Happy New Year's Eve...

(imaged borrowed by - Link - )

Happy New Years Eve, friends...

Sadly, I won't be doing much celebrating myself tonight though...

Unless you count relaxing on the couch - watching videos, shows and vegging off vicodin :)

Yesterday morning, I had minor surgery - I shut down the baby making factory (got my tubes tied)... so I'm in a bit o' pain.

I guess it could totally be worse... but I'm still not enjoying the pains in my shoulder from the gas they put into my diaphragm. Or the tenderness of my lower abdomen. Or the fact that my throat is sore from the tube the put in to help me breath...

Oh well, I'm sure I'll be back to normal in no time - I'm actually feeling a whole hell of a lot better than I did yesterday afternoon/evening...

I really can't believe how quickly 2008 and flown by us. It seems like just last week we were celebrating the New Year! Shoot, I still remember staying up, knitting a scarf - I believe for my Twinnie Girl - and then watching the ball drop with my hubby and kids. Of course, there was some champagne.

Like I said, tonight won't be such a party. I think if I'm feeling up to it, we'll be playing some Guitar Hero World Tour - you know, with the drums, two guitars and singing? Yeah. We'll see though. I love that game - and I kick Derek's ass most times - but we are going to play everything by ear tonight.

Luckily, we don't have to worry about a menu - we have plenty of Schwans (oh! gotta make an order today for tomorrows delivery!!) and home made Chicken Soup that my WONDERFUL hubby made. That and some warm bread from the oven... Oooh weee. We'll be set!!

So, friends... I hope you all have a safe and sane New Years Eve. If you drink, please don't drive. Find someone else to take your sloppy ass home ;)

Have Fun.

See you next year!!

Still Alive...

Well, I'm still alive.

I know I didn't post any updates while in Disneyland... or after we got home in fact.


So, here it is.


Disneyland at Christmas time is magical. Let me tell you. I love Christmas period... but you know what, seeing Disneyland decorated from top to bottom with Christmas stuff is something to see. Speaking of seeing, you can see Cinderella's castle right here... its covered in snow and icicle lights... Its amazing to see in person...


Speaking of decorations... Here is one that I took a picture of in California Adventure park. There were wreaths, balls, lights, etc everywhere! I loved it.


You all know how worried I was about the weather... well, in the end, we didn't have to deal with too much bad stuff.





Sunday when we got down there, it wasn't too bad... but we weren't going into the park either, so it didn't really matter much.


Monday, we woke up to rain. It was a light spitting of rain... so it wasn't too bad. We wore our ponchos and hats... and dealt with it for the two hours that it really rained good. For the rest of the day, it was a hit and miss of sprinkles.


I was glad I shelled out $5 for each of us to be covered... not to mention $15 for a plastic stroller cover so Zach rode in style around the park... that got us a bunch of looks - mostly from other parents who didn't have the cool cover to keep their kids from getting wet! lol Actually, both Derek and I were a bit worried we'd find out stroller missing it at some point... but we were all good.


Tuesday was a beautiful day in the OC. The picture of the decoration above was taken on Tuesday... there were the beautiful fluffy white clouds and blue skies... no rain at all. It was even a bit warm after walking around for a while.





Tuesday night after spending the day in California Adventure park, we went back into Disneyland. Right when we walked in, we ran into Minnie coming out to visit people. We were so lucky with all the characters we just happened to see... literally. Zach actually got to meet Buzz Lightyear by chance. Let me tell you, he was estatic!!


I'm so glad that we covered both parks in the first two days there... and did almost all the rides (Rowan is such a dare devil!!) and attractions possible... because Wednesday, we woke up to some HORRIBLE weather.

The rain was coming down in buckets... and the wind. Gah, the wind was horrible. Something like 30 mph gusts!! It was a struggle to walk from our hotel, across a parking lot... to the other hotel for breakfast.

The rain wouldn't have been too bad if it hadn't been so windy... we would have stuck it out... but in the end, we just hung out in our hotel room for a few hours. We eventually did leave... to do some shopping in Downtown Disney and made our way into Disneyland park.

We had dinner at "The Blue Bayou" restaurant there... which was interesting in itself... the service happened to be horrible... but the food was okay. The idea of eating inside the "Pirates of the Caribbean" ride was cool though...

Thursday was the day we headed home... and as we were getting ready, D's brother called him to say that the Grapevine - the hills between Disneyland and home - main connector for Southern and Central Cali, was closed due to snow. I ended up calling one of the trucking companies we deal with at work to get the low down... and sure enough it was closed and wasn't expected to open until around 12pm!

This was at 9am.

So, instead of waiting around for 4 hours... to see if it was really going to open or not... we decided to go ahead and take the long route home... hit up 101 and went through Santa Barbara, Pismo, San Luis Obispo and onward home.

It took us 8.5 hours... instead of the normal 5.5-6 hours.

Thankfully, our kids were amazing. We stopped about every two hours and stretched our legs and used the restroom... they both napped once and also watched a movie. I was amazed they didn't complain until the very end...

It was a wonderful time...

I'm extremely happy we went... even with the unfavorable weather.

Disneyland is STILL my favorite place ever... and I can't wait to go back. Whenever that will be... LOL

We are Ready...

(picture borrowed from travelcuts.com)


So, we are ready. Ready to get on the road to the Happiest Place on Earth.

I think we all - well, at least the kids and I - will have a bit of a time sleeping tonight because we are so excited.

Our bags our almost packed.

Our rain ponchos are ready to go. I even picked up a plastic rain cover for the stroller... that way Zach didn't have to sit in a wet stroller. I really don't think the rain will keep us from having a great time.

Really, I'm only worried about traveling over the Grapevine tomorrow. Supposedly, we are looking at some nasty weather for that area. High winds combined with low temps and rain could equal a messy time. I'm hoping none of that hinders us getting over...

As for the weather report... I've seen a few different forecasts. Anywhere from raining the whole time we are there... to raining on Sunday and Monday... to a few showers each day we are there. I've been checking the weather forecast on www.abc7.com - the local Los Angeles TV station... It looks like Los Angeles and Ventura Counties are expecting some bad stuff... thankfully, Disneyland is in Orange County.

