed up at the door and within 24 hours were back to remove the child again.
In this instance they called Friday to say it would likely happen within the week, and on Monday they called to say they were on their way.
As quickly as that we have increased our numbers from two kids to four, all under the age of five! Needless to say bedtime was interesting.
We were not quite ready. It has been so long since we have had babies that we thought we were done with cribs and with strollers and high chairs. I'm a lot less stressed than I would have been when we started fostering that all these things are not in place right this second. It's been a long time since I have put a crib together.
CJ decided that he did not want to be a big boy anymore. I was holding one little kid, Shel another, Max wanted his back scratched ( a bedtime ritual) and CJ wanted to be in my lap! Everytime we tried to lay one child down they would start to cry and when one cried the other joined in. ONe little one has attatched itself to Shel and she can't leave the room to go to the bathroom and a fit of crying ensues.
I am sure things will settle down but I had to laugh at the comedy of errors that has been bedtime in our house this week.
In this instance they called Friday to say it would likely happen within the week, and on Monday they called to say they were on their way.
As quickly as that we have increased our numbers from two kids to four, all under the age of five! Needless to say bedtime was interesting.
We were not quite ready. It has been so long since we have had babies that we thought we were done with cribs and with strollers and high chairs. I'm a lot less stressed than I would have been when we started fostering that all these things are not in place right this second. It's been a long time since I have put a crib together.
CJ decided that he did not want to be a big boy anymore. I was holding one little kid, Shel another, Max wanted his back scratched ( a bedtime ritual) and CJ wanted to be in my lap! Everytime we tried to lay one child down they would start to cry and when one cried the other joined in. ONe little one has attatched itself to Shel and she can't leave the room to go to the bathroom and a fit of crying ensues.
I am sure things will settle down but I had to laugh at the comedy of errors that has been bedtime in our house this week.
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