D.A.R.E Graduation

Two blogs in one day. WOW! This is a rarity but I was so amazed by a few words I heard that I had to write something about it. So, if I'm excited to type it all out, you better be excited about reading it.

Today was the D.A.R.E Graduation at Trent's school. Only three 6th grade classes participated in this program. Why? I know there is at least one more 6th grade class and they didn't participate. Does that automatically tag them as the kids who are a lost cause or were they gifted with the common sense to know right from wrong? If it is the latter, I'd like to introduce them to a few people. Anyway, I was going to skip this because I honestly didn't think it would be that big of a deal but I'm glad I went. I learned something new. It started out with two kids from each class reading their essays they wrote. Trent claims his was ranked third in his class. He just missed out on that one...darn it! I sat through and listened to each essay. I learned that Marijuana has more tar than tobacco. Hmm..didn't know that. I've always heard that Marijuana is natural, so therefore it's not as bad as cigarettes. What do I know? I've never done the stuff before and I figured others knew what they were talking about. Guess I should've just Googled it.

Anyway, Trent has taken the pledge to stay drug free. Please God, let him stick with this one. Drugs is one thing I never got into, unless you count alcohol and I did try smoking but I don't count that. Smoking is a disgusting, nasty habit. I really don't know how anyone does it. I do not hold it against those who do it, it's just not my thing and I really like my lungs and being able to breathe. Anyway, I'm kinda getting off topic here.

So, the officer who was there speaking said something that really surprised me. He told us parents, "I DARE you to look through your childs pockets, in his backpack, go through his dresser drawers, etc." I was taken aback. I mean, in this day and age parents are always talking about how kids need their privacy and parents shouldn't infringe on that. Parents should never go through their childs things. Oh really. These are the same parents who claim their kids share everything with them because they respect their privacy...uh-huh. Sure. I don't care if you are parent of the year, your kids will hide things from you. My kids know I will go through their stuff at any given moment. I mean, it's not something I told them, it's just understood. I don't literally go searching for anything but nothing is off limits to me. I have access to their rooms. I go through their backpacks (mostly to make sure I'm getting the papers I should be getting). Trent has an e-mail and a Facebook account and when I let him have it I told him I will have full access to it. I will see everything he does and everything he says so he better be careful and not be stupid. It all comes back to common sense. I think that kids can and should have some privacy when it comes to certain things. Some things should be "their own" but for the most part, parents should be checking up on their kids. If the kids had a journal, I think I would leave that alone. However, if they acted like something was wrong and they were just down, you can bet I'd be reading but I hope they know they can talk to me about anything.

So, I guess I don't see anything wrong with going through your kids stuff. I think sometimes parents give their kids way too many freedoms too early in life. And going through their stuff isn't such a bad thing. If I was one of those parents who felt the kids things were their things and they were totally off limits and something happened which could've been avoided if I had snooped, well, I'd feel pretty bad. I'm not taking that chance ever. I'm proud to say I snoop through my kids stuff...kind of. And I only say kind of because it's more like stumbling as I'm doing daily chores.

JUST SAY NO!

Wrestling and MY daughter :o)

Wrestling is in full swing, which means traveling to matches for us. This last tournament was here in Delta. Trent had to be there at 8 AM and then I FINALLY arrived at 9:45 AM. I was supposed to be there at 9 AM but I wasn't, so oh well. I didn't miss anything anyway. Trent didn't win any of his matches that day and it was a long day. I sat in my same seat for 9 hours and only got up once to go to the bathroom. Nine hours is a long time to sit in a seat without really getting up to stretch. While there Kaela did something that cracked me up. Maybe it shouldn't be funny but I think it's hilarious. She was off playing with her friends when they came upon some wrestlers from Wasatch who were staring at them I guess. Apparently, Kaela (who is apparently very brave when around friends) said, "What are you looking at?" And then went on her merry way. I guess they started doing the typical boy thing at this age where they say, "He likes you" and so on. Just to remind you, Kaela is 8. Anyway, she then started calling them black and gold cows, which I know, is rude but whatever. I look over and I see her being dragged on the floor by one of her friends. Kaela is looking over towards this group of boys (there were probably 6 of them) and is mooing at them...LOUDLY. Like, so loud I can hear her and the Palladium was not quiet. I thought, "Oh.My.Gawd!" They turn around and look at her and start laughing. Is this what I have to look forward to? Is she really "flirting" already? I might have to sit down and have a little talk with her. Sigh. GIRLS!

Oh my craziness

Things have been crazy around here so that explains me not updating this thing. So, here's a quick blog for your reading enjoyment and just to show you I have not forgotten about it.

I'm trying to keep up with two blogs these days. Amazing since I can't even keep up with one. I've got this one and then one for my Girl Scout troop. So, that is thing one that is keeping me busy. I have meetings every two weeks and it is insane how quickly two weeks can fly right by. Between trying to keep up with everyday things and then trying to plan for the next meeting, I think I might just lose my mind. But, it's all fun right and totally benefits the girls in my troop...right? Right! I'll keep telling myself that. Then on the weekends I have Kaela wanting to earn more Try Its which is fine and we have a lot of fun learning and doing. But, some of them are kind of a pain because I'm running around searching for things that we can use in order to pass a Try It off. Whenever she is bored, I know I'm going to be asked to do a Try It with her. I really need to find something to keep her busy. Maybe clean the house since that always needs to be done. Then again, that is boring and just not as fun.

Thing two...getting ready for Christmas is always a huge chore. Just when I get everything decorated it feels like it's time to take it all back down again. As much as I love the house to look all festive, I hate that the time goes by as quickly as it does. Maybe I'll have to be one of those people who I complain about and start busting out the decor before Thanksgiving. I hate to do that though because I just feel like Thanksgiving isn't getting the proper attention and my cute fall decor is getting overshadowed by the Christmas stuff. Besides, we all know that holidays have feelings and stuff.

Trent just started wrestling so there goes my weekends. Fan-tas-tic! Love to watch him do his thing but we have to travel with this sport. So, it literally takes up my whole Saturday. I will be counting down the days til this sport is finished.

Well, I think that's about it. The kids are still wonderful and are looking forward to Christmas. Why wouldn't they? They are so damn spoiled when it comes to Santa. He always gets them everything they want. I'll need to have a talk with him because as he is packing his sleigh full of crap for the kids, he is somehow forgetting my stuff! Not cool! I make the cookies and leave the milk out for the fat guy. He better not bite the hand that feeds him this year :o)

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!

A Christmas Carol

Can someone tell me when Disney went from this:

To this:

I took the kids to see A Christmas Carol in 3D on Sunday. The movie was good but was not at all what I expected. I grew up watching the sweet and cute version with Mickey & Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck and Uncle Scrooge McDuck. This years version is not even close to sweet and cute. More like just a little scary. Trent had warned me there were a few scary parts. He had gone to see it with his friend on Friday night. Trent scares really easily so I just brushed it off. It's Disney. How scary could it possibly be? The movie wasn't too bad until Scrooge goes home and is trying to get into his house and then the ghosts come. I probably jumped out of my seat a couple times and there were a few times Kaela was curled up in a ball. I kept asking if she was okay and she kept saying yes. There was one part where I literally jumped and then said, "Oh my God!" Freaked me out!!! Trent jumped too and he knew it was coming. The story itself is a good one but for kids, I think it would be hard to get past the darkness of the movie and the two ghosts who were pretty creepy in order to fully understand the point of the movie. Maybe they wouldn't get it anyway. I'm going to try to find the Mickey version of this and have them watch it. The movie is a good movie and you should go see it. However, I recommend possibly watching it yourself before taking your kids to it. Depending on your child, they could quite possibly have nightmares from it. So, just sending a kind warning your way.

