Keep 'em waiting

Tomorrow Chowhound leaves. So, he made plans for us to meet his Dad and brother at a local sports bar to chow down on some grub and shoot some pool. I'm in my bathroom getting ready. Suddenly, above the roar of the blow dryer, I hear Brad Paisley bellowing out "Waiting on a Woman".

That child is such a brat sometimes.

Moonpies, Peaches, and Pelicans: New Years Southern Style

Yes, Mobile, Alabama is going to drop an electronic moonpie at midnight this year. The materials include:

• 1200-1500 golf ball-size clear lights;
• Eight sheets of 2-by-2 square aluminum tubing;
• Ten sheets of plywood;
• Massive amount of banana colored mache;

They are also serving a four foot moonpie. It has six pounds of chocolate icing and fourteen pounds of marshmallow.

They chose moonpies because of their connection with Mardi Gras. They throw moon pies at Mardi Gras. You've never been to a real southern parade until you've been beaned in the head with a moonpie. My thought is that if I were drinking, the last thing I would want to eat would be a moonpie. That makes for some nasty stuff to come up.

Not to be left out, Pensacola is also launching their unique celebration. While New York has their ball drop and Atlanta has the peach drop, Pensacola is proud to stake claim to the one-and-only Pelican drop. When I heard they were having a pelican drop. I immediately thought of WKRP's Turkey drop. "As God is my witness, I thought turkeys could fly."

Back in 2004 right before Hurricane Ivan came to town, Pensacola had decorated Pelican's set out around town. My sister and I Pelican hunted for the day. Here are a couple of my favorites:





Moonpies, Peaches, and Pelicans. The South knows how to ring in the new year.

Christmas Spirit

Christmas was great.

Family.

Food.

Fun.

Laughter.

Lots and Lots of laughter.

All day long.

I needed that.

Christmas Stinks

I heard this on the radio this morning and immediately pictured VW's boys doing and singing this.


I then discovered there are all kinds of Christmas farting songs.



Merry Christmas. I hope your's doesn't stink.

The check is in the mail

Unfortunately, it isn't mine.

I took the mail out of the mailbox. Ripped open the envelope. And had a fricken heart attack. A check for $100,000. An actual legitimate check. Except it's not to me. Right address, wrong person. It's to the City. But, mailed to my address. Why I haven't a clue. I've lived here for six years. Someone up above has a very warped sense of humor.

'Cause that shit ain't even funny. Don't worry. It will go back. I will do the right thing. But, damn that would have been a great Christmas present.

I'm off to go pout some more.

My Newest Marine

Chowhound is officially a PFC in the USMC. The graduation yesterday was held outside. It was cold but not unbearable. The ceremony was moving.

The first stop off the Island was at McDonald's for a sweet tea and to change clothes. He would have changed in the parking lot and car like his brother did but we were in a little more visible area than last year.

The only significant change I have noticed is he eats faster. He always savored his food. The first to start and the last to finish. That is no longer. I laughed at him last night sucking down steak and potatoes. I don't think he even chewed. I reminded him he wouldn't get yelled at now if he didn't eat fast enough. He laughed. I don't think he realized how fast and focused he was at eating.

It's good to have him home even if it's only for 17 days. Next weekend we will bring Improviser home for the holidays. The only missing will be Daredevil. He won't be home until April. He does call pretty often. Both Improviser and Daredevil called yesterday to congratulate their little brother. That was heartwarming.

So, now between my sister and I, we have our own little militia. We have 4 Marines and one Airman. Nobody better mess with us.

My New Airman

Isn't he handsome? Improviser is officially an Airman. He is glad to be finished with Basic Training. He will be home for Christmas. Yeah!

A dream that I wish hadn't come true

I still trying to wrap my mind around this whole ordeal. I knew my Dad's wife was evil and I guess I knew in my heart what she would do, but still it baffles me that someone can be so cruel. My Dad died and she did not tell any of his family. Not his two brothers and sister. Not his four daughters. She has contact information. It's not like she couldn't have gotten in touch with one of us or all of us. The ultimate control and isolation. She didn't even invite his family to honor him at his memorial service. He died Oct. 25 and we didn't find out until Nov. 17. We were told after his memorial service. That was mean. It was mean to my Dad. It was mean to us. How can someone be so heartless and cruel.

Several months ago I vividly dreamed this exact situation occurred. I dreamed it not once but twice. Both times I woke up in tears. I can't remember the details now but I woke up crying because I found out my Dad had died and she didn't tell us. Now, that is exactly what happened.

Dad, I love you with all my heart. I always have and I always will. I am glad you are finally away from her. I am sorry that you had to die to do it. I wish I had done more for you. You deserved to have a happy life. I am so sorry. I love and miss you.

No words can describe what I feel

Dad
July 7, 1934 - Oct. 25, 2008

Congratulations Improviser

I am heading to San Antonio, Texas. Lackland AFB to be more specific. This Friday Improviser graduates from Air Force Boot Camp.

CONGRATULATIONS IMPROVISER!!!
I AM SO PROUD OF YOU!

Veteran's Day

This year Veteran's Day has an extra special meaning for me. This day honors not only all those who have served but those who are serving and this year it includes my sons and nephews. Although, Chowhound and Improviser are technically still recruits soon they will be officially serving the United States of America. And of course, Daredevil is currently in Iraq fighting for freedom. Two of my nephews are also Marines.

I went yesterday and added Daredevil and his two cousins to the Wall of Honor. The lady in the photo department was wonderful. She copied the photos and matted them. I was given the additional copies, which one was matted also, at no charge. She said it is the least they can do for what our veterans do for us. I was admiring a USMC Blanket while I was there and got to talking to another lady looking at it. He son was just awarded the purple heart. I fought back the tears. She told me that a simple flinch at the right time saved his life. The doctors told her if he hadn't turned his head at that split second he would have died. The bullet struck his neck and shoulder. He is still in rehab and will probably be discharged from the service. Although, Daredevil is over there in the middle of all this mess, it doesn't hit home until I hear stories from neighbors. Personal stories. I followed a car the other day that had a dedication to her son across the back window. He died in Iraq last year. It said "My Son, My Hero", "Home of the Free, Because of the Brave." I wanted to get out of my car and run up to her window and hug her and thank her. She probably would have thought I was nuts. I lost it. I drove down the road crying. I cried for her, for her son and for every family that has ever made a sacrifice so that I can live my life how I choose.

