Carpe Diem THE AOL JOURNAL ARCHIVE

Come On Over...

2008-10-10T10:44:00.000-07:00

Here is my new blog at blogger:

Carpe Diem

Come visit! I am transferring this blog, but only as an archive.

NO NEW POSTS WILL BE ON THIS ARCHIVE.

be well,
Dawn

Tags: new blog, blogger

My Decision...

2008-10-03T20:47:00.000-07:00

I am going to wait it out for a bit and see what I can do with the proposed transfer that is being worked on.

But, I will be at blogger with all of you soon enough, apparently!

Dang AOhell

be well,
Dawn

Hips Don't Lie

2008-09-28T13:07:00.000-07:00

Well, my hips don't lie. They hurt. They ache. They are mad at my rheumatologist.

Thursday, during my appointment, she decided to give my hips a vigorous exam.

By 6:30 pm that evening, I put on my pj's and have only been out of them once since!

I am not going to belabor the pain here though.

Thank you very much for all your support. Your comments and emails have meant so much over the last week. I am determined that this week I will get back to commenting in your journals, too.

Focusing on giving back may help me get through this all!

Of course, the kids are off Tuesday and I have to go for bloodwork at 8am, making the week interesting! LOL

Speaking of the kids, they are doing well. Fuzzy and Pumpkin are both doing great in school. Hammer is doing well with homeschooling.

Fuzzy was elected Senior Patrol Leader for his Scout troop. Basically, he is the head scout and has many responsibilities as such. He also ran for VP of the Student Council, but he lost to a friend, and was very gracious in defeat. Good experiences, both.

Can you believe that it will be October this week?

Wow... the time... she flies...

be well,
Dawn

Tags: rheumatoid arthritis, pain, boy scouts, kids

Through the Fire and Flames...

2008-09-24T11:52:00.000-07:00

There are a few reasons I haven't posted much... this is one of them. No one wants to listen to this all the time, I know I don't...

I am just so frustrated with this stupid disease (s).

Rheumatoid Arthritis and Lupus.

I have this amazing group of people that I email loop with and some of them have been dealing with these diseases, one or both for more than 20 years... I can't believe they haven't lost their minds after so long... some days I feel like I will.

The whole low pressure/rain/storm thing combined with the stress of the beginning of school (I guess) sent me into a flare. I just want it to end and it won't. I am tired, cranky and in so much pain. I do take the vicodin... not steadily, but I take them... a half here, a half there, a whole one in the evening... etc.

I am going to see about getting duragesic patches and the voltaren patches when I go to the rheumy tomorrow. They send the pain meds directly to the source. If I could kill the pain in my hip, it would be great...it hurts when I sit, stand, lay... ack.

That's another thing... I am DREADING tomorrow.

Hubby will be with me, which is great, but here is the days schedule:

Drop kids at school at 8am, head immediately into NYC for appt. After appt head back out (pray no traffic etc) meet kids for 12:30pm dismissal. 4pm, take kids and friends to bowling. 5:30 dinner, then 7pm be back at school for back to school night until 9pm. ACK. Somewhere in that break before bowling... I am going to nap. I hope.

However, I know that will annoy Hubby. I just can't win. Why will it annoy him? Because he took off the day to be with me for the docs and the kids, and he will selfishly not understand that if I don't get the nap I will fall over. ACK.

I can't blame him, I wish I were the way I was, too.

Every year it is the same thing... every few months the same battle. Can I keep doing this? Yes, of course, I have to... for my kids, if not for myself, but today I am having a big ole PITY PARTY as I contemplate that this is how it has been for years now, and how it will be for the foreseeable future.

I know I have the strength in me somewhere to get thru it and get myself back into a positive frame of mind, but sometimes I am just so tired.

So, all the prayers, kind thoughts, and positive energy you can spare to be sent my way would be appreciated.

Thanks for reading...

be well,
Dawn

Tags: rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, pain, frustration

Thankful Thursday

2008-09-11T14:16:00.000-07:00

9/11... Never Forget those who died that day.

1. I am so thankful that my husband came home that horrible day. (I have recounted my personal experience in past entries for this day, you can read them in my archives...)

2. I am thankful that although his good friend John did not come home, his girls and wife are doing well.

3. I am thankful to live in a country where my children school with other children of different races, creeds, and beliefs, and are growing up respectful, tolerant, and full of acceptance.

The qualities needed for PEACE ON EARTH.

4. I am thankful that my good friends online support me and have missed me lately. I miss you, too.

5. I am thankful for all the blessings in my life, there are so many.

At school today, the principal ended his 9/11 tribute with a challenge to the kids.

I present the same to all of you:

Do all the good you can,

By all the means you can,

In all the ways you can,

In all the places you can,

At all the times youcan,

To all the people you can,

As long as ever you can.

be well,
Dawn

Tags: 9/11, World Trade Center, Thankful Thursday

Hi-dee-ho Neighbors!

2008-09-09T20:51:00.000-07:00

I wish I was writing to say our laptop was able to be repaired, or that we got a new one... but no dice.

However, my darling kids are settled back at school!

The summer ended on a high note! We had my nephew Dill visit for 10 days and it was lots of fun!

The kids had a constant flow of friends here, and many sleepovers!

Even last weekend, after school started I had 2 spares for most of the weekend! No complaints! I adore these kids as if they were my own!

I am hopeful that soon we will have the good fortune to replace the laptop. Especially now that the kids need computers for homework so much more than before!

I am missing you all and I am hoping to start catching up on journals soon.

I am doing well. It has been a tough few weeks with hurricane remnants wandering through, but I am hoping that after Ike's dregs pass us over the weekend, that we all will be spared any more of that!

May this entry find you all with as many blessings to count as I have in my life...

be well,
Dawn

Communication Breakdown

2008-08-04T08:47:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

Just a quick note to let you know that our laptop is on the fritz and I won't be able to update often!

Hopefully it will get sorted out quickly!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: laptop, computer problems, ugh

Head Games

2008-07-31T17:35:00.000-07:00

Head Games as a title is a perfect double etendre for me tonight!

You see, I am locked in my bathroom while highlighting my hair.

Also, Fuzzy is very upset with Mish because apparently Mish has blown him off all day for someone else, and even this evening when he was supposed to come and sleepover with DogBoy.

So, Fuzzy is all aggravated and claims he is never speaking to Mish again, even though we will be bowling with him for 4 more weeks. Ack. (Dogboy is here though, so Fuzzy is not totally deserted this evening.)

Anyhow, get it - Head Games? I am in the bathroom... or head and the boys are playing 'head games' being mad at each other.

Oh yeah, sometimes I just crack myself up!

Or it is the fumes I smelling from the hair stuff!!! LOL ;-D

This afternoon a baby bird, just barely able to flutter off the ground for a few feet fell from its nest. The momma bird was squawking like a banshee. I picked the baby bird up and put her hidden under the bush where they nest. I think momma can get her the rest of the way back in.

Hubby just left the house with Fuzzy, Dogboy and Pumpkin to go drive some golf balls and play mini-golf. Yay!

Hammer is happily reading a book and now I know I will not be bothered in the bathroom for the remainder of processing time or for my shower and blow dry!

It's the simple things that make me happy!

A little peace and quiet, hair highlighted, and I will feel like a new woman tomorrow!

At least that is my plan. I am back to the 'just ignore the pain/disease etc and put on a happy face' way of living again. No choice until I stop flaring. The hip is better than it was but still pretty achy. Other joints chiming in though, and I am just ignoring it all!!!

A positive attitude, a new hairdo, some coffee, and an occasional vicodin and I can conquer the world! Bwah ha ha ha ha!!!

... Or at least function day to day and keep the kidlets and Hubby marginally happy. Yeah, that'll do for now!

'So You Think You Can Dance' is going to the finals next week! I can't wait to see who makes it! This has been the most talented year, I think!

Well, off to go read a few emails before I have to start the rinsing... see ya all tomorrow!

Two entries in one day... it has been a while since I have done that!

be well,
Dawn

ps... I would change this from 'mojito' to 'margarita' and be in 7th heaven! LOL

Tags: hair highlighting, Foreigner, Head Games, kids, sleepover, baby bird, fun

Thankful Thursday

2008-07-31T12:04:00.000-07:00

This is why KISS is in my head today!

Wow, the weeks do go quickly don't they? And, here it is July 31st. WOW.

Thankful time it is!

1. For Betty, who is always there with encouraging words for me, thank you.

I found this lolcat just for you:

2. For moments like this:

Fuzzy was crawling on hands and knees, trying to teach Suzy to join him on the treadmill. It was so funny.

3. Coffee:

Yes, I am doing thankfuls with pictures today!

4. Books:

5. My kids:

This was from Disney, April 2001. <sigh> They are growing up too quick.

6. My parents:

7. My Hubby man:

8. My pets... see the sidebar!

9. My diseases, which make me appreciate life more and make me stronger than I am.

10. JLand and my Loopies, you help me cope.

Well, I guess I am done torturing you all for today!! LOL I hope that you all have a great day and can spare a moment to count your blessings, too.

be well,
Dawn

Tags: Thankful Thursday, blessings, family, kids, coffee, hubby, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, KISS

Do You Wanna Know?

2008-07-30T12:42:00.000-07:00

This is a perfect Lolcat to depict our evening family time.

We all gather to watch tv together as a family. All the kids, all the pets.

Inevitably, someone farts.

Might be a cat... Might be the dog... Might be a kid... Or Hubby...

Without a doubt though, from that point on Pumpkin considers it a challenge to have the 'best' one of the night. Best = loudest and grossest odor, just in case you don't know.

9 times out of 10, she succeeds!

<sigh> Yeah, so much for having the Pretty Pretty Princess after two boys! LOL

Here is a meme I found! It was fun, with different questions, so give it a try and let me know if you do.

1. My uncle once: won a NJ State Demolition Derby contest.
2. Never in my life: have I sky dived, or will I sky dive.
3. When I was five: I had long blonde pony tails, loved kindergarten, and was reading already for two years.
4. High School was: not my favorite time of life.
5. I will never forget losing: my camera case in Gettysburg; there was $50 in it that Hubby had just given me for spending money.
6. I once met: Eli Manning and Jeremy Shockey. Yum.
7. There’s this person I know who: could tie cherry stems in knots with her tongue.
8. Once, at a bar: a guy poured his beer down my shirt to make his own 'wet tee shirt contest'. He was thrown out. Hard. I knew the bouncer! ;-)
9. By noon, I’m usually: awake.
10. Last night: Pumpkin and I colored a Mandalas. It was relaxing.
11. If I only had: a brain.
12. Next time I go to church: Christmas, to the actual building 'church'.
13. What worries me most: Something bad happening to my kids.
14. When I turn my head left, I see: the treadmill and Star Wars miniature toys collecting dust.
15. When I turn my head right, I see: Fuzzy, who is sitting here watching me and reading over my shoulder which I hate.
16. You know I’m lying when: I never lie. (Fuzzy says I am lying.)
17. What I miss most about the eighties: Just that feeling of being free to do whatever with my friends. And, hairbands. lol
18. If I were a character in Shakespeare, I’d be: The Tempest: Miranda , because she was kind, loyal and naive a bit, like me. I always look for the best in all and everyone. Sometimes you are disappointed, but usually when you expect it from people, they try to give it to you.
19. By this time next year: Hubby should be at a new job and things should be much better in the finance department. If we are blessed for it to be so.
20. A better name for me would be: Daphne (a family joke)
21. I have a hard time understanding: intolerance, fundamentalism, extremists, or anyone who believes that 'their way' is the only way.
22. If I ever go back to school: there is so much I would want to study/learn.
23. You know I like you if: I split the last coffee with you.
24. If I ever won an award, the first person I’d thank would be: My parents, Hubby, and kids.
25. Take my advice, never: step on a Lego with bare feet. Ouch.
26. My ideal breakfast is: Eggs Benedict, no Canadian Bacon, with extra hollandaise on the side to put on the hash browns. Yum.
27. A song I love, but do not have is: The version of Billy Jean that David Cook sangon American Idol. I did have it, but lost it in an unfortunate hard drive cleaning incident, and now it is no longer available. :(
28: If you visit my hometown, I suggest: that you visit me, and go to our 2 favorite restaurants.
29. Why won’t people: do the kind/nice thing all the time?
31. If you spend the night at my house: be ready for animal company!!! LOL
31. I’d stop my wedding for: N/A already hitched!
32. The world could do without: soda.
33. I’d rather lick the belly of a cockroach than: eat one! lol
34. My favorite blonde is: me! What? Doesn't that count?
35. Paper clips are more useful than: staples. duh.
36. If I do anything well, it’s: being a mom. A daughter? Not so great. A wife? Feh. A friend? Could be better.

But, mommy? I know I am good at that. :-)

This is a fun one isn't it? I like when the questions are unique and ask things I haven't said or done before.

Anyhow, we had bowling today. It was a mixed bag. Each of the kids had one good game and one that was not so good.

Tiara and Pumpkin are watching Movie 3 of the Harry Potter DVD Marathon they started a few days ago.

Fuzzy just ran a mile on the treadmill. Now, if he does that everyday, that would be really good for him! :-)

Tags: meme, survey, coffee, kids, bowling, harry potter, fun, love, lolcats, farts

Frustration

2008-07-29T11:55:00.000-07:00

Hmmm... it may make you feel better for the moment... but your head will hurt tomorrow kitty!

<sigh>

I hate flaring.

I hate rheumatoid arthritis.

I hate lupus.

I hate the brain tumor thingy, too, but at least it isn't bothering me right now. (I don't think.)

I wish I could go back to when the RA and Lupus was sleeping.

<sigh>

be well,
Dawn

Tags: rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, brain tumor, sore, tired, pain, frustrated

Pyromania

2008-07-28T21:16:00.000-07:00

Indulging my dark side this evening...

Scary lolcat!

So here is a meme:

The 5 List

5 things you collect = books, coffee mugs, dust bunnies, antiques, pins
5 things about your hair = blonde, wavy when I don't want it to be, too straight when I don't want it to be, needs a cut, needs highlighting
5 things about your pets = Libby, the yellow lab, is beautiful inside and out, Libby will do anything for food (yes, anything), Tina is gorgeous but very nasty, Pumpkin sleeps with me, and Suzy is very sweet, gentle and easy going.
5 things in your junk drawer = post it notes, a retractable tape measure, binder clips in multi-colors, crayons, Brother P-touch labelmaker
5 things you love to eat in summer = fresh strawberries, italian ice, Kohl's custard from the Jersey shore, fresh lemonade from the Jersey shore, Curley's fries from the Jersey shore!

That was distracting for my mind.

Sometimes... that is what you need.

be well,
Dawn

Tags: meme, dark side, lolcats, insomnia, summer things, Jersey Shore, pets

Rag Doll

2008-07-28T11:54:00.000-07:00

This was me today! LOL

We had a good weekend! Got some errands done on Saturday, new sneakers for the kids, etc.

Saturday night, Hubby and I went out to dinner alone. That was nice! We went to PF Chang's, and it was amazing, again! I even got an order of garlic noodles to bring home! lol

Yesterday, my mom and dad treated us all to see Batman! It was awesome! Dark brooding, cool special effects, just like you thought it would be.

Unfortunately, my hip is still hurting, but not as bad as it was last week.

Just wanted to give a quick update!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: movies, Batman, weekend, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus

Thankful Thursday - Friday Edition

2008-07-25T20:02:00.000-07:00

Wow! Has it really been a week and a day? Yikes!

Well, this should cover the finer points of my absence and my blessings all in one fell swoop!

