Day dreams

 

Sunshine, a 82 degree pool, and a raft. It’s the first time this summer that I actually took the afternoon off and went to the pool.

With NO children.

Spaghetti was in the house, kids were napping, instead of cleaning house I took an hour and 15 minute break, ALL for me.

I enjoyed sunning, and just day dreaming about the art, I day dream about the store I want to own with my mom.

I have the name picked out, and we will sell handmade things. Like fun jewelry (my bestie Aerial loves to create, and she can have a line of awesome button rings) and fun hair pieces.

My ugly dolls, and sew things from my mom. Paintings that I’ve done, and art supplies, some scrapbooking supplies, adhesives, and that’s just a few minutes of day dreams.

The second floor of the place will be the studio. Where there are no less then 10 big tables and comfy rolling chairs. Where everyone can create.

I think we will have classes, or open time for creating, maybe a kids class, and a painting class. AND since it’s upstairs I want a dumb waiter of sorts, to bring up all the supplies people bring with.

Out back there will be a garden (tended by my mom and I) and we will have tables for ladies to chat at. Coffee, and tea, maybe some cookies. I’m daydreaming of a balcony above for my own personal space outside.

Do you think it’s possible? In this economy? I believe it could be. And I would sell our stuff, and so many of my great friends make things and then we could sell their things too, like a etsy store in real life!

Day dreaming was wonderful. Hope to do it again soon.

Queen of Feisty

The other woman

(this post is an email that I recieved from Mudd Pimp. I thought I would share. And this pictures is from May 2008, right after I had Weaky. Me and my mom the Queen)

 

BEING A MOTHER...

After 17 years of marriage, my wife wanted me to

take another woman out to dinner and a movie. She

said, 'I love you, but I know this other woman loves

you and would love to spend some time with you.'

* * *

The other woman that my wife wanted me to visit

was my MOTHER, who has been alone for 20 years,

but the demands of my work and my two boys had

made it possible to visit her only occasionally.

* * *

That night I called to invite her to go out for

dinner and a movie.

* * *

'What's wrong, aren't you well,' she asked?

* * *

My mother is the type of woman who suspects that a

late night call or a surprise invitation is a sign

of bad news..

* * *

'I thought it would be pleasant to spend some

time with you,' I responded. 'Just the two of us.'

She thought about it for a moment, and then said,

'I would like that very much.'

* * *

That Friday after work, as I drove over to pick

her up I was a bit nervous. When I arrived at her

house, I noticed that she, too, seemed to be nervous

about our date. She waited in the door. She had curled

her hair and was wearing the

dress that she had worn to celebrate her last

birthday on November 19th.

* * *

She smiled from a face that was as radiant as an

angel's. 'I told my friends that I was going to go

out with my son, and they were impressed,' she said,

as she got into that new white van. 'They can't wait to hear about our date'.

* * *

We went to a restaurant that, although not

elegant, was very nice and cozy. My mother took my

arm as if she were the First Lady. After we sat

down, I had to read the menu. Her eyes could only

read large print. Half way through the entries, I

lifted my eyes and saw Mom sitting there staring at

me. A nostalgic smile was on her lips. 'It was I

who used to have to read the menu when you were

small,' she said. 'Then it's time that you relax and

let me return the favor,' I responded..

* * *

During the dinner, we had an agreeable

conversation- -nothing extraordinary but catching up

on recent events of each other's life. We talked so

much that we missed the movie.

* * *

As we arrived at her house later, she said,

'I'll go out with you again, but only if you let me

invite you.' I agreed.

* * *

'How was your dinner date ?'

asked my wife when I got home.

'Very nice. Much more so than I could have imagined,'

I answered.

* * *

A few days later, my mother died of a massive

heart attack. It happened so suddenly that I didn't

have a chance to do anything for her.

* * *

Some time later, I received an envelope with a

copy of a restaurant receipt from the same place

mother and I had dined. An attached note said: 'I

paid this bill in advance. I wasn't sure that I

could be there; but nevertheless, I paid for two

plates - one for you and the other for your wife.

You will never know what that night meant for me.

I love you, son.'

* * *

At that moment, I understood the importance of

saying in time: 'I LOVE YOU' and to give our loved

ones the time that they deserve. Nothing in life is

more important than your family. Give them the time

they deserve, because these things cannot be put off

till 'some other time.'

* * *

Somebody said it takes about six weeks to get back

to normal after you've had a baby..... somebody

doesn't know that once you're a mother,

'normal' is history.

* * *

Somebody said you learn how to be a mother by

instinct ... somebody never took a three-year-old shopping..

* * *

Somebody said being a mother is boring ....

somebody never rode in a car driven by a teenager with a driver's permit.

Somebody said if you're a'good' mother,

your child will 'turn out good'....

somebody thinks a child comes with

directions and a guarantee.

* * *

Somebody said you don't need an education to be a

mother.... somebody never helped a fourth grader

with his math.

* * *

Somebody said you can't love the second child as

much as you love the first .... somebody doesn't

have two children.

