It has been a busy week!

I love Oregon in the fall. We spent last weekend there. The leaves in Lithia Park are all turning, and it is absolutely beautiful. We spent some time with Steve and Roberta, and basically just relaxed. ( I did do some shopping.....3 new pair of shoes among other things:-D )

Joseph played guitar with his Aunt Roberta. She was very impressed with his playing. So was I. I didn't realize just how good he is getting. They played "Pancho & Lefty"... a Willie Nelson song, and then she pulled out the music for "The Weight" by The Band. The kid did good;)

We came home on Monday, then on Tuesday Joseph and I left for Lake Tahoe. We got back yesterday. We stayed at Doc's Cottages.......they are small cottages built in the 1920's, with quite a history. Clark Gable stayed there. Joseph would do his schoolwork in the morning, then we would go out in the afternoon, either shopping, or to the lake looking for rocks. At night we went to see the boys play at Harrah's. It was a nice 4 days. JB gave Joseph some kind of guitar gadget. I have no idea just what it does. I admit I am hoplessly ignorant of much of the stuff that goes along with electric guitars.

We're heading back up on Tuesday for a couple of days. Casey has rehearsals, and she won't be there, so I am handling the merchandise sales alone.....well, with help from Joseph. He is quite the salesman, lol. I am so lucky. Chris doesn't mind at all. He is working long hours with the new project, so us being gone isn't hard on him. He basically comes home, eats and goes to bed. I do worry about him getting sick, but can't tell him anything:/

I am ready for an early bedtime tonight. Today was donut sales, rehearsal for the skit the kids are putting on next Sunday at the rally, youth group, then Mass. I was at the church from 7:30 this mornig until 6:30 tonight. Whew.

Tomorrow it is schoolwork for Joseph and cleaning for me. *Sigh*.......definitely a Monday.

Today was Mr. N's funeral. It was good to see Mike and Tom.....its been a long time. It is sad that there are family members we don't see unless there is a funeral:( Peggy didn't come out for the funeral though. I didn't think she would. If she couldn't be bothered to come out for her own father's funeral, why would she for her father in law:/ Poor Tom. It must be awful to get NO support from your spouse. Ever.

We went and had pizza for dinner, but waited til after the debate was over. Shrub was defensive again. He just doesn't. get. it.

VOTE KERRY

We're heading up to Oregon tomorrow for a couple of days to see SJ and maybe Auntie.

Have a good weekend everyone:)

Oh......the girl with the offensive sig took it off, so I have her off ignore now.

I got my Eucharistic Minister "training" today, such at it was. Karla told me a couple of things, then gave me a booklet to read. Poor thing, she wasn't feeling well, so she gave me an abbreviated version.

Tonight was the parent meeting at Jo's house. We talked about the budget and plans for both the rally this month and the LA trip, then we all just sat & talked. Florence gave us some good feedback....and told us what a difference we are making in the kids' lives. It was nice to hear.

Then I came home and watched Brady being voted off Survivor. Wahhhhh. The cute one is gone:/



After that I got on the forums...........I wish I hadn't.



=(

Right now, I am so disappointed in some people.....on so many levels:(

Have you ever put anyone in one of the forums on ignore because of his/her signature?

I never have, before today. I am pretty easy going about sigs, of any kind. The one today really offended me though. It is a picture of John Kerry as Osama Bin Laden. It says something like "Osama Bin Kerry....he'll terrorize your taxes" I am appalled that someone, even in a joking manner, equates a candidate with OBL. Maybe I am touchy about it, but it really pisses me off. I thought better of this person......even if she is a Bush supporter, LOL. After all, everyone has a right to be wrong;-)

I could ignore all sigs in that forum, but I really enjoy seeing what people have in their sigs. I didn't even mind when she had the Bush button.

Hopefully she won't keep it in long.....I don't like ignoring her.

Smile For the Camera

I took Joseph to have his school picture taken today. One thing about homeschooling.......if you want a picture, you have to go to a photographer, lol. No one comes here for it;)

It would be fine, too.....if all I got was one pose. Unfortunately, they take 7 or 8 different poses....and I have a hard time choosing, so I usually get 3 or 4 of the poses. Yes, I am a soft touch;)

Anyway, the photos will be back on October 19. I'll post one here so you can see my handsome young man;-)

A Sad Note

Tom N.'s dad passed away. The funeral is Friday. Joseph and I will attend and pay our respects. Chris is going to try and take off for a couple of hours so he can go too. Mr. N. was quite a character. Chris went on a motorcycle ride with him about 20 years ago.......Mr N. was 70 at the time. He was full of life and very funny. he will be missed.

Another day, another debate.

Tonight it was the candidates for VP. I think John Edwards won the debate handily, but that's just me. I really have a hard time even watching Cheney.....he gives me the willies. Seriously....he scares me....even more than Dubya does. I think he is an evil, evil man. *Shudder*


With the mess the forums have been the past couple of days, (damn Delphi) I actually got some stuff done around the house;) I got the closet in the den straightened out, and went through some of Joseph's old books. I gave some old unused workbooks and stuff to Florence for Helen to use.

I also rearranged the lawyers bookcase in the entry/dining room, and the table behind the sofa. I took the vintage school books off the table and put them on top of the bookcase where we can see them better, and I put all the pictures that were on the bookcase onto the sofa table. I feel like I am finally making some progress, lol.

After I finished that, I made a simple family tree as an example for the CCD kids, as I had them make one during class this afternoon. After they finished, I put them all up on the wall under a sign that read " An Arbor of Ancestors". Fr. Mike came in and spoke to the kids about the children's mass he is (finally) starting. I really wish we had a priest who connected with the kids and teenagers of the parish:-( Neither he nor Fr Paul do....at all. Neither one is comfortable around young people. The kids see it too, at least the teens do. They don't feel like they are part of the church. Sad. When the YG had donut sales Sunday from 8-12, Fr Mike didn't even walk over and say hello to the kids. He didn't even acknowledge them at all:(

The only comments some of the kids even get is someone bitching about how they dress. I don't like the really short, short skirts, or belly shirts either at church, but other than that, I don't see what the big deal is. The youth group has a dress code that says no micro minis or belly shirts, so the YG kids, at least don't wear them to church. The thing is, at least around here lots of people don't dress up for church anymore. When a 70 year old complains about the clothes the teens wear to Mass though, I would like to respectfully tell them to STFU. At least the kids are coming to church. Besides, the 5:50 Mass on Sunday evening is the youth Mass. If the little old ladies don't like it, there are lots of other Masses they can go to:/

I am such a slacker.


A blogging slacker, that is. I honestly do have good intentions.....then I get sidetracked. Must be old age;)

Let's see.....what have I been doing? It seems like I have been busy, but nothing is done. The house is still a mess, although I am s l o w l y going through stuff and cleaning out. I will get done sometime this year. I will, dammit. The garden is almost done for. We have a few tomatoes left, and some zucchini (still). I am thinking about putting in a crop of broccoli & maybe brussels sprouts along with some lettuce for the fall. We'll see.

*Sigh* Joseph is really over the moon. My baby boy has a huge, gigantic crush. Heidi is adorable and sweet....and 2 years older! Yikes. I can't believe he is even old enough to notice girls:( They hang out at youth group. I think every 8th grade boy has a crush on her though.

CCD classes are going well; we have been busy at youth group with different activities (planning a trip to L.A. in February) and NOW I have been asked to be a Eucharistic Minister at church.
As Karla told me...someone put my name in as "someone who might be interested". Could I say no? No:/ She is going to train me sometime this week, I guess. I will do it once a month at the youth Mass. I don't know when I will first do it though, as this month we are going to be spending a lot of time in Tahoe.

I thought I was going to be able to meet an online friend this past weekend, but it didn't work out. I am so disappointed. I was looking forward to the meeting. I was actually going to meet 2 people, but one lives faily close by, so we are going to meet soon anyway. Maybe the next time I fly to Seattle I will be able to meet the other one.

I have to go through my lesson plan for tomorrow's CCD class.....luckily I don't need to do that for Joseph. I did the week's lesson plan late last night.

I hope this was enough of an update......I will try and do better, I promise;-)

THERE IS A SNAKE IN MY BACK YARD


I saw it this afternoon. I don't know what kind it is, nor do I care. I want it GONE. It is probably just a garter snake (so Chris says) but I. do. not. care. *Shudder* I hate snakes:/ I am going to stay out of my back yard until Chris 1. Gets rid of it, or 2. kills it.

Yes, I am a wuss.



