If you are in Auburn this weekend and have nothing to do on Friday night, head up town. There will be a ton of activities going on. There is a cruise in, art show, kids art tent, the radio station, and ME!
Friday evening I will be hanging out in front of Indiana Real Estate (Thank's Dave). A group of friends will be doing something fun. I'm not going to tell you what, you'll have to come and see!!!
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Another Sleepless Night
Ayron and I have been having trouble sleeping through the night lately. For no reason we just wake up every hour and a half. We had a lovely conversation at 2:42am this morning. I used to be able to sleep for 10 hours without so much as even rolling over.
The lack of sleep makes getting up in the morning harder too. I used to be a morning person. I could get a whole day's worth of work done before noon. Not now. I'm lucky if I get a whole day's worth of work done before I go to bed.
Any suggestions?
The lack of sleep makes getting up in the morning harder too. I used to be a morning person. I could get a whole day's worth of work done before noon. Not now. I'm lucky if I get a whole day's worth of work done before I go to bed.
Any suggestions?
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Bring on the Crazies!!
Well, as anyone who has ever lived in DeKalb county knows, the crazies are on their way. If you are not familiar with out little town of Auburn, allow me to give you a brief history lesson.
One day a long long time ago, E.L. Cord created a car factory in our town. They created several types of cars. Now, fast forward a little bit. Someone in the Kruse family decided to turn Labor Day into Crazy Fest. Every Labor Day weekend, Auburn is home to the largest car auction in the world. We have had such cars as the Popemobile, Batmobile, and the car from Back to the Future (the Darian? Who knows, I'm not into cars). With the famous and expensive cars comes their rich and usually odd owners.
To prove my "they have way too much money point" here is a story. I worked at Scott's while I was in high school. During ACD weekend I once had a guy come into the store, purchase a pack of Big Red chewing gum, not even a big pack mind you, the 5-piece kind. He proceeded to pay for his gum with a $500. Seriously. It was freaking 6:30 in the morning. I had just gotten my drawer, like I had $499.74 in change to give him.
These odd people come from all over the world. I am not kidding. But, along with the crazies, you get the occasional celebrity (who's to say they aren't crazy too?) The owner of Chick-Fil-A is always here, and very nice. Jay Leno is known to show up. David Letterman makes an appearance every couple of years. Our little town is transformed, our roads blocked, restaurants crammed, gas stations full, and some citizens are smart enough to leave. Our little town easily reaches at least 1/2 a million for the week. The auction starts on Thursday and goes until Tuesday. I am sure that the many RV's, station wagons, trailers, and other methods of transportation are already filling up the empty parking spots around town.
If you are willing to brave the elements and the crazies, then by all means, come to town. If you can help it, avoid the interstate. If you live in Auburn and can get out, GET OUT NOW!!
One day a long long time ago, E.L. Cord created a car factory in our town. They created several types of cars. Now, fast forward a little bit. Someone in the Kruse family decided to turn Labor Day into Crazy Fest. Every Labor Day weekend, Auburn is home to the largest car auction in the world. We have had such cars as the Popemobile, Batmobile, and the car from Back to the Future (the Darian? Who knows, I'm not into cars). With the famous and expensive cars comes their rich and usually odd owners.
To prove my "they have way too much money point" here is a story. I worked at Scott's while I was in high school. During ACD weekend I once had a guy come into the store, purchase a pack of Big Red chewing gum, not even a big pack mind you, the 5-piece kind. He proceeded to pay for his gum with a $500. Seriously. It was freaking 6:30 in the morning. I had just gotten my drawer, like I had $499.74 in change to give him.
These odd people come from all over the world. I am not kidding. But, along with the crazies, you get the occasional celebrity (who's to say they aren't crazy too?) The owner of Chick-Fil-A is always here, and very nice. Jay Leno is known to show up. David Letterman makes an appearance every couple of years. Our little town is transformed, our roads blocked, restaurants crammed, gas stations full, and some citizens are smart enough to leave. Our little town easily reaches at least 1/2 a million for the week. The auction starts on Thursday and goes until Tuesday. I am sure that the many RV's, station wagons, trailers, and other methods of transportation are already filling up the empty parking spots around town.
If you are willing to brave the elements and the crazies, then by all means, come to town. If you can help it, avoid the interstate. If you live in Auburn and can get out, GET OUT NOW!!
Interesting
I found this article on Yahoo this morning. It struck me as funny at first, but I did read it. I don't know if I agree, but I guess to each his/her own. Like usual, my comments are in red.
Parents begin potty training at birth
By RODRIQUE NGOWI, Associated Press Writer Mon Aug 27, 2:05 PM ET
SUTTON, Mass. - Thirteen-month-old Dominic Klatt stopped banging the furniture in the verandah, looked at his mother and clasped his right hand around his left wrist to signal that he needed to go to the bathroom.
His mother took the diaper-less tot to a tree in the yard, held him in a squatting position and made a gentle hissing sound — prompting the infant to relieve himself on cue before he rushed back to play. Why not take him inside so that he learns to go "pee pee in the potty?"
Dominic is a product of a growing "diaper-free" movement founded on the belief that babies are born with an instinctive ability to signal when they have to answer nature's call. Parents who practice the so-called "elimination communication" learn to read their children's body language to help them recognize the need, and they mimic the sounds that a child associates with the bathroom. Ah, um, I don't know what to think. An "instinctive ability"? I guess you could say that, my niece used to cry when she pottied, but that was because she had bowel issues and it hurt.
Erinn Klatt began toilet training her son at birth and said he has not wet his bed at night since he was six months old.
"The nice part is ... really getting the majority of poops in the toilet versus having to clean that," Klatt said. "I don't have to wake up at night and change diapers or have wet sheets anywhere. That's really nice. I can see that being a good thing.
"And being able to travel without a big, bloated diaper bag is terrific," she said. Probably lessens her chiropractic bills too.
Some parents and toilet training experts are skeptical.
"They teach them from birth? Oh, my God!" said 40-year-old Lisa Bolcato, as she held her 5-month-old daughter, Rose, at a park on Boston Common. "When you're getting two hours of sleeps between feedings, I don't think that you have the time to do it. You just make sure that your child's healthy and happy and well-fed."
Still, the practice is common in many parts of rural Africa and Asia where parents cannot afford diapers.
In the United States, many of the parents are stay-at-home-moms, but there are also working mothers. Some meet in online groups, at homes and in public parks to share experiences and cheer each others' efforts. If I am a stay at home mom, I have laundry, dishes, meals, etc to do. I don't have time to sit and watch my child for the slightest sign they need to potty. Ok, sure I'd watch them, but play pens are our friend. I'm not going to sit right by the pack and play all day and stare at my child and wait for a signal.
Experts at the Child Study Center at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center say children younger than 12 months have no control over bladder or bowel movements and little control for 6 months after that.
But some parents begin going diaper-free at birth, and the infants can initiate bowel movements on cue as young as 3 to 4 months, said Elizabeth Parise, spokeswoman of DiaperFreeBaby.org, a network of free support groups promoting the practice. So it's kind of like training your dog to go on command. Fido, do your business.
And unlike some methods of toilet training, there are no rewards or punishment associated with it.
Dr. Mark Wolraich, professor of pediatrics and director of the Child Study Center, said the practice essentially conditions young children to go to the bathroom at predictable times or show clear signs when they must go.
"To be truly toilet-trained, the child has to be able to have the sensation that they need to go, be able to interpret that sensation and be able to then tell the parent and take some action," said Wolraich, who is also editor of the American Academy of Pediatrics' book on toilet training.
"And that's different from reading the subtle signs that the child is making when they have to go to the bathroom."