* * *

Somebody said the hardest part of being a mother

is labor and delivery....

somebody never watched her 'baby' get on the bus

for the first day of kindergarten ..

or on a plane headed for military 'boot camp.'

* * *

Somebody said a mother can stop worrying after her

child gets married....somebody doesn't know that

marriage adds a new son or daughter-in-law to a

mother's heartstrings.

* * *

Somebody said a mother's job is done when

her last child leaves home....

somebody never had grandchildren.

* * *

Somebody said your mother knows you love her, so

you don't need to tell her....

somebody isn't a mother.

Pass this along to all the 'mothers' in your life

and to everyone who ever had a mother. This isn't

just about being a mother; it's about appreciating

the people in your life while you have them....no

matter who that person is.

What you can do with 24 hours

The last 24 hours have been SO much fun! Let me tell you about it...

It started with our usual Monday routine, everyone up and ready, breakfast eaten, and out the door for Weaky's DOC band adjustment (I do need to post a picture of him with that) that went well. When he first started they took digital pictures from every angle, and made a hard mold of his head. Now when we go back we can see the difference from the start.


Then we learned some new exercises to do for his Torticollis. I know they will help him out, but I HATE to pin him down and make him stretch his neck. And agreed, Weaky hates it too.


So we leave, with a new exercise schedule in hand. We head over to our favorite place, Buffalo Wild Wings (I am a Parmesan Garlic, Medium, and now the Medium Garlic on my wings) As we enjoy our dinner, Spaghetti and I are deep in thought on something fun to do. Mind you it's a breezy 20 something degrees out, so the park, Chicago's lakefront, and the Zoo are out... we think of the Childrens Museum, then we decide that we need to get the kids down for a nap anyway. Then we will go from there.


As we walk to the truck Spaghetti, looks at me and says he has a good idea. We get in, and I ask, "What is your awesome idea?" he then wrings his hands as if a trip for 4 to Vegas is crossing his mind...


"Isn't there a indoor waterpark nearby? I thought of Wisconsin Dells, but it's too late. We go home, pack, make reservations, and go. Come back tomorrow?"


I get the same Vegas smile across my face. "Really?!" I asked "Your not kidding? Were just going to up and go on a mini vacation right now?"


And off we went. Home, while packing, Spaghetti called and booked the night. It was $120 for the 4 of us. We had a room with a beautiful view of the Woods, two double beds, big couch, table, all perfect for us.


If your ever in Illinois and are looking for a beautiful place to visit, go to Utica IL, and there is Starved Rock State Park, fall is amazing, Summer is perfect, spring is awesome (a bit muddy) and even winter if you dress like an Eskimo, you can go to see the Bald Eagles, or walk the paths for the ice falls.


So a genius thought to build a big fat "Grizzly Jack's Grand Bear Resort" right across the street! The water park was SO nice, lazy river, wave pool, playground with water effects, and the highlight of the trip for Bagel and Weaky? The baby pool! The deepest the water was, was 1 foot, there was a slide, waterfall and with two match box cars they were set!


I can bet you there was a total of 15 families staying there, just the way we like it! We arrived around 3 pm, checked in, and went straight for the pool! Had dinner at Applebee's (in a nearby town) then Spaghetti and Weaky went up to the room and crashed. Bagel wanted more pool and we had a blast! At one point she grabbed my face (while in the midst of the wave pool) and yelled "I love you mommy!" I tried not to tear up to much, and just enjoyed our moment. Spaghetti had his own bed, and Bagel and I slept in the other. Weaky had his little pack and play all set up. This morning we were up early, went to McD's for breakfast, and then back to pack up, and swim some more! Weaky and Spaghetti played in the big arcade, scoring tickets and some fun floating ducks for the kids. Check out was at 11, so at 10:55 we left the pool, scurried up to the room, changed and headed home. We just got home, Bagel and I are headed to the shower, Weaky and Spaghetti are sleeping (Spaghetti has to work today)


It was fun, fast and if I can keep the budget in check. Spaghetti promised more of these getaways more often! So here is to the spontaneous Spaghetti for his amazing idea! Muah!

(I will post pictures soon!)

Have you done 100 things?

Visiting over at my friend Becky's blog I found this list. I also decided to add comments on some. Shocker, me have to comment?

RULES: There are 100 statements and you bold the ones you have done. (I am changing the color to red) Grab it and play for yourself!!

1. Started your own blog

2. Slept under the stars

3. Played in a band

4. Visited Hawaii

5. Watched a meteor shower

6. Given more than you can afford to charity~ Animal shelters!

7. Been to Disney World

8. Climbed a mountain.

9. Held a praying mantis

10. Sang a solo

11. Preformed on stage~ 3 H.S. musicals, and 8 Acapella choir concerts

12. Visited Paris

13. Watched a lightning storm~ at sea would love too!

14. Taught yourself an art from scratch ~many times!

15. Adopted a child

16. Had food poisoning~ lost 12 lbs from the shits!

17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty

18. Grown your own vegetables~ Green peppers, and onions.

19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France

20. Slept in an overnight train

21. Had a pillow fight

22. Hitchhiked - Gah no!!

23. Taken a sick day when you're not ill~ shopping with my mom!!

24. Built a snow fort~ tunnel and all!

25. Held a lamb~Petting zoo

26. Gone skinny dipping

27. Run a marathon~ I don't run well.

28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice

29. Seen a total eclipse

30. Watched a sunrise or sunset

31. Hit a home run~ I also don't do sports, see #27

32. Been on a cruise - Nope. I would try.

33. Seen Niagara Falls in person

34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors~ would love too! Mine and Spaghetti, trip to Italy and Ireland!!

