The Final Countdown

Just reading the title makes you sing the song The Final Countdown performed by the group Europe doesn't it? Don't lie, yes it does. And, if by some strange chance you don't know what song I refer to I suggest you look it up and listen to it.

Ok....discussing the real final countdown there are only 10 days between now and the time I make my final 9 hour trip taking me by the Dog Track, Marshall Univeristy, around the West Virginia turnpike and through 2 toll booths to Fort Lee, Virginia.


As many times before I will pull in to the Lee Gate at 12:30 am where I will provide photo ID, vehicle registration, insurance and state my business. I will then receive suspicious and awkward looks by at least 2 MP's. They will then make their way slowly around the vehicle peering in the windows making me feel I have done something wrong or have someting to hide. I feel so uncomfortable and don't know why. The only thing I feel guilty about or have to hide is the occasional snicker bar wrapper.


Once they give you a look over they walk back to the window with the biggest smiles on their faces, hand you your ID and paperwork and say "Enjoy your stay at Fort Lee Ms. Boggs". I'm like - WTH? A few moments ago you were looking at me like I was a terroist and now your gonna be nice. Whatever!


By the way. Those toll booths cost $2 to get through. For real, $2! I remember when the toll booth was on the BG parkway it was only cents to get through. I think. Or maybe that's all I ever had to through in the direction of the bucket as I sped through the turnstile to see if I could run the light and make the buzzer go off. Those toll booth attendants really, really didn't like it when you did that. But oh well, I had an excuse. I was a teenager and didn't know any better.


BB finally comes home after being gone for 5.7 months. Or, 24 weeks, 171 days, 4,104 hours, 246,240 minutes. How ever you want to say it. It's not like I have been counting down the time or anything. I CANNOT wait!!!

Until next time - Rose Baggs

A Lifes Lesson

I discovered this unposted blog entry in my drafts. I wrote it back in September 2009. Ooops!

Bb & Lou are 11 and 12 (7 months apart) and have really never suffered a loss of anything or anyone too close to them. Nothing or no one until a few days ago.

Trying not to go into a huge long story; one of the Kennel Club members, Rodney, my favorite to be exact, apparently had an accident. We are thinking he got bumped by a car. Now, I know every one is thinking - "Car? Out where you live? no way" but, believe it or not we have a few Mario Andriette wanna be's that feel our one lane gravel road is there personal version of the Pondarosa Speedway.



For you that are unfortunate and don't know what the Ponderosa Speedway is let me enlighten you. The Ponderosa Speedway is a dirt race track in the middle of no where in Junction City. Only the best of the best rednecks hang out there. Believe me it is nothing short of a grand time if you ever attend a heap at the good ole Ponderosa. I have been a time or two and even have my very own shirt! Oh, yeah. I'm that cool!



Back to my story - One minute Rodney was acting fine and the next he wasn't so we took him to the vet and the diagnoses was a diaphragmatic hernia (a hole in his diaphragm) which allowed his intestine to go through the hole and fill a lung cavity collapsing a lung. I think I got that right. Needless to say the kids and I were an absolute blubbering mess in the vets office. My options were to put him to sleep or surgery. Of course the kids are screaming "surgery, surgery" and honestly, that's what I was screaming on the inside. So, the vet kept him overnight with surgery scheduled mid-morning the next day. The vet assured us this is not uncommon and after he heals from surgery he will be normal ole Rodney. So, we leave feeling good about our decision. They did surgery and the vet calls me at work to tell me the little fella didn't make it. Omitting a lot of details, we buried Rodney out back and the whole event was the most gut wrenching thing I believe I have ever experienced.



Knock on wood - I am in my 30's (early, early 30's) and have never experienced the death of anyone close to me. Only animals. I believe God has spared me because I can't handle it.



I have had very, very sad times but nothing is worse than seeing your children experience an emotional hurt that you can't fix. It was awful!



BB feels I put myself and the kids through too much and thinks I made the wrong decision in bringing him home to bury him. But, sad times and death are unfortunately a part of life and they need to learn how to deal and grieve with situations like this. Plus, I couldn't stand the thought of the vets office disposing of him the way they do. No thank you! I'll bring him home where he belongs.

Until next time - Rose Baggs

THINGS I KNOW

I’m not a genius by any means. But, I do have a few degrees under my belt so by that standard I would be considered a decently intelligent (how do you spell intelligent?) person. But, that all depends on who you talk to. Anyway, I know a few things and they are basically things I have discovered merely by accident or through trial and error. For instance I know:

*When the male hamster, I was just suckered into buying 7 days ago, has babies they are called pups. As if I didn’t have enough pups.

*Getting caught by the PoPo in Virginia doing 80 (amended down to 75) in a 65 will cost you $111.

* Not paying a speeding ticket you received in North Carolina, on the simple premise of “they won’t catch me, I just won’t drive through North Carolina again” is a very, very stupid way to think. And, when they catch you (and they will) they not only pile on extra fees, interest and penalties they will suspend your license. The state of North Carolina has absolutely NO sense of humor.

*When you put the water hose in the swimming pool at 6:30pm and don’t turn it off until 10:30am the following morning the pool WILL overflow.

*Fancy dancy liquid chlorine you buy at pool supply places is nothing but bleach. For real. Check out the active ingredients on the label. Shame on you pool places!

*When the fancy dancy liquid chlorine splashes on your clothes it will create bleach spots. Hence the whole compare the active ingredients label to a bleach bottle. Damn, I’m smart.

*A competition bow for middles school kid’s costs right at 200 bones. Are you SERIOUS?

*I totally know how to turn water in the swimming pool from lime green to crystal clear.

*The term “Jew them down” is frowned upon. Especially by Jews. Who knew?!?!

*My brother-n-law is a GIANT turd. Or is it terd. Heck, I thought I was smart. I don’t even know how to spell turd/terd. Oh well, you get my point.

*I also know it is 43 days before the love of my life BB comes home. Woo Hoo :~)

Until next time – Rose Baggs

AN AMERICAN SOLDER

I am an American Soldier.

I am a Warrior and member of a team. I serve the
people of the United States and live the Army Values.

I will always place the mission first.

I will never accept defeat.

I will never quit.

I will never leave a fallen comrade.