Parents attempt the early training to forge closer ties with their infants, to reduce the environmental impact associated with diapers and to avoid skin irritation caused by a wet diaper, Parise said.
Others were inspired by observing the practice while traveling abroad.
The practice also enables parents to get insight into an infant's development since more accidents occur if a child falls sick or enters a new phase such as learning to crawl, walk or talk.
This is because an infant may be too distracted by illness or efforts to master a new skill to communicate the need to go to the bathroom, said Melinda Rothstein, an MIT business school graduate who co-founded DiaperFreeBaby.org.
She says finding a supportive daycare center is the biggest challenge for parents who choose not to use diapers. Other problems include finding tiny underwear for diaper-free infants. No crap! I worked in a day care. I can't imagine working in the 1 year old room with all 10 kids and trying to watch every single one for what could be a secret signal they are about to go in the ball tub!
Isis Arnesen, 33, of Boston, has a 14-week-old daughter, Lucia, who is diaper-free. She said it can be awkward to explain the process to people, such as when she helped Lucia relieve herself in a sink at a public restroom. Once again, why not hold her over a toilet. If you are going to teach your child at a young age, why not teach them the appropriate places to go?
"Sometimes I don't know what's gonna happen and it doesn't work, and sometimes I feel a little embarrassed," Arnesen said. "It makes her happy though, right? She smiles, she's happy."
Parents begin potty training at birth
By RODRIQUE NGOWI, Associated Press Writer Mon Aug 27, 2:05 PM ET
SUTTON, Mass. - Thirteen-month-old Dominic Klatt stopped banging the furniture in the verandah, looked at his mother and clasped his right hand around his left wrist to signal that he needed to go to the bathroom.
His mother took the diaper-less tot to a tree in the yard, held him in a squatting position and made a gentle hissing sound — prompting the infant to relieve himself on cue before he rushed back to play. Why not take him inside so that he learns to go "pee pee in the potty?"
Dominic is a product of a growing "diaper-free" movement founded on the belief that babies are born with an instinctive ability to signal when they have to answer nature's call. Parents who practice the so-called "elimination communication" learn to read their children's body language to help them recognize the need, and they mimic the sounds that a child associates with the bathroom. Ah, um, I don't know what to think. An "instinctive ability"? I guess you could say that, my niece used to cry when she pottied, but that was because she had bowel issues and it hurt.
Erinn Klatt began toilet training her son at birth and said he has not wet his bed at night since he was six months old.
"The nice part is ... really getting the majority of poops in the toilet versus having to clean that," Klatt said. "I don't have to wake up at night and change diapers or have wet sheets anywhere. That's really nice. I can see that being a good thing.
"And being able to travel without a big, bloated diaper bag is terrific," she said. Probably lessens her chiropractic bills too.
Some parents and toilet training experts are skeptical.
"They teach them from birth? Oh, my God!" said 40-year-old Lisa Bolcato, as she held her 5-month-old daughter, Rose, at a park on Boston Common. "When you're getting two hours of sleeps between feedings, I don't think that you have the time to do it. You just make sure that your child's healthy and happy and well-fed."
Still, the practice is common in many parts of rural Africa and Asia where parents cannot afford diapers.
In the United States, many of the parents are stay-at-home-moms, but there are also working mothers. Some meet in online groups, at homes and in public parks to share experiences and cheer each others' efforts. If I am a stay at home mom, I have laundry, dishes, meals, etc to do. I don't have time to sit and watch my child for the slightest sign they need to potty. Ok, sure I'd watch them, but play pens are our friend. I'm not going to sit right by the pack and play all day and stare at my child and wait for a signal.
Experts at the Child Study Center at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center say children younger than 12 months have no control over bladder or bowel movements and little control for 6 months after that.
But some parents begin going diaper-free at birth, and the infants can initiate bowel movements on cue as young as 3 to 4 months, said Elizabeth Parise, spokeswoman of DiaperFreeBaby.org, a network of free support groups promoting the practice. So it's kind of like training your dog to go on command. Fido, do your business.
And unlike some methods of toilet training, there are no rewards or punishment associated with it.
Dr. Mark Wolraich, professor of pediatrics and director of the Child Study Center, said the practice essentially conditions young children to go to the bathroom at predictable times or show clear signs when they must go.
"To be truly toilet-trained, the child has to be able to have the sensation that they need to go, be able to interpret that sensation and be able to then tell the parent and take some action," said Wolraich, who is also editor of the American Academy of Pediatrics' book on toilet training.
"And that's different from reading the subtle signs that the child is making when they have to go to the bathroom."
Parents attempt the early training to forge closer ties with their infants, to reduce the environmental impact associated with diapers and to avoid skin irritation caused by a wet diaper, Parise said.
Others were inspired by observing the practice while traveling abroad.
The practice also enables parents to get insight into an infant's development since more accidents occur if a child falls sick or enters a new phase such as learning to crawl, walk or talk.
This is because an infant may be too distracted by illness or efforts to master a new skill to communicate the need to go to the bathroom, said Melinda Rothstein, an MIT business school graduate who co-founded DiaperFreeBaby.org.
She says finding a supportive daycare center is the biggest challenge for parents who choose not to use diapers. Other problems include finding tiny underwear for diaper-free infants. No crap! I worked in a day care. I can't imagine working in the 1 year old room with all 10 kids and trying to watch every single one for what could be a secret signal they are about to go in the ball tub!
Isis Arnesen, 33, of Boston, has a 14-week-old daughter, Lucia, who is diaper-free. She said it can be awkward to explain the process to people, such as when she helped Lucia relieve herself in a sink at a public restroom. Once again, why not hold her over a toilet. If you are going to teach your child at a young age, why not teach them the appropriate places to go?
"Sometimes I don't know what's gonna happen and it doesn't work, and sometimes I feel a little embarrassed," Arnesen said. "It makes her happy though, right? She smiles, she's happy."
Monday, August 27, 2007
Another Saturday Came and Went
We have been unable to make church for three weeks now. It's really getting to me. I am making sure I spend more time in prayer, reflection, and devotion, but it's not the same, and I don't think it should be. Three weeks ago I was horribly sick. Two weeks ago, we had a family "reunion." This past Saturday, we decided to get to the Spencerville Hog Roast early so we could make it back to Waterloo in time for church. Apparently Taylor doesn't like BBQ pork, and boy (no, that is no indication of Taylor's gender, it's too early to tell), did Taylor let me know.
We spent Saturday evening on the couch. We did watch "Facing the Giants." I would highly recommend this movie. If you don't know anything about the movie, check their site out. It's cool to see what a church can do when their faith is in the right place. There are tear filled moments, but maybe that's just because I've been where the coach's wife is, although not for the same amount of time. It is a good movie, and I highly recommend it.
Well, it's back to a regular work week and I'm trying my hardest to stay on task and get the whole month of September planned out ahead of time. So far I have half of it done. Back to work I go so that I can accomplish my goal for the day.
We spent Saturday evening on the couch. We did watch "Facing the Giants." I would highly recommend this movie. If you don't know anything about the movie, check their site out. It's cool to see what a church can do when their faith is in the right place. There are tear filled moments, but maybe that's just because I've been where the coach's wife is, although not for the same amount of time. It is a good movie, and I highly recommend it.
Well, it's back to a regular work week and I'm trying my hardest to stay on task and get the whole month of September planned out ahead of time. So far I have half of it done. Back to work I go so that I can accomplish my goal for the day.
Music for your Monday Morning
This is hysterical. You have to check it out.
I've always wanted to ride on the back of a mower when Ayron tows it from work, but he never lets me. My latest idea? Saturday we had to tow a hog roaster back from Spencerville (I know, you're thinking, "where?"). I thought it would be funny to strap a saddle on it and ride it home that way. Once again, Ayron was a joy kill.
