my baby boy is 16!

How did that happen?

Today was Joseph's birthday. He is actually old enough to get a driver's license! He isn't getting one yet, but he's old enough. *sigh*

He went over to his buddy's house for band practice this afternoon, then we went out for pizza (His favorite meal). John, Kathy and Derek met us there. It was a nice evening. Pizza and beer for the adults, and soda for the boys. I brought his cake to the pizza place & we sang (very loudly.....embarrassing him is part of the celebration)

He opened his gifts when we got home. We bought him a tweed 3/4 length coat. It fits his 'look.'
We also got him an ukelele. A real one. It sure sounds different than the toy one he has now. when we get to Pismo Beach tomorrow, I'll go to the music store where Chris got the uke and get a music book for it.

We're leaving tomorrow for Pismo Beach until next Tuesday. I will be making New Year's dinner there this year.

It was so nice having Chris home for Christmas. It felt so relaxing. Now, it's back to the travel grind. We have been having some really windy weather the past few days. I wonder if the surf will be high down there? I'll take he camera in case it is.

santa was good;)

Chris really outdid himself this year. Some of the things I received: This http://www.great-quotes.com/photos/14427b.jpg
and this http://www.great-quotes.com/photos/14415b.jpg

I also got some perfume, a new pair of UGGS, new pjs, a sweater and something similar to this: http://cgi.ebay.com/Small-Silver17-Simulated-Diamond-Peace-Necklace-305_W0QQitemZ140062680398QQcmdZViewItem#ebayphotohosting

One of the youth group kids got me The Beatles Love cd, and one of my CCD kids got me a porcelain angel. We also got some wine and homemade kahlua ;0)

I almost forgot my new clock;-) Now I can replace my kitchen clock with something fun. http://www.funtocollect.com/beatlesvintageclock.html

Joseph was thrilled with all he got. Again, Chris out did himself. He bought a lot of Joseph's gifts
Santa brought him this http://www.musiciansfriend.com/document?cpd=0OEY&doc_id=99371&g=guitar&base_pid=518706&index=9

This makes 6 guitars and one bass now. Come Wednesday (his birthday) he will add a nice ukelele to the collection.

We wrapped this amp to go with the guitar : http://www.voxamps.co.uk/images/products/da/DA5_BLACK_lrg.jpg

Chris took a day trip down to Solvang and got Joseph a Snoopy statue (Joe Cool of course) and a really cool handmade guitar statue thingy. He also (on his own!) got Joseph a beautiful heavy cross on a black leather cord.

Besides that stuff, we got him clothes, a new Levi's jacket, and new creeper shoes http://www.angryyoungandpoor.com/store/pc/viewPrd.asp?idcategory=398&idproduct=43661 ( I paid nowhere near that much, LOL) and some cds and DVDs (Eric Clapton Crossroads, Family Guy Volume 4 and American Dad season 1)

Today was so nice. We opened gifts, I made crepes, then we just relaxed all day. Dinner was a roast, which was wonderful.

I hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas:-)

merry christmas to all

It's Christmas Eve, and I didn't get everything done I wanted to. I let it bother me for a bit, then decided I can only do what I can do.

I am a Christmas fanatic. I want Christmas to be like it was when I was a little girl, and it never will be. I am finally understanding that. I, like my Mom before me, am a stay at home mom. One difference though, is that my mom didn't drive, so she was literally a STAY AT HOME mom. She stayed home and got everything done that needed to be. The house was spotless, decorated to perfection and dozens and dozens of cookies were baked and decorated.

I am in and out so much, especially the past few months with Chris being in Pismo Beach. Me only being home about half the month is playing havoc with everything, and my Christmas preparations have suffered.

It's ok though. Gifts are bought and wrapped, the traditional Christmas Eve chili was wonderful, family mass was great, and most importantly, Chris is home for Christmas.

We're all happy and healthy. We heard from #1 son. He is doing fine.

I hope Kaya Michelle is having a good Christmas, wherever she is. That is my only sadness.

In the famous words of Ebenzer Scrooge in the last scene of a Christmas Carol, I'd like to say. "To all of us everywhere a Merry Christmas". And from Tiny Tim, "God bless us everyone".

no laser

Chris had an appointment with his opthamologist today. He was overdue by a couple of months, so he was a little worried.

He didn't need any laser treatment on his bad eye! He hasn't had to have any more laser treatments for almost a year. I pray his vision has stabilized.

He doesn't have to go back for 6 months. Hopefully he will be back home then.

ho ho ho

I finally finished decorating the main Christmas tree today. I still have to set up the Disney tree in the family room. Maybe tomorrow after I get back from See's. http://www.sees.com/
The youth group kids just did a fundraiser, and Josephine and I are driving up to pick up all the candy. Hmmm. I guess this is a wholesale/retail place. I may just have to pick up a few more things while I'm there;-)

I put up my Christmas village today too (Including the Shelly's Diner I got last year). I covered the sofa table with a white sheet and put the buildings there, behind the couch. I like them better there than under the tree. You can see them better:)

I will get most of the decorating finished before Chris comes home. I still have major cleaning to do in the next couple of days too:/

Tis the season to be frazzled!

nuckin futs

Jib Jab has it's the year in review video.

http://www.jibjab.com/nuckin_futs

26 years ago today

John Lennon was murdered.

I'll never forget that night. I had the ironing board set p in the living room and was ironing Chris's work shirts. Wendy Tokuda broke in on channel 5 and gave the news that John had been shot in front of the Dakota, and he had died.

I felt like I had lost part of my family.

I've been listening to this today.

HAPPY XMAS (War Is Over)
(Lennon/Ono)

So this is Christmas
And what have you done
Another year over
And a new one just begun

And so this is Christmas
I hope you have fun
The near and the dear one
The old and the young

Chorus:
A very Merry Christmas
And a happy New Year
Let's hope it's a good one
Without any fear

And so this is Christmas
For weak and for strong
For rich and the poor ones
The world is so wrong

And so happy Christmas
For black and for white
For yellow and red ones
Let's stop all the fight

Chorus
And so this is Christmas
And what have we done
Another year over
A new one just begun

And so happy Christmas
We hope you have fun
The near and the dear one
The old and the young

Chorus
War is over, if you want it
War is over now
Happy Christmas

dedication

There was a bench dedication today at the school where my friend Ana's daughter Jennifer attended. After her death last June, her classmates raised money (a penny for Jenny) and raised enough for a beautiful concrete bench.

The kids raised so much money that there is almost $2000 left. It is in a savings account until 2012, when her class will be seniors, and they will give out the first memorial scholarship in her name to a former student from Brown's Valley. Cool, huh.

There is a plaque on the back of the bench with her name and a quote ( I didn't get a chance to see the quote, and Joseph can't remember what it says:/)

Anyway, a local nursery donated a tree that is planted next to the bench in her memory.

Today, her 6th grade teacher, some of her classmates and some of the moms got together for a dedication. Joseph and I went too. Her teacher said a few words about her, one of her classmates read a poem, and the string orchestra of which she was a part played a beautiful piece.

It was very touching.

the kids in girl and boyland

We made ornaments for the Jesse tree today in CCD, then had a prayer service at the end after everyone put their ornaments on the tree. http://www.catholicculture.org/lit/activities/view.cfm?id=545 I think I've said it before, but this is one of the best classes I have had in a long time. I mean, they are loud and rambunctious, but they are genuinely interested. It makes it a whole lot easier for me:)

After class, Joseph and I went to the store. I walked into Safeway, and heard bagpipes. Of course, Joseph took off to find out where the music was coming from, and who was playing Christmas music on bagpipes. It was the band from one of the nearby high schools, and they were walking around the store playing. They were pretty good, too! I love bagpipes.

I finally finished my ornaments for a swap I'm doing. It's not that they are anything special or involved, I just ran out of time;-) I have to go to the Post Office in the morning and get them mailed.

home again, home again

Joseph and I came home from Chris's tonight. As much as I loved spending time there (and taking my birthday trip to Disneyland) I am glad to be home. I have a ton of stuff to do here. It is going to be a busy next few days.

Speaking of my birthday, I had a good one. We went and did some antiquing, then took a trip to the factory stores, then the mall. I found a cool store at the mall in Santa Maria. It's called Steve and Barry's. http://www.steveandbarrys.com/website/history.htm What prices! We bought 4 shirts, a pair of jeans and a pair of boots for me for just over $50! The jeans were $10.98. They seem to be of good quality. I will withhold judgement until I wash them;-)

After a day of shopping, we went to dinner at Old Juans in Oceano for dinner. I usually want Mexican on my birthday, and since we couldn't go to my regular haunt (Hacienda in Folsom), Old Juans made a good stand in.

We got back to the house for presents (YAY! Yes, I am a small child at heart) Chris got me a beautiful, tiny music box that plays Silent Night. I have it on the mantelpiece already. He also got me a COOL bracelet. I saw this bracelet when we were at Disneyland last week, and gushed about it. He snuck back into the shop the last night and bought it. I can't believe he did it. I looked to find good pictures online, and finally found some.
http://shop.vendio.com/rhinospider2/item/912755412/?s=1165230002
Pay no attention to the price. That isn't the list price. The pictures are cool though:)


I mentioned last week that my BIL passed away. It really hit me tonight when we got home. I had to look and see if his obit was anywhere, since we were out of towm when it happened.
http://www.legacy.com/SFGate/DeathNotices.asp?Page=LifeStory&PersonId=20100086
Seeing it in print makes it too real:-(
I will go see my sister tomorrow.

sad news

While I have been enjoying myself at Disneyland, my sister is in mourning.