1. Coffee. There has been a lot of it consumed this week.

2. My boys and Hubby came home! And, there was much rejoicing. Yayyyy! (for the Monty Python fans) Truly, there was celebrating. Then, laundry. Putting away tents and gear. Etc.

3. Peroxide/Dawn Dishwashing liquid/Baking Soda Solution really does work to remove SKUNK odor. (thanks, Mythbusters)

Yes, Libby (see sidebar for picture) got skunked. At 4:45am on Tuesday morning. Yep. Hubby and I washed her with the solution, which only needed to be repeated once later in the day.

However, when Libby ran back into the house past my dad at 4:45am she ran onto her bedding & blankies (ruined) and smeared the smell all over our bedroom floor trying to remove it from herself.

Of course, that is the one part of the smell still slightly there. Ugh. Hard to get off the hardwood floor.

4. I was granted patience rather than strength, therefore I didn't injure/maim/murder Hubby who decided to be quite obnoxious and mad at me (hello?) during the entire de-skunking operation. ACK!

5. Kids. They were very helpful and patient with me this week while I struggled with a flare in my right hip/knee/ankle/foot. They can be quite marvelous and giving.

6. Hammer. My laundry maniac. Monday we sure did a lot of laundry. Even a few loads throughout the week. Thank you. Your help going up and down the basement stairs is phenomenal. In fact, invaluable. I wouldn't be able to get it done without you with the RA/Lupus limitations.

7. Hubby getting his head out of his butt. Yes, he came around.

8. Fuzzy, for being quite a trooper while having his glucose tested all week. Not fun being pricked, but he understands that it is necessary. A pattern is emerging and it is helpful, too.

9. Pumpkin, for cleaning the bathroom and her room, prior to her friend Tiara spending the night last night, and oh yeah, she is spending the night tonight too. I am too nice. LOL

10. All of you in J-Land. Who missed me, love me, and support me, and who will understand if I don't get to your journals during weeks like this! Thank you!

Well, I have rambled on a bit, quel surprise! I hope you all have a marvelous weekend.

be well,
Dawn

Tags: Thankful Thursday, skunk, dog, mythbusters, coffee, blessings, kids, family, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, glucose testing, sleepover, flare

Thankful Thursday

2008-07-17T12:42:00.000-07:00

Today has been a good day!

Pumpkin Muffin and I slept very late! I guess we both needed that! Then, we went to lunch in our little townie luncheonette! Yummy!

While there, Pumpkin was recognized by a town councilwoman as the 'talented girl who wrote the fabulous 100th Parade poem!' Then, the waitress also bestowed Pumpkin with kudos for her poem as well! I was beaming with pride, and Pumpkin felt like quite the celebrity again!

Next, we hit Borders with a coupon and got a surprise for the boys and 2 more books for each other.

The boys read the Artemis Fowl series, and finally Eoin Coelfer has released a new one! Yay! We thought it wasn't coming out until Septmber so they will be thrilled!

Here are this weeks Thankfuls!

1. Iced COFFEE! Yum. I make my own using my Keurig. I use 2 k-cups on the smallest setting, so it makes the cup really strong. Then, when you add the ice and it melts the coffee still stands up! Yum! I do still get an occasional Dunkin Donuts Iced, like yesterday on the way home from the Scout camp. Ilene, myself and her daughter Peanut all got one. (decaf for Peanut, of course!)

2. My daughter tells me everything. Lately, there has been a few disturbing incidences with a certain girl being inappropriate. I am glad that Pumpkin and I can talk about these things together. I believe in giving kids all the information they ask for as well as making clear what the right choices should be for them. So far, so good.

3. The family camp visit! It was great to see my boys mid-week, which helps with making it to Saturday, when they come home!

4. Ilene! I couldn't have made that trip without you! It was really nice to have the time together to chat,too!

5. Air conditioning. Yesterday was 94 and today is 95 degrees so far. Yikes.

6. Bungalow dish. A yummy family favorite! It is a quick pasta and meat dish that was a childhood favorite of my mom's, then mine, and now Pumpkin's! And, thanks to my dad for making it!

7. Books. I love my books, and I am so happy my kids do too! Hammer is reading the Complete Sherlock Holmes Vol 1 at camp and was almost done with the thousand page book yesterday. Pumpkin walked in from the store today at 2pm and has not stopped reading since! LOL My book is calling to me...

8. A personal windfall. A prayer was answered. Thank you, God. I am blessed.

Well, that's it for now! Have a great Thursday and be thankful!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: Thankful Thursday, Boy Scouts, camp, coffee, books, Border's, reading, blessed

Another Piece of My Heart

2008-07-16T15:27:00.000-07:00

I saw my boys today!!! And, I got lots of hugs and kisses from my babies!

Not enough... but it will do until Saturday!

Here are some pictures!

Here are the boys in front of camp circle and then another view of the camp circle area.

It was so nice to sit and chit chat with Hubby.

He took me up to see his favorite view and we just talked for a while, alone.

Here is the view:

Gorgeous right?

Fuzzy and Hammer walked me over to their tent and said, 'Now, Mom, it's a bit messy; prepare yourself.'

I said, 'You mean you boys aren't keeping it up to 'mommy' standards?'

Hammer said, 'No way. Three men are in here mom!' Fuzzy said, 'Yeah, no chance!'

I was surprised, when I looked in and I told them so! It really looked pretty good! Three cots, in a tent, with three bags that they are living out of and it really was neat! LOL

I think I may have rubbed off on those boys more than they even realize!

Here is Fuzzy next to the tent!

Since they are with their dad, they get to sleep with him in our own tent.

The other boys are in tents on platforms provided by the camp. Here is a picture of DogBoy's tent!

It was really nice to get to see them mid-week. :-)

More later...

be well,
Dawn

Tags: Boy Scouts, camp, family visit day, tent

Calling Doctor Love

2008-07-15T21:16:00.000-07:00

I am really missing Hubby and my boys tonight.

I have this really vivid memory of us driving in the car in Vermont and singing KISS 'Calling Doctor Love' out loud with Hubby. We were holding hands and the kids were rocking along with us. So, that is the song title for tonight.

Pumpkin is feeling the lonely tonight, too. I just got her through a little crying jag.

Pumpkin wanted me to stay near her as she fell asleep, so I did this meme.

Past and Future Meme

Past

Ten seconds ago I was trying to decide whether or not to do a meme.
Ten minutes ago I was calming down a melancholy Pumpkin Muffin who was shedding a few tears while missing daddy and her brothers. (daddy a lot; the brothers, just a little)
Ten days ago was the Saturday after the 4th of July and I think we just relaxed most of the day.
Ten weeks ago was sometime in the beginning of April and I would actually have to read in my blog archives to tell you what the heck was going on in my life then! LOL
Ten months ago was the beginning of the school year for the kids, and it started really late due to construction at the school!

I remember my Pumpkin Muffin being really mad about that and crying when we got the call! The year started finally around the 19th, I think!

Ten years ago Hammer had just completed kindergarten, and I had 2 toddlers, 3 1/2 and 1 1/2 to deal with also! Busy times...

Future

Ten years from now I can't even imagine what life will be like! I do hope the kids will be out of college or near to being out. I hope they will be happy and settled. I hope that I will still be generally healthy, and able to enjoy some 'couple' time with Hubby!
Ten months from now will be next May and it will be so very busy as Fuzzy will be nearing 8th grade graduation! AND, Pumpkin Muffin will be going on her 6th grade outdoor education and team building trip to a Ymca camp from a Wednesday to Friday.
Ten weeks from now will be near my Hubby's birthday on September 20th, and it heralds the beginning of my favorite time of year. Fall, and all the holidays fast approaching! Yay!
Ten days from now will be Saturday the 26th and I have no idea what I will be doing! LOL
Ten minutes from now I may be getting off the computer and heading to bed!
Ten seconds from now I will be copying this meme from my test journal and into my regular journal for your enjoyment! LOL

Well, that was the meme! It did do its job, which was to get my mind distracted and for Pumpkin Muffin to fall asleep while listening to the 'tap tap tap' on the keyboard.

Tomorrow, Ilene and I will drive out to the camp for a visit! I can't wait! I really do miss them. I will be able to make it through the rest of the week after getting some hugs and kisses tomorrow.

Pumpkin Muffin is spending the day with her friend, Tiara. She doesn't want to miss her bowling. I also think that she knows she would get too upset seeing her dad and having to leave him again. It will work out better this way.

I forgot to tell you all that the Jimmy Buffet restaurant 'Cheeseburger is Paradise' that we went to on Saturday night was really good! They made GREAT margaritas (I only had one but I thought of you all) and all the food had an island twist to it. We shared a giant sampler of appetizers, and then Hubby and I both had the quesadilla for dinner. Dessert was chocolate nachos... OMG, awesome! I would recommend it, if you have one near you! The website is the name with no spaces and .com.

Well, time for me to read a page or two and try to sleep.

be well,
Dawn

ps... can you tell by tonights lolcats that I am missing my honey?

Tags: family, miss you, meme, KISS, lolcats

Our House

2008-07-13T17:37:00.000-07:00

This lolcat reminds me of b-rated horror movies!

Here is a fun little meme I found, please copy it and try it yourself!

If you came to my house…

You would see: our overly friendly yellow lab running about you excitedly trying to figure out if she should ignore us telling her not to jump on you, because she really wants to try to lick your face.

I’d probably feed you: Hmmm. Depends on the time of day, but for dinner let's go with a salad and a good cheesy baked ziti parmagiana.

And offer you this to drink: Water, iced tea, soda, beer or wine. I'd go with chianti to accompany the Italian cuisine, but wine isn't necessary.

I’d undoubtedly ask if you’d read: The latest James Rollins book 'The Last Oracle', which I read earlier this week.

I’d want to play this music for you: Depends on my mood, but maybe some Mozart for background music to chit chat, but it could be anything from Led Zeppelin, to 80's Madonna, to Josh Groban.

I’d want to tell you about: The boys being at Boy Scout camp and how much I was missing them.

I’d probably suggest a game of: Scrabble or Trivial Pursuit.

I would definitely show off: I am not really a 'show off' type, but since we just redid the kitchen, I would be happy to show that off! Along with a picture or the hideous dated scariness it was before! lol

I might get on the computer and show you: The aforementioned picture of the old kitchen, and maybe the pictures from our Vermont vacation.

If it was a long enough visit, we might watch: Well, that would depend on you, of course, the guess gets to pick! We have several Monty Python, Mel Brooks, and Speilberg flicks to chose from. Also, all the Star Wars and Lord of the Rings films. Lots of action, comic book related, and comedies to chose from here! LOL

The boys are gone.

I miss them so much already.

It is going to be a long week, I can tell.

Pumpkin Muffin had her friend, Tiara, staying over tonight. Tomorrow, at 10:30 am we head back for her doctor's visit and shots. Loads of fun.

I promised her lunch afterward, then I will bring home her friend.

They are watching movies. One of them is '27 Dresses' which Pumpkin has been dying to see. I plan on reading. Maybe cleaning out my bedroom closet and some drawers. It is the kind of thing I do when Hubby is gone.

Maybe I will be back with another meme, too!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: camping, Boy Scouts, meme, lonely, sleepovers, family

Miss You

2008-07-12T13:04:00.000-07:00

I will miss my honey this week.

A lot. :-(

And, my boys. :-(

But, they will have a wonderful experience at Boy Scout camp, I am sure.

Our switch to Io went very smooth yesterday, except for the fact that the guy was late. We chose the am block of 8-11am. He showed at noon. Feh. It could have been worse, though.

One thing that is really cool, is that our caller ID shows on the tv now! Very cool, it helps to know if it is worth running to find a phone or not! LOL

Today, Hubby has been doing the 'chicken without a head' packing thing. I sit back mostly and let him do the whole thing for camping. After all, I won't be there.

And, it is good for him to see what I go through packing for the whole family!!

Tonight we are going to a new restaurant! Cheeseburgers in Paradise! It is a chain owned by Jimmy Buffet! I have always wanted to go to Key West and have a Margarita... I will pretend I am there tonight at dinner! LOL

We are going out with Bob and Ilene. Bob is driving Hubby, my boys and his son, DogBoy, to camp tomorrow! Gotta love him!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: Cheeseburgers in Paradise, Jimmy Buffet, Camping, Boy Scouts, friends

Thankful Thursday

2008-07-10T14:35:00.000-07:00

A quick shout out to the website icanhascheezburger.com where all my LOLCAT pictures come from!

It is Thankful Thursday time again!

1. (men shield your eyes) I thought that I was getting a stomach virus, but it turned out to only be my period, which sometimes makes me sick, just before yelling 'Surprise, I have arrived'!

2. Coffee. OH MY HEAVENS... I DO LOVE IT!

3. Hubby, who loves to chase me around even when I don't think I look like I should be chased!

4. My Mommy, who gave me a Borders gift card for books. I really needed that, thank you, Mom!

5. My kids, who were hilarious at their doctors appointment today. Our doctor is wonderful and laughed along with us! It turns out the office messed up and only the boys were checked out. Pumpkin goes on Monday.

6. My doctor's office, who are rescheduling me since I was feeling miserable this am.

7. My Dad who has made a yummy smelling homemade sauce and pasta today for dinner.

8. There have been some recent changes in the Boy Scout troop that my sons are in and I am feeling happy and relieved about them.

Hubby and the boys have a meeting tonight in final preparation for their week of Boy Scout camp!

I am going to miss them so much!

Tomorrow, we have the cable company coming to change our service. I don't know when I will be able to get online. We already use their internet, so we are adding their phone and cable which will save us tons of money! Wish us luck!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: Thankful Thursday, doctor, check-up, shots, funny, kids, Boy Scouts, camp, books, coffee

Push It

2008-07-09T13:11:00.000-07:00

Me, too, Kitty! LOL

That one cracks me up!

Anyhow, I definitely 'pushed it' too much yesterday. I had to do my Enbrel shot yesterday, which was two days late due to a new insurance procedure (annoying, but it did work out), and usually I do it on Sunday and I 'veg' out all day.

As you know... yesterday - extra kids. 2 extras, M and Mish slept over. Muffins were made at 9:30 pm, tv watched until after midnight, and then early morning wake up!

So, after bowling today, I came home and conked out for an hour and half nap. It felt great. I am still a bit groggy though!!!

Pumpkin bowled an 84 and an 85, and Fuzzy bowled 135 and 104. Good games! It is really hot again today, but not sunny. Looks like a thunder-boomer may come through soon.

Maybe it will cool it down some!

Anyhow, I was browsing on technorati and saw this meme.

5 Things in My Main Bathroom That You May Not Have in Yours

1. A sharps container, for disposal of my Enbrel syringes.

2. Boxes of alcohol swabs. Yes, for doing shots, but also great for getting ink off of things, pimples, disinfecting phones, keyboards, etc.

3. A ceramic sand castle. It's a candle holder.

4. Sand sculptures that the kids made in plastic bottles.

5. Seashells, some painted, but all found by the kids!

Okay...now you play!! LOL

be well,
Dawn

Tags: muffins, sleepovers, tired, nap, meme, bathroom

Walking on the Sun

2008-07-08T12:22:00.000-07:00

It took a while, but I finally figured out why I am having such a hard time with the sun this year!

I looked back in my medicine log and I started the Plaquenil (Hydroxychloroquine Sulfate), last August. It takes about 3 months to get up to snuff. Then, you add back the Enbrel and I am taking Methotrexate .

So, last year I didn't notice anything.

