Suzanne's Secret Hideaway - October 06 posts

CALGON TAKE ME AWAY!!! I haven't had much sleep in 2 weeks. Ariana has almost all her teeth so hopefully it stops soon. She's been waking up after being put to bed at night after 2-4 hours of sleep and not going back to bed until 2 am, or sometimes all the way until 6 am. In the 3 days before today I have had 9 hours of sleep total. She got up Friday morning at 3 am and only stayed asleep during the day if you held her. Hubby stayed home with her while I grocery shopped, ran errands and did my job. That was fun on no sleep. She had a little bit of a fever. I didn't get her to sleep in her crib to stay until 3 am Saturday. Yup, I was up 24 hours straight!! I look like hell. I need a day at a spa and a vacation, lol. Last night she went to bed at a decent time, then got up a few hours later and she and I fell asleep on the couch near 3 am and I got her in her crib at 4 am. She cried when I set her in there and I just shut the door. After a few minutes, she stopped. She slept until near 1 pm today! Woohoo! I got to sleep until Noon, then figured I best get up and get something done. She fell asleep again on my lap at 2:30 pm. She has a bit of a rash all over except for her legs. It's kind of blotchy. Better call the doc tomorrow. Not sure what is wrong. Poor baby.

I have been trying to redecorate and finish my Fall and Halloween pages. I got most of it done, and even drew some graphics for BackWoods Creations. Hopefully today or tommorrow I can catch up and do some blog hopping. My hubby bought me a laptop on ebay and I put some of my files on there so I can work on my site while watching the baby in the living room while she plays, that is if she plays, lol. Now maybe I can get caught up and have more online time. It was meant for just playing games so I had a computer when the kids were always using mine. I never meant it for online use, but it's going to be for that now, lol. It's a little more work on this, but at least I will get something done and keep myself from falling asleep.

Monday and Friday I have three parent teacher confrences. The kids don't have school for 3 days in the next 2 school weeks. Both of the days this week, hubby will be sleeping from working nights. That should be fun. Four kids and a sleeping man. I will be so glad for school again, lol. I love my kids so much - I just know that it's very difficult to keep them all quiet and entertained at once. It's starting to get too cold for a lot of playing outside with the baby.

Last weekend, my Dad was on one of his job sites working, and one of his friends was there and took my Dad to the emergency room. I guess he felt dizzy and like his heart was pounding out of his chest. First thing I thought of was a heart attack. They kept him in ICU overnight. I guess that the part of your heart that keeps your heart rate regulated isn't working right. His heart rate was 240 and should be between 60 and 100. Tuesday he had to go to a heart specialist that comes to the hospital here a few times a month. They wanted to have him get additional tests so he had to go to Lincoln which is nearly 4 hours away. I guess they said that with medication they can keep it running normal or he could get surgery. He is going to take the meds for now and think about it for a while. He gave us quite a scare!!

I am going to do a little blog hopping, then I better get ready. Sunday is family dinner at Mom and Dad's. I just realized, I didn't get a couple blogs passwords off my computer. Darn. Can't visit three blogs now. Wouldn't you know I have time and I can't even do it now! GRRRR. Ok, see you soon!!

Okay, I am behind again, lol. I thought it would get easier to get on the darn computer. Boy was I wrong. Ariana is teething again - she's getting a mouthful of teeth. I am sleep deprived and ready to pass out. Adelina is doing a cheerleader camp this week coming up. She will cheer at the High School football game Friday night. Giuseppe will play his second footballgame Tuesday. Montana is a manager of the football team – helping with whatever they need. He’s so excited. We celebrated our 2^nd anniversary last weekend. We are going out to where we got married this weekend. They hold the Grand Duke Alexis Rendezvous every year. We plan on going out every year. We have been having fall weather - it is supposed to warm up this weekend. I actually had to turn on the heat a few nights already! Wonder what the winter will be like. Probably expensive with the cost of propane now. I have some Christmas shopping done already thankfully.

I haven't even gotten my fall pages up. I have some wonderful gifts to get up from Kellie and Kia & Zeno. Thanks guys!! I did a little updating at my graphic site but that's about it. I hope that I can concentrate on redecorating and getting Fall and Halloween pages up within the next week. I will visit you all too. Sorry I haven't been by!!! Have a wonderful weekend!!

:: Friday Furnishings ::
1. What is your absolute favorite piece of furniture you have and why?
The glider chair hubby bought me for my birthday when I was pregnant with my baby. It has gotten to much use.
2. What would be your design style? Asian, Americana, country, contemporary, etc.?
Right now it's a little of everything, lol. Country - lodge is my favorite I guess
3. 3. Are you of the spartan furnishing philosophy, or the more the better? A little in between
4. What are your two favorite rooms?
I would say bedroom and living room. It all needs an overhaul though.
5. If money were no object and you were to redecorate, pick one room in your house and describe its decor. I would say the bedroom.
I would finish my dream of making it a comfy, peaceful old fashioned room. I started, but money is an object, lol. I have a log bed, log dresser, nightstands, an oil lamp, quilts, hope chest, but there is so much I would love to do. I'd have to make it larger too, and add a little modern to the connecting bathroom - a jacuzzi tub, lol. I would rip out the carpet and add hardwood flooring with a huge rug in the center, old fashioned lamps, an antique rocker, antique bed, etc. I have a pitcher/bowl set that was my Grandma's - I need to get it out of the closet and display it in there too.

I just got done watching the first installment of "The Path to 9/11." Tomorrow night is the second half on ABC. It's so sad - it seems like there was warning of all of this tragedy, but maybe I am getting it all wrong. I don't know. There are so many things I am sure the public doesn't know about the entire thing. I will watch the second half for sure. I still remember that day. I was driving to work when they announced it on the radio. I was worried that my cousin was near there, as he lived in the area at the time. My brother used to go there often, to the World Trade Center when he lived in Long Island. God Bless all those who lost loved ones or were injured during that terrible time. If you would like to download the memorial graphic I made, just click on it.

Okay - I am alive! I have been busy busy. Now three out of four kids are in school My oldest son, Giuseppe is in 7th grade this year. He started football and thankfully another Mom is giving him a ride home. He goes to school in the next town - it's about 12 miles away. They are supposed to get out of practice at 5:15 each evening. The three times I went to pick him up, he never got out on time and it messed everything up. We usually eat at 5 or 5:30 and hubby goes to work at 6:20. We got home at 6 or a little later each time and hubby had the baby, so it wasn't good. It just about made him late. The nights he rode with the other family, they got home well after 6 pm. It's crazy. He gets up at 6 am each day and gets home 12 hours later. Bedtime is 8:30 and there's not much time for us with this schedule. Although there is a downside, there is an upside - he sleeps really good, is getting in awesome shape, and hasn't gotten in trouble since he started football - he's too tired to be mouthy or do anything else, lol. Montana and Adelina are adjusting to the new school district well. I was worried at first, switching them and taking them away from their friends, but I think the change is a good one.

Ariana is still not walking, but she sure can climb, talk and get herself in trouble, lol. I can't believe she is one now!! Crazy how time flies. My Aunt and Uncle were here for 2 weeks from New York. It was great to see them. We got to have a birthday party for Ariana, Giuseppe and my nephew Franco Jr. while they were here. My youngest brother Franco, his girlfriend and Franco Jr. moved to Colorado the next day though :( Now both my brothers are there.

Fall is here. We have had beautiful weather for nearly 2 weeks now. I have had all the windows open and even had to start closing them at night because it got so cold, lol. We leave our room open, because we love sleeping with the cooler air though. Unfortunately, we have had rain and the basement is leaking! The last time I had to use every single towel in the house, several blankets and rugs and still couldn't mop up the water. We are going to put a sealer on it and try to fix it. To have someone come and dig out the basement to repair is more than we can do. Hopefully we can get it fixed enough to be okay. It rained the past two nights, but thankfully it wasn't enough to leak. I am so tired of it. My oldest son sleeps down there and it's ruined a few things and made a mess of others. We have no room to put him upstairs. I need to win the lottery! With the storms I haven't been able to get online either. The evenings are best for me with hubby on nights now and the kids in bed. I was all excited to get on here and catch up with everyone tonight. I am going to go do a little blog hopping now and some more tomorrow evening, as long as the forecasters are wrong and we don't get a storm, lol. Take care. Here's my Friday Fun...

:: Fridays Past ::

1. When you were a kid heading to school, what did you most look forward to? Seeing friends I think. Boy that was so long ago, lol
2. What was your favorite subject? I think my business classes in high school, and Psychology. My teachers were the best in those 2 classes.
3. Who was your favorite teacher and why? That's a tie. Ms. Geiger (business) and Mr. Campbell (psychology) - they didn't talk down to you, always acted like we were important, not stupid school kids. Made you want to do your best and never give up. They made it so fun to learn. More teachers should be like them.
4. What did you like the least about school? Algebra! Man, I can't remember a lot anymore, lol.

Oh my - time sure is getting away from me. School starts in a few weeks. Thank heavens!! I am worn out. I love my kids so much but they need school. They enjoy it, and they aren't bored, lol. They are always saying there is nothing to do - yeah right. I wish we had half of what they have when we were young. They don't know what bored really is. We got all our school shopping done a few weeks ago. I washed all the clothes over the past few days. We are good to go.

Ariana is sooooooooooooo naughty!! She shakes her head no already, gives me an evil look - it's too much. She gets into everything, climbs things. She isn't 1 until Friday!! We will for sure have our hands full with that little angel. I am looking forward to changing to milk this week. No more making bottles of formula! Woohoo!! Unfortunately it means she's growing up though. It's hard to believe she's going to be 1. She is so darn cute.

The weather hasn't let up here. Hot, hot, hot!! Many humid, hot days as well. Everything is baking. We had tons of rain last night. The past week we have had three heavy rains and our basement is leaking! It's my oldest son's bedroom, along with the hot water heater, water softener, and furnace, AC unit. We don't know where it's coming from. UGHHH!! I don't need this. I have been having some car trouble - when it rains it pours. Everything is getting so expensive anymore, I don't know how people do it. I better buy lotterly tickets, lol.

I better go. So much to do. I will visit really soon. Sorry I haven't been around. Thanks to all of you who keep in touch with me!! I think when school starts I will have more time. Oh, look at my gift from Kia and Zeno! Isn't it neat!! Thanks so much for the siggy!

Is summer over yet? I just haven't had any time to be online. One more month and 5 days until school starts. Today is the first day I had time for more than checking email. I had to update my members area at my graphic site, send out updates, go through emails I haven't answered, etc. Thankfully Ariana is taking a long, long much needed nap. Woohoo!!

We have had hot weather. Several days in the high 90s and over 100. Two windows in my car stopped working - electric windows. Hubby tried to fix them and one started working and then quit again. The AC wasn't cooling off very well, so he recharged that and now it's not working again. Only thing we can figure is it has a leak somewhere. He has charged it 3 times - it worked great the first time, then started getting warmer. UGHHH! I could use a newer, larger vehicle, but sometimes we can't always get what we want. The 12th, we all went to Omaha for a trip to the zoo and children's museum. It was fun but so humid. Not a good time for the AC to be on the fritz. We stayed one night there.

Ariana has her top front tooth about out and the other coming. She is so funny. She is learning things so fast. Last night we had pizza and vegetables with dip. I gave her a cucumber and she was watching me eat mine, dipping into ranch dressing. She copied me and dipped hers in. It was too cute. She tried doing that with her pizza and catalope also. She is so fast - I have to keep her corraled or she is into everything. She likes to headbutt. LOL - She doesn't cry either. Tough little angel.

This week the fair starts up in the next town. I will be heading there one evening with the kids - rides, rides, rides and games, lol. They are excited. I am not. It's supposed to be in the 90s. Too hot.

I got a new keyboard on ebay. It's so nice to have keys that work and don't type more than one letter or number at a time. I am off to do a little blog hopping. Have a super week!!

Wow, it's July already. It's been so hot here, I hate to see the electric bill that's on its way to my mail box. This year, the kids are spending the fourth with their Dad. It will be as quiet day here. I can’t wait to see Ariana's face when she sees the fireworks. Today it’s off to Wal-Mart for groceries. YUCKY!! I haste that more then laundry. Ariana is getting as top front tooth. Her gum is swollen and bulging as bit. I hope she gets more than one this time – all at once sand get it over with, lol. I have been busy working on my site. Ooh, baby is awake, I better go. Have as wonderful 4^th!!!

Time is flying~~I feel like I don't have a minute to myself with four kids at home and summertime. CALGON TAKE ME AWAY!! My baby Ariana is really a handful these days, This is going to take forever to write - she spilled coffe on my keyboard and some of the letters I type show up in two, so I have to go back and delete the extra letter. I type an S and an A comes up with it, and a Q, and a qw comes up and vice versa. I tried to clean it with Alchohol, but it didn't help!! UGHHHH!!! Anyway, after she turned 6 months, she started teething and it was hell. She stopped sleeping all night - which she had been doing since a month old. She woke up a zillion times, was cranky, had major cold like symptoms and started not cooperating when I left her with my mom to do my little part-time job. She had stranger anxiety the doctor said - even with people she knew. She still has it, but not quite as bad. So, hubby and I do not get to go out and haven't since November. She is now wanting me all the time - even with Daddy home. UGHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I love her to death, but I need a break. 7 days a week it's me and her - She doesn't even play much unless we sit down with her. It's frustrating. She is starting to wake up again, after beginning to sleep most all night. She's drooling and stuffy, so I am assuming more teeth are coming. I can't wait until she gets past that stage, assuming she ever will. I have dark circles under my eyes and am starting to look like an old hag. It's bad enough that I have been trying that ProActiv stuff and my face isn't clearing up much at all. It's been 5 weeks and I am so dissappointed. My face looks like hell and I want to cry. I never had this trouble as a teenager - not until I got pregnant with Ariana. I don't know what else to try. I am trying this one more week and if there is no improvement, I am asking for a refund. You have up to 60 days, and that will be here in July. I went to bed last night at 11 pm and ahe woke up at 2:45 am and I couldn't get her back to sleep until 4:30 am. Then just as I got to sleep, she woke up at 5 am. I got her back to sleep and she woke up at 8:45 am. I got her back to nap at 11 am and I should be sleeping, but I figured this is my only chance to post here and do some work on my graphic site. Oh, she crawled last night!! She has been scooting herself around and going backwards, but never crawled. She is so strong, but lazy I think, lol. She has been pulling herself up by grabbing onto us when we sit down to play on the floor. She stands up so well - I thought she'd walk before crawling. Time just flies with the kids.

