tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66273675990656086812024-03-05T04:58:00.437-07:00Come What MayThis Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14043809910070633184noreply@blogger.comBlogger236125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6627367599065608681.post-8469447846574518572013-11-02T01:09:00.001-06:002013-11-02T01:09:10.812-06:00NaBloPoMo 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">So, it's that time again. Do I think that I can actually pull this off? Um...not really. Do I want to try? Yep. And there is even a list of writing prompts for each day too. Interestingly, there aren't prompts for the weekends. Apparently, you are supposed to use the weekends for free writing. So, does that mean I'll use that as an excuse not to post on the weekends? I don't know...maybe. But does it matter as long as I'm trying??</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Alright, so the prompt for today is: If you found one million dollars in the morning and had to spend it by nightfall, what would you do with the money?</span></div>
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I would be a busy, busy girl if that were the case! And since "spend" isn't really defined, I'll decide what that means. First, I'd pay off all of our credit cards, car and mortgage loans. I'd buy Shell a new car, because hers is hanging on by a thread. I would buy tickets for us to go to New York for a week, and prepay for our hotel and whatever else they'd let me prepay for. I would hire (again, prepaying) someone to come get our lawns in shape and looking nice. Buy some trees to put in the backyard. Buy a new refrigerator and lawn mower. Then, I would buy some CD's or savings bonds with the rest and treat them like a savings account, so that when it's time for the kids to start driving, for me to need money for the big university tuition, or to cover what my kids don't get from grant and scholarship money, we can use those investments. And that is my day's worth of spending.</div>
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This Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14043809910070633184noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6627367599065608681.post-38275100071305921912013-08-13T12:29:00.000-06:002013-08-13T12:29:09.388-06:00Sticking another toe in...Since I posted last, I've opened my blog every day and thought about writing. And then didn't. I think I have some kind of stage fright, like it's been too long and where do I start and should I try to catch up and then do I need to add pictures and I'll need to find the right pictures and nobody is going to see this besides Stacy!<br />
---inhale---exhale---inhale---exhale---whew.<br />
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So I'm going to just write, as if I hadn't missed almost a year of recording things, and maybe catch up later. It feels less daunting. <br />
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My kids turned 15 exactly two weeks ago and yesterday they started 10th grade. Unbelievable. They had to contest the schedules they were assigned in order to get the honors classes that they wanted. I am so incredibly proud of the ways that they are academically driven to succeed, in order to win scholarships when the time comes. They are amazing.<br />
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I start my seventh semester of college on Monday. I earned my Associate of Arts degree in May, so I'm now officially on the path towards my Bachelor of Arts. Still taking my classes at the community college (and paying considerably less than university tuition), and will continue to do so until I get to the upper level classes that are required to be taught by the university professors. Did I tell you that I was accepted to Regis University? It's a private Jesuit school, which is kind of ironic since I don't subscribe to any religions, but I especially balk at Catholic/Christian based religions. Because I will be going to Regis, I am required to take two religious studies classes. Last year, I took Comparative Religions (and interviewed a Pagan minister for my final project-which rocked) and it was my favorite class to date. I decided to take it on campus, instead of online, for the class participation aspect, and I'm so glad I did. I think, actually I know, that not being loyal to any one religion gives me an advantage in this type of class. I can see them all for their good and bad sides and have an open mind. I'm taking the second of the required religious studies classes this semester, along with some other really cool classes that I'm excited for. I'm taking: Philosophy of Religion, World Mythology, Sociology of Deviant Behavior, Contemporary Social Problems, Conversational Spanish, and Public Speaking. Not so thrilled about Public Speaking, but it's a required class...so take it, I must.<br />
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Tonight, Shell & I are going with three others to Red Rocks Ampitheater to see "Rocky Horror Picture Show" as part of the Film on the Rocks program. The gates open at 6:30 and the movie doesn't start until dusk. But the tickets are general admission and if you've ever been to a show at Red Rocks you know that the earlier you get there the better. The hike up to the upper seats is TOUGH! It's an amazing venue though, so I'm sure it'll be a blast.This Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14043809910070633184noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6627367599065608681.post-6688867405537877532013-08-09T22:16:00.000-06:002013-08-09T22:16:09.364-06:00A Liebster? Are you sure?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Wow, look at me. I'm blogging!! I know, even I'm surprised right now!<br />
So, one of my favorite bloggers (not to mention a super hot and fantastic person all-around), <a href="http://estrogenxs6.blogspot.com/">Stacy</a>, nominated me for this award. Even though I haven't posted anything since almost a year ago, she still thought of me. Not only was I very surprised, but I am also very honored. And because I like her THIS MUCH, I'm going to respond appropriately. Now let's see if I can remember how to do this... :-)<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Arial Unicode MS";">Here are the rules:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></strong><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Arial Unicode MS";">- Thank the Liebster Blog presenter who nominated you and link back to their blog.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Arial Unicode MS";">- Answer the 11 questions you were asked and create 11 questions for your nominees.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Arial Unicode MS";">- Nominate 11 blogs who you feel deserve to be noticed and leave a comment on their blog letting them know they have been chosen.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Arial Unicode MS";">- Display the Liebster Award logo.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Arial Unicode MS";"><span style="font-size: small;">- No tag backs meaning you can’t just re nominate the person who nominated you.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Arial Unicode MS";"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span> </div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Arial Unicode MS";"><span style="font-size: small;">Okay, so here goes. THANK YOU <a href="http://estrogenxs6.blogspot.com/">STACY</a>!!!!! </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Arial Unicode MS";">Stacy's questions along with my answers:</span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Arial Unicode MS";"><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1. </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;">How did you know that you were in love with your partner/spouse? I loved her when we were "just friends" more than I loved any other person. The moment that she asked me if I wanted to be more than friends, it felt like everything in my life was exactly right. I had no hesitation, no doubt at all, that she was who I was supposed to be with. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2. </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;">If you could be a TV character who would you be and why? Are you watching The Fosters? I would LOVE to be one of Stef and Lena's kids. Such a loving and accepting household and how cool to go to school ON THE BEACH!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3. </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;">If money was not a factor where would you want to vacation? If money was not a factor, why do I have to pick just one place? I've seen so little of the United States, let alone the world, that there are so many places I want to go. But I'll try...kind of. Inside the continental US, it would be New York City. For at least a week. I want to see landmarks, eat food, and experience Broadway and Off-Broadway shows. Outside the continental US, Hawaii for sure. I threw away the chance to go when I graduated high school and I really really wish that I had just sucked up my pride and gone. As for outside of the country, I've always dreamed of going to Sydney and London.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4. </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;">What is your dream job? Ever since I was young, I've thought that being a pilot or a flight attendant would be so cool. But I've also known that I couldn't do that and have a family. At this stage in my life, my dream job is to be a librarian in the public library of a major city.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5. </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;">What do you need to do to fall asleep at night? Lay down and just relax. It honestly takes me no time at all to fall asleep. By the time I climb into bed I'm exhausted, so it takes very little time. I'm lucky, I know. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6. </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;">What is a dream of yours? That both of my kids get killer scholarships and put them to use on educations that will result in careers that make them happy. And that make them financially stable.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">7. </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;">Do you like scary movies? I love scary movies. The problem is that no one seems to remember how to write good scary movies anymore. Enough of the movies that are full of gore and blood without any suspense or story. I want to be scared, not bored by yet another dismembered body on the screen for no apparent reason.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">8. </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;">Could you kill your own food? That, my friend, is one hell of a question. I hope that I could if I really needed to...but I'd kind of rather not find out. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">9. </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;">Why do you blog? Good question. I started out to join other lesbian moms who were blogging about their young kids. But my kids aren't really that young anymore, so I think that part of my blog silence is trying to figure out if I still have anything worth writing about. It's kind of a weird place to be in, but I think I need to decide once and for all.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">10. </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;">How many years until marriage equality is nationwide?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> I fear that if the federal government doesn't make it a federal law, I will not see the day in my lifetime that all 50 states agree to make it legal. I hope I do, but I just don't know...