Christmas Schmistmas!!

I am having the hardest time getting into the Christmas spirit this year. I have my decorations up, the tree is beautiful, but it just feels so non-plussed. I think it is all the commercialization of the whole thing. Or is it that it is hard to live up to Christmas past? I just remember being so excited waiting for Christmas as a child and into adulthood as well. I simply can not muster up that enthusiasm anymore. It is quite possible that Christmas is just for the young.

I believe that Jesus is the reason for the season. I am quite happy to celebrate the birth of our King. I just don't know about the rest. Maybe because I don't have little children anymore. Wait...that can't be it, I have Grace and Joe. Don't get me wrong, I am grateful. I just can't seem to find the unbridled joy that it used to bring me. Maybe it is because the stores start the season back in August and I am just plum sick of it already.

I also think that I have so many suffering around me this year. So many losses, so many death's. That takes it's toll on the joy we feel. I am sincerely hoping that something will remedy my "Scrooge-like" attitude. Wish me luck in this!!

Saving Pennies

Well, just like everyone else n the country, Jeff and I have been trying to cut back on our spending. We used to go out for dinner at least 3 times a week. We figured that was a little extravagant, so we have cut back. Alot!! It seems a little ridiculous for two people who love to cook and can turn out a really good meal. Jeff makes some delicious crock pot meals and the most amazing Mexican foods. He also barbecues like a champion. I too, can cook almost anything I feel like eating, most of the time it is just recipes that I pull out of my head. I am not trying to brag, but when we cook, neither one of us complain at all.

You know how it is though, don't you? When you put in a full day at work, run the errands and finally step in the door to take the dogs out and get settled, it is hard sometimes to want to prepare a meal when you are pooped out. But, I have to say, we have been very diligent about cooking. I am very proud of us for this.

Now for the good part. We decided to go out for dinner on Wednesday night. We opted to go for our favorite Mexican place, Xochimilcos. (Pronounced So-chi-milcos) I just want to say, other than being in Mexico, this is the best Mexican food in the Sacramento area. Trust me, Jeff and I consider ourselves Mexican Food aficionado's. Everything is slow cooked from scratch, and true flavors, homemade tortillas, both corn and flour. Even in the enchiladas. We started out with their bean dip. It is the best ! Comes to you in a crock with melted cheese and homemade chips. I could make a meal out of this and the salsa alone. Jeff opted for the #4 combination plate. He likes to get as much as he can for his dollar. It was a great choice. The chile rellano that is included in the dish is the best I have ever tasted anywhere. I opted for the pork enchilada plate. So delicious!! Simple flipping goodness!!

This restaurant is located on the corner of Auburn Blvd. and College Oak in Citrus Heights. For those of you who live locally, be sure to pay them a visit. I assure you that you will not be disappointed. I for one, can not wait to go back!!

Cake decorating, final class, Course 1

Just wanted to keep my word and post the rose cake we did last night. It is easier than I thought. It does require some practice and finesse, but all in all it was really fun. I have definitely decided to continue on with course two. Can't wait.

I am really happy that my sister is going to continue on too. It just wouldn't be the same without her. A few of the other ladies from class are going to forge on as well.

The next course is going to be working with Royal Icing, It has to be better than the taste of the butter cream. I have never liked it.

One thing is for sure, Jeff is all for me taking these classes as he is loving having a new cake to eat every week. I never realized how much that nab loves cake, Good thing, I guess!

Thanksgiving Weekend

What a very busy weekend it has been. My sister's on Thursday, then we were off to my Mom in laws for Friday night. We had a nice visit with her. I have the greatest mom in law in the world. I just love her to death. My sister in law and her better half were there too.

We got home on Saturday and I had arranged to have Joey for Saturday Night. He is such a sweet boy. I don't know how I ever got through this life without him in it.

Then on Sunday we had arranged to have Grace come over for the day too. Due to vacation, illness and assorted other reasons, I hadn't seen her for quite awhile. Boy...it was good to have her here.