My brother in law died yesterday morning. Fucking cancer.

He was diagnosed only about 3 months ago with Mesothelioma, and they knew he didn't have long. He was only given 12-18 months to live. He didn't even make it 4 months.

Apparently, the cancer became aggressively worse in the last month, after his CT scan (which was promising...) His abdomen filled with fluid and his kidneys failed.

Sue said she and the boys were with him. She said he squeezed her hand at the end. She and Terry, Kevin and David (and their wives and kids) are all devastated. They thought they would have a little more time with him.

His name was Walt.

I'm kind of numb right now. He has been part of my life since I was in elementary school. Chris is really upset too. He said Walt was his hero.

mickey, here i come!

We're off to Disneyland tomorrow morning:-)

I love it there this time of year. It looks so pretty all decorated for the holidays. I am as bad as a little kids when it comes to Disneyland;-)

We'll be back here (Pismo) Thursday (unless I can talk Chris into staying until Friday.)

*Cue music to Its a Small World

beautiful day

The weather down here has been spectacular since we got here Wednesday. It has been clear and pleasant.

Chris and I went out to breakfast this morning and sat outside. It was a little bit chilly, but the restaraunt has heaters on the patio, so it was comfy. We took a hike around the property when we got back. There are 3 houses here, and the 'general store' and it is a huge property. I guess the guy who owns it wanted to rent it out for weddings and stuff, but it couldn't be done. I'm glad though, because it is such a beautiful place to stay in here.

black friday

I had big plans on waking up at the butt crack of dawn and heading out to the stores this morning. Had being the operative word ;-) Chris was really exausted last night. Chris being really exausted = snoring. Lots and lots of snoring. Granted, we have been married for over 31 years, and I am used to him snoring. However, the bed down here is only a double, which means I get snoring right in my ear.

I didn't sleep well. I poked him, made him roll over. Nothing helped. A pillow over my head (or his face) was sounding good;-) I finally fell asleep around 2:30 a.m. That is not condusive to getting up at 5 ;-)

We did go out later. He needed to go to Wal Mart and get a new coffee maker for this rental. The one that was here doesn't work, so he has been using the one he has for the office. We picked up a new one and came back *home*. We went to San Luis Obispo later in the day for some shopping. I picked up some jewelry in Urban Outfitters (for $1.99!) I also got some oh so cool Jesus pencil toppers;-)

Ooohhh. We were sitting here tonight with the front window open, and could hear coyotes howling! Cool! (I say that as I'm sitting in the house, LOL. )

happy thanksgiving:-)

I am as stuffed as the turkey we ate tonight;-)

Everything turned out wonderfully well. I got up this morning and baked 2 pumpkin pies, and while they were cooling, we took a short drive to Oso Flaco Lake, which is near Guadalupe. There were lots of different birds there. Next time I'm taking the binoculars.

This afternoon, after we put the turkey in the oven, we went down to the beach and went for a walk along the water. I found 7 sand dollars:-) I also found some beautiful delicate shells.

Dinner was terrific, and dessert even better;)

I am thankful today...for my family and friends, ny health and the health of those I love, and right now, for the fact that Grey's Anatomy is on in about 5 minutes. Time for a glass of wine;-)
Salud!

almost t day

We got out of the house and on the road late, as usual. One day, I will leave on time;-)
The drive down wasn't too horrible. There were only a couple of patches of bad traffic, and we still made it in about 4.5 hours.

When we pulled up the driveway and parked, there was a deer about 20 feet away, just looking at us. (This place is SO cool!) Of course, the camera was in a bag in the car, and by the time I got it out, Bambi had run away.

I usually don't bring anything but my makeup bag & magazines, but since it is Thanksgiving, I packed some other stuff (chargers for the table, a big bowl, pie pans, etc....and a bottle of good wine) We got the car unpacked and realized I FORGOT the whole bag of supplies for brining the $&%^#^ turkey! AARRRGGGHHHH.

When Chris got home from work, we all went to the store so I could REbuy the stuff I need. *Sigh* At least the grocery store wasn't too crowded. On the upside, I have a supply of kosher salt and allspice berries at home:/

No matter. The turkey is now resting in a big bucket of brine.

Dinner tomorrow will be fabulous.

t day minus 1

Well, I've got everything packed (I think) It is cold and foggy here. I imagine it will be the same in Pismo;-) At least it's not raining. It is supposed to start later this evening, but we should be safe and snug in the house there by then.

Chris suggested Spash Cafe for dinner tonight http://www.splashcafe.com/ to pick up a couple of quarts of the best clam chowder ever ;-)

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone who celebrates it, and to those who don't, Happy Thursday;-)

t day minus 2

I really hope I have everything I need to take down to Pismo tomorrow. I gave Chris a list of what to buy this past weekend (we had already got the turkey and other main stuff) I went and picked up the spices for brining today, and he said he got a big bucket at the hardware store. I do not want to have to go to the store after driving 4+ hours.

I have to finish packing a few thing for the table. I'm taking the gold chargers down to use. They will look good with the white plates there, and the tablecloth I picked up last time I was there.

I have to drop a couple of bills in the mail on the way out in the morning. It's a good thing Chris reminded me! I swear, with all this coming and going, I need to write everything down:/

Now, if I can just get Joseph up and functioning at a decent hour....maybe we can get out of here by 10 in the morning. That way, we'll miss the worst of the traffic.

i love you, peanut.

It's been three years now since your mother picked you up "for a couple of days". Three years that we have all missed you every single day. Not a day goes by that I don't think of you, Kaya Michelle.

I hope that wherever your mother took you, that you are safe and healthy. I won't give up looking for you.

I hope you still remember your family.


We're still here, sweetheart. We will be here when you can come back to us.


Don't ever forget how much we love you, Kaya.

With all our love,
Nana, Papa and Uncle Joe.

food, yummy food

I bought a half dozen homemade tamales this morning. The Hispanic community spent all day yesterday making them, then came in at 3:30(!) this morning to cook them. Oh heavenly days, were they good.

It worked out perfectly for dinner, being as I was so stinking tired after Mass tonight;-) I wasn't up nearly as early as Anita and the rest of them, but we did get up at 6:30 so we could be at church at 7:30 for donut sales. Not only did we get up at 6:30, but it was so foggy when I got up that I could barely see across the street. Needless to say, it was cold and damp standing outside from 7:30 until noon:/ Thank God for hot coffee;-)

After we finished up and got everything cleaned up, it was almost 1. We had to be back at 3 for youth group, so there wasn't much time to do anything in between except eat lunch.

We got home from Mass about 7, and I put the tamales in to reheat. Like I said before, they were so good.

It was a long, busy day, and I am seriously ready for bed (It's not even 10 yet!)

I thought Sunday was supposed to be a day of rest.


HA;-)

sat tur day

So, we were supposed to be at the church hall at noon to sort, pack and put away the canned goods the Boy Scouts collected this morning. I figure I'd laze around in the morning.....read the papers, do a little forum surfing, take a leisurely shower. HA! I had no sooner stepped out of the shower than I got a call from Jo. "The food locker ladies just called. The donations are coming in and they need us now!" So, I put some balm in my hair, scrunched it a bit, threw on some make up ( I didn't want to scare people) and off we went. (luckily Joseph didn't sleep too long. He is a teenaged boy, mind)

It was so unorganised! Last year, the little old food locker ladies separated the food into categories as they unloaded the bags. Not this time. There were only 2 ladies there, so everything was just dumped on the tables. Urg. I think it took us twice as long to pack boxes, because we had to search for like items on 15 different tables. We finally got it all sorted. They figured we sorted over 6,000 cans, bags and boxes. Hopefully some people who wouldn't other wise, will have some good food.

We finished up around 3, so Joseph and I decided to take a ride over to Petaluma. Some of my favorite thrift shops are there....along with some great vintage/antique stores, and 2 of my most favorite places to shop: Heebe Jeebe (FUN stuff and toys) and Jungle Vibes http://www.junglevibes.com/ We went to dinner at a cool little Mexican restaraunt.

pizza friday

We went to Round Table for our Friday night pizza.

The Pepperoni Artisan pizza rocks. Seriously. Huge slices of fresh mozzarella, a really good smoked pepperoni, roasted tomatoes and fresh basil.

Yummy.

from the inbox

This made me laugh out loud, especially considering I got it from one of my more conservative friends.

The World's Shortest Fairytale

Once upon a time, a girl asked a guy "will you marry me?"
The guy said "No."
And the girl lived happily ever after and
Went shopping, dancing, drank Martinis, always had a clean house,
Never had to cook, stayed skinny and farted whenever she wanted.