</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size: small;">11. </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: small;">What the hell should I wear to a Breakfast at Tiffany’s themed bridal shower??</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <span style="font-size: small;">The only thing I can think of is black, with (fake)diamond jewelry and your hair up in a big 'do. Good luck.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: small;">-Oh my goodness, this post is getting LONG!-</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: small;">Okay, so even though I haven't been posting or commenting, I've still been reading other blogs. The ones I'll nominate are:</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://040508.blogspot.com/">040508</a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://2lassesandababy.wordpress.com/">2 Lasses, 2 Kiddos</a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://thinkingmiracles.wordpress.com/">Thinking Miracles</a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://thecaveclan.blogspot.com/">The Cave Clan</a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://thebabybug.blogspot.com/">No Matter What</a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://just-eat-your-cupcake.blogspot.com/">Just Eat Your Cupcake</a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://baileygardnerfamily.blogspot.com/">The Bailey-Gardner Family</a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://endlesslove112280.blogspot.com/">Endless Love</a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://midlifenatalie.wordpress.com/">Midlife Natalie</a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://pufferandthebabyfish.blogspot.com/">Puffer and the Baby Fish</a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://allfortheloveofyou.com/">All For the Love of You</a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: small;">And the questions I'd love to see you all answer are:</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: small;">1. What food does your family eat often; either because it's a go-to, easy food, or because it's a favorite?</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: small;">2. When your bed is "made", how many pillows are on it? And then, how many do you actually sleep with? If there is a difference, please explain why.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: small;">3. How far away do you currently live from where you grew up?</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: small;">4. Should I get an iPhone 5, or hold out for the 5s? (I currently have a 3gs)</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: small;">5. What television show (that is currently on the air) do you really really love?</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: small;">6. Are you excited for the start of football season? Why or why not?</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: small;">7. What was the last book you read, and did you enjoy it?</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: small;">8. What was the last movie you saw (doesn't have to be at the theater, maybe you caught it on Netflix), and what did you think of it?</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: small;">9. Tell me about your favorite pet, from any time in your life.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: small;">10. What kind of music can you listen to, no matter what mood you're in?</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: small;">11. Do you already have a wish list started for Christmas? What would you like to see under the tree this year?</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Spicy Sushi Roll"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: small;">I did it. Thinking up 11 questions isn't that easy, so I look forward to reading your answers. And continuing to read your blogs. Thanks for the nudge Stacy. I truly appreciate it. And, even though I couldn't nominate you back, I'd love to know how you'd answer my questions too!</span></span></span></div>
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</span>This Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14043809910070633184noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6627367599065608681.post-40586945984635142562012-11-09T11:05:00.002-07:002012-11-09T11:05:20.969-07:00FrustratedOk, so I knew that my attempt at NaBloPoMo would mean that weekends would likely be missed, and I was okay with that. But now my work computer has thrown another obstacle in my way. I can only access the text box...and that's it. The buttons to link to another site, change the font, underline, italicize, add a picture, etc are gone. Or rather, they are hidden behind the text box and I can't access them. I've been told that by the end of the year I'll be getting a new computer with up to date versions of everything, but I'm not holding my breath. The internet is moving forward and I'm stuck in the not supported past. :(<br />
And yes, I could blog on my computer at home, but I try very hard to only do schoolwork at home because my time with Shell is very limited as it is. So in the meantime... just words from me. <br />
I'm kind of excited and kind of nervous right now. In an hour, I'm going to interview a pagan minister for the final project in my comparative religions class. I'm excited to learn more about this type of religion, but want to ask good questions as well, because that's what I'll be graded on. I really love this class, which I wasn't expecting to at all. Definitely the highlight of this semester. <br />
Only 4 weeks left, and one of those is a week off for Fall Break. Yay!This Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14043809910070633184noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6627367599065608681.post-60354320594271544332012-11-05T17:01:00.001-07:002012-11-05T17:01:07.275-07:00Kinda DownThis has not been an easy couple of weeks for me emotionally. Our money situation is not good, the end of the semester is looming in one month with all the final assignments taunting me, Shell has been trying to pick up overtime shifts whenever possible to ease the financial stress which results in less time together, less time together plus stress plus being tired equals not enough quality (wink wink) time... And I don't want to complain because there are obviously others in much worse shape than I am. It's just hard for me right now to see the light at the end of the tunnel and it's getting to me. I tried to talk to my best friend about it and was able to vocalize most of what was bothering me, but not all of it made its way to the surface. It's just too much to process all at once. It feels like as soon as one thing starts to ease up, something else comes crashing down. I feel the weight of the election tomorrow and really kind of need Obama to win because I can't imagine the reality of what the alternative will be. And it's November and I'm trying very very hard to be thankful for what is good in my life and to focus on those things and not dwell on the other. I am not normally this person who lets the bad overshadow the good, but it is and I don't like it. So one foot in front of the other right? It sucks to feel like this. I need that light to shine a little brighter right about now...This Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14043809910070633184noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6627367599065608681.post-72767474233630773872012-11-02T12:06:00.000-06:002012-11-02T12:06:02.873-06:00My Vote<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name">
<span style="font-size: small;">This morning I took advantage of early voting and voted. Now starts the waiting game. I saw this post on <a href="http://dorothysurrenders.blogspot.com/">Dorothy Surrenders</a> this morning and it said everything that I feel right now. So I'm going to repost it because it's just that perfect. </span></h3>
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My Weekend Vote </h3>
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The question for me, four years later, remains shockingly simple. Do I believe in hope? Yes, yes I do. I still do, four years later. Sure, that hopey changey thing isn’t magic. My vote four years ago didn’t change the world overnight into a unicorn-riding utopia where we all slide down rainbows while braiding each other’s hair. But I am not so naïve to be disillusioned that change takes hard work and hard work is, in fact, hard. But here is what makes it so simple for me – change is happening. Not as quickly as we all impatiently want, but coming nonetheless. For the first time in our nation’s history, we have a sitting president who openly supports marriage equality. Who believes we aren’t the problem or a scapegoat or a wedge. Who does not say “It’s not right” when gay couples have children. Who affirms our personhood and right to the most basic of liberties – love. <br />
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But, lest you think I’m a single-issue voter, I am not. Sure, my ability to exchange rings and eat cake with a roomful of my friends in a way that is recognized and sanctioned by the government is huge. But other issues are just as huge. I am a liberal of the bleeding heart kind – and proud of it. So I see government as a benevolent force for good, not a malevolent impediment to progress. Is there waste, sure. And it drives me crazy. But I’m even more thankful for the road we drive on and the law enforcement who keeps us safe and the teachers who educate the next generation and the safety net that catches us if we stumble and the first responders who risk everything when emergency strikes. That’s big government, folks. And in the wake of Superstorm Sandy, I’m extra proud to have my tax dollar go to federal disaster funding. Because I see nothing “simply immoral” about my money being used to help people ravaged by forces they cannot control. Can the private sector help? Of course. But do we really want a world where “This Rescue Was Sponsored by McDonalds” becomes a thing?<br />
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I want a president who believes the government can and must do those things as well. I want a president who believes my love is equal, instead of “not right.” I want a president who believes we need to combat the rising of the oceans, instead of mock them. I want a president who believes all Americans should have access to affordable health care, instead of just the richest. I want a president who believes in a woman’s right to choose, instead of vowing to overturn Roe v. Wade. I want a president who believes rape is rape, instead of only the “forcible” or “legitimate” ones. I want a president who believes in the power of the government to lift people up, instead of faith that corporations are people too. In short, I want four more years of Barack Obama as my president. I want four more years of hope that a better world is waiting. Vote Tuesday. Happy weekend, all. <br />
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This Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14043809910070633184noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6627367599065608681.post-20532013011336331892012-11-01T22:50:00.000-06:002012-11-01T22:50:39.757-06:00Random Songs Meme<div>
Today is November 1 and is the first day of NaBloPoMo. Can I do it?? Gonna start with a meme that has everything to do with music. My music. I saw this one on <a href="http://just-eat-your-cupcake.blogspot.com/">Maria's</a> blog a long time ago and saved it because I thought it sounded like fun. So here goes.</div>