This is why I can't seem to get ahead on the cleaning..

This is what four girls managed to do yesterday.

And only one girl will be cleaning it up.

Trents room. I FREAKED out when I walked in there.

It looked much worse than this. He had eight

pairs of pants lying all over his floor against

the wall in that pile that looks small now.

The kids obviously have some MAJOR cleaning to do after school. Trent has been told several times about his room. I rarely go down to check it out so I only see it when it's a major disaster. Looks like I'm going to have to start checking it everyday.

HAPPY FRIDAY!!!

Parent/Teacher Conference

Today was the day I dread....parent/teacher conference day. I don't know why I dread it but I do. Kaela's was first and as usual we got a good report. She's been forgetting to turn in her homework because she won't pack it up the night before but this problem is easily fixable. She got great grades and is a great student.

Trent's P/T conference went well also. First time since 3rd grade. He hit 3rd grade and just got in a slump or something. There was always something from he's not getting his work done to bad scores on tests. Now in 6th grade I'm being told he's a great student and is getting his work done and handed in ON TIME! WOW! AWESOME!! He has a 3.7 GPA and is going for a 4.0. Could I be any prouder? I think not. This is a totally different Trent...at least when it comes to school. I'm so happy I'm not having to look at C's or D's or even F's. I'm glad to finally see the grades that I have always known he was capable of getting. All A's and two B's this time around but he's going to work hard and get those up. I'm beaming right now :oD

This Is It

I went up to SLC to have lunch with some friends and then we went to see Michael Jacksons This Is It. There was a whopping 8 people in the theater. I really can't decide what I think of the man himself. I mean, if allegations are true, I am personally not a fan of him but I do enjoy his music. He was what I listened to growing up...along with New Kids On The Block. I still to this day remember our last night in California before we moved here when I was in 8th grade. We had gone up to a family friends house to say goodbye and to watch the *BRAND NEW* Michael Jackson video....Black Or White. This video was a big deal back then. The morphing of faces was technology at it's best in those days. When you look at what they do now with videos, the morphing is hardly impressive but back then, it was so cool! I will never forget that night...ever. It also happened to be the night the Bart Simpson also debuted his music video but anyway.....

The This Is It movie was interesting. It was all the video taken at rehearsals that was to be a part of Michaels personal library. It gave you an idea of what this concert was going to be and it looked like it was going to be spectacular!! It's too bad that we will never see the finished product. I kept saying throughout the whole thing, "How amazing would this have been if we could've seen the whole thing put together?" The man knew what he was doing and he was doing what he did best and that's being a performer. Think what you will about him but you cannot deny that he was an amazing performer. At 50 years old he kept up with his much younger dancers. This amazed me! He still moved like he was 20. The Thriller performance looked like it would have been a pretty cool performance. I have never said wow so many times throughout a movie. The amount of work and thought that was put into this production is just crazy and to not have anyone see the final product is just crappy but this is the next best thing I guess.

I would recommend seeing it. If you aren't a fan of the music and/or him, then I would say pass. Some of his songs I listen to now and hear his message. When I was younger, it was just a song. I never understood what Man In The Mirror was about til right after he died and I was really listening to the words. Its always been a favorite song of mine even when I was a kid. But now, it's a favorite song for a whole other reason.

RIP Michael...I know you are somewhere gettin your moonwalk on :o)

Peace....Love....and Sunshine

And people wonder why their kids are so lazy.

While walking around with the kids while they were trick or treating I was amazed at how many parents were in their cars and following their kids as they walked door to door. Are you kidding me? And then there were those who would park at one end of the block and make that round then go back to the car and drive to the next block and park. I was also surprised to see a parent asleep in their vehicle at the park. I'm assuming his kids were making the rounds and he decided this was the perfect opp to catch some z's. WOW! How times have changed. I can remember going trick or treating when I was Trent's age and living in SoCal. There was a big group of us who would go together. We would hit up our neighborhood, go home, empty out our bags and then walk over to the neighborhood that was next to us and get more candy. Kids lack enthusiasm these days. When I was younger, I would've stayed out all night as long as someones porch light was on and they were giving out free candy. I mean FREE CANDY!!! That's a kids dream right there and that dream only happens once a year. You would think these kids would want to take full advantage of it. Our kids didn't even get their bags halfway full. So, you know what that means...slim pickings for me and really that sucks. One of the best parts of being a parent is being able to go through the candy stash and take your favorites and them not even realize you have done so. It just amazes me how lazy kids are anymore and really why shouldn't they be. With all the technology and game systems we have these days, why would you go outside and play. Being outside was all I ever wanted to do as a kid. I wanted to be hanging out with the neighborhood kids and playing games in the street. Those were good times and really, I can't say that I would ever want to grow up during another time. I feel for the kids now and it sucks what they have to deal with. So, anyway, parents, for the love of God, set an example for your kids and let's not be THAT lazy. I made the walk with Kaela in high heeled boots. I'm sure you can do it in a pair of sweats and some sneakers.

Dude! Your super power is broken.

I went to Alco today and was waiting in line to return something when I noticed this tall, young looking guy standing in front of me...and staring at me. When I would look his way, he would keep staring. I mean, really staring. I looked away and then looked his way like three times and there he stood...not budging...and still staring. I think he thought he was invisible and I couldn't see him staring my way. Don't "normal" people look away when the person they are staring at looks at them? Don't get me wrong, the guy was pretty decent looking (For once. Seems like I get the attn of the not so good looking ones) so I really kinda didn't mind it. I was not looking like someone who should be stared at though. I was wearing a hat and no make up. Then again...maybe that is cause for staring. I was actually dressed and not running around in sweats like I usually do on a Sunday. Hey, don't judge me. It's not like I have church to attend anyway. The guy ended up going on his merry way and I took care of what I needed to. These are the times when I wish I did have a super power. And what super power you ask...mind reading!

Peace, Love & Sunshine

Happy Halloween!

This year Halloween was no different than any other year except for that our oldest child ditched us to go trick or treating with his friend. Lame! I mean, seriously, how can trick or treating with your friends be more fun than trick or treating with your parents? Aaaah..he's growing up. Anyway, we went trick or treating with Bill and Chrissy and their girls and one of Kinsey's friends this year. The girls were going full force. Running to every house. And then somewhere along the way they left their energy at someones house. We started at 6:00 PM and were done by 8:00 PM. Seriously, how lame is that?

As for Trent, his friend, him and his friends siblings went to a haunted house. Trent opted to stay in the car and wait for them. He couldn't even make it through a dark, inflatable dragon that made loud noises. I have to admit, I didn't object to taking the emergency exit. I know, pathetic. Apparently his friend came out of the haunted house scared and said Trent was lucky he didn't go because he probably would've peed himself. Nice.

After the whole trick or treating was done and over with Dalan and I rented a couple movies, one of them being Friday the 13th. He said he had never seen them before and wanted to rent it. So, okay. Let's do this! I hated every minute of that stupid movie and I also had nightmares...ALL NIGHT!!! In fact, I woke up at 6:30 AM and could not go back to bed and take advantage of that extra hour of sleep because of the nightmares. Sigh.