Sorry to sit and complain. I need adult conversation, lol. Hubby has been working major overtime so we can take the four kids to the zoo and museums and stay overnight in Omaha. We wanted to go to some concerts around here but can't with the baby this way. I miss all the stuff he and I used to do, but someday we can again. Okay, I am off to visit you all - sorry it's been so long. Take care!

It's so hot here. It's been hot for nearly a week. High 90s, and today it's supposed to be 104!! Nasty. I hate it. I want 80 or under, lol. Too bad we can't set the temperature outside. I have been so busy since the kids got out of school. Tomorrow is my daughter's 6th Birthday. We are having it at the park. Easier than all those 6 year olds at the house. The theme is Disney Princess and Star Wars. LOL - right now, there will be more boys then girls :( People just don't RSVP anymore. Ticks me off. Very frustrating. I figure I better bring extra goodies in case several show up without letting me know they are coming. She picked to have cupcakes again this year - I found some cool little aluminum pans small, just a little bigger than cupcakes in the shape of stars to use. They are really neat. I got some little bottles of juice and will make iced tea for us adults. I just need to pick up some roses for her - I get them every year, since that's the flower of her month and her middle name is Rose. I also want to get a pretty mylar balloon. I might blow up some little balloons. I was considering a pinata. I might have to get that. I always end up getting more than I should. Bad habit. Okay, better go. Have to go to town and the kids are waiting for me. Will try to visit everyone soon.

I have been so busy - I think that my computer time will be more limited this summer. With four kids home, it will prove interesting to get online. The three older kids went to South Dakota with their Dad this week. They have called me and are having a great time. The weather has been really nice, but today it starts getting super hot again. Yuck. Air conditioning might have to go back on. I've been trying to finish some pages and do some drawing. Gotta go grocery shopping this morning. Hopefully when I get back I can do a little blog hopping. I hope everyone is doing well. Take care.

:: FRIDAY FIVE ::

1. Name 5 favorite movies. How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days, What Dreams May Come,
2. Name 5 favorite books. The Montana Maverick's Series from Harlequin - awesome Series
3. Name 5 favorite songs (and their artists). Melt by Rascal Flatts, Photograph By Nickelback, Hanging By A Moment by Lifehouse, Real Good Man by Tim McGraw, Again and Again by Jewel
4. Name 5 favorite TV shows. Invasion, Medium, Charmed, Lost, While You Were Out
5. Name 5 blogs (with links) that you visit. Michelle's Place, Connie's Cogitations, Oklahoma Reflections, Multifaceted Mama, Kellie's Klippins

I really should be sleeping, but it's not often anymore I get any quiet time! My three older kids are at their Dad's house, baby is sleeping, and hubby is at work. I am exhausted - Ariana hasn't slept all night since she started teething in February. She woke up almost every hour last night. I had to get up with her because hubby is working nights. He is great about getting up to stick the pacifier back in her pretty little mouth for me sometimes. I hate to go to bed and lose this precious computer time. 2 of my kids had their last day of school yesterday so I had to color my hair tonight (No way will I try with three kids home) and I am also starting Pro Activ tonight. I have been having terrible acne since I was pregnant with Ariana. I can't clear it up at all. The doctor told me it was common for women to get different acne when pregnant, so when it cleared up I wasn't worried, but it's been going crazy now and I AM NOT PREGNANT!! GRRRRRRRR - I hate it. I didn't break out this bad when I was a teenager. I really hope this stuff works. I hate to waste money at all, but especially now with me being a SAHM.

Tuesday I am getting a hair cut - well a trim and thinning out - I have so much hair. It's insane. It's about to my waist and really thick - but a ton falls out each day. I need to get it shaped up and ends trimmed. I haven't gotten a hair cut in so long - I am nervous. I am only 32 but have been getting some gray hairs for a long time now - not a lot, but I still color my hair every month. I am not ready to be gray. Heck, my Grandma is almost 84 and in a nursing home and she still colors her hair. LOL - It runs in the family - Mom has hers colored regularly. I feel old enough - I choose to try and keep myself looking young, lol.

I have so much to do around the house, but I just don't want to! I want to sit on my butt in front of the computer and have fun. I just visited all my reads and caught up on what I have missed. I wish I had more time in the day. I could spend hours and hours on this computer and be happier than you could imagine, lol.

Today, Ariana and I went to some garage sales and got a few little birthday gifts for Adelina's 6th birthday coming up in June. I found a kitchen table for $10 - it's not what I really wanted, but ours was falling apart. They don't make things like they used to. It will do for now, and I will just keep my eyes peeled for what I want. It was a bargain and that's good for me. It's not ugly - it's in decent shape. I love Garage sales. Sometimes you find the best stuff. Everything is getting so expensive anymore, you have to save a buck when you can. With gas as high as it is, every little bit helps. Gas was $2.87 a gallon here, but now went down 10¢. Wow, what a bargain!

It's been horribly hot here. I thought summer came and somehow I missed it!! I hate the really high temps - it got into the high 90s yesterday. We need rain so bad - everything is so dry. I hope this isn't a sample of our summer to come. YUCK!!

I keep seeing on the news about the immigrants and the laws trying to pass. I have mixed feelings about it all. I mean I understand that people want to come to America. We are very fortunate here - but I hate that a lot of people think they deserve special treatment. My father and his family came here from Italy. They all had to learn English. They all work, pay taxes, etc. Why can't other people do that? Why do we have to have everything in English and Spanish? I don't think that we need to have everything in so many languages - English is the language here. I think it's fantastic and necessary to preserve your familie's culture and language - but why can't it be used at home or with family, friends and everything such as business, schools and governement be in the language of our founding fathers? Why keep trying to change what this country was made on? I feel sorry for those who are unhappy in their countries and want to come here - I really sympathize - seeing some of the stories really made me sad. I just think that people who come here need to work, pay taxes - become citizens like we are. I don't think it's too much to ask. It's a heated debate and the outcome is anyone's guess. That's just my opinion. Anyway, I better go. I should get to bed. Take care!!!

Another week has passed. 2 of my kids get out of school tomorrow for the summer at 11 am. My other child gets out next Friday. I am so not ready for summer!!!! Where did the school year go? Today we had to go to my daughter's kindergarten graduation. They gave such a nice little program. Very cute. Gotta run in a bit and pick up all the kids and head to an appointment. Never time to rest, lol. Tomorrow it will be grocery shopping. YUCK!! I hope to get to visit everyone this weekend. Hubby goes to nights again and I usually can't sleep much, so I stay up late and surf the net, work on my site, visit my friends.

Summer is here ealry - 90s throught the weekend! YUCK! I am not ready! I like 75-80 degrees, but I guess it isn't going to happen.

Mother's Day was nice, if not busy. We went to Mom and Dad's house for lunch. Hubby, baby and I then headed to his daughter's graduation and party. Then back to get the other three kids and mom's. The kids were so sweet - on Saturday morning there was a garage sale near our house. They wanted to go and buy me something for Mother's Day. My middle son, Montana, bought me a present and my mother as well, with his own money. My oldest daugher Adelina also bought me a gift with her own money and my oldest son Giuseppe borrowed a dollar from me, lol. They all got me some jewelry. On Friday, Montana's 3rd grade class had a special deal at school - Muffins for Moms. They had a little skit for us and three kinds of muffins, bottled water and hi-c drink boxes. It was so cute. They made us a neat gift - a cd case with a poem and drawing inside, along with a picture of our child. Adelina planted zinnia's and brought them home, a long with a homemade card. In 6th grade, Giuseppe doesn't get to do all that cute stuff anymore :( Sad, huh? Anyway, it was all so nice. Hubby bought me a boyd's bear figurine. He started that after Ariana was born - I have three so far. It's from her really - a card and a romance novel as well. Mom and Dad gave me a gift certificate for a hair cut. I need one bad. My hair is almost to my behind, but it desperate need of a trim and thinning out. I have so much hair. It's really thick and some natural curl. I grew it out from shoulder length over the past 2 years I guess. I love it, but it can be a pain sometimes. I got some really sweet cards in the mail from my Aunt, friend and brother and his wife too. I hope all you Mommie's had a good day. Well, I suppose I better go.

Here's my Friday Fun a day early (I gotta be ahead of the game sometime, lol)

:: Friday Fill-ins ::

Just fill in the blank!!

1. The one thing I want to be sure I do this summer is ____________.
Get a tan and have fun with the kids and hubby - lots of family activities!
2. My favorite thing to eat for breakfast is ____________.
Plain bagel, toasted with cream cheese and fresh fruit, as well as coffee - gotta have my coffee!!
3. My favorite outfit is ____________.
My boxer shorts and t-shirt, lol.
4. The accomplishment I am most proud of is ____________.
My four kids!
5. The weirdest thing about me is ____________.
Hmmmm, I have to think about that for a minute...
6. I want to become better at ____________.
Exercising!!
7. My least favorite household chore is ____________.
Laundry and cleaning bathroom!
8. My favorite music/song/artist is ____________.
There is no way I can choose one - I love so many different artists and songs. From Country to Rock, R&B, Pop...George Strait, Nickleback, Matchbox 20, 3 Doors Down, SheDaisy, Rascal Flatts, Garth Brooks, Sugarland, Bon Jovi, Pat Green, Savage Garden, Mindy McCready, Blue County, Black-Eyed Peas...and so many more
9. The color I like least is ____________.
WHITE!

I thought I would make a little post and do my Friday fun! We surviced two very busy days. I am beat. Ariana hasn't slept through the night since she started teething in February. She had slept all night from 1 month old, so it's depressing. I haven't had a good night sleep in ages. The elementary track meet was from 9 am until almost 4 pm!! Crazy! It was windy, sixties and not a lot of fun with a baby. I even went late but it still was a long day. The kids are wore out. It used to be until lunch time, but this year, they had a combined track meet with the other school in our district. We joined with another district a few y

3ears ago and unfortunately, a lot has changed. Small schools have a hard time keeping open these days. We lost our junior high and high school, so in our tiny town there is only elementary.

Tomorrow I have to go to Montana's third grade class for Muffins For Moms. They baked muffins and we are having a little Mother's Day party. Sweet! Then I am off to my mini part-time job and home to try and catch up with all that I have neglected with the busy past few days. Thankfully hubby is off tomorrow. I can't leave Ariana with anyone anymore. She started having stranger anxiety when she started teething and hasn't quit. Even with my Mother she cries when I leave. It's terrible. She won't stop crying either - She cried for 2 hours one time. The other three never did that. It's hard - hopefully she grows out of it soon. The doctor said it's very normal - usually 6-9 months old. I am ready for a date with my hubby. Hopefully it's soon. Okay, better go. Talk to you soon.

:: Family Friday ::

1. Do you come from a large family? Did you wish for a bigger family as a child? A smaller one? Why? With my extended family I come from a large family, but my immediate family is two brothers and my parents. I loved having such a large family, but was sad we moved away from New York where the majority of them are. We didn't get to grow up with all the cousins, etc. Between my Mom and Dad, we have 9 Aunts and Uncles and probably hundreds of cousins by now. I wish my kids could be around all of that. Family is so important and I think large families are great!
2. If you have children, how many do you have? Did think, growing up, that you would have more or less? I have four children. I thought I would have three, but life can surprise you. I wouldn't have it any other way.
3. If you could change one thing about your family, either parents & siblings or your own, what would it be? I would change the fact my middle brother doesn't stay in touch much - I want to keep in touch more often with him, but he really doesn't keep in touch a lot with anyone.
4. Give us a great family memory!! Every year growing up since we moved to Colorado when I was 2 1/2, we would drive back to New York and see all the family, up until I was 15. It was the best time - I wish we still did that.

I am getting bad with posting again. Sorry! Time just flies anymore. I think I am more busy staying at home with the kids then I was working a full-time job and having the kids, lol. It's crazy. School is almost out. Pray for me!!!

I have created a new blinkie web set for sale at my graphic site in the collections section. I have also created a Mother's day adoption which can be found in the linkware section. You can see it at the top of this page. Stop by and check it all out here. There is a big Mother's Day sale too.

Last night we had Montana and Adelina's spring program at school. Today I have to meet an old coworker for lunch. She's moving. Then this afternoon to an appointment for my older son Giuseppe. Tomorrow is an all day track meet for the elementary school. Friday I have to do my part-time job for an hour or so. Sunday my husband's daughter and niece graduate, plus lunch at my Mom and Dad's. I am tired just thinking about it. This is nothing yet though - when the boys are in sports in later years, I will wish for these days back, lol. Okay, gotta go and try and get presentable for my lunch date. Have a super day!! I will visit as soon as I can!

Friday Fiascos

1. Have you had any major fiascos this week? Yes - with pretty much every child in my house, lol.
2. Are you one of those people that seems to travel under a gray cloud of fiascos, both big and small? Yes - if it can happen, it usually happens to me.
3. What is the silliest fiasco you have had recently? Hmmm - can't think of a silly one off hand. Baby sneezed just as I gave her a big spoonful of baby food. That's about the only funny thing I can think of for this week.

Wow, once again it's been ages since I posted. Time just gets away from me! The weather was absolutely gorgeous today. 80 degrees and sunny. A few days ago we had rain, and 40 degree temps. Crazy. I can't believe school will be out in less than a month. Time flies. I am so not ready for summer. The kids always want to go, go, go. They get bored and drive me bonkers! I love them so much - just wish they would slow down, lol. It gets so hot, I can't stand it and I don't want to be out in it. Now, with a baby this summer, it should prove to be interesting. She's 8 months old.

Yesterday was my friend Ronnie's Birthday at Mable's Makings. I hope she had a good day. I have been working on pages and doing some drawing. I wish I had more computer time. Well, better get moving. I want to do some blog hoppin!! Take care and have a super weekend!!

Just wanted to say Happy Easter. Hopefully I get to posting better soon. Take care!!

Wow, I actually managed to post again so soon! It's a miracle! I have been busy working on my holiday getaway site. Also, the kids keep me very busy. I plan to try and get a lot done on my sites this weekend, hopefully. I am having a sale and specials at BackWoods Creations Graphics. Stop by and check it out.

We are having some yucky weather here. Windy, cold, and rainy today! It's gloomy - makes me want to curl up in bed and watch movies and eat all day, lol. It's crazy - yesterday half the state was under a blizzard warning and the other tornado warning! Insane weather!!

