No, not Germany. Dance Dance Revolution.
I got the kids a Wii for Christmas, or rather Santa did. Last night was the first time I had a chance to play with it. Marisa & I alternated doing dance steps on Dance Dance Revolution. I thought I was holding my own, but kept getting graded a D, even in the beginner level. Obviously the game doesn't understand me. That was fine until I accidentally selected the Expert Level. OMH, it must have been so hilarious to watch me. At one point I was just jumping around hitting the pads in any random order. I got an F on that one.
Surprisingly, I'm not sore today. In fact, my back was bothering me for the past 10 days, and today it barely hurts at all!
The game also has a "workout" selection. I think I will try that one as an alternative to sitting on the couch.
Friday, January 18, 2008
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Back to work
Don went back to work today, for the first time since his boss confronted him. His boss has not been the most supportive guy. When Don called him on Friday that he was out of inpatient, his boss was surprised, and seemed negative. He also was trying to lay a guilt trip on Don about taking extra time this week. At first Don wasn't going to, and he asked my opinion (WOW!). I said I thought he should continue with "day patient" for Monday & Tuesday (yesterday & today). He decided to do yesterday, but not today.
When I called him a little while ago, and I asked how he was doing, he said "Fine. Things went well, as well as can be expected". Now WTH does that mean? Is he talking about the kids, and getting them off to school, which is a trick sometimes, or about coming back to work? I suggested that we will talk about it later, and he agreed.
So I think that things are not that great at work. I know his plan is to leave there within the next 6 months. I told him to leave now, if he wanted to. We could make it. We have other financial resources that we could utilize if we have to. His response? No, let's see if he fires me first. Then I'll collect unemployment and go back to school (for computer training, to add to the Accounting).
I really think his work environment is not a good one. I'm worried that it will lead to relapse. Please pray and keep thinking positive thoughts for Don.
When I called him a little while ago, and I asked how he was doing, he said "Fine. Things went well, as well as can be expected". Now WTH does that mean? Is he talking about the kids, and getting them off to school, which is a trick sometimes, or about coming back to work? I suggested that we will talk about it later, and he agreed.
So I think that things are not that great at work. I know his plan is to leave there within the next 6 months. I told him to leave now, if he wanted to. We could make it. We have other financial resources that we could utilize if we have to. His response? No, let's see if he fires me first. Then I'll collect unemployment and go back to school (for computer training, to add to the Accounting).
I really think his work environment is not a good one. I'm worried that it will lead to relapse. Please pray and keep thinking positive thoughts for Don.
Friday, January 11, 2008
It's been a nice week
It really has. I came to work on Monday feeling a great burden off of my shoulders, and feeling much happier than I have in a long time. I guess I didn't fully realize how bad my depression was getting. But Don going into detox/rehab lifted that from me. The kids have been very helpful, and now I know that they know how to fold laundry! *rubs hands together*
I picked Don up last night, and am feeling a lot better about this round than I was. He was very communicative, asked me some very pertinent questions, we had some good discussions. All of this is new for him. He hasn't ever really been very much of any of those. He even said to me that the counselors wanted him to ask me what I thought about him doing 2 more days of day patient on Monday & Tuesday, like he is today. He said that he thought he didn't need to, but I said I thought he did. So he is going to.
The downer part, he called his boss (the alcoholic who has been sober for 18 months) to talk, and asked him for the 2 extra days off. His boss gave him a hard time about it, saying that stuff was happening at work, laying a guilt trip on him. He did say that Don could take the 2 days though, as he was surprised that Don was already out of inpatient. Oh, and he asked for the name & number of Don's sponsor! That pissed me off. I don't think he has any right to that info. Don did tell me that one of his goals is to not have that job within the next 6 months. I told him he could quit right now, but he said, no, lets see if he fires me first. It seems Don would like to go back to school to get some computer classes to add to his finance/accounting background.
One thing I kind of chuckled about. His counselors told him that the only people he should actually say he is an alcoholic to are other alcoholics. That none alcoholics don't exactly understand, and have a propensity to judge. To the rest of us he should just say he doesn't drink alcohol any more. I think that is kind of weird, but whatever. I did laugh, thinking, ok, LOTS of peeps on RTVW know.
Tonight we have a swim meet, and I will be taking the kids there. It is at a pool about 1/2 hour from our house, the other way from Don's rehab center. He will be meeting us up there, as his day patient thing goes until the time we need to be at the pool. But I'm not worried about it this time.
As a side ucky note, we got several inches of snow yesterday evening. The previous 20 inches or whatever had finally melted, so I guess it isn't so bad. Is it Spring yet?
Have a great weekend, and GO PACKERS!
I picked Don up last night, and am feeling a lot better about this round than I was. He was very communicative, asked me some very pertinent questions, we had some good discussions. All of this is new for him. He hasn't ever really been very much of any of those. He even said to me that the counselors wanted him to ask me what I thought about him doing 2 more days of day patient on Monday & Tuesday, like he is today. He said that he thought he didn't need to, but I said I thought he did. So he is going to.
