Summer Family Vacation....

It's been a while. I'm sorry! If things could get just a bit busier, you know? Anyway, we are getting ready to take my kids to Seaworld next week. They are SO excited and counting down the days. It's like Disney World to them. It's too cute. Every day, Logan goes to our calendar and show's his sister the days. Here's a brief snippet of the conversation!

Kylee-"We're going to Seaworld tomorrow!"
Logan-"No, Kylee. We're going in, one, two, three...eight days!"
Kylee-"Ugh! That's so a long time!"
Logan-"No, it's eight days! Then we get to stay in a hotel!"

I think they're more excited about the hotel stay than anything. See, they've been to Seaworld before, but since we only live about 3 hours away, we usually drive up in the morning, then come home in the evening. Well, the big request for vacation this year was, "Mommy, can we PLEASE stay at a hotel?" How could I resist such cute pleading faces? So, I booked 2 nights in a hotel smack in the middle of down town, right on the river walk for them. Yes, I splurged and spent WAY more than I really should have, but come on...they don't get to stay in a hotel very often, and really, it's the River Walk, parking is insane down there! Brian and I went to San Antonio for our weekend escape, back in February, and spent $30 on parking ALONE! (That cost almost as much as our FINE DINING including wine!) Sheesh! So, the hotel has slightly cheaper parking than the hourly rates at the mall. We have plans to take them to dinner on the River Walk, since they haven't seen it since they were babies still in strollers. PS, strollers and the river walk do NOT go hand in hand...that place is NOT stroller friendly. Needless to say, I'm reall excited about this entire trip. :)

What are your plans this summer?

Hi! Long time no see....right?

I try very hard to be a good person. I try to be a good mother, a good wife, a good friend, and a good employee. I don't expect that I'm even remotely close to being "good" at any of those, but I do try very hard. We'll take work, for example. I don't call in unless it's ABSOLUTELY necessary. This translates to, I haven't missed a day of work due to call in in almost a year. I work very hard, and I try my very best to lead by example. Recently I was asked to train a team, something I've never done before, and it was kind of a last minute deal. No big...I'll take that challenge. I worked very hard to teach my class to the very best of my abilities. I feel very proud, too, because I saw light bulbs go off and the look of dawning comprehension took place. That really made my whole day. When one of my, we'll call them students for lack of a better word, tells me, "That is the first time this has made sense" and follows it up with a good teacher comment...it makes it worth it! Right? So, now we're getting to the root of the issue. I was in a training of my own last week, in which I was being trained. I was so disappointed in this training. After being in that situation, and working my tail off, it really irritated me how some people can take a totally lax attitude towards it.

Every time I asked a question, an eye was rolled or I'd get a "Because I said so" answer. Well, I've got news for you, "Because I said so" surely doesn't fly with me. Once, when I was about 8-ish, I asked my mom why and how Vacuums suck. "It just does" was the response. Sorry, but I'm very inquisitive, so guess what my little 8-ish year old self did? Yep...I took it apart. I never thought my mom would stop screaming at me for that one. Needless to say, I also put it back together. I may not have discovered the full "why" and "how" of the workings of a vacuum cleaner, but I can take one apart, fix it, and put it back together, to this very day. (Don't believe me? Ask my mom.)

So, as you can tell, when I got the "it-is-what-it-is" attitude, I had to keep pushing back for more information. Now tell me this....why train but not tell the "why" of it? I guess even at 32, I'm an inquisitive 5 year old at heart. It just disappoints me that I'm trying to learn something that you're teaching, and you're annoyed at me asking for more information.

The training is now done, and I feel a bit more comfortable with the issues...after pushing, some answers were given. I take comfort in the fact that somehow...I helped by asking those questions, and demanding those answers. We'll see...right?

Howdy Ya'll!

Hi! All is well here, finally starting to slow down a little at work. Only this slow down is short lived since we're doing a "shake up". *sigh*

I have re-written the first almost 6 chapters of Inheritance. I have 13, 722 words and 66 pages (roughly). I currently have been giving it a break, since I have 2 other stories bouncing around in my head. The other two stories are romance-ish, but they have a bit more "gore" and stuff in them. They're for definitely more mature audiences, and probably not something most would be interested in. LOL I have a morbid mind, apparently.

My daughter was diagnosed with ADD on Monday. My son was diagnosed with ADHD last February. I wish that at least one of them could take after their Non-ADD mom, but alas, that didn't happen. Kylee starts her meds on Saturday. Keep your fingers crossed that this is just the thing that can help her concentrate.

We've been passing an ear infection around my house. Surprisingly enough, ear infections are supposedly not contagious. (I beg to differ) Of course, I was supposedly never able to conceive. LOL

Money seems to be a big issue for everyone I know, right now. My Second Annual Retreat may be cancelled. It makes me sad, but I understand.

I've had some strange dreams lately. Really strange. I don't know if it's because I'm a strange person to begin with, or if my hormones are shifting. *shrugs*

I'm on a weight loss journey, and I suck at updating my progress on the various sites I've been on. I've lost 10 pounds. It's a slow-go process, but I'm feeling WONDERFUL! My hubby took me to San Antonio for Valentine's Weekend, and we were able to walk and climb a ton of stairs without even becoming winded. I love that I can run up the stairs at work, and not feel flushed. Also, my legs look AMAZING. My jeans are too big in the waist, but still tight on my ghetto booty and thighs. LOL Pretty soon, I'll have "butt gap" in my jeans! ROFL

I'm rambling as much as possible because I'm notoriously bad about updating anything these days. Let me know if you're interested in my morbid books, okay?