I was raised in a Military family. My father was a photographer in the Navy. My step-father was a mechanic Navy. He spent the majority of his time in submarines. My ex-husband was in the Navy. It is ironic that none of my boys joined the Navy. Two went into the Marines and one into the Air Force.

Thank you to all who have served or are serving.

Happy Birthday USMC

MARINE CORPS ORDERS
No. 47 (Series 1921)
HEADQUARTERS U.S. MARINE CORPS
Washington, November 1, 1921

759. The following will be read to the command on the 10th of November, 1921, and hereafter on the 10th of November of every year. Should the order not be received by the 10th of November, 1921, it will be read upon receipt.

(1) On November 10, 1775, a Corps of Marines was created by a resolution of Continental Congress. Since that date many thousand men have borne the name "Marine". In memory of them it is fitting that we who are Marines should commemorate the birthday of our corps by calling to mind the glories of its long and illustrious history.

(2) The record of our corps is one which will bear comparison with that of the most famous military organizations in the world's history. During 90 of the 146 years of its existence the Marine Corps has been in action against the Nation's foes. From the Battle of Trenton to the Argonne, Marines have won foremost honors in war, and in the long eras of tranquility at home, generation after generation of Marines have grown gray in war in both hemispheres and in every
corner of the seven seas, that our country and its citizens might enjoy peace and security.

(3) In every battle and skirmish since the birth of our corps, Marines have acquitted themselves
with the greatest distinction, winning new honors on each occasion until the term "Marine" has come to signify all that is highest in military efficiency and soldierly virtue.

(4) This high name of distinction and soldierly repute we who are Marines today have received
from those who preceded us in the corps. With it we have also received from them the eternal spirit which has animated our corps from generation to generation and has been the distinguishing mark of the Marines in every age. So long as that spirit continues to flourish Marines will be found equal to every emergency in the future as they have been in the past, and the men of our Nation will regard us as worthy successors to the long line of illustrious men who have served as "Soldiers of the Sea" since the founding of the Corps.

JOHN A. LEJEUNE,
Major General Commandant
75705--21

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

I am proud of the young men in our family who chose the Marine Corps as their Duty. My Daredevil (left) is presently in Iraq. "R" (Middle) is in Okinawa. And, "G" (right) just returned from Iraq. These are my nephews.

Also, my youngest, Chowhound, is currently at Parris Island becoming a Marine. He is in Training Week 8. On Dec. 12th he will become a Marine.

I am very proud to be a Marine Mom. The network and support is amazing. Marines are amazing. I thank each and every Marine for the sacrifices that have been made.

Getting away from Nothing

This week has been as unhurried as a sloth. I've spent my days strolling down the tranquil, deserted beach or curled up with a book traveling to places not so far away.

How do I change?

How do I change?
If I feel depressed I will sing.
If I feel sad I will laugh.
If I feel ill I will double my labour.
If I feel fear I will plunge ahead.
If I feel inferior I will wear new garments.
If I feel uncertain I will raise my voice.
If I feel poverty I will think of wealth to come.
If I feel incompetent I will think of past success.
If I feel insignificant I will remember my goals.
Today I will be the master of my emotions.

-Og Mandino,

Fed Up

Dear Mr. Obama,

I know you are running for President of the United States. I know a lot of people have donated tons of money to your campaign and you feel you must spend it.

All.

You know why I know this?

Because I have heard your stupid commercials a billion times. I hated to turn on my TV prior to this but now I am considering having the cable disconnected.

I hate listening to the radio now. I used to love to listen to it. Not any more. The five minutes I have in the car on the way to and from work is now taken up with your "spots".

SHUT THE HELL UP!

I am tired of it. I am tired of you.

I am tired of people calling my house and waking me up to see if I am going to vote for you.

HELL NO! Does that mean anything to you?

I realize you are keeping the printers, the post office, and the garbage men employed. But, send your damn flyers to someone who cares. And that is not me. Go drop them over Iraq or Africa. They need toilet paper over there.

I used to love the internet. Not any more. Your face pops up everywhere I click. Get a life. Get out of mine.

Now, today, you violated my cell phone. I got a stupid voice mail about your campaign. I couldn't hit #7 fast enough to delete it. It is now contaminated. I started running around like Lucy when Snoopy kisses her. "BLEAGH! Get hot water! Get some disinfectant! Get some iodine!"

Why don't you use the money you have received for some good? Bail out the stupid banks with it. Don't take any more of my hard earned money. You want my vote? Put your money where your mouth is. All talk and no action doesn't do a damn thing for me.

So shut the hell up. Quit wasting money trying to convince me that I want you to be my President. If you're going to run the country like your running your campaign then we are in a whole lot more trouble than we are now. You are showing no responsibility. None.

Leave my health care alone. It's fine. If I'm sick. I go to the Dr. They take my $20, tell me what's wrong and send me to the pharmacy for my $5 prescription. I can handle it.

Leave our military alone. They have a job to do whether or not you agree with it. It employs my three boys. They are earning a decent wage and learning discipline, self-respect and a trade all while protecting the very freedoms you enjoy.

This is supposed to be OUR Government. I don't want YOUR Government to control my life. I can and do make responsible decisions for myself. I don't need someone to make them for me. Leave me the hell alone.

Got it? I've had enough. That goes for every politician. Straighten your own life out. Mine is just fine.

Time Marches On

I'm adjusting to being alone. It sucks. I'm not adjusting well. I'll get there. It has only been a week.