35. Seen an Amish community~stayed at one

36. Taught yourself a new language~ some Italian, and sign language

37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied~ Yep, the day I get my tax return, but then sadly gone to taxes the next day.

38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person

39. Gone rock climbing~ probably not official rock climbing, but Aerial, Spaghetti and me went to Starved Rock in IL and was all crazy off the paths... well it counts for me.

40. Seen Michelangelo's David

41. Sung karaoke - Aerial again, with my mom and Zoe's mom, in Amish country... Sir Mix Alot's I like Big Butts I do believe was the song...

42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt

43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant~ I bought an extra serving of Ravioli's at Olive Garden in Salt Lake City, and gave it to a homeless man outside.

44. Visited Africa~ Would love too!!

45. Walked on a beach by moonlight~ Honeymoon. Sigh... I wanna go back...

46. Been transported in an ambulance

47. Had your portrait painted ~are we counting those carnival cartoon sketches, those are fun.

48. Gone deep sea fishing ~ I don't do anything deep sea. Oh hell no. Not a big ocean person. I am a ceeement pond type of girl. Just as Chandler over at Maternal Mirth.

49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person~ I have a version in my living room?

50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris

51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling~Honeymoon. Scuba diving. 40 feet. Scared. Motion sick. REALLY sick. Never threw up. Thank god, I was underwater. Pretty cool. NEVER. AGAIN.

52. Kissed in the rain

53. Played in the mud

54. Gone skiing~ not pretty. I hit a tree. The second time, I hit people. Bad idea.

55. Been in a movie

56. Visited the Great Wall of China

57. Started a business ~ My Stampin' Up! business. Longest job to date, over 4 years.

58. Taken a martial arts class

59. Visited Russia

60. Served at a soup kitchen

61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies ~ Thin mints.... speaking of, I should have my 3 boxes here soon...

62. Gone whale watching~ Want to go with Frances!

63. Got flowers for no reason~ yep, my mama.

64. Had a nervous breakdown~ Can you say postpartum? Spaghetti found me up in the tree house one day. Both kids safe inside. I didn't want to come down. Postpartum was fucked up. Not a place I want to visit again, twice was good enough for me. Both lasted about 6 weeks.

Also when my sister had her Brain surgery for her muscle disorder. No one really knows that, I was pretty strong through the whole ordeal, but at one point you just shut down.

Planning my fucking wedding.

65. Tried out for a professional team? I was accepted to try out for the Chicago Luvables, the cheerleaders for the Chicago Bulls basketball. Yea that was about 25 lbs lighter, and 10 year younger. Didn't make it, but it was amazing, being on the United Center floor, cheering with the Luvables. Awesome, and at least I tried!

66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp ~ again would love to go with Frances. She is into the History of Anne Frank.

67. Bounced a check

68. Flown in a helicopter

69. Saved a favorite childhood toy~ Thanks to my mom. Yes, I have a shitload of my favorite toys! And Bagel loves them!

70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial~ and Grants tomb

71. Eaten caviar.

72. Pieced a quilt

73. Stood in Times Square

74. Toured the Everglades

75. Been fired from a job~ Just once, I didn't do it. But since it was my bank, and my shift, I had to be fired to set an example to others to be more careful. Ya know, when you don't notice $2300 in table chips fall in the garbage... my bad.

76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London

77. Broken a bone

78. Been on a speeding motorcycle ~no. Not a fan. I was on one once went 20 mph, and was scared. yucky. Maybe a moped in a small town. No bikes for me. If you do wear a helmet. Don't get me started on my lack of empathy for idiots who don't wear helmets...

79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person

80. Published a book

81. Visited the Vatican

82. Bought a brand new car

83. Walked in Jerusalem

84. Had your picture in the newspaper~ Once because I was sitting in a big library by a big window, and it was just an around town picture, but still in a big city paper. And when I was in my youth group I was on another kids shoulders, we were both in cow costumes... long story...

85. Read the entire Bible

86. Visited the White House

87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating

88. Had chicken pox

89. Saved someones life~ when I was a Sr. in H.S. I had a History class with alot of Freshman (you can tell my love for school right?) so this WAY dorky, not attractive guy, would just write me notes, as a friend. He was often sad, and I would try and cheer him up as much as I could. I think just acknowledging him, and talking to him in the halls, we were friends. One note, was so depressing. I told him all the good things about him, that I could think of, and gave it to him before the weekend.