The Plaquenil and the Methotrexate both have photosensitivity or sun sensititivity as side effects. It can manifest as becoming easily burned and/or rashes and/or other skin problems.

Check. Check. AND, check.

Crap.

Well, at least now I know why I keep getting itchy rashes, red blotches and was so easily burnt in Wildwood. My skin actually peeled and flaked for 5 weeks after that burn in Wildwood!

Yesterday, at Kathy's, my legs rashed up within about 20 minutes or so of being in the sun. It sucked.

Correction... it sucks. It is not going to be easy to cope with this throughout the summer. Thankfully, I do have friends that can keep an eye on the kids at the town pool when they go. I am blessed.

But what about the other stuff? Ugh. I will he the chubby blond-haired, pale mommy under the umbrella, I guess! No choice! <sigh>

I am frustrated today and want to scream how much I hate Rheumatoid Arthritis and Lupus. Instead, I am venting here.

Thank you.

Today is Africa hot. Ick. 93 degrees, sunny and humid. Eww.

Pumpkin's friend M is over. Fuzzy and Hammer are waiting for Mish to call them and come over later. Tomorrow is bowling!

The fun never stops! LOL

be well,
Dawn

Tags: rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, sun sensitivity, photosensitivity, medicines, plaquenil, methotrexate, Enbrel, sun, frustrated, rash, kids, summer

Glory Days

2008-07-07T17:16:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a great weekend!

Our 100th 4th of July Parade was just FABULOUS!

Here are some pictures...

First here is Pumpkin in her special car, which ended up not being a convertible due to an early drizzle, and while reading her award winning poem at the parade closing ceremonies:

Next, here is Hammer, with the flag, in center waving at me, and the next picture is of Fuzzy and Mish. Fuzzy with glasses and David Cassidy 'I Think I Love You' hair. LOL

Yep. I spared dear Hubby from being pictured this year!

Kathy and my sweet nephew J came up to watch this special parade! After the ceremony at the end, lots of people came up to Pumpkin and congratulated her on her poem and commented on how it was well-written! Some were people that we knew, but a lot of people that were complete strangers came up to Pumpkin, and she was loving her moment of 'celebrity'!

Pumpkin went home with Aunt Kathy on Friday, and J was so thrilled! I have never seen him leave our house so easily!!! He was very happy to have his Pumpkin in tow!

Saturday afternoon Hubby, the boys and I went skeet shooting! Actually, only Fuzzy did the shooting, but it was very fun to watch! I had never seen him do it before. Hammer found it to be painfully loud and hung back, after watching his brother hit one or two. Fuzzy ended up with a respectable 16 of 25 clay pigeons downed!

Fuzzy also decided that he wants to join their fall league! I am happy when the boys find something that they enjoy so much that they want to get into it more!

Then we went to the famous The Hot Grill restaurant for dinner! Yummy! Dogs all the way! Fries with cheese and gravy! Yummy!

Yesterday was mostly relaxing around the house, although we did go out to Borders Books for a while and pick up the boys Merit Badge books that they need for Boy Scout camp.

Today, we drove down the Garden State Parkway to Kathy's! We had a nice visit. The kids swam for a couple of hours, then had a nice lunch treat of Wendy's (thanks, Kath!).

The house was so quiet without my Pumpkin, but I really missed her, so it was nice to get there and get my huggies and kisses, too!

Unfortunately, we needed to leave earlier than I would normally have left because Hubby messed up his doctor appointment today. He showed up at 8:30am today, and his appointment was 8:30am tomorrow. Ack.

He couldn't come back again tomorrow, and go to work late two days in a row, so he had to get back there later today at 4pm, and preferred to have our car to do it. Men.

This is a tight week because the boys are leaving for Boy Scout Camp on Sunday. Hubby needed to have his doc appointment for his physical and camp papers, and the boys have theirs on Thursday afternoon. I have my rheumatologist appointment on Thursday morning, which makes it a real whammy of a day! LOL

Pumpkin is also having her physical and about 4 shots on Thursday. Yep... should be loads of fun! NOT!

However, let's not get ahead of ourselves! After all, tomorrow is just Tuesday! Let's see... just a sleepover of one of Pumpkin's friends so far... more could be added! You never know!

It is summer time after all!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: 4th of July, parade, poetry, Boy Scouts, skeet shooting, Hot Grill, doctors

Thankful Thursday

2008-07-03T12:21:00.000-07:00

Imagine! I almost forgot it was Thankful Thursday because it is like a Friday around here! lol

My thankfuls...

1. LOLCats and icanhascheezburger.com

How can you not laugh?

2. J-land - my sanity.

3. My family - my heart.

4. Coffee - my get up go juice!

5. My pets - my comforters.

That's it for today. More later about the upcoming weekend. Hope you all have fun celebrating!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: Thankful Thursday, lolcats, blessings, kids, family

Breakfast at Tiffany's

2008-07-03T11:27:00.000-07:00

Thanks Bethe, I love this tag!

This morning Mish and Fuzzy decided that they would treat me by cooking breakfast!

They made scrambled eggs, cheese omelettes, bacon and sausage. Mish was in charge of eggs, and Fuzzy - the meat. It was very good! They even attempted the clean up, and it only took me about 20 minutes to do the 'real' clean up.

Hey, they tried, and I appreciate it!!!

They cook for their Boy Scout patrol all the time, so I knew that they would be fine in a kitchen. :-)

Yes, Mish slept over again last night. One sleeping over is a lot easier. And, Mish is always a pleasure because he is a big help and usually even makes Fuzzy help more! Always a plus!!!

Today has been quieter. Mish and Pumpkin went to the pool together, and Mish's mom drove, which was a nice break. Fuzzy and Hammer are watching their favorite crime show on Discovery Crime whatever-they-call-that-channel-now.

I am heading off to a nice long shower.

Tomorrow is going to be crazy in the morning... more on that later.

be well,
Dawn

ps... Here are pictures of Pumpkin, the eldest cat, and Libby, the dog laying on or against my feet while I am on the computer! I think they missed me and figure if they lay on me, I can't leave! LOL

LOL Here is another of Libby (with her face) playing with a cat toy just to annoy the cats.

Tags: breakfast, sleepovers, kids, fun, pets

Wake Up Little Dawnie

2008-07-02T12:54:00.000-07:00

So, yeah, the alarm went off at 9am... I hit snooze. Or maybe I didn't... I'll never know for sure, but this I know - the phone rang at 10am.

And, I was not up and ready, I was in la-la land.

It was Mish's mom, wanting to know if I would mind her driving with me to bowling and what time would I be there? ACK!

As soon as I hung up, I screamed at the 3 boys, Fuzzy, Mish and DogBoy, to get dressed, 'It's time to go!' And, then called 2 mom's for other arrangement confirmations while I dressed.

Thankfully, they had fed themselves breakfast, and I shuffled them into the car within ten minutes. I don't know who brushed their teeth or who didn't. I did.

Off to the town pool first to drop off DogBoy for swim practice. Then, shoot to the other side of town to get Pumpkin, and her friend M (who was not bowling but was coming to watch), then back to the other side of town to pick up Pumpkin's friend Tiara (who is bowling). Last but not least, I picked up Mish's mom, just around the block from Tiara and shot off to the bowling alley, about 2 miles away in the next town.

Phew! Don't ask me how, but we made it by 10:40am! Yeah! Then, we signed up the kids, and I actually had time to get a cup of coffee at the cafe before the bowling started at 11am.

They bowl 2 games in this league and at the end of 10 weeks they get a Marvel Comics ball and bag. They can't wait. Tiara doesn't have a ball at all, so she is especially excited!

Pumpkin bowled a 101 her first game, but tanked her second somewhere in the 50's. Fuzzy bowled a 111 and a 145 and was very happy!

After bowling was over, I had to drive Pumpkin and M back to M's house. Then, Tiara home to hers, but the girls were all meeting back up for lunch and swimming at M's. Pumpkin will finally be coming back home at 5pm today.

I dropped off Mish's mom, and then drove with Mish and Fuzzy to Burger King for lunch. Grabbed it and headed home to eat with Hammer, too.

I thought I could settle down for a rest before tackling the vacuuming, but I was wrong. 30 minutes after lunch, the boys decided to meet DogBoy at the pool for the afternoon. I dug out a spare suit for Mish, the boys changed, and I drove them off to the town pool. I have no idea when they will come home... I told them to call.

Mish is staying for dinner tonight, and might sleep over again.

Back home, where Hammer and I relished the relative quiet for about a half hour, when I then decided to tackle the vacuuming!

I have been just chilling out reading journals for about an hour now, and I am really pooped!

The good news is that Hubby is home early!!! Yay! Now, he can do all the afternoon pick ups! YAY AGAIN!

Oh, did I forget to mention that I did ALL of that running around with the gas tank on empty and the truck 'dinging' at me repeatedly! Ack! I wanted to kill Hubby, but I didn't because I am too tired! LOL But the truck is gassed up and ready to go!

Just tattoo TAXI on my forehead and paint me yellow!

I am not really complaining, because I love it! All of it! I just hate the part where the day started without the alarm doing what it should have done!!! That stunk!

I hope your alarms all behave today!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: alarm, snooze, late, mom's taxi, kids, fun, summer, bowling

Back in the Saddle

2008-07-01T20:23:00.000-07:00

So, for some reason, I guess because I am nuts, I decided to let the boys have 2 friends sleep over tonight.

It's summer! Why not? Right? And, then it got even easier because Pumpkin is staying over at her friend's house tonight! Yay!

My goodness! It's like these boys have forgotten what it's like to sleepover here! They are so loud! Ack! Grandpa goes to sleep at 9pm and gets up at 4am for work, so they have to keep it down if they are in the family room! I have been trying to get them upstairs to watch a movie on the dvd player, but oh NO, they want the big tv! ACK!

Hubby has GOT to get the basement finished... then they will be quarantined like the little rug rats they are acting like! Bwahahahaha!

Anyhow... the other good idea I had today was to do a meme! I found 2 unusual surveys online and combined them into one long one here.

It actually asks some questions that turn into giving you an update in my life! LOL

Enjoy... and please... feel free to snag it and do it yourself, but let me know so I can come read it!

1. Grab the book nearest to you, turn on page 18 and find line 4.

Book = Prime Obsession, Bernard Riemann and the Greatest Unsolved Problem in Mathematics

Line 4 = 'Descartes had in fact arithmetized and algebraized a large part of geometry in the seventeenth century, though pure-geometric demonstrations in the style of Euclid were still popular - and still are - for their clarity, elegance, and ingenuity.'

Sorry you asked?

2. Stretch your left arm out as far as you can, what do you touch or are you nearest to touching?

The treadmill.

3. What is the last thing you watched on TV?

A csi show with the boys this afternoon.

4. Without looking, guess what time it is?

7:10 pm

5. Now look at the clock, what is the actual time? 7:10pm! I just let in one of Fuzzy's sleepover pals and he said the time!

6. With the exception of the computer, what can you hear?

Tv in the living room, kids in the family room talking, and the oven fan in the kitchen because I am making Cinnabon muffins for the kids!

7. When did you last step outside? What were you doing?

At about 3pm to get the mail!

8. Before you started this survey, what did you look at?

My emails.

9. What are you wearing right now?

Turquoise blue terry capri pants and a tye-dyed Ben & Jerry's tee shirt!

10. Did you dream last night?

Yes, a bizarre dream about breaking up a ring of dog fighters headed by people I went to grammar school with and haven't seen in a million years!

11. When did you last laugh?

A few minutes ago at one of the spares that are sleeping over!

12. What is on the walls of the room you are in?

Turquoise paint, and the kids names. It used to be their bedroom, now the 'playroom'.

13. Seen anything weird lately?

Oh yes. Always. I have 3 kids, a hubby, a dog, 3 cats, and two hamsters. And, two parents upstairs. All kinds of weird stuff to be seen!!

14. What do you think of this quiz?

Fun, so far!

15. What is the last film you saw?

On vacation we went to see 'Get Smart' and I was pleasantly surprised! It wasn't cheesy, like it could have been. It paid homage to the original, but was funny on its own merit and was full of action!

16. If you became a multimillionaire overnight, where would you live?

After this last vacation, in Vermont! In a huge house with my family, my parents, and any other family members, (Kathy, Karol) who want to join me and mine!

17. Tell me something about you that few people know.

Hmmm... this is tough since I have revealed so much on here, I think you know everything! How about this... I was nominated to enter the Miss Teen NJ when I was 13. Someone has to sponsor you, and I was so shocked that someone did! I chose not to enter though.

18. If you could eat only one food all the time what would it be?

Eggs. There are so many ways you can make them!

19. Do you like to dance?

I LOVE to dance!!!

20. George Bush. First thought:

Can't wait until it is over.

1. When you looked at yourself in the mirror today, what was your first thought?

Yikes!

2. When is the next time you will have sex?

Maybe later, maybe tomorrow!

3. What’s the first thing that comes to mind when I say 'Duck'?

Quack

4. Favorite planet?

Earth :-)

5. Who is the 4th person on your missed call list or caller id?

My friend, Bob!

6. What is your favorite ring on your cell phone?

Right now, 'Crazy Train' by Ozzy Osborne

7. What did you last eat?

A snack sized bag of Lays Potato Chips.

8. What were you doing 20 minutes ago?

Watching a show on the History Channel with Hubby.

9. Name the brand of shoes you’re currently wearing?

Dearfoam slipper! Pink terry thong style! LOL

10. Bright or Dark Room?

Dark to sleep in, Bright to read in!

11. What do you think about paparazzi - evil or just doing their jobs?

I don't think they are 'evil' but I do think that a percentage of them totally cross the line in unacceptable ways with celebrities.

12. If you’re in a room with two beds,which one would you choose?

It depends. Sometimes, Hubby and I take the room nearest the bathroom. Sometimes we take the room between the door and the kids. Depends on the room layout.

13. What were you doing at midnight last night?

Sleeping, which is early for me! LOL

14. What was the last email you read about?

The last email I read was about Hubby's diverticulitis situation, which still isn't great. He is still on a restricted diet and has to have another colonoscopy at the end of August. There is a good chance he may have to have surgery at some point. Keeping my finger crossed we can avoid that.

15. How do you like your eggs?

My favorite is Eggs Benedict without the Canadian Bacon. But I like them over easy, scrambled, omelettes, soft and hard boiled, too!

16. What’s a phrase that you say a lot?

'If Mama ain't happy, ain't nobody happy!' and 'What didn't you understand, the 'n' or the 'o'?'

17. Who told you he/she loved you last?

Hammer just told me that about 15 minutes ago.

18. Last furry thing you touched?

Libby, the dog. ;-)

19. How many drugs have you done in the last three days?

All my usual meds, and an occasional vicodin when I was really uncomfortable.

20. How many rolls of film do you need to get developed?

I actually do have some film that needs to be developed in a bag in a drawer. Scary, I know! LOL

21. Favorite age you have been so far?

Now, it is always now!

22. Your worst enemy?

Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, and the ever-present 'brain thingy'.

23. What is your current desktop picture?

This one:

24. What was the last thing you said to someone?

Go, fine watch Harry Potter, but be quiet!

25. If you had to choose between a million bucks or to be able to fly which would it be?

Much to my kids dismay, I would take the money! LOL

26. Last time you vomited?

Oh what a lovely memory! I had a stomach virus last year that got me.

27. The last song you listened to?

Earlier in the car today I heard Joan Jett 'I love Rock and Roll' just before getting home.

28. Did you ever get a trophy? If yes, what for?

I got a trophy for bowling and softball.

