Long week

It has been a long week. Short of it. Scott ended up with a perforated colon. He had emergency surgery on Thursday night. He will get out of ICU today. He won't be out of hte hosptial until late next week. Dad and Andrea should be here tomorrow and ML will be here Wed. ML told me my job was Scott and her job would be Drew and the house. If she found out I cleaned or did laundry before she got here she would turn around and go home. No argument from me. Me who hates house cleaning arguing with someone who actually WANTS to clean my house. I really wish she would move in.

I did win the soap give away on AllThumbs. Thanks Lori and Chicklet Right now they are having a salsa give away. Stop by and check it out. The three best sob stories win. They have such a great site.

HEre is a link to a Youtube video featuring Phil. He was chairperson for Homecoming at Washburn for his Fraternity this year. They were partnered with theDelta Gams. The link is their campus wininng dance sequence at Yell Like Hell pep rally. the theme was "give our regards to broadway" They got the float finished at 5 this morning and I am waiting to here how it did. In the video, Phil is on the far left of your computer screen as it starts so you can follow him.

Thanks to everyone for their thoughts and prayers for us and Scott right now. I will keep everyone updated.

Faith Trust and Pixie Dust.
C

Soap

My buddies over at All thumbs (see right side of page for link to their site) are having a new contest. I won their Melting Pot contest.

Lori and I have lots in common but I just found out she has the same affinity for soap. I love the aroma of a good soap. I particulary like soaps that are citrus smelling. I use lavendar to relax at night but citrus smells to wake up. I also hide soap in my "unmentionable" drawer. Every bath room has to have a collection of different soaps for my guests. I could spend hours in soap stores. There is just something about them. I have had an affinity for soap since I was little and discovered Crabtree & Evelyn.

Check out the new contest and if you win and I don't - you have to share the prize with me.

Faith Trust & Pixie Dust

C

allergies and Dining

Drew has developed an allergy to most nuts. Nothing serious but we have been told not to go out of our way to give him peanuts. I have an allergy to pork. It makes eating out a challenge. I have found a wonderful website. Worry Free dinners. I found them after reading an article on CNN about them. Right now it appears that they serve the NY area but will soon be in CA. I will be jumping on board the WFD train as soon as it arrives. I have our applications for membership. There is no cost to join. They sponser restaruant outings for those who are allergy challenged. Check out the blog above for more info.

I have found orginally 2 now 3 places that that really seem concerned about allergies. Disney is very onboard with taking care of guests with allergies. all you have to do is tell them when you make reservations and remind them when you check in to eat. usually the chef will come out and visit with you and make special dishes that will accomadate your alleriges.

Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen in Albuquerque is great about allergies as well. I have never had such attention about my allergy before. i mentioned it to the waiter and the next thing I knew the manager was at my table assuring me that my food would be cooked in new pans, to ensure no cross contamination. the chef delivered it to my table. he even brought a few other tidbits for me to try that were pork free.

We went to Melting Pot this weekend with Drew for dinner. They brought Drew extra white bread because they weren't sure which onesof the dark breads might contain peanut residue. Scott and I had the dinenr for 2 and it contained BBQ pork. They actually put it on a seperate plate to ensure no contamination of the rest of the food. Scott said it was delish.

There are several restaurants I can't eat out. One that sticks out is Red Robin. Even tho I have told them about the allergy, I found out that the burgers and bacon are cooked on the same grill so if you have a burger it may have remnants of bacon fat on it. A big problem for me.

If you know of restaurants that accomadate allergies - let me know. I get tired of eating at home because of the worries about what might be cross contaimnated.

FTPD

C

Twilight

I thought I talked about this before but I can't find it so....

My sis got me hooked on a new series of books. Twilight. Vampires? Werewolves? Being 17 forever? HMMMMMM?

I became even more intrigued when she started sending me "flair" on Facebook with hints from the books.

I am actually enjoying it very much. I have finished the first 2 and will be picking up # 3 this week. I have even joined an online book club to discuss the books. If you have read the books or want to know more about them or the book club check this out.

Some people compare them to Anne Rice or Harry Potter. Nope not even close. This target audience is for teen to college age girls. HP is for younger kids and Rice's novels are for us old folks. But after reading Twilight I was taken back to my teen days when I didn't quite fit in, didn't have any close friends. I could have used an Edward to sweep me off my feet and protect me from the cruelties of high school. I could have used an Alice to confide all my secrets to. Who wouldn't want Emse and Carlisle for parents?

I found my self in book 2 wanting to rush thru to find Edward. But I made myself read each page and I am glad I did. It made the reappearance of Edward all that more special.

To whom ever posted the transcript to book 5 on the web, I don't like you. I feel you stole some special information that could have been revealed about Edward and his past.

Meyers writing had me turning the pages as fast as I can. I am drawn into the feelings and thoughts of all the characters. When I finish a book I can't wait to get the next one so I can be drawn back in to Forks and the small town atmosphere where everyone knows everyone and wonders about the town secrets.

I have come to the conclusion that even at 41 I am secretly in love with Edward. Sorry Scott.

PLDP

C

Accept

When do you let them grow up? When do you say I have done all I can? When do you realize that you have given them your values, morals, your all and know they have to make their own decisions? I guess now is that time.

Phil has talked off and on about going into the military for some time. He talks about it, then drops it, then talks about it again. I have told him my feelings. I know we need people to fight for our country, but why my kid? I raised him to believe in right vs wrong. To stand up for the little guy. To believe in himself. To do the right thing in all instances.

He came to me this week and said he was considering joining the Marines. WTH?!?!?! He had been talking to a Marine recruiter and found a program where he can spend the next 2 summers in VA getting trainins and then when he gradutes be a 2nd Lt.

He proved to me he really wanted this when he had to go get a PFT to show his asthma would not be a problem. He had the PFT with in 24 hours of being told by the recruiter he needed to get it. First time in a long time I have seen him motivated to get something done.

I am a typical mom. I worry, I fret. Everyone knows what a bond we share. What would I do if something happened to him? I can't imagine my life with out him around. Doesn't he understand there is a war on 2 fronts and he would be sent there, in harms way? Does he really understand it is an 8 year commitment? I know he sees this as a stepping stone to his ultimate career goal but isn't there another way to get there?

I have to accept that I raised him to do the right thing, to follow his heart and his head, to fight for the little guy. I have to accept I can't keep him my little boy forever. I have to accept this is an adult decision and one he has to make. I have to accept this is the path he wants to choose for himself.

I have to accept he is a man. A man I am proud to call my son.

Broken nose

Not me. Drew. He was at school today on the playground and turned around and ran right into another little boy who was running. They cracked foreheads and Drew got a bloody nose. They took him to the office and tried to call me. I was out shopping and my phone had fallen out of my purse onto the floor of the car. when I found it I had 7 missed calls from the school and from Scott. I raced home while breaking several speed limits and the cell phone laws. I called the doc and got him in at once. they sent us for Xrays. The nurse called a little while ago with the news. It is broken and we see an ENT on Monday. Keep Drew quiet for the weekend - obviously she doesn't have a 6 year old. Ice it 5-6 times a day. This to the kid who hates cold? Plus it is broken and the last thing he wants is ANYTHING heavy on it. Keep his head elevated when he sleeps. That should go over well. Drew has been a little indignant about the this. His problem. The other kid didn't get hurt nor did he say he was sorry.

I am off to Michaels to pick up some crafts to get us thru the weekend. Like that will work but I have to say I tried.

Red Chile - or label your ziplocks

I decided to "invent" a new dinner tonight. I had some ground Turkey, canned corn, potatoes, black beans, and diced tomoatoes. I thought I would add some Pedro Lopez chili powder and serve it over Frito Chips - Kind of a Mock Chili pie.

I grabbed a ziploc bag from the pantry and tossed a bunch into the ground beef. I took a bite and thought it didn't taste so spicy.I thought that doesn't smell to spicy eitherso I added more powder. All of a sudden my mouth from the taste started to burn. I couldn't figure out what was going on. So what do I do next? I grab the baggie and I did it I inhaled. Scott walked in about that time and after a five minute sneezing fit I asked him to smell what was in the bag.

He said "are you crazy. That is pure Chile Powder that Tom and Faith (our friends in ABQ) gave us." No wonder I had 3rd degree burns in my nostrils.