He told me that note made him think. And he decided not to commit suicide that weekend as planned, because of me. We stayed friends, for the school year. And I saw him become more social over the year. Sometimes just giving someone the time of day, makes a difference.

90. Sat on a jury

91. Met someone famous~ Tyler Christoper from General Hospital (twice)

(yes that is me with black hair. Postpartum with first child)

also was right next to Flava Flav at Hard Rock hotel in Chicago, and Darius Rucker (Hootie & the Blowfish) back stage at a concert. And I know the whole Drew Davis Band (guitar player, Loren Ellis personally)

92. Joined a book club

93. Lost a loved one~ I think we all have this one. Gramma W. Grampa John, Gramma A. Aunt K. and Uncle J. and my friend Donny from H.S. (medical issues)

94. Had a baby~ twice.

95. Seen the Alamo in person

96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake

97. Been involved in a lawsuit

98. Owned a cell phone~ and a pager.

99. Been stung by a bee~ behind my ear!

100. Read an entire book in one day~ I LOVE to read, so done this with Dean Koontz books

Hope you enjoyed my list, I had fun doing it. If you do it too, let me know, I wanna read!

Happy.

Happy.

About lots of things. I told Spaghetti so today.

I am happy about...

My beautiful daughter. Her amazing energy and spirit.

My handsome and smiley son. I love his curiosity for everything.

My husband. The one who talks, listens, and just is himself no matter what. I want to thing I remind him to just be him around me. The other day he turned on the iPod and we fast danced, laughing and jumping around the pool room. It was amazing. Reminding me of how lucky we are.

My home. The home I work to keep clean, and somewhat organized or on the track to it. That we have made our 2 story, 3 bedroom, 1 1/2 bath, house into a 3 story home, using the whole basement space as a t.v. room and art room. And in the summer we live out on our big deck. (sorry for you west coasters with no basements, it's a tornado thing) I love how it's ours, and what we love to call home.

I am happy with our pets, our 4 fuzzy little people. The make our days and our lives much brighter.

Thanks to good friends who support and enjoy spending time with me. To Aerial who is more of a sister to me, the one person who gets me.

To my parents, sister and Spaghetti's parents. Family is always first with me. You are amazing and supportive to us.

I am not rich, I am not skinny, I am not the brightest candle on the cake. But I am happy with what I have, and who I surround myself with.

With this I am happy.

Random.

• I drink orange juice out of the carton. Not because I don't want to wash a glass, but it's a good reason, but because I am the only member of the house to drink it and I see that it is my own big sippy of o.j.
• When I am at the computer or in my art room, I put on a mother load of chapstick.
• I hate clothing hangers with all those damn little loops, and hooks on them. Fucking clothes get stuck. And for that matter I only use the plastic ones. NO wood, NO wire, and none of those clear plastic with the turning wire heads. Gah!
• I drink water all day. I like the taste. Bizarre I know.
• I think that cats are WAY more intelligent then dogs. Dogs are not dumb, just not as brilliant as my clever fuzzies.
• I hate having RLS, and carpel tunnel, but it could be way worse.

Random thoughts at 12:43 am

Where we are. And where we want to be. Spaghetti and me

Last night was my phone date with Spaghetti. At his night job, on Wednesdays and Saturdays, he is in a room by himself. So I can talk to him for 3 hours. (from 10pm-1am) If I can last that long.

I told him about the 5 year plan book. So I read almost 1/2 of it to him. There are some area's to write in, as we talked I would write in our answers. I even made up Word Documents for the long ones.

We went over the three things we like best, and least about ourselves.

The happiest person we know.

The two people we like and respect the most and why.

We listed our top 5 values, mine were...(in no particular order) Family, Health, Wealth, Free time, and adventure. (Spaghetti asked that I don't share his)

There was a Wheel of Life, listing 12 areas of your life, and said that you should have a balanced life. And each section needs your attention, and to set a 5 year goal in these (and other) areas.

If you rated your life from 1-7. Where 1 means " not at all satisfied with my life" and 7 means "completely satisfied" I was 3.5 and Spaghetti was 2.

Sometimes I think we feel like we are settling because we have kids. And right now would not be a good time to travel, or do things with the kids being so young. Plus with Spaghetti working 3 jobs it gets hard to spend time together. Now in the winter, since Baseball season is over, he is down to two jobs. We can spend more time together.

Not saying that family life is making us miserable. Not at all. But the time spent sleeping, working and just day to day, is out weighing the fun and random adventures that Spaghetti and I spent the first 7 years together doing.

I think once the kids are potty trained, and just a few years old we will have more adventures. But for now, we are home bodies just trying to keep the roof over our heads, and food on the table.

We did talk about random trips. Like a day at the State Park, or just a day at our local parks, more time just the 4 of us. Which made me feel good. Not that I ever thought Spaghetti didn't want to do family stuff. But he is a happy homebody.

I must share one of Spaghetti's thoughts. It really made me proud. When I asked him "who one of the people he liked most and respected" he said me.

Because I work so hard at raising both kids by myself (no really, two day jobs and a night job, kinda restrict any child care) and that I am strong about it. I don't rely on anyone. And 24/7 I work hard.

