Catsblog II: The Continuation

Starting over

2011-07-15T23:11:00.001-06:00

Going to try and start blogging again and see how that works out. I had really enjoyed it in the past and it was therapeutic. So much has happened the last couple of years so definitely lots to talk about! To start with, I got my motorcycle license and joined a motorcycle group. No, not a GANG, but a group! Lol. There is definitely a difference. Reconnected with some old friends, made some awesome new friends, and met some amazing people. Lots of grand new experiences and some not so good learning lessons. But isn't that what life is all about? As long as you are learning you are living.

Well this is a start. Welcome back blogging, my old friend! Its good to see you! :)

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPod ~Cat~

September 11, 2009

2009-09-11T09:26:00.003-06:00

Eight years ago today........Seems like it was just yesterday. We were living at my friend Bill's house at I-10 and Barker Cypress and I got up for work as normal, Cheryl, my second mom, arrived at Bill's to ride to work together and we got in my truck and headed down I-10 to downtown. I have a scanner in my truck and was listening to Metro Traffic and I was paying attention to Vikki Taylor, my favorite chopper chick, talk about the World Trade Center. Cheryl and I were so oblivious we kept looking at each other saying, World Trade Center? Is there one in Houston? Where would it be? Certianly they wouldnt be discussing the one in NY, would they? We get to work, and the office is all a buzz. It finally dawned on Cheryl and I that our world had just changed completely in a heart beat. We all gathered around the only tv in our office and watched the news footage. All while feeling that unsettling feeling of what else could these terriorist be planning? Was downtown Houston going to be next?? The powers that be finally sent us all home and as we were exiting downtown it was like a mass exidus. People were running from their buildings in search of their vehicles to get out the heck out of dodge. Streets were packed with cars headed to all exits of downtown.

We finally make it home and I promptly plop my butt on Bill's couch and turned the tv on and from then on, I was glued to my tv. It was horrifying but I couldnt stop watching. It was all so surreal. Was this really happening? This sort of thing does not happen in the US right? Surely it was all a big mistake. More and more people died, more and more ordinary people became heros, more and more and more............ Reality check....this was really happening.

Its amazing how life can change in a heartbeat. However many millions or billions of people in the US, all had their lives changed in a single second. As the years have gone by, the memories have all slowly melted into the back of our minds and we've all gone on living life. But every now and then, you stop and think about it and say a silent prayer for America.

Makes you really apprecitate the things you have in your life when you stop and think about what could have been. I've been blessed with so many good friends and wonderful experiences and memories in my life and I dont say "I appreciate you" enough to my friends. They have stuck by me through thick and thin and been there to support me when needed.

So, I appreciate you my friends. Thank you for being there through good times and bads and lifting me up when I was down. Lets all stop and say a little prayer for America today and your family and friends, and those that parished in 9/11. You never know when it will be your last day.

Some Days......

2009-08-26T18:21:00.002-06:00

It just not worth chewing through the leather restraints!!! Today was one of those days!

I tried something new today......I started off the morning trying to positive....evening posting a nice positive facebook status, stating that I had survived yesterday and today was going to be an awesome day! Well.......that didnt get me very far! lol

Work has been a struggle lately. Way too much going on. but that's a whole nother can of worms. On top of that, some of my friends are going through some serious drama either with some of their friends or family. All I can say is THANK GOD its not me this go round. Im just there to listen! LOL My drama days are over! woo hoo! (see, there is a silver lining!! heheheeh)

So anyways....with everything going on today, I really was somewhat distracted at work but I was doing the best I could. I pretty much successfully screwed up everything I could possibly screw up today. It was awesome. Finally got to the point where my boss came over to my desk and I looked up at him and said, so Louis, what can I screw up for you now??!! Luckily, he does have a little bit of humor and he laughs. Not quite sure if he was laughing at me or out of sheer frustration but whatever. he laughed none the less. lol

Thank God for Julie humoring me through the day as I was sending her email after email of all that was happening. Poor thing didnt know what she signed up for when we got back in touch after 20 years! Bet shes hating the day she wanted to be my friend on facebook! hehehehe She did keep me giggling though I have to say.

I FINALLY make it to 5:00 p and haul butt out of there! Hoping beyond hope that at least my "hot cop" would be directing traffic!!!! My little piece of joy on my way home sitting in traffic! heheehehe but NOOOOOOO! of course not! he wasnt there! that would be too easy.

So I decided you know what, mamma needs CHOCOLATE! Cause you know, chocolate makes it all better right??? I finally make it almost home and stop in at the local CVS and look for me some chocolate. Oh, and I did need some other things so really, it wasnt all about chocolate! lol I get my little purchases, which of course they are out of the ONE item I really needed but ok. I'm getting in my truck in anticipation in reaching in my little big and digging out some chocolate! I found these awesome little reeses select, peanut butter cremes, and there was only one bag left! woo hoo! Lucky me!!! I reach in the bag with great anticipation of the satisfaction Im fixing to achieve, you know, almost a reeses induced orgasim, I pick up the little piece of chocolate and I slowly unwrap it.............just waiting to pop it in my mouth.....and guess what!!!! Every single piece is MELTED! HELLO! MELTED! I just left an airconditioned store, got into my airconditioned truck, and its melted! You know, melted and then hardened again. It just wasnt the same!

I sat there and just had to laugh. Some things just werent ment to be I guess! I laughed all the way home, so I thought I would share.

Tomorrow my goal for work is to see if I can screw up more than I screwed up today! I think I can I think I can! lol

I feel a song coming on........

2009-07-29T14:57:00.004-06:00

But I will get to that in a bit! lol It really has been a busy year it seems. Hard to believe its already the end of July! So much has changed!

I have to say, I've really been enjoying Facebook. I've caught up with sooo many people that I have lost touch with through the years. Its been a blast learning what they have been up in the 20 plus years since High School and some even since Jr. High! We even have a little get together with a few of the girls for next thursday! I cant wait! So exciting. And one day, I'm gonna have to take a trip to Missouri to see Julie. I've really enjoyed catching up with her! I've actually missed her through the years. Such a great way to be able to catch up.

Life has actually been going pretty good as of late. I've had to make some very tough decisions, but, I think in the end, it was the right decision to make. I've had to let go of a very long friendship. Or, at least I thought it was a friendship. But friendship should never have to be that hard. It seemed like I was constantly having to defend myself for things that either she perceived I did, or things maybe I had done, but more things perceived. She was the first to believe the worst in me and the first to make snide remarks about me. No matter what I did or said, it was never good enough. I was the only one that stood behind her 100% and never questioned or judged her. So why is it that she was always the first to condem me? And allow her other friends to say bad things about me without even truly knowing me? I would never let me friends speak ill of her. And she always knew how to cut me the deepest and then fain ignornance by saying, what do you mean? that wasnt about you! Come on now. I've known you for long enough to know what you ment and who you ment it too. And yes, it hurts. It hurts alot. And I would never do that back to my friends. Thats not the way to treat friends. No, Im not perfect. Never claimed to be. But I have given 110% to a friendship that I thought was worth it, but never got that back in return. Im sure they feel justified for doing what they do and will never even open themselves up to see that they were indeed wrong as well and the things that were done to me, were not warranted. Again, all I have ever done is be there standing behind her 100% and I can honestly say, I was there for her when nobody else was. But that is never good enough. Hence the song that comes to mind. Some of the lyrics are just perfect. They are:

It's never enough to say I'm sorry
It's never enough to say I care
Trying to turn around on a one way street
I can't give you what you want
And it's killing me and I, I'm starting to see
Maybe we're not meant to be
It's never enough to say I love you
No, it's never enough to say I try
It's hard to believe that's there'sNo way out for you and me
And it seems to be, The story of our life
Nobody wins when everyone's losing

I am truly sorry it has turned out the way it has and if I could make it any different I would. but frankly, I'm tired of trying to defend myself for no reason. I had to put my cat to sleep last week, and instead of saying thank you for taking care of that or Im sorry you had to go through that, I got berated over something entirely different. But again, she will never see that she was wrong. I would never do the things to her that she has done to me. I will get passed this, but it will be hard. Unlike her who will just go forward thinking she is the victim and she was the one that wronged by such a terrible person, such as myself, and never give it a second though. Well, so beit. I'm learning the hard way who my true friends and who has been there for me all along without fail. I'd like to give credit to Andrea, Cretia, and Dena especially. I rarely see Andrea due to family obligations and basically life getting in the way, but I understand this and so does she, but she has always been there for me no matter what. You dont need to see your friends to know they are there. The true ones anyway. Yes I miss her terribly and would love to see her, but I for sure dont hold that against her.

Anyway..........Thanks for listening to me. I will hold my head up high knowing I did all I could do, it was just never good enough. I will enjoy the friendships I have and the new/old ones I'm rekindling. Thank God for Facebook! LOL

aaaahhhh.....Vacation!

2009-06-22T20:47:00.003-06:00

At the insistence of my boss, I finally took a week off from work last week. I so needed the time to relax. So much has happened this year and some of it not so good, and some of it good. It was really nice to get away.

I would like to start off by saying that June 11, 2009 was 2 years since my second mom, Cheryl, passed away. That was a very tough day for me. You try and keep your mind occupied and not think about it, but we all know that doesnt work. Talk about an emotional rollercoaster! But, as they say, this too shall pass.

So, I decided to take a chance to see if I could do it, and I took a motorcycle class. Yes, I know, I've completely lost my mind, but I really just wanted to see if I could do it. And guess what! I did it! woo hoo! Now it wasnt the best idea to take this particular class in the summer heat! Totally did not think about driving the bikes outside, on the pavement! OMG! Monday and Tuesday we spent at least 10 hours on the bikes in the middle of the heat. Monday I think it hit 100 while we were outside with that lovely chrome from the bike shinning on our faces like a little tanning deal. Of course, being the total white chick that I am, I dont tan, I burn! my poor chin was beat red and peeling like crazy come wednesday. But anyway. I perserverd (sp) and made it through. Never once crashed my bike, OR put my helmet on backwards! yes, that actually did happen! LOL poor girl.

Wednesday I was so exhausted from the sun that I couldnt even drag myself out of bed. Not to mention I ended up with two cold sores from the hours upon hours of direct sun! Talk about pain! I've never had them that bad or that painful! We finally got up and had to run a couple of errands and came back and went right back to bed!

Thursday we got up and Roger, the dh and I, drove to Brenham to take the DPS portion of the motorcycle exam. We decided we would do that and then reward ourselves (if we passed that is!) by going to Blue Bell while we were there. 41 years in Houston and never once have I been to the Blue Bell Tour! Sad, but true. So, we get to the DPS office and take our test and guess what!!! We both passed! AWESOME! Of course, I couldnt pass the dang eye test so had to use my glasses and now I have that stupid restriction on my license. Im getting old! lol Oh well.

Off to the Blue Bell plant for our tour. We get there just in time for the next tour, which worked out perfectly. It was actually pretty interesting. But, I have to say, the best part was the ice cream they give you at the end of the tour! YUMMY!

Its still early after the tour, so we decide to head off to Shiner, Texas and go to the Shiner brewery. Of course, we have it in our minds to be back by 6p to attend a viewing of a friend, Chief Wes Cole, who passed away of cancer earlier in the week. God rest his soul. Actually the dh's friend. I had only met him a handful of times, but seemed like a really nice man. Anyway......we find a little stop on the way to Shiner called Fish & Loaves that looked like an interesting place to stop for lunch. It was definitely interesting. Okay food, but really nothing to write home about.

Back enroute to Shiner we go. An interesting fact about Shiner that I did not know is that that it claims its the cleaniest little town in Texas. Its acutally a really quaint little town. We had absolute ball at the brewery. The dh and Roger I think were in hog heaven. Not to mention they got FOUR free beers each! It was actually quite interesting.

After the tour, the dh decided to show Roger and I some great places to go biking. One called the Twisted Sisters and one called the Devil's Backbone. They were absolutely gorgeous! I can see why bikers like these places! We met up with our friend Mike and his son Wes, on his bike, and drove along the roads and just took in all the beautiful scenery. Its absolutely breathtaking. We stopped in Leakey, Texas at a place called the Hog Pen and had a drink, and then went across the street and had dinner. It was all so relaxing I hated to head home! However, we totally missed the viewing and poor Roger had to be at work at 5:30a! Well, we got him home by 3a so that was good right? LOL

Wes' funeral was friday, and we werent going to be able to attend that cause the dh had decided to surprise me, again, and booked us two nights at the Fox Meadows Bed & Breakfast for Friday and Saturday nights. OMG! I love that place! Its sooo incredibly relaxing. We had gone in February and he figured it was a good time to go and relax again. Unforuantely, with the heat from earlier in the week, the cold sores and headache, we couldnt leave friday so decided to still go saturday. One day is better than none right??? Well Saturday comes, and the dh gets a bad migraine, so we take all this a a sign we arent to go. Luckily, we called the innkeepers, who are super nice, and tell them what was going on and they are holding our deposit for the next time we decide to go. Isnt that so very nice???? Normally places like that will just take the money and say sorry for your luck! But not the Fox's! They are so sweet! I was so wanting some of her homemade bread though! YUMMY! It was sooo good the last time. Oh well. There was a reason we weren't ment to go, so until next time!

So anyway. All in all, it was a great week! I dont think I've ever done that much in one week! I dont know that I will ever do anythign with my motorcycle license, but I really wanted to see if I could do it. I was so proud of myself that I did it. Its also good to know that if something happened to the dh when we are out on the bike, at least I can drive the bike somewhere! lol

Now just have to plan the next adventure! woo hoo! lol

To Say or Not to Say - That seems to be the question.....

2009-04-27T08:23:00.002-06:00

Well, I havent written in a long while, but it seems as though I've had nothing positive to say, so I've stayed away from writing anything and bringing anyone down. However, today has just been one of those days that I just had to let it out.

We can start this wonderful year off by telling everyone, I lost one of my oldest and dearest friends on January 31, 2009. He was like the brother I never had, and those of you that know me, know that I have a brother who was never like a brother anyway. Rodney passed away right in front of his kids just two days after being release from the hospital. They say that he threw a blood clot from his leg to his heart. The only good thing I can see out of the whole thing is that he died instantly. My heart aches from missing him, and it aches for his kids that watched the whole thing take place. I hope they are able to move forward from this. I still miss him every day. He's been in my life for almost 20 years and was one of the few people that I knew I could truly count on. Sure, we had our differences from time to time, but we both knew we were always there for each other. We knew too much about each other so we had to keep the other close! LOL

Then dealing with all this renovation from Ike. Never, I repeat, NEVER mix business with friendship. No matter how many times I tell myself or others this, I always end up doing it. I try and help friends out where I can and it ALWAYS seems to come back and bite me in the butt. Why is it that people are allowed to tell you what is on their minds, or treat you like crap for whatever reason and you are never allowed to speak your mind or stand up for yourself without making them mad and you looking like the bad person? I just dont get it. I have always kept my mouth shut on what I was thinking or feeling with everyone becuase I dont like to upset anyone. But I sure dont get the same respect. The first time I try and say something, everything gets turned around and I'm the bad guy. So, am I supposed to sit by idly and get walked on time and time again just so as to not hurt someone else's feelings?? How many times am I supposed to stick my hand out to help someone only to get screwed in the process? Where are these same people that I have helped when I need someone? Am I not supposed to get upset when I get disrepected or my home that I work dam hard for to have, is disrepected? As many times as I have opened my home to people in need, this is how I get paid back? Not that I am keeping score, but dam, enough is enough. But again, I'm not supposed to get upset. I'm not supposed to say anything cause that may very well upset someone else. I care about other people's feelings, but why dont they care about mine? Why dont they care about what they have done to my house or to me for that matter? Or the money that I have forked out to help people out? Seriously, I'm not made of money. I work very hard for my money to have what I have and I have always helped when people needed it.

I am just so dam frustrated and I have no clue as to which way to turn. Twice now I have said things and twice now I've pissed people off. Guess I'm just supposed to sit back and pretend that everything is just sunshine and light and that I like being screwed at every turn. dont worry, I have all the money in the world to fix everything.

Lessons Learned Through Loss

2009-02-06T09:35:00.004-06:00

I had to bury one of my very best friends this week. Rodney Dale Waters passed away on January 31, 2009 at the tender age of 43. Rodney and I have been friends since 1985. I can't look back and remember a time he wasnt there for me with a big hug, a big smile and always making me laugh even during the worst of times. When my mom had her heart attack, he was my only friend that went to the hospital to visit her. Even when I wasnt there, he went to see her. I feel such a profound sense of loss. I know God has his reasons for everything, and I know I'm supposed to learn something from this, I just wish I knew more about what that was. His funeral was amazing. Well, as amazing as funerals can be. But he was an HFD fireman and the fire department has all of their pomp and circumstance and he was also a Mason so they did all of their rituals as well and it was simply amazing. To be part of such a brotherhood of the Masons and the fire department is just incredible.

In looking back over the past week's events, I have actually learned the following:

1. Take lots of pictures. I throughly regret that after almost 20 yrs of friendship with Rodney, I actually have only 4 pictures of him. I am going to make a conscience effort from now on to take pictures of my family and friends.

2. Mend broken fences. Friends are going to make mistakes. Nobody is perfect, but everyone deserves a second chance. There were friends of ours at the funeral that had not made their peace with Rodney and now are simply devastated. I am so thankful that Rodney and I sat down almost a year ago and worked through any and all issues we had and were back to being the best friends that we had been for so many years. I wish our other friend Allen peace in the knowledge that although he did not mend his fences with Rodney before he left this earth, that all is forgiven now. I hope Allen is able to move on and learn from this as well.

3. You find out who your friends are. You see the ones that are there for you and the ones that are so wrapped up in their own lives they dont have room for anyone else. Its sad really.

I know there were other lessons learned that I will remember, but for now, those are the most important. I feel so truly blessed to have had him in my life. His last words to me were "LMAO............thats my Cat." I will never forget that. I just wish I had had more time with him, but then dont we all say that when we lose a loved one? Take time to cherish your family and your friends. Make yourself spend the time with them like you should so that you dont have the regrets. Live life to the fullest. You never know when your number will be called.

I know Rodney is up there looking over me now, along with my other friends that were called away too soon..............Patricia Broadus, my friend that passed away from a car accident right before our high school years, Allen Schlein that passed due to a rare brain tumor at the young age of 28 back in 1989, Allen Coe that passed from a tragic car accident 5 years ago, and my second mom, Cheryl Tomaski, that lost her struggle with cancer 2 years ago. I took something special away from each of these friends and there is not a day that goes by that I dont think of them. I miss them all very much.

I can only hope that I have made some sort of impact on my friends lives as my friends have made on me. Do you ever wonder how many people would attend your funeral if you died? or how many would remember you like you remember them? I have. Sometimes its not very pretty.

Each day it will get easier. Right?????

WOW! Its been a long while!

2008-11-25T10:01:00.002-06:00

Sad to say, but sometimes I forget this is out there. Then when I sit down to start typing, seems like something ALWAYS comes up.

Well lets see....a few updates.....I FINALLY got my roof fixed on the house. Now if only I could get the rest of it finished I would be a happy little camper. Im kinda stuck between a rock and a hard place with all of that though. See, I hired a friend to be my contractor and he told me all kinds of wonderful things we were going to do to the house for a certain price. Well, then he went and overloaded himself with other work, so of course, as a "friend", all of my work is getting pushed to the back burner. I am still walking around on concrete floors and have a huge hole in my ceiling in my living room. Wonder if I could play it off as a sky light in the living room? hmmm.....Oh wait, prolly not considering the roof was repaired so no hole in the roof. Dang. So, I guess I will just have to put my patience hat back on and hope for the best. Maybe Santa will be good to me and bring me a new house for Christmas!

I did something for the first time the other day. I actually went to a musical! OMG! It was fantastic! It was called Menopause: The Musical. I dont think I have laughed that hard in a very long time. My sides hurt from laughing so hard. Tracey went with me and as we are about the same age, we could so relate to everything they were talking about. They did songs from the 60s, 70s, and 80s and adapted them to fit with menopause things, like staying awake, instead of staying alive, etc. I wish I could be that creative and come up with stuff like that. It was absoluately hillarious.

After the musical, we rushed over to a wedding reception. One of the girl's in the office had gotten married the week before and was having her reception that weekend. We had a blast. Its really nice to see some of the people (notice I said SOME, not all!! LOL) away from the office. They take on a whole different attitude. Gus had us all laughing hysterically. He just never stops. Some things that man comes up with is just amazing. All in all, it was a fantastic day spent with wonderful friends.

On to bad news.......I just found out this passed Sunday that an acquantance of mine had passed away. He was a friend of the dh's and I knew fairly well, but cant say he was one of my most favorite people in the world. It always seemed to me that he never had that much respect for women. Something about calling them "chickens" really grated on my nerves. Nonetheless, I wouldnt wish ill on him at all. Its sad really because apparently, his mother hadnt seen him in a couple of days and went to check on him and found him dead on the floor of his apartment. Now, its already bad enough losing your child, but to be the one that finds him? I feel for her. I found out today that although its not common knowledge, he died from a problem that not many knew he had. Drugs. Which really explains alot, but sad really that it was such a problem that it eventually killed him. I sure hope he is at peace now. Please keep his family in your prayers. The viewing is today and the funeral is tomorrow.

