Saturday, October 23, 2010
This Blog Entry is 100% Miss Goofy's Fault
Anyway she was saying she was contemplating sewing some scarves to sell online. I said that was a good idea and maybe we'd set up an etsy shop. So she then named several items she could sew and sell. One of her thoughts was doll clothes. Something in the way she said doll clothes brought a tear to my eye. And two memories to the forefront of my mind.
When I was girl my dad's mother and my mom's mother did a lot of sewing for my sister and I. One day while my dad's mom was so engaged my mother called her. When she asked what my grandmother was up to, Grandma responded, "Just sewing some doll clothes." A few days later she showed my mom the dresses she had been working on. They were for my sister and I.
She's the same grandmother who used to get mad when people called my sister and I spoiled. She'd look at the person and tell them, "They're not spoiled, just well-loved."
Thank you, Grandma. Your love remains in my heart and memory.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Makes Me Miss California...
The earthquake measured 4.5 on the Richter scale, which by California standards is a big truck going by. Or if we're talking about Tehachapi, a train.
Our apartment shook slightly and I mean very slightly. Miss Goofy said it startled her and she nearly fell out of the chair she was sitting in, I was in the kitchen and thought I stumbled as I opened the fridge cause I was tired.
Miss Goofy left to go do laundry and I turned on the television to occupy the dog, (otherwise he barks cause he hears stuff outside) and sure enough Good Day Tulsa is reporting an earthquake in Norman.
Mostly I wrote this to let my family know yeah, we had one. No, it wasn't a big deal. Thanks for your concern. We love you! And let's hope for aftershocks!
ETA: I remember in California it sometimes taking days for an earthquake to be reviewed by a seismologist. At the USGS website each earthquake report lists whether it's a computer generated message meaning the seismographs have detected movement and someone needs to review the data or it will say this event has been reviewed by a seismologist, indicating it's already been looked at. This earthquake in Oklahoma, reviewed within a half hour. Kind of funny, huh?
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
9/11 We Won't Forget--Unless We're At an OU Game
Then my husband told me about the OU- Florida game that was played on Saturday. I know it's all over the news, radio, internet, but I just want to add my two cents worth. It's shameful to yell out during a moment of silence. I don't care where you are or why you're there. It's rude. As for the National Anthem, well, I always thought it was disrespectful to talk during the anthem. I can only offer my opinion that it's just as rude to change the words to honor your school.
That said, I hope OU fans will be better behaved next week when they play Air Force. I however, will be watching and rooting for UCLA.
Monday, September 6, 2010
So We Went To The Cabin Yesterday...
For one of the interviews, the lady told him to bring his social security card. Always a good sign, we think. Now, we both took our social security cards out of our wallets and put them in a file box for safe-keeping. Just to make it a little harder to steal the number. Good plan, right? Well, when Music Man got the job he has now, I had to find that file box and his social security card. I found it and everything was wonderful.
Until he got the call on Wednesday and suddenly, I can't find it again. Now I do need to explain one detail, we had to get him a replacement card a few months ago because the corporation that he'd worked for had laid him off and wanted to bring him back through a temp agency. The temp agency needed his card for their files. We couldn't find it.
Fast forward roughly a year and I'm tearing apart the apartment trying to figure out where I put that damn card. I remember seeing it in my desk. The desk sitting in Miss Goofy's room. It's not in the desk now. I took the card out when we moved the desk. I know I put it somewhere safe. Tragically, "somewhere safe" turned into "somewhere unknown".
So we went to the cabin to look for the card cause I knew it wasn't in the apartment. Saturday night as we were settling down to go to sleep I told Music Man, I was pretty sure I knew which box it was in. Then I said a little prayer that I was right and went to sleep.
Sunday morning dawned bright and early and despite us wanting to be on the road by nine, it was after 8:30 before we got up. So it was more like ten before we left. After a moment of panic as we got onto the turnpike when I thought we didn't have the cash on us for the toll, I found the change in my purse, and we had a fairly quiet drive.
We got to the cabin and walked in, after a moment "Eww, it smells stuffy in here," I turned to Miss Goofy and said, "Go look in that box, I need to use the restroom." And here is the point of this story. Music Man went with her to look in the box. A box overflowing with books. She had been arguing about looking in that box. Her exact words were, "there's no paper-like things in here".
Music Man smirked. I heard her arguing, finished my task and walked into the living room as she said, "Wait, it's in this book." She opened the book and triumphantly removed his social security card. She had remembered putting it in there when we were getting ready to move the desk. I'd handed it to her and asked her to put it in the box with the books. She had even told me she put it in that book. She'd even teased Music Man about it being in her sparkly vampires book.
I looked at her and smiled as she handed the missing card to her father. I asked the only thing I could as I stood over that overflowing box of books. "Did she just say there's no paper-like things in here?"
Music Man grinned and said, "Yes, yes she did."
That's my daughter. We home school her good.
P.S. You may have noticed that the words Miss Goofy are a link. It goes to my daughter's blog. You should check it out.
P.P.S. Are you happy now, Miss Goofy? I plugged your blog four times in one article.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Lately I've Been...
I liked this idea but I don't want to completely steal it so, I'm changing it to "Lately I've Been..." and the the number of things I write will probably vary.
So without further ado...
Lately I've Been
- Obsessively listening to Duran Duran (I was totally crushed when the lead singer got married)
- Writing a romance novel
- Vacuuming a large amount of pet fur
- Watching Burn Notice on USA
- Staring into space with a confused look on my face (usually when working on romance novel)
- Cooking dinner (except for last night when I made Miss Goofy and two nights ago when I made Music Man buy us pizza)
- Rocking out, dancing around and causing Miss Goofy to roll her eyes (really enjoying Duran Duran again)
Friday, July 16, 2010
Things I've Learned In Oklahoma
1. Although crickets in the house are supposed to be good luck, you really don't want to have them jump on you at three in the morning.
