Whatever we want it to be, whenever!

Playlist time

2012-01-11T00:34:00.003-07:00

So I have resumed my regimen - to a certain degree. I miss the old gym layout - much more convenient to my routine but I am at least back regularly - nearly daily and feeling really nice about it. My body is trembling as I type from the lastest workout. I have revamped my playlist - but needing to add a few new bits I haven't had a chance to sync up yet.

Work out Playlist - 1Q/2012 - not quite in this order

Find Your Love Drake - easy warm up; stretch and sway
Don't Cha Pussy Cat Dolls
At the End ILO
Fast Love George Michael
Smack My Bitch Up Prodigy
Rebel Yell Billy Idol - fave to run to
All these Lives Daughtry
Back on the Road Again REO Speedwagon
Kashmire Led Zeppelin - mental push/second wind
Burn it to the Ground Nickelback
Measure Up to Me Pink
Before the Worst The Script
Breakdown Daughtry
Twilight Zone Golden Earring
Boys of Summer DJ Sammy (cover)
Freedom '90 George Michael
You can't Be Me Pink - great pacing for curls
Call Me Go West
................and to finish strong.............
No Easy Way Out Robert Tepper (Rocky IV)
Training Montage Vince DiCola (Rocky IV)
Going the Distance Bill Conti (Rocky)

I have a lot of work to do to get the results I am seeking - and that's okay. I've begun the
path to get there and I am quite enjoying it as I do. My initial plan is to be aware of what I
eat but maintain majority of my focus on routine and developing my habits, techniques, and
varieties of exercises in the gym. My food choices are good and in alignment but definitely
need to be tuned up - a need some new additions on that end as well. Although I did score the recipe to a protein shake I have been truly enjoying - Coconut milk, strawberries, and vanilla whey protein powder - BLEND and enjoy!!

My new toy

2012-01-08T16:24:00.002-07:00

Work has left me chompin' at the bit to take her out for a true ride - but she is pretty and easy to roll with. Found her on CL a few days back. She's a low end MTB but will do beautifully for me as I am a newbie so fits nice. Plus the price was super right! Still going to the gym but wanted something outdoor - something new, different, and this fit the bill. Plus I've always been a rider. I was a late starter, didn't learn to ride til 9 years old, but I was off ever since. What a sense of independence my first bike gave me.

I always had wheels from 9 on. It may have been a butchered banana seated bike crossed with a bmx, that was my first - or perhaps my brother's Raleigh 10-speed that was way too big for me. I literally had to rest on car bumpers to "reach" ground when I wasn't moving. That lead me to my first 24" 10-speed which I then, finally, grew tall enough for the normal 26" road bike.

I didn't learn to drive til I was well over 18 - I had my bike. Didn't need to drive. So now, at 40, I take on mountain biking. I am really looking forward to getting going and seeing how it feels. I look even more forward to having to upgrade the week-ass shocks that come stock on this bike. They will be white - which will really pop against the racing red with white trim. That will be a true indicator of just how bad-ass I become at MTB. Challenge!!

Full suspension or Front suspension...

2011-12-28T08:43:00.003-07:00

...that is the question. I have been researching and researching. I have decided against 29ers, 69ers, and 96ers. This far I have come - however, I still cannot decide between a fs v. hardtail mt. bike. I have read the pros and cons for both and I guess it comes down to personal preference.
Really liking the Trek 4300, colours and all. I won't be racing so that isn't in my equation but I plan on testing out both within the next week. I am really excited for suspension forks, period. My old 2000 model is as hardtail as it comes - forks and all. I don't even recall when I got it - perhaps older than 2000. It was from Toys R Us, an old Huffy? but I am not sure.

When I built it I didn't put the decals on so it's just straight blue, pretty but with grip shifters (blech) which was the newest thing at the time, and no disc brakes, plus it's one heavy bitch for sure. That actually may do me some favors as I am a beginner but I can only imagine what the lack of suspension is going to do to my forearms and shoulders. Trail riding will be very interesting. I'll need a mouthguard.

So I continue to ponder which way to roll - looking forward to trying both out - but I am leaning towards hardtail simply as they are not only less expensive (not by much via CL) but because they are lighter. Regardless, I just want to get dirty. May not have the Jeep anymore but I can tear through mud on either of these.

Not this one - this one runs over 4k but it sure is inspiring.

Spinning spinning ... wheels

2011-11-21T08:13:00.002-07:00

We have a broken government. This isn't new. They can contact their spin doctors and try as they might but it might actually be that people are FINALLY fed up with the bullshit. I sure hope so. Guess we will see come voting time. Occupy has been great to raise awareness along with some eyebrows but I sure hope they start DOING something. Someone with "the" voice needs to step forward and start making Occupy more than just a bunch of people complaining. I wait with baited breath.

We have a special ... or was that super committee? Either way they turned out to be neither. Even if they were successful in accomplishing the cuts of over 1.3 trillion dollars it amounted no more than plugging one of five holes in a barrel - we are still spending more money on interest than our economy can scramble together...ha, feels like most Americans' households nowadays I am sure.

Holidays just aren't in me this year. I don't know if it's the economic climate, the injustices our systems have suffered most recently, kids disappearing out of their beds, or just winter blues finally hitting me. I don't generally get those - I love winter and snow and all that comes with it...but, alas the spirit of the season is escaping me. I was in a much better place last year. But I wasn't.

The best thing about the season is it ends. This too shall pass and then we can simply enjoy an impromptu ski afternoon, or a serendipitous snowball fight, or perhaps a trip to the coast for some R and R. Regardless, I will be glad to be rid of funky ol' me. Blech.

A "stoning" in GA

2011-09-22T10:17:00.002-07:00

We look on in horror at injustices committed all across the globe. The boys trespassing in Iran, the woman stoned in the middle east, or the women held in North Korea. They were all found guilty through the judicial system of the country. Currently, in Italy, there is much speculation over Knox and did she or didn't she? Yet we cry for these individuals to be released - those caught trespassing were guilty - they committed the offense and according to law of the land, were to be punished. But our society advocated for their release...interesting. While I don't disagree with requesting their release and for the courts of those countries to show mercy - I would like to think America has just as much compassion when it comes to persecuting those within our own system.

It never ceases to amaze me how this country of ours continues in arrogance with every error in judgement we make. It is now we, the United States of America, that appears to have "stoned" someone especially when considering there was such a cloud of doubt over this case. The world is looking at us as though we brutally murdered a man through "the system" - we look like a nation with a barbaric justice system with no human face or mercy - who will kill a potentially innocent man. Shame on Georgia, shame on the supreme court. Whether this man was guilty or innocent - the fact that a world, including much of this country, is still unsure, should have been enough to grant clemency.

Kid had a tough night...

2011-08-01T18:05:00.001-07:00

2011-07-20T09:14:00.003-07:00

Ever just feel like a ghost. Walking through life and going to work, coming home, attending to chores and there's just no ... anything...

Life is full of peaks a valleys - I've had my share of peaks and I have had my share of valleys. It's just when you go through that hollow phase it is so hard to look up the mountain at the peak that awaits you. All you hear with cries of help are echoes coming back at ya - that's if you even have it in you to cry in the first place.

This too shall pass - life goes on...

Crawling out of my skin

2011-06-28T15:38:00.002-07:00

So I am on the horizon of new things - went kayaking last week and really enjoyed it - plan on doing that much more often. They have these moonlit paddles at Lake Pleasant when it's a full moon. Looking forward to taking advantage of those. Also there's this rock climbing group that go twice weekly to an indoor gym and then occasionally head outdoors and that's something I would like to try. I am perhaps the fittest in my life and don't want to waste any of the energy or muscle or guts for that matter. Hon had me water ski for the first time ever last Friday at the lake. I biffed - all three/four times I tried. Last effort brought me the closes to actually standing but alas, some other time.

There's a sunrise meditation hike up Camelback I'm going to check out in a couple weeks. That will be very enjoyable. I think I will begin my training for Havasupai - this is the closest ( I think ) I will ever be physically to hike and camp that route. Very excited to check out the falls and pools as well.

I was listening to some OLD mini-discs with obviously old music - wow! I swear it's sometimes such a diary the collections we create - kind of cool and at times, kinda creepy. Anyhow, until our next home project is completed (just finished our master bath and closet, finally) I won't be doing too much outdoors - also considering the heat it's safer for now. I have landscaping waiting for me as well. But - I will be squeaking in some new jaunts soon. Very excited.

Next race isn't til November? My ass needs to get back to the gym and start endurance training - my lungs so suck it right now. Guess we'll see how far back I am when I check it out next week. Got a two week pass to try a new gym - sooo miss my old place. Ahhhh memories.

Beautiful new movie for 2012 - Summer

2011-06-27T17:50:00.001-07:00

Brave....cannot wait!

2011-06-27T17:44:00.007-07:00

yum!

2011-06-09T17:46:00.000-07:00

2011-06-09T17:45:00.001-07:00

Bday Pics

2011-06-09T17:44:00.000-07:00

Great weekend spent loving the outdoors

2011-05-30T09:37:00.004-07:00

So I took the clan to Fossil Springs. We all had a great time, albeit I killed yet another Droid. I suck so bad with these "smart" phones lately I swear it's payback for teasing the girls about being phone jinxs in the past.

Anyway, the bogos (mostly Gray) enjoyed the waterfalls and current and water in general. They frolicked and hiked (mostly Chloe) along the bank and found STICKS!!!

The big (little) ones really enjoyed the cliff diving and rope swings. Jo claimed this was his new favorite sport.

The weather was ideal and considering it was a holiday weekend the creek was pretty quiet and much less crowded than I expected only leaving me to appreciate this trail/creek even more!

Time keeps on slipping...

2011-04-20T16:19:00.002-07:00

...the countdown begins. I am four days away from surgery - the bathroom is gutted and ready for somebody, anybody, to show up and do the work we are paying them to do - the babes are in the process of kicking ass at potty training (well SHE is anyway - he is just beginning) - and with that...school for the bogos is around the corner!!!

Lots of changes this next couple weeks. Very Very excited!!!

Got notice Xterra has it's 2012 series posted! I so sucked it up these past couple of months - have a lot to make up for ESPECIALLY since I won't be doing the Warrior Dash next week...major drag! But, I should be back in the gym full board in 8 wks so that's cool. Come October, I will be ready to roll at Estrella!

Going to get the tikes bikes ready as well as my own tuned up and hit the trails north of my house. Mountain biking is going to be the next "experience" to get after. Hopefully, this will also aid in bringing my endurance back faster - amazing how quick that wanes when you aren't running regularly.

Took the kids for a run a week or so ago and at the start it was pretty rough but by the time we looped the last mile I was feeling pretty good and that was pushing a stroller with 35+lb/each twins so it was a nice surprise to see my lungs respond in kind. Just need a few runs at T-bird to get me back on track. I'll have to take the pup for a walk - she's been so patient. Perhaps this Sat. am?

No wonder at all...

2011-03-21T09:58:00.001-07:00

To the left, the new and "improved" look of Wonder Woman as due in theaters near you sometime soon with the wrong lead actor...but that's another post entirely. To the right, the classic, lovely, iconic Wonder Woman of small screen we will always cherish and measure all things Wonder Woman to...any questions?

What a disaster, left!

2011-03-13T17:29:00.003-07:00

Someone once told me when you have expectation of people they are bound to disappoint you.

So does this mean you shouldn't have them? They are set too high? Or that it is merely the inevitable consequence considering the fallibility of humankind?

I asked these questions to myself, as I have been disappointed time and again(as have we all). Then I asked myself, "Do I live up to these same expectations?" Well? Do I? On some I do and others, not so much.

I am not the parent I thought I would be or would have expected myself to be, I am inferior to what my expectations were/are - shameful.
I haven't spent more than an hour a week with any of my dogs (or collectively) in a couple of seasons - disgraceful!
I haven't financially or intellectually accomplished what I feel I should have or am capable of - wasteful.