Speaking of prayers, I also found out another good friend of mine will have to have brain surgery. They found a blood clot in his head. AND a nephew of a friend mine, also has a blood clot and will be having brain surgery sometime this week also. So, please keep all of them in your prayers also.

Other than that, not a whole lot going on. Other than I'm sick. Have been sick since Friday which sucks. I hate this time of year! Luckily I am on vaca next week so I just have to get through the rest of today and tomorrow and I'm free! I think I can I think I can! LOL

I hope everyone has a very Happy Thanksgiving filled with family and friends!

Wasted Weekends...and not the way you think! lol

2008-10-07T09:07:00.003-06:00

WOW! Can you just say that its been absolutely CRAZY around here? I can't seem to recall if I'm coming or going half the time anymore.

I had planned on relaxing somewhat this weekend, but, my body apparently had other plans. I knew I didnt feel quite right on Thursday, but just figured I was out of sorts. Then came late Thursday night. WOW. that was horrible. I was soo sick. All night long. I had to stay home from work Friday too! which isnt necessarily a bad thing, but, I can think of a million other ways I would have preferred to spend a friday off from work! I've got friends I need to see, and havent seen in FOREVER and thanks to Ike and trying to get things cleaned up from there and meeting with contractors, adjusters, and the likes, and then getting sick, it just seems like I run out of time. I finally made time on Saturday to go pick up my Bear cat from the vet. Bless his heart. They cremated him on Sept 17 and i havent made it by to pick him up til Saturday! Such a bad mommy. Of course, that just broke my heart all over again as I picked up his little urn and placed him next to his two best buds, Fancy and Keisha. The three muskateers are together again. Sad that all that is left are little urns. I miss all of them sooo much. Balance just seems off with three cats. But, NO, I'm not getting anymore! LOL I get far too attached.

Speaking of attachments, my contractor and friend, John, came to the house yesterday and put a brand new back door and back window in. I'm soo excited, but a little sad as well. My back door had all kinds of love marks from Jake, Momma's big ole English Mastiff. He chewed the door frame and the door knob. Now, its all gone. Almost like new. Just not the same without my love marks! LOL Of course the new back door is COOL. its half glass with a mini blind in the middle of the two pieces of glass so you can open and shut the mini blinds without ever touching it! they dont get dusty and they dont get ruined! woo hoo! Now, the cutest part was, evidently when John was there working, Tommy, Momma's baby boy cat, took a liking to him. He followed him around everywhere. Rubbing up against him and talking to him and everything. Of course I think he may have been trying to distract him so that when John had the window or the door open, Tommy could sneak passed him and go outside! Nobody ever said he wasnt smart! LOL

Things have just been so crazy. I miss everyone and so need to get together soon! But, just remember, just cause i dont see you, dont mean your not on my mind! :-)

When it Rains, It Pours......Literally

2008-09-16T13:01:00.003-06:00

First and foremost, I hope everyone made it through the storm okay with as little damage and discomfort as possible. I feel for poor Andie out there in the Woodlands. I know she is without power and has most her family there so hopefully their power will be returned quickly. I've heard from most of my friends and family and the best news of all is that we are all okay. Material items can be replaced, but my friends and family can not.

We apparently had a tornado touch down in front of our house and took a path down the street. From the rooftops, you can see the path it took. It was amazing to see the guys in my neighborhood band together to help each other out. Right after the storm they were all up on the roof tops patching holes so that no more water could get in than already did. They really got their own system down and patched up 6 or 7 houses in nothing flat. We had shingles ripped off leaving holes in the roof allowing water to leak into the house and into my living room, master bedroom closet and master bedroom bathroom. Pretty much a helpless feeling when you are sitting there staring at your ceiling and watching water pour in knowing there is not a darn thing you can do about it other than lay down some towels and hope for the best.

So after we came up for air, I couldnt reach my parents so I went off to check on them. They seemed to be ok, but their power is off to and who knows when they will get it back. Our next mission, a generator for my parents. Now, THAT was fun. Luckily, John, my neighor across the street, had a hook up and we were able to score one. Of course we had to drive to Bellville to get it, but we had one! Me, John, and Tracey take a road trip to Bellville, get the generator and decide to stop at Casa Ole in Breham for a bite to eat. Now, that was a mistake! It took us longer to eat then it did to drive there! It was insane! Finally, we are done eating, and head back to my parents house. And wouldnt you know, we get there, get the generator set up, and the darn thing doesnt work! Figures! We take it home and John proceeds to tear the thing apart, bound and determined that he will get it working, and my parents will have a fridge by the end of the evening. It may be 2:00 a.m. mind you, but it will be done!!! LOL He worked feverishly and finally found the problem, fixed it, and we were back in route to the parents house. Got them all set up at least with a fridge and a fan to cool off, and we head back home. Talk about a long day!

Now comes today.........I finally had to make, and stick with that dreaded decision. I am putting my Bear Cat to sleep today. Its breaking my heart. Literally. He is the last of my four musketeers. It was me, him, Keisha (my dog) and Fancy (my cat) for years alone. Just the four of us. I lost my Fancy a few years ago, Keisha last year, and now Bear. This is the first time I've had to make the decision to actually let him go. He just looks so pitiful. and yes I know, he will be better off and he will be out of his misery, but it sure doesnt help me any. Now, I'm the one in misery and I am going to miss him like crazy. And what really sucks is that I am sitting here counting down the hours left in his little life. And he has no idea. Am I making the right decision? Am I doing the right thing? I hate second guessing it. I know I am. and i know he wont be suffering anymore, but dam, doesnt make it any easier. I also hate the fact that I actually have to make an appt to kill my cat. Yes, that is what I feel like I am doing, so of course now, I just sit here at work and bawl like a big ole baby.

Oh, and on top of it all, my hair dresser called and cancelled my appt tonight to have my hair done! AND Aunt Flo came to visit and is being a real bitch (and for those of you that dont know who Aunt Flo is, ask a woman! LOL) AND I can t find my dam happy pills!!!

Anything else dammit? LOL

Honey, Im Home!

2008-09-10T10:10:00.006-06:00

Did you miss me? Dang, Its been a LONG while since I've posted anything. I guess I'm just so boring there's been nothing to post! ok, that's not really true. Lots of things have been happening, but none of which I should prolly put into print! LOL

First, I would like to welcome Momma back to blogging! Its been a long time since she's been online and is now back in action. I'm glad things are going so well!

Now, the most exciting thing I've done...........the Toby Keith concert this last weekend! OMG! It was fantastic! I have not had that much fun in a long long time. I also did something last weekend I've never done before and that was to attend the Toby Keith fan club party. It was amazing! I was actually in the same room with him! Breathing the same air! it was awesome! I am going to share a few pics although they arent the best cause they were taken with my camera phone, but oh well.

See how close I was??? There was this cute little girl that sat at our table with us and she came and got all of our cameras and got as close to the stage as possible to take his picture. She was adorable! She even made a little profit out of the deal cause when a lady at the next table figured out what we were doing, she asked the little girl to do the same for her and paid her for it. We got so tickled. That little girl had a ball!!!

Thats my friend Tracey that went with me pointing at the sign showing it was the Toby Keith Fan Club party at The Woodlands Marriott. There were three bands that played a little show for us before Toby got there. Mica Roberts was one of the performers and OMG! she was absolutely fantastic! She is one of Toby's back up singers and it going out on her own. She has one song so far on the radio called "Things Momma Didn't Know" I believe. It is a duet with Toby and it a fantastic song. One of the other performers was Trailer Choir. They were also fantastic. And hillarious! We laughed so hard. You"ll have to check them out online when you get a chance. I think eventually they will make it pretty big.

The concert itself was aboslutely fantastic. Montgomery Gentry played also so it was a double delight.

Guess that's it for now. Not sure I can top the ole Toby Keith concert but maybe something exciting will happen!!! LOL

Holy Cow!

2008-06-29T18:59:00.002-06:00

You know, I knew I text messaged alot as I hate talking on the phone. Im old and my ears are giong bad so being on the phone has been a problem, plus, years of being a receptionist has really made me hate being on the phone, so text message is the best way for me other than email of course. Well, I was in for a shock. The last billing cycle or last month, I had 1400 text messages! Holy Cow! 1400! I would have NEVER thought it was that much. And whats funny is there are only a few people that I text message on a normal basis. I about fell on the floor. I guess some people do actually love me! LOL

I stand corrected. Andie brought it to my attention that she and I did see my man, Toby Keith, at the rodeo last year when he came, so it wasnt Vegas the last time I saw him. Sorry Andie! But hey, I do have my tickets in hand for his concert in Houston in September. I cant wait! I also have tickets to his fan club party which will be the same day! Ive never been to one of these before but supposedly we will get a meal, giveaways, some sort of trinket and a visit by the man himself! That is going to ROCK! I am so excited! I have lawn seats so whoever wants to go to the concert, get your tickets and come hang out with me! Is it September yet?!?!?!?!

I'm still in search of my perfect car. I hate it. There are so many little perks that I have gotten used to in my tahoe that Im spoiled. I've been trying to find another vehicle that has the same perks and its not so easy. Geez, I havent had to turn my dang lights on at night in 4 years! Now I may have to actually remember to turn them on all by myself! lol yes, its the little things in life that make me happy. Which I guess is a good thing for some people that have been in my life. LMAO.

Today we had game day at my Aunt's house. We had an absolute ball. I can not believe I actually saw my mother playing the Wii! As much as she tried to get out of it, we pushed her into playing and she actually enjoyed it. Never knock something until you try it.

On a sad note, theres been some bad news through last week. One of the probate court judges I know passed away from a stroke, which came as a shock; I have been talking to my second dad, who was my second mom, Cheryls husband, which of course makes me miss her dearly, but I'm soooo glad to hear from him. But, I found out he's dating!!! Good for him! but wow....its so surreal. And I also found out the reason a certain someone stopped talking to me a couple of months ago. Which makes it now loud and clear that he was lying to me for quite some time and believed him and really thought he was a friend. Oh well. what can you do but live and learn right?

LIFE

2008-06-14T07:33:00.002-06:00

Wow. Ive just noticed its been a really long time since I logged in and actually posted something. Seems like everytime I sit down to do it, something else comes up.

Well, this week has been an emotional one. It has now been a year and 3 days since my second mom, Cheryl, passed away. Hard to believe its been that long already. Proof that time really does march on. My hamster died this week also. Im sure there is symbolizim in there somewhere but Im not exactly sure what it is.

On the upside here, my man is coming in concert to Houston on September 6! Woo Hoo! So of course here I sit until 10:00 a.m. when the tickets go on sale to grab my tickets. He is also coming to Las Vegas in July. Now THAT would be an awesome concert! The last time I saw him was in Vegas. That rocked! I would LOVE to go back but with the prices now a a days, just NOT gonna happen. Oh well. Theres always in my dreams! lol

I am also in the process now of looking for a new vehicle. With the cost of gas continuing to be on the rise, I've got to do something. My Tahoe eats about $600 a month in gas! OUCH! Sucks though, cause I absolutely LOVE my tahoe. Im just not a car person anymore, but looks like thats the route im gonna have to go. I dont see gas prices coming down anytime soon. :( Oh well, gotta do what ya gotta do. and I need to get myself in a better financial position. Need to be sure I can support myself. So now Im doing the horrible chore of actually shopping for a vehicle. I hate car dealers!!! But I have a secret weapon now! Im bringing a friend of mine with me and she's awesome at getting what she wants and dealing with these people so wish me luck!

Other than that, I dont even know where to begin telling you everything that's been going on so i guess I'll stop here.........until next time! :-)

A Fantasy Fullfilled! um, or not.

2008-04-14T18:50:00.003-06:00

Have you ever had a thought about a fantasy that you thought sounded intriguing, that maybe one day you might actually fullfill? Well, I had one of those fantasys fullfilled today!

Now that I have your attention, It wasnt actually the fantasy I envisioned, but, i did have two men looking at my naked butt today. FANTASTIC I tell you. There aint nothing like the humilating venture of having to bend over a doctor's table and having them stand there checking out your butt. I soo had this all played out differently in my mind!

Nevertheless, that is how I got to spend my day! Diagnosis -- POISION IVY! Yay me! Can you believe it? Evidnetly, when I took my trip to Sequin last weekend, and when I stopped at that lovely little park to watch the Colorado river, I had leaned up against a tree trunk to chat for a bit, and there my butt came in contact with poision ivy. I've never had poision ivy before, and I can honestly tell you, I'd much prefer to have my gallbladder removed again! aaarrrggghhh!!!

On the bright side, I do get two days off of work, although the boss is NONE too pleased. But I did make the offer that I would come in naked if he would like. Oddly enough, he didnt take me up on that offer. Oh well. Home I sit, er, ah, lay with my nice poision ivy to keep me company! LOL

Just Another Day In Paradise......

2008-04-10T11:54:00.002-06:00

Today was definitely one of those days where you should just really stay in bed!!!!

I was awakened about 4:30a this morning by a kitty cat that decided it was time for him to be petted. So, begrudgenly, I laid there and petted him for a bit and looked at the clock and thought, well, I at least have some extra time to sleep. I normally get up during the week at 5:45a or so, depending on whether or not I have to wash my hair. Today was one of those days that I definitely needed to wash my hair. I evidently had finally fallen back asleep and was awoken by my phone vibrating underneath my pillow. Why it was under my pillow in the first place, I have no idea! Anyway...I look at my phone and I got two texts from two different people telling me that I should prolly leave early because there is an 18-wheeler accident on 290 and they have the whole freeway shut down. NICE! So I look over at the clock and OMG! Its 6:35a! Im usually on my way to work already! GREAT! Wonderful way to start the day! I jump up and basically run a brush through my hair and put it in a pony tail (thank GOD for long hair) and rush out the door. Pull out of my drive onto the street, make it to the stop sign and basically do the usual, slow to observe police thing, and turn. Well, to my right, there is a nice little sheriff's officer. FANTASTIC! nothing like running a stop sign right in front of a cop! Of course, he pulls in behind me and follows me through the subdivision. He evidently figured out I had learned my lesson and finally went away.

So now I'm contimplating which direction is going to be the best to actually get to work and come to the conclusion that there just isnt a good way. Traffic in Houston just sucks no matter which way you go. Whats sad is that the 18-wheeler accident happened at 4a but it was still there at 7a. Oh well. what can you do right?? I call the ole boss there and asked him if he purchased that helicopter I've been requesting and of course he says no, so I said, well, then I have no idea when I will be there. Wonder if he's reconsidering the helicopter now??? LOL

Oh well. All in all, I finally made it to work. Arent I just the lucky one!?!? Sometimes, you should just really stay in bed instead. :-)

ROAD TRIP!!!!

2008-04-08T14:27:00.004-06:00

I absolutely LOVE road trips! Nothing like getting away down the road and in the open country. Last saturday, I did just that. Got up early, and headed north. The flowers are absolutely amazing. I sure wish I could grow them like that!
Anyway. So, Katey and I drive to Sequin for some political research something or other. One of these days I might actually figure out what exactly its all about! But, seeing as how I dont really follow politics a whole lot, maybe I really never will. On the way out there, we made a stop in the booming metroplis of Columbus, Texas. Not much there in Columbus I have to say. I think the Walmart is holding it all together. But, it was nice and peacefull. We saw this really cool looking bridge and decided to check it out and see where it led.

We stopped at this nice, quiet little park by the bridge and just sat and watched the water and chatted.

It was like we hadnt talked in 24 years or something. We caught up on everything going on with each other which was really nice. I learned alot of things about her that I didnt know and learned alot of what her friends from way back when were up to. Its interesting to see what happened to people after high school. It was just soo relaxing to just sit and exist for a little while without having to really think about much. Then, she leaned over and kissed me. JUST KIDDING! Making sure you are reading! LOL Of course then we got attacked by a bunch of flying ants, so we made our get away.

(Colorado River)

Speaking of high school friends, I mentioned in an earlier post that I reconnected with an old high school boyfriend of mine's, brother, lets call him Jethro. So anyway......I've known ole Jethro forever it seems, and its been really interesting to catch up with him and what's going on his world. On a sad note though, when I dated (or whatever it was we did together) his brother, I was extremely close to his mom. I loved her dearly. I've really had bad feelings about whats been happening with her for years now but never could find out. Well, I finally got up the nerve and asked Jethro what happened to her, and my fears were confirmed. She had passed away. Weird though that I had such a connection with her that I already knew the answer to the question when I asked it. Of course, there have really been some weird circumstances surrounding my hooking back up with Jethro anyway! I had found him on Classmates.com and sent him an email and really never thought about it again. Specially since he didnt respond. So, one day, Momma T and I were driving through my old neighborhood where I grew up, Jethro and his brother lived just a few streets over from me, so I should Momma where I grew up and where Jethro lived, after all, his brother was my very very very first serious boyfriend ever! but, I'll get into that later! LOL Anyway, the very next day after I showed Momma all this, I get an email from Jethro! THEN upon talking to him further, I find out that he is actually working on the army base in San Antonio that I was born! I was adopted, and was born at Ft. Sam Houston, San Antonio, to military parents. So, its intersting to think that they might actually still be there somewhere and he's that close to being around them. Its just all kind of surreal to me, but kinda cool too. Such a small world!

So, the ex.......I have come to believe that Jethro was the one behind us always getting into trouble!!! LOL I dated Rob for three years, off and on really, and it seems like all we did was get into trouble. But hey, I was cool. I was 14 yrs old dating a 17 yr old! WOO HOO! Boy did i think I was big time! Of course, I cant tell you how many times during that relationship that I was cheated on! For pete's sake, I was 14! Of course, he was a typical 17 yr old boy, so what did I expect! LOL He's actually married now, living in Germany, with two kids. Evidently he went into the military and it still didnt straigten him out! However, Jethro told me that he was actually going to re-enlist and go back to Afghanastan. Kinda scary with all that is going on. I'll have to tell Jethro to tell him hello for me and to be careful. Wouldnt that be weird? Prolly doesnt even remember me anyway. LOL

I've enjoyed getting to know Jethro though. Didnt really spend much time with him back in the day, but he's actually pretty cool. Been through some rough times which sucks, but I think he's getting passed it. He also went into the military, but got injured, so now he's working for them at the army base. I dont know how he does it. Working with all the injured soldiers. That would break my heart daily! But, good on him for being able to help them out.

All in all, Saturday was a great day. Hopefully I'll get to do another road trip soon. Hook up with the politician again and finish the research that we or should I say, Katey, started! I'll keep you posted!

So this is peace....

2008-03-28T18:18:00.002-06:00

Nowhere I have to be, nothing I HAVE to do, and all alone. You have to love it. Its not often you get to spend time quietly alone. Sure there are things I should be doing, but I just dont want to. I'm going to take full advantage of being alone.

Today has got to be one of the busiest days I've had in a very long time at the office. One thing after another, after another, after another........you get the idea. And after the 2 hour commute to work I had this morning, that just topped the day off! There were two, count them, I said, two, wrecks in one spot on the freeway today and then a little further down, there was a nice Car-B-Que going on. I called the boss and asked him if he really wanted me to come to work today. But of course, he said yes. Oh well, I did try. We did, however, laugh alot today suprisingly, but we also busted our butts. Then I learned that the dh was going to be out playing with his friends and I was going to have the house completely to myself. Well, me and the small herd of four-legged friends anyway. But they dont talk, so thats okay. Okay, so Tommy talks, er ah, SCREAMS, but maybe he'll be nice and decide to keep quiet also. So I rode home today with no radio on, no nothing. Complete silence. It was incredible. Lost inside my own mind. Which really is not always a good place to be, but today, not so bad.

I made a pit stop at the store and got a few necessities, and a buttload of trash mags and just girly stuff and I'm going to sit here, all alone, and read my magazines. This all might sound boring to some of you, but for me, this, is peace! :-)

Out of Sorts

2008-02-26T08:58:00.004-06:00

(stared writing this on Feb 26 but finally finished it today, March 9th!!)

Have you ever just had one of those weeks where you just felt out of sorts, but you weren't sure why, and everything you tried to do just ended up wrong? Its been like that for awhile now. Wonder when its supposed to stop! Guess my karma is off for some reason.

I took a Friday off to go renew my dear old driver's license. I had no idea it expired on my FORTIETH birthday. I had just gotten one done because I had lost mine about six months ago, so stupid me, or should I say, blonde me, thought that extended my expiration date. NOPE. Sure does not. So, I drove around for a week without a valid driver's license. Such the rebel that I am! LOL So I set out on friday looking for a nice place to get my license done that did not come with the regular two and a half hour wait in line. Started out one direction, didnt like it there, turned around towards another location, that didnt work out, went to another one, also didnt work out.....etc etc. 100 miles later (I kid you not) I finally ended up in the booming town of Hempstead to have it done there. I got there at 12:30p and was exstatic to see there was nobody else in the parking lot. That excitement soon wore off when I realized they were closed for lunch until 1:30p! aaaarrrggghhh!! So I wandered around this small town for a bit and finally 1:30p came around and I ran back and got in line. I was actually #6! YAY. I make it up to the counter and wouldnt you know, I get to take the eye exam. Didnt know there was a pop test involved here and i didnt study! I stick my head into this little machine and read off the letters and head back over to the clerk only to be told that I must re-read them becasue evidently I didnt do it correctly. Wonderful. nothing like almost failing the eye exam! Second chance goes much better and I happily walk out with my paper license. YAY! Finally legal again. After all the morning drama, I meet up with an old friend for lunch. It was great. Havent seen him in forever and it was good to catch up. Good friends and good mexican food, what more could you ask for.