The downer part, he called his boss (the alcoholic who has been sober for 18 months) to talk, and asked him for the 2 extra days off. His boss gave him a hard time about it, saying that stuff was happening at work, laying a guilt trip on him. He did say that Don could take the 2 days though, as he was surprised that Don was already out of inpatient. Oh, and he asked for the name & number of Don's sponsor! That pissed me off. I don't think he has any right to that info. Don did tell me that one of his goals is to not have that job within the next 6 months. I told him he could quit right now, but he said, no, lets see if he fires me first. It seems Don would like to go back to school to get some computer classes to add to his finance/accounting background.
One thing I kind of chuckled about. His counselors told him that the only people he should actually say he is an alcoholic to are other alcoholics. That none alcoholics don't exactly understand, and have a propensity to judge. To the rest of us he should just say he doesn't drink alcohol any more. I think that is kind of weird, but whatever. I did laugh, thinking, ok, LOTS of peeps on RTVW know.
Tonight we have a swim meet, and I will be taking the kids there. It is at a pool about 1/2 hour from our house, the other way from Don's rehab center. He will be meeting us up there, as his day patient thing goes until the time we need to be at the pool. But I'm not worried about it this time.
As a side ucky note, we got several inches of snow yesterday evening. The previous 20 inches or whatever had finally melted, so I guess it isn't so bad. Is it Spring yet?
Have a great weekend, and GO PACKERS!
Sunday, January 06, 2008
Next
Ok, so Don is now in detox for 3-4 days, and hopefully will stay inpatient for at least 5 days after that.
Now, the next problem? Dang, but it's a biggie.
Yesterday Devon drops the bomb that he wants to quit swimming. Yeah. WTF? He is swimming the best he ever has. Yes, he just aged up into the 13-14 group, but he enters that group in the middle of the pack, not the bottom, and not far from the top. He says it is boring. Well, yeah, we haven't had a meet since early December, and I know he loves the competition. He did quickly change his story to he wanted to quit for now, and resume with the next season, which starts after Easter. I was devastated.
This happened on the way to practice, so I said he had to tell his coach. His coach asked to talk to him after practice, so I brought him back (I had to bring Marisa for her practice anyway) and we had a meeting. I didn't say anything, I let his coach do the talking. He was great, telling Devon everything he needed to hear. I was still devastated, because I know how Devon is, when he makes up his mind. He is just like his mother.
Later I called one of his past coaches, whose son swims with Devon, and who is a friend of mine. She was completely caught by surprise too. Then she told me that she tried to do the same thing as a 13-14 year old and her dad made her finish the season, and said they would discuss it at that time. She didn't quit, and ended up being a state record holder in high school. So I told Devon that I was invoking "Mom power", and that I wouldn't accept him quitting mid season, but that we would talk about it in March.
I know his grades aren't where he wants them to be, but he also plays a lot on World of Warcraft, so I think we need to set up some more stringent limits on that too. And I'm sure all the issues with Don are causing more stress for both of our children, which is probably not helping the situation.
Thankfully, we have an easy meet this Friday, where I'm sure Devon will excel. Then hopefully he'll get back into enjoying swimming again.
I know that God only gives a person as much as they can handle, but sheesh, enough already!
Now, the next problem? Dang, but it's a biggie.
Yesterday Devon drops the bomb that he wants to quit swimming. Yeah. WTF? He is swimming the best he ever has. Yes, he just aged up into the 13-14 group, but he enters that group in the middle of the pack, not the bottom, and not far from the top. He says it is boring. Well, yeah, we haven't had a meet since early December, and I know he loves the competition. He did quickly change his story to he wanted to quit for now, and resume with the next season, which starts after Easter. I was devastated.
This happened on the way to practice, so I said he had to tell his coach. His coach asked to talk to him after practice, so I brought him back (I had to bring Marisa for her practice anyway) and we had a meeting. I didn't say anything, I let his coach do the talking. He was great, telling Devon everything he needed to hear. I was still devastated, because I know how Devon is, when he makes up his mind. He is just like his mother.
Later I called one of his past coaches, whose son swims with Devon, and who is a friend of mine. She was completely caught by surprise too. Then she told me that she tried to do the same thing as a 13-14 year old and her dad made her finish the season, and said they would discuss it at that time. She didn't quit, and ended up being a state record holder in high school. So I told Devon that I was invoking "Mom power", and that I wouldn't accept him quitting mid season, but that we would talk about it in March.
I know his grades aren't where he wants them to be, but he also plays a lot on World of Warcraft, so I think we need to set up some more stringent limits on that too. And I'm sure all the issues with Don are causing more stress for both of our children, which is probably not helping the situation.
Thankfully, we have an easy meet this Friday, where I'm sure Devon will excel. Then hopefully he'll get back into enjoying swimming again.
I know that God only gives a person as much as they can handle, but sheesh, enough already!
Friday, January 04, 2008
Not too optimistic yet, but...
I posted most of this on OT, but in case you don't go there...
It seems Don's boss confronted him about his drinking today, and he is going to check into the clinic. I think for a week of inpatient, but I'm not sure. I'll find out more when I get home I guess.
It seems Don's boss confronted him about his drinking today, and he is going to check into the clinic. I think for a week of inpatient, but I'm not sure. I'll find out more when I get home I guess.
