See Foxes?

Weekend Update

2011-10-03T08:13:00.000-07:00

What a cold, busy weekend.

Friday night we traveled north to the away football game. We saw some great friends, and it was cold. Brrr!

Saturday, we were up fairly early to go to a band competition. It was only the fourth time the marchers had competed. It was cold, they did terrific, and we had fun. We got home in time for supper. Daughter went to babysit and Son went with his friends to Kings Island's Fear Fest. Foxy and I stayed home and rested.

Sunday, Foxy went to work. Daughter and I went to church. We then picked up Son so he could go mow at Gpa's. Then Daughter and I went to a college fair. That was fun. She was so many different colleges that interested her. Her top three (at this moment) are University of Indianapolis, Otterbein College, and Wilmington College. The second two are in Ohio, and not far from home. She is looking for a small college that is not far from home. She wants to be a teacher. I am so proud of her for knowing what she wants in a school and a lot of particulars. She has a lot of colleges and a year before she has to start applying, but the earlier we start, the earlier we know. She takes the PSAT in 9 days, so I wish her luck for that.

This isn't too bad of a week. It's suppose to get warmer every day. I'm applying to everything I see, and hopefully something turns up soon. Have a great day!

Espresso Spread and Cappuccino Chip Muffins

2011-09-29T05:47:00.000-07:00

Today is a busy day. But I am happy and glad. Today I have a lunch meeting with our Associate Minister at Tim Horton's (yum!), then I have to go to the school and deliver the uniform pants and hats that I had to clean (they got muddy). Tonight I don't have a lot going on, but I do need to get my grocery list together because we have such a busy weekend. So I am trying to get my coupons in order and match them up for the best deals.

What I do is plan out my our meals for two weeks using my ads and figure out where I can get the best bang for my buck. It takes a lot of time and energy, but since I am not working, it is a necessity.

One way I try and save money is making my own muffins. One of our favorite is Cappuccino Chip Muffins. You can even make an espresso spread to go with it. My family loves these. Here is the recipe.

Expresso Spread:
4 oz. Cream Cheese, cubed
1 Tablespoon Sugar
1/2 teaspoon Instant Coffee granules
1/2 teaspoon Vanilla
1/4 cup Mini Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips

In a food processor or blender, combine the spread ingredients; cover and process until well blended. Cover and refridgerate.

Muffin:
2 cups Flour
3/4 cup Sugar
2 1/2 teaspoons Baking Powder
1 teaspoon Cinnamon
1 cup Milk
2 tablespoons Instant Coffee granules
1/2 cup butter, melted
1 Egg, beaten
1 teaspoon Vanilla
3/4 cups Mini Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips

In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder and cinnamon.

In another bowl, stir milk and instant coffee together until coffee is dissolved. Add butter, egg and vanilla; mix well. Stir into dry dry ingredients just until moistened. Fold in chocolate chips. Fill paper-lined muffin cups 2/3rds full. Bake for 17 - 20 minutes or until muffins test done. Cool for five minutes before putting on a wire rack. Serve with Espresso Spread.

It's really a yummy recipe!

Back Up and Running

2011-09-27T05:11:00.000-07:00

The blog title is a little deceiving. No, I did not lose my computer, I did lose my job, though. So I've been trying to figure things out and I am back.

Autumn is in full spring and I think our garden is just about dead. The air is cool, it's already the 2nd wettest September in Ohio's history for our area, and band and football are in full swing.

Last weekend was homecoming. Here are some of my daughter's pictures. She went with friends and had a great time!

They had a lot of fun and they all looked gorgeous! Have a great Tuesday!

Foxy's Garden & A Recipe

2011-08-25T05:21:00.000-07:00

I'm a bit late with the pictures of the garden this week, due to the other things I wanted to post about and last evening was the first I have been out to the garden in a while. Praise God for his bountiful blessings! As the pictures show, we are getting an abundance of tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and the beans are finally starting to come around.

Today, Foxy is going to try his hand at making Bread & Butter Pickles. I have a lot of cucumbers, so this will be good if he can get it done. He is also getting the dehydrator out and drying the cayenne peppers. Then tonight, after I take Son to get his Soccer Ref outfit, I will be canning tomatoes. Hopefully, I will get to the banana pepper rings this weekend.

Lots of salsa, sauce and tomatoes to be put up for winter.

The first of the beans. They just need to plump up.

Also, here is my recipe of the week, Beefy Rice Pie, from mrfood.com.

1 pound ground beef
1/2 pound hot/sweet Italian pork sausage, casings removed
8 oz tomato sauce
2 cups cooked rice
4 slices Mozzarella cheese
2 Tbsp Parmesan cheese

In a large skillet, brown ground beef and sausage for 8 - 10 minutes over medium-high heat, until cooked and crumbly; drain off excess liquid and set aside in a medium bowl. In another medium bowl, combine tomato sauce and rice, then layer half the mixture in skillet. Top w/half the meat mixture, then place 2 slices of mozzarella cheese over the top and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of Parmesan cheese. Repeat layers. Cover and cook over mediume low heart for 8 - 10 minutes or until cheese melts. Let sit 5 minutes, then slice into wedges and serve immediately.

Sounds yummy!

New School Year and Attitude

2011-08-24T05:27:00.000-07:00

Monday was the beginning of the new school year. I haven't taken first day photos for quite some time, But I decided to embarrass them. But of course, they do get all hammy for the camera.

Son and Daughter making fun of this.


Oops, my finger slipped!

So Daughter tells me that she is in a class of four people. This one class is to help her pass the OGT for history. She didn't pass that or science. Anyway, this class has the four kids who didn't take the test again over the summer. After the test in October, the rest of the semester will be watching movies and writing papers.

She also informed me that her two favorite classes are Accounting and Zoology. She loves math, so that will be very helpful. Yesterday she said in Zoology she will get to dissect seven different animals. Now she freaked out over the dog killing a rabbit, but she is now excited about opening up dead animals? We'll see what really happens.

Son is kind of indifferent on his classes, but that's okay. I'm sure I'll have stories for you soon enough on his clowning around.

The Rabbit Died

2011-08-23T08:10:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning, Josie Belle was out on the back porch. The kids and I were up and I noticed Josie Belle was digging around in one of the unused large plastic pots. The last time she did that, she pulled out a dead animal and ate it. This time, I noticed she had something in her mouth, but I had no idea what it was (her back was to us). I told the kids to look at her. They commented things like, "gross", and "stupid dog". We kind of giggled about it and went back to getting ready for the day.
Then my daughter started screaming! She is freaked out, and I came running to the back glass door and saw Josie Belle with something in it's mouth. It was the head of a rabbit! The face was hanging out, you could see the cute little nose, the beady eyes, and the the ears flopping toward the ground. She ran back and forth across the back porch and then to another empty pot and buried it. Daughter is still freaking out, yelling things about needing therapy and I run to get my camera to take a picture. Alas, she would stay still long enough for the Kodak moment.
It was quite the morning. I think I need to get rid of those pots, yet strangely, I secretly love the fact that my dog's quite the hunter and saves her food. This was not her first rabbit. She's killed mice, birds, squirrels, and just a couple weeks ago, she tried to get a raccoon out of our garage. What a girl!

Weekend Update

2011-08-22T06:45:00.000-07:00

What a crazy, busy, fun weekend!

Friday night, Daughter, Son and I took Foxy out for his favorite pizza, then to the football scrimmage. Don's Pizza was so yummy, and the football team won! Woo-hoo!

Saturday, was my family reunion. What a wonderful time. We had not had a reunion in over 15 years, so almost 100 people showed up from all over, from Florida, Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky. What a great time!

Groups of our family sitting around talking, catching up.

Great-Uncle Dan and my Dad

Dad and his brother Bob.

The Tanneruther Clan

Cousin Dick and his son Joe.


The Rainey family

It was so good to catch up and see how we had changed and made it through the years. It was such a nice day and amazing to see us all there. Those that put it on deserve a Huge Thank you!

Sunday we went to church, then rested until Hornet Day. The band played, football, girls volleyball, soccer, cross-country, golf teams and band were all announced. I helped the After-Prom Committee make money for what the kids want, which is go to Laser Web after Prom. That sounds like a lot of fun.

It rained on us a bit, but we did get everything in and had a great time.

Today, the kids started back to school. I did get a picture of them that I show later, plus shots from last night. This is not as busy a week, but I am glad we are back on a schedule. The kids need that structure for school. It will wear them out this first couple of weeks, but that's okay. Maybe Son will go to bed earlier! NAH!

How was your weekend?

It's Friday!

2011-08-19T07:03:00.000-07:00

In the words of Rebecca Black, "It's Friday, Friday, gotta get down on Friday."

It has been a long week. Not quiet sure why, but I'm glad I only have two more hours of work. It is going to be a busy, fast-as-lightning weekend too.

Today:
Running errands including: getting vehicle licenses, banking. Making two cakes for two picnics, taking Foxy to his favorite pizza place in his hometown, and then going the the football scrimmage in a nearby town. Go Hornets!

Tomorrow: we have a family reunion. I think Daughter is taking her BFF, AJ, homecoming shopping.

Sunday: church, church picnic and then Hornet Days, which is where the fall sports, band, cheerleaders, etc. are introduced. I will be actually helping running a booth for the After-Prom committee. So it will be fun!

How is your weekend going to go?

Thursday Recipe Day

2011-08-18T05:43:00.000-07:00

To use up my zucchini in a new and interesting way, I am trying a new recipe I found through email. I am so sure my kids will not like it, and my husband will complain because it's vegetarian. I may try it with turkey sausage or something.

Zucchini Manicotti

12 Manicotti shells
1 T olive oil
1 meduim onion, chopped
4 medium zucchini, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1 (14 oz.) can Italian Stewed tomatoes
1 1/2 cups low-fat cottage cheese
1 cup grated Cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/8 tsp pepper
3 cups grated parmesan cheese

Cook manicotti shells according to package directions. In a large skillet, heat oil. Add onion, garlic and zucchini. Cook on low heat for about 15 minutes until zucchini is tender. Cool zucchini mixture, and then add cottage cheese, cheddar cheese and 2 1/2 cups of Parmesan cheese. Mix well, adding seasonings to taste. Stuff shells with mixture and place side by side in greased 9X13" baking pan. Put stewed tomatoes in a blender to chop tomoatoes. Pour over shells. Cover and back at 350 degrees for 25 minutes. Uncover, sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese and continue baking 10 - 15 minutes.

I think it sounds pretty good. What do you think?

Busy End of Summer!

2011-08-17T06:01:00.000-07:00

So yesterday was crazy busy at work. But today may be a little more calm, though we have one person out sick and the other is with her daughter at the hospital waiting on a baby to be born. But at least right now it's pretty good.

So Son asked a girl to Homecoming. He bought her flowers, made her a big sign and sat her in car after band practice, waiting for her. She loved it and said yes. So he has a date for that. Hmmmm.

Last night, Foxy and went to the garden and harvested quite a bit. As you can't see here, there are a lot of tomatoes, 2 zucchinis, green peppers, banana peppers and cucumbers. Yummy! I wish I could get the pictures to download. But something is not good with this computer. I am sad. Tonight I am canning the tomatoes and maybe the banana peppers (I have a bunch more). I will also grate one of the zucchinis and leave the other to grate on Friday night or Saturday. I have a family reunion and a new chocolate zucchini cake recipe to try out.

There is a church picnic on Sunday afternoon. Then Sunday evening is Hornet's Day at the school. Plus it being Foxy's birthday on Saturday. We are going to get pizza from his favorite place, and go watch the football team scrimmage at a close rival. I am excited about the weekend. So hopefully I will fix this picture problem and be able to show you all the pictures I took over the weekend.

Tomorrow evening, the kids have band practice, then they are having some friends they met over the summer over for a cookout over the fire pit. That will be fun, and I am glad I am going to meet them.

Weekend Update

2011-08-15T07:37:00.000-07:00

Well that was a fun weekend! Foxy worked the whole time, Son went through Soccer Ref Clinics, Daughter went to a sleepover, we had a fire in the firepit, and yesterday was my company picnic. It's was fun, though.

Son will start refereeing this coming Saturday at a tournament. I have to find him a referee yellow shirt, black shorts and back socks with 3 white stripes. So I am looking.

At the picnic yesterday, Son decided to do some Owling. Have you heard of this? First there was planking. Planking is where you lay face down on some small thing. Owling is where you perch on something small, or very high up. I'm trying to get a picture to upload, but having some trouble. I'm so sad about not getting the picture up. It's a great picture!

As soon as I can get it to post, I will. How was your weekend?

What The Friday?

2011-08-12T06:03:00.000-07:00

So last night, Son talked to me about three things.

1. He finally wants to get a job. He wants to go to the soccer clinic and be a ref for SAY soccer on Saturday mornings. I'm kinda surprised, but that's good. The clinic is tonight and tomorrow morning.

2. He is going to ask a girl to Homecoming. See Monroe's Homecoming is 33 days after they start school, so the kids better get a headstart. He wants to get a bouquet of flowers and make a poster asking her. He will put it on her car after band next week. The kicker is that she is two years old than him.

3. Finally, Daughter wants to get her ears pierced (she's 17). He wants to also. What do you think about a 14 year old getting his ear pierced. I don't have a big problem with it, but there is a nagging of perception. Is it such a big deal? Foxy is more opposed than I am, but we will get a lot of flack from family, I am sure.

This is a busy weekend.

Tonight and tomorrow AM, Son has soccer clinics. Also tomorrow, Daughter is babysitting and staying at a friends house. Sunday is church and my company picnic.

Have a great weekend!

Easy Sausage Red Beans & Rice Recipe

2011-08-11T05:40:00.000-07:00

As we approach the start of another school year, I am looking at easy quick meals. This makes for an interesting list of recipes. We will have band, football games, homework, church and all the other activities that go along with it.

My husband loves this recipe. It takes no time to make and sometimes easy and quick are the way to go!

Ingredients
1 package of Kielbasa (your choice), cut up into 1" slices
1/2 onion, diced
2 packages of Knorr Red Beans & Rice

Make Knorr Red Beans & Rice according to package. Add Kielbasa and onions and simmer for 10 minutes. We added French style green beans and bread and butter as sides and have a great meal that takes no time. Plus clean up is a cinch!

Foxy's Garden

2011-08-10T05:25:00.000-07:00

Harvest is upon us! Well, the start of it is. With me being gone last week, the weeds are around, but the tomatos, peppers and zucchini are really taking off.

This is just a little of the harvest we picked last night. The zucchini is great, the peppers and tomatoes are coming in, and the cucumbers...well, they are a bit bitter, but yummy.

That little white ball is my first watermelon. I hope it starts growing!

This is a two-hander tomato. It was hard to pick last night.

Here are two more tomatoes. Most of the big tomatoes are not getting red, but a pinkish color.

Band on The Run 2011

2011-08-09T06:33:00.000-07:00

One of our many band fundraisers has been a 5K run. We have had success the past two years. Here are some pictures of some of the runners.

Josie and the Raccoon.

2011-08-08T09:55:00.000-07:00

I'm back! Band camp was wonderful, but I'll tell you more about that another day. Today I have to tell you about Josie and the Racoon.

