Merry Day After Christmas

All I can say is, if you had half as good a Christmas as I had, then you had a GREAT Christmas. I was so happy all day long. The weather was crap, but we still had, or I still had, the nicest day. For the first time in forever, we were just our family. Erik and Jamie got their gifts from Santa first because they were here. Jamie got a cute pink beach cruiser that she couldn't ride because it was raining outside. I had to laugh thinking of her and all the other little kids in the neighborhood riding their new bikes from Santa up and down the street. After they left, I got busy getting the dinner stuff ready and before I knew it, Alex, Jamie and Aiden were here. Aiden was a ball of fire. SO excited about the whole thing. His new favorite movie is WallE and he got to have it on the big TV. We sacraficed Aiden to go wake up Uncle Tyler who had worked the graveyard shift and was still sleeping. Tyler was happy to get up, he wanted to open presents too!! Tyler was a little bummed because Shelley was with her family for a Christmas lunch in San Diego. Shelley got here with her parents in time for dinner. BUT, before dinner, they got their gift from Santa and it was worth the wait for Tyler. Santa brought them a 40 inch tv. I hope that it gets put to good use at Shelley's house, why keep it in a box until they have their own place?? I got a new camera, a total shock, and I love it. It is a Nikon with a big lense. It is old school enough for me because I have to use the viewfinder, but is still digital so that I can see the pics on a screen, I love it. I had asked Santa for a small George Foreman grill with interchangable plates and I got this HUGE one from Erik and Jamie, can't wait to use it. AND thanks to Alex, Jamie and Aiden, I have the perfect buffet server. I am so excited about the next party so that I can put it to use. I got a collage of pictures in a great frame of their latest family pictures. Rick will get to use his new accu-level to put it up today. Santa brought Rick a new blu-ray dvd player. The salvation army is going to love us when they pick up all the things we are replacing with newer versions next week. The only bummer I have to report is that my dryer is out of comission AGAIN. The guy isn't coming to fix it until Jan. 7th. OH YEA!!!!

Raining Again

I usually don't have any time lately to do this blog, but Ayden Kisa is busy playing with the legos here is the computer room, so here I am. I am sure all of you that read this are just as busy as I am, not a surprise this time of year. It is raining outside so that means kids and dog are all in the house for the whole day, makes for a VERY long day. Both are used to running forever outside. I got to babysit Aiden this last weekend, so excited. We did all the fun things that Nanas and grandsons are supposed to do, ie,play toss Aidens underwear back and forth for a half hour. Papa slept the whole time, so I got all the special time. We had lunch together, all of us, then Aiden had to take a nap and Mrs. Claus had to start wrapping gifts. I really didn't have any ideas this year, so bummed. We are looking forward to Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. We will be going to the Cacavale's for Christmas Eve, a tradition that started a couple of years back. Payton will get to go and run with Rook if it is not raining. Then Christmas Day I am having dinner. I really need to get to the store and get going on that. Thanksgiving was just a few weeks ago and it is hard to get excited to do all of it all over again so soon, but I don't mind, it is worth it to have my boys and spouses and future spouses here with me. That is really all I need for Christmas, just my family here and safe. If you are reading this before Christmas, please have a great Christmas, if after HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!!

SANTA WAS HERE!!!!!!

Wow, was last night fun!! We had a gathering at our house yesterday and Santa showed up! While the kids were playing and the adults were visiting, the sheriff's showed up. I know we weren't that loud. Deputy Quick must have come here to see Tyler. We were all visiting and eating, there was tons of food, and the deputy got a call and had to leave. Well, 2 minutes later there was a squad car out in front of the house, lights and sirens going, so we had all the kids go out front to see what was up. SANTA came out of the unit!! They were all so excited, much better than last year when Santa surprised them by walking into the house (they all ran screaming last year). Santa came into the house and each child sat on his lap and told him what they wanted for Christmas and he gave them a gift. Aiden's mom, Jamie , took pictures of each one as they were telling Santa what they wanted. Then, she later gave each family a framed picture to take home. Too awesome!!! Jamie made really cute frames and printed the pictures and framed them. Not only did she do that for the families, she had cupcakes and all the stuff to decorate them for the kids. I can't believe how talented she is and I can't thank her enough for all she did yesterday. Alex, Jamie and Aiden are leaving for Hawaii on Thursday, boo hoo. I know they will have a blast, but I will miss them!! Today I have to decorate my tree, and do some shopping. Oh, Cal State Dominguez won the National Championship again yesterday in soccer. The first time they ever won it was when Alex was on the team, 8 years ago. I hope the parents of the players had as much fun as we all did. I have to go and start doing my daily routine, speaking of which, Payton is so worn out from playing with all the kids yesterday, she is still pooped. She missed her daily routine of barking at the possum run at 5:00 am, I am sure the neighbors are glad of that!! Thanks again Jamie for all you did, and thank you to all of the families that came yesterday. We will do it again next year!!!

Thanksgiving

Wow, is it over already?? We had a great Thanksgiving. The house was full of fun and good food. There was lots of family and great friends. There is a recipe exchange going on now because of the side dishes that were brought. I have a frig full of leftovers and hope everybody stops by this weekend to make a turkey sandwich and have a piece of pie. My brother Steve and his wife Stacey and daughter Kyla were here from Sacramento. We went to Knotts yesterday with them and it was so fun. I took Garin with us and he was hysterical on the Dragon Swing ride. Erik and Jamie took him on it the first time and his facial expressions make me laugh everytime I think about them. He went from holding onto the bar and grinnning from ear to ear to holding them both by the arms and had a look of sheer terror. That didn't stop him from going on again. Steve got him to go on with him later in the day and he and Steve both had their arms in the air almost the whole ride. The only thing that saved Erik or Jamie from taking Garin on some of the other rides was the fact that he was too short, by an inch. While we were waiting for a sign to be finished that Erik and Jamie got, we decided to go on the Calico train ride. It took some serious convincing to get Garin to go on that one because he kept saying "No!! there are 49ers in there". He was scared. I remember his mom told me about something about that a while back, but I have to ask her again. We went on, he was fine. We had a very long day and ended it at Lucille's BBQ with dinner with Steve, Stacey and Kyla. Now, today is back to the grind and to start my Christmas shopping. I had so many ideas when I had no money and now that I have some to start shopping, the ideas seem stupid. Today Kim turns the big 50. I wish I could look like her when I was 30. Happy Birthday KIM!!!!.. I have known her since she was 18 and I always thought her birthday was on the 30th and this year she told me it is on the 29th, same as Anna Mae. I have always said, when I make a mistake I stick to it. I even called Brooke and Tyler's baby Joseph up until last week, his name is Joshua. Well, I have to go and put away all the dishes and the few Thanksgiving decorations and start on the Christmas ones. I love Christmas decorations and I hear that Santa may make an appearance here next Sunday.......

Crunch Time

Today is the beginning of "all out" for me. I have to get ready for Thanksgiving and there is only so much that be done ahead of time. Plus, it is supposed to start raining tonight and rain up to Thanksgiving morning, whoo hooo!!!! SO, this means that I have to do all of my shopping, clean and bring into the house all the extra chairs and tables I need for Thanksgiving day, and then work on the house. I will be spending Tuesday and Wednesday cooking. I am not whining, just stating facts. My brother Steve and his wife Stacey and daughter Kyla are coming from Sacramento. I am really looking forward to their visit. Steve and I have already planned on Lucille's Smokehouse BBQ restaurant for Friday dinner. What I can't understand, is why don't these bounce house facilities, ie Scooter's Jungle, Wild Kingdom, etc., don't stay open on Friday the day after Thanksgiving?? What a great place to take visitors with kids or your own kids. Maybe next year I ought to rent a bounce house for the day after and charge people to watch their kids while they go Black Friday shopping. I am hoping to get enough done so that I can at least get out my Christmas musicals before Thanksgiving. I guess if I plan on that I should get off the computer and get started. OK, see ya and have a GREAT and SAFE Thanksgiving.

The Sky is Falling

Well, the fires seem to be contained, but the ashes are still coming down in places. We had fires all around us all weekend long, then I wake up this morning to find out there was an earthquake earlier in the morning. Now we need a small rain to clean off the outdoor stuff, but not too much because we don't need mudslides. I was so happy Saturday, I got to have Aiden here for the day. We had a blast. He LOVES Payton and she was so great with him. In fact, she minds him better than me. Everytime he went to lay down on the couch to watch a movie, he told her to lay down "right here" and she did. I had gone and gotten some new milk-bones for Payton. I bought these big ones, but she likes the cheap colored ones from Sam's Club. Aiden likes to "teach" Payton how to sit and take things "nice". So, he must have given her a dozen little milk-bones, but they had to be green. So on Sunday morning, I had to use flies to find her poop because it was as green as the grass. We stayed home all weekend because of the fires. Not because we were in any danger, but we couldn't have gotten out of town if we wanted to, all the roads were closed. So Rick had to sit (lay) on his single wide and play games on Tylers laptop all weekend. Poor baby. Today I have no kids and Tyler will be gone so I can vacuum and get started on the cleaning for the holidays. I am so ready to decorate for Christmas this year. I am even going to get out my music boxes before Thanksgiving. Hey why not!! the stores went straight from Halloween to Christmas, so I am too. I will be back soon!!

It's Over

Well, it's all over and I do mean it is all over. B Hussein Obama has been elected president. Wow, how can someone who has a lesser security clearance that Sarah Palin get elected. If it was an issue of making a black man/democrat president, then Dusty Baker should have been elected. At least he has been in charge of something. I know his mantra over and over and over was he was the man of change. Of course, anyone would be a change. If he was so concerned about change, why didn't he do something to change the democratic congress that has been in power for the last few years??? Bush had to take the fall for that congress, stupid. Now the secret service has to REALLY be on their toes for the benefit of all of us. If Hussein gets bumped off, then the man who so very much opposed him during the primarys, Biden will be in charge. Scarier still, if Biden drops dead because of his age, then Nancy Pelosi will be in charge. NOW that is scary. Like Dennis Miller said, then it would be time to leave the galaxy. When the leaders of nations that have been our enemies start congratulating B.O., then we need to run for cover. If even half of the stuff on the internet is true about him, then we need to pray hard for our safety, both physical and for our wallets. Redistribute the wealth, well now the libs can reap the rewards of what the have sown. I hope they can deal with it for the next 4 years. Why didn't Condolesa Rice run for President?? The best of all worlds, black, woman and respected and feared by other nations.