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Take out your ipod (gonna use the music library on my laptop for this). Put on random selection. FIRST song that appears answers the question. </div>
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1) Describe your childhood: Have a Nice Day- Bon Jovi. You know, I actually had a pretty "nice" childhood. Nothing extreme happened, we lived on a cul-de-sac where everyone knew everyone else and everyone's kids played together. </div>
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2) What was your first crush like? Blowing Kisses in the Wind- Paula Abdul. This seems strangely intuitive. My first crush was also my second crush and became a very short-lived "thing" in high school. We crushed on each other at separate times through elementary school and junior high, but never synced them at the same time. By the time we tried it in high school, too much had changed. Thankfully, we are still friends and have kept the connection that just never developed into something serious.</div>
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3) What was high school like for you? (Okay, now this is getting scary. How does it know what song to go to next??) For Good from Wicked. Do you know this song? If not, you must find it and listen. If you do, this is seriously THE MOST appropriate song for high school for me. High school was all about my friends and it was mostly about Eric and Shell. </div>
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4) What was college like for you? Come What May from Moulin Rouge. This is favorite song from one of my all-time favorite movies. It is the name of my blog, is mine and Shell's song, and will one day be the inspiration for a tattoo. And going to college right now has shown me that I can do more than I ever thought I was capable of and that our relationship can make it through this, come what may.</div>
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5) Describe your first paying job. I Kissed A Girl- Katy Perry. This makes me laugh. I was working at my first job when Shell and I started dating. And kissing. And I liked it... ;)</div>
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6) Describe your current job. Shout- Tears for Fears. I feel like shouting a lot at times. It makes me crazy how much grown men whine sometimes!</div>
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7) Describe your boss or closest co-worker. The Long Way Around- Dixie Chicks. It does feel like there are some things that take much longer to communicate than they should sometimes with these guys. That's the best I can do with this one...</div>
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8) What do your siblings think about you? The Glory of Love- Bette Midler. You know, I never thought of it as anything but a song about a couple, but the lyrics could certainly apply to other relationships. And it could definitely apply to siblings. I don't think this would have fit years ago, but right now? Yes :)</div>
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9) What do your friends think of you? You're Only Human- Billy Joel. I am human and I do make mistakes...and sometimes it is my friends who help me see that it's not the end of the world when it happens.</div>
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10) What do you think of your friends? The Power of Love- Huey Lewis and the News. Another one that is probably better for a couple, but almost all of the lyrics would definitely apply to how I feel about those who support me and listen and let me be me.</div>
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11) Describe your first kiss. Love Hangover- Diana Ross. First kisses are as dramatic as this song and mine is no different in my memory. Didn't happen until I was in 8th grade and it didn't disappoint. And there were fireworks, I'm sure of it. </div>
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12)Describe your first sexual experience. Silly Love Songs- Paul McCartney. This doesn't really describe the experience itself, but I suppose it's pretty descriptive of how I felt at the time. And how I thought he felt. </div>
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13) Describe your first date. Mama, I'm a Big Girl Now- Hairspray. My first "date" was to another school's winter formal dance with the son of one of my mom's clients. We were freshmen and I'm not even sure why he asked me because until that time we had spent all of about an hour together. It was a pretty big deal though and I did indeed feel like a "big girl" :)</div>
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14) What did you think the first time you met your current love? Forbidden Love- Madonna. This song is more appropriate for the time years later, but if you asked Shell, she'd say it works for her. I didn't feel anything when we first met, but she did.</div>
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15) What did your partner think the first time he/she saw you? Head Over Feet- Alanis Morisette. Yes, yes, yes. I think this is perfect!</div>
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16) What do you think of your current love now? Lucky- Melissa Etheridge. I am so lucky that she has allowed me to see and grow parts of myself I never even considered before. I'm very lucky.</div>
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17) What does your current partner think of you now? Diamonds and Pearls- Prince. I think that for the most part, this is probably accurate. And I love this song, so this one coming up on shuffle was a delightful treat :)</div>
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18) What describes your love life now? Bridge Over Troubled Water- Michael Jackson. Sometimes our troubled waters can only be traversed by a bridge and sometimes, that bridge is our love life. There have also been many times that our love life caused the troubled waters and a bridge was hard to find. This might be too descriptive of a song for this question actually...</div>
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19) What do you look like in the morning? I'm Still Standing- Elton John. Oh, totally!</div>
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20) How do you see your life right now? Love Heals- Johnathan Larson. It's beautiful and is perfect here. Love in all forms heals me everyday. I hope that it does the same for you too. Take a listen.<br />
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This Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14043809910070633184noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6627367599065608681.post-35058967170049814642012-09-26T13:33:00.002-06:002012-09-26T13:33:46.591-06:00Morning<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Morning is the topic of today's challenge. This is what it looked like as I pulled out of my garage this morning on the way to drop off the kids at the busstop. It was 6:20 and dark and very cloudy from the rain we got overnight. Summer is obviously leaving us as the mornings are staying dark longer...and I am thrilled. This Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14043809910070633184noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6627367599065608681.post-62955791061823515462012-09-26T13:25:00.003-06:002012-09-26T13:25:28.850-06:00Food<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Day 7 of the photo challenge is Food. This is becoming a favorite breakfast of mine. Iced coffee and fruit and maple oatmeal from McDonalds. I really like oatmeal, but usually don't like it to be really sweet. I like the sweetness of this as well as the fruit in it. And the iced coffee I pour into my cup before leaving the house and just bring it with me. Good stuff!This Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14043809910070633184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6627367599065608681.post-53265227451426387792012-09-24T11:24:00.001-06:002012-09-24T11:24:14.807-06:00Low Angle<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Today's challenge is Low Angle. This is my girl getting her makeup done on Saturday to go to a quinceanera for her very good friend. These are her with her makeup and hair done and her dress on. She's not a little girl anymore, that's for sure...</td></tr>
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<br />I love this girl- truly, madly, deeply. She is the best of me mixed with a lot of what could only come from her own unique heart and mind. She cares about the world within and outside of her world and she teaches me every day. She is VERY mature and aware of the world around her and I worry that she will miss out on some of the fun of being a teenager as she protects herself from getting hurt and/or disappointed. She reads a lot of books that are probably more suited to 16 year olds, but she asks questions when she is not clear on something, even if the material might seem kind of embarassing (and it is at times, but we don't shy away from it and I'm proud of that). She's simply amazing. I love her more than she could ever imagine.This Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14043809910070633184noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6627367599065608681.post-14891619690890969642012-09-21T10:28:00.002-06:002012-09-21T10:28:48.389-06:00High Angle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6uYtE63i3_AHKgLnf7bXjwhwKhrwnP3UK-LvwXYprsp05EXhVOnnUOjGGgaVXSv7_GmA0o2MPQD3gCUj3BBqdxTBlWuRIrI3puHKbJr-xcBvUyrqvAMpsYRou8QPqjFETvirkP72D01pA/s1600/83C826C6-7E36-4867-B714-097698EB636E.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6uYtE63i3_AHKgLnf7bXjwhwKhrwnP3UK-LvwXYprsp05EXhVOnnUOjGGgaVXSv7_GmA0o2MPQD3gCUj3BBqdxTBlWuRIrI3puHKbJr-xcBvUyrqvAMpsYRou8QPqjFETvirkP72D01pA/s320/83C826C6-7E36-4867-B714-097698EB636E.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
These are my crazy basset hounds. Joe is on the left and Willow is on the right. I love them, but they are in desperate need of baths right now and to be honest, a high angle is really the best distance to be from them.... I'm kidding, kind of.This Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14043809910070633184noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6627367599065608681.post-3238466673804224582012-09-20T09:18:00.001-06:002012-09-20T09:18:19.903-06:00Green for Today<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQyTmYskpsZcqrMr2YThZ9vMb5yU5F3ef0qRN6OigUr7-FvOafivuw3xrrK_xZh8aaifpIwxI_Z9JaleAuirbnBoOC6NOWrfvz-JB9Aomp0MRxO6pFqrS1eOGTXDUYuXK7xqYH8ARFu462/s1600/81799D8F-9BCD-4326-93CB-978CE6E0CF06.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQyTmYskpsZcqrMr2YThZ9vMb5yU5F3ef0qRN6OigUr7-FvOafivuw3xrrK_xZh8aaifpIwxI_Z9JaleAuirbnBoOC6NOWrfvz-JB9Aomp0MRxO6pFqrS1eOGTXDUYuXK7xqYH8ARFu462/s320/81799D8F-9BCD-4326-93CB-978CE6E0CF06.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Today's challenge photo is Something Green. This is my math notebook and it's also my first math exam. So far so good this semester!<br />
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And in non-green related news, I downloaded the new albums by Pink and Melissa Etheridge last night and am LOVING them! They both have very sexy voices and put out amazing music. It's a win-win for sure!This Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14043809910070633184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6627367599065608681.post-23742907045298012982012-09-19T09:31:00.002-06:002012-09-19T09:31:34.550-06:00Third Day!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdelAyrNKiNEvmKEIMyhpaNdptYjuLKwt_2goxpDZLCLl8b1dVbhyphenhyphenTf7i8YlFgeauRJYUx_2QeBCs1eEQnfEV7InwbDuKuwlwJ9CgGZeky7ytKiUCZ5RaQK8WsBG0gge1ivpH7RcKaXMll/s1600/0B6BCEB8-95C1-4B84-8327-17E6CFAFE4B9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdelAyrNKiNEvmKEIMyhpaNdptYjuLKwt_2goxpDZLCLl8b1dVbhyphenhyphenTf7i8YlFgeauRJYUx_2QeBCs1eEQnfEV7InwbDuKuwlwJ9CgGZeky7ytKiUCZ5RaQK8WsBG0gge1ivpH7RcKaXMll/s320/0B6BCEB8-95C1-4B84-8327-17E6CFAFE4B9.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Today's photo challenge is Clouds. There are a lot in the sky today and these were illuminated quite well by the sunrise. <br />