I am disciplined, physically and mentally tough, trained and proficient in my warrior tasks and drills. I always maintain my arms, my equipment and myself.

I am an expert and I am a professional.

I stand ready to deploy, engage, and destroy the enemies of the
United States of America in close combat.

I am a guardian of freedom and the American way of life.

I am and American Soldier.

THE SIMPLE THINGS

I need to mow the yard
I need to wash clothes
I need to figure out what I’m cooking for supper? Nothing, because…
I need to go to the grocery
I need to clean house
I need to pay bills
I need to balance the check book
Wait a minute. Back up. Balance the check book and then pay bills

It’s never ending. There is always something that needs to be done. And, in my case it needed to be done yesterday. One thing you didn’t see in my list of “Must Do’s” is spend time with Bb and Lou. In the hustle and bustle of our busy lives we seem to push aside the most important things. Family.

I didn’t realize I did it as much as I did until last night. Bb and Lou were sitting down to play a board game and asked if I wanted to play. I responded with “no I have to…… (fill in the blank). Lou said “mom, you always have to do…..and never do anything with us anymore.”

When she made that comment I looked up from my top-priority task and watched her walk out of the room. I felt my stomach sink. She was right. I never have time for them anymore. I spend more time with my dirty duds and Wal-Mart co-workers than I do my own kids.

That comment really hit home. I immediately stopped what I was doing and joined the Plant Earth Trivia game. I will keep the outcome to myself. But, we had so much fun. I didn’t realize how smart they were. They get it from me ya know. Really, they do!

Guess what is here with me tonight? Dirty clothes, a dirty house, a yard that needs a hair cut, an unbalanced check book, unpaid bills and an empty cupboard. Guess what is NOT here with me tonight? Bb and Lou. The point I’m trying to make is: the other stuff will be there the next day but time with your family may not. Don’t take it for granted.

Until next time-Rose Baggs

MEMORIES

Awww, isn’t she pretty? Looks just like her momma.

As I have done in the past I take a picture of Lou on the first day of a milestone event; daycare, pre-school, kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and now 6th grade.

Oh, the 6th grade. As I talked to Lou about her first day experience of 6th grade it made me reflect back to my 6th grade. This is what I remember about my 6th grade at Mercer County Elementary School - Home of the fighting Scotties.

~~~

*Bus #181-with Basel Walling behind the helm was my, 60 minute (each way), mode of transportation. Destination? Moberly Road. Sorry I can’t remember the exact address. Things I DON’T remember about high school erased that part from my memory.

~~~

*Wearing a bra was the “in” thing and was simply a must to be in the cool crowd
~~~

*Bonnie Bell lip gloss was the bomb
~~~

*M. Turpin was the meanest girl EVER. I hope she never comes across my blog and reads what I have written about her. She will hunt me down and beat me up. Dude, I’m serious. She was mean!!! To prevent myself from a libel lawsuit:

The above comment regarding M. Turpin is strictly my opinion.

~~~
*Mr. Durr picked his ears with his car keys
~~~

*Mr. Preston doused himself in the ever so popular Old Spice cologne
~~~

*Was convinced the lunch ladies picked up worms that had crawled upon the side walk after a rain and served them to us in our lunch. I KNOW they did, I just know it
~~~

*Ms. Cole had fire engine red hair and was always pregnant
~~~

*Never, ever, ever refer to school as a tragedy. It did nothing but plum piss off Ms. Cole. I think it was that constant pregnancy thing.