I am still trying to get some things done around the house on top of everything else. I am so slow at accomplishing one whole task anymore. It amazes me how laundry breeds, dishes muliply and the carpet needs vacuuming - I swear I could vacuum each day and still it wouldn't stay clean. I will have to as soon as Ariana starts to crawl though. I want to do some painting and reorganizing around here. It's spring - Spring Cleaning time. Where's the Nanny, Housekeeper/Maid and Chef when you need them? Oh and the gardner! Time to buy a lottery ticket. Okay, now to my Friday Fun...

Friday Fun Stuff
1. What is the most fun thing you can remember from being a kid? Ooh, that's a hard one. I'd have to say, going back East to New York State to visit family every year. We did that from after we moved from there when I was 2 1/2 until I was 15. I miss that.
2. What is your idea of fun? A trip to the mall? A movie? A day at the spa? Hmm. Normal idea of fun would be playing poker out with my hubby, or a shopping trip to a real city with tons of stores, but fantasty day of fun would be a day at the spa, lol.
3. What is the most fun part of your daily routine? Playing with my baby.
4. What is the least fun part of it? Cleaning, laundry, dishes, house. YUCK!!

Okay, I better move it. I visited everyone the other day and plan on stopping by again this weekend. Take care.

Oh my, it's been forever since I posted. I have been sooooooo busy! I got a members area open at BackWoods Creations Graphics. I am so excited. Click here to stop by and check it out. Time has flown. Between working on that, trying to redecorate, and keeping up with my four kids, I haven't been around much. I hope to catch up soon with all my online friends and do some blog hopping. Right now I need to get to bed - gotta be up in 5 hours. I hope everyone is ok. See you soon.

Hello! I can't believe how long it's been since I posted! Crazy. This story blows my mind - http://news.yahoo.com/photo/060221/480/213c200802374b9a9347d86ee7d99f76
I just don't understand why a person would want to have a child at that age. I wonder, is it fair to the child? I mean in 20 years, she'll be 82 years old. I don't know.

Anyway, I have been redecorating a bit. Also been doing a lot with my graphics site. Stop by and check it out if you are looking for some deals. BackWoods Creations Graphics. I have so many ideas, just not enough time to do it all! I put some gifts in my St. Patty's Cottage from Kellie! Thanks girl! Been busy with the kids. My oldest is really going to age me before my time. I will post about it later - kids are home from school. Gotta run. Hope to visit soon!!!! Take care.

I haven't had a lot of computer time. I can't believe it's been so long since I posted! Time flies faster each day. We had a light dusting of snow Sunday, but temps have been in the 50s the past couple of days. We had more winter in the fall! I have been trying to continue working on my site. I would love to have more hours in the day!!

I added some gifts at my Valentine's cottage from Connie. Thanks so much for those!! I hope everyone is doing well. I am going to try and do a little visiting now. Take care!!

Hello! I am working on my site again, plus helping my brother with his tax stuff. Have a meeting today at my son's school about his progress and all - he started at the beginning of the month at the other school. So far so good, or at least until I find out otherwise today.It's weird though, having him going to another town to school - getting him on the bus at 7:10 am. When I pick up the other two at school here in town, it feels funny not picking up three. I think it was a good move though - at least I hope so. He seems more into doing what he needs to do and not so unhappy. We'll see I guess.

Hubby got me some great birthday gifts! A new crockpot, smokeless ashtray, and a romance novel - I wanted a new crockpot and the ashtray and I love to read romance novels, so he done good! Woohoo - he usually always does awesome! Can't complain. He remembers what I say I guess - when mentioning oh, I want to get that, or I have always wanted that. Last year he got me a glider rocking chair - which I had always wanted. Gotta love him.

I want to go visiting later if I have time. For sure this weekend I will be doing lots of online stuff - hubby works nights so I usually don't sleep well. I stay up late and work on my site. Ok - better run. So much to do and so little time!! See you later.

Happy Birthday to me. 32 years old. My Mom had a little birthday for me at family dinner last night. She made me a cake and had ice cream, flowers, balloon, birthday tablecloth, and Happy Birthday signs up. She always makes everything so special for everyone. It was nice. Grandma got me a teddy bear - I have a gigantic collection of bears. My brother gave me a gift card to a movie place I rent from, my friend sent me a gift card for Hallmark, and Mom & Dad gave me garnet heart and diamond earrings, a gift certificate to get a Hot Stone massage, and a little star that is like a water globe that has Happy Birthday, confetti and glitter in it. My kids made me a card and my daughter put some things from around the house in a birthday gift bag - too cute. Mom called me this morning and told me Happy Birthday. No one in this house said a word. Kind of bums me out - I love holidays, birthdays. Hubby works until late tonight. Just me and the kids for dinner. I have three pieces of birthday cake mom sent home with me - Devil's food - chocolate with real whipped cream frosting. Might have to eat it all for lunch, lol.

I have been putting up my adoptions I have collected and still working on some new graphics for BWC. Busy bee - that's me. Gotta run and do some housework. It never ends. Laundry too - it breeds. Cleaned out a bunch of old papers and stuff off of my desk. Woohoo. Feels so good to get rid of stuff. I hope everyone had a good weekend!! Oh, thanks also to Imbi, Kellie and Nancze for the gifts! I have posted them in my gifts section and at my Valentine Cottage - some pages are there, but some is under construction!

I have been busydrawing, cleaning, doing laundry, running after kids, rocking baby, lol. Days fly by. I have so many ideas bouncing through my head for my graphics. I need more time in the day!!! I did get a new set for purchase up. Tons of adoptions. Now I am working on a few new collections, adoptions and linkware. I have been also working on my sites and getting my adoption collection back up. I have folders of adoptions from so many sites I used to have all up and when I moved to a new website, I never got them back up! Time to dust them off and show them off. There are so many cute adoptions. I am too addicted. I didn't want to make a gigantic site again, but it's invitable. I always say that and always end up doing it. I hope everyone is doing well. I will be by in the next few days if all goes well. It's 40s here now - breezy, but no winter - since fall, lol. Take care. Here's my Friday Fun....

1. What is the one thing that is guaranteed to brighten your mood, no matter what? Seeing my baby smiling at me
2. You have no place to be, no distractions, no responsibilities, & all the money in the world. What is your favorite thing to do by yourself? oh, I would have to get a massage, manicure, pedicure, go to a salon...get a makeover. With a friend? Shop till we drop. With family? Travel, shop
3. What is the most fun thing you have done today? Hmmm, sat in my p.j.'s all day, lol. This week? Ate Chocolate cake for lunch. I lead a boring life, lol.

Another week has passed. I still haven't figured out where the time goes. Been busy - moving my oldest son to the basement, painting his old room for my other son, keeping up with everyone. I am tired. Could use a week of sleep. I am working on redecorating for the next holiday on my site. I am also trying to get new graphics up at my graphic site. Hope to visit everyone today. I haven't had the chance lately. Kellie sent me this adorble gift - Thanks so much!!

Here's my Friday Fun for the past two Fridays...

Welcome to 2006, and the 1st Friday Fun of the year!!

1. What is the first event in your year? A birthday, an anniversary, a trip? Anything noteworthy!! Birthdays - we have 7 birthdays in our family this month!
2. Who was the first person you talked to in the new year? My Mom and my baby Ariana
3. Where were you as the clock turned to midnight? sitting at the computer...sad huh?
4. What is the one thing you want to happen in your life this year? be a better, happier person.

In the interest of cleaning and organizing my house,…!

1. If you could choose 5 things that belonged to someone else in your household to fling, what would they be? Toys, toys, toys, toys, toys
2. What would be the worst 5 things that someone could fling of yours? papers, clothes, boxes, dust, cleaning products, lol
3. What are you the best at keeping organized? hmmmmm, bills? I am bad anymore. I need a personal assistant with everything. The worst? papers - keep to much stuff.
4. What is the one thing in your house that needs organizing the worst? the whole house.

I hope everyone is doing well. Talk to you soon. I am off to upload pages and visit a bit. Take care.

Oh my, where has the time gone? Right after the new year, my oldest daugher - she's 5, got a virus. Vomiting, diahrea. YUCK!!!!!!! Crazy stuff. It's been a fun time. She has been sick so much this year. It's terrible. Flu shots will be had by all children in the fall or whenver they do them. Tomorrow is my son's 9th birthday. I can't believe he's that old. I have been trying to get some more drawing done for my graphic site - have tons of stuff to add. Need to redecorate and take Christmas stuff down on my pages. Maybe this weekend I can get it done. I haven't had a chance to visit anyone at all either. I hope everyone is doing well. I better get going. It's late and I am not done with daily stuff before bed. Take care.

I am a little behind here. Been so busy - Christmas has come and gone already, can't believe it! I can't believe I am up at 3 am either. 3 kids had the flu, 2 adults and 1 baby have some kind of crappy cold. I don't know - Everyone was sick this week. It's not been the best Christmas vacation my kids have had. I feel bad for them. I am worn out and ready for a vacation, lol. Christmas was very different this year. Mellow I guess. I'll have to write more later. I am so beat. I wanted to post my Friday Fun, although it's a day late, and wish you all a Happy New Year!!!!!! I will probably post more later tonight. Hubby has to work and the 3 kids are at their Dad's house, Mom and Dad are out of town, so me and the baby will be home alone. I will have some quality computer time, lol. Take care.

Friday Finale

As the new year approaches, I thought we’d take a look back at 2005!

1. What is the best thing that happened to you personally this past year? The birth of my baby Ariana Angel.
2. What is the best thing that you saw happen in the world around you? That's a hard one - have to give that more thought.
3. What is the biggest lesson you learned this year? Never assume - always find out the facts or what's really going on. Don't jump to conclusions.
4. What things do you hope change for you personally in the next year? Lose a few more pounds, be a better person then the year before.
5. What things do you hope change in the world around you? Crime to lessen, more peace
6. Do you have any resolutions? Lose weight, be a better mother, wife, friend, daughter, sister

Have happy and wonderful new year!

I thought I'd post my Friday Fun answers. Hope everyone is having a lovely Holiday season!

Freezing on Friday

In my part of the world, my outdoors is like a tundra! How about yours? It's like Spring, lol. Supposed to be 58 degrees today!

1. When you look outside your window, what do you see? Do you see snow, or do you see grass? I see grass. Our winter weather blew away.
2. For those in the tundra, what is your favorite keep-warm outfit? For those in warmer climes, what is your favorite keep-comfortable outfit? Right now, sweats and a t-shirt. I like to be comfy at home. Usually boxers and a t-shirt unless I have to go somewhere.
3. Would you rather be in super warm or super cold weather? This a subject of debate among soldiers deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq! I'd like a White Christmas!

Christmas is almost here. Kids are home for Christmas break. I am ready for a strong drink, calgon and maybe a vacation, lol. They get bored so easily!! I wish I had half of what they have as a kid!! I love my kids, don't get me wrong, but one thing I have noticed - along with several other kids these days, they are just plain ungrateful!! I can't figure it out - I have always pressed manners with them - always. They will not get anything without please and thank you when they ask for something. Expectations are so high these days - it's just plain wrong. I am going to have to come up with a plan to make them appreciate things a lot more!!

I swear, something is always going on around here. If we didn't have bad luck, I would say we have no luck at all. Hubby's truck has broke down again - last week. We are with one car and it sucks. I have been taking him to work or he's gotten a ride from someone. I hate being without a car with all the kids. We live in a tiny town - about 11 miles from any stores or doctors, etc. The only things we have here are a small convenience store, 1 restaurant, 1 bar, 1 liquor store, a swimming pool - not much. Now, Adelina is sick again. We are going on 2 months of her being sick with something - cold, then strep throat, now I think the flu. Crazy. Not good timing - she might be sick all through Christmas. She has a fever, is coughing, achy, stuffed up. I am pushing liquids, tylenol, ibuprofen. I hope no one else gets sick. Hubby is feeling the same too - but he's still chugging a long, going to work. I hope I don't get it - I don't have time to be sick!!!

If anyone is looking for graphics, adoptions, sig tags, gifts - I am having a sale on my graphic site. Buy one of anything, get one free, or if you only want one thing, get it for half price. Time to clean up and bring some new graphics in. Stop by and see if there is something you need! http://bwcg.graphicloverscafe.com

I still don't have a gift for my Dad. Terrible, huh? I was going to buy hime some pokerstars.com play money chips on ebay - but I was too late. He loves to play poker on that site and there have been people selling chips on ebay. I guess it will be scratch lottery tickets. He's a pain to buy for. Everyone else has been done and wrapped, but not him. I have been doing some baking. I think I will do a little more today. Take some goodies to the inlaws and my parent's house this weekend.

Looks like spring for Christmas weather, lol. It's to be in the 50s and 60s now through the weekend - yuck!! I wanted a white Christmas. We had snow and cold weather for the past month and now this. Darn. I am off to make some visits before baby is up! You all have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!! Thanks Kellie for the gift!!!

It's snowing!! Soooooooooooo pretty outside. I am tired and busy. Today we go to a Christmas party at the nursing home my Grandmother is at. Me, Mom and my baby. My other three kids are with their Dad in Colorado for an early Christmas. They will be back to have another early Christmas at my parent's house this evening. Crazy. I have a million things to do and here I am on the computer. I must be out of my mind. I should have been in the shower and getting ready. Baby is sleeping - I am crazy. LOL.

I hope everyone is doing well. I better get out of here. I'll visit soon. Take care.

Friday Festivities, Part II

1. Have you finished your holiday shopping yet? Yes, except for my Dad's gift. He's so hard to buy for.
2. Do you give gifts to everyone in your family, or is it focused on kids? Or maybe pull a name? Everyone. I think pull a name might be a good way to go now - too many people, lol.
3. Do you exchange gifts with your friends as well? One
4. For those with questioning kids, what is your favorite explanation of why there are Santa’s in every store and how he can get around the world in a single night?! We told them once that Santa has a lot of helpers during Christmas.
5. Are you relieved or sad when the holidays are over? Both
6. What is your favorite thing about the holiday season,… and the least favorite? Favorite - the decorations, the music, the goodies. Least Favorite - the stree
7. Are you having a white Christmas, or can you see the grass?! So far, white Christmas. It's snowing!!!

I know I always say this, but where does the time go? I can't believe Christmas is almost here. Tonight the kids have their Christmas program. It's so windy and cold - yucky weather. I need to bake for Christmas still. Have 2 gifts to buy for my Dad and my brother and his wife. Need a few stocking stuffers, but other than that, all done and ready to go. This weekend my Mom and Dad are having Christmas with my kids - they will be with their Dad during Christmas weekend. We trade off every year, but it's never landed on the weekend yet - I don't like it. My hubby, baby and I will have Christmas with the kids Christmas day - afternoon or evening. With my family, Christmas morning probably, and with hubby's family Christmas Eve. I am tired already, lol.