I had a fabulous day with both kids and was exhausted by day's end. We cooked dinner for Mom, Malana and Graces Mom, Beth. We had Tri Tip. homemade potato salad, corn on the cob, honeydew melon and bread rolls. The dinner was good, but the company was amazing. The day ended in sweet kisses and hugs and I had the best night's sleep I have had in a long time.


On this Thanksgiving weekend, I am grateful for my family who means the world to me!!

Gobble Gobble..Forced to waddle!!

Jeff and I went to my sister, Malana's house today to join in on the Thanksgiving festivities. It was soooooo good. Everything was cooked to perfection. The turkey was moist and delicious, 2 kinds of stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy with yummy baked yams, roasted carrits, dinner rolls, cherry fluff fruit salad, amd a green bean casserole. Oh yeah and my brother in law made the most divine homemade cranberry sauce. Let me tell you, I really love all the before mentioned items, but I don't ever eat cranberry sauce. His was truly the best I have ever had.

I guess to sum it up, it was good food, good company and I do believe a good time was had by all. It is always a treat going to one of their gatherings as they always go all out. Larry even had all his Christmas decorations done on the outside of the house. Unfortunately we had to leave before it was dark, so we didn't get to see the "Winter Wonderland" all lit up. I am sure we will see it soon enough.

On this Thanksgiving I can honestly say that I am grateful for my whole family and the extended ones too. Larry's family was all there and it really was a grand celebration. The fact that I got to be around two of my favorite babies in the world didn't hurt much either. I am in love with my little nephew Joe and his cousin Elsa is adorable too. What can I say? I am truly a blessed woman. Happy Thanksgiving to one and all!!

Cake Decorating

Just thought I would share with you the second and third cakes that I have decorated. I really love doing this. It is so much fun. I can't wait for next week when we decorate the rose cakes. No worries, I will post a picture upon completion.

Crazy Monday

Today is Monday, November 23rd. This is a bad day for me. It is the third anniversary of my young son's passing. All in all, I seem to have gotten over the deepest part of my grief, but today is a rough one. It seems to hit a little harder today. I decided over the weekend to go ahead and work today to take on some of the overflow from the Thanksgiving holiday. For me personally, the best option for a heavy heart is to stay busy. It just didn't seem to work for me so well today. Everyone kept calling on my cell to let me know they were thinking of me today. This is kindness, I know. Still...kind of hard to try and put it out of your mind when you are constantly being reminded. I sound very ungrateful, I don't mean to. It is just that for me, my grief has taken on a very personal tone. I choose to lapse into it alone. It doesn't happen nearly as often, but when it does, I prefer to be alone. I don't like to shed tears at work. I lapsed into tears at least 3 times today. I think that next year I will just stay home.

You know, I consider myself a fairly intelligent woman. I know that today is just another day. I also know that I shouldn't let this day be any different than any other. I just wish that someone could tell all that to my heart. Oh well, what is one to do?

I have cake decorating class tonight, and up until writing this blog, I really felt I would cancel. I have now changed my mind and I am going to go. What better medicine for a broken heart than a bunch of giggling women making clown cakes? Again I must say thanks to my sister for inviting me to join this class. It is a savior today.

Cake Crazy!!

Well...I got a little gung-ho with excitement about the cake decorating! Me being a little over zealous, and yes, not yet taught, decided to attempt to bake a cake for my little friend Marissa's 17th birthday today. It only took me four hours to bake, cool, level, make the double batch of buttercream, then ice and decorate the cake. It is a noble attempt in my book. Needless to say, nothing is as easy as I thought. But this is my first finished and decorated cake. Can't wait for our first attempt next monday at actually being taught how to decorate, Ha Ha!!

Cake Decorating Class - Girls Night Out!!

Malana invited me to join her for a 4 week cake decorating class. Our first class was last night. We learned some pretty cool stuff and it was fun. I can't wait to dive in and start decorating. We will decorate 3 cakes in the first course. I am so excited. Our classes are being held every Monday night from 6:30 until 8:30. There are a total of 4 courses that you can take. We have week one of the first course under our belt, and I now know how to make a rocking buttercream. Next week we decorate our first cake. I can hardly wait.