29. If you could punch 1 person in the face, who would it be? This kid: Teen charged with shoving senior off dock

30. What is the closest object to your left foot?

Pumpkin, my all black elder kitty!

Alrighty now... come on and play! Can you tell that I worked on this on and off all night! LOL

Tomorrow, the kids start their summer bowling league! Yay! Every Wednesday, at 11am, although tomorrow we go early to sign up. It should be fun. :-)

be well,
Dawn

ps... we have been watching American Gladiators... Have you?

Tags: sleepover, kids, fun, summer, meme, survey, lolcats

Green Mountain Madness

2008-06-30T16:55:00.000-07:00

We're back!!! Today was a day of rest and laundry, you know how it is after vacation!

The pictures from vacation are above for you to check out.

Ben & Jerry's was AWESOME! Everyone who works their is so happy! The tour was fun and the tasting great! The graveyard was cool! Check out the Coffee Buzz Buzz flavor! I wish they still had that one! lol

The kids had a blast behind the timeshare place playing in the brook and looking for rocks. The water was crystal clear and so pretty!

The President Calvin Coolidge Homestead and Gravesite was an excellent site! They had a cheese factory started by the Presidents father, and baby animals! So cute!

We also went to a quarry and granite cutting facility. The kids sandblasted their own individual designs on a granite tile! You can see them above.

One of the restaurants that we ate dinner at was made from a caboose! It had the interior cupola of the caboose set up with tables. You can see Fuzzy at the table, and thru the porthole!

The lake was gorgeous too. Pumpkin fell into the lake off the boat launch! Silly girl! The kids loved getting their feet wet though!!

I know it is a lot of pictures... I hope you enjoy! Too tired to do much more of an entry right now!

be well,
Dawn

We're Having a Party

2008-06-26T09:47:00.000-07:00

.... and apparently, so are you in my journal!! Yay!

Vermont is awesome! Absolutely gorgeous... God's country, as one would say.

The mountains are so green and lush, it is obvious why it is the Green Mountain State!

More to come soon!

I donate some Ben & Jerry's for dessert to the party!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: Vermont, Green Mountain State, Ben & Jerry's

Vacation!

2008-06-21T11:34:00.000-07:00

Yes, my plans, my packing, and all that it takes to get a family of 5 on the road is going well.

My parents and Hubby and I purchased a Magellen GPS thingy for the car today. We split the cost, and will share it as needed! I am happy because it will be great to have with all the sightseeing we are planning on doing! :-)

I hope everyone has a great week, while we are visiting Vermont!

be well,
Dawn

ps. the perfect lolcat...

Tags: Vermont, vacation, packing, lolcat

Thankful Thursday

2008-06-19T10:46:00.000-07:00

Thankful Thursday! My favorite day of the week! It is always so easy to be 'thankful' on Thursday because the weekend is so near! Thankful Mondays would be much more difficult, don't you agree? I may have to try that sometime... lol

Until then... we carry on with Thankful Thursday!

1. Lolcats from icanhascheezburger.com - they make me laugh!

See? Funny!

2. Missie! Thank you for the 'Latte' sidebar! I love it!

3. Kids! Pumpkin received an Academic Excellence Award and three others today at the school end awards! Fuzzy will receive his tomorrow!

4. Hammer, who makes a mundane errand fun by just being with me for the ride! Thanks, my sweetie!

5. Today is Hubby's last day of work before vacation! Yay!

6. Sunday we leave for vacation in Vermont! Yay!

7. My parents will take care of the pets while we are away - thank you, Mom and Dad!

8. Coffee! The thing that powers me! Yay!

9. Books. Oh how I love them! I think I read 3 so far this week. One re-read and two new. I have 5 paperback to read anew starting today. I should save them for vacation...but I think 2 will be enough if the weather is nice! LOL (and there are bookstores in Vermont, I am sure!)

10. There has been a pleasant drop in temperature and humidity! My body LOVES that! The RA/Lupus are quiet again! Yay! Yay! YAY!

Can you tell I am in a very good mood and really looking forward to vacation? lol

Last night, Hubby and the boys picked out all their classes for merit badges for Boy Scout Camp. They will leave exactly 2 weeks after we come home from Vermont! Ack!

Where is this year going? How can it almost be time to start Christmas shopping again?

Speaking of Christmas shopping, I have heard that Vermont has fabulous shopping, so I may start up there! Yippee! Yeah, at least half of you probably want to kill me for even mentioning that, right? lol

So, I am going to turn off alerts probably starting tomorrow. I have to get us all laundered, packed, and ready to go. Plus, when Hubby is home he tends to turn my schedule on ear! LOL

I think we are bringing the laptop with us for the trip, so if anything earth shattering happens and you think I need to know it... Email me!

Hmmm... I think that is it!

I will try to pop off another entry before we leave!

be well,
Dawn

ps... Our cats all howl and meow and BEG for bologna or ham, so this cracked me up!

Tags: lolcats, coffee, books, family, vacation, Vermont, school awards, shopping, Christmas, Boy Scouts

Books - A Meme Part 2

2008-06-18T18:22:00.000-07:00

Back again, just a few left.

Comment from: wwfbison
"The Wild West...the one period I would travel back to if we could do time travel.
Lisa"

This one was harder than I thought it would be, Lisa! I have lots of books that mention different 'Wild West' ish type stuff, but nothing really of that era in non-fiction.

However, then I remembered a great book!

Historical fiction writer, Jeff Shaara rocks! This book, 'Gone for Soldiers' is set in 1848 in Texas during the Mexican American War. It may be a part of Wild West history that you have not explored. My favorite part is how all the men working together as US Army, infantry and calvalry, meet again 12 years later often opposing each other in the Civil War.

Also, fabulous books to be read by Jeff Shaara, 'Gods and Generals' about the beginning of the Civil War up to the day before Gettysburg, and 'The Last Full Measure' starting the day after Gettysburg. Gettysburg itself is the focus of 'Killer Angels' written by Michael Shaara, Jeff's dad, shortly before he died.

Comment from: sunnyside46
"Biographies of famous people from the sixties...
Marti
http://journals.aol.com/sunnyside46/MidlifeMusings/"

Nope. You got me, Marti! I have lots of people early than the 60's... maybe a few sports heroes, but most from before or after the 60's! Dang it! I thought I had Professor Richard Feynman's autobiography or biography, but I can't find it. Dang. He was a really cool and funny professor of physics from California Institute of Technology that began the true exploration of quantum theory, and made it more readily accessible to physics students (like Hammer) and regular people, like you and I, who might be interested in it.

Also, Leigh... I don't read Judi Piccoult, so, I don't have any book to recommend along that vein either! Ack!

Linda (swmpgrly), I guess those were the only ones that I struck out on! Not bad!! LOL

Here is a picture of one of the four main library type areas we have in the house:

That is just a partial view, too. The top was too messy to share! LOL Lots and lots of books around here!

I wanted to add pictures and reviews of some of my absolute favorite non-fiction books. I will do that sometime after vacation though!

There is much packing, laundry, organizing, etc, that needs to be done before we go to Vermont! Ack!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: Feynman, physics, 60's, jeff shaara, michael shaara, meme, books, vacation, Vermont

Books - The Meme

2008-06-18T12:45:00.000-07:00

At long last... here I am with the book recommendations meme!

Okay first:

Comment from: eml625
"OK Give me a book on Rock music from the 70's..............

Ellen"

Ellen, I don't have a picture for you, but the book that is somewhere in this house is called, 'Where they are Buried' by Todd Benoit! It lists soooooo many icons of music from the 70's. It describes how they died and where they are resting now! There is even a great story about him running into Bob Dylan and they visit a grave together. The book was lent out to one of the kids friends, but as soon as you asked, I thought of that book!

Comment from: chat2missie
"How about a self help book that you would highly recommend,
Missie

I don't really have many self-help books that do not revolve around Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus and/or chronic illness, but this one does kind of fit the bill.

If you have ever been interested in Eastern philosophy, Buddhism, in particular, and wanted it presented in an easy to digest way - this book is great!

I really enjoyed it, and even if it isn't your cup of tea, your son might love it, Missie! It relates all the principles of Buddhism to being a Jedi Knight. :-)

Hi Dawn,

OK, how about "taxidermy"? To be honest, I'm not very personally interested in the topic but would be amazed if you have a book on the topic. Amazed ... and perhaps a little worried.

Best,
Marty

Okay, Marty... You can stop worrying... a bit! LOL I don't save many fiction books forever, except for some of the series that I really love!

So, here is a picture of some of Jim Butcher's Harry Dresden series:

Somehow, I missed the book in the pile that I wanted to point out! 'Dead Beat' puts Harry (who is a wizard and the good guy), up against bad guy necromancers (evil wizards that raise the dead, yes, zombies). In order to defeat the evil guys from taking over all of Chicago and eventually the world, Harry re-animates the t-rex, Sue, from the field museum.

Not quite taxidermy, but close enough. And, these are a great series of books, I hope you try them out!

Comment from: luddie343
"Oh Dawn I'm desparate for sometime good on 10th century Cypriate art - Byzantine. Surely you have something current? My library is growing fungi of some sort - help!!! and btw, LUV those kittehs! xoxo CATHY
http://journals.aol.com/luddie343/DARETOTHINK/ "

Ha! Got it Cathy!

There is a whole section! Cypriate and otherwise for you to peruse! My daughter loves looking at this book!! :-)

Comment from: lv2trnscrb
"how to adjust to a move in a new city
cute idea Dawn!
betty"

Well, since I know you have moved into your second home in California, this book came to mind!

Simon Winchester gives a great history of all of California, and geological factors that make it shake, rattle and roll today. Rather than just addressing the quake, Winchester takes you across the country on the trip he made from the Boston area to Cali. Teaching you all the while the history and science of our country's land mass.

It may not help you adjust to your move, but reading and learning always makes me feel good. Enjoy!

Comment from: swmpgrly
"captain marvel....dont ask me where that came from but thats what came to my head...lol"

Captain Marvel it is:

This is just one of many comic related books we have with Captain Marvel. This is a graphic novel. Enjoy!

Okay... still a few more to get together... second installment will be later today, I hope!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: books, meme, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, dharma, buddhism, star wars, Simon Winchester, Jim Butcher, Harry Dresden, art, Byzantine, comics, Captain Marvel, geology, earthquakes

Pussycat Pussycat - Meme update

2008-06-16T10:39:00.000-07:00

I hope all men had a good Father's Day, whether you father kids, pets, or nieces and nephews, or friend's kids... I salute you!

I am beginning to take pictures for the meme... Sorry I am behind, but life is hectic!

Here are some cute pictures though!

This is Suzy, laying on my legs...

Isn't she sweet!

Then here is Pumpkin, the elder kitty, who immediately hopped up on my lap as soon as Suzy left, just to show her who is boss! lol

Oh yes, as we watch tv in our family room, there are all kinds of kitty vs. kitty dramas, and kitty vs. doggy, and even, kitty vs. hamster. Suzy likes to sit on top of the hamster cage. Poor hamsters. We make her get down, but what about when we aren't here or are sleeping? lol

A good weekend was had by all here in Dawnland. Hubby is much better, and is out at a full day of work. ::: finger's crossed::: I do hope that it isn't too much for him, but there is only 4 days of work for him this week.

Sunday we leave for Vermont! Yay! Originally, Hubby was pushing for a busy active vacation in Washington, DC, and I was the lone hold out for a relaxing vacation. Guess who is VERY happy that we are having a nice quiet relaxing week in Vermont now? Yep, you guessed it. Hubby. LOL

Okie dokie... off to do busy life stuff... ACK.

be well,
Dawn

Tags: Father's Day,kitten, cats, pets, hamsters, family, vacation, vermont

Ask Me- And I Will Deliver Meme

2008-06-13T14:54:00.000-07:00

Today, I worked on organizing the books in the boys room and the play room, again.

And, dang, we have a lot of books. Books on every subject... which gave me an idea!

Why not turn it into a meme!

In a comment, ask me to recommend a book on any subject... be as obscure as you want... we may surprise you or at least be close!! We cover all modes of science, history, animals, and physical world, from A to Z, or so it seems! People alive, dead, and where they are buried! Fun facts! Weird facts! Numbers, comics, television, movies, classics... Oh it goes on and on... If I don't have it, I will get as close as I can!

I will then give you book recommendations from our home library, with a review and a picture of the book! If you want something for a child specifically, let me know the age!

Go! Ask away!!! I think this will be fun!!!

I can't wait to do this! Yay!

be well,
Dawn

ps... I like my rose colored glasses!

Tags: books, meme, ask, recommend, book review, any subject, fun, pictures

Thankful Thursday

2008-06-12T15:29:00.000-07:00

Yay! Pumpkin Muffin's year long Nepal project is done!

Today was the travel expo, 'Around the World in 180 Days' at the school! On her desk, at left, is the report, handmade Nepali dolls in traditional Sherpa dress, and a pink llama's wool poncho, also handmade in Nepal. To the left is a pudding dish called Kheer, with lots of cinnamon and raisins.

And, now for the Thankful's...

1. I am very grateful that Pumpkin worked so hard on her project and earned a 100% on each written part and on today's expo presentation!

2. Hubby is fast improving! No word as to results of ct scan or plan of attack yet from the specialist, yet, though. Have I mentioned I hate diverticulitis?

3. Coffee. <sigh>

4. Naps. If not for the two naps I got this week, I would have really been cranky. lol

5. Fuzzy and Hammer both officially were promoted to the rank of Star Scout last night at their Scout Awards Night. Each also received some more merit badges!

Okey dokey... off to parent and what-not!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: Nepal, school, Boy Scouts, Star Scout, fun, family, diverticulitis

The Long Run

2008-06-10T14:00:00.000-07:00

It was 100 degrees here today. This kitty is an effort to bring a cooler atmosphere to my life.

Sometimes you read a journal entry that makes you say 'Hmmm, I needed to hear that today." I had one of those moments today when I read my dear friend, Raven . Check it out.

Anyhow, Hubby has been able to avoid the ER, yet he is still in pain and having an episode. We went yesterday from our regular docs, over to a specialist. There is great concern because at 42 years of age, 3 episodes of diverticulitis in 15 months is bad. Tomorrow, Hubby will have a CT scan again, with barium and an IV contrast as well. Blood was taken also. They are looking for a possible underlying cause. These new films will be compared to the old. Recommendations will be made. <sigh>

The heat is just awful here! We aren't used to this in early June! In August, at least we have worked our way up to it! Yikes! Today the kids only had a half day of school because of the heat.

Looks like tomorrow the heat breaks back into the mid 80's, a welcome relief, but still above average for around here at this time of year!

Signing off for now...

be well,
Dawn

Tags: diverticulitis, hubby, Raven's Lament, heat wave, hot

Hells Bells

2008-06-08T16:16:00.000-07:00

Ahhh the kitty life, little Suzy lounging in her 'Princess' bed.

So, Hubby is teeter tottering on the edge of heading to the ER with a diverticulitis attack. Ugh. He has started on the meds, but it is a fine line right now.

Hopefully, we will make it to the doctor's appointment tomorrow am, as opposed to the ER.

His temperature is holding steady in the 101's. If we pass into 102 land we are heading out. <sigh>

Have I mentioned that my Hubby is the biggest freakin' lame-o pain in the arse, big baby, excuse for a patient???

OMG... heaven help me.

Of course, if he managed the condition better by being sure to keep very hydrated in the heat, he wouldn't be laying there moaning about how hates being sick, blah blah blah.

Don't get me wrong, he is in a lot of pain and it does totally suck to be him right now.