Why I love Romance Novels....

I love reading. I think it's safe to say that everyone and their grandma knows that. At the risk of digression, I specifically want to talk about why I LOVE romance novels. When I was younger, my mother read romance novels, and since I had just finished Black Beauty I was bored and wanted something to read. I was maybe 10 or 11 at the latest. I stumbled across one of my mom's books. The book was titled, Savage Ecstacy by Janelle Taylor. I still remember the book. It was my first look at love, and made me fall in love with American Indians. Yes, I was entirely too young to be reading a book that obviously had description of the "sex" act, but I secreted it away and devoured the book. I took to sneaking my mom's books without her knowledge, and had quite the collection of Janelle Taylor's under my bed.

One day, or I should say, one night, I was hunkered down in my bed reading. My mom walked into my room, and seeing me stuff the book under the covers, inquires, "What's that?"

"Nothing" I stammer.
"I'm not stupid. What are you hiding?" Mom yanks the blankets back to reveal...duh, duh, duuuuh...a book. She picks it up, looks at the cover, sees what page I'm on, and says, "This one is one of my favorites. I take it you're the book thief? Why are you hiding it?"

To be honest, I wasn't sure my mom would LET me read it. Sure, reading about the "sex act" at such a young age probably wasn't wise, but my mom was kind of hippy-ish in how she raised her children. We understood how and where babies came from long before we even had to ask. At the same time, I was smart enough to know that my young age may have made MOST parents think twice about what I was reading. So, I honestly told her why I was hiding the books. My mother felt that I was old enough to understand the difference between reality and fiction, right and wrong, and left me to use my judgement. After understanding that I had her approval, I became a reading machine.

My favorite past time is reading. Ever since my young age, I've LOVED to read about, well, love. My infatuation with cowboys and indians slowly faded, and I discovered other eras, and traveled through time using author's imaginations to view people and life from times passed, and sometimes times yet to come. I love how an author can research fashions, local slang, how daily life was for a period, and then romanticize it. Yes, it's common knowledge in the Romance Fiction world that there's really not a romance story that hasn't been told, but I love reading how an author can write and make that story her own with her own touches. Typical Romeo and Juliet becomes something more. I love that when an author writes so well that you can feel the pain that the characters are feeling when their hearts are broken, or you can laugh out loud at an antic that maybe only you would understand. I love to cry, hope, despair, laugh, and rejoice with the characters, and even though 99% of the time, there's a happy ending, life is PERFECT, and everyone lives happily ever after, it's still a fun journey for me.

I highly recommend these authors:

Julia Quinn-She's probably one of my most favorite of all times. One of my favorite books is The Secret Diary of Miss Miranda Cheever. Of course, I can't say that I dislike anything she writes. The Bridgerton Series is near and dear to my heart, especially Book 6. (hehehe)

Julie Garwood-Ever since I read her "wild west" story, For The Roses,  I simply couldn't put her down. Other recommended titles, (other than everything she writes) Prince Charming, Castles, and for a modern touch, the "Music" series.

Catherine Coulter-I actually wrote to this author, and she graciously responded. She's amazing. I highly recommend the "Sherbrooke" series, and all of her modern stuff.

Nora Roberts-Oh yeah, this list wouldn't be complete without Nora! I simply ADORE her books. I love how she can put a supernatural spin on things. I fell in love with Ireland through her. I recommend the "Sisters" series, and the "Key" series. Of course, read everything she has!

If you're into more paranormal or supernatural, I recommend Christine Feehan-I was turned on to her by a friend of mine, and I'm STUCK! The entire "Game" series has me hook, line, and sinker.

Charlaine Harris-If you've seen True Blood on HBO, or even if you haven't, the "Sookie Stackhouse" series is WONDERFUL. I'll be the first to admit I'm not fond of the first person form of literature, but I fell in love with Sookie and all of her adventures!

Stephenie Meyer-I haven't met a girl or woman who has NOT read the "Twilight" series, but if you haven't, please do. This is an amazing story, and I just fell head over heels in love, all over again! I also recommend Mrs. Meyer's other book, The Host.

I know that these aren't for everyone, but if you love...love...why not read about it?

Silly Me

My sister and I threw a passion party on Friday evening. It was sooooo fun! I'm ever so thankful to Melissa S. for making the long drive to be our consultant. But, earlier in the evening, I did something really silly. My sister asked me to bring her some scented candles because she didn't have any. So, I grabbed my candles that I purchased from Scentsable Yum's! When I got to her place, I set them on the counter. I see another candle on the counter and say, "Oh! I thought you didn't have any candles. What's this?" I preceeded to tilt the candle to smell it...only...I ended up pouring hot candle wax all down the front of my shirt, into my bra, down my tummy, and on my neck, necklace, and chin. Yeah. Niiiice. My sister is all, "STUPID!!! Did you not just see me blow that candle out?" I'm ever so thankful that it was a soy candle, so the wax didn't burn me, but I must say, I smelled pleasantly. I ended up having to boil my necklace in water to melt the wax off of it. Soooo silly of me. It was very hilarious.