So what do we do with this information? Is it trade-off time? Do we rationalize what we have from what we want from what we do from who we are? Is this where pride is weighed and tossed or held onto for dear life? Do we eat our words, our foot, some crow?

It's interesting how as we get older things truly do become less black and white and just when you think you are in the grey zone you realize you're nooot quite there yet. Tick tock tick tock...

Happy Valentine's Day, Lover

2011-02-14T16:38:00.003-07:00

“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” - Ralph Waldo EmersonI look forward to all that we are and can be. It's an amazing journey that has made me smile in wonderment. You are the best gift of all.

Arrest ME!

2011-02-07T16:17:00.001-07:00

PLEASE?!

2011-01-23T16:59:00.002-07:00

It's been 25 years (Friday) since the Challenger exploded during take off for space with what would have been the first teacher to enter the Final Frontier.

Crazy to think there are grown adults that weren't even born when this occurred. Much like those who experienced the Kennedy assassinations, before I was born, I recall exactly the time and place I was when this occurred.

We were watching the event unfold live in 2nd period French class at Tempe High. We all carelessly watch the countdown and seconds of airtime while we passed notes, held private corner conversations, or doodled on the cover of our notebooks. Then suddenly, every one of us were silent and stunned with complete disbelief.

Rubbing our eyes and dazed - we witnessed a tragedy. Almost immediately after watching the catastrophy, the loudspeaker came on and announced what we already knew.

It was powerful for me, for some reason. It always affected me - the idea of soaring for that dream and then in an instant - gone - nothing. No fanfare, no goodbye, no closure. Still amazes me, 25 years later.

guilt

2011-01-08T16:58:00.003-07:00

It's interesting how when you feel guilty for something, everything that is said or mentioned feels as though it's pointed right at you when all along it's your conscience at work...the tell-tale heart affect? Is that already taken cause if not, I'm going to coin it! LOL!

After months of feeling bad about a situation, that was personal for me, everything I watched on television or heard on the radio just seemed to amplify my issue. It's amazing how surrounded I was with the information I needed and just didn't seem to want to hear it.

It's those little universal tells that make you wonder just how dynamic the world works - I understand that it's the mind making things connect - sort of like Dark Side of the Moon and Oz but still - it's pretty freaking cool when it happens - just like DSotM and WoZ.

Iron Girl - babeee

2010-10-17T17:54:00.003-07:00

So I have been doing Boot Camp (on/off) since May. Quite frankly, my booty has been camping on this chair a little long so I am stiff again from FRIDAY'S workout! Ridiculous...anyway, we have a race in November on the 14th: Aflac Iron Girl in Tempe, AZ.

I am looking forward to it. It's a 10 mile or 5K - since I took the summer off I am only going for the 5K (3+ miles). I am hoping it will add to my confidence with my running skills. I have improved SO much but that doesn't say SO much considering I really SUCKED it up at running prior to my boot camp soiree.
However, I have begun to really enjoy it and do plan on making this 5K the first of many 5Ks, 10 Miles, 1/2 Marathons, and Marathons to come. I would like to be ready for the 1/2 when PF Chang comes to town but I truly do not know if I will be ready in time. I'll play it day by day and see where we end up.

I am so excited!! YAY!

Don't believe everything you see

2010-09-19T11:49:00.007-07:00

Saw this pic on Post Secret and is it just my imagination or is it subliminal (or not so subliminal on purpose) - that her "dress" looks like a man's genitalia? The subtext of the post card was sexual so obviously I'm not the only one seeing it. Yea?

DC...It's pretty but the politics SUCK!

2010-09-06T17:51:00.002-07:00

Read this article on CNN about Obama's speech where he claimed he was talked about like a dog? He was not my first choice; anyone reading this blog in the past knows I was looking for a female persuasion. Anyway, despite the rough beginnings known as the Democratic Primaries I was going to be positive. I didn't turn my back on the party.

After 18 months I hang my head exhausted with all the bullshit...SAME OL' BULLSHIT! I have been very disappointed in this admin. and the party as a whole. They have been an ultimate embarassment and a comment in the "comments" section (go figure) said it far better than I would ever be able to articulate:
**

Carlos Flores

September 6th, 2010 4:54 pm ET

What is it about Washington that distracts whomever goes there? I've been disappointed lately with my fellow democrats because we sound and act just like everyone else. Promise, spend, argue and blame! How about doing what we were sent to do...create a new culture in which we actually get something done. Historians will rightly take us to task since we didn't do what we promised even though we owned the town at the time.

**
Wow, that blue dress incident just doesn't seem like that big of a deal anymore, does it? Politics, the biggest joke humans ever created. Can we get them ALL out of office, PLEASE!

Missed biz opp

2010-08-24T09:57:00.003-07:00

So we were discussing Sexting at work today. And of course I was goofing off about how much easier this generation has it with their technology. They don't have to buy expensive polaroids or worry who's developing their goods. They just use their cell phones and send them directly out to whomever is the chosen recipient.

Then I got this brilliant idea (about 10+ years too late).

Snap N Send Photos with the tagline:
We don't peek!

Could have had a lot of fun marketing that one! ....hm, seemed funny at the time.

Emma gets a STAR

2010-08-10T10:56:00.004-07:00

One of my top fave actresses got her star on Hollywood's walk of fame...really? Just now? Thought it would have already occurred.

Anyhow, what a great pic - the celebratory pose and support team (ie> pig) in check!

Rock on, EMMA! I'll be sure to stop by next month when I am in town.

Pretty cool kid

2010-07-14T11:05:00.000-07:00

Check him out.

Penelope Cruz and Javier Bardem have gotten married

2010-07-14T08:43:00.003-07:00

Great couple! He's such a hottie!

Nice to hear some happy news for a change.

Wonder Woman gets a makeover

2010-06-30T11:20:00.006-07:00

Read about the new changes coming to Wonder Woman today in a cute article. In recent years, for reasons unknown, I've really become more interested in comic book characters, more specifically, the WOMEN Superheroes.

I've been following the new Batwoman since her latest debut as a lesbian crime fighter in '05. She too, was made over when she was re-released in the Detective comic book series a couple years later - which I've collected.

Her original debut of '05 is by far my preferred look for Batwoman. She's tough, sexy, sophisticated - everything a hot-ass superheroine should be. The newest look for her is a bit on the SEXPOT side of things. I think I like her outfit more but not so much the RED hair - I thought she smoldered more as a husky auburn. Anyway, this is about Wonder Woman. The bustier is gone, the hotpants...er shorts, hm...underwear, are gone. Even that multi-functional crown appears to have been left by the wayside. In it's place, an Olivia Newton-John "let's get physical" headband. Her new look? It's a bit grittier - she's more clothed, which I rather do like - and they recreated her, in my opinion, to look more like the lesbian crime stopper than Batwoman. Like the tough jacket- so 80's Members Only, now that's hot!

I do find myself missing her legs, they looked so long, ...and shoulders. You decide.

2010-06-22T11:02:00.002-07:00

Is she not just the most adorable thing???

VIDEO She's at the .50 (second) mark - wait for it....

Don't read the news.

2010-06-15T09:27:00.003-07:00

I am going to try to stop for the remainder of today -(big sacrifice :)...just read this. We wonder why we are living with more youth behaving violently...when there are no consequences (ABSOLUTELY NONE!!!!) what are we to expect. Four violators, aged 8-14, gang raped an 8 year old girl. Not one will be punished for this horrific crime. The victim will see no justice and has lost her "family" for shame that this put upon them. She is hopefully, strong enough to rise above this travesty and live a full and meaningful life for herself.

HUH?

2010-06-14T11:29:00.002-07:00

WTH?! Did someone hop into a Delorean and run us back in time? How is it possible the FDA voted 9-6 against lifting the blood ban from gay men? Does the FDA read any medical journals, news papers, or even a rag mag? This is a FEDERAL agency that doesn't, apparently, know how HIV/AIDS works.

Needles and sex. That's it, folks - needles and sex. Can be men/men, women/women, men/women - including elderly and teens - sex is sex and when fluids collide HIV is possible should EITHER of those involved be infected.

There is no comprehension to their decision - no justification - no rationalization. It is simply INCREDIBLY STUPID for anyone with half an education living in 2010 to think HIV is a "gay man's disease" and I am disgusted and offended and saddened.

A hero for the right reasons

2010-06-06T11:51:00.006-07:00

There's been much buzz about a baseball game and a specific pitcher of that game looking for a place in history. Armando Galarraga, of the Detroit Tigers, was headed for a perfect game.

It was the 9th inning with two outs and he threw the pitch inside. Batter hits it infield, right between first and second; Galarraga grabs the bag as the first baseman grabs the ball - throwing it back to first base.

Galaraga snaps his glove closed as he tags first...before the runner makes contact with the bag. Umpire Jim Joyce calls out, "SAFE!" Instantly smiles and cheers of a perfect game turn to confusion and disbelief. Armando Galarraga just turns back toward the mound with a smile on his face and finishes off the game like the pro he is. Jim Joyce later apologizes, after watching the replay, as he made a bad, bad call.

I've been in an umps shoes; it's very tough knowing your view, your call changes what happens in the game. It's a tremendous amount of pressure and in a split second you think you see so many things and question all of it in nanoseconds. He was crushed knowing he took a Perfect Game from this athlete. He approached the pitcher, after the game, with tears in his eyes.

People will remember Armando Galarraga, but not because he was robbed of a perfect game; that's been done before. He will be remembered for his professionalism and his control, and most of all, his smile.

It's great that he maintained his composure, finished the game, and set a tremendous example for his children along with everyone else's children. This is how sports should be played. It should have integrity, nobility, and pride. There's so much whining today in sports that it's almost a shame there's SO MUCH attention to Galarraga's post call behavior. That should be the standard. But it's not and Armando Galarraga should be (and is being) comended for his attitude.

We could all, children and adults alike, learn from him.

See the video here.

Lessons in life

2010-05-31T18:14:00.003-07:00

My father watched them all - almost as much as The Godfather trilogy. We, in turn, watched along side him. Practically raised on Corleone's and Balboa's I can quote all of them pretty easily. But it was as an adult, renting Rocky 6, that a scene in the movie struck me as a great motivator. It's always been part of my own belief system but hearing it aloud - and today gen could certainly use some motivation - I thought I'd post it:

"The world ain't all sunshine and rainbows. It is a very mean and nasty place and it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it. You, me, or nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But it ain't how hard you hit; it's about how hard you can get hit, and keep moving forward. How much you can take, and keep moving forward. That's how winning is done. Now, if you know what you're worth, then go out and get what you're worth. But you gotta be willing to take the hit, and not pointing fingers saying you ain't where you are because of him, or her, or anybody. Cowards do that..."

That says everything you need to know. If that isn't motivation then go home, get under the covers, and swallow that bottle of pills you clutch onto crying every night - there's really not much else to say. You keep moving forward - or as we say lately at home (quoting Dory from Finding Nemo) "Just keep swimming; just keep swimming."

Apples to Oranges

2010-05-24T15:19:00.003-07:00

Everyone wants to scream that BP's spill is Obama's Katrina...really? Are hundreds of people evacuating, left stranded on rooftops, dying or being put to death in hospitals? No. Is there a tragic event taking place - yes. Let's not let the media run away with the drama to make something more than it is - because in reality, it's big enough all by itself.

However, an interesting article by David Gergen is here for your reading pleasure. He makes a good point - Obama should be and have been FAR more involved than he is/was. He reacted immediately, learning that key "immediate response" mishap from previous Bush. However, where is the action?!

We are spilling oil for over a month into the ocean and they still can't get it right. Did no one plan ahead and have a failsafe in case something of this nature ever occurred? Apparently not, at least not tested. Yea, let's off-shore some-more...guess we don't have to worry about that controversy any longer, whew!