2. Even the biggest, bravest dog will be terrified of a thunderstorm.
3. Oklahoma humidity will make you appreciate the mild climate of California.
4. Oklahoma humidity is way better than Georgia humidity.
5. The wilderness is very noisy.
6. Oklahoma isn't just flat desert. It has gorgeous forests, beautiful lakes and vibrant cities.
7. I much prefer the city to the country.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Thank You!!!
Music Man, Music Man's Uncle and Aunt, Miss Goofy and I, oh and Courage and Thatcher were traveling. Music Man and Thatcher traveled together, they bonded in Music Man's truck. Music Man's Uncle and Aunt pulled a trailer with our stuff. Miss Goofy, Courage and I spent the better part of a week in a Saturn on the I-40.
For the record, Courage has a terrible time with digestion when he travels. Translation: he gets awful gas.
However, I do want to take a moment and thank two people who helped Miss Goofy and I a lot. These people helped us by keeping track of weather and road conditions and sending us text messages warning us of changes and possible problems. As well as providing us with jokes and cheerful notes as we drove.
Thank you DolphinLady and TheWeatherGod! You helped us make what could have been a difficult trip much easier.
For the record, I've wanted to post my thank you for a while but I had to wait until I had internet. Now that I have it, I'll be posting more often.
Friday, July 2, 2010
Where Have I Been
While I don't have a good excuse for not updating between Jujubee's birthday and the first of May, I do have one for since then. And it's really good.
You see I left my little mountain in California for the forests of Oklahoma. No I wasn't drunk. No I didn't get lost. Yes there are forests in Oklahoma.
As you may have heard unemployment in California is very high. Where we lived it was running close to 20%. Here in Oklahoma we're at 7%. Go ahead and do the math. I'll wait.
Yeah see, more opportunity for a job in Oklahoma. Way less competition. So we made the choice to move. And it's gone, well let's just say it's gone. We've had a few challenges on the way and I'll blog about those when I stop having nightmares. Just kidding, I'll blog about them later though.
However in moving sort of suddenly, we didn't have things as nailed down as we should have. So, we've been staying at a cabin owned by Music Man's uncle. It's shelter. For insects and us but mostly for insects. Let me tell you, the only thing that startles me more when I wake up than a cricket on me, is waking up with a spider crawling on me. Ewwwww!!!!!
But crickets in the house are supposed to be good luck so we've caught them and released them outside. Or nearly all of them. I can't be held accountable for the first one that hopped onto me in the middle of the night and I beat to death with my slipper. Nor can I be responsible for any that my cat has tortured during their "play" time.
The cabin does pose some amenities that are unique for me. There is a wonderful mosquito colony. Not to mention all the good luck from all the crickets in the house. Um, it's about four feet off the ground so if the river floods we should stay dry. Anything in the shed will be ruined but the house should be okay.
Unfortunately, there is no internet. Or cable. There are however lights but I have been singing the theme song to Gilligan's Island for about six weeks now. Slightly changed though to "no web, no phone, no cable, not a single luxury. It sucks to be like Robinson Crusoe. Get me out of here!"
Oh that was the other thing, our cell phones don't always work well. But it's pretty. I'd show you a picture but I don't have my camera with me and I'm sitting in a Barnes and Noble in Tulsa hoping my laptop battery doesn't die before I finish this post.
Hopefully we'll be able to move in the next few weeks and have internet again. We'll see. Music Man did find a job and he's working so there's always hope. Course he just started this week and I have no idea how long he has to be with a place before someone will rent to us. Hopefully, they'll rent to us without any problem. We'll see soon.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Joy
As a mom I've always tried to see the world through my daughter's eyes. She has always found joy in the simplest things. Twirling in a circle until she was so dizzy she fell down, chasing bubbles in the yard, the dog kissing her cheek until she's laughing so hard she can't stand, these are the things of her childhood. I hope she will remember them with the same joy I felt watching her experience them.
Now I have a new one to add to the list: passing the written test for her learner's permit. It took most of the afternoon for that one to sink in. But when it finally did, the giggles coming from her were exquisite.
I took her out for a quick driving lesson after we got back from our four hour trip to the DMV, which I didn't even mind this time. We were in a commercial neighborhood with no traffic. By no traffic I mean, there is a gas station, a Denny's and a hotel, about four streets and maybe six stop signs. I had told her on the way over I wanted her to get her speed up to 25. She'd been driving around our mobile home park at all of 10-13 mph. So I wanted her to really drive this time. She did and after her lesson, we parked so we could switch places and I could drive us home. I got behind the wheel and she giggled and said to me, "I went 27." The joy on her face made me want to cry. So happy, such a little thing, but it made her so happy.
So I called her a speed demon and got on the freeway to come home. No way I was going to let her know how much it makes me want to cry. Then I blogged about it.
She's still a speed demon.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
New Resolutions
When you aim low it really is easier to attain your goals. With that uplifting thought, I've decided to make new resolutions for this year. They are a bit more lofty. By the way the only ones I didn't really achieve last year are numbers 7 & 8. And well, I doubted number 7 would happen and I was really just dreaming with 8.
1. Listen to obnoxious music. (It worked well last year, thought I'd stick with a winner)
2. Participate in a 100 lbs in 10 months online weight loss challenge. Details to come later.
3. Participate in NaNoEdMo. This is in March and if you wondering what it is then you need to see the site. I've already chosen my novel to edit.
4. Participate in NaNoWriMo. This is the one I'm really excited about. It's National Novel Writing Month. It's in November. I think it will be a lot of fun. I might have a practice run in the next few weeks.
5. Schoolwork. I think this is self-explanatory.
6. Learn to play the flute at least a little. I was in band in fourth grade. I was able to play three notes. I'm up to five now, so I'm already doing better. I also have a better flute.
7. Blog at least once a week. Glad this is done for this week.
8. Exercise daily. This will help with the 100 lb in 10 months challenge.
9. Establish and maintain some routines. My life goes much better when I have some basic routines in place.
So have you made any resolutions? Wanna tell me about them? I promise not to laugh, but I may email and see how you're doing.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Brutal Game & A Funny Story
However, while chatting with our resident COB (that's cranky old bastard for those who don't remember)I was reminded of a funny story.
We lived in our church's parsonage for a while. We had just moved in a few days before, we hadn't even gotten our big brave dog yet. You know our big brave dog, right? The one who hides behind me when jets go by overhead.
