Random Thoughts

Real People's Sexiest Man Alive AKA My Top 10 List

2011-11-16T17:57:00.000-08:00

So, Bradley Cooper is People's Sexiest Man Alive. I agree that he is sexy, but sexiest??? not so much. So I made a list of my top 10 sexiest men....tell me if you agree, disagree or who you would add.

In no particular order:

1) Alex O'Laughlin. I watched Hawaii Five O before Rick Springfield was on it. I love Alex. He is fun, serious, professional, caring....oh, wait....that's his character. Anyway, he is a cutie and I would totally cuddle up with him and feel safe.

2) David Boreanaz. It is no secret that David is one of my faves. I know he had some personal issues, but since I'm not his wife, I can still swoon. I love him on Bones and I actually watch that over Grey's Anatomy. (which is kinda weird because three of the men on this list are or have been on Grey's)

3)Jon Bon Jovi. High school throw back. But this is one man that is aging well. Whatever he is doing, I hope he keeps doing it.

4) Mark Tremonti. OMG, I love, love, love Mark Tremonti! I know nothing about playing an instrument, but this guy can WAIL on the guitar. I love to watch him. If I could take lessons from him, I would probably be a really slow learner. I heard recently that he is working on a solo CD and I can't wait for it to come out.

5) Patrick Dempsey. Another perpetual favorite. I was a little upset with Dr Dreamy so I wasn't putting as much effort into Grey's this season. He is coming out of being Dr Meany, so I'm feeling better. No matter what, Patrick is always nice to look at.

6) Duane Johnson (The Rock). He really should have been cast as Ranger in One For the Money....really! He fits my image of what Ranger is. However, the "real" Ranger is also on this list.

7) Justin Chambers. Love him! He is a great actor, seems to be a good family guy and his whole family is just so dang cute. I watched The Wedding Planner again the other day and he was cracking me up. He has a great acting range and he is super cute.

8) Jason Thompson. Yup, he is on the list. He is Dr Noah Drake's son after all. Oh, and I met him a few years ago. He was funny and flirty and really nice.

9) Rick Springfield. If you know anything about me at all, you should have seen this one coming. At 62 this man is still rockin'. I have loved him over half my life and I don't see that changing anytime soon.

10) Daniel Sunjata. Dude, this wonderful specimen played Bailey's love interest on Grey's. He is also going to be Ranger in the One For The Money movie. He is fine. Yum! End of story.

A new adventure

2011-07-25T10:18:00.000-07:00

Hey, all! Summer is trucking right along. School supplies are already in the stores. I hope everyone is doing well.

I recently made the decision to return to Partylite. I was a consultant for a very brief time about 10 years ago. I loved it and I love the product, but Fisher was less than supportive. Now that I am on my own and Fisher no longer has any say in my decisions, I'm starting up again. If you are interested in getting some free products, check out my website. Even if you don't live near me, we can still have a successful party and you can get some great stuff! Just let me know.

Also, I will be putting in a personal order once a month or so. If you want to order you can order through my website (ww.partylite.biz/amysgiftsandmore) or shoot me an email and I will place your order with mine.

Hello....

2011-05-27T10:43:00.000-07:00

Hello, blogosphere! I bet you all thought that I was lost. Surprise, not lost, just busy as all get out. I am finally done with school (for the summer anyway) but the girls' activities are continuing to keep me busy. Lyric is performing in our community theater again this summer. She is in "The Drowsy Chaperone" which I have never heard of before, but I guess I will learn all about it soon enough :-)

Jazz had her 6th grade celebration last night. Just a few more days and she will be moving on to the middle school.

Both girls are performing in a dance recital in a couple of weeks. After that we will have a few blissful weeks of fun (with a little work thrown in for me.)

Fisher and I are still "legally" married but working towards an agreement so we can complete the dissolution. That's a pretty funny way to say it but it's legalese. He has a girlfriend, which is fine with me. I saw them together for the first time last night. And believe it or not, it wasn't weird. I have a boyfriend, who is actually somebody I have known since I was 18, and we all know that was a few years ago. Things with him are wonderful.

And last week I went to see this guy with Kell and Lynn. We had a great time. Here are a few pix.

christmas 2010

2010-10-13T09:06:00.001-07:00

Sparkling Scarlet Snowflakes Christmas

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View the entire collection of cards.

One For The Money

2010-09-08T06:43:00.000-07:00

Yes, It is finally time. Janet Evanovich's book "One For the Money" is finally being made into a movie. I'm a little torn over some of the casting though. I always thought that Sandra Bullock would have made a terrific Stephanie Plum (main character). Katherine Hiegl got the part. I've seen a few pix from the filming and I think she will fit the part well.

Ranger is my favorite guy...and the guy they picked to play Ranger- SMOKIN! Daniel Sunjata. Dude, this was the best casting ever! Morelli is being played by Jason O'Mara. He doesn't look like my version of Morelli, but maybe he can pull it off. And Sherri Shepherd is playing Lula. Well done, Casting director.

This movie doesn't come out until next July, but you can bet that I will be there opening weekend!

packing up, going to a wedding, and watching TV

2010-08-30T09:56:00.000-07:00

Hello, my fellow bloggers. It's been a while and I just wanted to update you all on, well, ME. I started packing up my office today. My last full day here is next Wednesday (Sept 8) so I figured I'd start slow. So as to not traumatize my co workers or myself. I'm really looking forward to my new job, and time off during the week!, but it will be a bittersweet change. That's another reason why I wanted to do it slow. And I can guarantee that my photos won't come down until about 4:30 on the 8th. I don't think I could work here if all my "decorations" were gone.

It's less than two weeks til my best friend's wedding (Not the movie, a real wedding). I got to see some of the flowers yesterday. They are really cool. The maid of honor's is slightly different from the brides and the bride's maids are slightly different from the maid of honor. This weekend we are having a cookout in lieu of a bachelor/bachelorette party because, let's face it, at 40 something, who really needs to do that who gig. It will just be hanging out, eating and drinking, and laughing. I'm sure I will have lots of photos from the party and the wedding (Lyric, Jazz and I are all involved in the wedding) so I will post some of those.

And finally, my newest guilty pleasure: "Growing Up Twisted". Yes, that's right. Dee Snider and his family on reality TV. (I've also been known to watch "Gene Simmons' Family Jewels"). I love the Snider family. However "real" they are for TV, they seriously have had some ups and downs. And Jesse Blaze is awesome. You may have seen him come in second on VH1's "Rock The Cradle". He's married now and has a very cute little girl. I don't know why I watch this stuff, but I do. Thank goodness for DVR. :-)

Back To School TIme

2010-08-17T08:16:00.000-07:00

Things are kind of, sort of, maybe falling into place for me, finally. School starts on Thursday. I have class two days a week. I should be starting my new job in a couple of weeks and that will make my life a titch less hectic. My girls start next Tuesday, and I still can't believe that Lyric is a sophmore. HOLY CRAP!

I meet with my lawyer next week. Hopefully in a month or so the divorce thing will be done. I just feel like I need things to be finalized and settled. I'm tired of worrying about what Fisher is going to say or do everyday. I know that I will still worry, but at least if the divorce is final, he will know that I'm not coming back and maybe he can move on.

With all the changes, I see lots of stories. And I do intend to share them with you. However, I will probably only post 1-2 times per week. Don't worry, I'm not ignoring you. I'm just focusing on school and my family for a little bit. Besides, pathopysiology is going to kick my butt!

Stay tuned for the good stuff!

On The Air

2010-08-16T10:53:00.000-07:00

I just did a segment for Mom Talk Radio. It was great! I don't know for sure when it will be on the website, but I did a little roundtable about teenagers and independence. Check it out and let me know if you have any other suggestions.

Carnival of Madness

2010-08-12T06:38:00.000-07:00

Althought this would accurately describe my life right now, that is not what I am referring to. Yesterday I took a road trip into Chicago for the Carnival of Madness tour. This was no Rick Springfield concert, but let me tell you, it was a great show. (and a venue that I would love to see the Rickster perform at)

The opening band was 10 Years. I had no idea that this band had been around for so long. According to wikipedia they have been around since 1999. Who knew? Due to some unforseen traffic and road construction, we didn't actually get to see them, but I have heard them on the radio and they sound decent.

The next band was sevendust. I like these guys. Have been listening to them for awhile. They were very entertaining, good stage show but something needed to be turned down at the sound booth. I could hear everything well enough, but I couldn't understand most of the words because they were being drowned out by the music. I'm a fan of sevendust for a few reasons. 1) they rock. 2) they let Chris Daughtry record a song with them. 3) they let Mark Tremonti record a song with them. (as you should know, I am a huge Chris Daughtry fan and an even huger* Mark Tremonti fan.) They also did a song with Myles Kennedy, who is the lead singer for Alter Bridge, which is a band that Mark plays in when he's not playing with Creed.

Next up, puddle of mudd. I wouldn't say that I was a huge fan of theirs but let me say, this was my favorite band of the night. The sound was great (almost as clear as on the CD), they guys were definitely having a good time on stage and the music rocked. Very good show.

Then we got to see chevelle. For only three guys, they were awesome. Great sound, good stage/light show, and the songs, well, rocked.

The last band was shinedown. we actually left before they started, so I have no idea how their show was, but I do know that I have 30 Shinedown songs on my ipod, so they are decent.

We hit huge traffic coming home due to some construction (at 10pm!!!) but got home safely and with some new found respect for these musicians. I'm so glad that I went.

Weekend Update...and not the SNL verison

2010-08-02T07:18:00.000-07:00

Friday night the girls went with Fisher. This is the real start of our every other weekend thing. I had signed the girls up for some volunteer work. Fisher got to take them. he tried to get out of it on Friday. I say, if he really didn't want to do it, he should have said something earlier in the week.

Then when he picked them up, he said it would be okay if they didn't want to spend the night on Saturday. This from the man who wants to stick to the schedule and get as much time with his kids as possible. Weird.

Sunday morning he called to see if he could keep them longer so they could go to a local fair. I said sure, because I'm totally cool like that.

Then after they got home on Sunday, I took them to my friend's house to swim. The girls had a blast...so much so that we went back after Lyric got done with small group (for church). I should probably mention that Fisher thinks I'm "dating" the afore mentioned friend and I think he probably drove by and saw my car there. (because he does stuff like that).

And now, we haven't heard from Fisher. Not a phone call or a text to either of the girls or myself since about 4:00 yesterday...and let me tell you, bloggy world, that is just plain weird and totally out of character for Fisher. I'm a little worried.

Back To School

2010-07-30T07:15:00.000-07:00

Next week is registration week for our school district. All the schools, all week, all at once. Which is hard enough for me, but I feel bad for the families with 3, 4, or 5 kids. You have to pay all registration fees at registration. Who has that kind of money?? Not to mention school supplies and clothes and lunch account money and school pix and yearbooks orders....my head is spinning.

This year, Jazz is the one who is excited about going back to school. Lyric is sooo not into it. But she did have a bad year last year, so I think there's a little stigma from that. She is, overall, doing better. We have gotten her off two of the meds that she was on before. And the doctor is hoping at some point that we can get her off of at least one, if not two more.

Jazz is going into 6th grade. In most places that is middle school. MIDDLE SCHOOL! The thought makes me want to cry. She's my baby. I can't even believe she's old enough to go to middle school. Thank goodness our district has 1st through 6th at the elementary school. It gives me one more year before I have to panic. Which I totally will, because when Jazz goes to middle school, Lyric will be a junior. And being a junior is just one year away from being a senior. And I really, really don't feel old enough to have kids that grown up. Wasn't I just in high school like 5 years ago??

Anyway, I bought notebooks, folders and pencils for the kids. Now I need to break out the list and go get the rest of the stuff. Glue, crayons, markers, paints, etc, etc, etc. Now if I can just get my work/school stuff figured out...Then some of my stress will go away.

Planning...to have no plan

2010-07-29T06:11:00.000-07:00

As you all know, things in my life are pretty freakin crazy right now. The "best" (or maybe the worst) thing right now, is that school starts in 3 weeks and I don't have a new job. Let me give you a smidge of backstory. The job I have now (which I love) is Monday through Friday from 8 - 4:30. Period. I'm planning to take two classes this semester. There is not an option to take different sections. The classes are when the classes are. My classes are Thursday from 10-11:50 and 3:30-6:30 (this is the lab) and Friday from 8-10:50. Not bad for class times, however, I can't continue in the current job I have and take the classes that I want.

So about 4 months ago, I started applying for other positions within the health system where I work. Nothing is panning out. Nothing. To add to the stress/drama, my position is posted and we have started interviewing for my replacement. yup. My replacement may be set before I even leave.

I had a nice talk with my manager the other day. She really has been a great supporter of my goal to go back to school, and with all the crap I've had to go through with Fisher. But she also has to look out for her department. I can't fault her for that.

She has put in a good word for me with the manager of the area I have two applications in for, but I just don't know if that's enough. Or if we can make anything happen in three weeks. I just don't know. If the job thing works out, I will have to coordinate the girls after school because I will be working 3 - 12 hour shifts a week. (And I must say, I love, Love, LOVE the idea of this schedule!) But I'll have to make sure Jazz has a ride home when I have to work.

One of my co-workers is convinced that it will all work out last minute. Hello, have you met me??? I'm a planner, an organizer, not a last minute person. However, in this situation, I may have to be. And it's driving me crazy.

But I guess this is just one of those life lessons. You can't always plan everything. So, my plan for the next month - no plan. Let things fall where they may. If the job thing doesn't work out, then I know that I'm not really supposed to be a nurse...but I won't give up my dream of a college degree. That will happen...

American Idol....and So You Think You Can Dance

2010-07-28T06:23:00.000-07:00

So last week I headed up to Milwaukee. Twice. We went on Monday to get Lyric's wristband, and then again on Wednesday for the actual audition. The Monday trip was nice. Easy in, easy out, thanks to my parents' GPS. Tuesday night, I got the girls into bed at 9pm....don't know when they fell asleep but when the alarm went off on Wednesday morning at 3am, they did actually get up. We were in the car by 3:30am and off to Milwaukee.

We pulled into a parking lot at 5am, and walked a couple of blocks to the Bradley Center. There was a ton of people there already but the Bradley center people and the American Idol people really were organized. We got into line and then sat for about a half an hour. Lyric and I are huge people watchers so we were having a great time with that. After a while, we were moved around the building and then waited again. And for some reason then we were moved back to where we started, well, actually, we were moved back around the building and were let in.