I'd like to be a little miffed that it took his boss to push him, but I'm going to stick with the belief that it was part us and part his job. Over Christmas break DH did tell me he would seek help in 2008, as our insurance coverage restarts. I think his boss "inquiring" might have been the final catalyst. Heck, I don't care what made him decide, just that he does seek help, as our marriage is on the rocks right now.
I told him that I can't keep handling this. Christmas break, when he had off of work for nearly 10 days, and was probably drunk a total of 9 days, not including the hours of normal sleep, was intolerable. The good thing was it woke my dad up. Previously my dad had insinuated that Don's drinking was because I'm not home because of PartyLite (Ok, don't really do much there since June), or maybe the kids, because they are kids. Whatever, he is old school. But now my dad sees the truth. So that was the silver lining there.
He was going to go in tonight, but needs to get a bunch of stuff done at work, so has changed it to tomorrow morning. He said that sleeping there is really not comfortable, so he would rather start off in the morning. I think that is a form of procrastination, but the rose colored glasses come back on, and I think that might be better, cause I can drive him there tomorrow, whereas I can't tonight.
I have a feeling it will be a long night tonight though, so I guess I need those prayers and thoughts too.
I'm also realistic that this may not be the last time this happens. But we are all learning, and if it does continue on after this, I won't let it go this long. I'm getting stronger and smarter too.
Thanks for your support!
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
new stuff
I know quite a few of you are fans of PartyLite. You may or may not remember that I sell it.
Well, our new Winter/Spring 2008 catalog is available. You can access it here.
I'm excited about some of the new items and scents. If you get a chance to browse, I'd love to hear your opinions as well. There is a definite Asian/African theme to this year's catalog, if you ask me. It also seems they have toned down the modern aspect, or rather have added some new countryish items. You gotta see the items on pg 48-49. Cockadoodle Doo!
On another note:
After trying to be the winning bidder for Hannah Montana tickets since I couldn't buy them when they went on sale, since they sold out in 3 minutes online, I was successful last night. I was the winning bidder on 4 tickets in row U in the nosebleed section, and only paid less than double the face value+fees. I'm very happy about that, as the tickets were going for well over $100/ticket before Christmas, and nearly $200/ticket AFTER Christmas! I paid less! Wahoo! Marisa was jumping up and down for over 1/2 hour last night. I had planned on selling 2 of the tickets, hoping to recoup some costs, but now Don says he wants to go too, so I will sell one of them. I really don't want him to go, plus I won't get as much for the 1 ticket compared to selling a pair. But I don't want to be a total beyotch.
Well, our new Winter/Spring 2008 catalog is available. You can access it here.
I'm excited about some of the new items and scents. If you get a chance to browse, I'd love to hear your opinions as well. There is a definite Asian/African theme to this year's catalog, if you ask me. It also seems they have toned down the modern aspect, or rather have added some new countryish items. You gotta see the items on pg 48-49. Cockadoodle Doo!
On another note:
After trying to be the winning bidder for Hannah Montana tickets since I couldn't buy them when they went on sale, since they sold out in 3 minutes online, I was successful last night. I was the winning bidder on 4 tickets in row U in the nosebleed section, and only paid less than double the face value+fees. I'm very happy about that, as the tickets were going for well over $100/ticket before Christmas, and nearly $200/ticket AFTER Christmas! I paid less! Wahoo! Marisa was jumping up and down for over 1/2 hour last night. I had planned on selling 2 of the tickets, hoping to recoup some costs, but now Don says he wants to go too, so I will sell one of them. I really don't want him to go, plus I won't get as much for the 1 ticket compared to selling a pair. But I don't want to be a total beyotch.
Tuesday, January 01, 2008
Happy New Year
Hope everyone reading this had a safe New Years Eve and wishing all of you a Happy 2008.
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
The good, bad and ugly
No, this is not a movie. This is our life. Although if Clint Eastwood wants to come and do a shoot-em-up scene, he is welcome to.
The good was good. Kids had an enjoyable Christmas, opening presents, and spending time with their Opa, my dad. They loved the Wii that I bought them. Marisa is really good at the games. They were happy to get all the clothes they did too. The kids were great this weekend. They are getting so mature. *sigh* Also, I got a great camera. It is a Canon Rebel XTI. Lots of bells and whistles. That is almost all that I wanted. I didn't get the other thing, which leads to the bad.
The bad was bad. Don spent most of the weekend drunk. My dad is really upset about this. This part of the bad is a little good, from a selfish perspective. You see, my family has always thought Don just about walked on water. Now they have seen that he is an alcoholic, and that it really isn't my fault or the kids fault. I just ignore him when he gets like that, or if I have to put him in his place because he is being a jerk, I will do that too. My dad said he wants to talk to Don, and let him know it is apparent to him that Don is losing his family. Devon was supposed to have a dr appt today, but both kids were afraid to get in the car without me driving, so I had to reschedule it for next Monday, when I have off of work. Of course that made Don mad, and he drank even more last night. Nothing new there though.