I've always wanted to ride on the back of a mower when Ayron tows it from work, but he never lets me. My latest idea? Saturday we had to tow a hog roaster back from Spencerville (I know, you're thinking, "where?"). I thought it would be funny to strap a saddle on it and ride it home that way. Once again, Ayron was a joy kill.
Friday, August 24, 2007
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Banking
I am thinking about changing banks. I like the bank we use now, but last month our checking account became severely messed up and no one was willing to help us detangle it. I would also like to be able to check my balances and stuff on line. Does anyone have any suggestions? Are there any banks in Auburn that offer a free checking account and on line banking for free as well?
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
You Grew Up In the 90's
I found this on facebook. It cracked me up. It was just what I needed after coming into work to be hit with a ton of crap. My comments are in red!
Just wanted to remind people of the good ole days.You're a 90's kid if:
You've ever ended a sentence with the word "PSYCHE!"
You can sing the rap to "The Fresh Prince Of Bel Air" In west Philedelphia born and raised, on the playground is where I spent most of my days. Chilling out, maxing out, realxing......
You remember when Kurt Cobain, Tu Pac, River Phoenix, and Selena died.
You know that "WOAH" comes from Joey from "Blossom" and that "How Rude!" comes from Stephanie from "Full House"
You remember when it was actually worth getting up early on a Saturday to watch cartoons.
You got super excited when it was Oregon Trail day in computer class at school. Believe it or not, I never played Oregon Trail.
You remember reading "Goosebumps"
You know the profound meaning of "Wax on, wax off"
You have pondered why Smurfette was the only female smurf.
You took plastic cartoon lunch boxes to school. You actually think my dad would let me pack? Ha!
You danced to "Wannabe" by the Spice Girls.
You remember the craze, then the banning of slap bracelets and slam books. My nieces now have a couple of the braclets!
You still get the urge to say "NOT" after (almost) every sentence...Not...
Where in the world is Carmen San Diego? was both a game and a TV game show.
Captain Planet.
You remember when super nintendo's became popular.
You remember watching home alone 1, 2 , and 3........and tried to pull the pranks on "intruders"
"I've fallen and I can't get up"
You remember going to the skating rink before there were inline skates
Two words... Trapper Keeper. I had the coolest on my 6gh grade year. Oh man I miss that!
You never got injured on a Slip 'n' Slide
You wore socks over leggings scrunched down No, No, No! It was three pairs of different colored scrunch socks over your sturup pants, with clashing kangaroo shoes while sporting a cool crimped hair do.
You remember boom boxes vs. cd players
You remember New Kids on The Block when they were cool
You knew all the characters names and their life stories on "Saved By The Bell"
You played and/or collected "Pogs" I totally forgot about those. Man, I'm getting old!
You had at least one Tamagotchi, GigaPet or Nano and brought it everywhere
You watched the original Care Bears, My Little Pony, and Ninja Turtles
NANCY DREW AND THE HARDY BOYS WERE THE BEST MYSTERY BOOKS
Yikes pencils and erasers were the stuff!
All your school supplies were "Lisa Frank" brand.(pencils.notebooks.binders.etc.)
You remember when the new Beanie Babies were always sold out.
You used to wear those stick on earings, not only on your ears, but at the corners of your eyes. I had a friend that did that all through high school and her freshman year in college.
You remember a time before the WB.
You've gotten creeped out by "Are You Afraid of the Dark?"
You know the Macarena by heart.
"Talk to the hand" ... enough said
You thought Brain woud finally take over the world Huh? Don't get it.
You always said, "Then why don't you marry it!"
You remember when everyone went slinky crazy.
You remember when razor scooters were cool.
When we were younger:
Before the MySpace frenzy...
Before the Internet & text messaging...
Before Sidekicks & iPods...
Before MIKE JONES...
Before PlayStation2 or X-BOX......
Back when you put off the 5 hours of homework you had every night.
When light up sneakers were cool.
When you rented VHS tapes, not DVDs.
When gas was $0.95 a gallon & Caller ID was a new thing.
When we recorded stuff on VCRs & paid $3.50 for a movie.
When we called the radio station to request songs to hear off our walkmans.
When the Chicago Bulls were the best team ever.
Way back.
Tag.
Get Over Here!!!! means something to you.
Hide-n-Go Seek at dusk.
Red Light, Green Light.
Heads Up 7 Up. We got to play it every Friday during library time with Mrs. Souder. Now I live up the street from her.
Playing Kickball & Dodgeball until your porch light came on.
Hopskotch.
Slip-n-Slides.
Tree Houses.
Hula Hoops.
HELLO....HOT WHEELS!!!!!
"POWER OF LOVE" BY CELINE DION..ONLY COUPLES COULD SKATE TO THIS.
The annoying Giga Pets & Furbies.
Running through the sprinklers.
That "Little Mermaid"Crying when Mufasa died in the Lion King.
Happy Meals where you chose a Barbie or a Hot Wheels car.
Getting the privelage to sit in the front seat of the car.
Drinking Sqeeze It "Squeeze The Fun Out Of It"
CAPRI SUN
Watching Saturday Morning Cartoons in your PJ's still wrapped up in your TMNT, Power Rangers, Barbie, Fairy Princess comforter.
Or what about:
Hey Arnold.
Rugrats.
The Secret World of Alex Mac.
Ren & Stimpy.
Double Dare.
Rocco's Modern Life.
AAAHH!! REAL MONSTERS.
Wild & Crazy Kids.
Clarissa Explains it All.
CAMP NOWHERE I was trying to get Ayron to remember this show the other day and I couldn't think of the name. Remember the creepy older male counselor. Yikes.
The original cast members of All That.
Kenan & Kel. Kenan is now on Saturday Night Live
"CITY GUYS"...ROLLW/ THE CITY GUYS The one guy is now on a WB show.
Doug.
Magic School Bus.
Adventures of Pete and Pete.
Dinosaurs. "Not the mama, Not the mama!"
Blossom.
Hangin with Mr. Cooper.
Bill Nye the Science Guy
MR RODGERS!!!!
Who could forget Snick? & Nick @ Nite with Bewitched, I Dream of Jenie, The Facts of Life, I Love Lucy and TGIF.
Go back to the time when:
Decisions were made by going 'eeny-meeny-miney-moe'.
Mistakes were corrected by simply exclaiming 'do over!''
Race issue' ment arguing about who ran the fastest.
Money issues were handled by whoever was banker in 'Monopoly.'
It wasn't odd to have two or three 'best' friends.
Being old referred to anyone over 20.
A chance to skate as a couple at the local roller rink was like winning the lottery.
Scrapes & bruises were kissed & made better.
It was a big deal to finally be tall enought to ride the 'big people' rides at the fair. Until I realized how messed up the tilt-a-whurl can be when you ride with Dad and Natalee. I thought that pod was gonna spin right off the ride and slam into Blackwell's front window!
When playing Nintendo was the hardest thing ever.
When Ninja Turtles ruled the world.
Another Baby Sitter Club and Little Sister (Karen) book came out and you put your name on hold for it at the library. Totally! And then how excited you where when they started to make them into movies.
When Aladdin was new, before the trilogy was complete.
Sockem Boppers
Just wanted to remind people of the good ole days.You're a 90's kid if:
You've ever ended a sentence with the word "PSYCHE!"
You can sing the rap to "The Fresh Prince Of Bel Air" In west Philedelphia born and raised, on the playground is where I spent most of my days. Chilling out, maxing out, realxing......
You remember when Kurt Cobain, Tu Pac, River Phoenix, and Selena died.