The passed few weeks have just been surreal. so much has been happening and it finally all came crashing down yesterday. What was supposed to be a great Saturday ended up anything but. The day started out good though. Went to the San Marcos outlet stores with a friend and had a great time. Got home and had two parties I was supposed to go to. One a birthday party and one just a relax and enjoy party. However, I didnt end up going to either one of them. I now have some friends I'm really worried about becasue of things going on and I ended up doing some really stupid things that night that left me thinking WHY and What the hell was I thinking? Dont ask. This will be going to my grave. Only me and the entire bottle of Baileys I drank will know. If you hvaent tried the new Bailey with Caramal, I recommend it. Its FANTASTIC. However, I dont suggest you drink the whole bottle by yourself. Makes you do stupid things and also makes for a long night. {insert big sigh}

Reminiscing

2008-02-11T11:51:00.000-06:00

I guess there comes a time in everyone's life where they sit back and reflect on all the things that have happened in their lives through the years. The good, the bad, the ugly, all of it. Or maybe is this called the mid-life crises? Well anyway. I've been strolling down memory lane a bit and you know, it hasnt all been bad! :-)

I've reconnected with a few old friends from high school which has really been quite entertaining. Its amazing to hear how they remember things that have happened as compared to how you remember the same event. I have throughly enjoyed talking to everyone. Eventually maybe I'll even get to see some of them. One of the most entertaining has been my very first boyfriend ever, his brother. Its been interesting to see how things have developed in their world. I found out my old boyfriend is actually living in Germany now with his wife, son and brand new baby girl. I'm so happy for them. I think its fantastic. Its really been interesting to see what people have been up to since high school.

Saturday I got to go to a party at a friend of mine's house that I havent seen in forever. I had such a blast!!! It was a Passion Party which, for those of you that dont know, is a girl's only party with sex toys. We had such a great time. It was so nice to laugh and talk and everything. Of course, the girl's house I went to was actually an old boyfriend's sister, and his mom was also there. Now that was interesting! Nothing like looking at sex toys with your ex-boyfriend's mother!!! Oh well. I won lots of good prizes so it was well worth it. I even beat out mom on the ring a ding ling toss!! yeah me! I'm actually thinking of having one of these parties, so ladies, if you are interested, let me know!

Sunday was a bit of a let down, but that seems to be the way things work. Always seem to think things are moving along swimmingly, and then BOOM! Brick wall. Never seems to work out the way I want it too. Oh well. Guess you just shake it off and move on right?

Finally!

2008-01-20T13:04:00.000-06:00

Finally our unofficial party planner planned us another group get together! I was looking back at the calander and it looks like it was a year ago that we all got together. WAY too long. Normally we get a group of people together and find a restaurant to acend on and take over the joint. Sometimes its in Brenham, sometimes Houston, who knows where we will end up. This time, we were in Houston. We went to one of my very favorite places, The Carriage House Cafe. They have great food for great prices!!! There was at least 30 of us that made it out last night. We had a ball. Here are a few group shots of most of us:

Now, there was ALMOST a fiasco with this whole event. Evidently, the two people that were coordinating it, who happen to be MEN, weren't communicating very well. I know, shocker right? Two men NOT communicating?!?!?! Well, one had made the reservation for forty people at this place and the other had sent out all the emails explaining where, when, etc. Well, the night before the get together, it occurs to the guy that made the reservations, that perhaps the two of them were not speaking of the same restaurant! So, party planner number 1, was trying to decide, hmmm, what would be eaiser........calling FORTY people and telling them about NEW location or callling the place he had told everyone to go to and begging them for a reservation for forty people! He opted for calling the restaurant. Luckily, they made room for us, but needless to say, they were a little surprised. They had three other large groups there at the same time! Can you say a bit overwhelmed?!?!?! All in all however, they did a great job. The food as usual was fantastic and the company was even better. Here are a few candid shots for your amusement:

This is Gus. One of my favorite attorneys that I work with. He's a riot!

Heather and Alan. Alan has more electronic toys than I have EVER seen in my life! They are so cool too.

As you can see, most people have already left by now. We were the fun group and stayed WAY passed everyone else!!

Of course, maybe it was that we just offended everyone with our convesation and they had to leave!! hehehee

This here is Matt. One of our most favorite lickable people as evidenced by the tongue here! hehehee

hmmmm....I think we drove Matt crazy looks like. Oh, wait, you can't drive him where he was already! Matt is one of our favorite Paragods, oh, my bad, I mean, Paramedics. No, wait, I'm sorry, thats not right either, its Matt is one of our most favorite EMT-P!!!!! (he looks like he could save your life huh?? Well, I've heard he's pretty good with mouth to mouth!)

Me and Momma T. The dh had just said something to us before he snapped the pic, so we both flipped him off. Of course you can only see ME doing it. Figures. :-)

Vikki, our most favorite ex-chopper chicks! She used to fly around in a helicopter all day. Man, i wish I had that job! That would ROCK!

Tina, Heather and Matt. Part of the fun table. Nevermind what's on Momma's shirt. Can dress her up, you just cant take her out!!! hehehee Actually, its the flash from the camera. Her shirt was shiney.

After we ran everyone else off, the "fun" crowd of us went over to Sam's Boat for drinks. We finally had to call it a night since we are a bunch of old foggies!! J/K. Actually, poor Matt had to work at 6a the next morning! And good on him, I am happy to report, I have spoken to him today, and he made it to work with no problems. Good little paramedic!!! :)

all in all....I think a good time was had by all. I cant wait for our party planner to plan another one. And of course, everyone is invited!!!!!!

Thank GOD its over!

2008-01-01T14:00:00.000-06:00

Well, 2007 is finally over and we are now at the beginning of a brand new year! 2008 is definitely going to be better than 2007. Its already been off to a fantastic start, so hopefully the momentum will keep pushing it forward!

A few days ago, Momma was woke up bright and early by a howling at her window in her bedroom. Turned out there was a poor little Bassett Hound standing there calling her name. We took the poor baby in and she stayed with us for three days. Which means, we lost a cat, but found a Bassett! We put up signs, drove the neighborhood, talk to people, everything and just couldnt find her home. Finally, we got a lead and found her home and New Years Eve, we drove her home. It was exciting to see her so excited to be reunited with her family.

Isnt she adorable? This is her and our black lab, Tawne. Its a shame that April (the bassett hound's name) was so uncomfortable while she stayed here! She even slept in bed with Momma and Cam. It was adorable!!!

Now, this story is ironic because, new years eve, I was awoken what sounded like something hitting my bedroom window. I looked out and saw nothing. So, I got up, let the puppies out, did some things around the house, and went to let the pupies back in. As I was letting the girls in, I saw this flash of black run by and thought, what on earth is that??? so I went out and there looking up at me, was my baby, Sebastian. My kitty that had been missing for a week! I couldn't believe it! I ran out and scooped him up and went running inside and immediately woke up the dh, saying rusty, rusty, wake up! Of course, it scared the crud out of him and he shoots straight up in the bed going WHAT??? Keep in mind that its about 6a at this point and I'm screaming for him to wake up, as I'm shoving this black cat in his face! Poor guy. of course he grabs the cat and immediately looks at his tail to verify that its actually Sebastian. Sebastian only has a stub for a tail, so he's kinda easy to spot. So after that reunion, I grab Sebastian and run into Momma's room doing the same thing to her......Momma, Momma, wake up, LOOK! shoving a black cat in her face too!!! Of course, after the initial shock of the whole thing, I think they were both okay with me acting like a mad, crazy woman and waking them up shoving a cat in their faces! Couldn't help it. Had to have someone else confirm that this was in fact, our missing kitty. I have no idea how he got back in the backyard other than devine intervention. that's the only explaination. He had lost three pounds and was obviously tramatized, but other than that, he's doing great. He has been as close to at least one of us as much as possible. I dont think he had any contact while he was missing. Of course, he immediately perched on top of the stove for a little while. Isnt he adorable??

We immediately put his collar back on him and he will never go without that again. The good thing is that it seems that he no longer wishes to go ouside! Think he learned that lesson the hard way!

So, as you can see, New Year's Eve actually started really well. We got our kitty back, got to find the bassett her home, we donated clothing to Purple Heart and had a great lunch with friends.

Then for New Year's Eve, we all went outside, popped some fireworks, had some of the neighbors over, and they brought some food and fireworks. We all sat around a make-shift camp fire (cause OMG was it cold out there last night!!!), and drank, ate, and watched fireworkds. It was great. And I even actually made it to midnight! Just barely mind you, but I made it!

All and all I think everything turned out very nicely. I sure hope everyone had a great new year's eve and here's to a wonderful 2008! It definitely has to be better than 2007!!!

The End of the Year

2007-12-29T11:16:00.000-06:00

Wow. Its hard to believe. I've been wishing for months now that this year would be OVER and now, in just a few more days, it will be. FINALLY! 2007 has just not been a very good year, so 2008 has got to be better. There have been one or maybe two good things this year, but for the most part, nothing good has come of this year.

As of about a week ago, my kitty, Sebastian, has been missing. So please keep him in your thoughts to either bring him home safely, or hope that whatever family has taken him in, are treating him well. We sure miss the little guy. :-(

Anyway......here's to a fantastic 2008! I hope everyone had a great Christmas and has a FANTASTIC New year!

Love you all!

December, Christmas.....Really??

2007-12-11T09:40:00.000-06:00

How can it be December, almost Chirstmas for that matter, and be 80 something degrees outside? How can this possibly be Christmas?? Now, I know that I live in Houston, and I know that it never really snows, except for a few special occassions that it was somewhat "white" in Houston, but come on. 80 degrees for Christmas??? Oh well. I know, I know.....if I don't like it, I could always move! Not gonna happen, so I guess I will just adjust. One of my very favorite sayings........."So, it ain't home sweet home, ADJUST"! hehehehee And now, its actually cold outside! Only in Texas can you use the A/C and the heater all in one day. I love the Christmas season though. I love to go look at all the festive lights! This house we saw was HUGE! there was not a place on it that didnt have lights. it was simply BEAUTIFUL:
Whats sad is one thing that goes through my mind when I see stuff like this is: OMG! Cud you just imagine their electric bill?!??! hehehehe It was gorgeous though. Several people in this ritzy neighborhood were having parties. You could tell from the catering vans in their driveways! Must be nice. We thought about crashing but kinda figured we weren't dressed appropriately and they would notice. Considering they were all formal and we were shorts or jeans and t-shirts. They'd prolly think we were the help!

Even Sebastian got in the Christmas lighting spirit:

Not that you can tell too much in this picture, but I love the way the purple lights look against his black fur. He's such a beautiful cat. Of course he's getting fat just like the rest of his family! hehehehee He's up to 15 lbs now the little heffer!

I had a friend of mine from Bermuda come to town and stayed a week and a half. It was nice, but dang! We ran, and ran and ran! I only got to take off three days from work to spend with her, but man, I was ready to come back to work just for a break after that! :-) and my GOD that woman can EAT! And I have no idea where she puts it all. Even after big meals she has desserts. Amazing really. Here she is actually enjoying what was left of her desert.......

She really cracks me up. I love it that it always surprises her that things really are bigger in Texas! We took her out to her very first country bar to see real live cowboys! (okay, so most of you know that most of the guys at the bar aren't really "cowboys" but they at least had hats on!!!)She had a ball! I think that Katey and Momma T actually got her on the dance floor a time or two as well. (I got sick and had to cut the evening short!) I think a good time was had by all. Makes me miss those days I would go dancing almost every night. I love to country dance! She must have been exhausted cause she didn't get up until very late the next day! I'm glad she had a good time. She got to meet Cam for the first time. They hit it off immediately!

They had more fun clowning around and playing! I think they wore each other out.

So now she's back in Bermuda and time for me to catch up on my relaxing. Now, if Mike would only go away I'd be much happier. I missed two, count them, I said TWO Christmas parties yesterday thanks to dear ole Mike. I'm still not sure if it was the alcohol I drank the night before or not. A friend of mine that had her gallbladder removed told me that she has problems with alcohol since she had hers removed. She said it makes her feel like she has a horrible hangover the next day even though she only had one drink. So, maybe.............but lets hope not!!!

I hope everyone is having a beautiful holiday season and I wish you all a Merry Christmas!!!!

This Week in Review

2007-11-23T21:51:00.000-06:00

What a week. It seems like there was something everyday, but I'll only tell about the interesting parts! :-)

Saturday came with a horrendous rain storm. Gorgeous light storm though. After walking the length of two, yes I said two malls, and doing more shoping then I ever cared to do, we decided it would be a good time to just relax and watch a good movie. Momma T, Cam and I curl up in her bed and get comfy and ready for the movie. We are all comfy and in to the movie when we hear this little drip, drip, drip sound. So not a good sound to hear as its pouring down rain. Momma and quickly look up, and there coming from her ceiling straight onto the bed, is the source of noise. Fantastic! We stick bowls under it to catch the water as we call to the dh to come quick! He rushes in, sees the problem and promptly heads to the attic. He finds the source and decides he needs to go out on the roof to fix it. GREAT! Nothing like a mixture of rain, lightening, roof and the dh! He tells me to head to the attic as he heads to the roof to see if we can figure out where the rain is getting in. Of course, I make Momma stand on the ladder to at least be in the attic with me!!! Up on the roof, the dh starts pouring even more water on the roof so I can tell where it really starts leaking. Finally, source is located and the dh promptly goes to work fixing the problem. Meanwhile, I see this flashbulb moment go off in Momma's head when she realizes, um, that water that the dh was pouring into the attic was probably leaking through the ceiling onto the bed. OOOPPPS! She goes down to take care of that as I sit there in the attic all by my little self. As I am watching the roof above me start looking like its going to cave in with the dh walking around up there, I start to freak. So he finally finishes fixing the problem and comes to the attic to see what I was trying to explain to him about the "caving" in comments. Finally, problems all fixed. Thank GOD! Meanwhile, Momma comes back up the ladder to check out the progress and brings Sebastian up with her to take a look. Well, Sebastian had other ideas and lept from her arms and had a hayday running around the attic. Great. Note to self, never bring the cat to the attic!!! Thank goodness THATS over with!!!

Work was crazy this week. You would have thought it wasn't a holiday coming up with the way my bosses were working! We were short staffed so there was extra work to be done. After a few come aparts, I finally made it through the days and made it the days off! WHEW! Of course on my way home, I had to make that fateful stop at Randalls to get my ingredients for what I was bringing to the family dinner the next day. This consisted of the ever famous green bean caserole and sweet potatoe caserole. Evidently I am an expert at the sweet potatoes. Mom requests it every year.

I got home that night and set up in the kitchen to make my dishes and luckily I had the best little helper ever. Cameron came and just whipped up those sweet potatoes. He did a fantastic job. Meanwhile, Momma set up the green bean caserole since I had only made it one time before and lets just say, it wasn't my best work! More like green been soup! OOPS. Oh well. Momma was in charge so no worries. Everything gets prepared and all we have to do Thanksgiving morning is put it all in the oven for just a bit and we are good to go.

Thanksgiving morning comes and the dh puts the food in the oven and we start to get ready to go. All of a sudden, the dh remembers that the food is actually in the oven and we had taken it straight from the fridge to the oven so the outside of the dishhes was like WAY hot whereas the centers were ice cold. Its okay, its fixable. Stir it all up and try again. No problem. Crises averted. I throw some more marshmellows on the top of the taters and back in the oven it goes. Well, the dh had this grand idea of putting both dishes in the broiler for a few mins to toast the marshmellows and the french fried onions. Look how pretty the dishes turned out:

Dont they just look wonderful???? Okay, good idea in theory only. Note to self, dont put them in the broiler!!! There were flames and everything! The fire dept was darn near involved! Nothing like "blackened" green bean caserole and sweet potatoe caserole!!! Needless to say, we were late for lunch! All in all though, after the "blackened" parts were scrapped off, it wasn't so bad. Nobody seemed to complain. Of course they were prolly all silently laughing hysterically!!!

So after lunch, we sat down on the floor and played Swipe with the kiddos. We had a ball. I'm not sure who had more fun, us, or the kids!

Aren't they cute??? The dh, my niece, Amanda, and nephew Jack all laying on the floor playing the dice game Swipe. What a blast. Of course my niece decided that she was going to steal my husband. She promptly marched right over to me and informed me that SHE was his girlfriend!!! Now, I always figured he would get a girlfriend, but I was kinda hoping for someone a little older than 3!!! hehehe It was the cutest thing ever!

Finally it was time to go home. Cameron decided to drive us:

Pretty darn good driver for a six year old!!! Isn't he adorable???? The rest of the evening was simply spent relaxing and recovering from a HUGE meal. Boy was I stuffed.

We went to bed early as we knew we had to pick up a friend of mine at the airport the following morning at 8:45am!! For pete's sake! I dont have to work that day but I still had to be up!!! Oh well, it was well worth it. I haven't seen her in over a year and just love the fact that she is visiting. Originally is from Germany and is now living in Bermuda and working as a dive instructor. One of these days I'm going to make it out there to Bermuda to learn to dive. That would just be awesome! We pick her up from the airport and its home for her to rest a bit and then off to a late lunch for sushi. Yuck. Good thing THEY like it! Of course, our plan now for tomorrow is to decorate for Christmas!! yeah!!! my favorite time of yeart! I love all the decorations. I just think its all wonderful. So, Gee, do you think she's getting in the holiday spirit???

Isn't she adorable?!?!?! I will keep you posted on what transpires becasue I'm sure with her here there will be lots of adventures! In the meantime, I'm going to bed to prepare myself for tomorrow!!!

Hectic Days and Sleepless Nights

2007-11-15T10:24:00.000-06:00

I just looked at the calender and realized that Thanksgiving is NEXT week! How did that happen? It just snuck up on me. The passed few weeks have just been absolutely CRAZY and have flown by.

I'm finally getting back to somewhat normal after surgery. Still finding foods I can't eat, which isn't necessarily a bad thing, but the side effects suck. But every day gets better, the pain less and less, and the incisions are healing and fading out. So, all and all, its good. Surgery on the other hand, is NOT so good. No matter how you have it done, it sucks. This has been a bad year for surgeries. Me, Andie, Cas, all right in a row, and now Cam had his tonsils out today (he's doing GREAT by the way) and then I found out yesterday that my dad will be having surgery before the end of the year also. GEEZ. Thats enough already! This year just has to be over. Between surgeries and deaths this year, I've had about enough of 2007!

We also had a little scare this week. My kitty, Sebastian, got out and decided to take a tour of the neighborhood. He was missing all night and all day. I just had this horrible feeling we'd never see him again. I hate that! Luckily, he had gotten over to the street behind us and ran in one of the neighbor's garages, who happens to be a cat person thankfully, and was scared to death. He had gotten lost I think. So, I went and retrieved him and brought him home. We were all constantly petting the poor little guy. No more outside priviledges for him. From now on, he will be strickly an indoor kitty. I did not sleep at all the night he was gone and then the night he came home, I actually thought I had slept pretty good, but my dh informed me that everytime he woke up, I was petting Sebastian. He told me that once I was even sitting straight up and petting him. Hmmm......think I missed him?!?!! I've never done that before. The most I do when I sleep is snore, so that was new one on me!!!

Surgery

2007-11-02T09:40:00.000-06:00

No matter how you slice it, surgery sucks. I went into this whole experience with the idea that all was going to be 100% better as soon as the surgery was over. That is what I had been told also. Well, I'm not real sure why I actually believed that. Surgery is after all, surgery. They cut you open and it hurts. I'm sorry that I am not super woman and up running marathons on this third day after surgery. Nor am I milking it trying to get attention or trying to get sympathy. I'm simply trying to recover from my very first surgery ever as best as I can. This is all new to me so I had no idea what to expect.

So, let me start at the beginning. They wheel you off to the OR and tell you that they are going to give you a cocktail that makes it seems like you've had a few margaritas. Cool by me! I asked if they could throw in some amaratto with margarita, but evidently not. They throw that into my IV and wheel me into the OR. About all I had time to say was, Oh, so this is an OR? and i was out. In the meantime, the surgeron cuts three holes. One is a one inch deep incision into my belly button, one to the right of my belly button and one above it. Into one slit goes a camera so the surgeon can see where he's going and the other hole is filled with cutting equipment. They also filled my stomach cavity with gas to expand it so they could see what they were doing and where they were going. Gotta make sure they get the right organ you know? They go up and cut the gallbladder away from the liver and the other organs its is attached to and then pull it out along with the golf ball sized stone, out through my belly button. Hence the reason that incision is larger. Has to make room for the entire organ and the stone. Then they have to go back up and re-route the bile ducts to go a different direction then what it was originally set up for. Now, I was also told that this whole transaction was going to take about 20 to 30 mins. Well, it actually took about an hour and a half. The next thing I remembered was waking up in the recovery room. And not by my choice either. They were adamant that I wake up and I was not ready!!