I really felt that he knew how hard I worked when he told me that.

This was good talking last night. We talked about our future, our values, and where we want to be. Which is something everyone should evaluate within themselves and with the people in there lives. I am proud to say that this is a big help in our marriage. That we talk, Spaghetti is not a big talker, on feelings and what not. But if I can get a good book, or some good questions for him. He plays along, and it's healthy for us.

There is much more to this book, but for those of you who want to play along, go to Starbucks and get the olive green book, with the brown binding. In the binding, in gold it reads "Five" and in the front is an embossed 5, with "Where will you be five years from today?"

It's a $10 book, and it will do you good. Go get it. And decide where you want to be 5 years from today. Your welcome.

Manic Monday. Conversation with myself about stress, direction, reading minds, and folding boxes.

Do you ever talk to yourself out loud? What do you talk about?
Are you serious? ALL THE TIME. Funny thing is I am such a talker, that I notice that people shut me out. No really I have come to terms with the fact that maybe I might just talk a bit to much. I do try to limit myself. But yes I have tested all my friends and family. Yes you too. Where I talk, telling a story, then mid sentence I will stop. Sad to say, many times, no one notices.

But around the house, sure I talk to myself. I argue with myself, I question myself, I answer myself. Even when I am out in public. Scrapbooking? Of coarse I talk to myself. Sometimes out loud is the only way I can really remember, or figure something out.

Not ashamed one bit.

What stresses you out?
Dong barking when we all sit and eat.
I can go from zero stress to complete psycho in seconds over that.

Bagel whining.
Gah! I don't understand whine. And I learned that from Chandler, years ago, I was on the phone with her, and her son was whining, she told him she didn't understand whining, he needed to talk. A.maz.ing. I use it all the time. She will whine a few more times, and of coarse I understand her. But I will NOT tolerate whining. Gag!

Money.
Right, like who doesn't? Bills, mortgage, taxes, Christmas, thank god we can all breathe for a minute on the gas prices. I mean seriously... $4 something over the summer and now $1.73?!? WTF??

Outside of that I really don't let much else stress me. I mean I have douche bag family members, bitchy customers, and it just doesn't pay for me to stress over these tards. I live my life. I worry about my parents, and in laws, my sister, my kids, and Spaghetti, my pets. Outside of that I do have concern for my friends and there issues, but to stress on it? Sorry I try to keep my life as drama free and happy as I can. So stressing on little shit just ain't worth it.

What are your secret talents?
Direction. No really, I am good at it. I rarely get lost, even in a new area. It's all about landmarks, and focusing on your direction.

I can fold those stupid cardboard storage boxes, in seconds. I don't read the directions. It just is natural to me the way they go. Maybe it's all the paper crafting I do.

This one is weird. Even for me. I can kinda see ahead of what someone is going to talk about or do. Maybe it's just that I am really observant. Not saying I see the future, I am just saying if we are just talking I can see where the conversation is going. Or if you say just one word I can usually guess right where your going. Which I tend to cut someone off and say it for them. Probably annoying, since I am not always right on this but 8 times out of 10 I am.

It might not make sense. But I guess it does to me. I really try to observe everyone in a situation, especially the quiet ones. I observer there clothes, there jewelry, there voice, there actions. It all reads who you are. Even your hair.

I mean take for example if you wear a mohawk with a "cute but psycho" shirt, with jeans and flats. Basic silver jewelry, some interesting pieces, and make-up. Talks alot, very smiley, doesn't seem to give a shit attitude, funny but sweet.

Yes that is me. So lets read me... mohawk = different, and rebellious. Happy bunny shirt = sassy, and wants you to know her. Jeans and flats = likes it simple, and comfy. Basic jewelry some different = possible family heirlooms, pretty jewelry but simple. Make-up = possibly hiding something. (sure am. I was never comfortable with out makeup on. I am better at it. But I really like it on. I feel plain with out it.)
Talking alot, smiley, sassy attitude, funny but sweet= me. And I try to portray that to most people I talk to, even in small conversations.

So that is what I do. I read people, fast sometimes if that is all we have. Not judging, but I just try to read them. Wonder what kind of day they are having, what they do for fun. Might seem retarded to you. But to me I get to know people or try to, I make conversation on what I observe. Well... that's just me.

2x4's and me

I was driving home from town today. And as I got off the highway and turned onto the 4 lane major road in town, there was a husband and wife parked in the middle of the road, frantically trying to load the 40 plus 16 foot 2x4's back into there pick up truck, as I swerve around them, I notice so does everyone else.

All the big men, and the young strong boys. So I quickly do a U turn, park behind there truck, throw on my hazard lights, jump out and start loading 2x4's into there truck.

I mean I am just a tiny thing, only 5 foot, but hell, I help my dad, and they only weight a few pounds each. I took about 8 trips, and we got it all picked up.

Not sure what surprised them more, that the dressed up (from the wedding) pixie girl helped them, or that no one else in town even thought of it.

As we finished, they wife thanked me over and over, I said "I would just hope you would do it for me" I was happy I got to help out, and I wished them a Happy Holiday Season.