Thankfully, he just has an 'acute' sometimes condition because if he was the one with the chronic illness... oh boy!!!

He is on a liquid diet now and will be probably until Friday. He knows the drill with this but do you know what he is doing? He keeps talking about all the food he wants. ugh. I don't get it.

Anyhow, up until this, it was a good weekend! LOL

I will try to update you all tomorrow!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: diverticulitis, family, sick hubby

Thankful Thursday

2008-06-05T10:34:00.000-07:00

Time for the Thankfuls!

1. You. Yes, you. Each and every one of you that read my journal and leave me wonderful supportive comments.

Cathy... thanks for seeing how I laid out the entry. Everything is the same... to everything will never be the same.

Julie... yeah... the kids can frazzle you to do stupid things too! Thanks for reminding me I am not alone.

Bill... I will try to give him a break. ;-)

I needed to vent last night and you were all there for me. Thank you.

2. Hubby. I am very blessed and lucky to be married to my best friend and lover. Still a man though... and still going to piss me off and hurt me occasionally. Unfortunately, this week, it was a few things in row, but I am getting over it.

3. Hammer. My poor sweet boy had to have his nose cauterized in three places today at the ENT's office. Ouch. Please keep him in your prayers that no further intervention will be necessary.

4. Fuzzy. The worst winter/spring asthma/allergy suffering seems to finally be over! Yay! It is so nice to see him getting outside and playing and having fun again!

5. Pumpkin Muffin. Pumpkin won a special poetry contest! More on that later!

6. Coffee. This blog is powered by it. ;-)

7. My parents, and the rest of my family and friends. I am very blessed.

8. Pets. Even as I am typing this the shenanigans going on around me between Suzy, the kitten, a shoelace, and Libby are making me laugh out loud! AND, laughter is the best medicine. Hands down.

*******************************

As I mentioned in the mood above, I am sore. Ouch. Rain storms are coming through nearby, occasionally sprinkling on us for the second day in a row.

Last night my hands were swollen and hot and keeping me awake. Finally around 5am-ish I took a vicodin, which helped me get the sleep I needed.

They are better, but still very sore. The worst they have been in about 2 months. Ack!

I am such a book addict. I am literally jonesing because I have no new reads around. Ack.

I hope everyone is having a good Thursday!

be well,
Dawn

ps... My kids, especially Hammer, used to love Pokemon! I couldn't resist these lolcats because of that. Maybe some of you remember them, too!

Tags: Thankful Thursday, forgiveness, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, coffee, pokemon, lolcats, pets

Ever the Same

2008-06-04T20:59:00.000-07:00

Have you ever noticed that as much as things are different, they stay the same?

I have certain discussions it seems over and over with my Hubby and I just don't get why.

I have rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. Some things just are. This affects my ability to do some things. I do not like having to address the topic of my shortcomings over and over again. Yet, somehow, we do.

I cannot tell you how many times I have spoken the words, 'You seem to forget about the RA and Lupus.' and it isn't always to my Hubby, but it does seem to be to him a lot recently.

One of the more unpleasant aspects of these two lovely chronic diseases is what we call 'brain fog'. It sucks. Sometimes I do stupid things.

Monday, while helping Fuzzy on and off with a report, I also ran to the car to grab some cd's that Hammer specifically wanted uploaded to itunes. I had just figured out how to do it, and was happy to oblige him.

Stupidly, in the rush, I left the car turned to the 'on' position with the keys in the ignition.

You guessed it. Battery dead. Which we found out as Hubby jumped into the car to run off to a leader's Boy Scout meeting.

Yeah, I did it. I don't even remember doing it. Big duh on my part. However, I did NOT do it on purpose or to ruin anyone's night.

After a car jump and about 15 minutes, Hubby was off.

I was left behind feeling like an idiot.

Sure, he came home and apologized, and told all the kids he was wrong to make such a big deal out of it, yada yada... but still, it hurts. Still.

And, it sucks to be reminded that I am not the same person I used to be. Who never had to make lists, who never got confused, who never screwed up big stuff and little stuff in big and little ways.

Anyhow, I have rheumatoid arthritis and lupus and I can't forget it. Not even for a minute. For even on the best days, of which I have been having many lately, things are not the same.

Never the same.

be well,
Dawn

Tags: rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, invisible illness, life, frustrations, brain fog, lupie fog, cognitive dysfunction

Rock n Me Baby

2008-06-03T20:49:00.000-07:00

Listened to some Steve Miller Band today... I guess you can tell? lol

Whew... I have had a busy weekend and the last few days!

I had a wonderful visit with my cousin Karol and the boys! It was so nice to spend time together to catch up! And, the kids really had fun together, too!

Sunday was mostly a day for laundry, and working on some school projects with the kids.

Yesterday, at Hammer's request, I finally figured out how to upload our cd's onto itunes! As it turned out, it was NOT difficult at all; just time consuming!

Today, Hammer and I went through the new songs and created his playlist for his ipod shuffle.

Also, exciting news today! My cousin Karol is letting us purchase a time share week from her and today we booked a week in Killington, Vermont! No, it isn't skiing, but there are lots of year round activities to do also! There is swimming on site and mini golf and other lawn sports. Nearby there is a lake beach, boating, horseback riding, fishing, a water park, and an alpine slide, which is like bobsledding on concrete down a mountain!

AND, the two most important fun things, good shopping and Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream tour! Yay! We are also going to look for some museums and what-not nearby, too!

Just what the doctor ordered... a nice relaxing family vacation and we leave the weekend after the kids get out of school! Yay! Two and half weeks!!!! Yippee!!!

Thanks again, Karol!!! You are the best!

More tomorrow!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: music, ipod, itunes, Steve Miller Band, kids, school, vacation, Vermont, Ben & Jerry's

Pictures of You

2008-05-30T14:30:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of Wildwood Crest and Atlantic City!

First the kids at Wildwood, on the boardwalk, with the beach in the background! Russie is the spare in the lifeguard sweatshirt!

Here is a picture of the Curley's Fries Mascot with the rides in the background, and me with the mascot! Oh, how I love Curley's Fries!!!!

Eww... yucky picture of me... enjoy it... you probably won't see me again! LOL

Here are some from Atlantic City!

First is the view from our dinner table at the Tropicana from the Wellington Restaurant, and then our room view --- the casino floor!

Here are photos from outside two of the restaurants...

Cuba Libre and Red Square:

I hope you enjoyed!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: wildwood crest, boardwalk, beach, Atlantic City, Tropicana, casino, restaurants, Red Square, Cuba Libre

The Time of Our Life

2008-05-30T11:04:00.000-07:00

Today I have been cleaning and thinking...

Tomorrow will be 18 years since my first date with Hubby.

That is awe inspiring, and freaky.

Why? Because, as I sit here contemplating that fact, I am struck by several incongrous things. I know it has in fact been 18 complete years in my mind/brain/logic and yet it doesn't 'feel' like it can be true.

Just like the fact that as I sit here at 42 1/2 which I know for a fact I am, I do not 'feel' like I can possibly be that age!

Bizarre. Mind boggling.

Just some random thoughts for you today, as they roll about my head... lol

Marriage. That's another thing I have been thinking about. You really have no clue at all what you are getting into when you get married. Your brain is all full of those endorphins of 'new love' and oh boy, reality hits hard.

Marriage is work. It is a full time job in and of itself if you want to have a good, growing, prosperous, happy one.

And, it is hard.

No one really tells you how hard. It's kind of like the childbirth/labor thing. No one really tells you the hardcore truth about that either. LOL

There is one thing that makes my marriage easy on the 'hard days/weeks/months/years'.

One thing.

And, it isn't that I 'love' my Hubby, because I have seen people who love each other have to be apart to be healthy and live.

No, love isn't quite enough, but it is a necessaryingredient.

The one thing is that we really ENJOY each other, are FRIENDS, and have FUN together.

That is what gets you through it all. Being able to laugh. Being able to really have fun and enjoying the time together. Really enjoying it. Not just getting through, doing what you have to do, but wanting to be with each other doing 'stuff'. Stupid stuff, life stuff. But, doing it together.

Yeah... like I said... just 'stuff' rolling around in my head today.

Okay... signing off. More things to clean, straighten and do. Looking forward to Hubby getting home from work. ;-)

be well,
Dawn

Yep... and he loves me anyway!

Tags: love, marriage, passage of time, anniversaries, truth, rambling thoughts...

Thankful Thursday

2008-05-29T20:13:00.000-07:00

I am 'big boned', too, Kitty!

It is that time to count blessings...

1. My laptop is working again! Yay!

2. I feel recuperated from my double trips! I had a great time on both, and really relaxed and enjoyed my time with my mom in Atlantic City! The family weekend was fun, too. The kids had a blast hanging out together, doing the boardwalk, and getting in the first pool time this year!

3. My RA/Lupus is still there, but still being fairly quiet. Shhh....

4. We have been 'economically stimulated', if you know what I mean. (got our check, in case you didn't get what I meant, lol)

5. Pumpkin and I finished her year long report/project on the country of Nepal! I was so happy that she took my suggestion at going off the beaten path with choosing a country to do this report on, however, it was definitely tougher to come up with some of the info on Nepal! Thank heavens for the internet, in the pre-internet days it would have been really tough!

In a couple of weeks they do an in school travel expo, and they make food from their country and display items! Wish me luck with that! lol

6. Fuzzy is finally coming out on the other side of months of being sick, having big allergy problems, and struggling with his asthma. What a blessing!!!

7. Hammer it seems is maturing and becoming more manly each and every day!!! He'll always be my baby though!

8. Suzy, the new kitten, is starting to grow like a weed! And, she is still just as sweet as can be!!

9. Our new kitchen is wonderful! Everyone is enjoying it! Let's face it, in a house with 3 generations, it gets lots of use!

Here are the finished pics, with the floor. Looking into the kitchen and into the dining room.

Yes, Libby likes it, too!

10. Last weekend Kathy and J came to visit for the day!

11. This weekend, Karol and my two nephews, D and A, are coming to visit!

12. Life is good. I have missed being online, but it has been a good busy, so I can't complain too much!

Thank you all for being so wonderful!!! I am going to keep catching up on blogs! I promise!

be well,
Dawn

Only on 'House' though...

Tags: Thankful Thursday, family, fun, Atlantic City, new kitchen, kitten, kids, Nepal, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus

Computer woes...

2008-05-27T07:54:00.000-07:00

My laptop isn't working, which means we are down to one computer! ACK! The kids go back to school tomorrow... I will try to update then!

be well,
Dawn

Thank You...

2008-05-23T10:41:00.000-07:00

I just got home from Atlantic City, after previously being away in Wildwood Crest last weekend... Thanks for all the emails and concern! I will be up and at 'em again soon.

be well,
Dawn

Thankful Thursday

2008-05-08T11:22:00.000-07:00

We need to be happy with what we do have, kitteh!

Which brings us to my Thankfuls on this Thursday!

1. My kids. My hearts, my everythings.

2. All our fur babies! They give us such joy and happiness and unconditional love! I am happy to give them all their "forever home".

3. Hubby, who is coming home early to 'deal' with me now. I fell yesterday, lost my balance, went over on my lesser of a weak ankle, but fell into a doorway corner. My right forearm took the brunt and now is swollen, bruised, and painful.

I am trying to avoid ER and make it to ortho appointment tomorrow at 12 noon, which was the earliest I could get. Hubby thinks ER. Battle of wills to ensue... I will post winner later. lol

4. My parents. Who love me no matter how stupidly annoying and stubborn I am. Hey, I got it from somewhere... right?

5. Coffee. Yep... the quicker picker upper. No, not Bounty, silly.

Okay, it hurts when I type, so I am signing off for now. More later. I think I just need a brace of sorts as that will help support it, limit movement, and protect it from being reinjured, but I don't have my MD so I could be wrong. LOL

be well,
Dawn

Tags: thankful thursday, lolcat, injured arm, coffee, pain, love, kids, pets

Pussycat, Pussycat

2008-05-06T20:40:00.000-07:00

As you know, Fuzzy has been having a rough time lately.

Healthwise, school demands, missing out on Junior Police Academy, missing baseball, etc.

Fuzzy is also the middle child, however, he has always been in a unique situation. He is the first child we have going through the school system, and many of the things he does are a first for all of us, as if he was oldest because we homeschool Hammer.

Also, Fuzzy had for many years until recently had to lead the way for Hammer in many situations, acting more like the elder brother than the younger. Even now with Hammer coming so wonderfully into his own, there are instances where Fuzzy still takes the lead, although much less so than before.

To recap, Fuzzy is the middle child, but not really, and then is followed by the 'baby' and only girl. For the last two years, Fuzzy has begged for a cat.

Yesterday, after long consideration, Hubby and I decided to take him to the county shelter to rescue a kitty. Not a popular decision with my parental units, however, Hubby (who initially was very anti any other pet) felt that the sense of ownership of something Fuzzy's very own, was something Fuzzy really needed. Coming from a family of 7 kids, where he was #5, yet the eldest of the last set of three, I think Hubby related to that need. And, yes we have a lot of pets, but kids are only kids once and we can manage it. And, rescuing a sweet kitty from being put down is always good.

ATTENTION: Cat's name spelling corrected by son to SUZY! My bad!

Meet Suzy, an approximately 7 month old kitten. She was part of a 'surprise' litter in a home with kids, and had only been at the shelter for about two weeks.

Suzy is very sweet, and really loves to be held! Unlike Tina, our feral rescue, who still hates anyone picking her up. And, unlike Pumpkin who is almost 13 and is mostly my kitty and tolerates the rest of the house.

Suzy has already started to tolerate Libby, the yellow lab, in her first 24 hours. They aren't snuggle buddies yet, but maybe soon! LOL

I think she and Tina may end up snuggle friends, too, but maybe not. Pumpkin ignores her with all the haughtiness you would expect from the Grande Dame pet of the house! LOL

Here is a picture of her and her boy, Fuzzy.

Love at first snuggle in the shelter... and it grows.

More pictures to come, I am sure.

Oh, and I won the caption contest over at Magic Smoke !

Thanks Krissy and Val! The game is fun! A new one starts tomorrow! Come play!

Here is the special winners tag I received:

be well,
Dawn

Tags: kitten, pet, rescue, animal shelter, siblings, kids, caption contest, Magic Smoke

Home on the Range

2008-05-05T10:42:00.000-07:00

My camping boys are home!

A good time was had by all, but not as good as at some trips apparently. LOL This trip was all about training the younger guys. I guess the 'fun' of that wore off about half way through the day, but the boys did a great job, according to Hubby!

We headed out to see Iron Man after the truck was unloaded and everyone showered away the weekends dirt. Stinky! LOL

Iron Man was really, really good!!! A fun action film, and Robert Downey, Jr, looks great!! Ripped in fact! It has been 4 years that he is clean now, and it really shows. He is a great actor, I am so happy he was finally able to get his addictions under control. In an interview he said he works the program everyday; that is awesome.

Pollen counts are going back up, now that the rain is over, but it is nice to see the sun shining again!

I slept so good last night, having Hubby and the boys back at home!!! Yay!

Do any of you watch 'Dexter' out there? WOW! Last night was a 2 hour finale, holy crap!!! It was good, and a shocker!

Have a great rest of your Monday!

be well,
Dawn

ps. Happy Cinco de Mayo! If you have a few Margaritas to celebrate... you may end up like this kitty! Moderation! LOL

Tags: camping, boy scouts, Iron Man, pollen, Cinco de Mayo, monday

Sweet Emotion

2008-05-02T13:57:00.000-07:00

This cat looks just like Wilford Brimley who does those commercials!