Okay, I had better get my buns movin - time to get some things done and kids will be home from school before I know it. Take care and I hope to make some blog visits today or tomorrow!!!

Brrrr!!! It's so cold. It hasn't warmed up a bit. We have had snow for almost 2 weeks, sitting on the ground - below 0 temps with the wind chill. It's 1º with the wind chill right now. I am catching up on some emails and blogging. I added some gifties my friends sent me!! They are on my gifts page. Thanks everyone for the great gifts!!!

I am off to visit now. I should get my butt to bed, lol. I need to go to school in the morning - Montana and his third grade class are having Gingerbread day. We will be building gingerbread houses in the morning. I haven't slept well for a few days. Never do when hubby is working nights. I look like the walking dead. It's so nice to have the house quiet and be able to mess around on the computer though. I love it. I am enjoying my coffee and a nasty cigarette. I know, bad habit. I am just not ready to quit yet. I think if I did I might have to find another vice - or gain many unneeded pounds. You all take care and hope you are staying warm!!! Here's my Friday Fun questions, a little early!

Friday Festivities, Part I

1. Do you attend holiday parties during the season? Sometimes. We aren't going to hubby's Christmas party though this year, so probably not. Just familie's houses during Christmas Eve and day.
2. Do you prefer to shop on or offline? Both
3. Are you into making gifts, or purchasing? Purchasing
4. What is the best deal you got on gifts so far? Got my boys' football jersies on ebay - with tags on them still, brand new, for half the prices of stores normally. Awesome!!
5. Did you venture out on Black Friday for the sales? Nope. Not brave enough.

6th, 8:10 pm
Today: Wind chill advisory in effect from midnight tonight to 12 pm cst Wednesday.... Periods of light snow and flurries will continue across northeast Colorado and northwest Kansas through the afternoon. Snowfall amounts will be light with accumulations of a trace to quarter of an inch. Winds will be northeast at 10 to 25 mph with slightly falling to steady daytime temperatures. Wind chills will range from minus 5 to minus 20 degrees. Tonight: Cloudy with a 50 percent chance of snow. Lows around 3 below. North winds 10 to 15 mph. Wind chill readings 7 below to 20 below zero. Wednesday: Mostly cloudy. A slight chance of snow in the morning...then flurries in the afternoon. Highs around 7. North winds around 10 mph. Chance of snow 20 percent. Wind chill readings 4 below to 21 below zero. Wednesday Night: Partly cloudy. Lows around 5 below. Northwest winds around 10 mph. Wind chill readings 10 below to 20 below zero.

I can't believe how chilly it is!!! It's freezing. In the 8 1/2 years I have lived in Nebraska, I think this might be the coldest winter we have had, when it really isn't even winter yet!! We had some more snow too. Usually snow last a little while here and melts off, but it's still here 1 1/2 weeks later. It's icy in a lot of place. Adelina has strep throat now. Montana and their Dad just got over it. Ughhhh. The doc said if she doesn't have a fever and takes her medicine tonight and tomorrow morning, she can go to school. Hopefully this cold has froze and killed the nasty germs spreading around. Flu, colds, strep throat. Yuck!! As long as I don't get anything else, I will be happy. I had a nasty cold, but that was it. Baby got that cold too when I had it. So far hubby and Giuseppe have stayed healthy. Better get out the lysol again, lol.

I only have to get my brother and his wife a gift, Dad a gift and stocking stuffers for Christmas. Woohoo!! Everything is wrapped. Even hubby's family is taken care of. Next, Christmas cards and baking. So much to do, so little time. Been decorating for the holidays on my webpages and drawing some. Mostly busy away from the computer. I hope everyone is doing well. I am trying to visit. Made it to 2 of my reads in 2 days. Take care. Oh - I adopted this from Pipa.

2nd, 12:45 pm
Today: Mostly cloudy. Highs in the lower 30s. Southeast winds 10 to 15 mph. Tonight: Mostly cloudy. A 20 percent chance of snow after midnight. Lows around 16. Northeast winds 10 to 15 mph. Tuesday: Mostly cloudy with a 20 percent chance of snow. Highs in the upper 20s. North winds 10 to 15 mph shifting to the northeast in the afternoon. Saturday Night: Mostly cloudy with a 20 percent chance of snow. Lows around 15. Southeast winds up to 5 mph shifting to the southwest after midnight.

December!! Wow. Time flies! I plan on doing some visiting tonight. Hubby works nights this weekend, so I usually stay up on the computer until I can't stay awake any longer. I hate when he's gone. I have been working on some new goodies for my graphic site. I hope to finish this weekend. It's cold here. Doesn't look like it will warm up much anytime soon. Winter is here!

Christmas Shopping is mostly done now. Have to get some stocking stuffers and a couple little things. I plan to start wrapping this weekend. Woohoo!! Need to start on Christmas cards. I should have started sooner. I added some lovely gifts to my site here from Imbi and Connie! Thanks ladies!! Okay, here's my Friday Fun!

Friday Friendships

1. Do you think it is possible to find true friends on the internet? Yes I do.
2. Do you still have the same friends that you had in your school days? A few of them.
3. Do you have close friends of the opposite sex as well? Not anymore, but did for a lot of years. Guys are easier to be friends with sometimes. Less horomones maybe? LOL
4. What are the 5 qualities you find most attractive in a friend? honest, trustworthy, humor, dependable, considerate.

28th, 8:35 am
Blizzard warning in effect until 5 PM mst (6 PM cst) today... A nearly stationary band of snow will extend from Wray Colorado south to St Francis...Goodland...and Sharon Springs. Another band of snow will extend from Trenton Nebraska south to Colby. Visibility will be reduced to near zero in snow and blowing snow with wind gusts to 60 mph. Elsewhere...occasional light snow and strong winds will create ground blizzard conditions...especially in exposed rural areas. Snow drifts of up to 6 feet will also be found. Travel will remain treacherous across much of the tri state area this morning. Use extreme caution if you must venture out. Today: Very windy. Cloudy. Snow likely in the morning...then chance of snow showers in the afternoon. Areas of blowing snow through the day. Visibility one quarter mile or less at times. Snow accumulation of 1 to 2 inches. Highs in the upper 20s. Northwest winds 30 to 40 mph with gusts to 55 mph. Chance of precipitation 70 percent. Tonight: Windy. Decreasing clouds. Lows around 14. Northwest winds 20 to 30 mph decreasing to 15 to 20 mph after midnight. Tuesday: Partly cloudy. Highs in the lower 30s. West winds 10 to 15 mph shifting to the southwest in the afternoon.

It is cold and nasty here. No school. It's blowing so hard out and snowing! Winter came already. It's funny because the other day it was so nice out, you didn't have to wear a coat. Now it's 23°. Crazy.

I did a lot of redecorating on my site. Still have more I want to do. It's been pretty busy around here. Today should be interesting - four kids couped up in the house! It's too cold for them to go out. With the wind chill it's only 3°.

Hubby's work called at 8:15 am. He hadn't made it to work yet - left at 6:30 am. I was really worried. Told them to call me as soon as they knew anything. He called a few minutes later. It took him 1 hour and 45 minutes to get 8 miles away. It's terrible out!

We had a really nice Thanksgiving.
I hope you all did. I better go. Fussy baby - she's tired and doesn't want to go back to sleep. Have a super week!!!

Thanks to Connie and Kellie for the wonderful gifts. They are located on my Winter and Christmas gift page, my entrance page and the sitemap.
I did a little redecorating here. Gotta finish later. I hope you have a very Happy Thanksgiving! We are going to my parent's house. I'll visit soon!

I thought I would try and get back into doing the Friday Fun questions, so here they are. I am trying to visit my reads right now and do a little site work!! Woohoo, posted two days in a row! Good for me. Have a super weekend!!

Friday Frost
1. Is it approaching winter where you live? Seems to be - cold, cold nights and chilly days.
2. What season do you like the best? Spring, Fall and Winter
3. What is your favorite thing to do to relax in the upcoming winter/summer? I love to get the holiday decorations up and enjoy coffee or hot cocoa watching the lights on the Christmas tree. It's fun to watch Christmas movies with the kids too.

It's been a while. I need to redecorate in here - I am going to decide which Christmas decorations to use and then deck the halls!! I don't know where the time goes. I have been so busy with life - haven't had time to do much online. I did get some sales up at my graphics site http://bwcg.graphicloverscafe.com. I can't believe it's halfway through November. Ariana is 13 pounds already. She will be 3 months on Friday. I hope to go around to visit everyone in the next few days.

I have gotten most of the kids Christmas shopping done. Woohoo!! Buying for 4 kids is a challenge. I did pretty good so far if I do say so myself!! I want to finish up in the next few weeks. Christmas isn't too far away. Hubby has to work on Thanksgiving. I will go to my Mom and Dad's - my brother and his wife are coming out, so that will be nice.

Today my Mom and I went to do some shopping. It was fun. I got back at suppertime and have been busy since. Thought I would post quick. Hopefully I can have some computer time tomorrow and get some visiting and decorating done. I hope everyone is doing well. I better get going.

Suzanne

Background graphic and dividers from Mable's Makings. Snowman sig tag purchased from Country Thyme Graphics. Give thanks and Suzanne sig tag from Primsical Cuties. Some scripts from Dynamic Drive.

With hurricanes, tornado's, flooding and severe t-storms tearing up the country from one end to another, the quote of the month is:

Jay Leno: "Are we sure this is a good time to take God out of the Pledge of Allegiance?"

I think I have to agree. Of course I thought they shouldn't mess with it in the first place. I don't know where the time goes. It's already almost the end of October!! Time flies. Ariana went for her 2 month check-up yesterday. She weighs 11 lbs., 1 1/2 oz. 22 1/2 inches long. She sure has grown. They gave her four shots - two in each leg. Poor baby. I hate that part. She's doing well though - sleeps all night now, has for almost 2 weeks. She is my Angel baby.

The weather has been ever-changing. Now it's cold again. It was really nice for a few days, then cooled down, then warm, etc. It's going to be only in the 40s tomorrow. BRRRRRRRRR. I wonder if we will have a bad winter.

I've done a lot on my site this last week. I actually had time for drawing too. I hope to visit today or tomorrow. I have some things I have to get done while hubby is home from work. I hope everyone has a super weekend.

Suzanne

Hello!! It's yucky here. Been raining pretty well nonstop for 2 days. It's 48 degrees rightnow. I did a little quiz - not sure I agree with the result, but oh well, lol. Hubby started a new job at the plant I quit from in May. It's going to be better for us - should help me to be able to stay home for sure. I have been keeping so busy still. Doubt it will stop anytime soon. I did a little redecorating here and at my graphic site. I have a sale going on there. http://bwcg.graphicloverscafe.com.

Next week I take Ariana in for her 2 month check up. I can't wait to see what she weighs. I am going to put Halloween decorations up in the house today. The kids are going trick or treating with their Dad this year, so I get to hand out candy! Woohoo!! I love that. Ariana is going to be a pumpkin, Giuseppe a devil, Montana an army guy, and Adelina will be a cowgirl and a witch. They dress up at school, plus Halloween, and we go to the nursing home where my Grandma is and they have trick or treating the week before Halloween. It's fun. I hope you all are doing well. I am going to try and visit if baby stays sleeping. Thanks Connie for the Fall and Halloween Gifts. They are on my gifts page!! Take care.

Suzanne

I have been so occupied with my four babies, I have neglected my website and my friends!! I hope everyone is doing well. I am ready to call it a night, but baby is sleeping and thought I would post!! She's growing and such a good baby. She gets up usually once in the night, but bright and early to start the next day. Kids have had lots of homework and I walk my daughter to school and back each day, so been keeping busy, with that, laundry, baby, housework, and squeezing in a little me time when I can. We are finally getting some cooler weather!! I love fall. It's one of my fave seasons!! Hubby and I celebrate our 1st Anniversary this weekend!! Saturday. We are going back to the place we got married. They have the same Rendevouz each year and we thought it would be neat to go back. I know I spelled that wrong, but I am too lazy to get up and find the brochure to type it right, lol.

Anyway, I did a few new Halloween graphics at BWCG and added some to the bargains, pluse there is a sale, so if anyone is looking for some affordable adoptions and bargains too, stop by. http://bwcg.graphicloverscafe.com. I have some fall gifts I need to try and get up soon too. I am behind!!

I added some Katrina memorial graphics to my entrance here. That's so horrible - hopefully this new hurricane doesn't devestate anyone!! It sounds so scary - I think the midwest is where I will stay!! I couldn't imagine that. I'm trying to visit blogs now, so I will get this uploaded and finish my rounds. Have a super weekend ladies!!!!

Wow, it's September!! I am keeping so busy with the baby, and my other three kids in school. Giuseppe and Montana have homework everyday I swear. I feel like a teacher. I've been walking Adelina to school everyday with Ariana in the stroller. To and from school - so I am working on the preganancy weight going bye-bye!!! I want to be able to wear my prepregnancy clothes again. Can't wait. It's so wild having another baby!! Four kids, it's unreal. The kids are such great helpers. They will be super older siblings. I haven't decided on posting photos yet. I might make a password protected site, not sure. There's just so many crazies on the net anymore, I hate to post them. She's really filling out - she was so tiny!! The other three were 7 lb, 11 oz., 8 lb., 2 oz., and 8 lb., 4 oz. She's petite - Hardly any of the clothes I got for her fit! They swim on her. She's still in newborn diapers. Here belly button thingy fell off yesterday. She is sleeping longer stretches, and wakes up every 2-4 hours at night. Just depends. She's pretty calm though, but hard as heck to burp. My Aunt and Uncle will be in town tonight from New York. I can't wait!! They are my favorite ones and they have been coming out once a year since Grandma was put in the nursing home following her stroke in 2001 I still haven't found a baby book and 1st year calendar I want. There isn't the selection there used to be here. I need to go to another town to shop!! Maybe soon I can. I need to get it before I forget everything to write in it. Baby's up, gotta run!!! I will try to post again soon.