~~~

*Clyde & Marie Denney. The traveling Bluegrass Duo / janitors
~~~

*Gathering around the portable cassette player at recess listening to Physical, I Love Rock-N-Roll and Thriller

Isn’t it amazing how time flies? I am now preparing for my 20 year class reunion. Can you believe it? As young as I look no one would ever guess I graduated in 1989. Lord knows I don’t act like I graduated 20 years ago.

CURIOUS???

It's never good when your daughter has the beginning of $5,300 worth of work in her mouth and your most recent conversation goes like this:

Telephone: Buzz, buzz, buzz
Me: Hello
Lou: Mom?
Me: Yeah?
Lou: Um, would it hurt anything if I stuck a magnet to my braces?
Me: Stuck a magnet to your braces? Why would you want to stick - you've already stuck a magnet to your braces haven't you?
Lou: (hesitation) Uh, yeah.
Me: Which one? It wasn't one of the heavy duty Magnetix magnets was it?
Lou: Uh, yeah. But momma they're real weak now because I've had them for years.
Me: Is it still stuck to your braces?
Lou: Nah, I pulled it off.
Me: Lou, don't stick anything to, in or on your braces.
Lou: Ok. Hey, don't forget some drinks on your way home. Love ya.
Me: Love ya too. See you after while.

Only my child! Only. My. Child!

IT'S BEEN A WHILE

Wow, where do I begin? So much has happened since the last time I posted. I'll bring ya up to date and current as best I can. Ready? Set? Go!

BB Update
BB completed Basic Training and received an Expert Marksman award. I was so proud of him for hanging in there with kids half his age. Literally.

He was in Basic at Ft. Benning, GA which is next door neighbors with hell because it is literally that hot. It was miserable. Why anyone would voluntarily go to that place is beyond me. And by that place I mean Georgia.

BB left GA and is at AIT (Advanced Individual Training) at Ft. Lee, Virginia. Virginia is for lovers ya know. Anyway, Ft. Lee is so much better than Ft. Benning. I have been fortunate enough to visit him on two different occasion; Once on the 4th of July and the other last weekend (7/22). If you ever want to see an amazing firework show it's a must see on a military base.
A-W-E-S-O-M-E!!!!

BB is also 57 pounds lighter than he was the first day he ever spoke to a recruiter. He is down to 189. He hasn't been in the 80's since the 80's.

All in all BB is doing fine but wants nothing more than to come home. Ditto for me!!!


Bb Update
Bb's bedroom received a makeover. It went from UK to Green Bay Packers. We (me, me, me Bb & Lou) painted the walls and laid new carpet. That's right, laid new carpet. I measured the room, purchased the carpet and laid it. I rented all of the carpet laying tools, googled "how to lay carpet" and proceeded to lay me some carpet. It will not win the next carpet laying contest but I think it looks marvelous.

Bb's baseball season ended and he did a fantastic job. His team tied for first in the league and came in 2nd in the end of the season tournament.

LOU Update
Lou's room is also scheduled for a makeover. Lime green walls with hot pink polka dots. Oooh yeah!

Her softball season has also come to an end. Even though her team didn't finish in the top of the rankings like Bb's she still did an awesome job and I'm just proud of her for even signing up to play. She proclaims she will play again next year to show BB how good she is. If you want to know just how good she is just ask - believe me, she'll tell ya.

We also received the news that she needs braces. Although not happy with the decision she handled it like a pro especially since the Orthodontist pulled 5 teeth even before putting her braces on. He couldn't get 2 of them so we have an appointment with her regular dentist to have those pulled this week. :~(

And saving the best for last.....ME Update
I have simply been trying to keep my head above water while attempting to maintain my sanity. It is very, very hard being a single mother and I don't like it.

But, just to let you know......
*My Pool is blue - not green
*The weed eater is still missing
*I am still president of the Herndon Road Kennel Club
*Mowing the yard isn't as easy as it looks
*Mainting the 17lbs lost while trying to shed more pounds and
*Heading to Ft. Lee, Virgina this weekend to see my sweetie peetie

All in all I'm hangin' in there and loving life (with caveats). Life is good and could always be worse. Depending on the day I just grin and bear or it smile and cuss it-which ever makes me feel the best.

Dust Off The Cob Webs

It's time to dust off the cob webs off my blog page. Since Lou is playing softball and Bb playing baseball my time is very limited leaving a small window to begin with. And since I write BB every night I find my blog collecting as much dust as my living room and let me tell ya that is quite a bit. If I can't find time to blog do you honestly think I have time to dust? Hell no! Even if I had time to dust do you think I would? Hell no!

Here is a brief run down of the most current events. Ready - Set - Go!

WEIGH IN #4
It's official. I am now in to a double digit weight loss. Yes, another 2 pounds for a grand total of 11. Even though I'm proud of myself I was hoping for a grand total of 12 for an average of 3 per week. Guess I better find that extra pound, or not find it is a better way to say it, before next weeks weigh in.

WEIGH IN #3
Another 2 pounds bite the dust.

FIRST GAME
Lou had her first game. She is batting 2nd and played 3rd. 1st time up she hit the ball. I was jumping up and down like some crazy woman that finally fit in her skinny jeans. She got on first, stole 2nd and ended up scoring. 2nd time up she struck out. Boo Hiss Hiss. But at least she went down swingin'. 3rd time up she walked, ended up stealing 3rd and scoring again. I couldn't have been prouder. However, when Lou discovered I had a shirt that said "Lou's Mom" on the back you could see the shear terror come across her face. I was forbidden, I mean forbidden to let anyone see that shirt in any shape form or fashion. She was absolutely appalled and couldn't believe that I could even coniser the thought of purchasing such a reputation destroying item as a t-shirt that displays "Lou's Mom". "WHAT WERE YOU THINKING??? OH MY GOSH!!!" I thought it was a good idea. Guess not!

NOT THE SWINE FLU
About 2 weeks ago Lou & Bb were at the house when Bb suddenly became ill and progressively got worse and quick. Considering it was Sunday I had to take him to the UTC in Lexington. The throat swab for strep came back negative so the Dr. determined it was allergies. Allergies? Do allergies give you a fever of 100+? What do I know I'm not a Dr. but OK. Allergies it is. It's now Tuesday and he's still not better and his temp has now climbed to 104. He went to the family Dr. and long story short it's mono. Yep, mono. Good thing is he's not contagious unless his temp is over 104. 104? I think at that point you have more to worry about than being contagious.