You know that "WOAH" comes from Joey from "Blossom" and that "How Rude!" comes from Stephanie from "Full House"
You remember when it was actually worth getting up early on a Saturday to watch cartoons.
You got super excited when it was Oregon Trail day in computer class at school. Believe it or not, I never played Oregon Trail.
You remember reading "Goosebumps"
You know the profound meaning of "Wax on, wax off"
You have pondered why Smurfette was the only female smurf.
You took plastic cartoon lunch boxes to school. You actually think my dad would let me pack? Ha!
You danced to "Wannabe" by the Spice Girls.
You remember the craze, then the banning of slap bracelets and slam books. My nieces now have a couple of the braclets!
You still get the urge to say "NOT" after (almost) every sentence...Not...
Where in the world is Carmen San Diego? was both a game and a TV game show.
Captain Planet.
You remember when super nintendo's became popular.
You remember watching home alone 1, 2 , and 3........and tried to pull the pranks on "intruders"
"I've fallen and I can't get up"
You remember going to the skating rink before there were inline skates
Two words... Trapper Keeper. I had the coolest on my 6gh grade year. Oh man I miss that!
You never got injured on a Slip 'n' Slide
You wore socks over leggings scrunched down No, No, No! It was three pairs of different colored scrunch socks over your sturup pants, with clashing kangaroo shoes while sporting a cool crimped hair do.
You remember boom boxes vs. cd players
You remember New Kids on The Block when they were cool
You knew all the characters names and their life stories on "Saved By The Bell"
You played and/or collected "Pogs" I totally forgot about those. Man, I'm getting old!
You had at least one Tamagotchi, GigaPet or Nano and brought it everywhere
You watched the original Care Bears, My Little Pony, and Ninja Turtles
NANCY DREW AND THE HARDY BOYS WERE THE BEST MYSTERY BOOKS
Yikes pencils and erasers were the stuff!
All your school supplies were "Lisa Frank" brand.(pencils.notebooks.binders.etc.)
You remember when the new Beanie Babies were always sold out.
You used to wear those stick on earings, not only on your ears, but at the corners of your eyes. I had a friend that did that all through high school and her freshman year in college.
You remember a time before the WB.
You've gotten creeped out by "Are You Afraid of the Dark?"
You know the Macarena by heart.
"Talk to the hand" ... enough said
You thought Brain woud finally take over the world Huh? Don't get it.
You always said, "Then why don't you marry it!"
You remember when everyone went slinky crazy.
You remember when razor scooters were cool.
When we were younger:
Before the MySpace frenzy...
Before the Internet & text messaging...
Before Sidekicks & iPods...
Before MIKE JONES...
Before PlayStation2 or X-BOX......
Back when you put off the 5 hours of homework you had every night.
When light up sneakers were cool.
When you rented VHS tapes, not DVDs.
When gas was $0.95 a gallon & Caller ID was a new thing.
When we recorded stuff on VCRs & paid $3.50 for a movie.
When we called the radio station to request songs to hear off our walkmans.
When the Chicago Bulls were the best team ever.
Way back.
Tag.
Get Over Here!!!! means something to you.
Hide-n-Go Seek at dusk.
Red Light, Green Light.
Heads Up 7 Up. We got to play it every Friday during library time with Mrs. Souder. Now I live up the street from her.
Playing Kickball & Dodgeball until your porch light came on.
Hopskotch.
Slip-n-Slides.
Tree Houses.
Hula Hoops.
HELLO....HOT WHEELS!!!!!
"POWER OF LOVE" BY CELINE DION..ONLY COUPLES COULD SKATE TO THIS.
The annoying Giga Pets & Furbies.
Running through the sprinklers.
That "Little Mermaid"Crying when Mufasa died in the Lion King.
Happy Meals where you chose a Barbie or a Hot Wheels car.
Getting the privelage to sit in the front seat of the car.
Drinking Sqeeze It "Squeeze The Fun Out Of It"
CAPRI SUN
Watching Saturday Morning Cartoons in your PJ's still wrapped up in your TMNT, Power Rangers, Barbie, Fairy Princess comforter.
Or what about:
Hey Arnold.
Rugrats.
The Secret World of Alex Mac.
Ren & Stimpy.
Double Dare.
Rocco's Modern Life.
AAAHH!! REAL MONSTERS.
Wild & Crazy Kids.
Clarissa Explains it All.
CAMP NOWHERE I was trying to get Ayron to remember this show the other day and I couldn't think of the name. Remember the creepy older male counselor. Yikes.
The original cast members of All That.
Kenan & Kel. Kenan is now on Saturday Night Live
"CITY GUYS"...ROLLW/ THE CITY GUYS The one guy is now on a WB show.
Doug.
Magic School Bus.
Adventures of Pete and Pete.
Dinosaurs. "Not the mama, Not the mama!"
Blossom.
Hangin with Mr. Cooper.
Bill Nye the Science Guy
MR RODGERS!!!!
Who could forget Snick? & Nick @ Nite with Bewitched, I Dream of Jenie, The Facts of Life, I Love Lucy and TGIF.
Go back to the time when:
Decisions were made by going 'eeny-meeny-miney-moe'.
Mistakes were corrected by simply exclaiming 'do over!''
Race issue' ment arguing about who ran the fastest.
Money issues were handled by whoever was banker in 'Monopoly.'
It wasn't odd to have two or three 'best' friends.
Being old referred to anyone over 20.
A chance to skate as a couple at the local roller rink was like winning the lottery.
Scrapes & bruises were kissed & made better.
It was a big deal to finally be tall enought to ride the 'big people' rides at the fair. Until I realized how messed up the tilt-a-whurl can be when you ride with Dad and Natalee. I thought that pod was gonna spin right off the ride and slam into Blackwell's front window!
When playing Nintendo was the hardest thing ever.
When Ninja Turtles ruled the world.
Another Baby Sitter Club and Little Sister (Karen) book came out and you put your name on hold for it at the library. Totally! And then how excited you where when they started to make them into movies.
When Aladdin was new, before the trilogy was complete.
Sockem Boppers
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Feeling Crumby
The past couple of weeks I have been feeling crumby. It is probably due to the fact that I am supporting another life, but it has been rough for me, and for Ayron. I have been extra whinny (shut up Natalee) and half the time I don't know what I need or want to make me feel better.
Ayron, sensing my rough time (how could be not) brought me home a present last night. He gave me a gorgeous diamond cross necklace. It is beautiful. I was truly happy. I'll admit that at first I was upset that he spent that kind of money, but he quickly shut me up. It is nice to have surprise presents, I'll give you that.
I began feeling guilty about it as the night wore on. Did he think that he had to buy me something to make me feel better? Questions flooded my mind. I realized that while I truly love the necklace (don't get me wrong, I don't want to sound ungrateful) he could have made me just as happy by doing some little things around the house.
My friend and I have been unloading to each other about our daily responsibilities and how we get our significant others to help out. She leaves lists. I'm more subtle. Ayron's style and my own are drastically different as well.
I would rather do a little bit each morning so that when I get home from work (or on my day off) I don't have a ton to do. The house will always look decent (except for the mud pit in our front yard) in case someone stops by. Ayron would rather put everything off until his day off. He spends his day off lounging around until right before I get home, then he frantically tries to throw a load of clothes in the washer, a load of dishes in the dishwasher, clean the bunny cage, and vacuum.
I shouldn't complain. He helps more than some people do. I just don't like watching the chores pile up till the last possible moment. I like to stay ahead of the storm. Is that wrong of me? I've even thought about creating a weekly chore chart. For myself, not for Ayron. I don't want you thinking that I treat him like a kid, he is an adult. But just to better organize myself.