Too Much

I just checked accuweather.com because I was outside picking up dog poop, you wanted to know that, and it was HOT. So as I am waiting to take Peyton to preschool, I decide to check the weather web site and it says it is currently 90 and will reach 100 by 2 PM. This is nuts!!!!!!!!! I can't even remember the last time I even thought of putting on a jacket. It has to stop soon, my shorts will only last so long. Well, I finally got to go to Lucille's BBQ last night. OK Stacey, this place is a triple YUM. I now know that I will order an appetizer the next time I go. There were 4 of us and we all got something different and everybody tried everybody elses food. ALL GOOD. I grabbed a to-go menu on the way out because with sometimes an hour wait, I think I will pick-up and eat at home. The beer prices are better at home anyway.

What a Weekend!!

Wow, did we have fun this last weekend. On Saturday morning, Rick, myself, Erik and Jamie flew to Sacramento to go to a wedding. Alex's good friend, Shmike married Brenna. We were able to check into our room early, so we had time to press out the wrinkles of our clothes and relax after the flight. OK, I had to relax, I HATE flying. Alex and Jamie were at the same place, so we got to see them before the wedding. Jamie, in fact, rode with us to the church. Good thing, because she knew where we were going. Even though Rick gave Alex and Shmike a ride to the church, he still was unclear as to how to get there. The girls, Jamie and Jamie, looked absolutely drop-dead gorgeous, I am so proud of my family!! The church that the wedding was held in was SOOOOO beautiful!! The stained glass windows were unbelievable. I was telling another guest, that if you weren't Catholic when you went in there, it sure made you want to be. The ceremony was unique to the couple, Brenna being Scottish and Shmike being Irish. Most of the men in Brenna's family wore kilts and both mothers of the wedding couple wore their family tartans. Brenna was piped in by a bagpipe, it gave me chills. I was raised with this music because my grandfather, who I never met because he died when my dad was young, was the chief of the Stewart clan in Scotland. If you are interested I can tell you about his funeral. Anyway, the ceremony was beautiful. After the ceremony, they came outside and released doves. When the lady went to release the rest of the doves, it was duck and cover for Jamie C, she gets pooped on at every outdoor wedding. In fact, Jamie B gave her a gentle push towards us so that she was out of the line of fire. The reception was a blast. I still am wary of my knee, but I really enjoy watching. My kids were on the dance floor most of the time and it made me smile ear to ear to watch them. They are really good dancers. Jamie caught the bouquet, good thing, we have a wedding in May!!!! Yesterday we went over to my brother Steve's house for the day. It was great to visit with them and Stacey made some great food. I came away with a recipe for carnitas. Stacey cracks me up, instead of stars, she rates her recipes with YUMS, the carnitas recipe is a double yum!! I am sure both Jamies will post pictures on their blogs soon from the wedding. Now, it is back to the grind. I had fun, but it is good to be home.

Perfect Wedding

Yesterday was Christianne and Oliver's wedding day. The day couldn't have been any better. The wedding was on the beach and the sun was shining and the temperature was VERY comfortable. There was some wind, but I was good with that, it gave me an excuse for my hair. At least it wasn't moist wind or I would have ended up looking like Orphan Annie. Christianne looked amazing, the dress she had on was SOOOOO her, simple elegance. Her and Oliver are so much in love, they had to be the envy of every couple there. The reception was in the park and it was so very, very nice. They had a live band, singers and all, and they were excellent. Every thing about the reception was fabulous. The decorations, the food, and the fun. The dance floor was overcrowded with all the guests. When the happy couple left the reception, still in their wedding clothes, it was like a hallmark card commercial. We all had sparklers and we made a tunnel that they ran under, up the stairs to the street and then after Oliver helped Christianne into the car, he waved at everybody and they took off. Kim had EVERY detail worked out. When we got to the end of the tunnel that lead to the beach, there were tote bags to put our shoes in, small blankets, and even umbrellas. The tote bags were the same color as the invites and the bridesmaid's dresses. She is way too organized. The cocktail hour down on the beach had more food than I have seen at some weddings. This is going to be a tough act to follow. We all had a GREAT time and I am so very happy to have been able to be a part of such a wonderful day. Thank you Kim and Tom for such a terrific time.

Reconnected

This last week I got reconnected with a favorite of mine. Erik and I were talking about his possible trip to Ann Arbor in Michigan and we got to wondering if Linda and Chris Medina were still living there. Chris was one of my "babies" that I had from 6 weeks old until he moved to Michigan before he started 7th grade. I am sure Chris is thankful for that because his mom, Linda, had told him he was coming to my house until he was 21. Well, I started with the lastest phone number, got ahold of Linda's mom who gave me Linda's cell phone. So, I called the number and at the other end was a VERY shocked Linda. All is great with them and Chris, who will turn 22 (YIKES!) in November, is going to school to be a respatory (spelled wrong) therapist. Wow, he has done good and how in the heck did he get that old?? I sent him a text and he responded that he missed me. AWWWWW. Linda gave me her email address so now she is in for it. It is so good to reconnect with someone so special from your past and actually have them glad to hear from you. I have a so-so week ahead of me. Rick is on Las Vegas right now until tomorrow, so I am liking being able to vacuum and do things early in the day. I am SO totally a morning person. Last night we went to Home Town Buffet for Adam's birthday dinner, his choice. Tonight is Monday night football and Thursday is Aiden's soccer game, then FRIDAY!!!!! Saturday is a big day, Christianne and Oliver are getting married, can't wait. It seems like it has taken forever to get to this day, but now it is upon us. I am going to go on one of the weather sites and see how the weather is gong to be. They are getting married on the beach, and I can't wait to see her dress, Kim tells me it is spectacular. OK, time to get started on my day, make my never ending lists. So far, no kids.

I've Had It !!

Is anybody else sick of this f............ing heat like I am. Geez, 103* at 1:00 today is WAY too hot. I know I griped about this in May, but come on, it is officially fall. Enough is enough. I know that my complaining will certainly make a difference, at least I feel better venting. There better be LOTS of COLD Coors Light tonight at Sandras. I had to make the kids come in from the backyard, they were glowing. Kids seem to have no sense of heat.

OK Weekend

My fun started on Thursday when we went to Aiden's 3rd birthday party at Scooter's Jungle. He had a blast and I had just as much watching the interaction with him and his friends. It is such a great way to have a party for kids, no hassle for the parents. It was good to see some of Jamie's family that I don't get to see that often. The memory of that night that still makes me laugh when I think of it is when we were leaving and outside on the sidewalk, Aiden was telling us where to stand and then he would say "watch my moves!" then he would do a combo of a run/dance. It was too cute. Saturday we went to the Starrs and spent the evening in their new backyard. As always, the food was great and there was a lot of it. Colleen has a great ability to fix stuff that I would never think of and it is always so good. Sunday we met the Kidneys and the Quinns at the church festival. We met and stayed in the Coors Light tent, go figure. We all ate too much, the Philipinno food stand is EXCELLENT, but didn't drink too much. $5 for a 12 oz. beer is too much. Thursday Aiden has his first soccer game, can't wait to see it. I will have to take a couple of my kids with me, but it starts at 4 and I am sure it will only last less than an hour. Well, that's all for my dear diary.

AIDEN IS 3 YEARS OLD TODAY!!!!

Wow, three years ago my precious grandson was born. He has been a constant source of pride and amazement at the things he does. I can't wait until tonight to see him at his birthday party. HAPPY BIRTHDAY AIDEN Nana loves you VERYYYYYYYYYYYYY much.

Congrats to Travis

I was just on the APU football site and saw that Travis (Tom and Kim's baby boy) had a great game last night. He is a senior at Azusa Pacific and they had a home game last night that we missed. Travis had 6 sacks, 3 for a loss and the only quarterback sack of the game. Good Job!! They had to have been going crazy in the Bengard section. We had a great day yesterday. We started the day off at Colleen and Gary's for a "carnival" themed birthday party for their grandsons Brendon and David, who are both 3. Aiden was there as were several other little kids. They all had a great time winning prizes and eating the carnival food, corn dogs, cotton candy, etc. I bet the Starrs are beat today!! After they took down some of the game booths, they set up the waterslide they own. I think Gary had more fun than anybody after he was "forced" into going on it. We left there and then went to babysit Aiden so Alex and Jamie could go on a date. Jamie told Aiden that Alex was going to get a haircut then they were going to go eat fish. I guess fish is something that Aiden doesn't like. Aiden got his halloween costume on and he almost wore it to dinner. I finally convinced him that he couldn't get it dirty, mommy would be unhappy. The last thing Aiden wants to do is make his mommy or daddy unhappy. Aiden was golden, we took him to Ruby's and then to Yogurtland, a BIG favorite of his. He squealed with so much delight when we pulled into the parking lot. He was really excited. We ate our yogurt then went back to his house and tried to get him settled, the key word is tried. He was on fire, even bath and books did nothing to settle him down at the right time. As soon as he almost would give up he would ask me "is mommy home now?" No, sweetie, she is on her way. This breaks my heart. I can't wait to see him again. He is in soccer now and has games starting on Oct. 2. I am sure Jamie will post plenty of pictures after he first game. Well, gotta go and watch football, it is Sunday after all.

He's BACK!!!!!!!!!

If you live in Chino Hills and if Tyler knows you, then you know he is back. Tyler started patrolling out of the Chino Hills station last Saturday. If you think you see him, you are not going crazy, it is him. He came by the house a couple of times and my new neighbors must think we are real toublemakers. I bet the druggy's down the street are going to change their "recipe exchanges" for a while.