NO GAME FOR YOU
With Bb having the kissing disease no baseball for him for at least 2 weeks. I was really kind of bumbed about that, even though it does keep me hopping with both of them playing, he has really dominated this season.

ALL I WANNA DO IS MOW
I am a strong independent woman. I can take care of myself while BB's gone. Right? Well maybe. Since he has been gone the water heater has gone on the fritz, the lawn mower battery is dead and the truck battery is also dead. So my first attempt at mowing the yard kind of went like this.

Throw up the garage door, jump on the mower and nothing. I mean nothing. I say to myself "Self, this isn't too bad, since I'm doing my weight loss challenge I'll just push mow." Cool, I'll push mow the 2 1/2+ acres of yard. Noooooo problem. I grab the keys jump in the truck to go to the storage building to get the push mower. Turn the key and "click, click, click". Ugh! Now what? Oh, I know, I'll weed eat. Looking, looking, looking. No weed eater. WHERE THE HELL IS THE WEED EATER?????????? To this day I still don't know where the weed eater is. So you know what I did? I bought Round Up. I'll show them. Whose them you ask? Them is they's cousin.

So, in a nut shell it has been main dish of crazy with a side of insanity. But I'm hangin' in there.

Weigh In #2

I was afraid "Sal" may not be very nice to me this morning but I was wrong. He could have been better but he wasn't as nasty as I imagined he may be. Especially since my run in with Mr. Monkey Bread this past week. Come on, tell me one person that can say no to hot out of the oven, ooey, gooey, covered in powered sugar monkey bread? Hmm? Hmm? Go ahead, tell me one person. I din't think so!

Anywho, the numbers rolled around and rolled around until they finally stopped on 120. Yes, 120! This is going to be a good, good day. Then, I hear this beeping sound. There it is again. What is that? I'm looking and looking but can't find it. Ah dammit! It's my alarm clock, so I get out of bed and stumble down the hall to meet Sal. Boo Hoo

Ok-now for the real weigh in. Again, I'm standing on the scales watching the flashing numbers when it finally stops. Yes, another 1 1/2 lbs down. Oh yeah, I'll take it. 7 pounds total. :)

No Thank You

Anytime anyone in the office is on a weight loss challenge the boss man (who also needs to be on a weight loss challenge and we remind him of this on a daily basis) sets out to make it his personal goal to tempt you with very bad foods. For instance, he will bring in donuts or set at his desk eating a pint of ice cream that he had me pick up on my lunch break. The latest example of his temptation is detailed below. Please, try to hold your gasps of horror 'til the end. Voo Doo victim #2

I was setting at my desk working (as I ALWAYS do) reviewing a students ledger with Rubber Nut. I could tell there was another bodily presence behind me and assumed it was the boss man. When all of the sudden this giant chocolate chip muffin so perfectly displayed on a plate appeared inches from my nose. The muffin was waving back and forth with this voice saying "hmmm, doesn't this look good? hmmm, doesn't this smell good". At this point I snapped and stabbed the delightful treat with a highlighter. The boss man let out a small childish scream and attempted to pull the muffin back but to no avail. My inner voice was screaming "DESTROY THE MUFFIN, DESTROY THE MUFFIN". The muffin displayed the behavior of a hot potato as we were both grabbing for it. Me to destroy it and the boss man to save it. It was rolling around, it was flipping up in the air and chocolate chips were flying everywhere. I finally got may hands on the muffin at which time I squeezed the delightful treat with all I had. The whole time this incident is occurring Rubber Nut is witnessing it from the sidelines literally jumping up and down exclaiming "Yes, Yes, Yes!" Ahhh, satisfaction!

The boss man cradled his poor muffin and waddles back to his hole trying to put the pieces back together all the while mumbling something under his breath to the affect of "you are a mean, mean person". LIFE IS GOOD!!

So boss man - No Thank You. I don't believe I will partake in a muffin today.

The Magic Number is...........

My first weigh in resulted in a 5 1/2 lb weight loss. Oh Yeah!!!! I couldn't find any cool picture of 5 1/2 so I had to settle for just 5.

I'm a little skeered to weigh in this week but we'll see what "Sal" has to say. That's right. I've named the square box with the flashing numbers. That's not weird is it? I just feel like we need to get to know each other a little more so I named it-I mean him.

I've been really nice and talking to him every day. I even offer to take him places but he says he just wants to hang out in the bathroom. I mean, I just don't know what else to do. I just can't please him.

My First VooDoo Victim is-Drum Roll Please

The 10 minute GooRoo TONY HORTON! Look at him standin' there all smug.
I know everyone always says the only way to slim down is by diet AND exercise so as promised I thought I would give good ole Mr. E a try. I finally broke the seal on my 10 minute workout video. Suuuuurely, I can endure exercise for a measly only 10 minutes. Right?

As the directions instructed I slipped on my "workout" clothes, put on my tennis shoes, cleared a spot in the living room floor, hit play and the fun began. "Hey, this isn't so bad" I thought with Lou's constant kackling in the background. I was movin' and a groovin', feelin' good about myself and what I was doin'. I was starting to get a little warm, my face turning red and was becoming winded when all of the sudden Mr. Toooony says "Ok group. Way to go. You have just completed your 2 minute warm up". Warm up, warm up? Are you serious? And then I hear him say "Don't forget to do your 2 minute cool down at the end of your workout". I hit pause and had a stare down with the TV.

I gave myself a pep talk and decided...it's cool, I'm down with this. 2 minute warm up, 2 minute cool down and a 6 minute workout. Hey, this is better than I thought. It's actually only 6 minutes. Woo Hoo!

I hit play and began. Again. I'm into it about 3 minutes (max) and am literally about to die when I notice in the corner a clock that is counting down and it's on 7:20. 7:20?? I thought is was only 6 minutes? I worked out a few more minutes (or seconds-whose counting?) and had to sit down.