On a side note, I was soooo happy to see my BFF. We hadn't seen one another since her hubby's birthday in December. On a second side not, there are other BFF's out there that I haven't seen in some time also. *ahem....Rene*

Anyway, this is just a short blog so that you can laugh at me.

What's been going on....

It's been a while since I wrote, I'm sorry. Things are very busy and crazy in my world at the moment. So, I'll do a little re-cap on things going on.

First, We'll start with funny conversations I've had with my son.

L-"Mommy, my patteren is cool."
Me-"It's pat-tern, not patter-en."
L-"I like patteren better."
Me-"Patteren is not good English."
L-"Is it good Spanish?"

The other day, I was taking my son to his appt, and somehow we got on the subject of dating. (Keep in mind, he's only 7.) So he says, "I don't think I want a girlfriend." At which I respond, "I'm sure someday, you'll want a girlfriend."

"Why would I want one?"
"Because that's what boys and girls do. They have boyfriends/girlfriends, then they find someone they love and get married."
"Oh. I think I want kids some day."
"Oh really? Well, I hope you're at least married before you do have kids."
"Oh. Well, then I guess I'll HAVE to have a girlfriend one day."

Another....

"Mom, I love school. I wish I could sleep there."
"Well, when you go to college, you can sleep there."
"No! I don't want to go to college!"
"Why not?"
"Because, they have books there!"
"You have books at school, now."
"Yeah, but if I go to college, I'll miss you a lot."
"You'll love college, and you may not miss me so much."
"Mommy, I love you, and I WILL miss you. So, when I go to college, you can move with me and read all my books for me."

Sometimes being a mom is SO cool.

Hubby and I went to San Antonio for the weekend. It was so nice. It's also his birthday weekend, so he received lots of presents from me. He's so spoiled.

My sister watched our kids for us....and then decided she wanted to go to San Antonio, so she left her dog with me. Good grief. This dog is a Jack Russell Terrier...or should I say, TERROR! He's so hyper, and he makes MY dog hyper which makes my kids crazy, and hubby pissy. JOY! Happy Valentine's Day to me!!!

Tomorrow we're taking the kids shopping and to lunch for Hubby's Birthday. Benihana, it's like his favorite place in the entire world. I, personally, think Asian food is gross, but for him, I'll go.

Anyway, I'm sure there was much more going on, and I'm sure I could have been more fun, but I'm being bellowed at to come get the Hyper Dog. *sigh* Save me!

OMG, 10 pounds gone!!!

Weighed in...lost an additional 2 pounds. Hey, I'm damn proud of that! 2 pounds a week is standard! Of course, now I'm uberly addicted to the Biggest Loser, so tonight, as I was on my elliptical, I was watching my inspiration on TV. I'm now up to 30 minutes!!!

Saturday evening I went dancing for the first time in ages. What I'm proud of is that I was able to dance for a very long time without becoming overly tired. Also, my thighs were burning for 2 whole days! WOOT! I haven't been able to really dance in a long, long time. I'm thrilled! As soon as I hit the 15 pounds gone mark, I'm going to be getting a nice hair cut. (Okay, so I'd probably get a haircut anyway, since I need it, but I'm waiting until I've "earned" it, and maybe getting highlights...who knows?)

Brian and I are planning a very nice couple of days away around Valentine's Day. I'm so excited! We haven't been alone since our small weekend trip to Navasota last summer!

I attended my first Passion Party...learned where the G spot was. Seriously...I had NO idea. How is it I've lived 30 years, and had no idea where things were located on my own body? How disappointing. Anyway, it was a good time. Really. It was fun. It was, at times, FUNNY, but it was also fun. You never realize that others have the same questions, concerns, and preferences as you do, until you're in a room full of girls talking about sex. Seriously. I learned quite a lot. In saying that, My sister and I will be hosting our very first Passion Party on Feb 19. (Be there, or be square!) I'm actually excited. I love my husband dearly, and anything to make our "alone" time more fun...I'm game! :)

Now that I've ventured into uncharted territories, I just wanted to say a big THANK YOU to all of you who read my blog! It means a ton to me to be able to share myself with you! Have a great Tuesday!

You Never Know....

Every day, I wake up, go through the motions, and move on with my day. I plan, focusing on tomorrow, next week, three months from now, but not really noticing what is going on today. It's a shame that we think this way.

Last evening I discovered that one of my co-workers suddenly passed away. It was a very sad day. Please say a prayer for his family, friends, and co-workers. It's never easy to lose someone.

WEIGH IN!!!

Stepping on the scale, I was terrified of what I'd find. Even though I've lost 1 inch in my thighs, 1/4 inch on my arms, and 1/2 inch in my waist (Yes, my thighs go first....go figure) I was terrified I'd not actually see a result!

Alas....I did it anyway...after 7 days of working out, 9 days of 0 carbonated beverages and 0 caffeine I have lost 8 pounds!!!!!!

I literally started crying all over my hubby...who incidentally lost 10 pounds in 7 days. He was thrilled to death for me! I cried! I was so excited! So happy! Did you feel the earth shake when I jumped up and down and nearly broke my scale????

Here's to weight loss!!!!  Thank everyone for all of their support.

Sometimes...you just wanna punch someone in the face.....

This morning on one of my favorite radio shows, they were talking about things that people do that make you want to punch them in the face. So, naturally, I began thinking about this. I'm not usually a violent person, but I had to admit that there were certain times and certain people that just deserved a great big punch in the face.