So here we are, in the middle of gang territory living in a house that's sat empty for the previous 18 months. Did I mention it was repeatedly broken into before we moved in?
It was late and we heard a noise outside. It was clearly someone jumping the fence and attempting to break into the house.
Music Man jumped out of bed, grabbed the closest weapon he could find, yelled at me to call 911 and went flying out the back door.
The kid who had been attempting to break in took off running, jumped the fence catching his foot in the process and screaming, "Oh shit!" as he landed on his face. I was on the phone with the police, who were sending a car right away. The very nice dispatcher nearly peed herself when I requested they not shoot the naked guy with the sword, cause he was my husband.
Apparently, gang members are terrified of naked, fat white men with Thai ceremonial swords screaming at them at night.
****Please don't try this at home. It's much better to let the police run naked through your neighborhood.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Okay, So We're Not Undefeated
Here is Coach Music Man's pregame pep talk:
Here is what was a spectacular save:
I won't put the pictures of Miss Goofy letting in 4 goals on the blog. Music Man and I worked with her a lot on Sunday. Hopefully it will help and we'll win our game this weekend. Especially since DolphinLady and TheWeatherGod will be here for the game. Root for the Blue Crush everyone!!
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Our Last Soccer Match
Let's just say, this past week wasn't their best game. Especially for our goal keeper. She had some issues.
We also had two new players. One of them plays soccer for a club team (don't tell her coach), the other hates soccer. Or she did until she played on Saturday. She played very well and seemed to enjoy it a lot more.
This week our team plays the Sharks again, hopefully we'll be ready for them. And for the HERicanes the next week, when DolphinLady and TheWeatherGod are coming to down to see Miss Goofy play.
No pressure.
Miss Goofy Asks a Political Hot Button Question...
She looked at the dog and asked me, "What's the dog's?"
"He doesn't have one."
"He's illegal?" She turned to the dog and asked him, "Where's your work visa?"
He looks worried doesn't he?
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Just Outplayed
First let me say, most of our team was gone on Tuesday. Turns out they had the flu/cold/yucky crud making everyone in town sick. Whatever it hit Coach Music Man this week too. He could hardly speak on Tuesday. Then it hit Miss Goofy on Friday. She still went to Friday night practice and the game this morning.
Miss Goofy made some incredible saves. Including diving on the ball just like a pro. One of our girls who has really bad knees scored two goals. Unfortunately it just wasn't enough and we lost by 5.
Not because our team didn't play hard. They did. There are some things they need to work on, but they tried. Unfortunately, the HERicanes, are well, experienced. Their team has mostly older girls, so around 15, which for us is older. They also have girls that have played for a minimum of 3 years. All of them.
I thought these teams were supposed to be equally divided. Oh well. At least we know what to plan for when play them again. Next week's team is one that is young and inexperienced. I think the girls are looking forward to it. Not that we're guaranteed to win but I think they're feeling a little more confident of how they will do.
I'm just hoping they have fun. They seemed to, even in the midst of getting their butts handed to them this morning. If nothing else, they should be proud of their good effort.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
First Game!!!
Here is Music Man and Miss Goofy after the game:

I circled and labeled them. I'm really getting the hang of Microsoft Paint.
Here is Miss Goofy in some bizarre soccer ritual.

There would be more pictures, but I forgot I had the camera out. I'll try harder next time.
Oh and the final score was 5 to 1. So we're undefeated and tied for first place!
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Hark! Are those Crickets I Hear?
The problem was they needed more girls. Why? Because the board here locally decided to split the upper division by gender. So we had a total of 18 girls signed up in the 16-19 division.
A call went out, "We need more girls!" As of today there were 21. This evening we went to a meeting with the other parents and girls, the Commissioner, the registrar, and the coach administrator. The topic? What should we do?
I was a little worried we were about to come home $85 richer. But we weren't, we actually had several options. One was form a single U19 division team and travel for most of the games. Not a good option since last year more than half the team decided not to travel. Option B was to create a fourth (they already had 3) U14 team. The downside there is the teams can't go to the regional playoffs. The commissioner has decided that if that's the option then we will have playoffs here and he will make sure we have an awards ceremony to go with it. Option C was a refund on the season.
Ultimately the parents decided on Option B. It does mean juggling the teams in the U14 division. It also means some girls will play down a level. But it seems like the best choice.
Then the commissioner, (a very nice man who signs his emails "the Commish") told us we also needed a coach and we need to find one tonight.
Does anyone else hear the crickets?
Music Man is the man you want to have at a meeting when you ask for volunteers. That's probably all I need to say about that but, I'd like to add that Music Man, while a wonderful dad and husband, an excellent trumpet player, a hard worker and all around great guy, has always been an American football fan. Not a British football fan. Good thing the AYSO has books on the game.
So, Miss Goofy will be playing soccer, Music Man will be coaching and I will be taking lots of pictures and probably a bunch of other stuff that I haven't even begun to contemplate. Wish us luck!
Thursday, August 6, 2009
And Now I've Become a Soccer Mom
This is more of the same drill. I believe this is just after the girls hit their coach with the soccer ball.
This is a relay the girls were doing:
And this is what happens when your team loses the relay:
I love that picture of Miss Goofy. She just got hit in the butt by a soccer ball.
I have a bunch of other pictures but the biggest thing I keep asking myself is this: How the hell did I wind up a soccer mom?
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Mary, Mary Quite Contrary
Or in my case, how does Miss Goofy's garden grow? It grows quite well. Especially since we didn't get to plant until late in June. We were still having frost until then.
These are two of the tomatoes, we had a third one but we ate it. It was good.
Here are two of the bell peppers. We're hoping for more. They smell really good.
We have a whole bunch of other things on the plants and are looking forward to eating lots of wonderful food this summer and autumn.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Operation Beautiful
I found this website for operation beautiful. I love this idea.
So I'm challenging everyone and anyone who reads my site to go to this site and check it out.
There's also a You Tube video that explains the project: http://operationbeautiful.com/the-movie/
Go check it out and then go put your own notes up.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Forced Blogging
The skunk with her is the newest member of our entourage, Fillmore T. Skunk.