And thanks for the comments ladies. It is nice to see that there are a few of you out there who still check in with me. I'm looking forward to both of your photos in this challenge :)<br />
<a href="http://estrogenxs6.blogspot.com/">Stacy</a>, we will absolutely get together in December. I am so looking forward to it!<br />
<a href="http://thecaveclan.blogspot.com/">Dani</a>, I am beginning to really love instagram. How can I find you?<br />
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I was starting to think about all the stuff that has been going on since I posted last. There's been A LOT! Some big stuff and some not-so-big stuff...but definitely more than we are used to seeing in such a short period of time. I'm not going to bore you all with the details of each, but they deserve mentioning if for no other reason than for me to have a record of it. So, here's a breakdown of my year so far. <br />
~ My Cubub's passing<br />
~ MONephew moved here and in with my parents<br />
~ MOSis, her fiance and daughter moved here and in with us<br />
~ MONephew and my parents didn't work out. He moved in with us too.<br />
~ Went to the Def Leppard/ Poison/ Lita Ford concert. Seats were amazing and the show was awesome!<br />
~ The heating element in our oven broke. Couldn't use it for almost a week until replacement came.<br />
~ The compressor in our air conditioner died at the end of July. At $1500 to fix, it has remained dead. As was our moods for most of August in 90-100 degree temps. Even the dogs looked wilted. Bring on the fall weather!<br />
~ Shell turned 37, I turned 38, and our kids turned 14!<br />
~ My CASis was here for a weekend and my bestest friend and his boyfriend visited us for a week in January. I know I already talked about them, but they were both highlights during a sad time and deserve mentioning again.<br />
~ Shell's dad and girlfriend drove out from Utah in March to see us. It was very nice getting to know her a little and Shell loved having her dad around.<br />
~ We bought a new-to-us car in April after Shell's became too expensive to fix. So she took mine and I get to drive the new one. It's a Chevy Malibu and I love it.<br />
~ Celebrated my MONiece's 5th birthday in March with family and friends. First time we've celebrated a birthday with her :)<br />
~ My boy had a 3-day tension headache likely caused by his posture when sitting at the computer. Within a week my girl was at the doctor with a pulled muscle in her neck from stretching wrong.<br />
~ My girl also had a sinus infection that lasted FOREVER. When I started feeling sick soon after I thought it was the same thing. Nope, it was bronchitis. I'd never had it before and would not like to experience it again.<br />
~ My boy decided not to continue playing football. To say that Shell was disappointed would be an understatement. He was good at it, but just didn't enjoy it anymore. No need to pay for a sport that he doesn't want to be in.<br />
~ We took three trips. Two to CA and one to UT. They all deserve their own posts.<br />
~ My kids started high school. My girl is now the stage manager for the elementary/middle school musical and they are both in an internship program to learn the technical side of the theater. <br />
~ I started my 5th semester of college.<br />
~ MOSis and her fiance are "on a break". After constant bickering and arguing, they decided to take some time and decide if this is something they want to try to salvage. He went back to MO. This just happened two weeks ago. <br />
Never a dull moment! And I even left some stuff out! No wonder I feel like this year has been rough.This Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14043809910070633184noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6627367599065608681.post-87927394788105046012012-09-18T09:09:00.002-06:002012-09-18T09:09:34.724-06:00Challenge Day 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguGBJXedCSdLWGLM__GMPHRsPlgxbUO9WK-InG2E_BcZtcbnEP4tL4L1K0HAmHdCN0uetuotf-8I-TpFLW7vg7Gw8pH6-DFnNHbzNLaCa-L28utYixpjQaCAwLWM8IqoBjnb_XrkZznlNk/s1600/F7140989-9BD8-4D07-8CCC-96B9F3861536.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguGBJXedCSdLWGLM__GMPHRsPlgxbUO9WK-InG2E_BcZtcbnEP4tL4L1K0HAmHdCN0uetuotf-8I-TpFLW7vg7Gw8pH6-DFnNHbzNLaCa-L28utYixpjQaCAwLWM8IqoBjnb_XrkZznlNk/s320/F7140989-9BD8-4D07-8CCC-96B9F3861536.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Today's photo challenge topic is "something that makes you happy". Pink's new album is released today. I will be downloading it tonight. Been looking forward to new music from her for awhile. :)<br />
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Wanna know what else makes me happy? Getting a 91% on my first math test of this semester. Getting 100% on the first test AND paper of my religion class this semester. <br />
This semesters classes are Physical Geography: Landforms, Intro to Sociology, Math for Liberal Arts, and Comparative Religions. The first two are online courses and the last two are on campus in the classroom. This math is the last one I need to get my AA and will transfer. Transfer where you ask? I will be transferring to Regis University next fall. I've already been accepted into their Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences program and will officially transfer over once I earn my AA in the spring. I still can't believe that I'm doing this and it's very surreal to think that I've almost completed the first step in this journey. Regis is a pretty expensive school, but they have a consortium agreement with my community college where I can take a large portion of the BA courses at the community college at the cc tuition cost, while still getting the credits at the university. Plus, all of the classes I'll need to take at Regis are either online or in the evenings, so I'll still be able to work. I've already been in school for two years. It continues to be a challenge trying to balance work, school, and my family and most of the time I don't do a very good job. But I keep trying and will likely come up short more times than I'd like, but I always have the best of intentions and I have to believe that my wife and kids understand that. Hmm...sounds kind of like this blog in a way. :)This Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14043809910070633184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6627367599065608681.post-13451463292547884122012-09-17T14:40:00.001-06:002012-09-17T14:40:56.286-06:0030 Day Photo ChallengeHello to anyone still checking in with me. Yes, it's been a very, very long time and yes, there is ALOT that has happened. But for now, I'm going to sort of pretend that I haven't neglected my blog and start a 30 day photo challenge. <a href="http://www.dontlicktheferrets.com/">CJ</a> started it and now that I'm on instagram I thought it would be fun to post them there too. Today is self-portrait and is also a bad hair day. My hair is two weeks past when it should have been cut and colored and boy does it show! But for better or worse, here I am today.<span id="goog_1747843831"></span><span id="goog_1747843832"></span> <br />
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<br />This Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14043809910070633184noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6627367599065608681.post-36733276409803165062012-02-24T08:24:00.005-07:002012-02-27T11:06:12.265-07:00I'm Versatile!<div>This is so cool. Two of my very favorite bloggers have nominated me as a Versatile Blogger. The fact that I was nominated the second time is purely due to my laziness at posting about the first, but I am honored nonetheless. Thank you so much <a href="http://estrogenxs6.blogspot.com/2012/02/versatile-blogger-award.html">Stacy</a> and <a href="http://www.dontlicktheferrets.com/2012/02/the-versatile-blogger/">CJ</a>!! The only downside is that now I can't nominate them back, but I would in a second if I could!</div><br /><br /><div>So what does this mean?<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4_HfnMAqmRls6UHGXts8ZBUvbGeVzytRdR7okv9I1PUS6Tkgs68J9ptSJkmCamZloCaBOtLam2ENBdKplWpOjcyw0ZIIvWXqJvfsF2GCILSdmTnluDVC6kVgu9qSv1OsKGXsCyqHtCNLs/s1600/versatile.png"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712726098120334354" style="WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4_HfnMAqmRls6UHGXts8ZBUvbGeVzytRdR7okv9I1PUS6Tkgs68J9ptSJkmCamZloCaBOtLam2ENBdKplWpOjcyw0ZIIvWXqJvfsF2GCILSdmTnluDVC6kVgu9qSv1OsKGXsCyqHtCNLs/s200/versatile.png" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Here are the rules:<br />1.) Add the Versatile Award graphic on your blog post. (See above)</div><br /><br /><div>2.) Thank the Blogger who nominated you. (Done x2!)</div><br /><br /><div>3.) Share seven random things about yourself. (See below)</div><br /><br /><div>4.) Nominate fifteen fellow bloggers. (I love each and every one that I nominated. I also LOVE the ones that nominated me. Thank you again!)</div><br /><br /><div>5.) Inform bloggers of their nomination. (I intend to!)<br /><br />Seven random facts:<br />1.) I love folding shirts. I worked at a clothing store for awhile and was obsessed with using the shirt folding board. I don't have one at home, but I get them pretty straight. I've been known to pull my kids shirts out of their dressers and refold them to my satisfaction. </div><br /><br /><div>2.) My 20 year high school reunion and my niece's high school graduation are both this year. I think that's kind of cool.</div><br /><br /><div>3.) When I eat chips, I prefer to put them on something as opposed to eating them out of the bag. This is for two reasons: 1. I don't like the salt/oil from the bag on the back of my hand and 2. I like to eat chips by size- broken ones first, smallest intact chips next and the largest ones last.<br /></div><br /><div>4.) I really love Facebook. Haven't really minded the changes they've made and this Timeline thing isn't really that big of a deal. As long as I can still see what my friends are doing and keep in touch with them, it doesn't matter to me. I love it. :)</div><br /><br /><div>5.) I really liked my time in high school. I know that puts me in the minority, but it was a great time for me.