For Example:
Monday: Rabbit Cage, vacuum, dishes
Tuesday: Dishes, laundry, kitchen
Wednesday: Dishes, bathroom
Thursday: Dishes, Rabbit cage, laundry (if needed)
You get the idea. I'm afraid Ayron will think that I am pushing him to help out. I just wish he'd help me during the week so that on Sunday we aren't frantically trying to get a bunch of stuff done before the upcoming week. Maybe my nesting stage has kicked in several months early, who knows. Maybe I'm just odd. Any suggestions?
*** In response to a comment that was left. I do not think the number of hours one works is relevant. I work outside of the house and while my hours were flexiable this summer, I still managed to work a ton. I know he works a lot too, I get that, and I'm grateful. I also know there are certain things I cannot do on my own either do to lack of knowledge or physical reasons. I do not think that it is wrong for me to ask him to do them. We do talk, and things still don't get done. I work on things around the house everyday, before and afterwork, and on my days off. I don't think it's too much to ask for him to load the dishwasher after dinner or throw a load of laundry in before he leaves in the morning. Long rant short, I don't think the number of hours matter. We bought the house and we need to help each other maintain it.
Ayron, sensing my rough time (how could be not) brought me home a present last night. He gave me a gorgeous diamond cross necklace. It is beautiful. I was truly happy. I'll admit that at first I was upset that he spent that kind of money, but he quickly shut me up. It is nice to have surprise presents, I'll give you that.
I began feeling guilty about it as the night wore on. Did he think that he had to buy me something to make me feel better? Questions flooded my mind. I realized that while I truly love the necklace (don't get me wrong, I don't want to sound ungrateful) he could have made me just as happy by doing some little things around the house.
My friend and I have been unloading to each other about our daily responsibilities and how we get our significant others to help out. She leaves lists. I'm more subtle. Ayron's style and my own are drastically different as well.
I would rather do a little bit each morning so that when I get home from work (or on my day off) I don't have a ton to do. The house will always look decent (except for the mud pit in our front yard) in case someone stops by. Ayron would rather put everything off until his day off. He spends his day off lounging around until right before I get home, then he frantically tries to throw a load of clothes in the washer, a load of dishes in the dishwasher, clean the bunny cage, and vacuum.
I shouldn't complain. He helps more than some people do. I just don't like watching the chores pile up till the last possible moment. I like to stay ahead of the storm. Is that wrong of me? I've even thought about creating a weekly chore chart. For myself, not for Ayron. I don't want you thinking that I treat him like a kid, he is an adult. But just to better organize myself.
For Example:
Monday: Rabbit Cage, vacuum, dishes
Tuesday: Dishes, laundry, kitchen
Wednesday: Dishes, bathroom
Thursday: Dishes, Rabbit cage, laundry (if needed)
You get the idea. I'm afraid Ayron will think that I am pushing him to help out. I just wish he'd help me during the week so that on Sunday we aren't frantically trying to get a bunch of stuff done before the upcoming week. Maybe my nesting stage has kicked in several months early, who knows. Maybe I'm just odd. Any suggestions?
*** In response to a comment that was left. I do not think the number of hours one works is relevant. I work outside of the house and while my hours were flexiable this summer, I still managed to work a ton. I know he works a lot too, I get that, and I'm grateful. I also know there are certain things I cannot do on my own either do to lack of knowledge or physical reasons. I do not think that it is wrong for me to ask him to do them. We do talk, and things still don't get done. I work on things around the house everyday, before and afterwork, and on my days off. I don't think it's too much to ask for him to load the dishwasher after dinner or throw a load of laundry in before he leaves in the morning. Long rant short, I don't think the number of hours matter. We bought the house and we need to help each other maintain it.
Monday, August 20, 2007
Nuthing Nue
I really don't have anything interesting to say. Then again, do I ever?
I am at work. Blech. I was in a good mood, until I fell on the ramp that leads up to my office. I managed to remove all of the skin on my left leg from my knee down to my ankle. It is a lovely shade of purple and dried blood. I am glad I didn't rip my jeans. They are my favorite jeans and they room for me to "grow into."
School starts again on Thursday. I am pretty sure I won't have any kids until the second or third week into September, which is good, but if I had students, I wouldn't be as bored. I am graduating two kids from the after school program this week, so that is exciting. It will only leave me with two, but that's ok.
Wow, this post is horribly boring. I'm gonna stop now.
I am at work. Blech. I was in a good mood, until I fell on the ramp that leads up to my office. I managed to remove all of the skin on my left leg from my knee down to my ankle. It is a lovely shade of purple and dried blood. I am glad I didn't rip my jeans. They are my favorite jeans and they room for me to "grow into."
School starts again on Thursday. I am pretty sure I won't have any kids until the second or third week into September, which is good, but if I had students, I wouldn't be as bored. I am graduating two kids from the after school program this week, so that is exciting. It will only leave me with two, but that's ok.
Wow, this post is horribly boring. I'm gonna stop now.
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Amazing
Ok, this post needs a preface, so here it goes. I never wanted to be one of those annoying pregnant ladies who thought they were the only one who has ever been pregnant and that the world should revolve around them. While I have several friends that are pregnant, I also have several that are trying without much success. I have not forgotten you and I continue to pray for your success (that just sounds silly, but it's true). I also understand that this is something women have done since the beginning of time. I have it easy compared to 100 or even 30 years ago. I am still capable of doing things, heck in the "good ole days" pregnant wives still tended to the fields, took care of the animals, etc. Ok, rant over, on to my thought for the morning.
I get emails every week from a baby website that just lets me know what is happening in my body, news on baby stuff, etc. I was reading the 9 week one today and it hit me. There is a human in me, growing. I knew from the beginning there was a human in me, but it really hit me. Here is what I wrote to my friend during our daily work day chat: "I am truly amazed by what is going on in my body right now. It is amazing to think that God designed us to be able to do this and without much thought on our part. I don't understand how people can go through this process and not believe in God."
Taylor is growing and changing right now and I'm not even "telling" him/her to do it. It happens on its own. That is astounding. Right now he/she is working on eyelids, arms, legs, toes, and the first nerves to what will be his/her brain. And Taylor is only the size of a pea pod. I am truly amazed and this whole process has humbled me greatly. It's also made me sick to my stomach, but more so humble.
I get emails every week from a baby website that just lets me know what is happening in my body, news on baby stuff, etc. I was reading the 9 week one today and it hit me. There is a human in me, growing. I knew from the beginning there was a human in me, but it really hit me. Here is what I wrote to my friend during our daily work day chat: "I am truly amazed by what is going on in my body right now. It is amazing to think that God designed us to be able to do this and without much thought on our part. I don't understand how people can go through this process and not believe in God."
Taylor is growing and changing right now and I'm not even "telling" him/her to do it. It happens on its own. That is astounding. Right now he/she is working on eyelids, arms, legs, toes, and the first nerves to what will be his/her brain. And Taylor is only the size of a pea pod. I am truly amazed and this whole process has humbled me greatly. It's also made me sick to my stomach, but more so humble.
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Extremly Frustrated
I am getting really frustrated about work. I have been working with several other people/offices to help a certain participant in my program. I was told that if I did steps A-Z they would help me and we could get this person the help they needed. All I needed to do was A-Z and they would take care of the rest. THEY LIED! I just got off the phone to find out they did nothing and played me up to the family like the bad person. I wasn't even there to defend myself. It seems like they don't want to do their part. So I spent a whole day doing A-Z only to have it back fire on me and cause me to have more work. They didn't even check with me to see if it was feasible, they just did it. It throws a huge wrench in my schedule. I'm so upset.