Most importantly, why isn't Obama stepping up? Why does he believe it is solely the responsibility of BP and leaving them to figure it out? This is not the time to teach someone a lesson. Let's work collectively to fix the issue and THEN deal with consequences to the company at fault.

This is getting tired and ridiculous and his inability to react beyond his initial appearance is very Bush-like...hm, maybe that's where the Katrina resemblence comes in?

As Gergen pointed out - gather the minds and military, get them delegated to specific courses of action so you have people at all four corners working at their own angles to solve the matter - once the damage is under control youcan hand out the spankings.

Geez!

Next step...

2010-05-11T17:53:00.002-07:00

Here we have the wall and pavers added. Next is getting the rock, planting the ruelia, lantana, and rosemary and we are done!

Tired isn't the word...

2010-05-02T09:27:00.003-07:00

Boot camp all week and yard work all afternoon...to do this! I planted a couple more trees Thursday after BC and finished the sprinklers.
Prepped the ground Friday for sod to arrive for Sat. morning. Found this great stone on CL only a mile from home - three truckloads (1 1/2 pallets) later we still have 2 1/2 pallets left to pick up!

Sod arrived and we got to work - ALL DAY SATURDAY. I hurt everywhere...EVERYWHERE. We did a little here...

and a little more over here....and with 17 rolls left over we filled in the kids play area - Jojo's idea - what a great big brother. He swore he's water it by hand every day after school as one of his chores. I'll be trenching again this coming week to put in the sprinkler but thought he was so cute about it. He did the brick edging to make it look good and is so excited to have the kids play on it in a couple weeks.

We have guys coming to do pavers to edge the lawns and then we'll be done with this project! I think...I hope?! Very busy and ACTIVE week. I'm ready to come back to work and relax! HAHA!

Vroom Vroom!

2010-04-25T09:06:00.004-07:00

Our son is super turbo charged with testosterone. It's amazing how he and his sister are polar opposites on the gender scale. Chloe walks around on tippy toes carrying her baby and feeding her stuffed lamb. Her voice is climbing higher by the hour to the point of injuring dogs and he is growling and scowling to all who will hear his thunder.

He has a plastic tub I dubbed "the garage" which houses his various cars and trucks. They are about adult fist sized and some go with the push of a button, others light up and play music. He plays with them daily and every day - sometimes several times a day - I have to wrangle them up with him to show him to put them back in their garage. Chloe will grab one or two just to get his attention and run with them just to tick him off - payback for an earlier offense on his part, no doubt.

After much yardwork (again) yesterday and various chores, Hon and I come in to find him tearing up and down and around the living room and dining room and hallways with two fists flailing. In them are matchbox cars. I do not know where he discovered them; perhaps the boys room - he loves the treasures he finds in his older brothers' room when he sneaks in there...he and Chloe both try to sneak in often.

He won't put them in the garage - he carries them through diaper changes, dinner in the high chair, and pj time on into the crib. He's driving up walls, along the baby/dog fence, and crib railing and revving his engines as he goes. He is all boy! It's amazing. Chloe just looks at him like he's nuts.

I feel her today...

2010-04-04T13:44:00.000-07:00

Painful Farewell

2010-03-28T09:00:00.004-07:00

After 15 years of wonderful loyalty, love, and joy I had to say goodbye to my best friend. Ally Bear was put down on 03/26 at 11:30 in the morning. It was by far the most difficult thing I have endured and more painful than any other loss - yes, including people in my life. She has been the longest constant in my life and I miss her terribly even today.

I didn't speak with anyone the rest of Friday and all weekend I painted rooms with Hon, worked on the sprinkler system and tended the yard...just tried to keep busy. Didn't want to FB - didn't want the responses - didn't want to communicate - just very angry - VERY angry.

My apologies to everyone at home as I was just nasty by Friday night. After medicating myself I did feel better but ugh - it's been a sucky weekend. Just thinking of it now I start welling up.

Hon and I discussed how she was not fairing well last week - I decided, given my work and school schedule, Friday would be the tell-tale day. I'd see how she was. Came back from hiking T-bird park with Sasha and Hon told me she was excreting "bile" and couldn't get up. It was Friday - there was the sign.

Right? So I bribe her with Nathan's dogs into the van - carry her into the vet and into the room. Not once would she look at us and not once was she cooperative. After the sedative shot she finally laid down after 15 min. No one could touch her feet - just petting her head was all she'd allow.

The doc came in to administer the "blue elixir" and Ally got up howling and flopping into walls (as she was sedated) - broke my heart - lost it! Hon was trying to help her as she was trying to get behind her and a chair and I sat their helpless trying to maintain (NOT well at all) and I was ready to take her home then and there. But we calmed her down, the vet gave her the injection and in less than 30 seconds she was gone. ...Whoa - can't continue. You get the idea.

Love you, Ally.

New car!!!

2010-03-21T10:24:00.008-07:00

So I read this article last week about the era of the classic car dying. They showed pics of a Shelby Cobra, Gullwing, '62 Ferrari 250, Pierce-Arrow, Shelby Mustang, Aston Martin, '57 Jaguar XKSS Roadster , Bugatti, among others.

LOVED the Bugatti. By far one of my favorites...so I looked it up on Google to find out more info and saw the latest and thought, Oh yea, I want that in my collection some day.

I've always said - if I ever won the lottery I would need a large garage. Well, add this one to the list. So I'm looking online at their website and can't find a price. Okay -well it is high end so no surprise. Shopping further I find a model of the vehicle in 1:8 which is awesome!! It is also $4,300 - yes FOUR THOUSAND THREE HUNDRED for a MODEL!!!

Turns out the Bugatti is THE TOP most expensive vehicle one can purchase. Starting at $1,700,000 the tag goes up to $2,000,000+ for a convertible with all the trimmings...go figure. Told hon she needs another job. She said she is working on it.

PS - not mentioned on the list...bunch o' crazies!...was my all time favorite classic, the '67 Corvette convertible.

Nurse Jackie starts TOMORROW!!!

2010-03-21T10:23:00.002-07:00

Serve it up already!

Hey You! Hayworth!

2010-03-15T12:23:00.003-07:00

It's amazing how people can read the same thing yet take something so different away - or completely change what was actually read as is the case with JD Hayworth.

At a Florida radio station, during an interview, he said,

"You see, the Massachusetts Supreme Court, when it started this move toward same-sex marriage, actually defined marriage - now get this - it defined marriage as simply, 'the establishment of intimacy.'"

"Now how dangerous is that?"

"I mean, I don't mean to be absurd about it, but I guess I can make the point of absurdity with an absurd point," he continued. "I guess that would mean if you really had affection for your horse, I guess you could marry your horse."

Hayworth, a former AZ congressman (card carrying member of GOP of course), stated that the only way to prevent marriage to horses - or any animal really - was to create a federal marriage amendment, which obviously he would support.

But what is TRUTH is that the 2003 Massachusetts Supreme Court ruling (which denied the ban on gay marriage ) defined marriage as "the voluntary union of two persons as spouses, to the exclusion of all others."

HM? Hayworth said this:
Massachusetts Supreme Court defines marriage as 'the establishment of intimacy.'"
when it really says this:
Massachusetts Supreme Court defines marriage as a "voluntary union of two persons as spouses, to the exclusion of all others."

Yea, I can see how a former sportscaster turned congressman turned radio show host turned wannabe senator can misread such an intricate and complicated statement of definition.

Who actually listens to this guy (enthusiastically anyway) and what's scarier is who in the hell would vote for him? He cannot comprehend - lord knows that's probably why he voted yes on the bridge to nowhere - he thought it went to Russia perhaps? Did he misread all those earmark, pork spending bills he said yes to as well?

Telephone - Gaga and Beyonce - Amazing

2010-03-14T09:14:00.002-07:00

Not a huge fan of Gaga...in the sense I am sick of her voice. The media has saturated the air with her and I am tired - BUT - the new video recently released was still enjoyable, nonetheless!

Could be Beyonce dazzled as usual but no - the whole "feature" was eye candy in disturbing proportions. Check it out here and see what you think.

Spectacular colour and content, no?

Geneva Car show...

2010-03-09T17:08:00.003-07:00

....oh what I missed! Many cars that will never see this side o' the pond...Alfa Romeo definitely my most regretful miss.

Not only pretty but fast too!!! What's more!? A hatchback!! Oh my!

Feelin' it

2010-03-09T16:58:00.005-07:00

Name your price

A ticket to paradise

I can't stay here any more

And I've looked high and low

I've been from shore, to shore, to shore

If there's a short cut I'd have found it

But there is no easy way around it

Light of the world, shine on me

Love is the answer

Shine on us all

Set us free

Love is the answer

Who knows why

Someday we all must die

We're all homeless boys and girls

And we are never heard

It's such a lonely, lonely, lonely world

People turn their heads

And walk on by

Tell me is it worth just another try

Light of the world, shine on me

Love is the answer

Shine on us all

Set us free

Love is the answer

Tell me, are we alive

Or just a dying planet(What are the chances)
Ask the man in your heart

For the answerAnd when you feel afraid(Love one another)

When you've lost your way(Love one another)

And when you're all alone(Love one another)

And when you're far from home(Love one another)

And when you're down and out(Love one another)

And when your hopes run out(Love one another)

And when you need a friend(Love one another)

And when you're near the end(Love)(We've got to love)(We've got to love one another)Light of the world, shine on me

Love is the answer

Shine on us all

Set us free

Love is the answer
Light of the world, shine on me

Love is the answer

Shine on us all

Set us free

Love is the answer...

Is Jolie this gens Foster?

2010-02-24T11:40:00.005-07:00

Since I first read Atlas Shrugged I knew Dagney Taggert was all Jodie Foster's to play should it ever get to silver screen...there's been previous posts to this in this blog...somwhere. And in that same prev post it was also mentioned that the buzz in hollyland was Angelina Jolie was eyeing the role or they were eyeing her...whatever.

Now I read recently that Jolie will be playing Kay Scarpetta, the character from Patricia Cornwell's detective series. Apparently back in 1992 Patricia herself was soliciting Foster quite heavily to take on the role only to be turned down because of the recent Lambs role she had just rec'd an Oscar for.
I think it is a missed opportunity for a great film series with Foster. The character was written by Cornwell as mature, sexually confident, and at the height of her career - much like a woman of Foster's caliber. The screenwriter however, and powers that be, are re-creating the character to be younger and not quite as confident so she can grow with the series ergo making the studio more money for more films in the future...it's always business and always money!!! Will the art suffer? Don't know - Jolie is quite a competent actor to say the very least but I do miss Foster's face - she just doesn't do enough it seems.

New Book! Looking forward to reading...

2010-02-16T13:12:00.003-07:00

Read entire article on NPR. A portion was excerpted below:

"The investigation of Bill Clinton began in January of 1994, when Attorney General Janet Reno appointed special prosecutor Robert Fiske to head the Whitewater investigation. Fiske's appointment, writes Gormley, first "prompted universal praise... among Republicans."

"The praise lasted for several months — until Fiske wrapped up his criminal investigation within six months of his appointment. The short investigation, combined with Fiske's announcement that there was "no evidence that issues involving Whitewater, or other personal legal matters of the president or Mrs. Clinton were a factor in [Vince] Foster's suicide," caused Republicans to declare Fiske "unfit for the job," writes Gormley."

In December of 1997, Starr shut down the Whitewater investigation due to insufficient evidence. A month later, Linda Tripp called Deputy Independent Counsel Jackie Bennett and said she had taped conversions with Monica Lewinsky about an affair with the President.Gormley says the time he spent writing his book led him to believe that the Clinton impeachment was a precursor for today's divided political landscape."

I believe this point of view - that this incident was the catalyst for our country's divide. I recall prior to Bush that the emotional factor between red and blue didn't exist...at least not to the degree it does today.

When Gore and Bush went at it in 2000 it was a blood bath in my office. You were either Gore or Bush there were no fence sitters - hell, we were still fighting over the impeachement. It brought people to tears when they GAVE Bush the win...and make no mistake, FL Courts handed it over - but that's for another day.