We were in our seats around 7:30am. At 8am, the AI producer/MC dude announced that he wanted everybody in their seats so we could "Get started". It took just a few minutes and then Matt Giraurd was on the floor....a few second later, Danny Gokey. The girls were stoked. Matt was always Lyric's favorite and we had just seen Danny the week before. They helped get the crowd pumped up and we did some group singing and what not. Then Ryan Seacrest came out and the crowd went wild! We didn't get done filming until 10am.

Then they set up the floor with the tables for the judges. 12 tables. Sectioned off. And then they started lining people up for the auditions. Lyric didn't get in line until around 3:30/4:00. and we were out of there by 4:30. Lyric didn't get picked, but she texted me as soon as she was done and said "I feel great".

I'm so proud of her for even being able to get up there and try. She's already talking about trying out again next year.

And now Jazz is looking forward to trying out for So You Think You Can Dance...stage mom, anyone?!?!?

Court Part 2

2010-07-15T12:24:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm starting to realized that the whole legal system is s.l.o.w. Our first courtdate, we discussed custody and visitation. The second one was all about child support (which I got more than I expected, so I'm pretty stoked about that). I don't know what will be next, but could this crap be over soon please. For one, I can't keep paying my lawyer (but I will because he is awesome), and for two, I'm so over all this crazy BS.

In all my brilliance, I figured I would get there early and have my lawyer put me into a conference room like he suggested. Half an hour early, an Fisher was already there! So I went in and sat down. I will admit, I should have sat farther away, but I thought a couple of seats between us would be a bit of a buffer. Nope. He started in talking to me. I tried to shut him down, but he kept going. Then, he asked a very silly question.

Here's the backstory: My best f riend's son's graduation party is this weekend. It's Fisher's weekend to have the girls. we had talked about it the night before. The party run from 12-3 and I told him to come at 2pm to pick up the girls. He said "I was invited to the whole party". I asked if he was really going to come and sit there for 3 hours and he said maybe. Now, anybody who has ever been to one knows that graduation parties are like open houses- you go a for a abit and then leave. But whatever. He's gonna do whatever he wants. I told him that people would probably be really uncomfortable with us both there for three hours (I'm helping with the set up, clean and general party stuff)

Silly question from Fisher: "Why do you think people would be uncomfortable?"

I got up and walked out into the hall. I stood there, just to be away from him. A few minutes later, he came out. Pretty convenient that his lawyer was out there. So, then I went back into the waiting room. A few minutes later, he came in and sat down two seats away. I turned my back to him when he asked "Can we talk" and said that we could not.

When my lawyer finally got a chance to "rescue" me, he put me in a conference room. We talked for a bit and then he left to check on some things and I stayed. After about 5 minutes, Fisher stuck his head in and asked if we could talk. I said "no, I'm waiting for my lawyer. You need to go." and he said (another funny thing) "Well, I just though we could do this amicably." yeah, right.

Fisher's lawyer is good as stalling. They wanted to hagle over the child support amount, how I would get it, and even suggested a reconcilliation hearing. My lawyer said "My client doesn't want that but file if you must". Ultimately, we came out of there after about an hour and I was $75 a week richer that I expected. NICE.

I don't know when part three will be but I will be sure to keep you posted.

Rick photos and help issue

2010-07-13T20:08:00.000-07:00

Here's a couple of pix from the weekend. If anybody can help me with setting on my camera so the pix aren't HUGE when I upload to the computer, that would be great.

this one I played with the settings in my computer. not a great pix but a pretty cool tool

This one is a fun one...great smile.

Court Today

2010-07-13T06:30:00.000-07:00

I've got great Rick pix to share and a funny story or two about the weekend, plus next week is Lyric's American Idol audition, but today is our second court date.

The first one, Fisher ended up behind me as I parked, and he walked into the courthouse with me and sat by me and talked to me and tried to convince me the whole time that we should not be doing this.

I met with my lawyer a couple of weeks ago and he said I could ask to be put into a conference room. Sweet! I've had enough of being badgered by my "was-band".

Last night he dropped the girls off at 9 and wanted to talk. again. he always wants to talk. Always wants to tell me how much he loves me and how much he's changed and how thing will be so different and so wonderful now that he's sober. (which I only partially believe. I don't think he's quit drinking 100%). I gave him a few minutes of my time, unwillingly, but ultimate had to ask him to leave. Kicked him out really. I feel bad for him for not realizing that things were so bad and I was so unahppy, but I'm not going back now. I don't even like to be in the same room with him, let alone try to "fix" our marriage.

Then this morning I get "I can't do this without you". Too freakin' bad. Because I can do this without you, and there is no way in hell that you are going to guilt me into coming back. I feel so much better about myself since I moved out. I feel freer, smart, happier. I don't have to hid parts of who I am (like my Rick "issue"), or who my friends are, or what I think and feel. I don't have to worry about how clean the house is, because I only answer to me. And guess what, I like me. I get along great with me. I make me happy. And that is a wonderful thing.

So, court update and Rick pix to come....stay tuned.

A Second Date With My "Boyfriend"...

2010-07-08T06:48:00.000-07:00

For those of you that know me, you know I am a very organized person. I've even stepped up the organization recently, and it's almost a little scary. At least I can find stuff easily (except that one little piece of paper that I really need to find). I'm a planner and a list maker.

Saturday I'm going to see my boyfriend for the second time this year. Out of town. Without my girls. And I really don't have a plan in place. I know, I know, you can all pick your chins up off the floor now. It's two days away. I will figure it out. So, I have to wonder: am I mellowing out in my old age? or am I just so overwhelmed by life in general that I don't care? Either way, it's all going to work itself out.

But the week of the 19th I have about 500 things* to coordinate. Check in with me next week and see if I'm pulling my hair out yet.

*disclaimer: 500 might be a bit of an exageration, but I have A LOT going on that week.

Someday My Prince Will Come

2010-07-07T06:34:00.000-07:00

But until then, I'm growing one. LOL I will have photos soon. My friend's bought me a "grow your own Prince" this weekend and it's the funniest damn thing ever. It's almost fully grown, and then I will post the photos.

I had a decent weekend. Went a little overboard with the alchol on Friday, but not too awful of a hangover on Saturday. Then, Saturday evening was a fun time with good friends and good food and lots of laugh. (Not that there weren't lots of laughs on Friday as well!) Sunday, the girls came home from their dad's in decent moods and that was a very nice surprise. We went to a cookout/pool party Sunday afternoon. Lyric swam, Jazz did not. We were scheduled to go to the parade, and then it started to rain. The rain stopped and ultimately, we did end up going to the parade and the fireworks. I don't think any of the 8 kids were into the fireworks but we stayed til the end anyway. :-)

Monday was a holiday from work for me, so after I slept in, we cleaned and then ran errands. I got stuff done and felt pretty accomplished. Now it's back to work...for a little bit anyway. July is a super busy month for me. I will try to keep you posted on the what's and how's but right now I'm just trying to make things make sense in my own head.

Happy Fourth of July

2010-07-02T07:03:00.000-07:00

I know that technically it's only July 2nd, but I'm guessing I won't be online much since it's the holiday weekend. The girls are going to Fisher's tonight (friday) and Saturday, instead of the previous plan of Saturday/Sunday. I've been invited to a cook out on Sunday and they want to go with. Fisher was generous enough to let them switch. He also hasn't forced the Thursday overnight issue, which is great, because the girls are having a hard enough time adjusting to the weekend thing. It sounds like they did have a nice visit yesterday though.

Saturday I will be cleaning, doing laundry and then going to a cookout/fireworks party. Should be fun times. Sunday is the aforementioned cookout. Monday is a whole lot of nothing. just hanging out with my girls...and maybe getting them to do some chores. :-)

So, everybody have a great weekend.

Break Out the Calendar

2010-06-28T08:35:00.000-07:00

I started this post and had all of my stuff listed out...then decided that maybe it wasn't a good idea to put it out there for the whole world. Let's just say this: I'm going to two concerts this month (Rick Springfield and Danny Gokey), I'm going to several cook outs and one small town festival, Lyric is auditioning for American Idol, and I'm taking a trip to Missouri for the Hoops for Life Run/Walk.

Fisher and I have started our new custody/visitation schedule. The girls are mostly okay with it. They don't like spending the night during the week but they did have one full weekend so far and that seemed to go okay. This weekend will be #2. Cross your fingers that it goes well. I need all the good vibes in that area that I can get.

Fisher really, really, really does not want the divorce. I really, really, really don't want to be with him anymore. Kind of makes things difficult. It's also hard when he calls me everyday to tell me that he loves me and I'm beautiful and he would do anything for me and he should get a second chance. It also doesn't help when he asks the girls if I have a boyfriend or when he tells them that he's still trying to work it out. I've told him all my issues. I've told him that I don't love him. I've told him that I don't want to be with him. I've told him not to talk to the girls about the details of the divorce. He is not listening. At. All. We go back to court on July 13th to work out some of the financial stuff. I hope that we only have to go back to court one or two more times to get this all done.

American Idol

2010-06-24T09:26:00.000-07:00

Lyric is 15. American Idol just changed their age requirements, dropping the lowest age to 15. American Idol auditions will be in Milwaukee. We're going to Milwaukee. YIKES!

I always told Lyric that she could try out when she was old enough. Of course, I figured the show would be done by the time she hit 16. Well, now the AI people have decided that there's some untapped 15 year old talent and they want to show it to the world. So, Lyric is on her way. so to speak.

I would really love for her to make it far. I really would. This is something that she really wants to do and what a fun experience it would be for her. I'm very nervous that something would go wrong. Like they would tell her she wasn't good and she would take it to heart and cut herself again. So how do I be supportive yet prep her for the worst without making it into a bigger deal than it needs to be? Any suggestions?

Anonymous - By Tess Moody

2010-06-23T06:50:00.000-07:00

Today is a very special day! My friend, Tess, has stopped by to promote her new book. You can check out her author website: here.

If you stop by Tessa's blog between now and July 1 and leave a comment that you saw her here, you will be entered into a drawing to win a copy of the new book. What are you waiting for?? click here to leave her a comment.

Tess was kind enough to answer some questions about the book, her writing, and more

what is the book about?

Anonymous is about a blogger named Paige McDonald. Paige's blog is well-known and when one of her reader's obsession with her goes too far, Paige finds herself in danger. Soon, other bloggers start turning up dead. Paige has to decide if blogging is worth risking her life.

Where did you get the idea for the plot?

I'm always thinking of story ideas in every day life events. I like to read big time bloggers blogs and when I had a "troll" on my blog awhile back, I connected the two and came up with a story line from them. Just for fun, I named some characters after bloggers that I read, and used the personality of others.

Does your family support you when you are writing a book? How?
My hubby does think that all artist are starving artists, but he knows I have to write and he is ok with it. My dad is a big supporter of creativity, so he has my back whenever I get the creativity itch. Everyone in the family shows up for my book signings for support-that is a big help to me.

Have you written any other books?
Yes. I wrote two other books, The Accident and I'm a Work at Home Mommy-You Can Be Too! (that's a mouthful!)

Do you have any more books planned?
I do. I have a series titled, The Coconut Hut Club. They are not detectives by far, but they seem to get caught up in solving cases related to their occupations. They share their crazy experiences with each other over drinks at a tacky bar called The Coconut Hut, where they meet once a week.

In The Wedding, (first book of the series) it’s Alex's turn. She’s a wedding photographer, who manages to get caught up in a wild mystery while photographing a high society wedding.

What do you do when you aren’t writing?
I am a mom of three children, Jessica (20), Jordon (14) and Emily (5) and a grandma to an orney two-year-old, Zachary. I'm also a photographer and graphic artist.

If you could meet one author, dead or alive, who would it be?
It used to be J.K. Rowling, but now it would have to be Stephenie Meyer. She is my idol because she's down to earth and she listened to her dreams!

Anything else you want the world to know?
Hmm, I guess if you want to know about a person who likes to look at the funny side of life, read my blog-and I'm always open to suggestions as long as they come with a box of chocolate.

Priorities

2010-06-21T12:05:00.000-07:00

I'm really good at wanting to try different things, or putting too much on my plate, or not always thinking things through but I've been doing a little soul searching today. Mostly because this math class is kicking my butt! I took it because I wanted to have an associate's degree. I don't need it, because I've already been accepted to nursing school (which I got reregistered for, BTW). And it's HARD. So, I got to thinking, what do I really want? What do I really want to do? What is sooo important that I want to spend my time on it? Here's what I've come up with:

* quality time with the girls, even if that is just sitting down to watch a half hour show per day.
*I want to be a writer. I have several books either done or almost done, so with a little effort, I could have them on Lulu by the end of the summer
*I want to be a nurse. Plans for this are underway.
*raising the girls to be strong, independent, respectful, loving, caring, compassionate people.
*Happiness. I know everybody's happiness is their own. I know what I want and need to make me happy. There is a plan in place, but it's not all up to me. I'm working toward this goal and I would say, within 12-18 months I will be there. More on this will come out later, I'm sure.
*I want the girls to have a good relationship with their dad. I can help facilitate that, but a lot of it is on him. I will support them as much as I can.
*I want to be more organized than I already am. Some may think that this isn't possible, but trust me, there is always room for improvement. I need to take a little time to map out some things (activities, paperwork, etc) and then put the plan into motion.
* I want more family time. My extended family lives about 4 hours away, which isn't really that long of a drive. So, I'm going to work on getting up to see them at least 2 x a year.

I think that's enough goals in place for now. As always, things may get tweaked and changed but it's at least a place to start.

What are your goals and dreams??

Munchkins and More...

2010-06-18T06:23:00.000-07:00

This morning I could not get up. I've been setting the alarm a few minutes later since the kids don't have to get up for school, and that's not working out so well, since they still have to get up. Lyric is babysitting Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday and volunteering on Wednesday. Jazz is still going to the sitter, she just goes all day. So I still have to get us up and out the door on time.

I haven't slept well recently due to tons of stress. Stuff with the girls, stuff with Fisher, stuff with school. it's alot to handle, and one of these days, I will post some details. Last night, I slept great. And couldn't get up. And the girls couldn't get up. So we were pushing it to get everywhere we needed to be this morning. Gonna have to make some changes to our bedtime routine to help make our morning routine go smoother.

Anyway, as Lyric was getting out of the car this happened
Me: "Have a good day, Munchkin."
Lyric: Did you just call me Munchkin?"
Me: "yup"
Lyric: "I like it"
She's 15 and she liked it. That's cool.