My Weekend

I really couldn't think of anything catchy, so this is what I did over the weekend, just giving you fair warning so you can get away now. We were supposed to see a taping of the tv show Two and a Half Men on Friday, but it got canceled. That was OK, everybody wanted to go, but then it wasn't a big deal not to. So, we made plans to go to the Yard House and experience Happy Hour. Well, not so happy, there were a load of people waiting to get in when Jamie and her parents went over to get a table for us all. So, we ended up at Chili's where I convinced the waitress to let us have the Happy Hour prices for beers and appetizers even though we were in the restaurant. It was us, the Caccavale's and the Kidneys. We all really enjoyed ourselves. Then on Saturday, we went to Ricks' company picnic. It was all right, no big thrill. BUT, after we got to see Aiden, so that made it worth it. We all went to Rubios and I loved watching Aiden be Aiden, running around the fountain and making friends with the kids who were there to enjoy the night also. Alex and Jamie have one great little boy. Last night we met the Caccavale's, the Blanks and Erik and Jamie at Roscoes. We love that place. Shira and I got the Stairmaster sandwich, gosh it was good. As always, everybody had to get a to go box. The waiter made me mad because I told him to NOT let Gary grab the bill. We all wanted to pay our share, but the dope gave to him anyway. He said Gary "made" him. Yeah, right. Oh well, this is what we have been doing for a while, Rick and Gary taking turns paying for dinner, but I think Gary is ahead. Now Charlie is in the mix. Aiden starts soccer tomorrow, it is his first practice. I can't wait to see the pictures.

Payton is 2 Today

Today is Payton's 2nd birthday. I think I am the only one who cares. Last night we had a good size group for Sandra's, but ended up leaving there and going over ot Roscoes. So much for a cheap dinner. We got there first and when the girl sat us, she informed us that was no alchohol allowed. The owners, Oscar and Sandra, bought out their partner in the restaurant so had to get a new liquor licnese with just their names. Well, between the expiration of the old one and the mail system, the new license wasn't on the premises. OK, not a big deal, we drink soda. When the waiter came over and told us that there weren't going to be free refills on the soda if we were getting the 99 cent tacos. Are you kidding me??????? That was the crushing blow. After everybody got there, we decided to go over to Roscoes instead. Our waiter Joe said he didn't blame us, it was the manager's decision. I ran into Oscar at Sam's this morning and told him what happened about the soda and why we left and he was mortified. I think the manager may get a few choice words today. Oscar told me that free sodas was the least that they could have done, the manager basically shoved business out the door. We sat on the patio at Roscoes and had a great visit with everybody, perfect evening for it. Besides us, the Starrs were there, the Kidneys, Tim Daly and even Tyler came and his friend Chris was there also. Grandpa Tim had a little photo album with pics of Patrick Joseph Daly. What a beautiful baby boy. Well, I need to go and figure out what to have for dinner, I am such a sucky meal cooker. I can do party dishes, but day to day, I stink!

Football is FINALLY here

I am so glad that the NFL has gotten started. This weekend was awesome, so many games. Lots of surprises, mega hits, great catches and throws. I love the fact that Brett Favre won with his new team the Jets, but was sorry to see Brady get hurt. It will effect that team A LOT. It is like Tiger Woods not playing golf, who wants to watch?? Tonight, there are two games. Lucky me I will be at home when the first game starts at 4. Yesterday we made another stab at having a BBQ. I was so happy that there were about 18 people coming, so off to the store I went. Then in the afternoon, the calls started coming. The decliners all had good excuses, but I was bummed because I was really looking forward to seeing them. We had a nice small BBQ and I really enjoyed it. We had great food, great company, whats not to like?? Rick is high on Larry's list, but not on Cindy's. Larry is diabetic and Cindy has a hell of a time trying to control his sugar intake. I made a butter cake and Cindy gave Larry a piece and when he asked for more she told him he was already over his limit. Well, Rick came along and while he was cutting a piece for himself, Larry slid his plate over and Rick cut him a big hunk. Larry was like a 4 year old, he was eating it as fast as he could before Cindy caught him, which she did. He was grinning from ear to ear, so funny. Jamie's parents also came and we got a chance to really visit, loved it. My neighbors, Eddie and Barbara made it for dessert. We still need to pray for Barbara, she is not doing well. I can not imagine how they are dealing with this, it is heartbreaking. Now, today I am going to redo some cupboards, and go thru material AGAIN. Does anyone have a remedy for dog digging?? Every sure fire thing I buy at the pet store doesn't work. Payton has decided that there is one spot she needs to keep clear. It is where our possum buddy dug up a few weeks ago and Payton keeps going back to it. Payton will be 2 on Wednesday, that is supposed to be the magic number for dog bad behaviour to end, we shall see. Well, I now have to decide if I want a leftover burger or cheesecake for lunch, I love being an adult!!!

Be Late Day

Well, today, Sept. 5th, is a day just made for Rick. Today is Be Late Day, the calendar gives permission to be late, so there we go. For all those who don't know, tomorrow is Back Hair Appreciation Day EWWWWWWWWWWWWWW!!!! At least today is Friday, most important of all. It is going to be a scorcher!!! This is a sure thing, the hottest days of the year are the first day of school and opening day at the LA Co. Fair. I refer this day as to "Banger Day". Between the fact that it is Friday and the admission to the fair is $1 on opening day, every gang banger in southern cal shows up. Tyler meets with the Captain of the Chino Hills station to day to get his schedule. His last day in Big Bear is going to be Sept. 10th. I told him that with his luck he will get to patrol Mt. Baldy. Yes, the Chino Hills station patrols all the way up to Mt. Baldy. At least he will still get to drive a Tahoe. This morning I will be by myself after I take Garin to school. So, I SHOULD make good use of the time alone, but I probably won't. I really need to sort out the material I have and make blankets to have for future occasions. Because Vicky gave me new patterns for the "circle" blankets, I don't thow away any scraps and this is getting to be problem. Now I have too much to choose from, it hurts my head. Well, I have to go and do something, even if it is wrong.

Congratulations All Around

This was a weekend of some pretty good happenings. Yesterday, Hawk Gregory Chapin, arrived into the world at 4:32 PM. He weighed 7 lb. 15 oz. and I can't remember the length. His proud parents are Brock and Kaleigh Chapin. Greg and Vicky are equally proud grandparents. I have a funny feeling that Hawk will be a diplomat, he very thoughtfuly came into the world between Greg's birthday, Aug. 27, and Vicky's birthday Sept. 4. Kaleigh had to have a minor emergency surgery after the birth, but they are all doing well. Vicky sent me several pics of Hawk and we all agreed here that he looks like a Chapin!!!! I also got a picture of Kaleigh holding her baby boy and you would have never known what she had just gone thru. She looked radiant! I now know that the first room in Vicky's new house to be completed will be the nursery. On Sunday we went to Chip's house to celebrate Victoria's 21st birthday and her engagement to Allen. Her ring is very pretty and we wish them the best. The wedding is planned for October 2009, this makes 4 weddings so far for the Bengards in 2009. Well, today is the first day of school, Corey starts high school YIKES!!! Where did the time go???

The Day After

Yep, I am sitting here wondering how in the hell did I get so old. Last night we went to a surprise party for Uncle Greg's 60th. 60!!!!!! I am not supposed to have friends that old because I am not old. Of course, neither is Greg. We had a great time watching some REALLY bad kareokee (spelled right?) I guess if you drink enough courage you think you can sing. There were a couple of people that were pretty good, but the rest of them were just flat out having a great time. It was so good to see some of the Chapin family that I don't get to see often enough. The weather basically cooperated until into the evening the humidity decided to show up. Well, at least I am blaming the humidity. Kristi was the PERFECT hostess. She went around with a fistful of clips and scrunchies to all of the women and pretty soon, everybody's hair was up on their head. Earlier, Kristi went around with this apron on that had 6 pockets in it and all were full of beers, waters, sodas and she was carrying a pitcher of Mai Tai's. She is too organized for me. She was as cool as a cucumber about anything and everything, I have to say, I have never seen her blow a gasket. Thank you Kristi and Charlie for a great party. Now this afternoon we are going to Chip's house to celebrate his baby girl, Victoria engagement and 21st birthday. I am making a new dessert to take, what better victims than my in-laws. Well, I still get one more day off and then school is back!!!! Also, tomorrow Hawk Chapin will be born. What luck that Kaleigh, Brock's wife, gets to have labor on Labor Day.

Summer Is Gone!!

Well, summer may be over as to the school calendar, but it is still sweltering here. Yesterday was absolutely miserable!!! There has been not much going on this past week. I got some good news and then some not so good. The not so good is that a very dear friend of mine FINALLY told me that she has been having health issues, I am so very upset by this. I will not give her name because she has asked me not to say anything. But, I am praying for her. The good news is that Tyler got his transfer to Chino Hills. He will get his schedule on Sept. 5th from the Chino Hills station and will continue to work Big Bear until he starts here. He has been using Shelley's car to drive back and forth for a couple of weeks, so it will be good for him to be here. Vicky and Greg got a new house. It is the best looking fixer-upper I have ever seen!! I haven't seen the inside, which Vicky says is a disaster, but from the outside it looks gorgeous! Vicky had plans for this house from the day she saw it. If it all works out, her son Brock and his family will be moving into a house a mile away. Vicky already has plans for a nursery in her new house. I am so looking forward to school starting, I like having a schedule, I am too unorganized otherwise. There will be a couple of mornings a week that I will have no one here, unless I get a new kid, and I can't wait to go to the store BY MYSELF!! Well, even though it is only 8:45 am, I need to go and turn the air on, the humidity is getting BAD. See you all soon

It's True!!!!

Well, I now know for a fact that possums do play possum. Last night, I went into the backyard to play with Payton. She had kept coming in and bugging me, so I figured that she wanted to have me throw stuff for her for a few minutes. She kept running over to her bird and then back to me whining. OK, I go and went over to pick up what I thought was her bird, it was dark, and there was a possum laying on the ground. GREAT, now Payton is a killer! She kept nugging it with her nose and I even tried to give it a little kick to get it moving, but nothing. I called for Rick and he came out with the broom and pushed at it and nothing. Payton's first kill. I then sent a text to Tyler and Erik and brought Payton into the house and shut the door so that she wouldn't tear the poor possum up. I called the dispatch at the Sheriff's office to get a night time number for animal control, there is none. The Deputy I spoke to said to double bag the dead animal, put it out to the curb and call the number he gave me and leave a message. I told Rick about this and he just layed on the couch. Rick is on vacation this week and he is taking it to the letter! I have nicknamed the couch Rick's single wide. He gets out of bed and goes directly to that couch and lays there all day, at one point there were 2 days worth of newspapers, etc. Too funny. The Deputy also told me that I shouldn't be surprised if the possum is gone when I go back to take it out of the yard. Well, 30 minutes later, Rick gets up to get a shovel and 2 trash bags and we go out to the backyard. Sure as shit, the possum is gone. I can't believe this, they really do play dead. I am just thankful that the possum didn't tear Payton a new one, the Deputy told me they are VERY mean. This possum is the 2nd one this week to come into the yard. When animal control called me back this morning, I was told that possums will tear up a whole yard looking for food. YEA!!!!!!!!!!!