I will be sure to keep you posted and take photo's so you can see our work. No laughing at us now, keep in mind, we are novices. Maybe there can be a new job in my future!! Jumping the gun just a little maybe, but one can dream!!

I think the best part of this class is getting to spend some fun time with my sister. She is always great to be with. Her friends are pretty cool too. Those Mommies from her "Mommy and Me" group are a vivacious group of ladies. It is a great adventure to step out of the box of normalcy for me. Thank you Malana for thinking of me. I am having a ball in this cake walk!!

It has been a good day!

Do you ever have one of those days that just goes down in the books as a great day, but there really was nothing inspiring about it? That was my day today. I cant honestly say that it was anything special, just spending the day with my hubby doing all of his favorite things. Turns out, they are now some of my favorite things too.

W e started the day with some very nice marital cuddling and chatting. It has been awhile for that to happen with us due to the swine flu, vacations, moving and just life in general. From there we went out to breakfast and had some awesome waffles. Then we began our endeavor to search for a twin bed. We also went to several thrift shops and I found some really nifty buys for under $10.00 total. We didn't purchase a bed today, but we have some fairly good prospects for next week. I had so much fun with him. We just felt like newlyweds today. Not planned, it just happened. I love it when that happens. 15 years and still going strong!!

Then we came home and Jeff did his presentation for me on the importance of tree's in the community that he is planning to give at a meeting on Tuesday. He has worked very hard on this. I was ever so proud of him. This is definitely out of his comfort zone and he did a bang up job. He never ceases to amaze me.

At about 4:00, I went in and took a nap. This is one luxury I never indulge in, due to the fact that I am an insomniac. What a great rest it was. I will probably be up most of the night, but it was so worth it. Jeff woke me at 6:00 and told me we had better get up if we were still going to go to dinner. We ended up nixing going out to dinner and instead he made us a delicious dinner of canned chili while I went after dessert of Snickers Ice Cream bars. Oh go ahead and laugh if you must, but I am here to say it was the exclamation point on an already wonderful day.

My sweet hubby has just kissed me goodnight and I am sitting here with a huge smile on my face, counting my blessings and tapping the keys to tell of my amazing day that was so insignificant, but will be remembered and treasured in my heart and my memory. I hope all who read this had a day as lovely as mine.

Pup Woes

Well my sweet girl, Midnight, turned 14 on Halloween. It is so hard for me to believe that this is even a remote possibility. It seems like only yesterday she was just a precocious little puppy. Her given name is Midnight Star, but my Mom in law, Sharon renamed her Nightmare during a short stay she had with them. She truly was a rotten little pup. She was always into everything. She was very destructive back then. Then I started her off on crate training and she has just been the world's greatest dog ever since.

She hasn't been feeling too well of late. I must admit, I am worried about her. I am hoping this is just something like a puppy flu bug, but I fear that is wishful thinking on my part. I am prepared for the worst, but really don't want this to happen. I would love to have her for another 14 years.

She really is turning into a grumpy old woman. She has been snapping at our little Lhasa, Nick. He is so ridiculously naive that he thinks he can take her on. She would literally hurt him. They tangled yesterday so badly that I had to pull them apart. This worries me. I don't want anything to happen to either one of them. I just hope it all works out for the best.

H1N1 Update

Well, dare I say it? I have been awake since 5:00 this morning. I haven't been to the restroom, except to pee. I don't have a headache and I think the soreness has relented a bit. I am still going to be cautious and stay basically resting, but what a relief to feel a smidgen better. I am grateful and so relieved. I feel like I have been down forever. For those of you who know me, this is not an easy task for me. I hate to be down.

Anyway, I figured an update was required since I have forced you to listen to my whining. By the way, Happy Halloween !!

H1N1 Really Sucks!