I love my husband, but sometimes.......

numbers

Number of hours we sat waiting for this to happen. It didn't. 2 http://www.thereporter.com/news/ci_4669940

Number of CDs I bought today at Tower's going out of business sale: 6

Number of Beatles CDs I bought to replace old ones : 2

Number of guitars Joseph played at Guitar Center: 3

Number of times I called him before he answered the phone while there: 4

Number of minutes the dog behind us barked this evening: 120

Number of times I jumped up to make sure it wasn't our dog: 5

ccd

I genuinely like the kids I have this year in CCD. I mean, I always like (most) of the kids I teach, but this group is fun. And funny. Even if I have to get on them about the noise level;-) One of the boys told me, "I just really don't have a voice volume control, you know." LOL! Even he isn't bad though. Today, when he would get louder and louder, I would just walk by and touch him on the shoulder, and he would quiet down immediately.

This group is more helpful than past years too. They ask to help (take roll, pass out books/paper). They also ask to read, which is so nice for a change. Past years, getting some of the kids to read out loud was like pulling teeth.

These kids were all in Ana's class last year. We talked about forgiveness today, and a couple of them brought her up. They asked me if God would forgive her for what she did. I said yes. They seemed content with that.

Since next week is Thanksgiving, and we won't have class on Tuesday, we did our Thanksgiving stuff today after the regular lesson. I had them write down at least 5 things they were thankful for. I told them I used to do it, and that it really makes you think. A few of them filled the page in their journal with things. I think they get it;-)

I bought some blank cards/envelopes at Big Lots, and had them make a thank you card to someone of their choosing. I want them to give them at Thanksgiving. They all asked for more than one card, because there was more than one person they wanted to thank:) They had fun decorating the cards too.

I'm tired

Days like today wear me out.

Joseph and I left Pismo Beach about 10:30 this morning to drive home (after I did 2 loads of laundry there)

We got home about 3:00 and went straight to church for youth group, then Mass at 5:30. Joseph won 2 tickets to the movies for his design of the youth group t shirt, even though his design didn't win. At least he keeps trying, LOL.

Fr. Mike was in a rotten mood again. How sad is it that I dread seeing him. I would much rather have any of the other priests say Mass. Luckily he hardly ever says the youth Mass. He was making sure we Eucharistic Ministers know there is a dress code. ( I mentioned that one of the women scheduled to EM tonight thought she wasn't dressed properly and so someone filled in for her) He said he was thinking about making us wear robes. Every one of us shook our head no. I don't think he realizes that one reason we do EM at the teen Mass is because we aren't required to wear albs. We dress nicely and we all wear wooden crosses that say Eucharistic Minister. If he starts requiring robes, he may be looking for new EMs....and it is hard enough to get people who want to do it.

I do love it. It is such an honor to be able to distribute the Body or Blood of Christ:)

Anyway, we just went to Burger King (or the BK Lounge, as Dane Cook would say) for a burger after Mass, then I had to go to the grocers because we were out of milk.

It has been a long day, and I am ready to crash.

for our military men and veterans

I pray for you. I thank you. I honor you.

Today is Veteran's Day (Rememberance Day in other countries)

I just want to say thank you to each and every one of you. My Dad was a veteran of WWII. I can still remember his stories, and I have pictures of him from then. ( I miss you, Daddy)
My BIL is a veteran of Korea, and my brother a veteran of the Viet Nam era, although he never had to go there. He served on a ship in the Carribean, and Guantanamo Bay.

I also want to honor two boys who were killed in Iraq....Casey Sheehan and Thomas D. Casey was a member of my church. I remember seeing him sitting every week with his parents, his brother and sisters. He was such a good boy...a boy who loved God. His mother is the one who got me started in my ministry as a catechist. You're right, Cindy. The Holy Spirit does work in wondrous ways.

Thomas is the son of a forum friend. I have read about him, and know how much he is missed and loved by his family.

I pray that there would be NO more Thomases and Caseys. One more is too many. Don't make any more mothers weep for their sons:*(

A Nation Rocked to Sleep Carly Sheehan
Have you ever heard the sound of a mother screaming for her son?
The torrential rains of a mother's weeping will never be done
They call him a hero, you should be glad that he's one, but
Have you ever heard the sound of a mother screaming for her son?

Have you ever heard the sound of a father holding back his cries?
He must be brave because his boy died for another man's lies
The only grief he allows himself are long, deep sighs
Have you ever heard the sound of a father holding back his cries?

Have you ever heard the sound of taps played at your brother's grave?
They say that he died so that the flag will continue to wave
But I believe he died because they had oil to save
Have you ever heard the sound of taps played at your brother's grave?

Have you ever heard the sound of a nation being rocked to sleep?
The leaders want to keep you numb so the pain won't be so deep
But if we the people let them continue another mother will weep
Have you ever heard the sound of a nation being rocked to sleep?

thursday

The weather has been absolutely beautiful here the past couple of days. We missed the heat wave, and have been enjoying clear days with temps in the 70s. There hasn't even been any fog!

Joseph and I went down to the beach today. The surf was churning. I love to watch the ocean, I really do. I looked for shells but only found one, and one sand dollar. Slim pickins:/

Chris is taking tomorrow off. I don't know what we're going to do, or where we're going to go. We may head south towards Santa Barbara again.


Thrift store deal 'o the day: A brown Armani sweater. Soft as butter, for $2.99. I also picked up a brand new black AK2 (Ann Klein) blazer for $3.99:-)

A lady came up to me in the thrift shop and told me it looks like I have an eye for shopping there, then told me I should open a resale/vintage shop. I would love to:)

a new direction:)

The Democrats have taken control of the House. Yes, I am damn happy. I am even more happy that Rummy is GONE. I'll have to read up on the new guy though.


We are here in Pismo Beach. It is freaking beautiful today. It was still in the 70s when we got here last night! We drove down last night after CCD, and got in about 10. It's a PITA to drive that late, but we get to spend another day down here that way. We have to leave early Sunday because Joseph has youth group and I have to EM at Mass.

We are going to try and take another drive down to Los Olivos while we're here. Chris wants to buy a case of Fess Parker's red wine.

don't forget to vote!

If you haven't already, make sure you do.

We're off to Pismo this evening after CCD. Chris said it was 91 down there yesterday! Holy guacamole, that is hot for there. There is no a/c in the house....so I am taking a fan just in case it is still warm;-)

reading is fundamental

And sometimes expensive;-)

I went looking for my copy of The Little Prince to read from at CCD tomorrow, and I couldn't find it. Anywhere. Crap and double crap:/ I must have given it away. Well, I thought, I'll just run over to the Book Warehouse at the factory outlets and see if they have a copy. They didn't have it, but they did have quite a few other books that interested me....and they are having a 40% off sale since they are going out of business. After my discount, the total was about $40. Not bad.

I then decided to go to Borders. I can NOT leave Borders for less than $30, I swear. I spent almost $60 there, but I did get The Little Prince. I also got Barack Obama's new book, a couple of more books for me, 1 for Joseph, and I got the new Vanity Fair, which I shall be opening in just a few minutes;)

Spending $100 on books isn't too bad is it?


*****************************
Reminder to those in the States:

Don't forget to VOTE tomorrow!

If you don't vote, don't complain to me;-)

lookie!

Instead of blogging last night (I had good intentions, really!) I was playing on YouTube. Look what I found! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSRoJJtiEto
It's my boys;-)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bjMgvnW7zDY

This was actually the last time I saw them. They've been off touring the country since then. I am so proud of them. I love them all:)

surprise! or....ya gotta have friends.....

Tonight we celebrated Diana's 60th birthday. (I want to be Diana whenI grow up) It was so much fun. There were 7 women who rented a limo and picked Diana up at her house. She thought it was going to be her, her hubby Mark and Karla for pizza. We SO got her! She was so surprised to see the limo pull up, and even more surprised to see us women in the limo:)

So there we were, a bunch of ladies from St Mary's....having a wonderful time, enjoying each other's company, and generally acting like teenagers, LOL. There was a whole lot of laughter, and a few tears. We went to Old Sacramento, and went on a scavenger hunt. I definitely saw a different side to some of the women....some women who I mostly know from church.

I did realize just how lucky I am, to be connected with such a wonderful, caring group of women. We talked about everything...from the Mission at church, to Mass, to our kids, to sex (of course, LOL), to friendship, to love....like I said, there were some tears shed, but it was all good. We toasted each other often. The coolest thing was that we all prayed together. I felt strong. It felt right to say a prayer of thanksgving for the night, and for our connection.

In that spirit, I am thankful for each and every one of you, who read my blog, and who are my friend, whether on line, in real life, or both:) I lift my glass to you.

mmmmmm

I love the smell of rain. I say that now. Ask me again in March or so. My opinion may change by then ;-) We got our first real rain of the season today. It smells so good and clean outside.

I even wore my cool flowered wellies today and carried my Lulu Guiness umbrella.

Joseph and I went over to Kohls this afternoon. It had been a while since I had been in. $100+ later, we left. It's those damn 80% off sales fault. I got 2 skirts, Joseph got a jacket, and I got a pair of Candies shoes. The same old school Candies I wore 30 years ago;-) I love 'em with jeans, and at $9, I couldn't resist. Along with that stuff, I picked up some jewelry and a bunch of socks.