Make sure you stop by next week. I will be having a special guest and you don't want to miss it!

What's In Your Planner....

2010-06-09T11:50:00.000-07:00

I am a planner. An organizer. A list maker. There is nothing more exciting to me than checking things off a list. Which is why I like to be able to carry my calendar/planner with me. So I use the 5.5 x 8 inch size. It seems though, about every 6 months, I feel the need to try something else. I once spent $30 on the full size planner that would let me keep track of my whole families actitivies. Yup, used it for a few months and then threw it away. It was too big to be effective because I couldn't put it in my purse. I've used the Franklin Cover 7 hole daily and weekly styles (thanks, Mom!). I have found that weekly works best for me, but I like to have a monthly view for things like birthdays and anniversaries as well. I try to write my "to do" lists in my planner as well, because, seriously, if I don't write it down, it is sooooo not going to happen.

But I have to wonder, is this the best system for me?? It seems like I am still missing/forgetting somethings. It also seems like there might be more that I should keep track of (or maybe not). So, I am asking you, my bloggy friends, what type of planner/calendar/organizer system do you use? and do you feel that it really works well for you??

Just because I am feeling generous, there will be a special something for one poster (but only if you leave me an email addy I can reach you at)

Catching up

2010-06-07T13:40:00.000-07:00

Wow! I didn't realize that I hadn't posted since YAH. Ms Lyric didn't place. She was actually tied for third, but when we did the "cheer off" the other girl won. She was a great sport about the whole thing....and I hope that she really enjoyed the experience. Her performance is up on youtube. Search for AmyK93. She sang "Somebody to Love".

We added to our family yesterday. We got two kitties. Bella and Bondi (my girls renamed them) came to live with us and as soon as I can get them to come out of hiding and to face the camera, I will post pix. They are 8 years old, sisters, and very pretty kitties. I'm hoping that the "pet therapy" will be a plus for Lyric and for Jazz.

This past weekend some really crazy stuff went down with Fisher. I probably haven't said much about it, but we are getting a divorce and it is definitely not what he wants. But it's what I know is best for me. Maybe someday I can tell more of the story but right now, that's enough.

So, there's the latest and greatest from the Random House.

JA Konrath is Da Bomb

2010-05-25T08:36:00.000-07:00

Cherry Bomb, that is. He has a whole bunch of really cool stuff in the works, and instead of praise, Publisher's Weekly does this. (there's a link within the blog to read the article)

I've been a fan since the first Jack Daniels book. He's written some other stuff that is a bit too creepy for me, but the fact of the matter is, Joe is an excellent author. He is also a very smart business man. And he is not afraid to help others learn from his lessons. He is always winning to share what is working for him (and what is not)

The PW article just goes to show that you can say anything, even if it is only partial truths, and get away with it.

young at heart idol

2010-05-18T07:14:00.000-07:00

Lyric is a finalist in the first annual Young At Heart Idol Contest. She will be performing May 29th and if she wins she gets $200. (Second place is $100 and third is $50). She is in the 11 to 15 year old category. (There is also 16 to 20 and 21 and up). Winners are decided by audience reaction, so we are rallying the troops: our friends, family, friends of friends, friends of family, co workers and whoever else we can think of. My mom and I are going to make posters this weekend. I'm so excited for her to have this wonderful opportunity. I know she will do a great job. I would love to see her win! (Duh, what mom wouldn't) I just hope that I can hold back the tears.

Water, water everywhere...

2010-05-14T07:43:00.000-07:00

I hate water! I didn't used to hate water. I actually like a nice shower, long bath, soak in a hot tub, and even sometimes swimming. But I've had water issues in my basement two times since I moved. A month ago.

The first time was the weekend we moved in. It was because there was a big hairball in the pipes. (I didn't see it, that's what the guy told me) Jazz was taking a shower and all of a sudden I hear water. Lots of water. So I go to investigate and both my kitchen sinks were full, the floor was a puddle and water was leaking into the basement! It was awful. Thank goodness the maintainance guy came over right away. But it didn't get fixed the first time. they had to send the plumbing guy back a few days later. Since then, it's a been good.

Then yesterday morning, I went downstairs to get some clothes and saw that the floor was dirty. Investigated a little further and stepped in a puddle. Investigated more and realized that I had a huge mess down there. So I did my best to squeegie the water toward the grain, get stuff up off the floor, and see what I could save. Called the maintainance guy to let him know that not only was there water in my basement, but I could see it dripping down one of the walls. He headed over to check it out.

Now, a lot of the stuff down there was in rubbermaid type containers. There were a few things on the floor that I could not save. No big deal. Until I got home last night and really started looking at what got wet. Somehow, one of the buckets that I keep the girls' school papers in got wet. Not just wet, but WET WET. I started pulling out papers and as the water was dripping off the art work and report cards, the tears started dripping down my face. I saved a few select things, hoping that when they dry out they will be semi okay.

The kicker is that the kids probably don't even care about that stuff. But there were so many cute art projects and stuff that I never photographed. And now they are just gone.

So, leasons learned: 1) photograph kids art work right away, 2) even in rubbermaid, stuff is not save from water, 3) don't leave cardboard boxes on the floor in the basement, 4) be thankful that nobody got hurt.

A little Excitement and a Rick Concert too!

2010-05-10T08:30:00.000-07:00

Friday morning, while I was working away, trying to get everything done before I left for Milwaukee, I got a phone call from Lyric's school. She might have broken her ankle. So, I bolted on out of work, drove to her school and went back to work. (I actually work next door to the immediate care clinic). An hour and a half later, we were out of there. X-ray'd and splinted. No break, just a sprain. (But a very colorful one at that)

Got her home and settled and then ran all the errands that I was already planning to do. I was able to get everything done that needed to be and we headed out of town. Here's a few of my fave pix. (This new camera is pretty awesome!)

this is the view with no zoom

singing his heart out

super cute smile (Nice to see him sporting the scruffies!)

I love this one for some reason...

singing and smiling

This one turned out pretty dang cool, I think.

T minus 12 and counting

2010-05-07T06:47:00.000-07:00

Yes, people, it's that time of year again. Birds are singing, flowers are in bloom, nights are getting warmer (or at least they are supposed to) and I am off to my annual Girls Night Out to see this guy. I'm heading up this afternoon for the show and if all goes well, staying for the charity softball game tomorrow. Kelley and I are staying over night and I expect to have a really great time.

In case you were afraid to click the link, here's a hint...

(I'm sorry I don't remember who took these pix. If they are yours, I would willingly give credit)

Yes, it's time for RICK SPRINGFIELD!

Trying out my new camera tonight, so hopefully I will have better pix than in previous years! I will post as soon as I can, but it probably won't be until Sunday because Jazz's birthday party is tomorrow after I get home.

Happy Friday, everybody! it's time for me to get my Rick on.

A winner and a new giveaway

2010-04-29T06:40:00.000-07:00

I'd like to congratulate Marsha for winning the Hot Locks doll. She has two little girls who I think will love playing with this cool new toy.

I'm also going to start doing regular giveaways in the blog. at least once a month. This month's prize is:

Avon's Skin So Soft, Bug Guard Plus. A must have for summer if you are going to be out doors at all.
Repels mosquitoes for 8 hours. Provides effective protection against gnats, no-seeums, sand flies and biting midges. DEET-free, dermatologist-tested, hypoallergenic. 2-in-1 protection.* Aerosol spray, 4 oz. net wt

*All you have to do to enter is: leave a comment telling me what your favorite outdoor activity is. Please be sure to include an email address so I can get back to you if you win.
*For an extra entry: post this giveaway on your blog and comment here with the link. ( I will be checking)
*For another extra entry: go to my website: www.youravon.com/akrueger8895 and comment here with your favorite item.(it might just show up as a giveaway!)

(No pressure to order but if you see something you must have while you are surfing around my website, you can order and have it shipped right to you. enter code "FSANY" to get free shipping.)

This giveaway runs from today, April 29 until Thursday, May 6. I will draw for a winner on May 7th, before I head out to the Rick show.

Where's My Diginity?

2010-04-28T13:41:00.000-07:00

I wrote this last fall. I think that it could turn into a really good story. Let me know what you all think.

     "Hey, it's jsut me. I left something at your house last night. Could you let me know if you find it? It's my diginity."
     I couldn't believe how I had behaved. I had been at a cook out at my friends' house. Luke and Sarah. Sarah and I have been best friends since high school and Luke is her prince. Dotes on her. Pampers her. But let's her be herself. Luke's best friend is Matt. Matt is my ex. And he was at the party. With his new girlfriend.
     My name is Theresa and I'm a complete mess.
     Matt and I dated about five years ago. Right after I got out of college, Sarah and Luke fixed us up. It was great at first. We hit it off and it seemed like we had a lot in common. But after about six months, he gave me the "it's not you, it's me" speech and broke my heart.
     He's had a few girlfriends since then. I know this because Sarah feels the need to keep me in the loop. He's repeatedly dated Debbie, his high school sweetheart. Let me tell you, she's no sweetheart. But she has some sort of power over him that I just don't understand.
     So, back to last night. I knew that he was going to be there so I dressed my best. Low V neck, slinky top, tight jeans, sexy sandals. Hair up, because that was how he had always liked it. i looked great, felt good, was nervous.
    I got there at six and nobody else was there. Sarah and I did a shot and then I cracked a beer. I needed to take the edge off my nerves.
    Other people started showing up. Mike and Julie, Steve and Shelly, Terry and Megan, Matt and Kris, Jason, Tony, Bill. Yup, it was mostly couples but there were three bachelors there and I intended to show Matt what he was missing.
    While Luke was cooking, I focused my attention on Tony. Tony worked as an engineer at a local hospital. At work he was all business. Outside of work, he was the most laid back, down to earth person I know. He was a great guy. We talked about sports, his neices and nephews, and how Luke and Sarah should just get married already. i had often wondered why he had never asked me out. He always seemed so interested. A few months ago, Luke let it slip that Tony was gay. That would be why he didn't ask me out. But he was still nice to look at and hang out with.
    I barely acknowledged when Matt and Kris showed up. She didn't care, but he gave me a glare. Good.
     After we ate, the party moved to the pool deck. And I moved to Jason.
     Jason had alwyas been like a brother to me. Great to hand out with but not to date. He'd do anyting for a friend and was alwyas there to porect or stand up for a friend. Jason was a bartender at my favorite bar. We started talking about who we could throw in the pool first. I wanted it to be Matt, he wanted it to be Sarah. We laughed about it and decided not to throw anybody in.
    I stole a few glances at Matt and was not happy to see that he still looked good. i tried not to obsess over whateve had gone wrong between us, but I never really could understand it.
    His girlfriend was cute and nice and that made me mad. I wanted her to be mean and bitchy so I could as why he was with her. But they actually seemed well suited for each other. I hated it.
     Bill and I had known each other as long as Luke and Sarah. He was going through a divorce and just needed a fun night with friends. He was also a great guy and I couldn't figure out his wife. Why would she leave him. I guess you never know what goes on behind closed doors.
    Bill and I started dancing. Probably not a great idea when you are on the pool deck and you've had a few drinks, but I had poor judgement. One wrong step back and I was in the pool, fully clothed.
     Everybody got a good laugh out of it, including me. It was a good thing that Sarah and I wore the same size. She gave me some clothes to change into and I returned to the party.
    I had drunk just enough at that point that my snarky side was coming out. I was throwing little jabs at Matt. Things that nobody else really understood. He made one comment and it was all over.
    "Really? really, do you want to go there, Matt?" I was standing toe to toe with him.
    "Go where?" He wasn't smart enough to say no.
    "You said that I was the best thing that happened to you. You said you saw a future for us. You said you loved me! It sucks that you either lied or could only see your future in weeks, because a month after that we were done. When you lamely broke up with me, I was crushed. Crushed! I loved you,too. And I saw our future more clearly than you. And it was wonderful. But you lost out. You screwed up! You left me."
    "I didn't leave you," he tried to reach for me, but I pulled away. "I didn't leave you, Tessa. I was just so afraid of how intense things were. It seemed like we were moving so fast. I had to get out."
    "You are an asshole! I could have used that information five years ago."
    "I didn't know how to tell you."
    "Screw you! You broke my heart. It killed me. I spent the last five years trying to figure out what's wrong with me. You ruined me."
    Everybody had been silent during the exchange. His poor girlfriend had a deer in the headlights look and I wanted to punch her.
    "luke, can you take me home? I need to get out of here."
    Matt tried to reach for me again and I flinched. "Do. Not. Touch. Me. You lost that right a long time ago. everybody, I'm so sorry that you had to witness this craziness."
    Luke and Sarah walked into the house with me. Sarah gave me a hug and said," I'm sorry."
    "It's okay. I knew that he would be here and I can anyway. I'm sorry for causing such a scene."

    So, I left the message for Sarah and headed to the shower. I was a little hung over but doing okay. When the phone rang, I assumed it was Sarah and quickly answered it.
    "hello?"
    "Hey." It wasn't Sarah. it was Matt.
    "Hey," I answered softly.
    "How are you doing today?"
    "You care because?"
    "Because I do. I've always cared about you."
    I laughed out loud.
    "Okay, I can see how you might not believe that, but it's true."

Time for a Tattoo

2010-04-27T09:06:00.000-07:00

Amy at Escape to Thought posed a very good question. If you were to get a tattoo right now what would it be? I've actually considered getting a tatttoo off and on over the years, but I wanted it to be something special and meaningful. If I was to go today, I would get a tattoo of a dotted eighth note with a pair of dance shoes hanging from the flag. It would be on my inner left arm, up near the elbow.

I know you are thinking that's kind of weird and unusual. Let me tell you a little bit about why this would (and probably will be) my tattoo.

About a year ago, a situation occured within my family that shook it to the core. Without going into the gory details (and to protect those involved) one of the outcomes was that Lyric started cutting herself. At first the story was that she fell, and I almost bought it, but then I opened my eyes a bit more and realized what it really was. So, for the past 11 1/2 months we have been dealing with that. She gets angry/frustrated/hurt and she has the urge. She hasn't cut herself for almost a month now. This is great news. But I worry all the time that she will have a bad day and cut herself, or worse.

Lyric's favorite music note is a dotted eighth note.

Jazz is a dancer, hence the nickname. Since dance is a big part of her life, I would incorporate the dance shoes.

It was either this or have a tattoo for each girl and I'm not quite ready for that yet.