Back to my room I go to finish waking up. The nurses were fantastic. Of course, I have to pass certain criteria before they will release me from the hospital. Those are, i have to get up and walk up and down the hall and I have to twinkle, twice. Now, this sounds all easy and stuff, but eh, not so much! however, the good part is, you are still on pretty good drugs so its not as bad as it could be. My biggest goal was to get out of there before 5p cause I didn't want to sit in Houston traffic. Pretty sad that that was the only thing I was concerned about huh?? So I pushed the gammet a bit and the nurse actually let me slide a bit and I finally got out there.

Now, the ride home.........OMG! That was horrible. All the starting and stopping and bumps on the roads and what not! I so thought I was going to die. The pain was awhful! I couldnt lay on my back because it was killing me and I for sure couldnt lay on my stomach and my sides were out of the question as well, so now what??? The other thing I wasnt quite so prepared for was the gas pain. They had told me that they were filling my stomach full of gas and that I would probably feel the pain in my shoulder. Which I thought was weird, but i figured okay they knew what they were talking about. Well, that pain stretched across my entire back. We finally make it home and I crawl in bed just bawling like a big ole baby. That was not happiness. My dh got me settled and gave me drugs and I tried to get some sleep. I cant tell you how many drugs I took that night, but not a single thing touched the pain. Then of course, once I finally did get to sleep, I was awake and having to move every two hours. They had also given me at least 2,000 cc's of fluid so of course, it was all making its way back out. Poor dh. I couldnt make it by myself so he got to get up every two hours also to help me. The more I moved the more it hurt. I know I needed to move around but dang, it sure did hurt.

Every day it gets a little easier. But I can honestly tell you, this is not what I expected. I dont understand how some people have been up running marathons and stuff the next day after this kind of surgery. Evidently some people seem to think its a very minor surgery and no big deal. Well, I hope they have to go through it and see the full extent of it. They really do cut your stomach muscles and it really does hurt. Again, I'm sorry I'm not super woman and can just jump up and run. And I'm sorry that my dh was nice enough to take off the week to help me when I needed help. But, this is how I have to deal with it, and it hurts, and if its not good enough, then I'm sorry. I dont need your help nor your sympathy anyway.

FINALLY!!!!

2007-10-24T19:54:00.000-06:00

Woo Hoo! I finally know the due date of my bouncing baby gallstone! This Tuesday, the 30th, I will be getting rid of this little bugger and donating it to its momma (after the appropriate DNA tests, of course). I'm done with it. Its definitely going to be a soccer player cause it kicks up a storm!!! Of course, it took me all day to get the due date changed. They originally had it set for November 9th. It took a call from my internist to get them to change it.

One thing, OMG! My internist, Dr. Radoff, ROCKS! His nurse and he really went above and beyond for me and helped me out so much I can't even express all that they did. If any of you need an internist in Houston, I would highly recommend Dr. Radoff.

So ya'll be sure and send me warm fuzzy thoughts on the 30th. This will be my very first surgery EVER. And although its not a big deal, its all kinda weirding me out. But, I wont be alone cause Andie, my friend that is on my blog here with us, will also be in surgery on the 30th. She is having a hystarectomy, so please send her warm fuzzy thoughts also. Plus, Beth will be in my head so I really wont be alone!!! Hmmmm....wonder if the knock out gas will knock her out too???? hehehehee

Anyway. Off to take my good drugs that my favorite Doctor EVER prescribed me and go nitey nite!!!!

Surgies and Frustrations

2007-10-20T10:29:00.000-06:00

Lasik surgey for Beth was a huge success!! She came through with flying colors from what I understand from her oldest. Who, I found out, loves me! Yeah!! She really made my night the other night, her oldest did. I won't go in to details, but its nice to know that they like me. I never knew how kids will perceive me, so its good to know that I can be a hit with a teenager. That rocks! So now Beth will be relaxing and recooperating until she can see again. it will be nice to have her back in commission again. Kinda weird not talking to her every day! :)

So, my appt........I went to meet with the surgeon on Thursday and guess what?? I have a gallstone! Can you believe that??? I would have never known had I not gone that day!!! hehehehe Now I'm just wating until they get around to calling me to find out when my surgery will be. Good thing is that he said they will start in the morning and I will prolly go home that same night. I'll be "uncomfortable" for three or four days, but other than that it should be all good. I know I'm just ready to get this little bugger out. And as soon as it comes out, its getting sent over to whoever is its momma! I think its going through its terrible twos or someting!

Then, I get home from my doc appt and talk to my parents to update them on whats up, and guess what?!?!?! My sis in law did it again! yet another attempt to "kill herself". Oh, but according to my brother she is NOT incapacitated. She is fully competent to handle herself. Yeah, okay! I swear. it just all makes me CRAZY! yes, I know, I'm already crazy that just adds to it!! heheheheehe

Anyway. I hope everyone is out enjoying this BEAUTIFUL weather we are having. I'm having a hot date with my heating pad on my couch while the hubby is playing a game. Woo hoo! we are SUCH the party animals!!! heheheehe

oh, and PS......prayer request........please keep my friend Andrea (not the Andi that is on my blog here, but another one) in your thoughts and prayers. She just found out her dad has cancer and will be having surgery on the 24th to try and get some of it out. Its in his eyes, arms and hands I believe she said. It just doesnt sound very good. I feel for her. Cancer is SUCH an ugly word!!!!!

MEN!!!

2007-10-17T11:49:00.000-06:00

AAARRRGGGGHHH!!!! MEN! You know what, nevermind. Sometimes its just not even worth the effort.

Bouncing Baby Gallstone

2007-10-15T08:16:00.000-06:00

Well, since Andi went and outed me, I now have to get a DNA test to see who is my gallstone's baby's momma is. All I know is that whoever is the lucky momma, YOU GET CUSTODY! This little thing is already a little terror! I go on Thursday, the 18th to my new surgeon, so wish me luck. Funny though, my surgeon I found out, even has his own myspace page. Kinda weird!

Is it too late to say, but its NOT mine?!?! heheheehe

Well....

2007-10-10T15:14:00.000-06:00

Its official!!! I get to have surgery! Woo Hoo! My very first surgery in my entire life. My bouncing baby gallstone is 2 and 1/2 centimeters big. I'm so proud!

Wish me luck!! :-)

I am just the luckiest one!!!!!!

2007-10-10T13:11:00.000-06:00

Now I don't want all ya'll be jealous or nothing, but, I had my little doctor visit this morning and had my abdominal ultrasound and my upper GI, and guess what?!?!? I am the proud momma of a 1 inch round gallstone!! Yeah me! I know ya'll are all jealous right now, but try not to be okay? :-)

It was actually pretty interesting. I got to see the inside of my body. All kinds of different organs. It helps to smooze the techs!!! Hence the reason I actually already know that I have a gallstone because the tech showed it to me. shhhhh!!! don't tell anyone! hehehe It was very interesting looking. No wonder I've been in pain. Little bugger! Now, I have to say, drinking the whole barium thing was NOT happiness. It wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be, but still not something I'd like to rush out and do again. The first time wasn't so bad, but the second and third times, I was pretty much done with it!!! and of course, they evidently angered the little bugger by taking its picture cause now he is causing me much pain!

So now I get to sit and wait for the doc to call and tell me the results of my test and what the next step is. From what I am reading on it, it appears to me that it will probably be surgery and they will go on and remove the whole gallbladder. Luckily its not a bad surgery or anything so no worries there. Maybe one overnight stay at the hospital. Hmmmm.....wonder if while they are in there sucking out the gallbladder if they could suck some fat out too? Think I'll ask! hehehee

I got really tickled at a story that the tech told me about. She told me that this 16 year old girl and her mom came in and the tech was asking if there was anyway the girl could be pregnant and the girl was very adamant that there wasn't any way possible that she could be pregnant. So, they proceed with the ultrasound and momma is standing there looking at the screen, watching as the tech is exploring. Well, low and behold, guess what they found?!?! Yep, a baby. And a pretty far along baby at that! Of course mom went ape and started yelling at the 16 year old and I kid you not, the girl looked at her momma and said, "ITS NOT MINE!!!"

Seriously, you can't make this stuff up!! hehehehee

I'm Tired

2007-10-07T17:47:00.000-06:00

What a weekend. All I have to say is thank God its Sunday, and its raining so its a very good excuse to do nothing but relax and not feel guilty about doing nothing. Plus there is a Law & Order CI marathon on today, so I would sure hate to miss it. hehehee

So, my date on Friday night........Huge success! We had such a good time. We were such the party animals that we actually closed three places down! First the Woodlands Mall, then Barnes and Noble and then the Cheesecake Factory. I had so much fun shopping with the girls. I even got to play a joke on mom! I had her youngest get the skimpiest formal dress we could find and sneak it to try it on. When she came out of the dressing room, I thought Beth was going to fall on the floor she was laughing so hard!!! Then we set off for Barnes and Nobel. We sat on the floor at Barnes and Noble for the longest time looking at books. I could stay in there forever!!! Then we went over to Cheesecake Factory and had five, yes, I said FIVE pieces of cheesecake. But, to our defense, there were four of us and we did get an extra for her to take back to the hubby. They were soooo good. We got five different types so we could all try them. The girls were hillarious and so beautiful! I had so much fun with them. They tried on cloths and just had a ball. They are so outgoing. After all the running around we did, we finally ended up standing out in the rain in the parking lot still chatting. Its funny cause I felt like I've known her forever and we just had no problems chatting. And I have to say, I was proud of her hubby. He only called one time the whole night. Of course I didn't make it home until almost 2am!! That woman keeps me out past my bedtime!! hehehehee All and all I really had a good time, and hopefully she did too. We'll just see if my "date" calls me or not for a second date! heheheehe Oh and sorry, I didn't have my picture phone so I couldn't take any pics that night to post. but next time (if there is a next time) :-) Of course, by the time I got home, I couldn't fall asleep so I laid down on the couch to watch Forensic Files and finally fell asleep about 3a only to wake up again at 5a and finally crawled in bed. Of course then I was awaken at 8a to go eat breakfast!!

Then Saturday. We start off by going to eat breakfast at one of our favorite breakfast spot. It was nice to just sit and relax and Momma T had brought coloring books for her little one, so the four of us sat there and colored for awhile also. Finally we decide, hey, lets go to Dewberry Farms. I have no idea what this is, so I figure, hey, what the heck.

We pile back in the car and off we go. Of course, we had to make a pit stop to the phone store and I finally got a new phone. YEAH!!!!! I love it! it Rocks!! After that, we are off to the Farm.There is soo much to do at this place! We couldn't do everything and we were there for four hours! Cam had a blast. Running from activity to activity. He wore me out just watching him!! This place had a corn maze on it that we went through. it was amazing! I would love to know how they did that! Here is a picture of Cam at the entrance to the maze:

Isn't he just adorable!?!? It was soo much fun watching him.

Then we have the two giant hamsters......

They were racing until the hubby lost control of his wheel and went ass over apple cart. Opps.

We had a ball. There is just soo much to do there. Cam did his best to do all of it though I'll tell ya. Oh well. I guess next time.

Here is our tractor ride riding in little corn cars (cam with me in front of him, and then the dh off to the left:

and to end our evening, we had the most gorgeous sunset......

We finally made it home prolly around 8p. After the night before, I was exhausted and just couldn't fall asleep cause I was so wound up.

Thank goodness I have today to catch up!!!!

My Big Date

2007-10-05T08:49:00.000-06:00

Okay, I'm scared. I feel like a nervous little school girl on her first "real" date. Anon's (now known as: Beth (she didn't like the anon name, so we gave her a new name!!)) hubby, my EX, actually consented to she and I meeting for dinner. He's not fully comfortable with it mind you, but has consented nevertheless. Of course, she promised him we weren't going to sit around and compare notes or anything, so maybe that made him feel better. But GEEZ, that was 20 years ago, so I hardly even remember any notes to tell her about! I'm getting old you know?? hehehe Or maybe he's worried I'm going to convert her. I am after all, physco as we all well know. :-) But they say physco like its a bad thing!!!

So anyway. We are meeting at the Cheesecake Factory tonight. She is bringing their two beautiful daughters, so I'm already gonna be outnumbered.

Of course with any big date, I got up this morning and made sure I washed my hair and tried to make it all look nice. I have to make an impression you know!?? And of course, wouldn't you know, I'm having a very bad hair day. It never seems to work when you want it too! Then you try and find cloths and of course, I couldn't find a thing I wanted to wear. That whole being FAT thing has really limited my clothing options! :-) Oh well. Good thing she got to know before she saw me right?? And of course, SHE is going early so she can get her hair cut, so HER hair is gonna look all good. Now THAT's not fair!

Now the funny thing though, I wonder just how nervous her hubby is gonna be all night.......Wanna bet he calls her 100 times or so? As Andi said, paybacks a bitch!! Shouldn't have done what you did to US all those years ago! heheheehe j/k

Wish me luck!! Hopefully she won't hate me after she actually meets me!! hehehehee I'll keep ya posted!

Ahhh.....Life.....

2007-10-02T12:41:00.000-06:00

Life is finally beginning to have a simblence (sp) of normalicy. I got over strep throat only to give it to my housewife and her kiddo. Couldn't help it. You know how I like to share and misery LOVES company! hehehehe But now they are on the mend and hopefully things will now get back to what is supposed to be normal.

Saturday night I got to have dinner with two old friends that I have not seen in forever. It was so nice to catch up. I can't even remember the last time I saw them. Obviously WAY too long ago. We sat and had margaritas and mexican food. What better way to spend the evening?!?!? Of course, as we all parted, we all vowed to not let such a long time pass before we got together again. Don't we always tend to do that though and then before you know it, years have gone by. Maybe I'll make that one of my new year's resolutions this year. Maintain closer contact with friends. Sounds good right? Wonder if I can keep it?!?!?!?! Of course, now that also applies to the friends. I can't do it without their help! (hint hint hint) :-) Or hmmm...maybe I'm the one that should take the hint and figure it out that they don't want to hang around me!! Nah, that can't be it. You can't help but love me!!! hehheheehe (man, I sure crack me up! hehehee)

Sunday was spent most of the day chatting online to my newest online BFF. Of course, I have yet to talk to her other than via instant message. I feel like we are online dating or something! Kinda cute actually. But man, that girl can sure get in my head. Scares me sometimes. I do wish however, while she's in my head, it would be nice if she'd clean some of those cobwebs out of there! :-) One day though, we'll have a real "date". I'll keep ya posted on that! I hear the Cheesecake Factory at the Woodlands Mall calling our names!!

After logging out of my online romance, we all loaded up (the housewife, her kiddo, my dh and I) and went to my new favorite restaurant. The Carriage House Cafe. OMG! Its such good food! and soooo much of it for GREAT prices. Its basically home cooking with some BBQ thrown in for good measure. It is wonderful. From time to time, we get a group of people together to go on a road trip for food. Normally its to Brenham. But, this next time, I think I'm going to suggest going to the Carriage House. Its just soooo good!!!

Then came Monday. Have I mentioned lately that I'm just not fond of Mondays? Seems like everything just goes haywire on Mondays. I popped off yet ANOTHER crown and got to go back to the dentist Tuesday to have it put back on. Another day of not eating. I know, not like I couldn't use to miss a few meals! But hey, Conan like food! heheheehe So, now that is fixed and all is right again.

Next week, keep me in your thoughts. I get to go have an abdominal ultrasound and an upper GI to see what is the cause of my ailments. The doc seems to think its my gallbladder considering I have the four "f" factors that make me at a higher risk for gallbladder disease. You will all be happy to know that I didn't punch out the doc after he told me what those four factors were!!! For those of you that don't know, they are: FEMALE, FORTY, FERTILE and my personal favorite - FAT!!!! Nice. Geez. I lost 14 lbs what else does the man want!?!? Dam men. Never satisfied. Of course, what do you expect.......all men have that genetic defeact called a "Y" chromosome!!! heheheehe Thats okay. I started giving him such a hard time that he couldn't take my blood pressure correctly from laughing so hard. That'll teach him! Of course, he then told me my BP was high to which I promptly responded that it was his fault for telling me I was FAT! :-)

Oh well. Just another day in my world!! hehehe

Manic Mondays

2007-09-17T12:16:00.000-06:00

Have I mentioned that I hate Mondays?!?!? AAARRRRGGHH! Today has definitely been a crazy day and its only half over!

I start my wonderful Monday out by getting up late. As I start my morning ritual, I listen to the news and of course, my freeway is at a stand still because of a wreck. Now, of course the accident is outbound and I am going inbound, but everyone has to stop and stare at all the pretty flashing lights. So, I think great, I'm already late and now I'm really going to be late!

I jump in my truck ready to tackle the traffic and as I sit at a light not far from my subdivision, my truck dies. Fantastic! I'm sitting there in the middle of the road at what is now a green light, and all I can think is I have to get to work today!! I have a million deadlines that have to be done today! GREAT. Now what. Luckily my truck decides to start and I call the dh and tell him about it so he tells me to turn around and come back and get his truck. I head back to the house, and he has evidently had time to think about all this and has decided that it would be easier to just change my battery out for his. Not sure who's world that would be eaiser in, but okay. We get the batteries changed and I am once again on my way to work.

Just then, my phone rings and its my friend Michelle. She tells me that they took my godson to the ER last night because he got hit in the eye with a baseball. Well, that's special! Luckily he is okay, but he does have a concussion. Poor guy, but isn't he cute!?!?!?!

At least he is okay even if his little eye is swollen shut! I told her he should tell people, "well if you think I look bad, you should see the other guy!!!" heheheheehee

So I finally arrive at work only to find a lovely email awaiting my arrival. One of my fellow fire fighters from Cypress Creek VFD has passed away. He went to the ER last night with a shortness of breath and they found numerous clots in his heart. Unfortuantely they were not able to do anything for him and he passed away. Please keep him and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

Thats enough for one Monday, so hopefully the rest of the day will go better!!!! :-)

New Friends in Unusual Places

2007-09-12T09:11:00.000-06:00

Have you ever spent almost half your life disliking someone only to find out that you actually really like them once you get to know them? Its quite an interesting feeling really. Something I never would have expected.

I have known who this person was for probably 20 years. But she was always the one "who stole my man!" so of course, I didn't much care for her. And you know how it is when you are young and dumb, its always easier to blame other people for things not working out. So, that is what I did. Its funny though, things always have a way of working out though.

I recently joined a website for my old high school. You can hook up with all your old friends from school on it. Kinda neat actually. No, its not classmates.com. I actually joined kleinforestalumni.com. Well, it also shows alumni from other schools as well. So of course, I came across this particular person. Took a peek at her site to see what "they" were up to. Oh, I failed to mention that she married this man of mine that she stole! hehehee Anyway....we spent some time peeking at each other's profiles, so I finally decided you know what, I'm just going to say hello. What do I have to lose right? Other than she could have just seriously gone off on me so I actually was a bit concerned about what I was going to get back! Oh well. No pain no gain! So, I popped her an email and just said hello and commented on how beautiful their two girls were. How could anyone get mad at that right??? :-)

Well, she sent a nice reply back, and we actually spent time emailing back and forth and you know what, I actually like her! We have a lot of things in common. Its interesting really. We don't spend hardly any time discussing the past, other than to take a few stroles down memory lane. But never in a negative way. Its always been positive. We've really had some great laughs over the whole thing. And it has really brought back some great memories and things I have long forgotten. Of course sometimes she keeps me up way past my bedtime chatting though!!! hehehehehee I just can't help it! She cracks me up! Oh, and did I mention that she cracks herself up also?!?!? hehehehee

I love hearing about her two beautiful daughters. They are amazing. Its funny to hear about how different they are. I get almost as excited as she does listening to her talk about her youngest's volley ball games! I love it!

Who would have ever thought she and I would end up talking. I'd sure like to see the looks on a few people's faces if they only knew!!!!

This is interesting.....

2007-08-29T14:32:00.001-06:00

I was playing on the internet, yes of course, when I should have been working (shut up Anon!) and found this little quiz thing. This is what it said about my "life path".

Your Life Path Number is 6

Your purpose in life is to help others

You are very compassionate, and you offer comfort to those around you.
It pains you to see other people hurting, and you do all in your power to help them.
You take on responsibility, and don't mind personal sacrifice. You are the ultimate giver.

In love, you offer warmth and protection to your partner.

You often give too much of yourself, and you rarely put your own needs first.
Emotions tend to rule your decisions too much, especially when it comes to love.
And while taking care of people is great, make sure to give them room to grow on their own.

What'>http://www.blogthings.com/whatisyourlifepathnumberquiz/">What Is Your Life Path Number?

Opps!

2007-08-28T07:13:00.000-06:00

Okay, My bad. I've been corrected. "Its" is not spelled correctly. It is actually spelled "Itz". Sorry. My bad!! :-)

Its

2007-08-27T10:45:00.000-06:00

Have you ever heard of a place called "Its"? What is an Its?? Well, I found out on Saturday. It is something like an Incredible Pizza or a Dave and Buster for kids. SOOO much better than the Chuck E. Cheese days. Man I hated and still do hate, Chuck E. Cheese!!! That annoying little Mouse!!