My house smells like garlic. I marinated chicken in roasted garlic dressing and 10 garlic cloves then baked it for an hour. OMG it was good, but my house smells like garlic. Time to burn a candle I guess. Pumpkin Spice to be exact.

it's november already?

http://www.fussy.org/nablopomo.html

Blog every day in the month of November? It's a nice idea, but I know I won't be able to. I'm trying to be better about it, but I spend half my time in Pismo Beach right now and don't like to use Chris's laptop much. Maybe I'll make an effort to get to the library when I'm there, then I will post;-) I will be better about posting when I'm home, 'k?

This morning was another court date for Ana. They finally set the date for the preliminary hearing. It will be January 10. That will really be difficult. There will be evidence presented, witnesses called...it still seems so damn surreal.

Oh!! Jo is sending the deposit tomorrow for our trip to LA Congress in Feb/March. I was planning on taking Joseph anyway (cause Chris will most likely still be gone, either in Pismo or possibly Texas) but she decided to take the leaders, so that means I won't have to pay the full price for him.

high on snickers

(I have been a bad blogger. I have good intentions, but life gets in the way. I'll try and be better, really I will.)

Happy Halloween. I am currently suffering from chocolate overload, otherwise known as one Hershey's over the line. It's all good though.

Joseph decided to go out trick or treating tonight. This morning, he said he was too old, but Theresa and Audrey wanted him to go with them, so he magically became young again;-) He was a rock and roll zombie. He did his makeup, and looked pretty scary. In fact, when Cindy brought the 2 girls and Andrew (after Joseph go back home), Andrew was scared of him. He loves Joseph normally, LOL, but would have nothing to do with him in costume;-)

We got back from Pismo last night. I really enjoy going down there, but admit the travel is getting to me. We are going down every other week, and I am getting confused as to where I am supposed to be, what I am supposed to be doing...what needs to be done where. Chris has a list of what needs to be done when I get down there. I make sure all his needs are taken care of....then come home and discover we are out of milk here! *sigh*
I am becoming dependent on my agenda. If I don't write it down, it doesn't get done. I have something I need to mail....and I WILL hopefully get it mailed this week , Denine;-)

This month has been particularly hard. Chris has been working 7 days a week, and even when we go to visit, he hasn't been able to spend a lot of time with us. Luckily there is a lot of shopping to be done there ;-0 The thrift shops are particularly fun. This week I found a pair of black leather Bandolino knee high boots for $3.99 :)

Saturday he managed to get off work about 11 am, so we took a drive down to Santa Barbara. What a beautiful place! We didn't get to spend a whole lot of time there (we definitely need to go back) but we did go to the Mission http://www.californiamissions.com/cahistory/santabarbara.html and did some shopping downtown.

Yesterday when Joseph and I left to come home, we stopped at Avila Valley Barn http://www.avilavalleybarn.com/history.html and bought our pumpkin, along with some squash for cooking. I think I will make spaghetti squash for dinner tomorrow.

Speaking of tomorrow....they are supposed to set Ana's preliminary hearing tomorrow morning:(

;-)

You Are 70% Indie

You're a very indie person, and admit it, you look down a little on people who strive to be normal. You'll indulge in a little mainstream pop culture every now and then. But for you, anything not indie is a guilty pleasure!

http://www.blogthings.com/howindieareyouquiz/

happiness is...

A Monkees marathon;-) (and a good bottle of wine)

I had a mad crush on Davy Jones when I was 12.

socialist?

You are a Social Liberal (71% permissive) and an... Economic Liberal (13% permissive) You are best described as a: Socialist Link: The Politics Test on OkCupid Free Online Dating Also: The OkCupid Dating Persona Test

*sigh*

I am so ready to be able to blog something good. It seems lately everything has been bad. I feel like a negative nelly:/

Today was another hearing for Ana. I was teary eyed in the beginning, because when she came in, she actually looked up, caught my eye and gave me a big smile. It was an Ana smile :*) That was different. This is the first time she has actually made eye contact. Before, she was so drugged or whatever, she just shuffled in like a zombie, not looking at anyone or anything.

The prosecution is thinking about filing "special circumstances" on her murder charge. Special circumstances means that if she is convicted, she could get life in prison without the possibility of parole, or the death penalty. The death penalty. I can't even comprehend it. She doesn't need to be killed or locked away for the rest of her life. She needs HELP.

:*(

tuesday. like monday, only a day later.

Joseph got his hair cut today. When I get the film delveloped, I'll post before and after pictures. What a difference. He doesn't look so much like Jack Osbourne now;-) He hated people saying that, but he did look like him, especially with his fedora on.

I got mine cut too. Well, trimmed anyway. There will be no before and after pics of me ;-P

Joseph has been down the street all evening talking with the Krebs kids. Dane is back home again...I guess he got in today. He was home right after Scott's accident, but had to leave last Monday.

Joseph just came in. Flo wants to take them all to Taco Bell. Normally I would say no (it's after 9) but under the circumstances, I let him go. I think it is good for the kids to have someone to talk to about *normal* stuff right now, and Flo really loves him. We've joked about he and Theresa getting married.

Tomorrow he and I are off to Pismo Beach for a few days. After all that has happened lately, it is really important for us to spend time with Chris. Family is the most important thing. You never know when something can be taken away from you.

goodbye scott

Now there is another reason for me to mourn 9/11

Theresa's dad died this morning. He has been in a coma for 2 weeks, ever since he crashed his dirt bike.

Theresa told me tonight that she and her two older sisters, Lauren and Molly, were with him all morning. They got to talk to him, tell him they loved him, comfort him etc. When they told him it was ok if he went, he took a deep breath, let it out and was gone. She said it was like he was waiting for them to give him permission. I know that feeling, it was the same thing that my dad did.

Theresa said that it was peaceful, that he was at peace. She said she had never ever seen her dad so peaceful.

The funeral will most likely be next week.

Scott leaves behind his wife Florence, and kids, Shawna, Lauren, Molly, Dane, Theresa, Audrey and Helen. He also leaves behind one granddaughter.

life is fragile

First the whole mess with Jenny/Ana...then Walt's cancer diagnosis, now this.

One of our neighbors and friends is in the hospital in a coma. Scott was riding his dirt bike on Saturday and had a bad crash. One of his daughters, Theresa, is Joseph's age, and they have known each other their whole lives. His wife and I have actually joked about Theresa and Joseph ending up married .

Anyway, he has been in a coma since Saturday. Teresa sent Joseph a message on myspace telling him about it. She said her mom wanted me to know in case something happened while she was at the hospital with Scott. I feel so bad for Theresa. She is a strong girl who pretty much takes everything in stride (There are 7 kids in the family....taking things in stride is the way to remain sane), but one of the messages she sent broke my heart. She told Joseph it was a bad accident, he is in a deep coma,and she 'doesn't know if he will be coming home'. I can't imagine how scared they all are.

I told them that if there is ANYTHING we can do to give us a yell.

Right now, I guess all we can do is pray.

damn it

I heard from Sue today. Walt has just been diagnosed with Mesothelioma, cancer of the pleura (lining of the chest cavity), which is asbestos related, fast growing and incureable.

Per Sue: "The tumor is too large to operate on or to radiate so his only options are chemotherapy or no treatment. He has opted to at least try chemotherapy which he will begin this week. They will give him 2 rounds of treatment and then take a ct scan to see if the tumor has stopped growing, and hopefully, shrunk. If the chemotherapy works to shrink the tumor his prognosis is maybe 18 months, maybe more or maybe less. If the chemotherapy doesn't work or if Walt decides the chemo isn't worth it than the prognosis is 12 months if we're lucky."

Cancer sucks:(

t.g.i.(almost)f.

It has been a busy week. Last Saturday was the dinner concert at church (I took a different purse and kept it locked in my trunk...no worries about it getting stolen)

The show was great. The kids did such a good job. Of course, I think Joseph and his friends were the best. They sang a couple of Social Distortion songs. There was lots of singing and dancing. The girls did a couple of hulas, and 2 of the girls did a dance to Moulin Rouge and one to We Are Siamese (very cute!) Joseph also did an acoustic solo. He sang Redemption Song. Yep. My son sang Bob Marley;-)

Chris left Sunday morning, and Joseph & I went to Jo's for a pool party in the afternoon. Church that evening was um, different. Two drunks came to church. I guess it was a good thing they wanted to come, but I had a hard time with it (then I felt guilty) They sat directly in front of me....and they smelled horrid. They were REALLY drunk too. They talked through the whole service, with #1 guy explaining to #2 guy what was happening. #2 guy was wasted. He kept swearing.

John came over to them and asked if they really wanted to be there. During the Our Father, when everyone joins hands, they walked across the aisle to take the hand of the person there. I was thrilled...until drunk #2 reached back and grabbed my hand:/ I wish I had thought to fold my hands in prayer and bow my head, but I don't think it would have mattered. I was really nervous about what they would do. I wasn't the only one. Everyone around me was keeping an eye on them, and the kids in the choir were ready to leap to my defense if there was a need;-) Even Fr. Innocent was aware of it. He told me after Mass he was watching, and debating whether to say anything.

Joseph stayed the night at Derek's that night, so I had some alone time. I went to bed early. Woo hoo;-)

Monday we went up to Sheri's for the day. It was good to see them all. Lexie is getting to be a real cutie. I can't believe she's almost 3.