I can't even believe I'm telling this on myself let alone putting it in writing. Anywho. I sit in my lazy boy and watch the rest of the video and they're just a talkin' and a smilin' while their workin' out makin' it look easy when it's NOT. Come to find out. It's a 2 minute warm up, 10 minute workout and a 2 minute cool down. I am not a mathematician by no means but I know 2+10+2=14 not 10! And don't try to justify it as the warm up and cool down is not exercise because if you are up moving around it's exercise!!

So, I'm going to suck it up, quit being a cry baby and do my best at this. No Pain No Gain! Blah, Blah, Blah. Whoever said that is STUPID and my next mission is to discover who said that and make them my next VooDoo victim.

Until by next cry baby session~

Rose Baggs

The Number Are Too High :(

On a previous blog posting I mentioned that I would begin a weight loss challenge once BB shipped off to his man/fat camp. Since the numbers on that digital box in my bathroom have such high numbers and BB is gone my personal challenge has begun. My weight loss program of choice is Weight Watchers. I have mentally prepared myself to begin the Beach Body 10 minute workout by Tony Horton. I don't know how that whole physical activity thing and me are going to mix but I'll give it a shot. What else do I have to do? Oh, I know - eat ice cream.


I told the girls and guy at work what I was doing and since most of them are also trying to slim down they decided not only to bond together for encouragement but to make a friendly wager of it. We agreed to put in $20 and hold the contest for 12 weeks. We had our first weigh in on Friday the 10th in the Sulley U Medical Assisting lab. Of course whom ever has lost the largest percent of weight at the end of 12 weeks wins 100 smakaroos.

Wanna see a picture of my new best friend?

Watch for the upcoming results of the weekly challenge. I miss food already. I'm skeered!

Strip Club or Team Name?

Ok girls - how many of your significant others have graced the door or doors of one of the many "classy" strip joints where skank ho's remove their clothes to provide men with a cheap thrill? Oh, I'm sorry I'm not being politically correct. Gentleman's Club.

Some of the well known hot spots are:

• The Club House
• Solid Platinum
• Pure Gold
• Deja Vue and
• Diamond Girls

The funny thing is you can tell they are scandalous places just by their names. Right? Wrong! Diamond Girls is NOT the name of a local strip joint - I don't guess. It's the name of Lou's softball team. What the hell!? Diamond Girls? Diamond Girls? Couldn't they have come up with another name for a group of young pre-teen girls?

I'm so distraught I have to sign off for now but here is a promise to all my fans.

There will be more frequent posts!

What I Am Reading

One of my friends, better known as Mommy Meggie, is amazing. I must credit Meggie with inspiring me to create a blog. She is amazing because she seems to have found not only the time to be a wife, a mom, hold down a full time job and entrain via her blog, myspace and facebook accounts but constantly has her face glued to the inside cover of a book.

She has a section on her blog that's titled "What I Am Reading" and it seems like there is a different book up there every other day. I mean good lord, it takes me three days just to read the "What's Happening In Our Class This Week" newsletter that Lou's teachers send home every Monday. Seriously, it does. They should really provide some creative writing tips to those teachers. They really, really struggle.

Not only is there a variety of books throughout the week but she now has TWO "What I Am Reading" sections along with "What's In My Car CD Player" (or something like that). So, once again Meggie has inspired me. This time it's to do my own "What I Am Reading" section. So, here it is.

Now, I'm sure most of you said to yourself "Self, why would anyone want to read such a book?" Isn't it obvious? Don't worry-none of you should fear. Well, maybe. I don't know who all has access to my blog. However, if you begin to have random, sharp shooting pains in various parts of your body. Sorry about that. I'm new. Leave me alone.

Forgetting Something

It has been a little while since I have posted and I have missed it. So, to all of my fans; I apologize! Lou feels certain that I have no fans but I know I do.

It has been a crazy, crazy couple of weeks. As time grew closer to BB leaving I spent all my extra time with him. Considering he won't be home until late September I felt certain I would find enough time to blog until my hearts content.

It feels unbelievably odd at home. I constantly feel as though I am forgetting something. Going to bed alone, waking up alone, leaving an empty house, coming home to an empty house is something I am not use to. Although Lou and Bb are here they have other family members that feel they have a right to see them so they aren't here with me all of the time. I don't know where they get off thinking such things - but whatever. Crybabies!

To give a brief update of some of the particulars; BB flew out Tuesday 4/7/09 at 4:31. I have been fortunate enough to speak to him a few times since then. Currently he is miserable. They are at the Reception Station where they are doing a lot of standing, sitting and waiting and more standing, sitting and waiting and pretty much in that order. Oh, did I mention he has to get up at 4:00a.m.! What the crap is all that about? Why do they feel the need to get up so dag gum early? That is way before the butt crack of dawn. The butt crack of dawn is like 5:30a.m. or something like that.

Other than that I don't really have a whole lot to report on BB and Basic Training since his calls come random, infrequent and are short lived. However, I will keep you updated. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.

On the lighter side, at least he's in the states and gets to come home in September.

Redneck Word of the Day

WORD:
OBAMA


WORD USED IN A SENTENCE:
I bought me a case of beer and drank it OBAMA self

What's Happenin'

Finally, a nice weekend filled with spring weather. It was rather relaxing even though I had to work; I only worked until 11:30 so it wasn't a total loss. After a hard days work RPS and I rewarded ourselves by proceeding to the local Goodwill stores. Of course, as I always do, I found some good bargains but nothing really to write home about.

The nice weather also allowed me the chance to raise the windows and do some overdue spring cleaning. One project I had to undertake (thanks to the Kennel Club) was turning my couch upside down and commence to cutting away or tacking up any loose or hanging pieces of fabric that attracted them like a piece of cake attracts a fat kid (or me).