THANK YOU

I had to do a seperate blog so that I could say THANK YOU to Jamie and Jamie for all their hard work for the wedding shower. There is no way I would have been able to pull this off on my own. Thank you for all the things you made and did. I am so lucky to have you guys in my life. I felt like a penny with change when I realized that you were cleaning up the mess yourselves while I was out in the backyard. You guys are the best. I LOVE YOU

WOW What a Weekend

It is Monday morning and we had a VERY busy weekend. We had Christianne and Oliver's family wedding shower here yesterday, the prep work was huge!! Last week, Erik worked like a slave on the planters, even getting his friend Ryan in on the action. They took out ALL of the dirt, which may not sound like much to you, but it filled a dumpster!! Then Thursday night, Rick decided to put some of it back because there was too much for the dumpster. It was a crack-up. Our next door neighbor Felix came out to help as he ALWAYS does. There they were "sifting " the dirt that was being replaced into the planters. Hey guys, topsoil is CHEAP!! Then Saturday morning, Brock, Vicky's son, came over with his steam cleaner and cleaned the outside of the house and the cement. We had no idea how bad the cement was until he was done, there were cracks there that we never knew excisted. Then later, after we went to Roscoes for lunch, Rick and Erik went and got plants and more topsoil for the planters. On Sunday morning, the shower was at 2 that day, they started to plant what they had bought. The lawn was still covered with everything that Rick had taken out of the garage a week and a half ago. Talk about cutting it close, as the first guests were arriving, they put the last item back into the garage and shut the door. WHEW!! Jamie C and I had been working on the inside and shopping for the shower (Jamie spent WAY TOO MUCH on beer and supplies) and as much as I thought I was going to be ready, I wasn't. I hate not being ready. Shelley came and asked if there was anything she could do, and I put her to work. The Jamies decorated the backyard and it was really pretty, well as pretty as you can make that piece of crap patio cover look. I got a waterslide and it was in the backyard. The little ones had fun in it and Jerry's kids, Spencer and Jordan, had to be drug out and they were not happy about it. With Rick's birthday on Friday, Jamie C's on Saturday and the shower yesterday, we had a full weekend. Tonight we get to go to Aiden's swim lessons and there is no excuse for Rick to be late, he is off this week. Clever Rick, take the time off AFTER the party work, Thursday he and his boys are going golfing and I hope they all end up here for BBQ, we have LOTS of beer left over. I want to thank Jamie Bengard, Jamie Cacavalle (soon to be Jamie Bengard) for all their hard work on the shower. Kim brought all the stuff to make Mojitos, thank you Kim. With all of everybody's efforts it made for a great time for everybody.

Absolutely Horrible!!!!!!

Let me start out with PLEASE PLEASE include my neighbor Barbara in your prayers. Yesterday, she got the devestating news that she has 1 year to live. How can a person deal with that kind of news?? I am so angry with the way her treatment was done, or not done. It is easy for me to be angry, I am not the one who is in the predicament. Eddie is upset that they put all their trust into this doctor she has and it is gone crap on them. A while back Barbara was told that the chemo was not working and they would have to do some radical surgery. OK, that is what is needed, so she was OK with it. I thought that it was only 6 or 7 weeks that Kaiser waited to do the surgery, it was 12!!!!! That is so totally beyond comprehension!!!!!!! They are killing her. I had told them about Oasis of Hope in the very beginning, but the doctor convinced them that she knew what she was doing and could help Barbara. NOT TRUE LADY!! I told Barbara's daughter that they have a raving malpractice suit available, but that doesn't change the fact that she is in the state she is in now. To wait 6 days would have been stupid, but 12 WEEKS!! I hope that Oasis can help her now, and I pray for her several times a day. Would you please do the same?? Just a simple, Lord get Barbara thru this, would help. I know that Kaiser has been good for other people, but not this time, they blew it and it may cost a good person her life.

It Can't Ever Be Easy

It is early Tuesday afternoon and we have no running water. The guys putting in the gate have to do it differently than they planned on and to do the first part they had to cut the water line that comes into the house, so No Water!! I am SO excited. The best part is that for 2 days we will have NO GATE. SO SO excited. Payton will only do her "business" in the backyard. This means that I will be up most of the night because she will keep coming to get me to let her out to go and I will have to stand there to make sure she dooesn't head out of the yard. The weather has been so nice at night that she has been sleeping at the open door to the backyard. I will be spending the majority of my time sitting out front with the kids and her on her leash. Excuse me while I go have my own little pitty party.

Tuesday Repairs

Well, it is Tuesday morning and we have 2 repairs being done today, this is a record!! The big TV went out Friday, and Erik got Rick to replace the gates, well hire someone to do it at least. So, by this afternoon we will be all good. Last night I got to see Aiden. We went to his swim lessons, late of course, but I still got to see him play in the pool. What a water boy he is, so comfortable in the pool. I spotted him and his goggles that he wears all the time as soon as I walked into the pool area. We then went to dinner at Pat and Oscar's. It was such a beautiful evening we ate outside. We will make it to his swim lessons on time next week, Rick has decided to take next week off, so there won't be any reason to be late. When we left I got an unsolicited hug from Aiden, it was so special to get one when he isn't told to. This is Balyssa's last week here. She told me that her mom said that I am going to cry really hard when she leaves. Sure. Well, I have to go and make another list for the shower, I have so much to do that I don't want to miss anything. Taco Tuesday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! YEA!!!!!!!!!!!!

Just Monday

Well, how was your weekend?? I had a pretty good time, even though Friday night started out crappy. All of the Friday night Tony crowd either were out of town or just didn't make it, I miss the visits. When we got home, EARLY, Erik came in from work surprised to find us there. He told us Jamie and himself were meeting her parents for a late dinner. Well, out of sympathy I am sure, we were asked if we wanted to join them. SURE!! We love our future in-laws and were glad to get together. We had drinks with them, they ate dinner and then we came home. Well, half-way thru the opening ceremonies of the Olympics, the TV goes out. YEA!!!!!!!!! I Tivo'd the ceremony, so it is not a big deal. I just wanted to see the show. I could care less about the march of athletes. Rick brought out a 19" tv and hooked it up so that at least we could glance at it while we are SUPPOSED to be getting ready for this Sunday's wedding shower here. It is a crack-up, this dink of a tv is in front of our larger one on a tv tray. How trailer is this???? We got to see Vicky , Greg and their family Saturday. I LOVE them. We were there for a baby shower for their oldest son, Brock and his wife Kaleigh. The food, beer and company was great. We stayed into the night, watching drunk bachi ball and visiting some more. I found out early in the evening that Kristi's husband Chalio, I call him Charlie, came out to our table earlier with the intention of a drinking contest. This was unknown to me, and I have no idea who won!! I am willing to place a bet though. Then yesterday, the cleaning began!!! Rick is STILL working on getting things back into the garage, it has only been since Thursday, July 31st. Color me surprised!!!! Brock is coming on Wednesday to return Colleen's chairs and is going to steam clean our cement, so Rick has to finish by then. Jamie brought her dog Rook over to play with Payton, they have a blast chasing each other around. After Jamie left,we had Wendy's food out on the lawn at 9:30, how healthy is that? I have no kids today, so I can get some stuff done that I could not do if I had to referee the kids. Then tomorrow is Tuesday!!!!! YEA Taco Tuesday!! I am looking forward to seeing Cindy and Larry, they were vacationing last week so we missed them. They are our Tuesday night dates. After Gary finishes his backyard, they can get back into the swing of things again and rejoin us. He has put in a lot of work and it is looking really good, I am jealous. Well, I could sit here all day, but I need to take advantage of the emptiness. Hey Charlie, 2 more for me and 1 for you. HA HA

Almost Done

Tonight after I get done here, I am meeting Robin over at my mom's place to try and get the rest of the "shit" out of there. Tyler went over yesterday and did a lot all by himself. I will be so glad when this is all over with, as I am positive Robin will be too. I wish I had money, I would just hire someone to come in and take it all. Today is going to the stores day and then the usual sprinklers in the backyard and then out front to watch the kids ride bikes. Even though I sit in the shade I am getting a tan. I am not even trying, but like Vicky has always said, tan fat looks better. Yesterday we went to the Splash Pad but it was closed for repairs. I saw Jamie's friend Lisa and her 2 kids Jack and Grace there. I have been watching them grow up on their babysite and it was nice to see them in person again. Well, that is my dull life for now.

It Starts Today!!!!

YES !!!!! NFL football starts today with the Hall of Fame game. I love football, both pro and college. How is your weekend going? It is Sunday morning, and I am getting ready to finish a baby blanket. It has been a mixed bag this weekend. Friday night startd dull, we were the only ones who showed up at Tony's. Then after I told Rick lets go by and see all the work Gary has done with his backyard. They were home having a BBQ with their friends Dave and Rose. We busted in anyway. They have done so much in their backyard, it is going to be beautiful. I wish there was that much work going on here, ha ha. Rick started unloading the garage last week and it is still out in the driveway. Jerry came over yesterday for help with his van and we went to Roscoes for dinner. He has been hearing about it and wanted to give it a try. Of course I protested :) He was impressed. I texted Vicky before we left to let her know that we were going, and I got the reply Bitch!!! Yes, and I was a happy and full bitch!!! Alex, Jamie and Aiden are in Palm Springs this weekend at Jeff and Bill's place. Jamie will come home to a sparkling house because she has a cleaning lady that started Saturday. That would be so nice. Well, I am going to go and work on this blanket and wait for the game to start at 3 PM.