On Friday morning, Foxy and I had to get up extra early because he had a stress test (as far as we know, all is well there). We have normally been leaving the door from the garage to the back porch open, so Josie bell can come in and eat her food, and cool off. We haven't been closing this door. Well this morning, Foxy put Josie Belle out and all of a sudden she heard this racket in the garage. He tried to open the door from the laundry room to the back door, but Josie was right in front of door, trying to get behind the deep freezer. He started yelling at the dog, but she wouldn't have it. So I came out to the dining room to see what was going on. Foxy told me that the dog has something trapped in the garage. I got my shoes on and went out the back door, through the porch and into the garage. Josie was wagging her tail and barking at the thing. Then I heard it growl. Well, I went right over to Josie and grabbed her collar and got her out of there. I closed the door and brought her in the house. She went to the laundry room door, back to the back door, pacing and whining. I left the room, and came back, and her ears were perked up and there was scratching on the walls. It was trying to get out the way it came in. So I went and opened the big garage door and watched. After a few minutes, I saw a huge raccoon come out of the garage. It was as big as Josie Belle was. I then closed the door again and that was that. Or so I thought. Ever since that happened (on Friday morning), Josie has been obsessed with going out to the garage, sniffing everything out, getting behind the deep freezer. Here is her last night just sitting waiting for someone to open the door for her.

I think she just wants to play, but she goes and spends hours in the garage now. Over the years she has caught rabbits, birds, mice, and killed a skunk. But she has not gone up against something this big. She seems fearless thought.

Foxy's Garden

2011-07-27T03:43:00.000-07:00

The watermelon is vining and blooming but there are no watermelon.

This is one of the volunteer plants. Cherry tomatoes soon!

The green beans are rising high above the fence and blooming

See my peas. They are almost ready!

Last week this cucumber was barely and inch long!

My 2nd zucchini! I shredded them, used some for bread last night and froze the rest.

Wax pepper plant was full. I picked them. I may try and pickle them tomorrow evening.

Last night's harvest - peppers, radishes, cucumbers and zucchini.

My Grandma Rainey's Zucchini Bread. I wish I could share it with you!

Band Colors

2011-07-26T06:42:00.000-07:00

It's Tuesday! Including today, I only have 3 more days of work, then I am off for 10 days! Whoo-hoo!

Last night I did two things, go to the Band Booster Meeting and wash dishes at 10:30 pm. That made for kind of a late night, but that's okay. I slept until 4:30 or so this morning.

We are gearing up for band camp, which is my favorite week in the summer. The seniors pick shirt colors for each class to wear. So this year, the Freshman have to wear Orange Barrel Orange. The Juniors have to wear Iridescent. Iridescent? What the Heck? Well, one of the seniors was nice and gave the Juniors iridescent puffy paint, or something. They have to be creative with their shirts. It is really fun. Last year they put on a fashion show.

This is what I think iridescent is. Pretty, huh?

Today we need to go find those color shirts. Actually Foxy told Son he would borrow an orange vest from work, if he could. Son said he'd wear it. Tonight we are not doing much, so I will get out in the garden and snap pictures, pick some of the harvest and weed.

Have a great day!

Birthdays, Coupons, and Fun

2011-07-25T08:25:00.000-07:00

What a weekend! It was full and fun for all of us!

Friday, Daughter babysat all day, Son, Foxy and I went to have his school physical done and to grocery shopping. On the shopping trip, my total was $413.00+, and with sales and coupons, it was $217 and change! I was amazed. And, this is for two or more weeks, so that makes life very good for us, though I may needs some more chicken or something. I am pretty proud of that. I bought ground chuck in the 3 pound rolls for $4.99 each, so I got like 6 of them! I was at the right place at the right time for that!

Saturday, Daughter and I did some errands in the morning, like her school physical (which btw, if you go the The Little Clinic in Krogers, they will give you a coupon to have 500 points put on your Kroger card! That's $0.50 off on gas, who doesn't love that? So I put 1 $0.50 on now, and will do one next month. Awesome! Then we went and got a gas cap for Daughter's car (which fixed the Service engine light coming on), and then got her home so she could meet up with other Junior's in band to make the Senior's gifts.

Then we went and picked up her cake, which was delish! Chocolate Covered Strawberry Blizzard cake from Dairy Queen! Yummy! Then made Hamburger Helper and salad for supper and then everyone came for Daughter's party. Here is a few pics of the kids (and an adult) playing Just Dance2.

Daughter in the forefront and Miss Bailee dancing.

Daughter & Son dancing together.

Daughter's friends, Foxy and Gma watching .

Son and Mrs. Hawkins dueling it out, with Mr. Hawkins laughing at them.

Daughter & Little Madi having fun.

It was a lot of fun and we kept pretty cool.
Yesterday we went to church and then took Daughter to Red Robin's for lunch. Yum! We then came home, vegged and watch it rain! Whoop! Whoop!

This is a busy week for everyone, so I better get going!

It's Friday!

2011-07-22T06:43:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday! TGIF! I hope all of you are doing well, especially in this heat. Last night, Daughter, Foxy and I went to Dairy Queen and ordered her birthday ice cream cake. She ordered a Chocolate Covered Strawberry Blizzard cake! Then we got ice cream. She ordered the Chocolate Covered Strawberry Blizzard, I ordered a Mint Oreo Blizzard and Foxy wanted a Peanut Butter Milk Shake. It was all divine in this heat. The only thing on the agenda this weekend is Daughter's Birthday tomorrow. We are having a small indoor party with Wi games and cake and ice cream.

I do have to take both kids to have physicals for band/school sports. I can get it done a Krogers and get my shopping done, plus get 500 extra points for gas. How cool is that?

The rest of the weekend is just trying to stay cool! I'll have pictures on Monday of the party, zucchini bread and probably not much else. Have a great weekend and stay cool!

Foxy's Garden

2011-07-20T02:00:00.000-07:00

Here are new pictures from the Foxy garden. It is time to weed again, but in 95 degree heat with 105 degree heat index, that isn't happening.

Here's the watermelon vine.

Here is my volunteer Cherry tomatoes.

See our little cucumber?

I am so excited! This is a big zucchini!

Here are the beans, going right up the fence.

Here are my peas.

This is one big tomato. It's starting to turn. Green, then white, the red! Can't wait.

This was what I harvested! Yummy!

Dog Mail

2011-07-19T04:57:00.000-07:00

Okay, so she's only 8 years old (56 in dog years), but she received her first piece of mail yesterday. I got several emails letting me know that it came. Nothing extraordinary about this, except that Josie Belle Fox is a dog. My dog. I am into getting free stuff when I can and when it came to dog food, I thought it would be cute if it was addressed to the dog. I was at work when the mail came, so I tried to get someone at home to take a picture of Josie and her mail. No one did. I had to do it myself.

It's a small can of Alpo, with a coupon! Score!

Josie Bell is checking out her mail.

"Mom! Quit taking my picture." She is just like my other kids.

There's that pretty face!

She is sooooo skinny.

Tomorrow I will have pictures of the garden. We had a lot of visitor's last night, so I didn't get out there.

Weekend Update!

2011-07-18T13:42:00.000-07:00

Well I had a boring weekend, but that is okay. It was hot. I ended up watching a lot of movies.

Friday, Daughter and I went and picked Son up for church camp. He was ready to come home. He talked our ear off and was happy to be with us. Daughter and I enjoyed a BOGO Mango/PineappleSmoothie & Carmel Frappe from McDonalds on the way there. I had a coupon. Daughter said the smoothie would be better with coconut milk. Mmmmm.

Friday evening, I finished Friday Night Lights, the television series, not the movie. It ended well. I loved that show. So then I found The Social Network on Starz. I enjoyed it. No one else in my house would have liked it, but they didn't watch it with me so, it was all good.

Saturday, was really hot and muggy, Son went and mowed my dad's grass. Daughter and I cleaned a bit and then watched Beastly on pay-per-view. It is a modern day Beauty and the Beast. It didn't have much bad language, or any sex. It was good too. Daughter and Son went to a birthday party/cookout.

I made ham and beans and blueberry muffins. My mother never could make cornbread, so we would have blueberry muffins. Now I can't have one without the other. Thanks, Mom!

Sunday, we went to church. Then came home and had whatever we could find (which is slim pickings this week). Son and I wached 2012 that I had DVR'd. If you haven't seen it, it is a lot like The Day After Tomorrow. It had an interesting twist on it with being humane. It was long, though. Almost three hours.

This week may end up being very interesting, but I know it will be very hot! Stay cool, people!

S'mores and Upside Down Rainbows!

2011-07-15T05:39:00.000-07:00

Last night the air was cool, the humidity was low, and it was beautiful. So we decided to start a fire and sit around the firepit.

While sitting there, Daughter and I saw this in the sky above us. An upside down rainbow.
With the help of my cousin on facebook, we found out that this is a rare phenomenon called Circumzenithal arc.

A circumzenithal arc is a fascinating atmospheric phenomenon, sometimes called a reverse rainbow, because at first glance it does indeed resemble a backwards or upside-down rainbow. Many observers miss out on circumzenithal arcs, because they are located directly overhead; astronomers cite the circumzenithal arc as another reason for people to look up more, as if the stars weren't enough. Unlike a rainbow, which appears opposite the sun, a circumzenithal arc is centered around the zenith of the sky, and can only appear if the solar angle is less than 32 degrees. (This comes from Wisegeek.com.) Pretty cool.

So in the course of the evening, I spent time with Foxy, my daughter, our adopted daughter, and also an adopted son. Loved the time and had s'mores. Have you ever had a York Peppermint Pattie S'more? Try it, it's divine!

Today I will go home, soak beans for bean soup, start laundry, and then Daughter and I will go pick up Son from church camp. Can not wait to see him and hear his stories! Tomorrow will be a low-key day, as will Sunday (I hope). Foxy has to work all weekend, which is a first in a month or so. Have a great weekend!

SYTYCD Update

2011-07-14T06:22:00.000-07:00

Every week on SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE, there has been at least one amazing routine. Melanie and Marko have been almost perfect every week. Jess and Clarice have been almost as good. Last night, Jess and Clairce had to do a hip-hop number. I was very nervous for them because, let's face it, Jess is amazing, but he doesn't strike me as a hip-hop guy. He's a broadway talent. In fact, Jesse Tyler Ferguson (from Modern Family) was a guest judge last night and told Jesse that he will tell Neil Patrick Harris to give Jesse the keys to Broadway. He is that good.

Anyway, Clarice and Jesse brought tears to my eyes because of they lyrical hip-hop routine they did last night. It was to the song Just The Way You Are (which was made popular by Bruno Mars), but not the exact same version. I loved it. Amazing. They were both perfect!

Did you watch this?

Foxy's Garden

2011-07-13T05:41:00.000-07:00

Well the garden is coming along quite nicely. We have a row of tomatoes that seem to be bothered by the heat, but the rest of the plants are looking great! Here they are.

More radishes for Foxy.

The watermelon is vining and blooming nicely.

The volunteer tomatoes are coming up so nice.

This is one of the two cucumber plants. That flower means I'll a cucumber soon!

See what is attached to that flower? It's a tiny zucchini.

Our first cayenee of the season.

One of the biggest tomatoes, but there are going to be tons of them!

I also have some bell peppers that will be ready soon.

We also harvested a few veggies. How's your gardens coming?

Some of Our Favorite Summer Shows

2011-07-12T05:28:00.000-07:00

Sorry. I'll get pics of the garden tonight. Yesterday it was just too hot to be outside, and with the sunburn I have It just intensifies the heat radiating off me. It was a quiet evening in the Foxy house last night. I got some laundry done, dishes done, and we sat and caught up on some shows.

Daughter likes some of the shows on ABC Family like Switched at Birth, Melissa and Joey and State of Georgia. I enjoy those too. Switched At Birth has one of my favorite actresses, Lea Thompson. D.W. Moffett is also in it, as will as Constance Marie (formerly of The George Lopez Show). The two teens switched at birth are really good, especially the hearing-impaired girl. I have always been fascinated with American Sign Language, and that this show brings this to the fore-front of family dynamics, it's been really good.

Also, my never-miss summer show, The Closer, was back on last night. I love Kara Sedgewick and the cast of this show. Glad it's back!

So Son is over a few counties where they got some really bad storms. I really hope he is safe. I am thinking, no news is good news. Praying that the heat will not get them today and they can all enjoy their time together.

Later!

Weekend Update

2011-07-11T10:25:00.000-07:00

Well, it was an interesting weekend, but kind of boring.

Friday evening, my parents brought over their new Chevy Impala. It's white and purty. Can't wait to ride in it. Then we got a call from a friend for Daughter to go watch their 1 yo, while they went to the hospital. Everything is okay, but we are still concerned.

This is what Foxy and I did on Saturday. For about 5 hours, we monitored and collected $. The money was split 50/50 with the owners and the band. It was hot, I got pretty burnt, but we did okay. The kids loved it!
Then we went home, ate hamburgers and went to the grocery. Son and Daughter were at Kings Island all day.

Yesterday, we went to church, then took Son to Butler Springs Christian Camp. He was very excited to be there with all his friends. He has made some really good friends from other churches. He kept us laughing on the 90 minute trip over. He is really a funny boy. He could be a stand up comedian. SIGH. Anyway, he is there and the weather is very hot, as with most of the country.

Last night, Daughter, Foxy and I went to get ice cream at UDF (my favorite place). Then we did dishes, laundry and rested. Like I said, a boring weekend. How was your weekend?

It's Friday!

2011-07-08T06:54:00.000-07:00

Well, it's Friday and rainy here in the Cincinnati area. Thank you God for watering the garden for us.

Last night Daughter and I went to a Thirty-One Gifts party. If you haven't gone, it's a good time, nice bags and such.

Tonight, I have to Son shopping for things for camp. He leaves for church camp Sunday. He loves camp. I loved camp and was a camper, then a counsellor there for many years. I've passed along that love to my children.

Tomorrow, Foxy and I are doing a band fund raiser. We are monitoring a couple of bounce houses at a flea market and getting a portion of the $. Sounds easy enough. I'll let you know on Monday. The kids won't be able to help all day, because they are going to Kings Island and meet friends.

Sunday, is church, lunch and leave for the hour and a half trek to camp. That makes for a long day, but I don't mind. Son will stay until Friday evening.

Have a great weekend!

Tales of A Driving Teenage Daughter

2011-07-07T06:09:00.000-07:00

Yesterday's VText messages from Daughter:

Daughter: I hit a raccoon.

Me: You okay?

Daughter: Baha ya. I laughed Baylie was like what! Maddie was like did u hear the bone crack?

Me: Gross, Maddie! Was it alive when you hit it?

Daughter: We not sure.

Okay, how can you not be sure it was alive? Anyway, it was the first animal she ran over. Later she told me that animals were trying to commit suicide with her car all day. Two birds dived in front of the car, a cat, and well, she swerved and clipped a mailbox, tearing off the side mirror. The mailbox lived to collect another day, while the mirror shattered all over Son.

Yesterday was an extremely tense day for me.

Fireworks and Radishes

2011-07-06T06:19:00.000-07:00

Last night, Foxy and I were weeding the garden, yes, I truly was. I started with the beans and he started with the radishes. He said, "Uh, if the radishes are starting to grow above ground, that means their ready, right?"