::gah:: I'm obsessed, aren't I?

Anyways, we are ready. We are ready to see Mickey and Minnie. The Princesses on Tuesday for breakfast... to have dinner at the Blue Bayou, which is in the middle of the Pirate of the Caribbean ride... we are just ready to see it all decorated for Christmas...

But most of all... we are ready to spend some time away from the normal life... and to spend time together as a family.

Please wish us all the luck in the world with the weather... I can deal with some rain... showers and drizzle... but down pours will kill it all for us.

Have a fantastic weekend and week friends... We'll be bringing the computer down with us... so check back for pictures and updates!!

Feelin' Old.

I'm feeling old today.

I'm not sure if its because I didn't sleep well last night...

Or if its because of the spill I took last night... well, I'm guessing that has something to do with it...

But I'm feeling old.

I'm extremely sore right now from my fall. I can't believe how big of a klutz I am. Granted, if I wasn't such a klutz, my hubby and I would have never met years ago... but hey, sometimes it sucks to be such a big one.

Like last night damn it.

I really think I jacked my arm up by jamming it into the ground when I fell. But I guess I'll heal. I just hope it doesn't take too damned long. LOL

I'm just greatful for my crown and coke right now... It'll ease some pain... LMFAO.

Anyways, I'm really bummed about something right now though.

Its sad to say, but it has to do with Disneyland.

I've been looking up the weather for when we are down there... and right now, they are predicting rain.

Yeah, for "never raining" in LA (actually, Orange County) it sure seems like it will be when we are down there...

I just hope it doesn't rain too much... I can handle a bit o' rain... but nothing that will soak us through!!

Well, now I'm going to go sulk in my rainy sore mess of a life right now... and try very hard not to get mad at my kids because they are screaming up a storm!!

Ahhh, the joys of motherhood!

Counting Down

Ya'll like my tree?? Its so purty!!

So, the count down has begun here at my house...

We've got 5 full days until we leave for Disneyland. I'm ready... and I'm thinking its going to be here before I know it. Which I'm greatful for!!

We also can't wait for Christmas. Its only right around the corner... but damn, I really need to get some shopping done. I am thinking about trying to sneak out tomorrow sometime before I pick up the kids to get some done. Maybe I can convince my mom to watch the kids while Derek and I get some shopping done.

I really liked it when my kids were younger - at least Zach -because I could shop while Rowan was in school and he had no clue! Now, I can barely try to put something in with out them noticing!

All I know is that I'm down a good handful of presents - for the kids, for Derek and for family. It needs to get done. Like NOW. lol

Right now, I'm very sore.

No, my fat ass didn't do any excersising... I was a major clutz and tripped and fell tonight. See, the kids and I were picking up a pizza and Zach decided to go all tantrumy and wail and cry because I didn't let him have a toy out of those quarter machines that are "convinetly" placed at restaurants and grocery stores...

Well, while trying to usher the kids out... I miss judged a step and fell face forward into the parking lot... I scrapped up my hands, my knee, my elbow. God, it was embarrassing.

Oh yeah... and I totally jacked up the damned pizza. It wasn't so pretty after that. It still tasted okay though!!

But now, I'm sore.

My fingers hurt.

My hands hurt.

My elbow hurts.

Damn. I'm just falling apart right now. LOL

Something New

On Wednesday afternoon, I went to the salon with a "new look" in mind. I have been contemplating a new cut for some time now... just ask my Twinnie, Bridgett. We have been emailing back and forth about it and she was gun-ho for me. Me? I wasn't too sure. I still wasn't sure when I sat down in the chair Wednesday... and I was completely unsure of what I did when I left that evening!

I really walked out of there in shock.

But anyways, you can see that I chopped off all of my locks and I am now ROCKIN' this hair style.

Yes, I'm okay with it now... beyond okay. I'm loving how quickly I can get it done. 10 mins tops. See, I have VERY thick hair... and a lot of hair. So just to blow dry it took a while... and then there was the flat ironing or the curling iron... depending on the look I was going for.

Now I have free time in the morning - to actually do stuff like put my make up on at home instead of in the car... or to start some laundry or dishes.

Anyways, never be afraid to try something different... You might just like what comes out of it!

So, we have 7 days until Disneyland... A week from tomorrow, we'll be there... scoping out Downtown Disney and wishing it was Monday morning so we could go have breakfast with Lilo and Stitch... and then waiting to get on rides!!

We can't wait... and thankfully, we are all feeling much better... Zach's cold is pretty much gone. Derek and I fought off something for a day or two. Not sure what it was... just feeling kinda odd and having a headache from hell. There was no throwing up, poopies or fever... must have been some kind of virus though... because I felt like crap!

I just hope next week flies by quickly.... which I'm sure it won't, since we want to go so badly!! lol

Today we are going to be busy bee's... Derek is at department training, so its just me and the kiddos. We have to hit up Target for the necessities... go to Costco to get our Christmas cards from their photo department... and then to Tractor Supply for some dog food (cheaper at places like that!) urine guards for the rabbit cage (because they are nasty fecking animals) and some hay and shavings for the rabbits.

We are also going to a Pampered Chef party at my MIL's. I don't know what I'll be getting... but I'm sure I'll find something to waste my money on... lol No, I'm just kidding. I love their stuff, but I don't know what I want.

Is everyone ready for Christmas? I'm SO not. And its only 18 days.... I did order a game for the Wii for Rowan - Disney's Sing It - and a Wall-E U-Command for Zach... but oh, guess what... the game is on back order until after the first of the year and the Wall-E is unavailable and they don't know what it will be so. So, I'm guessing I will have to give those to them on their birthday's... Jan for Ro and Feb for Zach.

I did get them these really cute digital cameras from Disneyshopping.com. They aren't anything too expensive, but they'll enjoy them. Derek and I are thinking of wrapping them up and bringing them with us to Disneyland... letting them have an early present and then they can take pictures there. I'm not sure what we'll do... because I don't want them to loose them or break them... We'll see.