Happy Halloween!

This post is to my SITStas over at The Secret Is In The Sauce, they wanted us in our Halloween costumes!

I was P!nk this year! I rocked the mohawk, the make-up, the guitar pick earrings. And...

My favorite P!nk tank, with jeans, and my big black boots. I rocked! Happy Halloween SITStas! Can't wait to see what everyone was!!

P!nk and me as a role model.

So back to the post I did about P!nk and her Aussie interview, I have to say I really enjoyed it. I think it was the guy interviewing her. His sarcasm played well with hers. So here is one of the best parts, I thought. And I guess to let you all in on why I look to P!nk as a role model.

Aussie Guy: Do you think of yourself as a role model?

P!nk: (Makes an awesome face)

Aussie Guy: Well obviously that face says no.

P!nk: I think because I am so into my flaws, and so self deprecating, and so "Hi, whatever, who gives a shit" I think that is the only way I could be a role model. Just to not take everything so seriously.

So readers, that is why I love P!Nk, because she is just so easy going about things. She is serious at times, but for a lot of the little shit that people seem to worry over. I agree, stop taking it so damn serious. P!nk, you rock. This for all of you who question where I get my self esteem. It is from role models like P!nk, and one of the things I do not take seriously. Which is hard for many people to do.

I don't care what others think. Nope. Don't care if you don't like my mohawk, or if you don't like my swearing, or my love for pine candles. Don't like my books, or scrapbooking? Who cares. The way I look at it, I am planning on living till 103, and with only 73 years left on this bizarre planet, I have things to do, places to see, and tons of swearing, scrapbooking and pine candles to burn.

So as Lady Soverign (a British rapper) says. "Love me or hate me, it's still an obsession. Love me or hate me that is the question. If you love me then, Thank you. If you hate me, well fuck you."

Try life from that point of view. The only opinions I really value and would change myself for are... well just me. Unless I see that I am behaving badly, or doing something I don't like, then I will change.

Believe me my mother the Queen has tried to talk me out of flipping people off when I drive, well it's just me. And the farting bothers Spaghetti, I am sure my constant talking and yapping drives people nuts too. I too remember a time when I tried to talk my mom out of being so, well herself. Silly me. I have since then learned. You can't change people. You just love them for who they are.

And this is me. I won't pretend to be something I am not. I am me. Loud, crazy, talkative, funny, goofy, insane, friendly, perverted, book worm, scrapbooker, paper crafter, pop and hip hop music loving, coffee drinking me.

I can only hope that as my children grow, they learn to be themselves, whatever that may be. I am sure they will go through the stages of wanting to be just like everyone else just to fit in and be normal. But I am hoping for them to be proud of themselves, and to teach them to love themselves, always.

It's never to late to be yourself. To learn and to grow from this life. I learn and change every day.

Saturdays Secret... Sock fetish

My Saturday's Secret is I have a sock fetish. I have lots of socks, let me go guesstamate count... I gave a quick count over, and I just shy of 60 pairs of socks. All different. From cats, dogs, frogs, rainbow, stripes, spots, Christmas, Halloween, Easter, St. Patricks Day, Valentines Day, funny, Tinkerbell, and foods, they are all fun, and random. (a lot like me) but for "normal people" wear I have 2 pairs of white, and one pair of black. I love fun socks, oh and I have about 4 pairs of toe socks

Yes they are like gloves for your feet, yes it is weird to wear them, and yes you do get used to them. They are fun, and get more attention then your everyday crazy socks. (I have this one pair of toe socks that are bright orange and fuzzy, like monster feet!)

So this is kinda a two for one Saturday Secret. Alone with my love and fetish for all things fun with feet. I also HATE socks and shoes when it is warm. I do not wear socks but maybe once or twice between the months of June and September.

Now living in the breezy Midwest, and when the weather is a sunny 45 degree day, I must embrace my love of fun socks. For example right now I am wearing light purple socks with two HUGE orange carrots on each side, and a small bunny on top of each carrot. Must be Easter socks.

Yes I wear my Christmas ones now, and my Halloween ones in February. Just depends on what is clean (I know with 60 socks I should have a variety, but if you know my track record on laundry...) I will try to coordinate with an outfit, or the season if I am attempting a cute look.

I always boycotted the rules when I worked in the Casino's (must wear black socks) I always wore fun socks (only got warnings a few times!) You only live once, why not live that once with fun socks?

How about you? Take my poll over on the side and tell us your sock life.

To the Queen!

Happy Birthday to the Queen!

Happy Birthday to a person who is funny, sarcastic, honest, sassy, and she is who she is. She will not change for you. And over the years I have learned that I hold every single one of those qualities. I have always been funny, sarcastic, honest, sassy and I am who I am. It took me until H.S. to learn that I can just be me, I don't have to try and change for different friends. There are people out there that will like me just for who I am.

And at one point I tried to tell my mom she should maybe change to be like certain people, not permanently but just sometimes when your around certain conservative people. Silly me. I should have know my mom, and known that she would not change herself. Not out of meanness towards me. Not out of hate for conservative people. But out of respect for herself.