I changed my journal colors a bit for some spring fun! Do you like?

Well, my men are all gone! Hubby, Hammer and Fuzzy are off to the Weeboree! Fuzzy's friend Russ has recently been promoted and is attending this Weeboree; it is his first time. It is really nice because the older scouts work with the younger Weebelo Cub Scouts and new scouts, teaching them skills.

Our troop is teaching fire starting. About 3 of 4 different ways. :-)

So, today I mostly did some spring cleaning. Pumpkin and I will have a quiet girl's night tonight, and tomorrow we will maybe do some shopping. We may also go pick out the kitchen flooring tomorrow with my mom and dad. The place that was recommended to us is local and very convenient to our house.

My hands are so sore today! I have been doing a lot of stuff with them all week, and today I am paying the piper! Ouch! But, it hasn't stopped me. lol

I hope everyone has a great weekend! Can you believe it is MAY? MAY? Already??? In about 3 months I start Christmas shopping again! ACK!

Bwah ha ha ha, bet some of you are cringing at that thought!!! LOL

I don't really do a lot early, but some! lol

be well,
Dawn

Tags: friday, kids, Boy Scouts, girls weekend, relax, sore hands, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Weeboree, christmas

Thankful Thursday

2008-05-01T20:15:00.000-07:00

This had me cracking up! I love CSI!

I have so many things to be thankful for in my life. Every night I fall asleep recounting them in my head.

Here are a few to share:

1. Singing 'TNT' by AC/DC at the top of my lungs with Fuzzy and Pumpkin Muffin in the car, while parked waiting for Hubby to get off the NYC bus! This was yesterday... we even danced in our seats!

2. That while in the process of cleaning out and putting back together my kitchen I found that I was lucky enough, blessed enough, to have things I could pass on to good will for those not as fortunate as I.

3. I never thought I would say this, but... I am thankful that it will be raining this weekend for the Boy Scout Weeboree. Yes, normal people would hope for good weather, but the rain will dampen down the pollen count enabling Fuzzy to go on the trip and not having to worry about his allergies/asthma nearly as much.

(Overall, Fuzzy is doing better! Seems like the fine tuning we did on the meds and avoiding the outdoors has helped! Sucks to be 13 and not able to go out to play for a while though... )

4. Pumpkin Muffin seems to have finally gotten it through her thick German head that if she cleans her room and takes care of her things this makes her parents more likely to get her new things. This past weekend we got a bunch of new things from Kohls for the spring and summer, and she is taking very good care of them.

5. I am so thankful that Hammer has grown into a young man that feels confident enough to share his personal experiences with Asperger's and wants to educate people about the Autism Spectrum. 7 years ago, I would never have thought it possible for him to do what he did at Boy Scouts last night. Never.

6. Love. My mom and dad always taught and showed me that love was and is the most important thing in your life. It isn't a tangible thing, that you can touch or see, yet you can see, feel, touch and experience it in your life in so many ways. Love should be given freely, abundantly, and always without strings or conditions attached to it.

I am thankful that I each day I give and receive love.

Well, that's it for me! I have some stuff to do around the house and a bed calling to me for sleep.

I hope you are all loved...

be well,
Dawn

ps. A little lolcat for the Journey lovers...

Tags: thankful thursday, family, love, kids

Forever in BlueJeans

2008-04-30T20:55:00.000-07:00

Hammer gave his Asperger's speech tonight at Boy Scouts! It seems as if this years talk went even better than last year! More boys were there and many asked Hammer questions. In fact, the question and answer part went on for about a half hour after he spoke!

I am so proud of him. :-)

Today was a good day... heading to bed now...

be well,
Dawn

Tags: Asperger's Syndrome, autism awareness, boy scouts, kids, family

Alive and Kicking

2008-04-29T13:54:00.000-07:00

In a play on Poltergeist, the movie, 'I'm baacccckkk!' lol

Last week, was NOT good.

However, on Sunday, the kitchen was completed, backsplash and all.

The floor still isn't done, though. We have to go order that soon.

Here is a close up of the backsplash, and one of four decorative tiles in a coffee theme, of course:

I will post pics of the others over time... I took this picture at night and it doesn't do the color justice because there wasn't enough light. I will retake some pictures soon.

Fuzzy had a week from hell last week. It became obvious that trying to keep him off his meds at this time for allergy testing is just not going to happen. So, back on all his meds he went.

They are just getting up to speed now, and no, he was not able to do the Junior Police Academy. We were all very disappointed.

At least he made it school yesterday and today! And, we were back at the doc, and fine tuned his meds a little, today, too. Not much we can do. The pollen counts are off the charts and his body/immune system is under attack.

Pumpkin Muffin even had a rough week, getting a rash all over her arms after playing outside in whirlwind of pollen. Ugh.

Anyhow, after many days of working on it, all the kitchen is finally put back together. Phew... glad I don't have to do that again!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: kitchen remodel, asthma, busy

Say What U Need to Say

2008-04-23T05:42:00.000-07:00

So, apparently, once I write about Fuzzy being healthy, that is an immediate jinx.

I don't know if it was being outdoors doing the marching drills on the freshly mowed grass or if it was the glue smell and dust from the countertop installation but whichever/however - Fuzzy was sent right back into asthmatic distress.

He stayed home from the Police Youth Academy yesterday and today, and is back on all his asthma meds. We know the specialist wanted to do the allergy blood work in the midst of his 'bad' season, but we cannot afford for this kid to be sick anymore.

The police have been wonderful and understanding; in fact, the officer I spoke with today has 2 kids with asthma and they have been having a bad year, too.

We expect Fuzzy to be able to attend Thursday and Friday. Please, keep your fingers crossed and keep him in your thoughts.

In kitchen news, we had our first construction 'delay'. The plumber cancelled yesterday and is coming instead today. Supposedly, soon. I am waiting for him now.

Pumpkin and Sporty have been having a great time together. Right now, they decided to go outside and practice 'set ups' for volleyball. Bless their little energetic hearts! lol

I am finishing coffee number 1 and will be heading to get coffee number 2 shortly! LOL

be well,
Dawn

ps... A little Dr. Who for my Sci-fi loving readers... lolcat style!

Tags: coffee, construction, asthma, sick, family, kids, kitchen remodel, coffee, coffee, coffee

Kitchen Remodel - The Countertop

2008-04-21T20:38:00.000-07:00

Just to remind you, here is the kitchen sans counter:

And, now voila!

Tomorrow, the plumber comes to connect the faucets, dishwasher line, and the range top! Yay!

Here is a close up of the molded sink... I love it! All one smooth piece!

Here is a comparison of the other side, where the cat food was before, and now after:

Same cat... nicer cabinets and counter! LOL

The counter looks very grey, but it has a lot of brown specks in it, too. Here it is the swatch:

Still a lot to do, of course, the backsplash still has to be tiled, and the floor done, and the striped wallpaper area stripped and painted, but it is getting there! I can't wait to have a sink, dishwasher, and range top again! YAY!

Don't ya love the little scotch tape on the window screen? Yeah, still waiting for the patch to be done by Hubby... I think for about 3 years now! LOL Now, he will have to do it! Hee hee hee

More tomorrow!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: kitchen remodel, countertop, Corian

Control

2008-04-21T12:25:00.000-07:00

I love this picture!

I had a huge collection of Garfield stuffed animals throughout my teens and early twenties.

Anyhow, Fuzzy continued to improve daily and was able to attend the Junior Police Academy today! Thank goodness! He really deserves some things to go his way right now!

The kids are off on Spring Break this week. Right now, Hammer and GalPal are finishing off the original Star Wars movie. Pumpkin has a friend over also who will be sleeping over for the next TWO nights! Yep. I know... I am nuts! LOL

Pumpkin, her friend Sporty (nickname), and 2 other neighborhood girls are outside playing basketball and box ball alternately.

It is a gorgeous day! Yay! Finally, we have been getting some actual spring weather! I hope it continues for this whole week while the kids are off!

I am also waiting for the countertop to be installed. They just called and said they will be here at 4:30pm. Ack. So close to dinner... but I truly don't care! Just get here and get it in!!! lol

More pictures of the kitchen to come...

Guess what??? My RA/Lupus has been pretty good... Shhh... don't say it too loud!

be well,
Dawn

For the Monty Python lovers...

Tags: kids, junior police academy, spring break, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, kitchen remodel, sleepover, Star Wars

Starting Over

2008-04-18T11:11:00.000-07:00

I am really sorry to do this... but I just can't catch up on the over 150 alerts I have received. So, I am deleting and starting from scratch. I feel bad because you all support me, but I just have to do this for my sanity!

Fuzzy is doing better. I am hopeful he will be even more so tomorrow.

be well,
Dawn

Tags: journals, thank you for your support, sick, kids

Thankful Thursday and Update

2008-04-17T20:47:00.000-07:00

It's me... Thursday Thankfuls coming at you with an update all rolled into one...

1. I am thankful that our pediatrician realized on Monday that something is really wrong that Fuzzy keeps getting worse.

2. I am thankful that Hubby was able to bring him straight to the pediatric specialist that helped us before, with no notice.

3. I am thankful that I am a stay at home mom, so that while Fuzzy was removed from all his asthma medicines and bombarded with adult strength steriods to take down his lung inflammation (his breathing capacity was at 75% ish), and adult strength antibiotics to deal with a raging sinus infection, he could cuddle up with me.

And, lean on me, sleep with me, and cry with me holding him, because until the new meds started to work, it was really not fun.

4. I am thankful that Fuzzy began to get better early on Wednesday afternoon...

.... before the raging rash hit him, and we found out that he was allergic to the antibiotic (and the steriods were surpressing the reaction at first). I kid you not.

5. I am thankful that the benedryl worked and we were able to stop the itching so later poor Fuzzy did have a good night sleep.

6. I am very grateful that Hubby didn't call for the 'men in white coats' to take me away when I burst into tears asking for a Haagen Daz Ice Cream bar when he walked in at 9:30pm Wednesday after Boy Scouts, and instead went back out to get one for me. (yes, the dark chocolate with chocolate ice cream)

7. I am very thankful that Fuzzy took the new adult strength antibiotic this morning, and that (so far) there has been no allergic reaction.

8. I am very thankful that through this all Fuzzy's school has been very supportive and concerned.

9. I am very thankful that the cold/cough I started the week with has gotten much better, although it is back into that lingering stage.

10. I am very, very, thankful that 'momma told me there would be days like this', but really wish that there weren't also weeks, months, and years! Ack!

11. I am very thankful that maybe, just maybe, the worst is over, but I am knocking wood as I type this out.

So... that's my life in a nutshell. I'll be back again soon.

be well,
Dawn

Tags: sick, kids, allergies, asthma, antibiotics, tired

Life in the Fast Lane

2008-04-14T10:25:00.000-07:00

... Life in the Fast Lane but going nowhere, about sums it up!

I did make it out with for coffee with Laura on Friday night, and it was really nice. We need to meet again this week. :-)

Unfortunately, when I got home, I found that Fuzzy was back from his dance with Hubby. He only made it about an hour before he started to feel bad and wanted to come home for nebulizer treatment.

We did our best for Fuzzy all weekend, but we need to get him to the pediatrician today (at 2pm) and get him on stronger meds. Probably back on oral steriods for a while and maybe an antibiotic until we knock this clear out of his system.

Fuzzy is very frustrated. Not only has he missed school today, he has missed at total of 4 baseball games, a Boy Scout fund raiser, and he is very worried about missing the junior Police Academy next week. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.

I am also struggling with the cough/cold thing again. It was inevitable. As soon as Pumpkin got it, passed it to Fuzzy, well, I knew my name was on the list in capital letters. Unavoidable.

In kitchen news, we have purchased the tile for the backsplash, and that will hopefully be installed next week shortly after the countertop.

I am very behind on journals, and I apologize. I will do my best to catch up, but it may take a while. I hope everyone is having a good Monday.

be well,
Dawn

ps... I hope the Star Wars themed lolcats made you chuckle!

Tags: Monday, asthma, sick, coughing, cold, kids

The Look of Love

2008-04-11T12:30:00.000-07:00

Here is another update picture on the kitchen. Today the electrician powered up the oven and put in the power for the microwave/range hood and installed the latter.

We also got the date that our Corian countertop will be installed! 4/21!!! I am so shocked! It is only 12 days from the date they made the template! Yay! Something else early!

Then, we can schedule the backsplash tile guy and the floor.

Yippee!

I have been really lax about memes lately! I really will try to get one up later! I promise!

Tonight, I am going out to Starbucks for coffee with my cousin-in-law and former co-worker, Laura. She is back in school to get her Bachelor's degree in nursing. She already is a working registered nurse. Laura is interviewing me on my health issues for a project! I guess with my long and sordid issues, I am the perfect subject! LOL

Fuzzy has his 7th grade social this evening. The theme is 'A walk on the Boardwalk'. So, he and all his buddies are wearing shorts and button down/stylish shirts. Should be fun! Hubby will be a chaperone, so I will have him try to get some pics!

I hope everyone has a marvelous weekend!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: kitchen remodeling, weekend, kids, dance

Thankful Thursday

2008-04-10T11:56:00.000-07:00

Just one thankful for today, regarding my brain tumor.

The uber-neurosurgeon, specializing in skull-based tumors, has reviewed my MRI from December and has concluded:

'There has been no discernable growth in the 6 month period.'

WOOHOO!!! I am doing the happy dance over here!

I get to wait one whole year until I have to have an MRI again!

YAY!!!!! (see my side bar for link to my original diagnosis)

All the good wishes and prayers must be working, thank you!!!!

And, yes, it will always be there in the back of mind, or skull, literally, but I will now file it under 'do not worry about' until next December!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: Thankful Thursday, brain tumor, happy dance, lolcat, coffee

Kitchen Remodel - 8pm Yesterday

2008-04-09T10:16:00.000-07:00

Well, the cabinets were installed complete by 8pm last night!

Here are the pictures...

The refrigerator is working, but that is it for the appliances. The double oven and warming drawer have to be connected by the electrician. The dishwasher is in place but still needs the plumber. The plumber will also hook up the sink, and the range/stove top, but that isn't until the countertop arrives and is installed.

The countertop guy is here making the template right now for the Corian. The sink is molded right into it, also made of Corian.

Yay! I have no complaints. The Sears coordinator calls and keeps you informed each step of the way. I haven't had a contractor show up late once. Usually, early in fact. It has been as pleasant an experience as it can possibly be!!!

On the family front, it seems that Pumpkin's illness was not allergies but a cold, because we are all dropping like flies! LOL

Fuzzy, unfortunately, always gets it the worst, due to the asthma. He had a horrible night, and has been on the nebulizer for treatments all night and day today. I am hopeful for school tomorrow, though.

Hammer, Hubby, and myself, are all suffering to a lesser degree. So far it is just in our heads and we are taking our cold medicines since yesterday!

If you could keep your fingers crossed for me that it stays away from my lungs, I would appreciate it!

In other news, Hubby dropped off my December MRI cd at the super neurosurgeon's office on Monday. The doc's assistant said they would call me Thursday and let me know if I need to come in for a consult or not. Hopefully, not, as that would mean it has not grown at all or only slightly.

I hope everyone is well! We have sun shining today, it is very nice!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: kitchen remodeling, Sears, Corian, brain tumor, sick, kids, family, asthma

Kitchen Remodel - Day 2

2008-04-08T10:46:00.000-07:00

Here are two pictures of how the kitchen looked at 7am today.