The placement on the arm is because that's where Lyric has done most of her cutting. There is also a to write love on her arm movement.

Binders

2010-04-20T12:01:00.000-07:00

Binders, binders, binder. You know: 1 inch, 2 inch and 3 inch plastic covered cardboard with three rings and comes in diferent colors!?!? I love binders. i use them for everything. I have one for information about my new apartment. One for my Avon business stuff and one for my Avon customer information. I have one for my friend's wedding plans and one for all my school information.

I have binders at work for notes about my job, payroll, department charges, and more

I use binders to keep all kinds of things organzied. I prefer the ones with the plastic sleeve on the front so you can give it a pretty cover. But even the plain ones you can slap a sticker on so you know what's in it.

I have a nice little stash of extras and i add to it at school supply time when they are on sale for like 50 cents. some binders get reused and others will hold their information for years.

What's your favorite organizing tool??

I'm late, I'm late, for a very important date

2010-04-14T08:36:00.000-07:00

Bet you thought this was going to be an Alice In Wonderland post, didn't you?!? Well, it's not. This post is all about how getting up in the morning sucks! My alarm goes off and I hit the snooze a whole bunch of times. I don't count because 1) I'm not a morning person, 2) I barely function without my coffee, 3) I barely function before 9am, 4) there's nothing I hate more than that annoying sound (which does not explain why I continue to hit the snooze- I get to hear it over and over and over.

Unfortunately, this must be genetic as Jazz and Lyric are most definitely not morning people. Jazz used to be: early to bed, early to rise, just like her dad. Not so much anymore. Lyric has never, ever, ever been a morning person.

In the morning, I try to be nice when I wake them up, but really the only way to get them to move is to be loud...repeatedly. This makes mornings at our house one big fat pain in the hind end.

So, let me ask, does anybody have any ideas on how to help this part of our morning run a little smoother (or quieter)? I'm open to suggestions.

Avon Open House

2010-04-12T11:35:00.000-07:00

I am finally all moved into my new apartment. Not all unpacked, but all moved. This weekend I am having an Open House to help support my Avon business. For all my bloggy friends, you can help too. Go here and click on "eParties". You will be able to browse through a virtual catalog and order any Avon products you like. When you are done shopping, check out and enter "FSANY" as the promo/special code. This will get your items shipped directly to you, for free!

If you would like to earn some free Avon products, you can schedule your own eparty. just leave a comment here with an email address and i will get back to you.

Party on!

My Insightful Daughter...

2010-04-06T08:12:00.000-07:00

Here's what Lyric has to say about herself:

I am 14.
I'm insane.
I love liek crazy and don't hate too often.
Once I love you, I'll probably never stop.
Unless you REALLY screw with me...
I won't forget you if you were ever once in my heart.
I believe that everyone should have a chance to prove what they're worth...
The last year of my life has really kicked my ass.
But it's taugh me a lot about life too.
I'm trying my best to fix what I don't like.
That's extremely hard, but I won't give up...
I love my closest friends to no end.
I have godparents.
My godfather ditched me a while back...
so I disowned him...
my step godfather is kick ass.
you can call him Christopher Minnick...
I call him loser :-)
My godmother is Kelley Minnick
I love these two people with my whole heart.
My mother is my number one hero.
I have a little sister.
She's great. I couldn't live without her. :)
Chris and Rhea are the best cousins EVA! :)
Yes, I believe in God.
Don't mess with the power of prayer...
I've seen miracles and done stupid things...
I've experienced so many emotions at one time...
I don't regret what I've done.
I just learn.
I'm learning everyday what it means to live and love.
I love my life...
No matter how shitty my day was.

I am me. Plain. Simple.

Countdown to the Wedding...

2010-03-30T13:03:00.000-07:00

My best friend is getting married in September. I have known her since I was 14. I was the maid of honor for her first wedding. and I get to be maid of honor for the second (and hopefully last!) one. We got together with her mom and my mom over the weekend and started banging out some plans. She is completely and totally overwhelmed. She said we asked too many questions. LOL

Anyway, the wedding is this fall. The colors are red and black (she's wearing black, we are wearing red). It's going to be basically outside. The ceremony will actually take place inside but the other stuff will be outside. I will post pix of stuff as it comes about. We are going on the 17th to pick out our dresses. we are looking at picking patterns and having the dresses made. each girl will be able to pick a pattern they like and we will get the same material for all.

Both of my girls are participating as well. Jazz is going to be a junior bridesmaid, Lyric is going to sing and play the keyboard. (We are calling her the wedding pop star).

I'm excited for my friends, even with all the mess that is my life right now. They have been together for 15 yeras and been through a whole lot of crap. I'm happy to be able to help support her and celebrate with her. Maybe someday she will be able to return the favor.

101 things that will make you smile

2010-03-24T08:20:00.000-07:00

Found this article on Yahoo today. 101 small pleasure you can enjoy everyday. Thought I'd share will you all because who doesn't need a reason to smile throughout the day. I'm highlighting some of my faves.

coloring (yes, grown-ups can do it, too)

crisp cotton sheets

soft skin

old family recipes

the first daffodils of spring

sleeping in

an exercise endorphin high

window boxes

a perfect cup of coffee

a genuine compliment (giving or receiving)

the way babies smell

a handwritten letter

waking up in a good mood...for no real reason

singing in the shower

finding a couple forgotten dollars in your pocket

doing something nice for your neighbor

a home cooked meal

laughing

movie theater popcorn

playing hookey

a bubble bath

swimming

an afternoon nap

street musicians

your favorite song

saying thank you

helping someone in need

old fashioned photo booths

fresh whipped cream

inspiring blogs

a glass of wine

rainy afternoons

the funny things kids say

a novel you can get lost in

finding the perfect piece of clothing...on sale

clean laundry

the wind in your hair

treating the person behind you at the drive-thru

sharing an umbrella

the smell of lavender

a long walk that clears your head

a bear hug

The Beatles

smiling at a stranger

eating with chopsticks (Chinese food optional)

butterflies

staying in your pj's all day

singing along to the radio and knowing all the words

fresh herbs

ordering in pizza

happy endings...even if they're fictional

flying a kite

puppies

root beer floats

holding open the door...

...or having someone hold the door for you

fountain soda

white, fluffy towels

sunshine

spending an afternoon at a museum

really great advice

green lights all the way home

the sound of rain hitting the windows

sitting in a booth

holding hands

a great hair day with no effort

building a fort with your kids

when someone falls asleep with their head on your shoulder

fireflies

the perfect taco

geraniums on a windowsill

slow dancing

the smell of fresh-baked bread

cheesy, uplifting musicals

great stories

the smell of gasoline

the cold side of the pillow

love letters

old friends...

...new friends

a pull-through parking space

a baguette -- crisp on the outside, airy on the inside

when a dog licks your hand

sitting at the counter at an old-fashioned diner

using your favorite dishes

reading your child a bedtime story

Girl Scout Cookies

flossing

kissing someone you love

the smell of onions and garlic cooking

hot chocolate

jumping in puddles

old photographs

birds hopping on the sidewalk

Ella Fitzgerald

a spoonful of peanut butter straight from the jar

your softest t-shirt

a new magazine in the mail

fireplaces

having exact change

bacon and pancakes cooking on Saturday morning

so what are some of your small pleasures?? Is there anything that should be added to this list??

hats, hats and more hats

2010-03-16T08:31:00.000-07:00

In the course of a day we, as moms, wear many different hats. Today I have already been: an alarm clock, a pharmacy, a taxi, a mom, a daughter, a secretary, and a scheduler. By the end of the day I will also be: a girl scout leader, a friend,and a taxi (for the other child).

In general I am also: a music fan, a laundress, a cook, a nagger (I mean come on, can somebody please clean up their room???), an advocate, a writer, a reader, a bill payer, a sister, an aunt, a niece, a granddaughter, a great granddaughter, a motivational speaker (for the kids!), and Avon representative.

I'm sure there are more that I am missing, but that's what's coming to mind right now. So I ask. As a mom-
What hats do you wear??

Hot Locks Giveaway

2010-03-15T11:25:00.000-07:00

Last week, we were lucky enough to get to trial Hot Locks. Jazz got to play with Morgan, and Lyric actually messed around with her too.

She's very colorful, very funky, and you can do lots of fun stuff with her really, really long hair. She's a little bit of a doll, which is nice for keeping busy in the car. But even just sitting on the bed messing with her hair was a time waster* as well.

Not only did we get one of these super cute dolls to try, we got one to give away! if you would like Nahla to relocate to your house, just leave a note in the comments. You must include your name and an email address. (how else will I get in touch with you when you win!?!?)

I will take comments from today until 3/21, with the winner announced 3/22.

To check out more about these super cute dolls, go here

*Time waster=keep them busy and out of mom's hair.

Rock Sugar

2010-03-12T11:32:00.000-08:00

So last night, the girls and I are on our way home. Listening to our local rock station. This song comes on. Sounds like "don't stop believing" but wait...that's not how it goes. Now it sounds like "enter sandman". It's a band caleld Rock Sugar. OMG, they are awesome! The song was great and all three of us were singing at the top of our lungs!

get home, can't find it on iTunes. Just did a search on yahoo. It. Is. Awesome. They mixed up a bunch of good songs to make GREAT songs. I love "don't stop the sandman" but as the music player is clicking away, I suddenly hear a familiar riff. Yup, "Crazy Girl". it's a mix of "Crazy Train" and "Jessie's Girl".

here is a link to their music player. Check it out and let me know what you think. If you like them, sign up for the street team. I did.

3/9/94 - sixteen years ago

2010-03-10T06:38:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was my due date. sixteen years ago. I didn't realized until late last night that was the reason I was out of sorts all day. in August of 1993 I had a miscarriage. I was between 8 - 10 weeks along. No good reason. Just one of those things that happens. I didn't understand it. I was depressed for months. (however, I didn't realized that at the time) I went for an ultrasound and they couldn't find the heartbeat. A few tests and a week later and the doctor told me that there would be no baby.

Three months later we were pregnant again. Due date: August 6. No baby then either.

But it's okay. I've come to terms with it. and now I have Lyric and Jazz. With as much as they make me crazy, I know that had either of their brothers (mom's intuition says they were both boys) lived, I wouldn't have my two beautiful girls. And I love my girls.

My Baby is Growing Up

2010-03-09T07:13:00.000-08:00

Jazz is going to be 11 in less than two months. We were looking at photos the other day because she is "star of the week" and I just can't even believe that she has come so far. And it makes me sad, as a mom, that I have such a hard time remembering her as a baby. The photos help and we tell stories, but I can't really just sit back and remember my baby. It might have something to do with the post partum depression I lived with.

But anyway, now that she is such a "big" girl, she has discovered her own clothing style. She's also playing with makeup. She likes this red lipstick that I got (but haven't worn myself) and she likes eye make up and she just wants to be pretty. She's always had her own clothing style. The other day she mixed and matched something and Lyric looked at her, then looked at me and said "Why do you let her dress like that?"

There is a fine line between letting her have her own style and making sure she doesn't make a fool of herself. It's a very very fine line. I've always said that as long as it is "weather" appropriate, the girls can wear whatever they want.

So, should I let her continue to have her own style and deal, or should I guide a little more towards what I think is appropriate!?? I need some help here, moms.

My Job Chart

2010-03-08T09:13:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited about being able to review My Job Chart. My girls are a little bit older, but there are still things that I need them to do: like get up in the morning on time and get to sleep at a decent hours. Plus putting away clothes, helping clean up after dinner and more.

With My Job Chart, I get to create a custom chore schedule for the girls. Points are assigned and rewards are earned. it's a very cool little tool. And the best part is: It's FREE!

So, I know that you want to go check it out. Here's a link that will get you there and you can sign up for your own job chart.

http://www.myjobchart.com/sign_up/?id=6723

after you get to use it, please stop back and leave a comment about how it's working out for you.

The Princess's 40th Birthday Party

2010-03-03T20:29:00.000-08:00

here's a few pix from the party. if you are friends with me on Facebook, there are more there. Enjoy. I know I did!

Me and Chris..just playing around

Me and Kell (this is Mrs. Chris!)

Me and my mommy

Colleen, Tina, Jody, Me, and Tammy

the gang from middle school, we are just missing Barb

Shelly, Me and Mike. He wanted to be a princess too!

Moment/Memory Jars

2010-03-02T07:59:00.000-08:00

Reading through my emails this morning, I found this:
http://www.getbuttonedup.com/2010/02/the-moment-jar/?utm_source=Buttoned+Up+Newsletter&utm_campaign=810d024ea9-March_Is_Here_Get_Organized_With_Ease&utm_medium=email

and it got me thinking. With all the crazy stuff that has happened to me lately, this would be a fabulous idea. For my kids too! To be able to quickly "remember" a special/happy/positive memory. So tonight we are starting memory jars. My idea is a jar/box/container that can be decorated to your own liking. Then pretty paper cut into strips or squares. On the paper we will note the date and then memory. If the kids think it's stupid (which is a very good possibility) then I will do my own. I will post photos here of the project.

What do you think?? good idea?? lame?? too time consuming?? let me know.

My New Life

2010-02-25T07:53:00.000-08:00

Things have been very VERY crazy at the Random House. But good things are coming, I just know it.
I recently moved out of the house with my girls. We are staying with my parents. You may have read the earlier post about the school/job thing. That is related to my kiddos.

Lyric has been battling some depression/anxiety issues and that has taken up a major part of my energy and time for the past month. She is doing better now. Has been back at school for 4 days. Is taking her meds regularly. We still just take it one day at a time.

Jazz is trying to adjust to things but we are still in transition and she has good and bad days.

I decided not to do the PartyLite thing because I couldn't even manage enough business for a decent sized party. However, since I am a huge fan of Avon products and I was spending a bunch of my money there anyway, I signed up to be an Avon rep. You can check out my site at www.youravon.com/akrueger8895. If you want to sign up to do an eparty, let me know. The first person to sign up will get a special gift from me.

I will go back to school in August. I will start looking for a new position in June. We should be moving into a new apartment around May 1st. I'm going to see Rick in July.

See, even with all the bad stuff, I can still find good stuff to look forward to. If you are so inclinded, pray for me as I take the next steps on my life's journey.

The Final Countdown

2010-02-01T11:11:00.000-08:00

This is my last week as a secretary. Next Monday (well, after jury duty), I go back to being a CNA. I'm excited and scared about the change. I'm nervous about not doing a good job (I am a little out of practice) but looking forward to learning (and relearning) things. I will be going back to working every other weekend, but that means more time off during the week. (Can you say quiet time to study?!?) Also, I won't need to use personal time for doctor appointments and stuff because I can do it on my days off.