Hence the ugly. On Christmas Eve he was drunk by noon. No one had yet arrived at our house, and about 1:30 he passed out on our bed. We were going to church for 3pm service, so after I asked him if he was going, and after responding "yes" he resumed sleeping anyway, so my dad, the kids and I left. It was a very nice service, and I really enjoyed it, and remembered that my family is really in Gods hands. Curiously, no one at church asked where he was. When we got back, some of the family was there, and he seemed a little better. Then more came, and he got drunk again. His sister, who knows, questioned him on it. It almost turned into an ugly scene, but they went downstairs where no one was sitting and had a long talk. Of course he gave the whole sob story about that he needed help, and I wasn't helping, etc etc. She actually semi believed him, until I confronted them about it. Meanwhile, his brother, who doesn't know, also noticed that he was visibly impaired (stumbling, unfocused, etc). He asked their sister, and said he wondered if Don was on some medication, since I was pretty much ignoring the situation. I figured I would let him create his own problem. Well, their sister set his brother straight. Of course Don had told his sis that he was going to talk to his brother about it, but neither said anything about it to the other, to the best of my knowledge. After everyone left around 11pm, he passed out again, and I was left to wrap all the presents. It was a late night, but I guess I had some peace & quiet, so it was ok. All in all, a typical weekend in the dragonflies house. Now you know why I like Mon-Friday best.
Today my boss brought in a bunch of yummy cookiez. Yay! Another reason to like weekdays!
I sincerely hope you had a wonderful Christmas, weekend, Tuesday. Smooch!
The good was good. Kids had an enjoyable Christmas, opening presents, and spending time with their Opa, my dad. They loved the Wii that I bought them. Marisa is really good at the games. They were happy to get all the clothes they did too. The kids were great this weekend. They are getting so mature. *sigh* Also, I got a great camera. It is a Canon Rebel XTI. Lots of bells and whistles. That is almost all that I wanted. I didn't get the other thing, which leads to the bad.
The bad was bad. Don spent most of the weekend drunk. My dad is really upset about this. This part of the bad is a little good, from a selfish perspective. You see, my family has always thought Don just about walked on water. Now they have seen that he is an alcoholic, and that it really isn't my fault or the kids fault. I just ignore him when he gets like that, or if I have to put him in his place because he is being a jerk, I will do that too. My dad said he wants to talk to Don, and let him know it is apparent to him that Don is losing his family. Devon was supposed to have a dr appt today, but both kids were afraid to get in the car without me driving, so I had to reschedule it for next Monday, when I have off of work. Of course that made Don mad, and he drank even more last night. Nothing new there though.
Hence the ugly. On Christmas Eve he was drunk by noon. No one had yet arrived at our house, and about 1:30 he passed out on our bed. We were going to church for 3pm service, so after I asked him if he was going, and after responding "yes" he resumed sleeping anyway, so my dad, the kids and I left. It was a very nice service, and I really enjoyed it, and remembered that my family is really in Gods hands. Curiously, no one at church asked where he was. When we got back, some of the family was there, and he seemed a little better. Then more came, and he got drunk again. His sister, who knows, questioned him on it. It almost turned into an ugly scene, but they went downstairs where no one was sitting and had a long talk. Of course he gave the whole sob story about that he needed help, and I wasn't helping, etc etc. She actually semi believed him, until I confronted them about it. Meanwhile, his brother, who doesn't know, also noticed that he was visibly impaired (stumbling, unfocused, etc). He asked their sister, and said he wondered if Don was on some medication, since I was pretty much ignoring the situation. I figured I would let him create his own problem. Well, their sister set his brother straight. Of course Don had told his sis that he was going to talk to his brother about it, but neither said anything about it to the other, to the best of my knowledge. After everyone left around 11pm, he passed out again, and I was left to wrap all the presents. It was a late night, but I guess I had some peace & quiet, so it was ok. All in all, a typical weekend in the dragonflies house. Now you know why I like Mon-Friday best.
Today my boss brought in a bunch of yummy cookiez. Yay! Another reason to like weekdays!
I sincerely hope you had a wonderful Christmas, weekend, Tuesday. Smooch!
Friday, December 21, 2007
More Cookiez
Yay! I got more cookiez yesterday! Two different kinds, both of which are yummy. I had to fight my dad for the toffee ones! And how completely fitting that I got said cookiez during BEAR WEEK! Thank you so much cookie maker! eta: The cookie maker will know what I mean about BEAR week.
Thanks to cookiez exchange and some generous neighbors, we now have tons of yummy Christmas cookies to eat and share with any guests.
I would also like to take this time to personally thank those people who took the time to send me a Christmas card. It means more to me than you will ever know to know that I have friends that I have not yet met. I've shared more with you virtual friends than I have with my IRL friends this past year. Maybe because you are MY friends, and not OUR friends, IYKWIM. The same goes for those who have PM'd me.
Anyway, smooshes to all of you, whether you were my SS, my cookiez maker, card maker, or a poster on OT, Centerpiece or here. I truly do love all of you, even those I don't really like. :)
Smooshes are better than smooches, right? They sound like they are.
Thanks to cookiez exchange and some generous neighbors, we now have tons of yummy Christmas cookies to eat and share with any guests.
I would also like to take this time to personally thank those people who took the time to send me a Christmas card. It means more to me than you will ever know to know that I have friends that I have not yet met. I've shared more with you virtual friends than I have with my IRL friends this past year. Maybe because you are MY friends, and not OUR friends, IYKWIM. The same goes for those who have PM'd me.