Moral of the story? Label you ziploc bags. Dinner was good but a little on the spicy side. Drew opted for Chicken Noodle Soup.

Saturday

Here is Drew on the first day of Kindergarten

Here is Drew being silly in the loft.

Here is a picture of Drew with his new haircut. Since Phil doesn't live here I can't put up the latest pics of him.

Not much going on here today. Taking it easy and getting ready to go back to mom duty as of Monday. I have two more days of "vacation". I think Scott is ready to get back to his normal routine as well.

On the Sarah Palin thing. I have to add this - I would feel the same way if a man had so much going on in his personal life. I would feel that he needed to dedicate himself to his family and not throw them in the center of attention.

Surgery and Palin

I had my gall bladder taken out Tuesday night. I feel pretty good. I am sore at the 4 insision sites but my gut doesn't hurt anymore. I am hoping this solves my health problems and things get back to some semblence of order.

I have never tried to make my blog about anything but my life as a mom but for the first time I am going to weigh in on a canidate for office.

Sarah Palin. Yes she is a woman but I think she is letting her political ambition get in the way of her family. I can't imagine having a pregnant teen daughter and throwing her in front of the world to be torn a part. This kid needs a mom. Hey all kids make mistakes but that is when they need their parents to guide them not the media to tear them apart. And I can't even begin to discuss the parents of the father. Letting him be a part of this circus? I applaude the young lady for choosing to have this baby. But is she keeping it because she wants to or because she HAS to for appearance sake. Has anyone thought about the Casey Anthony saga? She wanted to put Caylee up for adoption but grandma wouldn't hear of it so now the whole country is drawn to this horrible story of searching for a little girl who could be having a wonderful life with adoptive parents but because of the selfisheness of others this little girls life has been cut short. I am not saying that the Palin teen is in this league but Sarah Palin needs to put the needs of her family above her own.

I am also the mother of a special needs child. Once again I think Palin is being very selfish by persuing political office while putting her child on the back burner. I know the husband is capable of taking care of Trig. My husband does great with Drew but their are times Drew needs the comfort of mom. All kids do. What is she going to tell him - or any of her children - 'Sorry, Mommy can't hold your hand while you are going thru a horrid time - she is too busy cutting budgets or fighting for off shore drilling etc?"

I am all for a woman in the President's chair but I think it has to be the right woman at the right time. And this is not the right woman.

My coffee pot

**** This is an unpaid review of my fave kitchen product****

A friend of mine who write a review blog told me to write this and she would link it to her blog. She has great give aways - even if her son didn't pull my # for the M&M's give away. You really should check out Lori's site. All Thumbs

Right before we moved to Albuquerque, I was at a friends house and she showed me her wonderful new coffee system. I was intrigued. The System was called Keurig . I loved everything about it. It could brew coffee or tea in single servings. That was a plus. I went home and promptly ordered one. It has become my baby. I love everything about it. I even considered when we moved to Sacramento to put it in my car, wrapped in towels, strapped in the back seat because I was scared the movers would damage it. It was the first thing I unpacked. Our furniture was late and the men in my house can tell you it was not a pleasant house to be in with out my coffee pot.

It is convenient and simple. You put the pod in the top and hit the coffee cup size you want. It brews automatically. I like the fact coffee isn't wasted. Scott and I don't have the same coffee tastes so it is nice that we can each have our own flavors at our disposal. The taste of the other coffee doesn't blend with mine. Same with tea. Those who use a coffee pot for tea know that the coffee flavor "leaks" into the tea. Then your tea tastes like coffee. Unlike peanut butter and chocolate these flavors just don't mix.

There are so many flavors to choose from. I drink Mocha Nut Fudge and Scott drinks Nantucket blend. Both by Green Mountain. I keep 5 packs of various flavors of cofee and tea around for company. My 6 year old loves hot chocolate. Yes this machine even has hot chocolate pods. He can make it himself. He make it on the smallest cup size and add extra milk or whip cream to cool it down quicker.

To me the only drawback is the amount of plastic used. There are two options for this. One buy the MY K CUP reusable filter. This allows you to use your favorite coffee and eliminate the pods. But what I do is when I am done I pull the aluminum top off the K cup and rinse out the plastic disposable pod and throw it in my recycling bin.

Keurig does offer a buying club. For new and returning customers you get 10% off of your order as well as free shipping for orders over 45.00. When you have ordered 500 cups your discount jumps to 15% plus the free shipping over 45.00.

I have convereted 2 friends. They rave about their machines. One friend had a problem with hers and called Keurig. They sent her a new one no questions asked. She drinks coffee and her husband drinks tea.

If you are interested in this machine I highly reccomend it. One thing I will say is if before you order it leave me your email and I can send you an invataion to check it out. If you buy from them you can get 2 free boxes of coffee by using the link I will send you.

If you use this system let me know what you think.

FT&PD
Cathy

dietary changes

The docs are back to thinking Drew may have Asperger's. I really wish they would make up their mind. I decided to take some matters into my own hands. After doing research and talking to Drew's peditrician I have started him on a glutten free diet. I have also taken him off of ice cream and dairy milk products. Usually before bed he gets an icecream cone or small bowl of ice cream. He got a different snack last night and for the first time in I don't know how long he slept thru the night. Don't know if it was a coincincendece or if there is something to it. But it was nice getting a full night's sleep for a change. I have also decided not to fight Drew on what he eats for a while. i will fix him a derivitave of what we eat (hamburger for meatloaf, plain chicken for Fajitas etc) Last night he ended up having a bowl of gluten free cereal for dinner and he didn't ptich a fit about being hungry all evening. Hopefully this will help as well.

From what I read gluten and milk act as drugs in kids with autism and by taking it out of their diet there has been good luck with behavior change.

So I figure if I don't make a big deal about what he eats and also change his diet we may seem some improvement. I will keep you posted.

On another note, I am the lucky person with a gall bladder that doesn't work. so in the next couple weeks I get to have it removed. Yippee!!!!! I have changed my diet and have lost about 10 pounds in the last few weeks. Maybe my reunion in 18 months I will be svelte for the first time in my life.

FT&PD
C

Grace

I have a friend I admire. Her world was turned upside down this month. I don't think I could have handled the situation with the grace and dignity that she has. I know she is questioning her life, self, and love right now. She need not worry. She is showing me how to be a woman who can hold her head high no matter the circumstances and face any adversity that comes her way. She is impacting many lives with her quiet outward demeanor. I know on the inside she is barely holding on but outwardly she is a model of what every woman can be. I love her like a sister and wish I could take her pain.

Her faith in God and what she truly wants will get her through. I think many good things will come from this stumbling block. What ever God has in store she will meet it head on and come through the other side a stronger (if that is possible) happier woman.

Don't have a title

How is that? Maybe it should be Random Stuff. My gall bladder is acting up again. I have been to the hospital twice in the last 2 weeks. And yet they keep saying they can't take it because there are no stones. GRRR I was to meet with a Surgeon tomorrow but it was changed to Mid September. I do see my doc soon.

I got a call from the LR teacher for Drew's new school. She is delightful and is already working to find ways to accomadate Drew's SID. She understands his need for phyiscal stimulation and hatred of noise so she is going to have his Kindergarten teacher call me to discuss what needs to be done. She has also gotten plans underway to get Drew and IEP.

My MIL left this AM. It was a wonderful visit. Drew was heartbroken when she left. He kept asking me to make her move her or come back because he misses her so very very much. They have the same type of bond that Phil and my mom had.

I am trying to get into some classes this semester but it is difficult. If you are a state resident then you get free tuition but out of state they rake you over the coals And of course illegal immigrants get in state tuition but not me. Very frustrating. They don't even have an exemption for people who move here due to transfers. Every other state I checked does. That is frustrating.

I have been having lots of fun on Facebook lately. I have found many old friends. It will be easier trying to plan a reunion having found them thru Facebook. Lots still to find.

I will be glad when we settle with the moving company. I am so sick of using Scott's computer and desk. I want my own space back. He wants me to have my own space and get out of his. I haven't had much time to design jewelry lately. I have spent so much time down because of my GB that I have been getting some knitting in. Andrea and I are talking about taking a bead making class when they come out in January. I found a glass blowing place that teaches glass bead making.

Phil started his sophomore year yesterday. Here is to hoping he sticks with a major this year.