Cameron decided that he wanted to go to Its on Saturday so we all packed up and away we went. He was soo good on Friday that we decided he deserved a nice day of family fun. I just wish I had half of that boy's energy! First order of business once we got there was food. Of course, they have the standard pizza buffet, very similar to CeCes Pizza. And of course, you get salads, pastas, spuds, etc. The best part, FREE ICE CREAM for desert. Now, thats what I'm talking about!!! After we had our fill of the buffet, it was off to the game room.

That boy ran from one thing to another like there was no tomorrow. He was having a ball! He rode the bumber cars and the little train and played more and more and more games. I swear by the end of it all he had over a thousand tickets that he won! It was incredible. And it was awesome to see him smile from ear to ear and just laugh and laugh. He needed a good time. He was sooo exhausted by the time we left, but he sure fought off sleeping.

We all piled up in Momma's bed and watched Firehouse Dog. OMG! What a cute movie! We had soo much fun. But man was I exhausted!!! I just loved watching him have such a great time!

Question...

2007-08-19T16:42:00.000-06:00

How many times do you have to "try" and commit suicide before you get the help you are evidently asking for?

My sister-in-law ("SIL") must be now on her 100th time of trying to kill herself and still her phychaitrist won't commit her. Every time she does this, she takes pills and then tells someone hey, I took pills! So she is taken to the ER where she is given charcoal or has her stomach pumped. This last time she did it twice in one day except the first time she took her pills, went to the ER, had some charcoal and went home. So, evidently she got bored around midnight or so got up and called 911 and told them that she had drank a whole bottle of 409. My brother was awaken by an officer telling him they were taking the SIL to the hospital yet again. The first time the ambulance picked her up she told them that she just wanted to go to sleep and that is why she took all the pills. Not real sure what taking the 409 would have done for her. However, after all the tests were performed, it turns out, she never actually drank the 409. Now this was just last week!

Now, why after all the trips to the hospital and all the "suicide" attempts does someone not step in and give her some help? We can't commit her becuase she is free white and over 21. She commits herself and then gets frustrated after three days of things not helping and checks herself out again. So, now what? My poor mother goes over there almost every single day to take care of the two kids who have to live in this unstable environment.

I just dont understand why it is that she is still allowed to live in this home with these two children putting them at risk when she is obviously asking for help and her doctors wont give it to her.

Now what??????

Life

2007-08-03T07:42:00.000-06:00

One of my favorite quotes has to be:

"...life was like a box a chocolates, never know what you're gonna get."

Isn't that the truth? Do you ever look back at your life and think, dang, that's not what I thought it would be at all. This is definitely not where I thought I would be at this age. I think I must have missed something along the way. Maybe I zigged when I should have zagged. Not sure, but this is definitely not where or how I thought I would end up. Not that I had a great plan or anything. I just know that if I did have a plan back then, it wasn't this.

Yes, I'm having a pitty party, and yes, everyone is invited! You know what they say, misery loves company. :-)

I just hate when you look back at things and wonder, where did I go wrong? Why me? or Why not me? Somebody told me once, well, she never gave me a reason NOT to love her. Okay well, I never did either so why am I not loved anymore? What do all these women that are desired by so many and sought after by so many have that I dont have? Other than of course the obvious, the whole looks thing. Of course, looking at some of the people that I am refering to, its not like they are drop dead goregous either, so what gives? And of course, this was all after they made me believe that they missed me and that they really did still love me and that they felt like they made a mistake letting me go. Don't all women want to feel that way? Don't we all want to feel like there is that one someone out there that just feels like they can't live without you and they can't wait to be with you again and would move heaven and earth to be there? Of course, bottom line is, its all BS. They dont care. At least that is how its always worked out for me. I've made alot of mistakes in my life just wanting to be desired and loved. Guess some of us are just destined not to have that. It sucks grasping at straws that aren't really there but that are being dangled out there in front of you just for fun. Kinda messes with the whole self esteem thing. which of course, I never had much to start with.

Things you don't.....

2007-07-29T11:13:00.000-06:00

Expect to hear on the Food Network:

1 = Anyone eating an artichoke, oughtachoke!

2 = I'm sweating like a fat girl writing her first love letter!!

3 = I have a camera.......Its called Food Porn!!!

4 = Butter my bun baby!

And things you dont expect to see:

Six well-built attractive men carrying in a buttload of butter! OMG! what could be better?!?!?!

And last but not least, Paula Dean eating butter out of the hand of one of those well-built attractivve men and then eating down his arm! DAM! Lucky woman!

July 29th

2007-07-29T10:49:00.000-06:00

Today is both good and bad. Bad because its my friend, Cheryl's birthday. It will be the first time in six years or so that I haven't spoken to her and told her happy birthday. Of course, I did tell her, and I know she heard me, but its just not the same. I miss her so much. Every day it gets a little more bearable, but the pain and the whole in my heart will always be there. I had a little moment yesterday when I looked over and saw Keisha's picture and started thinking of her and of Cheryl and the dam just burst. Of course I then also realized Ihadn't taken my meds that day!!!!

On a good note however, its also my dads birthday. So I can think of that as well. My grandmother decided to throw a "surprise" party for him this year which will be the first time in FOREVER. Of course we just got done dropping off the dh at the airport for a week so I wont be bringing the husband to the party. He always seems to be gone when these little get togethers happen. I think he does it on purpose!!! But hey, I have my other half, my housewife, to go with me instead!!! Should be interesting!!!

After today, its back to work after being off for awhile. Now, that sucks! :-)

Vacation

2007-07-27T19:30:00.001-06:00

Ahhhh.......vacation! I have not had a real vacation in I can't tell you how long. Finally, we all decided its time. So the house note won't get paid on time, or hey, the electricity may get cut off, but dammit, I'm taking a vacation! Of course the one thing about vacations is that it sure is nice to come home!

Day One:

We are all excited. Get off work early and head home to pack up and hit the road to Orlando, Florida. Four adults, and three children in one vehicle. Finally we are on our way. not to far down the road, up comes one of the tops on the totes we are using for suitcases and out flys the dh's brand new astros' cap. Dang. We stop and redo everything and out on the road once again. Few more miles down the road, and the top on the other tote pops up and out comes ONE croc shoes for the youngest child. Well dang again! Well, now its even. We've lost one thing out of each tote. Next stop, Walmart for duct tape. Duct tape fixes everything you know! We taped them bad boys up so tight there was NO getting in them. Finally, off we go again. Then, WHAM! pot hole..............and flat tire. Fantastic. Off to a beautiful start and we aren't even out of Texas yet! We pull over onto the shoulder a little ways behind a police officer who was obviously in the middle of a speed trap. We flashed our lights at him and everything and that bastard just drove off. nice way to help out the community! Nothing like standing out on the side of an extremely busy highway trying to change a flat tire. Finally, tire changed and we all load back up. At this point we are all thinking, maybe we should call it off and go home!

We finally arrived in Mobile, Alabama at 5 a.m. and visit Michelle's grandmother for a little bit and all take naps. Off again to our finally destination. Finally arriving in Orlando. Thank GOD. We unpack and relax. Monday its off to Sea World. It rained on us the entire day but OMG did we have fun. I have not ridden a rollar coaster in I can't tell you how long and some how got talked into riding one CRAZY coaster! It was fantastic! We went upside down and round and round in circles and straight down! Holly cow! They took the picture below as we were in one of the turns. the force had pushed my head down and I couldn't pull it back up. it was awesome!

We picked the best time to ride it since it was somewhat rainey and everyone else had ridden it earlier so we didn't have much of a wait at all.

Next day it was off to the beach. Luckily again it was overcast so it wasn't too unbearable. We had so much fun playing in the surf. It was Andrew, my god son's, first time ever at a beach and we had so much fun watching him! I also learned a valuable lesson. One which I already knew but was WAY too stupid to remember. you can STILL get sunburned when its overcast! Beautiful! I got soooo burned! It was well worth it though. We had a ball. We also went to Ron Jons which is supposed to be a very well known surf shop. Never heard of it personally, but OMG! that place was HUGE! It was two stories and had just about everything in it you could imagine.

Our last day was spent relaxing by the pool at the house we rented and getting everything in order to come home. We packed everything up and headed home, deciding to drive straight through. We finally arrived by midnight. OMG was it ever good to be home. I missed Momma and Cam and all the animals more than I realized I would. God it was nice to see everyone. We stayed up until after 2a just chit chatting and catching up on everything that had happended during the week. It was fantastic.

On a different note, I was catching up on everything on the computer since I was computerless for over a week, and was checking on some myspace sights. Its interesting to me how some people can talk about "finding out who your friends are" thinking that they got screwed by their friends when in fact, they were the ones that have screwed people. I guess that is what karma is all about right? This person that I am speaking of, now lives in Arizona (yes, some of you I am sure know how this person is) and has the nerve to put one of my very favorite songs on her myspace page, "Find out how your Friends Are" by Tracy Lawrenece. I sure hope that she got screwed as bad as she screwed me. What comes around goes around.

Another side note.....I also found out today, that what I spoke of earlier in a different post, has now happened. At work, they have fired the other secretary and it looks like one of the big boss's daughters will now be the other secretary. Fantastic. That should be loads of fun. I will keep you all posted, but in the meantime, please please please wish me luck.

Lesson Learned the Hard Way

2007-07-17T12:01:00.000-06:00

Cat (a/k/a ME), plus naked, plus bath tub full of water, plus Stormy (my cat), plus Sebastian (my other cat) = disaster. Human vs. two cats ........ the cats win!!

I was taking a bath the other day and Stormy decided to jump up on the side of the tub to say hello. She was facing me with her butt hanging over the side of the tub. Well, Sebastian, being the joker that he is, decided he was going to play. So, he jumped up and goosed her scaring the ever loving daylights out of her. She falls in the tub, in my lap, with claws just a wailing. All I could do was close my eyes and in one fail swoop I reached out to grab the cat and throw her out. Everything in our path went flying across the bathroom. I surveyed the damage and looked at all the blood pouring down my fingers and on my feet. Other than fileting my fingers and feet, I got off pretty lucky!!

And I know that little snot Sebastian was over there dying laughing at the whole thing. Especially after I promptly got out, fixed my wounds and scooped up Stormy and cut them darn claws!!!

You know, they should really make knives out of cat's claws. Them little bastards are SHARP!

Stop the world, I wanna get off!!!

2007-07-12T19:09:00.000-06:00

Ever feel like you've pissed off all the Gods at one time? I guess if I'm gonna do it, I may as well do it right, right?? So, once you've successfully pissed them off, how exactly do you make them happy again?

It all started going south yesterday when I finally gave in and let my grumpy old man (a/k/a my 15 yr old cat, Bear) be taken to the vet. He has been sick, and I've known this, but I always hate taking him in cause they always give me bad news. But I decided to do what was right for a change and we made an appt for him, Momma T's grumpy old man, Tommy, and my black lab Tawne. Poor Tawne has always had issues. She pees when she sleeps so that definitely needed to be taken care of. I knew it was going to be somewhat expensive and was not looking forward to that. But, I was blown away when I found out the total! OMG! It was more than I pay for my own office visits for pete's sake! I had obviously angered the pet Gods somehow!

As I am on the phone getting financially raped by the vet, I get an email from one of my bosses saying, I need to talk to you after five. Beautiful! You just gotta love getting that message. Of course I promptly respond back and say, um, ok, but if your going to fire me, do it now cause I aint staying late to get fired!!! And all I wanted to do was go home. I was exhausted. I had only slept a couple of hours the night before and I really reallly wanted to just go home and crawl into bed. But NOOOO!!!! Guess the Sleep God was angered! I promptly walk over to the boss's office at 5p only to find the big boss siting in there chatting away. I got to wait til almost 5:45p to talk. Time God evidently pissed! Of course she promptly tells me news that makes me oh so not happy. Of course I can't repeat it here yet cause its not public knowledge yet and not 100% confirmed. All I know is it will not be happiness. Obviously angered the Work God.

Finally I am on the way home and decided to crank up the music and just jam. I was rocking and rolling and just a swinging to the music. You should have seen the looks I was getting. And you know what, I didnt' even care. I was jamming to the song Crazy Bitch by Buckcherry. If you haven't heard it, OMG, its hillarious. There is no way you can sit still while listening to it. Definitely my theme song. I guarantee you there are several people that think I'm definitely a Crazy Bitch!! I make it home where I get asked a question befitting the whole day. Do you want a margarita, Momma asks!!! Well hell yeah I reply. Thank God she understands me. Off to my favorite mexican food joint for my favorite amaretto margarita. Man are they stout! Fantastic. Starting to feel better. I make it home to crawl into bed, but of course, I have to stop and check email first. Stupid me. Nothing like drunking emailing. Never seems to work out well. That must be the email Gods now.

This morning I get up thinking surely today will be better right? Its a fresh new day. A brand new start. WRONG! It was cute that I thought that though huh??? Along comes the angry Traffic God. During my lovely hour drive to work, I got into three, count them, three, altercations. And seriously, only one was my fault. Michelle as my witness. She was on the phone with me the entire drive in listening to me explain all the beautiful things that transpired the day before. My pet peeve, slow drivers in the fast lane. AAARRGGHHH! I got behind this guy that was just putting along in the fast lane, the cars in front of him miles ahead. So, I put my blinker on and got in the middle lane and started to go around. Well, that obviously made him mad so he started to speed up. But, Chevy Tahoe versus POS. Which do you thnk won? hehehe I was approaching a dump truck so I popped over in front of the guy. Now he was mad. He finally came up next to me again, and just glared at me. I laughed and promptly started smiling and waiving and telling him that I hoped he had a great day. Michelle is laughing now telling me I've lost my mind. This guy must have driven past me and glared at least three times. and all three times, I smiled and waved and wished him a nice day which seemed to make him glare harder. So now I decide okay, time to move from the fast lane into the middle lane. I put my little blinker on, and move on over. I'm minding my own business, ranting away on the phone, when this lovely little hispanic guy decides he wants my lane, and he wants it NOW. Nevermind the fact that um, I'm using it!!! He almost side swiped me. Full side impact. So, I honk cause surely he didn't mean to come over right? He promptely starts cussing me and telling me to get off the phone. I'm sorry, but what did me being on the phone have to do with him being a dumbass? Maybe he has a phone phobia. Really not sure. So of course I start cussing back and he pulls in behind me and tries to see if his little car would fit up my tahoe's ass. So hey, being the accomodating person that I am, I proceed to stop quickly to help him find out. I mean really, he obviously needs this information for some reason right? Of course, Michelle is getting a play by play of the action and thinking great, I get to hear a murder. Well, at least she could say that I didn't start it. I had my witness dangit! I might be dead, but dammit I was right. Make sure that's on my tomb stone okay? :-)

He finally goes away. I am pulling into my building area and think, OMG, its almost over, I'm almost to the parking garage. I turn onto the street in front of my building and coming straight at me, in my lane, is yet another car. Oh for pete's sake. I just stopped in the middle of the road and started laughing. Surely this could not be happening right? Finally the genius realizes, oh, hey, I'm on the wrong side of the road!!! Dee ta dee! ya think? Good lord.

Finally Im safe and sound and work. Of course with all the info I got the night before, work is just giong so well. So lunch comes around and the other secretary says, lets get out of here. So I of course say, okay, but YOU drive. She decides she wants Whataburger so off we go. Whatever. at this point I dont care. We get in her car, and her a/c doesn't work. Great. Off to a good start. We proceed to the nearest whataburger and turn down this road that ends up being a dead end. Beautiful. We turn around to get to another road, and guess what.......a Train!!! woo hoo! Welcome to my day. I just had to laugh.

Finally it gets to be the end of the day and dang it, I'm going home. I get in my truck and think hopefully it will start! Oh, did I mention that my truck was not running right this morning either??? I really thought it was giong to die sitting in traffic. Now that would be fun huh? Anyway. I left work at 6:15p and though well, at least traffic will be gone. WRONG again! go figure. Dam Traffic God must really be pissed. Almost an hour and a half later, i finally make it home. So here I sit, already in my jammies, curled up in my bed and about to pull the covers up over my head.

There are so many other little things that went wrong the last couple of days that I just have to sit here and laugh. Its so sad its comical. Of course, maybe I'm laughing cause I've finally lost it. Oh well. Its funny anyway.

So heres to tomorrow being a better day. Maybe some of the Gods have gone fishing and will be in a better mood. If nothing else, you just have to laugh and say okay, NEXT!!

Road Trip!!!

2007-07-08T15:13:00.000-06:00

Sitting quietly on the couch on a lazy Saturday, watching the food network.........all of a sudden, an idea you saw on TV hits you. The dh saw this show that was featuring an authentic New York style diner here in our little home state. And surprisingly enough, its only about an hour or two away! Being from New York originally, (he got here as fast as he could!!!) this sounded like a fantastic idea for lunch. So we grab Momma T and out the door we go.

Evidently on the way to the fire field in College Station, we've all passed this place, but never really thought twice about it. Just a little whole-in-the-wall joint. Of course now it proudly displays a neon flashing sign that says "As seen on the Food Network". We pull into the parking lot and go inside. It is so cute!!! Just like an old street side diner you might actually find on the streets of New York.

We each got something different so we could test out a few items, and OMG! It was wonderful. We started off with some chedder cheese fries, which is fries and cheddar cheese layerd and topped with bacon with a side of ranch. Wow. that was fantastic! The dh was in hog heaven. For anyone interested, the link for this place is: http://www.hullabaloodiner.com/ Everything was really good.

With full bellies, we got back in the car to head back home. We took the senic drive back and drove through Washington on the Brazos State Park and a few other places. It was so nice and so relaxing and peaceful. The weather even held out and didn't rain until after we got home. Of course once we got home, we realized we needed a few things from Walmart so back in the car me and Momma go. Think we wore the poor dh out.

Three hours later we finally make it back home. I still have no idea how we spent that long at Walmart!! After watching Carlos Mincia, I finally decided it was time to take my tired butt to bed. it was WAY passed my bedtime.

but what a fantastic way to spend the day. I LOVE road trips and trying new places. I suggest if anyone gets the chance, check this place out. Its really very good.

Dentist

2007-07-03T18:11:00.000-06:00

So I got the priviledge of getting to go to a brand new dentist today. I've been living with a broken crown for oh, about a year and a half now and decided it was definitely time to go get it fixed. Especially before I leave for vacation to Orlando at the end of the month!!! Procrastination is a beautfiul thing and a skill I have mastered to perfection. I got the name of a dentist from my boss and proceeded to set up my appointment for today. Luckily its in the building right next to where I work.

I walk across the street to the doctor's office and sit in the waiting room waiting to be called. As i am sitting there, I saw this young boy come out who had evidently gotten a crown himself and I think hmmmm...this shouldn't be too bad. If he can afford this dentist, it should be okay right? so he meets up with who I thought might be his father. Well, was I mistaken. The older gentleman that was sitting in there was this kid's driver!!!! Holy cow I think! Maybe I should run while I could still afford what i was wearing!!! Wow was that a bad sign. That kid could not have been half my age and he is there with a driver. Amazing.

And did you know they longer have to give you the injections to numb you now? They can now do it via a computer!!! Dang! Has it been that long since I've been to the dentist??? Three hours later, I am the proud owner of a brand new temporary crown and a much lighter checkbook.

Did I mention that I hate dentists?? I just got through paying for the last round of dental work GEEZ. Thank God I live with a good druggie!!!!! she's got me all doped up now and I dont have a care in the world!!! That rocks. Now I can just go to sleep and dream of fishing.................

Hope everyone has a fantastic fourth of july!!!!

Memories

2007-07-01T18:38:00.000-06:00

Have you ever noticed how memories always have a way of sneaking in when you really aren't thinking about it? Even ones that you didn't even remember you had. Like a certain smell that may bring back a thought of something that happened or of something that was said, or of a certain event. I've been finding that alot lately for some reason. I'll be doing something and then all of a sudden, a memory that had been supressed in the back of my mind, comes rushing forward. Its amazing how much information is stored in our little pea brains. Alot of Cheryl memories have been coming to mind lately. Maybe that is her way of saying that she is still here with me. I guess if that is the only way I can have her with me, I'll take it. Makes me happy to think of her even though it also makes me sad because I miss her.

I've learned though.........everything happens for a reason. And sometimes we find out why things happen, but then sometimes we don't. I sure wish I knew why she had to leave us and what I'm supposed to learn though. But in time, I suppose I will learn.

I would also like to ask for your prayers for my uncle who was put in the hospital on Friday. He's had a series of ailments, the last of which was cancer. He has been cancer free for awhile now, but his heart is now giving him troubles. Please keep him and my aunt in your thoughts and prayers. They fought so hard through the cancer to get where they are now.

Cancer.........its such an ugly word.

Reality

2007-06-26T11:42:00.000-06:00

Have you ever noticed how reality has a way of sneaking up on you and slapping you in the face with brutal force before you are aware of what is about to happen?? You go through time with blinders on and then, all of sudden, reality is standing right there laughing at you. Amazing really. Cause once you look back, all the signs were there, you just didn't see it. Or you just chose to ignore it. Of course, once reality slaps you, all you can do is stand there and go DOH! Oh well. End that chapter and move on right? Think I'll just take up fishing.

Things have finally started calming down a bit after Cheryl's death. The whole thing still seems so surreal. I still want to pick up the phone and call her. At least I know I can still talk to her and I am still in contact with my extended family, so I guess that will have to suffice. Not a day goes by that I don't think of her though.