I stated that that is probably correct. Here is what he pulled up.

Six various sized pretty radishes!

And as I am weeding the tomatoes, I get excited because we have probably 8 or 10 small, green tomatoes! How excited am I????

I promised a few fireworks, pictures.

4th of July Weekend Update

2011-07-05T06:15:00.000-07:00

What a terrific weekend! It was HOT, but yesterday it cooled off enough that the parade went off and the fireworks were wonderful.

We had a fun weekend. Friday night was the closing program for VBS. Saturday, we didn't do too much. Some errands, good food, Son came home from the Amish country with the Grandparents. We did go get our free Nestle mini-drumsticks. It was fun.

Sunday, we honored our soldiers and country at church. It was kind of an emotional day. Mom and Dad came over later and we grilled out and then went to a new ice cream place called TWIST. The pictures are of Foxy and Son, me and Gpa, and Daughter and Gma. It was very hot, and a great night for ice cream.

Monday, Foxy's brother & SIL came over to watch the parade with us. Then we went out to eat. Daughter marched. The parade was bigger than last year and great weather, not too humid. We got under a tree, where the shade and a breeze kept us cool. After the relatives went home, Foxy watered the garden and Josie Belle, and I took pictures. We then rested a bit, and then went to the Light Up the Sky in Monroe for the festival and fireworks.
Here's the garden.

The watermelon is starting to vine.

This is one of the several volunteer tomato plants. Probably cherry tomatos.

This is our radishes.

This is the zucchini.

One of the two cucumbers plants.

We lost another tomato plant, but we still have plenty and they are starting to grow.

Here's our first green pepper. Yumm-yumm!

Here is our wax pepper. Can't wait to put it on pizza!


This is Josie Bell getting sprayed. She actually barks until we spray her. With all her hair, it really cools her down!

Hope your weekend was just a great. I'll try and put some fireworks pictures I took up tomorrow. Have a great Tuesday!

Happy Independence Weekend!

2011-07-01T07:28:00.000-07:00

Well, we made it to July! Hope your weekend will be good.

Today, I get off at noon. Then Daughter and I will do the grocery shopping, go to the chiropractor, and then VBS for the closing program. Foxy is working all day.

Tomorrow, there isn't anything going on. Laundry, cleaning, keeping cool. Son will be home from the Amish country with my parents. Foxy is off until next Wednesday. At some Wal-Marts, they are going to have Nestle Drumsticks they are giving away from 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm. I will take the kids for that.

Sunday we are having our Red, White and Blue service. It's always a great time. Then probably a cook-out with my parents and maybe some friends.

Monday, Daughter is in the local parade with the band, Foxy's brother and SIL will be down to watch. Then we will go eat pizza and then watch fireworks. Sounds like a fun, relaxing weekend.

How is your weekend going to go? I hope you enjoy your fireworks, parades, and cookouts!

Foxy's Garden, Day 2

2011-06-30T06:15:00.000-07:00

Here are more pictures of our ever growing garden.

I believe this is zucchini.

See the little was pepper growing? How cute!

VBS - Day 2 & Foxy's Garden

2011-06-29T06:04:00.000-07:00

I have the smallest room in the church to teach in (which is find for me), but last night one of my two classes had 19 kids in it. We were pretty crammed in that room. But they were good kids. You can see them having snack time in the picture.

The other group I had was 7 beautiful young ladies. They did a great job of acting out the story. We had so much fun.

At the end of the night we have a praise time. Here are a few pictures from that time.

The teen boys (with Daughter) were up there doing the theme song. They all were doing the motions, singing (sort of), and everyone had a great time!

Now...Foxy's Garden

The beans are starting to run!

Yay for my peas!


This is one of the cucumber plants. As you can see, Foxy got in there with a small tiller and helped with the weeds.

More tomorrow!

First day of VBS

2011-06-28T06:48:00.000-07:00

Last night was the first night of Vacation Bible School. I didn't do much, but I am tired. I think it's a lack of caffeine. I only drink coffee mixes (i.e. Folgers/Hills Brothers) but didn't purchase any, so I am dragging today.

Last night was interesting. There were a lot of teens, a lot of 5th and 6th graders, and a lot of helpers. I taught first and second graders, which was interesting. There were ten of them. I gave a few of them things to do, which made them seem to enjoy the story. It was a good time enjoyed by all. Here are a few pictures.

This is Son and two church friends.

Some more teens making their wallets out of Capri Sun pouches.

Our crafty ladies did a great job last night! As did everyone else!

Hopefully I'll have new pictures of the garden up tomorrow or the next day.

VBS 2011

2011-06-27T06:28:00.000-07:00

A strange, but good weekend.

Friday: Son went to Kings Island with a friend, then spent the night. Daughter babysat. Foxy and I went to the grocery. I did pretty good in savings. I saved over $100 in groceries. I'll take that.

Saturday: Did some work around the house, Daughter and I went and did a little shopping, getting her ready for marching band. Foxy tilled the garden, fixed a screen, sprayed the perimeter of the house for bugs, and then we had a fire in the firepit and s'mores. I made a York Peppermint s'more. I was in heaven.

Sunday after church, I got together with some wonderful ladies in my coupon group. We exchanged ideas and coupons. It was a lot of fun and I got a lot of great coupons! Then went back to church and set up for Vacation Bible School. That was great! We had a lot of help and got it done in an hour or so. This is going to be a great week! I am teaching. Here is my room.

It's suppose to be a throne room and a sound stage. It should be a fun week. I'll post more later.

He did what?

2011-06-24T07:01:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, I text Son and asked him what he was doing. He text back and stated, "Climbing trees with Gpa."

My reaction was What in the world is my father doing in the trees?

Then son text me again and it said "Squirrels nest."

I text back, "Send me a pic." Well, unfortunately the picture will not post. But it is of my dad up in a tree. Good grief!

Rain, Rain

2011-06-23T07:00:00.000-07:00

Last night, after my Son's basketball game (which he had 2 points, and 8 rebounds), my nephew came home with us. The boys messed around with Son's guitar, talked about lots of things and mainly got caught up. I decided it was getting late and I had to get up early, so I told them to get ready and I'd take him home. Son went with us. We get in the car, pull out of the driveway, and take off through the neighborhood. Just as we get to the main road, the heaven's let loose on one of the worst rain storms I have ever witnessed.

Flashback to 25 years ago: My dad and I are driving down the highway in his Dodge Rampage (a little, low-riding truck). We were on our way to Eldora Speedway on the Western edge of Ohio, when the storm of all storms hit. *SIDE NOTE* Miss Brown aka the Rampage, was hit by lightning a few years before and had a personality all it's own. It's lights would work when it wanted, the radio would randomly come on, and the wipers would just quit. As the rain poured like buckets, the spray from the semi in front of us did not help. We were holding our own until...the wipers quit working. So Dad tells me to watch the solid white line on my side of the road. We slowly creep along the highway, just getting pounded. There is little conversation because the rain is so loud on the truck. Dad finally asks after about 10 minutes, how we are doing. I tell him, "I don't know. I can't see the line anymore." He takes his foot off the gas and we pull over.

Last night: The reason last night was so bad was that the lines were not as visible, and while driving, I could actually see the huge drops in front of my lights. Oh, and it was dark. I went about 30 miles an hour all the way to Lebanon. It was scary! Luckily, we didn't have any mishaps last night, but that rain was intense!

Also last evening, Daughter went to a DCI Competition. This is a Drum and Bugle Corps Show with 12 - 15 bands from all over the nation competing. That got hit hard with rain too, stopping the show twice. She came home pretty wet, but totally happy. She doesn't go out with just friends too much, and this was fun for her. We have a friend from church who actually competes for the BlueCoats. Unfortunately, the BlueCoats were supose to be the last group, but because the field was so muddy, they did not perform. :-(.

My big rant is that because of the President's little speech, So You Think You Can Dance was held over by 15 or 20 minutes. If I had know this, then I would have adjusted the DVR. I have not watched all the dances yet, just the first four dances. I thought the Bollywood number was great, as was the Nap & Tab hip hop number. But nothing was to outstanding...yet.

The Foxy Garden

2011-06-20T19:46:00.000-07:00

I have new pictures of the Foxy Garden. Please disregard the weeds, but the plants are really starting to take off, especially the zucchini and peppers!

Green beans

Cucumbers

Tomato with buds.

Foxy and Son tying up tomato plants.

Peas

Flowering peppers

Radishes

My special tomato plants

Tomatoes

Watermelon

Zucchini

Weekend Update

2011-06-20T06:34:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone had a great Father's Day! The Foxy household had a good weekend.

Friday, when I left work, it was a beautiful day. The kids were at the movies, seeing Mr. Popper's Penguins, which both of them gave two thumbs up. So I spent the afternoon cleaning the dining room. You can actually see the computer desk again. Amazing! When the kids got home, we celebrated National Flip Flop Day by going to Tropical Smoothie Cafe and getting a free strawberry-banana smoothie. They were huge and yummy.

Then we had a yummy supper and Foxy and I watched Friday Night Lights.

Saturday, I got Son up and he went with Gpa to the Father/Son Breakfast at church. Foxy had to work. Then Son went over to Gpa's and help chop down a few little trees and other little things on the todo list there. Daughter and I went decided to take my coupon binder and see if we could find some deals. Here is what we found.

I got the shower gel for $0.99. The Gold Bond for $0.49, and the Zone bars for $0.25 each. Not too shabby!

We then went and picked up Son and my dad's brother and wife were there.

My Aunt


My Uncle, the story teller.

It was nice seeing them. I don't see them as often as I should.

Sunday, Foxy took the day off. We went to church and had a nice service. Then came home and he grilled chicken tenders smothered in BBQ sauce and peppers and onions, we had broccoli and corn. I did dishes, and then started cutting out coupons. I'll show a pic of my overstuffed binder soon. Then Gpa and Gma came over and we wanted to have a fire outside, but it rained a lot yesterday, so it was too wet. So we grilled them, had carrots and dip and Homemade salsa and dip. For dessert, I made a brown sugar bundt cake (one of Foxy's favorites). It was a nice evening. Then I watched The Glee Project with Daughter and Drop Dead Diva with Foxy. Good weekend.

How was yours?

It's Friday!

2011-06-17T06:50:00.000-07:00

Had a great meal last night. Foxy smoked western ribs. We had garlic potatoes, salad and yeast rolls. Yum! He also smoked a half of pork loin, so we are having that for supper tonight. Son asked for the ribs. He says he is tired of chicken. LOL.

Yesterday, during basketball camp, Son fell and hurt his tailbone. At least I think that is what hurts. His butt cheek hurts, but he sits just fine. All I know is he is sore. But he did everything we asked of him yesterday.

Today, Foxy let me know that his work is asking for voluntary time off. Meaning, they need up to two employees per shift to take off each day. So I gave him a couple of dates. Of course this is without pay, so OUCH! More couponing for me. I told him to try and take Monday off. Then a couple of days during Vacation Bible School. Nice, huh?

Daughter is taking her brother and the two girls she watches to see Mr. Popper's Penguins. I hope it's good. It is rated PG. Then tomorrow evening there is a free showing in our community park of How to Train Your Dragon. I think we are all going to go to that. Sounds like fun. The rest of this weekend will consist of cleaning, gardening and resting.

Sunday is Father's Day! Happy Father's Day to all your Father's out there! We had our celebration with my dad and Foxy last week because at the time Foxy was working (as far as I know he still is). I am going to make a Brown Sugar Bundt Cake for Foxy. I told him I'd making he a dessert of his choosing and that had the list of ingredients that I had on hand. LOL.

So what are your plans this weekend?

Thursday Muses

2011-06-16T05:43:00.000-07:00

Did anyone else watch So You Think You Can Dance last night? WOW! My favorite dances were Melanie and Marko, they were covered in a white powder, looking like stone statutes. The dance was choreographed by Travis Wall. It was amazing! I totally loved it! Then there was the Broadway number with Jess and this is sad...I don't remember who he was paired with. That is how good he was, I think. And of course, Tyce Diorio was their choreographer. Anyway, those were my two favorite numbers.

My dog, Josie Belle, thinks I am starving her. I had been putting out dry dog food every day and she would eat when she wanted. Well, I am out of that and have been feeding her cans of Pedigree that I got for $.054 a piece. I feed her early, and then around supper, plus she is licking pans, plates, whatever she can find, clean. But last night, I let her in and she laid on the couch as I watched Hot In Cleveland. When I got up to go to bed, she went to the kitchen. I tried to get her to go to the bedroom, but she would not have it. She just kept running around the house. I eventually realized that she wanted more food. So I fed her. But she had to sleep outside last night because the last time I fed her that late, she ended up puking on my bed because she ate too fast.

Son had a basketball game last night. It's a high school league, but I was under the impression that he would play other teams that were junior varsity, like him. Last night, most of those boys had muscles bigger than his body! LOL. See what I mean?

Son is in white, facing the camera. The boy is black is actually a junior, who was good natured, but we played pretty good against them. At one point we were down 21 points, but only lost by 12 in the end. We have a boy that is very short, compared to Son, (like barely comes to his armpit). The other team was kinda laughing at him, trying to figure out how to defend. Shorty got 6 points off them. That'll show 'em!

I consider today Friday because tomorrow I only work four hours. That's what we do every Friday between Memorial Day and Labor Day. That makes me happy!

Have a great day!

Flags and Gardens

2011-06-14T06:08:00.000-07:00

Happy Flag Day! I'm sad I forgot until after I got dressed. I wanted to wear red, white and blue and my flag earrings, but didn't. Oh well, I'll try and be patriotic other ways today.

Big news in the Foxy household is that our garden is growing! Yeah baby! I am happy to report that everything put in the ground is coming up, plus some added bonus plants. So without further adieu, here are some pictures for you to enjoy and envy over (not really).

This is the watermelon on the side of the house. There is actually more there than we knew about, so hopefully we can have yummy melon for a while.

Right in the middle of this pic looks like weeds, but actually 3 little volunteer tomato plants are growing, right next to the back porch. We had some cherry tomatoes on the porch last year, so this must be from that. Happy, happy!

This is the cayenne that is growing well. You can see our house and a neighbor's house from this view.

I think this is the sugar snap peas. Yummy!

This is my most exciting pic. Zucchini! You can even see seeds on top of the green leafs. I think there are at least two plants growing there.


This is the radishes. Foxy wanted more than we got last year, so there are two small rows.

I didn't take any of the other pepper plants (there is one with a bloom), and the tomatos. All are doing well!
So I showed you mine, you need to post pictures of yours. I'll go look if you leave me a message! Have a great day!

Weekend Roundup

2011-06-13T07:37:00.000-07:00

Well, how was your weekend? Mine was busy, but great!

Daughter had Drill Team tryouts on Friday. She did make the team (this is year #3 for her). There were also 4 girls that tried out for captain. They went through an interview process, but because there is not an advisor for the Drill Team yet, no decision has been made. That's frustrating, especially for the girls.