I took this job so that I could teach. I took the "coordinator" position because I felt bad. There, I admit it. I took it because they couldn't find anyone else to take it. I didn't realize how much time it took to do a bunch of dumb paperwork that never gets looked at but we have to have "just in case." I feel like I don't get the respect or help that I need. They literally just handed me the whole program and went "Here, you figure it out because we don't want to." So when I do make a decision on something, they start screaming and blowing whistles. Well, help me, don't criticize me after I've done something.
I miss teaching. Even during the school year, I don't get to do a whole lot of teaching. Many of the kids do the "independent study" program the alternative school offers, so I basically just sit there until they have a question or need a test graded. I want to teach. I want to have students who are willing to learn and who do not have so many problems. I don't want to be on so many committees just because of the title I accepted. I'm hardly even at the house (My program is run out of a house) the first week of every month because I've been put on so many freaking committees and been giving so many dumb duties that have nothing to do with my program. It is getting really frustrated. When I do ask for help, I either get ignored or looked at like "Well, I don't know what you want me to do!"
I brought all of this up to my boss this past spring but he doesn't know how to help. He is a passive person. He'll try to not deal with it in hopes it goes away. I can't work like that. I need help, guidance, leadership, someone to stand up for me, and I'm not getting that here.
Maybe I'm so worked up due to the hormones, who knows.
I took this job so that I could teach. I took the "coordinator" position because I felt bad. There, I admit it. I took it because they couldn't find anyone else to take it. I didn't realize how much time it took to do a bunch of dumb paperwork that never gets looked at but we have to have "just in case." I feel like I don't get the respect or help that I need. They literally just handed me the whole program and went "Here, you figure it out because we don't want to." So when I do make a decision on something, they start screaming and blowing whistles. Well, help me, don't criticize me after I've done something.
I miss teaching. Even during the school year, I don't get to do a whole lot of teaching. Many of the kids do the "independent study" program the alternative school offers, so I basically just sit there until they have a question or need a test graded. I want to teach. I want to have students who are willing to learn and who do not have so many problems. I don't want to be on so many committees just because of the title I accepted. I'm hardly even at the house (My program is run out of a house) the first week of every month because I've been put on so many freaking committees and been giving so many dumb duties that have nothing to do with my program. It is getting really frustrated. When I do ask for help, I either get ignored or looked at like "Well, I don't know what you want me to do!"
I brought all of this up to my boss this past spring but he doesn't know how to help. He is a passive person. He'll try to not deal with it in hopes it goes away. I can't work like that. I need help, guidance, leadership, someone to stand up for me, and I'm not getting that here.
Maybe I'm so worked up due to the hormones, who knows.
Thanks JO
I posted a picture on my Flickr site a while back with a comment that I wanted to change it. See if you can spot what JO did for me? Thanks Jo!!
Before
After
Scooter
When I took Scooter into the groomers a week ago, I was asked to sign a wavier. Turns out that posted his picture on the website. Take a look.
Granted, it's not his best shot, but it does show his slobbery tongue. I'm thinking of sending them another one, but for now, it works.
Granted, it's not his best shot, but it does show his slobbery tongue. I'm thinking of sending them another one, but for now, it works.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
About two weeks ago I decided to cave and join the facebook nation. I love it. I have reconnected with a ton of people from high school. It's fun to see how some of they have changed and how some haven't. Someone I grew up with and had several crushes on over the years is now joining the priesthood in a couple of days. It's interesting to see who has ended up where and what they are doing. I found an old friend that moved away our 7th grade year and discovered that he is in Iraq. Some of us stayed here, some of us moved. I wonder what they think of me when they see my page? If you've got a facebook page, I'd love to be a friend.
Monday, August 13, 2007
I Miss The Excitement!!
I miss the excitement of getting ready to go back to school. I miss the smell of a new package of mechanical pencils. The way a new 5 Star 5-Subject notebook feels in a backpack. The motivation everyone has to make this "their year." Everyone is organized and ready to go. I miss that. I really wish I could go back to school again. I even looked into taking a Continuing Ed. course through IPFW, but I talked myself out of it. When I do go back to school, I want the classes to counts towards my Master's degree. Some how I don't think that Yoga 101 will.
God's Humor
I firmly believe that God has a sense of humor. I believe that at times, He's just sitting up there laughing uncontrollably. Here is more proof to back up my claim.
This morning, I got up when Ayron did, as usual. While Ayron was in the shower I sat on the couch and at a cup of pudding (yeah yeah, breakfast of champions). I decided to release some of the pressure that was building up in my tummy. You have a lot of extra tummy pressure when you are pregnant, and at times, you have to let it go. So I delicately, very lady like, lowered my stomach pressure. As soon as I did that, BAM the carbon monoxide/gas leak detector started going off. I knew I had tummy pressure, but I didn't think I had enough to set off an alarm! I quickly gathered the dog, Ayron, and cell phones and went outside.
We called Phil, Ayron's brother, who is the assistant chief of a fire department. He told us to quickly open up all the windows and call the gas company. So we did that. After about ten minutes of waiting and wondering, the helpful guy from NIFL came and with his fancy detector machine, entered our house. His $2,000 piece of equipment didn't detect a thing. He checked every room, the garage, everything. All he got was "0"s. He wrote down a bunch of information about our detector and told us that he thinks it may have malfunctioned.
Long story short, when you need to release some pressure, make sure you aren't sitting right next to the gas leak detector.
This morning, I got up when Ayron did, as usual. While Ayron was in the shower I sat on the couch and at a cup of pudding (yeah yeah, breakfast of champions). I decided to release some of the pressure that was building up in my tummy. You have a lot of extra tummy pressure when you are pregnant, and at times, you have to let it go. So I delicately, very lady like, lowered my stomach pressure. As soon as I did that, BAM the carbon monoxide/gas leak detector started going off. I knew I had tummy pressure, but I didn't think I had enough to set off an alarm! I quickly gathered the dog, Ayron, and cell phones and went outside.
We called Phil, Ayron's brother, who is the assistant chief of a fire department. He told us to quickly open up all the windows and call the gas company. So we did that. After about ten minutes of waiting and wondering, the helpful guy from NIFL came and with his fancy detector machine, entered our house. His $2,000 piece of equipment didn't detect a thing. He checked every room, the garage, everything. All he got was "0"s. He wrote down a bunch of information about our detector and told us that he thinks it may have malfunctioned.
Long story short, when you need to release some pressure, make sure you aren't sitting right next to the gas leak detector.
Monday, August 06, 2007
Happy St. Patty's Day To Me
I know what you're thinking, you must be crazy. It's only the beginning of August. Well, we had our first ultra sound on Friday and we found out that I am now 8 weeks along and I am due on Saint Patrick's day. No, we will not be naming the baby some odd Irish name. The name is still Taylor. Here are the two pictures they gave us. The second one shows how she measured Taylor to tell how old he/she is.
In this photo I think Taylor looks like a sea horse! We go back on August 30th for our next ultra sound and then we can see fingers and toes. We did see Taylor's heart beat and see him/her move around depending on how she touched my belly.
Shopping Nightmare
Ayron and I bought a new TV a couple of weeks ago. It doesn't fit in our current entertainment center (given to us). We decided to go look at entertainment centers yesterday afternoon. I didn't know there were so many freaking choices. After several hours and several stores, we finally went back to our first stop (the Sauder store in Coldwater Crossing) and finally decided on one. It will be in the store on Friday, so hopefully we can pick it up on Saturday. There is one glitch though. The wall that we want to put it on has our thermostat and at only 45 inches off the floor, it will prevent our new center from sitting flush against the wall. What does that mean you ask? It means that Ayron will have to poke a hole in my hallway wall, rerun some wires and then patch the old hole. He swears it will be easy, and I made him promise to let his dad help. Let's just keep our fingers crossed.