ETA: I just got yelled at for not mentioning the damn hair. Miss Goofy bleached her hair a while ago. Someone needs to do her roots.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Obsessions
However, I became obsessed back in the beginning of August with writing a romance novel. Now, I'm not going to say it's good, though Music Man and DolphinLady might if I pay them enough, but it has been an enjoyable experience.
I finished my first one and while writing it had inspiration for another 4 stories. The basic premise is the the stories are about five brothers and their journey from tragedy to love. The first story came together very quickly as did the second one. I'm working on the third story now and enjoying myself a lot.
The problem comes from my obsessive tendencies. When I'm writing I tend to talk about one thing and one thing only. Primarily, my stories. Any thoughts on how to keep me from being boring and only talking about my obsessions? It's kind of annoying those around me.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
You Know You're Married to a Musician When...
2. Your spouse looks around the house and says, "I think we can fit a grand piano in here if we take out the kitchen."
3. The books in your house run the complete gamut: from classical composers life stories to why Tupac was shot.
4. In order to take a bath you have to move the tuba out of the tub where it's been placed to dry from it's bath.
5. iTunes sends you a thank card for all the music you've purchased.
6. You ask your spouse to pick up some paper for you and they bring home music manuscript paper.
7. All matter of man and beast near your home are soothed.
8. Someone says, "Do you know how to get to the post office?" and your spouse replies, "If you hum a few bars I can fake it."
9. Buying a car involves bringing every instrument you own to make sure it all fits.
10. All your neighbors houses are for sale.
Friday, March 27, 2009
15 years ago today
Today, her dad and I took her and her friend out for pizza and to play mini golf. If there is a monster mini golf near you, I suggest going and trying the place out. It was a lot of fun for all of us.
Happy birthday, Baby Girl. I love you!
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Happy Birthday Sissy
Then my grandma's birthday passes and I feel a little less energetic, but still pretty good. The next ten days pass and all is quiet. Next thing I know it's St. Patrick's Day and when I was a kid that always induced a panic at the prospect of getting pinched all day.
The day after the pinching is my sister's birthday. I remember when she came home from the hospital. I remember seeing my mom when she was in the hospital to have her. Not that I was allowed on the floor she was on, but my mom came to the window and waved to me. I think she was on the third floor. I remember I was allowed to look in the nursery window and see my new sister before they brought her home. I was so excited that one of those little babies was coming to our house. I wasn't sure which one, I just remember being happy.
I also remember cleaning the house for Mom and Sissy to come home. We spent what seemed like days cleaning. It was probably a couple of hours at most. Oh and my brother had to mow the lawns and that annoyed him.
After my sister's birthday it gets quiet again. Until the 27th, which is when my daughter's birthday is. My sister and I both share our birth months with our nieces which I think we couldn't have planned better if we'd tried.
By the time March is over, I'm tired. Tired of cleaning for parties, tired of cake and sweets and tired of hearing the birthday song.
Thank God, I have a few weeks until my birthday in May.
Happy Birthday Jujubee! I love you!
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Happy Birthday Grandma
I'd tell you how old Grandma turned but well, I'd have to think awful hard. Okay, Grandma was 25 when she had my mom. My mom was 21 when she had me. I'm not going to tell my age. So never mind. Here is a nice shot of Miss Goofy with Grandma.
This is what I spent my morning working on decorating. It's a really simple cake and the idea came from the back of the package of Easter M & M's. Don't you love commercialism?
Thursday, February 26, 2009
It's Naptime
We think he got the idea from Thatcher:
I bought the blanket Thatcher is sleeping on for Music Man for Christmas. It has a polar bear on it and it's very soft. Thatcher likes to curl up on it and knead. Courage likes when it gets knocked off the bed at night. He scoots under it and snuggles in.
They're both in a really snuggly mood lately.
Friday, January 2, 2009
Ah A New Year
A new year and it's time to come up with some resolutions. Normally when I do this I spend about a week, usually at the end of December, thinking of what I'd like to change in the coming year. Then I spend a few days trying hard to work on making the changes. I spend the next few weeks feeling guilty for not making the changes I want to. Then I just completely give up and decide to try again next year. So this year I've decided to make a list of resolutions that I might actually keep.
- Listen to obnoxious music (I'm doing that one as I write this)
- Annoy the hell out of my husband and friends (This will be easy as well as fun)
- Write (Okay, I admit it, I'm writing a romance novel. Actually I'm working on the third in a series. Want to read it? Let me know and I'll send it to you.)
- Cook dinner at least once a week (Let's be real here I could aim high and try for more often but why set the bar too high)
- Clean each room in the house at least once this year (Again if I aim low I may achieve this)
- Educate Miss Goofy (This one is real)
- Convince the dog that he doesn't need to play in the snow (Brrr)
- Teach the cat to vacuum (I can dream!)
- Tell my family and friends how much I love them (This one is real too, not sarcastic)
- Blog more often (Keep dreaming!)
Love to all my family and friends! (Woo Hoo that took care of number 9)
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Taco Tuesday part 2
Ralph always starts off the night with Open Arms by Journey. It's a nice enough song, a little sappy like most ballads of the early 80's. I've always enjoyed the song. And then Ralph sang. Boss Man pointed out a few weeks ago that Steve Perry had a high voice and the song could be a challenge to someone who doesn't have a high voice. My thought is if you don't have a high voice then why torture all these people while you attempt the song.
However, Ralph's version of Open Arms was fantastic when compared to his version of Heaven by Warrant. He stumbled through about half the first verse before he had the DJ stop and try another song. It was painful.
On the plus side, there is an older couple who also sing. They do a wonderful job. I'm not familiar with their songs but they have nice voices and understand little details like rhythm, tempo, and pitch. Now if the DJ would learn what the gain on the equipment is for, we'd be set.