Encouragement

"When you feel like giving up, remember why you held on for so long in the first place."

~ Unknown

Overall, emotionally, I've done pretty well the last couple of days. Now, if I could just get rid of this cold.

One to go...

Improviser came over tonight. Waltzed into the kitchen and the next thing I knew he was cooking me dinner. The only one of my three boys that cooks. He made Chowhound a chocolate cherry cake with fudge icing before he left for bootcamp. It was made from scratch. No box, no mix. He shows love with food. I love this about him. I am going to miss him so much. These next two weeks are going to be special since it will be the first time since he was 16 months old that he didn't have to share me with his brothers (he's 22, do the math, it's been a looooooooong time). I am going to cherish every moment.

Daredevil is packed up and turning his cell phone off tonight. He starts his journey towards Iraq tomorrow. I told him to keep an eye out for his cousin who is packing up and leaving Iraq Thursday to come back to the states. Who knows, they may just cross paths somewhere while in transit. I sent out a care package today so he should get it upon his arrival. Please pray for his safety in his travels and for the next seven months. Please pray for all of our troops.

Chowhound is in day 2 of bootcamp. He is sleeping in hallways, getting yelled at, and having his head scrapped bald. He is going to look like this again.


This picture cracks me up. He insisted that I shave his head. I cried. He was happy as a clam. I doubt that he is smiling now. Only 13 weeks to go.

Day 2-

Graduation day is tough for adults. They go to the ceremony as parents. They come home as contemporaries. After twenty-two years of child-rearing, they are unemployed. (Erma Bombeck)


I'm not unemployed. Now, I'm a consultant. I should start making the big money now. Oh yeah, parenting pays in hugs and I love yous. I'll take that.

Day 1 of being on my own

"And I know what I have to do now. I gotta keep breathing. Because tomorrow the sun will rise. Who knows what the tide could bring?" (Cast Away)

This is how I feel today. I heard this quote before I cried myself to sleep last night. I'm a big girl. I can do this. I realize I have been way too dependent on my children. It's time for me to figure out what I want to do when I grow up.

As a kid and teenager, I always felt lost. There was this empty space inside of me that longed for something. I tried to fill it with activities and friends and then booze and other unhealthy stuff. Nothing filled that void I felt. I graduated from high school at 17 and had no direction, no goals, no aim. I took the path that I was told I should. I got a job, signed up for a full schedule at the Jr. college and started my life. I still didn't have a purpose. For the next few years, I bounced in and out of school, jobs, and relationships. I grew moody, angry, and volatile. The emptiness grew. I still felt lost and lonely. I still had no purpose. Then, at 20, I got pregnant. That was the pivotal point in my life. The stability I needed. And even though I still have been in and out of relationships throughout my life, I have always had my kids. For the past 22 years I have had a reason to get up in the morning. I had a purpose for working. After I had my children, the empty space disappeared.

Now I have to find a new purpose.
_______________________________________________

8:20 PM

Just got back from the grocery store. I ambled up and down the grocery aisles feeling sorry for myself. I kept passing by the things that I would normally buy for the boys, snacks and stuff, that otherwise I won't buy for myself. I strained to think of what to buy and how to cook for one. I've never had to do that. Ever. I went from cooking for my mom and I to cooking for a husband and then children. This will be a new concept and experience. This morning I threw out all the junk food in the house. I'm eliminating temptation and concentrating on getting back in shape. I've never been this out of shape in my life. Anyways, back to shopping. It was depressing. I struggled and then it hit me. My children didn't die, they moved away from home. I can still do things for them. I have lots to do right now. Daredevil will need care packages and cards and letters. His birthday is the 21st and it is bad enough that he has to spend it in Iraq or where ever he will be at that time but to not get anything from mom would be heart breaking. I can't do that to my son. The first care package for Daredevil is packed and ready to send out tomorrow. It should arrive at his post in Iraq about the same time he does. Birthday cards are signed and sealed and will be going out as well.

The scripted call from Parris Island just came in a few minutes ago. Chowhound will have an address sent to me in a few days. I have three months of letter writing to him. And then in a couple of weeks, I will be writing to Improviser.

Oh my. Suddenly, I feel really busy. It feels good.

"When mothers talk about the depression of the empty nest, they're not mourning the passing of all those wet towels on the floor, or the music that numbs your teeth, or even the bottle of capless shampoo dribbling down the shower drain. They're upset because they've gone from supervisor of a child's life to a spectator. It's like being the vice president of the United States." (Erma Bombeck)
**Shhhhh. Don't send that quote to Sarah Palin.

Update

Okay, you can stop lashing me with wet noddles. Sorry I didn't post an update. Yes, my Sweetie made it out of Turks and Caicos before Hurricane Ike pounded the little islands. We spent a couple of days together, including his birthday on Monday, and then he flew to south Florida Tuesday. He showed up back here on Wednesday with a 24ft UHaul and then left for Turks and Caicos on Saturday. I'm not sure when he will return. I figure I won't see him again until Christmas. I hope it'll be sooner but I'm not counting on it. We had a great time while he was here.

So, I said goodbye to Daredevil on the 2nd. He went back to California. Now he leaves this week headed to Iraq.

My Sweetie left yesterday.

Chowhound left a few hours ago. Tomorrow he will step in the yellow footsteps at Parris Island.

Improviser leaves in 15 days.

Too many goodbyes this month. I'm hanging in there.

I don't like Ike

My Sweetie is presently in the Turks and Caicos Islands. I'm hoping and praying his 10:45am flight is not canceled. The last chance to get out of Dodge before Ike comes storming through. I'll be on pins and needles until I know he is in the states, checked through Miami and on his way here.

Come Hell and High Water

Daredevil leaves today. I won't see him again until he returns from Iraq. (this is the Hell part)
Chowhound leaves in 12 days.
Improviser in 29.
(but who's counting)





and now the high water part. Hurricane Hannah is hanging over my Sweetie. He is in Provo in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Last night he was in the eye. The news reports there were telling them the storm was over. This morning that are getting hammered. It's only a Cat I but when you are on a little island this is still bad. And Ike is on Hannah's heels.