Today was the first day of CCD for the year. I have a fairly small class....which is good. Karla repeatedly warned me about one boy....telling me to send him to the office at the least hint of trouble....but he was really sweet and good......much better than some of the other boys in the class. I guess I will wait and see. Maybe he just needed a fresh start with a new teacher. I do feel a new freedom this year. If they drive me crazy, I will take a day off;-)

We had to stay for the Confirmation meeting tonight.....the youth group did a presentation to get more kids to join. I don't know if it did any good.......we shall see.

It was good to see a couple of *my* kids who had taken a couple of years off. I almost didn't recognize Taylore...she has really changed the past couple of years. It did make me feel good to have her come over and give me a hug. Its nice to know I have made a difference in someone's life.

Busy Weekend

I think I am actually glad it's Monday;-)

Friday night Joseph and I went to Lodi to see th guys play. Great show as usual. Poor R is looking very tired though:/ It was good to see everyone. We got home about 12:30 a.m., and had to get up early Saturday morning. Saturday was the California Coastal and Creek Cleanup. We all got up and, armed with gloves, headed down to Rodeo for the town cleanup. Our group was assigned the main street, so we headed off, carrying a couple of huge trash bags, which were soon filled, and more passed out. We worked for almost 4 hours.....picking up every thing from cigarette butts to bike frames to sofa cushions, and a few really disgusting things. Thank goodness we were wearing gloves:/ I felt good about how the town looked after we finished, and saddened that it will not last.

When we got back home and showered all the yuck off, I dropped Joseph and his guitar off at Derek's house for the afternoon. While I was gone, Chris finished more of the trim painting on the house. I got home and managed to talk Chris into going downtown to the Jazz Festival. There were some really good bands! There was also a 'wine stroll'........$18 got you a commemorative glass and 5 tastings. They weren't actually tastings either......everyone poured full glasses. Yikes! Its a good thing we only sprang for one glass......we shared. Luckily there was lots of food to taste as well.

Another early morning yesterday. Joseph had to work after the morning Masses, selling donuts. I had to help 'supervise' so I was there all morning as well. After the kids were done, he went back over to Derek's until choir practice at 4:30. I got to go home for a couple of hours, then go back to the church for a meeting......then Mass, then another meeting.

Chris (who doesn't feel sorry for me and my meetings at all, since it was my BIG mouth that got me involved in the first place) went to the Jazz Mass, then went home and relaxed the rest of the day, watching baseball, then football.

Oh! We had our first rain of the season yesterday afternoon, too. It was a doozy....thunder and lightning, and a hailstorm. When I was driving to church, streets were even flooded.

It did make the air smell so good.....and I went to sleep hearing the water drip from the eaves.

I finally have a few minutes to actually sit and blog:)

Camping at Pismo Beach was wonderful......and so peaceful. We got down there late last Wednesday night, and stayed til Sunday. There is nothing better than going to sleep with the sound of the ocean to lull you. I slept like a baby every night. We walked down the beach every day. One day we drove up to Cambria and went to Moonstone Beach. They have the most incredible rocks there:) Cambria is such a cute funky town. We went through some antique shops, but due to the fact that I had NO room left in the car I didn't get anything.

It was especially nice to be at the beach on September 11. I was no where near a television.....so I didn't have to watch endless replays of the towers getting hit......

We sat and relaxed....Chris took a nap while Joseph played in the surf and I hunted for shells. Later we lifted a glass to all those who lost their lives that day.

Memories of 9/11

I can still remember that horrible day as though it was yesterday. Chris had just left for work....the tv was on Channel 3 and I was asleep. I happened to hear Katie Couric though.....a voice cutting through my sleep. She said a plane had hit one of the towers. Sitting up and rubbing sleep from my eyes, I focused on the television. At first, they thought it was a commuter jet or something......they had a camera on the towers.....and the other plane hit the second tower. I knew then it wasn't an accident. I knew I had witnessed something horrific.

I watched it again....watched Katie and Matt try and report on what had happened. I felt then I needed to talk to someone, but didn't want to wake Joseph yet. Let him keep his innocence for just a little while longer. Chris wasn't at work yet, but I emailed him and told him to get to a radio ASAP. Then I turned on ICQ....something I rarely did. Luckily Sandy was on.....there was someone I could share my fear with. I went to the SAHP forum then....and the women there were a Godsend.

When I finally woke Joseph up.....we sat, stunned and crying, in front of the tv most of the day. If I wasn't watching tv, I was at the computer, chatting with others who were just as horrified as I was.....

GRRRRR.

I typed out a nice newsy post, and it disappeared somewhere.

Dammit. ETA......never mind, it showed up...twice. I deleted one.

Anyway, we're off today on a back to school camping trip. Joseph got to choose where, so we are going to Pismo Beach. Math won't be so bad at the beach;-)

Besides, falling asleep to the sounds of the ocean is wonderful.......

Have a nice rest of the week:)

Back to school time

We're leaving today for our annual back to school camping trip:-) We usually try and start back to school while camping, but couldn't get away in time. It always seems easier to ease back into the daily schoolwork while sitting at a table under the trees. (for both Joseph and me) This year we're camping somewhere different, in honor of 8th grade, lol. We let Joseph choose, so we will be camping at the state park at Pismo Beach.. Falling asleep at night while listening to the ocean......mmmmmm)

I hope everyone had a nice labor day weekend. Saturday we went up to Reno (Sparks, actually) for the Rib Cook Off http://www.nuggetribcookoff.com/ Yum! There is nothing better than ribs and cold beer on a hot day;-) I bought some different sauces while we were there.....we used one of them on Monday.

Sunday morning Joseph had to help sell donuts after the morning Masses, to raise money for the L.A. trip in February. While we were at church in the morning, ( I had to be there to help wioth the kids) Chris got some trim painting done. Boy, the trim looks so much better now! Sunday evening at youth group, Joseph got his guitar our and played and sang Imagine. It brought tears to my eyes. If I do say so, the kid has talent:)

Monday Chris took him over to Derek's with his guitar, amp, and skateboard (but no helmet. Grrr) He, Derek, Kurt and Heidi are starting a band. Lord help us all;P I am very happy that John and Kathy have decided to let the kids practice there, lol. Its actually easier.....the other three live within a couple of blocks of each other, so I am the only one who has to drive to get there. After they practiced for a while, they decided to ride their boards downtown to get an ice cream and stop at the music store. Well, while they were riding, my darling son (no helmet, remember. Grr again) takes a header off the board. Smacks his head on the sidewalk. He had a humongous goose egg . Instead of turning around and going back to Kathy's though, they decide he is fine, albeit scratched, and continue their adventure. They did call Kathy to come pick them up from the music store though.......after all it was 103 degrees. When they got back to the P's house, John put an ice pack on dear son's head. I arrived soon after that to pick him up.

I am glad he didn't have a concussion (he does have a niiiice bruise now, and the knot is gone already) .....but he is now grounded from the skateboard for a while, because he knows better than to ride without a helmet:/

Oh, one more thing. I told Karla last year that if she needed a catechist for tis year, I would help her out again. I was SO hoping she wouldn't.....but no such luck. She called last night, and I will be teaching 6th grade. When will I learn???

Grrrr.

I have to take the car in tomorrow. The *idiot* lights keep coming on....but I don't know that there is a problem in any of the things! The battery charge light, the light that shows the brake is on, and the 'brake failure' light are all on. I think it is a short somewhere in the light area. I know what I mean, even if no one else does. Anyway....I hate electrical problems:/

Tonight was the parent leader meeting at Jo's house for youth group. She is really coming along with the preparations for the LA congress. Looks like we'll be staying at the Anaheim Hilton:-)
From the preliminary roster, I will have Theresa and Melanie in my room. Two quiet girls, thank God. I hope it stays like that.....I don't want to be responsible for any wild ones.

The best part of tonight was watching Adria get evicted from the Big Brother house. Whatta bitch! Poor Will.....as of tomorrow, he will be alone with both twins in the jury house. Too bad CBS doesn't show more of the jury house, lol. It could be more interesting than the regular house;)

Well, brother Greg has gone back to Boston. It was good to see him. He came out for his 40th class reunion. I made sure to call him my much older brother while he was here, lol. I am still the pesky little sister when I have to be;-)

We had a small family reunion on Sunday.....Aunt Louise, Sheila, Denise, Myrtle, Wauhilla and various kids & grandkids came, along with Sue, Greg, Sue's kids & grandkids, and Chris, Joseph and me. It was so much fun. I took some old family albums along (I inherited my Mom & Dad's photo albums) It is nice looking back with people who were actually there. I realized how much my family means to me. Aunt Louise (and Uncle Sam) were such a big part of my growing up years. I miss seeing her. I do hope she moves down here.