With that being said, Here are some reasons I'd really LIKE to punch someone in the face. Feel free to expound upon this!

1)  One Uppers--those people that seem to think that if you're happy, they're happy-ER. Put it this way, "My kid made the all A & B honor roll!" "Oh, really? Well, MY kid made the All A Honor roll!" These are the people who can't stand that someone else is talking about good fortune. These are the folks who's kids are better than your kids, car, house, husband, is better than yours, and if you're happy, they are just plain HAPPIER!

2)  Complainers--I like to call these the "Luke Skywalker Group." (If you have ever seen the original Star Wars, you'll know what I mean...Luke sure is a whiny one.) These are the people who feel the need to bitch, whine, and complain about EVERYTHING. These are also the staters of the obvious. Summer in Houston is hotter than Hell, and these are the ones going, "OMG, It's SO HOT! I can't believe how HOT it is!" (Really?) These are also the people who like to corner you in a room so that you can't escape, and start prattling off the ten thousand things that are wrong in their life, this world, work, etc.

3)  Bad Drivers--I don't really think I need to explain this one. Do you?

4)  People who hurt children, women, or animals--These people deserve more than a punch in their face.

So, I'm fairly sure I could go on and on...and I've discovered I have vaguely violent tendencies towards people...but what about you? Who just sets you off?

My Turbulant Blessings....

Children are a blessing. Proof that there is definitely a God. Children are also totally and completely insane. I've come to this conclusion by experience. See, I'm mother of 2 school aged children. Bubba is 7 and Sissy is 6. I had my children 11 months and 3 weeks to the very day apart. Yes, I think I was quite possibly inebriated at the time of conception. *winks* At any rate, I've discovered that there are so many things they don't tell you about when you have children. When I say "they" I'm talking about all those wise women who felt the need to give you unsolicited advice at the drop of a hat when the bun was still in the oven, but laugh their asses off at you now that the child is talking.

See, there are things that were not included in my "Mommy Manual." Oh, you mean, you didn't get a "Mommy Manual?" Well, neither did I, but if I did, there's definitely things that are missing. For example:

Projectile Vomiting was invented by a 3 month old.
You'll never eat anything mushy and green again after changing a poopy diaper.
You'll never guess the quantity and size of things that can fit down a toilet without clogging it.
Baby gates do not keep children out....
Sleep is over rated.
Legos can fit into noses, ears, and apparently taste really good.
Babies have Mexican Jumping beans in their bodies.
Children are better listeners than you think...even if it does take you 15 times to tell them to clean their rooms, the second you're around friends one of your "blessings" spouts off about mommy and daddy's "Alone" time.
The word "No" is just the beginning, after that comes, "I'm not eating that." Followed by "I didn't do it", "It wasn't me", and "the cat did it."
Brothers and sisters fight, Sisters and sisters fight, Brothers and brothers fight...there is no "Non fighting combination"
You cringe when you hear yourself repeating the words your mother told you.
Forget punishment, Bribery works a hell of a lot better.
Leave a child alone in a room with baby powder, and you can bet that the entire room will be white when you come back.

Lately, my "blessings" have been fighting like cats and dogs. It's a CONSTANT battle royal in my home. Seriously. It's even better now because they're older and use bigger words. I never quite knew that a 6 year old girl could be so dramatic, and that a 7 year old boy could pick on said 6 year old girl until she tries to pummel him with the nearest heavy object she can find.

Of course, in all of this, they do that amazing thing where they're snuggled up on the couch playing Wii, and you think, "Awww, I have the best, most awesomely well behaved children in the entire world," just as one bonks the other with the Wii Remote. *Sigh*

Old People and Good Food.

Last night, my mother made Fried Eggplant. Now, I, personally, LOVE eggplant. It's yummy. So, in my attempt to get my children to try new things, I put a small piece on their plate.

"What is this?" My son asks.
"It's fried eggplant. It's kind of like a potatoe chip, except squishy." I tell him
"I'm not eating that, mommy." He exclaims.
"You never know if you'll like it until you try it." I retort.

So, my son picks up the egg plant, disects it, and finally decides to put it into his mouth. The entire time he's examing and trying the eggplant, my daughter is sitting there staring at him and the eggplant with utter disgust. Finally, my son looks up, "Okay, this is pretty good! Sissy, you can eat it now." I think it's cute that my son will act the martyr to see if the food is good before his sister eats it. So, my daughter digs in.

A few moments later, I hear, "You know Sissy, old people sure can cook some good stuff, right Granny?"

Now, I'm not overly sure how my mom liked being called old, but she took the compliment with grace. I, of course, about died laughing.

This brings to mind how children's minds work. I used to babysit a little 5 year old girl and her older brother and younger sister. One day, Lil Miss comes up to me and says, "Ya-ya, how old are you?" So, I respond, "I'm eighteen." Her eyes turned into saucers and she says, "Ya-ya! You're OLD!" Gee, thanks. Good thing I loved her so. Alas, she's now 17....so, do I get to call her old now?

Last night was day 2 of my "Get Healthy" routine. 15 minutes wasn't as hard as it was the first time. I'm very excited to see how this progresses.