A switch was pulled in the United States and whether Starr was manning it or if it were the Republican Party it doesn't really matter anymore. It's not a question of who put this country on its side by flipping the switch but how do we turn it off?

How do we rid ourselves of these two corrupted groups of individuals claiming to work in our best interest? It's painfully obvious they DO NOT work in OUR best interest. If we could get the majority of registered Repubs and Dems to change their voting status to INDEPENDENT ... maybe THAT would wake up Washington! Maybe that would let them know to move off their platforms and hypocrisy and back room dealing pork barrel spending BS!

So, I am changing my voter's registration to indicate Independent from Democrat. Not that I don't appreciate the TRUE party's platform but those who "serve" currently are an embarassment on BOTH sides of the line. Wouldn't it be nice if THEY were laid off and had to live on unemployment today...Get a real job!

RIP MTV

2010-02-10T12:01:00.003-07:00

For the first time in 30 +/- years, MTV changed its logo removing the tag line below "Music Televisino." This saddens me...am I being dramatic?

No! MTV, MUSIC TELEVISION, was a staple; a right of passage of my adolesence and young adulthood.

Not that it evolved into much of a music television station...frankly, it's been a very long time since it could be considered MUSIC television.

I suppose this change of icon just officially represents what my generation and I already knew to be true...MTV passed a loooonnnngggg time ago, unfortunately. RIP MTV Music Television.

Go Portia!

2010-02-09T16:39:00.003-07:00

Ms. de Rossi is being honored by the HRC (Human Rights Campaign) for being outspoken for equal rights. If you recall, she and Ellen DeGeneres were married not all that long ago and (especially) since then she's been doing interviews and on talk shows openly discussing her married life with Ellen and being "out" in general.

She's featured in next month's Advocate (March issue) with a detailed interview on her private life and career, etc. Great photo shoot from the prev I saw online. Looking very old Hollywood in much of the shoot; don't think she's ever looked better.

What a beautiful human being, inside and out!

Gettin' bigger

2010-02-02T14:00:00.002-07:00

Her and Ally have been side by side eating, sleeping, playing! They were running in and out of the house through the doggy door - of course til Hon and I saw them and then Ally let out a bark, "ya botherin' me!" style. So glad she's enjoying Sasha! My old gal!

waa waa waaaaaaaa

2010-01-27T12:40:00.004-07:00

So not impressed...who the hell am I...? but really - all the hype over the next product and its an oversized ITOUCH or a half a laptop or...both?

I'm no fan of reading books off a monitor so I am not a Kindle fan either. I prefer the feel of paper between my fingers, the smell the binding (or is that the glue?). Perhaps in that world (media books) this is revolutionary but if I'm throwing $500 +/- for some technology, I want it protected with a cover such as one that is a LAPTOP!

Seriously, they're made small enough now that it's no larger than this "tablet" Apple just produced to generate more cash flow in a rather stagnent marketplace.

Tech Find or fad?

How fast they grow!

2010-01-18T09:00:00.009-07:00

The first pic is her at 6wks that I was emailed from the owner when I "found" her. The second is her at 7 wks after we took her home.

Here are also some new pics of the kids with Sasha. She's 8 weeks old today! These pics are actually from last week so she's already grown since THESE pictures. Such a big girl and getting the potty training down fairly well ...as long as she has that doggy door.

The girls are getting along fabulously - they are playing together and walking the yard as a pack! Ally, the 15 yr old, probably spends the most time with her which just makes me so very happy - *sniff* welling up already just writing it...anyhow, (breathe) I am very glad she fits in so well. Ally needed her as did I and the kids. Hon isn't crazy about puppy pee-ness but it's a phase that they will both get through...lol!

She really took to Chloe - attacks her every chance she gets and Chloe will call her name, pat her legs, and make kissy noises to get Sasha's attention. It's so cute the way those two get along. Grayson likes her until she starts kissing his face - then he starts crying and looking for higher ground.

Snow pics

2010-01-18T07:57:00.008-07:00

Finally got SOME of the pics from our trip to Flagstaff. Hon was sick so not everyone went.
The weather was beautiful - 49 F with blue skies and sunshine which was great since the BOGOs refused to wear gloves or mittens... think it freaked them out as if their hands went missing. Anyway, they had a blast; looking forward to going again really soon with the whole family now that I know they can handle it.

I was a bit nervous on how they would like the snow and the cold, etc. They both enjoyed the hills very much - Gray and I even took the bigger hill on and he smiled from ear to ear!

The kids really had fun with them up there as well - that's why the eldest came in the first place - didn't want to miss their first snow experience. She swears she is going to steal them some day. Get in line, sister!

Been sick forever...

2010-01-17T12:56:00.009-07:00

...so I haven't been to work which is where I tend to blog...hm?

So much has gone on in the past couple months. We had the kids' party again this year and they had a blast.

Chloe and Grayson were a bit more put off by santa than in the past. They definitely behaved like twins when it came to checking out the bearded man - Grayson got a bit more upset though and vacated early regardless of gift in hand.

Finally, Chloe found another GIRL friend in the mix - all of our friends have boys except Angel who is a bit older than Chloe so when Taylor Rae came along we were ecstatic - she's her new buddy; they played with ponies all night and we are really looking forward to playdates!!

Gray hung out with the guys - as usual. He was ready to charge after nap time. The kids decorated cookies, played outside in the yard, and hung out watching movies.
It looked like snow on the ground with all of the popcorn left behind...dogs had a field day when they were turned loose on it!

Hon took tons of pics - I think her final count was somewhere over 400 - she gets very excited about her new toys!

We got group shots of the kids (for the most part) and a group shot of all the adults (although some were forced) and everyone had a nice time.

The kids really enjoyed themselves, they get to see Santa, have their pic taken without the mall line, and spend some time with each other just playing around and eating good food (and desserts!!).

We had a blast during the White Elephant - Deb stole the prize everyone wanted and we had some laughs - this year we also had some parents' moms make it which was very awesome.

It is interesting to see how the kids grow and change, especially towards Santa. Looking forward to hosting next year already!

New edition...

2010-01-05T22:52:00.004-07:00

...on New Year's Eve! Meet Sasha...a present for the family - the kids adore her and the dogs, even Ally, who just turned 15 this Christmas day (she is a Christmas baby). I have never seen her as considerate towards a new entry into the house...she usually has this face of disgust but she has been very cool about it. Jesse, in the pic here, is just happy she may have someone to play with. Ella, the baby previously, is probably the least thrilled. She is in the growling phase to establish her position. Sasha just blows her off. hahaha- she is a love bug and will be quite large when full grown. Here she strikes her "wolf" pose butshe is part Great Pyranees (her father was over 120 lbs) and has an Australian Shepherd mother. I don't know how big she will get but I would guess somewhere over 55 and under 80? I am flexible, bigger the better but it's all good. Not sure if her ears will go up yet or not as they are small enough that they might...really just waiting to see how large her feet get so we can get an idea.

We had house guests up until today and we were laughing about checking bags on the way out to ensure no one snuck the pup in. She's been awesome with potty training, kennel training, and even getting used to the leash.
Chloe already knows and calls her name. Grayson just pets her gently saying "nice" which is him repeating after us...not so the dog is nice but that he is, of course...the little gorilla he is, lol.

death among us

2009-12-21T08:22:00.005-07:00

Brittney Murphey's death has been bothering me since I read about it on CNN last evening. Not sure why. There's always this vulnerability that came across whenever she was onscreen. Perhaps it's that she was so young ( much like Heath Ledger ) and promising? Clueless was a huge film of the 90s and it definitely brings back memories...maybe it's just that connection. Many losses in 2009 - Auld Lang Syne.

How I'm feelin'

2009-12-15T12:39:00.002-07:00

You can play the game and you can act out the part
Though you know it wasn't written for you
But tell me, how can you stand there with your broken heart
Ashamed of playing the foolOne thing can lead to another; it doesn't take any sacrifice
Oh, father and mother,and sister and brotherif it feels nice, don't think twice (yes)

Shower the people you love with love
Show them the way that you feel
Things are gonna work out fine if you only will(do as i say, yeah)
Shower the people you love with love
Show them the way that you fee
lThings are gonna be much better if you only will

You can run but you cannot hide
This is widely known
And what you plan to do with your foolish pride
When you're all by yourself alone
Once you tell somebody the way that you feel
You can feel it beginning to ease
I think it's true what they say about the squeaky wheel
Always getting the grease.

Better to shower the people you love with love
(Yes and) show them the way that you feel
(I know) Things are gonna be just fine if you only will
(what i'd like to do to you)Shower the people you love with love
Show them the way you feel
Things are gonna be much better if you only will

Shower the people you love with love
Show them the way that you feel

They say in every life
They say the rain must fall
Just like the pouring rain
Make it rain
Make it rain
Love, love, love is sunshine oh
Oh yes, Make it rain
Love, love, love is sunshine yeah
Oh, right,
Everybody, everybody, everybody, everybody

Thank you, Mr. James Taylor !

Happy Holidays!

2009-12-15T09:57:00.008-07:00

With the climax of the season quickly approaching - no telling how much blog time I'll take so in case this is the last you'll hear from me til after the HOO HAAA - just wanted to wish everyone a safe and fun season.

Hope you get what you want for Christmas...or Hannukkah, Kwanzaa, Boxing Day, Las Posadas, or National Cocoa Day (any and all holidays not included were omitted in error).

Happy Winter Solstice!!

Holiday Reason!!

2009-11-29T15:28:00.004-07:00

There's been much buzz regarding Thanksgiving and the Holiday Season. Mostly the talk has been about how ridiculous or silly it is that we take only one day out of the year to say or realize what we are thankful for. Christmas is the only time we make to be kind to others and are charitable (as a whole) and "good will toward men" - minded.

That may be true - I'm sure it is for the majority of us...we only act with conscious effort to be thankful and kind during this latter time of year. Is that a shame? Sure is. Is it likely to change? Not yet. Is that a horrible thing? There are much worse crimes we are committing.

Now, I am sure if I were to do a historic journey of this blog I'd find my very own words stating something quite similar! As we grow and we learn, our perceptions alter and we evolve. Not that the evolution is necessarily progressive but nonetheless the change is inevitable and - I belive - usually, a positive thing.

Here's the thing...time, like money, is spent recklessly and when you look back, it's very difficult to realize where it all went. Days go by so fast, especially as we get older, it's Thanksgiving again - and it wast JUST HERE!!! We get bogged down in day to day and week to week with work, with kids, pets, friends, grocery shopping, getting water jugs filled and oil changes done! We're on lines for gas, for stamps, for tickets, for a soda at the local Kwik Mart of your choice. Time keeps on slippin...you know the rest. If we actually get to take that day - that ONE day to stop and reflect and appreciate and acknowledge, extend, and feel something - that's awesome. That is what I would call a miracle. Because in our bluetoothed-cell, WiFi-booked, Tweet-facebook mentality - that's a lot of time!
We get in our "good" clothes, sit around a table together (which for some is the only time of year), and take pictures that in our later years we will truly appreciate. We make phone calls, or shout outs on FaceBook or Twitter or MySpace, to those we don't see or even think of often. We take an extra few minutes to hold the doors for people, to help them pick up their dropped packages, load their cars, or let them ahead of us in line. It would be nice if we behaved like this daily (and some do) - but that's not reality and that's not likely to change. The idea that we can see this and take six weeks to do the right thing and be the people we want to be and breathe and look inside from out, makes this time of year a great couple of months.

Of course, after the New Year and resolutions are in, so is the self-loathing (and all that comes with it) but hey, that's not til next year so we'll worry about that then. Hope everyone takes the time alotted (hurry...tick tock -lol) to appreciate themselves and those special in their lives. Happy Holidays!

Glenn Beck Humor

2009-11-22T08:28:00.001-07:00

Funny stuff! Found this clip and thought it quite funny - since I've been a bit negative in my writing lately thought I'd lighten up a bit.