The really sad thing is the older couple, Ralph and the DJ are the only ones who sing. At least they are the only ones who I've seen up there. Here's hoping for some new blood with a decent voice.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Miss Goofy's Pumpkin
This was our pumpkin for this year. Miss Goofy painted the orange pumpkin green then added the face. She has a "wart" (pinto bean) on her "nose" (stem). Her "hair" is orange and black tissue paper. She got the idea from a magazine. Next year she wants to do a cat and a mummy. I think she did a really good job with her pumpkin.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Taco Tuesday
So the day after the two Boss Mans discovered this dining experience Boss Man, the big one, shared the knowledge with Music Man. Since then we have missed Taco Tuesday maybe half a dozen times.
It's not about the tacos, which most of the time are okay if not fantastic, it's about sitting at a table, eating tortilla chips, watching Boss Man's daughter and Miss Goofy get some serious cases of the sillies, and listening to really bad karaoke.
When I say really bad karaoke, I mean not enough alcohol in the bar to make this stuff sound good. There is one guy, Ralph is his name. I'm using his real name because well, I seriously doubt he'll ever read my blog and if by some chance he or a friend do read it, they'll never believe it's him. And if by some miracle he does know I'm talking about him, then he's ready to hear the truth.
Ralph, you suck. I know that sounds harsh. I know it takes guts to get up there and do that, and Lord knows I don't have that much courage. But Ralph, let's be honest, you have that much guts from all the beer you drink. Oh and the beer doesn't help your singing at all. Okay I think I'm done bashing Ralph.
That said, it's become a lot of fun to go hang out with Boss Man and his kids, we even took The Weather God and DolphinLady with us when they were in town. They may never forgive us. My advice to everyone is go find a local restaurant that does something like this and go enjoy yourself. It makes for a nice night out and if you're lucky enough to share it with friends, then count your blessings.
Enjoy the tacos
Friday, October 24, 2008
Strange Things I've Seen
So, Miss Goofy and I went to get lunch at a fast food restaurant that specializes in sort of Mexican food. It wasn't Taco Bell. To be honest I don't know how far this chain reaches but I do know that the original restaurant was in Barstow, Ca and my brother-in-law, The Crazy Hispanic Guy, (love you!) was friends with the owners kids. I think. I think that's what he told me. I haven't talked to him in a while. He's a hoot and I love that he takes such good care of my sister and their kids, but that's a post for another time and I'm digressing.
Back to the car with Miss Goofy and I, we were listening to Kid Rock's newest CD, Rock and Roll Jesus, and having a deep philosophical discussion. I know those are two things you don't expect to read anywhere but it's true. Don't believe me? Go get the CD or google the song "Amen" by Kid Rock and give it a listen. You'll be having philosophical discussions with yourself.
Sorry, I'm digressing again. Back to the car, so we're discussing the state of the world and listening to music, when I notice there is a guy across the street and I realize he's pacing. No big deal right? Except he's in a wheelchair. So, he's pacing up and down the street in front of his house in a wheelchair.
Just when I thought it couldn't get any weirder, I noticed he was also smoking and his cigarette was nearly gone. Apparently he's a heavy thinker when he smokes. And he's got to pace. And if that doesn't start conversations, I don't know what will.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
My Thoughts on SpongeBob

I used to hate SpongeBob SquarePants. In fact, I actually told my mom that she needed to stop buying SpongeBob stuff for Miss Goofy. He is annoying. Maybe annoying is to nice a word. He is so irritating I thought my ears were going to bleed at the sound of his voice. That is a much more graphic description. And more accurate. I also thought him to be completely childish and a waste of time. I wouldn't allow Miss Goofy to watch him. My mom bought her a DVD that was around 5 hours of SpongeBob. I nearly cried when she did that.
And then one day I found myself stuck in front of the TV. I think I had the flu and for some reason SpongeBob was on. The remote was across the room and I was not up to moving. So I watched SpongeBob. I learned something. He is annoying.
He also is honest, a hard worker with a good work ethic, tries to be friends with everyone, and when he does something bad, he tries to fix it. SpongeBob tries to be a good person. Sponge. Whatever. He is teaching millions of people how to behave. He doesn't lie and cheat. He works hard at his job and enjoys his job. He is friendly to everyone, including those who are rude to him. If he makes a mistake or hurts someone, he goes overboard trying to put things right.
He's still annoying. The other thing that bothered me was the waste of time watching him. Especially after I found out the show was a favorite among college students. Then one day after an especially difficult math lesson, Miss Goofy sat and watched him during lunch. After lunch, she got right back to work and didn't have any difficulties. It finally occurred to me that college students like him because he relaxes their mind. Sure he's inane and annoying. And that's why he's so effective at relaxing the mind. It's safe to relax.
So go ahead and annoy me SpongeBob. At least my mind will be relaxed.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Update on Grandma
She asked how I was. Nearly made me cry, that she's worried about me. I'm doing alright. She says that today she's okay. She doesn't know how she'll be tomorrow or Saturday but today she's okay. She was in good spirits and cheerful. We talked about this weekend and she told me that several of my relatives who we weren't sure were going to be able to come to the funeral will be able to attend. That makes me so happy and proud of everyone who is coming. Even some of the family who is mourning their own loss will be with us and I am grateful to them for the effort. To those who can't make it for one reason or another please don't misunderstand I completely understand and am in no way upset with anyone. This is a difficult time for everyone and some people just can't go to funerals.
Unlike me. I was thinking yesterday while I was in the shower and I realized I have been to more funerals in my life than weddings. So either people don't like me enough to invite me when they get married, but you can't stop me from attending when you die or I need to hang around people who are way younger. Or maybe this means that everyone who is left is immortal and I won't have to attend anymore funerals. Hey I can dream, right?
In any event, thank you to everyone who has written/emailed/called, etc. to offer support and sympathy. We are okay. We will get through this.
Oh and Uncle Bunky, sorry if I confused when I called and told you about Grandma's taillight. She backed out of her parking space and I followed her out the driveway and onto the street. When she stopped to turn onto the street I noticed her taillight was out. Hopefully that made more sense although I'm not convinced it did.
Keep Grandma in your prayers and I'll see you at the funeral.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Bad Month
I got off the phone with my uncle a little over a half hour ago. My grandpa passed away. We suffered while he had Alzheimer's and while he hadn't been Grandpa for several years, it's still a shock to hear that he's gone.