I came home from work after being really sick since late Sunday. I called into the doctor's office and was told that my symptoms led them to believe that I had H1N1 virus. I was instructed not to come in, but to take over the counter medications for cold and flu, lots of rest and sleep, and plenty of fluids to keep hydrated. Oh yeah, and to sit in the bathroom for 20 minutes each evening before going to bed with the shower running to help with the breathing. Let me just state for the record, the cough and accomodating headache is all bad. The body aches and constant running to the bathroom really aren't conducive to resting. It is Friday night and I still feel like sh*t!! I can promise you that I have never before felt this bad. I hope and pray that all my ftirnds and family never have to experience this. If I am not better by tomorrow, to the doctor is my destiny!! Wish me luck!!

Topsy Turvy

Sometimes in life we are handed cherries and others we are handed lemons. It is the natural balance of life. How could we appreciate our glorious gifts with out being denied some as well.

This past weekend, I was so blessed with the honor of looking after my little nephew Joe. My sister and her hubby were going out of town for some much needed one on one time, a little quality time which was very much deserved.

I have to admit, I was actually dreading my commitment for this on Friday. I was worn out in body, mind and heart. In my mind, I felt like I sorely needed a weekend at home with nothing to do, nowhere to go and a little alone time with my hubby. I was just feeling total exhaustion from our recent move, subsequent vacation only a few days later and a hellish week of work to boot. It seems I hadn't had any me time for more than a few weekends in a row. Let's face it, I was smack down, dead center in the middle of my big old pity pot. All for naught!!

Almost from the very moment of getting to be with my sweet little munchkin, Joe all the wear and tear of the prior weeks just dissipated. I quickly realized that life was giving me cherries for the weekend. I cannot begin to put in appropriate words the indescribable joy that this little boy brings me. He is truly a wonderful healing for all the senses. His smile lights his face and brings joy to my eyes. His peals of laughter and giggles are just music to my ears. His true adventurous outlook on everthing he experiences is truly contagious. You wouldn't believe how this child loves to eat. He eats with the voracity of one denied for too long, only it has only been since lunch with a few snacks in between. When he plays, it is with such an imagination that only comes with youth. He hears the engines of a plane above and declares loudly, "Look! There it is!! I see it!!" His excitement is such that you would think it was the first plane he had ever seen. I join in and exclaim, "Look Joe, Z plane - Z plane!!" We both look into each other's eyes as if we had conquered the world by spotting that plane. I suppose that this happenned everytime a plane crossed in the balmy afternoon, which was approximately six times in that one outdoor playtime. You wouldn't believe the rottenness and dead eyed aim of this precocious little tyke in the tub with his squirt guns. It was his bath time, but I do believe that I was almost as wet as he was, yet Iwas fully clothed and dripping!! He really is a good shot. I believe that my favorite part of the bathtub escapades was washing his hair. That very distinctive aroma of baby shampoo on the peachfuzzed, toeheaded Joe, took me back to happier times. What a precious memory for me. Baby shampoo has to be up there as one of the most unique scents and most lovingly remembers aromas of my life.

I really must state that I was truly gifted this weekend with what I describe as a gift from the Lord above, Joe. There is nothing better than having this divine child in my care for the short few hours that I did. Those rare and precious moments when this little boy becomes so sweet and cuddly in my lap. How can I aptly put into words how I feel when he looks up at me with those beautiful blue eyes, as only he can, and all I see is the love ans safety he feels in knowing that I love him and he is safe with his Auntie Crystal. At this moment I am truly blessed! Malana and Larry, I say thank you for sharing this little angel with me!!

I wake up this morning to feeling despair, such are Monday's. Time for life to start with dishing out the lemon's. I have not been feeling well since yesterday afternoon. I thought that I had food poisoning, but it isn't going to be that easy. I am feeling, achy, tired, and not well. I fear I have the flu.

There is a darkness settling over me that I can not seem to control. I feel such loss this morning. Apparently the abounding joy that Joe brings me, has it's limitations. I just feel empty this morning. Bound to happen after having a child to care for this weekend. Today, I just feel empty. This time of year is hard for me. It has been nearly three years since the passing of my beloved son, Kenneth. They say time heals all wounds, I personally find this to not be the case. It gets better, but it is always there in everything I do. I feel as if I am in prison. I am serving a life setence. The tears are streaming down my face again for the millionth time in as many moments. It seems I have a bottomless well from which they spring. I feel a wail building inside of me. I cannot scream it away. It is always there, sometimes a gentle reminder of happier times, and others, like today, a driving force of despair and darkness, void of all light.