I'm planning a weekend away with my mom and my girls in the near future, as well as a Mommy Day Away. Just a quick overnight by myself. Yup, that's right. Nobody but me. And don't call me because unless it's something I deem an emergency, I ain't gonna respond. I know that's a little selfish, and I know you moms are thinking "How the hell can I get one of those?" Just do it! You deserve it. Trust me, somebody can handle your kids for 24-36 hours. Really, they can. If you do end up making this happen, please feel free to stop back by and comment about it.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!

2010-01-20T14:48:00.000-08:00

I don't normally like to toot my own horn or bring attention to the fact that I am getting older, but this year I am making an exception! 1/21/10 I will be 40. or 29 for the 11th time. I'm a lot smart than I was in my teens and stronger (mentally, emotionally, not physically) than I was in my 20's. My 30's seem like a blur. Jazz was born when I was 29 and I have spent the last ten years watching my girls grown into wonderful young women. They still have time to figure out who they are, but as I see them develop I am so proud to say I had a hand in it.

Friday night I will be celebrating with a close group of friends and family and I will, for a minute, admit my true age....but Saturday morning I'm going right back to being 29!

Living a whirlwind sort of life

2010-01-14T06:16:00.000-08:00

So much is going on that I've (again) been neglecting the blog. It's bound to happen but I promise I won't go away forever and sometimes I might even have something a bit insightful to share. Here's the basic rundown of now.

I start my first class today. Well, my first class that is considered part of nursing school. Pathopysiology. I'm sure it's going to be fun.*

I start my new job on February 8. I will be floating to several different departments within the hospital. This will be a great position because I will be exposed to a lot and I will learn more than just what school is going to teach me.

My birthday is in one week. Party pix will be forthcoming. I'm looking forward to hanging out with friends and family and just having an overall good time!

*I have been assured that this class is in fact not fun and it's the hardest class of them all but I chose to have a positive attitude!

Good Things Are Coming

2010-01-08T09:44:00.001-08:00

It's been a busy busy beginning to the new year. On Tuesday, I had an interview. On Wednesday, I went to New Student Orientation at school. On Thursday I had another interview. Next week I start nursing school. Two days a week for 1 1/2 hours. So it will be two days a week of work-school-work. At least for now. A little birdy told me that I would be getting a job offer. I don't know which job it will be for but either of them is a good fit for me right now. I will for sure post about it when everything falls into place.

Two weeks from today is my birthday party. It's the 11th anniversary of my 29th birthday. it's going to be a gathering of friends and family with lots of fun and laughter and drinking and good times. Unfortunately, one of my very best friends is unable to attend, but I've been promised a make up party at a later date. That actually works out good because our birthdays are very close so we will get a private party sometime in the future. (LOVE YOU!)

Don't forget to check out http://www.payit40.blogspot.com/ for info on the Pay It 40 campaign.

What things do you have planned for the new year???

Creed - Live DVD

2009-12-30T11:26:00.000-08:00

I bought myself a little after Christmas - Christmas gift the other day. As you know from previous posts, I love Mark Tremonti. Not in an "I want to marry him" way, but in a "he is so freakin' phenomenal on the guitar" way. So when I found out that Creed had recently filmed a concert DVD, I went on the hunt. Wouldn't you know it, I found a copy at Wal Mart. It was the same price as Amazon (and I didn't have to pay shipping!) so I picked it up.

I haven't watch the whole thing through but the concert stuff is pretty cool. I wish the cameras would stay still a bit more, but hey, what can you say about a band that's in the Guiness Book of World Records for most cameras used to film a live show.

The behind the scenes/interview stuff is interesting. I'm always interested in the how's and why's of stuff. I hope to have some time this weekend to check out the whole thing. But what I have seen so far is very cool and worth the money.

Alter Bridge also has a DVD so I think I'll be getting that for my birthday. (AB is another band that Mark played in when Creed was on their break)

If you are a Creed fan, or a Mark Tremonti fan, or even a Scott Stapp fan (which I am not) you should really check out this DVD. If you have a big enough screen and a good sound system, it could be a lot like being there!

Well, Hello

2009-12-29T06:51:00.000-08:00

Hi, there, bloggy world! Hope everybody survived the weekend okay. We did a whirlwind of family gatherings. Tuesday - Lyric's birthday, Wednesday - dinner at our house (usually this is done Christmas eve), Thursday - out to eat, Friday - food at my mom's and Fisher's brothers. Saturday we got a little bit of a breather, but E came over and then Fisher and I took the girls, E, and two cousins to see Alvin and the Chipmunks. Sunday was church, grocery shopping, Indian food (thanks, Darla!), and then family sledding. I didn't go because for some reason my neck is bothering me again. Last night was dinner with Sarah and the girls.

My girls are trying to fill up the rest of their week as well, and I am having none of that! Well, maybe a little of that. They are both making plans for New Year's Eve. Jazz is going to a sleepover, Lyric is hoping to babysit. Lyric is about $30 away from having enough money to pay for driver's ed. I'm coming to terms with it. I don't want my hang ups to become hers. And she won't get her license for a year anyway, so she might as well "practice". It still is creeping me out a little.

What did Santa bring me, you might be wondering. Santa brought me a Sony Cybershot. It's honestly not a camera I would have picked out for myself, but so far I LOVE IT! It has some fun features (smile detection and a food photo setting) that I've never seen before, but I've taken quite a few pix in low light and they are turning out great! Somewhere in the settings I saw that it can focus up to 23 feet away! I expect Great pix of the Rickster this year, no matter where our seats are! I'll post some of the other photos I've taken soon.

Time Sure Flies When You Are Having Fun

2009-12-21T11:58:00.000-08:00

Lyric turns 15 tomorrow. I can't even believe it. She's a freshman in high school, talking about driver's ed, growing into a wonderful young woman. But every once in a while I still see snippets of my baby girl. I guess that never goes away because my mom told me yesterday that I am still her baby girl. So during this super busy, canigeteverythingdoneandenjoytheholidays week, I wanted to wish Lyric a very Happy Birthday. You'll always be my baby girl!

It's Beginning to Look a lot Like Christmas

2009-12-15T13:34:00.000-08:00

and it's a darn good thing that I'm done with school! Jazz had dance last night so Fisher ran her back and forth while I tried to find an adaptor for the tapes we use in our camcorder (no go) and picked up a few more Christmas gifts (score!). Tonight Lyric has a show choir performance.(did you see Taylor Lautner's show choir skit on SNL? Funny funny stuff) Tomorrow, daytime Lyric has a show choir performance. Tomorrow night, Jazz has a band concert. Thursday night - 7pm - holiday musical for Jazz. Thursday night - 8pm - band concert for Lyric. Friday night - NOTHING! Thank goodness. except it will probably turn into a shopping night because I have a little list of people to finish buying for. Saturday is busy with Girl Scout stuff and then a hockey game. Sunday is church and cookie baking. Monday - first day of Winter break. I'm sure the girls will sleep in while Fisher and I get up and head to work. The good thing is, when I don't have to get Jazz off, I can sleep for almost an extra hour. YAY for extra sleep.

I'll try to put up some pix of Lyric in her show choir outfit and link to the SNL skit. I'm also going to link another one because it is funny, funny stuff.

Now back to your regularly scheduled Tuesday!

1200 songs and nothing good to listen to

2009-12-14T09:42:00.000-08:00

That's where I found myself Saturday night. I have over 1200 songs on my ipod, and I couldn't find one that I wanted to listen to all the way through. It might have had something to do with being in a crabby mood but usually something will catch my interest. It might also have something to do with the fact that a lot of what's on my ipod is Jonas Brothers, High School Musical, Miley Cyrus and Demi Lavato. I can't wait until everybody has their own ipods and I can only have MY music on MY ipod. And another thing, what's up with the ratings/stars. If I like a song welll enough to put it on the ipod, it's a no brainer that it's a four or five star song. Duh! I'm not putting crap on there. Anyway, here's a Random twenty songs from my random shuffle. (By the way - I'm taking suggestions for new bands to listen to! I might even do a few reviews and CD giveaways! Leave a comment. If I check your suggestion and blog about it, there will be something in it for you - I promise.)

December Twenty Random Songs from BILL (Believe in Love and Laughter) aka Aim's Ipod

Someone Like You - Boys Like Girls (Love Drunk CD)
Being for the Benefit of Mr. Kite - The Beatles (Love CD)
Rent - Three Days Grace (One X CD)
Down With The Sickness - Disturbed (The Sickness CD)
Sweet Dreams - Rick Springfield (My Precious Little One CD)
Cofee and Cigarettes - Augustana (All the Stars and Boulevards CD)
Where Love Went Wrong - Augustana (Can't Love, Can't Hurt CD)
Hate Me - Five Finger Death Punch (The Way of The Fist CD)
Lost Without You - Darren Hayes (Live at the Aria Awards 2003)
Thriller - Michael Jackson
Faithful - Rick Springfield (Shock/Denial/Anger/Acceptance CD)
On The Inside - Daughtry (Leave This Town CD)
Senior Year Spring Musical - HSM 3
Supermassive Black Hole - Muse (Twilight soundtrack )
There's A Fine, Fine Line - Avenue Q
First Time - Matt Nathanson*
Life After You - Daughtry
When You're Home - In The Heights
I Knew I Loved You - Savage Garden (Affirmation CD)
Always - Bon Jovi (Crossroad CD)

So, maybe when I take all of Lyric's stuff and Jazz's stuff off, I will find more I like. *Matt Nathanson has a cute song called "Princess". If you look it up on you tube, it's pretty funny. He's got a nice little guitar hook that sounds strangly similar to Jessie's Girl. And he says he's trying to get sued by Rick Springfield. If I could link the you tube thing here I would. But go check it out.

The Newest Playlist....

2009-12-10T09:14:00.000-08:00

Those of you who have been coming here for awhile know that I love music. I could live without just about anything but music. My lastest playlist is listed below. There's no real common theme except these are all songs that I like. I added a little about why I like the songs. Any of these songs have special meaning for you?? What are you listening to??

PLAYLIST DECEMBER 2009
(No particular order)

Tangled Up In You - Staind (okay, seriously, there are so many things I love about this song. The guitar, the voice, the words...if you haven't heard it you need to go check it out.)

Thing for You - Hinder (Have loved Hinder since I saw them live in February. I missed them a couple weeks ago at Austin's Fuel Room but I bet it was a wonderful show)

When You Say You Love Me - Darren Hayes (Darren is one of my Aussie loves. He has a smooth sexy voice and I can't get enough. This song is very sweet.)

Whiter Shade of Pale - Eric Clapton (heard this the other day for the first time in a long time. Love it!)

To Be With You - Mr. Big (A throw back to my 80's hairbands. This song always, always, ALWAYS makes me smile! I dare you to listen to it and not smile.)

Lips of an Angel - Hinder (there's the boys again. This song tells a story that lots of people can probably relate to)

Life After You - Daughtry (this is the song with my "tagline" in it - All that I'm after is a life full of laughter)

Learn My Lesson - Daughtry (The song about going back even when you know it might be wrong)

Jet City Woman - Queensryche (another hairband throw back. Geoff Tate has an interesting voice. Nice song.)

Stop back. I will be doing another Random 20 soon!

Believe....(this is not a true story- well most of it anyway!)

2009-12-04T13:19:00.000-08:00

I've always believed that everything happens for a reason. I also believe that God has a plan for each and everyone of us, even if we don't understand the why's of it. I know, I know, bad things happen. Bad things even happen to good people. But I still believe that whatever happens is part of God's plan for me. I have to believe it, otherwise I couldn't get through the day.

I believe there's a reason my first baby didn't live more than 3 days. There's a reason my second pregnancy ended with a miscarriage. Those reasons are the two very beautiful children that I do have and I value every day.

There's a reason I didn't know my dad growing up. I didn't find him until I was 30. Now we talk on the phone nearly every week.

And there's a reason that the love of my life broke my heart when I was eighteen. When you are eighteen, everything seems so intense, and it was that intensity that ruined our relationship.

I moved on and so did he. We've both dated. We've both married. We've both had kids. We've both been divorced. And now, I am sitting here writing this while he rakes leaves and lets our kids jump into the pile.

Okay people, what do you think?? Have I grabbed your attention or are you thoroughly bored?? Leave a comment, let me know. The subtle blue shows what is true.

Words to Live By....

2009-12-02T08:33:00.000-08:00

In all the craziness that is my life right now, I've found so great sayings to help me get through. My favorites are below.

Looking back only confuses and is unnecessary for the future (Thanks to MJ for this one!)

What’s meant to be will always find a way

If the timing’s right and the god’s are with you, something special happens

When nothing goes right, go left.

Never give up on someone you can’t go a day without thinking about

Do you have a favorite saying? What are your words of inspiration??
If you want to figure out what’s right for you, sometimes it’s enough to figure out what’s wrong.

Hello, again....

2009-11-30T11:49:00.000-08:00

Just a quick hey to all my faithful readers! I know you are all wondering where I have been. it's coming down to the end of the semester, plus it was a holiday, plus things have been C-R-A-Z-Y at home! Sorry to keep you all waiting for my next installment!

Last Friday, I was able to hang out with some very good friends of mine and I had a GREAT time! Thanks, guys! You know who you are. This coming weekend, I will be going out to dinner with my almost but not quite sister in law, S (she would be the mom to the cutest baby ever) and then we are probably going to hook up with the above mentioned friends for some adult beverages.

S and I are going through some similar things right now so it will be nice to sit and chat with her one on one.

School is done this week. I have two finals next week and then I get a whole month with NO SCHOOL! I won't even know what to do with myself. Except Christmas and Lyric's birthday are in there, so something will come up I'm sure.

I started planning my 40th birthday party. (More than just the famous faces) Details are coming in slowly, but it's going to be a great time! I ain't afeared of being 40 no more!

I'll try to post again this week, but if not, you will for sure get an update after finals!

Love and whatnot to you all!

Aim

Busy Weekend....

2009-11-23T08:32:00.000-08:00

Thursday and Friday Lyric was in the high school play. She did a great job and it was really fun to see her "in her element". After the show Friday, we did the usual Dairy Queen trip. It was even fun for me this time because I had two of my very best friends with me! These are the two friends that I referred to earlier that are getting married next year. i love them both so much and even though we have had times when we haven't been in touch much, they are back in my life and I'm so glad. Maybe we just needed to have the seperation so we could realize how important we truly are to each other. I LOVE YOU GUYS!