Sherrif Joe Schmo!

2009-11-18T12:51:00.003-07:00

Not that this is new to anyone in the know but Joe has publicly declared he and his posse are above the law they are hired and voted upon to enforce. How nice! What a perk!!

After the media blasted the footage of a MCSO deputy STEALING priveledged documents from a defense table and making copies the judge held the hearing that was currently in progress and the deputy was held in contempt. Charges still seem up in the air on what the final infraction will be as far as tampering with evidence, etc. but the judge did make one demand.

The officer was ordered by a judge to hold a press conference to apologize for his actions. Judge Donahoe determined Stoddard should hold a news conference outside the Central Court Building by Nov. 30 and offer Cuccia (the defense attorney) "a sincere verbal and written apology for invading her defense file and for the damage that his conduct may have caused to her professional reputation." I personally think he owes the defendent an apology as well for trampeling his rights and rights of others he wasn't caught for but that's just me.

Sheriff Joe Arpaio immediately said this order would be defied.

“My officer was doing his job and I will not stand by and allow him to be thrown to the wolves by the courts because they feel pressure from the media on this situation,” Arpaio said in a press release. "I decide who holds press conferences and when they are held regarding this Sheriff’s Office.” 'Cause you the man, JOE!!

I know personally how the system sucks and the MCSO is a joke - they run over a lot of rights, abuse their power, and are incredibly arrogant and feel, as shown here, above the rest. Just because someone wears a badge it doesn't make them above lying - they're still just as human as everyone else despite their own god-complexes.

If Stoddard refuses, or Cuccia is not satisfied with the apology, Donahoe ordered Stoddard to report to jail on Dec. 1 - where I'm sure he'll be given real food, a mattressed cot, security from the other inmates, blah blah blah...whatever.

Joe, it's not the media that's fed up with your bullshit - it's the public that voted and mostly DIDN'T vote you into office that's tired of it. There's not a single viable reason in the universe for that officer to steal and copy those pages. Did you think they were laced with something??? Really, contraband issues???? C'mon - you got caught - just like some of the guys that you've cuffed. Sherrif Joe and his department lack serious ethics...ya think?!

For the video and full details go here.

DUDE!

2009-11-17T14:40:00.003-07:00

Chloe learned a new word from her Uncle Nicky! Came home after work yesterday and she just kept saying it...over and over and over with such enthusiasm. Grayson insisted going to nap with his baseball glove. Yes, I've been grooming him to play since birth but he really does have a knack...throwing both left and right handed very well and wanting the glove to fit both hands too. Guess I know what his Christmas gift will be this year...a right mitt?

They are growing so fast - totally looking forward to the holidays this year. Wasn't really a big thing last season but they understand and appreciate things now. Here are a couple pics Hon took the other day - the play house wall thing was just the funniest thing ever to them; opening and closing the shutters was the bomb!

She so has my cheeks...I apologize nearly daily for them. They're good during the younger years; saves makeup and all, but when you get older they just blaze showing any and all emotion. UGH!

For your reading pleasure

2009-11-15T15:31:00.002-07:00

Here is the website created to tackling this Temple issue for anyone who wants to know what's going on and why.

Appeal to whom?

2009-11-15T12:55:00.004-07:00

So the city council voted 10-0 in FAVOR of rezoning the neighborhood where 96% of the homeowners do not agree. Hmm? Is there something wrong with this picture? Why would city council, who obviously doesn't live in the area or give a RAT's ASS what those living there want, piss off the neighborhood who vote for them? Could it be money? Were people given an incentive to look another way?

For those not involved directly - here's what the media doesn't let you know:

Two homes were bought by the church where the back half of the 1 acre properties were made part of the PUD rezoning request - how was this accomplished? The city has been arbitrary in grating special privileges in the zoning process:

· Although the ground floor has open air view from the ground floor to the ceiling 65 feet above, the height is being interpreted by the planning staff to be only 40 feet. The opening to 65 feet is through circular holes that the chandelier suspension passes through.

· Although the building has almost 30,000 square feet, they are only providing an additional 100 spaces, and “sharing 197 spaces with the adjacent meeting house. The application calculates the parking requirement based on 7,000 square feet.

· Although the largest traffic component comes from the Temple Visitors , these traffic numbers are not included in the applicant’s traffic report.

· Although a General Plan Amendment is required for a rezoning over 10 acres, the applicant is not being required to file and amendment.

· Instead of the application listing the intended uses and activities on the site, they are being allowed to define their uses as “just like the Mesa Temple ”. Questionable considering that is in a different municipality.

· Does the fact that 96% of the neighbors in a one square mile, (centered on the site) have signed petitions in opposition, carry any legal weight?

· Thelda Williams stated at a neighborhood meeting, that the other council members will all vote for this and one of them will make the motion to approve, so she avoids angering her district.

It's interesting how people online keep trying to slant this against the Mormon religion when any building by another name would be equally as fought against. It's an eyesore because it stands over 100 feet tall including the illuminated (lit up/glowing/whatever) spire! Stop trying to make this about your religious persecution and realize it's those who LIVE IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD that are being ignored and persecuted. We live here, we chose to live here for a reason, and any building that blocks the skies and diminishes our way of life is oppressing - build it across the street near the water park or in Surprise, as I understand a location was already approved there in case this doesn't work out.

Those representing the church and the church themselves continue to talk about making concessions and being good neighbors when it's just lipspeak because if they really gave a shit they'd move it elsewhere. No one is saying you can't build it but it doesn't suit the area which is why you are left forcing it down our throats. LDS made this about their religion; their members made this about their religion - not the neighborhood.

This is my home; I don't care if my home values increase as I plan to retire here. I'm not looking to regain what I've lost - break even - and look at this eyesore. And YES, there will be an increase in traffic - blowing through my neighborhood streets with no sidewalks, for our children to be in jeopardy of those bypassing church traffic.

How city council can simply ignore the letters, protests, and outcrys during meetings is beyond me. Is their dollar that powerful they can override an entire community who actually LIVES there? It's so infuriating - the system doesn't work - it's bought and paid for.

So we have hired a lawyer, contributed time, work, and money to the cause to file an appeal. Only the lawyers win...Living in America!

What weekend?

2009-11-08T10:18:00.008-07:00

Busy busy weekend...scalped and reseeded the lawn, replanted a couple of trees, sanded-stained-stripped-sanded-stained the new dining table, rehomed (and then rehomed some more guinea pigs), and Grayson got his first official haircut!

To begin with, the kids had six GPs at their dad's that once belonged to a cousing who went to college and could no longer keep them. We rehomed them from their dad's to our house and then a friend of a friend who had just lost their's to pneumonia after being under Vets care took two of them home.

We now have a mother, father, 5 day-old baby, and a 4-month old sibling. I have no idea of the sex of the newborn or the 4-month old but mom and newbie are in one cage and dad and the teen are in another. I'll have to get pics-they are pretty cool.

Looking for a home for dad asap but plan on keeping the newbie. I am in the process of litter training Mellow, newbie's name, and the bogos just get such a kick out them. Granted they can't handle them, especially Gray, he's very excited. The kids want to keep mom and the teen so we'll see how it goes and just take it day at a time.

Grayson had his haircut this weekend...his hair was getting lengthy and Hon felt it was time to set him down and trim it proper. She did a nice job - although I wasn't a huge fan of spiky-do. After bathtime we combed it out and I was happier with the result. They are growing so fast...she had a house trim which still took two of us wrestling with her to get done. Nope, no salon treatment for her for a while yet...what a pistol!

Road Trip

2009-10-26T17:10:00.006-07:00

Heading to visit mom again - leaving out tomorrow am. I'll miss the babies, and the kids, and of course, Hon but it will be good to go alone and take the drive. Flying into Memphis and have a 3 1/2 hour drive to Doniphan, Mo. Have no idea about Doniphan; my brother just moved there with my mother a few months ago. I was just getting acquainted with St. Louis...oh well.

The weather is for shit all week long - T storms and Rain. I return Friday through another TStorm and then Saturday thru next Wed. they expect sunshine and clear skies...LMFAO!

Anyhow, I've got my CDs and Ipod ready to travel...now just have to do laundry and pack clothing and toiletries...PRIORITIES MAN!!!???

Elected official doesn't believe in Interracial Marriage???

2009-10-16T08:20:00.002-07:00

Hm? This sounds so familiar!! Read more here. Found this on CCN this am and was intrigued at how so many people found this appalling and asked for the JOP to step down from the position as he chose not to marry people for being an interracial couple. Apparently, he did this to protect the kids that may spring from this union. He said he wasn't racist but couldn't personally endorse the marriage so his wife referred the couple to someone who could help them out.

The couple, feeling discriminated against, were married 10/09 yet still went to an attorney to file against the JOP who did not perform the ceremony. Now, one of the arguments against allowing homosexuals the right to marry is that we would be forcing people that do not endorse these marriages to perform them or face litigation, as in this case. People not endorsing homosexual marriages are for similar reasons as given by this JOP. The parallels are uncanny - and to think, Loving v. Virginia gave them the leg up on this.

There is no good reason for denying anyone the right to marry another (consenting adult). Of course you have to add consenting adult because morons will throw children and animals into it whenever given the chance...or even refer to polygamy, which I still don't care about as long as CONSENTING is the main ingredient. Seeing this matter, we thought resolved decades ago, come up really shows our society - biased as ever, failing as ever, evolving...not so much!

Mormons Rule?

2009-10-05T13:13:00.005-07:00

So they want to build a temple. This will be a temple in my neighborhood that a VERY SMALL PERCENTAGE will actually be allowed to enter. It will hinder the view and tranquility of my neighborhood and increase light pollution every single night. Don't get me started on the increased traffic the two-lane road will suffer under and the arguments supporting this temple are futile.

My property value will not triple; I'll gladly sell to someone interested should that actually occur. The lights from the ballpark and water slides do not hinder my view of the mountains nor the sky as they are in the opposite direction and AWAY from the mountains of Thunderbird Park. The water slide was re-built (as in, already existed) and beautified when remodeled - and EVERYONE is entitled to come and go as they please during business hours. The same cannot be said for the temple. Lastly, why build something where the majority of the neighborhood doesn't want you there?

"The church wants to be a good neighbor, if there are concessions that need to be made they are willing to look into it, " said representative of the church Paul Gilbert.

...Yea, I'll be over for decaf coffee and cookies! A good neighbor would take space in a commercial area where they would be more welcomed. Let's see if the size decreases or the spire goes without a light...I can't imagine what concessions would TRULY be considered.

There is a fight brewing but according to most articles I've read, City Councilwoman Thelda Williams, who is the mediator between the church and the neighborhood, has gone on record,

"The option can't be, we just can't have it, period."

Everyone knows the mormon money shadows the land and wins their battles...let's look back to Prop 8 from almost a year ago. So, although I'm not opposed to stopping this temple from being built, I'm not sure I will invest much energy in doing so as it doesn't look like that's an "option." Just don't placate me that you're considering concessions - that's lying and we deserve more respect from "good neighbors" than that.

Sick sux...

2009-09-29T13:56:00.001-07:00

Home sick today...yuck! Took the kids to their 8 year old cousin's birthday party last Saturday at Peter Pipers...aka kiddie germ fest. Guess what boobie prize I apparently came home with???? BOGOs had a lot of fun though playing Wack-a-mole and Skee ball. Chloe was not a big fan of the rides, however. Good to know before the State Fair blows into town as I was wondering whether or not to take them...now I know...wait til next year!

BTW - Kleenex brand with lotion SUCKS!!! Stick to Puffs Plus for true comfort and consideration for your nose. Just sayin'...

Busy busy weekend...