Other than that... its just "Kung Fu Panda", "Wall-E" and a "Wii" game for them. ::sigh:: I guess I best get shopping, huh?

Alrighty friends... I'm outta here... much to do... and people to see.

Have a fantastic weekend!!

Pictures...

Just thought I'd post some pictures this evening... I'm a bit tired... so I thought I'd do an easy peasy entry...

I caught Rusty (the red pit bull) and Rosie snoozing in the sun. Yes, they are on our table outside... but really, we aren't using it right now, why shouldn't they?

Ooops. They caught me. Isn't he a gorgeous dog? That's some good breeding!!

Here is "More"... one of Miss Rowan's rabbits. She was cuddling on my chest.

Robo and Lil' Bit. She's working on showmanship skills, which include flipping the rabbit on their back.

Time for some cuddling now... Rowan is really enjoying her rabbits. Heck, so am I :o)

Have a great weekend, ya'll.

Germs... ::gah::

Germs. I can't stand them.

Poor Zach woke up on Wednesday morning with a croupy cough. He stayed home from school with his daddy and sister... Then early on Thursday morning, when he crawled into my bed with me, he complained that his ear hurt.

Never a good sign with him.

All day yesterday it was cough here... hack there. Then the poor guy, last night had a very tough time getting to sleep. Thankfully, when he did, he slept pretty well... but when he woke up at six this morning - screaming that something was in his room (mind you, it was the humidifier!) he was hacking up both lungs.

I finally gave him some medicine - I'm trying not to over medicate, because its easy to do - but the only thing I had for him was night time stuff... needless to say, he slept until 9am!

We went to the doctor this morning... god, I love acute-care! Anyways, he's got a bit of a virus that turned into an ear infection... and of course, the cough. So, for the next 7 days, he'll be on antibiotics. Thankfully, we still have 15 days until Disneyland, but I'm just hoping no one else picks up the bug.

We'll be doing a lot of hand washing and no sharing drinks/foods and hugs and kisses for while, I think...

Anyways, today is a beautiful Fall day here... I'm really stoked because this year, Fall has actually stayed Fall for a while. Usually, it goes straight from Summer, a week or two of Fall, and then rushes right into Winter.

This year, the trees are actually turning colors and the weather is brisk in the morning... and cold at night... Its been down in the 40's in the late night, early morning. I love the cold!!

Right now, I've got a window or two open... letting in the cool air. I can't stand to run the heater - which we haven't done yet, although it can get chilly in our house at night - but I would rather sit on the couch with a blanket.

Right now, its knitting that I have instead of a blanket. I want to make Rowan's teacher (she's had a substitute since Sept.) a scarf for Christmas... a way to say Thank You for helping her and the other kids while the normal teacher was out on maternity leave. But if I want to get it to her before we go to Disneyland, I need to get my booty into gear (see, we leave the week before Christmas break).

We are also going to try to get our Christmas stuff up today. We have the tree up - but two rounds of lights are out... But I'm not sure if we'll be getting to it today, Derek is unsure if he'll have to go to work. I hope we get them up today though... I need to get my Christmas cards done!!

Okay, going to go knit and watch Rowan play "Super Mario Brothers" on the Wii. Have a great Black Friday, ya'll.

So, I Suck at This.

Say hello to our new friends... Their names are Lil' Bit and More... you get it right? Lil' bit more? Haha. I kill myself.

Anyways, these little girls - Polish dwarfs, 2lbs each - are Rowan's 4-H projects, along with our family pets. They are still adjusting to their new home (we just picked them up last Saturday). We are all showing them attention and trying to get them to be a bit more tamed. They do really well, but sometimes, they freak out a bit. LOL

Anyways, so I've come to realize that I just suck at this blogging thing. I never seem to do it enough or well enough - in my opinion. But, I'm still going to keep on trucking and make posts - when I find the inspiration or I'm "yelled at" to ::cough Jolene cough::

So, today is Thanksgiving. I was able to sleep in until about 9am - just in time to catch the parade. Which we've been watching all morning. I believe its almost over (thank god). Today, we are just relaxing... preparing to get our Christmas decorations up tomorrow. We've got the tree up, but there are two strands of lights that are out, so we need to figure out what we are going to do with that.

This afternoon, I think we'll take a family nap before we head over to family's house for dinner. We are responsible to bring veggies - thank goodness for Schwan's frozen veggies... corn and asparagus are on the menu!

We did do a Pre-Thanksgiving dinner this last Sunday with my family. So, I'm glad we aren't having to cook too much today. Its always nice to not have to do too much work ;)

As for the rest of the weekend, like I said, we'll be decorating... relaxing and probably eating left overs. I'm also going to get my kids in their Christmas PJ's and take their picture in front of the tree for our annual Christmas card. I know they are getting older, but I love the PJ's picture. I think its going to be a tradition! So yeah, Rowan will be 16 in front of the tree in Christmas PJ's and I'm sure she'll hate it... but I know I'll love it! LOL

We are counting down the days here at our house... no, not for Christmas - although, there are only 27 days for that! But no, we are counting down the days for Disneyland!!

Yes! We are going to Disneyland... I can't wait. I've always wanted to go see it decorated for Christmas and this year, I'll get to. We are staying 4 nights and will be in the park for 3 days. We've got character breakfasts all lined up... dinner at the Blue Bayou - the restaurant inside the Pirates of the Caribbean ride!! We've got some friends from the police department going down at the same time, so I'm sure we'll be hanging out with them as well... but gosh, I can't wait!

I promise we'll come back with PLENTY of pictures!! Because you know I'm the mini-paparazzi and I have to have tons of pictures to make me happy :o)

Alright friends... I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving... I'm thankful for each and everyone of you for being in my life... and I'm thankful for my beautiful family... a husband that works so hard and still finds time to love me completely... and two beautiful children, that yes, can make me pull my heart out... but I'd never change a thing about them.

Happy Thanksgiving!!

It's been a bit... My bad.

So, I guess I haven't been doing as well as I could have with this blog.