So, that was our Halloween. Nothing spectacular or great. Just doing the parent thing with the kids. Hope you all enjoyed your night. Below are a couple pictures. I didn't get one of Trent because like I said before, he was with his friend. His costume was basically his football uniform anyway.

Halloween Take 1

Trent and Kaela went to school dressed up and ready to scare in their costumes. Actually, Trent..with his mask on is ready to scare. Kaela is too cute to be scared of. I mean, not that Trent isn't cute but...anyway. I must say that I love that they are able to wear their costumes to school because it doesn't make me feel so bad for spending $20-$30 on a costume they will wear once. That may sound cheap but we all know how crappily made these costumes are. They are lucky to make it through one year. This year Kaela is going to be a Punky Pirate. UBER CUTE! I've been trying to get her to be something other than the typical cutesy, girl thing. She is always the fairy or the princess. This is by no means that far off from the fairy or princess costumes. It's still a cutesy kind of costume.

Trent on the other hand is at a difficult age for Halloween I think. We couldn't find anything for him. It seems he is at an age where he is almost too cool for trick or treating but not old enough to just enjoy as an adult. All the costumes for him were Power Rangers and Batman. That kind of stuff. He has been out of that phase of his life for a few years now. The last couple years we have found him a pretty cool costume but this year, no luck. So, he decided to figure something out on his own. He put last years costume (I know, I'm amazed it made it to this year. This one was the exception) together with his football uniform. He looks like some type of swampy, dead football player or something. It works so that's all that matters.

As for me, I was set on not dressing up at all this year. Just wasn't feeling it...until...

A couple weeks ago we went up to Thanksgiving Point to check out Cornbellys. Fun place and we will be going back next year. The kids loved it. If I were hungry enough, I would've gotten a foot long corndog and of course taken a very inappropriate picture of myself..but anyway...I'm off subject. So, while up there we found a Halloween store in Orem by Chilis so we decided to stop in. It was like Christmas for me!!! I freakin love Halloween!!! And scaring Trent with everything in there...it rocked. He scares easily. I know, I'm a horrible mom but it was all in good fun. There were so many cool and fun things in there. Along the back wall they had pictures posted of all the costumes for women. Kaela was checking them out and said, "Mom! You should be number 61. You should be a pirate with me." I walked up and down the aisles for a bit and decided to try on the costume Kaela had picked out. I decided it wasn't too bad and I bought it. We found these pretty cool necklaces to go with our costumes so we will have matching necklaces. I plan on taking pictures of her and I together. Should be cute! Oh..and Dalan..he doesn't dress up but he approved of the costume Kaela picked out for me and can't wait for Halloween :o)

Happy Haunting!

I've been inspired...

I used to be that person who will only show certain parts of herself to certain people. Who sat back and waited to see what others liked before expressing my own opinion. If someone didn't like something, I used to say I didn't like it either. I've always been one to kind of avoid confrontation and just want to be accepted. I would also play off of other people and adjust my personality to kind of be in line with theirs...if that makes any sense. Sometime over this last year or so I've decided, SCREW IT!! I just don't care anymore. I used to worry that if I did certain things it would make me look like a bad person in certain peoples eyes but I've just had enough. I'm not being me and I'm not living my life like that. Most people see the real me but there are a few who have only seen parts of me and I am never and probably will never be all me around them. Nobody is perfect and that includes me. So..yes, I like to have the occasional alcoholic beverage. Yes, I do swear...more than I should. And yes, usually when I type OMG it stands for Oh my God. Let's stay with that for a moment. Growing up I always used that phrase as a child..always. There was no gosh. The first time I heard that was when we moved to Utah. Before we moved Utah, I attended church every Sunday plus went to a Catechism (sp?)class. Which to me was like Bible Study but anyway. I still to this day remember the first time I said the phrase, "Oh my God" here in Utah. The person I was with said, "You can't say that here." I was like..huh? To this day, I still don't see anything wrong with the phrase. It's not like you are taking the Lord's name in vain...are you? I don't know. But, I'm off the subject. In the past year I have met some amazing girls who I can be me around and just not have a care in the world. I have reconnected with some great people who again, I feel like I can be me around and I'm just comfortable around them. I have always felt out of place living here in Utah. I have just always felt like I have nothing in common really with anyone here. I've been lucky enough to find some great friends in the last year who like the same things I like and we just have a lot in common.

So, in closing life is too short to be someone else. I'm glad I figured that out somewhat early in the game. I like what I like and if you can't accept that then we really don't have to be friends. And really, that's okay because I do not need someone looking down on me because I like to have a margarita every once in awhile or because I said, "SHIT!" when I dropped a heavy book on my foot.

Peace, Love and Sunshine

Steelers/Chargers

Once a year...and last year it was twice...my Steelers played the Chargers and for the last two seasons or so I have gotten crap from two friends who are both Chargers fans. They always talk trash before the game and I sit here and let them. One friend last season talked trash before the game and said how they were going to stomp us. I sat there and said, "The game hasn't started. We'll see." I then got texts throughout the whole game. The Steelers stomped the Chargers TWICE last season!!! I let my team do the talking for me and they have yet to let me down. Counting last night, the Chargers have lost a whopping 14 times to the Steelers!!!! AMAZING!!! I think Chris Collinsworth said it best when he said, "The Steelers are kicking their freakin butts!!!" After the game, I of course updated my Facebook status to rub it in and even posted on my one friends wall that we kicked their trash again. His response, "The Steelers only play three quarters. My team plays the last half." Oh really, well apparently three quarters is all it takes to beat the Chargers. Oh, I laugh every time we win. It's so great! Oh....and those two friends....they aren't talking much now.

GO STEELERS!!!!

**And Kelli...yes, I know I'm dead to you now but I know you'll get over it.

Miley Cyrus Wonder World Tour 2009

I know, I haven't blogged...in a month. Whatev! So, here we go.

On September 29, 2009 I took Kaela to see Miley Cyrus at the Energy Solutions Arena in Salt Lake City, UT. Trent was supposed to go but when I told him he would have to miss one of his football games, he opted to not go to the concert. Really, he did. One of his coaches was impressed when Dalan told him Trent missed a concert to play football. I got the tickets in April or May I think and at the time had no idea what would be going on in September. Anyway, it worked out because we were able to take one of Kaela's friends with us.