2009-09-23T08:36:00.007-07:00

Had a great time this weekend with Hon and my sister. She's moving this Thursday for Oregon ... still working through that one. I purchased tix for the Fall Frenzy for our anniversary and Pink tix for Hon's b-day. When I asked my sister what she was doing she said she was seeing Rob Thomas on Friday and Pink, Sunday - what were we up to. So I said we were doing the same thing. "Really!?!" So for her last weekend in AZ we got to hang out...which was probably the most we spent time together, ever. Except when visiting my mother...maybe.

Anyway, the show Friday night was great fun. It was held outdoors at Tempe Beach and started at 4pm and went to midnight - the weather was perfect! Colbie Caillat started the show and was wonderful to hear live. Gavin Rossdale took the stage after Colbie and did some Bush tunes as well which I totally appreciated. The B-52s, whom I do enjoy, perhaps overstayed their welcome. They played more obscure (or new?) stuff that just didn't fair well at all ... considering the line-up I think they were just a bad match.

Jason Mraz re-started the crowd and did an amazing job...OMG...he was a pleasure to watch and made me a fan. "Dynamo of Volition" is by far my favorite song of his and as everyone said, he's a great live show!

Rob Thomas was the headliner and closed the evening with what felt like the quickest set ever. His set was cut short due to them running late and the city closing the stage down at midnight. So that was a bummer although, he did actually play for an hour but I suppose it just flew by. Hon and my sister swooned when he stepped up to the mic, along with half the crowd. All in all it was a very nice evening.

Saturday was Jo's b-day so we chilled around the house and then Sunday night met my sister at Westgate for the Pink concert.

Ting Tings opened - they were fun but nothing substantial. Retro pop sound with a nice up-beat party feel, they've had some airplay with "That's Not My Name" and "Shut Up and Let Me Go".

We scored floor tix - I bought them back in May - and met up with some friends near the stage. We were just left of the catwalk about four people from the stage. I would have really appreciated being taller but fortunately most of the crowd were near my height so it wasn't too bad.

The lights dimmed, a carnival-muscle-body guy came down the catwalk and began cranking this box. Suddenly, the stage floor opened up right beside us and Pink is being pulled up on this harness covered in an overly large feathered pink boa. She began making her way towards the stage by the time I got my cell phone snapping...DRAT!

Can't say enough about her performance. She was amazing; far exceeding any expectations. She sounds perfect live; danced beautifully, and even with a dislocated shoulder - she put on one hell of a show.

Her cover of Divinyls "I Touch Myself" was hot - slithering around a chaise lounge with hands coming through the fabric to "assist" her while she sang the lyrics...hmmmm.

Then she really opened up her Rock Chops when she sang Zeppelin's "Babe, I'm Gonna Leave You" which was OUTSTANDING! Her lead guitarist, sorry - don't know his name, was spectacular. The crowd was obviously unfamiliar with this song as they certainly didn't respond in kind. He was robbed the gratitude his performance deserved. Great job, Pink and if by some odd chance this blog should reach you - YOU NEED TO PUT THIS COVER ON A RECORD!!!

She also covered Bohemian Rhapsody, which Meyers brought back to fame with Wayne's World which is why I think the crowd responded as well as it did. She did a great job on that as well, and then covered Crazy, which the younger crowd knew...I did not. She sounded great and I actually prefer her version to Gnarls Barkley's.

The performance overall was very well executed and I'd compare it to a Cirque du Soleil in many aspects; the costuming and makeup, the choreography, and the style. I would recommend her show to anyone - she's a fantastic performer who you can see still enjoys performing and sounds even better live than in the studio - HOW RARE!!!! And her body is slammin...some of the costumes she wore really showed off her hard work.

You Rock, PINK!!!! I've even more respect for you!

Tough decisions

2009-09-15T17:09:00.006-07:00

Almost three years ago (Christmas 2006), my Hon bought me the car I always wanted ... a Saab.

I blogged about it, showed of pics, detailed her regularly, and now 33 months later, I still adore this car. Now this really says something. I, once upon a time, blew through cars every year. Not that it was economically wise but I would trade in my car for a new one just about every year. If I was over 50K miles it was time to go shopping. Once I cleaned my rims and the cleanser permanently scarred the finish ... time to get a new car. I would get bored, miss that new car smell, want something completely different (i.e. Jetta to 4x4 Tracker convertible).

Sad thing is, she's not feeling well. The engine light has returned, a couple of window motors have become fatigued, and she's some cosmetic issues both interior and exterior. The sun is damaging her vinyl touches and rubber moldings, and most importantly, she's jerking around on some morning and losing her pep; her zeal!

I've been eye-balling this Lexus IS250 with a/c seats, bose stereo, and shinier components...but I'm just riddled with guilt. In the past I've always had that pang of guilt when trading in the car but this one is different. I really want to keep her to maintain her, to retire with her. She holds a lot of sentimental value to me and I truly have not grown bored or tired of her but economically I may need to let her go. I don't know that I can do that.

Ideally, this transition won't occur for at least 6 months or more. I have that time to really get to compare the pros to cons list and figure out what's best for both of us. I'd like to think she would end up with someone who loves and appreciates her as much but there's never any guarantees of that. I'm her second owner - 2 is my fave number - that says something, somewhere, right? Yea, not so much but there's still this connection. I knew the moment I saw her at the end of that lot I was taking her home - she would be mine to love and cherish. Yea, I'm not sold on giving her up - everyone's telling me it's time to let her go but I'm not convinced...not yet anyway.

When we get on the open road and I'm using the manual shift, the moonroof open, and the stereo pumped, I can tell she's excited. Even Hon can tell when she's in the mood to run. That's the sweetest feeling...absolutely no hesitation...I actually have to hold her back! Tough decision indeed. Glad I've time to consider.

Santa Monica Pier - 100 YEARS OLD!!!

2009-09-07T15:26:00.020-07:00

On September 09, 1909 the Santa Monica Pier opened to a crowd filled with anticipation. What was originally built as a public utility service, the SMP has proven to be an icon worthy of all the visitors and community that play and enjoy all that she has to offer. The 1,600 foot long pier began in 1908 and took 16 months to finish. The purpose? ... to carry sewage out to sea. How wonderful!?

Fortunately, the imagination and interest of the community squashed that idea. Fishermen began flocking to the edge since opening day. Popeye, the famous cartoon character, is thought to be created after Olaf Olsen, a retired sailor that frequented the pier.

People would come to enjoy the outdoors, stroll the pier, spend time with family, and within a few years plans were drawn to add an amusement park.

In the 1920s the Ferris Wheel was erected and the landscape remained the same ever since, despite efforts to tear it down in the early 70's for a resort. The community rallied and protested and created a historic preservation for the pier. Tragedy struck again in 1983 when storm after storm left the pier missing a third of itself - donations and determination allowed the pier to make a comeback.

It's a wonderful vision - after 100 years - to see that ferris wheel in the sunset. Just down the road apeice is my favorite locale, Venice Beach home to Muscle Beach - and other eccentric sorts of afternoon frivolty. What a spectacular place to go - now that summer is over it's that much more magical, in the autumn weather with the season over, to stroll the boardwalk and mosey down the pier.

On this day...

2009-09-07T06:43:00.005-07:00

1996: Tupac Shakur was shot in Las Vegas (he died six days later)

I'm not a huge fan of rap - especially now that it is used in EVERY SINGLE SONG on the radio (which I also find not very worthy) but "back in the day" there was some really true talent.

Tupac's personal life was very shady at best but his voice - don't know what it is but he had the most incredible sound - must have hit some chakra for me?
He had this bounce to his rhythm and the flow was insane. Controversial to say the least but his music lives on and on. He would flash that smile and those big brown eyes and you'd just appreciate his "California Love" but my favorite is "How do You Want it?"

UGH! Why does the season have to end???

2009-08-26T12:31:00.004-07:00

SOOOOoooooooo looking forward to next year/season. What a great show - great acting - great writing - great creators!!!

Great musicians - shout out to Wendy and Lisa! There are some slivers of watchable tv left...teeny tiny slivers...

Waiting on a meeting...

2009-08-24T17:22:00.002-07:00

and because I have time to kill...

1. What time did you get up this morning? 5:22 AM
2. How do you like your steak? Just rare of medium rare
3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema? The Hangover
4. What is your favorite TV show? ...of all time... Moonlighting, lately Nurse Jackie
5. If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be? Amsterdam
6. What did you have for breakfast? bacon cheese egg burrito
7. What is your favorite cuisine? Mediterranean
8. What foods do you dislike? liver, lima beans, brussel sprouts, condiments in general, and combined foods like mashed potatoes and corn...shudder!
9. Favorite Place to Eat? Melting Pot
10. Favorite dressing? Used sparingly I prefer a walnut raspberry vinaigrette or caeser
11.What kind of vehicle do you drive? 2003 Saab or 2008 Town n Country
12. What are your favorite clothes? Jeans and polo shirt
13. Where would you visit if you had the chance? Greece, Spain, India
14. Cup 1/2 empty or 1/2 full? ½ full,
15. Where would you want to retire? at a lakehouse - on GOLDEN POND
16. Favorite time of day? Working in the yard.
17. Where were you born? NY, NY
18. What is your favorite sport to watch? Tennis - but I seldom care to watch any sport
19. Who do you think will not tag you back? irrelevant
20. Person you expect to tag you back first? equally irrelevant
21. Who are you most curious about their responses to this? still irrelevant
22. Bird watcher? I duck when they near my car...!
23. Are you a morning person or a night person? Night. I tend not to "wake up" til at least 10am regardless of what time I physically left my bed. But by 2pm I'm alive!!!
24. Do you have any pets? LOTS
25. Any new and exciting news you’d like to share? Got the yard done in time for bulk trash?!?!
26. What did you want to be when you were little? vet, meterologist, writer, professor...
27. What is your best childhood memory? Going to see a movie with my mom - just us
28. Are you a cat or dog person? Dog
29. Are you married? pretty much
30. Always wear your seat belt? Yes.
31. Been in a car accident? Yes.
32. Any pet peeves? Not enough time
33. Favorite Pizza Toppings? Cheese, pepperoni, peppers, onions, olives(all kinds)
34. Favorite Flower? Tulip
35. Favorite ice cream? Ben & Jerry’s NY Super Chunk Fudge
36. Favorite fast food restaurant? El Pollo Loco - lovin' their bbq cxn sliders!
37. How many times did you fail your driver’s test? None
38. From whom did you get your last email? Hon's mom
39. Which store would you choose to max out your credit card? Physically - DSW Online - Amazon
40. Do anything spontaneous lately? I need to think about the answer to answer...answer your question...?
41. Like your job? Been much better lately
42. Broccoli? Just don't overcook it
43. What was your favorite vacation? Really enjoyed the train last year - and the quickie Vegas jaunt earlier this year...really desperate for ANY kind of vacation.
44. Last person you went out to dinner with? Don't even recall going OUT!
45. What are you listening to right now? Toni Braxton
46. What is your favorite color? Green
47. How many tattoos do you have? None.
48. How many are you tagging for this quiz? None
49. What time did you finish this quiz? 05:37
50. Coffee Drinker? Not since I stoppped being the Barista.

Still have 20 min til mtg time-DRATS!

Pic Post

2009-08-16T17:49:00.007-07:00

My goodness they are growing so fast. I was cataloging pics to print off to send to my mom. This was several going out. Going back through the past few months it is remarkable how much has changed for them. They walk - RUN - now; vocabulary is growing and they are off formula and bottles and eat dinner with us and love to read (be read to) all the time! It's been an amazing adventure...

Wrigleys Night Out

2009-08-16T14:22:00.005-07:00

SWAY held a fund-raiser last night for Phoenix Pride and we attended with some friends to support the community.

Hon was going to be DD; since the boys are 6+ feet tall, the back of the SAAB wasn't happening so we took Patrick's ride. He plugged in the address, started his IPOD video, and we cruised down SR-51 to the Wrigley Mansion. I learned watching TV while riding in the truck was equal to trying to read while riding in a vehicle. Instant nausea...I do not understand how kids watch DVDs in the cars??? Oh, btw, I did manage to "suffer" my way through the Beyonce "Sweet Dreams" video - OMG she is looking stellar! Can I just say that? Hm, guess so...