</div><br /><br /><div>6.) If I hadn't always seen myself with kids, I think I would have enjoyed being a flight attendent. I love flying and I'd love to be able to travel to different cities. Plus, you get perks for personal travel too. </div><br /><div><br />7.) Shell and I both miss each other when we're apart. We tell each other "I love you" a million times a day. We spoon in bed and save tv shows and movies to watch until we can watch together. We've been together almost 20 years. From what I see all too often, I think that this is not typical. I'm okay with that. :)<br /></div><br /><div>Nominate fifteen fellow bloggers:<br /></div><br /><div>1.) Maria at <a href="http://just-eat-your-cupcake.blogspot.com/">just eat your cupcake</a></div><br /><div>2.) Keri at <a href="http://back40highlights.wordpress.com/">Back Forty</a></div><br /><div>3.) Jessie at <a href="http://loveplusloveequalsmarriage.wordpress.com/">Love+Love=Marriage</a></div><br /><div>4.) Marcy at <a href="http://followmybabyjourney.blogspot.com/">All About Austin & Ava</a></div><br /><div>5.) Laurie at <a href="http://creatingamiracle.wordpress.com/">Creating A Miracle</a></div><br /><div>5.) Ashleigh at <a href="http://www.2moms2dogs2babies.com/">2moms2dogs2babies</a></div><br /><div>6.) Heidi at <a href="http://thinkingmiracles.wordpress.com/">Thinking Miracles</a></div><br /><div>7.) Judy at <a href="http://jhslonecker.blogspot.com/">It's Just Life</a></div><br /><div>8.) Laura at <a href="http://2lassesandababy.wordpress.com/">2 Lasses and a Baby</a></div><br /><div>9.) Steph at <a href="http://allfortheloveofyou.com/">All For the Love of You</a></div><br /><div>10.) Jennifer at <a href="https://arcanematters.wordpress.com/">Arcane Matters</a></div><br /><div>11.) Beth at <a href="http://endlesslove112280.blogspot.com/">Endless Love</a></div><br /><div>12.)Puffer at <a href="http://pufferandthebabyfish.blogspot.com/">Puffer and the Baby Fishies</a></div><br /><div>13.) Stef at <a href="http://baileygardnerfamily.blogspot.com/">The Bailey-Gardner Family</a></div><br /><div>14.) Natalie at <a href="http://midlifenatalie.wordpress.com/">Midlife Natalie</a></div><br /><div>15.) Roxy at <a href="http://uncommoncuriosity.com/">Uncommon Curiosity</a></div>This Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14043809910070633184noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6627367599065608681.post-89568335591797613982012-02-17T20:44:00.001-07:002012-02-17T20:44:00.178-07:00A Full(er) House?While my MO Sis was here in January, we sucked up as much time as we could. Even though we don't talk as much as we'd both like, we are pretty close. She's mentioned a few times that they'd talked about moving here, but the idea of looking for jobs wasn't appealing, plus my nephew is in high school and was pretty settled in with his friends and his basketball team and after many years of struggling, he was finally getting good grades. So she didn't want to mess that up.<br /><br />Well, late last summer they moved and my nephew would have had to change schools because of the boundary lines. Instead, he had a friend whose dad offered to let him live with them so that he could stay in his school. So that's what he's been doing for the whole school year so far, but just before Christmas, my nephew and that dad had some issues and he decided that he couldn't keep up the arrangement. So my nephew stayed with another family through the winter break and at the beginning of January, but they weren't able to have him stay permanently. He would have to move back in with my sister, but he'd have to change schools. When my sister mentioned to him that she really wanted to move to CO, but that she hadn't so that he could stay in his school, he told her that he'd rather move here than have to go to the other school. So, plans started being made- pretty fast.<br /><br />I got a call from my mom while Eric & Jake were still here, saying that MO Sis had given notice at her work that she wouldn't be there after February 17. Her plan was to get her taxes filed and as soon as their refund arrived, they'd move. They would need the money to rent a truck for their stuff. My mom told me that she thought my house would be best for them to move into, since I had the basement already set up as a room, plus they'd be bringing their dog and her chihuahua doesn't get along with other dogs. I was so mad that she just assumed that doubling the number of people in my house would be a better idea than adding four to her current two. After venting and ranting to Shell and Eric and freaking out about adding more people to our house and onto our already tight expenses, I calmed down when Shell said that it would be okay with her, but that maybe instead of having all four move in with us, perhaps my nephew (who is 16) could stay with my parents while the two adults, four year old, and dog live with us.<br /><br />Since I hadn't talked to my sister yet, I called her and asked her what she was expecting would happen with this move. She said that they really didn't want to live with anyone, but that if they couldn't secure jobs before they came (and the likelihood of that would be slim), they probably wouldn't be able to get an apartment right away. She said that living with my parents was not appealing (and I couldn't blame her), so I mentioned having my nephew go to their house and having the rest stay at ours. She agreed that it would make it a little easier that way, so we called it a plan.<br /><br />So today is February 17, her last day of work and the plan is moving towards completion. My nephew has already been here since Sunday, he flew out so that he could get enrolled in school and get started. His first day was yesterday. My parents are already making him a little crazy, but I hope that will die down a little as they all get more settled. The truck from MO should be here sometime next Sunday, so this weekend we are going to move my boy's stuff from his basement room back upstairs to his old room, which was turned into my office to work on schoolwork. We bought a desk and small bookcase for that room, so we'll need to rearrange our bedroom to make room for them. Our house will be very full, but we're doing what we feel is the right thing to do. We want them here, and have for a long time. They want their own space as much as we do, so I feel that they are motivated to find jobs and get their own place as soon as they can. We'll be inconvenienced for a while, but it will be worth it. And we'll get to know my sister's fiance and their daughter much better now, which is a huge bonus. Collectively, I've spent less than a month with my niece since she was born and I am really looking forward to spending lots more time with her.<br /><br />Once again, life is moving in its typical crazy fashion.This Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14043809910070633184noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6627367599065608681.post-51506639144060315642012-02-17T09:13:00.000-07:002012-02-17T09:13:00.658-07:00On a Much Lighter NoteTo continue catching up...<br /><br />My Cubub was in ICU for 13 days and as I mentioned in my last post, I was the text-connection for those out of state. My sister in Missouri struggled with whether to drive out from the very first day. She couldn't decide if she should come out and end up sitting with us for hours at the hospital each day, or wait. She decided that she would definitely come over spring break if Cubub did make it, since we knew that the cancer would take her within months and that way she would get to see her. When we learned that the vent would be removed and that she wasn't expected to make it, my sister decided that she would definitely come if Cubub didn't make it. She wanted to be here as we all gathered together to mourn. So on Jan. 5, the day after Cubub died, they packed up the car and my sister, her fiance and my 4 year old niece headed here.<br /><br />My sister in California was already scheduled to come out on the 5th to go with me to the Michael Jackson Immortal Cirque du Soleil show. Losing Cubub put a sad spin on her visit, but she was also glad to be able to come and see so many people. So it turned out that my sisters were both here over the weekend. We haven't all been together in years, so it really was a great time. I think my Cubub would be happy to know that she was the reason for it too.<br /><br />The Immortal show was good and I'm very glad that I went and that I got to share it with my sister. We got all dressed up and had dinner at a pub next to the arena before the show, where the only music playing was MJ and Jackson 5. We loved it. My other sister was staying with my parents since I already had my CA Sis at my house, but we called her and told her to meet us back at my house in her jammies and we'd have a slumber party with adult beverages. We had drinks and laughed and just really enjoyed all being together. We spent the weekend together and with with family, alternating between grieving and joy. It really was a special time. Both of my sisters left on Monday, Jan. 9 and we were very sad to see them go. Our house wouldn't be empty for long though.<br /><br />Three days after my sisters left, we had a memorial service for Cubub. She had been cremated and there was some discussion over whether or not to have a service. At first, Bill thought that he just wanted to have sort of an open house and invite anyone to come over and visit and support each other. I'm not exactly sure what changed his mind, but he did. My grandma and uncle, who had driven in the day that she died, decided to stay so they could attend the service. Some of the family from out of state had made their way back to their homes in the week since she passed, but there were still quite a few who stayed once they knew we'd have a service. I left work early to attend, and it was a fitting tribute to her. Many tears, but many good memories were shared and we rallied around Bill and my Cubub's parents, my great aunt and uncle. After the service, we went back to Bill's house, where they had Atlanta Bread Company sandwiches catered. I didn't stay as long as I probably would have otherwise though, because I had more visitors flying in that evening. My best friend Eric and his boyfriend Jake were coming for a week-long visit and after almost two weeks of almost daily visits to the hospital and constant bad news, after three days of having my sisters here and the highs and lows of that weekend, after the endless tears and hugs and sadness of the memorial service, my best friend's presence was exactly what I needed. Their visit had nothing to do with my Cubub and although I was still hurting, they were the perfect distraction. We took them to the Butterfly Pavilion, to the Coors Brewery, to the 16th Street Mall, to the Denver Zoo and to Hammond's Candy Factory. I got up each morning and had coffee with my best friend. We all watched The Help and after the kids went to bed we watched Contagion. We stayed up late and slept in late. Every day was an absolute gift. The day before they left, I started my 4th semester of college. And while they were here, my sister in Missouri told us that they were moving here. In February. And the discussion of where 4 people and a dog would stay until they found a place of their own began.<br /><br />Craziness prevails and life continues to throw out curveballs... :)This Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14043809910070633184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6627367599065608681.post-83609972023009239522012-02-16T14:28:00.003-07:002012-02-16T16:11:07.703-07:00February...Really?!?!Hi out there! Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and Happy Valentine's Day! :)<br /><br />I keep thinking that I'm not sure where to start concerning what has happened around here over the last two months, so I'm just going to start from the beginning and see how many posts I can fill.<br /><br />The day after my last post, December 23, the bottom fell out of my family's world. My mom called me at 5:30 that morning to tell me that her cousin was in the hospital and it didn't look too good. Actually, I should back up just a little. My <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Cubub</span> (I couldn't say Cousin Barb when I was little, so I called her <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Cubub</span> and have ever since) is my mom's first cousin and the main reason why we moved to Colorado from California. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Cubub</span> and her husband Bill moved around a lot over the years, but when they settled in CO, they couldn't say enough positive things about it. My parents came out to visit them and decided then that they wanted to move here. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Cubub's</span> son Steven and his family lived here too, so they were the only people my parents knew when they moved. I think it's safe to say that my mom was closest to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Cubub</span> than any other relative of hers, even though she's about 6 years older than my mom. So about a week after Thanksgiving, we find out that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Cubub</span> has been admitted to the hospital due to weakness and blood coming from her rectum. They kept her about 3 or four days and ran a lot of tests, finally discharging her with a diagnosis of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">diverticulitis</span>. Less than a week later, she received a call from her doctor that the results of the scans were in and they found spots on her liver and lungs that were suspicious. She went in to have one on her liver biopsied and the results from that confirmed that she had liver cancer that probably spread to her lungs. They went to the cancer center and learned that she had small cell cancer and that chemotherapy was usually pretty successful at putting the cancer in remission. It wouldn't cure her of it, but would buy her time. She was adamant that she wanted to start chemo as soon as possible, so on December 21, she had her first dose of chemo, followed by the second on the 22<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">nd</span>. She was supposed to have the third on the 23rd and then go back to be re-scanned to see how the cancer reacted. Unfortunately, that's not what happened.<br /><br />Later in the day after her second dose, she started coughing and it got worse very fast. Her doctor took an <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">xray</span> and she had pneumonia, so he sent her to the hospital. As she was being admitted, she started gasping for air and within moments she lost consciousness and stopped breathing. They inserted a ventilator and sent her to the ICU, where they told her husband and daughter-in-law that with her bone marrow wiped out from the chemo, she was in very bad shape. Now you're mostly caught up, so after getting the call from my mom, I decided that work was not where I should be that day and went with my mom to the hospital. I became the information messenger for my sisters, cousin and aunt who all live out of state. The text messages and calls were constant and after arriving at the hospital around 7am, we didn't leave until after 4 that evening, except to force Bill out to Denny's so that he would eat something. My sister who is a nurse kept asking me questions about <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Cubub's</span> heart rate and blood sugar (she was diabetic) and white blood count, which I couldn't figure out from the displays on the many machines they had her hooked up to. So I explained the situation to her nurse and that woman became my best friend. She answered every single question and even gave me more than I asked for, knowing that my sister would understand and could explain it to us. She was amazing. She was also honest and told me that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Cubub</span> was very sick and was helpless against any infection, because her <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">WBC</span> was practically <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">nonexistent</span>. My sister was not optimistic either.<br /><br />For a week, we went to the hospital every day, supporting Bill and their only surviving son (their other son died 3 years ago at the age of 47 from a massive heart attack) and trying to understand not only what happened but also what might happen. She was sedated the majority of the time, but they did bring her out to try to get her to breathe off the ventilator, with no success. Her <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">WBC</span> didn't come back like they hoped and she kept spiking fevers, even though she was on a constant flow of antibiotics. Bill had decided from day one that she would be <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">DNR</span>, knowing that she wouldn't want to be kept alive by machines. Plus they said that in her condition, doing CPR would do damage that her body just wouldn't be able to handle. On New Year's Eve, we were told that there wasn't anything else they could do for her in ICU and that the next step would be to give her a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">trach</span> and transfer her to a long-term care facility. Her nurse told us that in her opinion, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Cubub</span> would probably never get off the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">trach</span> after that. She probably wouldn't have any quality of life. Until that point, we were going to see her every day thinking that maybe she could get better. She would sometimes nod or kind of smile while we talked to her, but her eyes never focused on anyone and she wasn't really coherent. Her nurse and then the oncologist who we talked to, confirmed that after this reaction, they wouldn't recommend more chemo and the kind that she had was very aggressive to boot. He thought she'd probably have about 6 months, at the most. We agreed with Bill that it made no sense to put her on a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">trach</span> just to have to fight the effects of the cancer for the remaining months of her life. He told them that he didn't want her put on the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">trach</span> and it was decided that they would remove the vent and see what happened. If she started breathing on her own, Bill wanted to take her home if possible and they'd do whatever was necessary to make her comfortable. If she didn't breathe once the vent was removed (which they suspected would happen), we'd let her go.<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">Cubub's</span> parents and brother drove in from Utah, as well as family from Idaho. My grandma and uncle drove from California. We all assembled at the hospital on the evening of January 4 and the wonderful people in the ICU allowed us to break the "2 visitor" rule as we crowded 15 people in and near her room. Everyone would have a chance to see and be with her before the vent was removed. There were hugs among family who hadn't seen each other in a very long time, in some cases it had been 20 years. We cried as we went in and out of her room, letting everyone near her for spells of time. I was in her room more than not, usually occupying her left side and either holding her hand or touching her foot. I couldn't stand it when she wasn't being touched by someone, so I took it upon myself. There were many who talked to her and encouraged and/or pleaded with her to be strong and breathe when it was time to remove the vent. Just before it was time, as each person made their choice to either stay in the room or wait in the lounge, I kissed her forehead and whispered in her ear. I told her that it was okay if it was too hard. That we would take care of each other. That she was surrounded by love, not just in the hospital, but from all those who couldn't be there. And that I loved her to the moon and back. I was a sobbing mess, but I knew that I needed to tell her.<br /><br />When they removed the vent, there were just 8 of us in the room, other than the nurses. She lasted less than 20 minutes, her body trying to do what was necessary, but what it just wasn't strong enough for. We all watched her <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">heart rate</span> slow and her breaths grow farther and farther apart, until her heart stopped. Her son and husband crumpled into each other; her grandson and daughter-in-law moaned and sobbed loudly and my mom held her 83 year old aunt (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">Cubub's</span> mom) as they grieved together. I stood at the foot of the bed with my hand on my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">Cubub's</span> foot as tears ran down my face. I was devastated, but that emotion was about my own sadness that she was not in my life anymore. I was not sad for her, I was actually so relieved that she was not in that condition any longer. Laying in a bed, on the ventilator, a central line for easy access and catheters for her waste was not how she would have wanted to live. And I was so thankful that Bill was strong enough to know that and to be her advocate and to love her enough to say when it was enough. And it was.<br /><br />My <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">Cubub</span> died on January 4 and that evening I got a text message from a dear friend that her son was born that morning. It helped a great deal to be reminded that life does go on.This Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14043809910070633184noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6627367599065608681.post-23195051665781251152011-12-22T14:25:00.003-07:002011-12-22T14:55:27.459-07:003 days until Christmas!This month is flying by! Almost Christmas and then the month (and year!) will be over. One more down with an undetermined number to go...<br /><br />So, I got my grades back for this semester and for the first time, I earned all A's! I really thought that I was going to continue my trend of all A's and one B, but it wasn't to be this time. :) Next semester, I'm only taking three classes instead of 4 like I've done every semester to this point. I'm looking forward to it, but know that the classes I'm taking should also be a bit harder so I'll need to keep focused. If I've figured it all out correctly, I have 3 more semesters to go for my associates degree, and then it's onto a bachelor program. I haven't yet decided where I'm going for that one, but I'm leaning towards one that seems to have a pretty good selection of online classes. That is probably the most important feature that I'm looking for, as I certainly can't go to classes during the day unless it's on the weekends. So, I'm getting there.<br /><br />I think that we are completely done shopping for gifts and I only have a couple left to wrap. We will be spending Christmas Eve with Shell's best friend and her family, which has become a tradition that we all look forward to. They make a variety of pierogies that are to die for and we always eat too much. We can't help it. Then we're going to have my parents over on Christmas Day for, um... well, we know they are coming but we haven't yet decided what to make. I'm totally leaning towards Chinese takeout, but it's not going over very well. I just want as little fuss and mess as possible. Shell and I are both off on the 26th, and I'm really looking forward to a quiet and relaxing day together.<br /><br />For the first time in a very long time, I will get to kiss my wife at midnight on New Years. When she was working nights, her and a coworker would split Christmas Eve and New Years Eve and she always worked NYE so that she could be home Christmas morning. With her new position, she is off on Saturday and Sunday nights, but it doesn't matter because her department is closed both days. We have no plans for that evening, just going to enjoy being together. :)<br /><br />January is going to bring all kinds of good stuff my way. My sister is coming in on the 5th to go with me to the Cirque du Soleil and even though we don't have any plans other than that, it should be fun. She's only here until Monday the 9th, but then my best friend and his boyfriend arrive on the 11th for a week long visit. I will be off all but one day of their stay and I am SO looking forward to that! We don't have big plans for their stay either, but I see lots of games, drinks, food and relaxing, happy moments being had. I hope that the weather isn't very snowy so that we can get out and around with my sister and the boys. Those visits are going to be my Christmas gifts this year. I had them all under my roof last January and although their visits will be separate this year, I am looking forward to them just as much.This Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14043809910070633184noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6627367599065608681.post-4895856608744881212011-12-02T10:24:00.004-07:002011-12-02T11:16:41.027-07:00December- For Better or WorseI am seriously overwhelmed. Seriously. Why, you ask? Hm, where should I start?