Foxy, Son and I went grocery shopping. While we were there, it poured buckets! When we all got home from our days, we decided to celebrate daughter's achievement, then went to see a movie. We saw The Hangover 2. I wanted to take the kids, because it is rated R. Should have been rated R-17. I saw the first one and it was pretty funny. This one, was just way more over the top. Funny in places, but not all nearly as funny as the first one. But we saw it. I really want to see Pirates, but Daughter had seen it, so we saw this. The bonus was that it was only $5 per person, so that was a good bargain.

Saturday, Daughter and I got up, went and let the dog out at the house she watched and then ran errands. We took back Old Navy FlipFlops that she had purchased at the $1 sale for cuter, more colorful ones. Then we went to Michael's because I wanted a pair of scissors just for my couponing habit. We ended up getting scrapbooking supplies (I had a 25% coupon) and getting another 40% coupon. Then we went to Chik-Fil-A and ate for free. We each had waffle fry and chicken sandwich free coupons, and we had drinks we brought from home. Then we went home, got ready and went to our friend's wedding. I have pictures, but they are not up yet, but they will be soon. We wish the new Mr. & Mrs. Parks all the best!

Sunday, we got up, went to church and then went out to eat with my parents to celebrate Father's Day. Foxy has to work next Sunday, so we thought this would be easier. We then went home and Foxy and Son put up fencing around the garden (which has some exciting new shoots!) and Daughter and I cleaned a few areas in the house. I also got most of the laundry done. Then Daughter and I dropped Son and his friend off at Kings Island and found out where she will be going to babysit. Today she will be watching a 8 year old and a 6 year old for several hours. I think they are going to the pool at the YMCA. I'm excited she has a job! How exciting for her. Then we came home, and Foxy grilled chicken, onions and yellow/orange peppers and I made pasta salad. Nice meal. Then I settled down (after dishes), cut coupons and watched the Season Finale of Army Wives, and the premier of The Protector.

This has been the most heart-wrenching season of Army Wives. I have never cried so much! I loved every minute of it and can't wait until Winter 2012 (whatever that means) for it to be back on.

The Protector stars Ally Walker (who was on a previous show that my husband and I loved The Profiler). This was different, but she did play a cop. I loved how fun she is with her children, and how she just kind of doesn't let others bother her. I will watch it again.
Well, this is already longer than normal. How did your weekend go?

It's Friday!

2011-06-10T08:09:00.000-07:00

It's my first half workday of the summer! I get out at noon today! How fun. Son and I are getting our hair cut, Foxy is changing the oil in Daughter's car, and I have grocery shopping to do. Daughter has tryouts tonight for Auxillary and for captain tonight. That is exciting! Cross your fingers.

Daughter is also house/dog setting for some friends. Last night Son stayed with her. Apparently, Benny the dog kept them up barking a lot. They came home bleary-eyed at 7:00 and Daughter went back to sleep. Interesting. Tonight she is suppose to have a friend over to stay with her. She may not do this again. The girl likes her sleep.

Tomorrow, we have a wedding. That will be nice. Nothing major for us to do, except celebrate with the new couple. Son is suppose to wear the bow tie I got him. We will see if he actually does. We need to practice tying it. Other than that, Sunday will be our day to celebrate with my dad and Foxy (he has to work next Sunday). Have a great weekend!

The Foxy Garden

2011-06-08T07:33:00.000-07:00

Well, we have the garden officially planted. I am excited. We actually have beans sprouting! We have a cayenne pepper growing. But it is so hot (like 95+ degrees). Yucky! So lots of watering went on last night. Even Josie Belle got sprayed last night.

Last night, Daughter and Son had a few friends over and they enjoyed smores, the fire and took lots of pictures. I don't have any of their pictures, though. Just the garden.

These are the green peppers, cayenne pepper and zucchini seeds we planted last night.

These are our pole beans. We didn't have many so this will all be dried for seeds for next year.

I can't decide if this is peas coming up or weeds.

Here is some of our tomatos. See how dry the soil is?


It's that a cute view? Nice little tomato.

So this weekend we will be putting a fence around it. There are too many rabbits to worry about. How are your gardens doing?

Another one in the Books

2011-06-07T08:06:00.000-07:00

Today is the last day of school for Daughter and Son. At 1:00 PM today I will officially have two children in high school, a junior and a freshman, respectively. I am not old enough for this! To celebrate, they are having an End-of-Year Smores-Slip-n-Slide party. Should be interesting.

Last night, I ended up not getting home from the band meeting until 9 PM. Foxy, Daughter, Gma & Gpa went to see Son in his first high school basketball game. They won! Which was great! I can't wait to go tomorrow evening.

Hopefully, tonight while the festivities is going on, Foxy and I will plant the rest of the plants and water. It's funny, but last week, we had all the rain we could handle. Now, we really could use some. Go figure.

I'll have pictures tonight's garden party for everyone. Here are a couple of highlights from this school year. Have a great day!

Son at the foul line.

Daughter got her driver's license!

Weekend Update

2011-06-06T07:05:00.000-07:00

Well, this weekend was very interesting for us Foxys. Friday night, I was so sick with a cold/sinus or something that I stayed home and did nothing. I didn't even get to my coupon class. I sat on the couch, napped and did a bunch of nothing.

Saturday I felt a bit better. Daughter wanted to go shopping because we have a wedding this weekend. And we wanted to get Son a bow tie for the wedding. So we went to a few stores that we thought were having deals on cute dresses. She didn't like the ugly sun dresses for $12. So we walked down another wing of the mall and she spotted the store we bought her homecoming dress at. So we went in there to look. We came out of there with a) a dress for the wedding ($10 off), a dress for next year's homecoming for $7.50, and a prom dress for next season that was originally $119, and we paid $34.99 for it! What an amazing shopper she is. We paid full price for the bow tie (that was something), but to get out of a mall with three beautiful dress for under $78.00 made me proud! She was so excited. She said, "No I don't have to deal with the drama of finding a dress, I can look for shoes, accessories, and tell all my friends!" I think she is going shopping Friday with a friend to see if there are any more great deals. She won't let me post pictures because she wants them to be surprised. I will post the dress for the wedding there next week, though.

I also purchased some green pepper, cayenne pepper, banana pepper plants, as well as zucchini seeds. So we will get them in the ground this week and planting will be over. I just need to keep weeding and nurturing.

I did do some extreme couponing this weekend. Have you seen this show on TLC? It's of people spending hundreds to thousands of dollars and barely paying anything. I am inspired. I have a binder I am filling full of coupons, looking at lots of sales and starting a price book soon. I bought 2 papers and am asking for people to send me their unused coupons. If any of you would do this, all the outdated coupons we send to military families (they can use them for a longer period of time). Anyway, I was at our local grocery store and knowing Josie Belle needed some dog food, I started looking for a few good deals. I found cans of dog food for $.72 each. I had a coupon for buy 3 get 1 free, so I bought four because I wasn't sure she would like it. Yesterday at lunch, I fed her a can, and she woofed it down! (Sorry for the pun.) So I had five more coupons, so I went and purchased 20 cans of dog food, getting five of them for free. I essentially paid $.54 a can. Not too shabby.

Sunday, I did laundry, dishes, and cut out coupons besides going to church. But, all in all, not a bad weekend. How was yours?

It's finally Friday!

2011-06-03T07:48:00.000-07:00

A lot has happened over that past two days. First, Daughter has two job offers to consider. One is watching two girls and a boy all summer. The other is at a daycare facility. She is leaning toward the first job. She is excited. She can go to the YMCA, Kings Island, or just stay home.

Last night we found out that Son was selected to play on Frosh/Sophomore school basketball league. How exciting is that? It will be Mondays and Wednesday in June. So Foxy can get to at least one game a week. Most of the games are at 6 or later, so i get off work at 5:30 starting Monday, so I'll make all except the last week, because of Vacation Bible School.

We got more planted in the garden on Wednesday. We planted two mounds of cucumbers, watermelon, carrots, snow peas, beans (for seeds only), and we still need to plant peppers and zucchini. I will keep a running picture blog of them each Wednesday. Excited for that.

Foxy is working this weekend, I have contracted a cold/sinus but things are kinda of slow. I do have a crazy couponing class tonight. I'm pretty pysched about it. I hope I learn a lot.

Tomorrow, we have nothing except looking for a bow tie for Son. We are going to a wedding next weekend and the bride wants Son to wear a bow tie. So we are looking for a "cool" one. And, Daughter wants a new sundress for the occassion. We'll see what we get.

What are you doing this weekend?

2011 Garden

2011-06-01T05:51:00.000-07:00

Here is Ohio, you never know what the weather is going to be like, so you never even think about putting your garden out until after Mother's Day, and usually not until around Memorial Day. This year, we are just starting to do that. Early in the spring, my dad decided he wanted to have a garden at his house. So he had some friends and Foxy help him. Now, as most of us know, it's been a rather wet spring. But that hasn't slowed him down. He collected a whole bunch of tomato plants, and what he didn't use, he gave to us. So as we were planting them Monday evening, we counted up 20 plants! If this is a good year, I am going to be canning a lot of tomatoes! Here are some pictures.

This is one of the plants. They are kind of pitiful. Last night we staked most of them. Tonight, after I get home from church, we will plant the watermelon, and the beans. I also have peas and maybe some cucumbers. I want zucchini, peppers, and Foxy wants radishes. We didn't get near enough radishes.

So that is where we have started. Next time I'm at my parents, I'll get a picture of what he is growing. What are you growing this year?

Memorial Day Weekend Wrap Up

2011-05-31T06:17:00.000-07:00

Happy Tuesday to you! At least it isn't Monday! But it is hot here in the office. The air is slowly coming on, but it is taking it's time. We work in the 3rd floor of a 7 floor office building, so it's not like we are the highest floor or anything, but, it still gets warm, especially if the air is off and the last two days were 90 degree plus days.

Yesterday morning, the band took part in the Memorial Day festivities. It was a nice service, but a warm one. The city didn't provide the band with chairs, so some of the kids were not prepared to stand for an hour or more. Several kids started getting shaky.

We also had four graduation parties and a small cookout this weekend. I am still kinda tired. This is the kids last full week of school. They have all week, and next Monday and Tuesday. The kids are excited to get out, that is for sure. This week entails of not a lot. Trying to find a balance for the summer.

Memorial Day Weekend

2011-05-27T05:59:00.000-07:00

Last night, So You Think You Can Dance was back on the air for season 8. We were so excited for it, Daughter and I. We settled down and started watching it. The second dancer, Maryann Moore, from Marietta, GA, made me cry. It was beautiful. As the two hours progressed we saw a lot of interesting people. Soon, Son and Foxy came home and sat down to watch with us. Then the fun started. The dancing became considerably less than par, and more, uh, well, er...interesting. The most disturbing was this guy from California who did something called "The Insect". He was on his hands and feet, his torso facing the sky. He then turned his torso around from the waist, so it was facing down, but his hands and feet were still on the ground. His head, he also had turned so he was facing almost complete backwards. OMG! I had nightmares! Those people who are double-jointed that way are hard from me to watch. This is going to be an interesting and fun season.

I made a batch of terrible brownies last night. I am not sure if it was because I had to use margarine instead of butter, or what the problem was, but it wasn't great.

This is a hugely busy weekend. Today, Foxy had a meeting. Then he is going to get the pork shoulders and start smoking the shoulders, briskets and my chicken (that is supper tonight). He's going to give some of the pork to our friends with some corn, buns and some ice cream for dessert for supper tonight. She broke her ankle and will not be able to be on her feet for months! The rest of the meat is for our friend's graduation party tomorrow.

Son is going with my Dad after school to dig post holes for a fence at church. That should be interesting. Daughter is going to help deliver the meal, then go to a friend's graduation party. I am going to the grocery, because I don't know when else to do it.

Tomorrow, Daughter has to be at graduation with the concert band from 9:30 am until around 1. Son and Foxy will be cooking the rest of the meat tomorrow, then going to the graduation party.

Sunday we have church, our neighbor's graduation party, another friend's party (I think just the kids are going to that), and my parents are going to come over for a cookout.

Monday, Daughter has a Memorial Service for band, and then another graduation party. Sometime I want to do laundry and clean some. Good grief.

DWTS Finale! & SYTYCD!

2011-05-25T07:37:00.000-07:00

I did get to see the DWTS Finale of Season 12 last night. I still didn't see Tuesday's show, but that's okay. It was good to see the stars and the surprises they had for them. I loved that Josh Grobin came in to sing for Petra and Dimytri. I loved seeing the Go-Gos and I actually was intrigued by the Black Eyed Peas performance. They seem to be cutting edge of all things futuristic.

To me, I wanted Hines to win, but would have been happy with any of them. This was not the case with my mother. She text me at the end that she was not happy...several times. She thinks, and I agree with her, that Chelsea can dance better than Kirstie. But, Kirstie has a fan base that watches this show religiously. The younger crowd doesn't watch it. But all in all, it was a good season.

My favorite dance this season was Mark and Chelsea's dance to Panic At the Disco's I Write Sins Not Tragedies. She was a doll and he was a ringmaster, maybe? It was what I think of when I think of dance my kids learn at their local studio. Which leads me to my next item...So You Think You Can Dance! starts tomorrow on FOX. We love, love, love this, my daughter and I. We are happy that it is starting up, since all her other shows are on summer hiatus. So I will start posting about this show once all the silly trials and Vegas week is over, unless something spectacular comes up. So stay tuned!

No DWTS Post today

2011-05-24T06:21:00.000-07:00

I was all ready to give my opinions today on Dancing With The Stars, the finale, but nature got in the way. Just before 8 pm last night, a storm hit and knocked out our power for five hours. My mother was kind enough to send me texts as to the scores each couple got, and who she liked, but I did not get to see it at all.

As we went to sleep last night, I asked Foxy if we got all the lights turned off. He said "Yes," and went to sleep. At 12:53 am, the electric came back on and our bedroom light came on. I think it scared him more than me.

So I didn't get laundry finished, I did finish the supper dishes, but that was it. SIGH.

Son is complaining his arms are killing him from weight training for basketball. He'll get there, though. We are trying to encourage him. He just needs to keep it up for a while.

Foxy is helping out a friend by cooking for their daughter's graduation party. He smoking/cooking all the meat. He is doing pulled pork, brisket, and teriyaki chicken. Yummy. I am also busy couponing (my new hobby), cleaning, the never-ending pile of laundry and whatever else we need to deal with.

The kids have 10 more days of school, and you can tell they are ready to get out of there. Their summer will be short though, because the new year starts August 22nd. That means, only 14 weeks until football and marching band!

Have a great day!

Weekend Update

2011-05-23T06:55:00.000-07:00

Good Monday! I hope everyone is praying for those in Missouri. What tragic news across America this spring. I fear it isn't over either.

My weekend was nice and not too horribly busy.

Friday, Daughter and I stayed home, caught up on some things around the house. Foxy and I watched Friday Night Lights, and Best in Smoke. That last one has our favorite BBQ Pitmaster, Brad Orrison in the competition. I also made a cake.