After entering the mansion, we looked over the silent auction, lost at the raffle, grabbed a couple round of drinks and passed on the flying sushi that was walked by via platters. Geordie's had a limited menu but we chilled for some grub and met up with another couple of friends who had arrived earlier.

It was really nice to get out of the house for a few hours. Grandma and Grandpa came over to watch the babes at home. Taking advantage of the time, we headed to a club afterwards for a few more drinks and some music. DJ was a disapointment. Do they even have to have a mixing talent any longer?? The man was just throwing sshhhtuff out there...but it was still nice having some grown up time.

Getting in the door about 2am - thankfully I had the foresight to take the following day (today) off. After getting the babes breakfast, we laid down with them at nap time. THAT was really nice! Just having that time; nice night-leisure morning. Been a long time coming.

Another sad day...

2009-08-06T18:22:00.007-07:00

My uncle passed last week and his services were today. It was very well done, the family, once again, all gathered and ate and chatted and shared stories. Then on the ride home, the radio played a montage to John Hughes, who, at 59, passed today. This man was my entire teenage years - as I'm sure I share with a major group of people. Seems there's been SO much death lately - for me both personal as well as in the celebrity-dom. WTH!!

So - as a little tribute to my youth whom I shared during my summer vacation when I visited with my uncle I roll my favorite Hughes flicks:

Heathers

Vacation

Some Kind of Wonderful

Ferris Bueller's Day Off

Pretty in Pink

Sixteen Candles

Plane, Trains, and Automobiles

Breakfast Club

it's simply black and white

2009-07-27T11:49:00.002-07:00

In regards to the recent buzz in the media over Harvard professor Henry Louis Gates Jr.'s arrest and the race card being whipped around - the question I have is this...
...if the officer on the scene were African American instead of caucasion officer Sgt. James Crowley, would Mr. Gates behaved in the same fashion?

If someone is sensitive to an issue, they are likely to react erroneously - been there, done that myself. If an officer shows up at my door and asks to prove who I am as a call came in of a possible break in, and I KNOW I just jimmied my way into my own house...well I'd be thankful a neighbor took the intiative to look out for me and called it in and would happily show the officer my id.

Now I am no fan of authority and have been in confrontations with authority figures, including officers, in the past so I'm slanted, if anything, to Gates' point of view, per se. So, if the officer behaved rudely or unjustly then my anti-authority bravado would certainly kick in...but considering the reported events as they took place and were witnessed, and by Gates' own accord, this was not the case. Gates was ranting before anything came to light - he created the situation and overreacted.

Should he have been arrested? Wasn't there; can't say just how beligerant he became and in public view (that was key) but getting angry for being asked to prove ownership due to a CALL IN, not a drive-by...he is sensitive to issues that do truly plague our society. Unfortunately, his behavior only created the wrong kind of attention to a real problem, one that he didn't have.

Lazy post

2009-07-26T18:06:00.005-07:00

Got this passed along online - to kill time I thought I would give it a go...

1)Could you go a day without eating? would prefer not to but I could manage w/ beverage only

2)Have you ever kissed anyone whose name started with a J? Judy @Mardi Gras

3)Do you smoke weed regularly? no

4)Do you think drugs are bad? Only when abused

5)Has anyone ever told you they're in love with you? yes

6)If your ex REALLY needed you at 3 am, would you go to his/her house? yes

7)When was the last time you wanted to punch someone? clerk @ Venice Beach(2 yrs ago)

8)What are the last three things you spent money on? diapers, soda, and gas

9)What was the last thing you cried about? my aunt passed away last week

10)When was the last time you were disappointed? I cannot recall

11)Has a girl ever seriously punched you? Been a looong time

12)What was the last thing you put in your mouth? popcorn

13)Have you kissed two different people in one night? yes

14)Is it easy for others to make you feel awkward? I think so

15)In the past week have you felt stupid? not in the intellectual sense-in the awkward sense

16)Have you ever been outside completely naked? yes

17)What would happen if you had a baby with the last person you kissed? we did; twins

18)Who did you text the most yesterday? no one - I was out of town

19)Do you have any gay/lesbian friends? Yes; a few

20)Have you ever kissed the last person you texted? yes

21)What's one action you do when you're really nervous? bite the sides of my cheek or grind teeth

22)Would you rather give up the computer or the TV? TV

23)Do you find yourself saying mean things to people over the internet that you wouldn't say to their face? No - I don't tend to say mean things at all

24)What were you doing at 10pm Friday night? watched a movie (Push) with the kids

25)What are your plans for today? work - doing it (not)

26)Could you go the rest of your life without smoking a cigarette? yes - doing it

27)What was the last reason you went to the doctor? The twins 1 yr check up; gold stars

28)What is the last thing you yelled aloud? Grayson Michael Henry - when he went for the remote

29)What do you think of when you think of Australia? boomarang-rang-rang

30)One word that explains perfectly how you feel at the moment? bored

31)What did the last text message you received say? great

32)Do you care if people hate you for no reason? I would rather they didn't but I wouldn't dwell on it...for long

33)How hard is your life right now? it's full, not hard

34)Have you ever taken anyone for granted? unfortunately, yes

35)Was this meme fun? killed the time

harley man

2009-07-16T12:08:00.005-07:00

So Gray got a new ride...he's almost able to touch the pedals but he can push the heck out of it. Chloe gives him a run for it but she prefers the firetruck. He will be quite the man's man when he gets older.

Don't ... no pictures, please!

feeling wicked

2009-07-16T11:54:00.003-07:00

For the kids b-days we had anice dinner and movie night. The big ones were annoyed they couldn"t hang with their friends as it was a Friday night but they were forced to stay home with the family and enjoy popcorn and a classic flick.

I wasn't able to rent Wizard of Oz anywhere, nor purchase the movie as it is out of print, nor find it anywhere second hand...online prices were ridiculous. Fortunately my sister had a copy so we borrowed her DVD - apparently a new re-issue is due this year and that is causing the increased value of the previous copies....anyway - we finished dinner and made them line up at the hallway to receive their movie tickets. As we handed them their tickets they started screaming and tearing up - they were tix to Wicked the following week.

The show was a lot of fun and they enjoyed it so much - it was a nice afternoon with everyone and for most of the kids, this was their first play. Although the play is a bit removed from the original story it is still executed so well and has a great impact. Still was just as enjoyable as when hon and I saw it in Chicago.

catching up...

2009-07-16T11:35:00.003-07:00

...here are some pics from Flagstaff Pride in June as well as a day at the lake and Fourth of July.

Flagstaff was beautiful as usual. We met up with some friends of ours and ran into many others so that was a lot of fun. It's amazing how many people we see in Flag from the valley looking to beat the heat and enjoy the music/festivities. They were so much tinier last year - only two months old - this year they are big kids. Wiped out and getting chilly by end of the day - they slept the entire ride home.

They had a blast at Lake Pleasant and had absolutely no fear of the water which was great. Grayson was getting his sunglasses ready for the 4th and Chloe wasn't sure if she was interested in paparazzi that day.

jonesing...

2009-07-14T10:44:00.005-07:00

My cell died. I don't know why - I've been surfing all am to troubleshoot - I've reset soft AND hard and still, I get nothing. I have no facebook, no poking, no wall-to-wall updates; no email notification...

Didn't realize how much I enjoyed Facebook...bummer!

Going to spend my lunch at the provider hoping to either fix or exchange my phone. So sad.

Happy Anniversary - TWENTY years!!

2009-06-30T11:37:00.005-07:00

Wake UP!

Do the Right Thing - twenty years ago. I'd just graduated high school and moved back to NY trying to get as far from AZ as possible. We drove to Rockaway, NJ to see the film. Powerful, emotional, and controversial to say the least.

Spike was ridiculed at the time for not providing the solution at the end, to our society's racial conflicts.

In a recent interview regarding the film's anniversary he was asked about the solution once again,

"That's not my job, I don't have the answer for that. The film was to show what I felt at the time were issues that needed to be dealt with."

I remember the buzz of contempt surrounding the Academy Awards the following spring for lack of representation for such an amazing film. Kim Basinger, while announcing nominees, made an impromptu comment about Do the Right Thing being overlooked intentionally and how the Academy disrespected the work.

Looks like Spike won anyway -

Do the Right Thing is in the top 100 greatest American Movies in Film History according to American Film Institute! That beats an Oscar nod any day, I'd say.

Who's afraid of the colour PINK?

2009-06-29T09:26:00.009-07:00

Well ... little man has Conjunctivitis ... aka Pink EYE!

Poor guy - he's a trooper. The hits just keep on comin' with him and he stands tall with that half smile of his. He had Hon and I up all night last night and we go to the doc's this afternoon to verify what KIND of P.E. it is...viral, allergen, etc.

I have a feeling it's viral since he did just have that cold about a month ago. It's only a matter of time before Chloe gets it. Although, she never did get the cold he and I had a few weeks ago so...she is a rock, that one!!!
Anyhow, a friend of ours popped by last week and Grayson insisted on checking out his ride. He liked the vehicle but was more a fan of the vintage years, I think.

In no particular order...

2009-06-23T17:58:00.003-07:00

...Top 30 DIDs (Desert Island Discs)

Cure Disintegration
Anita Baker Body and Soul
Sarah McLachlan Fumbling Towards Ecstacy
Chris Botti A Thousand Kisses Deep
Seal Seal(Self Titled)
Natalie Merchant Tigerlily
Tori Amos Venus and Back(Dbl CD)
Tori Amos Scarlet's Walk
Darius Rucker Back to Then
Melissa Etheridge Breakdown
Bruce Springsteen Born in the U.S.A.
Tracy Chapman New Beginning
Stevie Nicks Bella Donna
Indigo Girls 1200 Curfews
Diana Krall When I Look in Your Eyes
Simply Red A New Flame
October Project October Project(Self Titled)
City of Angels Soundtrack
Patty Griffin Children Running Through
Bounce Soundtrack
Sade Lovers Live
Paul Hardcastle The Collection
Paul Hardcastle Jazzmasters: Grtst Hits
Maxi Priest Best of Me
Journey Escape
REO Speedwagon Hi Fidelity
Fleetwood Mac Tusk
Marvin Gaye The Very Best of Marvin Gaye
Tony Bennett The Ultimate Tony Bennett
Dean Martin Dino: The Essential Dean Martin
Dinah Washington Definitive Dinah Washington

Breakroom Etiquette

2009-06-23T10:39:00.003-07:00

I work in a three-story building amongst a "compound" of four buildings. Each building has their own break rooms and some offer a cafeteria as well. In my particular building of three stories, each floor has its own breakroom. There is a reocurring issue in these break rooms that my immediate co-workers and I cannot understand.

The breakroom on each floor is approximately 400 to 600 sf in size. One wall contains 4-5 vending machines and the connecting wall hosts several microwaves, a double sink, coffee machine, tea and coffee fixins counter space, an ice and water machine and then the trash and recycling receptacles. The remainder of the room is filled with tables and chairs and a tv in the far corner suspended from the ceiling.

Any time of day, any day of the week, the place is a buzz and on occasion you may see someone utilize the tables and chairs previously mentioned. However, most times, people congrugate DIRECTLY IN FRONT of the vending machines and coffee / microwave counters, holding lengthy conversations, creating an issue and a dodge affect everytime someone comes in to use them.

Why do they do this? Why do they continue to shuffle an inch or two (if they even notice) in every possible direction as necessary instead of USING THE TABLES AND CHAIRS to have their discussion - or hell, even moving to the other side of the room? If you are just running your mouths you obviously you don't need coffee, ice, or a snickers so move your ASSES!

On a lighter note, why, when no one is in the restroom but you, the next person walks in and sits in the stall right next to yours??? I leave you to talk amongst yourselves.