And yet I can't help but feel happy for him. While I hurt he is surrounded by family that loves him and has just been waiting for him to join them.
Don't grieve for him. Grieve for the ones he left behind. There's a lot of us who lost our hero today.
Good-bye Grandpa, we love and miss you.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Where Have I Been?
First I was busy getting Miss Goofy ready for her trip. Then while she was gone, frankly I was enjoying being lazy. I didn't do much while she was gone.
Then Wednesday the 13th, I was having an awful day. I was so depressed. I missed Miss Goofy, I missed my mom, I missed my dad. I was really no fun. I woke up the 14th and felt so much better. I knew I had stuff that had to get done, and I was full of energy and ready to get to it. I had several errands that I had to get done.
I left the house around 10:30 and headed for my first stop: the post office. I was filling out the form that I needed when my phone rang. Now I hate when people take calls on a cell phone in public, but it was my grandma and I wasn't about to not take the call. If it had been Music Man I would have told him I'd call him back, but something about it being Grandma made me take the call. It turned out that one of her brothers had died. I remember my uncle Orin. He and his wife were always so nice to me when I was a kid. I actually have a picture of Uncle Orin and my grandpa in my grandpa's garage that I took. I took it cause Grandpa told me I need to take pictures of people when they weren't expecting it. So I took their picture. Orin is turned sideways and laughing. Grandpa has his mouth open in surprise. I don't think he expected me to take that picture. I tried to scan and post it but I'm having issues between my scanner and Vista. We won't discuss it here.
But I'm digressing. So, I knew I needed to get to Music Man's work before I lost it. I finished at the post office, went home so the dog could use the little puppy's room, called Music Man and asked him if he'd like company for lunch. He seemed concerned cause I hate coming down the mountain to the town in which he works. I told him I'd tell him about it when I got there.
I started out and realized he might be concerned about Grandpa so I called him on my cell phone (yes, I used my ear piece, I didn't need a ticket on top of everything else) and told him that Orin had passed away. He was sorry to hear to about Orin.
I got to his work and came into his office. He closed the door and hugged me. Seldom has a hug ever felt so good. I told him I wanted to go to the funeral. It's in Reno. He says okay to start making the arrangements. He put his boss on alert that he was going to need to go out of town for a funeral and they were very kind about it. Boss Man, who isn't actually Music Man's boss anymore but is still a good friend and lived in Reno gave us some tips on hotel rooms. He also checked to make sure that I wasn't leaving from the shop and that Music Man would need a ride home. What a wonderful friend. And I mean that, I'm not being sarcastic like normal.
The funeral was set for Friday the 22nd and we took Grandma with us. Oh and Miss Goofy came home too. The four of us went up for the funeral and while it's not high on my list of fun things to do, it was nice to see so many family members. It did make me and one of my mom's cousins really miss my mom though. My mom was the one who could have told us who everyone was and how they were related us. Although my cousin did a pretty good job. And a big thank you to you. You know who you are. I don't like to use people's names without their permission.
Anyway we came home on Saturday and yes, we tried to get the brakes on the rental car fixed and no they wouldn't fix them without approval from corporate which would have meant staying Saturday and Sunday night and not going to work on Monday for Music Man. So, we drove home carefully and arrived safe and sound. Although I think we had some very busy guardian angels on that trip. The rental company did take $40 off the rental for us though, so the really good deal we were getting was even better.
One good thing about this whole month, I had an idea for a story and I was able to work on it a lot the last few days. I have the outline done, now I just have to write it.
That's all the news from here. Have a good day and remember to pray for your guardian angel. They work harder than we know.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Things My Credit Counselor Has Beaten Into My Thick Skull
1. Never pay a collection agency. I know it goes completely against everything in your being, unless you're just a deadbeat. When people say we owe them money, our first instinct is to pay them so that we don't look like a deadbeat. Here's the problem and I never thought of this, you don't owe money to the collection agency. You may or may not owe money to the "original creditor" but you don't have an agreement with the collection agency, your agreement was with the "original creditor". The problem in paying a collection agency is two-fold: one, you may not really owe the money to anyone. Collection agencies frequently look in the papers for people who have died and then try to collect from the next of kin. Two, how do you know the money is actually going to the company that you supposedly owe unless you check with the original creditor. Remember it's always best to call the original creditor and pay them directly. It's in their best interest to have you pay them because then they get all the money and they don't have to pay the agency for collecting from you.
2. Don't use your debit card to pay for things. This is your money and you are giving away a lot of information about how to get your money. Use cash, a check or a credit card. It's much easier to have a charge reversed with a credit card than with your debit card. The reason is you have to sign with the credit card. You don't with the debit card.
3. Always look over your bank and credit card statements. If something doesn't look right, investigate it. Report possible identity theft immediately. Look at your credit report periodically too. You have the right to challenge anything on your report that you think is inaccurate. Remember that time you paid your credit card one day late? Check your report does it say you were 30 days late that time? That will hurt your credit score and the three credit reporting agencies have to report it correctly and accurately. That means it must say you were one day late, not 30.
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Miss Goofy Goes on Vacation
Anyway Miss Goofy is leaving either Saturday or Sunday to spend either 9 or 10 days with our good friends TheWeatherGod and DolphinLady. So, what should I do with myself while she's gone? I'm thinking enjoy the quiet and miss her terribly. Music Man is always a mess when she goes to spend time with someone else. He misses her a lot. I do too, but I try to stay busy. Poor Music Man is stuck at work all day with nothing to do except worry about his Miss Goofy. And you know payroll, invoicing, billing, write his paper for school, and whatever else Mr. Division Manager throws at him.
Oh I forgot he's also looking for houses in his spare time. Cause we're moving. Eventually. Someday. Somewhere. Maybe. If we find a place. And he doesn't lose his job pining for Miss Goofy. And pretending to write his paper.
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Thatcher and Mom's Table

Maybe her relaxed attitude came from the relative peace and quiet of the mountains. Maybe she was just mellowing. Maybe she had decided that she'd had that table long enough and it was time to move on. For the record, she bought that table after my real dad passed away. It was in a box and she had to assemble it. The kit included 2 end tables and she assembled all three of them and was so proud of herself. Jujube (aka, my sister) and I were proud of her too.