This month just keeps getting better. (and it's only day 2. Crap.)

Time Marches On

September is here already. I want to skip this month almost as much as I want to skip November and December. I vote that we jump to October now and then skip over to say April. I hate winter. I like October because I love the weather then and it's my birth month. I can handle October. In November I start getting psycho. First, there is way too much food and secondly it's the lead in for the Chaos of Christmas. Don't get me wrong. I love Christmas. I just can't afford it. I try to keep things simple. But, I am a procrastinator. I wait until the last minute to get prepared. On Christmas Eve you can find me starting my shopping. I've been working on that but it is usually finances that make me procrastinate. I always dread December.

But, this year September is the demon month. Daredevil leaves this tomorrow*. He'll be in California for a couple of weeks and then he will be of to Camp Korean Village, Iraq. Even though I haven't seen him a lot in the last two weeks he's been here, it has been wonderful having him home. I love having my boys together. I even smile now when they pick and fight with each other because I know I won't hear that any more. In two weeks, Chowhound will report to Parris Island and two weeks after that Improviser will head to Lackland Air Force Base. All my "babies" will be gone.

Today, we are going bowling. That ought to be a blast as I suck at bowling. The last time I went it was with two friends of mine. Three middle-aged women using the bumpers is quite entertaining. But, it's not about the scores. It is time spent together. I am taking a camera. I wish I had video as I can never do justice to the insane hysteria that is present anytime all my boys are together.

Case in point. The other night, I hauled them out for family pictures. First, all three boys pounced on the roller coaster bead mazes in the lobby like they were dessert. Then, Daredevil and Chowhound immediately start a reinactment of this video. Chowhound hollars at Daredevil, "Put on a tie."


It went downhill from there. Daredevil grabs a rose and poses with it. They are all poking me and pushing each other. They made faces. A two year old would have been better behaved. The photographer was great. She has three young boys herself and she immediately just went with the flow and started harassing them.

But, none of this bothered me. They were just laughing and goofing off. They know how to behave when it's important. Right now, it was important to laugh. Although, there was a thin line when Daredevil dared Chowhound to jump up and headbutt the ceiling joist. Chowhound accomplished the feat and proudly wore the red mark on his head. I did a lot of blinking and shaking of my head.

All of this was before dinner. Dinner was even more hysterical. Ever since the kids were big enough to play card games, I have carried a deck in my purse for entertainment purposes. I found that it alleviated a lot of stress if they had something to do while we were waiting for our food. I get fussed at if I don't have them for some reason. Chowhound made sure I had the cards before we left the house. We used to play rummy, war, and speed when there were only two of us. But lately, we have started playing Bu!!sh*t. Now, if there are people, especially little kids, they have to say "BS". It is always a lot of fun especially when we are all together.

UPDATE: This post is incomplete. Daredevil leaves today. I got distracted. I'll post Part II sometime. My ADD kicked in.

Working (Wo)Man's Holiday

Happy Labor Day!


...a day to honor those "who from rude nature have delved and carved all the grandeur we behold."

Veterans History Project

I stumbled across a very interesting project today; The Veterans History Project.

(The) primary focus is on first-hand accounts of U.S. Veterans from the following wars:

* World War I (1914-1920)
* World War II (1939-1946)
* Korean War (1950-1955)
* Vietnam War (1961-1975)
* Persian Gulf War (1990-1995)
* Afghanistan and Iraq conflicts (2001-present)

In addition, those U.S. citizen civilians who were actively involved in supporting war efforts (such as war industry workers, USO workers, flight instructors, medical volunteers, etc.) are also invited to share their valuable stories.

The United States Congress created the Veterans History Project in 2000. The authorizing legislation (Public Law 106-380), sponsored by Representatives Ron Kind, Amo Houghton, and Steny Hoyer in the U.S. House of Representatives and Senators Max Cleland and Chuck Hagel in the U.S. Senate, received unanimous support and was signed into law by President William Jefferson Clinton on October 27, 2000.

According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), America is losing her veterans at a rate of over 1,000 each day.

Our veterans deserve to be honored and their stories available for generations to come. I have been doing family genealogy recently and what a find it will be for families in the future to come across these stories. I would have loved to find something like this. But, the generations I am researching did not have the technology that is available now. Too many stories have been buried and lost. It is sad that I do not have stories to tell my children about their great, great grandparents. What a delight it will be for a great, great grandchild to one day find a recording in the Library of Congress of his or her relatives. To be able see them and to hear their own personal account will be such a treasure.

There is a packet that can be downloaded. There are suggested questions and all kinds of tips to make this a great interview even if you don't have the experience. I encourage everyone to participate. Our Veterans are the reason why our country is strong and wonderful. They have helped to preserve our rights and freedoms. The least we can do to thank them is to give a little of our time and listen.

I'm not sure who I'm grabbing and interviewing but I will find someone. I bet there is a lonely person in a Nursing Home with some wonderful stories. Also, soon my nephew will be home from Iraq and I know he has stories.

(Hat-Tip to Senator Jim DeMint for promoting this project on his webpage.)

Prayers, Faith, and Humor from above

When Daredevil was in bootcamp, my sanity was saved by a group of ladies whose sons were at Parris Island too. We forged a bond a year ago and still stay in daily contact. They are my lifeline sometimes.

One of the mothers has a son who is deployed to Afghanistan right now. Up until a week or so ago, she had heard from him about every other day. Now, nothing for over a week. Needless to say she is worried. The Causalities board is constantly checked (it is under maintenance at the time I write this). There have been five causalities in the past week in Afghanistan but the names have not been released. She rationalizes that if something had happened she would have heard something by now.