Friday Forks

1. Do you have a favorite place to eat? Red Lobster, Taco Johns
2. Do you have a favorite meal? I love food :) Too many meals to choose from
3. When you cook, what do you like to make the most? Don't have a favorite - like I said, I love food.
4. Do you have multiple sets of silverware, special and every day. No

Wow, I got time to post again. If you haven't been by, read the previous post. I am trying to get some things done before going to the hospital next week. I want to get my son, Giuseppe's, birthday stuff all bought and ready - He will be 11 the 24th, and that's not even a week after my surgery, so who knows how I will feel then. I am still searching for the perfect baby book. Haven't found one around here, so time to search online. Saturday, hubby and I will do my little Hallmark job and grocery shop. We have to send off a present to our nephew for his birthday which is the day after my son's. Hubby is taking off a week of work to stay home and help me after I get out of the hospital. Isn't that sweet? I love him so much. Today, Giuseppe had a dentist appointment, then we took Montana and Adelina to my Mom's. They are spending the night. Then, we ran errands, did a little window shopping, and went to lunch. It was really nice to spend some one on one time with him. He's at the swimming pool now. I think I will take a nap.

Friday Fun
1. As the summer draws to an end (or the current season where you are!!), what fun things do you want to get in before it is too late? I want to see a concert, go fishing again
2. What is the most fun about the upcoming season for you? Fall brings pumpkins, cooler weather, school, Halloween, my first Anniversary - exciting!
3. What have you done this week that was fun? Went swimming with my kids, took a few naps

Went to the Doctor - got checked, then an ultrasound on Monday. My baby is stubborn already. She is butt first - breech. They wanted to send me to a specialist Thursday - he externally turns the baby. We were debating on doing this, but then they informed us they didn't have time to do the procedure at our local hospital on Thursday, so if we wanted to do it, we had to go to another city 2 1/2 hours away. There's always a chance of going into labor, causing fetal distress, etc., so you have to be monitored for a while before being allowed to go home. That said, we decided no way. It's too far and we don't want to risk having the baby there. Now, we are scheduled for a c-section Thursday, August 18th. I go into the doctor Monday for my ob check, then the hospital for bloodwork. I am nervous, but at least it's all settled. The kids will start school the morning of the 18th, so I can get them there, not miss Adelina's first day of kindergarten and then it's all arranged to have them taken care of when I go into the hospital. I will be there 3 days, then come home. I won't be online for a while most likely. I will post as soon as I can to let you know all the details!!!!!!!!!!!!! I hope to visit you in the next few days!!

	5th, 9:40 am
Weather Forecast: Today: Partly cloudy. Slight chance of showers and isolated thunderstorms in the morning. Highs in the mid 80s. Southeast winds up to 5 mph increasing to 10 to 15 mph in the afternoon. Chance of rain 20 percent. Tonight: Partly cloudy. Lows in the mid 50s. South winds 5 to 15 mph. Saturday: Decreasing clouds. Highs around 90. South winds 5 to 15 mph. Saturday Night: Mostly clear. Lows around 60. South winds 5 to 10 mph.

Time is flying again! I went to my OB appt on Tuesday. The doc says I am still dilated the same - near 2. He said he's not sure that the baby is positioned in the correct place - we will check again on Monday, then we might do an ultrasound. I hope we get to do one - It would be neat to see the baby fully grown now and how big! So, who knows what happens now - maybe a c-section, or maybe she will get in place. It's disappointing that nothing is progressing. 2 weeks and still the same place. I have had the nesting instinct and the sudden bursts of energy, lol. Things sure are getting cleaned around here. I am still in search of a baby book - haven't found the right one yet.

I took Adelina for her kindergarten physical. She had to get three shots - one in each leg and in one arm, get her finger pricked, etc. She wasn't too happy. We are pretty well done with school shopping. I need to get Adelina a few more things. They start school the 18th. We had dentist appointments yesterday. Now we have two more next week - some kids need to brush better.

We have had two days reprieve with our weather. It's been so nice having the windows open! Tomorrow they close again and the A/C comes on. I wish we could have nicer weather longer. It's wearing on everyone. I have to do a little laundry and a little picking up. I plan to visit a bit and get off of here, so have a super weekend!!!!

	27th, 2 pm
Weather Forecast: Today: Mostly sunny. Highs in the lower 80s. West winds up to 5 mph shifting to the south in the afternoon. Tonight: Mostly clear. Lows in the mid 50s. South winds 5 to 15 mph. Thursday: Mostly sunny. Highs in the lower 90s. South winds 5 to 15 mph. Gusts up to 30 mph in the afternoon. Thursday Night: Decreasing clouds. Lows in the lower 60s. South winds 10 to 15 mph.

I got the dresser painted, all baby clothes washed and put away, baby bag packed, my bag partially packed, and have been cleaning! I actually accomplished a lot since my last post. I got that nesting instinct going I guess. I am tired out though - slacking off today. Went to my ob check yesterday - I am dialated 1 1/2 and 20% effaced. Didn't gain an ounce in two weeks. Now I start going every week. I was cramping pretty good - got checked twice, cause there was a medical student observing and they asked if she could check me too. I hate it, but I know they are trying to educate her, so I figured I may be helping someone she checks in the future, lol. Two more days of swimming lessons, then we don't have to leave the house every morning. I can sleep a little longer, and accomplish a little more. This weekend I will try to grocery shop and finish up school shopping. I want it all done. I have most done - just need one more backpack, some school supplies, and shoes. Yucky. The weather yesterday and today is gorgeous. They cancelled swimming lessons yesterday because it was too cold, lol. Tomorrow the heat wave comes back to stay for a bit. Starts in the lower 90s and heats up from there, unfortunately. I got my adoption site stuff straightened out. Had to make a whole new yahoo mailing list. Now if everyone would accept the invite and join that one, I will be set, lol. Tonight, the we are planning on going to a county fair. This weekend, hubby and I will probably go to the rodeo with his family. Ok, off I go. Have a super rest of the week.

	21st, 3:50 pm
Weather Forecast: Today: Record high temperatures possible through Friday. Sunny in the morning...then partly cloudy with isolated thunderstorms in the afternoon. Highs around 106. East winds 5 to 10 mph shifting to the south 10 to 15 mph in the afternoon. Chance of rain 20 percent. Tonight: Partly cloudy. Isolated thunderstorms in the evening. Lows around 70. South winds 5 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 20 percent. Friday: Partly cloudy. Highs around 108. South winds 5 to 10 mph shifting to the southwest 10 to 20 mph in the afternoon. Friday Night: Partly cloudy. Lows in the lower 70s. South winds 10 to 15 mph. Gusts up to 30 mph early in the evening.

UGHHHHHHH! It's so darn hot - I have only been leaving the house in the mornings to take the kids to swimming lessons in the next town - it's usually 80 degrees by 9am already here! It's awful! Temps in the 100s every freakin day! I want summer over!!!!!!! I am going cookoo being cooped up in the house, but I can't tolerate this heat much on a good day, let alone when I am 8 months pregnant! The electric bill will most likely make me sick when I get it, but I can't stand it. We get home sometime near 11:30 each day, then it's lunch time, relaxing a bit, then I am ready for a nap. By the time that's done, I am starting to straighten up and get supper. Time flies. Haven't been up to getting on the computer. Trying to get stuff done before baby comes too - where does the time go? I have a dresser to paint and wash baby clothes - need to give my room an overhaul too. Pack hospital bags - make plans for the kids. So much to accomplish. I procrastinated too long. I need to have all the kids school stuff ready also, since it starts around the time baby is due. I am trying to straighten out my adoption site also - more members then I have are signed up for the mailing list, so it's been a pain in the behind. I am hoping people are patient with me. Just might have to invite members to a new list and delete the other. GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR

Ok, better go. I am cranky, lol. Hope you all are doing good. See you soon -- I plan to visit.

	14th, 9:30 am
Weather Forecast: Today: Sunny. Highs in the mid 90s. Southeast winds 5 to 15 mph. Tonight: Clear. Lows in the mid 60s. Southeast winds 5 to 15 mph. Friday: Sunny. Highs in the mid 90s. East winds up to 5 mph shifting to the southeast 5 to 15 mph in the afternoon. Friday Night: Partly cloudy. Lows in the mid 60s. South winds 5 to 15 mph.

Darn, I am behind again. Well, I went to get another OB check. I am up to 30 pounds gained during the pregnancy. After next visit I go every week. Yuck. I have to get my butt in gear. There's still so much to do to get ready for baby. Where does the time go? I am getting to the super uncomfortable stage. With 38 days to go, I have a little trouble getting up off the couch, bending, lol. I am tired of the heat too - the electric bill will kill us, but hubby is so sweet, says he doesn't expect me to suffer at home. I love him :)

I haven't had a lot of computer time still. When I am on, I try to catch up on emails and workin on my adoption site. Trying to get memberships straightened out. I am about done, then I have a list waiting to join. I probably won't draw much for a while. The interest just isn't there for my cuties anymore. I guess I was gone too long. Oh well. Times change I guess. I had just hoped that I could get it all going full speed like it was a while back - help the income so I didn't have to find another job. I guess it's not meant to be.

This weekend we are going to go camping out at the lake where we got married. We have my kids cause their Dad is going out of town. They are so excited, because we usually don't have them weekends and don't get to do this kind of stuff. Hubby and Giuseppe, along with Giuseppe's friend will head out tomorrow afternoon and set up camp. Montana, Adelina and I won't go until Saturday. I am going to attempt it - but not sure if I will be able to make the night camping in my large condition, lol. We have to run into town and get a few more things we need. I am going in seach of a diaper bag too. Need that. I better get going. I am going to stop quick and pay my friends a visit and get moving so I can get everything done. Have a super weekend!!!!

	7th, 10:30 am
Weather Forecast: Today: Mostly sunny. Highs in the lower 90s. South winds 10 to 20 mph with gusts to 30 mph. Tonight: Partly cloudy. Lows in the mid 60s. South winds 10 to 15 mph. Gusts up to 30 mph in the evening. Friday: Mostly sunny. Highs in the mid 90s. South winds 10 to 20 mph. Friday Night: Mostly clear. Lows in the upper 60s. South winds 10 to 15 mph. Gusts up to 30 mph in the evening.

Time sure does flie. I am behind on blogging again. I added new goodies to BackWoods Creations Graphics - got in a creative mood. I have a special going on for non-mailinglist members through tomorrow if anyone is interested ~
Special between June 29^th and July 8^th–
Buy two premades, get one free
Buy two sig tags, get one free.
Purchase any collection, get another for half price

I made a new fuzzie - Baby Fuzzies! I think they are too cute. My kids love them, lol. Anyway, I did a lot of drawing, so check them out. http://bwcg.graphicloverscafe.com/

Our 4th of July was nice. We went to the parade, then to Mom and Dad's for lunch. Watched the fireworks from our backyard. I have been busy around the house and going to the pool with the kids. Hubby and I went to visit his brother and his family this past weekend. They live a few hours away. I got to shop! Woohoo! Picked up a bathing suit and a few more maternity clothes. I am getting so big - had to have a couple new things. I think this is going to be a huge baby - not sure, but seems like she's all over in there - there isn't any room left. We are getting excited. 46 more days, give or take a few, lol. Hopefully she comes a few days before or a few days after school starts - I hate to miss Adelina's first day of kindergarten. Giuseppe is worried about his birthday too,lol. The big 11! Everything is happening around baby's due date. There's some great concerts in a town about an hour away during their county fair that hubby and I wanted to go to, but it's at the same time and we don't want to risk it. They have a hospital, but I would rather have the baby where we plan to have it, lol. Anyway, here's who will be there - Trace Adkins with Special Guest Dierks Bentley - Friday, August 19, 2005, Sawyer Brown - Saturday, August 20, 2005. Big and Rich were in concert near us a few weeks ago, but we didn't make it. Heard it was a super concert. I love Country, although I love lots of kinds of music.

I better go. Lots to do. Hope everyone has a super weekend. I can't believe it's almost here already!! Take care.

	1st, 9:30 am
Weather Forecast: Today: Partly cloudy. A 20 percent chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon. Highs around 90. Southeast winds 5 to 10 mph shifting to the south in the afternoon. Gusts up to 30 mph in the late morning and afternoon. Tonight: Decreasing clouds. A 40 percent chance of thunderstorms. Lows in the lower 60s. South winds 5 to 15 mph. Gusts up to 30 mph early in the evening. Saturday: Partly cloudy. Highs in the mid 90s. West winds 5 to 15 mph. Saturday Night: Partly cloudy. Lows in the mid 60s. Southwest winds up to 10 mph shifting to the south after midnight.

It's Friday again. I still can't figure out where the time goes. It just flies by. My baby shower was nice. We got some very nice gifts and lots of diapers. Definiately needed!! It's getting closer and closer until our little angel comes into the world.

Baseball and t-ball are over finally. I am so glad. I'm not sure what we are doing this weekend yet - there's some tenative plans. The kids will be with their Dad until Monday. Then come home and we will go to Mom and Dad's for lunch and watch the fireworks from our backyard - they put on a great show at the fairgrounds which is 2 1/2 blocks from our house. We might go to the parade too.

Monday I went to my OB doctor appt. Now I have to start going every 2 weeks. Everything looks great. I have gained 26 pounds during the pregnancy. Of course I still have time to add more, lol. I hope I can get it off after the baby comes. I was very happy about the weight I lost in the year previous. I think I lost about 75 pounds, so I would hate to keep extra weight on. I had gained so much after having my daughter in 2000 and having post partum depression, that I never thought I would be thinner ever again. I was so proud to have lost it all in 2003/2004. I never want to be a toothpick - but I like being able to go in the store and find something to wear and look good. At least I know hubby will love me no matter what - he loved me fat and he loves me thin - when we met I was fat, lol.

Hubby, kids and I went to see the new Herbie movie last night. It was good. Lindsey Lohan sure grew up. Wow. It was nice - we don't do that much, cause it's so darn expensive. We blew $46.70 on tickets, popcorn and sodas! Ughhhhh. Oh well - we had a good time. Prices are getting outrageous!!

I added my summer and 4th of July gifts to my gifts page. I have been working some on my graphics site also. Click here to visit. There are some 4th of July premade adoptions I added. There is a new drawing at Graphic Lovers Cafe too. Click here to visit. I have some ideas I want to mess around with in PSP. I miss drawing, but with the kids home, it's hard to do that. Maybe I can get a little done. I hope everyone has a

Wow, it's Saturday. Over a week since I blogged. I thought it would slow down, but this week has been busy, busy. If the weather forecast is right, it may be a miracle. It's been high, high 90s and even over 100 this week. I am melting!!! Being pregnant and having that temp is just plain wrong!! LOL - I have the AC on - since last Sunday, so the electric bill will kill us, but I can't take the heat. It's awful. It's been really humid too.

Today is my baby shower!! My sister-in-law is having it for me at her house. Mom is going to drive me and Adelina to it. I better go get ready. See you all soon!!