I fall to my knees, "Dear God, please grant me the strength to endure this torturous loss, just a small measure of peace, just a slight sliver of hope when all feels hopeless. I beg of you dear Lord, in Jesus' name, Amen." I wail and I cry, I speak to my child and there it is... a little light in the darkness. It always comes. I will get through this, I am strong. I have made it through for nearly three years when other's have not made it at all. I feel lonely, yet I am not alone. I am grateful. I am blessed. I am loved and I give love. I just need to continue to look for the joy where I can find it. I try to do this daily. I have more good days than bad. I am blessed with a loving family and friends. Still, it is a struggle, a daily struggle. I am strong. I am grateful. This is just a temporary madness, an all consuming, temporary madness. I have such grief at this moment that I feel like I may wretch. Again, I am strong. I am grateful.

Then out of nowhere, the ever reoccuring feeling of selfishness. How blessed am I to have had this lovely person to raise, nurture, share, love and adore for 25 years? I have so many lovely memories to hold onto. So may stories to share with my friends. A lovely Grand-daughter, very aptly named Grace, to hold onto and wrap my arms around and share the unconditional love her Daddy had for her. I am grateful. I am so grateful. Kenneth was so strong, funny, charming and a million other things that are too many to mention. I think it is his humor that I miss the most. Oh, how he made me laugh!! He would get that ornery look, a quirkish grin and then the devilish twinkle would light his eyes. Oh yes, and the hugs!! His tall boy hugs were the greatest thing on the planet. Well, in all honesty, the thing I miss the most is his walking through my door and simply stating, "Hi Mom." Oh God, I miss you!!

Like I stated, it is a struggle, a daily struggle. A sheer madness that brings me joy and sorrow, darkness and light, tribulation and peace. All of these emotions in the blink of an eye. Repeated daily. It is grief and joy. It is love and hate. It is life and death. Through it all, I am strong and I am grateful. What can I say? Life is just topsy turvy!!

Packing & Whining

Can I just say that I detest packing? I can? Yay!!, I am glad!!

I detest packing!!

A date with my sister...

I went on a date with my sister today. She came and picked me up and we went to breakfast at The Lodge in Citrus Heights. I had my usual, ham and eggs (it is the bomb there) and she had the home made corned beef hash with eggs. We opted for a side of fresh fruit because they always give you fresh fruit. Our breakfast was delicious. It always is there. I think it was once an IHOP as it s that pointy A-Frame type building. Itis small inside but very warm with great service and even better food.

The second part of our date was to the movies. We went and saw TheUglyTruth with Catherine Heigle and Gerard Butler. The movie was very predictable and a little slow in the beginning. It did however have some extremely tinkle in your pants funny moments in it. All in all it was worthy of the matinee price. I enjoyed it.

I was especially glad to see my sister get out and have a little grown up girl time. Although she loves being a mother, sometimes us ladies just need that. I for one, was glad for the girl time as well. I think it may have even improved my general outlook on life. Thank goodness for sisters!!

Tacos at mi hermanas!

We got an invitation to join my sister and family for a dinner of tacos. They were very delicious with homemade tortillas and all the fixin's!! She did a fantastic job on dinner and it was very tasty. Larry made Flan for dessert. We also got to tste his homemade Mead for dessert. I have to say. that was a mighty fine Mead. It is made with a blackberry honey and I will be a forever fan of this sweet delicious treat. Lucky for me, I was given a bottle for my own consumption and it is safely stowed in my refrigerator as we speak. Mmmm Mmmm Yummy!!

I also spent an hour or so in the pool with my adorable, precocious nephew, Joe. He is truly fearless in the water. He just loves to get out and do 1, 2, 3 and jump from the side into the pool. I can't put into words how expressive his eyes are when he is excited about something. I think I may just be a little in love with that little stinker. Mom was also in the pool with us. She really enjoys the pool and gets her legs exercised while in the pool. I think it is wonderful for her.