Yesterday we all went to Sue's for a goodbye dinner with Greg. Lots of laughter there. I realized I am the baby sister....now matter how old I am;-) I stil lcatch crap from big brother and big sister...but luckily I heard no more about how awful I am for not calling Sue:/ Luckily her boys & their SO's know how she is....I got commended by Laura for putting up with it.

I have no choice:/

Today was back to the same old, same old. You know....the never ending pile of laundry. Where does it all come from??? There are only 3 of us here!


OMG....I almost forgot.....my son has a new gadget in his room....a black light. He belongs to another age, so my SIL says. He was born in the wrong decade;-)
It is pretty cool though;)

I have a phone phobia. Seriously.

I've not really thought much about it. I don't like talking on the phone. I haven't really, for years, but it has gotten really bad the past few years. I wish I knew why. I don't like getting phone calls....even from people I care about. I loathe making them. I feel like I am interrupting someone when I call....so I don't.

Most of my friends know this. They know if they want to get in touch with me, for any reason, that email is the best way to do it. I check my email a bazillion times a day, and it works for me. If they really need to talk to me, they give me a specific time to call them.......I manage to do it then. Its like an appointment. I called Sheri this morning and we talked for an hour. Once I get on the phone, I'm fine.....its just picking it up and dialing. I get sweaty palms, and dry mouth. Its a phobia.

The reason I'm blogging this is because my sister jumped my ass tonight for not calling her. We were at her house, and she was drinking.......

We were out on the front porch, and she actually started yelling at me, then apologizing for yelling, then telling me how angry she gets at me for not calling. She just kept asking me why I don't call. I don't KNOW. I just don't. Every time she would ask, getting louder each time, I could only say I. don't. know.

Maybe I need a shrink. It is certainly irrational to be afraid to pick up a phucking phone and make phucking phone call:/

I guess I can check into classes or something.........

I do know this....if you know someone who has a phobia.....don't yell at them about it. Chances are good they already know they have a phobia......getting bitched at does not help matters. All it does is make the person feel worse:/

WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD (George Weiss / Bob Thiele)

I see trees of green, red roses too
I see them bloom for me and you
And I think to myself, what a wonderful world

I see skies of blue and clouds of white
The bright blessed day, the dark sacred night
And I think to myself, what a wonderful world

The colours of the rainbow, so pretty in the sky
Are also on the faces of people going by
I see friends shakin' hands, sayin' "How do you do?"
They're really saying "I love you"

I hear babies cryin', I watch them grow
They'll learn much more than I'll ever know
And I think to myself, what a wonderful world
Yes, I think to myself, what a wonderful world

Oh yeah


I love to listen to Louis Armstrong.
That song can bring tears to my eyes sometimes......

Isn't she beautiful? She was a kitty last year.....a darn cute one.




Kaya on Halloween 2003

Well, the scanner works;-)

I added some pictures. The first one is of Joseph with his "Uncle" Joey. It was taken at the Woodland Opera House after a show. The second one was taken the day of Joseph's Confirmation, and the last one was last year when we had Kaya staying with us.

I have a beautiful one of Kaya I will put in......you will be able to see what a doll she is. I miss that little girl :(

Joseph and Uncle Joey

Confirmation Day, March 31, 2004

Joseph and Kaya at Bonfante Gardens, 2003

Damn hand held poker game. I am addicted already. I went to Big Lots today and found one for $3.99. I have been playing it all evening. I'm doing good, too......I wish my luck was this good when I put $ in the machines at Tahoe or Reno;)

FAIR ENOUGH

I love the state fair:-) It is always so much fun. We went yesterday....walked all over, ate junk and looked at strange and wonderful things. I saw my earring lady, and bought 7 pair of earrings. (to be honest, 3 pair were on one card) We did a wheel of fortune at one booth....Chris got a trowel for the garden, and I got a cute egg whisk)

There is a baseball exhibit this year, as well as a civil rights exhibit. Its nice to get a little 'edumacation' along with your food on a stick. Chris' foot was bothering him pretty bad about 5 pm, so he left and didn't stay to see Rain play. He did talk to Steve and Casey for a few minutes though. Damn plantar fascitis....... I wish I could get him to take ibuprofen. He came home and iced his heel.

What a show the guys put on though! It was awesome! Oops....must back up though.

About 90 minutes before the show started (the guys couldn't set up or do sound check early...another band was on stage) JB realised that there was a piece of equipment he needed.....RK forgot to bring it (along with enough guitar stands) They sent Casey and me (and M) to Guitar Center to get said products......they didn't have the reverb whateveritwas, but we did get 5 guitar stands....and some batteries they needed. S called while we were comnig back......they also didn't have a piano stool! Oh well....he made do....by that time, it was only about 30 minutes to showtime, and Guitar Center was closed!

Mishaps and missing equipment aside, it was a fun night. I wore my "Liberal, and proud of it" button for a while, until J said *don't touch me*. I of course, touched him. Lots. Later he was tesing me....'you, you....liberal'. I just smiled and told him 'yeah, but you love me anyway'

I must say.....I am more than happy he is out from under another's thumb. He is back to being 'my' J. Well, not mine per se, but they way he used to be. Sweet, funny and loving.

Oh man....gotta go watch the Olympics. I hear the Russian wench fell off the uneven bars, and stormed out of the hall. Geeze....unsportsmanlike much?

TGIF

The boy and I both got haircuts this afternoon. He really needed one.....the curls were out of control! His hair looks good. He had them cut it a little shorter on the sides and back than before. Damn kid looks like a man now:/ Where did my baby boy go?

Mine was just trimmed. I am growing it out....I want to be able to put it up if I want to, but it had no shape at all, so I had her trim & shape it a bit. It kind of looks like Oprah's.....with bangs and kinda flippy.

Chris should be home soon......tonight is pizza night (yay) Round Table here we come!

After pizza we will go to the Creekwalk. I hope the band is good tonight. I forgot to look and see who is playing. Please....anything but country;/ Joseph is supposed to meet Derek.....but if it is a country band, we will not be staying long. There isn't enough beer for sale to make me listen to country music for very long;-)

One more thing (shameless patriotism here.....the Olympics bring it out in me, lol)
YAY Carly Patterson! WTG girl!!!

I Love Lake Tahoe

Tahoe was absolutely beautiful. The weather was perfect, and the days were so relaxing. We did some walking, a bit of window shopping in town, and a lot of reading. It was nice to get away for a week. The only bad thing were the squirrels who decided they wanted in the screen room of the tent.....(to get the pumpkin seeds that DH {not dear husband, either} had left in plain sight)....so they gnawed through the screen:/ Little fuckers. Now I have to go get some kind of a patch and sew it on.


Oh yeah, the shows at night were awesome:) Donna is an angel.....she seated us in the front row every night, no matter what our tickets said. Casey and I did well selling tee shirts/cds. hats/mugs after the shows. It was much better when the guys came out to sign autographs though. Joseph came to a show one night, then disappeared into the dressing room with S & JB. They are very impressed with his guitar skills, lol. J forgot the wahwah pedal he had promised Joseph, but brought it on Sunday. Speaking of J....he was back to his sweet self, thank goodness. Moody damn musician;-)

Casey and I went shopping on Sunday.....and were caught in one hell of a thunderstorm in Carson City! The freaking lights went out in the store while we were there. It didn't stop us though;-)

Came home on Monday, then went straight down to R& E's in Santa Cruz to celebrate Chris' birthday.....which was yesterday. They bought him a Jacaranda tree.....I was jazzed! We have admired those every time we go to L. A. We just have to decide where to plant it......

Today was spent doing laundry. Oh joy, oh bliss. Not really;) I wish I could send my laundry out to be done. Denine?

The only thing about Chris taking yesterday off.......I feel all discombobulated. It feels like Monday......and I hate Mondays;)

Bad Blogger, Bad.
I have been a bad blogger this week. I didn't realize it had been since Monday or something since I blogged. I kept putting it off because I didn't think I had anything worth blogging. *Sigh*

It really has been slow around the old homestead this week. Let me see if I can remember any highlights.......