Anyway, smooshes to all of you, whether you were my SS, my cookiez maker, card maker, or a poster on OT, Centerpiece or here. I truly do love all of you, even those I don't really like. :)
Smooshes are better than smooches, right? They sound like they are.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Stuff
I am not getting older, just because I now officially have a teenager.
We celebrated Devon's 13th birthday. Started on Sunday, when we went out to dinner. I made sure to mention to the waitress, and got a sock in the arm from him. They brought out a piece of cake with a candle, and sang Happy Birthday to him. He later told me thanks, and that he really did like it, even though he was protesting. Last night we opened his birthday presents, then had spagetti and ice cream cake, and after dinner had Christmas with my sister & her boyfriend, who are leaving this morning, and my dad, who arrived last night. It was a fun night.
I still have to mail out my Christmas cards. Guess getting them signed by Dec 1 didn't really help me after all.
At least my sister acknowledged Don's alcoholism. She said it was obvious to her that he had been drinking before we went out for dinner. Nice to know that she isn't ignoring the whole thing, although I'm sure she didn't say anything to him, and he will think that she didn't notice. The next 2 weeks should be interesting. My dad is in complete denial. When I first told him about Don, he suggested that maybe he was that way because of my PL business, or maybe because of the kids. Yeah, sure, right. Sometimes he is so old school.
Marisa is so excited to have her Opa visiting us. She makes him coffee every morning, and has been playing the piano whenever possible, because I told her that he loves to hear the piano being played. She told me she didn't want to be mean to him like she was when Don & I went to Aruba. She is maturing so quickly!
I tried to buy Hannah Montana tickets for Marisa & me to go see, but they sold out by the time I was able to log in and get through the screens. Now I have to resort to trying to win them on the radio or more likely buy them on Ebay.
I'm swamped at work, and our Office Mgr/Credit Mgr just left for her vacation, so now I do part of her job too. As a result, I may not be around blogland or OT much in the next 10 days. I will be checking to see if my Secret Santa recipient received their gift. It is taking longer than I expected. Dang Postal Service.
I watched the entire season of Survivor, my first since Season 2 or 3. Probably watched it because none of my other shows are on right now. However, I am intrigued by the next season.
We celebrated Devon's 13th birthday. Started on Sunday, when we went out to dinner. I made sure to mention to the waitress, and got a sock in the arm from him. They brought out a piece of cake with a candle, and sang Happy Birthday to him. He later told me thanks, and that he really did like it, even though he was protesting. Last night we opened his birthday presents, then had spagetti and ice cream cake, and after dinner had Christmas with my sister & her boyfriend, who are leaving this morning, and my dad, who arrived last night. It was a fun night.
I still have to mail out my Christmas cards. Guess getting them signed by Dec 1 didn't really help me after all.
At least my sister acknowledged Don's alcoholism. She said it was obvious to her that he had been drinking before we went out for dinner. Nice to know that she isn't ignoring the whole thing, although I'm sure she didn't say anything to him, and he will think that she didn't notice. The next 2 weeks should be interesting. My dad is in complete denial. When I first told him about Don, he suggested that maybe he was that way because of my PL business, or maybe because of the kids. Yeah, sure, right. Sometimes he is so old school.
Marisa is so excited to have her Opa visiting us. She makes him coffee every morning, and has been playing the piano whenever possible, because I told her that he loves to hear the piano being played. She told me she didn't want to be mean to him like she was when Don & I went to Aruba. She is maturing so quickly!
I tried to buy Hannah Montana tickets for Marisa & me to go see, but they sold out by the time I was able to log in and get through the screens. Now I have to resort to trying to win them on the radio or more likely buy them on Ebay.
I'm swamped at work, and our Office Mgr/Credit Mgr just left for her vacation, so now I do part of her job too. As a result, I may not be around blogland or OT much in the next 10 days. I will be checking to see if my Secret Santa recipient received their gift. It is taking longer than I expected. Dang Postal Service.
I watched the entire season of Survivor, my first since Season 2 or 3. Probably watched it because none of my other shows are on right now. However, I am intrigued by the next season.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Funny Mail!
When I checked the mail today, on my way out to drop off Marisa at a Girl Scout Meeting, there was the usual stuff, along with a bright green large envelope! I wondered what it might be, as I drove. It took everything I had not to stop right there and rip it open! But I waited until I got back home.
Inside was a cute little card, along with a nice drawstring bag, and inside a round container in the shape of, and filled with M&Ms!!! The card made me smile about as much as the candy! The cover was a bunch of little babies floating around in innertubes. So cute!
Thanks to my funny mail sender!
Inside was a cute little card, along with a nice drawstring bag, and inside a round container in the shape of, and filled with M&Ms!!! The card made me smile about as much as the candy! The cover was a bunch of little babies floating around in innertubes. So cute!
Thanks to my funny mail sender!
Monday, December 10, 2007
Another successful meet
So Devon had his last swim meet as a 12 year old this past weekend. He was entered into 7 individual events from Friday night through Sunday afternoon. His goals were to get medals in all 7 events, and to shoot for an all around trophy (1st - 3rd for his age group).