Saturday, Daughter and I got up and went to Old Navy for the $1 flip flop sale. She got four pairs and I got a yellow pair. One of the best bargins of the day! Then we went to the grocery, gas station, and home. We puttered around the house all afternoon. She cleaned the inside and out of her car and I cleaned my side of the bedroom (mostly). Then we went and got pizza and we went to her dance recital. She did great at that! All the acts were wonderful, especially the tiny girls in their pink and purple tutus or tap shoes. How sweet! Then Daughter and I went home, and waited for a call from Son. While we waited we watched the beginning of SNL with host Justin Timberlake and musical guest, Lady Gaga. What a hilarious show. We love Justin on the show and I love that Lady Gaga can do some of the sketches. We got the call from Son in the middle of of the first sketch, so we paused it and took off. We picked him up from his trip to DC and was in bed by 1:00 am.

Yesterday we all got up, went to church, lunch and came home. Son mowed, I cleaned dishes and laundry was started. Then I went to a concert at church and Son went to his girlfriend's grandparents house. By this time it was thundering, lightning, and just pouring rain. But it seems, just as the concert started, the rain let up and the lightning stopped and the thunder hushed. God definitely blessed the beautiful concert.

Then I went home and Daughter and I decorated the cake. It is now a Strawberry/Vanilla Cake. Here is a picture.

My son loves strawberries and kept telling me that if I put strawberries on the cake it will be wasting them. But then he tried the cake and said, that it was pretty good. I thought it was good. I took the cake and cut it in half. I made a cream cheese icing and put part of that in the middle and layered strawberries on top of the icing. Then I put the next layer of cake on top of that, and put more icing and covered the top in strawberries. It wasn't too bad!

Hope you have a great day.

Marching onward

2011-05-20T06:28:00.000-07:00

Last night was Monroe High School's last Concert Band concert and awards. They played well and had a great time. Then the awards came. The director gives out all the awards for everyone, i.e. years of playing, pep band, etc. Then the Marching Band members give awards that have been passed down for a long time. First is the Bee Spirit award. This a huge stuffed Bee (we are the Hornets, so this is totally that) and it is passed from an incoming senior to an incoming junior that shows the most spirit, marching, and quality that a marching band members should possess. Guess who got it? Yep, my incoming junior, Daughter! What a surprise and honor.

Then there were other silly and not so silly awards, a jar of mayonnaise, a shoe, and Jorge (a statue). There is then the other big award of the night, the Drill Team mascot award. This usually goes to the next person that will head of the drill team. This is normally an incoming senior. This year there are no seniors, but four incoming juniors. The outgoing senior, wrote a nice note on why the person she picked this person. It again, was Daughter! What an honor. We asked the director if this means she will be in charge of the drill team, and we were told that this is not usually picked until after tryouts (in two weeks). But the honor of being picked to care for Kermietta (a Kermit the frog dressed as a drill team member, uniform included; see picture) is big! So proud of my girl. Here's the picture with her and Heather (the one who picked her, Daughter is in white).

Travel and Heartbreak

2011-05-19T05:51:00.000-07:00

Well, he's gone. Son has left the state, going to Washington D.C. for his class trip. I know that he will have a wonderful time! He made me get up at 2:50.A.M. to make sure he was there by 4:00 A.M. We have instilled in our children that being late is not acceptable. So we got up, he packed the last of his stuff up and at 3:15.A.M. we were out the door. The school is less than eight minutes away. But he did treat me to an English Toffee Cappaccino and him two vanilla dip donuts from Tim Horton's. So we pull in to the school parking lot at 3:35.A.M. The only other person there was one of the teacher chaperones. She was walking across the lot. He was the first kid there. Awesome. So now, he's on his own, with the money he earned mowing, and I just pray he behaves himself. I love that kid.

There has been tragic news in the Foxy household this week. Daughter's boyfriend of eight months, broke up with her. It's her first heartbreak, so there have been lots of tears. But, she's doing okay. It's hard, as a mom, to see her go through this and know that I can't make it better. Ah, teenage angst!

DWTS Season 12 - The Semi-Finals

2011-05-17T06:22:00.000-07:00

I have so enjoyed this season of Dancing with the Stars. It's fun to see how far the stars have come and how much talent. This week was an insane amount of dancing from the stars. Three new dances is crazy.

Ralph first dance an argentine tango that was sexy. His second dance was odd. And Karina looked like a cat with all that hair and the outfit. I didn't care for the whole set up at all.

Kirstie - Her first dance with Maks made me feel disconnected. Her second dance was just, awesome!

Chelsea did a waltz that was pretty. Her second dance made me sit up and take notice. Her song was from (I think), the second Twilight movie, but now that I think about it, maybe it was the first one. I love the music from those movies, so it was cool. The dance was really good, and it got her three 10's.

Hines was so emotional in his first dance. I think he was grateful and scared of Kym. First, they showed a clip of how Kym was hurt. It made my daughter and I cringe. Hines was trying to flip her and landed on her has she landed on the back of her neck. His partnering skills was amazing! He received three 10's for that and it was well deserved. His second dance was a samba, and he did a great! He received another perfect score for that too.

They each then, did a 40 second cha-cha-cha. Winner takes all and 15 extra points. I thought Hines should have received it, but they gave it all to Chelsea. Her's was good too, but it was really Hines' night.

So tonight, we will see some exciting things. First, Drew Lachey and Cheryl Burke will recreate their freestyle dance, "Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy"! I am so excited for that! That was the couple that made me come back week after week for DWTS. I think Ralph will go home. I will be surprised if his fan base will beat Hines, or Kirstie. But is Chelsea's fan base big enough? We will see.

Not a Weekend Update

2011-05-16T12:59:00.000-07:00

My weekend was kinda a quiet, which was good. We did get the Danger Ranger back. This is my husband's free 1986 Ford Ranger. We had to have the engine overhauled. So now we have three vehicles and no $ for gas! LOL.

It's going to be a crazy week. We have dance & band practice, dance recital, band concert, and trip to Washington D.C. I'm tired just figuring it all out. Tonight, I'm going to try and clean the bathrooms, cook supper and watch DWTS and Hawaii 5-0.

For supper tonight I have found a nice little recipe for Mexican Chicken and Rice from Taste of Home. Looks easy, I'll let you know how it is tomorrow.

I am also trying to use more coupons. There is a group of ladies in my town that I am getting to know and want to learn from. If any of you have ideas and such, please let me know.

Also, yesterday my father gave us about 10 or so tomato plants. So I want to find time to plant them because it is that time of year. But it is rainy all week, so we'll just see. It will be exciting to have my garden day back up and running. I'm going to do it on Friday's this season, because last year I didn't get out there until it was time to leave for work on Thursdays. Not very acceptable. Foxy wants to do box gardens, but I want to plant the tomatoes in front of our back porch. They grew great there last year and Josie Belle seemed to like it too.

I have pole beans, sugar snap peas, watermelon, and I want cucumbers, zucchini and some peppers. That's the goal. Are you having a garden this year?

DWTS Update

2011-05-10T08:22:00.000-07:00

I tried to do a DWTS update last week, but was soooo busy, it just didn't happen.

This one will be a bit quick, but there are only five contestants.

Chelsea Kane and Mark - they did a cute little dance and then later an Instant Samba dance. I say "Shake it!" , and I agreed with Carrie Ann. It was not their best.

Hines and Kym - I am so happy that Kym finally has a star who is going to the finals (my prediction). Hines' first dance was just nice. But the second was a jive and he just let it all go. He didn't go technical, he just had fun and you could see did.

Romeo and Chelsie were next. Their tango was so intense, I felt it. And their samba was also a big shaker, but he is a bit reserved.

Ralph and Karina had the odds stacked up against them. First, he has a cyst that exploded behind his knee and was killing him. But their dance was really good, and Ralph was reminding me of Derek Hough, big time, with his form. But then they lost it. Their second dance was good, but not great.

Kirstie and Mak made a comeback. Their first dance was AMAZING! But their second dance, I just felt was dumb. And, America needs to know, why does Maks keep pinching Tom's butt?

So hopefully, Ralph doesn't go home because of his knee. Tom even made a reference to the Karate Kid movie and how life is imitating art. Ralph tried to hush him about it, but it's true. In fact, in the beginning of the second dance, Karina sorta did a Mr. Miyagi trick and rubbed her hands together and placed them on Ralph's knee. Cute, but not the same.at.all. I love The Karate Kid too much for that.

Weekend Update

2011-05-02T13:59:00.000-07:00

My favorite story of the day is that Jack Bauer of 24 got the job done and killed Osama Bin Laden. That cracks me up. If Jack were on duty, that would so totally have happened years ago!

My weekend was crazy busy. First, Foxy bought everything he needed for the Mother Daughter Banquet. We made Teriyaki chicken, Rice Pilaf, Green Beans, a Roll and cake. It was hard work, but we did it. I even screwed up two cakes. I forgot to put eggs in them. They were not good. But I started over and we did just fine. During all this, Foxy has messed up his hip. It went out or something. So he is going to the chiropractor on Wednesday.

Friday night, we had the drill team over making posters to encourage other kids to get involved. So while they were eating pizza and making posters, I was making cake. I opened my dishwasher to lay two cakes on to cool. One was cool and I put a lid on it. The other one didn't. When the girls left, there was posterboard all over my house. We wanted to bring Josie Belle in, but didn't want her stepping on the posters and smearing the paint. So we put them up on the tables and such. Then we brought her in. Foxy and I were watching Friday Night Lights later and it was too quiet. I get up and go to the kitchen, and there's Josie, eating the middle out of the vanilla cake! LOL. My dumb mistake was her dessert! I'm just glad it wasn't the chocolate one.

The cooking on Saturday was good. Son and Foxy spent the day getting everything ready and everything tasted great! It was a great night.

Sunday, Foxy relaxed after church and Daughter and I went to a friend's wedding shower. Son asked if it was a baby shower, but we quickly told him "No!" Miss Em got a kick out of that. Daughter made the ribbon bouquet and we can't wait for their wedding in June.

How was your weekend!

So some things that happened this past week while I was MIA

2011-04-27T05:00:00.000-07:00

It was the kids spring break last week, so Foxy and I took a couple days off work. We went to an outlet mall in middle America and let the kids spend some shopping mullah.

Son has now this fascination with CHARLIE SHEEN. I think it's because no one else seems to like him. He says he wants to be CHARLIE SHEEN of his generation and his children and grandchildren to carry on the title. So we bought him a shirt that says "I have TIGER BLOOD and ADONIAS DNA in my DNA." All I can do is giggle. He wanted to wear the shirt up to the Ohio Teens for Christ Convention over the weekend, but me and the chaperone nixed that idea. So what did he do? He wore his Bob Marley hoodie. When he came home, he asked me if I knew anything about Bob Marley. I really don't know much, except I like some of his music. Apparently, Marley is a big pot promoter. So the hoodie was put in the suitcase for the weekend. But he did where is new shirt to school today. LOL The boy cracks me up!

Daughter brought home a little white mouse to watch during the break. She needs some extra credit. I just crossed my fingers that little Hubert didn't die or get out of his cracked aquarium thing. He hid most of the time, until this morning. She brought him to the dining room to get him ready to take back to school. He was out roaming around, eating and drinking like he lived here all his little mousey life. The funny thing was, we kept Hubert on the washer most of the time, in the laundry room. Josie Belle sniffed him out and several times, we caught her on her hind legs, leaning on the washer, trying to find the mouse. Josie Belle was very excited to see this new playmate. We ended up keeping the laundry room door closed.

Friday the kids went to OTC and while there, they go to informative sessions and eat out and worship and devotions. So Friday afternoon, Daughter texts me that they got there and are getting ready to go to their first session. She says, "Son is making all the boys go the a Boys only Sex class". I'm thinking, my goodness, I am sure I will be in so much trouble with the chaperone (who is the associate minister). So a fire off a Twitter message to him apologizing for any and all things that have already been said or done and will be said and done in the future.

The next day I get another text that says , "Son met some FREAKS!" and then another that says, "I met a creeper." So I tell Daughter not to go anywhere alone. She says that the other chaperone thinks it is funny. Me, not being there it assess the situation, goes into mother mode with her. But Daughter has a really good head on her shoulders. Thank goodness!

When they get home, the kids tell me how disappointed they are in the drug session they went to. Apparently that's where he met the FREAKS and instead of telling them about the undesirable parts of drugs, they spent 10 minutes answering a questionnaire. Of course, Son has to make a joke of it.

Oh the joys of having children!

I have to do this...

2011-04-26T10:07:00.000-07:00

I apologize for this. I totally messed up a few things on my last blog.

1) Kendra danced to Livin' A Vida Loca, not Everybody Dance Now.
2) Ralph danced to Everybody Dance Now.
3) I did not do a recap of Hines Ward. That's how memorable his dance was. He is really good. It was his song I didn't recognize, though until the chorus. It was The End of the Road.

Sorry if I caused you any confusion!

DWTS - Guilty Pleasures Week 6

2011-04-26T06:40:00.000-07:00

After taking a week off for Spring Break, I am back! Let me just say that I was not all that impressed with All-American Week. Honestly. Just odd. But this week...I cried, laughed and looked on in dismayed.
Here we go.

Kirstie started the week with her guilty pleasure song, Hit Me Baby, One More Time and dancing the samba. She was pretty good. To be honest though, she reminded me of John Travolta dancing the last scene in the movie Hairspray. But I did like it, a lot!

Chris Jericho was next with JOURNEY's Don't Stop Believing. Honestly, I just didn't get it. I didn't believe.

Romeo Miller danced a waltz to My Heart Will Go On. His dance with Chelsea Hightower made me cry. It was amazing! I hope they dance that tonight. And...he got the first 10s of the season, two of them!

Chelsea Kane, a.k.a., "the Disney Kid", danced a quick step to "Walking on Sunshine". It was really good, but it didn't get to me like Romeo's. I didn't think she deserved 10s too.

Kendra was next. I'm sorry, but this person just grates on me. She was in this very short yellow fringed outfit that helped make her look like she was moving better than I was. Foxy stated that all the men will vote for her because of her shaking and shimming. But her song was good. Everybody Dance Now is one of Foxy's favorite songs.

Last of the evening was Ralph Macchio. First, I didn't know the song. And he had on this coat that reminded me of a dress, though I know it was for effect for the Paso Doble. When they were practicing, Karina made him do his Karate Kid moves. You know, the "wax on, wax off" arm movements. I got real excited about that! But then, during the dance, Ralph is on his knees, with Karina behind him and she trips and falls on his dress/coat thing. She looked real disoriented, but Ralph stands up, picks her up, and they got back into it. It was pretty impressive. I hope that doesn't send them home though.

The most memorable dances were Romeo and Ralph, the least memorable was Jericho and the band that performed last night, Hanson. Only because I do not know them, my 16-yr old didn't know them, and my mother didn't know them either. It was fun to hear all the songs they played from the 1980's though.

Classical Music in the Ballroom - DWTS - Week 4

2011-04-12T04:04:00.000-07:00

This week they did classical music. Now if you are not a fan of the classics, you may think this is boring. I loved it! I recognized about half the songs and almost everyone brought their A-game.

Romeo danced a very dramatic paso doble. But he slouches, imo.

Kendra made a big deal of her song being Italian and wanted to do a GodFather theme. I think she was the godmother of awkwardness. She did this turn that just looked uncomfortable for her. She just didn't connect with me or the music.