But, we, mothers, know that may work on your head but not your heart. The image of men in dress blues showing up at your door haunts your dreams and thoughts. We have all been worried for her. We have kept her son in our prayers. She is a woman of faith also. She has been praying constantly. She feels a little better after an incident this weekend. She relates,

"I did have a funny experience -- anyone who believes in God knows that he has a great sense of humor. I was at (the) Lake this weekend, walking down a path bordered by farmland on one side and forest on the other. I was thinking about (son) and I stopped for a quiet moment of prayer and added, "Please God, just give me a sign that my son is OK." I walked another few feet and then turned to go back to the cottage. Right there, very close to the spot where I'd been standing when I stopped was a very old rusted SIGN for some sort of fertilizer or weed-killer called Ora-K. The "O" and the "K" were large and the other letters were smaller and faded with age. Ha! I got my "sign," alright. I laughed all the way back to the cottage. I suppose I ought to relax now, huh?"

Sometimes faith is all we have. Please add her and her son as well as all of the other men and women over there to your prayers.

My kind of math

I'm surprised my kids didn't do these.

Tidbits from the Past

I'm doing genealogy research and have found that a portion of the newspapers throughout Florida have been archived at the University of Florida and are viewable online through their Digital Collection.

Currently, I'm looking through the 1899 Editions of The Florida Index, the weekly Lake City, Florida, newspaper at the time.

This excerpt is from Nov. 3, 1899.

This widower isn't dating. He is "running a preparatory department in society". He "hauls the girls about". That makes 'em sound like a sack of feed or something. I just wonder exactly which part of marriage he was preparing them for.

Terrible momma

I'm such a terrible momma. The A/C went out at the house and I bailed and left town. I'm in a nice cool hotel room in Charlotte, NC, while Chowhound and the dog sweat it out at home.

UPDATE: I've learned not to brag. The AC went out in our meeting room today. What goes around comes around. The AC gremlins seem to be following me.

Luckily, I am cold natured and even though the thermostat said 83 I was still comfortable. No one else was but I was. I was freezing during the first half of the day so I figure it's only fair.

My days are numbered

13 days until Daredevil comes home on leave (YEAH!!)
30 days until Daredevil leaves again and heads to Iraq (BOO HOO)
41 days until Chowhound leaves for Marine Corps Bootcamp (BOO HOO)
58 days until Improviser leaves for Air Force Bootcamp (BOO HOO)
59 days until it's just the dog and I.

While I am extremely proud of my boys, this part of life SUCKS!

Pain free!

I want to jump up and down and shout with joy. My head doesn't hurt this morning!! The first time in five days. I feel like a new person. I just hope this lasts a really, really long time.

Daredevil Update

Daredevil got the cast removed from his leg yesterday. He said the doc looked and looked and looked at the x-rays and couldn't find where it had been broken. His leg is weak now but he is walking on it and I'm sure will be running again in no time. He has been told he can take leave and come home Aug. 16 through Sept. 2. He will be going to Iraq sometime around the middle of Sept. He will be on the Syrian border at a post called Korean Village. Here are some pics I found on the internet. I'm not sure when these were taken. Yeah, they just opened a new internet facility at the base.

Currently, Daredevil is at Camp Pendleton, CA. We thought that it would be a step up into civilization compared to the facilities and location of 29 Plams, CA. Twenty-nine palms is isolated. Daredevil couldn't wait to leave there. It was a long and lonely six months. Camp Pendleton is between LA and San Diego. Again, we thought it would be more advanced and accessible. First, he was in a part of Camp Pendleton called Las Pogus. It has an exchange about the size of a convenience store, an internet facility and a couple of fast food places. But, was far more isolated than 29 Palms. Add to the fact that Daredevil arrived on crutches. He was very limited and bored. After about 10 days he was transferred to Las Flores. It makes Las Pogus look inviting. The exchange is in a semi tractor trailer and although there is a Subway sandwich shop it is closed on weekends. That's it. No internet. Poor child. He keeps going from bad to worse and the next stop is Iraq. I bet when he returns to the states he will have a greater appreciation for all the luxuries we have. Las Flores may even look good. The bright side is he is saving up a lot of money. There is no where to spend it. I think there is a method to the Marine Corps madness.

OUCH!

I came home from work about a week or so ago to find blood spots all over my house. It seems my dog, Remington, developed a fast growing tumor that ruptured. The vet said it is skin cancer and had to be removed.

So, here is my pitiful dog after surgery. He was still doped up and on pain meds in the picture. Also, someone at the vet's office has a sense of humor. They are the ones who wrote "ouch" on his bandage.

Why I love my children

I found this on Chowhound's Myspace:

Well I have gotten news about a change. Unfortunately, I have to leave a month earlier. I got a call saying that I'm now scheduled to leave September 15. The reason they gave was because they need a marimba player. So I guess that's a good thing, I guess I'm the only one that can fill that spot. There's nothing I can do about it. Its just the way these things go. This seems to be hard on my mom because, well, I'm leaving in September, (Daredevil) is going over to Iraq in September as well, and my oldest brother is leaving for the Air Force some time in October or something like that, so shes kinda down. I think she'll be fine, she just has to worry about herself now. If you care to leave her a message or a smile you never now how much a small thing like that can improve someones mood.

I hate that he worries about me but I'm glad that he cares.

Six word Memoir MeMe Part II

VWBug has tagged me with the Six Word memoir meme. I did this once already but I'll play again. Last time I came up with:

From Chaos to Serendipity since 1964.

That pretty much describes my life. Now time to get more creative.

wild child neurotic mother now what?

This is how I feel

A friend sent this with the caption, "Have you ever felt this way?" Yeah, that's exactly how I feel right now. I just don't look that cute with that scowl on my face.

Empty nest coming fast

The time with Daredevil flew by. He is now at Camp Pendleton. He has a couple more weeks in the cast and then he will be preparing to deploy to Iraq. My heart sank yesterday when he mentioned that little tidbit of information. He kinda slid it into the conversation. He sounded apprehensive about it. Now I know why. I googled Northern Iraq. Daredevil mentioned that he would be sent to that region. It seems that is one of the hottest spots right now.