On a different subject...my 5th anniversary is next year. Yes, I realize this is quite some time away, especially since my anniversary is in October, but what I'm thinking is a trip for my family and I next summer to celebrate in advance. At first I was thinking somewhere tropical, since my son still hasn't forgiven me for getting married in Hawaii without him. So, we talked Jamaica, Bahamas, Belize, etc. Well, then I started thinking Disney World, with a day excursion to Key West. See, I waited my WHOLE life to go to Disney World. At 21 I was FINALLY able to go. Only, when your 21, Disney World isn't quite the grand thing you expect it to be at age 10. It was nice, but I think if I'd had children with me, it'd have been more fun. So, I was thinking that if I booked a Disney Vacation, with some beach time thrown in, my kids will have that dream of Disney World, and it'll still be a big, grand place to them. What do you think???

I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart....

This morning I was at Walmart getting groceries. It was a rather nice experience considering no one was there. There was a man, probably about mid to late 30's there with his daughter. She was maybe 9-10, and sitting in the basket area of the buggy. He was busy looking at the bread, and his beautiful little girl suddenly starts singing, "I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart...where? Down in my heart? where? Down in my heart..." She's singing it loud and proud. I couldn't help but stop and listen to her. Even her father looked down at her and smiled. Now, if that wasn't the Lord singing through that child, I don't know what was. She was so happy in her song. What a beautiful way to finish my grocery shopping.

Today was the first day of my official "Get Healthy" routine. Remember how here I stated that I didn't want to look like a barge when floating the Comal River this summer. So, it's official. 15 minutes on my brand new elliptical, and I feel nice and sweaty, but happy. I'm on my way!!! What's even cooler is that the hubby has decided that the elliptical is "not really" a "chick work out machine" and has decided to use it also. I'm so proud of him! Of course....he'll drop about 25 pounds in 2 weeks...and I'll barely hit 5....but that's the way it works with men-vs-women. *sigh*

Last night I caught up with a very old friend of mine. We haven't seen one another since I was pregnant with my oldest. It was so nice to hang out and catch up. It's kind of funny how you can pick up where you left off. Of course, I didn't get home until 3:30 this morning, and had to be at work by 8. Oh well...it was worth it.

So, I'm going to post a ticker on my blog about my weight loss. Keep me in your thoughts and prayers!!!

The struggle with parenthood.

Last February, my son was diagnosed with ADHD. We could definitely tell something was wrong because he had such a hard time concentrating on ANYTHING. Picture, if you will, one of those storm balls. You know, the ones with the purple or blue lightning in them? Can you see it? See how the lightning bolts are all over the place, randomly jumping here and there? That is how I envisioned my son's brain to work. Little synopsis going off here and there causing him to not be able to concentrate. He is now on Vyvanse. At first, I was very reluctant to give him medication to help control his little mind. But, once he started taking the medication, picture that same storm ball. Now, put your finger on the glass of the ball. See how the lightning bolts are no longer scattered, but are now soley focused on your finger? This is my son's brain on Vyvanse. All synopsis going to the same place. He's now head of his class.

The reason I'm posting this is because it's been brought to my attention that my daughter may be ADHD also. Now, she's so different from her brother. She's very calm, and can usually follow directions without much persuasion. Her issues lie in different areas. She has several storm balls in her head. She is having difficulty focusing on anything at school, reading is difficult, and she's still struggling with her alphabet. So, I'm struggling with trying to set up an appointment for her. I feel like a really bad mommy because I never noticed her struggles. Whereas her brother's were adamant, right there in your face, her's kind of creeped up on us. My baby girl has been through so much in her little life, and I'm actually really greatful that the things she's been through are minor compared to how bad things COULD be. She has strabismus, this is when a child is cross eyed. She had surgery on her eyes at the age of 3. She now wears very thick glasses to help keep her eye muscles strong. She broke her arm last year, and had to have surgery to fix the bones in her arms. When she was 4 months old she had a severe bronchial attack, and we spent several hours in the hospital doing breathing treatments on her. We've always cuddled her, and sort of treated her like a little princess. I think in our attempt to protect her, we've hindered her by not noticing her disability and mistaking it for her just being the "baby".

I know I need to forgive myself. It's a struggle. Parenthood is never easy, and they don't tell you all of this when you're taking reproduction classes in school. Parents make mistakes. It's very hard. I just pray that we can locate a therapist who can see her on short notice to diagnose her. I'd hate to have her held back because I failed as a mother.

Tap, Tap, Tap...Tappity-Tap-Tap!

I'm writing a book! Okay, so this really isn't a suprise. I've been writing this book for almost 1 1/2 years. But, I'm really writing it! I re-read the first six chapters, found a world of errors, and corrected them. (According to Romance Writers of America and NaNO Writer, you should NEVER do this.) But, I find it helps me remember what I love about my characters.

Want a brief idea about the story?

Matthew Court had big dreams of escaping his life in his one horse town in East Texas. Enrolling into a fancy college in the big city, Matthew cut his ties to his boring small town life, including his highschool sweetheart, Katie McShane, and moved on to bigger and better things. But, his dreams begin to change, and when Matthew receives the biggest surprise of his life, he runs for the hills as quickly as possible. Now, Matthew is back home trying to carve out a life, and pick up the pieces to a romance long lost.

Katie McShane was head over heels in love. But when her long time beau ditches her for the big city life and leaves her alone and heart broken, she's determined to never allow another man to hurt her. Picking up the pieces of her life Katie is faced with tragedy, the sudden death of her father. Suddenly, she's left at the helm of the family business, a bar. Katie has finally managed to create a place for herself when her entire world comes crashing down as Matthew Court walks into her bar and announces he's back for good.