We've also been getting Momma T moved in to her new home which she now shares with ME!! YEAH! Its so great having her and Cam there. She is the best housewife ever. She cooks, she cleans, everything. Its wonderful. If she ever decides to leave, I'm just gonna have to pack up and go with her. I get Tina tea anytime I want it!! What more can a girl ask for??? They have really made it hard though to shrink into my little cocoon and feel sorry for myself and sit around and think about Cheryl. That's been such a blessing. Life is never dull with them around. It was amazing how quiet, quiet was when Cam was gone. Too quiet really.

All the animals have finally begun to mesh together and realize that not a dang one of them are going anywhere. As much as they would probably like it if some of them left, they have come to the realization that that is just not going to happen. Looks like we've switched dogs though. Jake sleeps with me and the dh and Tawne and Bailey sleep with Tina and Cam. Which works out great for us considering Jake prefers to sleep on the floor whereas T and B like the bed! I think we got the better end of that deal!!!

Everything is starting to level out now so lets hope that the rest of 2007 is ALOT better than the first half!!!

9:35 p.m. Monday, June 11, 2007

2007-06-11T22:36:00.000-06:00

Well, just upon completion of my last entry, I got the phone call that I have been dreading. Cheryl is gone. Her long hard struggling battle is now complete. She passed away at 9:35 p.m. this evening. I knew this was coming, I expected it, and as soon as my phone rang at 10:45 p.m., I knew what was coming............but it still came as a shock. I'm in the middle of having a complete breakdown, so I will have to finish this later. I just wanted everyone to know.

RIP -- Cheryl Ree Tomaski

July 29, 1947 - June 11, 2007

I love you big as heaven and I will miss you every day of the rest of my life. You took a big piece of my heart with you. I will hopefully see you on the other side.

Cheryl

2007-06-11T19:24:00.000-06:00

For those of you that don't know, this is my Cheryl. My second Mom, and one of the most dearest, sincerest people I have ever known. She has been a huge influence and an even greater inspiration in my life. We worked together for what seemed like an eternity and formed a very deep bond. The first week she was at our office, my old boss, Ray, asked her, Cheryl, why do you always wear those long shirts? And without missing a beat, Cheryl said, Ray, its called camouflage.....to hide my ass. I knew I loved her from that moment on. You should have seen the look on Ray's face as we all laughed hysterically. She was always there to give me advice, hold my hand, make me laugh, or just plain listen. She never met a stranger. You could put her in a room by herself and I swear she could get the wall to talk to her. And you can bet that within five minutes, she'd be showing that wall all of her beautiful grandchildren's pictures. You could tell her anything and everything and nothing at all would surprise her. I think she had probably heard it all and seen it all. And what is even more impressive is that she never judged you. She'd make you laugh and cry all in a matter of five minutes. Her laughter was so contagious. She'd get to laughing like crazy and out came a snort and you couldn't help but bust a gut laughing. That would make her laugh even harder and snort even louder. Our office was just not the same when she decided to retire and spend more time with the love of her life and her loving family. In hindsight, that was the best thing she ever did. I'll never forget the time I heard this loud crash in her office followed by this loud snorting laughter with an "I'm okay" coming out in between. Cheryl had fallen out of her chair and some how the chair had ended up on top of her. Nobody was more amused than Cheryl.

As most of you know, she has been fighting a long hard downhill battle with cancer. She fought bavely and valiantly. She is now nearing the end of her battle. Unfortunatly, the cancer is going to win. I had the hardest phone call today. Her daughter called me and told me this was the end, but that Cheryl was holding on possibly to say goodbye to the people she didn't really get a chance to. Natalie asked me to tell her goodbye and let her know that it was okay for her to go. How do you say that when its not okay? I don't want her to go. But that is extremely selfish of me, so I sucked it up and said the hardest words I have ever had to say. I told her I loved her and that it was time for her to go. That we would all be okay and she could let go and be with God. Do you know how hard that was to get out without letting your voice crack and quiver? She could not respond, but I did hear her moan a little and Natalie said she heard me, so I know my message got through. I hope it gave her some peace. I hope it made a difference. I hope it will make her journey a little easier. I feel so guilty for praying daily that God will take her out of this misery knowing that what I really want is for her to be here with us. But you know, she is the lucky one. She gets to go and see what is on the other side. She gets to meet God and be in his presence. I told her while I had her on the phone today, to please put in a good word for me when she gets there cause I sure know I need all the help I can get and could sure use someone like her on my side up there! It wont be long now. I'm scared of the phone ringing. I dread that call but I almost wish it would come so she can be out of misery. Thank God Tina and the dh are here to get me through it. And so many of my friends that have sent emails and instant messages and what not. I want you all to know, I could NOT make it through this without each and every one of you.

I just wish I knew what was worse. Having to watch the one you love die slowly and painfully or having them torn out of your life suddenly? None of it is any good. There just isn't a good way. I also have to say that my thoughts and prayers go out to Cas. I can't even fathom what she is going through. For those of you that don't know, Cas' 20 yr old son passed away last Thursday. There are no words that can make that any easier and it makes you hurt that you can't take away that hurt or make it any easier. Cas, just know that there are alot of people out here that love you and we are all here for you at any time. We all ache for you and wish we could take away your pain.

We all need to be sure to appreciate our lives and the wonderful beautiful people that are sharing it with us. I have to say that I am extremely thankful to have my Tina back in my life. And to have her and Cameron under my roof has been a joy you cannot even imagine. I love seeing both of them smile and listen to them laugh. Tina has been my rock through this and I can't thank her or love her enough. I am truly blessed to have her in my life. Andrea has been there for me as well and I can't thank her enough. She's gotten me through some very hard times. And she's a great "myspace webmaster". :-) She has pimped my myspace page on so many occasions. I absolutely love it. And her of course. And Roger..........I can't say enough about Roger. He always, always makes me smile. However, I think I may lose him to Tina if they get together for shoe shopping. I'll never see either of them, the little shoe freaks!!! j/k

I love you guys and I am truly and unimagainbly blessed to have each and every one of you in my life.

What a Week!!!

2007-05-28T16:00:00.000-06:00

Between last weekend, last week and this weekend, I am almost, now I said ALMOST, thankful to go back to work just to get some rest! Its been crazy. An emotional roller coaster, and somewhat physically draining.

Started out by saying Yes to help a friend out by watching her THREE dogs for what started out as one day and ending up being four days. Which isnt' bad, but OMG. That ment, FIVE big dogs, three pissed off cats and a hamster that could care less. The best part was picking up the three dogs. Unfortunately, we had no leshes, no kennels, no nothing but the scruffs of their necks. Now, we were watching the puppies cause my friend was putting tile in her house so her house was full of workers. I thought my dh was handling the pickup of the animals but of course, once again I was incorrect. Finally it was getting too late and I went ahead and ran over there to get them. Of course, I was thinking everyone was gone by this time, so I was dressed in my pajama best. you know, the capri pants that dont match the nasty t-shirt I was wearing (you know, the "Beaver Brand Fire trucks. Connect your hose to a beaver" shirt that didn't match the pants, with no bra, no panties, and my house shoes. I was looking sharp. Only to pull up at her house and everyone was still there. great. oh well. Im here now so I walk up to get the darling dogs and had to tramp through the wet yard to the backyard to get them. Fianlly the dh arrives and I hand him my phone and the key to the house cause I have no pockets in my beautiful ensamble and grab one dog by the scruff of her neck and start leading her to the truck. About this time, the other dog who will listen to no one, goes storming by me with the dh in tow calling his name to stop. Nope. Thunder was having no part of that. He was having a ball. Finally the dh gets him round up and in the truck and goes after the next one. Luckily this one at least has a choker chain on. Now, I asked the dh to hand me the key so we can lock the house and be on our way. He says he doesn't have the key so now I think, oh great. we've dropped it in the back yard. Now, neither of us have a flash light and its pitch dark. Talk about looking for a needle in a haystack! The best we have are the lights on our cell phones. What a sight that was. Trapsing through the grass looking for a key with cell phone lights. Finally, i walk out to the truck and there sitting pretty as she pleases is that darn key. You know, I hate having to admit to the dh that he was right and I obviously never did hand him the key. Oh well. Finally everyone is ready to go and we get everyone home and everyone but the cats are happy.

Then my friend Roger and I started walking. We found this great little walking path not far from the house. But wow am I out of shape. Hey, I've lost 12lbs though, so I can't complain. Although my body sure was complaining after all that walking. Now, if we can only keep it up. We are trying to do it three times a week, so wish us luck!

Wednesday. Wednesday was emotional for a couple of reasons. One, I talked to an old friend of mine, albiet briefly, at least communication was opened. I miss her. You never really realize how much someone impacts your life until they are not in it. Hopefully we will talk more, but I guess that really depends on how she feels as well. I have to respect her feelings on it all. and Second, I went to visit and basically say goodbye, to my second mom, Cheryl. I'm sure I overstayed my welcome, cause I know she was getting very tired, but I so did not want to leave. Its hard to think it may be the last time I ever see her or spend time with her. I have to give her credit though. She is a fighter. She said she is going to fight this cancer til her last breath. She is still praying for a miracle. She is on hospice now and her church is taking turns bringing her and her family food. I hate seeing her like that. And I hate that she is also struggling with her dh. He's is taking it all so hard. People handle grief in their own way, but he is trying the whole "tough love" approach and for her right now, that is not the way to go. She needs help. And she needs his help. I know its hard for her too because she not only worrys about her future, but she worrys about his as well. He's started drinking again. And she worrys about that as well. Please keep her and the rest of her family in your thoughts and prayers. I know they are going to need it. Maybe miracles really do happen.

Then I caught back up with an old very good friend of mine that I have not spoken to in forever!!! I think one of the last times we really talked, her daughter was 2 yrs old. That daughter is fixing to be 21 yrs old!! Where did the time go? That simply amazes me. We hung out through high school and into college and had a ball. It was really nice to catch up with her and of course, we promised we wont let so long of a time pass this time.

Saturday, I actually went to see an actual movie at an actual movie theater. I have not done that in a very very long time. But I really like this theater. its the one that you can sit in nice comfy chairs and actually order food and drinks. its great. of course, we went to see Shrek 3! I am happy to report, however, that we, the dh and I, were not the only couple there without little ones!!! It was actually a very good movie.

Sunday was spent at moms. They cooked, we ate. I love a home cooked meal at mom's!! We also decided this time to bring one of their fur grandchildren. Sebastian. Our new male cat we've had since December. he is NOT a car riding kitty!! but once he got to grandmas, he settled in and actually had a good time. Not as good of a time as grandma and grandpa had though. I sure wish they would let me get them another cat. I know they would love it.

So anyway. Back to work and back to realtiy. Reality sucks ya know????

Hope everyone had a great weekend even though it was very very rainey!!

The Rules........from the Man's perspective

2007-05-24T14:30:00.000-06:00

Please note.. These are all numbered "1"ON PURPOSE!

1. Men are NOT mind readers.

1. Learn to work the toilet seat.You're a big girl. If it's up, put it down.We need it up, you need it down.You don't hear us complaining about you leaving it down.

1. Sunday sports. It's like the full moonOr the changing of the tides.Let it be.

1. Shopping is NOT a sport.And no, we are never going to think of it that way.

1. Crying is blackmail.

1. Ask for what you want.Let us be clear on this one:Subtle hints do not work!Strong hints do not work!Obvious hints do not work!Just say it!

1. Yes and No are perfectly acceptable answers to almost every question.

1. Come to us with a problem only if you want help solving it. That's what we do.Sympathy is what your girlfriends are for.

1. A headache that lasts for 17 months is a Problem.
See a doctor.

1. Anything we said 6 months ago is inadmissible in an argument.In fact, all comments become null and void after 7 Days.

1 If you won't dress like the Victoria 's Secret girls, don't Expect us to act like soap opera guys.

1. If you think you're fat, you probably are.Don't ask us.

1. If something we said can be interpreted two ways and one of them makes you sad or angry, then we meant the other one.

1. You can either ask us to do somethingOr tell us how you want it done.Not both.If you already know best how to do it, just do it yourself.

1 Whenever possible, Please say whatever you have to say during commercials.

1 Christopher Columbus did NOT need directions and neither do we.

1. ALL men see in only 16 colors, like Windows default settings.Peach, for example, is a fruit, not A color . Pumpkin is also a fruit. We have no idea what mauve is.

1. If it itches, it will be scratched.We do that.

1. If we ask what is wrong and you say "nothing," We will act like nothing's wrong.We know you are lying, but it is just not worth the hassle, besides we know you will bring it up again later.

1. If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, Expect an answer you don't want to hear.

1. When we have to go somewhere, absolutely anything you wear is fine...Really.

1. Don't ask us what we're thinking about unless you are prepared to discuss such topics as baseball, the shotgun formation,Or golf.

1. You have enough clothes.

1. You have too many shoes.

1. I am in shape. Round IS a shape!

1. Thank you for reading this.Yes, I know, I have to sleep on the couch tonight;But did you know men really don't mind that? It's like camping.

Very Sad Update

2007-05-14T20:05:00.000-06:00

Its with an extremely heavy heart that I write this.

I talked to Cheryl's daugher, Michelle, this afternoon and they will not be doing anymore chemo. Cheryl went in last night to do the chemo and the doctor told her it was doing more harm now than good, so they will not do anymore. The subcutaneous cancer cells have increased and the side effects are getting to be too much. She is on oxygen 24/7 and the cancer is also now in her lungs. They have given her three weeks to a month left to live. Of course, this also came as a huge shock to her since she was actually feeling better and thought she was getting better.

I'm losing my best friend, and my heart is breaking. I know that is selfish and I know she will be better off and in a much better place, but I'm not ready. How do you say goodbye to your best friend? How do you let her go? How do you not break down in front of her? I know I have to stay strong for her sake, but how? How do you do it? I've never watched someone this close to me die. I hate the way you basically sit around and wonder every day when she goes to bed if she will wake up in the morning. And how must that be for her? You know you have a short amount of time, so how would you feel? What would you do if you knew you had a short amount of time left on this earth? I wouldn't know where to begin. How do you see everyone you want to see and do everythign you want to do, in three weeks? I want to be there with her all the time that she has left. Sitting by her side. But you can't do that either. So, now what?

All I can do is make sure she knows how much I love her and how much of a better life I've had having her in it. She's one of the bravest people I know. Always smiling. Always laughing. And OMG, the lives that woman has enriched. She's never met a stranger. And everyone she ever met saw her grandkids. She had more pictures of her grandbabies. She was the proudest grandma I think I have ever met. And she would just beam when she looked at those babies. My heart aches knowing those babies will grow up without knowing such a fantastic woman. They are too young to fully appreciate her.

Anyway. Just wanted to keep everyone updated. I'd better stop typing on my lap top since my tears are soaking the keyboard. And since I've been crying non-stop since 4p today, I think its time to go to bed.

I just truly hope she knows how much I love her.

Prayer Request

2007-05-14T09:46:00.000-06:00

I would like to ask for another prayer request. Along with your continued thoughts and prayers for Cheryl, I would like to add my boss, Mary. Mary is about 5 mths pregnant and has now been put on total bed rest. She will probably not be back to work until after the baby is born which is not supposed to be until August. She had to have surgery to help hold the baby in. She was already a high risk pregnancy and it seems to be getting worse. Please keep her and her baby (which is a little girl), in her thoughts and prayers. This will basically be her one and only shot at having a child so it means the world to her. And too many people out there know what its like to lose a baby when you want one so desparately!! Thank you!!

I hope all the moms out there had a great day yesterday!!!

Funny...

2007-05-08T07:26:00.000-06:00

I found the funniest card I have seen in a long time! Now, I have no idea on what occassion you would send this, but I think its hillarious!! Had I found it six months ago however, I know exactly what I would have done with it!

Front of Card:

Inside:

"We have to Pee"

I have no idea why, but I think its so funny! Hope you enjoyed it as well!!!

What a Weekend!

2007-05-06T18:50:00.000-06:00

Full of ups and downs and great fun.

First and foremost, I went to the hospital Friday night and saw Cheryl. For laying in a bed for days and undergoing chemo, I have to say she looks really good. Other than losing her hair. To cover this up though, she has on this cute little blue hat. The kind that as her daugher Natalie said, almost made her look like one of those newborn babies they send home from the hospital. Only problem was is was baby blue instead of pink! Guess I'll have to see if I can find her a pink one to wear. She's trying to stay in good spirits but you can sure tell its wearing on her. She commented that she thought the "bumps" under her skin, which evidently is a very rare symptom of cancer, which I believe she called subcutenaous cancer cells, were going down some. Which means, if this is true, that its good news. Leave it to Cheryl to do everything uniquely. These bumps are actually on her head. Not the goosebump type bumps I was invisioning. They do have to continue to increase her pain medications. She should hopefully be at home now but unfortuantly they wont know anything officially for another six weeks or so when they can run the tests again and see if the chemo was in fact working. Lets all continue to pray that it is working. I will keep everyone posted as I hear things.

Saturday we got up early and took a road trip. After picking up Michelle and my godson, we stopped for breakfast at Dennys. Now, to start, the breakfast was going really well, until Michelle decided to move the eggs that were on her plate! Out ran an uninvited guest, a little black spider! I don't know about you guys, but we don't normally order spiders with our eggs!!! That was the end of breakfast and it was off to Brenham. They were having what they called a big ice cream social. It was fantastic! So many shops to look in, crafts to look at and rides to ride. We knew it was a bad sign when the very first shop we went into we each bought something! We had ice cream and kettle corn to our heart's content. They also had a little train ride that Andrew just loved. Couldn't get him off of that! He had so much fun. The best part of the day was watching him have so much fun. We spoiled him rotten! I even found the cutest little sign to hang in my entry way. It says "We had to give the kids away. the cat was allergic!" Perfect for those that couldn't have kids. Finally tore ourselves away and took the scenic route home. A little trip through Washington on the Brazos, and Navasota. You name it, we drove through it. What is it about a trip to the country that is just so relaxing? We were all wore out by the time we got home.

Today was spent doing a whole lot of nothing but hanging with the animals and just plain relaxing. I love lazy days like this.

Mistakes or Blessings?

2007-05-01T18:19:00.000-06:00

Ever just have one of those days where it seems like everything you try to do just turns out wrong??? Well, its been that way for about a week now! Sometimes, however, that does not necessarily mean a bad thing. Good things can actually come out of mistakes. At least that is what I am learning. (the hard way I might add.) There have definitely been a lot of comedy that has come out of it as well. I haven't laughed so hard in forever!!!

Last week I was trying to look at the new "beta" version of yahoo mail to see what the differences were but I didn't want to mess up my old account so I set up a new bogus one. Well, I had no idea that this would happen, but I guess I clicked the wrong button and an email was sent to everyone in my address book telling them that I was changing email addresses. I had no clue until I got a call from the dh saying, what is this, your changing your email account?? Well dang, good darn thing I was trying to set up a "private" email account that I didn't want him to know because not only did he know, EVERYONE I knew found out! So of course I promptly sent out another email to everyone in my book saying no my email was not changing. Well, that just brought on a whole barriage of emails from people I have not talked to in forever! (Hi Laura!!! :-) ) So It actually turned out to be a good thing. I got to catch up with what was going on in everyone's lives and it was great fun. I really enjoyed it. People I used to work with, my old bosses, old friends I had lost touch with, you name it, I talked to them. I felt so popular! It sure is nice to feel loved!!

Changing the subject, for those of you keeping up with Cheryl, she started this last round of chemo yesterday and I am waiting to hear from her daughter as to how it going. From what I understand, they should know unofficially whether or not the chemo is helping in a few days because of the bumps she has under her skin. If its working, they will start to go away. As sooon as I hear I will post it so everyone can keep updated. Thanks to everyone keeping them in your prayers.

Why

2007-04-24T18:02:00.000-06:00

There are many "why" questions I would LOVE to have answers to. But right now, the only "why" question I care about is why do some of the nicest, sweetest people that would never hurt a fly, end up sufering through things as horrible as cancer? It just seems like its running rampit nowadays and getting worse and worse.

I've spoken previously about my friend Cheryl that is going through chemo and all that for her second round of cancer. Well, I hadn't heard from her in awhile and knew that couldn't be good. She always calls and keeps me updated. She's been like my second mom for years. In alot of ways I was closer to her than my own mom. Since I hadn't heard anything, I emailed her daugher, Michelle, and I received the following response:

Well, mom's doctor appointment was yesterday. It's not very good news. I'm not sure if this is easier over email or if you can/want to talk about this at work. Basically, the cancer has spread and is getting worse. The small cells they found last time have gotten bigger and now there are more of them. It has even moved into her liver and "soft tissue" which is basically her skin, so she's got these bumps every where that we didn't know what they were until yesterday. Or at least they weren't telling us before. They are going to put her through one more round of treatment (3 treatments over the next 6 weeks), but feel if the chemo doesn't reduce the cancer this time that any more than this will do her more harm then good. Naturally, they can't give us exact timing on all of this, but on average they've said if this doesn't work we're looking at 4-6 months.