	17 th, 11:15 am
Weather Forecast: Today: Breezy. Partly cloudy. Highs in the mid 80s. Southeast winds 10 to 15 mph increasing to 20 to 25 mph. Tonight: Partly cloudy. Lows in the mid 60s. South winds 10 to 20 mph. Gusts up to 35 mph in the evening. Saturday: Breezy. Partly cloudy. Highs in the lower 90s. Southeast winds 15 to 25 mph. Saturday Night: Breezy. Decreasing clouds. Lows in the mid 60s. South winds 15 to 25 mph decreasing to 10 to 15 mph after midnight.

It's Friday already again. Boy, I am a bad blogger! It's been very busy, but should slow down next week. We've had football, basketball camps, preschool, bible school, baseball, t-ball. I am tired. I have been cleaning out stuff - getting things together for a garage sales. The kids cleaned out toys and their rooms too. Boy, we have a lot to get rid of. I want to clean out every nook and cranny here - I try to do a little each day. I don't know how I got so much junk!! One person's junk is another's treasure, lol.

I am off to pay a few visits and then to get stuff done around the house. Have a super weekend!!!

Frazzled Friday

1. Do you feel frazzled by Friday? Most of the time, yes :)
2. What do you do to get "unfrazzled"? Sit in my rocker, put my feet up, grab something to drink, a book, and a cigarette.
3. What gets you frazzled the most? A busy, busy week - endless activities to attend for the kids.
4. Are you frazzled today?! A little - it's already 11 am and I am in pjs, lol. So much to do, so little time.

	10 th, 11:48 pm
Weather Forecast: Today: Mostly cloudy with a 50 percent chance of thunderstorms. Highs in the upper 60s. Northeast winds 5 to 15 mph. Tonight: Mostly cloudy with thunderstorms likely. Lows in the mid 50s. East winds 5 to 10 mph shifting to the north after midnight. Chance of rain 70 percent. Saturday: Decreasing clouds. Highs in the upper 70s. North winds 5 to 10 mph shifting to the northeast in the afternoon. Saturday Night: Partly cloudy in the evening...then mostly cloudy with a 40 percent chance of thunderstorms after midnight. Lows in the mid 50s. East winds 5 to 15 mph.

It's been gloomy here for a few days. Monday and Tuesday were high 90s - sooooooooooo hot! Then Wednesday was so nice. Yesterday was my baby girl's birthday!!!! HAPPY 5TH BIRTHDAY ADELINA ROSE! I had sent invites to her preschool in May during the last week of school. I asked that they RSVP by June 6. ONE PERSON REPLIED!! There are 11 other kids in her class besides her, so that was just depressing. I called the parents Tuesday about it, to see if anyone had planned to come, because I didn't want to have a party with one child there. I hated to call, but this was the first party I was having for her with friends, not just family. I left messages and actually talked to some parents. I was told they would call me back - none did. That's just plain rude. Anyway, the babysitter the kids went to brought 6 kids with her that my kids played with when going there. It ended up a nice turnout, thanks to her. We had 14 kids and 7 adults. It was planned to be at the park and the weather was so humid, gloomy - I wasn't sure if we'd make it before storms hit, so I slaved away at cleaning the house in case we had to have it here. We ended up having it at the park, but my house is clean, lol. Adelina got a lot of gifts - she is spoiled rotten. Her theme was Disney Princess. She decided she wanted pink cupcakes and cake. I said one or the other, so we went with cupcakes. Strawberry with pink frosting and she put purple and pink sprinkles, along with heart sprinkles on all of them. I made brownies with chocolate chips too. I know everyone doesn't like strawberry. We had Koolaid Koolers and iced tea. This week was Vacation Bible school in the evening, so she didn't want to miss it. We decided to have the party from 3-5 pm. My Dad, brother, hubby weren't able to come, but knowing guys, I'm sure they weren't too upset. Her Dad is having a party for her this weekend at her Papa's house, so she will be spoiled all over again.

Today, finally is a day we don't have to do anything until tongiht. It's there last day of bible school and they have a little program. Woohoo. It's a neat theme they are doing - back in Jesus' day - they where costumes to dress like people did back then, have a marketplace, etc. They eat some food that is supposed to be from back then also. Football got over yesterday. I am ready for some quiet days. It's been absolutely crazy since I quit work!! I haven't had time to post much or anything. Today is my baby brother's birthday. He is 26! I need to run a card by his house sometime. Ugghhh, where does the time go. It's already almost noon. I need to move my behind. Lunch, shower - I am still in my p.j.s. Okay, here's my Friday Fun

Friday Films

1. What kind of movies do you like the best? Action, romantic, comedy, something else? I like all of those kinds of movies
2. What is the last movie you have seen? Oceans 11 and 12
3. Do you choose what movie to see by actor/actress, producer, genre, advertising, the summary on the back, previews? Usually, it's just from the advertising, although sometimes if there is an actor/actress I like, I might want to see it
4. Recommend a great movie for me to see!! I honestly haven't seen a movie lately that was all that great. I can't think of one now :( They just don't make movies like they used to. Sometimes it seems they are in a hurry to get movies out anymore.

	3rd, 9:50 am
Weather Forecast: Today: Decreasing clouds. Areas of fog early in the morning. A 30 percent chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon. Highs in the mid 70s. East winds up to 5 mph. Tonight: Mostly cloudy. Thunderstorms likely in the evening... Then chance of thunderstorms after midnight. Some thunderstorms may be severe with damaging winds and large hail in the evening. Lows in the lower 50s. Southwest winds around 5 mph. Chance of rain 60 percent. Saturday: Mostly cloudy with a 30 percent chance of thunderstorms. Highs in the mid 70s. North winds 5 to 15 mph. Saturday Night: Mostly cloudy with a 20 percent chance of thunderstorms in the evening...then partly cloudy after midnight. Lows in the lower 50s. West winds 5 to 10 mph.

We ahd a heck of a storm last night. Frankly, I am sick and tired of rain. I think it's rained almost everyday and although we need the moisture, it's getting old!!! The storm last night lasted 2 1/2 hours and it was so loud, with tons of lightning, thunder, and heavy rain. The power went out twice and Montana was having two boys stay over. Well of course they wouldn't fall asleep and were up past midnight. I wanted to scream! I got to sleep in, but I don't think it was long enough. They are all bright-eyed and busy tailed and I am ready for them to go home, lol. Hubby and I wanted to go out in the boat this weekend, but I wonder if we will be able to. It's gloomy and I need some sunshine and warm weather. Too many dark days and I think I get dark, lol.

Being off work, I haven't had much time to myself yet. The kids have had a lot going on. Baseball began and then next week football camp starts for Giuseppe and Montana, along with bible school and Adelina's summer preschool. I am tired just thinking about it. Adelina's birthday party will be Thursday. She turns 5. One person has actually paid attention to the RSVP - out of 13!!!!!!!!! GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR. I am getting grumpy about that. I need to make sure I have enough of everything for them. I would hate for her to have a party with one kid. Depressing.

What security program do you use? I had Norton Antivirus. The subscription ended and they want 40 bucks to renew. Insane. When you buy a program, you shouldn't have to pay so much to renew to get updates. GRRRR. I better get going. I need to take a shower and do laundry, pay bills, yuck. So much to do and so little time. Have a super weekend!!!!!!!!!!

Friday Festivals

1. Does your local area have any local festivals in the summer? What kind and do you like to attend? In the tiny town I live in, there is a small fair in August. In July, they have different things going on for the 4th. I usually go to the 4th of July festivities. They have a parade, huge fireworks show and lots more. In nearby towns, there are always different things going on throughout the year we attend. There is a big fair 11 miles from here in July we attend - there are rides, booths, rodeos, etc. Kids love it.

2. What are your favorite kinds of festivals? I think fairs, but I also enjoy different craft shows too.

3. Tell us about a memorable trip to a festival! The first fair the kids and I attended with my new hubby. It was a lot of fun.

	1st, 12:20 pm
Weather Forecast: Today: Partly cloudy. Highs in the lower 80s. South winds 10 to 20 mph. Tonight: Partly cloudy with a 20 percent chance of thunderstorms. Lows in the lower 50s. South winds 10 to 20 mph. Thursday: Partly cloudy. A 20 percent chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon. Highs in the lower 80s. South winds 10 to 20 mph with gusts to 35 mph. Thursday Night: Partly cloudy with a 30 percent chance of thunderstorms. Lows in the upper 50s. South winds 15 to 20 mph. Gusts up to 35 mph early in the evening.

I am officially done with my job!!! It was a hard day yesterday. Five of the guys I work with did some really nice things for me. One brought me more irises from his garden, plus got me a card, one gave me a houseplant - he started from one a friend gave him, but we don't know the name, lol. Someone thought it was a wandering jew, but after looking it up on the net, I don't think so. It's green but has fuzzy purple on the edges. Four of them pitched in and got me a card and a $20 gift card from Wal-Mart. I about cried. One of the guys we work with from another company for the Ethanol sales called to tell me how much I helped them over the year, what a good job I did and he would miss me. Several truckers and employees all told me that the place wouldn't be the same without me, asked what they were going to do without me, etc. I got lots of hugs and was teary eyed all day. It was draining. Too bad the head honchos weren't so caring. My boss came in from Wichita. There was a head hunter who was testing applicants for my job. Isn't that nice - while I was there!! The President and my boss never said one word to me since my letter of resignation, but I was told by the other lady in the office that 29 people applied for my job - 10 were tested. Today apparently they are doing interviews. Anyway, the only thing my boss said yesterday was I don't want to get too close to you because I am getting sick, but I wanted to wish you luck in whatever you do. That was it. Boy I felt special. Anyway, it's over. Nothing else to say I guess.

Memorial weekend was actually almost cold!! Saturday Rob, a friend of his and I went out on the boat fishing for while. Mostly it was gloomy, breezy, windy, rainy and cold for three days!! What a bummer - good thing we didn't camp out like we thought about doing. I bet there was a lot of ticked off people who planned to camp. We did catch 13 white bass and let his friend take them home. The kids went camping with their Dad and his family. I was worried they would get sick from the chilly weather. So far, only their Dad did.

This morning I took the boys and one of their friends to a Farm Safety Camp. It's 9 - 3 today and they will learn all kinds of things. They are often at their Papa's farm and I thought it would do them some good. It was only $5 and they get a sack lunch, shirt and goody bag. Adelina and I went to a store, got breakfast at McDonald's and then I decided to do a little on the computer. Soon I need to get off and get a few things done around the house, then off to town to another store and pick up the boys. Tonight we are going to dinner at Mom and Dad's for Dad's birthday. Tomorrow we have to only pick up my pay check, pay the sitter and stay home! Woohoo. I get to sleep in as long as the kids let me. I am checking out some maternity clothes at Old Navy online. I didn't realize they had any. They have some cute things. I am still trying to find comfy sandals with no luck! GRRRRR

Okay, gotta run. I want to visit a few of my reads and I have to finish up the other stuff here. Take care!!!

	27th, 6:10 am
Weather Forecast: Friday: Partly cloudy. A 20 percent chance of showers in the morning. Highs in the mid 70s. North winds 5 to 15 mph. Friday Night: Partly cloudy in the evening then clearing. Lows in the mid 40s. North winds 5 to 10 mph shifting to the south after midnight.

What a change in weather this week!! We have had a couple hot days, then pow - storms, cooler weather. People wearing jackets! TGIF! Two more days of work for me. Today and Tuesday. Can't wait. I've had several people buying me lunch, wishing I wasn't going, etc. One of the guys I work with has been bringing me fresh Irises to workt he past two weeks from him and his girlfriends lovely garden. He's an older guy - so nice, always lends a hand and has a smile on his face. A great person to work with. I will miss so many people. I am ready to be done though.

Hubby is recovering great. He is unstoppable I think. I would have definately took it easier longer, but he is tough and didn't let it keep him down one day.

I am for sure getting far enough in the pregnancy that I have to take it easier more. I figured that wouldn't happen for another month or two, but I get way more wore out now. I can't feel it when I have been on my feet too long or doing too much and it's not too good. I think it's just that I am 11 years older then when I had my first baby and I am so busy now. I never took it easy as much with my other three babies.

I have finally been able to get in touch with an old online friend! I have been trying forever it seems. I am so excited. So many people moved sites, changed emails, or got off the net all together and it was so great to finally get back in touch with one. I also heard from another one yesterday, so it really made my day! After work is done, I will have more time on the computer and that will be nice. I can blog more hopefully. With three kids home for the summer, it might be a little difficult, but I will have to let them know Mommy needs a little computer time or she will be grumpy, lol. I have several emails I need to reply to and some people who want to join my adoption site. I haven't had a chance to go through them due to storms when I have gotten home from work. Hopefully tonight it's calm and I can. I hate to keep people waiting.

I have had the worst time finding a new pair of sandals. I can't find a comfortable pair at all. My feet are doing a little swelling and I need something to compensate for that, lol. Might have to try ordering some online.

Friday Festivities

1. Do you have plans this Memorial Day? Not really this year. Just plant to take it easy. The kiddos are going camping with their Dad and his family. Hubby and I will kick back - probably go to the lake. We might have dinner at Mom and Dad's.

2. Do you go to local parades? No, don't think there are any here.

It has been hotter then heck here!! 99 last I looked today. It's still 80 degrees at 10:30 pm!! Crazy! It's been a week - was so ready for the weekend. Hubby got a umbilical hernia. Got surgery today and came home already. He's doing well. Kids got out of school yesterday. I have 10 days until my last day of work. Thankfully only 6 of those are work days, lol. One is a paid holiday and the rest are weekends. I am so ready to go. All my coworkers are not happy, but the higher ups don't seem to care. Oh well. Going garage sale hopping tomorrrow. There's a ton of them in the area. You can find the nicest stuff!

I haven't had much time to surf and visit. I need to do that. In a few weeks, hopefully the kids and I will be on a new schedule and I can have some more computer time with work being done. Hope everyone is doing

well. Have a super weekend!!

Fourteen Friday Facts

Give us 14 facts about you!
1. I am 1/2 Italian, and also Irish/Canadian.
2. I am originally from NY State!
3. I love pansies, roses and lilacs - (do love all flowers, but those are my fave).
4. I am a hopeless romantic - still crazily belive in fairytales.
5. I love Italian, Chinese and Mexican Foods.
6. I want to travel the world someday.
7. I am very emotional.
8. I have a teddy bear collection.
9. I collect Disney Movies.
10. Spring and Fall are my fave seasons.
11. I was born to shop, except someone forgot to leave me the money.
12. I love my computer.
13. I love coffee
14. I love Cherry Coke.