Saturday was pretty laid back. We went to see New Moon in the afternoon. It was great! A little slow at the begininng (I was ready for some action and special effects) but overall, I think it was a decent movie. Jazz wants to see it again and even asked if she could add it to her Christmas list. I told her she could, but it wouldn't be on DVD before Christmas. She was crushed. Almost as much as when she realized (this weekend) that the tooth fairy isn't real. Yeah, I'm a bad mom/tooth fairy and forgot to put the dollor under the pillow. I forget that she's still a little girl. Anyway, Fisher tried to cover because she put the tooth under her pillow again last night. We can hang onto the fairy tale a little bit longer.

Yesterday was a church and homework day. I finished my chemistry paper and then found out that I have to write a paper for Microbes. YIKES! I'm so done with papers. I can't wait for the semester to be over. 16 days and I'm free for about a month. I'll be enjoying every one of the off days!

Lyric and I did run down and see the holiday kick off parade. It was nice because it wasn't as cold this year as it has been in past years.

And now it is Monday and we're back to the grind. Actually the girls only have two days of school this week. It will be nice for them to have a whole bunch of down time.

Where I Am and Where I Want To Be....

2009-11-20T07:17:00.000-08:00

I've been trying to figure out for years what I want to be when I grow up. Sneaking up on 40 makes me think a little deeper. I'm all set for nursing school to start in January, but I'm starting to second guess myself. Am I too old to take this on? But then on the other hand, it's a couple of years of hard work and then the payoff is going to be wonderful. I've wanted to be a nurse since i was little. Mom and Nurse were the two "jobs" I've never stopped wanting. Maybe I'm just a little freaked out because it seems that everything is about to change....my job, my schooling, etc etc etc.

I have a vision of where I would like to see myself in say 2-3 years (depending on how long it takes me to finish school). I've never been much of a visual learner, but maybe writing down what I want to do and where I see myself will help with the process.

This may seem like a somewhat convoluted post to most of you, but it actually makes a lot of sense to me and it's helping me FOCUS....yeah for random blogging.

stay tuned for the next installment of "Aim is about to lose her mind".....

MIA...

2009-11-18T09:40:00.000-08:00

Yes, that's right...I was missing in action. But there wasn't really any action. I was at home suffering and recovering. It seems that as you get older you are more prone to injuries caused by sleep*. The other night I pulled a muscle in my neck while sleeping. it was sore but manageable until Sunday morning. I could barely move, it hurt in any and all positions and I would almost say it was the worst pain I've ever had. (and I have given birth!)

So, my very lovely and wonderful mom drove me to the immediate care clinic so I could get it checked out. I was glad to hear that the doctor thought it was just a pulled muscle (I was starting to worry about broken vertebrae, broken neck, etc etc). He gave me some very lovely medication and I was able to rest and relax. Actually, once I took the meds it was out of my hands. GOOD STUFF! I ended up staying home from work on Monday and Tuesday. I'm back in the swing now, trying to play catch up on everything. It's going slow.

Over the weekend, I also found out that my two bestest friends in the whole world are finally getting married (to each other!) after 15 years. I'm super excited for them. Not because I didn't always think they'd be together but because he's wanted to marry her for years and she's been holding out. They've both been married before and I think she was a little scared! You may get periodic wedding planning updates. The wedding is set for next September so we have a lot to do before then.

Anyway, I'm off to finish up some more work type stuff before lunch. Have a great day.

*This is not an official report, it's my own philosophy. :-)

Who's Coming To My Birthday Party

2009-11-13T11:40:00.000-08:00

Many of you may know that I will be turning 40 soon (69 days!). The other day, I told my girls that if they were not going to be having a party for me that I needed to know so that I could plan it for myself. Not a "bring me presents because I'm turning 40" but just friends and family getting together for a good time. They said that they were planning to have a party but hadn't talked with their dad about it yet. I just asked that they let me know. I won't be offended because Fisher is not much of a party guy or a planner so if they can't pull it off, it's totally okay.

Somehow, this party plan of mine morphed into "if I could invite anybody to my party who would it be"? Well, you know that Rick Springfield is at the top of the list. And I want Daughtry to perform. Also, Patrick Dempsey, David Boreanaz, Josh Kelley and Katherine Heigel, I can't remember who else was on the list, but I did write the list on a chalkboard, so I'll trying to take a photo to post.

Then it was decided that if they can't really come (but who wouldn't want to come to a 40th birthday party for me?!?!?) then we would just put up head shots of all the famous people I want to invite as the decorations. The girls are loving this idea and are adding to the list almost daily. So who knows what kind of party it will be but I know there will be a lot of famous faces there! :-)

So, I just want to extend the invite: Rick, Patrick, David, Josh, Katherine: if you are free on January 22, 2010, you are MORE than welcome to attend the above mentioned party. Email me for the details!

Okay, so I wrote down all the "people" I want to invite. Here's the list: Rick Springfield, Peter Facinelli (and family!), Daughtry, David Boreanaz, Sandra Bullock, Patrick Dempsey, Darren Hayes, Rob Thomas, Indina Menzel and Taye Diggs, and Josh Kelley and Katherine Heigl. (all names in purple are musicians so I think we'd be having one hell of a concert!)

Recently added: Creed. I'm getting over my dislike of Scott Stapp, especially if it means seeing Mark Tremonti do his thing on the guitar!

Pandora Radio

2009-11-11T06:19:00.000-08:00

I may have posted about this many moons ago, but since I've been using it again, I wanted to throw it out there. Pandora radio ROCKS! For those of you that don't know, Pandora is internet radio. But it's not just any internet radio. It's customizable internet radio. I have several "stations" so I can pick music that fits my mood. Like I have a Rick Springfield station (duh, like you didn't see that coming), and a Daughtry, Seether, the Eagles, Def Leppard, Blink 182, Posion, Boston, Bon Jovi, Hinder, and more. What Pandora does is plays songs "in the same vein as" whatever your chosen station is. For example, on the Daughtry station I get songs by Three Doors Down, Lifehouse, Train, and Daughtry. It's fun and easy and free to use and commerical free (which for me is by FAR the greatest perk!).

So, if you haven't already checked this out...what are you waiting for!?

Redecorating

2009-11-10T09:24:00.000-08:00

Yes, that's right, after more than 3 years I'm finally making my blog "my blog"...Thanks to Andy for helping me do that! I'm moving things around, sprucing things up and just giving it a new look. I don't know how long the transition will take, but please stop by regularly to see the progress!

Music Music and More Music

2009-11-05T06:47:00.000-08:00

As you can tell from several of my recent posts- music is a huge part of my life. In general it always has and even more so recently. I haven't had time to watch TV so my ipod is my constant companion. Today you get to see a random list of what comes up on shuffle. I added music to my ipod recently and I have 1050 songs loaded right now. That's a lot of music and it's all varying styles. Pop, rock, 80's, broadway, movie soundtracks, etc. Different music for different moods. I did listen to Daughtry's Leave This Town for 2 weeks straight. Now, I know all the words so I can move onto something else....

Here's the random list:

I Saw Red - Warrant
All My Friends Say - Luke Bryan
Senior Year Spring Musical - HSM3 soundtrack
I Want Action - Poison
Overcome - Creed
Living in Oz - Rick Springfield
Where I Wanna Be - Waltham
Mama, I'm a Big Girl Now - Hairspray soundtrack(Broadway version)
Don't Walk Away - Rick Springfield (If you have read my book, you should know that this is the song that inspired the scene where Derek goes to ask Abbi to come home. If you haven't read my book - Why the heck not?)
It's Your Wedding Day - The Wedding Singer soundtrack (broadway)
Hold On - Jonas Brothers (dude, I have a pre teen and a teenager in my house)
Entr'acte - Mama Mia soundtrack
Broken Again - Another Animal
Earth to Vanessa - The Squirts
Let Me Sign - Twilight soundtrack
Walk All Over You - AC/DC
The Middle - Demi Lovato (this is a Jazz song)
Dance Hall Drug - Boys Like Girls (I like this band, they kind of sound like Secondhand Serenade)
Learn My Lesson - Daughtry
I Don't Know You Anymore - Savage Garden

So, do you like any of these songs?? Not heard any?? Need any suggestions for new music you might like?? Let me know. I'll do a mixed CD of Random Songs and send it to one lucky winner! In your comment make sure you leave me a way to contact you.

Technical Help

2009-11-02T14:22:00.000-08:00

I would love to make some changes in the surroundings here at Random Thoughts. If you know how to change things up (I want three colums and a "Pretty" header) or know somebody who does, please let me know. I could probably afford to pay a little bit, but I'd like to try some things for free first. There might even be a giveaway involved for somebody. Let me know. Thanks!

MPLO giveaway winner

2009-10-29T08:22:00.000-07:00

Gina is the winner of the Rick Springfield CD.

Gina, I need you to contact me (writeone.two@gmail.com) or leave a comment here with your contact information by 11/1.

Thanks to all who played along.

Top Ten Songs That Can Make Me Smile

2009-10-28T07:19:00.000-07:00

This is today's top ten...it's very possible that it could change tomorrow!

1) "Taylor, The Latte Boy" - Kristin Chenoweth
2) "Nineteen Somethin'" - Mark Wills
3) "So What" - Pink
4) "So Beautiful" - Darren Hayes
5) "Dancing Through Life" - Wicked soundtrack
6) "Supermassive Black Hole" - Muse
7) "Bruce" - Rick Springfield
8) "Popular" - Wicked soundtrack
9) "I Get Excited" - Rick Springfield
10) "Hey Katie" - Josh Kelley

What songs make you smile??

Don't forget - today is the last day to enter the my-precious-little-one-giveaway

Check My Brain...and Overcome

2009-10-26T09:12:00.000-07:00

More music reviews for your enjoyment! I often have a mental list of bands I want to hear more from or songs I want to download. This weekend I was able to add some music to my ipod. here's what I think:

Overcome - Creed. I love the lyrics. I liked Creed back in the day. Never have been a big Scott Stapp fan, but I love, Love, LOVE Mark Tremonti. He can play guitar for me anytime! So I heard this on the radio the other day and was torn. Love Mark, hate Scott. Oh, what the heck. I bought the single. I don't know who wrote it but it's pretty telling of the rocky Creed relationship. Typical sound but a good song over all. "I'm entitled to overcome, completely stunned, I'm numb..."

Check My Brain - Alice In Chains. I've never been big AIC fan...it's one of those "that was a bad time in my life and this music reminds me of that" so I was again torn. The title of this song makes me laugh and even though I don't know any of the lyrics, it's worth a listen if you like AIC or if you need a little musical therapy.

If You Only Knew - Shinedown. Great song! "If you only knew I'm hanging by a thread" There's definitely a story behind this song but I think that everybody can listen to it and take their own "lesson" from it.

Jet - Rick Springfield (cover). recorded live in Nashville. Fun song. Rick and the boys did a great job with it. (For the record - I also bought the Paul McCartney version)

Live Like We're Dying - Kris Allen. It took me a couple of listens but now I like it. I think it will do okay on the radio. Kris has a huge following and I don't think people will be disappointed.

Time For Miracles - Adam Lambert. yes, I'm admitting it. I bought it. I didn't like Adam at first but then I took him for what he was - a drama geek - and it's all good. not a great single, but it is on a soundtrack so maybe his solo CD will be a bit different.

Although these next few songs are not "new", I haven't mentioned them yet so I'll throw it out there today. Sevendust - Hope and Sorrow. Buy this album if you like rock at all. Sevendust alone is great but you also get "Hope" featuring Mark Tremonti (see above note!), "The Past" featuring Chris Daughtry, and "Sorrow" featuring Miles Kennedy (lead singer of Alter Bridge-I guess I can wait for Creed to get done messing around to get a new AB CD). These are great songs for differently reasons. Hard hitting, story telling, rock n roll.

Leave This Town Review

2009-10-21T08:28:00.000-07:00

Back in July, Daughtry released it's second CD. I bought it off of itunes, downloaded it, put it on my ipod and occassionally listened to "No Surprise". Last week, I heard the second single was getting ready to be released so I fired it up on the ole ipod...and haven't stopped listening to it yet. Literally. I hear the songs in my head as I'm falling asleep and start singing them to myself as soon as I wake up. I want to listen to them loud! I want to listen to them all the time (except for one). I loved the first Daughtry release and now that I've started listening to this one, loving it as much. Here's my review/breakdown of the songs on the album with my favorite lines from each song. BTW, the review is not necessarily in the order that the songs are on the CD...just so you know.

"Life After You"
The title makes me think of "I'm better off without you" but once you listen to the song, you realize it's just the opposite. This song is about realizing that there is no life after you. We were meant to be together and I'm coming back. I have two favorite lines in this song. First, "All that I'm after is a life full of laughter..." Second, "I must've been high to say you and I weren't meant to be..." Great lyrics. I've probably listened to this song the most. I believe it is the new single as well.

"No Surprise"
Loved this song the first time I heard it. We often stay in a relationship that isn't working. Suddenly, in this song, Chris gives us the breakup song of 2009. "It's no surprise I won't be here tomorrow" and "As I say it louder I love how it sounds". Like he just figured out how to get out. A little snarky, but snarky is my new middle name so I LOVE it.

"What I Meant To Say"
More snarky here. Another relationship gone wrong song. This song tells a story of one person working hard to hold on, while one has already let go. Favorite lyric "All this sucking up to you is getting old". Seriously!??! I love that line.

"Open Up Your Eyes"
this is my least favorite song on the CD. So much so that I might delete it from the ipod. It's a nice story, I guess. I'm just connecting with it like I am with all the other songs. Favorite lyric, if I had to pick "Welcome to the first day of your life"
editor's note: after listening to this song a few more times, I've decided to keep it on the ipod.

"September"
second to least favorite song, but it tells the story of summers past, how we want to hold onto those memories of good times. Favorite lyric "Nothing to lose but everything to gain"

"Ghost of Me"
Another relationship song. Somebody was going through some stuff while they were writing. I hope it wasn't Chris because he's a sweety and I'd hate to hear that his AI fame messed with his family. Anyway, this song is a little more punchy than some of the others. It makes me smile everytime because I can imagine hearing it live. I don't really have a favorite lyric for this one. But definitely worth a listen.