Hmm. There was the day that Chris brought home a printed email he got at work from his associate....it was very nice. It was all about what kind of herbs I should be taking for menopause. It even gave him the brand name and how to buy them. Gee, I wonder how Charlie knows I am going through menopause? Wasn't it sweet of my dear husband to let someone (who I don't know well at all) know personal stuff about me??? Maybe I can poll my friends about a problem he is having, and give him the results of what they think. After all.....it is just being helpful, right???

I had a parents meeting at Jo's house for youth group.....somehow I have been named a parent leader. I am on the inside as far as budget and planning goes now. How the hell did that happen?? I guess that's what I get for volunteering;-)

I am surrounded by assholes.

Not only has dh been an ass this week (besides the menopause thing.....he has been a grouchy ass for 2 days....he really needs this vacation), but yesterday Joseph and I went to Santa Rosa to see the guys play. After dealing with the assholes on the freeway (do they really need to ride my bumper?) J was being an arrogant ass. Ugh. Sometimes.........I could just smack the crap out of him.

Hopefully my mood will improve this week. We leave for Tahoe tomorrow for 5 days of 'city camping' (actually, I leave tomorrow....Chris and Joseph come up on Monday) It should be fun, and relaxing. I made sure Chris packed the lounge in the truck.....the better for an aftenoon nap. (And I won't be camping tomorrow, LOL....I will be in a nice hotel......) I'm looking forward to seeing Casey and the guys too. Hopefully, J will be over his 'assholyness'. If not, screw him:/

I am also hoping Chris gets to relax. Believe me, he needs it:/

MONDAY, MONDAY

It was a pretty nice weekend. Friday, Joseph and I went up to Sheri's for the day. We went to Nordstrom Rack and picked up a few things. He got a pair of red checked Vans....$19.99. I found a very cute skirt, and I also picked up a couple of things for Christmas gifts. We got home right before Chris got home from work...and we all went to Round Table for our weekly pizza. We tried the 'skinny' crust.....not too bad. Of course, the carbs we didn't get from the pizza crust, we did get from the Coors Light, lol.

From there we went to the Creekwalk to listen to the band play. I don't know the name of the band performing then, but they were pretty good. Chris & I sat and listened to music while Joseph got to visit with some friends.

Chris had to work (both Saturday and Sunday), so Joseph & I pretty much relaxed both days. I did go to Ross and get a few things on Saturday.....then hit Goodwill on Sunday.

Joseph played guitar again at Mass, then played a new song at youth group afterwards. He is supposed to be the guitar player this Sunday evening, but we are supposed to already be in Tahoe. *Sigh* If he really wants to play, then I will go up Sunday, and Chris & Joseph will come up Monday morning. Its all depending on whether or not Joe really wants to play Sunday....

As for today....its Monday. What more can I say.....cleaning and errands.

I have been able to take a few breaks during the day to peruse the latest forum debates. Gotta love abortion debates:/ Especially the ones who love to tell you that "a Christian CAN'T be pro choice". Wrong again, o young ones. *Sigh* When I was 22 though, I also thought I knew everything;-)

A Visit With Auntie
 
I had such a good time visiting with Aunt Louise today.  Sue wasn't home, so I took her for a drive around the old 'hood.   She really hasn't been back there in 25+ years, so she enjoyed the tour, and she reminisced quite a bit.   I love hearing the 'remembering'.  We stopped and had lunch in Pinole, and each house we passed in old town brought a memory from her:)
 
She may move down from Oregon.  Since Uncle Sam passed, and  Wauhilla& Lance are planning a move, she is pretty much on her own, except for friends, and her other daughters want her closer to them.....in case she gets sick or something.  I would really love to have her closer as well.  She has always been like a second mother to me, and since I don't have one anymore....a surrogate is always nice.
 

I get to spend some time with my aunt tomorrow:-)
 
Aunt Louise is down from Oregon, and gave me a call this morning.  She wants me to pick her up at Denise's and drive down to Sue's for a visit.   It was either that or come over here, and since my house is torn up right now (clasroom cleaning & organizing....and major cupboard cleaning in the kitchen)  I wish I had known she was coming down. I wouldn't have started the cleaning and stuff.  Right now the kitchen is in boxes while I go through and see what I am keeping and what goes to Goodwill.  As for the classroom......UGH.   I will get it finished by the end of next week. I am giving myself a full week for both things.
 
I think I will take her out to lunch too.  She was such a big part of my life growning up, especially during my teen age years.  I spent a lot of time at her house.  She has been alone for a year now, since Uncle Sam passed away.  I 'm glad she's getting out and about.

I need a new scanner.  I really do. 
 
Target has a printer/copier/scanner on sale......I should go get it.  We had one before and I loved it.  When it died, I just replaced the printer, so we have been scanner-less for awhile.  I use it so much with school stuff.....and when I get a new one, I will post more pictures;-)
 
 
From the Inbox
 
For us dopeless hope fiends:
How  to start your day with a positive attitude.
1. Create a "new folder" on your computer.
2. Name it "George W. Bush".
3. Send it to the trash.
4. Empty the trash.
5. Your computer will ask you: "Do you really want to get rid of "George W. Bush"?
6. Answer calmly, "Yes", and press the mouse button firmly...

This is a couple of years old. We were dressed up for an event and my friend surprised me.
here I am

OMG, its me!

 
For you, o Evil One

Ok, I posted a picture. I hope it doesn't break the poor blog;-)
As soon as I get a new scanner (mine died....may it RIP) I will scan and post some more;)

In the meantime, I may look and see what else I have around here I can post:)

As soon as I can figure out how to post a picture, I will, I promise.   (Ok, Evil One??)

 
I don't have many on the 'puter anyway.

I will try and figure it out tomorrow.........

Deal of the day...
 
We went thrift shopping today.....I got a pair of linen cropped pants......baby blue Banana Republic with store tags on ($68....thankyouverymuch) for $2.99. I love getting something like that!  I just don't understand though.....if you are spending nearly $70 for a pair of pants, and you don't like them (or they don't fit) why don't you take them back for a refund? Hell, I would.  But, thank you for not taking them back, whoever you are. I know I would never spend $70 on a pair of pants. I do love getting them for $2.99 though;-)

We interrupt this regularly scheduled programming.......
 
 
The shows at the fair last night were really good.   Joseph had a grand time.   S let him play one of his guitars, then complimented him on his playing.  Coming from a professional, that is high praise, lol

Joseph  had a good time hanging around with J during the break.  He really loves him, and J loves him back.   I'm glad they are so close.  J is like another father (or uncle) .  Joseph can't get away with anything around him:)

Exciting news!  JB and M are getting married (finally!)   Its family only at the wedding, but I am sending them a card.  I wish them all the best.....love, health and a lifetime of happiness...

Tee shirt/CD sales went well.....and one of the cute lighting guys was flirting.  He has no idea how freaking old I am!!  It did make me feel good though;-)

We now return you to your regularly scheduled programs.....

*Said in voice of the Wicked Witch*............."I'm mellllting"

It is friggin hot.   9:30 at night and still almost 90.  Sleeping is going to be next to impossible,even with the air on.   I may end up on the sofa, just because the family room is the coolest room in the house:/ 

I had big plans for cleaning today, but it was too damn hot.   Since it was too hot to clean, I took Joseph up to Guitar Center to get a few things he needed.  $60 later..............little things add up, for sure.

I can't complain though.  He really enjoys his guitars and is getting so good!

Tomorrow is supposed to be another scorcher.....102* or more.  It is gonna be hot at the Amador Co. Fair, where the boys will be playing.  Sometimes I wish I still wore shorts in public.....but I will have to find something else to wear:/
Joseph is looking forward to going with me.  It should be fun.

I just found out that they will be back at Harrah's Tahoe in August!  http://www.harrahs.com/our_casinos/tah/
Yay! I always have fun there:)

I am one tired puppy.   We just got back from Marine World....we've been there since 10 this morning..   We were supposed to go to a Gospel Day there with the youth group, but the music was so unorganized that we all just ended up going to the shows and riding rides.  The kids didn't want to sit and listen to much music.....and 30 cranky teenagers is not a good thing;-)
 
After this past week with VBS, and today at Marine World.....I am exausted.  I think I am going to bed early and hopefully I'll be able to sleep in tomorrow. I know Joseph will!  Chris went down to R&E's to do some yard work today since neither of them can do it.  He'll be back home tomorrow.

Its Wednesday.....halfway through this year's VBS. I'm having fun (and so is Joseph) I think being the 'craft lady' is a blast;-) I love watching the kiddoes putting together whatever I have planned for them. There are some colorful things being made. We have preschoolers in the program this year, which is different. Karla couldn't get someone just for the pre k, so they are with the K-3 kids. Most of them are doing really well. I would rather have some of the littles over some of the older kids. They can be real smart asses.