I have booked our trips for the New Year. We are going to spend New Years Eve at 6 flags in Vallejo. I was shocked to see how many points I had so I decided to use them. Our hotel is free that night. Then we leave a few days later and will spend 2 days at a hotel close to Disneyland and go to Lego Land. Then we will have a week immersed at Disney in a Disney hotel. I am working on surprises galore for the men in my life during the trip. It is so much cheaper atDL as opposed to WDW. you don't even have to stay concierge to get the in room benefits of special deliveries. I am going to have cookies and milk delivered one night and another have mickey head rice criispie treats waiting for when we get back. It is such a magical place that I love to spread the magic to the men in my family. It makes me happy to make those memories. If you haven't been there it is hard to explain the magic of the place. I could go on and on but you can check out posts from October 2006 on our last trip. You can never go to many times. In fact we are buying annual passes so we can go more often. YIPEEEEE!!!!!! Scott even told me when they begin taking applications for Club 33 again I can apply - but I have to give up my Coach Purse obsession. That is a tough one.

Well that is all for now

FTPD
C

Just call me sucker

Well I went to the Kindergarten Orientation for Drew tonight. I was talking to a teacher about the fact that Drew had an older brother so I had been thru a lot of this before. I had just given her my sheet of what I could volunteer for within the class. Little did I know that the PTA President was standing next to me. Ms. Mack (the teacher) quickly introduced me to Carrie (the President) the next thing I knew I was PTA Treasurer, Co Chair for Casino night and heading up the Wrapping paper sales.

The only thing is - CA has very specific rules for class sizes and Drew is currently in the overflow at our home school. The Principal - Stacy ( yes I am now on a first name basis with her too now) told me she was hopeful that Drew would be staying at that school. There had actually been a drop or 2 so things look good.

Been planning our Excursion to Disney land for Christmas but that is for another post.

FTPD
C

passion

No get your mind out of the gutter. This is about my sister.

There is something amazing about her that I really admire. Yes I know we don't always see eye to eye and have some major differences but she really is a unique person.

We don't talk very often. She busy with her career and me being a mom. But there is one thing about Amie that makes her so special. Everything she does in her life she does with such passion. It is really amazing. Even when she was a kid that passion - almost drive - was there. First it was all about dinosaurs. She could name them all what they ate, when they lived etc. Then as a teen it was the Monkees. She had first addtion albums, knew people on their staff by name, heck I think she knew them better than her own family.

She decided to get in shape. But her passion drove her to become a personal trainer. She teaches a spin class and actually pays someone to put her thru boot camp so she stays fit. AMAZING.

For a couple years now she has really been into NASCAR. Her fave driver is Carl Edwards. She got the ulitmate reward for a fan Saturday. She got to be in Victory Lane when Carl Edwards won some race. Sorry I don't know what the race was but I think it was in St. Louis. She showed me pictures of her standing next to Carl on the victory stand. I won't post them as I don't have her permission. The look in her eye shows her passion for a sport I know nothing about. I just know she looks very happy and isn't that what having a passion is all about?

FT&PD

C

SPACE CHIMPS

We wanted to have some family time since Phil leaves Sunday AM (before my eyelids will be open). We decided to go to a movie and dinner. What movie to see? This can be a very hard choice given the ages of those attending. Phil and I both wanted to see Dark Knight. (obviously not with Drew) I then suggested Get Smart. Scott didn't think Drew would enjoy it. I logged into Fandango and saw the only movie suitalbe for all ages - SPACE CHIMPS. Boy that sounded like a real winner. You can only imagine the complaining come out of my 19 year olds mouth. Well we went. Want to know who laughed the loudest? You guessed it - Phil., Scott was a close second. The reviews were not great on the 'net so I went in cautious. It was a cute movie. If it can make a 19 year old laugh hysterically then there must be something in it for all ages. Don't expect an Oscar for this one but it is a good family film.

FTPD
C

nothing special

Well the furniture is in, (never use Mayflower moving - at least the All American Moving franchise)
We have phone, cable and internet - much to Phil's delight. Even Drew is relieved to be connected again. I am still trying to get the little piles of stuff that I don't know what to do with picked up.

We leave for San Francisco in the AM - we are spending the night. Got a great deal thru priceline on the Grand Hyatt. Wish we could stay 2 nights but just not in the cards right now. Phil is really looking forward to this trip So am I if you want to know the truth.

Scott came home last night and told me that one of his collegue's sibling is an exec with the Monterey Aquarium and when we decide to go he will make arrangements for Drew to get to do all the VIP backstage stuff.

We are not near the fires but the smoke is wrecking havoc on all of us. It looks like a Kansas fall day that could rain any minute but it is really smoke and ash from the fires up north. Yesterday on the news they said our air quality was worse than Bejing. GREAT!!!!! Phil is really feeling the effects.

Faith Trust and Pixie Dust

C

I think I am home Toto

We are in Sacramento. I won't go into the details about the nightmare with the move. Let's just suffice it to say we had our own beds last night for the first time in 10 days.

I love Sacramento. The weather is incredible. It is cool in the AM - can sit on patio and drink coffee and read paper. It does get a little hot in the afternoon. - have a pool for that. The evenigns are beautiful. Nice breeze, cool air. I really feel like I am home. The house is coming together. As long as the ground doesn't start moving I am fine.

I didn't realize how much I missed the green until we got here. There are flowers and green grass and blue sky. I know my mom felt at home when she hit Florida. I never thought I would like California but I love it. The B&B will be open in a week. Please book early as Disney is only an hour plane ride or 7 hours by car so you never know when we will take off for a long weekend.

From the land of

Faith Trust and Pixie Dust
C

What a Trip

We are still in Kansas but I know the next couple weeks are going to be crazy and the next time I write I will probably be in Sacramento. I wanted to put a few things down before I forgot them.

This has been an amazing trip. I got closer to Andrea. I felt like we really connected and I can see how much she cares for my dad. I saw how happy he was. To me that is the most important thing. My dad shared stories about my ancestors which helps them live on as my boys get older. Dad took Drew swimming and made sure he had his first riding lesson. Now Drwe thinks he wants to ride when we get to CA - Thanks DAD. Andrea showed me a pattern that I am able to knit. I thought I wouldn't be knitting for a long time but that is't the case. I got her hooked on beading - Sorry DAD.

Drew got to be a little boy and do some awesome little boy things. He rode a horse, held a 4 day old baby goat, ran in the sprinkler, played in the park, caught fire flies, made cookies with meema, ate in the prehistoric era with papa and maymay, spent the day at the zoo with his brother. Oh yea - he also got to witness Kansas thunder storms and enjoy a good old fashion Kansas tornado warning.

I got to see old friends. I spent time with Erin, my college drinnking buddy, who at 18 taught me to shoot a gun and how to restore old cars. I saw Lori. probably one of my oldest friends - we have been friends since 5th grade. That is 30+ years. Spent time with Anna. Spent 3 days with Carolyn. Those days were pretty stressful - because scott and I were trying to agree on a house and I was going crazy. Kim and I spent an afternoon drinking margaritas, eating mexican munchies and chatting away. Allan and Peg spent some time with us. Drew had a ball with Allan. spent 2 evenings with my friend Susan. We drank to new beginnings and new homes.

I had a great time with my MIL. She took such good care of us. I had an ongoing flare while I was in Kansas and she truly would not let me do anything. She got testy when I did the dishes. She and drew had such a great time.

My trip isn't over yet. Today Phil and Drew are having brother day. They are going to breakfast, the zoo, a picnic then to Lawrence to catch up with me. I am having coffee with Carolyn, hopefully having lunch with Mary. Meeting my dad and Andrea to get somethings that I left at their house, going to the Yarn Barn with Andrea. I want to spend a little time wandering Mass. Kim is to be getting the afternoon off and Phil is coming over with Drew. Brett - Kim's son and an old friend of Phil's will be there. I an hoping my fibro stays at bay today. Tomorrow I plan on a quiet day. Phil is coming over in the afternoon to hang out. We have had some good 12AM talks. We leave Wed. night.

Our time line for the next 2 weeks - Scott gets home Tuesday night, Drew and I arrive Wed night. the 21st is our going away party, 23rd and 24th the packers will be there, 25th the movers load, 26th we clean up the house, 27th head to CA. I anticpate being there by the 29th. They are seeing if we can ship my van. The way my Fibro has been I don't think I can drive that far as fast as we need to be there. I am hoping the movers can unload on the 30th. Scott did find a house and we both really like it. He has sent pictures of it.I will post some once we get settled.