Quick Note

You know the piece of crap patio cover we have?? Well, for years it has been said that it will come down too easy and it is dangerous. WELL, it is still standing after the earthquake. Still ugly and crappy looking, but it didn't fall over as predicted. DAMN!!!!!!!!

A Whole Lotta Shaking Going On

If you have a tv and live in Southern California, then you heard and maybe felt the earthquake yesterday. It was fairly big, but not damaging. Books and dvds fell off a shelf and Erik lost a shotglass. The news people kept showing the same 3 places that had any damage over and over. Domino's was even on channel 4, not because of damage, but because of the security camera footage showing swaying lamps. The kids here freaked out for a second, all drills for earthquake went right out the window. Payton was more shaken than the kids. Erik went over and got Jamie's dog, Rook, and brought him over here so that the 2 of them could go nuts together. About a half hour after, the news helicopters were all over the sky. One of them was directly over the house and Garin was out break dancing trying to get on tv, didn't work. We of course watched the news all day and I got calls from a lot of people. It is nice to know that so many people were concerned. My cell phone worked, but whoever had Verizon didn't have any service for a while. Our house phone worked after about a half hour, so we were doing good. I bet today the stores are full of people getting things like water, batteries, etc. It is good that Chino Hills is on the map for something else besides the Ryan family that got murdered by Kevin Cooper.

I Didn't Know This

Well, I learned something about gift registry's that I had no clue about. Jamie told me that when you put something on your registry and you don't get it, the store will sell it to you with a discount. I never knew this. I have been going to gift registry's for years to get gifts. All this time I am thinking, "Shit that is an expensive gift to put on a registry! Who do they think they are?" Now I know. Jamie said that they put stuff on, like furniture, because it is what they want to eventually get, great idea. I am so behind the times!!! I think back now at some conversations and I am sure people who knew about this are still thinking, poor Marge, she is clueless!!! Now when I see the $600 stroller on a registry I will know the reason behind it. To my friends, next time I have a brain fart, please help me out!!!

Got Tomatoes?

My next door neighbor Eddie came over with a bag full of home grown tomatoes. This is the second bagfull in 5 days. He has a garden in his backyard, lucky me!! We love getting the tomatoes, BLT's forever. When he came and dropped the tomatoes off, he was telling me about what his winter crop will be. I told him I am going to rename him Eddie Joe Bob. His wife Barbara is the one we all need to pray for, Kaiser sucks!! I had an OK weekend, I at least got to see Aiden for a few hours. Yesterday, Erik BBQ'd burgers, turkey ones for Rick and real meat for the rest of us, nothing better!! Jamie and I tried to get a list going for the shower, we are still waiting to see who is coming, I think that will help a lot. We know what we are having for the main course, what salads I am making, and of course the drinks (beer and more beer). Jamie B., at least the only one for the time being, is printing stuff for fans. I figure it is going to be HOT HOT HOT, so a fan would be a good party favor. It seemed so far away last week, now it is crunch time. I hate not having things settled. I have to reign in on myself because not everybody has tons of time on their hands. I can very easily be quite annoying. Quit nodding your head yes!!!! I am waiting for the lady from the food program that I HAVE to be involved in because I am licensed by the state, to call. She apparently came by while I had the kids at the Splash Pad in Chino and left me a form stating that I will be getting a "Letter of Warning!!" I am SOOOOOOOOOOOOO shaking. I thought I only had to call and notify them when I was going to be gone during a meal time. Well, I guess I have to call them when I leave at all. They make you jump thru hoops for a few bucks a month, stupid. I called this morning to talk to P. Bond, but she wasn't in. I really don't thnk I helped my cause when I asked the director of the program when the cameras were going to be installed. Well, I have to go and try to sneak some water into Paytons little pool out front, heaven forbid I leave!!!

This Must Be The Year

Yep, this is the year of conflicts. Here I sit week after week with absolutely crap to do, except Taco Tuesday and Tony's on Fridays, and 4 big events are coming up and there is 2 of each of them scheduled for the same day. On August 17th, myself and the Jamie's are hosting the family wedding shower for Christianne and Oliver. That very same day, Brad and Drea are having Anna Mae baptized. Both very important days for 2 people everybody adores. Then on October 11th, Christianne and Oliver are getting married YEA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It is also the day that Rick's 40th class reunion has been scheduled, not so important. This reminds me of the days when the boys were all in soccer and all of us moms would get together with calendars and plan birthdays, etc. The high school graduations were a panic. I always took the weekend before the graduations and then we would schedule the rest on the following weekends. Lots of fun. I sure miss those days. Well, it is Friday tomorow, so I will be a happy camper, like it matters.

Valuable Info

I have been sitting out in the backyard with Payton at night because it is so nice out. Of course, I read everything I get my hands on, which includes a Coors Light. Here is the valuable info. For those of us who need to lose weight, Coors Light has .7 grams of carbs and zero fat per 12 oz. serving. I know you are thinking that is GREAT news. Thank you, I do what I can.

Day Off

Today I am not going to have any kids, this happens once in a while, so I have a chance to get things done that I can't do on a regular Monday. I will probably do nothing. I do know that I am going to go to Joanns and pick up some stuff to finish a quilt and then to the grocery store to get dinner. This reminds me of when my boys were all toddlers at the same time. If I was given the chance to go to the store by myself, I would wander up and down every aisle real slow. I got to see Aiden Saturday, what a cutie pie. Alex was coaching at UCI and Jamie had her bootcamp meeting, so Rick and I went and watched Aiden at the field while Alex coached. It was so much fun. I can not for the life of me, figure out why Jamie needs a fitness bookcamp. That girl is almost a shadow now!!! Yesterday, we started on my mom's apartment. What a mess!! For 3 solid hours we bagged and tossed. It was kinda discouraging, we would come back from the dumpster and it looked like the crap was breeding while we were gone. We came across some important documents, which was a lucky find. I found my dads death certificate, which made me cry, God I miss him. When I came across my grandma's I discovered that she had died on Alex's birthday. I was told a totally different day by my mom when it happended. I guess the number 13 was my grandmas number, her birthday and the day she passed were both on the 13th. A few more weekends and the job of clearing out will be finished. YEA!!!!! Today Brian and Leslie are going to stop by with their baby girl Brooklyn, I can't wait to see her. Erik is also coming home today from a guys weekend. Well, as soon as Rick gets out of here I can get started on doing stuff in the house. Until then, I am just going to "surf" the internet and look up stupid stuff just because I can!!!!

YEA FRIDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Actually, today is one of the better Fridays that I have had. No Alyssa and Garin's older sister, Destiny, picked him up early to surprise him with lunch and a movie. Even though I only have 2 left, they are the same as having 6. Both want to be in charge and neither of them share worth a lick. Oh well, this is what I choose to do, so quit complaining, right? We were supposed to start clearing out my moms apartment tommorrow, but Robin has to work, so Sunday it is. We have until August, but I don't want to spend all my spare time doing this shit. It is even harder than moving her because we can't just move the piles from one place to another, we actually have to go thru it all and then dump it. It is going to be a long stinky process. Aiden is at Wild Rivers with Alex and according to Jamies blog, he is having a blast on the water slide. I am so glad that we are having a water slide for the family shower for Christianne and Oliver in August. Aiden already expects a bounce house when he comes over. He looks in the backyard and asks "where bouncer?" It is not a bad thing, when we are having some sort of party and I always get a bounce house. I am so looking forward to this weekend, Tony's tonight and then it is closer to Taco Tuesday. Sad, my thrills based around restaurants. My mom is doing fine in the nursing home, she is in better health than she has been in years. I go 3 to 4 times a week to see her. They have activities all day long, 7 days a week, so she is not lacking for things to do. It is up to her to participate. My neighbor, Barbara, had cancer surgery today. The genius's at Kaiser told her over 6 weeks ago that the chemo wasn't working so they would have to do surgery to remove the cancer. They scheduled her for today, WHAT!!!!! This is a dangerous disease folks, it won't wait for your day in the OR. Well, in the 6 weeks since they told her that and with no treatment at all, the cancer spread. They removed more of her than they would have had to if they would have acted right away. The doctor told the family that he "hopes" he got it all and they are going to resume chemo. IDIOTS!!! So, if you read this, please pray for Barbara to recover. Well, I better go and at least make a swipe at the dust.

Highs and Lows

Well, the biggest high for today, Monday, is that we FINALLY have hot water, no more ice showers!! Rick got the new hot water heater in yesterday afternoon. It took a few days, but the wait is over. The low is that my mom is in a nursing home. I really am glad that it happened, she so needed that kind of care. The low is that she wants to go home and it isn't going to happen. Today, Robin is going to go and talk to the doctor there and get her moved to the other side of the coded door. It all happened so fast, her leaving the hospital to the home, that we haven't even had time to get any info. We were told that she would be in the hospital for a few more days, then suddenly it was she is being moved to the nursing home now and it happened late Saturday night. Of course no doctors were available on Sunday to give us any answers, so today is the day. I am waiting for the Medi Cal lady to call me, I have been told that she will call and not to call her again. Oh well, can't fight city hall. I have all the forms, but I am glad that she will take care of it, then it will be done right the first time and things can get started. Ultimately, we are hoping to get my mom into a assisted living place, although she seems content where she is. Yesterday I told her that there were a bunch of cats hanging out on the patios, so she is looking forward to going out with kitty treats. Well, the natives should all be here soon. The great thing about the kids during the week is that they wear Payton out and she sleeps thru the night, otherwise at 2 am she is bugging me for company. I have new quilt block patterns that I have been working on thanks to Vicky. I love them and have used up a lot of my extra material making a quilt for my mom to have at the home. Just a little bit of something that no one else has there. OK, enough of my dull life.

Big Surprise

Well, it is Friday morning. When I went to bed last night, Rick was working on a stand for the new water heater because the old one was saturated and no good. I usually take a shower in the afternoon to get rid of the days yuckies, but couldn't because of no water heater. So, I woke up this morning thinking I can jump in the shower. I went out to the garage to get a towel out of the dryer and there it is, the new water heater............ still in the box. YEA!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Luckily Rick capped off the water source to the water heater so we at least have running water in the house. I am going to have to go to someone's house after the kids leave and bum a shower so that I don't have to go to Tony's stinkdefied!!! Of course it has to be humid today. ALSO, Uncle Larry got to go home last night and he appears to be OK.