<br /><br />There is one week + one day left in this semester and although I cannot wait for it to be over, I also need it to slow down. I can't seem to find time to study for my finals, not to mention I'm not sure when I'm going to have time to take one of them. Luckily, my grades are good again this semester, but I certainly don't want to go into these big exams without being prepared.<br /><br />I haven't even begun decorating for Christmas yet and I doubt I'll be able to until the semester is over. That puts it at the 11th, unless my kids want to do it while I'm studying every night...<br /><br />I'm getting my top two wisdom teeth extracted on the 16th. Yes, one week before Christmas. We had almost enough left in our FSA account to cover our portion of the surgery and since it doesn't rollover, we were happy to have a reason to use it. I didn't want to have it done while I was juggling school, so I had to choose either the 16th or the 23rd. I had my bottom ones taken out over 10 years ago, but the top ones seem a little trickier since they are really close to my sinuses and because of my "advanced age". Oh, and I'm having IV sedation for it, which is a first for me. All kinds of fun!<br /><br />The prep for Christmas is just barely ahead of my decorating for Christmas. We're almost done with the kids. They are getting iPod Touches (so they'll stop playing games on my iPhone!) which are on layaway and only need two more payments, tickets to see Wicked which were just purchased a couple of days ago, and school yearbooks which will be ordered right after Christmas. All that's left for them is some stocking stuffers. We had our photos taken a couple of weeks ago and have the CD with our shots, so this weekend we're planning to sit down and finalize our Christmas cards and get them ordered. Our parents are all getting 8x10 framed photos and my grandparents are getting 5x7 framed photos. We are taking Shell's best friend and her girlfriend to see Wicked with us as their gifts, but I'm really struggling with what to get my best friend and his boyfriend. Other than that, we've got some gift cards to buy and that pretty much wraps up our gift giving.<br /><br />My sister is flying in on January 5 to go with me to see the Michael Jackson Immortal Cirque du Soleil show. I am so excited to see this, especially after downloading the CD. And I'm happy that my sister is going to share it with me. She's only here from Thursday to Monday, so I'm looking forward to spending lots of time just hanging out and being with her.<br /><br />I've got one more visit coming too, but I can't talk about it yet since it's a surprise and I don't want it ruined. :)<br /><br />So basically, I've got a lot of crazy for one more week (+ one day) and then getting through Christmas. Piece of cake!This Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14043809910070633184noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6627367599065608681.post-46795077653651906372011-10-28T11:20:00.002-06:002011-10-28T11:22:15.878-06:00For my lesbian sisters...This is further proof that it's good to be a lesbian... :)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo7HMlHdmNtHBalhtpS1IB7ikbZHGB3o9Zo8XQNdHi6DZc2HMG-uvlnmW2xLIaKGSedLEXIJVpUZLIdVYA10zLIoWdJnPVwfvTk5rhxuYIvB3gNKaparttVV8iw8rXDztzGTOAmUSOyzps/s1600/Comparison.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668594492906975410" style="WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 81px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo7HMlHdmNtHBalhtpS1IB7ikbZHGB3o9Zo8XQNdHi6DZc2HMG-uvlnmW2xLIaKGSedLEXIJVpUZLIdVYA10zLIoWdJnPVwfvTk5rhxuYIvB3gNKaparttVV8iw8rXDztzGTOAmUSOyzps/s200/Comparison.jpg" border="0" /></a>This Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14043809910070633184noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6627367599065608681.post-81573554345726953122011-10-26T10:23:00.003-06:002011-10-26T11:34:21.372-06:00Half a semester down...I'm two weeks into the second half of the semester, and feeling pretty good about where I am. I aced my music midterm, thanks to an extra credit assignment and have pretty good grades in my other classes. I received an invitation to join the honor society, which just blew me away and after discussing it with Shell, decided to join. Guess I'd better plan to keep my grades up, because I really want to wear the cool stole, cords, and tassel at graduation. :)<br /><br />Speaking of grades, the kids got their first quarter report cards and they each have all A's with just one B, in geometry. They are doing so well, especially considering how busy we are. Football season is almost over for my boy, I think he only has one game left. Rehearsals for the musical my girl is in are in full swing, less than a month until the performance. We need to go shopping this weekend for her costume. Luckily, most of it, she could wear again, so at least we won't be spending money on something she'll never wear again. Speaking of costumes, I don't yet know if my kids are dressing up for Halloween yet. I don't think they were planning to, until the boy reminded his sister that since she is getting braces on after the first of the year, she won't be able to eat much candy next year. So, I think that she is reconsidering so she can trick or treat and eat candy. I don't know what she plans to be, but I'm sure she'll come up with something.<br /><br />As a result of my being an adult and getting my exams, I'm having a small procedure done tomorrow. One of the moles that the dermatologist sent for biopsy came back positive for pre-cancer cells, so she wants to take the whole thing out and eliminate any chance that it might develop into cancer at some point. I'm told it's no big deal so I'm planning to return to work after it's done. There will be stitches, and the bandage will need to be changed at least once a day. I'm glad that I have Shell to do this for me, since it's on my back but this makes me wonder. What a pain it would be if I was single. I wonder if I'd have to drive to my parents house at least once a day to have one of them change the bandage? <br /><br />Last but not least, my sister is getting a divorce. While my nieces were here this summer, my brother-in-law moved out. I'm told that it had come up previously, but after trying one thing after another, the decision to split was finally made while the girls were gone. So far, they are on the same page with everything. They are using a mediator, which seems like a much gentler way to end a marriage than having to deal with a lawyer. My parents however, have been shaken by this news. I think that it's a combination of the fact that they really like my brother-in-law, and that my sister's marriage has been a source of pride for them. When your daughter gets pregnant at 15 years old, her future probably looks pretty bleak. When she gets married at 16 to her 17 year old boyfriend, I don't think that you expect them to be together forever. They seemed to defy the odds though. They were married for almost 17 years, have 17 and 13 year old daughters, my brother-in-law went to the police academy and became a police officer and now a detective, my sister went to nursing school and is now an RN, and they own a cute house. On the outside, it couldn't be better. However, as with any relationship, noone really knows what it's like in each one except for those who are in it. And they had simply grown apart. From what I can tell, there isn't any animosity and they are agreeing on everything. I'm happy that my sister took control of her happiness and is moving toward being fulfilled in ways that she was no longer getting in her marriage. I'm sad for my nieces, but they seem to be handling it really well. I guess that is a sign that it was time as well.<br /><br />This whole thing has made me look closer at my relationship with Shell. We have been through a lot of rocky patches that made us wonder, at the time, if it was worth staying together. I can honestly say that there were times that we probably stayed only for the kids and because splitting up would be a hassle. And had we not found ways to heal our relationship, I don't think we could have lived in that place we had allowed ourselves to get to. But we did heal, many times over, and we are now in a better place than we've ever been. I'm certain that the kids being older has a lot to do with that, but I also know that I value her more now than ever before. I've found and embraced the sex drive that I had all but lost, and even though I hate the size I am now, I also feel pretty good knowing that Shell finds me sexy and appealing and turned on by me. We text and email each other throughout the day to flirt, play games, or just say I love you. We don't have a lot of time together in the evenings, which is ironic now that she isn't working nights anymore, but we are making it work. And this, right now, makes me extremely thankful that we didn't give up before. This is what I hoped we could achieve, and even though we still have less-than-stellar moments, we bounce back from them much quicker. It's a much healthier model for our kids and that makes me very happy.<br /><br />Oh, and somehow, I am having much better luck commenting on blogs all of a sudden. I don't know what changed, but so far it's going quite well. :)This Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14043809910070633184noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6627367599065608681.post-45530298165993303302011-10-13T08:57:00.005-06:002011-10-14T14:14:12.068-06:00Update and a MemeI am so incredibly tired today and I think my body is starting to rebel against no downtime lately. This has been a busy week, which let's be hones, was preceded by many busy weeks and will be followed by many busy weeks. It all started (this week) on Saturday, when we cleaned our house from top to bottom. Seriously, it hasn't been this clean in months. I also had class that day. And that night Shell and the boy made cherry almond scones because we invited my parents over for brunch on Sunday. (Couldn't let the freshly cleaned house go unnoticed.) I got up at 8am Sunday morning and threw towels in the washer, started making bacon, and worked on some homework. My parents showed up at 11, we ate scones, bacon, frittatas, and hash browns then played Tripoley. The kids and I were not too sure about it as my mom was reading the directions, but it was a lot of fun. They left around 5 and I immediately started working on the study guide for my music midterm, which I'll be taking this Saturday morning.<br /><br />Shell and I took the day off on Monday to schedule a couple of appointments that were long overdue. In 2007, I went to see a dermatologist because I have a lot of moles and freckles all over my body. She did a full skin check and recommended that I come back yearly so that she would have something to compare to. There weren't any at the time that really concerned her though. So I scheduled that "yearly" follow-up for Monday at 8:50am and dragged Shell along because she is always pointing out moles that she is concerned about. I'm glad that she went, because the doctor was able to ease her concerns about almost all of them and gave her a lesson on what to watch for. There was one on my back that usually gets rubbed by my bra, so even though she thought it wasn't a concern from a medical standpoint, she agreed to remove it. There was one that she wanted to check (also on my back), so she took a piece off to biopsy, along with the other. Skin check- done.