Friday, August 03, 2007
Onsie
Today is our first dr's visit. Well, let me clarify, our first Certified Nurse Mid-Wife (CNMW) visit. I love my CNMW, she is a great person. She has delivered a ton of babies and I completely trust her with my life as well as Taylor's.
I was thinking about the appointment this morning and as I walked out the door, I saw it. The Onsie. We were given a onsie by Nathan and Emily D. I currently have it hanging by the front door. I love the onsie. It says, "Nothings Wrong, Just Testing You." I think it's hilarious. It hit me. One day I will have something to put in that. What in the world were we thinking. Are we ready? Will we ever be ready? That thing is so small.
As if my nerves about this whole process aren't already shot, JoEllen (Ayron's Mom) decided to tell me Twin run on her side of the family as well as Tom's (Ayron's dad). Great. I'm already freaked out about one, lets make it two. Can you imagine. Potty training two at once? High School Book Rental? College? Braces? AHHHHHHH. I know, I know, no need to get yourself worked up since you don't know anything yet. Easier said than done.
Don't get me wrong, I am so excited about being a mom, I want this child(ren) more than anything. I have this feeling that there could be twins. I will be so excited if it is twins, one birth and I have my two babies. That would be cool. Can you imagine two Ayron's running around. Oh my gosh.
I was thinking about the appointment this morning and as I walked out the door, I saw it. The Onsie. We were given a onsie by Nathan and Emily D. I currently have it hanging by the front door. I love the onsie. It says, "Nothings Wrong, Just Testing You." I think it's hilarious. It hit me. One day I will have something to put in that. What in the world were we thinking. Are we ready? Will we ever be ready? That thing is so small.
As if my nerves about this whole process aren't already shot, JoEllen (Ayron's Mom) decided to tell me Twin run on her side of the family as well as Tom's (Ayron's dad). Great. I'm already freaked out about one, lets make it two. Can you imagine. Potty training two at once? High School Book Rental? College? Braces? AHHHHHHH. I know, I know, no need to get yourself worked up since you don't know anything yet. Easier said than done.
Don't get me wrong, I am so excited about being a mom, I want this child(ren) more than anything. I have this feeling that there could be twins. I will be so excited if it is twins, one birth and I have my two babies. That would be cool. Can you imagine two Ayron's running around. Oh my gosh.
Stolen Post
I have stolen this post from my other blog. I thought about it all night and decided to add some more things to it. What do you remember/miss from your childhood. Keep in mind that what you write could show your age.
So it was my turn to pick the blog topic. After putting it off for several days (Sorry Kianne) I finally made up my mind this morning. Here are a few of my childhood favorites.
Hasbro's Kid Sister
Sarah, my kid sister, and I did everything together. Her hard plastic head with blue eyes that always looked like a deer in the head lights, even slept in my bed. I'm surprised I don't have a permanent indent left by her nose in my back. Her perfectly positioned freckles, plastic shoes, blue overalls and hat had me at hello. Plus, I could drag her where ever I wanted to go. Let me back track. My biological sister is 7 1/2 years older and often found me annoying, although I don't know why, I was wonderful (please sense the sarcasm in my typing). Natalee could not be persuaded to do anything, however, Sarah, my kid sister, she had no choice. We took bike rides(I'm sure she loved her basket seat), climbed the neighbors weeping willow tree, played beauty salon, and hang out in the backyard. There was one thing she couldn't do well, swim. Her big plastic head was floatable, but her fabric body soaked up moisture like a sponge. I'm pretty sure I still have Sarah, I think she now lives in a Rubbermaid tote in my shed.
Sit and Spins
Ahh, the best way to spend a hot afternoon, making yourself so dizzy you puked in the neighbors backyard. Starring at the spiral shaped colors on the (handle), watching them go round and round as you go round and round till you can't see straight. Funny this is, I could spin myself silly every afternoon, yet the gravatron at the fair seemed so unnatural.
Jail Break
I was fortunate to grow up on a cul-de-sac where lots of other kids lived. Ours was the cul-de-sac to play on. Kids from the rest of the block would come and beg to play. Right at the end of the cul-de-sac (that's such a funny word) was a light pole. That was base. I remember that Leah once tried to hide in a raspberry bush. That was a rough night. Turns out that Benadryl makes her unbelievably hyper. Ryan used to scale the pole and play look out, shouting to his team where everyone was. I tended to be the jailer. I wasn't a fan of hiding in the dark, I was happy to guard the jail.
Kick Ball
When we weren't play jail break, there was kick ball. A crack in the straight portion of the cul-de-sac was 1st base. My mailbox was 2nd, the light pole was 3rd, and home was a crack in Beaty's drive way. We had to be careful. A poorly aimed "home run" often bounced off our front window, which did not please the father. I really miss those days. I'm tempted to send out invitations to all of those kids I used to play with to have a day of jail break and kick ball.
Willow Tree
My neighbors had the perfect willow tree. It was very climbable. Stuart and I would spend hours in that tree. We had to be quiet though because his dad worked third and the tree was right outside his parent's bedroom. We were pirates, royalty, family, thieves, animal rescuers, explorers, just about anything you could think of. That tree had magical powers. The new owner of that house is thinking of cutting it down. It has gotten out of control and it is dying a slow death, but it will still be sad to see it go.
Jellie Shoes
I loved those things. They made your feet so hot and sweaty, and then sweaty feet equaled a farting sound when you walked. My mom used to try to get me to wear socks with mine. Come on mom, that was so uncool! I used to get rocks stuck in the bottom and my dad used to get so mad. I think he spent more time picking rocks out of the bottom then I did actually wearing them. They tried to make a brief comeback when I was in 7th grade. I had the coolest pair of chunky healed, clear, silver glittery pair. I loved those pair, till I fell off of them. Yes, I feel. Jillian and I had the same pair. We thought we were so cool. We'd wear them just to annoy our typing teacher. Ahh, those are the days.
Mario Brothers
The original. We never owned a Nintendo, we did have an Atari though, but Bennett's, they had a Nintendo. We used to lay behind the couch and play it all evening. I sucked at it, but it was so much fun.
My Record Player
My grandparents used to own a record store in downtown Garrett back in the day when Garrett was THE place to be. Growing up we had a ton of old records laying around the house. I remember lugging the blue and yellow bog out of the closet and plugging it in. I had Mickey Disco (It really was Nat's first) and the song "They're Coming To Take Me Away." I loved to sit on my bedroom floor listening to records. The cracks, pops, scratches, ahhh, I love that sound.
Ok, so at the risk of sounding like an old woman I'm gonna stop. What do you remember/miss from your childhood?
So it was my turn to pick the blog topic. After putting it off for several days (Sorry Kianne) I finally made up my mind this morning. Here are a few of my childhood favorites.
Hasbro's Kid Sister
Sarah, my kid sister, and I did everything together. Her hard plastic head with blue eyes that always looked like a deer in the head lights, even slept in my bed. I'm surprised I don't have a permanent indent left by her nose in my back. Her perfectly positioned freckles, plastic shoes, blue overalls and hat had me at hello. Plus, I could drag her where ever I wanted to go. Let me back track. My biological sister is 7 1/2 years older and often found me annoying, although I don't know why, I was wonderful (please sense the sarcasm in my typing). Natalee could not be persuaded to do anything, however, Sarah, my kid sister, she had no choice. We took bike rides(I'm sure she loved her basket seat), climbed the neighbors weeping willow tree, played beauty salon, and hang out in the backyard. There was one thing she couldn't do well, swim. Her big plastic head was floatable, but her fabric body soaked up moisture like a sponge. I'm pretty sure I still have Sarah, I think she now lives in a Rubbermaid tote in my shed.