Life has been pretty damned busy up until just this Saturday, actually.

Rowan is finally done with her cheerleading... so that means our Saturday nights won't be booked for a while.

I'm glad too... we all had a blast with this first season, but I think we are glad it's over for a while. Now Rowan will focus on school and a bit of 4-H for a while...

It's finally feeling like Fall/Winter here. I'm enjoying the cool mornings and the mild days. I can really only hope for some more rain - we need it.

The poor doggies don't like the cold though... actually, Rusty (the 60lb- 9 month old Pit Bull) gets so cold at night that we have to cover him up with a blanket! I guess he doesn't have enough fat/fur to keep him warm...

I'm just glad I can start wearing my boots and sweaters with out getting too hot during the day!!

One of the bad things about the Fall/Winter is all the colds that get passed around... ::sigh:: I've got a pretty cruddy cold going on right now. Last night, I was asleep by 9pm. I'm never in bed that early! I think I beat my kids to night-night land! lol

Alright, I'll leave you with some pictures... some of Halloween... and a picture of Rowan snuggling with Rusty... its hard to think of him as a puppy still!!

So is Miss Ro

She's learning early too!

Gotta love her.

Rockin' it for a Great Cause

I'm rocking it for a good cause!

One Foot Forward

One Foot Forward.

Mommy and Rowan... Together.

Photo for the Day

Rowan and I picked up some new boots today... Its her first "western" based pair of boots... They are made by Ariat and mine are the black ones - Fatbaby Boots - and Ro's are Heritage Crepe. Soo cute.

Even better, I got them on Sale :)

Oh, its Friday... and I'm full of complaints.

Oh, it's Friday.

I'm very glad it's Friday, as well.

The last few days have been complete crap.

On Wednesday, we noticed our fridge was acting all hinky. The defroster gets frozen over and that means that it doesn't defrost - sending the cold air into the fridge. Mind you, we just had it worked on at the end of September... I'm a bit frustrated.

So, D spent about two hours working on it last night. We had just bought around $100 worth of Schwan's frozen foods... so we needed it to work.

I think he has it jimmy-rigged for a bit. Although, I'm noticing that the ice cream isn't completely frozen... but that could be from the freezer not being turned all the way up.

Because I was a bit miffed and upset about the fridge, I decided to up and go to the corner store for a candy bar. HAHA.

Well, on the way back, as I turned into my court and made a U-turn to park in front of my house, my car died. Literally... I had to coast to my parking spot. Not cool.

I just had my car in the shop just last week!

Derek had some thingy-majig from work that he plugged into my car to see what the hell was going on...

It showed that the idol is off and that there is also a misfire some where along the way... SO NOT COOL.

So, Sunday night... we are taking my car in. Mind you, we have to keep the RPM's up above 2000 or the car will die. I'm making Derek drive it because I don't want to have to sit there and keep revving it! lol

Then this morning, we got some more bad news.

Derek and I - along with another couple - had made plans to go to Reno, NV to watch an Elite XC fight and stay the night.

Well, I called the hotel to make reservations, only to find out that the fight had been canceled. Nice huh? Yeah, I guess the Elite XC is filing for bankruptcy and isn't holding anymore fights.

I was very much looking forward to spending a night away with my husband... and enjoying some adult time and entertainment.

The only plus side about it being canceled is that we are saving a bit of money... ::sigh::

My kids are not feeling all that great too.

It started with Zach this morning... I got a phone call from his school saying that he was crying, saying that his belly was hurting. Zach doesn't normally cry about stuff like that... so I took it seriously and left work to go get him.

Mind you, I had only been there 2 hours... but because my parents are gone - and they (my mom) are my usual child care, I had no other option - Derek being at work as well.

I don't know what's going on. He says his belly hurts and he's got some burping going on. Now Rowan is complaining that she's got bubbles in her belly. I'm not sure how true all that is, but time will tell.

I hope neither one of them has a stomach virus... I can't really afford to be home... lol. And not to mention, she's got a game tomorrow night as well.

I swear, I feel like I can't catch a break lately with the Crap in my life... haha. But I'm sure many of you know how it is...

I need a drink... Bud Light Chelada Please!

Photo Project, Day ? So what? I'm behind... lol

Today's Lunch... Tortilla Soup - Minus the Tortilla Strips.

I'm trying to clean out my pantry... this sounded good!

Photo Project, Day 2

There's nothing like a ball game hot dog!

Crazy Hair Day - Photo Project, Day 1

Today was Crazy Hair Day at Rowan's school. So, last night we put sponge curlers in her hair and she slept on them...

This was her this morning. I swear, she is so looking more and more like Derek lately. I don't mind, but I kinda liked having a Mini-Me :o)




This is Ro's hair after the curlers came out. She wasn't really digging the curls. She thought she'd be the only one with Crazy Hair on Crazy Hair Day. Well, she wasn't.



My Cutie Patootie. She loves the camera!!

Thinking...

... of starting a photo project.

I've seen a lot of Blog's out there where they take pictures and then post one a day for a year...

I think I might do it... Anyone else interested in participating too?

NEW LOOK

Thanks to my Twinnie... I now have a new look to my blog.

Its really neat that we can do this... instead of on AOL where its just the ability to change colors.

I think I'm digging Blogger now :)

Monday Already?

Wooza. Its Monday already? Where did the weekend go?

Our weekend was pretty lazy. We didn't do a whole lot. Of course, we had Rowan's game on Saturday evening.

Fall has set in and let me tell you, with the wind we were (are) having, it made for a chilly evening. Thankfully, they were able to wear their jackets... they did say we could have gone home to get her some sweats to wear... but unfortunately, we don't have any. I think I'll be picking her up some leggings today though. Just in case her last two games are on the cold side again.

Sunday was the laziest day I've had in a while. I did manage to get a few things done... nothing major though. Just some laundry and some dishes. lol

I did make some yummy dinner. Meat loaf and hash brown casserole. Of course, some veggies on the side. I haven't made dinner in a while - Derek does most of the cooking - so it was nice to make something that they all enjoyed so much.