Thursday is Hospital Day

I just got back from the hospital where my mom is at. I went to go visit her because I had the opportunity to go during the day instead of at night. With just Robin and myself going, it makes it nice today that her visits are split up, at least today. I won't be going tomorrow, so Saturday I will go up in the morning. She is not happy about being there and it is hard because she always asks me to take her home. When I got there I asked if Larry was still there and he sure was. right next door to my mom. He is waiting for another test then hopefully he gets to leave. So, I got to visit with him, he was more fun to talk to. Well, that is all. I had time on my hands, so rather than doing something I need to, here I sit.

Almost Friday!!!!

I am so glad that tomorow is Friday. This week has been a real mixed bag of stuff going on. What stuff you ask?? Well, the week started out with taking my mom to the ER on Monday. Robin had brought her to his house Sunday because she has been falling down alot. We took her to Pomona Valley Hospital to get checked out after he got off work on Monday. Well, her hemoglobin was 6.1 when it is supposed to be at 12. They tried SEVERAL times to get an IV started with no luck until Eddie came on duty, he had no problem. She is still in the hospital going thru tests and she is being "uncooperative", what a huge surprise. When I was walking in to the hospital to go visit her, I saw a guy sitting out front that looked exactly like Doug Kidney. I didn't hollar at him because I have done that a number of times thinking that I see someone I know to find out that I am just flat out wrong. When I was waiting for the elevator Renee, Doug's wife, came out of the restroom. WHAT!!!! I was then told that Uncle Larry was in the ER. Apparently during the night he got out of bed and was feeling a little goofy. He had an appointment to go see his doctor yesterday morning to check on his 21 stitches in his leg. The stitches came from dropping a 375# barbell on his leg, he was actullay proud of the weight!! Well, when they got him to the doctor his heart rate was 40, way low even for him, so off to the ER he is sent. After I went to see my mom, I went down to the ER and they let me in because I am listed as Larry's sister. Cindy told me that the scan of his brain showed that he might have had a small stroke, but he appeared to be fine. They are doing another test this morning to find out what the stomach pain is all about. I pray that he gets better. On my way home I got a text from Jamie to go check out http://www.blog.drewphotography.com/ I assumed that it was pictures of Cameron, her niece because I knew that Jill had taken her to get her newborn pictures done. Well, Drew had taken pictures of Aiden, so cute. He is such a little man now. So today I am going to get info on placing my mom in an after care facility since there is no way she will be able to take care of herself for a while. I got new quilt patterns from Vicky, and I have been obcessing over which one to do first. Thanks VIC !! So, when I get all my other mom stuff done, I am going to sort out material that I have and see if there is enough of one material to make one of the patterns. Well, wish me luck that I can get the important stuff done and then I can "play" with my patterns!!! Oh yeah, remember the wedding that we went to last weekend?? Well, the psycho bitch homeowner was caught taking the unopened bottles of champagne and stashing them in her garage. How stupid are you lady?? Well, here's to the end of the week!!!!!

No Real Title

Can't think of anything that I think is clever, so this has no title. I hope everybody had a safe 4th and had a lot of fun. We went to Gary and Colleen's house and BBQ'D and watched fireworks from her front yard. They live at the end of a very long cul-de-sac and have the perfect spot for watching everyone elses stuff go off. They also had a zillion dollars worth of legal fireworks that the neighbor kid set off for our entertainment. There was more illegal air stuff this year and they were really cool. Besides us, Dave and Joyce and Dave and Rose were also there. I made a dessert for the first time and it was deemed a keeper, so into the book I keep threatening to print it goes. Yesterday was Krista's, Linda's daughter, wedding in a backyard in Norco. Because of the heat. no one was really looking forward to it at all, but the weather gods were with us and it wasn't as bad as it could have been. It was very nice and Krista and Todd look very happy. It was a lot of work for Linda, so thank you. On the other hand, the owner of the house will be talked about for quite a while. To say she was odd is being nice. We were all sitting at our tables talking and trying to hydrate ourselves, when she came around and passed out her business cards. What!!! She then really made an impression on us when she came around later in the evening and asked me to help her clean up the tables. I ignored her and then she came back and loudly said that she would appreciate it if we would all help her. As she was picking up glasses and emptying them right there at the table, she threw water on Jamie's foot. OK weirdo we are outta here!!! We then took about 20 minutes to say our good-byes to everybody, it is always great to see the family, then headed home. The texting then started between me and Kim and Erik, Jamie and Kim. What a riot. Erik and Kim were picking teams for a water fight, too funny. I almost wished the trip home was longer because it was really entertaining and fun. Kim HAD to rub it in that they were almost home in paradise where the temps reach 78* instead of starting out that hot. On the 4th we were texting back and forth, me wiping my brow and she was taunting me that she had to go find a sweater. This weekend all in all was a lot of fun. Alex, Jamie and Aiden were also at the wedding and Aiden had a great time with his cousin Spencer. Aiden is gettting to be such a little man. Alex and Erik were so handsome and Jamie and Jamie were just gorgeous, I am so proud of them all. I hope we do something today with family, I am in the mood for Roscoes!!!!

Another Monday

Well, it is the last day of June. Saturday night was Tyler and Shelley's engagement party. There was lots of food and drink and a good time was had by all. Shelley's dad kept saying, wow you have a lot of family!! Just the tip of the iceberg baby, not all were there. There was great visiting time and some people were just as annoying as ever. Kim told Tyler and Shelley, then Erik and Jamie, that they will give them a honeymoon trip to Costa Rica as their gift. WOW!!! WOW!!!! WOW!!! It is soooooooo generous of them. Plans were settled between us and the Burmaz's for Tyler and Shelley's wedding and reception. They are getting married in a catholic church in Placentia then the reception is going to be at the Hyatt in Huntington Beach on July 18th, 2009. Tyler is going to go thru classes so that he can marry Shelley in the catholic church, that will be good for him to get more religion. Shelly's dad, Darko, and I agreed on 1 thing, we are not ready for our kids to grow up and be married, they need to stay little for us longer, but it is not to be. Jamie, Jamie and I are getting into full shower mode for Christianne and Oliver's shower. Jamie has already designed and is going to print the invites and they are sooooo cool.
I hope that this color comes out good enough to be able to read, I was trying to duplicate the color aqua, that is going to be the main color for Tyler and Shelley's wedding. Try to stay cool!!!!

Nightmare game

Last night Alex played in a game that was broadcast on the internet. It was horrible. Hollywood United played the Seattle Sounders and lost bad. It was tough to watch. Not just being a mom, Alex played great and so did a couple of other players, but it wasn't enough. It might have been a different game if their key defensive player wasn't out with a torn acl. The one bright spot was that Alex got to see a few of his friends from the Sounders. Hollywood United is a good team, just had a really bad night. They have won more than a couple of pretty big tournaments, including the Galaxy Classico. To those who remember them, they needed Tony and Joe last night.

Technically Challenged

OK A few days back I was so upset because I thought that all of my pics on my memory card were gone. I was just about to go to Sams Club and make an idiot out of myself. I "thought" that all my pics were erased by their photo machine because all I had on my camera were the pictures that I took at Aidens graduation. Well, I was getting money out of my little red change purse, when TA DA there is my memory card for my camera. I guess my camera has some internal memory. I didn't even know about that until Jamie told me that is what I had. NOW, Miss technically challenged has to figure out how to get those pictures off!! OH ERIK!!!!!!!

IT HAS BEGUN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Here I sit, it is 7:20 am Sunday morning and I feel like I have been up forever. Hey wait, I have!!! Anyway, yesterday was a very productive day. I went with Jamie, Shira and Erik to see bridesmaids dresses again. Jamie (Alex's) met us there. Erik was there to give his opinion on colors because he and Jamie couldn't decide after looking on the internet. Jamie B. tried on dresses with different colors and the color was finally decided on. Erik went next store to the tux shop and found what he likes also. He is going to go to a couple of other places because they weren't able to show him the complete suit. He has time. We then said goodbye to Jamie B. because we were going to Muckenthaler to sign the contract for the wedding and reception. Duane is too funny and we had fun. The contract has been signed and Shira gave him the deposit. So, off we goooooo. We were able to go over the wedding site and made some decisions on different stuff. The bridal shop even let Jamie bring 2 dresses to check for color scheme against the background of greenery. Shira was the model. Jamie is posting pics on her blog erikandjamie.blogspot.com Rick met us at the Muckenthaler and then bought lunch at Olive Garden. It was such a great day and then I spent the rest of the afternoon bored to death. I made a few notes for Christiannes' shower, which is coming up fast. Jamie, Jamie and I have to get cracking on that. Well, today is Father's Day, I have no clue what we are doing. I didn't make any plans, so I am just going to roll with the flow.

Can't decide

I just got an email from Jamie and she really wants another color, but with all the greenery at the spot for the ceremony, she can't decide. Updates later!!!!! Both will look great.

What the F...........?

Last night we went to Aiden's promotion at his pre-school. Too cute!!!! It was a great night because not only did we get to see Aiden "perform", but we got to see some of our friends from when Alex played socccer at Dominguez. First, the preschool that Aiden goes to has from 2 to Kindergarden and they all performed as a group with the 2 year olds on the front row. Too cute!!! Then each age group had their own little show time, what a show!!! It amazes me how these teachers can get so many to do well when I have a tough time with 3. The preschool is run by a friend that we met while Alex played at Dominguez. She is so much fun and it always amazed me how someone can have 2 distinct personalities. The Sherry at soccer games was WAY different than the Sherry at the preschool. I used to think to myself, "she runs a christian preschool?" Sherry wasn't bad by any means, just a lot more "boistrous" is a good way of putting it. We agreed to make a better effort to see each other more often. After we said goodbye to Alex, Jamie, and the grad Aiden, we met Erik and Jamie at BJ's for a late dinner. That is when I discovered that my memory card had only the pics that I took last night. ALL of my pictures that I have been keeping on my camera were gone!! I am so upset, but thank goodness that yesterday I went to have pictures printed and I got a CD with them on it. There were pics from Aiden when he was littler, Erik and Jamie's proposal, and the day Jamie tried on dresses. I am mainly bummed because I need the memory card to transfer pictures to my digital photo frame. What the F........? is right. At dinner, Jamie showed me the new color she has picked out. At first I went EWWWWWWWWWWWWW, but after looking at pictures she had , it grew on me and I actually like it now. Can you guess the color???? Their new date is May 9th and I can't wait to get going on the planning of it all with them.