Tuesday Joseph spent the day at Derek's, while Jo, Alicia and I went over to Napa for the day. We went to 2 wineries, http://www.sterlingvineyards.com/ and http://www.vsattui.com/
It was so cool! Sterling has a gondola you ride up to the tasting room/gift shop, etc., and V. Sattui is a really old winery. Their wines are only sold there. No restaurant or store sells V Sattui wines. I bought enough to last me until my next trip;-) After the wineries, we went to the Rutherford Grill for a late lunch. The food was incredibly delicious, and the waiter was even more delicious, lol. Holy guacamole, was he cute. If you ever got to the Rutherford Grill, look for a waiter named Justin...he with the great smile, dimples and pretty eyes.

close call

I think I was almost robbed tonight...at church:/

We were in the parish hall, decorating for the youth group's dinner concert tomorrow night (while the kids practiced)
A few of us women left our purses on one of the tables. We were in and out, and there was always someone sitting at the table.

The Hispanic ministry had some sort of meeting in the room next to where we were, and there were quite a few teenagers there. While we were standing around the table, a particular group of young men came over and started asking questions aout my purse. I have a vintage Louis Vuitton handbag....one I found for $6 at the Goodwill, LOL. (Best thrift shop score ever)
Anyway, these guys were asking all kinds of questions...whose bag was it, and then they kept asking me how much I paid for it. Finally one of my friends asked them whay they wanted to know, and that it is rude to ask that question. They went outside then. A few minutes later, one of our girls came in from outside and came over to me, telling me to pick up my purse now.

She said she heard them speaking Spanish, saying that maybe they should either come back in and steal the purse, or wait until I left and rob me.

When we finally left, about an hour later....there were the 4 guys who had been asking all the questions, and one of their girlfriends, just standing around outside the door. Thank God Joseph was with me (and that he is a BIG kid), not to mention our youth minister and her kids. They stared me down all the way to my car. I looked them all in the eye, like I was memorizing their faces. I don't know what stopped them, but apparently they decided against robbing me. Joseph and I got in the car and I locked all my doors before we left.

I feel like I dodged a bullet. I am a little shaky, but thankful to God that they didn't try and rob me.

I am also extremely sad that this happened on church property:(

tuesday

Ana had another hearing this morning....to postpone the readiness hearing to September 26. Hopefully THAT day they will set the date for the preliminary hearing. Her defense lawyers still don't have all the discovery yet:/

It's been 2 months since this whole mess started.

Joseph and I are going down to Pismo tomorrow afternoon for a few days. Chris has moved into the rental.

This is really weird.


We're leaving in the afternoon because, not only does Joseph have guitar lessons tomorrow, but Ana has a court date in the morning. It is a readiness/preliminary hearing. *Sigh*

Chris keeps talking about the cool deck this house has. I think I need to take a book or two along. Sitting on a deck reading sounds like bliss.

johari

http://kevan.org/johari?view=raingyrl


It's nice to see how people view you:)

sweet relief

The mondo heat wave has broken. **Cue choirs of angels singing hallelujah** When Joseph and I left for Pismo last week, it was still well over 100d. By the time we got home Saturday, it was only in the 90s. Now ordinarily, 90 something would be hot, but after 114, 95 is relatively cool;-)

This week we have been in the hi 80s/low 90s. Much better. I can at least function. Now, as soon as my Loratidine kicks in and my eyes lose the swelling, all will be good;-) It has been really hazy/smoky for the past couple of days, and it makes my eyes itch. And....when my eyes itch, I rub them (bad me). Rubbing my eyes makes my bags underneath look like I could pack them for the weekend:/ Duh. Allergies, dummy. Take your Claritin. *sigh*


Chris left Monday. He is at the hotel til tomorrow, then he moves into the rental. I am taking advantage of his absence to declutter the house. Luckily, I can take my time and not try and get it all done in 2 days. Goodwill is going to LOVE me. I amgoing to have a ton of stuff for them. Now, if I can only keep myself from browsing when I drop the donations off. HA.

whether the weather is hot...

I'm not going to finish that sentence, because the weather is HOT. Yesterday we hit 114. One hundred and fourteen degrees! Holy crap. Welcome global warming:/

VBS last week went well. After the fiasco of the first day with the A/C, we got it fixed and were comfy the rest of the week. Unfortunately, yesterday (when it was 114) the A/C went out in church, so Mass at 5:30 was almost unbearable. Thank God no one fainted. My trusty fan in hand, I managed to make it through. Standing in front distributing the Host was really hot though:/

Chris is down in Pismo this week. Joseph and I are going down tomorrow for a few days. I can't wait. The temps down there are in the 70s. It hasn't even COOLED to the 70s this week here.

i'm melting

Said in my best Wicked Witch voice.

It is hot. Damn hot. As of 10 PM, it was still 89 degrees. 89! What the hell kind of temperature is that for 10:00 at night? 89 should be the daytime high, not the temp at bedtime:/

I don't know what the high was.....the highest I saw on my homepage on the computer was 107. 107. Feh.

It is supposed to be in the 100s all.freaking.week.

Today was the first day of VBS too. Holy cow, the parish hall was H.O.T. Supposedly, the A/C was turned on, but we could hardly tell. Fr Mike has the temp set at 92 before the A/C kicks on. That is unacceptable. Seriously. someone *supposedly* set it lower, but I don't know how much lower:/ Karla made sure that water was sent to each room so we could keep the kids hydrated. I drank 2 bottles of water and a bottleof tea between 9 am and noon...and I took a box fan into my room to try and at least get the air circulating. Debbie was going to have her parents of preschoolers call Fr Mike to complain, and Karla was planning on reading him the riot act. He would freak if one of the kids got sick from the heat. NO one wants high power bills, but sometimes you just have to suck it up.

Anyway, except for the heat, VBS was fun today. We made Fiesta Picture Frames. (Our theme this year is "Fiesta! Where Kids Get Fired Up About Jesus") Tomorrow I am having the kids paint tee shirts, and Wednesday they will make plaster footprints (Follow in the footprints of Jesus) It is going to be a messy week;-)

it's the weekend! or...dear diary

Yesterday morning I went with Josephine to the ranch. We were taken by a couple of older parish members....one who kept calling us "kids" LOL, it sure felt nice to be called a kid;-) This ranch was bequeathed to the church 15 years ago or so. We want the kids to be able to use it, so we went to check it out. It is very cool. There is a house that Fr Mike uses, then on the other side of the street there is a big shed for storage. There is also a pavilion that was built, and lots of picnic tables. Unfortunately, the one side of the property is weed filled. Star thistles. Have you ever walked through star thistles??? (I didn't realize tht we would be hiking to the pavilion. If I had known, I would have worn jeans and boots, rather than capris and flip flops:/)

Anyway, after they get water to the bathrooms they had built, we should be able to get the kids up there for a retreat. We're hoping we can at least take them up in the fall.....there are lots of walnut trees. We can pick walnuts:-)

I went over to Casey's for the evening. We went out to eat then did some shopping. We got back to her house and had a nice talk. There are few people I can talk to like I can Casey. There may be a huge gap in our ages, but she is one of the oldest souls I know.


Tonight was a special night. We went to Scott and Corinne's house for a bbq/pot luck. The coolest thing about the night was the entertainment. John Grassadonia http://www.johngrassadonia.com/ is a long time friend of Corinne. I met him at the L.A. Congress this past year, but didn't know he knew Corinne. We already had one of his CD's (Eleanor got it for Joseph for his Confirmation), and I bought another at Congress. I was so surprised to find out that Corinne knew him! What a small world it really is. She decided to have a dinner and have him perform. He is really inspirational, and quite the singer and guitarist. Joseph went with us, and he really enjoyed talking to John. Oh! Guess what! The police came to the party, LOL. Someone called and complained about noise, so they came to tell us to keep it down. Oh, the memories THAT brought back ;-p

katie to the rescue

http://www.katiefleck.com/50daysofsummer.html

Katie has some terrific ideas. I am definitely going to use one or 10;-)

almost tuesday

I hate Mondays ;/

Joseph lost the phone....the MetroPCS, which is our house phone. What pisses me off is, he lost it LAST WEEK before we left for our camping trip. I didn't think anything of it when we got back Saturday. I used my cell to make a call, he used his to call Derek & Bridgett. When he didn't take it with us to church yesterday, I wondered why but it still didn't register.