~~~~~

BB had drill and met his weight requirements. He is down to 205 which he hasn't been in over 12 years. He has lost 47 pounds since he joined the Nat'l Guard. He really looks good and I'm really proud of what he has accomplished. There are only 14 days before he leaves and I miss him already!

~~~~~

Bb quit band and joined the BETA club. BETA club?!?!?! That's for smart kids right? As you can tell I was never a member of the BETA club. Heck, my school didn't even have BETA club...I don't think. Wait, I just asked RPS and we did have it. That shows how smart I was. Oh well, I bet I had more fun than anyone in the BETA club.

~~~~~

Lou signed up for softball and I am so excited I can't stand it. I am really, really going to try and not be a crazy psycho sport mom. She has evaluation on Saturday.

~~~~~

I have ordered the Beachbody 10 minute workout by Tony Horton (I think that's his name). The guy that does the P90X. I feel like the P90X is focused more towards men and this is focused mainly towards women. I am so excited to get it and start the program. I MUST lose weight before BB comes home from Basic and AIT training. That is my personal goal.

xxx

I have also been busy planning BB's party. I think I have everything all set and ready to go. The building is rented, friends have been invited, my culinary peeps here at S.U. are preparing the food, General Lee is bringing the karaoke machine so let the fun begin!

xxx

I will leave you with this:

~TIP OF THE DAY~

Dried hot glue does not comb, brush or wash out of your hair; it must be cut out.

Simple Things

As a person gets older it doesn't take as much to make them happy or to entertain them. That's how it is in my case anyway. I love pictures and have my hall lined with goofy and funny snap shots as well as school photo's displaying those awkward chiclet teeth that all kids get around the age of 7. So anytime I go into a store whether it be Wal-Mart, the Mall or Goodwill I always try to make it a point to look for picture frames. I came across this one at the Wal-Mart in Henderson. Oh, just a regular ole collage right? Nothing special about this one.

W R O N G!

You know how on movies the front of a painting opens up to display a safe where millions of dollars are hidden? Sure you do. Well, I don't have millions of dollars but none the less I am as excited as if I did. Check. This. Out!

Oh yeah, it opens up and is no longer a picture frame but a jewelry box. HOW AWESOME IS THAT?? Oh my gosh-I can't tell you how stoked I was about finding this. Of course BB and Lou didn't share my excitement over my new found purchase. They simply rolled their eyes and mumbled something under their breath to the extent of "great, more junk" but all I heard was blah, blah, blah.

The fantastic purchase leaned against my bedroom wall rather than hanging on it in the hopes my room would soon be painted but since I know it's not going to happen I decided to hang it; and what an adventure that turned out to be. Since it's also a jewelry box you have to hang it in a very accessible place which required some minor rearrangement of the room which required BB's assistance. When I explained what I wanted where and how I wanted it done he grumbled "all of this for one stupid picture frame?" but again, all I heard was blah, blah, blah. I got my way and my wonderful picture / jewelry box is now displayed beautifully on my wall. Life is grand!!

Just Wanting To Share

Sharing some photo's of the remaining Kennel Club members

Johnson posing for a picture

Here is Millie and Johnnie sailing in mid-air off the step at the end of the hall

This one is of Rodney setting back and watching. He's not into all that "running after a ball just to bring it back" thing. He has my mentality when it comes to running and exercising

Wooooo Hooooo. I wanna be a Super Hero!

Hey, what's goin' on inside there?

Bb nappin' with the Kennel Club (Before Spankie found a new home)

Spankers is the one in the middle on the left (between P-nut and Johnnie-Isn't she cute)

A Day At The Lake

Ah yes-A day at the lake. I can't wait except this year I guess I will. Since BB leaves on April 6th and isn't expected to return until mid to late September my lake visits may be far and few between or at best a view from the bank. But since BB only has a meare 22 days left he thought he would like to attempt to sneak in a family day or two at the lake. So, we packed our poles and tackle with lunch in tow and headed for the Sess Pool, I mean Taylorsville Lake for a not so warm day of fishing. Since the day was to be filled with crazy amounts of fish I wasn't about to forget my camera and good thing I didn't because I have a few pictures of our day at the lake.


Wake up Lou there's a fish - Just kidding, no there isn't

A picture is worth a 1,000 words. The look on these 2 Angler's faces should tell you what kind of day we had

This picture (not to be mistaken for a hotel bath tub-ooooh) shows ALL the fish we caught and kept in the live well. Yep, lets count them. Rather than following the traditional counting method that begins with 1 lets start with 0. Ready? 0,0,0, Oh yeah, the number was 0!

Of course when you drag me out of the house and promise me a day filled with fish as far as the eye can see I look to the head Angler for an explanation of the ghost fish. Yeah, well that interrogation didn't go so well so I quickly diverted to another subject. How 'bout those Cats??

None the less it was a family day spent together out doors so all in all it was a good day. We laughed and passed a few meaningless threats between us.

Then There Were Three

You have heard me speak of the Kennel Club which consists of Millie (Ms. Mill, Milicent or Mill Mill), Rodney (A-Rod or Little Man), Spankie (Spankers or Spankadoodle) and Johnnie (Johnson or Johnsonville Boggs) and I'm sure some know me as the the crazy dog lady who lives down the lane. Hey, isn't there some type of nursery rhyme where a woman lives down a lane? Oh yeah, it's Bah Bah Blacksheep.

Anyway, to get back on track - I guess as the "pack" develops they create a pecking order and assign an Alpha dog or some kind of craziness like that. The pack apparently also determines the weakest of the group and begins to bully that one around. This scenario reminds me of a particular office I know that shall remain nameless but just about all who read this know which office I speak of. Nasty, nasty people - you should be ashamed of yourself. Ok, ok getting back on track - the pack designated Spankie as the weakest and for real began to be mean and attack her. They were leaving puncture wounds and making her bleed, my poor little Spankers!!!

She has always been the "special" one because she was the most timid of the group since they were born. To make a long story short we found a new home for Spankie; a home where she gets all of the attention and isn't required to share it with anyone and as a bonus - doesn't have someone trying to gnaw her face off. Where is this home located you wonder??? Bb's mom let him take her home to her house. They changed her name from Spankie to Lexie but from reports I've received she is as happy as a lark. What the heck is a lark? Is it a bird and what makes this bird so happy all the time? How do people know it's happy? Losing track again, I think I'm ADHD or some combination of those initials.

Catching Up

It's been a few weeks since I last posted. Nothing much has been going on. Just the normal day to day activities of getting up, going to work coming home, eating supper, going to bed and doing it all over again. However, there have been a few highlights I suppose. Actually, they aren't even exciting enough to register as highlights but I couldn't fancy another word. Soooo, highlights it is.

• Bb's basketball season came to an end where I believe their record was worse than UK's. I also feel Bb's team displayed as much, if not more, talent and as a bonus the tickets were cheaper. To make sure there is never a moment filled with emptiness Bb went straight from basketball to baseball.


• Nothing much with Lou - she was sick for about a day and then snapped out of it. She also got her ears pierced for the 3rd time. Yep, I said 3rd time. We'll see how long this time lasts. She's a simple kind of gal - not needing much to keep her happy.

The picture being of poor quality (I never said I was a photographer) makes her snazzy birthstone earrings appear to be a blood spot but I promise.......it's for real an earring.

• BB has been focused and trying to shed those last few pounds before shipping off to Basic Training which is only 22 days away. He has been living at the gym and working out at home. I sure am glad he can do the whole watch what you eat, excerise thing without my help because I am of absolutely no support. I'm proud of him for having the heart to do it but lets face it; I'm lazy and like to eat.