Home Improvement Never Ends

2009-06-22T12:48:00.003-07:00

We were at our local hardware store...again...and after the Bogos had their baths and were ready to relax we trekked off and did some shopping. Since Chloe has been theiving the Firetruck at home from Grayson (and he drove the cart last time) we figured we'd give her a shot at the wheel. He wasn't thrilled at first but once Momma started picking up the pace they got into race car mode and were both tickled!

Why is this man still talking???

2009-06-21T12:35:00.002-07:00

Rush Limbaugh's latest and greatest contribution to society..."I think I’m going to send Sotomayor, and her club, a bunch of vacuum cleaners to help them clean up after their meetings.”

Isn't he the class act? Now, anyone NOT racist listening to this man, is thinking what exactly? When he makes statements such as this do they find it funny, offensive, stupid, irrelevant, or do they even pay attention?

His crass and negative input should not be tolerated by any side of the aisle. Why does the Republican party think they are looked down upon...because they flock to Rush like he's the second coming.

There's the saying that you are who you hang out with - guilty by association - etc. Well, if Rush is on your side then that speaks VOLUMES!! The republicans could have their little government/big corporation beliefs but there's no need to be degrading, childish, and crude. That's just a DUMB and bullying mentality that needs to really go away already.

Then again, I guess he got what he wanted...he's on the mouths of the public again...like nasty funky breath.

What money can buy...

2009-06-16T16:50:00.002-07:00

In the news today...Cleveland Browns wide receiver Donte Stallworth gets 30 days in jail for a DUI manslaughter. Seems he killed a pedstrian while driving his Bently. After his release, Stallworth will face two years of house arrest but wouldn't you know, he can still play professional football.

Stallworth, at the scene, told the arriving officer that he was the driver of the car. He said, "I hit the man lying in the road." His guilt was never in question so why the plea agreement? This wasn't a difficult case to prove and he killed someone while intoxicated; this is not just some regular old accident. If we took a look at Miami's records, I wonder how many others indicted on DUI manslaughter saw a mere 1 month in jail.

On the up-side, his license to drive was revoked for life. Good thing he's still able to play his game to afford a driver. Stallworth agreed to a financial settlement with the Reyes family (the victim's family). Evidently the Reyes family was satisfied with the plea agreement considering a confidential settlement was made resolving the civil suit against Stallworth.

Did the family sell justice or did they make the best of a tragic situation? All the time in jail doesn't give them their love one back but money can apparently buy forgiveness and freedom. I can't truly fault them but where was the state's position in all this? They thought the sentence just?!

Even Martha saw more time than this....c'mon!

Little Pills

2009-06-15T10:06:00.005-07:00

So the babes are walking about and getting into whatever they can. We established "the pit" (which is essentially the sunk-in living room and dining area) as a safety zone. No shoes/socks, chemicals, etc., or mouth-sized items are allowed in this area. Well, our old entertainment setup, now that they are standing on two legs, wasn't adequate.

See, Chloe likes to touch everything especially if you tell her no. She would mess with the stereo knobs, move the channel changer guides around so the TIVO couldn't change the cable box, and forget about the hand prints all along the bottom of the plasma. So, we went to our trusty Craigslist friends and scoured for a TV armoire.

We needed something at least 44" wide and preferably 72" or more tall that would enclose all the elements. Killing two birds, it would streamline the room from clutter, protect the equipment from troubled hands, and provide storage for the Rock Band gear - also protecting them from little hands.

After weeks of searching, I landed a goldmine. Two hundred buck, some hardware, and a few coats of poly stain and we had ourselves one heavy armoire. They stared in awe at the new furniture in their space. We set it up, put all the gear in, turned it on. They were in complete and total amazement.

Then Chloe, the pill that she can be, found the doors. Seeing his sister playing with them Grayson found the door on the other side and played along.

They are JUST in reach of those same little hands and all last night they played with them; of course, despite the "NO" cries from the couch.

Pic is awful but the cell cam doesn't have flash - you get the idea...she (on the left) is a pistol!

We should all PASS on DePass!

2009-06-15T07:10:00.003-07:00

Just another ignorant example from a GOP member:

...former chairman of South Carolina's Election Commission apologized after posting on Facebook suggesting a gorilla that escaped from a Columbia zoo was an ancestor of first lady Michelle Obama.

After the gorilla’s escape, Rusty DePass posted: "I’m sure it’s just one of Michelle’s ancestors — probably harmless."

THIS is a racist statement - no question. He lamely apologized stating he was only commenting on something she herself had referenced regarding evolution. However no findings on such statement has been made by myself or the news media. Nice try.

White, republican, man speaking his truth ... continues to remind us why they are SO out of it. DePass, you can never apologize enough - this was not a mistake, a blunder, a misspeak. You're an ass, plain and simple.

1st B-day BOGOs

2009-06-05T10:43:00.008-07:00

So last week we had the babes 1st year party along with the eldest H.S. Grad party. The kids spent a week on creating a new and improved mud pit. We used the bobcat to excavate a space, dropped near 2 tons of screened/filtered quality dirt upon a Queen egg crate mattress pad all on top of a $25.00 tarp to create the essence of comfort while gettin down n dirty. It paid off. Kids had a blast.

We also rented a blow up dual water slide. Can't wait for the water bill?!?! Got more trees in and set a up a stage for the Kareoke which made our neighbors ears bleed well into the night. We finally closed it down around 11pm and the kids all crashed in the living room.

I was grill master throughout the day and night. The babies napped and were opposite (of all days) so we had two separate singing/cake moments - which I think may have actually worked better. We had one cake after lunch and the other after dinner.

We did manage one photo of all of us and several during the events. Grandpa worked for the previous week on restoring some old wood rocking horses he happened upon. He was very proud and everyone ranted and raved about them.

Anyway, everyone had a really great time - we partied from 1pm til midnight and thankfully I had the forsight to take the next day off from work. We RESTED the entire next day!

Stupid is as stupid does...part deux...

2009-05-26T10:54:00.005-07:00

Calif. high court upholds gay-marriage ban

This state is bankrupt in more way than in just the financial.

California is upholding the approx. 18,000 gay marriages that took place prior to the vote ... exactly how does that work???

Will those who did marry really receive the respect deserved? No.

California sucks! I am furious. This country is still backwards after all these years...when will it learn from history? I am getting tired of waiting.

What if homosexuals (and those supporting ), in turn, BAN CALIFORNIA? Watch how fast that government, that state, crumbles. Who do you think contributes so much money into your system? If those who lived there, supplying you with property tax, sales tax, and income tax, among others - were to leave, how fast would your state sink? The voters margin wasn't that large - take their incomes into consideration and you will lose more money than you think.

Consider visitors as well. If homosexuals (and supporters) take their money to travel elsewhere this will create some hurt on the state as well. Will it happen - I would really hope so. I travel to CA usually once if not more per year. I give Mickey his money along with the boardwalk, hotels, restaurants, etc. Not anymore.

When you consider we are celebrating the idea of the first Latin Woman Supreme Ct Justice (if confirmed) but marriage is still a battle ground? Hello, it is 2009! We are still pushing for equality in TWO THOUSAND AND GODDAMNED NINE??? We ranted over the first AA POTUS only months ago, now a Latin justice. Hell, even IOWA accepted marriage should be legal. WTF Cali?

They aren't the only state with the ban but to have made it available, then to take it away, and again have it reinforced - it's just disgusting. The people of California supporting this decision are disgusting. I hope their children and the generations that follow can live with the embarrassment they've created.

Stupid is as stupid does...

2009-05-25T15:52:00.005-07:00

and that stupid is whoever is running the Circle K "summer" beverage discount.

So I walk in to the kitty litter infested (see prev post for more details) convenience store, Circle K, this afternoon with my QT cup to refill. It's a 32oz. so I figure the sale price for the Circle K 32 oz. Thirstbuster should still apply. Nope. Refills are $.96.

That's right. I was asked to pay MORE money for not using a cup. So I was told it was cheaper to use a new cup than a refill. I did my time at a Circle K near two decades ago and they didn't inventory cups however, according to the clerk, they do now.

After grabbing the cup out of the sleeve, I paid the clerk, walked over to the trash can and threw away a brand new cup. They weren't advocating the policy; merely upholding it. Another patron in the store thought it was pretty damn dumb as well. But someone is getting paid the BIG BUCKS to make these kind of decisions that us simple folk just can't seem to understand.

Yes, this country is facing a deficit of magnanimous proportions. Does the CEO of Circle K by chance work for the government too?!

Kill your TV?

2009-05-18T09:36:00.006-07:00

It's already dead. Trying to catch up on all the shows that once were I have come to terms with my shows being cancelled. I am no longer in denial - I am now in the angry phase.

Can someone, anyone, explain how a piece of shit show such as LOST stays on air season after season yet Life on Mars is cancelled?

Survivor continues, hell, even Big Brother continues yet there is no more Dirty Sexy Money - no Swingtown?!?!?!

Television is seriously lacking any real creative writing, acting, talent of any kind. These programs were clever, funny, conniving, interesting!

Bravo bought the rights to Swingtown so we were excited however I found out they only bought the existing 13 episodes to re-air. They have no interest in producing a second season and since they DO own the 1st no other channel/network will be interested in producing it either. WTH!!!

Just another reflection on our denegrading society - tis a shame that the only thing on television making money are the bloody programs ( CSI, Law and Order*, Heros, Medium*) or total crap (Bachelor(ette), Big Brother, any other reality series).

Where are the Seinfelds and Friends...it's not like I'm asking them to bring Moonlighting back - although I still say that was television at its best (seasons 1 and 2). Well, I am going to mourn and get outdoors more often. Not like I watch tv all that often in the first place and now even less. Thank you, networks, for getting my fat ass off the couch.

* granted I watch and enjoy these programs I still like variety and with Grey's being crap writing up until finale and Private Practice having turned to Addison into a weak woman I am seriously losing programming interest, fast!

Mother's Day pics...

2009-05-18T08:50:00.002-07:00

Hon just sent over the link to her web for the latest pics from Mother's Day. We had a really nice time with family in the pool and having dinner. The bogo's had a great time in the water...their first excursion into the pool. Grayson kicked his feet nonstop and Chloe did a wonderful job splashing. All that tub time really paid off for her!

Anyway, here are the pics - the weather was perfect, the pool refreshing, and the food delicious!

Up all night...

2009-05-12T08:28:00.008-07:00

...used to mean something really different. LOL!

Chloe had a night - BOY did she have a night. Would not go to bed so she hung out with me on the couch til just after midnight. Laid her down and she was up again screaming at 2 am. Put her in bed with me where she tossed and turned and was up and down til about 5am where Mama finally put her back in the crib where she eventually cried herself to sleep. My alarm went off at 5:20 to shower and dress and go to work.

I guess Mother's Day is over - there are no lingering affects - HAHAHAHA.

Here are some overdue pics - some are Grayson flirting with these "older" girls (3 and 5) at the table next to us at the Macaroni Grill. Another (above) is Chloe showing her attitude because I won't let her in the kitchen. Then when we went car shopping after the accident for the new van, Grayson was just like his Grandfather (and myself) and relished the idea of new car smell.

And here is Chloe really enjoying her "chipper" oatmeal chocolate cookie from Paradise Bakery. I missed a major opp here because the chocolate consumed her face shortly after this pic. But due to the amount of filth I had to "parent-up" and clean her rather than get the pic as we were out and about and I didn't want her outfit ruined. How droll, right?! Eh...next time!

They are getting around more and more on their feet these days. The countdown has begun and we are nearing the ONE YEAR mark. Everyone is coming into town this weekend for the B-day and Graduation party. It should be a lot of fun. Plus we have trees* now so it will be pretty AND fun.

*The trees are 15 and 24 gallon so they are little now but one day they will be mighty!! Redwood and Shamel Ash and Chinese elm....so excited!!! Plus we planted Red Tips hedges along the side and the sprinkler system is working - what could possibly be better?!??!