Violence is at its lowest level in Iraq in four years, according to U.S. officials. But al Qaeda in Iraq maintains an active presence in northern Iraq and U.S. and Iraqi raids regularly target them. (emphasis mine)

Great. Crap. I hate the Internet sometimes. Ignorance is bliss. I want to crawl back under my rock. The tentative date is sometime in mid September.

Chowhound has his second audition for the Marine Corps Band tomorrow morning. Someone from Parris Island is coming down to evaluate him. Although, he performs percussion in the front ensemble mainly on the Marimba, he has to audition on the snare drums. Fortunately, he has a drum set so he has been able to practice the rudiments he has to know. I hope they take into consideration that he only started learning them a month ago. Chowhound is a talented musician. I'm sure he will have no problems tomorrow. Once, Chowhound is accepted into the Band then he can firm up his date to report to Parris Island for Bootcamp. Right now, it is either September 8 or sometime in October. They told him they changed it but he doesn't have it in writing so I'm not banking on it.

Improviser leaves for Air Force Bootcamp in October as well. His brothers badgered and tormented him until he finally enlisted. I think it will be great for him. He has been living in indecision since he graduated three years ago. His attitude changed immediately once he made the commitment. He signed on for 6 years. He has a test scheduled for Thursday to determine if he is eligible for the computer programming billet. He scored an overall 87 on the ASVAB (a minimum score of 49 is needed to even get in any of the services). He made a 94 on the mathematics portion. They said he can pretty much get into any field he wants. He is my computer geek so I hope he does well Thursday.

So, more than likely my boys will be scattered out around the world by Christmas time. It will be my first Christmas without them. I'm tearing up now just thinking about it. I am so not ready for this.

My boys are home

MY BOYS ARE ALL HOME! I HAVE BLOG FODDER AGAIN!!!

My world has been quiet since Daredevil left for California January 2. It's been Chowhound, me and the dog. Improviser visits every now and then but he has been gone for almost 3 years. So, the quiet lingers in the house. Not much blog fodder is made. Life has just been trolling, quietly along almost uneventfully. There have been birthdays and graduations but no drama.

Well, that has changed. Daredevil showed up unexpectedly. He is home on 15 days leave. He got into town 4 days before I did. Chowhound and I have been in the Turks and Caicos Islands spending time with my Sweetie. Daredevil and Improviser picked us up at the airport. My jaw dropped and I did a *blink* when I saw him. Chowhound knew all along and never said a word. I was wondering why that child was bouncing off the walls like he needed Ritalin. He was pestering the shit out of my on the way home Sunday. Stealing my scrunchie out of my hair. Poking me. And, just being a genuine smart ass. He has missed Daredevil so bad. Daredevil booked his trip before I booked mine but didn't want to say anything. So, I missed out on this first four days of leave.

On to the blog fodder. My office phone rings at about 8 this morning. It's my EX telling me Daredevil is on the way to the emergency room. It seems Chowhound spotted a hula hoop on a roof and Daredevil felt compelled to retrieve it. The landing wasn't pretty. He broke his foot. I leave those two boys together for less than 14 hours and look what happens.

I love the chaos. I'm off to go fix their favorite, Chicken and Dumplings.

I'm going to cherish the next 10 days!!!

Always Remember

Abstract and Random

Yep. That's me.

Your Thinking is Abstract and Random

You are flexible, adaptable, and creative. There's many ways that you can learn - and you're up for any of them. You relate well to other people, and you do well working in groups. You can help people communicate together and work with each other's strengths. You don't work well with people who are competitive or adversarial. You prefer to work toward a common goal... not toward conflicting goals.

What Kind of Thinker Are You?

She singing about my life

If you ever get the opportunity to see Martina McBride in concert, GO! Don't think twice. Just GO! She is phenomenal. The woman has so much energy and puts all of herself into her singing. She is better live than recorded. I don't think I've ever thought that about a performer before. I don't see how she can sing like that night after night without straining her voice. She a gift to reach inside your soul and touch your heart. Her songs all have meaning and inspiration. They hit home on so many levels. I am still astonished by the magnitude with which she sang each song and note. WOW. Just WOW.

I lost it when she sang Concrete Angel. I tried discretely to wipe away the tears running down my face but others noticed. Chowhound consoled me by saying that he was sure I was probably not the only one.

I don't have daughters but my sons rescued me so I totally relate to In my Daughter's Eyes. Change daughters to sons and it applies to me.

The end of the song talks about "one day when they leave". That's the trouble I'm having now. I never thought I would have difficulty in the transition to the "empty nest". I was just fooling myself and talking out my a$$. Chowhound is the only one left at home now. He graduates from high school next month. I was okay with that as he has been talking about going to the Jr. college here. That was cool. I can do that. He changed his mind. He has decided to following in Daredevil's footsteps and join the Marines. He signs the papers Monday. He won't leave until September at the earliest. So, I have the summer with him and to adjust to his leaving. I'm a basket case already. I hate to see myself in a few months.

I know this opens up opportunities for me also. But, I'm scared. For over 22 years my life has revolved around my children. They rescued me from a destructive lifestyle. Becoming a mother was the best thing to ever happen to me. It is who I am and I am proud of that. I am proud of my boys. Who ever said that having children is like having your heart walk around out side your body was dead on. I feel so vulnerable.

Choice

I CHOOSE determination and persistence over quitting every time. I will attain my goals.

Prosperity Affirmations

This week I'm going to be posting affirmations design to attract wealth and prosperity and the means for getting help. I need a new roof on my house. I have siding that needs replacing. The carpets need removed and replaced with wood or tile. I need a new backdoor. Plus I would love to do some serious remodeling. My kitchen is ancient and needs updating. So, I am going to concentrate on money and resources to accomplish the things I need to get done.