• Me - I've just been trying to maintain. Maintain what you ask? I don't know, my mind I guess.

Girls Night Out - Part 4

February's Girl's Night Out, we went and ooh do I have pictures.

We started the evening at Logan's where General Lee had one drink (just one, uno, an ace, the number on the side of the General Lee, yeah, just one) and became well, lets just say someone else had to drive her to the next stop. But in her defense I'm sure it was really, really strong. We laughed and giggled and started the evening off well. Especially since General Lee likes to tell stories she normally wouldn't tell. It's always a good time when General Lee drinks.

Our next stop? The Southland Bowling Lanes. Oh yeah, just about everyone in the crowd has a Wii and are nothing short of professional bowlers so the evening is going to be filled with nothing but high scores and strikes. Right? Right!

First we go in and place our name on the list and it's a 45 minute wait. So of course where else is there to go when your waiting for your name to be announced over the loud speaker? The bar of course. We all ordered a drink. General Lee said she didn't think she could handle anymore and opted out - but not for long. She ordered the same pretty little drink that Legs was drinking. Kel and I stuck to what we know best - bowling pin beers. Even Rubber Nut, who hasn't drank since August, decided to order a drink.

While we sat at the watering hole we began to do what we know best and that's pointing out imperfections on other people. I know people in glass houses shouldn't throw stones - blah, blah, blah. Uh oh, is that our name we hear? Game on!!

As you can tell by our photos we probably aren't the pro's we are on the Wii. Plus my me on the Wii is much skinnier.

General Lee displaying her aggressive

"game face". Ooooh scary.

This is Kel's aggressive game face.

Aah isn't she cute?

Just glad to be here and having too much fun.

Rubber Nut in motion.

Rubber Nut's pins before that bowl.

Her pins after that bowl.

What? I missed all 10 again?

I can't do anything but laugh

b/c it's comical how bad I suck!

It's all good!

General Lee in charge of the camera.

She's a little wobbly.

Please notice the score board. I won with an amazing 93. Please notice frame 5. Rubber Nut had a strike and her score was still only a 14. Hee Hee.

After the bowl arama we headed back to the bar for some karaoke. It's always a good time when there's karaoke and a video camera is handy. This one is of General Lee & Legs singing Gunpowder & Lead

This one is of General Lee & Legs singing I Kissed a Girl & I Liked It. Just Scandalous!

Until next month's girls night out. It's Ice Skating:):)

Girls Night Out - Part 3

Yeah, we didn't go - It's January and blah blah blah.

Girls Night Out - Part 2

Yeah, we didn't go. It's December and money's tight.

Girls Night Out - Part 1

OK - I know I'm not a youngster who needs to be ripping, running and painting the town red (as my brother's mother would say) nor are my friends. Well, some of them actually are youngsters. Anyway, it's always good to leave the worries and aggravations of work and family behind just for one night to hang out with your friends. Plus, girls in other offices at work were doing it so of course the FP Posse' (not to be outdone) had to do it as well. So, General Lee put the plans in motion and began planning the policies and procedures of how the a girls night out was to work. Each girl in the office was to pick a month she wanted to reserve as her night out and plan what we were all to do. So, the first planned outing came. We all met at Chili's drank a little, ate a little and mainly just talked and poked fun at everyone. You know how fun it can be to gossip and talk about everyone else, don't lie - yes you do!!

We then went to the mall walked around and shopped a bit. At the end of the evening General Lee, Legs, Rubber Nut and myself ended up in Lane Bryant looking for a shirt for Rubber Nut to where in her Christmas photos. In case you don't know what Lane Bryant is it's a store for women who have a little, how can I say this?, more girth than others. Don't worry I didn't offend Rubber Nut. Plus, they have clothes in my size so shut up. I know you find that surprising, especially since all my tags have XS on them. Anyway, Rubber Nut (aka: Skinny Minny) can no longer shop there b/c she is lookin' fine after loosing a pound or 2. The point I'm trying to get to here is. . . .the one thing that is probably more dangerous than a woman walking the streets of Harlem at midnight with a clear plastic bag of money on her arm is 2 skinny bitches sitting in the middle of Lane Bryant laughing out loud. Now, keep in mind they weren't making fun of anyone they were simply recapping an event that happened earlier in the day. The poor young dears didn't have a clue as to the looks and glares they were receiving so I slowly backed away as though I didn't know the pair.

Finally, Rubber Nut bought something or maybe she didn't I can't remember, all I know is we got out of there in one piece. Therefore, the evening was a success. We then called it a night and headed on home, looking forward to the next month's planned evening making mental notes to not take Legs and General Lee to Lane Bryant again.

A Long Two Days

We received word Sunday night that my Uncle Bob (dad's brother) passed away. Of course after hearing the news planning the 3 hour trip to Henderson, KY began. When is the funeral, whose riding with who and when are we leaving? Were all questions that kept the telephones hot.

In the recent past his home had been transformed from a quaint cozy little cabin tucked away in the woods to a cold stark room in a rest home where his daily attire was a gray pajama top with matching bottoms. This became his new address roughly 4 1/2 years ago after the diagnoses of Alzheimer's became too much for his wife of (then) 53 years could handle.

During the sermon the minister made reference to how my Uncle wouldn't pass because he felt as though some loved ones wouldn't allow him to go, they weren't ready to say goodbye. But as you could tell by the look on their worn faces they had fault the battle just as long and hard as he had and they simply had no fight left and ultimately had given up and were ready to send him home.

My mother's son, not as smart as he would have you believe, made a statement that was actually right on the money when he said "Uncle Bob has been dead for 2 years, he just didn't know it." That was about as true as true could get. However, I will never let him know that he has ever said anything that had any insight or an intelligent reference to it what so ever. I simply followed up the remark with "you're stupid!"

The one part of my trip I feel everyone should experience at least once, and I don't mean via movies, is a funeral with full military honors. Uncle Bob was a retired Army Corporal and a retired Sargeant for the Nat'l Guard. The visual of seven armed soldiers standing along side the grave as though they were guarding him from an unseen enemy was a sight to behold. But when they were given orders and sounded 21 shots for the 21 gun salute followed by the playing of taps was a very emotional, gut wrenching experience. A folded American flag was then given to my Aunt by a white gloved soldier who then saluted and thanked her for Uncle Bob's military duty. If you have never felt the pride of being an American, trust me; You will!

It was actually really nice to see everyone again. I wish it had been under better circumstances but it was really nice to see how everyone has changed. Unfortunately, the last time we got together was when another of dad's brother passed away 6 years ago.

We ended this visit just as we ended the visit 6 years ago - protesting and declaring that we promise to get together more often, plan a family reunion and not loose touch. When in reality we all knew it was a big fat lie. Not intentionally of course, but it just seems we simply don't make or take the time and put EVERYTHING else at the top of our priority list. And before you know it you are being notified that another has passed away. The really sad part about the whole thing is my dad had 5 siblings, my dad being the youngest. Four of them have passed away, leaving him and only one other brother. It just makes me feel time with my dad is becoming less and less as each day passes. That's why I will (I promise-It's in writing which means it's official) make more time for him. Although he lives in the same town as I do I don't visit and spend as much time with him as I need to because something always more "important" seems to come up.