Now, THAT sucks. My heart aches for her and her family. My God. What would you do if you found out you only had that long to live?? I couldn't even imagine. And I can't imagine my life without her. She's been my mentor and one of God's biggest warriors. I see why God wants her home with him, but wait, we aren't finished with her yet!!! She says she's not giving up and she's fighting with all she's got, but her spirits are so far down. She's putting up a brave front but you know behind that front is a scared woman. Not to mention the excruciating pain she is in. She is so devoted to her family and she doesn't want to leave them either. And her husband, Jay, is not doing well either. I hate to say it, but he loves her so much, if he loses her, I would venture to guess that he won't be long after her.

Please contiune to pray for her and her family. I'm really not ready to let her go. Yes, I know that is selfish, but I can't help it. Too much has already been lost this year. God I wish my best friend were here to talk to about everything. She always makes me feel better and I miss her.

Anyway. Again, please keep her in your prayers and if you know anyone that has prayer chains, please place her and her family on it. maybe if we all pray together, she can beat this.

Thank you to everyone.

Best Laid Plans

2007-04-15T19:05:00.000-06:00

Seems like everytime I make plans with a certain friend of mine, something always seems to come up and we end up doing something completely different from what we started out to do. I love hanging out with her though. She's so unique. We don't talk as often as we should, but we always seem to pick up right where we left off the last time.

The plan for this beautiful Sunday was lunch and then off to the physic fair they were having. Thought that would be interesting. Not that I beleive in it all, but its fun to play. Plus, I thought it would be interesting to look into some of these weirdo dreams I've been having. I've always had weird dreams, just seems like sometimes I have them more often than not. At least it doesn't sound like I'm in it alone, since Cas evidently has some pretty weird dreams also!! :-) However, it was evidently not in the cards to make it to there. I-10 freeway was horrible and with all the construction, it took us forever to even meet up with each other. At one point we were going opposite directions on I-10!! Finally we gave up and went a complete opposite direction with our plans.

I never really knew there was that much to do in Houston, but it seems like there is always something going on. She knew about this Japanese festiville going on at Herman Park so we decided to go there. It was actually very interesting and it was a beautiful day to roam around the park. We got our names printed on bookmarks in Japanese. but consiering I can't read what it says for all I know it could say "bitch" or something! but hey, that's okay, its looks cool. and it was GREAT for people watching. OMG! there are some serious weirdos running around. Now, the two comments you would not expect to hear at a Japanese convention:

1. Have you cleaned your cookies lately? and

2. Two girls standing together and one says to the other, I just love sharing my sausage with you.

We couldn't stop laughing. All sorts of thoughts ran thruogh our heads.

Anyway. It was a beautiful weekend and I hope everyone was able to get out and enjoy it.

Prayers

2007-04-10T19:35:00.000-06:00

I received the following email from my friend Cheryl. For those of you that don't know, Cheryl was diagnosed with Cancer a couple of years ago and she beat it. She's been in remission for awhile now, and recently, the cancer has come back and seems to be worse than the first go round, and she is now on her second round of chemo. Please please please please keep her and her family in your thoughts and prayers. She tells me every day she's not ready to die and it breaks my heart. Hug your friends and loved ones folks, you never know when your time will come.

"Hey There - rough day. I am sorry to write this to all of you but I just cannot sit that long. I have not been looking at emails for about 4 days,s orry. I have been home since last Thursday. I was having a great deal of pain thru Saturday night, then it appeared Sunday and Monday I was doing better. Today we were at MD Anderson for 6 hours!!!!!! First, my blood tests came back and this chemo is evidently making it impossible for my bone marrow to make new red and white blood cells. They will be checking this again on Friday. If by next week it is not better, it "may be" necessary to do a blood transfusion, I m just believing it won't come to that. Then second, I had to go to "pain management control" because it is getting out of line. We will be seeing after the MRIs next Friday (to see if it has spread in my spine) and then the following Friday (a bone scan, cat scans, and x-rays) to see if this "particular" chemo is working of it in fact we will have to change to another. I will not stop believing tht my God is going to heal me, I know he is watching over me and I know he knows what is in store for me. All my children were to be with Jay and I this past week and it was awesome. Remember Jay in your prayers too, he is not feeling well himself, along with all that is going on, this has been really rough."

Oh, and I neglected to mention that Jay, Cheryl's husband, has a long laundry list of illnesses to his credit as well. One of which is Cardiomyopathy. Thank you to every one for keeping the Tomaski family in your thoughts and prayers. I sincerely appreciate it.

Ahhh......Nice Long Weekends

2007-04-08T20:50:00.000-06:00

You just have to love LONG weekends. Even though the weather was nice and cold it was still great. I so needed that extra day. Its been a long time since I've actually gotten a day off, so that was a nice treat. At least maybe once the new secretary starts, maybe I'll actually get to take a real vacation. She starts on the 16th so wish me luck. They made me interview this one, and seeing as how I am not a very good judge of character, lets hope it works out, cause if not, I'll have to blame myself!! :-) Of course, to my defense, they didn't tell me I was interviewing her until right before I was supposed to walk in there and meet her! But hey, we share the same name, and she goes by one of my nicknames and she lives on my side of town. So, keep your fingers crossed!!

We started Friday off by sleeping in. of course being lazy, sleeping is always enjoyable. Then we lazily got out and did some shopping. The worst part of the day though, we went up to Rona's vet hospital and ordered an urn for Keisha. Now that sucked. Felt really weird having to do that. But we got it done and once Keisha comes home, she will have a cute little urn to live in and hang out on the mantel with Fancy. Its hard to believe that Fancy has been gone for almost four years now. Seems like just yesterday. Once that was taken care of, we stopped and ate some really good italian food, seeing as how it was Good Friday, there was no meat involved. It was a new restaurant and it was actually really good.

Now, Friday turned very interesting after we got home. We got a very intriguing phone call. I have to say, I know I am not supposed to enjoy when you actually get to see karma in action, but in this particular incident, I have to admit, I really enjoyed it. I learned some very interesting information and enjoyed the heck out of it. i wont go into all here, just suffice to say you reap what you sew and it was so great to see this in action.

Saturday started again with my favorite hobby, sleeping in!! Then we decided to do something I haven't done in FOREVER. We met Rona and our nephew Jeremy and went bowling. Yes, I said bowling. I found out that I don't suck at it nearly as bad as I used to. the last time I can remember bowling, I kid you not, I got a 14! I was terrible. I couldn't barely get the darn ball down to the pins! This time, I actually did pretty good. The first game I bowled a 102 and the second game was a 132. I even got two strikes in one game! YEAH!!! We had a ball. It was soo much fun. of course, I don't use a few of the muscles that you use for bowling, so now I am completely sore! Man am I ever out of shape! but hey, it was sure worth it.

Sunday we actually went over to the folks house and had a great lunch. It was just the four of us, my parents, my dh and me and we had a wonderful time. My mom and I went and chatted for hours. It was so nice. No interuptions, no nothing. Just me and my mom. I loved it!!

Now of course, its back to realtiy and back to work. {insert big sigh} I guess the weekend always has to come to an end right???

Mid Week Funny

2007-04-04T14:53:00.000-06:00

Cowboys...........gotta love 'em!!!!

Lady went into a bar in Waco and saw a cowboy with
his feet propped up on a table.

He had the biggest boots she'd ever seen.

The woman asked the cowboy if it's true what they
say about men with big feet are well endowed.

The cowboy grinned and said, "Shore is, little lady.
Why don't you come on out to the bunkhouse and
let me prove it to you?"

The woman wanted to find out for herself, so she
spent the night with him. The next morning she
handed him a $100 bill.

Blushing, he said, "Well, thankee, ma'am. Ah'm
real flattered. Ain't nobody ever paid me fer mah
services before."

"Don't be flattered... take the money and buy
yourself some boots that fit."

Judgment

2007-04-02T20:16:00.000-06:00

I often wonder:

How can we sit in judgment and condemn others? Seems like the only one that has a right to judge or condemn is God, but we as humans are all guilty of doing just that. Most of the time, our judgments are based on someone’s looks, their thoughts, their perceptions, their ideas, their actions or a perceived notion by us about their thoughts, comments or ideas. And I have found, that we are often wrong in our judgment or assumptions of others. I believe there is a saying about this that goes something like, “You can’t judge a book by it’s cover.” We tend to be the judge and jury and find people guilty and sentence them to life, without all the facts in evidence or at least giving the facts the reasonable doubt that they deserve. Its much easier to find them guilty and hang them then to admit that maybe we didn’t see all the facts or made judgments in haste or out of anger, or just refused to see another’s point of view and respect where those views came from.

How can some people sit high on their thrones, thinking they can do no wrong and condemn others for acts that they themselves are guilty of and have been forgiven of? How can you condone one person doing the same act that you are condemning another for? Or for that matter, the same act that you yourself is doing? Isn’t that hypocritical? Who are they to withhold forgiveness when it is asked of them? Just because someone does things differently than you does not make how they did it wrong. Just because someone comes to different conclusions than you do about the same issue does not make either conclusion wrong. Being able to open our minds and our hearts to be able to see all sides of an issue is what makes us able to come up with so many solutions to the problems at hand. That allows us to “think outside the box.” It keeps us from being so narrow minded that all we can focus on is ourselves and how we perceived the solution to an issue. Everyone’s favorite radio station: WIFM (What’s in it for me?) That’s what most people think about. Themselves and only themselves.

What was one of the first Golden Rules that we learned as children? “Do unto others as you would have others do unto you.” Exactly how far should you take this? If you repeatedly do for others and get it thrown back in your face, do you continue to try and do for them? When is enough, enough?

I suppose there comes a time in all our lives when we have to mourn the loss of things we cannot change. Just as the serenity prayer says:

God, grant me the Serenity

To accept the things I cannot change...

Courage to change the things I can,

And Wisdom to know the difference.

Living one day at a time,

Enjoying one moment at a time,

Accepting hardship as the pathway to peace.

Taking, as He did,

this sinful world as it is,Not as I would have it.

Trusting that He will make all things right

if I surrender to His will.

That I may be reasonably happy in this life,

And supremely happy with Him forever in the next.

Amen.

That’s all we can do is put our lives in God’s hands and accept the fact that he is doing what is right for us. No matter how much it hurts, or how much we wish and have tried to change things, it cannot happen if you are the only one that wants it to change. You must accept the fact that people do not care for you the same that you do for them. You can just pray for their understanding and hope that one day, something may change, but if not, then it was not ment to be. It may appear to you that it is unjust and unfair, but you have to accept and respect the feelings of others. The pain will lessen and lessen each and every day. The days and the nights will get easier. And soon you will be able to enjoy life again. There will always be a big part missing, and a little piece of your heart missing, but you will learn that you can live without these little pieces and you always have your memories. Although I would love for things to be different, doesn't look like that is going to happen. You can remember the good times and let go of the anger and the hurt. Its very fatiguing (and quite frankly, it hurts too dam much).

New Beginnings

2007-04-01T19:39:00.000-06:00

Ah, a new beginning, she said hopefully. A new month. The first three months of this year have got to be the worst I have ever seen. And not just for me, but for almost everyone I know. 2007 has not gotten off to a very good start. So now I am hoping that since 4 has always been my favorite number, maybe the FOURTH month of the year will be the start of a better year. All I know is that something has got to give. I did start the month off by getting a raise (a GREAT one I have to say) and a new lap top, so surely it's off to a good start right??

March was the worst. The loss of my best friend, Keisha, was way too much to handle. I can honestly say though, I found out who my friends really were. Not the fake ones that lied to me for years, but the ones that actually mean something. I have also reconnected with two old friends that I haven't talked to in quite awhile and realize now just how much I have missed them. Just seems you get so tied up in your own life, you don't stop and realize what is actually important. There are some things that are better off left in the past, not to be brought into the future. Besides, I fully believe in karma and it will come back to get you. I'm just glad I dont have to be a part of it.

I did get a really good laugh this weekend, which is something I can say I have not had even once this year! Saturday I decided to go and check out the place that was going to be taking care of Keisha and her remains until she was returned to me. Yes, I am having her cremated and yes, she will be returned to me in an urn to proudly sit on my mantel right next to her sister, Fancy. Anyway. The dh and I and the only other person on this earth that would actually go to a pet cemetery with me, Rona, took a trip out to A Bit of Heavan Pet Cemetery. It sure looks a lot different in person than on the internet. Not horrible mind you, but still not a place I would want my beloved companion to spend her eternity. So anyway. Rona and her dh and my nephew and my dh are wandering around this property and we find this place that looks something like it might be a chapel. of course it was looked up tight so we wandered around the back and found a guy cleaning up the place so we peeked inside the joint and saw this little alter and a lovely place for what we may think were for doggy weddings or something like that. All of a sudden a lady appears and asks if she could help us. So I promptly explain that they were going to pick up my baby to have her cremated and I was just trying to find out what kind of urn she was going to be in and so forth. Well, that lady was so not all there. She looked at me and said, um, your daughter? Um, we don't cremate people here. I stifled my laugh and said, no, my dog. She still was way off on what we were trying to ask her. Evidently she has her own animal cremation service but it wasn't the one I was using. Rona couldn't stand it and had to ask them what it was that they had the facilities for and she said, oh we hold weddings and anniversary parties and birthday parties here. Rona looks at her odd, and says, for people?? Now, who on earth would want their wedding right next to a pet cemetary?? Evidently people do since she's still in business, but what a weird combonation. So, what do you do for a living? Oh, well I have a banquet facility for weddings and such and I cremate and bury animals! Now lets just hope the two never mix!! Rona asked her who would have weddings at a pet cemetery and the lady said, oh now, they haven't got me yet, they wont get you! Rona and I walked out of there laughing so hard we were crying. But dang, I sure did need that laugh!!

One of the friends that I have reconnected with I feel so bad for. She has got to be one of the nicest people I have ever met and she is always upbeat. Until now. 2007 has been bad for her too. Her husband went to Iraq and came back with PTSD. He has now turned to alcohol to try and help himself with this. Poor thing. I feel so bad for her to have to deal with that. I know how hard it is. Please keep her in your prayers cause I know she is sure going to need it.

My other friend, Cheryl, is still trying to come to terms with her cancer. I so hate it for her. i found the best necklace that I want to get for her, but of course, its on backorder! It says: What Cancer Cannot Do.......... It cannot invade the soul, suppress memories, kill friendship, destroy peace, conquer the spirit, shatter hope, cripple love, corrode faith, steal eternal life, silence courage. That is so true!! All we can do is pray and pray and leave it in God's hands. He does know what he is doing afterall, even though we do not. Someone told me once that maybe all these bad things that have happened this year is God's way of tying up loose ends, getting rid of dead weight, and preparing you for the next chapter of your life. I just wish I knew what that was!!!!

So while we are keeping the people above in our prayers, lets all remember to keep each other and our friends and family also in our prayers so that we may understand what God means for us to and that things look up for all of us, and that we can forgive those that truspass against us and be forgiven for those we have truspassed against. Surely it will all start looking up if we remember all this.

I miss you Keisha. Rest in peace baby. Until we meet again at Rainbow Bridge and cross together. My heart aches for you each and every day.

A Brutal Dose of Harsh Reality

2007-03-28T10:46:00.000-06:00

Have you ever had to watch someone or something you love more than anything else, pass away in front of your eyes? Well, that is how I spent last night.

My little girl. The one constant in my life. The one being in this world that loved me for who I was and never asked a thing of me. Never expected anything. Never judged me. Always forgave me if I made a mistake because she knew I wasn't perfect. Was always happy to see me and was always there when I needed her. To kiss my face, lick my hand, or just lay beside me when she knew I needed it. Even in death she was by my side. She never left me. Until now, when she left me for good and took a piece of my heart with her. She was the one and only one that never broke her word to me and stood by me no matter what. People will tell you that all day long, but most of the time, they really don't mean it. They cast you aside like you ment nothing and never look back.

And now she's gone. I watched her slowly take her last breath with my hand on her side. Watched the life drain from her eyes. In the blink of an eye, she was ripped from my grasp. She's in a better place now. She's happy and free and playing in greener pastures. And I know all of this but the selfish side of me wants her here. I wasn't ready to say goodbye. I wasn't ready to let her go. She took that piece of my heart that will forever be empty now. I miss her face. I miss her bark. It has truly ripped the heart right out of my chest. My house seems so empty now. She was my companion. My friend. My confidant. And the one person I thought I can lean on in these times, I can't now. And that breaks my heart.

I am sorry this is such a downer, but I'm bent and broken and I really am not sure when I will recover. Too many losses in my life. you can only take so much you know?

Weekend Parties

2007-03-24T20:23:00.000-06:00

There is nothing like getting together with a group of friends to celebrate the day a new life was born into this world. The little ones grow up so fast and it so much fun to watch them. I just wish that I had half their energy! That old saying "Youth is wasted on the young," is so true. I would love to be able to run around and play all day and have someone to take care of my every want and need. Wouldn't that be awesome?

Today the dh and I went to the "Manson Boys" birthday party. The oldest is two and the youngest is one. And man are they full of some serious energy! Of course, I'm still giggling at Manson boys! Bad images of Charles Manson run threw my head! Thank God there was nothing like that going on out there in the Woodlands today! Just lots of presents, hot dogs, hamburgers, cake, ice cream and laughter. I've never had the opportunity to sit down and chat with Heath but I realized that he's actually a really nice guy. Little on the high maintenance side, but then hey, who isn't right?? He's funny and kept us all laughing. I think I spent most of the time talking to his mother. She's a very interesting lady. I also got all the good stories of "Little Heath" too so that is always fun for blackmail later! Heath and I are actually going through some very similar issues in life and its interesting to get a different perspective on things.

It was so relaxing and so enjoyable to just sit, watch the little ones play and laugh with some old friends and some new friends. We did however get sprinkled on a bit from time to time but that just cooled things off that much more. Their house is so peaceful. Until of course, the train came barralleing down the tracks that are about 30 feet from the back of their house. Nothing like the vibrating of the train to add a little entertainment.

We ended the day with a little shopping and now Im off to play my new Frogger game I got!

Friday Funny

2007-03-23T11:43:00.000-06:00

WHEN GIRLS DRINK TOO MUCH............

1. WE HAVE ABSOLUTELY NO IDEA WHERE OUR PURSE IS.

2. WE BELIEVE THAT DANCING WITH OUR ARMS OVERHEAD AND WIGGLINGOUR BUTT WHILE YELLING "WOO-HOO!" IS TRULY THE SEXIEST DANCEMOVE AROUND.

3. WE'VE SUDDENLY DECIDED THAT WE WANT TO KICK SOMEONE'S ASSAND HONESTLY BELIEVE WE COULD DO IT TOO.

4. IN OUR LAST TRIP TO PEE, WE REALIZE THAT WE NOW LOOKMORE LIKE A HOMELESS HOOKER THAN THE GODDESS WE WEREJUST FOUR HOURS AGO

5. WE START CRYING AND TELLING EVERYONE WE SEE THAT WELOVE THEM SOOOOO MUCH.

6. WE GET EXTREMELY EXCITED AND JUMP UP AND DOWN EVERY TIME ANEW SONG PLAY'S BECAUSE "OH MY GOD! I LOVE THIS SONG!"

7. WE'VE FOUND A DEEPER/SPIRITUAL SIDE TO THE GEEK SITTINGNEXT TO US.

8. WE'VE SUDDENLY TAKEN UP SMOKING AND BECOME REALLYGOOD AT IT.

9. WE YELL AT THE BARTENDER, WHO WE BELIEVE CHEATED US BY GIVINGUS JUST LEMONADE, BUT THAT'S JUST BECAUSE WE CAN NO LONGER TASTE THEGIN.10. WE THINK WE ARE IN BED, BUT OUR PILLOW FEELS STRANGELY LIKETHE KITCHEN FLOOR (or the mop?)

11. WE FAIL TO NOTICE THAT THE TOILET LID IS DOWN WHEN WE SIT ON IT.

12. WE TAKE OUR SHOES OFF BECAUSE WE BELIEVE IT'S THEIR FAULTTHAT WE'RE HAVING PROBLEMS WALKING STRAIGHT.

Okay, tell the truth.......how many of you saw yourself in these???? I know I did! and with some of you!!! But hey, it was fun wasn't it???

Have a GREAT Friday everyone!

Toby Keith Tuesday

2007-03-14T11:46:00.000-06:00

The only thing good about a Tuesday could be Toby Keith! I actually had no intention of going to the rodeo this year to see any performer. Just not the same since it moved out of the Astrodome and into Reliant Stadium. However, the dh ended up surprising me with tickets to see my man last night. And not just any seats I will have you know, but four suite seats! That is definitely the way to go if at all possible. I wish I were rich enough to afford a suite at Reliant Stadium!

The night started off meeting up with Andie and her dh here at my office and we went to Houston's for dinner. Now I remember why I do not go there very often. So many rules and so uptight! We all definitely felt out of place. Kinda like we were invading a land of mercedes, lexus', and BMWs with our little ford or something. On the menu it actually says, "no cell phones in the dining room." They would not seat us until I finished my call with my dh. Of course we had to tell them there was only three of us that would be dining cause they wouldn't seat us until our party was complete and everyone that knows my dh knows he works on his own time and we weren't real sure when he would get there. We patiently sat there and stalled the waitress pretending like we were having trouble deciding what to have for dinner. Luckily, the dh was there pretty quickly and we ordered our meals. I actually had a very good salad. Way too much food for me to eat. I sure did my darnedest though. After all of our bellies were full, it was back to the office to drop off the dh's truck and all hoped in Andie's truck and it was off to the rodeo.