Sit and Spins
Ahh, the best way to spend a hot afternoon, making yourself so dizzy you puked in the neighbors backyard. Starring at the spiral shaped colors on the (handle), watching them go round and round as you go round and round till you can't see straight. Funny this is, I could spin myself silly every afternoon, yet the gravatron at the fair seemed so unnatural.
Jail Break
I was fortunate to grow up on a cul-de-sac where lots of other kids lived. Ours was the cul-de-sac to play on. Kids from the rest of the block would come and beg to play. Right at the end of the cul-de-sac (that's such a funny word) was a light pole. That was base. I remember that Leah once tried to hide in a raspberry bush. That was a rough night. Turns out that Benadryl makes her unbelievably hyper. Ryan used to scale the pole and play look out, shouting to his team where everyone was. I tended to be the jailer. I wasn't a fan of hiding in the dark, I was happy to guard the jail.
Kick Ball
When we weren't play jail break, there was kick ball. A crack in the straight portion of the cul-de-sac was 1st base. My mailbox was 2nd, the light pole was 3rd, and home was a crack in Beaty's drive way. We had to be careful. A poorly aimed "home run" often bounced off our front window, which did not please the father. I really miss those days. I'm tempted to send out invitations to all of those kids I used to play with to have a day of jail break and kick ball.
Willow Tree
My neighbors had the perfect willow tree. It was very climbable. Stuart and I would spend hours in that tree. We had to be quiet though because his dad worked third and the tree was right outside his parent's bedroom. We were pirates, royalty, family, thieves, animal rescuers, explorers, just about anything you could think of. That tree had magical powers. The new owner of that house is thinking of cutting it down. It has gotten out of control and it is dying a slow death, but it will still be sad to see it go.
Jellie Shoes
I loved those things. They made your feet so hot and sweaty, and then sweaty feet equaled a farting sound when you walked. My mom used to try to get me to wear socks with mine. Come on mom, that was so uncool! I used to get rocks stuck in the bottom and my dad used to get so mad. I think he spent more time picking rocks out of the bottom then I did actually wearing them. They tried to make a brief comeback when I was in 7th grade. I had the coolest pair of chunky healed, clear, silver glittery pair. I loved those pair, till I fell off of them. Yes, I feel. Jillian and I had the same pair. We thought we were so cool. We'd wear them just to annoy our typing teacher. Ahh, those are the days.
Mario Brothers
The original. We never owned a Nintendo, we did have an Atari though, but Bennett's, they had a Nintendo. We used to lay behind the couch and play it all evening. I sucked at it, but it was so much fun.
My Record Player
My grandparents used to own a record store in downtown Garrett back in the day when Garrett was THE place to be. Growing up we had a ton of old records laying around the house. I remember lugging the blue and yellow bog out of the closet and plugging it in. I had Mickey Disco (It really was Nat's first) and the song "They're Coming To Take Me Away." I loved to sit on my bedroom floor listening to records. The cracks, pops, scratches, ahhh, I love that sound.
Ok, so at the risk of sounding like an old woman I'm gonna stop. What do you remember/miss from your childhood?
Thursday, August 02, 2007
Shawn McDonald (Part II)
This song hit me over the head on my drive home last night.
Pride
Pride, walk out the door
Well, I don't need you anymore
I can do it on my own
Won't you please leave me alone
And Pride, walk out the door
Well, I don't need you anymore
I can do it on my own
Won't you please leave me alone
Well I'll say goodbye
Well I'll say goodbye
Well I'll say, I'll say goodbye
And hate, walk out the door
Well, I don't need you anymore
I can do it on my own
Won't you please leave me alone
See hate, walk out the door
Well, I don't need you anymore
I can do it on my own
Won't you please leave me alone
Welll I'll say goodbye
Well I'll say goodbye
I say goodbye
I say goodbye
I say goodbye
Well I'll say goodbye
Well I'll say, I'll say goodbye
Cause all we need is love [10x]
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
Shawn McDonald Part I (Amazing Grace)
I love Shawn McDonald's music. I have a friend who is just as equally excited about him as I am. Maybe it is his honesty? Or his raw sound? Or could it be his story. If you don't know his story, I highly recommend reading the next paragraph.
Shawn McDonald was raised by his grandparents. When he hit his late teens, he rebelled. He was living on the streets, doing and selling hardcore drugs. His parents had always taken him to church, but he never felt a calling. One night, while squatting in an apartment, he felt the urge to pray. During his prayer, he felt God tell him to get rid of his drug stash. He immediately flushed it and cleaned up any evidence. In the middle of the night, the police came to arrest him, they were sure they'd find him stash and finally be able to bust him. All they found was an empty apartment. Since then, Shawn has reconnected with God. His music illustrates his struggles as a Christian. The songs are so raw and real.
So back to my story. I'm sitting here at work, not feeling well at all. I am trying to decide if it is morning sickness (I'm usually sick at night) or the flu that is going around. I am moaning and groaning about having to come to work today for this big meeting and I'm struggling to finish Augusts activities for the after school group. I bought Shawn's new cd yesterday, so in an attempt to calm myself, I put the cd in my laptop. Track # 13 is "Amazing Grace."
I've heard "Amazing Grace" hundreds, if not millions of times. I've heard it done in just about any way possible. Bag pipes are especially moving. I found myself reallying listening to the words and hearing Him through Shawn's voice. I was immediately calm. It was amazing (no pun intended). That song has never touched me so deeply as it did this morning. I love this cd!
Here is one of my favorite songs of his.
Shawn McDonald was raised by his grandparents. When he hit his late teens, he rebelled. He was living on the streets, doing and selling hardcore drugs. His parents had always taken him to church, but he never felt a calling. One night, while squatting in an apartment, he felt the urge to pray. During his prayer, he felt God tell him to get rid of his drug stash. He immediately flushed it and cleaned up any evidence. In the middle of the night, the police came to arrest him, they were sure they'd find him stash and finally be able to bust him. All they found was an empty apartment. Since then, Shawn has reconnected with God. His music illustrates his struggles as a Christian. The songs are so raw and real.
So back to my story. I'm sitting here at work, not feeling well at all. I am trying to decide if it is morning sickness (I'm usually sick at night) or the flu that is going around. I am moaning and groaning about having to come to work today for this big meeting and I'm struggling to finish Augusts activities for the after school group. I bought Shawn's new cd yesterday, so in an attempt to calm myself, I put the cd in my laptop. Track # 13 is "Amazing Grace."
I've heard "Amazing Grace" hundreds, if not millions of times. I've heard it done in just about any way possible. Bag pipes are especially moving. I found myself reallying listening to the words and hearing Him through Shawn's voice. I was immediately calm. It was amazing (no pun intended). That song has never touched me so deeply as it did this morning. I love this cd!
Here is one of my favorite songs of his.
Hold On
Another day gone by
And again I ask myself why
I question my sanity
Why I believe what I believe
Some might think that I am crazy
For believing in something I cannot see
So won't You now
Hold on to me, hold on
Hold on to me, yeah
Please don't let me go no, no, hold on
'Cause I am prone to wonder
Prone to leave this faith I know
Hold on
And now they say that the wise man
Well, he fears the Lord
And this fear, well, it's the beginning of all wisdom
And I must be a fool
'Cause I sure don't seem to fear You
'Cause the very things that You will me to do
Well, I just don't seem to get around to
The very things that You hate
Are the very things that I always stumble into
Hold on
Hold on
Hold on
Hold on
'Cause I am prone to leave this faith I know
Prone to leave this God I love
Won't You hold on
Won't You hold on to me
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