I am a financially independent and prosperous being. I recognize that independent doesn't mean that I can't ask for or accept help and resources in my journey to attain the things that I need.

Weekend Blues

I was in Tampa singing the blues this weekend. Tampa's annual Blues Fest Rocks!

Last night was Los Lonely Boys and Walter Trout.






We danced and jammed and people watched. Fun was had by all. I was envious of the people sitting on their boats listening to the music. But, then again they couldn't see the show only the backs of the booths and the port-a-potties. So, come to think of it we had a much better seat. The weather was perfect. A slight breeze and no bugs. The music was fantastic.

I'm going back next year.

Attaining Goals

I achieve my goal with joy, ease, and peace. As I look upon my words, I know that the world is shifting to bring forth everything on my list. I now see opportunities, I now have ideas, and I now have the means to accomplish everything I desire and it feels wonderful.

Prosperity

My financial situation improves every second of every day. Each moment brings in new opportunities and the right people are aligning themselves with me to help. My debt decreases and my net worth increases. I am in the black.

Good luck Chowhound

Today's affirmation goes out for Chowhound. He is performing a marimba solo today at the State level. This is the fourth year he has earned a Superior at District and qualified for State. However, the superior rating has eluded him at State. He is a senior. This is his last chance. He is playing a piece that is extremely difficult. It is the highest level available, grade 7. I even talked with the composer of the piece. He said it was difficult and complicated.

So, Chowhound,

Believe in yourself and your abilities. You have talent. You can reach your dreams. Have faith.

Repeat over and over.

"I am filled with faith. Faith flows into me like the river into the ocean. Amazing things happen in my life each day as a result of this faith and I appreciate every moment of it.

UPDATE: CHOWHOUND EARNED A SUPERIOR FOR HIS SOLO PERFORMANCE AT STATE. NOT ONLY A SUPERIOR BUT SUPERIOR WITH DISTINCTION! THE HIGHEST MARK POSSIBLE.

WAY TO GO CHOWHOUND! GREAT JOB!!

Six word Memoir MeMe

T1G tagged Bou with the six word Memoir meme.

Legend has it that Hemingway was once challenged to write a story in only six words. His response? “For sale: baby shoes, never worn.” Last year, SMITH Magazine re-ignited the recountre by asking our readers for their own six-word memoirs. They sent in short life stories in droves, from the bittersweet (“Cursed with cancer, blessed with friends”) and poignant (“I still make coffee for two”) to the inspirational (“Business school? Bah! Pop music? Hurrah”) and hilarious (“I like big butts, can’t lie”).

And the Rules are:

1) Write your own six word memoir.

2) Post it on your blog and include a visual illustration if you’d like.

3) Link to the person that tagged you in your post, and to the original post if possible so we can track it as it travels across the blogosphere.

4) Tag at least six more blogs with links.

Then Bou added:

However... I'm tasking you instead, to leave your six words in my comments. Y'all are the creative bunch.

But, would you believe mu.nu won't let me comment. I get an error message. So, I'm forced to actually post.

My first thought was: "Single, Married, Single, Married, Single, Married....(Single, Engaged)."

Crap.

I had to revert to the extended play. Can't I just take the first three marriages and put them in the deleted scenes?

Next, I thought, "Boys gone. I need a life."

Yeah, that's getting close.

Then it hit me. Most of it is at the top of my blog.

My 6 word memoir is:

"From Chaos to Serendipity since 1964."

Yep. That's the story of my life.

Power lies within

I am responsible for my life and always maintain the power I need to be positive and have joy.

Potentials

I respect my abilities and always work to my full potential.

Life is good

I have three beautiful boys.

Fantastic Friends and family.

A Wonderful Man.

A job I love.

Life is Good.

So, Today's affirmation is
" I am thankful for all the love I have in my life".

I am truly blessed.

Manic-Depressive

I always knew it was true. Now, I have proof.

I can so relate

AN OPEN LETTER TO:

Mr. JAMES THATCHER
BRAND MANAGER, PROCTER & GAMBLE CORPORATION

Dear Mr. Thatcher,

I have been a loyal user of your Always maxi pads for over 20 years, and I appreciate many of their features. Why, without the LeakGuard Core(tm) or Dri-Weave(tm) absorbency, I'd probably never go horseback riding or salsa dancing, and I'd certainly steer clear of running up and down the beach in tight, white shorts. But my favorite feature has to be your revolutionary Flexi-Wings. Kudos on being the only company smart enough to realize how crucial it is that maxi pads be aerodynamic. I can't tell you how safe and secure I feel each month knowing there's a little F-16 in my pants.

Have you ever had a menstrual period, Mr. Thatcher? Ever suffered from "the curse"? I'm guessing you haven't. Well, my "time of the month" is starting right now. As I type, I can already feel hormonal forces violently surging through my body. Just a few minutes from now, my body will adjust and I'll be transformed into what my husband likes to call "an inbred hillbilly with knife skills." Isn't the human body amazing?

As brand manager in the feminine-hygiene division, you've no doubt seen quite a bit of research on what exactly happens during your customers' monthly visits from Aunt Flo. Therefore, you must know about the bloating, puffiness, and cramping we endure, and about our intense mood swings, crying jags, and out-of-control behavior. You surely realize it's a tough time for most women. In fact, only last week, my friend Jennifer fought the violent urge to shove her boyfriend's testicles into a George Foreman Grill just because he told her he thought Grey's Anatomy was written by drunken chimps. Crazy!

The point is, sir, you of all people must realize that America is just crawling with homicidal maniacs in capri pants. Which brings me to the reason for my letter.

Last month, while in the throes of cramping so painful I wanted to reach inside my body and yank out my uterus, I opened an Always maxi pad, and there, printed on the adhesive backing, were these words:

"Have a Happy Period."