Sugar Ray had a great song Waltz of the Flowers. The judges kept saying it was like a eight year old dancing, but I loved the joy on his face. He was the most fun to watch!

Petra also had a paso, but she does not have a mean bone in her body. The judges kept saying she nailed it, but I didn't think she was aggressive or mean enough. Her song was strange for a paso.

Ralph got to dance a waltz to The Theme of Romeo and Juliet. I couldn't stop watching! It was told beautifully and he did wonderful!

Hines, all I can say is WOW! He danced the dance of the matador and it was AWESOME!

Chelsea got my favorite music of the night, Hedwig's Theme from Harry Potter. It was a cool dance. Mark is bringing everything he has for her.

Jericho had a great Paso. But not very memorable. I just remember vines and his Tarzan swing after it was over.

Kiristie has a problem every week that she can't seem to control, yet she comes out doing great. This week her shoe came off. It's like the universe is out to get her! LOL.

So Chelsea Kane is on top of the leader board, with Ralph Macchio and Hines Ward tied for 2nd, one point behind. It is really a close race. Honestly, I hope Kendra goes home tonight, but I be it's Jericho or Petra.

Weekend Update

2011-04-11T07:18:00.000-07:00

What a weekend. I got nothing done, but did so much.

Friday night, we stayed home and vegged from a busy week. Caught up on shows, did some chores.

Saturday, Son got his hair cut. He looks so much better now! Went to my great-niece's bday party, and to the high school's production of West Side Story. This was one of the best ones I have seen. I really enjoyed it. It made me actually cry and I know the story by heart! I am a blubbering fool, sometimes.

Sunday, we went to church, then out to lunch with friends and then went to see the movie, Soul Surfer. One of the best movies I'll see this year. Everyone can and should go see it. It was really, really good! See here for my review...http://cfoxes.blogspot.com/. I then went to the grocery and did some errands and didn't get home until almost 8 PM last night.

This week is very busy. Daughter starts PT tomorrow on her knee, Son has two, possibly 3 track meets, Foxy has an all day training class tomorrow. Just a lot going on the week before spring break.

Hope you all have a great day!

Ready for the weekend? and other ramblings.

2011-04-08T07:41:00.000-07:00

It's Friday! What a crazy week!

In two track meets, the Monroe Jr. High Boys Track Team placed 1st in both. One was a Quad, one was a dual. Son placed 4th in the shotput in both. He won his heat in the 200 meter on Wednesday, placed 4th on Thursday. Won the 4X200 on Thursday and won their heat on Wednesday. Overall a great time for all!

Yesterday, Son went in to the orthodontist and was having the beginning appointment for braces. This means having the impressions, pictures, lecture on cleaning and general taking care of the teeth. While they(Son and Foxy) were there, they asked if they could go ahead and get the spacers put in. So surprise! He now has six spacers in. This morning, he looked at me and Daughter and stated, "I can't eat my cereal." and started fake crying. LOL. Then he said, "My mouth hurts, but it doesn't hurt as much as a broken nose." I told him to remember that next week.

I love Dancing With the Stars, but, how many of you are tired of them showing Maks and Kirstie's fall? I am. How sad is it that the entertainment news has nothing better to talk about? They are even going to be on Oprah today. Really?

So I worry about the government shutting down. All those elected officials and their friends will be out of a job? How will they ever survive without a week's pay? I be that when they finally make everything run again that they won't have missed much in their pockets.

This is going to be an interesting weekend.

Tonight, nothing major is going on. Maybe grocery shopping. Tomorrow, Son will finally get his hairs cut, my great-niece's first birthday party is tomorrow, and then the high school musical,West Side Story is being performed. Sunday is church, and then we are going to see Soul Surfer! That is a lot of fun for the weekend!

As for my eating habits, it's been a rough week. I'll weigh myself this evening. Every morning I have a yogurt, and a granola bar for a mid-morning snack. Lunch is usually leftovers and nothing until supper. But my biggest problem in eating is after 9 pm. I want a big bowl of ice cream or something. So I am trying not have anything after 9 pm except maybe a cup of hot chai tea. Let's see how that goes this week. And, I need to get up and move.

DWTS Season 12, Week 3

2011-04-05T04:09:00.000-07:00

Last night on Dancing With the Stars, it was "Your Story" week. The stars were able to pick their own songs and tell a story that had meaning with the song. It was pretty touching and surprising because everyone had a sweet story to talk about.

Wendy Williams went first. She talked about how she struggled and worked so hard to get where she is today by working in radio. Let's just say that being a tall, big boned woman, she really isn't graceful. She is very reserved and seems scared to just let go and be free. Foxy thinks she is going home.

Chelsea Kane was next. She picked a song that was written just for her called, "Chelsea". Can you say, vain? It was a good song, and she will last a while on this show. She is very likeable and is becoming a talented dancer.

Chris Jericho's story was so touching. It was about his mother and her struggles after her accident. He has such a big heart. I really enjoyed his rumba.

Kendra's story was about how her husband's town didn't support them as a couple. She is unstable on her feet and Foxy, Son and I talked through her dance, so we were not impressed like the judges were.

Romeo talked about watching two of his close cousin's die when they were all little. I have one word for him. Beautiful!

Hines Ward also talked about his mother and how it has been just them two and how proud she was of him going to college. I call him Smiley and he is my favorite football player. He received the first 9 of the season.

Petra talked about helping little kids in Thailand after the tsumani there. She danced as beautifully as she is, inside and out. She received a 9 also!

Sugar Ray told of his comeback fight and beating the odds. Foxy called him jerky, his posture needs to be straighter, but he is fun to watch.

Kirstie told of how in less than 48 hours she lost her mom, almost lost her dad, and got her first major acting job. What a lot. But overcoming adversity really happened because her partner, Maks fell during their dance! It was shocking, but they made it. I hope he is okay.

Ralph talked about the theme from The Outsiders, his first movie and his wife of 24 years. Let's just say, I could watch him all night!

Yesterday was an interesting food day. I had yogurt for breakfast, a granola bar for a mid-morning snack and a brownie before going to the band meeting. After the meeting It was too late to eat a lot, but I failed and had two servings of Girl Scout Thin Mints. I am hoping for a better day today.

Weekend Update

2011-04-04T08:01:00.000-07:00

The bathroom is almost done. It took longer to put the toilet in. We thought we had another leak, but thankfully it was just residual water. Then he put the vanity in, but got to wrong size hoses to hook the water back up. So that wasn't fun. But we did find the right tile. It is black, white and glass. It will probably go up on the next weekend Foxy is off. That was the most expensive part. I'll post some pictures later in the week.

Yesterday I did better eating wise. I had pork loin, rice, broccoli with cheese sauce (just a little) and corn muffins with margarine. In all honesty, yesterday was the first day we had broccoli with cheese sauce. I did not like it. I'll take my broccoli plan from now on, thank you. For supper I had a pasta salad with red peppers, onions, spaghetti and light Italian dressing and mozzerella cheese. It was yummy. Then I had cream cheese with peanut butter spread as a snack. Not a bad day, I think.

I usually drink just crystal light/Kroger brand/Walmart drink. I sometimes have soda, but not as a norm unless I need the caffine. I did do laundry and dishes yesterday, so that is good for some form of movement, but not much.

DWTS in on tonight, so look for my weekly recap tomorrow! Have a great day!

Sat. Food Update

2011-04-03T05:47:00.001-07:00

Yesterday wasn't too bad eating wise. I made chocolate chip waffles for the kids. So I had one. I ate two and a half sections with maple syrup and butter. Then for lunch we went to Chipolte. I had a bowl with rice, black beans, chicken, salsa, sour cream and cheese. I ate a little over half a bowl. For supper we had pizza. I had one slice and maybe a handful of chips. Not a good day. No veggies or fruits. Snack was GS Thin Mint Cookies.

I did walk around a lot. We went looking for tile at three different hardware stores. Finally found it in the third store and had to walk around waiting for them to get it down off the very top shelf. So that was good.

Weekend!

2011-04-01T17:03:00.000-07:00

So the phenomenom today is watching three eagle eggs hatch. Go here to watch. http://www.kwch.com/kwch-watch-iowa-eagles-about-to-hatch-20110331,0,439272.htmlstory

It is not a hoax. It's actually kinda cool.

So glad the weekend is almost here. Daughter is getting hair cut. I can't wait to see it. Not sure if it will even be different, but it may.

Tonight, Daughter's boyfriend is coming over. Foxy has worked a lot on painting the bathroom. We are getting closer. He has vowed that it will be done by the time the weekend is over. So hopefully I will have pictures.

Tomorrow, I have nothing planned except getting city taxes finished, help Hubby finish the bathroom. It's coming on well. Tomorrow evening, the kids are going to the movies. I am opting to stay home because next weekend I am going to a play and to see Soul Surfer.

Sunday will be resting (I hope).

I am starting something tomorrow. I want to lose weight. So everyday I will put my progress on what I ate the day before and if I exercised or did an activity. I will not put my actual weight, just if I lost any that week. Wish me luck!

Opening Day

2011-03-31T06:00:00.000-07:00

Today is the Opening Day of the 2011 Baseball Season. We in Cincinnati get doubly excited because a) The Cincinnati Reds have always played the first day/game, b) we have a be parade "The Findley Parade" today, and c) we in the area either wear red or see today a an unofficial holiday. There are those who want to make today an official holiday for the area. Sounds good to me.

When the boss came in this morning, he told me that when the parade came on the local station, I could turn that on, as well as the game at 2:10. And, as I was driving down the highway, I saw a different sight. A big truck pulling a trailer with an old fashioned wagon, all shiny and waxed. It took me aback, then I realized that they were heading downtown to the parade. Pretty cool.

So are you into baseball? I love my Reds and around here, we have high hopes for them, especially since they did so well last year. Who is your team?

Yesterday we were suppose to have a track meet. But an hour before it was to happen, they called it off. It was snowing and the track was wet, and some parts had standing water. I guess they didn't want anyone to hurt themselves. So I was thankful for that. Next week we have two meets, back to back. Hopefully it will warm up for us.

Weekly Dancing With The Stars Update

2011-03-29T03:55:00.000-07:00

This week left me a little underwhelmed. There were a few stand-outs, though.

First up, was Sugar Ray and Anna doing a jive. Sugar wasn't too sweet. You can tell he is trying, but he put the emphasis on the wrong thing. He needs to work on technique and the rest will come.

Next was Kendra and Louis doing a quick step. It was pretty rough. Foxy's reaction was that make-up helps her a bunch!

Chelsea Kane and Mark did a jive that I thought was pretty amazing. It would have been a terrific free-style. If you didn't see it, find it on You-Tube. The judges didn't like it at all. But I did.

Jericho and Cheryl's quickstep was entertaining, and fun. He is a stand-out.

Petra and Dimytri's jive was just...awkward. Last week Len said that the jive is hard for tall people and he was right. This week, Len nailed it, short skirt, long legs just was, not good.

Kristie and Maks did a really good quick step. She is more graceful and I think surprises a lot of people. Last wee my mom stated that her mouth may get her in trouble, but I don't think so. Go girl! In a weird moment, Maks kept whispering to Kristie during the judges critics. Then as they were leaving, Maks reached over and pinched Tom Bergeron's butt. What The Heck? Thankfully Tom just took it in stride. LOL

Mike and Lacey's jive was just...well here is what I put in my notes. Poor, pigeon-toed guy. LOL I will say this, he seems to be determined, but I think his time may be up.

Romeo and Chelsea had a really good quick step. The boy is good. And, there were no jokes about his father.

Wendy and Tony went next. I think she's more talk and less talent. She needs to loosen up. She looked so stiff. Foxy says that she has morals because she didn't want her breasts shaking around everywhere.

Next was Ralph and Karina. Did you know that Ralph named his son Daniel? That was his Karate Kid character name. Anyway, I liked his jive. I liked it better than the judges.

Steeler's player, Hines Ward and Kym were last. He was Ricky Suave'. It was a good quick step.

My stand-outs were Chelsea Kane, Chris Jericho, Kirstie, Ralph and Hines.

Weekend Update

2011-03-28T07:10:00.000-07:00

Well it was such a crazy week that I didn't get to update anything. So here it is.

Son had his first track meet on Saturday. It was an hour north of where we are and about 20 degrees with a windchill of -2 or something. It was SOOOOO cold. He did great though. I didn't realize he was that fast. He did the 4X200 and was the third leg. He actually caught and passed one of his competitors. I was thoroughly impressed. He also ran the 4X400. He hated it and was dying in the last 100 meters. He doesn't usually run that long that fast, but he kept up a pretty good pace for what he did. Love you kid!

Daughter when to Winter Jam 2010 with her boyfriend and our Associate minister. They loved it!
She is having knee problems, though. She hasn't done anything major to her knees, but one knee is hurting a lot. We took her to the doctor and he told her to take ibuprofen, which she did and was. She found out that Ibuprofen was not even taking the pain down. So when she went back to the doctor, he gave her some anti-inflammatories that she takes twice a day. She has found out that they help, when she keeps the medicine in her system. When she skips one, her knees start hurting again. She feels like the doctor is not listening to us, so I think I may have to go in and talk to him myself. She shouldn't have this much pain.

We are still in the process of getting the bathroom renovated. We may get to primer the walls tonight or tomorrow. Yay. Then we can get the toilet in. That will be nice. Son and Daughter miss their own bathroom. It will be nice to have a nice different bathroom. Foxy painted our vanity and it is black. We are leaving the top around it the same for now, but we may eventually change that too. If we do, then I want a deeper sink (stainless, maybe) and different faucet and handles.

Dancing With the Stars in on tonight! So get your dancing shoes ready! I'll have an update for you in the morning.

Tuesday's Dancing With the Stars Update

2011-03-22T13:09:00.000-07:00

Last night was the Premiere of Dancing With the Stars, Season 12. The cast is not all familiar to me, though I have heard most of their names. I had already picked my favorites before any dancing had started, and I'll let you know if I have changed my mind yet. I do not remember the exact order of the dancers this week, but that is okay.

First up was Chelsea Kane. My kids had to tell me who she was. Apparently she was on the Jonas Brothers show on Disney. She is a cute girl, with lots of potential. I did like her gentle spirit.

Next was Hines Ward. What.a.Smile! That is the first thing you notice about him. But, my first impression of him was, I like him in his Steelers football uniform. He doesn't seem so ferious, you know? I agree with Bruno, he needs to wake up his hips! He is funny to watch in the clips though. Not too bad, may be fun to watch.

The one Foxy was wanting to see was Wendy Williams. He says she's the next Oprah. Whatever. I hope she can do better than last night. Not too impressive.

Petra Nemcova was next. She is cute, but she is one of the three, I really knew nothing about. It will be fun to see her. She doesn't seem too pretentious for a Supermodel. But, we'll see if the diva in her comes out.

The contestant with the most to prove was Romeo. I remember him from his days as a Nickelodeon star with his own show, The Romeo Show. He was suppose to be on on Season 2, but got hurt and then his father, Master P stepped in. That was disastrous! Anyway, they made him dance to a song called "Romeo". How weird that had to be. But he did a good job. The boy can at least pick his feet up off the ground. Tom Bergeron (the MC) told him he danced more in that two minute dance than his dad did all of season 2. LOL That was classic!