Not until this morning when Chris called my cell did it dawn on me that it might have gone missing. GRRRR. We have torn this house apart today, and it is no where to be found. I guess if it doesn't turn up in the morning (I am talking to St Anthony a LOT ) I will go get another phone:/ The boy will help pay for it, too. He didn't tell us because he thought he would be able to find it >:/

He is restricted from the computer until he can show me he is responsible. Damn, I hate it when he screws up. He is usually such a good kid. *Sigh*



On a good note, yesterday at Youth Group, they were talking about the program for the dinner/concert in August. They are going to open with Tonight, from West Side Story. Among other things, Joseph is going to do a couple of numbers (a solo and something with Derek) and the whole cast is going to do some medleys (Disney songs, favorite church songs) Gerry said last night (while looking at Joseph) that he thinks they should do a medley of Beatles songs :D He wants to do Here Comes The Sun, Here There and Everywhere , and Let It Be to end, but he is going to have Joseph pick out the others. Joseph is jazzed;-)

Chrs leaves tomorrow for Pismo Beach/ Santa Maria for a couple of days. Boo and I are staying home this time. I have a ton of stuff to do around the house. (Including buying a new phone, most likely. *Sigh*)

fireworks

I cry at fireworks. I always have. What a sap I am;-)
We went to Andrews Park this evening for the 4th of July festivities. There was a pretty good blues band playing, and lots of booths to peruse. I made Joseph go stand in line to get a funnel cake.. mmm mmm good;-)

The fireworks were good as usual, and as usual, I teared up. You should see me at Disneyland during their fireworks. I cry every.single.time.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tomorrow morning is Ana's arraignment. I'll be there. I don't know if she will finally make a plea or not.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


After the arraignment, we are heading up to the redwoods for a few days of camping. The beauty of the redwoods is just what I need to destress after the the past few weeks. I can't wait to just sit. (And make s'mores).

We'll be back Saturday or Sunday.

why

Why is it that whenever we finally get a priest people love, that he doesn't get to stay? Father H. has been reassigned after only a year with us. I am so bummed :/ He has really touched a lot of hearts since he has been here. The teenagers absolutely adore him (partly because he is really close in age to them, LOL)

I feel like one of my kids is moving away. He is only 30. I have a child older than him! I jokingly told him yesterday that we would all be moving to the new town & parish. His eyes lit up and he said "REALLY?" I told him I was kidding him, and he looked so sad and said, "That's not funny" I felt bad then. He has only been an ordained priest for a year, and has spent it at our parish. We have helped him get used to the US (he's from Peru)

I think the youth group will be making a field trip and visiting him in his new parish. He is going to try and come to the dinner concert in August anyway.

ringo rama

Last night was the Ringo concert at Cache Creek. It was fun. I love the people he has playing with him this year.

Ringo does a couple of numbers, then they go 'round and each person sings one of their hits.

Richard Marx http://www.richardmarx.com/frameset.html looks mighty fine, if I do say so. He has aged very well, and looks much better without that 80s hair. He is quite chisled;-)

Edgar Winter http://www.edgarwinter.com/ played Frankenstein and Free Ride. What memories.

Hamish Stuart http://www.soultracks.com/hamish_stuart.htm was in Average White Band, and also played with Paul.

Billy Squier looks WAY different than he used to. He still sounds good. http://www.billysquier.com/

Speaking of memories, Rod Argent http://www.rodargent.com/ brought back a ton of them. He was with the Hollies way back when, and he sang She's Not There and Time of the Season last night. After The Zombies, he had his own band (Argent) and we heard (and sang along to) Hold You Head Up

Sheila E is the most incredible drummer/percussionist I have ever heard. Does anyone remember The Glamorous Life? http://www.sheilae.com/

As for Ringo, he did all his goodies. Yellow Submarine, Boys, Photograph, I Wanna be You man....it was a great night.

Steve and Casey came too, so we went out to eat after the show. I was so glad to see them. It's been too long.

I really needed last night. I needed the R&R after the past couple of weeks. I needed to laugh and sing;-)

home again, home again

We went back down to Pismo Beach Tuesday afternoon. Chris had a meeting in Sta Maria, and we got a list of some vacation rentals. we will be poring through listings now, and probably be back down in a week or so to look. One of the listings is a vintage Airstream trailer with a built on room. It is really cute. I love funky;-)

Don took us out to dinner last night, to meet his wife and son. I think he wants his wife and I to be BFF, and Joseph & the son to be the same. They are nice, but very quiet and shy. I am shy IRL too (not that you can tell here, LOL)


Ana's arraignment was postponed again. It will be tomorrow morning at 8:30. I went Tuesday a.m. with Karla, Corinne and Gina. Unfortunately, none of them will be able to go in the morning, so I will go alone, unless Joseph wakes up in time. He wants to go along with me.

It was so surreal to be there Tuesday, hear her name being called, and see her shuffle out in shackles:( Henry thanked us for coming, and for supporting her. What else can we do?

*Sigh*

purse whore

Yes, I am a purse whore. A cheap one, at that. I could say handbag whore, if that is more pleasing.

We went thrift store shopping today. One of our most favorite shops (Sacks Thrift Avenue in Petaluma) usually has at least a few goodies. Today was no exception. Even though they have raised the prices for purses/handbags to $5, I looked anyway. (And I am glad I did!) I found a pristine Ralph Lauren bag, but I also scored a beautiful Prada bag. Woohoo! $10 spent for 2 bags worth at least a couple hundred dollars. I would never spend whatever those purses would cost new (especially the Prada one) but I get a special thrill out of finding them at a thrift shop;-)

Oh, oh! I must go watch SNL now. It is a rerun, but Dane Cook is hosting. We love Dane Cook around here;-)

a penny for jenny

This is awesome:-)

http://www.thereporter.com/news/ci_3940444

life goes on

Although the last week was hellish for me, there were a few bright spots, and regular life kept happening. I'll play catch up now.

Last weekend was a 2 day music festival at the Nut Tree baseball park here in town. It was a Christian music festival. Jo got tickets for us to go (parent helpers and choir members/musicians) There were quite a few bands, but my absolute favorite was Mercy Me. Their song, I Can Only Imagine, is one of my favorites. It was awesome hearing them sing it live.

I can only imagine what it will be like, when I walk by Your side...I can only imagine, what my eyes will see, when Your Face is before me!
I can only imagine. I can only imagine.
Surrounded by Your Glory, what will my heart feel?
Will I dance for you, Jesus? Or in awe of You, be still?
Will I stand in Your presence, or to my knees will I fall?
Will I sing 'Hallelujah!'? Will I be able to speak at all?
I can only imagine! I can only imagine!
I can only imagine, when that day comes, when I find myself standing in the Son!
I can only imagine, when all I will do, is forever, forever worship You!
I can only imagine! I can only imagine!
Surrounded by Your Glory, what will my heart feel?
Will I dance for you, Jesus? Or in awe of You, be still?
Will I stand in Your presence, or to my knees will I fall?
Will I sing 'Hallelujah!'? Will I be able to speak at all?
I can only imagine! Yeah! I can only imagine!
Surrounded by Your Glory, what will my heart feel?
Will I dance for you, Jesus? Or in awe of You, be still?
Will I stand in Your presence, or to my knees will I fall? Will I sing 'Hallelujah!'? Will I be able to speak at all?
I can only imagine! Yeah! I can only imagine!
I can only imagine! Yeah! I can only imagine!!
Only imagine!!! I can only imagine.
I can only imagine, when all I do is forever, forever worship You!
I can only imagine."

The kids really liked it too.

Last Sunday, Chris and I had to go to another town to pick up something from Longs that our store didn't have. There was a Goodwill next door, so of course I had to go in;-) Boy, am I glad I did. I found a vintage REAL Louis Vuitton handbag...for $5.99. I looked it over, and it isn't a knock off...it's the real thing! Score! I could barely contain my glee. There is nothing like a great thrift store bargain.

We aslo had to make another short trip to Pismo, just to look around neighborhoods. Chris's living arrangements are still up in the air. The job isn't final yet, either. We are going out to lunch with Mike K. on Thursday so he can hear from me what I think about living apart for a year or so. I'm not happy about it, but I know sometimes sacrifices have to be made. *Sigh*

rest in peace, jenny

The funeral today was beautiful, and so, so hard. I ended up sitting right behind your Dad, Jenny. (He decided he didn't want to sit in the front row) I know you were there with us all, especially your Dad and grandparents. The church was full of your friends, family, teachers and church members who will miss your sweet smile. Father Mike had a hard time in the beginning. We could all tell that he is mourning you as well.

The youth choir did such a good job. I know you enjoyed Amazing Grace. I know everyone in the church was touched when we heard it. You know what a sap I am. You used to tease me about it. When the choir sang Eagle's Wings, it was really hard to keep my composure. It's a good thing I wore waterproof mascara.

I was very glad Father Mike spoke of your mother. He made sure we prayed for her healing. Everyone who knows and loves you and your Mom, knows something happened to her to cause her to do what she did. Did she think she was protecting you from something? Did she even mean to do what she did? I wish I knew, sweetie. I know you know, but you can't tell us.

Jennifer, you are going to be missed so much. It is going to be strange not seeing your sweet, serene face every Sunday at mass. It will be weird not to see you every week at CCD. I know you were looking forward to joining Youth Group this summer/fall. I know you had vacillated about joining, but had pretty much decided to go. You were excited about all the new adventures life had in store for you. I am so sorry you won't be able to do it now.

Your dad told me as Joseph and I left today that he will be back at Mass....on Sundays at 5:30. I am glad he hasn't lost his faith.

Rest in Peace sweet girl..

daddy's girl

That's what the front of Jennifer's shirt says. She looks like a little angel. There are a couple of her favorite stuffed animals in her coffin with her. I guess she slept with them every night, so they will be there for her now.