Dumber than I thought!!!

OK - I realize I don't have an IT degree but I have been around computers for a little while and I can generally figure small stuff out. However, as you can tell by the looks of my blog page I am struggling just a wee tiny bit. I mean what the hell??? I don't know why I can't get it all prettied up and it is really starting to irritate me. Especially after looking at the other cutie petutie blogs (Meggie, Ms. Pooh & Ames). Boo Hoo. Just when I think I get it the Boss Man hollars and wants me to work. Good Lord!

Last night I began to hang some things on my walls. Well, not really I started giving instructions of where I wanted things hung and where. Well, what a mess that turned out to be. BB apparently doesn't use a tape measure and level either.

I have decided to decorate the living room with corpses of all the animals BB has claimed over there years. I figured I needed to feel one with nature and said what the heck. Sure, I would love to surround myself with dead animals looking at me.

The first hanging of BB's biggest and prettiest deer didn't go so well. He proudly displayed it above the mantle and then stood back in amazement and briefly relived the hunt. As he turned to walk away the Deer Gods appeared, provided the deer with special powers and it literally jumped off the wall and onto the hard wood floor. The antlers poked 2 small holes into my newly laid floor. OOOOHHHH, OOOOHHHH, OOOOOHHHH. But I held my tongue especially since it broke one of the brow tines (spelling?). BB had to go outside, take in some fresh air and regain his composure. I wasn't worried about the brow tines I was worried about the new holes in my floor and the hole the incident left in my wall. After a shotty operation with a glue gun the deer is now complete once again. However, I did hear little hoof prints pitter patter up and down the hall all night long with an occasional grunt off in the distance. I think we are being haunted by deer. I See Dead Deer!

Happy Day....Sad Day

Happy Day - Today is Lou's big day. The Kentucky Kennel Club (KKC) surprised her with a stuffed dog and an gift card from Wal-Mart. Don't worry that's not all she got. She had a party this past Saturday. She will also have another party this evening at her dad's house.


I took her to McDonald's for breakfast and my dad took her to school in tow with 36 cupcakes and Capri Sun for her B-day party. Of course dad had her a b-day card with $25 big ones in it. Which she was all about. I was running a bit late this morning b/c I had to try to explain to daddy why Lou had to take her OWN cupcakes for HER party. He just didn't understand that. I think I will send my self roses today. Hee Hee


Lou forgot my Valentines Day present at her dad's and wasn't able to give it to me on V-day so she surprised me with it last night. She gave me a homemade card and a pair of birthstone studded earrings. She has such a big heart and is such a good kid. I just love 'er to death.


Sad Day - Well, we received the unfortunate news that Bb didn't make the middle school baseball team :( . I don't know who was more upset - BB or Bb. Maybe he got confused on the whole "shine" thing and shined the crazy shine instead of the good shine. All in all it was probably for the best considering he is also playing little league (independent of the school system). I mean really.....how much baseball can one endure in a 2 1/2 - 3 month period?

About Me (and us)

Me - Since BB and I have moved into our current abode 6 years ago we have done quite a bit to the place. Some that turned out good and some well, not so good.

Hardwood and tile flooring - Good
Painting Lou's room lavendar purple - Bad
Screened in back porch - Good
BB painting my dining room and kitchen Barney Purple as a suprise - BAD (It was the disfunctional thought that counted)

Since the Kentucky Kennel Club (Rodney, Johnson, Spanky and Millie) has come on scene I felt the carpet needed to be tossed into a pit of engulfed flames and removed from this earth. I can't even find the words to describe what I think should happen to my walls. Anyway, as a Valentines Day suprise present BB had J&M come over and paint my house. It looks so AWESOME. They also laid hard wood flooring in the living room. The flooring is parque. Keep in mind this probably would not have been my first pick or probably a pick at all but considering it was only .97 a square foot I thought it looked Marvelous. Beggers can't be choosers. It actually turned out nice. I think he's a keeper, I'm pretty lucky!

I'm still trying to put my house back together but I am so afraid to hang anything b/c the walls are too pretty to inflict them with nail holes. Especially since I eye ball everything. Tape measure and level?! Who needs 'em? Oh well, hopefully by this weekend it will be put back together agian. Makes you think of Humpty Dumpty doesn't it?

I know all of you out there are wondering what and when I'm going to take care of my passion pink counter tops. I first have to find some more pennies and believe me you will be the first to know.

BB - 55 Days. That's how long it will be before he leaves for Basic Training at Ft. Benning, GA. I don't know how I feel about that exactly. Doesn't really matter how I feel since he is at the point of no return. I mean, I am proud of him and support his decision to join but I have no emotion about him being gone. It doesn't seem real. Which is kind of freaking me out b/c I'm not preparing myself which generally means a minor mental break down. A while back he went on a small fishing trip while Bb was at his mom's and Lou was at her dad's which left me alone. Well, not all alone I did have the Kentucky Kennel Club there with me. But, it just wasn't the same. I missed him terribly and I guess it's becuase it was a cursory look into the very near future. He will be gone right at 6 month. While in Basic for 9+ weeks we are only allowed to communication through letters. After he graduates Basic he will then go to Ft. Lee, VA for AIT (Advanced Individuatl Training). Once he is in AIT I believe they lighten up and me and the kids can visit on the weekends.

Bb - Had middle school baseball try outs last night for 2 gruelling hours. They will make their first cut and then have call backs throughout the week and continue to cut until they dwindle down to the super star team. It's almost like American Idol. Ooooh the anticipation! Although it is unlikely he will make the team simply b/c he is a 6th grader. There was an army of eager, nervous 6th graders trying out along with the returning 7th & 8th graders. Since the upper classman (oh lord, I'm referring to 7th & 8th graders as upper classman) have the advantage since the coaches are already aware of them and their talents and potentials. A 6th grader really needs to shine. Not shine like crazy shine like on The Shining but shine as in - Oh hell you know what I mean.

Lou - She is getting ready to turn the big 11 on 2/18. There isn't much to tell about good ole Lou. She is the most even keel person I have ever known. She shows very little emotion or excitement about too much. However, she was ecstatic about her L.L. Bean lime green back pack with embroidered initials. Aah, the simple things in life. That was the main thing she wanted for her birthday. Oh well!

Lou loves horses. She has been wanting one "all her life" as she says. She actually said that when she was only 7. Kids are so funny and say the funniest things. There is a lady down the road from us that has a very large nice horse farm. She offers lessons and of course they are kind of pricey so we'll see how all of that turns out. Good thing is she doesn't want to start until the spring so at least she won't be out there freezing her butt off.

New Blogger

OK - I'm new to the world of communicating via bloggs, myface or spacebook (or whatever their called) but it seems to be the norm for everyone but me. And apparently I'm not normal since I don't utilize one of these modes of communication. Soooooo, in order to maintain my coolness it is imperative that I jump on the electronic band wagon and join the fun.

Now - from what I understand this is an electronic diary in which you invite others to read. Read my diary??? Ooooh, heelll no. Well, Ok! Since you insist. Apparently (due to internet pervs) it is suggested that I not use real names. Therefore, it may take you a few moments to figure out whose who but you'll catch on (that statement wasn't for you old school bloggers but mainly my parents so stop poking fun).