Sugar Ray Leonard, the former boxer, was not one I really remember. He didn't strike me either way, as good or bad. That says it all.

Kendra Wilkinson is not someone I would say I know anything about. I know she was a playboy. Did you see Hugh Heffner there? He was! But she just looked awkward. Not sure what it was, but my mom and I were texting during the show and she said that Kendra reminded her of Kate Gosslin. Ewww.

Next was my first pick. I am so a Karate Kid fan, so of course Ralph Macchio is it! It was also funny that they gave him and Karina (his partner) the song "Ain't That A Kick in the Head". He did the best foxtrot I have seen from a first week, and his showmanship and talent were really good. All I could text my mom was "WOW!". She test back "Exactly."

Then came Chris Jericho made me giggle when he danced. The song he danced to made Foxy holler out. It was Should I Stay or Should I Go by The Clash. Okay, to answer that question, Go!

The next person was Mike Catherwood. I have know idea who he is, but I do know this. That was just bad. He said it the best, there is not a dancer inside him waiting to get out. He reminded me of Kenny Maynes. That bad.

Kirstie Alley was a whole better than I figured her to be. My mom says her mouth will get her in trouble, but I'm rooting for her. There is just something about her.

So there you have it my (and my mother's) opinions on the opening of DWTS Season 12! I'll put something up each Tuesday about the night before's show. Have a great day!

What's in your Weekend?

2011-03-18T05:41:00.000-07:00

This has been a better week than last. No one got sick, though I think I have a rib popping out of place. Still the news in Japan is not good.

Today, Foxy is going to have some construction therapy. He is ripping the floor out of our bathroom and replacing it. Then he is going to fix some drywall and put up some tile. I hope he can take pictures of before (I never think to do that!). Then we will post the progress. I hope we can get most of it done this weekend.

Son is "doing" track this year. He is throwing the shotput, like is daddy did. Last week, they made everyone run 200 meters. He was the second quickest. None of us ever knew that he was. So now they are making him run too. He doesn't care to run, but he loves to beat the kid that comes in third. That kids seems to not be happy that Son can run as fast and a little faster than him. LOL.

Daughter and boyfriend are going to dinner with friends, kind of a double date. Then they are going to the other girl's house to watch a movie called Human Centipede. Boys and their weird movies!

Son and his girlfriend is going to Girlfriend's BFF's birthday party tomorrow evening. Should be interesting.

Foxy and I will be home tonight and tomorrow. He works on Sunday for overtime, though. Tomorrow I am going to search for a curved shower rod. That should be fun.

What are you doing this weekend?

What a Wednesday!

2011-03-16T06:48:00.000-07:00

There is nothing special going on today. But there have been some things going on that I have taken notice of.

1) We found out how much it is going to cost to pay for my son's braces. Whew! Well, there went the plans to go see our oldest Daughter in Virginia Beach. Maybe we can go somewhere a bit closer. We'll have to see.

2) Did you hear about the Japanese Student going to the University of California-Riverside, CA? Her family and town was in the middle of the tsunami in Japan. For three days she cried, not knowing if anyone of her family survived. But then on Sunday night, she received an email from someone saying that her family had survived. They had been seen on a media broadcast. She searched and searched and finally someone sent her a link. The broadcast showed that the devastation in her city was immense, so immense, that her family home was the only thing standing. All around them was rubble. It showed her sister, standing on a balcony outside her bedroom with a sign that read something like "We all survived." We being herself, her parents, her paternal grandparents, and a younger sister. The student in America is now trying to use the media to get word back to her family that she saw them. What an amazing story. I love the stories like this that come from all the horrible, terrible things we are seeing and hearing coming from Japan. I pray for that nation.

3) Today is 3/16/11. A Christian radio station had dubbed today John 3:16 day. It is from the Bible and reads, "For God so loved the world that he gave his only son, that whoever believes in him will not perish, but have eternal life." Those are words I share with each of you today.

Hope your day is wonderful!

Weekend Update!

2011-03-14T07:10:00.000-07:00

Well another weekend gone. Lots of little things going on.

Friday night, the Concert Band had their OMEA Contest. They did great for their second time (for most these kids). It was hard to be the first one out of the block. Son was sick, so Friday night we stayed in.

Saturday, he was better and I made him run around with Daughter and I. We found her an Easter dress, and did some errands. We watched Sling Blade, which the kids and I enjoyed. Then they went to the movies, and I stayed home. Son saw the Bieber movie with his girlfriend and her friends (he was not real happy about it, but he must really like this girl). Daughter saw the new animation movie Rango. She was not impressed. She was embarrassed because of some of the dialog and subject matter. She does not think this is a good movie for young kids and she is 16! Of course a lot of the dialog will go over younger kids heads, but why put that subject matter in a movie you know they will want to see? Just asking.

Oh, and Saturday Night Live was hilarious! Zack Galifianakis from The Hangover and Due Date was so funny from the monologue to the end where he had shaved his head like Mr. T.

Sunday, we went to church and then a Thirty-One party. We also decided to go to Virginia Beach or Myrtle Beach. We are leaning on Virginia Beach because that is where my husband's oldest daughter lives. She is in the military. How exciting that will be. We are going the middle of April, during spring break.

This week looks to be pretty calm. Tomorrow is dentist appointments, and that's about it, except for track practice all week for Son. The only stress is Daughter has to take the OGT's, Ohio Graduation Tests. Each day, the 10th graders go in at regular time and take a two hour test in reading, math, writing, social studies and science. And if you do not pass any of them, you take them again in the fall until you do pass. No stress there, eh?

Have a great week!

What in the World????

2011-03-11T08:26:00.000-08:00

What in the world....? Seriously people, why is the earth moving around and creating such havoc on it's inhabitants? Waking up every other morning and finding that another earthquake has happened and caused major damage to somewhere is getting scary. Those poor people of Japan.

It's been a long week at the Foxy household. First Foxy was sick, then Daughter got sick, now Son is home sick. I'm trying to stay away from all these people. Hopefully I won't get this bug they are getting. I think I need a gas mask.

This weekend will be pretty quiet.

Today, the Monroe Concert Band will travel to OMEA Contest. They get out at 1:30, play at 4 PM, then will be home around 5:30 or 6. Then Daughter and Boyfriend will go out to eat or something.

Tomorrow, Son is going to a clinic to learn about Umpiring. He can make some good money this summer by doing that. It's a good job that will be fun for him too.

Sunday, Daughter and I are invited to another Thirty-One Party. I purchased a Lunch Tote from the last party and I love it! Daughter purchased a purse and she loves it too. She loves the pockets for it.

So hopefully it will be a quiet weekend for us, and everyone will be healthy come next week.

You all have a great weekend.

Glee Recap - SEXY!

2011-03-09T06:09:00.000-08:00

So, did any of you catch GLEE last night? What did you think? I'm still trying to decide. I totally loved Mr. Shue and Holly's tango of Prince's Kiss song! That was my highlight. But the whole being sexy thing, in my opinion was handled oddly. It was funny when the Celibacy Club sang Afternoon Delight. All of them in their retro clothes and the way they danced. It was odd to me that Emma didn't understand that song. But why didn't Rachel or her hubby do anything about it?

I also loved that Blaine cares enough about Kurt to talk to his father about Kurt's issues with sex. And that Burt listened and took that initiative with Kurt. That talk, as awkward as it really was, was played well by the actor Mike O'Malley. He was very patient, kind, and even though he knew that Kurt was so not wanting to hear the message, he said it anyway. He told him that sex was not something to just do, it was something that needed to mean something because Kurt was important and meant something. That was a good message.

I liked the music, but the message was a little scary for me because I have teenagers. I am not sure that the message of sexiness that GLEE promoted last night was the message I want to preach. What did you think?

Weekend Update

2011-03-07T13:50:00.000-08:00

I'm tired. It was a long weekend. We took Son out for his birthday Friday night.

Saturday I got up, went to the hair salon and had my hair done. I like it. Daughter says it looks orange-ish. I like it. Daughter and I ran errands until two. Then we got home in time to get everyone ready to go to the movies. Son, his friend, Daughter and her boyfriend went and saw "Just Go With It". They all said it was pretty funny. Then we came home, ate barbecue meatballs, chips, pizza and Coldstone ice cream cake. Yummy! The boys all went outside and played basketball in the rain, in the dark. They are so funny.

Sunday, Foxy woke up sick, so he stayed home from church. The rest of us went. Daughter went and spent the afternoon with her boyfriend, celebrating their 6th month anniversary. They are so cute together. Son and I went and bought him running shoes for track. Then he woke up today sick, too. So both Son and Foxy stayed home from school and work.

Everyone seems to be feeling better this afternoon. I'm just tired.

This week doesn't seem to bad. We'll just have to wait and see what it brings. It's suppose to rain again tomorrow evening. The ground is so saturated now that the earth can't hold much more water.

Confession and a busy week.

2011-03-03T11:17:00.000-08:00

I'm a day late and always a dollar short. But, I am here. This has been a busy week. Tuesday was Son's birthday, and sadly we didn't get to do anything fun for him. Except Daughter and I stopped after dance class and bought some of his favorite UDF Ice cream. We did get to see him dressed up one last time for basketball. The school at their Jr. High Winter Sports Awards. Son did achieve an award for his grades. He carried a 3.3 GPA during the season. Way to go, Boy!

Last night was church and choir practice. That's always a good time to be with others. Tonight, I will go from work, directly to the school and help serve spaghetti for the Band Fundraiser and Concerts. I hope I am going to get to hear the kids play. They don't play until 7:45 and 8:00 PM, respectively. Foxy is working, so Daughter and Son are driving themselves to the dinner and meeting up with Gpa and Gma.

So tomorrow night, we are taking Son out for his dinner. He wants to go to Red Robin. Mmmmm. Then Saturday I am getting my hairs colored and trimmed. We are suppose to find time to clean the house before Son's friends come over for his party, but so far, that hasn't happened.

I'm going to make a confession. In November, when we put up our tree, we threw the cardboard box out. We had every intention of going to get a duffel-like bag to put the pieces of the tree in, but...we didn't. So now we have the tree still up in our living room. We need to take that down. So, that is a big dilemma. Foxy thinks that maybe there would be something big enough at Lowe's to put it in. I hope so! So that is my confession for the day. I feel better.

Confession is good for the soul...sometimes.

Weekend Update

2011-02-28T07:25:00.000-08:00

I could use one more day of the weekend. How about you?

Friday night, Son went with Gpa and Gma to the high school basketball game playoff. So Daughter and I had a girls night out. We got sheets for my bed, and pick out a shower curtain and colors for the main bathroom that is getting ready to be redone. We are going from peachy-coral colors to black, grey and white. That will be such a difference.

Saturday, Daughter and I had eye appointments. She is getting new sunglasses and glasses. I am getting a new prescription for contacts. Dr. says I may need Readers. WHAT? Nope, not happening yet. I am wearing a new kind of contacts, that I hopefully can wear for a month instead of two weeks at a time. We will see how that goes. Then we went to ULTA and Costco. She found these new fake finger nails that are already painted/decorated. We heard they will stay on up to two weeks! She has tried, but says they are hard to put on. (She has no patience.) She went to her boyfriend's house to help him watch his little brother, while Mom and Dad had a party in the basement. Son had a friend spend the night. We watched the newest Karate Kid movie with Jaden Smith and Jackie Chan. It was okay and had some cool effects, but for a die-hard Karate Kid lover, I loved the first movie more. Much more.

Sunday, I did dishes, laundry and baked cookies. I only have one more load of laundry to put in washer, and I'm done. That is very good for me. The cookies were pre-mixed, but Snickerdoodle and Macadamia/White Chocolate Chip are so yummy anyway. And when I got to work this morning, there were Girl Scout Cookies on my desk. Everyone will be happy tonight when I get home. Tonight we will order Son's birthday cake from Cold Stone Creamery. He is fourteen tomorrow and loves to get Gummy Bears on top of his cake. Weird kid.

Okay, I did watch the Oscars. Anne Hathaway was so bubbly and full of fun. James Franco...not so much. I loved Kirk Douglas. I thought he was the best. At his age, he can do what he wants and we are all just in awe of him. Anne's last dress, that blue plastic shower curtain thing, was a pretty color, but a bad choice. Jennifer Hudson, Natalie Portman, Hallee Berry all looked beautiful. Sandra Bullock? My husband's first words when he saw her was..."Red lips do not become her." Mine were, "They forgot to do her hair." Lots of ponytails, and glitz. That Megan Leo - Uh, good thing the show was on a delay. Whoops! What did you think of the Oscars?
So today I have a major headache. I think it is sinus and the big front that is coming through our area. I have already taken 7 Ibuprofen and 1 Aleve. Maybe food will help, but so far, it hasn't helped much.

The rest of my week is crazy busy at home. Hopefully not so much at work. Have a great day!

Happy B-day to me!

2011-02-25T08:27:00.000-08:00

This week was crazy busy! Work was insanely busy, but that is great. Yesterday I thought I would cry because for the first three or four hours, the phone would not stop! I couldn't get anything done.

For all of you that follow me on Facebook, thanks for the birthday wishes. We had a great time last night. I made everyone go to a restaurant called "The Melting Pot". It's a fondue place that I have been wanting to experience. We had a great waitress, who gave Son a wonderful, hard time, wonderful food, and just us four being together was great! Foxy was afraid he wouldn't have enough to eat, but there was plenty of appetizers, salad, and meat for all. And the dessert...the waitress said chocolate fondue was better than a birthday cake. Now that my aunt doesn't make cakes anymore, I may have to agree with her. I would have pictures, but having trouble getting them to this computer. As soon as I can get them posted, I will. The waitress, Stacy, asked us how everything was going and Son said, "I don't like cooking my own food." She told him that he had to, but she wouldn't make him do dishes. It was very expensive, but fun. Oh, and that plus two worship cds are more than enough.

This weekend is kind of quiet. Yay! I have nothing planned tonight. I may catch up on tv and watch Marley and Me. I think Son is going to the final basketball game with Gpa and Gma. Tomorrow Daughter and I have eye appointments, she needs hair stuff from Ulta and I will go to the grocery. Sunday is church.

My Really's for this week...

Really? Gas has to go up to over $3.30 a gallon? Obama, can we start making our own here in America? Or find some country that will give it to us cheaper? I look for bargains, why can't my country?

Really, movie makers? Have we run out new ideas that we have to remake everything? I must admit, I am looking forward to a remake of The Bodyguard.

Have a great weekend!

Weekend Update

2011-02-21T06:46:00.000-08:00

Well, that was a weekend.

Friday, the basketball team won! Two games this year. It's better than last year! I would not have believed it, if I had not seen it. LOL.

Saturday, Foxy worked and we ran some errands. Daughter and I saw our friend's dance competition. That was fun. Then we went to the bank, and grocery. Then she had a Girls Night Out with three of her friends she hadn't spent much time with lately. They went to the movies and saw the Justin Bieber movie. She came in and said, "I've got a little Bieber Fever!" LOL. Son also went to the movies with two friends. They saw The Roommate. He said it wasn't all that, but he did jump a little once.