We Have Dress

Yesterday was a new experience for me. I went with Jamie, her mom Shira, and her best friend Christina to go dress shopping for Jamie's dress and to look at bridesmaid dresses. Jamie had already done a scouting trip and knew what she liked. The dress she first fell in love with is the one she got. Jamie tried on a few others, and they all looked good on her. BUT, when she came out with "THE ONE", I started to cry I was so overcome. I didn't know it was the dress she liked from the beginning. Jamie had Christina try on both of the style of dresses for bridesmaids that she liked and found the dress for them also. They are going to look so beautiful. We then went out to a girls lunch at the Red Robin because we had 2 hours to kill before we had to meet Gary and Rick and the potential site for the reception. I cannot remember the last time I did this, I almost didn't know what to do. We then went to Muckenthaler Mansion and there we had success also. Jamie will find out Monday if the day she picked is available. It is going to be an outdoor wedding and reception. We got to see the tent (it is only a top) set up for another wedding and it is just what Jamie and Erik want. Very simple, very nice. After Rick and I left, the others made a stop to see Jamie's grandma. Then they went back to the dress store so that Jamie could try on the dress she likes for her dad. Well, Gary bought a dress and I would have loved to been there to see his face when Jamie tried the dress on for him. Shira also got talked into trying on a dress that she also got. Later after Erik got off work, we all met at Roscoes (our new favorite place to eat) for dinner. Gary picked up the tab, so it was a very expensive day for him. If Erik and Jamie get the date they want, the Sunday of Memorial weekend next year, we can get started on all the other things that go with planning a wedding. I am so excited!!!!!

Lots To Do

Well folks, I have lots to do this weekend, FINALLY. Tonight we are going out to Temecula for Russ Frear's 55th birthday. How did I end up with friends that are so old??? I have to call Tony tonight and let him know the "group" won't be there. Then tomorrow, I get to go with Jamie and look at wedding dresses. She is so damn sweet, she came and asked me if I would go with her and her mom because she wanted me to part of the whole experience. I have no daughters of my own and this is so neat to be included in "girl" stuff. After we go looking for dresses, we are meeting the guys at the site they are looking at for their wedding. This place sounds absolutely ideal and Jamie has a few of her own ideas that are going to be awesome. It is so her to really come up with things that are so unique. I have to admit that "my Jamies" are the most creative girls ever!! Me and the girls are in the process of getting things together for Christianne and Olivers shower in August. I have already reserved a waterslide, because of the heat, and a Cars bounce house, well because Aiden loves Cars and bounce houses. When I called Jose to reserve them, he remembered at Easter Aiden being so upset when he came to take the bounce house. Jose said he will come after Aiden leaves so that he doesn't have to do that again. Sunday we are going to a gathering for Bob Telesio, no reason in particular. His daughters thought that it would be nice to have a 1/2 birthday party for him, he is in his 80s. Tyler will be home this weekend, so Payton will get to bug him while we are gone. Well, it is time to get ready for the day FRIDAY YEA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Race Is ON

Well, last night our #2 son Tyler calls me and says "go to your phone, I sent you a picture". The picture never came thru, but it didn't take a genius to figure it out. Tyler proposed to Shelley last night at her parents place in Lake Havasu. Her parents got to share in their joy. I am so happy for Tyler, he has found a great girl. Basically, we are going to be ass deep in weddings and all the activities that go with it. We are still waiting for them to set a date, I hope it is NOT in May of 2009, that is what Erik and Jamie are looking at. They should each have their special time. So, here I sit, picturing weddings in my head, thinking WOW how did they grow up so fast. The plus side, besides the marriages, is that I get to have more grandchildren in the future. Time to put in a pool and a playground!!!!!

May 17th

Wow, where do I start. Yesterday was a day to remember. In the morning we went to Cal Sate Fullerton to see Erik's girlfriend Jamie graduate from college. It was hotter than hell!!!!! I should have known that it would be so hot, because there was an air show in Chino. Has anybody ever heard of an air show that wasn't on the hottest day of the year??? I tried to find her in the sea of black robes and hats, but was unsuccessful. Then when one of the rows got up and walked out, I spotted her. She has a "get out of my way" walk when she is mad, and she was walking the walk. We were across the field from Erik and Jamie's family and I called Erik to ask if that was Jamie, and her dad said that yes it was, she was twisted sister at that point. It was so F......ing hot for those poor graduates. We all survived the graduation then went to Jamie's house for a small graduation party. There is where the big event happened. Jamie's dad, Gary, was toasting Jamie and her accomplishments and then asked if there is someone who will now take her off his hands. Well, Erik came forward, went down on one knee and proposed to Jamie. She was stunned and the ring is beautiful. It didn't go exactly as Erik planned it, but he is quick on his feet and Gary gave him an opening, so he took it. We are looking forward to another Bengard wedding, no date set yet though. We LOVE our future daughter-in-law and the Caccavalle's are a great family. It is going to be a fun ride!!!

Great Weekend

I had a really great weekend. Saturday night, we got to have Aiden here for a few hours while Alex and Jamie worked at their Chronic Taco. He had a blast and he ran and ran with Payton for almost the whole time. We also had people over to BBQ and play cards. Visitors and get to be a Grandma all in the same day, WONDERFUL. Payton was golden with him, of course she is used to small kids, and Aiden warmed up to her in a short time. A 74 pound dog is scary to someone who isn't around them on a regular basis. Erik even said he has never seen Payton behave so well. She did try to get his soccer ball, but after enough NO's she gave up. Then on Sunday, I had a great Mothers Day. Erik and Jamie gave me a photo key chain that I can put up to 50 pictures on. Rick gave me a couple of cards, he paid to have my hair done, and I thought that was it for the day. But, I was wrong. Erik cooked a fabulous dinner and everybody was here for it. I TOTALLY did not expect that. Aiden made me a photo frame that says Nana on it and his name and the year were on the bottom. I am overwhelmed that Jamie took the time to do that for me. Aiden had a great time playing with Alex in the backyard and Payton was a little bad at times. She grabbed his soccer ball a lot, but eventually gave it up. We are still working on her behavior, she is still a puppy, 18 months, and it is an on going process. Right this moment, Payton has Tristan and Alyssa on one end of her "tug of war" rope and it pulling them all over the yard. I am looking forward to the next time we can have Aiden again, I am so jealous of all my friends that are grandparents and are always talking about the times when their grandkids are over. I am working on Rick to get one of those wood playsets to have for when he comes over. He is at the age where he would really like to have something like that to play on. Well, I am going to go and look at my frame again.

I Stand Corrected

OK, this is for Bill because I know that he and Jeff read this. I got an ad in the mail today that had a guy on the very front with a stripe shirt and plaid shorts. They weren't even the same color at all either!! SO, when I said "did you dress in the dark?", it showed that I am in the dark about men's fashions today. I guess I was showing my age, DAMN!!!! On another note, we went back to Chronic Taco yesterday with 4 friends and they all liked it, whew!! Tonight is Taco Tuesday at Sandras, hopefully soccer game tomorrow, and Tony's on Friday. Gosh I only have to try and come up with something edible on Thursday. My lucky family.

Cinco De Mayo

We are going to go to this new place, Chronic Taco, for Cinco de Mayo. I heard it is pretty good. We will be meeting the Edgars there and are bringing the Quinns with us. This last weekend we went to the baby shower for Jill and Brandon and as usual Jamie did a great job as the party planner. I started out watching and playing with Aiden by his new whale pool, then after Alex got there, I headed for the shade. I didn't want to get in the way of "Daddy" time. Jamie's grandpa, Dick, came over and joined me, then pretty soon here came Jeff and Bill. I had the prime spot!! It was really good to get to visit with them and hear more about their adventures in France. I did pick up a good gift tidbit for someone who lives in France, graham crackers!!! I guess Jeff made the million dollar cheesecake for someone over there and it cost him a fortune for a box of graham crakers for the crust. Well, I have bored you enough, I need to go and cut out a couple of blankets to make for gifts. I still have a few patterns I would like to try, I am sure there will be more for the "what were you thinking" pile. If we ever have a disaster, my neighborhood will be ok in the blanket section of their supplies, I have been keeping some in the back on the van I don"t drive anymore because they turned out so ugly!!!

Grand Opening

Last night, actually all day yesterday, was the grand opening for Alex and Jamie's Chronic Taco. They did very well for the first day. Erik told me when he called, that they had a line out the door for 3 hours during the lunch hours. He said there were groups of 6 and 7 jaywalking across Lambert from the business across the street. They have a great location and Alex had a sign twirler out by the street. Alex has done good with taking flyers to the local businesses, I hope the business just keeps growing. I wonder if Alex is going to hang a "we cater grad parties" sign, it is the season. The price of gas could work in their favor, people can walk from where they work to get a good size lunch. Most of the Tony's group went there for dinner last night. Everybody was happy with what they got and plan on coming back a lot. We sat around and talked until a couple of cars with families pulled up, then we made plans to go and meet at Chili's so that the people would have a place to sit. It was a fun night and my son did well, I am so happy. Well, I have to go and finish my gift for Jamie's sister Jill, today is her and Brandon's baby shower. Yea!! I get to see Aiden!!!

Chronic Tacos

Last night was the "soft opening" for Alex and Jamies new business Chronic Tacos. They had family members and others there to get free tacos and sodas. Our good friend, Gary Starr, was the contractor for the job and I am impressed with the work done. Gary, Colleen and others from their construction company were there also. It was nice being able to sit and eat with the people who were there last night. I got to see Jeff and Bill, who I haven't seen for a while because they were in France. Robin, Susan, Corey and Adam also came, much to Aiden's delight. Adam is his favorite cousin. Tonight is bring your wallet night for the Grand Opening. There will be family members going there for lunch today and tonight we are going with our "Tony's" crowd. After we leave there we will probably go somewhere for beers, after all it is Friday. I am so happy for Alex and Jamie. They have a great location and should do very well. Well, the natives are getting restless, what else is new.