Monday, August 4, 2008
My desk
I've had plans to booby-trap it. I've had thoughts of taking everything off of it and not letting anyone near it. I've even tried leaving it full and messy. Then I had to find something. It's weird because I didn't think I used my desk that much until now. I now see that I use my desk a lot during the day. A whole lot more than I thought. I always thought my desk got messy because it was so small. Now I marvel at how I kept everything on it without a major avalanche. I also am realizing that my desk is more than just where I keep the computer. It's where I start my day and check in on the world. I make my daily list here. I set stuff here to deal with later, not because I'm procrastinating but because I'm in the middle of six things at once.
It's the heart of my day. It's where I go when I need to rest. Or to see what I need to do next. It's where I make plans. It's where I dream. It's where I write.
So, please stop putting stuff on it!!!! I know I told you to, ignore me. Make me deal with whatever it is now. My desk needs to be clean. For all of our sakes.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
California is shaking again
5:04 pm on October 17, 1989 near San Francisco, Ca a magnitude 6.9 earthquake hit.
4:31 am on January 17, 1994 in Reseda, Ca a magnitude 6.7 earthquake hit.
11:15 am on December 22, 2003 near San Simeon, Ca a magnitude 6.6 earthquake hit.
11:42 am on July 29, 2008 near Chino Hills, Ca a magnitude 5.4 earthquake hit.
We had an earthquake today. To my family in LA, I know you know about the quake. I hope you're all safe. Email me when you can. You are in our prayers.
These are the earthquakes that I have felt in recent years. I know I've felt others, but these stick out in my mind.
The Whittier quake I was in the car on the way to school. I didn't really feel it, but the wheels on the car tires did feel weird. For the San Francisco quake, we felt it. It was weird though because we knew it wasn't near us. The Reseda quake or as it's more commonly called the Northridge quake I was on the second floor of the motel that we worked at. I was also pregnant with Miss Goofy. That one we felt. Boy did we feel it. It was hard enough to walk across the floor being 7 months pregnant, but the shaking building really didn't help. The San Simeon quake I remember only vaguely. It was so close to Christmas I think I was more worried about other things. I did go see Hearst Castle a couple of years later and was sad to learn that some other property had been damaged by the quake. Today's quake, I will remember mostly cause it made me really dizzy afterward.
I do love the fact that one hour after the earthquake there are people all over LA talking on the news about how they were shook up but life goes on.
The biggest blessing comes from the quake not causing more damage and as of now only minor injuries and no deaths. That is subject to change, but for now, minimal damage and injury.
By the way, Courage is fine. Thatcher was pretty freaked out but is now napping. Courage would probably be better if I hadn't stepped on his tail. Poor dog. Survived an earthquake and then panics when I step on his tail.
What Kind of Fish Are You?
I worked for a flower shop. Not for a long time by any means, nor would I say I was exceptional at my job. I did an okay job considering what the conditions of the job were. We had a customer, she and her husband owned a construction company. They were very well off for the standards of this town. While this town has become a major city it still feels more like a small town, especially to most people living in cities like Los Angeles. This customer called and told me that she was taking her sister to lunch at one of the 2 exclusive restaurants in town and would like a nice big bouquet of flowers to be delivered to the restaurant. I took down the information on the date and restaurant and asked what time was the reservation, so that we could get the flowers there a little early. She said in a rather appalled voice, "Lunch is at noon".
I got off the phone and went to tell my floral designer's about the order. They howled. Apparently this is normal for this lady. "Breakfast is at 8, lunch is at noon, dinner is at 6", is what they told me.
I have laughed over the years over this woman's absurd comment. But it got me thinking, she's acting this way because she's a big fish in a little pond. Her husband's construction business was successful in our little town, but it probably wouldn't be in a major market.
Music Man had a friend who like Music Man plays trumpet. One day this friend, who I will call Mr. Braggy, said to Music Man, "Reno has a lot of gigs and they pay very well. We could earn a living there without any problem." It would have been a dream come true for both of them. Music Man thought it over for a few weeks. He realized that Mr. Braggy had enough contacts from all the gigs he was playing around town that they probably could earn a living playing music in Reno. Music Man and I discussed it and decided that if we could get it set up, that was what we would do.
When Music Man went to Mr. Braggy and said, "I've thought about it, let's do this, let's move to Reno. We can put together a group and play. It will be awesome." Suddenly Mr. Braggy started backtracking. He didn't know where any of us would live, what about all our stuff, excuse after excuse until finally he said he liked playing the local gigs he got. A light went on in Music Man's head. Mr. Braggy was a big fish in a little pond and he liked it that way. He had just been bragging to Music Man trying to show him how big a fish he really was.
So, are you a little fish in a little pond, a big fish in a little pond, a little fish in a big pond or a big fish in a big pond? What is it about your pond and your place in it that you like?
As for Music Man, he's working toward, big fish, big pond. I think he can do it. I know I'm biased but I really do.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Challenging Myself
My Daily Task List challenge came about because I was writing myself a daily list of the stuff I needed to accomplish but then I wasn't doing any of it. I figured if I made it a challenge then I might actually accomplish stuff. So far, I'm doing pretty good with it. I've got 15 days completed and have 30 left. The weekends are hard cause with Music Man home I never know what we're going to be doing. Once in a while we make plans and they change suddenly, but more often, we just do whatever we want on the weekends. We've been going grocery shopping on Saturdays, and just goofing off on Sundays. I need to make a more relaxed list for the weekends. Maybe just put one or two things on it.
So I'm looking for a new challenge idea for my everyday life. One that I can track here. Being accountable here really helps me. Even if no one reads my blog, I still know it's out there and I have to be accountable to myself. So, now I just need some ideas. Any thoughts?
Friday, July 25, 2008
Look at what I bought Music Man


He had wanted to start taking his lunch and I found this little tray. It included the fork and knife and well, frankly, I thought it was cute. So, I bought it so he could take his lunch this morning. I even bought him the "Beefaroni" he requested. Hey, it's his stomach, he can eat that stuff if he wants. He is a grown man after all. Of course if he complains about how it didn't sit well, I'm inclined to laugh, but that's another story altogether.