This trip has been magical (thanks to everyone who made it that way) which only proves

Faith Trust and Pixie Dust.

C

Hey Toto we are on the way home

Drew and I leave tomorrow morning for 2 weeks in Kansas. It is going to be a whirlwind of activity and friends. I am looking forward to seeing everyone. I know after this trip - Kansas will no longer really be home because I will see how everything has changed and how life has gone on with out me.

I am looking forward to Tortilla Jacks, J&S Coffee - Cant find a good Freddie anywhere. I have a feeling I will be eating several meals at On the Border so i can see Phil. I have many planned lunches and dinners with friends. Drew is looking forward to seeing Ellie, Miriam, Gracie (the fillie) He is also looking forward to seeing his grandparetns and brother. I hope I also get to see the Dukes of Lawrence. I watch their blog daily to see how they have changed.

I thought ABQ was destined to be our home but now it looks like I will be a California girl within the next month or so. We will know Wed for sure what the plan is. I hate being in limbo and I am glad this vacation is coming so I can see friends, drink some good Cosmos and margaritas and share the company of all those I hold dear.

Not sure when I will check back in. until then

Faith Trust and Pixie Dust.
C

What are we doing

Here it is 3AM and I can't sleep. Nothing new there but tonight I have lots on my mind. We thought Sacarmento was a done deal. Guess not. Even tho the management in Sac offered one salary the higher ups said no. We can't do it on what they offered. I have spent lots of time in prayer the past few days because in my heart something wasn't right. I asked for some guidance. Everything has been shown that we should stay here. The salary, the ABQ office wanting Scott to stay and offering ways to keep us here. We have our church and our friends here. When the salary came back to low that was the answer I was looking for. Scott doesn't want to hear the answer. He keeps looking for ways to go to Sacramento. He asked the Denver office if they would be willing to have him in Sacramento heading up the water resourses division. Keith said it was something to talk about but he was on vacation until June 9. Scott doesn't take vacations and when he does he is constantly on his computer or crackberry working. To me a vacation is turning everything off and being with us.

We got the house issues taken care of yesterday. that was a huge monkey off my back. In my mind and heart we need to stay here continue to repair the credit once again and in a year look for a house.

I can't take much more of this roller coaster. God has revealed his plan. We just need to stop and listen.

can't believe I didn't think of this

OK so we are moving. I am getting excited. I have been on the chamber of commerce website and found all kinds of things for us to do. Polar express at christmas, Wehn Phil comes we can get ghost tours of Old Sacramento. There is a Jazz fest every Memorial Day. And the best part? It is only 100.00 round trip to LA to go to Disney Land. Less than gas. I just priced a 4 day stay for the 3 of us over Halloween and it is less than 2500 !!!!!!!!!!!! I then started researcing and discovered that the Disney land Halloween party is...... Nightmare before Christmas - Drew's fave movie. I can hardly wait. I think we will be going again at Christmas with Phil. So I think I may have to break down and buy annual passes - at least for Drew and I.

I am actually thinking about a cruise for Christmas. Have to talk to Scott.

Faith Trust and pixie dust
Cathy

Thank you Dream Factory

Today Phil called with amazing news. Lisa had turned in Trent (my nephew with diabetes) to the Dream Factory to have a wish. Since he is home so much and unable to get out he wanted a big screen TV. Dream Factory called last night and said they were granting Trent's wish. He would be getting a 55" LCD TV with a XBox 360 and games to go with it. While that is awesome news - the news they got next was even better. Some group ( I will post when I know more) had chosen Trent to be the recpient of the proceeds for a golf tournament. The money will be put in a trust to help with medical bills and day to day expenses for the family. since Lisa can't work because Trent is so unstable and insurnace doesn't cover everything that he needs this money is going to come in handy. Once I know more about the tournament I will post so hopefully everyone can at least make a donation in Trent's name.

This proves There is always

Faith hope and pixie dust
C

all I am going to say at this point.....

California here we come.........

when is a mom not a mom

Tonight NBC aird a show naming in their opionion Americas fave mom's. I refused to watch it. Orginally they put adoptive mom's in a category called Non - Mom Mom's. There was an orphanage director (who actually won the category from what I heard) a woman who raised her siblings and a woman according the website had one of her "own" then adopted 6 more children. There are so many myths and un trhuths circulating about adoptive parents that I had a fit. Many in the adopting world sent letters of protest to NBC and the category was changed Friday to Adoptive mom's. Funny thing - Marie Osmond was the host of the show and she herself is an adoptive mom. I bet she thinks she is a real mom. Below is the letter I sent to NBC. As soon as I find an email address for Teleflora they will be getting it as well.


It took me a while to put into words the anger I felt towards your lack of sensitivity to adopted moms. I know the show has aired but I am finally calm enough to put a rational thought together on this subject. First let me say I refused to watch this broadcast. I have children. Some where in the recesses of my mind I seem to remember sitting in front of a judge and him asking my husband and myself if we were aware that by adopting our son we would be responsible for every part of his life, feeding him, clothing him, educating him just like any biological children we had. He asked our other son if he was excited to have a brother (not an adopted brother - a brother) . We all said yes. I have sat up many nights with both my boys thanking God for them. thru every broken bone, asthma attack, nightmare, picture hung on the fridge, excitement of a hot air ballon in the sky, bout of pneumonia, first step, first word, first tooth, first day of school I was there And you know what - my adopted son never called me adopting mommy. He just called me mommy.

which of my kids is adopted - frankly I choose not to say - I am just mom to both of them and always will be. How they came to be does not matter. I bet you would never ask me which of my kids was born by C section or my next door neighbor about the rape that brought her her daughter, or the lady down the sleep if she concieved while on top or bottom during making love with her husband.

The point is how they came to be is not the issue. They are our children and no matter whether they grew in our stomach or our heart they are our children and we are their moms PERIOD.

C

I hurt

My doc thinks I have Fibromyagia. I see a Rheumatolgist tomorrow AM. when I used to see commercials for Fibro I would think how could this be real? Chronic muscle aches - almost flu like. I get it now. My hands go numb, so do my feet. some days I ache from head to toe. Today is one of those days. I had a great week last week, but yesterday the headache and shoulders started hurting. They have taken me off of all meds until tomorrow because of the blackout a couple weeks ago. I thought that getting rid of the meds was the answer(that all the aches and pains were caused by side effects from my meds) and that it was in my head. Nope. I ache today like nothing else. I tried a hot shower but that didn't help. I am so looking forward to maybe getting some answers tomorrow. Or more tests ordered which means more waiting
YIPEEE

I just don't understand

Today is Phil's 19th birthday. He seems to think I have something up my sleeve to embarrass him tonight. Why in the world would I do something like that? I am 800 miles away in a different time zone - how in the world could I pull off any kind of surprise when I am that far away? I am good but am I that good?

BTW - thanks to Peg, ML, Mike, Billy, and Johnny Carino's for all of their help.

Happy Birthday Phil - I hope it is a great day and that you have fun at formal tonight. We love you and are so very proud of the man you have become.

retail therapy

My "dear" friend Anna turned me on to beading when she was here with her family over Spring break. I don't do alot of tradiional beading but I love to make necklaces and earrings. I love the stone and how my imagination starts running when I walk in to a bead store. I am like a kid in a VERY expensive candy store. I was slightly ticked at my DH today (OK 200.00 ticked) so I went to one of my fave bead stores. I am sitting here looking at my new stash and thinking hmmmmm what do I need to order to complete these focals and what focals to I need to order to finish these beads. My fave bead store was closed so that will have to wait until another day but I do need to hit my 2 fave seed bead shops soon. I had told my self I wasn't going shopping until anna sent my a package after she cleaned out her stash but alas it was not to be. I do need to run to Michaels and pick up a few standard supplies. need crimp tubes and such.

scott is going to be out of town lots in the near future so at least this way I have something to do when school is over and I get back from Kansas. There are a couple things I want to get made before I leave but we will see if I can get them done.