	13th, 7:10 am - 3:38 pm
Weather Forecast: Today: Breezy. Decreasing clouds. A 20 percent chance of thunderstorms. Highs in the upper 60s. Northwest winds 10 to 15 mph shifting to the north 15 to 25 mph in the afternoon. Tonight: Partly cloudy. Lows in the lower 40s. Northwest winds 5 to 15 mph.

I did it - I turned in a letter of resignation to work. My last day is May 31. I swear every week something new comes up that we weren't told and I just can't take it anymore. Long story, but I feel like a weight was lifted off of my shoulders. I really hope to find something I can do from home on my computer or something. Graphics used to be a big helper for a side income, but I just don't have the knack for it anymore. Not sure if I spelled knack right, lol. There are so many graphic artists anymore and I am in a rut on what else to draw. The funny fuzzies are dead now I think. The fad is over - which I knew would happen, a friend reminded me of that once, but I hoped it wouldn't. Maybe now I will have more time to devote to drawing this summer. We'll see. Anyway, today I took off. Going to my boys' elementary track meet for half the day. They are all excited. My Mom is coming to go with me. It is so nice to stay home and not do have to race off to work. I am also getting invites ready to send with Adelina to preschool. Here last day is Tuesday, but I want to be sure all the kids get the invitation for her 5th birthday party in June. According to her, it will be a Princess Flower Tea Party, lol.

Our aread had severe weather the other day. There were areas with tornadoes, grapefruit size hail, softball size hail, golfball size hail, tons of rain, etc. We didn't get much of anything, but there was tornado watches and warnings and the school kept the boys for a while before letting them go to the sitters after getting to town on the bus. I want 75, no storms, maybe some rain. Never happens that way though. I am off for now - will be back to post later when the Friday Fun is up and I get back from the school. Have a good weekend!!

Okay, I'm back. The kids and I planted seeds for the garden today. We have a late start, but what else is new. We planted corn, tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, summer squash, oriental poppies, beans - it was fun. We already have flowers planted outside and some different peppers and tomatoes in the garden. It's going to be small - nothing huge. They just left to head to Colorado with their Dad. I am sitting here in total peace and quiet. It's wonderful not being at work. My sister-in-law is having a baby shower for me June 25. What a nice surprise! I went and registered at Wal-Mart, because it's the only store we have really. I wish we had a Target or Toys-R-Us or something. Oh well. It will be nice - can't wait.

I am off to visit my online friends.

Flights of Fancy Friday
1. What was your favorite daydream as a child? I honestly can't remember.
2. What is your favorite daydream now? Winning the lottery - even just a small little bit to pay bills off, build a dreamhouse, not have to work, travel the world
3. If any one of your daydreams could be reality, which one would it be? Win the lottery

	10th, 10:10 pm
Weather Forecast: Wednesday: Windy. Partly cloudy. A 50 percent chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon. Some thunderstorms may be severe in the afternoon. Highs in the upper 70s. East winds 10 to 15 mph with gusts to 30 mph increasing to southeast 20 to 30 mph in the afternoon. Tonight: Windy...cloudy. Chance of showers and isolated thunderstorms in the evening...then slight chance of showers after midnight. Lows in the lower 40s. Southwest winds 25 to 35 mph shifting to the northwest 20 to 30 mph after midnight. Gusts up to 60 mph in the late evening and early morning. Chance of rain 50 percent.

I hope everyone had a great Mother's Day. I got some more great kiddy gifts (My fave)!! My middle son, Montana gave me a drawing of flowers, a plant and the cutest card - it was hilarious. They had to fill in the blanks on the pages they glued inside the card about their "Mommy" - he did such a good job. My daughter Adelina Rose gave me pansies in a pot she decorated. It was so nice. One of my very favorite flowers. Mom and Dad gave me a lovely outside planter of flowers - it's a wooden oblong container with a handle - reminds me of an old fashioned tool box and there are all kinds of flowers in it, a Marjolein Bastin photo album and pansie candle. I have lots of Marjolein Bastin stuff in my kitchen. (My kitchen is decorated in pansies). I got some great cards as well. My hubby helped our Angel Baby - that's what he calls our baby-on-the-way, get me a gift. A rose and these other flowers I am unsure of the name, plus a beautiful card. We ate lunch at my parents' house. Grandma came from the nursing home, as well as my baby brother, his girlfriend and their baby - he'll be 2 in August. It was a nice day.

It's been a busy week so far. I am ready for the weekend already. School is out here in 9 days. I am not so sure I'm ready for it, lol. The kids are though. We had a warm day - almost 90 degrees. Sounds like we are in for yucky weather the rest of the week. North of us, there have been several tornadoes over the past week. Scary.We need rain - but I can do without the severe storms. Better get moving. Oh, my OB appointment went good - have gained 16 1/2 pounds since my first visit. He wants me to gain 25 - 30 pounds by the end. He says try not to get stressed out - I laugh every time he says that. Yeah, like that's possible. Okay, off to bed. Take care!!

	6th, 6:11 am
Weather Forecast: Today: Breezy. Partly cloudy. Highs in the lower 80s. South winds 10 to 15 mph with gusts to 30 mph increasing to 15 to 25 mph with gusts to 40 mph in the afternooon. Tonight: Windy. Partly cloudy. A 30 percent chance of thunderstorms in the evening. Lows in the lower 50s. South winds 20 to 30 mph.

TGIF! I am going to work this morning and then to the doc for my OB check up. I am ready for a weekend. I want to work on my site some more this weekend - I got so much done this past week on it. Instead of going to garage sales and stuff, I might just do that tomorrow. We'll see. We are going to Mom and Dad's for Mother's Day dinner on Sunday. My oldest, Giuseppe gave me the nicest gift for MD - a plant in a pot he painted, a homemade ashtray and a wonderful card he colored at school. It brought tears to my eyes. I think that they make the neatest things at school these days. Some of the things they come home with blows me a way. Okay, here's my Friday Fun. Have a great weekend!!!

~ Friday Family

1. What is your first happy memory as a child? My grandmother reading to me and rubbing my back till I fell asleep. She was the best Grandma. Sadly, she's in a nursing home now and just not the same after her stroke in 2 weeks after the horrible September 11.
2. Do you have brothers or sisters? 2 brothers 28 and almost 26.
3. What is your favorite family activity? barbecues
4. For those families on a budget (like mine!), what is your favorite no-cost fun thing to do? Fishing and camping, playing games.

It's May! Where does the time go. I have been messing around with my blog, changing some of the graphics, etc. I wanted to work on my neglected graphics site, but haven't done it yet. Ughhhh. I will do a little here soon. I need more time in the day. I went to a few garage sales yesterday and found lots of clothes for Adelina and my baby girl on the way. I can't find anything for the boys. I have been just doing laundry and messing around on the computer. I need to get moving - so much to do, so little time. I'm listening to a cd I got at Hastings last weekend. It's 3 Doors Down. I have a wide variety of music. I love Country, but I also love other kinds of music. There's definitely a lot to choose from anymore. I have an OB appointment this week. Can't wait to see how much weight I have gained, lol. NOT! Anyway, I guess I will head out. Have a great Sunday.

Okay, I'm back, lol. I got some things done at BackWoods Creations Graphics! All prices have been lowered. Not a sale, but lower prices. Also, I added four of my old collections back up. Stop by and visit.

TGIF!! I honestly was starting to think Friday was never going to get here. I had a hell of a week and I don't think I am ready for Monday to come back anytime soon. We actually had snow the past two days! I can't believe it. Crappy weather for sure. Here's our forecast:

Tonight -Mostly cloudy. Lows in the upper 20s. West winds 5 to 10 mph.
Saturday - Partly cloudy in the morning...then mostly cloudy with a 20 percent chance of rain showers in the afternoon. Highs in the upper 50s. Northwest winds 5 to 15 mph.
Saturday Night - Mostly cloudy. A 20 percent chance of rain showers in the evening. Lows in the lower 30s. North winds 5 to 10 mph.
Sunday - Mostly cloudy. Highs in the mid 50s. North winds around 10 mph.
Sunday Night - Mostly cloudy with a 40 percent chance of rain showers. Lows in the mid 30s.

I am ready for a weekend of relaxing. Hubby is working lots of hours, so I may do some garage saling, my other job, sit my big butt on the couch and maybe do some laundry. I haven't decided yet. I need to work on my website too. So much do do in such little time. Baby moves a lot - boy am I getting big. I can't imagine what I will look like by August. I went to tons of garage sales last weekend and got lots of adorable baby clothes. I even got a play pen.

~ Friday Flyers

1. Do have bird feeders at your home? yes but keep forgetting to get some bird seed.
2. What kinds of birds live in your area? from what I understand, there are over 400 species of birds in Nebraska.
3. Have you ever had a close encounter with a bird (been dive-bombed, etc.!)? Not in Nebraska, but in Colorado these birds where we lived out in the country always dive-bombed. It was scary!!
4. If you had to pick a favorite bird, what would it be? That's a hard one. I'm no expert - I enjoy listening to them chirping and singing in the morning. I guess I really don't have a favorite.

Okay, I am gonna head out. I need to visit my net friends and maybe do a little work on pages. Have a great weekend!!!

I thought I would hurry and post before getting ready for work. Of course I am probably making myself late. Sometimes I need to rethink my decisions, lol. Anyway, the program went well last night at the school. It was awfully long for those kids, but the music teacher has a habit of doing that. I am so glad it's Friday, but the weather is not nice. It's so windy, has been since yesterday. It feels really cold due to that, although right now it's 44 degrees. Here's our lovely forecast.

Today - Wind advisory in effect until 1 PM cdt this afternoon. Windy. Mostly cloudy with isolated sprinkles in the morning...then partly cloudy in the afternoon. Highs in the upper 50s. North winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts to 45 mph.
Tonight -Mostly clear. Lows around 30. North winds 10 to 15 mph. Gusts up to 30 mph early in the evening.
Saturday - Sunny. Highs in the lower 60s. Southwest winds up to 5 mph shifting to the southeast in the afternoon.
Saturday Night - Increasing clouds. Lows in the mid 30s. Southeast winds 5 to 10 mph.

~ Friday Fridays

1. What do you like the most about Fridays? That's it's finally the weekend. No work after 5 pm - except the work you want to do at home or wherever.
2. Do you have a favorite Friday activity? Getting take out and just sitting on my backside! Does it depend on the season? I do love sitting on the porch in the warm weather during spring or summer and relaxing, just watching the world go by.
3. Tell us about your best Friday! When I don't have to work!!!

Okay, I better go. I am about 30 minutes behind now, lol. Have a super weekend!!

I survived the basketball tournament Saturday. The kids played their hearts out, but lost. The other four teams were all from Kansas - we were the only Nebraska team. Those boys were so tall and our boys aren't too tall, which made it hard to get around the other players at times. My hubby said they grow basketball players in Kansas and football players in Nebraska. I think he might be right!! In between games we did a little shopping, ate out, went to the park. It went fast. I was so tired by the time we got home. I am still hungry as ever, tired, but hanging in there. It's hard to believe only 4 more months until my baby girl comes. I am hoping that it doesn't happen on my daughter's first day of Kindergarten though. That's August 18th - and baby is due the 21st. I would cry to miss her first day of school. Hopefully baby makes an appearance after that, lol. It's gloomy today and I am cranky. I think it's the weather. If I could sit home in pjs and on my couch I think I'd be happier :) We had such a gorgeous weekend and Monday - Tuesday. It's was warm - lots of people were wearing shorts. I think it got to 82 yesterday. Here's our forecast for the next couple of days:

Rest Of Today - Breezy. Partly cloudy. Highs in the mid 70s. East winds 10 to 15 mph shifting to the southeast 15 to 25 mph in the afternoon. Tonight - Windy. Partly cloudy with a 20 percent chance of thunderstorms. Lows in the mid 40s. Southeast winds 15 to 25 mph shifting to the northwest 20 to 30 mph with gusts to 45 mph after midnight. Thursday - Breezy. Partly cloudy. Highs in the upper 60s. Northwest winds 15 to 25 mph with gusts to 40 mph. Thursday Night - Breezy. Increasing clouds. Lows in the upper 30s. Northwest winds 15 to 25 mph. Gusts up to 40 mph early in the evening.

I posted through the control panel of my site - it made things so screwy on this page, but I got most of it fixed. I will have to finish fixing it at home. My lunch hour is almost up. Okay, I am off. I hope to stop by and visit.

TGIF!!!!!!!!!!! I started Friday Fun below my post. I didn't want to get out of bed this morning. It felt so nice I just wanted to cuddle up and stay there!! Oh well. I am at work, not feeling like working. There isn't much to do right now - I am caught up. It's nice outside, 49 degrees. It's party cloudy, partly sunny. The sky does look like we could get some storms or rain though. I may have to go get something out of the vending machine. For some reason I am just starving this week. My appetite hasn't been like this in ages. Yesterday I pigged out all day, lol. I ate 2 pieces of toast this morning and o.j., along with my coffee, but I feel like I didn't eat a thing. I am not good at eating right away in the morning - I'd rather have coffee and eat later on, but my schedule doesn't allow for that. I need to find some yummy, fast breakfast items I can keep at work and home. I would rather have a chef, but I will just keep dreaming. I still have 8 more hours here. UGHHHH. I need to not look at the clock. I guess I am off now. You have a super Friday.

~ Friday Fiction

1. What is your favorite genre of fiction? Romance (with a little action, suspense, mystry thrown in)
2. What are you reading right now? Fortune's Children (Miniseries)- Hired Husband
3. Who is your favorite fiction author? That's a hard one. Anne McAllister, Nora Roberts, Debbie Macomber, Roz Denny Fox, Nickolas Sparks - and so many more. Why? They all are so talented and I have never read a book they wrote that I didn't like. It's hard to put their books down!
4. Give us your top 5 fiction novels.
Code of The West Miniseries by Anne McAllister
The Donovan Legacy by Nora Roberts
Heart Of Texas Miniseries by Debbie Macomber
Anything You Can Do... by Roz Denny Fox
Tyler Miniseries by numerous authors

I am just wiped out. I am not so sure I can make it until August at this job. I think if I could do half days, I would feel a hundred times better. I keep looking in the paper for something part-time or something I could do at home, but no luck yet. It won't be easy - no matter what being pregnant is not going to make it easy to get a job now. We will just have to see what happens.