I hope that whet your appetite, just a bit. In case you haven't noticed, this is a form of literature called "Chick Lit". (Otherwise known as Romance.) There's more to the story of Matt and Katie....and they are patiently, and at some times imapatiently, awaiting their story to be told.

Nom, Nom, Nom....

Since I will be picking up the dreaded wanted elliptical machine this weekend, I just thought I'd blog about one of my favorite things. Food. Yes, I love food. Imagine that? I don't think it's the actual eating part I love as much as the flavors. For example, I love barely ripe bananas. You know, when you buy the bananas and they're still just a little bit green? OMG, *drool* LOVE that! I just ate one, and have another one for later. YUM!

I love how food can taste SO good. I love the textures, the smell of spices, and the way that berries burst in your mouth, or when salsa stings your tongue, just a little bit. Food, food, food! How I sing to thee!

So, anyway, back to the point. My husband bought me an elliptical for Christmas. *GASP* Just kidding! I actually have been asking him for one for years. He finally admitted that he was afraid to buy said elliptical for fear of his life. (Oh, remind me to tell you a funny hubby story in a sec, k?) So, I finally convinced him that by getting me an elliptical, I promise not to divorce him. Well, once the elliptical was ordered...the dreaded BACK ORDER slip came. DAMN IT! Oh well, more time to pig out, right? Ugh...yeah, I've gained 5 pounds. I don't think it's advisable for one trying to lose weight, to eat one's body weight in food. *sigh* Alas! We just got word that my elliptical will be ready this weekend. WOO-TO-THE-HOO! I'm sooooo excited. I mean, bouncing in my seat excited. After booking my 2nd Annual Girlfriend Retreat, I decided that THIS year as I float down the Comal River, *I* won't be mistaken for a barge.

Now, you reminded me to tell you my other funny story about the Hubby! I'm preparing something for him for his birthday. It's nothing huge, but it takes quite a bit of thought. I'm going to create a "100 Reasons Why I Love You" list. (So far, I'm on 11.) This is VERY hard work because I don't want to come across with a lot of "me" words. You know what I'm talking about, the "I-love-when-you-do-(fill in the blank)-for-me." So, I'm really putting in a lot of thought into this. Of course, there's also those days when Hubby ticks me off, and I cross out numbers 3, 5, and 10. (Hee hee--don't worry, I add them back.)

Weeeell, Hubby found the list. Well damn. There goes that surprise! Except, Hubby was none too bright, and spouted off, "100 Reasons....Hmm, wonder what this is?" Of course, I hear him, tackle him, rip said paper from his hand, and shove him off the bed.

"Gosh! What are the 100 Reasons?" Hubby exclaims picking himself up off the floor.

Very indignantly I reply, "You'll find out when you're supposed to find out."

Hubby, rubbing his rear end, that I can only assume hurt from the fall, says, "That's what I'm afraid of. What is 100 Reasons?"

"I'm not telling. Not. Telling. Noooooot. Teeeeeelllllliiiinnnnng!"

Oh, how I live to torture him!

So, now he's guessing. It's actually kind of fun. What's REALLY odd, is how far OFF he is. I mean...I may have to cross off numbers 2 and 6 if he keeps this up. Here's some of his theories---

1) 100 Reasons why I need new shoes. (Seriously?)
2) 100 Reasons why I need to go out of town next weekend to visit family. (Okay, he's reaching.)
3) 100 Reasons why I'm going to divorce him. (Okay, that one just made me mad and hurt my feelings. Loser.)

So, as you can see, he's WAY off, and he's a dumbass to boot. Okay, maybe not a dumbass, but he's definitely not using that brain of his. *humph*

Aaaand, now looking back at the title of this blog, and the way it actually went...I realize this has NOTHING to do with food. *sigh* Oh well, one can't always know the title of a book when one is writing it! Tee-Hee.

Long Hair Hippie Types...

When I was in highschool, 1993-1997, there was a boy that went to my school who had slightly long hair. When I say "slightly long hair", I mean that his hair touched his shoulders. Now, at this same time, my hair touched my waist. I remember this boy going through so much drama because the school insisted that he cut his hair. The school deemed his long locks to be "Distracting" to other students in the school. But, what the school failed to realize is that their constant attention to his hair was what was distracting. The student body in and of itself, couldn't have cared less. His hair was no more distracting than mine. Of course, keep in mind that I live in SUPER conservative Texas. Anyone who lives here can tell you that the ideals the schools carry out are a tad bit on the overly obsessive side. I suppose that to the Old School people in my state, long hair on men is a reminder of those hippie days. Back in the days of Sex, Drugs, and Rock -N-Roll. But, really. How can this really matter? Maybe it's because I'm a member of a slightly younger generation, but I really can't see the harm in a boy child having long hair. I could think of so many worse things my child could be doing. I can't imagine a long haired male would be more distracting than a pregnant fifteen year old, for example.