I just wish I would have had more time off... lol. It seems like the weekend goes by so much faster lately. Maybe because we are all so busy? I hope everyone had a great weekend too. I think I'll be back later with a meme or two...

Toodles.

Oh So Busy...

So, now I know how my parents felt... having to drag us kids here and there to make sure we made it to a practice or a game on time. Taking us from one place to another and never really having much Down Time.

I feel like we've been going non-stop since August with Rowan. At first, for cheer, it was practice every evening for the first two weeks... after the first game, it went down to practice 3 days a week... just an hour practice because of her age. Leaving us only two days during the week for nothing...

Saturday's are game days... which means we have to be there 45 mins ahead of schedule... and depending on where the game is, leaving even earlier than that.

I don't mind. Really. Rowan loves cheering. I love watching her cheer and blossom into someone new and different... with a bit more confidence and a bit more attidute ;o)

Now we've got more on our plate... Recently, we signed Rowan up for 4-H. I'm looking foward to seeing her enjoying this as well. I never did 4-H in school, only FFA when I got to High School... but god, how I loved every minute of it. I love the bonds I made with the people... the experience of growing something... of raising an animal... the experience of being a leader and traveling to different places, participating in activities.

Now, its Rowan's turn. She joined the Primary group as well as signed up for the Primary Rabbit Group. Yes, that's right... she'll be raising and showing a rabbit out at our county fair!

Oh, how I can't wait to see her in her whites... She's going to be so stinking adorable!

She's just excited about getting a rabbit. I'm not sure she's fully understanding the work that comes with raising an animal for the fair, but I think it will be good for her.

The thing now is... all the meetings that come with joining 4-H. We had our first meeting last night... but there is a community meeting once a month, plus your individual group meetings. So, if you counted correctly... there will be at least 3 meetings a month we have to attend. Three. And I'm sure, as the fair season comes up - and after she gets her rabbit in February - there might be more.

Oh well... all of that stuff is so good for her. For her confidence. For school. For her future. I don't mind. Not to mention I love all that raising animal stuff :) I even signed up to attend the AG Booster meetings for the local high school FFA and the 4-H. So, yeah, we'll be SUPER busy!! HA!

Spam Blog!

So, for some reason, Blogger and Google think that my blog is a Spam Blog... not too sure how a blog about my life is a Spam Blog, but hey, its under review. So, hopefully they'll come back and say, "yah, we were wrong, you aren't spam"... duh!

Sometimes, I forget she is 6.
I don't know why, since it seems like yesterday that I had her... 9 lbs, 2 oz. Such a big baby... holding her head up on the night of her birth... I still remember the crinkled face and chubby cheeks.
Then I look at her... in pictures like the one here... and wonder, "Where in the world did time go?"
My baby girl isn't much of a baby any more... in just about 4 months, she'll be 7... Before I know it, she'll be 17. ::sigh::
But anyways, isn't she gorgeous?
Just had to share - and brag :o)

Happy Birthday Hubby!

Well, today marks Derek's 28th birthday... So! Wish him a happy one!We aren't doing much in the celebration way... just the four of us hanging out at home.I had planned on the kids and I making dinner - Derek requested some Chicken Fetticin Alfredo and Garlic Cheese Bread.We are also going to make a birthday cake... a Fun-fetti one... as requested by the birthday boy! He loves that kind of cake :o)We are going to have a movie night... watching "Ironman" and chowing down on some popcorn and possibly having rootbeer floats!Derek's birthday isn't the only thing that will be taking place today. Our town is celebrating its Homecoming - the whole town shuts down and the high school and the pop warner teams take part of it.Well, since Rowan is cheerleading as a Mascot for the Varsity team, she has to ride on a float. So, in a bit, we'll start getting ready... which you know, takes time because she has to look like a little princess. Curled hair, makeup, the works!I hope to post some pictures later - possibly this afternoon or tomorrow. I'm sure there will be some cute ones :o)Have a great Friday ya'll.

So, This is Home?

I did a bit of looking around today... okay, just a few minutes really. But, I did notice that a lot of people from AOHELL have already started a new blog or are already in the midst of transfering them - like my dear friend Bridgett. Moving 5 years of journals... Really, it doesn't seem that Blogger is going to be that bad - they show updates on blogs you follow and give you the option to "decorate" your blog as you please... btw people, if anyone knows how to spiffy up my blog, please let me know!Hey, did you know that Blogger also "saves" your work as you go... so you can't lose it! AOHELL would randomly eat a journal entry every once in a while and there was no saving as you went. I think that's pretty awesome!Anyways, like I said... it won't be that bad. We are all still here...So, today is October 1st.Its unbelievable how quickly 2008 has flashed by. Really.In just a few months, we'll be ringing in the new year - 2009! Amazing.This month is going to be a busy one... which I don't mind... because busy means it goes by quickly... and the quicker it goes, the sooner December gets here... and the sooner December gets here, the sooner we go to Disneyland!!The Husband's birthday is this Friday... he's going to be a Big 28! We'll be celebrating quietly at home... with a home made dinner and cake by the kids and I... and possibly with a movie. I'm thinking "Ironman"! Sometimes, big bashes and lots of people isn't what is needed to celebrate a birthday :o)Of course, Friday day will be busy in itself! The Girl Child has a parade that she'll be in for the Homecoming celebration in town and then of course, cooking dinner and the cake!It will be a nice weekend... possibly with some rain! Hopefully it doesn't rain on Rowan's game on Saturday night though. That won't be too pleasant sitting in the wet!When ever I do figure out how to post pictures, I'll post some... 'cause I've got some pretty cute ones sitting on my computer!Alrighty... this is it for now!Have a great Hump Day!