Tonight was the viewing and her Rosary. By the time I got over to the mortuary after Mass, the viewing was over, so they could bring her over to the church. Her coffin was open for the Rosary though. I wanted to be a big baby and not go up after the Rosary. I wanted to go hide in a corner stamping my feet, but I put on my big girl panties and went up. She looked so sweet.
Daddy's Girl.

Her daddy is a strong man. I don't know how he is functioning, really I don't. I guess it is his faith that keeps him going. He spent time comforting everyone else there. I stood and talked to him, along with Sherry, Heidi and Max. He told us about Ana....how she is. He told us that he HAS to get Ana declared insane, or else she may spend the rest of her life in prison. He told us he knows (as all her friends know) that she couldn't have done this. A mother does not kill her beloved daughter. Something snapped.

Are we all this close to losing control? What could have caused it? Did she lose her faith for a brief moment? The faith that the world is NOT a bad place, the faith that there is Something greater than all of us. Why didn't she ask for help? Did she even know her world was spinning out of control? There are so many questions...questions that may never be answered.

As one of my friends said tonight...I don't get it.

Tommorow is the funeral. It is going to be hard :*(

a rose is a rose

My two loves....Disneyland and roses. Together;-)

http://www.cottagegardensofpet.com/rsdisneyland.htm

I finally got my Disneyland rose. We went to Oregon this past weekend to see Roy and Eleanor (and Steve, Roberta, et al) Saturday we went out to breakfast with R & E, then did some shopping, before meeting Steve and Roberta at Roy's for dinner. We went to the Jackson & Perkins store (Harry & David) They were having a rose sale. I got my Disneyland rose for $10! W00t. Color me happy:) I think this makes close to 20 rosebushes now.

It was good to see everyone this weekend. Both Roy and Eleanor seem to be going downhill though:( Roy is back to using his walker, and Eleanor just seems weak and tired. I think we need to make a concerted effort to get up there more often this summer.

Sunday morning before we left, we stopped at Elycia and Dan's for a few minutes before we went to Steve's. I finally got to hold Gabriel. What a cutie he is. (He's our newest grandnephew) He's 6 months old now. I was sick the last time we were there so I didn't get to see him... I got baby snuggles this time though. *sigh* It's a good thing this baby factory is out of business. Holding Gabe gave me baby lust;-)


Still nothing on the Santa Maria job front. The guy down there really wants Chris and is willing to do a temporary thing. It's back in MK's court now. Chris told them about my concerns about Kaya, and why we can't/won't sell this house and move permanently. Right now they are doing the budget at work, so all energies are on that.....*Sigh*
This waiting is slowly driving me crazy.

Your Birth Month is December

You love life and exude an outgoing, cheerful vibe. Blessed with a great sense of humor, you can laugh at adversity. Your soul reflects: Celebration, success, and wealth Your gemstone: Blue Topaz Your flower: Narcissus Your colors: Indigo, green, and blue-green

What Does Your Birth Month Mean?

midweek smiles

This information is for Catholics only. It should not be divulged to non-Catholics. The less they know about our rituals and code words the better off they are.
The only exceptions are possibly Episcopalians and Lutherans---you know, the Catholics who moved to the suburbs and started voting Republican.

GLOSSARY OF TERMSAMEN: The only part of a prayer that everyone knows.

BULLETIN: Your receipt for attending Mass.

CHOIR: A group of people whose singing allows the rest of the parishto lip-sync.

HOLY WATER: A liquid whose chemical formula is H2OLY.

HYMN: A song of praise usually sung in a key three octaves higher than that of the congregation's range.

RECESSIONAL HYMN: The last song at Mass often sung a little more quietly, since most of the people have already left.

INCENSE: Holy Smoke!

JESUITS: An order of priests known for their ability to find colleges with good basketball teams.

JONAH: The original "Jaws" story.

KYRIE ELEISON: The only Greek words that most Catholics can recognize besides gyros and baklava.

MAGI: The most famous trio to attend a baby shower.

MANGER: Where Mary gave birth to Jesus because Joseph wasn't covered by an HMO. (The Bible's way of showing us that holiday travel has always been rough.)

PEW: A medieval torture device still found in Catholic churches.

PROCESSION: The ceremonial formation at the beginning of Mass consisting of altar servers, the celebrant and late parishioners looking for seats. End of Mass led by parishioners trying to beat the crowd to the parking lot.

RELICS: People who have been going to Mass for so long, they actually know when to sit, kneel, and stand.

TEN COMMANDMENTS: The most important Top Ten list not given by David Letterman.

USHERS: The only people in the parish who don't know the seating capacity of a pew.

books, books, books

Joseph and I went up to Sacramento today to the Scholastic Book Warehouse sale. They have these sales a few times a year: http://www.scholastic.com/bookfairs/warehouse

I got over $150 worth of books for less than $70. What a rush;-) I picked up a couple of books we can use for school next year, a few novels Joseph wants to read (and a few books for me too)
I also picked up some beautiful journals. 10 of them in fact. I am giving them as graduation gifts to a couple of special girls this year, and will put the rest away to give as gifts later. I love to give journals as a gift, along with a pretty pen:)

As we were coming home, we were going to stop at In N Out for a burger, but the shopping center we wanted to go to was surrounded by police cars, and all entrances were blocked. There were news vans all over the place. First, I thought maybe Dick Cheney was there, as he had been in Sacramento today. Nosy thing that I am, I changed my radio to a news talk station. I can't stand not knowing what is going on;-) Apparently, there had been an armed robbery, and a shootout. Wow, I'm glad we didn't go for lunch before we went shopping. We would have been right in the middle of all the excitement. They wouldn't let cars out....people were stuck there for hours:/

happy birthday kaya michelle

Happy Birthday, Peanut.

You are 7 years old today. What a big girl! I hope you are having a wonderful birthday, wherever you are. It is another birthday that we are missing. Nana, Papa and Uncle Joe miss you a whole lot, and we love even you more. I am broken hearted that it has been so long since we have seen you. Since your mommy took you away, we don't even know where you sre, or if you are safe and healthy:*( I sure hope you are doing ok. Has your hair grown? It was starting to grow when you were last with us. Have you gained some weight?

It sure is hard today, Peanut. Papa and I went shopping, and I saw so much stuff that made me think of you. I wish with all my heart that I was buying a birthday cake for you, and lots of presents for you to open. Most of all, I just wish your mommy would bring you back to us, or at least let us know you are alright. I worry about you every day. We love you more than anything sweetheart.

Remember the doll you wanted for Christmas when you were with us? I stll have it in your bedroom, along with some other gifts.

Always remember how much we love you, Kaya Michelle.

With all our love,
Nana, Papa and Uncle Joe
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
(Those hugs and kisses will have to do until I can give them to you personally again)

tgif

Chris called and talked to his Dad today. Roy is doing a lot better. Those antibiotics work fast! He may get to go home Sunday. He wants to leave tomorrow, but I don't know if they'll let him out that soon.

He also talked to Eleanor. She said that the doctors told her that if she had waited a half hour more, that Roy would have been in big trouble. Thank God she got him in when she did. He is definitely a tough old bird.

We got a little bit of rain today. Just enough to water the garden and lawn;) It smells so good outside after the rain.

Dinner tonight was too good. Pizza and beer. Yum!

Oh! Joseph has decided what he is going to sing on Sunday at youth group for the parents... One, by U2. He sang it for Jo and the girls yesterday, and they loved it. He really sounds good:)

ugh

Well, I don't know that we will be going to Oregon or not this Friday....or whether we will be going sooner, or what.

Steve just called, and Roy is in the hospital with pneumonia:/ Eleanor took him to the coast for a few days for his birthday, and he got sick.

For Steve to call at 10 pm, it must be serious. Of course, this is the night Chris isn't home. I hope he calls soon, so I can tell him.

Its a bit scary. Roy isn't in good health. Pneumonia is NOT a good thing for him to have. I hope he can fight it off:(

If you're a praying person, say a prayer for his health, please.

midweek musings

It has been bloody hot here for the past few days. We've gone straight from a prolonged winter to summer. I need a gradual buildup from 60s to 90s, not 2 or 3 days:/ It is supposed to cool to the mid 70s later this week.

My garden is exploding! Everything is growing like crazy. The corn is already thigh high. We should have a good harvest this year:) My flowers are all blooming too. The roses are spectacular.

Chris has a big 'face to face' thing this week with people from all over the world. Tonight a bunch of them went to theA's game after their meeting. Since he wasn't going to be home, Joseph and I made an IKEA run this afternoon. I bought a couple of little chairs and a small table to put out under the big tree in the yard. They look very cute. I put a citronella candle in a bucket on the table, and hung some tiny wind chimes in the branch. Voila! A perfect place to sit and have a glass of wine in the evening....or a cup of coffee in the morning.

Friday is FIL Roy's birthday. I *think* he'll be 81, but I'm not sure. Chris is going to take a half day off (I wish he could leave even earlier) and we're going to drive up to Oregon to see the ILs. We have to leave early Sunday morning though, so we can be back for youth group. It is a youth led meeting so the parents and parish memebers can come see what it's all about. Joseph is going to sing....but he still hasn't picked out a song:/

I'm feeling sad and upset at the treatment I am getting by certain people at a certain forum (which shall remain nameless) Things (untrue things) are being said about me, and I don't even have the opportunity to defend myself from the *attacks* (I feel they are attacks. The women making the statements don't, I'm sure)
~~Enough whining for one day.~~

I think I'll go sit in my new chair under my tree with a nice glass of chardonnay. Hopefully it will help:/

what's goin on

The Marvin Gaye song has been going through my head lately.