That is the shot toward the L, no cabinets over there yet. Note the sub-floor was skinned with wood prior to cabinets being set.

This picture is of the inside wall, one cabinet left to install on that side.

Last night, we received a computer call that the appliances were all being delivered between 8-10am. Perfect.

Instead, the door bell rang at 7:10am, with me in jammies, while I was just waking the kids!!! ACK!

Well, early is always better than late... so, it was just fine!

Here is the picture of the L section as of 1pm today!

They are installing more as I type this! The refrigerator is also set in place on the inside wall, I will show pictures of that later!

We were not moving any walls, so obviously that is why they are able to go so fast. However, every other place we got estimates from said 2-3 weeks, plus time for the countertop. Sears Home Improvements was the only one that said less than week. We didn't believe them!!!

Hubby stayed home with me today because he saw how nervous I was last night! I am so thankful! He also knew I was tired and sore, so after the kids left at 8am, I went back to bed, and in spite of the noise I did sleep for about 4 hours!!!

I love my Hubby! He is out picking up lunch right now!

More to come later... I feel like I am hosting a home show!!!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: kitchen remodeling

Kitchen Remodel... by the hour!

2008-04-07T14:38:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pics:

In this first picture, the back wall of cabinet is still not removed, but you can't see it.

This was at 12 noon. They had been working since 8:30am.

Here is one hour later!

They began to tear up the layers of flooring.

This is about 2:15pm, when only the sub-floor was left!

The electrician has been here working and the cabinet men have been assembling the cabinets in the garage.

Here is the picture I took at 5:30pm, as they are working on putting the inside wall of cabinets!

AND, they are still working as my dad would say, 'like the hammers of hell', so... more pictures to come!!!

be well,
Dawn

ps... I am so excited!

Tags: kitchen remodel

Crazy Train

2008-04-07T06:21:00.000-07:00

It has officially begun!!!

The hammering, the un-screwing, the havoc! lol

Thank goodness my dad stayed home today for the start of the kitchen remodeling! They were asking all kinds of questions about fuses and electric... I would have had no idea! LOL

Pumpkin is unfortunately home today. Not sure if it is allergies or a cold, but she was coughing a lot, not conducive to school work!

Here is a picture from our visit to the historic train station yesterday with J, my nephew!

Adorable aren't they? This is not the station house, but the caboose that they also have renovated!

It was really nice spending time yesterday with Kathy and J!

It was a good weekend. Busy. Lots of last minute things to do to get ready for today, but all is well.

I did my Enbrel shot last night, and took my methotrexate Friday. It is my 7th week of shots in a row without a break, so hopefully soon I will have some relief!

Poor Libby! She is just beside herself with workmen in the house! LOL

Gotta go...

be well,
Dawn

Tags: kitchen, remodeling, train station, allergies, Enbrel, rheumatoid arthritis

Sunshine on My Shoulders

2008-04-05T13:33:00.000-07:00

It is not raining! Yay! Sun is shining! Yay!

I would like to say I was sleeping yesterday waiting for Caturday... but I wasn't!

Mom and I finished the kitchen packing. And, Dad too. We worked from 9:30am until about 5pm when we ate dinner. It was a long, long, day.

I slept today for 14 hours. I was a sore blob of red joints. Still a bit swollen, but rested.

Pumpkin is learning Billy Joel's 'Piano Man' and she is doing a great job. She has such a gift. It comes very easy to her, I wish I had been that lucky with music when I was a kid!

Tonight we are going to the Olive Garden! We tried to go last week and it was an hour and half wait! Ack!

Tomorrow, Kathy is coming with my nephew J! Yay! I will have pics as we are going to see our historical train station!

be well,
Dawn

ps. This lolcat is for Pumpkin who LOVES curley fries!!!

Tags: kitchen, packing, remodeling, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, sore, piano, practice, talent

Thankful Thursday and Wednesday Word of the Week!

2008-04-03T12:32:00.000-07:00

Aye yi yi yi!!! Still lots to pack, today is after school bowling league, and my hands are sore, swollen, and hurting like HADES! ACK!

Alrighty then... that's enough about that! I am so sorry that I didn't get here yesterday!

Wednesday Word (s) of the week!

I love Latin, and so many Latin words are used direct into English, so I decided to give you a few of them today, to make up for my absence.

Caveat: let him/her beware; warning. As in the phrase 'Caveat emptor', 'Let the buyer beware.'

In situ: means on the site, used quite often in medical field, especially in biopsy.

Quid pro quo: something for something; a trade-off

Vox populi: voice of the people. one half of the expression, 'Vox populi, vox Dei' which is 'The voice of the people is the voice of God'; Often further shortened to 'vox pop'.

Tempus fugit: time flies

And, of course...

Carpe diem: seize the day

... but you all know that one already! LOL ;-)

Now, without further ado, my thankfuls!

1. Coffee. Yup. 'Nuff said.

2. Hubby. He seems to have successfully removed his head from his butt and improved his mood and therefore 'behavior' this week. Last week he was a bear. Ack.

3. The Kids. What a motley crew! LOL They are always my heart, my reason to live.

4. My parents. My rocks that I lean on.

5. Books. I have read some great ones lately! Including, Jim Butcher's 'Small Favor'. Loved it!

I hope that everyone is having a good Thursday!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: Wednesday Word of the Week, Thankful Thursday, coffee, kids, lolcats, love, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, sore, pain

April is Autism Awareness Month

2008-04-01T19:51:00.000-07:00

As I have mentioned, my eldest son, Hammer, has Asperger's Syndrome, which is an Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Hammer hates the words 'syndrome' and 'disorder' because he strongly feels that although he is different, it isn't something 'bad' or something that has to be 'cured'.

Last year, Hammer did a talk for his Boy Scout Troop. I am reprinting it here for you.

I will also be printing some other articles, and writing some more essays with regard to Autism this month.

Here is the reprint of Hammer's Talk for Autism Awareness Month

(sorry, double spaced)

April is Autism Awareness Month. Mr. Trapp has asked me to speak tonight because I have a form of high functioning autism called Asperger’s Syndrome.

There are many different degrees of autism. Think of the spectrum of colors. At the far left you have yellow, and that would be like Asperger’s and other high functioning forms, and all the way on the right you have the deepest darkest purples, and that would be like Kanner’s Autism, so severe that you cannot speak, communicate or be touched.

Autistics have their own way of thinking. They are often misjudged by those of you who are neuro-typical, we don’t say ‘normal’ because everyone has their own ‘normal’. Neuro-typical is how all of you without autism think.

Autistics think differently which does not mean it is inferior. And, thinking differently is not the same as thinking different things. It means that our brains are wired to process and react to information and stimulation around us in a very unique way. The best thing that you can do is remember that anyone with autism is not being different to be ‘difficult’, it is just how we are.

Autistics and Aspies, like me, get overloaded by things that other people hardly notice, and each of us has our own set of sensitivities. In order to cope with overload we have to allow for ‘down time’ and time to ‘decompress’.

For example, I have some sensitivities. Sometimes noise can really be painful and difficult for me to handle. I often will use soft ear plugs that dull the noise and help me cope.

I also have a problem with bright lights. Sometimes I have problems with tactile things too. I can be bumped gently and have it feel like I was tackled. Other times, I can bang a part of me and not even notice.

My pain scale is all messed up, too. I have a hard time recognizing internal body pain, like stomach aches, and ear infections, until they are super bad. I broke my nose once, and when the doctor snapped the bone back into place with a metal rod, I never stopped talking to him about Star Wars. He was amazed because most grown up people, men and women scream, and some even pass out!

I also have something called dysgraphia which makes it painful to hold pens and pencils for a long time. I do a lot of my school work orally because of that. I also like computers better, buteven that can be stressful after a while.

I am also particular about my foods. I don’t like the different things on my plates to touch. I am pretty lucky though, some kids and adult Autistics only eat white foods, like Larry on the show Numbers, or only eat 2 or 3 things ever for their whole lives!

One of the most difficult situations for Aspies and Autistics are social occasions. Groucho Marx once said, “I’ve had a wonderful time, but this wasn’t it.” This illustrates how many of us feel. I love being with people, but it can be really hard when they don’t get me. I am pretty sensitive and can easily have my feelings hurt. Once people understand where I am coming from, then we usually get along fine! Chit chat can be tough, but if you come to me and ask me about things I like, we can really have a great conversation!

Autistics and Aspies often have tics or do repetitive things called, ‘stimming’. It isn’t meant to be annoying to everyone around us, but sometimes it may seem that way. Some kids and adults may rock, flap, tap, sway, pace, hum, make weird sounds, stare at walls, etc. These behaviors are calming for us as we are being bombarded by all the things that you neuro-typical people never even notice.

You may have noticed my tics. Sometimes I will make a strange noise, or rub my face. No big deal. Just ignore it!

Many Aspies, like myself, and other high functioning Autistics are very smart, but not all of us. Usually, our smarts or genius is in one or two specific areas, and we struggle with others. However, all of us here on the Autistic Spectrum are exploring alternate realities with our different thinking and brain functions.

This can lead to great creativity and inventiveness. Many studies now believe that Albert Einstein had Asperger’s Syndrome. He certainly did look at the world of physics in a different way in his time, no one can debate that fact.

Other famous people who have admitted to being on the Autistic Spectrum, or who are now thought to have been after researching their lives using the definitions of Autism, are Bill Gates, Marie Curie, Thomas Jefferson, Charles Darwin, Gregor Mendel, Orson Welles, Mozart, Carl Sagun, and there are more.

There are a lot of great books out there to read about Asperger’s and Autism. My mom has a bunch and she is always willing to loan them out. Some are made especially for kids, and some for adults. Just ask me about them.

Well, I hope this was interesting for all of you. I will take any questions you might want to ask me now. First though, I am going to ask my brother, Fuzzy, to come up and help me. You see, I will answer you from my point of view, but Fuzzy may have more to add, since he is my neuro-typical brother living with me and Asperger's each day.

That was the speech for last year. We will be writing a new one together for this year. I will share it, of course.

be well,
Dawn

Tags: Autism Awareness Month, Autism, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Asperger's, Asperger's Syndrome

The Rain Song

2008-04-01T11:46:00.000-07:00

Which is why you WON'T see me drinking it today!

Too much to do!

I packed away 3 cabinets! Yay! Only 17 more cabinets, 10 more drawers, the counter 'stuff' and the refrigerator/freezer to go!!! YAY!

Heaven help me... what I have gotten myself into!!! Am I insane? ACK! <sigh>

It will get done, it will get done, it will get done...

Tomorrow, will be sunny, that will help! I will open all the windows and the power of the sun will push me forward! No rain to make me creaky and achey!!! Yay!

Well, that's the plan... we'll see how it goes!

Hammer and I did run out to Barnes & Noble and picked up the Jim Butcher book! Yay! I also got 2 other paperbacks, and he got one other. We are both happy.

Of course, Hammer is actually reading the Jim Butcher book, whereas I was packing up stuff, so he is happier than I am. However, a rest is coming for me, and I will be snatching it from his hands momentarily! LOL

April Fool's today and I totally got the kids. Well, mostly Pumpkin! Hubby called and although they heard the phone ring that was all they heard. So, I went it to Fuzzy and Pumpkin and said, 'That was the PTO, school is canceled due to a water main break!' Pumpkin exclaimed, 'YES!' and Fuzzy said, 'Really?' and then I laughed!

Pumpkin told me she HATES April Fool's! That would be because she falls for it each year! LOL Sometimes it is hard being the baby! LOL

I got fooled too today by a friend in email! I didn't scroll all the way down past her siggy where she wrote 'April Fools' so it was my own stupidity! LOL

Hope you have a fun foolin' day!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: kitchen, sore, rain, Jim Butcher, April Fool's Day, kids, coffee

Fool in the Rain

2008-03-31T15:53:00.000-07:00

Yeah... they suck, especially rainy, 45 degree days. Ack.

I got up at 11am and found my self to be very swollen and in pain. I took my meds, and after waiting an hour with no relief, I took a vicodin and went back to bed.

Yep, the ole' bad weather, bad rheumatoid and lupus one-two punch. No kitchen packing for me. <sigh>

However, the boxes are now ready and I am determined that tomorrow it will be started!

Other big news is that tomorrow, the next Harry Dresden novel 'Small Favor' by Jim Butcher will be available for sale! Yay! I love this series, and so do my boys! I will be heading to the bookstore early!

I hope your Monday had more sunshine than rain!

be well,
Dawn

ps... remember that song 'I'm Too Sexy'? This kitty is singing it!

Tags: rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, rain, kitchen, sore, pain

Feelin' Groovy

2008-03-30T21:17:00.000-07:00

You've asked for it... so here it is...

Some of you may remember pics of my shagadelic kitchen from a meme I did last June.

For all of you who don't remember or didn't read me then... here ya go. Shield your eyes... the 1970 horror of it all may be too much for your delicate constitutions...

Okay... I warned you... see the little designs in the Disco countertop?

Here is one more to show the horrid detail of the cabinetry.

See the ugly gold glittery details? The frightening Harvest Gold of the no longer working compactor/garbage can?

I hope you can sleep tonight. Remember, you asked for it!!!! LOL

I will be happy to show you pics as the work is happening. Supposedly, it will be a quick job, but in this 'money pit' we call home, anything can happen!

For instance, I forgot to share this gem with you.

Friday morning my dad went to put in a load of his and mom's laundry at 5am, just before he leaves for work, and found that our hot water heater was apparently leaking.

AND, had been for quite some time because our basement was innundated with water.

Yep. Murphy's Law of Homeownership. As soon as you commit to a huge job costing a whole heap of money, something else totally unrelated will break and you will be forced to replace it with money you don't want to spend. <sigh>

The worst part is that this mishap of water damage has basically sealed the fate of the new floor Hubby laid as the foundation for finishing the basement. It will have to be redone now. We need to avoid mold underneath at all costs. Between Fuzzy's asthma and my health issues... it is a must.

Thankfully, our plumber came and replaced it, and Hammer with my mom's direction, was able to vaccuum up all the water mess.

Never a dull moment around here, that's for sure!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: kitchen, remodeling, 1970, hot water heater, home ownership

Paralyzer

2008-03-30T13:40:00.000-07:00

I almost wet my pants laughing at this one! Granted, not that hard to do after 3 c-sections and hitting my 40's, but hey... for a big Monty Python fan... it really tickled the funny bone!

Hammer had his big date on Friday night for GalPal's Sweet 16! Hammer took her to a nice restaurant in our town. They had a really nice dinner together. Afterward, they headed to the opposite corner to a little town coffee cafe. They shared a drink and played UNO for a bit alone together. Very nice.

Hammer asked her for a kiss at her door step, but GalPal was only ready for one on the cheek. So sweet! My little boy is growing up!!!

Yesterday was the bowling finale! I knew that Fuzzy had a chance to win most improved bowler, but as it turned out, so did Pumpkin! All she had to do was bowl over her average! Her average was 70, and in two games she bowled a 107!!! She totally smashed the competition, and her average lept up 2.5 points!

So, Fuzzy and Pumpkin both won most improved bowlers of the 2007-2008 season! Yay! They won trophies and bowling balls each!

Here they are with their trophies:

Aren't they adorable? And the trophies are awesome!

Last night we went out to dinner with our friends Ilene and Bob which was too long in coming! We haven't been out together in ages! We all had a really nice time. We went to Chili's and the kids sat at one table and we sat next to them at another. ;-)

A nice little break for us grown-ups!

This week promises to be a crazy busy week! I have to pack up my whole kitchen as well as organize new temporary places for cat food, dog food, medicines, and the like!