It was awesome to walk in the VIP entrance where there was no crowd and then walk up to the suite, still with no crowd. Of course, I actually helped a friend of ours get in cause he didn't have a ticket, so I showed the lady mine and then handed it to him, and then he handed it to her and off to the suite we went. Not sure how I actually got away with that, but hey, whatever works right?? Besides, Toby is worth breaking a few rules for. We got up to the suit, got drinks in hand and promptly sat down in anticpation of the big event. For my enjoyment, my dh even remembered to bring the binoculars! Talk about up close and personal! Yee Haw! Finally, at long last, the lights went down, and out came Toby! He put on a fantastic show. Sang so many good songs. And, seeing as how I had the binoculars, I even got to disspell a myth that someone told me awhile ago. They had said that the bigger the guy, the smaller his package and since Toby was so big, he probably had a small package. This has been a source of bother for me for quite some time now. I even looked as hard as I could for signs of something different when I watched his movie Broken Bridges. Well, let me tell you, the bulge has now officially been sighted. There is no more doubt in my mind. :-)

Finally it came to an end. We had to leave our suite and when we looked outside we saw that it was pouring down rain. So, we decide to go to the Chute Club since one of the guys that was with us was a gold badge dude. He snuck all of us and we hung out for awhile and waited for the rain and the traffic to die down. They finally kicked us out so they can close. Wow. I can honestly say it's been a long long time since I've closed a place down!! We are all herded outside into the rain and wouldn't you know it, the only place they would let us out was on the exact opposite side of the stadium from where we had parked! Oh well. As the boys stood around trying to find a way to get back to the vehicles without getting wet, Andie and I decide screw it, and off we trotted. What's a little rain anyway? Not like we'd melt right?? Lucikly, Mike had actually parked closer so soaking wet, we all made it to his truck and he gave us a ride back to Andie's truck. Which was actually a chore within itself considering they had everything blocked off! We got to take the scenic tour back.

Soaking wet from head to toe, we finally pour ourselves into Andies truck and head for home. I have not been this tired in a long time, but I can honestly say, it was well worth it. I loved every minute of it and had the greatest time. It was so nice just hanging with friends and watching the rodeo and the best part, watching TOBY!

I sure hope everyone had as good of a Toby Tuesday as I did!!

Ahhh......Weekends

2007-03-11T19:24:00.000-06:00

I love these kinds of weekends. Makes you thankful for living in Texas. The weather was beautiful. Of course, it sure makes Mondays hard! The only thing that will make this week great is going to be Toby Keith Tuesday!! I was not planning on going to the rodeo this year, but the dh surprised me with getting four Suite tickets to see my man onTuesday! That is going to be AWESOME. Free food, drink, goody bags, you name it. I also love the fact that the time change has now happened and it will actually be light outside when I get home from work now, so maybe, just maybe I can start doing some walking or something outside again.

The weekend started off a little shaky though with Al, the hamster, making a run for freedom. I'm still at a loss as to how the little guy got out of his cage. Maybe I should rename him Houdini! He started by jumping six feet from the top of my entertainment system down to the floor. He was then quickly spotted by a cat. Thinking she finally had her chance to see him up close and personal, Stormy took off after him. Luckily all the commotion woke the dh and he went into see what the ruckus was all about and spotted Al scurrying across the floor with a black cat at his heels. Thankfully the dh scooped Al up and back into his cage safe and sound. Of course, this couldn't have happened at a decent hour of the day. This has to be 3:00 a.m.!! At least all is well now. Not that I think Al will be in a very big hurry to check out what its like outside his cage anymore.

Saturday is spent out and about with Michelle, the boys, and the dh. We were looking for property that we could buy to some day move to. We found the most wonderful place!! So many amenities, so much space, almost everything you could want. A little further out into the peaceful country. They are going to be building a 10 acre park that sounds absolutely wonderful. Several lakes that the dogs would just have a hayday in. And depending on which lot I wanted I could either be in Montgomery County or Grimes County. Just the thought of the lower taxes was enough to make me love it. Of course I would still love to be in the middle of the woods somewhere but you gotta do what you can do. One of these days.......

After hours of looking at land, we head back to the city. The boys (she has three boys in case anyone didn't know that) did really well. Of course they had rusty to entertain them, which worked out really well. Gave Michelle and I chance to go shopping for the youngest ones birthday party today (Sunday). Of course, several hours later, we head for the house to catch up with the boys. We opted to make spagetti for dinner. I actually got to teach Michelle a new recipe that I stole from Andie. Yes people, I actually cooked! I know some of you will be so proud. I really have been paying attention this whole time. I also got to introduce Michelle to what I like to call "Tina's Tea". She fell in love at first sip. Fresh key limes really do make a difference. After a long day in the car and an extremely full belly it was time to go home and get some rest for the party today.

Its hard to believe that my godson is now three. Seems like just yesterday I was watching him be born. Its amazing how time flies. We celebrated his birthday today even though it was a few days ago. Had a firetruck birthday cause that is what he wanted. We had balloons, cake, decorations, ice cream, you name it, he had it. And all those presents! I'm not sure he has been good enough for all those presents! Everything Cars though. He loves the Cars movie. He was one tired little boy. But it was really good to see alot of people I hadn't seen in a long while and catch up with them.

Wow. What a long tiring weekend, but it was wonderful. It was really kind of cool cause even though not all of my friends were there with me in person, they were there in some form or fashion. Those are the best weekends to have.

Life Really Sucks Sometimes.....

2007-03-09T19:51:00.000-06:00

Today was the end of a very long, exhausting, emotional week. I have to say that I am sincerely thankful that it is friday. I can't remember the last time I was this physically or emotionally drained. So many things have been running through my mind and causing me to pause and reflect. I don't think I've had a full nights sleep one time this week.

For very personal reasons, I've been following this whole Bart Whitaker trial. It truly amazes me that a child could break bread with his family to celebrate his supposed graduation from college, knowing that he was going to have them all murdered later that very same evening. Not to mention that you are celebrating a graduation that you know will NEVER happen considering he had dropped out of college months earlier. Oh and lets not forget the $4,000 Rolex watch his mom and dad gave him for graduation. How devasting that is for Kent (Bart's father). Knowing that your son despised you that much that he thought of no way out other than eliminating you, your wife, and other son. Then, to prepare yourself to lose your last remaining family member to the death penalty. Especially since Kent is whole heartedly against the death penalty. How horrible it must be to sit in court day after day and listen to all of the testimony and hear all these awhful things your kid, the child you loved more than you thought possible, the one you raised the best you could, only to hear these awhful feelings he had about you and the rest of his family. My heart truly aches for Kent. He's lost his entire family basically all in one fail swoop.

I'm not sure if you remember or not, but I have blogged before about a very good friend of mine that is like my second mom. We used to work together and she is a beautiful human being, inside and out. She was the one that was diagnosed with bladder cancer and given three months to live. She had a rough time through chemo and lost all her hair, but she beat it. For the last two years all her tests have come back clean. Well, I got an email from her today that just ripped my heart right out of my chest. The cancer is back. It has now gone into her lungs, spine and femar bone. Stage 4. In her lung, there is an area about pea sized and some other spots. She starts chemo again on Tuesday. Please please please keep her and her family in your thoughts and prayers. I have never heard her this defeated. I truly ache for her.

All of this really does make your problems seem small you know? Kinda makes you feel thankful for your troubles. It also makes you realize how short life really is. Before you know it, the time has flown by. Makes you stop and think about things that you've done, things that have happened, things you wish you could change, but can't, regrets you have, time you've wasted, friends you've neglected or let slip away...... Gives you a whole new perspective on things. I hate the things I can not change but have to accept that I have no control of them and leave them in God's hands as he knows what is best for me. Its very fatiguing to hang on to pain and hurt and guilt. A friend told me today "if you look through the clouds that you're experiencing right now, you should be able to see some sunshine. I'm sure there's some there, and you can focus on that and relish it, and the bad stuff will fade into the background." And you know, she's right. If all you focus on are the clouds, you wont ever see the sunshine. And maybe this is God's way of tying up loose ends and forcing you to move on to the next chapter to come. I never want to look back on things and think "if only" or I wish I had of spent more time with someone now that its too late. You never know when it's going to be too late. People are taken out of our lives so very quickly.

I just want everyone to know now, that I am sorry if I ever hurt any of you and for all of the things I have done, said or thought. I love each and every one of you and you all mean the world to me. You know what they say, "To Err is human; to forgive is Divine." I don't want that time to come and look back and say, now its too late.

Please keep the Whitaker family and the Tomaski family in your thoughts and prayers. They are going to need it. There's a long road in front of them.

Friends......

2007-03-05T19:29:00.000-06:00

LOVE starts with a SMILE, grows with a KISS, and ends with a TEAR. DON'T cry over anyone who won't cry over you. Good FRIENDS are hard to find, harder to leave, and impossible to forget. You can only go as far as you push. ACTIONS speak louder than words. The HARDEST thing to do is watch the one you love, love somebody else. DON'T let the past hold you back, you're missing the good stuff. LIFE'S SHORT. If you don't look around once in a while you might miss it. A BEST FRIEND is like a four leaf clover, HARD TO FIND and LUCKY TO HAVE. Some people make the world SPECIAL just by being in it. BEST FRIENDS are the siblings God forgot to give us. When it HURTS to look back, and you're SCARED to look ahead, you can look beside you and your BEST FRIEND will be there. TRUE FRIENDSHIP "NEVER" ENDS. Friends are FOREVER. Good friends are like STARS You don't always see them, but you know they are ALWAYS THERE. DON'T frown. You never know who is falling in love with your smile. What do you do when the only person who can make you stop crying is the person who made you cry? Nobody is perfect until you fall in love with them. Everything is okay in the end. If it's not okay, then it's not the end. Most people walk in and out of your life, but only FRIENDS leave footprints in your heart. And those that truly love you, love you for who you are, despite your faults and forgive you no matter what because they love you.

Beautiful Weekends

2007-03-04T13:40:00.000-06:00

This weekend has turned out to bve one of the most beautiful weekends in a long time. The weather was almost perfect. Its great to have your windows open and get all the fresh air circulating through the house.

I started off this beautiful weekend by having dinner Friday night with a friend of mine that I've been neglecting for way too long. Not intentionally mind you, just seems to work out that way. So we decided enough of that and hooked up for dinner. We then took her son, my godson, to the dollar store. What a great place for kids! Andrew had a blast! And for $6 he got what he thought were six of the coolest toys ever! Of course he'll probably play with them all of a few minutes and move on the next thing, but at that time he thought it was the greatest night ever.

Then Saturday. I was off to Conroe to spend some much needed, relaxing "girl" time with Andie. We had it all planned out. Dinner, chick flicks, girl talk, popcorn, trash mags, you name it, we had it. On the way to Conroe, I decided to stop at the Barnes and Noble at the Woodlands Mall. Wow. that was a mistake. The traffic around there is horrible!! I finally decided against it and after getting lost trying to get out of there, headed on out to Andie's. As I get to her house, I am welcomed by a wonderful smell. She was making spagetti. Nothing like an italian dish from an italian woman! I had stopped off and picked up the garlic bread, so all was complete. I ate so much of that spegettii that I finally made myself ill. I loved it. I wish there had been some left so that I could have brought some home! We settled in us girls, Me, Andie, and her daughter, Emma and just chatted non-stop. Little Chase would put his two cents in every now and then as well, but I hink he got the sense he was out numbered by the all the girls. The hotest topic was the whole Anna Nicole saga. Its sad really if you think about it all. Even in death she is hounded by everyone, including those that are supposed to "love" her and those that just want there few minutes of fame. Two movies later, and lots of chatting it was time for bed. We were exhausted. Emma decided she wanted to sleep with mommy, so I slept in Emma's room. I felt like a fairy princess. Her walls were painted, by hand, by Andie's mom, to look like you are looking out of a castle. the first thing you see when you wake up is the castle gate looking out onto the village beyond. Just for a brief moment you are transformed to a different place, a different time. Finally everyone begins to stir this morning and Andie is up making breakfast. So after a good breakfast, I'm on my way back home. Andie is taking Emma to Hannah Montanna today so they needed to get going also. Emma was so excited about it. I know they are going to have a great time. Although, I have to say, I don't envy them with all the crowds!!

On my way home, I stop at the Barnes and Nobles here by me and just had a field day. There are soo many audiobooks thats its really hard to choose just one! and of course, I have found out that my new additction is not going to be cheap one. I did get a good idea from Andie though about going to one of those used book stores to get some. Surely people will be giving them away after they listen to them. I know I probably will. Luckily I have a really good one by me so that will be my next shopping adventure!

Now its time to sit back and relax at home and do those darn house chores that I've been waiting on the house fairies to come do and they never seem to show up. So I guess that means I have to. Whats that they say........a woman's work is never done!!!! :-)

Smiles.....

2007-03-03T13:50:00.000-06:00

My newest addiction...

2007-02-27T19:12:00.000-06:00

I love to read. Mysteries mostly. But I never seem to find the time. By the time I get home from work I'm so exhausted and my eyes are so tired, that I just can't bring myself to pick up my favorite books. I have shelves and shelves of books just waiting to be read. I don't know when I will ever get to them. Maybe if I ever get to retire I can start! Won't hold my breath for that!

So, I decided to try books on tape. I found two that were relatively inexpensive to try out. They can get very expensive! The first one I got was "All That Remains" by Patricia Cornwell. I really like her books anyway, so I thought, why not. I hate talk radio though so I wasn't sure how well this was going to go over. Well, let me just tell you, I loved it! I pop in that CD on the way to work and then again on my way home. I have found that I can listen to one entire CD on my drive to and from work every day. I am now on my third book on tape. It sure makes the time fly while your sitting in traffic!

And to make things even better, I found out today that you can actually rent these books on tapes from the library! WOO HOOO!!! Guess that means I have to get a darn library card!

This has got to be the best invention ever. I just hate now that I bought these two books on CD and haven't found anyone yet to pass them on to to enjoy! Oh well. Maybe I'll go back and re-listen one of these days.

Dinner With Friends.....

2007-02-25T20:05:00.000-06:00

What an absolutely beautiful day! I love days like this. It is what makes living in Texas worthwhile! Perfect for being outside and getting fresh air. I've had the windows open the entire day and I love it cause it airs the house out. The animals love it to cause they get to look outside and feel the fresh air also. All the windows have cats sitting in them peering out at the world. Of course the new kitty, Sebastain, wants to be outside so bad. He used to be an indoor/outdoor kitty, but not anymore. He's all inside. Im afraid he'll try and go to his old house and that would require crossing 290 and I don't think he has a chance of doing that. So inside he stays. Now, if I could only get the three kitties to get along...........

So, off to Conroe for dinner with Andie and family we go. I can't believe they have lived there for three years and this is the first time we've been to their house. Now that is pathetic. I love their house. We sat out on the patio for dinner. The view is beautiful. They back up to a golf course, so lots of trees on one side and the beautiful golf course in the middle. Talk about relaxing. I got to hold little Chase who is just a cutie. He did nothing but smile the entire time we were there. Her daughter Emma, is just as cute as can be. She was playing shy though and wouldn't talk to us too much. We didn't stay too long as her dh was getting ready to go out of town for awhile for work. Just in time to miss her birthday, which is tomorrow!!!! (HAPPY B-DAY ANDIE!!!!) and then their anniversary. I can't believe they have been married for 11 years now. Seems like just yesterday I was at that wedding. Its amazing how time flies.

I was trying to think back on the ride home, when it was that we actually started talking. Seems like we just hit it right off and had always been talking. I know I didn't talk to her much at the wedding since she was just a tiny bit busy. I actually met her husband first back when I was running around with my friend that was an overnight news photog and he hung out with the overnight photog for channel 13 which happened to be Andie's husband. Well, of course at the time, he was her boyfriend. Can you believe they have been together since she was 16??? Holy cow! I spent many a long cold night out on the streets with him and my friend. I do not know how I used to do that. Get off work at 5p meet up with my friend sometime between 8p and 10p and then work through the night until about 6a unless we caught a job then sometimes I'd make it home to crawl in bed at 10a. I was so exhausted but I loved it. Never a dull moment. And look what I came out of it with!!! A good friend!! We've been talking ever since.

Anyway......HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANDIE!!! HOPE YOU HAVE A GREAT DAY AND HAPPY EARLY ANNIVERSARY!!!!!

If you are a cross dresser, you know its a bad day when......

2007-02-25T07:40:00.000-06:00

You make a Dr's appt. at the dermatologist. You get there and fill out paper work (you've been there before so you are a prior patent) and they pull your file double check insurance and off you sit. They call you into the back room and the nurse comes in and ask why you are there and you tell her. She then ask if you would like to have the Dr. scan you body for any moles or irregularities that might be cancerous. So you sit and ponder briefly
knowing that the Dr. is an Asian male and also pondering that you have chosen to wear your pretty white thong panties that day. So, you decide sure why not. Better be safe then sorry in the long run right? And besides, you think to yourself, the Dr. could probably use a good laugh later after you leave. So the nurse says get out of your clothes but leave your under ware on and get into this paper gown and the dr. will be in shortly. You sit and wait and a few minuets later there is a knock at the door and in walks this beautiful tall blonde Dr's assistant. She says that the Dr. is extreamly busy and do you mind if she does the scanning for him... at this point your like GULP um sure... too late to back out now! Now you know she couldn't help but to see the thong in the back when she removed the gown and checked your back side... however she never said a word though.... needles to say you are a little uncomfortable, but thankful you decided to wear the pretty ones today!!!

Seriously, I can't make this shit up but it was WAY too funny not to share!!

Joke of the Day

2007-02-24T10:23:00.000-06:00

A hitchhiker was standing on the roadside near the law school with her thumb out. A motorist stopped and asked, "Are you a lawyer?" She said that she wasn't, and the motorist drove off.

A second motorist stopped and asked: "Are you a lawyer?"

She again replied that she wasn't and the motorist again drove off.

A third motorist, this time a strikingly handsome hunk, stopped and asked: "Are you a lawyer?" The hitchhiker said that she was and the hunk told her to get in and off they went.

After a few minutes of admiring the driver, the hitchhiker exlaimed, "This is really something. I've only been a lawyer for five minutes, and already I'm thinking about screwing somebody!"

Cell Phones

2007-02-23T05:25:00.000-06:00

You just gotta love em. Modern technology. I don't know anyone that doesn't have one nowadays. Its amazing what they teach you. For example, I found out yesterday when I picked mine up to call a friend, that I was not "authorized to use this feature, and that I must contact customer service in order to have access." Wow. Is this some new type of call screening? I pulled the phone away from my ear and on my screen was the picture of the friend that I was calling, so I know I hit the right button. It even said, connecting at the bottom. Thats a pretty cool feature to have for advanced call screening right?? Nope, sorry, I do not wish for this person to call me, therfore they are not authorized. I dang near ran my truck off the road laughing. I of course hung up and redialed her number and when she answered I promptly asked her how this call screening thing worked cause I thought it was pretty cool!

They also teach you how to multi-task. Did you know it is possible to type a text message to someone while driving 60 miles an hour? Now that is a skill. I should put that on my resume. "Text Messaging up to 60 miles an hour while with the accuracy of keeping your vehicle in your lane and not running into anyone else." Now that is a valuable skill! Im sure it would be most benefical to a perspective employer! Of course, Im sure some employers would rather you didn't know how to use the text messaging feature. Take my lady boss for example. I don't think she found it quite as comical as I did that I could text message her while driving home from work to tell her that Toby Keith had come out with a new song that I think he did just for her, and it was called "High Maintenance Woman." When I saw her at work the next day, she promptly gave me that sign that told me I was still number 1 with her! :-) Oh well. I thought it was pretty darn funny.

Now, my friend has the ultimate cell phone accessory that I woul just love to have. His truck is a roving wireless connection. He has all the latest toys that anyone would envy. This cell phone feature that he is can actually scramble the cell phone frequency of the phones nearest you while driving down the road. This comes in especially handy when you get behind that genius that just simple can't get the concept of driving while they are talking on the phone. Its simple. You find that person that is just chatting away and driving 12 miles an hour in the fast lane, and you come up behind them, hit this button, and PRESTO, lost cell phone call! You can sit there and watch the bewildered look on their faces as they pull their cell phone away from their ear to look at the phone and see what happened to their call. Cool way to entertain yourself as your sitting in traffic!!! I'm so going to have to get me one of those!

And one final thought here unrelated to cell phones, I'd like to welcome Andie to the world of blogging. She is finally here! Tina and Cassie taught me how nice it was to have some place to post your thoughts and it actually is quite addicting once you start it. So, I hope Andie enjoys it as much as I do and I really look forward to reading her posts!!!

Happy Friday everyone!

Life Aint Always Beautiful....

2007-02-21T21:42:00.000-06:00

but when you look at this beautiful face, how can you just not smile?!?!

I can't wait to see this beautiful boy Sunday and hold him in my arms! Listen to him laugh and gigle!! And watch Emma, his sister, interact with him. She is so smart. And just as beautiful as her mother. Good thing she got her momma's looks and not her daddy's!!!! Just kidding Brian!!!