I need to work on my seed beading so I can do some more elaborate work but right now I am just having fun with my jewelry.

fatih trust and pixie dust

thanks to tim

Update on my earlier post. Phil called and told me to call off the dogs. His Uncle Tim being the sensible cool headed one managed to find a phone number for the head of Kansas Youth soccer League and laid the whole scenario out for him. Phil will be getting calls of apology from him, the head of Sunflower Soccer etc. They have revoked Phil's fine. They will also be re amending the rule in the bylaws.

They agree the entire situation was handled wrong. And leave it to my son to be the one who had to test the new rule. The rule went into effect on November 11, 2007. Phil was the first to have it imposed on. (figures) None of the coaches were ever made aware of the rule.

Like Peg Stevens taught me - NEVER MESS WITH A MAMA BEAR AND HER CUB - no matter the age of the cub.

No Good Deed

Phil has been coaching youth soccer this year. He has a passion for the game and wanted to pass it on to younger kids. He preached being respectful to the league and to the refs all year. well it bit him in the ASS this past weekend.

Saturday, he was coaching the 2nd to last game of the year. Now Phil can be dramatic and he can be loud. But that is Phil. He is who he is. I have talked to several witnesses and parents who were at the game just to make sure what Phil was telling me was the whole story. What he said was the truth. so wwhat is a mom to do? go to the media.

It turns out that Phil was coaching a game and there was lots of rough stuff on both sides and the center ref did not have control of the game. Kids were using elbows, tripping etc. Phil turned to talk to a mom who happened to be an asst coach for him to explain what was happening. Everyone says Phil did nothing out of line but the center ref, who was 16, kicked Phil off the field. No warning, no yellow card, jsut said leave. So Phil did. He talked to the exec director after the game and gave his side of the story. She said don't worry about it.

Fast forward to yesterday. Phil shows up to his last game and has his kids warming up. The exec director that he spoke with the day before walks over and in front of Phil's team and parents tells Phil he could not be at the game because he had been ejected the day before. Why had she not told him this when they talked on Saturday. Parents were furious. Phil and Mike go sit on the tail of Marvin's truck so Phil can at least see the game. Nothing else was said to Phil about it. Today he wakes up to find an email saying he is being 75.00 for being ejected. why was this not mentioned on Saturday. We also found out that the same center Ref kicked a parent from the opposing team out yesterday for cussing. Will this parent get fined? Or the other Coach because he did not control his parents?

Where do they get off fining VOLUNTEER coaches. In my book if you can be fined you are an employee and every coach needs to turn in a time sheet to Sunflower Soccer. Volunteers are hard to find. Good reliable positive role model volunteers are even harder. How many 18 year college students do you knwo who would give up 2 night a week for practice as well as at least one day a weekend to mentor 12-14 year olds?

Sunflower Soccer and Kansas Youth Soccer Association needs to get off their power trip and THANK the coaches from the bottom of their hearts. they also need to make sure their referees are not near the same age as the teams playing. Let 16 year olds ref the little guys and let older refs take care of the older kids. This sounds like one power hungry ref who was trying to throw his authority around anyway he could. And thumbs down to Sunflower Soccer for not backing thier coaches. In this economy 75.oo is a lot of money to the parent coaches - it is a fortune to a college kid who was trying to pass on his love of the sport.

nothing going on

Well that is not true. But it is just day to day life here. Scott is traveling every other week to Sacremento. He leaves on Sunday and gets home Friday or Saturday. Makes it very long weeks for Drew and I.

Phil changed his major AGAIN!!! I have real issues with 18/19 year olds being told they have to decide what to do with the rest of their lives. Heck, I am almost 41 and I thought I knew what I wanted finally but due to some health problems I am reevaluating AGAIN!

Drew passed all of his pre K evals so he is ready for kindergarten. Holding him out was the best thing we did. Thank Miriam for the advice.

Drew and I are headed to KAnsas for 2 weeks the beginning of June. I can't wait. My calendar is filling up with seeing people. We are spending the first few days with my dad and Andrea and then off to Lawrence to stay with Carolyn and then to Topeka. I know that I will have plenty of time to see people - my MIL really wants to see Drew I am just there to make sure Drew arrives safely. LOL

I am anxious to see where my sis is working. It sounds like it is really up her alley.
I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia and RA a couple weeks ago. I am headed to a Rheumatologist in May for confirmation as well as to start treatment. Some days I can barely move. But I don't have much of a choice. I pop some aleve and predisone and off I go.

I have started doing some beading. I really enjoy making necklace and earring sets. I am going to try today to see if I can do some seed bead work. I am not sure how my fingers will work. It is an expensive hobby but I do have some gorgeous jewelry. Trying to decide if I should give it for Christmas presents or I should buy baskets from my friend Michelle. she makes all natural soaps, skin cleansers, bath bombs, lip balm etc. Check it out at http://www.bonafidesoap.com/
I give her foot scrub and her tangerine lip balm 2 thumbs up.

We have found a church we really like - even tho the pastor is a Missouri Tiger fan. It is a large church but it is a good place. It is what St. Margarets should have been under different circumstances.

That is it. Nothing exciting. Just life.

Faith Trust and Pixie Dust
C

Only my son....

Phil calls this morning and tells me his driving a friends truck to his soccer game. My first thought "please don't say you wrecked your car" He continues that the FAA is currently holding his car as part of a crash scene. WTH!@!!!!! Come to find out a Topeka police copter crash landed in the parking lot of Stauffer hall at Washburn about midnight. Phil had parked his car there because there was no parking left at the fraternity and then walked across the street to the Fraternity house. fortunately (or unfortunately according to Phil) it landed 50 ft from his car. He was hoping for a new car out of the deal.

He has been told he should get it back later today but as of yet we haven't heard anything.

My Christmas shopping is done - is yours?

Phil made it thru surgery. he is up and doing better than ever. there was a cracked bone in his knee that was missed on the Xrays that were done. It healed wrong so when he walked the jagged edge of his knee was pulling on the Cartlidge behind his knee.

Scott scared the heck out of us. Thought he was having a heart attack. come to find out it was something called chondrcarditis. It is an inflamation of the ribs around the heart that mimics a heart attack.

Scott and I decided to go to take Drew to Disney for Christmas next year. I told Phil we were going and he was welcome to come with us. He said no, he would come for Christmas but leave on December 31 when we left for WDW. SoI made our reservations. Then yesterday,

RING RING RING

"hi mom did you get my text?'
"no, what did you need"
"is it too late to change my mind and go to Disney?"
"decided you wanted to spend time with your dad, brother and me?"
" No. A free trip to disney IS a free trip to Disney. you guys are a bonus."
"Gee thanks"

So he is going to spend Christmas in Topeka with family and meet us in Orlando on December 31. (praying no snow delays for any of us) I did have to "sacrifice" my savannah view room at Animal Kingdom Lodge and to a standard view room at Wilderness Lodge to keep us within budget but I guess he is worth it. I have told him it is his Christmas present and that anything extra he wants to do i.e. parasailing is on him.

Santa is bringing Drew a disney suitcase filled with a certificate for the trip. I will be getting everyone the mandatory goofy family matching Tshirts - the guys humor me on this. Those will be wrapped and under the tree for Drew from us.

Well my christmas shopping is done - is yours?

Faith Trust and Pixie dust
C

Back to school and forgiveness

I go back to school today. I am up doing homework for my corresponse classes. I am only on campus 2 days a week this sememster. It has been a rough 24 hours. Well let me back up to Sunday. We have finally found a church we like. It is very modern and upbeat. the pastor is great. It is not a Mega church but it is well attended. Pastor Todd has been doing a great series on "resigning" a few weeks ago it was about resigning your fiances and taking control, 2 weeks about resiging guilt. Sunday it was resigning forgiveness and letting it go. Who have you locked in a prison because you have felt they have done you wrong. I can say I have, and if you are honest with yourself you would say the same thing.

Drew had to have a medical procedure yesterday and tomorrow has to see another specialist. Scott and i got thru it but it was rough on all involved. I walk out of the hospital when it is over with my cell phone ringing. It is Phil saying "Hi mom, I have surgery Friday AM." This was not unexpected. This is on his knee from his wreck this summer. It has gotten progressively worse. My former MIL who is one who has forgiven me and I forgave her years ago who is taken charge of this. She will be with Phil and he will stay with her when the surgery is over.

I called her yesterday afternoon and was getting the scoop on the surgery. Phil didn't understand about how to give all the insurnace paperwork. So Peg was telling me to call and get it straitened out so we didn't have a mess later. the Billing person at the single day surgery said that they have lots of kids from Washburn who go thru this and if someone doesn't step in and deal with the insurnace it causes trouble later on. They were very grateful I was on top of this one.