Yesterday we had church and watched the Daytona 500. Way to go Trevor Bayne! The boys watched it mostly and Daughter and I went to a 31 Gifts party. We had never been to one. I purchased a lunch tote. I have been carrying my lunch around in a plastic Kroger bag, so I thought this was a good purchase. I even got my name on it so the kids wouldn't "borrow" it from me.

Then last night, Daughter stayed with the first through sixth graders who had their own Lock-in. Son spent the night at Gpa & Gma's, so Foxy and I had the evening to ourselves, with Josie Belle. She is more like a lazy house guest and a kid to us, but she's pretty quiet and keeps to herself. So all in all, it was a nice weekend.

Thursday is my birthday. I want the family to take me to The Melting Pot. I've heard a lot about it, but never been. It's suppose to be eighties night and if we dress we can get dessert for $5. Yummy!

This is not a busy week. I do need to bake. See in our office, if it is your birthday, you have to bring in the snacks. Most people just bring in donuts. Last year, I brought in a brown sugar bundt cake. So I'm trying to decide what to bring in this year. I need to get it baked today and tomorrow, though. I have no time to bake on Wednesday.

Really?

2011-02-18T07:27:00.000-08:00

It's Friday! TGIF! I've been waiting all week for today. For some reason this week has felt very long. I'm not sure why. I do not have a lot planned for the weekend, which is good.

Tonight, Son is going to a classmates house to sleep over and work on a class project. Foxy, Daughter and I will be going to the last pep band basketball game.

Tomorrow I have to go to the DMV and have my license renewed. Then Daughter and I are going to watch a friend in a dance competition. Later in the evening, I think Daughter and friends are going to see the Bieber movie and Son is going to go see a movie with friends. Foxy has to work all day.

Sunday is church and the Daytona 500. Sounds like a good day of laundry and rest for me.

Lady Gaga, you really want our attention, didn't you? Really, an egg? Ecentric, much?

Cudos to the high school wrestler that would not wrestle a girl for the State Championship. Standing up for what you believe is awesome. Really.

Really, Dale Earnhardt, Jr.? Fifteen minutes into practice on this last week before the big race and you wreck? Now you have lost your starting spot on the pole because you can't get the car fixed? Bummer.

Really? Foxy, Son and I are the only three people I know that watches Criminal Minds. Really? I read that this week people think it is depressing. Well, I am always just happy to not be dealing with serial killers and their torture. Really?

The count down begins...

2011-02-16T07:28:00.000-08:00

for our birthdays. Son and mine. I get to go first. Yay me! I have eight days. He has 13. We are both deciding what to do. I think I want to go out to eat, so I don't have to do dishes that night. I like doing dishes, but some times it would just be nice not to. You know? I'm thinking of The Melting Pot. I have never been, but melted cheese and melted chocolate? What could be better?

As for Son, I am not sure what he wants to do. It will be his 14th, so I am hoping nothing too crazy. Maybe a couple of friends over and an all-nighter of movies and PS3 games. That would be cool or not. I think I am not sure what they consider "cool" nowadays. Maybe some Graeter's Ice Cream for him. Yummy!

It's a cloudy day here in Cincy. But it's suppose to get up into the 50s. Woo-hoo! The only problem is that you do not know how to dress. Do you dress warm in layers and take things off, or do you dress for comfort and try and keep warm? I opted for trying not to dress too warm. Son, on the other hand, wore shorts and a flannel shirt to school. Which way did he go? I'm not sure. In fact, Daughter came to me and asked, "Did you see what your Son is wearing?" Translation...it does not match. He had on a purple/black plaid flannel and blue, white, black plaid shorts. Do I have to get him color-blind tested?

Daughter's knee is not better. Monday Foxy took her to the doctor. Doc told her that there is inflammation behind the knee. Wear the brace except to sleep, eat Ibuprofen 2 - 3 times a day, and ice it. Come back in two weeks and then we will see what's up. So last night there was no dance for her. She was bummed, but she ended up having a big project for Science.

Foxy had the Ranger worked on. It's almost ready for everyday use. Daughter is so waiting for that. Then she will get use of the Saturn. That will make her happy.

So who watched Glee last night? Do you have Beiber Fever? It was, as the kids would say, "aight". Not my favorite episode, but I still found something to chuckle and smile about. The new girl, Lauren, that Puck is enamored with sang, "I Know What Boys Like." I crack up at her and her trying to figure out if Puckerman really knows what he likes. You know? Her performance was pretty funny when she finally got over her stage fright. I laughed out loud at Mr. Shu's appalled look. It made my night!

Save the Date - A Review

2011-02-15T10:10:00.000-08:00

Save the Date is a fun story about woman, a man, and how they find love in an arrangement that they seem to be going against their beliefs, and finding out that God always has a plan. Even if they are reluctant or even running away from God, he still seems to be able to bring together with a few suprises thrown in.

Lucy is a young woman who is helping other young women find their way through high school, life and beyond. She finds that the main funding for the home has been cut and she desperately wants to find a way to keep it going. In comes Alex, a blast from her past, who is a football star turned candidate for Congress. In both their lives, love has not worked, and family life has had it's struggles. But they become unlikely companions, helping each other meet needs and finding out that what they thought was going to happen, turns into a bigger, deeper relationship with each other, as they fight their feelings and their situations.

The author, Jenny Jones, has a real knack for bringing you into the world she created and you feel as though you are the character. Her writing about faith, how you can feel like you are disappointing God, yet still see that as humans we do make mistakes and can still have God's love around us. Save the Date was a fun, wholesome read that brings you in to the setting and leaves you wanting more. I'd love to see a sequel to this story!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T10:27:00.000-08:00

May your day be more than just flowers and candy. May you spend it with people you love. I am spending this evening with my husband and kids. Daughter and Son are going to see Gnomeo and Juliet for an early matinee. I am not feeling well this afternoon. I am very tired and would like to go hide and take a nap somewhere.

This weekend, I finally did some baking. I made brownies on Saturday and yesterday I made Oreo Cheesecake. Hopefully we will eat it tonight and it will be yummy. We will see.

One of my favorite movie lines about Valentine's Day is from the movie Sex and the City. Miranda and Carrie are sitting in a restaurant lamenting over the holiday and Miranda says something like "Is it just me or is this Valentine's Day on steriods? To which Carrie replies, "We were just playing for the other team last year." Or something to that effect. My husband and I didn't get each other gifts. I made him cheesecake. I just the dishes to be done when I get home, but that probably won't happen. LOL.

This weekend was full of weirdness. Daughter and I had an argument. That doesn't happen often. She is feeling the winter blahs. I told her she could take my car and go where she wanted, but she didn't want to take my car. Sometimes she can be such a teenager...you know, irrational! Finally, she and Son went to the store to find her boyfriend something. She made him a big cookie in the shape of a heart. How cute is that?

Son doesn't have a girlfriend, so I don't have to worry about that, for now. He has lots of girls that are friends. I was the same way in school. Lots of boys that were friends, but they were just that, friends. Oh, I had guys I liked and had crushes on, but no one liked me. Well, no one told me they liked me. LOL. It's just as well. Too much drama.

So now, I have a great husband, a couple of terrific kids and lots of laughter and a good life. So I guess I can celebrate the love of Valentine's Day. I hope you can celebrate it too!

I

Really,? It's Friday!

2011-02-11T06:25:00.000-08:00

- To the woman driving the car that was trying to get in the lane on the highway that everyone else was trying to use to get ON the highway...Really? You couldn't wait 600 more feet to move over. I know that it's a nasty area of highway, but Really?

- To the person driving the SUV that almost tipped when it swerved between the semi and the compact car, then went over another lane...Really? You could not have slowed down and went behind the compact? (I would have liked to seen that accident.) Really?

-To Lindsay Lohan...Really? You want attention that bad and think that you are above the law that much? You need help, but Really?

-To the President of Israel...Really? There is over a million of your countrymen that seems to think you are wrong. How can all of them be wrong and you be right? Really?

Wednesday Words

2011-02-09T07:16:00.000-08:00

Wednesday is my long day. I get up at 5:20 am. I get home for less than 30 minutes at 5:53 pm, and then get home after church/choir practice around 9:30 pm. But it doesn't help today that I am really tired. Looks like a Mountain Dew for me at lunch.

Son's team lost last night. I did not get to see the game. My meeting went over and hour and a half. But Daughter's knee seems to be better. She danced last night, but I think she was paying for it this morning. I caught her taking some Ibuprofen. Good thing she has a chiropractor appointment today.

Did you catch Glee last night? Santana is E.V.I.L. Crack me up!

Another busy week!

2011-02-07T08:00:00.000-08:00

Another busy week is starting.
This weekend was exciting for the family.

Friday, the guys purchased a BIG LED/LCD 47" tv. So they are happy.

This is Son at the free throw line.

Saturday, Son's 8th grade team won their first tournament game and will play again tomorrow. It was a good win and Son added another point to his stats. So they play tomorrow evening at 7:30. It's a 40 minute drive from the house and I have a band booster meeting and daughter has dance. But Foxy is going to get off early to go support our kids, as well as Gpa and Gma.
Yesterday we had lunch after church and then a party for the teens for the Superbowl. That was a good game (if you are a Packers fan).

Today is easy, Son just has baskeball practice.

Tomorrow, there is a band booster meeting, the basketball tournament, and dance. Dance is a little iffy because Daughter is having some problems with her knee. We are seeing a chiropractor at the moment, but she text me today and told me it really hurts. She is icing twice a day, taking Ibuprofen, and wearing a knee brace.

Wednesday is praise team practice, and choir. If and when the boys when their basketball game tomorrow, they will have practice again and a game on Thursday.

So, yeah another busy week!

Updates...

2011-01-28T06:08:00.000-08:00

I'm not doing well at keeping this blog posted everyday, am I? Well, with Dad's surgery, basketball games, church, and crazy busy at work it's been a week, I tell you.

First, Dad had a stent put in the back of his heart. It was blocked 70 - 80%, but now he's good as new (so to speak).

Second, Daughter did not make the play. She was told by the director that her and the choreographer fought for her because she had an excellent audition and was one of the best dancers there, but the musical director got the last word. I think because she isn't in choir (for one thing) and the girl that got the part is in a grade older than her, is the reasons she didn't get in. And they are not having a big cast. It's West Side Story. They don't have a chorus, just the 20 characters or so. Weird, I think. Daughter was disappointed, but the drama director (who is also her English teacher) told her to try out next year and she would definitely get a part. Big words, huh?

Work has been crazy busy this week. this is good for the receptionist, me. People are feeding me things to do. I like that.

This weekend looks fairly quiet too.

Tomorrow, early, Son has a basketball game. Then Daughter is babysitting. I just have grocery shopping to do.
The rest of the weekend will be quiet (I hope).

Hope you have a great weekend!

A boring weekend, but possibilities loom

2011-01-24T07:45:00.000-08:00

Well, I think I had the most boring weekend I could have. It was kinda nice. Friday night, we went out to eat, then we all went to Daughter's Boyfriend's soccer game. It was free and fun.

Saturday, Son had a basketball game. They lost :(, but it was a pretty good game. Then Daughter and I went to the library and to the grocery store. I cleaned a bit and we stayed in. I tried to watch a movie on Hallmark Channel, but fell asleep. Thank goodness for DVR.

Yesterday we went to church, then went over to my parents for lunch and to watch the Bears/Greenbay game on their 47" tv. We are still in the process of narrowing down what we want, so we have not purchased a new one yet. I finally got Daughter to drive without another licensed driver in the car. She took Son's friend home. Son was with her, but I didn't have to go. It was a 10 minute round trip, so it wasn't enough to freak me out.

So today, there is the possibility that Daughter will try out for a dancing part in the chorus of the upcoming musical. The musical is West Side Story, one of my all-time favorites! She had several people text her to do go with them or that she should try out. She doesn't know if she wants to, and I told her it was her decision, but I secretly hope she does.

Tomorrow is my dad's heart cath. They think he may have blockages in the back of his heart. He doesn't want to believe it, and I hope he is right, but we are all gathering at the hospital tomorrow around 12:30 ish, so keep him in your thoughts and prayers.

Have a great Monday!

What a goofy week

2011-01-21T13:09:00.000-08:00

This has been such a goofy week.

Monday - All was fine.

Tuesday - We found out that Gpa may have some blockages in the back of his heart, so this coming Tuesday he is scheduled for Angioplasty. Son's team won their game. He had 4 points and 4 rebounds.

Wednesday - With all going on, I totally forgot about the Band Boosters meeting. I was up for election as Secretary. And, guess what? I am now the Band Booster Secretary. Yay, me!

Thursday - The snow storm hit. Kids didn't go to school. Foxy and I went to work. No real problems getting there and back. But our tv went out Foxy is excited at the prospects of a new HD/LED/XX, whatever they are now.

Friday (today) - It is bitterly cold and the ice froze on the highway in front of my work place. It took me almost two hours to get to work (it usually takes me 30 minutes). Crazy.

Luckily, not much is going on this really cold weekend. Son is suppose to have a game tomorrow morning, so we will see about that. I think it will happen. And I think we will go over to my parents and watch the games on Sunday. Who knows?

Teenagers

2011-01-17T08:26:00.000-08:00

This was a strange weekend for me. Friday night, we went to see my alma mater play Monroe. They won, we lost.

Son had a game on Saturday, against his best friend's team. They beat us by four points. Then Son's friend came to spend the night. The boys had a great time playing Black Ops, watch Nightmare on Elm Street, and just being together.

Saturday evening, Daughter, her boyfriend and his best friend went to the movies. I stayed home and made cookies, cleaned some and vegged, mostly.

Sunday, we went to church, took Best Friend home, and went to the grocery. Then the kids (including boy friend), went to a lock-in last night. They went bowling, stayed up all night, and went to Waffle House at 4 a.m. Crazy kids!

So today, Son had practice (I'm sure he will be very tired). Daughter came home and went right to bed. They will be useless the rest of this day.

Ah, the life of teenagers!

Tasty Thursday

2011-01-13T08:18:00.000-08:00

Do you know what this picture means? My auto insurance just went up! She did it! Congrats to Daughter for passing! That smile says it all.

So as it is Tasty Thursday, I have these western ribs in my freezer just waiting for me to do something with them. So here's what we are going to do...

Yummy Slow Cooked Ribs

Spray crock with cooking spray.

Take favorite spices and sprinkle on each rib. I use Garlic, Chipotle Pepper, Rosemary and rub into the meat.

Put the meat into the crockpot, as a little apple juice or water and any veggies you want. I like to put in onions, potatoes, and green peppers. Set the crock pot on low and let it cook for six to seven hours.

It will be yummy!

What to do?

2011-01-12T08:02:00.000-08:00

Today in the Ohio Valley it is blowing and snowing. Daughter is suppose to take her maneuverability portion of her driving test today. Do we do it or not? That is the question of the day. She's already had to reschedule once, so I guess will see.

On top of that, Son's knee locked up on him again. That hasn't happened since October, before basketball. There is a big knot on the side of his leg where it tensed. He is on crutches and is frustrated by the situation.

I guess I'll pray and hope for the best with both of them.

PINT Tuesday - Snowy Edition

2011-01-11T07:19:00.000-08:00