Hello Blogger

Well Hello Blogger!It's so good to meet you.I would have rather met you on different terms... maybe when I choose to come to you... not when I was FORCED to come on over from AOL deleting our journals.I know I didn't journal as much as I had in the past or would have liked the last year or so there... but that didn't mean that I wanted to see it go.AOL Journals connected me to SO many of my friends... friends that are near and dear to my heart. Friends that I can't go one day with out talking to or I feel like I'm missing out on something.So, to the Uppity-Ups over at AOL... I salute you... not with a raised hand... but with a finger... and is not the thumb, pinky, ring or pointer!! I hope to keep up with as many people as possible over here on blogger - or what ever home they choose to go to. Anyways, this is obviously my first official post at The Pickle Jar on Blogger... I hope there will be more to come... and I hope I can figure out how to make it pretty and share pictures and all that jazz.Until then...

Where You Can Find Me...

My New Place... The Pickle Jar

 

Come by and say Hi!

OH!

One final note...

 

Only 85 days until Christmas!!

 

MUAHAHAHA!

Moving?

I guess we are being forced to move...

 

You will find me here... The Pickle Jar @ Blogger.com

 

See you on the Dark Side... :::muahahaha::

In Case You Were Wondering...

... there is only 128 days until Christmas.

 

Have you started shopping yet?

Anyone else...

... thanking who ever they thank that it is Friday?

::sigh:: I know I am.

 

I'm so ready for this weekend, it isn't even funny.

Its been a rather long week at work... as well as in the Pickle Jar.  I've literally been running from work, to my parents to pick the kids up, then home, then straight to Ro's practice.

From practice, its home for dinner and then its getting the kids in the showers and bed.

I swear, at the end of the evening, I'm practically falling asleep on the couch... and truthfully, I've been slacking on my walking because of it.

Its hard, very hard, to walk in the heat (its been in the 100's this week) as well as it being very hard to get up at 445am to go walking before work.

I hope I can get back my motivation and get back on track this weekend... I've been feeling like POOP because of it.

 

Tonight I'm going to dinner with some friends... it will be nice to take a break from the havoc and enjoy some Me Time and Girl Time...

I think I might even have a drink or two... ::weee::

 

Then tomorrow, my mom, Rowan and I are going to do some shopping...

Gotta get Rowan and Zach some Fall (god, it can't get here soon enough!!) school clothes... gotta run a few more errands... but it will be "Girl Time" for Rowan.

She needs that every once in a while...

 

Saturday night will be spent hanging out at home.  I've got a bunch of knitting to do before next weekend - my friends baby shower, which I'm doing a blanket for - and I'm just wanting to spend time with my kiddos and hubby.

 

Sunday, we are celebrating my MIL's birthday at the local pizza place... But other than that, the days will be spent relaxing.

 

Sounds like a pretty good weekend, huh?

I'm sure there will be other things we accomplish and some things we won't... but I'm so ready for the weekend!!

 

Oh! Before I jet... everybody please keep Heather over at "This-n-That" in their thoughts...

Heather, I hope your recovery is quick and painless!  Big hugs, Girlie!

Today...

... is Rowan's first day of First Grade!

Here is a picture of her this morning... taken from my cell phone... I promise more pictures and an update later this evening!

       

Isn't she freaking adorable?

Sunday Sunday

Oh, its Sunday.

I wish it was Saturday... but I'll take Sunday.

 

This weekend has gone by too quickly. I'd love to have another day off to relax with my family and to do a few things around the house.

 

Yesterday was spent cleaning... and then of course a nap was taken.  You gotta love your Saturday afternoon naps, right?

 

Last night we had finger foods and some potato soup for dinner... god, I love the fact that my hubby cooks and LOVES to do it.  He made some awesome Copy Cat Tony Roma Potato soup... so very tasty.

 

I know is August and soup is more of a Fall/Winter food... but I was dying for some!

 

We also watched the UFC fights that were on TV.  Man, I love watching those guys go at it.  It takes so much skill and dedication to be a fighter like that.  It amazes me!

 

Today, my mom is taking Rowan out to lunch and then to see "Wizard of Oz"... its being put on by the local theater group.  She is so excited, let me tell you.

I'm not sure what D, Zach and I will be doing... but I'm sure what ever it is... it will be okay.

 

Is anyone catching the Olympics?  We are watching the heck out of them here... gotta love the Swimming, Water Polo and Gymnastics!  In fact, I think I'll get back to watching them!

I hope everyone has a great Sunday.

Death

We had a death today in the Pickle Jar...

 

Poor Miss Rowan lost her hamster to the Hamster God's.

 

She has had him for just over 2 years... and recently, he had been sounding pretty awful. Sneezing and some snorting, grunting type stuff.

 

This morning, I found him stuffed into the corner of his cage.

 

He didn't move when I blew on him.

Or when I knocked the cage.

Or even when I tipped the cage sideways.

 

Yeah. He was dead as a door nail.

::sigh::

 

When I first told her, I think she thought I was playing...

Until she saw for herself.

 

Then she was a bit sad... some tears and asking Why.

 

But once I got him out of the cage and into a box... and then into the trash can outside (LOL)... she seemed fine.

 

The next minute she asked... "Can I get a rabbit now?"

 

Haha... Guess she wasn't too upset after all!

The Stay-in Date Night

Tonight, Derek and I are having a Stay-in Date.

 

After I take Rowan to practice - where I will spend my time walking around the park/neighborhood - and after I shower - because I'll be STINKY!! - Derek and I are going to kick the kids to our bedroom so they can watch their shows (aka Disney channel) and he and I'll have our Date Night.

 

We are going to lounge on the couch and watch the Opening Ceremonies for the Olympics... maybe have a drink or two... lol

 

I think I'll also be doing some knitting... lol.  I'm working on a baby blanket for a friend's baby shower that is coming up at the end of the month... Hmm, guess I need to get my booty going!

Busy Busy Pickles

Life in the Pickle Jar has been quite busy the last few weeks...

We all have been doing this ~ n ~ that (hi Heather!) around town lately.

Derek has been working... with his new assignment, he can be called out at a moment's notice and be gone any where from 1 hour to 10! His new assignment is a rather fast paced one... and he is really enjoying it.  It fits him to a T.

I've been busy being "taxi"... lol But what mom isn't, right?