Anyway I regress. During our talk I was telling her about our new church and how wonderful it is and how we enjoy it. I was telling her about the sermon from this past week and she made a comment that has had me thinking all night. "just because you forgive someone and set them free from the prison you have them locked in - doesn't mean you were wrong. In other words forgive everyone whether you feel you were right or wrong. Life is to short to lock those who have hurt you in a prison. Once you release them you release your self to live your life.

Faith trust pixie dust
Cathy

Philosophy

Life's too short to wake up in the morning with regrets, so..

Love the people who treat you right.

Forget about the ones who don't.

Believe that everything happens for a reason.

If you get a chance, TAKE IT!

If it changes your life, LET IT!

Nobody said it would be easy...

New Year

All I see on TV right now is ways to improve my health, my home, my relationships. Why is the new year always about a new you? I mean everyday is the first day of the rest of your life - why do people only feel they can start over at the beginning of the year?

When we moved to NM It was a new chapter. I lost a few pounds, organized parts of my house, extended teh olive branch to some people. Yea I could stand to lose a few more pounds, organize my house better, and work on repairing a few more relationships.

I guess my question is why is this only done at the beginning of the year? Instead of waking up on January 1 saying "it is a brand new year, what can I do to improve my life in this year?" Why can't we wake up every morning and say "it is a brand new day, what can I do to improve my life on this day?" Or better yet - "this is a brand new hour how can I improve my world in the next 60 minutes?

It all starts with baby steps. Not giant leaps. Look around what can you do in the next 5 minutes to improve your office space or your relationship with someone?

Faith Trust and Pixie Dust
C

What a day!!!!

boy am I tired. I was up at 5:30. No, not to help Santa unload presents. I couldn't sleep. I was excited. Excited to see the wonder and mystery in Drew's eyes when he came down the staircase to the land of conspicuous consumptation that awaited the family. I took the time before he woke up to light the tree, have several cups of coffee (the first alone - the rest with my mother in law).

With the first one I thought of Christmas past. I remembered the wonderment that Drew would feel when he came down stairs. I remembered the meals my mom fixed and my whole family came to join in. It is where I learned what being a "Wolff" was all about.

At this point my MIL joined me. She knew this Christmas was hard. I was away from my dad and sister and missing my mom something terriable. i just ached for her this year. ML started talking to me about what it was like growing up in my family. I told her about the big family get toghethers at the Cork Club with my parents, grand parents, Great Aunts, their husbands and families. I told her about the thanksgivings up at my cousin Kay's farm. It is at these events I think I really learned about family. There was a comraderie that I will never forget. It was the sharing of meals,(stealing sips of grandma's fruity alcholic drinks) listening to the older generations talk of people I never met but somehow they made me feel connected to had come before me.

ML and I then talked about Gib and my mom. Gib was ML's husband. He passed away before Scott and I were married. We talked about what role they would have had in Drew's life. We then started talking about Drew the hand God had in bringing him to us. Knowing that Drew was a special boy who would need lots of love, understanding, and patience that his birthmother would never be able to give him. I find it ironic that his given name was Gabriel and his birhtmother's name was Angel. We talked about how Drew's birth and what some would call coincidence (I call God) brought him to us.

We then talked about the day Phil would become a father and Scott and I grandparents. boy that was an interesting talk. We talked about what kind of a grandfather Scott would be. You can only imagine what we said. We talked about how Phil will be a great father raising his children with the love and understanding that we raised Phil with. I wondered out loud if I would be able to instill in them the sense of family that was passed on to me from future generations. I hope so. This part of the conversation reminded me of a toast my mom or dad used to say on Christmas Eve as we all raised our glass.

"To those who came before, those present today, and those yet to come.

I hope everyone had a magical and memorable holiday with the ones you love.

Here is wishing you faith, hope and pixie dust

Cathy

This is for the Birds

Husbands and kids have the holidays easy. We cook, clean, shop, wrap, in addition to our normal stuff. MY MIL and son are due in an hour from Kansas. So I am headed to pick them up at the train station. My washer broke last week and they were to be here at 1 today to fix it. Still not here. Scott had to come home to work from here to wait for the repair man so I can go get the relatives.

I love Christmas. My mom instilled in me a deep sense of family during the holidays. I have priced it and decided next year - we are going to Disney World and any of our family can join us. If they don't want to that is fine. But I will be sitting on Santa Mickey's lap this time next year.

update

I have been told it has been WAY to long since I updated. So here ya go

Phil was here for Thanksgiving. I was happy to have him here and happy to see h im go. WE had a great time just the 4 of us. It was nice to have some family time.

I am currently in Finals week. I should walk away with an A+ 2 B's and a C. Not bad for 40 years old. I am taking 18 hours next semester.

Drew is anxious for Christmas to get here.

Phil and Mary Lou get here Tuesday December 18. ML leaves December 26 and I don't know when Phil will be leaving. Sometime in January.

scott was accepted to UNM's PhD program. I will be married to a doctor in about 2 years.

Phil got his first speeding ticket a couple weeks ago in a school zone. the ironic part? It was a school zone my mom fought for when my sis was in school and had to cross Burlingame Road.

My Dad and Andrea are due in January for about 5 days. Carolyn is coming the end of Feburary. The Walkers are coming for Spring Break. The B&B is booking fast.

Oh yea and Drew and verbally spell his name.

Anderson Family Law part duex

I know I have been keeping everyone amused by the happenings at the old house in Kansas we are trying to sell. Are you ready for the latest?Let me back track a little. Drew's EEG last week was perfect. According to the doc we can't rule in or out seizure disorder. Just have to wait to see what happens.So thursday I was driving Drew to school and was in stop and go traffic. The cars in front of me started going I started going. the cars in front of me stopped - I kept going. I caused a 3 car pile up in rush hour traffic. One second I was going the next second - there was steam coming from the front of my car. There was an off duty cop who pulled up and took control. He kept asking if I needed Rescue because i was "emotional" - hysterical . ( my insurance agent calls it passionate) I couldnt get my brain to engage. I didn't seem to realize that everything on the seat had hit the floor. I finally pulled it together and called Scott. He got there in no time. He took Drew to school while I dealt with the police. I also called my friend Faith and she called a tow truck and told me where to have the car towed. Scott asked Drew if he was all right Drew said "yes I am fine, but I was scared". Scott asked what scared him His reply - "Mommy screaming". So that was thursday. I spent the day getting a rental and dealing with that. I only broke my pinky.

Fast forward to today. We gave some of the appliances from the old house to my dear friend Kim. Phil met Kim over there to help move them. Kim calls and says "we had to call the police" That freaked me out. Come to find out some vagrants had been sleeping in our backyard. They had been huffing spray paint. Kim and Phil found 20-30 zip loc bags full of dry gold and silver paint, blankets, pillows, underwear. Phil also discovered that someone had broken the lock on the storage shed and took some really odd things - a fish tank, some of drews old toys really bizarre stuff. They even took the trash can that had been in the side yard.The lawn mower and grill were still there. No one had been in the house. The police told Phil and Kim that they had broken up a homeless ring that was sleeping in the woods behind a nearby grocery store and it appeared they had moved to our house!!! The police are now patrolling and stopping twice a shift to check on things. Only one more chapter in how not to move across country and leave a house empty.

more balloons

shapes

this past week has been the 36th Annual Balloon Fiesta. It was amazing. the hardest part is choosing what pics to post. so for the next couple days I am just going to post pics.

balloon pics

Here are a few pictures from our balloon chase on Saturday. We are not scheduled to be back at Balloon Fiesta Park until either Wed night or Thursday AM. I will keep the pictures updated. Allan and Peg Hazlett are due tomorrow night or Wed AM. I am very excited to see them. They are Drew's Godparents and my second set of parents.

Fun Morning

We had a fun morning. We woke up and turned on the TV. The local media was carrying the opening day of the 36th annual Balloon fiesta. over 800 balloons from 22 countries are here. On the spur of the moment we jumped in the car and headed toward Rio Rancho. We did not go to the park but instead drove thru Corralles and up into Rio Rancho. I snapped pictures while scott drove. We saw a balloon land in the middle of the road (the wind blew it there when it tried to land in a field) We were on the search for the Darth Vader balloon - it was shown on TV as inflated and ready to go up. But we never saw it. I think that the winds picked up at the last second and they decided not to fly it. I will post pictures later this weekend.