So, here we go. We got up there at 5 PM and walked over to the Gateway to grab something to eat. From there we went to the Energy Solutions Arena and decided we would go inside and wait since it was windy out. We stood in an unorganized line and paid way too much for a t-shirt and a glow stick but totally worth it because how often is Kaela going to go to a concert? Not very. After that we decided to head to our seats. My sister and her girls went with us but we weren't sitting together. When buying the tickets, they only allowed you to purchase four. She went for a seat in the first section off the floor and we went for the floor. Kaela had her heart set on the floor even though I told her that she may or may not be able to see very well. We were row 16!!!! We were so close to the stage. I banked on a lot of kids being there so I figured the seeing issue wouldn't be that bad. I was wrong. There were a lot of teenagers there. I was really surprised!! Metro Station was her opening act. I like a few of their songs and they were okay. The girls weren't really into them much, so I wasn't into it either. During Metro Station, the girls were standing on their chairs and one of the people working the floor came by and said they couldn't stand on their chairs. Well, great! So, I told them when Miley came on I would hold them on my back alternating between songs. After Metro Station there was about a 20 minute wait for Miley. When she came on, I noticed other kids standing on chairs around us and told Kaela and her friend to stand on the chairs. When on the chairs, they weren't taller than most the people behind us so I figured it was fine and if the people behind us complained, I was ready to argue with them...but they didn't so it was all good. I had heard the morning of the concert that Miley woke up sick. So, during the 2nd or 3rd song when she ran off stage, I wasn't surprised. Someone came out to tell everyone that she wasn't feeling well. She was getting herself together and then she would be right back out. It was at this point when I realized how far technology has come. I have never in my life seen so many people texting at one time. I looked around me and a large percentage of people were texting right after the announcement when before the announcement they were sitting and just waiting. When she came out, she apologized sincerely for running off and explained that she woke up sick that morning. She also said her voice was off because she had a throat thing. My sister and I both agreed that she sounded GREAT!!! She also thanked everyone throughout the evening for being so patient with her. Very sweet girl I thought. Her performance was awesome and she didn't hold back at all. She looked amazing! She put on a great show and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. Kaela and her friend were kind of expressionless throughout the concert. I was so worried that they weren't having fun. I think after the concert I asked them five times if they had a good time and if they would go to another one. Kaela said that she would rather not be on the floor next time. Guess she has to see for herself. It was a good night and we all enjoyed the show.

Yesterday I got on and read some of the reviews for the concert. Some parents were expecting her to be Hannah this time around. I knew and understood that this would be a Miley concert only. I asked Kaela yesterday if she thought that Miley would be dressed as Hannah at the concert. She said no and she knew it was going to be a Miley only show. She listens to both the Hannnah music and the Miley music so it's not a big deal. I guess some kids only know her as Hannah where Kaela knows her as both people and knows the difference between the Hannah and Miley music. Some also said that the show was a little provocative. Maybe I'm a little conservative as a parent or something but I saw nothing wrong with how she was dressed or any of the dancing. Another review said that everyone was standing up and they couldn't see. People should have to sit and watch the show. Really? I mean, really? It's not a movie. The performer wants you up and dancing and singing and having fun. If you can't go with an open mind, then don't go at all. Sometimes I think people are looking for something to complain about. The concert was great and I would recommend it to friends if it was something they were thinking about attending. Our girls had a blast and really that's all that matters. I'm thrilled that Miley was Kaela's first concert!!!! Wouldn't have it any other way.

Peace, Love and Rock & Roll!!!!

Allergies...ugh!

For the past month I have been going into the doctor three times a week and I'm being treated like a pin cushion. I've been getting allergy shots. Wait while I Google the exact name of the treatment I'm doing.......Ah-ha...Immunotherapy! They are injecting me with what I'm allergic to (I'm allergic to Delta..no joke) in hopes to increase my tolerance and then I won't have allergies anymore....after about 2 or 3 years. BUT, it's totally worth it...I think. So, I go in three times a week to get a shot. I'll be doing this for another few weeks probably. After that, I'll go in weekly for what will seem like forever I'm sure. Once I'm done, no more allergies for me. I should have a clear nose forever. Allergies pretty much suck and those of you that have them will understand. I've tried all kinds of meds but they all make me tired and groggy right into the next day. I'm just not someone you want to live with when I take them. Even the non-drowsy will make me tired. I was finally sent up to a specialist in June. They gave me 20 shots in my back to pinpoint what I am allergic to. They told me grass (includes hay), oak and ragweed I believe. See, I told you. Delta! I live in the worst possible place. In the city, my allergies don't bother me. When I get close to Delta, they hit me hard. Especially now that I'm on these shots. I'm hoping things will get better and they will go away. If not, it will be a complete waste of time. Not to mention all the times I've been poked. And, that would suck. Wish me luck!

And...as always...

Peace, Love and Sunshine

I'm going on a hunt

A job hunt that is. Actually, I've been hunting for awhile now. I have decided that it would be nice to have some extra cash and now that the kids are older and in school all day, I might as well help out with some of the bills (since I do spend 1/2 the cash or more but who's keeping track). Plus, who doesn't want extra money? Only thing is, it's kind of bad timing since not many people are hiring. Then, I live in this small town where it seems like you have to know someone in order to get hired. I'm not letting that stop me though. Whenever I see an ad in the paper, I go and apply. I actually wrote up my first resume....I think ever. I'm pretty proud of myself. I haven't worked for 11 years!! I figure all things happen for a reason and if I'm meant to get a job it will happen. Good things come to those who wait anyway. So, maybe my perfect job is out there and there's just not an opening yet. So, we'll see. Right now, I'm keeping my fingers crossed. There's so many things I would like to see and do and I hate having to "ask" Dalan if it would be okay. Not that I have to ask anyway, but I do it out of common courtesy. Okay, kids are home so that means I'm out.

Peace, Love & Sunshine :o)

Let's catch up!

It was recently brought to my attention by the one person who probably reads this that I haven't blogged....in a long time. So, I guess I should get to it. Plus, it's like a journal I can look back on anyway so I might as try to keep it up. We were so busy this summer which is why I haven't had the time to update. Trent was playing All Star baseball right up until the beginning of July. I really thought it would never end. The heat was unbearable at times. Then there were other issues that I was sick and tired of hearing about so I was done and couldn't wait for it to be done. In fact, I'd often hope for a loss. Sad right? Yeah, it was that bad at times and I'm not talking about the heat of the sun here.

Anyway, on July 5th I headed to Vegas to meet up with my cousins from back east. I was so excited! We walked the strip a few times and the kids were troopers about it. Well, Kaela was. Trent whined but that's a given. It's usually what he does...still...at age 11! During the day we would spend the time at the MGM where my cousins were staying. They had a lazy river pool which the kids LOVED! They had a blast hanging out there. Kaela made friends with my cousins boyfriend and told me, "This is my horse. His name is Oreo McMuffin." Nice. He'll forever be known as Oreo McMuffin to her now. We were supposed to leave Vegas on July 10th but some friends talked me into staying and going to the NKOTB concert with them (I promise I'm not obsessed). Since I was there, I ended up staying til the 12th and attended the show with them on the 11th. It was a fun girls weekend. We met a couple soap opera celebs and saw the Maveriks basketball team walking around the Palms. The concert was, of course, a blast! We always have so much fun at them. I don't know what it is. I think it's just reminiscing about when we were young and hoped that one of them would be our boyfriend. Just memories of our childhood I guess. I didn't sleep for two days straight that weekend. I was running on pure adrenaline. Insane. I really don't know how I made the drive home on the 12th, but I made it home safely.