Friday night he swam the 500 yd Freestyle. It was very difficult for me, but I couldn't be there. I was with Marisa, at her last basketball game (which they lost, and ended up the season 0-12, but with a good attitude). Both the game and the meet were at the same time, so Don went to the meet, since it was right by his work. He swore he would be able to drive Devon home, so what else could I do. I did get a call right after he swam, and Devon told me he got 3rd place! Wahoo!
Sat afternoon he was set to swim 3 more events. These were preliminary events, and the top 8 swimmers would advance to the finals in the evening. He swam well in all events, but ended up in 9th for the 50 yd freestyle. He swam the 2 finals and got medals again, one for 4th and one for 5th! Double Wahoo! He was very dissappointed in not making the finals on the 50 free, but he learned a good lesson, that sprints need to be sprinted. Clearly he is more of a distance swimmer, but he won't admit to that.
Sunday was similar to Saturday, except he qualified for the finals in all three events. He ended up getting medals for all 3! Two 5th place and one 6th place! Triple Wahoo!
As far as the final all around trophy, it came down to the last event for his age group. He wasn't swimming in it, but some of the guys with points right around him were. They finished with just enough points to push him into either 4th or 5th place. Not bad!
I am so proud of my 12th year old! I can only say that for 1 more week! ACK! He showed a lot of maturity this weekend, and I know our family life hasn't always been easy for him. He still is persevering, in both swim and with his school grades. Knowing that I have this influence on both of my kids just reminds me once again why I get up every day!
Friday night he swam the 500 yd Freestyle. It was very difficult for me, but I couldn't be there. I was with Marisa, at her last basketball game (which they lost, and ended up the season 0-12, but with a good attitude). Both the game and the meet were at the same time, so Don went to the meet, since it was right by his work. He swore he would be able to drive Devon home, so what else could I do. I did get a call right after he swam, and Devon told me he got 3rd place! Wahoo!
Sat afternoon he was set to swim 3 more events. These were preliminary events, and the top 8 swimmers would advance to the finals in the evening. He swam well in all events, but ended up in 9th for the 50 yd freestyle. He swam the 2 finals and got medals again, one for 4th and one for 5th! Double Wahoo! He was very dissappointed in not making the finals on the 50 free, but he learned a good lesson, that sprints need to be sprinted. Clearly he is more of a distance swimmer, but he won't admit to that.
Sunday was similar to Saturday, except he qualified for the finals in all three events. He ended up getting medals for all 3! Two 5th place and one 6th place! Triple Wahoo!
As far as the final all around trophy, it came down to the last event for his age group. He wasn't swimming in it, but some of the guys with points right around him were. They finished with just enough points to push him into either 4th or 5th place. Not bad!
I am so proud of my 12th year old! I can only say that for 1 more week! ACK! He showed a lot of maturity this weekend, and I know our family life hasn't always been easy for him. He still is persevering, in both swim and with his school grades. Knowing that I have this influence on both of my kids just reminds me once again why I get up every day!
Monday, December 03, 2007
Shopping Survival!
So this past Saturday was our (dreaded on my part) Mother/Daughter Shopping Day with Marisa, her 2 BFF and their moms. All in all, it was a successful time!
We left our house around 9:15 am and headed into town. The weather was fine (just wait), and we found parking relatively easily, considering this mall is one of the worst in the area for parking. I purposely decided to park outside of Macys. You see, I had an ulterior motive to stop at the new Lush store inside of Macys. We did. The girls loved it! Marisa bought a shimmy shimmy bar, which is some sort of glitter lotion. I also bought something as a gift for someone, but nothing for myself. It was quite crowded, and I didn't want to spend the time it would take for me to explore.
We then went to Limited Too, and Marisa bought a complete outfit, all of which was on sale, another webkinz, and a webkinz charm. We then went to Build a Bear, but they were way too crowded to do anything, so we hit a couple other stores. By then the moms needed a break, and it was about 11:30. So we went to Paneras for lunch. Yum! I had soup, sammich and an Iced Chai. Very good.
We then hit Claires (costume jewelry), at which store the mom's stayed outside while the girls shopped. Marisa's friends suggested that she get some clip on earrings. That was such a self esteem booster for her! She has an underdeveloped ear on her right side, and no ear canal, so sound can't get through. Most of the time she wears a hearing aid, but she is very self conscious about the ear. She ended up buying 3 pairs, and has been wearing them all weekend, and loving it. She can still cover her little ear with her hair, but the earrings hang down and she feels very girly. Yeah!
After a couple of additional quick stops, we headed out. We knew the weather was going to get bad, but I was driving, with my brand new (6 day old) tires, so I felt reasonably comfortable. There was already at least 2 inches of snow on the ground, and it took us 45 min to drive the normal 20 min commute to home, but we made it just fine!
The last stop we made was against the desires of the girls, but us moms made an executive decision, and I think the girls were pleased after the fact. Plus after the pic, we got Sees chocolate suckers! Here is the result of that last stop. Marisa is top left, I am bottom right.