On another note. Phil got 2 tickets to 2 seperate Garth Brooks Concerts. He is going to sell them. My sister actually got 4 tickets to one show and she is selling 2 to Phil at cost. He is a pretty popular guy around Washburn right now. Hope he doesn't fall asleep like the last time he saw Garth Brooks.

you have heard of Murphy's law?

Well we have decided to rename it Anderson's law. Our relator called today to tell us she had held an open house over the weekend. She said it was all right but there was no electricity!!!!!
I couldn't figure it out. I had been paying the bill. so I got online and looked at the electric company website. It showed our FINAL BILL. WHAT THE HECK!?!?!!? So I called the electric company. AFter being on hold for 30 minutes I got to a live person. the lady couldn't figure it out either. So she put me on hold to investigate. Are you ready for this?

SOME ONE STOLE OUR METER!!!!!!!

Yes you read that right - someone stole our electric meter. Not sure how or when but someone did. I was shocked. All I could do was call my friend Kim and laugh. What else could I do? It will take 3-5 days for a new meter to be installed.

Another First

Don't laugh.This is the first time in my life this has happened. I know it won't be the last. It is just the beginning.

I am feeling a momentary panic. I don't know where Phil is. This weekend is Brotherhood weekend for the Frat. I talked to him yesterday afternoon before the activities started. I knew I would not talk to him until at least tonight. Brotherhood weekend is for bonding and team building with in theFrat. The frat bans alcohol for the weekend for the older guys so I know he isn't drinking. But for the first time in my life I honestly have no clue what he is doing. It is the longest I have gone with out talking to him since we left Kansas.

he has gone on trips and I havne't know his exact location but I have known the general area and what he was doing.

I know he is fine. I checked his bank account and his CC was used at CiCi's pizza today. It is just a strange feeling letting go.

Hit home - my sister will never understand.

This came to me today and really struck a chord...This is what my sister will never understand.

.**************************************************Perspective: The Invisible WomanBy Nicole JohnsonIt started to happen gradually. One day I was walking my son Jake to school. I was holding his hand and we were about to cross the street when the crossing guard said to him, "Who is that with you, young fella?""Nobody," he shrugged."Nobody?" The crossing guard and I laughed. My son is only 5, but as we crossed the street I thought, "Oh my goodness, nobody?"

I would walk into a room and no one would notice. I would say something to my family - like "Turn the TV down, please" - and nothing would happen.Nobody would get up, or even make a move for the remote. I would stand there for a minute, and then I would say again, a little louder, "Would someone turn the TV down?" Nothing.

Just the other night my husband and I were out at a party. We'd been there for about three hours and I was ready to leave. I noticed he was talking to a friend from work. So I walked over, and when there was a break in the conversation, I whispered, "I'm ready to go when you are."He just kept right on talking.That's when I started to put all the pieces together.

I don't think he can see me. I don't think anyone can see me. I'm invisible.It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response, the way one of the kids will walk into the room while I'm on the phone and ask to be taken to the store. Inside I'm thinking, "Can't you see I'm on the phone?"Obviously not! No one can see if I'm on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner, because no one can see me at all.I'm invisible.

Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more: Can you fix this? Can you tie this? Can you open this? Some days I'm not a pair of hands; I'm not even a human being. I'm a clock to ask, "What time is it?" I'm a satellite guide to answer, "What number is the Disney Channel?" I'm a car to order, "Right around 5:30, please."I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the eyes that studied history and the mind that graduated summa cum laude -but now they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again.

She's going she's going she's gone!

One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a friend from England. Janice had just gotten back from a fabulous trip, and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in. I was sitting there, looking around at the others all put together so well. It was hard not to compare and feel sorry for myself as I looked down at my out-of-style dress; it was the only thing I could find that was clean. My unwashed hair was pulled up in a banana clip and I was afraid I could actually smell peanut butter in it. I was feeling pretty pathetic, when Janice turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package, and said, "I brought you this."

It was a book on the great cathedrals of Europe. I wasn't exactly sure why she'd given it to me until I read her inscription: "To Charlotte, with admiration for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees."In the days ahead I would read - no, devour - the book. And I would discover what would become for me, four life-changing truths, after which I could pattern my work:* No one can say who built the great cathedrals - we have no record of their names.*

These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never see finished.* They made great sacrifices and expected no credit.* The passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of God saw everything.A legendary story in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the cathedral while it was being built, and he saw a workman carving a tiny bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man, "Why are you spending so much time carving that bird into a beam that will be covered by the roof? No one will ever see it." And the workman replied, "Because God sees."

I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place. It was almost as if I heard God whispering to me, "I see you, Charlotte. I see the sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does. No act of kindness you've done, no sequin you've sewn on, no cupcake you've baked, is too small for me to notice and smile over. You are building a great cathedral, but you can't see right now what it will become."

At times, my invisibility feels like an affliction. But it is not a disease that is erasing my life. It is the cure for the disease of my own self-centeredness. It is the antidote to my strong, stubborn pride.I keep the right perspective when I see myself as a great builder. As one of the people who show up at a job that they will never see finished, to work on something that their name will never be on. The writer of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals could ever be built in our lifetime because there are so few people willing to sacrifice to that degree.

When I really think about it, I don't want my son to tell the friend he's bringing home from college for Thanksgiving, "My mom gets up at 4 in the morning and bakes homemade pies, and then she hand bastes a turkey for three hours and presses all the linens for the table." That would mean I'd built a shrine or a monument to myself. I just want him to want to come home. And then, if there is anything more to say to his friend, to add, "You're gonna love it there."

As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we're doing it right. And one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel, not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has been added to the world by the sacrifices of invisible women.

college observations

I have been back in college for a week and a half. There have been many intersting observations. These are just the four that come to mind tonight.

1. If kids were allowed to take notes on their cell phone they would have better notes. That is all I see kids do. Text during class, between class. It is continual. I hope they are on unlimted text plans because otherwise it would be a horrid bill.

2. Kids do wear their pajamas to class. Today I saw a kid - at least 20 - wearing a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle shirt and matching pajama bottoms to class (at 2 in the afternoon) I guess I should be grateful that he didn't have on the Raphel Slippers.

3. Taking notes has changed. My teachers use power point in the classroom. So before everyclass I am required to go to VISTA (UNM version of Blackboard) and print off the presentation. The teachers leave blanks on my version. Then during class I just fill in the blanks. I am not sure if rention is better but boy it sure is easier. We will see how well this works after my first tests.

4. This goes to any mom who happens to be going back to school at Washburn this sememester. If you hear my son talk the way I hear the boys at UNM talk - you have my permission to smack him up side the head and tell him "Your mother could be listening" I am appalled at the language the kids (esp. boys use) I ahve heard every cuss word known to man since I have started back to school and kids don't seem to care who is listening to them. It is horrid. I know they are away from home but if their mom's could hear them they would get grounded or their mouth washed out with soap. Please kids - you never know who could be sitting near you listening to your conversation. The more you talk like that with your friends the more difficult it will be to break the habit when you are in the work place. And there is nothing appealing about how many cuss words you can say in a sentence. If you can't say it in front of your mother then there is no need to say it .

New Mexico Birthday parties

Drew has been invited to 2 birhtday parties this weekend. One for a kid whose mom works with Scott. the other for a little boy who is in Drew's play group.

Today was the party for J - The one whose mom works with Scott. The little boy was turing 4. It was held at a local pizza place - similar to Chuck E Cheese. Scott had told me that parties for mexican families were much different than what I would be used to. He wasn't kidding!!!!
The table was set up for 15 kids plus 10 adults. Then the mom had gone to 4 booths and put reserved signs on them for adults. Familie and friends started to arrive. Oh my goodness. There were grand parents, aunt, uncles, cousins, neices, nephews, second cousins twice removed. You name it they were there. I think there were only 3 kids who were not related to J. Every person was carrying a gift bag for J. I have seen fewer presents at weddings. Paris hilton would be jealous. There were not enough chair/booths for all the people. The kids were given tokens and off they went. Then the pizza's started to arrive. I lost count at 8. But I know there were more. I at first thought it was only J's party that was like this then I looked around the restaurant. There 6-8 other parties going on and they are all the same. Moutains of pizza and cake and more gifts than any child could think of on Christmas morning let alone a birthday party.

scott said most birthday's for local families are like this. Holidays and Birthdays are big events. When a girl turns 15 there is a special party (like a Bat Mitzvah). Families plan for this party and it is carried out similar to a wedding.