Queen is a crafty Paris/Martha kinda person. Right there between trendy/crafty. She is always eager to learn a new craft. And has always had a spot for me and Frances in her craft room. This is what I am very excited to pass down to Bagel and Spike, and yes even though Spike is a boy, everyone can do art. I appreciate the Queen for always making the time for herself, but including us in it.

I love my mom's adventurism, to go off the path, and to find a new way to go. From driving a new way home, just to see what's out there. Or to try and get backstage, or just to meet or see someone famous. She's a go-getter type of person, with her "dumb as a fox" ways. She has taught me so much from this.

I have been told "I run to my mommy" well yes I do. Still at 30 years old. She is the first person I want to call and tell good news, bad news, gossip. My mom is one of my best friends, she still thinks that when the kids are in school, I will find "mommy friends" or "PTO mom friends" and I am sure I will. But will I always have time for my mom? Hell yeah.

The Queen raised me to be proud of my family, and "Family First" is the motto. We stick together, and that is what works for us. I appreciate my mom more then she knows. From the magazines she gives (with the articles circled that she thinks I should read) to coupons cut for me, and we can not forget the Mommy Store, which when she over buys I get the extras.

Spoiled? No way. Well not with things anyway. But with love and support? You bet your sweet Queen lovin' ass I am. My momma loves me and takes care of me. But that is what mom's do right?

I will leave you with a quote from Missy "Misdemeanor" Elliot

"I is what I is, and what I am is like my mammy"

Thanks again Mom. You are my Queen.

Ying and Yang

Is it an absolute mindfuck that you could have over 400 emails? Or the fact that I have been reading them, and have deleted over 200 of them? I get all my comments emailed to me, so every comment is sent to me. Talk about overwhelming! About 85 of those are my normal emails. I have to laugh because Spaghetti would have a stroke! If he has more then 5 emails, he freaks! He can't wrap his brain around why I am so excited about these comments. Or why I would want a few hundred random strangers reading my blog. Or why I love to read random strangers blogs.

Well that again just proves that we are a bit Ying and Yang. He is a very private person, and I am the complete opposite, an attention craving monkey.

Dress Pants

6:45 am up and in the shower.

7:00 am getting dressed, putting on make-up, doing hair.

7:15 am letting dogs out, feeding them, feeding cats.

7:30 am blogging.

Dress pants on, look somewhat professional. Where am I going you ask? Why am I wearing dress pants? What am I looking professional for? My sister, Frances.

The 2008 Dystonia Regional Conference. From 9am to 4 pm, myself the Queen and Frances will be attending seminars, break-out classes, with breakfast and lunch being served. We will talk with others that have Dystonia, learn what is new and upcoming.

I am very interested in what is in store for today. Not sure if it will be a waste of time, or the best day ever, or eh, that was interesting.

I want to go. But not just for Frances, for me. So maybe I can meet someone who has a sibling with Dystonia. I know everyone around us means well, and everyones empathy is very appreciated. But for someone to even understand what we go through. Or what Frances really goes through.

Well today we will find out. I have my notebook handy, business cards for networking with others (not Stamping business, but just friend business) handy pen (extra for backup) water, wallet, sweater, camera, and an open mind.

Can't wait. I will fill you in later. Miss me.

(Frances with Spike just a few hours old)

Happy Halloween Bonanza, P!Nk.

Yeah, I rocked it. Eye makeup, hot pink hair, gutiar pick earings.
My concert tank that I love.
I was so damn excited about how awesome my costume turned out.
Here are my beloved Creative Maniacs at Stamp Camp, in my post-it note yellow art room. From left to right, Pipe and her "smart ass" costume, myself as "P!nk", the Queen as the "Scarecrow", L as the "Flu shot victim" Lego as a "Mummy" and her sister the official brown noser and hands down the winner (besides me) as a "Stamp Camper"!!

The projects were fun I will post them later. We had fun, food (Pipe brought a to die for cake for Queens birthday) and as always fun. Oh and D was there as "Supermom, somewhere between Paris and Martha" but she came about an hour after pictures were done!

Happy 4th annual Halloween Stamp Camp!

Wordful Wednesday

If I could freeze time. I would. Just to capture your innocence, your amazement, and your curiosity. You loved all the underwater viewing area's and I am glad that Aerial took us here, to the LPZ for my birthday. Love you Bagel. Mommy Feisty.

One word.

I was over at Buried with Children, and I found a fun game. Answer each question with only one word. I tag you all! Play, post me a comment that you played, tag everyone know. Have fun!