Tomorrow night is the pot luck (I have no clue what to take, either....) and the carnival that the youth group is putting on. Friday is the last day of VBS, and Saturday is the day we take youth group to Marine World. I think Sunday is going to be a day of sleep for me;)

Thrift shop deals

Since Karla wants everyone working to wear 'island' clothing this week at VBS, I picked up 5 Hawaiian shirts for Joseph to wear (The theme is Lava Lava Island) @ $2.99 each. 2 of them are even vintage! Woo hoo!! I already have some for me, but I found a tropical looking dress today also. If I can find a sarong tomorrow, I may wear one (over shorts, and with a tee shirt) If not, there is always the grass skirt at the party outlet;)


I put together the sample crafts tonight. I am going to have to tell Karla tomorrow what a PITA the angel pin is. I don't know if the littles will be able to do it at all....and I know it will take longer than the 20 minutes alloted. It will probably take 2 days, even for the older kids:/ I don't think she really looked at them before she ordered them.

I think when I go to set up my room tomorrow afternoon, I will look around and see if there is something we can do instead of the angel pin....

Tonight is the best of Will Farrell on SNL.....can't wait til 11:30. In the meantime, I picked up the new Vanity Fair today, so I think I'll pour a glass of wine and do a little reading.

Wow, did I score today! When I took Joseph for rehearsal this afternoon, I ended up helping Karla get stuff ready for VBS on Monday. She was telling me about working on her annulment. I don't know.....will they annul a 25 year marriage? She said she has to fill out an 11 page questionnaire......sheesh!

Anyway, before I left, she had to go into the food locker for something and took me in there with her. When she opened one of the fridges, there were boxes and boxes of produce. Apparently, one of the local stores donated a butt load.....and they can't get rid of it before the weekend. She asked me if I wanted to take some home, so it wouldn't all go to waste. Ummm, yeah. She loaded up a huge box with about 5 different kinds of squash, some fresh green beans, & bell peppers, and gave me half a grocery bag full of nectarines and plums! WOW. Now I am going to have to see about freezing them or something.....I need to look online for hints. Meanwhile, we had grilled veggies for dinner tonight. OMG....heavenly!

After that, Joseph and I had to go to Target. He "needed" a Led Zeppelin CD;-)

I shouldn't have gone, lol. All the 'Summerville' stuff is 75% off.......I just kept putting stuff in the cart. I got an ice crusher for $1.99.....and hanging lamps for $1.99 each. One will go in Joe's room and the others out on the patio. I also got a little shave ice thing.....perfect for snowcones;)

There are a couple of other things I wanted, but I am going to wait until they are 90% off. If they are gone before that, oh well. It would mean I wasn't meant to get them;-)

Cold beer and food on a stick. It can mean only one thing......the fair. We went to the county fair today (not our county, but a county) I was a happy camper.....the weather wasn't scorching. It was actually pleasant. I love walking around looking at all the exhibits. I think my favorites there are the collections and the table settings.

Of course, there are the massive amounts of booths....buy this, buy that. Who knew that there was such a market for sushi makers and salsa makers;) How have I lived lo these many years without a sticky roller for my pet hair?? Not to mention the telescoping ladders....guaranteed to hold up in a hurricane!

I did buy some earrings from the lady who is there every year. She sells the cutest crystal earrings, pins and bracelets. I also bought a Beatles purse. It is adorable, if I may say so (and I do) I think I will have to carry it to a Rain show;)

I don't know what happened last night....triple post? Wierd. Anyway, I got rid of 2 of them.


So. John Edwards is going to be Kerry's VP. Ok. I wonder what shrubbie and the dick are going to have to say about that. What kind of shit are they going to spew?

Got a call from Karla this morning. Joseph's rehearsal was postponed until Thursday. Dammit. If I had known, I would have gone up to Sheri's today. Chris is taking the day off tomorrow, so we can't go then, and now Thursday is out too:/ I think we are going to the Alameda Co Fair tomorrow. I hope its not too hot. It can be bloody hot there;)

Its 9:30 at night and still 86* outside. Its going to be a hot one for sleeping. I hate to have the a/c on while I sleep.....I always wake up with a stuffed head.

We bought one of those small pop up pools today.....10 feetX 36 inches deep. Its at least big enough to get wet in, which is all we need. I even bought a new air mattress to float on. Joseph was in it as soon as we filled it.......I will wait until the water has warmed up a bit;)

I got some deals this weekend while we were out and about......

First deal....a vintage peach colored beaded sweater. I've never seen a peach one. Very cool. It looks like late 50s, early 60s. price: $1.99
second deal: 2 vintage chrome toasters w/bakelite handles. price: free An antique store is going out of business, and had them sitting outside with *free* marked on them. They were selling for $25 each. There are also 4 dining room chairs....marked free. Unfortunately we were in the Volvo. Dammit....I wonder if they will be there tomorrow? I should send Chris down in the truck......

I love fireworks. I am such a sappy sentimentalist. I cry every time I watch them. I don't know why, I just choke up. Can't help it. The fireworks here were the best tonight that they have been since they started doing them a few years ago. We had a prime spot to see them, too. Coolness:-)

We got back this afternoon from R& E's house. They seem to be doing ok. E found out she is allergic to almonds though. She didn't know it....has been eating them all her life. Well, shes developed an allergy now:/ I guess she had to go to ER....her throat closed off, her face swelled. Doc gave her an Epipen to carry now. Damn. I didn't realize you could develop an allergy at 70 years old! That is scary:/

My swap from Sarah was delivered while we were gone. What a treat it was to open! She sent me some water ballons for Joseph, 3 cooler thingies. (I don't know what they are called....you soak them in water then put them around your neck.) Those will certainly come in handy! She also sent me a bag from Bath & Body works ( a real purse, too.....I love purses) It has shower gel, bubble bath, body lotion and body spray. AND...its Cucumber Melon....one of my favorite fragrances from there. Yay:-)

Speaking of forums.......I am seriously tempted to take a break. I actually had to stop reading one of them today, I was getting so pissed. I could feel my BP rising. I wonder why people do what they do. There are people on the forums I don't like. No one is going to like everyone all the time.....its just not gonna happen. If I don't like someone though, I ignore them. Its really very easy. I may not have them physically on ignore, but I just don't read their posts. I sure as hell try not to egg someone on, to get them to *melt down*, whatever. I don't have time for that kind of shit. Its childish and high school. I sure don't have the time (or energy, or desire) to go through each and every fucking post and pick it apart....to *catch* someone in a lie. Big. Fucking. Deal. I'm sure some people lie. I don't, but personally don't give a shit about any one else. I can't control what they do. *Sigh* I know I'm rambling, but I guess I am just disappointed in people. Some of these people I consider 'friends' too.

If you read this, and I strike a nerve, sorry. I'm just bitchy tonight, and this is a good place to vent. If you don't like what I have to say.......feel free to ignore me. Right now I could care less;-)

Mmmmm. Pizza. We haven't had our Friday pizza in a while. It sure tasted good. A girl who works with Chris was there with her hubby tonight, Her name is Dory. Wonder if she gets Finding Nemo jokes?

We went to the Creekwalk after dinner. Unfortunately it was a country/western band playing. Ick. We did run into my aunt while we were there. It was nice to talk to her. She was very impressed when I told her about Joseph being in the church choir & youth group and that we are working at VBS, until she remembered we go to a *shudder* Catholic church. This is the woman who told me that my grandmother would turn over in her grave if she knew I converted to Catholicism. *Shrug* I guess its all that idol worshiping and praying to saints that gets her. *Evil grin*

When I got home and checked email, I had a classmates thing with the new members. On the list is one of my cousins....a daughter of the aforementioned aunt! I haven't seen her in a year, so I shot off an email. I hope I hear from her. She and her sister managed to grow up fairly unscathed from the fundie upbringing they had.

Well, I took the car in this morning. $400 later......here I am. Brakes, both front and rear, plus the rotors needed to be replaced. Thats one of the downsides of having a used car....I don't know when the brakes were replaced/repaired, or if the rotors were done when they were. Oh well, its as good as new now:)

My sinuses have been bothering me all day. I think I'll take a Claritin and go to bed early.

A joke from the inbox:

A popular bar had a new robotic bartender installed. A guy comes in for a drink and the robot asks him, "What's your IQ?"

The guy answers, "150."