After Vegas, we were home for about a week and then left on our 2 week road trip. We went to Glacier National Park and then headed over to Washington and Oregon. I really have no desire to go back to GNP ever again...unless I have someone that's willing to hike with me. Unless you are into hiking, GNP has nothing to really offer except for the scenery you see from your car. You have to hike to all the things that are worth seeing and we just weren't into it at the time. We did see a bear on our way out, so that was pretty exciting. From there we headed over to Washington. We saw the Space Needle and ate at the Crab Pot. We like to watch the show Man vs Food. Whenever we go somewhere, we check out that site to see if he has visited any of the restaurants in the state we are heading to. The Crab Pot was one of them. It was delish! While in WA, we also went to see Mt St. Helens. Very interesting spot. I would recommend visiting if you are ever up that way. From WA we went to Oregon. I honestly don't remember what we did there. Oh, Crater Lake! Wow! That's an amazing lake. Something else that is a must see. It's beautiful up there. Just amazing. I have pics on my Facebook page, so if we're Facebook friends, you can check them out. If not, add me :o)

When we got back from the road trip Kaela and I had to pack up and get ready to leave for Girl Scout camp 2 or 3 days later. I know, I told you we were really busy. We had a blast at GS Camp. I often joke with her that the hike was her favorite but it wasn't anyones favorite. It was 2 hours of walking. A lot of it uphill. I'm surprised the girls made it back and was so proud of all of them for being such troopers. When we got back, all the girls just sat in their tents and rested. We also had our lakefront day that day, so it was good for them to be able to go canoe and swim in the lake to cool off.

Let's see....Trent turned 11 on August 13th. WOW! He's growing.....taller :o) Instead of a party, I took him and a friend to 7 peaks. I figured that was easier and he would have more fun doing that. They loved it and had a blast.

The kids went back to school on the 19th I think. Trent is in the Middle School and thinks it's the coolest thing ever. He LOVES having his own locker. So far, he's doing really well. Thank God! I'm hoping that the rest of the school year will be just like this, but we are only a week into it. Kaela is still at the elementary and has Dalan's aunt as her teacher. Kaela was hoping to get her. Since they combined the two elementary schools into one, they both ride the bus now. It's so strange to me. They leave here at 7:15 and I'm left with about 30 minutes where I don't have to worry about taking the kids to school. The same goes for picking them up. They get dropped off at around 3:15. It's extra time in the day that I can use to clean....or play Farmville on Facebook...whichever.

Anyway, that's what has been going on in the last few months. Nothing too spectacular. We've just been pretty busy. Life is just wonderful out here in Utah.

The end.

(Finally)

Why, hello. It's been awhile.

I don't know that the reason for not blogging is because A) There isn't much to tell B) I've been so busy that I haven't had time to blog C) I've found other sites that I waste my life on or D) All of the above. I'm here now, so I guess that's all that matters.

The last month has consisted of the kids finishing up school, Trent having baseball everyday whether it be practice or a game (the coach is very...um...dedicated. And oh yeah, it's Dalan.), Kaela finishing up dance and trying to figure out what is planned as far as Girl Scouts this summer. School ended well for the most part. Kaela of course got all A's, no problem. Trent got some of his best grades of the year. Keyword here being some. He got A's and one F. When I questioned how that happened, he had no clue. After talking, he said that there were three assignments and he only handed in one which he got full credit on. To him that meant he should've gotten an A. This was in reading. He said he read the books but just didn't do the assignment. To me, the hard part is reading the book. Why not just do the assignment and be done with it. I don't know. Whatever. He's going onto 6th grade and I told him he better get his crap together and be more responsible because this is just ridiculous. I wish he would just write things down so we could all see when it is all due. So, Kaela earned her 7 peaks pass and Trent will have to work for his. I haven't even bought them yet because I just haven't.

As for Girl Scouts, I sent out a letter stating that I would like to start a troop here in Delta in August or Septemeber. Guess how many calls I got.........ZERO! I haven't gotten one call to say that they are interested. I guess I'm going to have to get aggressive with this. First I have to figure out how to do this. Maybe I should just start the troop with Kaela and my nieces and see if I can get two more girls. My only problem is getting an assistant leader. Who in the world can I possibly con into doing this with me? My sister isn't falling for it. Aside from the Delta troop I want to get going, we will be doing so many fun things with the troop we are involved in over in Fillmore. We are going to the Tuachan in June to see Annie and we have Girl Scout camp in August. I'm pretty excited. It's going to be so much fun for the girls. They always have a blast when we do stuff and they are all really cute and fun girls.

Baseball is going really well for Trent. He plays first base and sometimes will pitch. It's amazing how well he hits. He's gotten so much better. I love to watch baseball and it's one of my favorite sports. I always get so excited for it to get here and then when it gets here it's stressful because it just throws everything off as far as dinner and homework.

Everything else is same as usual. We are planning another road trip this year and are going to Glacier National Park. Dalan is looking forward to it and I guess I am too. We are also meeting up with my cousin in Vegas in July. I can't wait to see her. Our summer is pretty packed this year and you know what, that's okay. It's going to go by fast which really isn't that great but there will be a ton of memories made.

HAPPY SUMMER!!!!!

Long time, no blog

Sorry about the huge gaps in blogs lately. There just isn't much of anything to talk about. The kids had a pretty good Spring Break. Dalan has been working crazy hours, so the kids and I had Easter without him. Easter morning started with being woken up at 6:30 AM to find baskets. The kids had a set of clues that led them from room to room and then eventually to their baskets. After that, we went to Dalan's grandparents for Easter dinner. My mom was sick, so we stayed away from my parents house. Below are a few pictures from Easter. There's one of the clues and then one of Trent and one of Kaela. You should be able to click on the picture of the clues to make it larger so you can read them. Please excuse the boxes in the pictures. I'm going through all our crap and getting rid of a bunch of stuff.




















Let's see, I have also caught the exercise bug. I don't know what it is but I have this motivation from somewhere all of a sudden to get my butt in shape. It's odd that I'm sticking with it and have no explanation as to why I am. Well, yes I do. My abs, butt, arms and legs are all getting toned and firm. Results=Wanting more. I get on my elliptical just about everyday and will do Pilates. As soon as it gets nice outside, and it seems like it never will, I will start going on bike rides. Trent and I rode 3 miles on Monday! We had so much fun and we were both sore afterwards. Three miles probably isn't that far on a bike, but that's a start for me and awesome for him since he is only 10.

Well, that's about it. Nothing else really exciting is going on. It's pretty much the same old stuff as usual. I do have to say this, I do hope the damn wind stops blowing. I'm so sick of it!

Hasta peeps!

It's that time of year again.

Girl Scout registration is coming up again and that means that I am being approached again to get a troop going here in Delta. I was a Girl Scout when I was younger, so they really, really want me to step up and do this since I know the program and what it is all about. I've tried to get one going once and failed...miserably. I guess if I put forth more effort maybe I would've gotten more of a response. I pretty much just sent letters to school with Kaela to hand out to the girls in her class. I never put a set day or time for when we would do meetings and left it to be workable with the parents. I did not hear back from anyone who was interested in this program. It is sad really. We drive 30 minutes to Fillmore just so Kaela can be involved in a troop. Kaela loves Girl Scouts. I know she would love it even more if she were in a troop with friends she goes to school with. They do so many fun things. It's a shame that we can't get something going here in Delta when Fillmore has at least three troops and they are possibly adding one or two more. When it is cookie time, I am constantly hearing how people miss having Girl Scouts here in Delta. They are so excited to see us going door to door or sitting in front of Quality selling cookies at our little booth. All I need is five girls to get a troop going. I think I could get the five girls pretty easily. Kaela and my two nieces takes care of more than half of that number. What I am lacking and can't seem to get anyone to step up to do is be an assistant leader. I have to have that or there's no troop. Again, I have put forth little effort into looking or talking to anyone about it. I really wish my sister would do this with me. I think it would be so fun to do the activities and go to camp with her and our troop. She works and has a baby, so I understand why she can't. It is a really fun program for girls and they learn a lot from it. If you have a daughter, this is a program that they should be involved in if possible. We have gone to camp, we have made a float for the light parade, we sell cookies and Kaela gets credits from that and earns her way to camp, we've gone to the zoo and have made and learned so many other things. Kaela will be going to camp again this summer and her troop is currently trying to decide whether or not we want to go to the Zoo Snooze or to the Tuachan to see Annie. I'm going to try to get something sent to school with Kaela again to hand out and see if I can get a response this time around. If I can't, I'm going to have to get aggressive with this. This needs to be done. We need to get a troop here in Delta. That's it! I cannot fail at this. No, really, I can't because the Girl Services Director at Girl Scouts of Utah will not let me.