"Everytime You Turn Around"
This one is a light rocker as well. It makes me think that somebody is doing things (moving forward in a career maybe??) while somebody stays behind. Favorite lyric "I've been following my dreams, trying to find the scene where you believed in me"

"You Don't Belong"
This one could go a couple of ways. Almost sounds like an admission of an affair. "You don't belong to me, I think you lied to me" but I can't get a great read on it. I do like it and listen to it a lot.

"Learned My Lesson"
Beating a dead horse much?? This song is about going back to something that is bad over and over again. We've probably all been there at some point as well. This song puts it out there. Favorite lyric "It turns out I haven't learned a thing"

"Supernatural"
This is a 'fun' song. It's got a great feel and it's a little punchy. It's almost like getting sucked into something before you even realize that it happened and you don't know how to get out. And it's so intense you're not sure if you want to get out. No favorite lyrics, but this is a great song.

"Tennessee Line"
This was my least favorite song at first, now it's decent. It's another "I didn't know what I had until it was gone" song...but very slow, sweet and methodical. "Well, it's my heart I follow this time" and "Tell me how to make right every wrong turn I made" love it.

"Call Your Name"
Ever loved somebody who didn't love you back?? That's what this song says to me at the beginning. a little. It's also a "I didn't want to break your heart" song. Nice song. Another slower one but worth a listen.

Overall, this CD is fantastic. I wish I had a copy to give away but I don't so run out to your local WalMart, target, Itunes, wherever you get your music from and pick up your copy! If you like Daughry at all, you won't be disappointed. I'd love to hear feed back on what you hear in these songs as well. Leave a comment. Thanks!

My Precious Little One - Giveaway

2009-10-20T08:59:00.000-07:00

It's somebody's lucky day! I'm giving away a copy of My Precious Little One by Rick Springfield. (click on the link and you can listen to samples at Amazon.com) It's his newest release. It's lullabys. It's awesome. And for one of my lucky blog readers, it's FREE!

Entering for this contest is only slightly harder than the last one.

You need to comment that you would like to win, but also in a seperate comment,

tell me who is your "precious little one".

(Blog identities - if you don't use your kiddos real names - is okay! I don't need the information, just wanted to give everybody a change at two entries!)

So that's it. A couple of comments and in a week, we'll have a winner.

Entries accepted today (10/20) through Wed, Oct 28.

I will again assign numbers based on entry submissions and use random.org to pick the winner.

Good Luck, Everybody! "Don't Keep the Sandman Waiting"

Homecoming 2009

2009-10-18T10:49:00.000-07:00

Lyric went to her first high school dance last night. Homecoming 09. Her date was her very best guy friend. He's a good kid and I'm so glad that they are friends. Here's a few photos.

The girls got ready at our house and the guys showed up at 5. The girls waited in Lyric's room until both boys were here and then they did a big "reveal" entrance. It was so cute.

Lyric's date, L, came with his mom and brother. Her friend, E, had been here but E's mom came and Lyric's god mother came as well. We had cameras going all over the place so there are lots of good (and not so good) photos. And one of my very best guy friends, Mike, came over in his biker gear to be the male contingent. Since Fisher was out of town as was Kelley's hubby, I wanted the boys to know that there was somebody looking out for Han. :-) Sneaky, huh?? I let Mike open the door for the boys and he was just kind of there. He left to go home before we went to the park and Lyric didn't get to say goodbye. She was talking about him and texting him. Good for L to know that besides mom and dad and the biological uncles, she has Uncle Mike, too, and I'm pretty sure that he would take a bullet for her.

PPPP- Patrick Dempsey

2009-10-16T06:11:00.000-07:00

I've haven't played along with PPPP for a few weeks, but I wanted to share these photos. They were actually taken by an employee of the hospital where I work and she graciously shared them with my boss....who then shared them with me. Don't take them and use them as your own, they are only for your viewing pleasure today....and what a pleasure it is.

Shaving Tips...A PSA from me to you

2009-10-15T08:52:00.000-07:00

I don't usually get too personal here because well, it's personal. But today I decided to share something I haven't told many people.

I have sensitive skin. It's getting better, but I used to have to use baby laundry detergent on my own clothes. I would itch and get red and well, you know, it ain't pretty.

I hated shaving my legs because they would get bumpy and red and itchy. Then I started using Nair. Smells yummy (NOT!). After one of my girls had some other sort of rash, I found .Gold Bond Medicated Powder This stuff is a freaking life saver! I would sprinkle it on after I shaved my legs and never get the itchies or the bumpies or the redness. Life was good. Until it turn summer. Who wants to walk around with white, powdery legs.

One day, in a lazy moment when I didn't have any ladies shave gel handy, I used conditioner. Yes, that's right. The same stuff you put on your hair to keep it soft and silky. Works Wonders! Now it's all I used. A nice thin-ish layer of conditioner on your legs and then shave as normal. No itching, no bumps, no redness. Seriously! I'm not making this up. I've used all kinds of conditioner with the same wonderful results, so you don't need to spend a fortune, just grab the cheap stuff and go. And the good news: it's actually less expensive than the shave gel anyway! (well, some of it is)

If you have ever had the above mentioned issues, try the conditioner thing and let me know how it works out for you.

And by the way, what's up with razors that have scented handles?? I picked up a pack last night and was surprised to open it and smell lemons! WTF?

Pay It 40 update...and 40 things about me

2009-10-13T07:13:00.000-07:00

The pay it 40 campaign dates have been extended....November 1, 2009 to December 31, 2010. Tell everybody! I should have the website/blog up within the next week or so. In the mean time, here's 40 things about me (that you may or may not already know)

1. I work at a hospital
2. I have 2 daughters
3. I had two miscarriages before the girls were born
4. I've been married "twice" but to the same man (civil and religious ceremonies)
5. I have two half brothers, a step brother and two half sisters
6. I'm a huge Rick Springfield fan
7. I love to write fiction
8. I hate operas
9. I love soap operas
10. I've never been outside the US
11. I've always wanted to travel to Australia
12. I've always wanted to write Rick Springfield's biography
13. I've met some of my best friends through the internet
14. my favorite color changes frequently
15. Fall is my favorite season
16. Christmas is my favorite holiday
17. I love singing
18. I have a horrible singing voice
19. My girls can sing (must be some recessive gene!)
20. My mom rocks!
21. I start nursing school in January just a few days before I turn 40
21. I can't start my day without coffee
22. I didn't start drinking coffee until I was 29
23. I would love to own a Corvette
24. or a Chevy Impala
25. I would love to have more kids, as long as I didn't have to be pregnant
26. I would consider adoption
27. I used to be a packrat (albeit an organized one)
28. Lyric is carrying on the packrat tradition
29. I would love to be self employed
30. My dream job would be Rick Springfield's personal assistant (think he's hiring??)
31. I turn maps in the direction I'm going
32. I hate following people (in the car) when they know where we are going and I don't
33. I love to play online games
34. I've been a girl scout leader for 10 years
35. I've never broken a bone
36. I will probably break something now that I said that
37. I've wanted to be a writer since I was 12
38. Both of my girls like to write...and are very good at it
39. I love the smell of burning leaves
40. I think turning 40 is going to be FUN!

Pay It 40...a birthday gift to your favorite charity

2009-10-08T09:44:00.000-07:00

Some of you may know that next year I will turn 40. I don't feel 40 and I don't think I look 40, but the calendar tells me it's true. I wanted to do something that wasn't about me. I wanted to figure out a way to give back. I wanted to make a difference, even if it's just a little one. I have a few friends that will be turning 40 soon as well. In order to make it less traumatic for us and a definite plus for somebody else, we came up with the "Pay It 40" campaign. Sort of a play on the "pay it forward". I will create a new blog/website with links for all the charities.

In the spirit of giving, I'd like to open up the Pay It 40 campaign to anybody who is turning 40 from November 1, 2009 to October 21, 2010. What you have to do is: 1) leave a comment here with your name and birthday, 2) chose your favorite charity (if you know a link, post that as well) and then when the new blog is up and running you can tell all your friends.

Let me know if you have any questions. Please feel free to share this information with others. I would LOVE to have 40 people participate.

Reminders

2009-10-06T06:31:00.001-07:00

Hello, everybody! Old friends and new. Here's a few link to some highlights of what's going on right now. I don't want anybody to miss out on the good stuff!

Hanbag giveaway

followers showcase

Mom Pen pals

Check out the links and leave a note.

My Sister's Boyfriend

2009-10-05T08:24:00.000-07:00

(New story idea/starter)

When you are five and you like a boy, you chase him around the playground, but what happens when you are 25 and you like a boy? And he’s engaged to your sister? That would be my life.
I’ve always been a bit on the independent side. I never felt like I needed a boyfriend to fit in. I dated in high school, but most of the guys were more into sports or cars to just looking cool. I went to prom by myself. When I went to college, I met lots of great people, but never had a spark with anybody. Lots of dates, but no serious relationships.
When my sister walked into the house last week with Brad, I felt as if my whole body woke up for the first time. Our eyes connected as my sister introduced us. Everything in my body felt electric and light and on. Dinner was rough because I had to sit across from him. I was so taken in. All I wanted to do was look at him for hours. I kept trying to steal glances but after he caught me looking (or was he looking at me the same way?) I made a very conscious effort to look at everybody else but him.
When my mom brought out the desert, Brad stood up and said, “This would probably be a good time to tell you that I asked Julia to marry me.” He smiled down at her (yes I was looking) and she grinned from ear to ear as she flashed a nice diamond. It had to be at least 2 carats. Flashy and it fit my sister’s style perfectly.
I thought my dad was going to jump out of his chair, he was so happy. My sister had been a bit of a, well, geek and I think my parents were afraid that she would never get married. They knew I was a bit of a free spirit and hoping for me to get married was a bit of crap shoot so they pull all their “I want my daughter to get married” eggs in that basket.
My mom was thrilled with the news, hugging Julia and Brad and almost crying. Seriously? Crying? What the hell was she going to be like at the wedding?

Handbag Giveaway

2009-10-02T06:15:00.000-07:00

No, i'm not giving one away, but Esther is. Click on her name and go check out the cute cute super cute handbags she made.

Random Follower Showcase

2009-10-01T12:44:00.000-07:00

I'm going to start something new (again). Periodically, (Like when I can't think of what to blog about), I'm going to randomly chose one of my followers to highlight. I know we can all see who my followers are, but most people don't have the time to look into it any further than that. So, I will do it for you. If you absolutely do not want me to feature you (for whatever reason) let me know, otherwise, you are all fair game.

I was going to pick somebody right away, but I'll give everybody a little bit of time to decide. So within the next week or so I should have somebody featured.

The Mailman Cometh...

2009-09-30T07:47:00.000-07:00

When I was a stay at home mom, the most exciting part of my day (next to naptime) was when the mail would come. I loved running to the mailbox to see if there was anything "good". Usually it was bills or junk mail but occassionally it would be a new magazine, or a letter from a friend. In this high tech, instant gratification world, we rarely send letters/cards/notes to anybody via the mail anymore. I'd like to help change that just a little, for a few of us anyway.

If you would be willing to be a pen pal to another blogger/mom, please leave a note in the comments. I will then randomly pair people up. The only requirements are:
1) no emailing! That defeats the purpose the mail man excitement!
2) you must be willing to mail a card/letter/post card at least once a month. Seriously, people, you don't have to tell your pen pal your deepest, darkest fears, but a nice "thinking of you" or "have a great day" card once in awhile would be great
3) you must come back to me within two months and let me know if you want to continue, how it's going, etc. Just a little feedback on the experiment.

I will have a little goody giveaway to go with this. I will giveaway a set of my favorite pens (which is constantly changing) and a pack of note cards to get you start to one lucky participant. So, leave a note in the comments that you want to participate. Just your name and that you are "in". I'll get addresses from everybody later. I'll take names from today until October 14. Then everybody's names will go into the hat for the goodies and I will start pairing.

Questions?? Comments?? You know what to do!

A, B, C, or D

2009-09-24T06:45:00.001-07:00

It's mid term time for most of the Random House. My kids get mid term, quarter, mid term and semester grades. I don't know why we need grade reports every month, but that's what we get. Lyric is having a little trouble with AP algebra. It's the class giving her the most trouble, so it's also the class she is giving the least effort to. Should be the most effort, but when you're 14 and know everything, that's what you get. She's getting A's and B's in all of her other classes. Getting a C in Algebra. Since she has all AP classes, everything is weighted and that C actually is a 3.0 so she could still end up with a very nice GPA for the semester. it's still early so we'll see how it all pans out. As long as I can get her to keep turning in the homework, we are on the right path. I told her it doesn't have to be perfect, but she needs to make the effort to complete it and then turn it in on time. Seems she was too busy with other things at the beginning of the year to turn in homework. Boys maybe?!?

Jazz is loving school and is thinking she might not want to try out for Fine Arts for next year. This is a complete turn around from last year. She's really getting into her groove. Nothing has completely challenged her/stressed her out so far. YAY! She's reading well, doing good in math, and getting concepts in English/Spelling/vocab that she used to struggle with.

I got my first block grade yesterday in my Lit class. Wait,did I even tell you what classes I have this semester?? I have Chemisty (again!) but it's a newer, better, revamped version of the class I had last spring. This class is geared towards allied health majors. It's a step above HS chem, and not as advanced as chem for say, a science major. Anyway, the teacher is great. Knows his stuff but not too informal. Allows time to ask questions and takes the time to explain things a different way if needed. I also have Microbes and Society. This is basically a review/continuation of Microbiology. This class is all online. And finally, I have Non Western Literature since 1900. Sounds lovely, doesn't it. This class is reading books and writing papers. All online. Right up my alley.

So, back to my grades. For the first book in Lit we had to do 4 papers. One about the author, one about the country and two about different aspects of the book. I didn't do so good on the first one of these, but I ended up with a B for this block. Each book is a "block". I'll take a B! In Microbes, we get our grades by unit, so every two weeks she emails us the grade we received on each section (questions, quizzes, discussion, projects). I've been tallying the grade (because I'm like that) and as of the end of unit 2, I have an 89%. That's almost an A! Yay, me! We are half way through unit 3 so I'll have an update on that in a week or so. Going into last night's chem test, I had like and 84%. I'm hoping to maintain that B. I don't think I can pull an A (But I'm trying) but a B will be just fine. I know it's still early. We have 2 plus months left of the semester, but a lot for me is riding on these classes. I wil continue to keep you posted!