So the robot proceeds to make conversation about quantum physics, string theory, atomic chemistry, and so on. The man listens intently and thinks, "This is really cool." He decides to test the robot. He walks out of the bar, turns around, and comes back in for another drink.

Again, the robot asks him, "What's your IQ?"

The man responds, "100."

So the robot starts talking about football, baseball, cars, and so on. The man thinks to himself, "Wow, this is really amazing." So he goes out again and comes back a third time.

As before, the robot asks him, "What's your IQ?"

The man replies, "50."

The robot then says, "So, you gonna vote for Bush again?"



Not much going on today at all. SSDD:-) I did make a run to Trader Joes to stock up on 2 buck Chuck & to pick up some other stuff I needed. I also went to Le Gourmet Chef to see if that's where we got the good sugar free syrup for Chris. It wasn't:/ I have no freaking idea where I got it, and its driving me crazy.

I finally went to the post office to get my swap package out. It never takes me this long to get my swap out. I feel bad not having mailed it before now.

I have to take the car in tomorrow morning......I think we need brakes. Shit.

I love the smell of lemon verbena. Really. I bought one last year for the perennial garden in the front yard, and I bought another one today to put in my herb garden in the back. The smell takes me back to my childhood. I loved getting lemon verbena lotion...

I also love the smell of cocoa mulch. I bought 3 bags today and spread it on the garden. Not only does it help with weeds, but it smells like a Hershey bar;) It smells like the cocoa butter I used to slather on my body before I went in the sun. How stupid was that. We didn't know any better then. Now its SPF 30+

I do still use cocoa butter though. It is great for my dry feet and heels:)

I'm on a good smells kick.....I usually am in the summer. I like floral scents then. When we were in Vegas, I went to Hilo Hatties and bought some perfume. Besides the Wicked Wahine, I bought small bottles of pikake, plumeria and Hawaiian white ginger. Now, if I could just bottle all the good smells of summer.....the beach, freshly washed hair....clean sheets.....actually, I probably can get all those smells in a bottle, lol. I'm sure Restoration Hardware has them;-)

I hear The Mamas and Papas singing......."Monday, Monday"

Today was for errands and house cleaning. I got the stupid jury snafu taken care of. They had me on the rolls twice. That's government for you.

I got some laundry done, and finally finished unpacking from the camping trip.

Camping was awesome. There were hardly any people at the campground.....it was so relaxing. I love waking up to the smell of outdoors. One night a fox came right up to our table while we were sitting around the fire. The next evening a deer walked though the campground. There were bald eagles and ospreys in the trees.

I realized we do need to get either a small utility trailer or a roof carrier though....especially if we want to take Adam with us later this summer. The Volvo is stuffed to the gills, lol.

I went up to Roseville last night to see the guys play at the Placer Co. Fair. One lady got highly irritated that Casey and I won't take checks (or credit cards) for the tee shirts, etc. Sorry. We're not set up for that, lol. I also can't believe that the fair takes 20% of what the guys sell. That's the first time I have run into that. Oh well.
Speaking of surprises....Robert (Randy's stepson) is married! I haven't seen him in a couple of years. He is married to a really sweet girl named Bethany. He will be 21 next month (too young to get married, says the old woman) He reminded me he will be 21, and wants to go drinking. Um, I don't think so, sweetie;)

Father Ralph gave me crap, just like usual. Joey was in one of his "I don't want to talk to anyone" moods. Musicians:/ Steve is the only non moody one of the bunch,lol.

It is good to be home....at least for a few days. Chris really has vacation this week, so we are going camping tomorrow for a few days......up where his pager doesn't work;)

Illinois was fun, even though we only had one car. I got up every morning at 5 to take Chris to work so Joseph & I could use the car. We explored the surrounding towns.....I went antiquing again in Alton, and also went to a great antique mall in Fairview Heights. I ended up with 3 vintage tablecloths and 4 aprons, among other things. I also found another beaded sweater.....at the Goodwill there. Score!!

We went to the movies one night to see Harry Potter. Good flick:) Those kids are growing up. We took a ride one evening up the river road to Grafton. What a cool town!

There is so much history around there. It still amazes me that I saw the place where Lewis & Clark started their journey.....and where Lincoln & Douglas had one of their debates.

Even with all that, the highlight of our trip was seeing Rupert from Survivor! The minor league baseball team had a Survivor night and Rupert was the guest of honor. There were 300 people standing in line to meet him....but damned if I was going to do that. No matter how much I like him, lol. Joseph did manage to sneak around and take a couple of pictures of him though, and he waved at Joseph. Tijuana from Pearl Islands was there too. I guess she lives in St Louis.

The day after that, Joseph & I went into St Louis for the day. We went to the Arch again, and to the museum there. I got some great books for school this fall. The best thing about that day was seeing the Olympic torch relay. We were right in front when the runner went by. Joseph took pictures and I cried;) It was awesome.....again....what history.

One thing I realized......I had forgotten how humid it is in the midwest, lol. The last time I was in the midwest in the summer was when I was 11 years old. I didn't give a shit how my hair looked then;) I finally gave up trying to 'style' it. It was just curly.

We got home late Friday night....then got up early on Saturday to go to the Giants game. That was fun! There were about 20 people from work there. One guy was a Red Sox fan, and we gave him crap through the whole game;) After the game, we came home, then Joseph & I drove up to Placerville to see the guys play at the fair. Chris stayed home to rest. Yesterday I did laundry & caught up with my forum reading.....holy shit, what a story about Chard. (or Chamie) How fucking wierd is that??

We grilled steaks & corn for dinner and I made a Caprese salad. I think Chris had a good, relaxing Fathers day:)

Today has been spent cleaning and repacking for the camping trip.......a few days by the lake will be a good thing:)

I hope everyone has a good week:-)

Well, the camping trip is off. Actually, this week's vacation is off. Chris got a call yesterday from R. Seems Mr. Z (president of refining) told MK to "Get Chris back to Hartford and get that phucking coker running right" Sigh

I mean, I'm really glad they think Chris is so good at what he does (as well he should be, he's done it for long enough) I am glad because there are a lot of people they could have called, and they think Chris is the best of all. I just wish it had been after he had a week off.

At least its only for a week......and they are flying Joseph and me back there too!


So.......its off to Illinois we go tomorrow. (Lots of notice, huh) I need to pack!

I'll be back home next Thursday.....

Success!

The camping retreat went amazingly well. The kids all bonded and learned lots I think. During their *free time* we went to the rec center at the resort. Most of the girls swam, and the guys played pool or ping pong.

The girls I was in charge of behaved. That's a good thing, lol. No one tried to sneak out of their tents or anything. It might have had something to do with the fact that I set my tent up directly between my girls tent and the tent with all the boys;) They did ask me if they could go to the boy's tent because Joseph was telling jokes and they wanted to listen. Oops, sorry girls.....everyone inside their respective tents at 11:00.....and no fraternizing;)

The kids got up at 6:30 this morning and cooked breakfast for the adults at 8. Cold pancakes and overcooked eggs. Yummy!

Ok, there was one problem. I got stung. Friggin bee;/ It flew into the waistband of my jeans and stung my lower back. It raised a humongous welt. Josephine had some bee sting stuff to kill the pain, so it wasn't too bad. I'm just glad the bee didn't get any farther. It really would have sucked to get stung on the ass.

So, the kids were giggling in their tents til almost 2......I didn't get a lot of sleep......but the kids all had fun:)


Now.....Chris is off for a week (and he really gets to take the time off!) Guess what he wants to do?

Camp.


I unpacked the car this afternoon and repacked it tonight. We're leaving in the morning for Southern Oregon for a couple of days, then back down 101 to Richardson's Grove:) We should be back Thursday or Friday.

Ya'll have a good week:D

Ok, tomorrow is the day. I am going to help chaperone 24 jr high and high school kids on a campout/retreat. I have 4 girls in my charge....2 tenth graders, one 9th grader and 1 8th grader. I know 2 of them.....Theresa lives down the street and Heidi is Joseph's crush (aw, how sweet). I don't know the other 2 at all. Jo said she needs to talk to me about one of them.....someone who is *adventurous* Adventurous? I hope that doesn't mean she is going to sneak out of the tent after hours;/

This is an email from E about one perverted bastard....who was our priest when we first got married. He will be spending the next 6 years in prison. I only hope the other inmates take care of him:/

"I'll start with the end. He was sentenced to six years incarceration and
three years probation for lewd and lascivious behavior.


The maximum sentence would have been eight years. Only the one count
could be considered in the sentence.