So, why am I bringing this up? It's really because of this article here. Can someone please tell me why this poor little boy is being denied his right to a fair education, and all because he's got long hair? In my personal opinion, this is a ridiculous waste of time. This boy's hair preference is not going to immediately label him a rebel, nor is it going to hinder him from learning and functioning on a normal basis. And odds are, one day this little boy may not choose to have his hair long. Children are granted very little in self expression, especially now. If you ask me, let the boy have his hair. This whole issue is being blown all out of proportion in a battle of the school board's sad attempt to prove that they are right, the boy is wrong, and he SHALL be punished. Seriously. It saddens me that the school boards can't find more lingering problems to focus their attentions on. Have they checked the school drop out rates recently? How about all of the nonsense about the schools no longer really teaching a curriculum, but rather teaching children how to take the government standardized tests instead. What about the teenage pregnancies, gang violence, rapes, and the improper funding of school's monies. (Don't even get me started on that one, there was a HUGE broo-ha-ha here about how school boards were spending money that was given as grants to the schools for better school items, and they were using the monies to go on vacations to the Carribbean. SERIOUSLY. Yet, these SAME school board officials have approved a huge rate increase for school taxes in the area to help aid in actual school needs. Don't believe me? Google it.)

So, I say, let's focus on what is really important. That child deserves an education, not condemnation for his choices. His hair isn't going to prevent him from learning anymore than mine would. If they really are going to start putting those types of restrictions on children, then I assume female children will all be required to have hair above their shirt collars also? Just a thought.....

I get a thousand hugs, from ten thousand lightening bugs....

Let's talk music. My blog title is a lyric in the song, "Fireflies" by Owlcity. Now, personally, I LOVE this song. It makes me happy. My husband enjoys making fun of me loving this song. In all honesty, music, as a whole, makes me happy. We're talking, REALLY happy. I enjoy all forms of music. Really, I do. One of my favorites is classical music. Oh, give me some Mozart, Beethoven, Bach, Debussy, Tchaikovsky, or Chopin and I'm on cloud 9. I love how the melodies are smooth and soft, and yet if you close your eyes, you can feel the crescendo as it changes the pace of the flow. I love the highs and lows and how you can tell that the music is scary, or sad, or happy. Most of all, I love how I feel when I listen to it. At the same time, I love other music as well. I love how a good 80's song will make me want to roll my windows down and drive for hours. Or how a country song can really make me think about things. I love how a hip hop song makes me want to get up and shake my booty, or how a classic rock song takes me back to my childhood. I even love how I can really imagine ten thousand fireflies giving me a hug. Music makes me tingle, and sing, and think, and feel, and smile, and cry. It's a part of who I am. I love how certain music makes me think of events or people, too. Like, for example, the Beatles ALWAYS make me think of Big Sis. She's a HUGE, and I mean HUGE, fan. I love songs that tell stories, or take you to strange places, like "Major Tom", and "Horse With No Name". It just really makes me happy. So, Hubby...make fun of me all you like, I love "Fireflies". *sticking tongue out*

What kind of music do you like?

Happy Reading!

In case you haven't noticed, I love to read. I mean, love, real love. When I pick up a book, I feel whole. I love getting lost in a story, and feeling what the characters are feeling. Currently, I'm re-reading all of the books by  one of my favorite authors, Julia Quinn. Check her out, she's phenomenal. I like her books because I really feel her characters. Oh, and she writes so well that I've actually burst out laughing, and once or twice actually cried. I highly recommend her. Anyway, I digress. I am currently re-reading all of her books, every single one. What's nice about this is that I get to re-live why I fell in love with this author and her books to begin with. She's SO great, and if I ever get the chance to meet her in person, I'd probably act like a twelve year old meeting a Backstreet Boy. Seriously.

Some of my other favorite authors are Charlaine Harris, Nora Roberts, Julie Garwood, and Catherine Coulter. I guess it's safe to say that I love chic lit. I love romance. I love love. I mean...seriously LOVE , love. Of course in all this reading, I also love to write. I'm definitely not up to par with the greats from above, but I've been fortunate to have some literary sense. Currently I'm working on my own little story. No, there's no expectations of publishing, but I enjoy seeing my dreams show up on my computer screen. It's fascinating to watch. It hurts for me to write, though. I'm sure other writers will understand what I mean when I say that when I'm writing, I'm laying my soul out there for people to see. In some cases, walking around naked would be less revealing. My heart is poured out as my fingers fly across the keyboard. It's scary. I mean, really, really scary. I have a wonderful support group, though. You've heard me mention my "Big Sis", well there's also Author, Rene' Morris, my hubby "B", my "Lil Sis", my friends "L" and "K". I'm so very fortunate.

With all this being said, and pardon my rambling I struggled to figure out what the heck I wanted to talk about tonight, I'd like to plug my friend, Christian Young Adult/Tween Author, Rene' Morris. Please check her out. She's FABULOUS. Her characters are real, fun, and they really learn (and teach) lessons. Rene' and I met many, many years ago and have remained friends ever since. She's a beautiful, fun person who has the innate ability to create. Whether it's in her stories, her candle making business, her web designs, or her family, she's simply amazing. I'm happy to say that she's someone I admire and look up to. If ever I was inspired, it was because of Rene'. 

Will you help keep a murderer behind bars?

My Big Sis L just informed me that a friend of hers just found out that the man who killed his sisters is up for parole.

Background-Delton Dowthitt and his father, Dennis Dowthitt (who was put to death in 2001 for the murders), murdered 16 year old Gracie Purnhagen and her 9 year old sister, Tiffany in June of 1990. Delton originally took full blame for the murders, later changing his mind and placing blame on his father. Delton was the key witness at his father's trial, and thusly was given a sentence of a mere 45 years. Dennis showed remorse and finally apologized. (Although, an apology will hardly bring those girls back.) You can read more about the girls here.