Monday, Monday

Here I sit, making one list after another of what I want to get done for the week, all of which I probably won't do. It was an OK weekend, I got to see more frineds than normal. Friday at Tony's was cool, Vicky brought dessert. Man, she makes a GREAT cheesecake. I had it for lunch yesterday. It is good to be an adult, all be it a heavy one. I wonder why??? Saturday night, Vicky came by after working in El Monte and we went to Roscoe's Deli, another one to go on the list of awesome places to eat. We shared a pastrami sandwich and it was more than enough. Rick ate all of his sandwich, what a pig. Then we came home and there was a crowd in the front of my house. The "Islanders" from next store were out talking to Tyler. So, we all got out chairs and sat and talked and drank until 10:30. Other neighbors saw what was going on and came over. Poor Vicky drove home after that. Yesterday we got a call from Charlie Blank and they wanted to meet us up at Chilis. Good visit. Today Barbara from next store starts her chemo, it is going to be a long rough road for her. It is so sad. Her family all went and got family pics taken together. Great pictures, but the reason behind it sucks. I made her a "chemo" blanket to take to keep her warm while she is taking treatments. Her daughters are getting info together to get her over to City of Hope, I hope they do, her insurance is a sucky one. I am praying for her and I hope you do too. Alex and Jamie"s Chronic Taco is supposed to open this weekend. It should go very well for them , good spot for it. Well, gotta go and be a day care person. See you at Chronic Taco!!!!

Was Is It????

What is it about back-up lights that make them invisible to people??? I sat for, and I am not kidding, for close to 5 minutes trying to back out of a parking space. People just kept walking behind me like I wasn't there. Even if I was SLOWLY creeping out they would keep on walking, like it is their God given right to do so. I now know better than to go to Wal Mart on state check receiving day. That was bad, I really don't know if it is today actually. This has happened to me more than once at other stores. I guess a big blue truck with a loud exhaust doesn't deserve to go anywhere quickly. I am soooo looking forward to tomorrow, it has been a long week. Tyler will finally be coming home this weekend, not that I will see him, but hopefully I will get a break in the action with Payton. My, I mean his dog, is getting so big. Rick has actually been civil to her a few times. What is wrong in the universe??? I know this was a stupid post, but that is how I roll. Is anyone else besides me pissed that Brooke is still on American Idol? To me she is this years Sanjaya. How sad is this that I know names of last years idol hopefuls??

Alone At Last

Well, it is Monday morning and I have NO kids here today. It is just Payton and myself. I know I should take advantage of it and clean without having to worry about who is doing what, but nope!!! I am going to try and move one of the hutches out of my room today though. The living room looks really nice, but that is because everything is crammed into my room and the computer room. I got to see Aiden this last weekend. Alex played on Saturday and we went to the game and Aiden was there. It still kills me that there are guys playing in the MLS that Alex played with and is better than. I can't figure that out. Aiden was in full Man U uniform, too cute. On the back it says Bengard 8. He got a little golf set from Erik and Jamie for Easter and he had it with him. There he was in a soccer uniform, playing with a golf set, left handed and it was a right handed set. I LOVE watching him play. I can't wait to see him again. He is the fastest little guy I have ever seen. When he decides to go - he is gone!!!! We went to dinner after Alex's game and if Aiden got out the door ZOOM off he went. he just ran around the fountain that was there. I have seen this fountain in pictures with him. Well, I am going to get on the phone with Verizon AGAIN. We have another problem with the cable boxes. It never is easy with them.

Almost Done

Thru the years I have learned never to expect things to get done completely around here. There is always things left undone after the big push to get ready for events. Rick worked thru the night a couple of times (which he wouldn't have had to do if he took a few hours off of work) and now he is in complete shutdown mode for a while. EVERY day I ask him if he will please rehook the DVD and the Tivo and I get an OK as he sits in front tof the computer playing free cell and watching Holmes on Homes for hours. I wish I was able to do it because he really did work very hard, but please just spend another couple of hours and things completely done. I hope by next weekend he will be totally rested and he can tack the baseboards on for good, they are leaning against the wall in spots, and he wants to get the spots he missed when they painted. Everything looks so good and I am so happy to have a decent looking house and furniture that didn't look like it came out of a dumpster. I have to find a real good duster type thing for the floors, I can't seem to get the right one. Well, the next big event is a shower for Christianne and Oliver. What projects can we get done for that??????? In the meantime, I can get back to my sewing. I have stacks of material and a list of blankets I want to make. I even get to make the bedspread for Aidens new big boy bed, I am so excited!!!!

The Day After

Yesterday was a great day. Although it started out a little rough, it ended nicely. We had the usual griping as the last minute cleaning was going on, but I ignore it. The only thing that didn't go as I planned was the egg hunt. The guy across the street just couldn't get the concept of an organized egg hunt. I know it is all me, but I always want to know who is "hunting" because I have this thing about fairness with kids. I don't have the eggs just tossed out on the lawn and then let it be a free-for-all. No matter how many kids there are there is 12 for each of them. I mainly have prizes and put pieces of paper in the eggs with the prize written on it. My friends have helped by picking up small things for the hunt for me all year long, so I am able to do this. Well, Richard, his American name he his Chinese, told me that they may not make it. OK, the invite says egg hunt at 4, but we waited for kids that I knew were coming but still weren't there. At the time of the hunt, I had told the kids that they could "find" 19 each because the kids from across the street weren't coming. The 4 and older go in the front yard and the under 4 have their egg hunt in the back. Well, when the hunt started in the front, Richards kids plus a cousin came racing across the street and not only preceded to grab eggs in the front, but then came into the back and were grabbing them there. All the while Richard is filming the whole thing with a huge smile on his face. I kept trying to explain to him how it was supposed to be, but he just didn't get it. Next year I know to call him ahead of the hunt. He is a very nice guy and he would be totally embaressed if he ever got it. Aiden was adorable, he made me a heart with a N in the middle of it for "Nana". I will treasure it forever. The annual knock-out game came to a screeching halt when he wanted to play with Uncle E on the court and nobody cared, it was too much fun just watching him. Those big guys sure do cheat at knock-out. It is fun to watch. Now, I have to clean again and I am looking forward to friends coming back over tonight for leftovers. I hope there is some left so that I can make my version of flautas for my boys. By Wednesday, I will have all of the new furniture that Rick bought, I am so happy!! It finally is starting look like a house that someone lives in.

It's Deja Vu All Over Again

CRAP Just as I thought it was going sooooo smooth, BAM it happens again. OK, the floor went in yesterday and it is beautiful, I love it. Javier and his crew didn't get here until 11:30 and it was an ordeal that lasted until 8:30 last night. SO, then Rick tells me that nothing can go back into the house because he wants to put in new baseboards, but he isn't going to take the day off to do this. Now, it is going to be crunch and rush on Saturday so that it will be put back together for Easter. I was really hoping to have the time to do things at a steady pace and not have to kill myself getting it done. So, I am sitting here waiting for the sun to come up and then I am going to go in and ask Rick to get up and got get the dang baseboards so that MAYBE we can get them painted and ready to go in. The floor guy told Rick when he left that he could put the baseboards in for him, we just need to go get them!!! I HATE waiting until the last minute to get things done. I even missed Lost last night, a pure crime!! NO, I didn't TIVO it because the TIVO and TV are sitting on my island, they can't go back in until the baseboards are done. There is a long list of things that have to get done, any volunteers????? Kidding I have the meat ordered and a hair appointment for Saturday, so at least what hair I haven't torn out will be done for Sunday. We, whoever we may be. will be cooking the meat while getting everything else done, at least that is the plan for now. By next week this will all be a happy memory. HA HA

Almost Done

Well, it is early Thursday morning and Rick and Erik just went to bed after a marathon night of painting. I LOVE the color, and now my work is beginning. Jamie, Erik's girlfriend, bless her heart, was here painting right along side them. I was the lazy bitch, I don't paint. As Angela once put it, someone has to be hospitality and clean-up!! Myself and the kids are in the back room waiting for the floor guys to get here. Now that there is going to be new floors and the walls are all painted, I really don't want to put the old furniture back in. On another note, Ricks company "last hurrah" dinner was this last weekend. They sold out and this was a dinner to thank all the employees for sticking with them. They were profitable and the good thing is that all of the employess are still working there. No one lost out on this deal. Long story as to why. The one funny thing that happened there was that when we were gathering with just the partners and wives, I had to laugh. 12 years ago we were all non-stop energy, throwing down drinks and talking about all the fun things, ie water skiing, etc. we do. Well, there wasn't one of us that wasn't recovering from one sort of surgery or another, mostly part replacements or reconstruction. I was telling them that when I was in my 30's my motto was "LIVE HARD, DIE YOUNG AND HAVE A GOOD LOOKING CORPSE" that isn't funny anymore!!!! Well, I hear someone at my new front door, gotta go. Please come by and see all the work, all 8 of you that read this.

We Got The Gig!!!

Myself, Jamie B and Jamie C (who will be a Jamie B someday) got the OK to have the wedding shower for Christiannne and Oliver for the Bengard tribe. SO EXCITED!! The Jamies and I are already going over ideas for a theme and what we are going to do, etc. This is going to be a one of a kind shower for a one of a kind couple. I do not want to leak (hint) any ideas yet, but it won't be your grandma's shower. Of course, it will be catered by Chronic Taco and will be in September. I just have to wait until the Azusa Pacific football schedule comes out as Travis is not only a Bengard, but also a bridesman for Christianne. We are SOOOOOOOOOOO looking forward to this. I just hope that Jamie is out of time out, Aiden put her in time out yesterday and you can read about it in his site babysites.com/sites/aidenbengard. More news later!!!!

Dog Tag

Just a quick note, this is so funny, well at least to me it is. Tyler's dog, Payton, LOVES the kids. The favorite sport right now is Dog Tag. They tell Payton, "come get us" and they run all over the yard with her barking and running after them. They think they are outrunning her, but she lets them. If she wanted to she could overpower them in a heartbeat, but she doesn't. This is so great. She stays a foot away from them and they do this for a long time. Great excercize for both Payton and the kids. It makes me tired just to watch.