HOWEVER, the judge started by relating his opinion of the case based on
piles of letters he has received representing former victims, and
extensive police reports from Fremont and Pinole. He said his opinion is
that this man should never be paroled, and would always be a danger to
society. The last say about parole is not up to him. The judge was
wonderful.

He let one family member speak for the record. They chose the mother of
the recent victim to talk for them. She is the sister of the woman Steve
married. In a tremendously strong statement she outlined the
devastation to her daughter and to herself, and the deep split in the
family which destroys all possibility of having family gatherings. When
she gave the statement, she was seated to the left of Steve, and he
turned in his chair to look right at her during the statement.

He was brought into the courtroom in his orange jumpsuit and in chains.
He looks the personification of a sex predator.

The couple I drove up with and sat next to from Pinole have a son who was
sexually abused more overtly than this present girl. They cried during
the whole proceedings. They also have had family gatherings interrupted
for decades now because their son cannot forgive them for not protecting
him from Steve.

The law has not begun to address sexual crimes on a realistic level.
Lewd and luscivious behavior is a felony, but now that we know these
predators cannot be rehabilitated, some place should be provided for them
to live out their lives after sentence apart from society. Unless other
inmates manage to kill them, they will be back out, and six years is very
soon.

There were psychiatric reports presented that recommended him for parole
on the basis (categorically opposite the truth) that he had one case
thirty years ago, was rehabilitated, and just had this one relapse. They
base this on the two incidents that were taken to court. Not reporting
offenses has drastic consequences in favor of the perpetrator.

Another case that did not get presented was the daughter of Steve's wife.
She has complained to her mother continuously of being groped. Her
mother sided with Steve. This girl had a nervous breakdown last year,
and was not able to file charges along with her cousin, but she has been
of moral support, and was present for the hearing in March and the
sentencing.

Channel 4 covered both events. They helped the truth get out. One of
the sentences in their report was something like this: "Today Mr. Kiesle
was sentenced to six years, even though his history of molestation has
covered the last 30 years."

It was a gruelling experience, most particularly hearing the defense
attorney explain very cogently why Steve merited every consideration of
the court, and would never be a danger to society. I don't know how they
sleep at night."

Bastard.




I am seriously sick of the holier than thou attitude displayed on a certain forum. If you read the certain forum, you will know exactly what I am talking about.
'I am so disappointed in what regular posters are saying' or some such bullshit. Give me a freaking break. I'm with R. I am tired of walking on eggshells because someone might get their panties in a twist. I'd like to tell a whole lot of them to grow the fuck up.

Well, I took the Rum & Monkey test(sorry, I'm a dumb shit....I don't know how to link)

Anyway, here's my results

a generally unfuckwitted, liberal, not-too-generous, not-too-selfish, relatively well adjusted human being.
Which makes you 70% compatible with katiefleck@hotmail.com.
*Grin*

I've changed the template again;) I have a feeling I am going to change it more....I can't decide on my favorite.


Summer is definitely coming.....it was 94 today, and its still warm.....70* at 9:30. I need to dig out some summer dresses......

I picked up another tent for the retreat this weekend. Its 10x8....and the girls can sleep in that one while I use the small one for myself. I still can't believe that the chaperones are supposed to supply all the tents. Luckily this tent was on sale for $44....and it is big enough to stand up in. I think I am going to put it up in the backyard when we're finished with it....I will have it as a 'guest house' or 'retreat' lol. Its a whole hell of a lot cheaper than the tents I saw at Pottery Barn that I wanted for the back yard;) I can put it in the corner among the trees. I have a cool old cot I can put in it(and some old quilts & blankets) along with a chair & a table with a light on it. Add some flowers and a basket for books/magazines, and I will call it good. It will be very Martha Stewart;P


My summer project will be to get this classroom cleaned out, books sorted and boxed, and the small school desk taken out. Its too small for Joseph now anyway, even though it is so cool. Its a vintage school desk...I don't want to get rid of it though, so I will have to think of a place to display it. Joseph can use the other desk next year. I am here at the computer desk anyway.

Ok, I've rested now;)

Las Vegas was fun. We left Thursday afternoon and drove to beautiful downtown Mojave for the night. Gotta love Motel 6;-) Hey, it was a place to sleep.

We got up at the butt crack of dawn to finish the drive to Vegas. We stopped at Primm....home of a couple of casinos and a factory outlet mall. I wish I had more room in the car.....there is a Williams Sonoma outlet there.....and I could have done some serious damage there. As it was, I just bought some cool soap for the kitchen and a new chopper thingy. I also got 2 new pair of flip flops at Old Navy. $2 each....one yellow pair and one green pair.

We stayed at the Palace Station in Vegas. Nice hotel. Not spectacular, but nice. The guys played at the Suncoast. Now thatis a nice place. If they play there again, I am going to get a room there. Just couldn't afford it on a holiday weekend. Hoo boy do they jack the prices up on a holiday:/

Anyway, the shows were all great...and they sold out all three nights. Thank goodness for comp tickets;) If I had to pay the $35 a night for tickets, I doubt I'd be going much. I am so glad Steve takes care of my tickets, lol.......even when Casey can't make it. She is in rehearsals for the big play, so she couldn't come.

It was so good to see Cathy, Pat, Mary & all the kids. Cathy makes me laugh so much my sides ache. Monika was there with Joe. What a couple......if ever there were two people made for each other. Its nice to see that true love can win out in the end.

Chris & Joseph were busy all three nights. They saw 2 movies and a baseball game. I didn't feel so bad then.....they didn't sit in the hotel.

Saturday we shopped and swam........and Sunday we shopped (and swam). We went to another outlet mall, and we picked up a new pair of Vans for Joseph. $20.....you can't beat that! When we went to the Strip on Sunday, we went into the shopping mall area at the Aladdin. It is fabulous! I like the Forum shops at Caesars, but the Aladdin shops rock. There is a Hilo Hatties there.....and they had Wicked Wahine! Funny that my absolute favorite perfume is the hardest to find , unless you're in Hawaii. I have bottles of expensive perfume...I love Opium....but I get more compliments when I wear Wicked Wahine. 12 buck. I only wish I had bought 2 or 3 bottles, lol. Definitely next time

Tonight was the meeting for the camping retreat this weekend. It looks like I will have 3 or 4 girls in my charge. Theresa and Heidi are 2 of them though, so it shouldn't be too bad. Josephine isn't the most organized leader I'm discovering. She tells us tonight that she needs tents. She doesn't say a word to the kids:/ I have a humongous tent that sleeps something like 10 people.....but it is a pain in the ass to put up, so I am just bringing the small 3 man tent. I guess I will pick up another small one tomorrow......I have to make sure the girls have a tent to sleep in:/

Its off to bed for me now.....I am trying to get to bed at a decent hour.

Well, we're back from Vegas:)

It was a lot of fun....and very crowded.

I'm so tired (gee, isn't that a Beatles song? *nodding head*)......I'll blog the details tomorrow, I promise.

I hope everyone has a great weekend!

We're off to Las Vegas.....be back late Monday or early Tuesday:-)

Viva Las Vegas, LOL.

I've changed the comments so that anyone can comment. You don't have to register or be a member or anything;)

That hot pink had to go. I like this template a lot better....easier on the eyes I think:)

I can't believe it! Big 5 actually had the tents in stock. Usually when there is a coupon sale, they are out the first couple of hours. It looked like they had plenty though. Good. One less thing to worry about:)

I ran into the Mercantile while I was out this afternoon. They are closing down and had everything 50-75% off. Unfortunately I waited too long to go in (kept forgetting) so most of the good stuff was gone. I did get a cool recipe card holder for $2. It says "The best things in life aren't things" Good saying.

We picked up snacks for the trip.....and I left them in the car. Now I won't be tempted to open anything tonight. I still need to paint my toenails.....and to finish packing. I think the toenails will be done tonight and the rest of the packing in the morning:)

Right now, I think I will pour myself a nice glass of wine. Maybe I'll fix Chris a drink (or 12) His mood is horrid tonight. Why does he always pick a fight right before we go sometwhere? *Sigh*

Ugh! The pollen count must be high this morning. My eyes are so damn itchy.....and my nose is running. I took a claritin but it hasn't kicked in yet. Hurry up and work!

I have to go to Big 5 this morning. They have small tents on sale and I need a small one for the camping retreat. There is no way I'm taking the 14x14 one for one night!