It is now mentioned that Delton, now 33, will be up for parole in March of this year. Delton has never once displayed any remorse for his deed and has constantly stood by his "daddy made me do it" plea. It must also be noted that several sites and people have stated that Delton actually has bragged of his part in the deaths of two children. He also had his sentenced extended in 1995 for escape.  He has served less than 20 years for his crimes.

This family can really use your help. Please, PLEASE voice your opinion. If you are not comfortable in emailing your opinions, please pass this knowledge on to anyone you know. No parent should lose their child, especially not like this. This man does not need to be let out to harm anyone else.

Please send an email to:

victim.svc@tdcj.state.tx.us

Inmate Name: Delton Dowthitt

Inmate Number:632108 

Woohoo Girlfriends Retreat

Last April, my Big Sis and I were chatting via email while we were "working", and I think I was talking about my annual "Time for me to be alone with no kids, no husband, no work" trip, when Big Sis said, "Why don't we go together? Well, that escalated to, "Lets get a group of girls together to have a girlfriend getaway!" So, we did.

August 7-9 of 2009, 9 girls set out to have a wonderfully relaxing weekend. And we did! We rented this BEAUTIFUL country house in the Texas Hill Country. This house comes complete with pool, jacuzzi, fully stocked kitchen, billiard table, piano, wireless internet, satellite TV, and a kind of creepy yet oddly reassuring statue of a little old lady sitting in the backyard forever puffing away on her trusty cigarette. "What on earth is she talking about?" You say? Well, the owner of the house apparently owned an art gallery at some point in Houston, Texas. When she moved up to the Hill Country, some of the art work, including "Pigeon" the old lady statue, went with her. Pigeon was a hoot on our trip. Anyway, back to the plot. We had a BLAST, complete with tubing the Comal River, losing some belongings in said river, drinking Mimosas in the morning as the sun came up, singing karaoke in the living room, torturing a poor waiter at a Brewery Restaurant, playing with a bidet, and having an amazing Mama Mia moment when everyone jumped into the pool as I snapped the pic. It was truly one of my most favorite memories of 2009.

So, Big Sis and I got together and arranged our Second Annual Girlfriend Retreat. Back by popular, and I do mean POPULAR, demand, everyone wanted to go back to the same house. So, today I giddily booked the house. Eight months never seemed so long. I'm so looking forward to this trip. And this time, I think we'll be a bit more prepared for what we can expect in that crazy river! How fun!!!

Holy Crabcakes, Batman....glasses cost a small fortune!

To sum it up, I had to get my eyes checked today. Needless to say, the prescription changed "just" enough to give me raging migraine headaches. So, after the exam, I begin browsing glasses. Now, I should probably say that I'm not a contact wearer. Apparently, the geniuses who created contacts have not yet mastered the contacts for people with MY kind of astigmatism. *Heavy Sigh* Anyway, back to the story. I'm browsing the frames, and I particularly like the half frames. (You know, the ones with rimless bottoms?) I'm browsing, browsing, browsing....BINGO! These are THE ones. Not just the, "eh, these'll work" ones, but THE ones. They're hella adorable, super cute, and when I put them on my face, they look great. Now time for the discreet price tag check, promptly followed by the very obvious gasp and gape. $400. For Frames. This doesn't include the actual part of the glasses that helps you SEE. Did you see me faint? Yeah, thought so. So....thank heavens for insurance and Flex Spending accounts because, really, I couldn't walk away, they were THE ones. After I finally paid for them...and cringed a bit as I signed the credit card receipt, I decided to go to EyeMasters for one of their super cheap, but pretty cute prescription sunglasses sale. Yeah, $125 later, I'm covered with UV protection.

Oh, the price you pay for vision. I mean....wow.

New Year's Resolutions....

Okay, who REALLY sticks to their New Year's Resolutions? Every year I SWEAR I'm going to lose weight. Every year I gain another pound. Of course, I've never actually written my resolutions down, so, I thought I'd give it a shot this year.

For me, 2010 is going to be superb!

Resolutions--in no particular order:

Think Positive--and I'm not talking the "I'm positively going to kick your butt" positive either.
Lose weight....no really.
Be patient. No, not the kind in a hospital. I mean, really be patient. I'm such an immediate gratification person. I need to work on this.
Enjoy my children. Not like I never enjoyed them before, but I think I need to enjoy them MORE.
Enjoy my husband. This one's a bit harder. I, like a lot of women I know, am a World of Warcraft Widow. You've heard of "Football Widows" and "Baseball Widows"...well, I'm a "Video Game Widow". Yeah, it sucks.
Take better care of myself. Being a mom, I tend to baby the babies, the husband, the house, the car, the co-workers, the customers, the pets....but somewhere along the way, I forget to baby myself. So, pedicures, exercise, eating right, and having my hair done more often are all on my lists.
Give back to my community. This one is always hard for me. I tend to try to do TOO much, and overwhelm myself.
Thank God. I don't mean this in a blasphemous sense. I mean, really THANK GOD. I've been alive for almost 31 years, and even though I know God is watching over me, I don't thank Him enough for all that he's given me.
Don't dwell. I have a bad habit of dwelling on things. I don't know why I can't let them go, I just can't. So, this year, I'm FORCING myself.


So, what are your New Year's Resolutions?