Chris got a job offer in Santa Maria. I haven't been sleeping well since then. I don't want to move. I really don't want to move. There are many reasons, lots of them selfish. I love my house. I love where it is (ok, I don't care much for the politics here in cow town...but other than that) We are close to everything we like to do, and it is easy to get to anywhere we want to go.

If we moved down there, we would have to add 5 hours travel time to most anyplace we go (except for Disneyland) I can get to Reno/Tahoe in less than 3 hours. It only takes 5 to get to the ILs in Oregon.

Our life is here. Chris, God love him, goes to work and comes home. That is it, unless we go somewhere. Joseph and I OTOH, are very involved. He is a youth group leader, and he is in a band with his best friend. I am a parent leader at YG, a catechist, and a Eucharistic Minister at church. I don't want to start over. I am very shy IRL, and it is difficult for me to make friends.

There are lots of reasons I don't want to move, but the one that is most compelling to me is Kaya Michelle. I can't move away. What if her mother decides to abandon her like she did before? What if she comes to find us? I can't leave this house. I can't. It may be irrational, but that is the way it is. I am her Nana, and I have to be here for her.

Why couldn't they have offered him this job 5 years ago? There would have been no qualms about moving then:(

Luckily, they are now talking about making the job a temporary assignment....maybe a year. They would provide living accomodations for Chris, and Joseph and I would spend time there....most likely every other week or so. That would be doable.


*Sigh*

We'll see...

!fiesta!

In honor of Cinco de Mayo

You Are a Strawberry Margarita

You're so sweet it's a little overwhelming, and people are a little afraid of corrupting you...It's a little difficult to imagine you with a margarita. And you're truly a different person after you've kicked back a couple!

http://www.blogthings.com/whatflavormargaritaareyouquiz/

6th grade graduation

Yesterday was the last CCD of the year. We opened the partition and had a pizza party with the 5th graders next door in Ana's class. Between Ana and I there were 9 large pizzas, and they were all eaten. Holy cow, can those kids put food away;-) She and I both brought cookies, and various students bought stuff as well. One kid in her class brought burritos and chips/salsa from a local restaraunt (her mom works there) I liked that, LOL. She will be in my class next year;-)

It was a fun day. I brought games and the kids just ate, had fellowship and had fun. I loved hearing thank you from some of my students. A few of them really surprised me. One boy came up, gave me a hug and thanked me for teaching him about God this year. I was really touched. He was one I had doubts about whether or not he even paid attention. I guess he did:)

I got end of the year teacher gifts too. I will be able to keep up with my Starbucks habit thanks to gift cards:-) I also got movie passes, and the most beautiful necklace. It is a heart with a cross inside it....like a Sacred Heart. Gorgeous. I'm wearing it now:)

cute, cute

So, Sunday we went to Petaluma to the antiques fair. I got a few cute things, including the coolest skirt ever. This lady makes clothes for kids from vintage table cloths, and she has made some women's skirts. I bought the first one on this page:
http://www.poppylarity.com/collectionwomen.html

I don't know if you can tell from the picture, but it is a print of Adam and Eve. SO cool! After looking at the web page, I'm glad I got it there, lol. She sold them at wholesale prices. $54 was a lot better than $90! I love the skirt, but I won't be wearing it to church;-)

beautiful day

The weather has been spectacular the past week or so...finally. I guess that's why I haven't blogged. It's too pretty to be inside. No really, I'm just a bad blogger;-)

Last Saturday was the diocesan rally. It was w o n d e r f u l . It was a long, long day (8 am to 10 pm) , but so much fun. Father Tony Ricard was the keynote speaker (www.fathertony.com) This was the 3rd time I have seen him. Last year at L.A congress, this year at congress, then at the diocesan rally. He really is incredible. Kathy and I joked about moving to New Orleans just so he would be our priest. We talked with him a bit, and had our picture taken with him. He came out and talked with Kathy, John, Jo, Alicia and me later on during a break too. The kids absolutely love him.

Joseph, Derek, Patty and Drake performed during the ' band a thon' at the rally too. I got teary eyed. My BABY....performing in front of a few hundred people! There were people dancing even! They had people come up to them afterwards and tell them they were awesome. I was (am) so proud :*)


We got the garden in today! Praise the Lord. Its a couple of weeks late getting planted because the garden was so.freaking.wet. but with the warm weather, we finally got it tilled, composted and planted. We planted tomatoes (Better Boy, Early Girl and romas), zucchini, crookneck squash, eggplant, green and yellow bell peppers, green beans, onions, cucumber and corn. I also got my herbs planted...basil, 2 kinds of oregano, coriander and chives. I have rosemary and sage growing already. I hope we have a good harvest;-)

Tomorrow we're going to Petaluma for the street antiques fair. We're going early so we can be back for youth group...but early is fun. It won't be so hot, and hopefully I will find some treasures:)

koo koo ka choo

I love this! Make sure your speakers are on.


http://decider.cf.huffingtonpost.com/

peace be with you

You Are a Peacemaker Soul

You strive to please others and compromise anyway you can.War or conflict bothers you, and you would do anything to keep the peace.You are a good mediator and a true negotiator.Sometimes you do too much, trying so hard to make people happy. While you keep the peace, you tend to be secretly judgmental.You lose respect for people who don't like to both give and take.On the flip side, you've got a graet sense of humor and wit.You're always dimplomatic and able to give good advice. Souls you are most compatible with: Warrior Soul, Hunter Soul and Visionary Soul

taxman

Let me tell you how it will be
There's one for you, nineteen for me
'cause I'm the taxman, yeah, I'm the taxman
Should five percent appear too small
Be thankful I don't take it all
'cause I'm the taxman, yeah, I'm the taxman
If you drive a car, I'll tax the street
If you try to sit, I'll tax your seat
If you get too cold, I'll tax the heat
If you take a walk, I'll tax your feet
Taxman
'Cause I'm the taxman, Yeah, I'm the taxman
Don't ask me what I want it for (ha ha Mr. Wilson)
If you don't want to pay some more (ha ha Mr. Heath)
'cause I'm the taxman, yeah, I'm the taxman
Now my advice for those who die
Declare the pennies on your eyes
'cause I'm the taxman, yeah, I'm the taxman
And you're working for no one but me

I finally got ours done tonight.
I have been procrastinating. We're getting a nice refund from Uncle Sam but have to pay Arnie& Co. a couple hundred.

I have a headache. I don't like numbers:/

monday monday

It's been a busy few days. Friday night was the last soup & stations at church for the season. It figures, there were only 3 posts of soup this week, and we had a big crowd. I can't remember who sponsored it, but they weren't very organised:/ Fr. Mike showed up too. It's the first time he has graced us with his presence all Lent.

Saturday morning was Confirmation. The youth group had to be there as we had to help with the reception afterwards. I knew we had to set up, but what I didn't know was that every room in the hall was still set up for class, so we had to bust down tables and put away chairs before we could even set up the punch and cookies. Because of that, I didn't get to see any of the Confirmation Mass:(

We went out to dinner Saturday night, to Mary's Pizza Shack.
http://www.maryspizzashack.com They have the best raviolis, and you can get half orders, which is perfect for me.

Yesterday was Palm Sunday. Chris worked in the yard, and Joseph and I went up to Davis for a little while before he had choir practice. Mass was nice. I always get teary eyed during the reading of the Passion. The church looked beautiful, and the choir sounded great.

Today Joseph spent most of the day over at Derek's, practicing for the band a thon at the diocesan rally on the 22nd. They have picked out some good songs to play. A Place In This World by Michael W Smith, Keep Walking On by Faith Hill, Winners and Losers by Social Distortion, Every Rose Has its Thorn by Poison, Knocking on Heaven's Door by Bob Dylan and Live Before You Die, by Social Distortion. One of the songs has to be religious (Michael W Smith) and the others can be secular but have a positive meaning. I hope the kids do well.

Tonight I spent packing, because we leave bright and early tomorrow morning for Disneyland! We'll be back Friday.

I've never done the Thursday Thirteeen yet, so here goes:

Thirteen Things about YOUR NAME 1. Shelly is my middle name 2. Shelly, not Shelley 3. My first name is Karen 4. My mother thought I was twins. "We" were going to be Karen Shelly and Shannon Kelly. 5. Shelly is from a surname which was originally derived from a place name meaning "clearing on a bank" in Old English 6. Karen is the Danish form of Katharine, which means pure. 7. I wanted my name to be Michelle, becauseof the beatles song;) I got to choose my granddaughter's middle name. I picked Michelle. 8. I have had lots of nicknames over the years 9. Shellybean 10. Shellbell 11. Sea Shell 12. Shells (in high school mostly) 13. My close friends call me Shell :-) Links to other Thursday Thirteens! 1. (leave your link in comments, I’ll add you here!)

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!


The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

View More Thursday Thirteen Participants