RECIPES!!!

Okay, here they are. These both turned out really good, so if you're bored, give them a try. They are both really easy to make.

Buffalo Chicken Stromboli
Rachael Ray

1 Bread Loaf (found in the frozen foods with the Rhodes Rolls)
3-4 Chicken Breasts or a Rotisserie Chicken or Leftover Chicken
1/2 Cup Frank's Buffalo Wing Sauce or Hot Sauce (They both taste the same)
1 Cup Monterey Jack Cheese
1 Egg

Set out frozen bread loaf to unthaw and raise. Cook chicken in a skillet coated with cooking spray. When cooked, pull apart with a fork so it's shredded. Pour in a 1/2 cup of the Frank's sauce and stir til chicken is coated. Roll out bread dough into a rectangular shape. Put chicken on bread dough and top with cheese. Roll up starting with the long side and seal. Brush entire loaf with the egg. Bake at 350 degrees for about 40 minutes. Cut into slices.

**This originally calls for celery, carrot and bleu cheese and I took it out. I also served the sandwiches with ranch dressing. YUM! Here is the link to the original recipe.

http://www.rachaelray.com/recipe.php?recipe_id=2652



Polynesian Chicken
Uncle Ben's Rice Box

1 Cup Uncle Ben's Converted Brand Rice cooked according to package directions
4 Skinless boneless Chicken Breasts
1 Can (8 oz) Pineapple Chunks and Juice
1 Cup Apricot Pineapple Marmalade or Jam
2 Tablespoons Low Sodium Soy Sauce (regular soy sauce works fine, too)

Apply coating spray to large non-stick skillet. (I put the skillet over medium heat.) Add chicken breast and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side. Add juice from pineapple to chicken in skillet just before chicken has finished cooking.

Mix pineapple chunks, marmalade and soy sauce. After pineapple juice has evaporated from skillet, add marmalade mixture to chicken. Cook until sauce is a glaze. Remove from heat and serve with rice.

**I also made broccoli to serve as a veggie. Both of these recipes were really easy and pretty quick to make. Both of them were really good. Give them a try and ENJOY!

Life's been boring....

No wait! I shouldn't start out like that. I am going to try to start thinking positively from now on. Ya know, have a better attitude about life and all that great stuff. It all started with this quote that I found not even 1/2 an hour ago.



"Our lives are not determined by what happens to us but by how we react to what happens, not by what life brings to us, but by the attitude we bring to life. A positive attitude causes a chain reaction of positive thoughts, events, and outcomes. It is a catalyst, a spark that creates extraordinary results." ~Anon



It hasn't even been 1/2 an hour since I came upon this new revelation (that word doesn't sound right) so I will let ya know how it goes later on.



Anyway, I really am just at a loss as to what to talk about here. It doesn't seem like much has been going on, but I've been busy. Dalan was out of town, again, for two weeks. While gone, a few furry, disease carrying friends found their way into the house. I was serious when I said the mice are trying to kill me. One morning while making breakfast, one ran right in front of my feet. Yeah, my reaction was awesome! I freaked, screamed, jumped up and down and couldn't move. Kaela is watching me from the other side of the counter wondering what in the world is going on. So, my dad comes over and sets some traps and I set out a glue trap. We ended up catching three mice. UGH! Me, being the paranoid person I am, would not sleep in our room while Dalan was gone. I chose to sleep on the couch downstairs with the lights on. When Dalan got back, he sealed up the problem area and we found a stash of plastic bags and socks under one of our drawers in the kitchen. Not from me and I'm assuming the mice couldn't have drug it there. No possible way. I'm thinking the previous owners must of done it and when we cleaned out this place, we somehow missed it. So, as of now I haven't seen any other signs of the stupid things and I'm hoping it stays that way. Dalan seems to think they will just find another way.



Hmm...Kaela had a dance competition on the 21st. All the girls from the dance company Kaela goes to did very well. It was so much fun watching her dance. It was a long day but a pretty exciting one. I, unfortunately, wore the wrong shoes. I really wasn't going for comfort when I wore them. I just thought they were cute. I paid for it every time I got up and walked somewhere.



Anyway, that's about it for now. I have made a couple really good things for dinner the last couple nights. I know I said I would try to post recipes and I've totally slacked. So, I will post them tomorrow.



Hopefully :o)

Girl Scout Cookies!

On Saturday, I will be so lucky to get to sit outside of the local grocery store and sell Girl Scout cookies. Is there really anything more fun than that? I think I can think of a few things. Last year was horrible. The wind blew (which isn't uncommon here) and it was freezing. I sold cookies while Kaela hid under a blanket. This year should be better as we won't have to deal with the third obstacle we encountered last year. Ten cent hot dogs! UGH! Everyone would walk by us to get those damn things. People here go crazy for them. I eat one and feel like throwing up. Unfortuately, my husband is one of those who has to buy 20 of the stupid things just like almost everyone else here. Anyway, back to cookies. So, if ya'll are in town and hungy, skip McDonalds and Leos and come by the store and buy some Girl Scout cookies. I promise they are delicious. It's for a good cause and the quicker I get rid of these things the quicker I get to go home.

Me...high maintenance? I don't think so.

A few days ago Dalan told me I was a high maintenance friend. There is nothing high maintenance about me. There were reasons for this comment but I won't go into them. I told him that is hardly the case. I just think I attract the crazies! I mean seriously! I'm the friend who if you don't e-mail, call or text for months or even a year or so I will still remember you and will be there if you need anything. As long as you have never wronged me, we're good. I'm not the type of friend who needs to have constant contact with someone to know our relationship is okay. I am just not needy like that. Hell, if I knew you or knew of you at one time, it is very rare for me to forget you. I never forget a good friend. I stated my case in the two instances he was speaking of and told him in no way was I in the wrong and he agreed. He most likely agreed only so I would be quiet though. But, whatever! Then again, he most likely knew he would get a reaction out of me by saying that and he did. Ugh!

If it weren't for the last minute, I wouldn't get anything done.