Rowan started Cheerleading on July 21st for our local Pop-Warner team.  She is too young to be an actual cheerleader, so she is a Mascot.  The Mascot's still learn and perform cheers... but they can't go out on the field and perform at half-time.

I was disappointed hearing this because I know how much my daughter loves to shake her booty - but I think she'll enjoy the cheerleading part well enough.

She did have a tough time this last Monday... See, she is the Mascot for their Varsity team.  There are close to 20 girls on the team - only 4 of them are new to the program.  Of course these girls all know the cheers and moves... so when it came time for Rowan to learn them, she got overwhelmed and very upset.

She is so like me.

The poor thing started crying... and it took everything in my body to stay in my seat and not walk down to the field to comfort her.

I have to say though, she has been doing much better the last few days... I'm so proud of how quickly she is learning the steps and cheers.  There are a few complicated ones that she is still struggling with... but I think she'll eventually get them down too.

Right now, she has practice Mon-Fri, from 6-730pm.  Yikes!  Thankfully, after the season starts, it will be only three days a week. 

I can't wait to see her out on the sidelines - cheering her little heart out.  As soon as I get some good pictures, I'll be sharing them :)

 

I'm also taking Rusty (the puppers - who is now 6months old and weighing 42lbs!!) to an obedience class on Wednesday night. I think it is doing really good things for him - not that he is a bad dog... but I think doing this now, while he is a puppy will keep him a good dog.

He is so mellow and rarely gets excited about too many things.  He is an odd little duck - dog, excuse me - he doesn't have the drive to chase a ball or play tug-a-war.

But he sure does love going on his walks with his Momma and sister (our Rottie Lola)... He is such a Momma's boy, it isn't even funny. I think Derek is a bit jealous... since he was meant to be more his dog. Haha.

 

Zachary doesn't really have much going on... just his gymnastics on Monday nights.  He hasn't been going much lately because of Rowan and her cheerleading.  He'll start back up next week - only if Derek is home to take him! lol

 

I'm hoping that even with our busy schedule, I'll be able to keep up with this journal... I'm glad I finally came back. 

Guess Who!?!

Guess who?!

 

I know some of you are probably falling out of your seats right now... seeing me appear out of no where like this.

 

I can't believe I haven't been here since April. Wow, where does the time go?

I have played with the idea of returning to blogging... I wasn't sure where I wanted to reappear.  Here in AOL or some where else.  I tried doing the blogger.  The wordpress.

And you know what? None of those places felt right. Like home.

 

I've been here since May of 2004.  Four years people... that is some good time...

I only figured it was right that I return to the blog world here... in AOL.

 

As you may see, I've changed the look and feel here in The Pickle Jar. I didn't want to change the name completely, so I kept the Pickle part.  It seemed only fitting. 

I don't know how much I'll be writing or what I'll be writing about... but I just wanted to write.  Here, in my Pickle Jar.

 

Life in the Pickle Jar has had its ups and downs - but what life doesn't now, with our economy and with all the gas and food prices rising?

We are happy and healthy - that is all we can ask for.

Who cares if we are broke, right? lol

 

The kids... oh my, the kids are great.

Most of you are friends on my Myspace, so you see pictures of them all the time...

But for those that don't, I'll share soon.

 

Rowan starts first grade come Tuesday, the 12th.  Yes, 1st grade.  When I started this blog, she was a mear 2 1/2 years old! God, its crazy.

Zachary... my little man... he is my angel and my devil wrapped up into one.  3 1/2 and he is already in preschool... such a joy to be around - especially when he flashes you his million dollar smile.

Derek, well, he's Derek - always working and enjoying his new position.  We get to see more of him and are truly enjoying that.

 

Not much else has changed in the last few months... but I have a renewed want to write here and share with everyone...

I'm glad I'm back... I hope you are too.

Rusto!!

Just a shot of Rusty... he's now almost 10 weeks old and getting so big :)

He's sure made himself very much part of the Pickle Jar!!

aoljpictureUpload, aoljpictureUpload_1

Problem Fixed...

The red x's are now gone... pictures of Rusty are up :)

New Addition to the Pickle Jar

Over the weekend, we welcomed a new addition into our family.  He is 8 weeks old, an American Pit Bull Terrier and such a cutie...

 

Please say "Hello" to Rusty...

 

We are enjoying him and he is already becoming such a member of the Pickle Jar...

 

 

Okay, What's New?

So, its been a while since I've done an entry... I swear, I'm becoming a slacker at this whole journaling thing...

Anyways, I guess I should write about what is "new" or "going on" in the Pickle Jar...

Lets see:

* I am just getting over the flu - again.  Yes folks, you read that write.  I had the flu back in late January... and ended up with it again earlier this month.  Last time the flu gave me bronchitis... this time I got a bit of the bronchitis again and a sinus infection.  Oh god, sinus infections are so painful.

* Not only did I get the flu this time... but so did Derek, my parents and I think even Zach got a bit of it. 

* Derek and Zach were both lucky and bounced back really quickly from it... but my parents and I weren't so lucky.  We are still feeling the effects.

* Tomorrow I'm going to get my hair done... and then have an evening out with my friends for my best friend Amy's birthday.

* I'm really thankful that I'm going to get some Adult Time... it feels like its been FOREVER...

* It's not like I don't love my kids and love being around them... but sometimes, a Mama needs a break, ya know?

* Easter is Sunday - we don't really have any big plans.  Derek works the night before and that evening... so we'll have a little Easter egg hunt in the morning and probably a breakfast... then he'll sleep.  The kids and I will be going to my parents house that afternoon for Easter dinner...

* Mom thinks she is going to make Corned Beef and Cabbage because she didn't get to have it for St. Patricks Day, due to being sick.  I told her that sounded great (I'm not much of a traditional ham person!)...

* The kids are excited... actually, I would say its Rowan more than anything... Zach doesn't really understand that Easter is on Sunday... I'm sure he'll be excited that morning... but Rowan is counting down the days!!

* Speaking of Rowan... she started T-Ball last week.  Its so cute to watch those little munchkins run around and try to hit off a tee.  I hope she has a good time...