We left our house around 9:15 am and headed into town. The weather was fine (just wait), and we found parking relatively easily, considering this mall is one of the worst in the area for parking. I purposely decided to park outside of Macys. You see, I had an ulterior motive to stop at the new Lush store inside of Macys. We did. The girls loved it! Marisa bought a shimmy shimmy bar, which is some sort of glitter lotion. I also bought something as a gift for someone, but nothing for myself. It was quite crowded, and I didn't want to spend the time it would take for me to explore.
We then went to Limited Too, and Marisa bought a complete outfit, all of which was on sale, another webkinz, and a webkinz charm. We then went to Build a Bear, but they were way too crowded to do anything, so we hit a couple other stores. By then the moms needed a break, and it was about 11:30. So we went to Paneras for lunch. Yum! I had soup, sammich and an Iced Chai. Very good.
We then hit Claires (costume jewelry), at which store the mom's stayed outside while the girls shopped. Marisa's friends suggested that she get some clip on earrings. That was such a self esteem booster for her! She has an underdeveloped ear on her right side, and no ear canal, so sound can't get through. Most of the time she wears a hearing aid, but she is very self conscious about the ear. She ended up buying 3 pairs, and has been wearing them all weekend, and loving it. She can still cover her little ear with her hair, but the earrings hang down and she feels very girly. Yeah!
After a couple of additional quick stops, we headed out. We knew the weather was going to get bad, but I was driving, with my brand new (6 day old) tires, so I felt reasonably comfortable. There was already at least 2 inches of snow on the ground, and it took us 45 min to drive the normal 20 min commute to home, but we made it just fine!
The last stop we made was against the desires of the girls, but us moms made an executive decision, and I think the girls were pleased after the fact. Plus after the pic, we got Sees chocolate suckers! Here is the result of that last stop. Marisa is top left, I am bottom right.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Have my cookies and cake too!
I got cookies and cake yesterday! And bars too! Yummy chocolate cookies, and some bars that look really good, but which I didn't sample yet. And a nicely wrapped bread of some sort that looks really good, but I didn't get to taste either.
Sucked being home for exactly 15 minutes last night, until I got home again at 10:20. But I have my priorities! Instead of getting dinner ready, I opened my package!
The card said it was a secret, but I think I know who they came from, and I give big THANK YOU hugs and smooshes!
Sucked being home for exactly 15 minutes last night, until I got home again at 10:20. But I have my priorities! Instead of getting dinner ready, I opened my package!
The card said it was a secret, but I think I know who they came from, and I give big THANK YOU hugs and smooshes!
Monday, November 26, 2007
Tickling the Ivorys again!
You may not have noticed, as I posted it on the Black Friday thresd over there, but we bought a piano this weekend! A PartyLite friend of mine was selling hers, for a fair price. We paid professional movers to move it for us, and it was delivered on Friday! We left a short while later to go visit Don's dad up north, but from the time we got back on Saturday and all day yesterday, Marisa was playing away. It was so nice to hear it. The piano is a bit out of tune, and needs a few pad reshaped, but we will have that done shortly, and in the meantime, it works just fine. I even sat down and played a few Christmas Carols to try to get me in the holiday spirit.
It is a 1950 or 1957 Cable Nelson spinet.
These pics were taken at my friends house, not mine.
On an unrelated note, I baked some Christmas cookies this weekend, and got most of my Secret Santa gift ready. I'm so proud of myself! It's only November! Next thing I know I'll have my cards mailed before Dec 23!
It is a 1950 or 1957 Cable Nelson spinet.
These pics were taken at my friends house, not mine.
On an unrelated note, I baked some Christmas cookies this weekend, and got most of my Secret Santa gift ready. I'm so proud of myself! It's only November! Next thing I know I'll have my cards mailed before Dec 23!
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Update
So we had our big semi annual meet this past weekend, and it has taken me until now to recover from it. It was a busy 3 days.
Devon did fantastic. He swam 6 individual events and 2 relays. He qualified for finals in 5 of the 6. The last one he was disqualified for a false start. His knee wobbled right before the gun. He was really dissappointed, as it was the 100 yard Freestyle, one of his best and favorite events. But regardless, he finished in 13th place overall! We figured he would have finished around 8-9th if he hadn't been dq'd. He wasn't happy with all of his swims, but he has another big meet Dec 7-9, where he will be swimming the exact same races, and will try even harder.
Marisa did well too! She also swam 6 individual and 2 relays. While she didn't qualify for any finals, as there are sooooooo man girls, and her times are not that fast, she did get 4 personal best times, which is great!
I worked my butt off all weekend, and then on Monday night I spent 3 1/2 hours helping to distribute wreaths from our team fundraiser.
I'm really looking forward to a nice long weekend. Hopefully Don doesn't screw it up for us. He has been sober this time for about 8-9 days, so hoping he continues. Seems weekends at home without a lot to do cause him issues.
Happy Thanksgiving to all of you!
Devon did fantastic. He swam 6 individual events and 2 relays. He qualified for finals in 5 of the 6. The last one he was disqualified for a false start. His knee wobbled right before the gun. He was really dissappointed, as it was the 100 yard Freestyle, one of his best and favorite events. But regardless, he finished in 13th place overall! We figured he would have finished around 8-9th if he hadn't been dq'd. He wasn't happy with all of his swims, but he has another big meet Dec 7-9, where he will be swimming the exact same races, and will try even harder.