Trent was assigned this USA Scrapbook at the beginning of the school year that I had EVERY intention on working on with him over the Christmas break. Yeah, it didn't happen. There was family visiting and tons of running around and we just didn't get to it. That and I kept thinking, "Oh, we have 'til April." Trent is also not the type of kid to beg me to do homework, so the project got put on the back burner until about a couple weeks ago when a reminder was sent home saying it was due March 16th, not April like I orginally thought. Well, isn't that just nice. Totally my fault though. I'm always putting things off right up until the last minute. I always think I have all this time and then time mysteriously disappears. This is a big project. It consists of every letter of the alphabet and each letter has its own topic chosen by Trent. There are 5 additional people he needs to include in this so that makes 31 topics. The project also needs to have a Cover page (for the front), a Title page (for the inside), a Table of Contents and a Bibliography. WOW! I can't imagine any kid doing this on their own or even with the smallest bit of help. I couldn't even write more than two short paragraphs on panda bears when I was in 4th grade. The whole report was pathetic and needless to say, I got a big, fat, red F!! Thing is, I did my report totally on my own while I'm sure the other kids had their parents practically do theirs for them. So, am I proud of that F? At the time I wasn't but now sure! I probably could've done better but I did it on my own. I basically got an F for lack of parent involvement, which is kinda dumb. Back to Trent, this seems like mostly a parent report and it seems like this has been the case the last few years. I find myself doing most of the work. It feels that way anyway. However, I know I'm not doing all or even most because Trent walks away learning something. I try to show him how to look for information and what to pick out, take notes, put it all together and type it all out. THEN we have to print it, put it on colored cardstock and then also print out a picture to put with the info. Yeah, it's a pretty lengthy deal. It takes anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour to do one letter depending on the topic he has chosen. So, we are rushing to get this thing done. I think he has 19 topics left. It has actually turned out really nice so far I think. Hopefully we can get this done and he will get a good grade on it. It's going to be a lot of work to fit into 21 days but I think we can do it.

If you love something, set it free.

You know that old saying, "If you love something set it free. If it comes back it's yours. If it doesn't, it never was." That is about as good of saying as I can come up with for the issues I have been having with someone. Thing is, I'm not the one who set said someone free, although I wish I would have been. I chose not to be the free-er only to avoid confrontation and arguements and trust me, it really was my best option in this situation. Thing is, you would think I would be upset and really I am not. Life has been so much more relaxing. So drama free. So much less stressful. Thing is, I don't know if I care if said person comes back. I've decided I 'm sick of people who bring nothing but drama to the relationship. I'm sick of people who do nothing but brag about what they have. I think I have grown and have come to realize that material things just don't matter. Well, okay, they kinda do sometimes but I have different goals in my view. I have different priorities. I think I have grown in the past year. I used to always want things RIGHT NOW but I'm starting to see that good things come to those who wait. I'm starting to see what is important and it's not the big dream house or the expensive vacations or the nice, loaded with every option car. Sure, those things would be nice to have but the world will not crumble if I don't have them. One day I will have them (thinking positively). It's only a matter of time but right now I'm thankful for what I have in my possession. I guess I have gotten to the point where I am weeding people out. I've also gotten to the point where I'm not going to sweat the small stuff. I'm over it! I'm moving on and really I think that makes me a grown up....or something.

Look what came in the mail Friday.....

We left for State Wrestles Friday right when the kids got out of school. Before we left I was so excited to find this sitting by my door....

MY SUPERBOWL GEAR!!! YAY! It was my early Valentines present to myself. I've been anxiously awaiting for this all to arrive so I'm glad it finally got here. Trent loves his hat and wore that with a pullover he already had up to State. The excitement will never wear off. Not for at least another 6 months or so. I still wish I was back in PA for the celebration. It would've been nice to be there for it. Plus, it was just another excuse to get back there and visit. I love that state and how could I not. It is where my life began.

State Wrestles was okay. I really don't get into it and pretty much stare blankly at the mats. My brother in law was beat out early :o( so there was really no one I personally knew wrestling. Delta did take State so that's cool! Early Saturday morning I had taken the kids to the lobby to get breakfast. Trent wore his Superbowl hat down. There was a guy who said, "How can you let your son wear a Pittsburgh hat?" I replied with, "Uh, I'm from there!" He kinda just said, "Oh." He then went onto to say he's a Cowboys fan and said something else and I said, "Yeah, look who won the Superbowl though." It's so funny how people can just say random comments. It was all in good fun I'm sure but geesh, why say that in front of a kid. I'm proud my kids are Steelers fans. Then later that night we were eating dinner and a guy walks in and sees Dalan's shirt and says, "Steelers? You guys!" I just laughed. It's kinda funny how people hate on them and then you can run into people who are fans and will have a conversation with you like they've known you for years.

Anyway, hope you all had a great Valentines Day. I personally am over it and don't care too much for the holiday. I don't need a holiday to remind me to tell the people in my life that I love them.

So, to end this.....GO STEELERS! I can't wait for football season to start again.

When I get my hands on you.....

I love animals...most animals. I could do without the snakes, mice and the rats of the world. And those are just a few of the animals I can do without. Anyway, there is a certain groundhog who lives in the beautiful state of Pennsylvania who I really need to have a discussion with. Not that he will be able to understand but I will make him understand. I don't know how the whole thing works as far as if he sees his shadow or doesn't but all I know is there are at least 5 more weeks of winter and looking out my window right now, I'm starting to think that groundhog is right. It is snowing. Normally from my house I can see "town" but today I can't. I mean come on! Give me a break already. I bought three, yes three new swimsuits and all I want is for it to get warm already so I can show them off. I hear all this talk about global warming and right now, I'm thinking it's a bunch of BS. On top of the snow and me not liking it or liking to be cold, I have to go grocery shopping today. It can't be put off. So, again, I will be going out and freezing my butt off just so the family can eat. Hardly seems worth it.

Oh my hail!!! 02/08/09

Two posts in one day. Yeah, I guess I'm behind.

Sunday as we were leaving Dalan's grandparents house after dinner (read below post), it was raining. Not hard but not lightly either. As I walked out into it I said, "Well, at least it's not snowing." An hour or so later, below is what started POURING out of the sky.....














So much for seeing the brighter side of things.

Happy Birthday To You Times Three

What a weekend! I can't believe the things I get myself into but they usually work out great and the kids are happy and that is all that matters.

Kaela begged and begged to have a birthday sleepover which I tried to talk her out of only because I thought she was a little young and parents may not allow their kids to go to a sleepover. Especially at someones house who they have never met. I'm not the most social person in the world and I pretty much keep to myself. It makes it so that I don't get involved in the drama/gossip here. Anyway, turns out I was wrong. We had 8 girls, one of them being Kaela and two of them were my nieces. So, all last week I cleaned and got ready for this party. It started on Friday, February 6th at 5:00 PM. One of her friends wanted to come early and I said that would be fine. She showed up at 3:30 PM. The next guest arrived at about 4:30 PM and they kept coming until around 5:30 PM. We fed the girls pizza, ice cream and cake and then Kaela opened her gifts. After that they went downstairs to watch a movie. After the movie they played Littlest Pet Shop, played the Wii and played ping pong. Most of the girls were ready for bed around 11:00 PM. A few of the girls were up playing extreme, crazy dress up. They FINALLY decided to go to bed around....ya know, I have no idea what time it was. At 4:30 AM one of her friends came in to tell me she threw up. Great! Now, a normal person without kids would freak out. I got up out of bed like I do any other morning. It was like this was routine for me. I went downstairs, grabbed the blankets and pillow, tossed them in the wash, went back downstairs to check and clean anything off the carpet, back upstairs, grabbed a bucket and took in downstairs in case she had to throw up again. I figured we would wait it out to see if she felt better in the morning. She didn't so I called her parents and they came and got her at around 9:00 AM. I thought she may have eaten too much but she had a fever, a headache and was dizzy. I made the girls waffles and tiny cinnamon rolls for breakfast and then they went back to play again. At around 10:30 AM I had them make their own visors and then they played some more. One parent was here right at noon to pick up her daughter. The last was picked up at 12:30 AM. The basement was a disaster. It looked like a tornado had gone through there. The girls all had fun and they loved their gift bags. They each got a Littlest Pet Shop, an LPS cup, LPS bracelet and LPS notebook.