Extended Family is big down here. almost like mini villiages raising children. It was interesting to watch. scott says this was small compared to some he has attended when he was here before. I can't imagine hosting a party like that - i finally have a house big enough for it but the expense and the mess just aren't worth it. While I won't be hosting a party for 40+ forDrew's 6th birthday he knows he is loved in New Mexico or Kansas or where ever his family may be.

I think it is happening

UHOH I think it is happening - against my best efforts. In the last week I have noticed when I drive I actually know where I am going. I don't have to get out my map. If someone gives me cross streets I am pretty confident I can get there.I just always remember the mountains are to the East. Iknow that the city was built on a grid and all major instersections are one mile apart. We are having dinner with Tom, Faith and Clara tonight and when Faith told me where the pizza place was I knew exactly where it was. (applause please)

Last night there was a grass fire behind the volcanos by where we live. I looked at Scott and said " that is the other side of the Mesa - so we are fine." He kind of smirked.

I have learned this is the land of manana(tomorrow) which for those who are transplants(most of the caucasian population) it is irritating. Expecting a repair man then maybeyou will see them between 8-4 next thursday but most definelty by the following friday unless it is deemed a fishing day then who knows when you will see them.

Want to see balloons in the AM? Must be under 70 degrees or it is too hot and they can't go up. Looking for a missing body - check the Rio Grande River. Want good Pizza - Dion's or Marios. good mexican? Hot Talmales in Rio Ranco. Chinese/Thai/vietnemse? Golden Banana has great Pad Thai. Best cinnamon rolls and home made tortillas? Definetly the Frontier on Route 66 across from the University. Have Blue Cross Insurance - then you can't use Presbiterian hospital. Couldn't come to a contract agreement. The just ousted the Mayor of Rio Rancho for misapporpriation of funds. The Governer has been gone 3 out of 4 days campaining for president.

Boy, you would think I was becoming at home in albuquerque. Who knew?
But I will always miss Kansas

Drew's thoughts on school

Drew has been in Pre K for a week now. He goes from 8:30-3:30 everyday. He has some very serious thoughts on going to school...

I picked him up from his first day and was chit chatting away as I was driving home. I was asking all the typical mommy questions. Finally he says "mommy will you please be quiet I need to rest. Going to school is hard work" He promptly fell asleep for the last 10 minutes of the ride home and slept for 45 minutes once we got to the house.

Last Friday was a rough day for him. he thought this school was going to be like the Art center and be more like Montesorri type class. It is far from that. He has lesson time, play time, nap time. It is very sturctured. He had a few melt down episodes during the day that caused him to lose his movie privledges for the evening when I heard about them. He also lost going to his fave pizza place to celebrate the first week of school.

Since then he has been fine - now that he understands what is expected of him.
So today I pick him up and we are driving home. He asks to go to McDonalds as a treat for being good at school today. I said no but if he was good tomorrow we would go to Dion's for pizza as a reward for a good week and no bad reports. He asked me if he had to go to school again tomorrow and I said "yes you do". He looked at me and in the most increduolus voice asked "when will this end?"

Not for a long time my little prince, not for a long long time.

Faith Trust and Pixie dust
C

New Era

Well Drew starts school today. Actually it is pre - k but it is all day. He should be in kindergarten but emotionally he is not ready. His teachers in Lawrence last year advised one more year of Preschool to get him ready.

We have a concern tho - not about the school. We like the school. But when we went for meet the teacher the other night Drew had a major allergic reaction to something in the room. We think it was the hay from the bunny cages. His eyes swelled and his nose started running something horrid. The only other time I saw him have an allergic reaction like this was when he was helping Carolyn feed the horses in the barn.

The doc added a second allergy medicine to see if that helped. I will be warning the teachers to call me if there is a problem.

Drew is so excited about school that I don't want there to be a problem for his sake. He packed his lunch lsat night but told me to hold off on the sandwich until this AM. Was worried it would be "icky" if I made it too soon.

This is an emotional day for Scott. I am a little sad but I am also ready to go back to school myself. As long as Drew doesn't have any major reactions to the bunny hay.

My sister

Right after Phil's wreck I was dealing with the insurance garbage that has to be dealt with. I made the mistake of commenting to my sister that the insurance people were driving me crazy. She asked me why I wasn't making Phil deal with it. I tried to explain that it was my car and that I was the only one who could take care of it. She then started accusing me of always stealing Phil's life lessons. She said he was 18 and needed to deal with things himself. I said yes he is 18 but like all of us he still needs mom and dad. She told me I had a mental problem because I would not let go of Phil. She started screeeching at me about how I sucked as a parent. She then said "no you just suck in general". I have not talked to her since.

She and her husband CHOSE not to have kids. I think that if you make that decision that is fine but that is also the day you CHOOSE to not give advice/critisim to those of us that do have kids. Until you walk a few thousand miles in the shoes of a parent you have nothing to say on that subject.

This is my SISTER who said these things to me. Would you say something like that to a stranger? Why in the world would you say something like that to a family member? While I know what she said is in no way true (I have raised one awesome son and have another in the wings) it totally pissed me off.

She has not apologized (she thinks she is right) so she won't. She has done things like this before and every time I forgive her. But this time it is different. She critizied something that I take very seriously - parenting. I decided that like a dog I can only be kicked so many times. And I am done. She did send me a message via Myspace last night (like there was nothing wrong and her in her mind I am sure there isn't) to update my page - but she needed my password. Somehow i don't think she has re-earned my trust to give this up to her. It will take a long time to earn my trust or my respect again.

Faith Trust Pixie dust
C

Political correctness

Political correctness is a doctrine fostered by a delusional, illogical minority, and rabidly promoted by an unscrupulous mainstream media, which holds forth the proposition that it is entirely possible to pick up a turd by the clean end."

another day.

Phil left today. Off to Kansas to go to school. He will do well. I hope. He left me a thank you note that I found when I was cleaning his room. It was nice. Made me cry. He is to come for Thanksgiving.

Now time to get Drew thru school. He starts PRE K in 2 weeks. I go back to school August 20. Drew is looking forward to school. He will be going all day. I am not sure what I am going to do with myself. STudy a lot. But I realized that for 2 days Drew will be inschool and I won't be. I have no idea what I will do. I have no friends so I will be alone for all day. The house is staying pretty clean and ML will have just left so it will be clean. I guess I will stay home, knit, watch TV and just be alone with me for a change. In Kansas I craved alone time but here it feels weird. I guess because in Kansas I always had something to do or soem place to be that alone time was scarse. Here I have so much alone time I get sick of it.

Off to order dinner for Scott and Drew. I don't feel well so I am gonig to bed when Scott gets home.

Faith trust pixie dust
C

Pictures of the car and other stuff.

Here are pics from the wreck. Phil is lucky to be walking. We called the doc back in Lawrence last night. Phil is developing some unusual indentations in his leg. She had us give him a massive dose of asprin last night and if it is not better we are to take him to the ER this AM. She is wondering if a blood clot is developing.

We went on one last back to school shopping trip yesterday before all this medical stuff happened. His suit got trashed in the wreck so he needed a new one for the fraternity. He also needed jeans, shirts and a new suitcase (thanks TSA). I told him this was the last mother/son shopping trip of his school career. It is time for the tradition to be passed on to Drew, who starts kindergarten next year.

I have gotten enrolled at UNM. I have opted to take the needed/dreaded math classes at the local community college right down the street. cheaper and should not be as intense. I am not a big fan of UNM campus but at least I will be able to complete my degree and get my Master's in the next 4 years.

I have finally found a way to get rid of GWB. My dad sent me this and maybe if we all do it our outlook will be better.

. Open a new folder on your computer.

2. Name it "George W Bush"

3. Send it to the trash.

4. Empty the trash.

5. Your PC will ask you, "Do you really want to get rid of"George W. Bush?"

6. Firmly Click "Yes."

7. Feel better!

PS: Tomorrow we'll do Dick Cheney...

Faith,trust Pixie dust

C