We had a lovely visit and left completely satiated in all ways. It is truly rewarding to be in the fold of lovely family.

On our drive home, we witnessed the most spectacular sunset. The sun was huge as it went down. We were headed West on Hwy 16 and I didn't want to turn North to head home as it completely changed our view. It was really a powerful sight to behold.

All in all, it was a good day!! Thanks Malana and Larry for a nice afternoon and evening!!

Comic relief from Hubby!!

I found this to be sooooooo funny!! My husband, Jeff and I are both due to renew our driver's licences. He is totally frustrated, not so much with me, but at me. I just waltzed in plopped down my $28.00, took my photo, said thank you very much and was out the door in about 15 minutes. Yay for me!! He isn't as happy about this as I am. I can't help but laugh at this situation.

He carries a Class "B" license and a motorcycle license. He has been studying for a week every night after work. He has to take the written test for a class B, motorcycle and for class C. I don't know why they are making him do this, but he is sooooo not happy about it. He also is taking a day off work for the testing.

Now me being the the kind of wife who has an angel on one shoulder and the devil on the other, I can't hardly keep myself from teasing him about this on a daily basis. It is so bad on my part, but I must admit he is a good sport about it. As I always say, look for the joy where you can find it!! Can i help it if needling him brings me joy?

I just felt like sharing about my bad behavior. I hope it makes you smile like it does me!!

Our day with both munchkins!!

Well, where to start? Jeff and I started out this day with the utmost of excitement. Our plans were to go to a picnic at Carmichael Park with some dear friends of mine from work, Michelle and Victoria. However, I was misinformed about the actual the actual location of this event. We went to Carmichael Park and the event was actually at Fair Oaks Park.

We picked up Grace at her Mom's work at 9:30 a.m. She was very excited to be spending the day with us. She always brings us such joy. Any moments with her are so precious to us. We then met Larry and Joe in Rancho Cordova (Larry was kind enough to meet us with Joe at the half way mark between our homes). We loaded Joe and his car seat in the car, said our goodbye's to Larry and we were off. Joe was all smiles when he realized that his cousin Grace was in the car too. He is so adorable and really loves his cousin Gracie. So off to Carmichael Park we went. We looked for the picnic and our friends and couldn't find them anywhere, but the kids got to play in the park anyway. They had fun for about an hour and then we were off to McDonald's for the requested lunch of a cheeseburger. There was the playroom, as is necessary and the kids had a fabulous time. In the mean time I got a hold of my friend Victoria and found out the actual location of the picnic.

We loaded up the munchkins again and were off to Fair Oaks park. Upon our arrival, Grace noticed that this park had swings. Oh great joy of life!! (The other park was lacking that particular apparatus.) So both kids were placed on the swings and pushed by Jeff and I. All I can say to this is, "Let the giggling commence!" The two of them were having an absolute blast. We went up to greet our friends and Gracie waited in line for quite awhile to get her face painted. The lady painting faces was on a break to eat her lunch. Gracie wanted a moon painted on her face. I eventually painted her face myself and then there was a long line of children wanting me to paint their faces as well. I had to decline. We then went over to the pinata festivities and took part in that. There were a lot of children and adults at this event and it was very child oriented. It was a nice event to attend. They had children's music playing and when Old Mc Donald had a farm came on, Joe was in his happy dancing element. He was singing, rather on-key mind you and having such a good time.

It all sounds like a storybook, doesn't it? I think that I may have forgotten to let you know that during all this loading and unloading of the kids into the car and out of the car, all this frolicking in the two different parks, and the ultra healthy lunch at Mickey D's, the temperature was sitting just short of 100 degrees. This along with all of the activity really took it's toll an the kiddies. They both seemed a little overheated by about 1:30. We said our goodbye's to our friends and loaded them up one more time. I thought that they would fall asleep in the car almost immediately. No such luck! Once the air conditioning hit them, they were all laughter and giggles in the back seat. They were holding hands, playing tickle (or better known to Joey as giggle, giggle, giggle) and just really enjoying themselves and one another. I for one, couldn't believe the transformation a little air conditioning could do. We drove them out to Joey's house where they could have a swim in the pool.