It's been a busy week. Tuesday we had the school meeting, last night the program at church - tonight at least we got to stay home. I could sleep for days. I wanted to do a little computer work so I have been playing around with some of my new graphics I purchased from Mable. I plan on redecorating Suzanne's Adoption Getaway. It's going to look great when I get done. The kids are all in bed and it's nice and quiet. Such a peaceful time of day :)

I am surprised at how many new graphic artists are online now. I wasn't gone that long - and there are so many ladies I haven't met or seen their sites before. It's amazing. There is a lot of talent! Maybe soon I will get some time and inspiration to draw. I love it - but sometimes it's discouraging. There's lots I want to do on my site, but it will just take time I suppose. If you haven't been over to Mable's site yet, stop by! She's open and everything is gorgous. Just click on the panda at the top of this page.

Saturday is my son's basket ball tournament and it should be long. I love to watch him, I just hate to go so many hours! The first game is at 10 am, the last is at 6 pm. That's a long day away from home in a community building in Kansas! I better pack snacks, drinks, a butt cushion and reading material, lol. We just got a note yesterday, they have a Spring program next Thursday. I love my kids - but I can honestly say I can't wait until all these programs are over. They did so good last night at the church program. Montana got a trophy - He had perfect attendance all year. Giuseppe and Adelina missed a day, so they got medals. They were so proud.

I started reading a lot again. I love romance novels - miniseries are the best. I have a huge collection of books and I think series sets are my fave. I started Fortune's Children. There's a lot of books in it - I like reading about huge families and towns - it's almost like you are there. It's my little escape from reality, lol. I love the books with cowboys best I think. Always loved Cowboys! Good think my hubby has boots and a hat. He grew up on a farm. Woohoo.

I am still waiting for beautiful spring weather. Not happening!!

Tomorrow I am starting

. I will sneak a post at work, lol. It looks fun. Okay, I better get going. Hopefully I can post this weekend. I'll let you know how the tournament went. Have a great weekend!!

April 10, 2005

It's chilly here. We had hail, rain, thunder and lightening. The weather is not very spring like tomorrow.

Rest of Tonight - Breezy. Scattered rain showers and isolated thunderstorms early in the evening...then occasional rain or snow after midnight. Little or no new snow accumulation. Lows in the mid 30s. North winds 15 to 25 mph. Chance of precipitation 100 percent.
Monday - Breezy...cloudy. Rain showers or snow showers likely in the morning...then chance of rain showers or snow showers in the afternoon. Snow accumulation up to 1 inch. Highs in the lower 40s. North winds 15 to 25 mph. Chance of precipitation 70 percent.
Monday Night - Mostly cloudy with a 20 percent chance of rain showers or snow showers. Lows around 30. Northwest winds 10 to 15 mph. Gusts up to 30 mph early in the evening.

My brother lives in Ft. Collins, CO and they had 7 1/2 inches of snow last I heard. I guess it's blizzard conditions there. Strange!!! I want spring! Not last minute winter. Yes, I am a bit cranky. I didn't get enough sleep last night. We stayed at Rob's brothers and slept on a futon. I couldn't sleep for nothing. I should have brought my body pillow. I have a hard time without it. We had a good time. I got the new SheDaisy cd - used at Hastings. It was only 8.99. I also got to stop at Target and bought a few baby things and they are soooooooooo cute! I got a couple maternity tops too. I made it to a few garage sales before heading out and got some maternity clothes, a couple baby things and some clothes for my other three rugrats. We came home this afternoon and then I went to my parent's house for dinner. I bought these great moodbits from Mable. I love them. I also bought the I love bears blog bit and was given the other two gifts. If you were signed up for the newsletter you got a sneek peak before the doors are open to the public. I purchased a great collection too. Can't wait to work on some pages. I splurged on myself, lol.

She is soooooo talented and I love her graphics. I am about to head off to bed. See you soon.

April 9, 2005

I made it through the week. Woohoo! It's finally the weekend. This morning I am going to get my behind moving and not sit on my butt all day while Rob works. LOL I am going to get dishes done, a load of laundry, then head to town and hit a few garage sales in search of clothes for my 3 kids and baby on the way. The three kids have grown a size in the past 6 months. It's crazy. I found them some great looking clothes last time I went. I am going to also do my second job and grocery shop. Later when Rob gets off work, we are headed to a city a few hours away to visit his brother who just got back from Iraq last month. I will for sure hit a mall and Target while there. It's been ages since I have been to a store other than Wal-Mart. We don't have much here. I may get brave and hit the mall. We might stay the night, but not sure yet.

This week will be busy for sure. Tuesday there is a town-hall meeting about the school. Last year, they closed the junior high and high school part of our school. We used to go kindergarten - 12. They are going to tell us our options for when the unification we have with another district is up next June. I am anxious about it all. Right now we have k - 6th. We live two and a half blocks from school and I want our school to stay open. It ticks me off that all the little schools are closing and kids have to be bussed to another town. My oldest - Giuseppe, will be in 6th grade in the fall. I hate for him to go to another school after that - then I have to decide about my younger two, Montana and Adelina Rose. If we unify with another larger district, then I will keep the younger two here - that way they will al be on the same schedule, even at different schools. If I don't like who we unify with, I may have to send them all to another district. So many decisions to make. Adelina will be in kindergarten in August. Montana will be in 3rd grade. Giuseppe has been with 99% of the same kids since kindergarten. I hate to split all these kids up. Mom and Dad's 33rd Wedding Anniversary is also Tuesday. Wednesday, they have a program and awards night at church. They belong to the ABC Club (like a youth church club) and it's their final night. Next weekend, Giuseppe has basketball tournaments in the next state - about an hour or so away all day on Saturday. Rob has to work, so he can't make it to half of it, so I am going solo - unless Mom goes with me. The kids will be with their Dad on the weekend, but I won't miss this. My son is so excited.

I can't figure out why my saybox is being a pain for me. On my computer here at home, I can't see anyone's comments. At work I can. I hate it, cause I can't see who tagged me!! GRRRRRR I emailed them to ask for help, but haven't heard back. Today, the weater was supposed to be nice, but they changed it a bit.

Today - Increasing clouds. Highs in the lower 70s. West winds 10 to 15 mph shifting to the east 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon.
Tonight - Mostly cloudy. Chance of thunderstorms in the evening...then thunderstorms likely after midnight. Lows in the lower 40s. Northeast winds 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 60 percent.
Sunday - Breezy. Thunderstorms likely in the morning...then rain and thunderstorms in the afternoon. Highs in the mid 40s. Northeast winds 20 to 25 mph with gusts to 40 mph. Chance of rain 80 percent.
Sunday Night - Windy. Rain and snow. Light snow accumulations. Lows in the mid 30s. North winds 20 to 30 mph. Chance of precipitation 80 percent.

April 6, 2005

Finally, I am posting. It's a little slow at work today and not many people are around, so I decided to mess around a bit while I sit here at my desk. It's been horribly windy the past few days. We have a Wind advisory in effect until 7 PM - Windy. Cloudy with a 20 percent chance of showers in the morning...then sunny in the afternoon. Highs in the mid 60s. North winds 25 to 35 mph with gusts to 45 mph. Yesterday it was 40 -50 mph winds with gusts to 60 mph. Crazy! We were supposed to get thunderstorms and rain with it too, but the wind must have blown the storm away. We need the precipitation, but could do without the wind. I am tired of the wind!!!Â Monday it was gorgeous. 80 + degrees, sunny, no wind. I enjoyed eating my lunch outside for the long hour they make me take. I brought a book - been reading to pass the time. I am feeling much better - still not 100%, but a major improvement from last week. Tomorrow I go in for my OB check. We still haven't come up with a baby name. It's so much harder then picking the boys name. I have been looking on line at different names - different ethnic backgrounds and all that. First of course I had to go to Italian, Irish and Indian names - my hubby is part Papago Indian. I got some ideas, then I went through all the countries. It was fun. Lots of neat names. I know once I find the right name I will know it - it will feel right. It has to be different. My other three children's names Giuseppe, Montana and Adelina are different, so we can't have a normal name. It wouldn't be right :) LOL. I could use a nap already. It's only 9:08 am. It will be a long day. Okay, gotta run. Hopefully I can get some more computer time this evening.

March 30, 2005

I just added a saybox - My zonkboard subscription ran out - without warning I might add, so I am ticked off about that. I decided I will not pay for that anymore and try something new! Now, the posts dont who up in the box though. GRRRR. I emailed them, hopefully they will help. I don't have anymore time to mess with it. I did a test post and the saybox people posted, but it's not there on the page.

I finally heard from the doctors office. They faxed a note for me to give To my boss last week. It said I needed to work no more than 8 hours a day. I was working 8.5 - 9 hours a day. Their solution is to make me take an hour lunch so I am working 8 hours. Great solution huh? NOT!!!! It's all so frustrating. She also will not let me go part-time when I have the baby. It's like I don't even matter. There is a lot more to it all - it's been an ongoing battle with her from day one. Thankfully she's in another state, but it all just really irks me. She wants me to let them know at my earliest convenience if I am coming back or not. I don't believe I will go back. I mean how on earth can I put a baby in daycare 9 ½ hours a day when it's only 6 weeks old???? I can't do it. I don't know how we would get along without my paycheck. There is just too many things going on right now. It's too much. I won't even go into the rest.

Friday I started feeling yucky. By Saturday afternoon I was down for the count. By Sunday I had a fever through Monday. I went to the doctors office. I have a very contagious viral infection. He gave me a note to stay home through today. I had taken Monday off as a vacation day to spend with the kids on their break. It really sucked I was sick the whole time. I can only take Sudafed, Tylenol and robitussun, so it didn't help a whole lot, but I have rested a lot, drank lots of fluids and am feeling better. I have to go back to my hell job tomorrow. I am not looking forward to it.

Yesterday was the ultrasound. We were sure it's a boy, but the tech said we have a dancing little girl!! Wow, another girl. I honestly was positive it was a boy. Looking back on my previous three pregnancies, all fingers pointed to a boy. Guess not! Now we have to figure out a girls name. We had the boys all picked out. I am almost halfway through this now. The time sure flies. 4 ½ more months I guess.

Okay, gotta go. Need to finish up some things and rest some more. Have a great week.

March 20, 2005

Well, I finally heard from the doctors office Thursday. The doc had sent a note for dictation to type up. She's going to fax it to me Monday. It's about time. I am sooooooooooo tired of this crap!! I did a little redecorating. Just want to lay around and be lazy. I did a lot of errands and my second job yesterday. Last night Rob and I went and played poker. I love it - it's so fun. I had a craving for chinese food, so Rob took me to get some too. I haven't felt too good most of the week, getting headaches and a migraine. I even left work early one day, then missed a while day as well. Couldn't eat a whole lot so I guess I am making up for it this weekend. Hopefully I will get to cut my hours and slow down. Being prego at 31 is way different then 20 the first time around. I think I have half the energy now, lol. Of course I have more kids and a lot more on my plate then I had at that time. It's raining outside! That's good, considering we didn't have much of a winter and we need the moisture. I can't wait for everything to start blooming. I found some cute baby stuff at a garage sale, so I picked it up. It's mostly boys stuff - a few unisex items, but we have this feeling it's a boy. This pregnancy is like the boys - not my daughter at all. We'll see in a week or so. That is if baby cooperates, lol. You have a super week!

March 9, 2005

Finally, the week is closer to being over! I am ready to have no work!!! I am still waiting to hear back from the doc. The nurse said he wasn't there today but she'd try to get him to write the note tomorrow. Hopefully! I am having car troubles - hate that car. It wouldn't start today - I was picking up pizzas for work and it stalled, then wouldn't start. Someone from work had to come and get me and the food, lol. We went back later to get the car and it started right up. Stupid thing. I added a page with baby adoptions tonight. I am off to have a few quiet moments before getting the kids from church. Have a good reast of the week!!

March 8, 2005

Hello. I am doing a little blogging, then need to get the kids to bed. I am dead tired. I went to my OB appointment today. We are doing an ultrasound in 3 weeks. Hopefully baby is in the right position and we can see if it's a boy or girl!!! I can't wait. I am waiting to hear from the doctor's nurse if he will write me a note for work to get my hours reduced. The plant manager suggested it as he thinks it's the only way my bosses will bend on this. I hope the doc will do it. He said I needed to reduce my stress. I almost laughed out loud. Easier said than done. The kids don't have school the next three days - I tried to get a couple days off with my vacation - I get it on the 15th, but my boss won't let me use any a few days early. GRRRR Hopefully they have fun at the sitters. Okay, off to get the kids into dreamland. See you soon.

March 4, 2005

Hello! Wow, it's March already. I can't believe it. I am so tired. Don't even think I can do any surfing tonight. Been going to bed early every night. My wonderful bosses (NOT) have me coming in an hour earlier now. I had a meeting today with the president and told him if I can't get part-time after the baby is born I am not coming back. They just pile more work on me and it's not like I am rewarded for the hard work. I realize it's a great job for the area, but a person can only take so much. I am dead tired and sick of being overworked. A lot of people are unhappy and looking for other jobs. Everyone is just over worked and needs to be rewarded just a bit more - most people do the work of 2-3 people all the time. We make them a ton of money - they could give an incentive or bonus once in a whileWe . It's been a year and no raises for everyone yet. I don't get it at all. It's hard to find good jobs that pay a lot around here. are practically in the middle of nowhere. It's making me grumpy!! I need to chill out - I know the stress isn't good for me or the baby. I am working on it.

Okay, now I think I better sign off. I don't have much nice to say, so guess I will take that advice of not saying anything at all. Have a good weekend!

Sig tag and divider graphic purchased from Mable's Makings ~ Weather bears purchased from Danette ~ Some scripts from Dynamic Drive and Recycle Bin Graphics. Days Of The week blinkies purchased from Country Lil Creations

	25 th, 10:15 am
Weather Forecast: Today: Partly cloudy. Patchy fog in the morning. Highs in the upper 80s. Southeast winds 5 to 15 mph. Tonight: Partly cloudy. A 20 percent chance of thunderstorms in the evening. Lows in the mid 60s. South winds 10 to 15 mph.

	20th, 10:40 pm
Weather Forecast: Saturday: Mostly sunny. Highs in the lower 90s. West winds 15 to 20 mph shifting to the northeast in the afternoon. Saturday Night: Partly cloudy. Lows in the mid 50s. Northeast winds 10 to 20 mph..

	1st, 12:35 pm & 2:45 pm
Weather Forecast: Today: Increasing clouds. Highs in the lower 50s. North winds 5 to 15 mph. Tonight: Partly cloudy. Lows in the upper 20s. North winds 5 to 15 mph.