1. Where is your cell phone? Truck
2. Where is your significant other? Work
3. Your hair color? blond
4. Your mother? Queen
5. Your father? Carrots
6. Your favorite thing? books
7. Your dream last night? Survivor
8. Your dream/goal? Happy
9. The room you're in? loft
10. Your hobby? blogging
11. Your fear? sky
12. Where do you want to be in six years? richer
13. Where were you last night? home
14. What you’re not? shy
15. One of your wish list items? laptop
16. Where you grew up? Illinois
17. The last thing you did? typed
18. What are you wearing? p.j.'s
19. Your TV? Sprout t.v.
20. Your pet? bathing
21. Your computer? hobby
22. Your mood? inspired
23. Missing someone? Scuz
24. Your car? Garage
25. Something you’re not wearing? socks
26. Favorite store? Target
27. Your summer? eventful
28. Love someone? Ed
29. Your favorite color? purple
30. When is the last time you laughed? 6:35 pm
31. Last time you cried? Saturday

That was fun, hard for some to be one word, but I did it! Now you play!

Sunday's Soapbox. Color Blind.

I have to say I am appalled at the maturity level of some adults in this country. I really am. I was watching the news last night, and it was older people, no just seniors either. Who were talking about the vote. Many of them said they were Democrats, and would have voted Hilary in, no problem. But now that the Democratic choice is Obama, they won't vote for him because... he is black... really? I mean the fact that he is educated, smart and speaks very well. Stands for everything we need right now in this country, but because he has a better tan then you... I guess I just don't get it.

I mean when I recently found out that a friend of the family said she was a Republican, I shrugged my shoulders and said, whatever. We all have our opinions. But when this same person made a comment that she would never vote for a black person, made me sick. I mean really? I don't know my stats for sure, but I'm thinking Obama is only a small percent African American... but again I don't get where that matters?

Maybe because I am so many different nationalities, I just can't pick one. I hate on those little forms I have to choose "Caucasian" really? I am just white? No, I am Italian, Polish, German, French, English, and American Indian. Spaghetti is Irish, German, and Welsh. (probably more but that is what I know)

I mean I get if your voting because of what someone stands for. But to vote based on there color? I mean you do know that it's 2008 right? I mean I am hoping to no end that Obama is the president. I really don't discuss this kinda stuff, because I guess it offends people.

Well I am kinda offensive, and I feel like sharing my offensive feelings on the presidential election this morning...

I believe in abortion. Sick, twisted, evil. Sure, but when some creep rapes you, and your stuck with a kid that makes you want to vomit just thinking about it. Really... I should just suck it up and deal with it? I mean I am all for people who are just sloppy to not have abortions, I mean I have relatives that kick out kids and no they should not be granted the right to an abortion, because the kid would be a burden. But your telling me you agree with someone who says that if your raped, your forced to have sex with someone, you now HAVE to carry that baby? Are you fucking kidding me?

I believe in Gay marriage. Not sure weather Obama has stated he is for or against this, but for someone to be making it illegal for gay marriage. Just blows my mind. Again this is your religion your pushing on us, not just political views. Gays are JUST LIKE YOU. Amazing, they love and feel just like you do. They want a home and a family, and a happy life. Just like you. It should not be our choice to say you can or can not get married, just because of your choice of partner.

I also am afraid of someone who has such strong religious views to be second in command of my country. Leave your religion at home. I don't want your religion to control my country. period.

I know that most of the above is from Sara Palin, and that she is only running for VP. But at the age of McCain and his health issues, it scares the shit out of me that she could be the president. Shudder. She is Bush with a skirt, and very honestly that way of running this country has not been very good. We can't handle any more.

I guess if you stand for whatever it is McCains party stands for good for you. But I stand where I stand on Obama and Biden's side. I think what they have to offer is a change we all need. But when you straight out tell me that because of a color or their race, you would not vote for them?

Comments like this, make me realize that I have been hanging around racist, biased, ignorant people. And to overlook it because of someones age, or where they grew up is disgusting. They need to see that black, white, yellow, brown, whatever you want to categorize people in, is just insane. I don't get it. Sorry to say this really drives a wedge in our friendship, as does with our families friendship with you. I do love you, but you need to remove the ignorance, and see that we are all just people. We all eat, shit, breath and live just like you.

Well off my Sunday morning soapbox, and on that note. This mama is for Obama.

Oh and this post is my opinion. And my opinion is right on my blog. If you are racist or believe that gay marriage is wrong, or if your a gun toting religious freak. I really don't care to here your opinion. Keep it to yourself, or post it on your own blog. My blog, my opinion, I am right, and you are wrong. Don't like it? Go away.

A priceless hot date

Eh, I am up. I know, Spaghetti had to work, and had no ironed clothes. Boo, so I went to sleep at 8 am, and up at noon. Ugh.

So needless to say, I am a bit sleepy, but I am up for the day now. I am excited to say that since Spaghetti is at work, till 7 pm, and the kidlets are away till tomorrow.

I am free. Free from being a responsible human to everyone else. I have a me day. An unplanned afternoon of a haircut, and with inspiration from my Worm Meme, I am going to the bookstore, to veg and just enjoy myself.

Come home, maybe take Ding and Dong for a walk, I would like to say I would have the energy to go down and scrap some more. But we will see.

I talked to my mom, and I was sad that it was a nice day, because I wanted to just veg out in my art room. But when its a beautiful day, and probably one of the last of the year. I think I should at least see the sun for minute...

So those are the plans. A hot date with me, myself and I. I know, it's priceless.