However, I did want him to know that he forgot his lunch. Which is the reason for the post. Have a nice lunch out, Honey.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Ponderings
I’m listening to “Redneck Woman” by Gretchen Wilson, and there is a line in there that goes: “and I keep my Christmas lights on on my front porch all year long” and that got me thinking. Why is it that it’s a redneck thing when it’s the front porch and a high class thing when it’s backyard and it’s twinkle lights”
Why is it my dog can be completely ignoring me for a full 6 hours, but as soon as I close my bedroom door, he suddenly needs my attention?
As a child we are told to grow up, yet when we reach adulthood, our parents all say the same thing, “They grow up so fast.” Maybe we shouldn’t tell our kids to grow up?
Why doesn’t truth in advertising extend to things like “hot dogs” and “Girl scout cookies”? There aren’t any dogs in the hot dog and there aren’t any girl scouts in their cookies. At least I hope there isn’t any dog in my hot dog. Maybe I shouldn’t have brought it up.
Why is it I type faster when I go back and correct my mistakes than when I don't?
Why do I still keep saying yogurt when I try to say yoga? And why do I keep putting the u in the wrong place for yogurt and why do I keep putting one in yoga at all?
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Music Man

I think the pink blanket brings out the white in his sock, don't you?
Thatcher Again

As you can see from this close-up, he's taking a nap!

Kind of sweet. I have often marveled at how a black cat loves to lay in the sunshine. I had the window open and he was enjoying the fresh air and decided to take a cat nap. Get it? A cat nap? And he's a cat! I crack myself up.
My Music Obsession
What I'm trying to say is when I hear a song and it stirs something in my soul I tend to go overboard. And make everyone around me, hate whatever I'm obsessing about. I don't really have a problem with it, but the people around me tend to. It's kind of funny in a pitiful way when your 3 year-old looks at you as you play a song you're obsessing over for the 30th time that day and says, "NO MORE!!!" and covers her ears. That was about when she ran out of the room and I took the opportunity to listen to the song again without her complaining.
Of course Miss Goofy is not without the same quirk. Between 2 and 4 years of age, she watched Disney's Beauty and the Beast everyday. Sometimes twice a day. Now, she has a play list on her computer with nothing but the Macarena. It's on there for something like 2 hours straight. Seriously, doesn't she know what the repeat button is for? What is wrong with that kid? It's not like when I was a kid and we had to rewind our tapes to keep hearing the same song. She just pushes repeat and poof, no rewinding!
Okay, time to go do some schoolwork. Right after I listen to Get Drunk, I'm only up to 25 times today.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Anti-Procrastination Day

And this:

Music Man and Miss Goofy spent 5 and 1/2 hours assembling Miss Goofy's new bed and bookshelf headboard on Saturday. Good thing I hadn't wanted to you know go do grocery shopping or anything. Okay I did and I was very annoyed when it took so long to get the dumb thing built. And before you ask, yes that is a black comforter and a black pillow. The sheets are pink as is the throw blanket that she has so carefully laid on the foot of the bed in that way that is supposed to look casual and just makes me want to go straighten it. I think I'm going to go buy her the same sheets and comforter only reverse the colors, so she has black sheets and a pink comforter. I'm not sure I can find a black throw like this one though. In case you're wondering why she chose pink and black, then look here:

Apparently if it's good enough for Avril Lavigne, then it's good enough for Miss Goofy. I have no problem with the pink and black and I actually like Avril Lavigne's music, which by the way, both pleases and horrifies Miss Goofy. I'm actually glad that this is my daughter's role model. If only because now she likes pink.
ETA: Music Man also did an awesome job of fixing Miss Goofy's stereo. It seemed when she was taking all the stuff out of her room, she attempted to move her stereo with a CD in it. The CD then got stuck. Music Man had to break the CD in order to free it, and then the part that turns the carousel for the CD's quit turning. He took apart the stereo and fixed the carousel. Thank you Music Man.
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Best Parents Ever!!! WooHoo!!!
When we got home with Domino's pizza instead of something I had to cook, (that alone should qualify us as the best parents ever) we got attacked by Miss Goofy and told we were the best parents ever. WooHoo! Now my life is complete.
We ruined it about an hour later when we made her sit and watch "Revenge of the Nerds". I know it's inappropriate for her. But the movie is so stupid that it's funny. And you'd think we'd still be the best parents ever since she got out of doing her chores for an hour and a half.
Oh and when she got up and went to the bathroom partway through, when she came back, she asked questions regarding what she missed. Yeah, she hated the movie.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Music Man's Father
"Oh, you poor thing, did your daddy beat you? Really, too bad, mine fired a 9 MM at me. Quit whining and get a job."
I cleaned that up a bit. There was quite a bit of language that shouldn't be repeated on a family friendly blog.
God, I miss my father-in-law.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Turkey Toes, I mean Nora in her costume
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
4th of July and My Driveway
And then Miss Goofy walked out the back door to throw something away. This is a picture of what she found at the end of the driveway. I am really glad my uncle had snakes when I was a kid. I didn't freak out at all. Not that I went over to make friends, but I was still more calm than Miss Goofy.
He really is kind of cute in a reptile sort of way.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Annoying Email
I have a couple of questions for those companies. Why do you send me an email saying you're going to send me an email? Just send me the "big announcement". Here's my reasoning on this point: 1) I won't remember to watch my inbox for your announcement. Sorry, I have a a life (okay I don't but I still won't remember), 2) If it's such a big announcement then just announce it. I mean if it's that important, shouldn't you just tell me whatever terrible thing is happening?
Question 2: Why do you think I care? I may have signed up for your newsletter, but give me a break, I really don't think I meant for you to send me emails telling me you're going to send me emails. That just seems redundant.
Question 3: Remind me why did I sign up for your newsletter? I may not care about whatever you're telling me anymore. Or worse yet, perhaps you've moved on to other things that I don't care about and you're just annoying me.
Question 4: Why do I keep opening your stupid emails? I must think hard on this one.