Are you &#@%ing kidding me? What I mean is, does any part of your tiny middle-manager brain really think happiness-actual smiling, laughing happiness-is possible during a menstrual period? Did anything mentioned above sound the least bit pleasurable? Well, did it, James? FYI, unless you're some kind of sick S&M freak girl, there will never be anything "happy" about a day in which you have to jack yourself up on Motrin and Kahlúa and lock yourself in your house just so you don't march down to the local Walgreens armed with a hunting rifle and a sketchy plan to end your life in a blaze of glory. For the love of God, pull your head out, man. If you just have to slap a moronic message on a maxi pad, wouldn't it make more sense to say something that's actually pertinent, like "Put Down the Hammer" or "Vehicular Manslaughter Is Wrong"? Or are you just picking on us?

Sir, please inform your accounting department that, effective immediately, there will be an $8 drop in monthly profits, for I have chosen to take my maxi-pad business elsewhere. And though I will certainly miss your Flexi-Wings, I will not for one minute miss your brand of condescending crap. And that's a promise I will keep.

Best Always,

Wendi Aarons

Austin, TX

Dreams and Memories

I love when wonderful memories come flooding my dreams and I feel like I have stepped back in time. This morning I had one of those. Chowhound was three years old. He crawled into bed next to me and snuggled and started talking about everything. I could smell his sweet baby smell. I could hear the innocence in his voice. It gave me the warm fuzzies. I'm trying to hang on to that feeling. I want to keep it with me all day. I miss those times.

Unfit mother

I read this article about a horrible accident at an illegal street car race. Seven people were killed when a car ran into the crowd of about 50 people.

The reporter interviewed one woman.

"There were just bodies everywhere; it was horrible," said Crystal Gaines, 27, whose father was among the dead.

Gaines said she grabbed her child but could not help her father, William Gaines Sr., 61. (emphasis mine)

She grabbed her child. Hello. McFly. What the hell was she thinking? She had her child with her at an illegal street race at 3:40 AM. While the article did not mention the age of her child, do the math. Unless she was 9 when she gave birth, which I highly doubt but don't rule it out as she seems pathetically stupid, her child is a minor. And I'm guessing that since she had to grab her child out of danger's way, the child was young enough not to know to run. What a stupid, irresponsible person! Now this child has witnessed it's grandfather's death. How tragic. The article didn't mention if any of the spectators had been arrested but I believe that woman should have been. Stupid. Stupid. And then to top it off, she agreed to be interviewed and named.

If my father had just been killed and I had my child at an illegal race in the middle of the night, I certainly would avoid reporters. Somebody slap a stupid sticker on her forehead and give her child to someone with common sense and love so that child can be protected.

MonaVie

Has anyone tried Mona*Vie? Do you know anyone selling it?

This is the latest thing going around work right now. One of the guys I work with claims he makes a 6 digit income off of selling Mona*Vie and getting others to sell it. I'm not sure how long he has been doing it.

It looks like overpriced juice sold through a pyramid organization to me.

Comments, anyone?

Change

Remember, the only thing that doesn't change is the fact that everything changes. I will embrace the changes in my life and make them work to my advantage. Attitude affects change.

PMS and Affirmations don't mix

I am aware of my body chemistry. I can overcome the frickin ragin hormones and find inner peace and tranquility. I can get through the day without ripping someone's head off.


It's hard as hell to write an affirmation when your PMSing.

Thursday 13-Reasons I love my Man

Happy Valentine's Day Everyone!

Here is a list of why I love my Sweetie. I sent to this to him recently. I believe you should always let the people you love know how you feel everyday not just a couple of times a year. So, I sent him a reason a day for 11 days. Close enough for a Thursday Thirteen. So, now I want the world to know why I fell in love with this man.

So, Happy Valentine's Day to the love of my life.

13. 12. 11. There are a million little reasons why I love you and I could easily list one for every day of the year. But, they add up to the most important one. I love you because you are YOU. You don't hide or pretend to be anything you're not. That's why I fell in love with you.

10. You're honest, hardworking, and lovable

9. You're cute.

8. You're smart. You educate yourself.

7. When I am upset or stressed you, usually, try and make me smile. That makes my stresses go away.

6. You make my coffee just perfect. You make it better than I do.

5. You don't fuss and yell about my driving. You either tease me or just don't let me drive. That's fine with me.

4. You genuinely care about the people in your life. You may worry excessively and fuss at times but you do it out of love and concern because you want people to strive to better themselves or circumstances like you have done. You want the people you love the be happy.

3. You're not afraid to show your sensitive side. You'll watch chick flicks, the Lifetime and Oxygen channels. I love it when you describe and discuss what you've watched and how it relates to you.

2. You strive to be the best that you can be. You're always trying to improve who you are and to live according to your values.

1. Your laugh. It fills the room. It makes me smile. It lights up your face and reveals your soul.

Motivation

It's important that my motivation comes from within and I put a little humor in every day.

Happy Thoughts

Today, I will think happy thoughts. I will bring peace and harmony into my life at will.

Throwing away baggage

It's my past. I can throw away baggage I don't want.

Can't change your life; change your attitude

I can get my tired butt in gear and go to work. It's okay that I am an hour late. The world will not end and I don't have to feel guilty. After all, I'm doing them a favor by coming in on my day off.

Yeah, that's my affirmation for today.

Screw 'em. I'm tired. I'll get there when I get there.

I survived Canada

I got to make a snow angel. Nope. No pictures were taken of that. But, I can say now that I have experienced snow. The only other time in my life that I have been in snow was when I was 8 years old and we lived in Virgina Beach. Florida snow doesn't count.

I was disappointed though. I couldn't make a snowball. The snow wouldn't stick together.

Manitoba Canada is flat. Flat like Florida flat. Only there aren't many trees to block the view so you can see for miles and miles.

I wasn't able to get many pictures since we were working 12 to 15 hours per day. Remind me not to work with IT people again. Those people get hunkered down in front of their laptops and forget there is another world around. We didn't even break for dinner. We wound up eating dinner at 11pm.

Overall, it was a good trip with a great bunch of people. But, boy am I tired.