<br /><br />Our next set of appointments weren't until the afternoon, so we went to Cracker Barrel for breakfast and then home to watch some of our recorded shows. Then we were off to the gynecologist. Yay! We were there last in 2009, but the doctor said that unless there was a problem or concern, it's okay to go every 2-3 years. At least until I'm 40...which is in 3 years. My exam checked out okay, other than a high blood pressure. Shell was given an order to get some bloodwork done and we checked that off our list as well. <br /><br />I couldn't get in for a well-woman check at my regular doctor that day, so it'll have to be scheduled still. The only other appointment that I needed to make was to get my teeth cleaned (I'm about a year behind on that one :/), but since I couldn't fit it in on my day off, I'll be going in for that at 7am on the 27th. But then the list of overdue annual appointments will be fulfilled. At least for this year :)<br /><br />This Saturday is going to be busy all day long. Shell's bloodwork has to be done first thing in the morning, so I'll take her for that at 8am. I need to be in the testing center by 9 to take my music midterm, we have our hair appointment at 11, I have biology class at 1, and our boy has a football game at 3. I am going to be SO happy to get home after all that!<br /><br />I saw this mem on Heidi's blog and even though I think I took one like it a couple of years ago, I thought I'd do it again. Oh, and I'm still having the worst time commenting on your blogs. I've tried over and over, and get into this endless circle of being logged out, then needing to preview, then trying to post and being told I have to log back in. I haven't successfully posted a comment in so long. I wish I knew for sure if it was a blogger thing, then I would go to wordpress for sure. But I don't want to do that only to find out that blogger wasn't the problem in the first place. Ugh!<br /><br />Anyway, on to the meme!<br /><br /><br />Are you open with your sexuality? Yes, very. I never hide who my family is. This became my norm after my kids were born and I realized that to hide or stay in the closet about who we were would only give them the impression that there was something wrong with us, and I was not going to contribute to that ridiculous idea. So I've been open everywhere I worked, and my entire family knows. In truth, I'm proud of us and what we have. We've been together since were were 17 years old and we own our home, have two smart and overall awesome kids, two dogs and are loved and accepted by those who matter. Our children aren't ashamed of us, they invite their friends over and call us mommy and mama still, even in front of their friends. What we have is worth being open about.<br /><br /><br />Who was the 1st person you told that you’re a lesbian? I dont' remember actually saying "I'm a lesbian", but I told my best friend that Shell and I were a couple. Luckily for me, he had already come out to me a year or so before, so I got no judgment from him. :)<br /><br /><br />Overall, how difficult was it to come out? Actually, coming out was not difficult at all. The hard part was that my mom didn't like Shell, so I think that the opposition was more about who I was with than what her gender was. Now that said, if I went to my mom tomorrow and said that I thought I was wrong and I'm really straight? She'd probably throw a party and start lining up available men in a second!<br /><br /><br />Do you own anything with the Gay Rainbow on it? Yes. Bumper stickers, stuffed animals, buttons, shirts, jewelry... I like the rainbow. :)<br /><br /><br />Do you consider yourself Butch, Androgynous, or Femme? Of those three? Femme. But I don't really think of myself as a "femme". The extent of my makeup use is a little eye shadow and some eyeliner. I wear chapstick, not lipstick. I abhor pantyhose and skirts. My hair is short and cut so that styling it takes minimal time. I don't wear perfume and I keep my nails short. I often go several weeks between shaving my legs. See, not really very "femme", but it's the closest of the three.<br /><br /><br />What type of females are you most attracted to? Butch girls do it for me. They don't have to be stone butch, soft butch is okay too.<br /><br /><br />What famous lesbian is your favorite? Rosie O'Donnell. I like a lot of famous lesbians, for a lot of reasons, but I like Rosie for almost every reason. <br /><br /><br />What is your favorite lesbian movie? I will forever love Fried Green Tomatoes, even though they totally glossed over the lesbian relationship that Ruth and Idgie had in the book, you can still find it in the movie and I just love them.<br /><br /><br />Do you have any Pride tattoos? I don't have a "Pride" tattoo, but I do have a tattoo of a heart with Shell's initials in it.<br /><br /><br />How do you feel about Gays/Lesbians having children? Well, I'm pretty much in favor of it. And I think that with queer parents, kids have a different perspective on kids who fall outside the norm. <br /><br /><br />If it were legal, would you marry another woman? In a heartbeat. I don't know if Colorado will do it in my lifetime, but that's what we're waiting for. I can't see getting married in another state if it won't make a difference in the state I live in.<br /><br /><br />Have you ever attended a Gay Pride Festival? Yep, we go every year. Denver has a great Pride festival and the kids love going too.<br /><br /><br />Do you have more Gay/Lesbian/Bi friends than you do Straight friends? I'd say it's probably about even.<br /><br /><br />Have you ever personally dealt with homophobia? No, and I know how fortunate I am for that.<br /><br /><br />Did anyone stop having contact with you after you came out of the closet? There were a few people who put some distance between us, but it didn't last for long. I'm just too lovable to stay away from forever. ;)<br /><br /><br />Do you believe you were born a lesbian? Yes, absolutely, 100%.<br /><br /><br />Are you proud? Yes. :)This Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14043809910070633184noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6627367599065608681.post-43389977475671609532011-09-30T10:40:00.002-06:002011-09-30T14:09:38.602-06:00September...is over?While I am thrilled that the heat of summer is over, I just can't believe that this year is winding down already. Shell has begun making plans for Christmas gifts and I'm just sitting here shaking my head in disbelief. Since the kids and I went back to school it has just been one big whirlwind of activity. My boy started playing football, thanks to a generous gift from my best friend and his boyfriend. We were struggling to figure out a way to pay for his registration and they sent my boy a check for his birthday that covered the whole amount we needed. He plays in a league sponsored by the local rec center, but his team is comprised of boys from his school only. They are 12 and 13 year olds and my kid is the second tallest on his team. He's so tall. When we went for their annual checkups at the end of July, he measured 5'8 3/4" tall. The girl was 5'4 3/4". I was pretty tall for my age growing up, so while I'm not surprised at their heights, it still amazes me that my 13 year old son is now taller than me...and still growing. Anyway, he loves playing football, but his team is not so great. Only 3 of the boys on it have played before and it shows. They still have two games left to play, but so far they've only won one and it was a scrimmage. He wants to play on the high school team next year, which should have better outcomes. Other than the couple of games I've missed due to my classes, we've all gone to every game and cheered them on. Shell loves that he's in a sport that she already loved to begin with and my girl asks questions all the time so that she can understand what's going on. Even my parents have gone to a lot of the games, which has meant more to us than they know.<br /><br />For their birthday, the kids got their first cell phones. We've held out on this for a long time, but so many times recently we've noticed how it would be an advantage for them and us. Shell and I were both overdue for updating our own phones, so we did a free upgrade on hers, got the kids the free-with-plan phones and I got an iPhone 3. Such a move up for me from my old flip phone and I am loving it. With four phones in our house that have unlimited texting, free mobile-to-any-mobile, and free nights and weekends, plus 700 shared minutes to landlines, it didn't make sense to keep the home phone any longer. Not only did we get rid of that, we switched from satellite to cable for our television and switched to a faster internet service. These changes would be saving us quite a bit if it wasn't for the extra phones plus the data plan on the iPhone...but it comes out to be almost a wash.<br /><br />Shell and I didn't have unlimited texting on our phones before, but now that we do? So much texting going on! I text my sisters, I text the kids, and Shell and I text while we're at work. Texting has allowed me to reconnect with a friend that I had spotty contact with over the last few years, and we text almost daily now. It has been such a delightful addition to my days being able to catch up with her and have her in my life again. We had a lot in common when we were close as 13/14 year olds and we have even more in common now. Actually, I wrote about Judy a little back in <a href="http://btmommy.blogspot.com/2008/10/looking-back.html">this post </a>and am truly thankful that we are picking up where we left off and jumping right in to being great friends.<br /><br />My girl auditioned for and got the part she wanted in this year's school musical, <a href="http://www.pioneerdrama.com/SearchDetail.asp?PC=BIGBADMUSI">"The Big Bad Musical"</a>. It is a super cute story about the trial of the Big Bad Wolf in Little Red Riding Hood. My girl plays the newscaster, Sydney Grimm, and she even has a big solo at the end. Because of his practice schedule, the boy didn't audition so this is all for the girl this time. Even though he's not doing the musical, he is still in band and performs with the pep band. Their schedules along with my on-campus classes keep me very busy. Now that Shell is working days, she's not available to run them where they need to go, so it's made my days full. Luckily, she's been getting some overtime recently, so hopefully we'll be able to catch up on some bills and make Christmas a little less painful.<br /><br />As for my classes, I'm enjoying them for the most part. My math buddy from last semester decided to move to the same class that I'm taking for math, so we have each other to work with again. This is helping a lot. Music Appreciation is not the light workload that I was expecting, so although I really enjoy it, it's a lot to stay on top of. For my English composition class, we are building up to our final research paper with weekly exercises to strengthen our paper. And Biology...well, it's certainly not my favorite class, by a long shot. Luckily, it is not the Biology that science majors have to take so it's a little less on the technical side, but it is still biology and I am still not a science-y person. It shows.<br /><br />Before I wrap this up for now, I'm curious if anyone else is having trouble with blogger. I am finding it impossible to comment on other blogs with my google account and it is really frustrating. I don't really want to move my blog, but if Wordpress is more reliable I wonder if it would be worth it. Any thoughts?This Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14043809910070633184noreply@blogger.com3