Wish me luck! LOL

My coughing is finally at a minimum and I am determined to feel better!

Sometimes, it's what you have to do. Just do it! Right?!?

Today, I rest tomorrow, I conquer the world! Bwahahaha! Or at least the kitchen! lol

be well,
Dawn

Tags: date, sweet 16, almost first kiss, bowling, most improved, trophy, kitchen

Got the Music in Me! (meme)

2008-03-28T14:20:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday to all!

Paul over at Aurora Walking Vacation did an Ipod meme.

Take your ipod and list the first 10 songs it gives you on Shuffle.

Easy enough, so here goes. I shuffled using every song which includes kid stuff. Could get interesting!

1. 'Double Vision' by Foreigner

2. 'I Wanna Rock n Roll All Night' by Kiss

3. 'I Melt With You' by Modern English (the original)

4. 'Crazy Little Thing Called Love' by Queen

5. 'The Devil Went Down to Georgia' by The Charlie Daniels Band

6. 'Make a Memory' by BonJovi

7. 'Magic Man' by Heart

8. 'Yoda' by Weird Al Yankovich (one of the kids picks, done to the tune of 'Lola' by The Kinks)

9. 'If Everyone Cared' by Nickelback

10. 'No One Like You' by the Scorpions

Not bad! Only one 'kid' song! LOL Thankfully, my kids are really into 80's rock and classic rock!

Today, Hammer's GalPal is turning Sweet 16! Hammer is taking her out to dinner! More details to follow!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: meme, ipod, shuffle, ten songs, Aurora Walking Vacation, date, sweet 16

Thankful Thursday

2008-03-27T10:34:00.000-07:00

My picture today...

Thankful Thursday time again! Tempus fugit... time flies... she does, she does.

1. Coffee. Blessed nectar of life. Thank you for giving me the 'oomph' I need to get my butt going.

2. Hammer. The sweetest man-child ever. He has officially gotten taller than me. I am not exactly happy about that, but he is very happy! LOL He is always ready to help, make me a cup of coffee, give my shoulders/neck a quick rub, and share a little blurb about something to make me smile.

3. Pumpkin... I don't need to say anything, here is my silly girl, goofing around with sticky note flags to make Mommy laugh:

4. Fuzzy. Stomach virus over and he is at school today. Yay.

5. My parents. More reasons than I can recount. Our kitchen is going to be started on 4/7! Yay!

6. Hubby. Things have been difficult with Scouts lately. Political crap because certain assistant scoutmasters seem to have their egos tied up in it, when it should be all about the boys. Hubby is pushing through and trying to keep the focus on what is best for the kids, but it hasn't been easy lately. No one needs extra stress in their life, but you won't find a dad more dedicated to his kids than my sweet Hubby. He won't give up, so long as the boys are a part of it.

7. Bowling. Thanks to the kids league, I have something to look forward to on this rainy, grey, yucky day!

I hope you all have a list of blessings that you can call to mind when the going gets rough!

be well,
Dawn

ps... This isn't cats, but who can resist Queen's 'Bohemian Rhapsody' no matter who is singing it?

Tags: thankful thursday, coffee, kids, family, love, rain, silly, scouts, bowling

Wednesday Word of the Week!

2008-03-26T11:54:00.000-07:00

A little football humor for my friend, Dan !

Now, on to the Wednesday Word of the Week:

Meliorist:

"I call myself a meliorist - a man who believes that by human actions wisely directed the world can be made a better place."
(NY Times)

The excerpt speaks for itself. All that is necessary to add is that just as we have good, better, best, so Latin has bonus, meliorus, optimus.

(copied from Maxwell Nurnberg's book, 'I always look up the word egregious')

I chose the word in deference to my essay linked in yesterday's entry, The World is Inherently Good! .

Fuzzy is home today with a stomach virus. No fever, and it doesn't seem too horrible. Enough to make him throw up, though. Hopefully, the worst is over.

I still have not received my xray results. The stupid Advair powder inhaler that is supposed to make my cough better, is making it worse. Ack.

I am cranky today. Yesterday, too. Disheartened some. Feeling crappy can get you down when it is going on three months. Add that to the constant pain and soreness and you have the recipe for being quite bitchy at times.

Yesterday afternoon Hubby called me on it. I knew I was being bitchy and just couldn't stop it. So, I apologized.

Then, since he can rarely leave well enough alone, he started to continue to ride me verbally about being a bitch.

So, I snapped. ''DO YOU THINK I WANT TO BE THIS WAY??? I HURT, I FEEL SICK - GIVE ME A FRICKIN' BREAK!'

Yeah... kind of bitchy again, but he got it and shut up, and we moved on. lol

Some days isn't easy being my husband, I am sure...

... but it ain't easy being me either. ;-/ <sigh>

Just to give you an idea about how wacky I can be sometimes, last night I couldn't sleep. I was coughing and sore and cranky.

Comfort food was in order, so I made deviled eggs. 3 of them. Just for me. Yeah, at midnight. I know, nuts. Yep. Certifiable.

They were really good though, if I may say so myself. LOL

Ah well... time to go.

be well,
Dawn

Tags: Wednesday Word of the Week, blogplugs, etymology, cranky, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, cough, sick, bitchy, deviled eggs

Memories - 3 Year Blog-iversary

2008-03-25T12:38:00.000-07:00

Today is exactly 3 years since my first journal entry!

Here is the link to the first entry: Good Friday

I started to blog with the intent to help others cope with chronic diseases, like Rheumatoid Arthritis and Lupus. It has become so much more.

I found a great online community, friends, and support, while also having a wonderful place to vent and write!

Here is one of the first entries I wrote about coping with RA/Lupus and not having enough 'Spoons':

What's it like to have Unlimited Spoons?

I have revisited that topic many times over the three years! In 2007 after a similar entry, the most wonderful thing happened. Paul, who writes at Aurora Walking Vacation, and was one of my first blog readers, wrote an entry about my entry. I still reread it quite often, because it makes me feel good.

Someone got 'it' and it felt good. Here is that entry:

Brother, can you spare a spoon?

I wrote this essay/entry during my second month of blogging... I still feel the same today:

The World is Inherently Good!

Thanks for letting me revisit and reminisce.

I have to say, the 3 years have passed very quickly. Yet, much has changed while staying the same. I'm still coping with RA and Lupus, but now have the brain tumor thingy to deal with, too. I had 3 'kids', 8, 10 and 12 when I began this journal... Now I have 2 teenagers of 13 and 15, and another close behind at 11!

One thing never changes... trying to Carpe Diem - Seize the Day, everyday. Some days go better than others, but I am always trying.

Most importantly, always hopeful.

be well,
Dawn

Tags: 3 year anniversary, blog, journal, jland, friends, support, blogplugs, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, brain tumor, chronic illness, spoons, friends, good, happy, carpe diem

Shout!

2008-03-23T13:48:00.000-07:00

How about a meme? It has been a while and this one was fun!

Feel free to copy and paste and do your own answers!

Your best friend tells you she is pregnant. What is your reaction? OMG! I would be thrilled. I think her hubby would have a heart attack... but I would be thrilled!

When is the last time you wanted to punch someone in their face? Wow. I have no idea. I guess a long time ago.

What is the last thing you spent money on? Books.

Do you think you gained or lost weight this past month? Neither.

Crunchy or Puffy Cheetos? Crunchy. I will eat the puffy if they are around though. lol

Congratulations! You just had a son. What's his name? Well, it would be some sort of a miracle, but after the vatican investigation, we would name him Evan Michael. That was our name choice for a boy when Pumpkin was born.

Congratulations! You just had a daughter. What's her name? See previous for miracle part... then, I would name her Brenna Nicole. And, Hubby would hate it. lol

What are you craving right now? Any food would do, I am so hungry!

What was the last thing you cried about? Fuzzy said something hurtful, and I was overtired and cried about it.

When you buy something and your change is 2 cents, do you keep it or tell the cashier to keep it? I put it in the "free change" thing if there is one, or I take it.

What color is your tissue box? The one nearest me is purple with green, orange, and yellow funky designs! (Puffs)

Do you have a ceiling fan in your room, and if so, is there dust on that fan? We have ceiling fans in all the bedrooms, and there is dust on ALL of them... eww. I should probably do something about that. lol

Scariest thing you've experienced in the last year? Brain tumor diagnosis.

Do you wear a name tag at work? I didn't when I worked out of the home.

Have you ever had a garage sale? No. Hubby hates them.

What color is your iPod? See picture! It is a silver 2nd gen Nano, but this is my new skin!

What is the last alcoholic beverage you had? A glass of White Zinfindel last night after the kids went to bed.

Are you happy right now? Oh yes! Life is good. Hard, complicated, but full of blessings that I embrace each day.

Who came over last? I guess it would be Fuzzy's friend, Russell. He was here from after school Thursday until yesterday, when we left for the league. His parents met us at the bowling alley.

Do you drink beer? Yes, occasionally. Usually a Corona or a Coors Lite.

Have your brothers or sisters ever told you that you were adopted? Being an only until Kathy came at 17, I missed all that fun stuff. However, Hubby's older sister, Cissy, used to tell him in a comforting way, 'Don't worry, we're adopted. We're not like them.' Gives you an idea how pleasant his childhood was... not!

What is your favorite key on your key chain? What a bizarre question. The only one I use really is my truck key.

What was the last movie you watched at home? I think it was Gladiator for the umpteenth time a few weeks ago.

What is in your pocket? No pockets in my jammies.

Where do you hurt? My list is long and varied. I pass.

Has someone ever made you a Build-A-Bear? No, but we did it with the kids years ago. I do have a Vermont Teddy Bear from Hubby from way long ago.

What's something fun you did today? The Easter egg hunt with the kids. They asked for it to be hard. And, it was. Very. Bwahahaha!!!

What is your favorite aisle at Wal-Mart? I have never been inside a WalMart. The one near us is nasty, and I have issues with them as a company.

When is your birthday? November 22.

Is there anything hanging from your rear view mirror? No. I grew out of that in my late teens. lol

What kind of milk do you drink? On those VERY rare occasions when I drink milk, 1% or 2% is good. I hate skim. ICK.

What is something you need to go shopping for? Hmmm, need? I don't 'need' anything. Want, but not need.

Tres fun? Oui?

Okay... back to your regularly scheduled Sunday-ness.

be well,
Dawn

ps... LOVE this kitty! lol

Tags: meme, survey, fun, lolcat, Easter, bunny

White Rabbit

2008-03-23T12:15:00.000-07:00

A little Easter humor... Happy Easter to you and yours!

The Giant Mutant Bunny with Pointy Teeth (think Monty Python) left the kiddies their goodies. They are all on chocolate highs this am. $20 for books from Grandma and Grandpa... $20 for books from Mom and Dad, Chocolate bunnies and other assorted chocolates, candies, and Peeps - yep good haul for the kiddies!

Yesterday we had bowling. Fuzzy had a good game 156 - a new high for him! Pumpkin did not have a good day... 'nuff said about that.

Hubby treated me to a skin for my ipod that has a lanyard and a clip. I love it. I wanted the lanyard, so when I am listening I keep my hands free! Yay!

Today, we are having a quiet calm day.

Hope you are also enjoying a good Easter Sunday!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: Easter, books, kids, eggs, bunny, humor, love

Rockstar

2008-03-21T12:12:00.000-07:00

Lot of guitar licks here last night!!!

Let's see, we had 1 fifteen year old, 4 thirteen year olds, 1 twelve year old, and 1 eleven year old! Yep, it was a full house of teens and pre-teens!!!

Lots of Guitar Hero battles, Halo 3, and Call of Duty 4. Then, the Family Guy spoof of Star Wars called 'Blue Harvest' and then the movie 'Beowulf'. We kicked them upstairs at 2am to try to get them to sleep.

Fuzzy wanted to sleep... his buddies did not. Between 3 and 4am, they were all out. Fuzzy was up at 7:30am and the friends began to wake around 8am.

Hubby and I had fun watching the kids battle with the Guitars against each other! I thought the kids might not like us being there, but they were all cool with it, and told us we were 'cool'! lol

Everyone is gone now, except for Russell! He is in the shower now and is going to continue to hang out for the day!

Tonight, we are going to a favorite pizza place in the next town. It has super thin pizza. The place is totally disgusting inside, but the food is amazing! The first time we took my Hubby there he was shocked and amazed that my mom and I would eat there at all! LOL

Anyhow, it has been a quiet day here.

Hubby let me sleep in, since I was up with the kiddies!

Have a good Easter weekend!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: sleepover, Guitar Hero, fun, pizza, kids, family

Thankful Thursday

2008-03-19T22:28:00.000-07:00

It is just too early for Easter for me... however, the calendar, nor time, heeds my wishes, so here we are... almost Easter!

Today is the first day of spring... but more importantly...

Gaz and Phil's Wedding Day!!! (Diary of a podgy poof!)

Congratulations to you both!!! 26 years together already, and I wish another 26 years, and another for you both, full of love, joy, wealth, health, and happiness, now and for always!

I am very thankful for getting to know you, dear Gary!

The rest of my Thankfuls...

1. Hammer got his first 100% complete on Guitar Hero today! At first, he was reluctant to play at all, thinking it would be too hard for him. I am so glad he changed his mind, and has kept at it for the last 2 weeks! Great job, Hammer! ;-)

Sometimes, it is nice to achieve 'fun' goals, too!

2. I am happy for Pumpkin that even though one boy told her she can be a little 'weird' this week, another boy asked several girls why they couldn't be more 'fun' like Pumpkin! (she was laughing at their fart jokes...)

Most of all, I am happy that my daughter likes herself, and is confident enough to brush off any one who doesn't find her 'uniqueness' to their liking. I wish I had been more like that as a kid her age!

3. Fuzzy's birthday sleepover extravaganza is tomorrow! Yay! Although we lost one guest when their parents decided to make an unexpected Easter weekend visit, the other two boys are still coming. So, bowling league afterschool, then White Castle dinner, movies, Guitar Hero, more movies, and sleepover.

Breakfast in the am, and more Xbox, Wii etc. A fun day to be had by all. Fuzzy has waited an extra week to celebrate, and he deserves some fun.

4. I sold my first custom ordered two pairs of earrings for a bridal party! Yay! I was so excited, I forgot to take pictures, but that is okay. Pumpkin deserves special credit as saleswoman, as this was a teacher at her school!

5. Music and the ipod. Sometimes all you need is a little 80's rock n roll to get that blood pumping and a smile on your face!!!

Today for me it was a little Ozzie with 'Crazy Train', Scorpions with 'Rock you like a Hurricane' and Poison with 'Talk Dirty to Me'!!! Yep! Almost makes me want big hair again! Almost... lol

6. Coffee is good. It is warm. It is rich and full bodied tasting. It fills all your senses at once. Ahhhh..... Yeah... it was that good this morning, as is the cup of decaf I am drinking now.

7. It is good to my computer to come to when I can't sleep. Blogging and entry and maybe a little online game playing and soon, hopefully, I will be snoring away. :-)

8. I know I probably bore you all with this too much, but books are really amazing. There is a huge amount of knowledge out there to be had, just waiting for you. You can self-teach yourself, or enrich yourself learning about anything you can imagine! And, if you can't afford to buy it, you can go to the library for it... worlds, cultures, ideas, facts, histories, languages... it's all there for the taking!

Alrighty then... time to hit the sack again, and give it another go!

be well,
Dawn

Tags: Thankful Thursday, wedding, friends, kids, jland, blogging, coffee, books, reading