Zhu Zhu Pets Winner

2009-09-21T08:25:00.000-07:00

Thanks for all the entries. I assigned everybody a number based on comments (first comment, #1, etc) and then went to Random.org to pick a winner.

The Zhu Zhu Pets winner is Anitra and she has been notified.

Look for more fun stuff coming soon!

Text A Thon

2009-09-16T08:28:00.000-07:00

Electrolux and Kelly Ripa remain committed to raising money and awareness to support a worthy cause. Together, they are launching another exciting campaign that utilizes a form of communication that many of us use every day - texting! During September, Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, Electrolux and Kelly are holding a "Text-a-Thon for a Cause" to help raise support for the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund whose mission is to fund research to find a method of early detection and ultimately a cure for ovarian cancer.

Throughout September, you can donate $5 to the cause by texting "KELLY" to 85944 from your mobile phones (standard text messaging rates apply) - or logging on to www.kelly-confidential.com. Also, every time you log on to the Web site, you'll be entered for a chance to win an amazing contribution to your home - a luxury front load washer and dryer from Electrolux in Turquoise Sky, the color inspired by the teal ribbon of ovarian cancer awareness.Also during September, visitors to Kelly Confidential can help spread awareness for this important cause by sending a virtual T-shirt to a friend. For every virtual t-shirt sent, Electrolux will donate $1 to the OCRF. Fashion-forward Moms can also purchase a limited edition T-shirt designed by Ripa; 100% of the proceeds from the sale of the T-shirts will go to OCRF.

There is a PSA as well, that I will be adding to this post once I get to a computer that will allow youtube. This is a great cause and it truly is a silent killer. Let's do our part to wipe it out.

A little teaser....

2009-09-15T09:23:00.001-07:00

This has been running through my head regularly for the past few days. let me know what you think.....

I'm standing in the rain. Kissing my high school sweetheart. Two decades after I kissed him for the first time. With his kids staring at us. With my kids staring at us. Did I mention the rain?? How could I have possibly gotten to this point.

What do you think?? How do you think they got here?!?

And don't forget about the Zhu Zhu pets giveaway . There's still time to comment and get your name in the running.

Zhu Zhu Pets Giveaway

2009-09-09T10:21:00.000-07:00

(disclaimer- I wanted to post some photos, but couldn't cut and paste. To check out the items go to www.zhuzhupets.com)

I had the fortune of being chosen for a Zhu Zhu Pets Focus Group. 11 zhu zhu pets and their equipment showed up at my door a couple of weeks ago. Let me tell you, these toys are a hit with kids of all ages. Even my 14 year old wanted one. I took the bulk of them to the daycare where my youngest goes after school, but I gave one to each of my girls and, my lucky readers, I have one to give away. Not only will you get a super cool Zhu Zhu pet, you will also get a super cool hamster ball for it to run around your house in. That's right. And there's more. Since these are such a hit with the kiddos, the batteries run down fairly quickly. You will also get one set of replacement batteries in your package. I haven't priced it out at the store, but I'm guess this is about a $20 prize package. And I know you know you want it.

What do you have to do, you may be asking yourself- well, you know I dislike giveaways where you have to do five things, stand on your head, twirl in a circle and invited 10 friends to dance in the street. All you have to do for a chance to win this prize - comment to this post. Yup. That's it. Super easy. Even a baby could do it, almost anyway. To make it easy for me to contact the winner, feel free to put your email in the comment. If you are uncomfortable with that, just be sure that your email is on your profile somewhere so I can get ahold of you if you win.

This is not limited to just my regular readers/followers, so if you want to share the chance at this cool prize with a friend, send them on over.

The contest starts today - 9/9/09 and ends 9/18/09 at midnight. Then I will put all commenters names in a really cute basket I found and have one of the kids draw one out.

Good luck to everybody!

Casting for the Movie

2009-09-01T12:39:00.000-07:00

I had a quick thought about writing a book before I fell asleep last night, and then dreamed that I was casting the movie version of that story. The basic concept is a Cinderella story but from the male perspective. There's the guy who wants to do theater and drama, but dad forces him to do sports (or tries), the step mom who loves him and tries to udnerstand but has her own sons (twins). And of course, there's the girl who also loves drama and tried to help him persue his goal. Okay, got it?!? So, you wanna know who was cast??

Main male lead, high school, handsome (duh): Zac Efron (this is probably because i watched "17 Again" over the weekend.)
Dad: Rick Springfield
Mom: Susan Sarrandon
Twin #1: Sterling Knight (probably couldn't pick him out of a crowd but my girls say he looks like Lucas Till)
Twin #2: Lucas Till (couldn't pick him out of a crowd either, but see above note)
Girl "friend": Kelsey from HSM (I have no idea what her real name is but she looked great, hair down, no glasses, cute!)

That's really all I got. There was no filming going on, the whole dream was about finalizing casting and all the actors had to come in and read for me and the director (I have no idea who it was), and I remember when Rick and Zac were doing a reading I was thinking "Kelley would kill me if she knew I was in a room with these two and didn't call her" so I called her.

Then I woke up.

Analyze that!

It's Finally Friday...

2009-08-28T06:17:00.000-07:00

Oh, wait, I did that already. Last week. Sorry I haven't had much to update about this week. It's not that I've been so busy, it's just that things have been pretty status quo and there haven't been a lot of "highlights". What are ya gonna do?!?

School's going good for me, good for Lyric and good for Jazz. Except for the bus not picking up Jazz twice this week, it's going okay.

Maybe something wonderful and exciting will happen this weekend and I'll have something to blog about!

I will be having a giveaway next week - not sure what day yet, so stop back for the details!

It's Finally Friday

2009-08-21T11:06:00.001-07:00

Hey, all my loyal readers (and guests!) thanks for stopping by on this rainy-ish Friday. This week was a busy one around the Random House. I started back to school on Monday with my Chemistry class. it's sort of a do over but more of a do different. It's the chem I need for nursing school, but they have revamped all the Chem classes and renamed them. This one is more basic and geared directly towards those going into an Allied Health field. Should make it a bit easier (for me anyway). The teacher seems cool. I'll keep you posted.

I also have Microbes and Society. Or is it Microbes IN Society? either way, it's kind of like a continuation of Microbiology, which I loved (let's not talk about having to take it twice) so it should be pretty cool as well.

And to round things out, I have Non Western Literature. The first book we have to read is "Red Sorgum" by Mo Yan. I haven't started it yet (shh, don't tell the teacher) because I'm currently reading "The 19th Wife" but I plan to start it this weekend.

All in all, the classes are going smooth and slow. I'm sure in a few weeks I'll be freaking out about something, but right now it's all good.

My kids start backto school on Monday. Jazz is in 5th grade, Lyric is 9th. High school that is. I'm feeling a little better about it. I can't stop time so I figured I better just jump in with both feet and enjoy it. Jazz is in the band and Lyric is planning to be in the fresh/soph fall play. They are both in Girl Scouts and dance. And that's about enough on my (our) plate for this fall.

I put the "New Moon" trailer up at the top of the page. I also tried to put up the "Californication" trailer/teaser, but I don't know that it is working right.

For those of you that don't know- Rick Springfield will be doing a guest appearance (4 episodes) on "Californication" this season. It's on Showtime, so I won't get to see it right away, but I will for sure be buying the DVD next summer.

That's all I got for now...stay tuned for more fun stuff.

My Wisconsin State Fair Experience

2009-08-17T08:49:00.000-07:00

Yes I went to the Wisconsin State Fair. Yes I went with hubby and the girls. Yes my mom and best friend meet us there. Yes I got to see Rick Springfield. Yes I had two semi serious meltdowns. yup, me, meltdown. Hard to believe right?!? here's what went down.

We got to the fair in decent time. We headed in. About the same time we got there, Lynn and her mom got there. I needed to find them to get the extra ticket for the show. We found Fisher's brother fairly quickly. The boys headed off to do whatever it was they wanted to do. The girls and I headed off to find Lynn.

That was actually pretty quick. we hung out and talked for a few minutes and then Lynn headed in while I went to get something to eat. Kelley called to let me know that they were there and at gate 8. The girls and I started walking in the direction I thought we should go (I did have a map afterall) and got to a gate. It was the wrong one. I called Kelley and she gave me some more directions to where they were. It seems we had gone too far.

I called Kelley again and told her I had absolutely no idea where they were. She then asked the guy working there for some help. After a few non helpful directions, he finally said "the tunnel exit". AHA! that sign I had seen. We finally found them about the time that Tyler Hilton was starting his show.

Everybody took a quick potty break and then we headed to the grandstand. Since my girls were going to sit in the grandstand and the rest of us were on the ground, I wanted to make sure that both girls had their phones. I couldn't find Jazz's in my purse, so I threw a little hissy fit by turning my purse upside down and shaking everything out. Then she proceeded to tell me that she had taken it while I was in the bathroom. Nice! Anyway, my mom and Kelley picked everything up for me (thanks!), asked me if I was ok (not really!) and we headed into the show.

Tyler did a great job and I will be looking him up on itunes soon. Rick did a great job as well. My mom's camera batteries were dead and it was killing her that she couldn't take photos so she kept taking my camera and Kelley's camera and going up front.

Later in the show, Rick came out for Human Touch and ended up walking right behind us on our seats. He used my mom's shoulder to steady himself and after the show she said, "How much you wanna pay to touch my shirt?" LOL I love my mom.

Anyway, we had a nice time. Fisher had a great visit with his brother. And Jazz said after "I forgot how much I like Rick concerts!"

Here's a few of the better photos from my camera.

Pocketville

2009-08-13T11:52:00.001-07:00

I signed up to be a tester for this site, and they are allowing me to share the code so you can check it out as well.

By visiting Pocketville, http://www.jungleinmypocket.com/, and entering the voucher code below, your child can purchase items for their virtual pet at the Pocketville Pet Supplies Store:

Voucher Code: B9GX8NUDYS
Valid for 250 Pocketville Tokens

Please note that the voucher code expires on September 30th, 2009 so make sure to take advantage of this fun offer while it lasts!

If you do try this out, please come back and let me know what you think. Jazz won't get to try it for a few days yet due to a busy schedule, but I'll be posting about her thoughts soon. Also, feel free to share the code above with friends you think may be interested.

photos of NYC

2009-08-11T14:13:00.000-07:00

Here's a few photos to start you off....

Lyric and AW in Times Square

View from the Top of the Rock (Rockefeller Plaza)

Lyric and her future husband, Kevin Jonas

This was our first stop in the city, a backstage tour of Radio City Music Hall

Lyric in front of The Dakota

Don't worry, I've got lots more photos to share. I took about 250 and Lyric took about 50... so you better stay tuned

NYC - actually mostly Manhattan...

2009-08-10T09:30:00.000-07:00

We got back bright and early Saturday morning from our wonderful week in New York. We saw and did so much, I had to make a list so I wouldn't forget anything. I'll have photos to share soon, but here's the quick once over of what we did:

Radio City Music Hall
Rockefeller Center
Ellen's Stardust Diner
St Patrick's Cathedral
Time Square
Central Park
The Dakota
Columbia Univeristy
Grant's Tomb
The only free standing House left in Manhattan
Apollo Theatre (Lyric sang on the stage)
Grand Central Station
Harlem Market
Planet Hollywood
Madame Toussauds
Build a Bear (got Jazz an I heart NY bear)
Top of the Rock
United Nations (International territory!)
St Paul's Chapel
Ground Zero
South Streeet Seaport
"In The Heights" (broadway show)
Strawberry Fiels
Drew Barrymore and Justin Long filming their new movie
NBC Studio Tour
Tiffany's
Trump Tower for Lunch
Prada
John's Pizzeria
Ellis Island
Statue of Liberty
and lots of Shopping!

More details and photos to come soon.

Why are all my favorites guys?

2009-07-30T09:08:00.000-07:00

My favorite singers include Rick Springfield,

Rob Thomas,

Jon Bon Jovi,

Chris Daughtry,

and Darren Hayes.

Well, not include. That's it. That's my Top 5 list. If you look at my ipod (when I have it) you will see that these guys have the highest amount of songs/space. Bon Jovi is giving Rick a run for his money...LOL

My favorite actors: well, Rick fits in here too I guess, then

Matthew McConaughey,

Patrick Dempsey,

Jason Thompson.

I guess here we only have a top 4.

nope, we do have a top 5. Was watching TV last night and realized I forgot this guy:

The only female I can think of for either list is Sandra Bullock. She's awesome.

So, why are all my favorites guys?? Is it because there are more male musicians than female?? Is it purely because I'm a girl and I want to look at nice looking guys?? (any of the above mentioned musicians can sing in my ear anyday. i don't care if Darren is gay, I'd still let him sing to me!) Is it truely a phenomenon, or is this common for all women.? I'd like to know what everybody else thinks. Am i weird or is this totally normal??

It's Human Touch time

2009-07-24T12:19:00.000-07:00

First of all, let me just say how super excited I am. Yesterday I won tickets to see Rick Springfield at the Wisconsin State Fair. Super Cool! Lyric wants to go, and I think my mom is coming too. How great is that.

but more importantly, the book "Human Touch" is ready! This is a compliation of stories from Rick Springfield fans about how the music and the man has affected our lives. If you are interested in checking it out (or it's predicessor- Karma) click here . Both books are available for download or print copy.

There are 21 stories, in honor of Sahara Aldridge, a fan/friend of Rick's. Sahara played basketball and her number was always 21. Her birthday is today...or would have been. Sahara had a brain tumor, and although she fought hard, God needed her more than we did. All proceeds from this new book are going to MVTH , where Sahara went for therapy. Her parents are on the board now and this is a great organization.

If you are looking for some fun stories, check out these books. Feedback is always appreciated.

Happy Blogaversary...to me

2009-07-21T13:23:00.001-07:00

it all started here and not much has changed. I'm still a busy wife, mom, girl scout leader, college student, wanna be writer. But I've made some new friends over the past three years, and I've learned some new stuff. In this ever changing world, it's nice to have the comforts of knowing my blog (and your blog and your blog and your blog) will all be here.

To those of you that have been around since the beginning, thanks for sticking with me. For those of you that are new to Random Thoughts, your timing couldn't be better. I should be having a give away in the next couple of weeks. (I'd like to do it before the New York trip, but since I haven't received the stuff yet, I'm not sure). I'm going to step up my review (books, music and products) and hopefully continue to be enlightening and entertaining to my readers.

Again, thanks for sticking around, and I hope to see you more in the future!