Sunday...dinner at Dalan's grandparents and more cake and ice cream...ugh! I was so sick of cake by this time. We were celebrating three birthdays that were all during this week.

Monday...I had my sister and her family and my parents over for dinner. This was Kaela's actual birthday. We were sick of cake, so I made her a chocolate chip cookie. I put the batter in a cake pan and voila! We had Oven Fried Chicken, Buttered Egg Noodles and Broccoli. My mom brought over a Trifle. Then here we go again with the singing of Happy Birthday and presents. I seriously felt like I was in that movie Groundhog Day. SIGH!

To sum it up, Kaela had a pretty good birthday...over and over again..this year. She got a new Littlest Pet Shop playset, a couple Wii games and a few DS games. She is quite the spoiled Brat!

Slow Down!

Okay, I have to complain about a serious issue here. I honestly just can't stand it anymore. Everyday when I go to pick up my kids it amazes me at how fast people drive in the SCHOOL PARKING LOT. There is one person who does this all the time. She is not my favorite person in the world and she shall remain nameless. Everytime I see her I just wonder how many times she has been hit with the stupid stick. How many signs does she need to see before she actually will slow down? I would think the hundreds of children walking out of the school and crossing the street would be enough but nope. I suppose some people just lack common sense. Sadly, those people should not be allowed to leave their home. The school parking lot is not a race track. I don't know what her damn hurry is anyway. It's not like her kids are going to up and walk off because mommy is ALWAYS a little late. Pretty sure they will be there when mommy gets there but whatever. So, for the safety of all the kids, SLOW DOWN!!! Is it really worth it to get there a few seconds faster and hit a child and possibly kill them while doing it? Yeah, I don't think so either.

Is it really February?

I can't believe it is already February. I don't know why this comes as a surprise because I knew the Superbowl was on the 1st. I must stop here and shout a loud "GO STEELERS!" We are so happy they have another Superbowl ring. Anyway, whenever I realize what the date is I think, "How did that happen?" Time is flying by. Kaela is going to be 8 on the 9th. I have no clue when she went from seconds old to almost 8. It's amazing how quickly time goes by. I say it all the time. I almost wonder what I am doing with my time to make it go by so fast. I don't feel like I'm doing anything special. Just the same old thing. Whenever the kids birthdays come around I get this weird feeling that I just haven't spent enough time with them. I'm a stay at home mom. I couldn't possibly spend anymore time with them than I do now. I try so hard to look back and remember when they were little and it's hard. That's so long ago. I just got all my Christmas stuff put away a week ago. Sad, I know. In about 10 months, it will feel like I got it put away just in time to pull it out again. I'm really just looking forward to summer. I've already shopped for swimsuits and I'm ready to go. I'm taking the kids swimsuit shopping in a week and a half. Seasons are nice but I'm sick of the cold. I'm ready for some warm weather.

Anyway, yet another boring blog. Looking out the window is deceiving today. You would think it was nice and warm out there but it is not. Then again, for some people, it might be swimsuit weather. For me, I can take off one of the three layers I have been wearing. Only about 3 1/2 more months of school left. Another thing I am counting down.

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I guess I have slacked on keeping this up. Actually, it isn't so much that I have slacked, it is more like there isn't much to chat about. You would think having kids would give me endless material to discuss but nope. We are boring or something. It's usually the same old thing but just a different day. We are still struggling with Trent and school. The kid is smart but just lazy. I really don't know what to do with him. We have tried everything. Yesterday, which was only Monday, was a good homework day for him. He came home and got everything done I asked him or he needed to get done. When I told him to write 5 sentences, he did it. When I told him to go and write 5 more, he did it without whining about it. He even unloaded the dishwasher without whining about it. He put everything away with no questions asked and no excuses. Hmm..it was a nice change. One that I can for sure get used to...quickly. I think this may partly be because 1) I've been very blunt with him about his attitude. Lately, there has been no sugar coating of things. I told Dalan I will fully blame myself if he ends up having to see a psychiatrist in the future. But for now I am going with whatever works and it is working. And 2) I took the Wii, his DS and his I-Pod away. Take that! Mess with me and you will have nothing. He seems to think I am the weak parent I think. I don't know why. Well, yes I do. I sometimes say no and if they bug me and bug me I give in. I mean, come on. What parent hasn't. It's so annoying! Well, now I have to deal with it all the time and now I'm saying, "When I say no I mean it. I am not going to change my mind!" Yet, they still bug me and I sit here and cringe BUT I do not give in.

Then there is Kaela who is the perfect daughter. Okay, maybe not perfect because the girl can and will drive me crazy sometimes. It is a relief she isn't like her brother because I would not be able to deal. I've said it before and I will always say it but she just has a great personality. Sometimes she can come off as being a brat, but she has a goofiness about her or playfulness. There are certain people she is like this with and sometimes she will be the same with other people when she shouldn't be. She is also too shy. Right now is Girl Scout cookie time and we are out going door to door as much as we can trying to sell the things. She is the "cute factor" while I'm the one giving the pitch and actually doing the selling. I cannot break her of this. I totally understand though because I was never one who liked going door to door. I still don't. Girl Scout cookies are a good seller and it's rare to get a no. Other than the fact that she is only 8, I don't get why she won't at least try. Some people she will warm up to quickly and kinda start pointing out which cookie is which and which one she likes and others she is hesitant. Maybe it's just she doesn't know whether they are nice people or bad. I don't know.

Anyway, that is about it for now. Nothing else to really tell. I haven't been up to much lately. Just cleaning and being a stay at home mom. Dalan just got home yesterday from CA. He was gone for 2 weeks. I feel for you single moms out there. Sometimes I think Dalan doesn't really do that much. One thing that is different is Trent's attitude when Dalan is home and that alone is worth having Dalan here.

What a week!

Wow! This past week has been so crazy. I'd go into detail but I am choosing not to because well, some things don't need to be posted for the whole cyber world to see. If you live in the town I do or are related to someone from here, you most likely have heard by now anyway, so I don't have to tell you. Gotta love small towns...I guess. This past week has been stressful and crazy and unexpected and random and silent and frustrating and....I just can't think of anymore adjectives to describe it. Even though it hasn't been the best week and not to great of a start to 2009, it actually ended okay. The Steelers played the Chargers and WON! I am so excited! They are one step closer to the Superbowl and I couldn't be happier. I was totally expecting a loss but they did it. Whoo-hoo!!! Now I wait for next Sunday when they play the Ravens and hopefully pull out another win. They play at home, so it can totally happen.

Let's see....nothing else has really been going on which is why I have not been posting. I'm still trying to take Christmas decor down. Pathetic, I know. With the week we've had, I just had no motivation to do anything...at all. Quite depressing, I know. I will go full steam ahead this week and play catch up. I hate playing catch up but it has to done. So, if anything exciting happens that I can share with you, I will do so. So, until then, have a great week.