I just noticed this will be my 100th post:)

We scored some good books at the Scholastic book sale. I spent less than $50....which is a good thing for me. I think the last one I went to cost me almost $100. I found some interesting American History books for next year, and a couple of science and language arts books as well. Joseph picked out a few books to read too. Maybe he'll get them read during the summer.....

Since we had to drive right by Kohls....I had to go in. I found a cute pair of dark khaki capris and a couple of fun tee shirts. I also found a great top to wear to oneof the shows this weekend. Joseph found a tee shirt too. He went over and looked at Vans, but he didn't find the ones he wants.

The weather was beautiful today...in the 80s. I think 80-85 degrees is perfect.

I washed the car, then Chris and I waxed it after dinner.

Speaking of dinner....I completely forgot to take anything out (no, really.) I could have gone for Chinese, but I thawed some fish to throw on the grill. Of course, Chris walks in, looks at the fish and tells me "Great, just what I didn't want for dinner" Pissed me off. He pissed me off more when I put green beans on the table (along with rice pilaf and marinated artichoke hearts) "Green beans again?!" (We've had them twice in a week) Well, fuck you very much, dear. Men:/

He loved the fish, BTW....which I knew he would.

He's in a better mood now......a beer in hand and watching the Giants game. Good thing, too. I would hate to have to smack him;) (I'm kidding) (mostly)

I have to pack tomorrow, and I have no idea what to take.

Well, I've finally added comments. Feel free;-)

I did some work in the back yard today. I got the garden ready for planting. I can't believe we're so late planting this year...we usually have it planted the beginning of May. I guess I'll just buy bigger plants;)

I mowed the back lawn and watered the orange tree. The back yard is finally looking better. It has been a pit all winter and early spring. I want to have a big bbq and invite everyone over. When is the question.

Santa Maria called Chris at work today. They are having problems and need his help. Hopefully he can get it done through e mail and phone calls. You don't want to know how pissed I will be if he has to miss our trip to Vegas. I think he realizes it, but if they need him there, he will go. *Shrug* What can I do?

The weekend is almost over......

Yesterday was the parish picnic that the youth group put on. Not much of a turnout.....but ok for the first time. The kids had fun. Fr Paul came for a while but Fr Mike never did. Way to keep in touch with the parish:/
Joseph was beat last night. It was a long day for them. The kids had to be at the park by 8, and we didn't leave until 5. I got to know Cathy P. She will be going on the camping retreat too.......and I found out today that Marilyn will probably be going as well. Now I don't feel so bad about chaperoning, lol.

Joseph played guitar at Mass this evening. It was the first time he's done it. He did a good job!

Thrift shop find of the weekend: a cute Gap skirt for $1.99. It will be great for summer. I have decided that I will not be wearing shorts out in public anymore......only at home or camping. Skirts are cool enough anyway:)

Somebody slap me. What was I thinking???
I have volunteered to help chaperone about 30 junior high and high school kids (from the youth group) on an overnight retreat in a couple of weeks. Camping no less.

Wonder if I can smuggle in a bottle of wine. I may need it;)

I guess I'm just a girl who can't say no, LOL.


Geeze.....what have I gotten myself into.

Happy 5th Birthday, Kaya Michelle.

I wish I could tell you in person. I wish I knew where you were. I wish your mom would get in touch with us and at least tell us where you are.


Your Nana, Papa and Uncle Joseph love you more than anything and we all miss you a lot.


Your room is still waiting for you:-)

Sheri called this morning to tell me my Pampered Chef stuff was in, so after Joseph finished his schoolwork we went up to Sacramento. Oh how I love Pampered Chef:) I can't wait to try out the new goodies I got.....especially the avocado knife. I don't know how I've survived lo these many years without one;P

We went into Costo while we were there.....the new one on Auburn has a big garden department. They had peonies in 5 gallon containers for $10.99! I am going to check my Costco tomorrow and see if they have any.....otherwise its back to Sacramento for some there.

Gotta run out and sweep the sidewalk.....Chris fertilized the lawn and I need to make sure none is on the sidewalk.......

Got a lot of errands done the past couple of days. I've been good about combining errands since gas is up to $2.47 for supreme! Yikes! I have been putting midgrade in, but the car is pinging...so I have to spring for the good stuff. Guess I'll go to Costco and get it then. Its a little cheaper there. Am I ever thankful the Volvo gets good gas mileage.

Some of the forums have been pissing me off lately. I get so irritated with stupidity. Stupidity and narrow minds.

Joseph had another meeting tonight. Saturday is the picnic that the youth group is putting on. They have been working hard at planning. I hope it goes well.

Boy, was this a boring blog or what;) I hope its better tomorrow:)

AAARRRRGGGHHHHH

Sometimes I just have to scream. I have a problem with people who deal in absolutes. "I would never.....(fill in the blank)" Bullshit. NO one knows, until the situation presents itself, whether or not they would (fill in the blank) I've been around this world long enough to know that. Anyone who says differently is deluding themselves:/

I'm hungry. I hope Chris gets home at a decent hour tonight. Its Friday...which means pizza & beer. I think Joseph and I may just go ahead and he can meet us there....

I had to drive down to the Bay Area and take him the meds that he forgot. You'd think...as a diabetic, he would remember the glucophage, but no. Sigh That's ok.....I hit Goodwill while I was there, so it wasn't a waste of the day;)

Joseph has been out on his skateboard most of the afternoon....I got some laundry done and a few things thrown away.

I can't believe this week is almost over. Where did it go?

Chris has been working non stop.....leaving the house before 6 in the morning and getting home after 7 most nights. Hartford called him yesterday....they are having start up trouble and want him back there again to help. Sigh He hasn't been able to talk to them yet....so I don't know if he's going back or not. If and when he goes back.....it had better not be over Memorial weekend. I made our reservations....Vegas, baby! I can't wait. It will be so fun:-)

I finally got to the post office and mailed Steve the press clippings for their shows last weekend. It was a good thing, as Martha would say;) They had to add a third show, as the first 2 sold out so quickly. Good for them, I say. I actually made money this past weekend......Mark had Casey and me selling tee shirts & CDs before and after the shows....then he paid us. Color me surprised, lol.


It was nice to see Rupert win a million tonight on the Survivor thing. It was really interesting watching how people voted. I must say, I agreed 100% with the sexiest man. Yum.....Colby. Just call me a lecherous old lady;P

Seattle Saga pt.2


Saturday afternoon (May 1) Casey called me and had to explain that the guys really didn't want Deborah around. I figured that out on Friday.

After the show on Saturday, Deborah went with a friend while I went to the after party and then out for drinks. I felt bad about it, and felt like I was betraying her. She said she understood......but I know she was hurt about it. When she called to let me know she was at the hotel to pick me up, she really sounded drunk. Drunk enough that I was scared. Joey told me I was not to ride with her if she had been drinking. He was pretty adamant about it. Luckily, when I saw her, she seemed ok, so I got in the car with her and we went back to her house.

We stayed up until 5 a.m. again, just talking. I really think she is a lost soul right now, and is having a problem accepting that she is not 20 anymore.

Sunday started great. The studly young boyfriend took us out for breakfast before he went to work, then we set out for an afternoon of shopping. There are such cool little shopping areas of Seattle. After we had done some shopping we stopped for some nachos and margaritas at a little Mexican resturaunt. We were going to head home after that, to relax with some wine and wait for studly young boyfriend to get home from work. That all changed with a phone call from her roomate Bobbie. She looked at me with a smile and told me we were going to her uncles.

What she didn't tell me was that her 'uncle' was a 60 something pot seller. She also didn't tell me that we were going to a horrible part of town (I don't even know what town it was:/) She didn't tell me that 'Uncle' lived above a ratty bar. She did tell me that we couldn't talk to anyone as we went through the bar on the way to "Uncle's".

As we walked up the rickety stairs, he came out to meet us, and to warn me about his booby traps. He has stuff set up so no one can sneak up on him. Comforting thought, huh. Not:/

Antyway, Deborah had told me that it would be rude not to accept his offer of beer or wine. I had a beer. At least I could open it myself. We sat there for an hour with him and his girlfriend, and I was a nervous wreck the whole time. I kept expecting someone to burst through the door.....either a disgruntled customer or the police.

It was that night I decided that next time I fly to Seattle to see the boys, I will be getting a hotel room, and renting a car. I can't subject myself to that kind of environment again.

I am worried about Deborah. She has alienated most of her old friends.......but I know she is fundamentally a good person. I don't know whether to back away from the friendship.....or what to do. Most people that knew her before she went wild think she is a joke now.......and it hurts me, even though she hasn't a clue.