* Pictures will be a must :)

SO, yeah, that is about all I can think of at the moment... I'm rather ready for my day to end...

I hope you all have a wonderful Holiday weekend...

Happy 3rd Birthay, Zachary Justice!!!

                                Happy 3rd Birthday, Little Man...

Presidents Day Weekend Dinner Menu

Friday – Chicken Taco Soup with Salad<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" />

 

 

Saturday – Steak and Asparagus Soup

 

 

Sunday – Hot Dogs and Mac~n~Cheese

 

Monday – Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Fresh Veggies

 

Should be tasty!! Ican't wait to make and try the Asparagus Soup!! YUM!

Bullet Update... 'Cause I'm Too Busy to Do a Real One

*I'm finally feeling better - for those that didn't know, I had gotten the True Blue Flu - fever and fatigue for 3 days - and then developed Bronchitis.

*I still have a bit of a cough, but I'm so much better than I was!

*My kids have both been fighting a cough and Zach has had a runny nose as well.  I really think he has allergies, but being in preschool does nothing in helping to NOT bring home germs.

*Rowan is doing amazing in kindergarten.  Learning to read and just did her second "book report" - something similar, anyhow.

*She turned 6 years old (God, where does the time go?) on Jan. 23rd.  We were going to have a birthday party for her that weekend, but because I became sick, we postponed it.

*Zach turns 3 years old - do I even have to say it?? - next Friday.  He is becoming such a little man... so funny, so stubborn and so stinking cute.

*We are having a joint party for them on the 24th... just an early dinner with family and some friends.  Rowan wasn't too hot on sharing a party, but as long as it is just this once, I think she'll be okay.

*My mom and I are having a girls day tomorrow.  We are going to head up into the foot hills and visit some of the older mining towns up there... Going to hit up some yarn shops too :)

*She has to pick out yarn for her hat and scarf that she will be wearing when she is in Europe... and I think I'm going to look for some yummy yarn to make blankets for both of my kids.  Something they can have for like, forever.

*But I don't know... yarn shops can have expensive yarn... and I don't know if I'm wanting to spend so much right now... lol

*Next Friday, Rowan, myself, Ro's friend and her mom are going to go see Disney on Ice: Princess Wishes.  She doesn't know we are going... so it should be a very nice surprise for her!!  I'm excited for her :) lol

*Okay, I can't think of anything else to throw out there - although I'm sure there is plenty... maybe I'll come back later and add another. Have a great weekend!

More Pics... Because I'm too Lazy to do a Real Entry!

I got the kids their Valentine Presents today... They were supposed to stay a Surprise until Thursday, but Miss Ro accidently caught a peak of the boxes... and well, there is no hiding "Build A Bear" boxes... So they got them tonight...

The Kiddos Bears... Scruffy the Dog and Love-A-Lot Bear

Isn't her outfit just the cutest thing!?!

I Love Scruffy's Sweatshirt... I dressed him how I would dress Zach ;)

 

Then this is just a random picture of Zach in his bed... Derek was playing with our new camera and snapped it last night... I can't believe how quickly he is growing up!!

Drive By Photo Sharing...

I just wanted to share some photos that I've taken as of late... the ones below are of some of my knitting...

Zach and his newest hat... I swear, I could make this child a beanie every day and he'd be happy!!

This is the sweater that I have been making for my friend's new baby boy... Because I was sick for over a week, I haven't done much on it... but I hope to finish it soon!!

And this is a beret I made... well, it was supposed to be a beret, but because I didn't use a chunky yarn that the pattern called for, it became more of a large beanie... but it is okay... I can wear it and my hair actually fits under it :)

Is it Weird???

... that I all of a sudden have to turn my TV on at night to sleep???

 

Weird, eh?

Tid Bit Update

Just a quick update on the Pickle Jar...

 

*Life is pretty good... full of love... tight on money... but good.

*The kids are doing pretty good... Rowan has a nasty cold... but she'll live...

*Speaking of Rowan, she turns 6 years old next Wednesday... God, where did time go?

*Zach is growing by leaps and bounds... chatting up a store and becoming his own person... he is definitely a joy to watch.

*I had to take him to see the Ears, Nose and Throat doctor last Friday... he recommended Ear Tubes, like I had a feeling he would...

*Derek and I have to make a decision soon... its really hard, actually. We just have to figure out what is best for that little man...

*I'm going to a knitting class tonight - I'm so loving knitting, by the way. I'm going to learn to make a baby cardigan... I've already got in mind who it will be for (see below entry!!)... and once I learn how to make this one, I have a few other babies that I know of to make one for...

*Derek and I are going to a Phil Vasser concert tomorrow night with a whole group of friends from his work... like 10 other couples! We are going to have dinner at one persons house and then walk to the concert - it is at a local auditorium.

*I can't wait to have a night out with my husband... they really seem to be few and far in between...

*We are moving my grandma up here from the Bay Area next weekend... This weekend we are going down to her house and packing up stuff that we don't want the movers to pack up...

*She's 90 years old and its finally time she lived closer... in fact, she is going to be renting a home that is lessthan a mile from my parents house... Its brand new, was a model home... and has everything that she would need... Including the proximity to us!

*I think I've run out of tidbits for now... I hope everyone is well...

xoxo

Congrats Jolene!!!

Jolene over at "One Vintage Housewife" has gone and delivered a Happy, Healthy Baby Boy!!!

The STATS:

Name: Warrick

Bday: Monday, January 14st @ 10:51pm

Weight: 9lbs 5oz

 

Congrats to you and your boys, Jolene!!

Can't wait to meet him!!

Did You Know?

... that a call to Afghanistan is expensive?

Like, $12.80 per minute expensive?

Like, 11 minute phone conversation comes out to $140 expensive?????

 

No!?  Neither did we....

 

But we do now!!

 

*Yes, we were calling a soldier. Actually Derek was.  He was calling a buddy who used to work at the PD and went back to the Army after 9/11.  He's having a hard time over there, so Derek called to check on him and cheer him up... I guess the high bill was worth knowing he got to talk to a good friend...