Marisa did well too! She also swam 6 individual and 2 relays. While she didn't qualify for any finals, as there are sooooooo man girls, and her times are not that fast, she did get 4 personal best times, which is great!
I worked my butt off all weekend, and then on Monday night I spent 3 1/2 hours helping to distribute wreaths from our team fundraiser.
I'm really looking forward to a nice long weekend. Hopefully Don doesn't screw it up for us. He has been sober this time for about 8-9 days, so hoping he continues. Seems weekends at home without a lot to do cause him issues.
Happy Thanksgiving to all of you!
Monday, November 12, 2007
Why did I say yes?
So Marisa and her 2 BFF have been conniving a way to make some money, because they want to go shopping. So what do us 3 moms do? We talk and decide to offer the girls a Moms/Daughters shopping day. December 1. No specific details just yet, but we are planning to go shopping and out to lunch. Maybe to Gurnee Mills or some other big mall.
Friday night on the way home from swim practice, Marisa asks me if the 3 moms will agree to stand outside of any stores the 3 girls decide to go in, and not participate in any clothing purchase decisions. Um, yeah, right. As if.
I very calmly explained that we were doing this to spend some time together, AS MOMS AND DAUGHTERS, not chauffeurs. Also that while I would not stand OUTSIDE of any stores, I would not go into the dressing room with her. She seemed to accept that compromise, at least for now.
*sigh* Only 19 days to go. Maybe I should update my will.
Friday night on the way home from swim practice, Marisa asks me if the 3 moms will agree to stand outside of any stores the 3 girls decide to go in, and not participate in any clothing purchase decisions. Um, yeah, right. As if.
I very calmly explained that we were doing this to spend some time together, AS MOMS AND DAUGHTERS, not chauffeurs. Also that while I would not stand OUTSIDE of any stores, I would not go into the dressing room with her. She seemed to accept that compromise, at least for now.
*sigh* Only 19 days to go. Maybe I should update my will.
Friday, November 09, 2007
My new fav
Why this song is listed under Timbaland, I'm not sure. I do see him in the video making little "uh, uh" noises, but the band is One Republic.
I'm trying to decide if the lead singer could be a new crush for me too.
Last night when I asked Devon who sang this song, and sang him the chorus, he said, "Oh yeah, I love that song, but I don't know who sings it, I have to download it." Scary.
I remembered seeing this band on "So You Think You Can Dance", but had forgotten about it until I heard it on the radio earlier this week.
BTW, you can see the video if you scroll down a bit on the site.
I'm trying to decide if the lead singer could be a new crush for me too.
Last night when I asked Devon who sang this song, and sang him the chorus, he said, "Oh yeah, I love that song, but I don't know who sings it, I have to download it." Scary.
I remembered seeing this band on "So You Think You Can Dance", but had forgotten about it until I heard it on the radio earlier this week.
BTW, you can see the video if you scroll down a bit on the site.
Monday, November 05, 2007
RIP Jessica
A good friend of mine's daughter was diagnosed with leukemia on her 21st birthday in April 2006. They have been battling it ever since, almost getting a bone marrow transplant twice, trying new treatments, having strong faith and dogged perseverence.
Jessica lost her battle on Saturday night, and in her mom's words, is now singing and dancing with Jesus and the angels, in no more pain.
Both Linda (my friend) and Jessica have been such and inspiration to many of us. It helped to remind me to keep strong in my own faith, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges and obstacles.
I'm proud to have known Jessica in her health and during the past 19 months. I'm not at all sad for her victory over death, just sad for her family that is left behind, for now.
RIP Jess.
Jessica lost her battle on Saturday night, and in her mom's words, is now singing and dancing with Jesus and the angels, in no more pain.
Both Linda (my friend) and Jessica have been such and inspiration to many of us. It helped to remind me to keep strong in my own faith, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges and obstacles.
I'm proud to have known Jessica in her health and during the past 19 months. I'm not at all sad for her victory over death, just sad for her family that is left behind, for now.
RIP Jess.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Socks
A long time ago, at least a year ago, Bravie recommended Spanx socks to me. At least I think it was Bravie. So I bit the bullet and bought a pair. They cost $10 for one pair. I thought it was completely outrageous, but I must have been in a spending mood. So I got the pair, and they became my favorite socks. So much that I wore a hole in one, at the toes. That's ok, I kept on wearing them, just tucking that little whole under, so that my tootsie wouldn't stick out. Last week I was in a spending mood again, so this time I bought 3 pairs. Black, Brown and chino. I needed some socks right away, so when I was at Target I bought a 3 pack for $4.99. They even said "fuller leg". I figured that would be cool, but they totally dug into my shin anyway. I was in major pain after wearing a pair all day. All I kept thinking was, when are my Spanx gonna get here?
They arrived today! I am happy! My legs are happy too. *jumps around*
What recent purchase are you happy about? LIke maybe buying a banana costume or something?
They arrived today! I am happy! My legs are happy too. *jumps around*
What recent purchase are you happy about? LIke maybe buying a banana costume or something?
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