Grace and I got in the pool, Joe attempted to go down for a nap and Larry and Jeff were working on the garage and organizing it. The pool felt lovely and Grace was having a great time when all of a sudden she wanted out and proceeded to vomit. This poor little angel vomited continually for the next couple of hours. It broke my heart to see her in such discomfort. We put her in the car and drove her home, her vomiting all the way there. It is harder to be Grandma than Mom in this situation. You just feel so helpless. If I could have taken this from her and beared it myself, I would have in a hot New York second. We stayed with her at her house for about an hour and then finally ventured home. I called to check on her after we got home and she was finally able to keep fluids down and was feeling a little better. That was a huge relief to me and her Grandpa. He really doesn't handle these types of situations very well.

All in all, we covered all colors of the spectrum on our day with the world's two most adorable munchkins. Given the experiences we shared on this day, I know I would do it again today, tomorrow or any time again. I believe it is what I live for now. These two sweet, loving children that are my greatest joy in life. I am truly blessed! Thank you Beth, Malana and Larry for sharing your most precious gift with us.

A Day With My Babies, Woo Hoo!

I am so excited about today. I am going to spend the day with Jeff, Grace and Joey. Our immediate plans are to go to a B-B-Q festivities in Carmichael Park and then we will see where the day takes us. I think it is going to be a fantabulous day for us old folks with the kids. I truly believe that this is the type of day where we reap the rewards of the work week by getting to spend the day with the munchkins. In the big picture, they are for sure our greatest blessing. I know no greater joy than the babes in our lives. I am one blessed Grandma and Auntie.

An update on the prior Aaarrrggghhh blog!

Well...I thought it only fair to post a blog letting you all know that our management waived all towing fees for the residents here. Apparently, it wasn't just my complaint that was given to the main office. It makes me feel better to know that they were willing to own there responsibility in this rather costly screw up.

Today was a much better day for me. I don't like to blog bad stuff but sometimes you just have to do what you have to do. If I had kept all that frustration bottled up, I can only say that the only one I have to take it out on is my poor unsuspecting husband. He doesn't know it, but he escaped a really bad mood due to blogging it out of my system.

I hope you all have a truly wonderful day!!

Aaaaarrrrgggghhhh!!!!

I am so flipping ticked off. The apartment complex where we live has been doing renovations for the last 3 months or so. It does look nice, however we have been bombarded with these little notices that they leave all rolled up in a little scroll on our door. These little scrolls are to inform us that they will be cutting down our trees, gaining access to our back porch to break our tomato plant, un-plugging our freezer so that they can forget to plug it back in and leaving all of our meat to defrost in over 100 degree heat and the list of disturbances could continue, but I am sure you get the picture. So now on to the most current problem we are having with our lovely management. Apparently, notices were left in a scroll on our door on the previous Friday to inform us that they would be re-sealing our parking lot today beginning at 7:00 this morning. I honestly did not receive this particular scroll. I had today off. I awoke to someone knocking on my door before 8:00 a.m. By the time I got downstairs to answer the door there was no one there. I did see them cleaning our parking lot with the blowers though. I got a cup of coffee and about an hour later I heard something rather loud and rumbling outside. I walked to the kitchen and looked out my window to see that there were no cars in the parking lot. I ran out to talk to one of the workmen and he said cars were being towed and that notices had been put on the columns in the parking area informing us that we needed to have our cars removed by 7:00 a.m. or they would be towed at owners expense. I immediately got on the phone with the manager of our complex. I asked her what right she had to have my car towed. Her reply was that the notices were hung yesterday. When asked at what time they were hung, she said that it was between 6:15 and around 8:00 last night. I told her that I was home from work before then and never saw the bright gold notices posted on the columns at such a late time. I also told her that I had never received a rolled up scroll the previous Friday. It was then with great passion that I told her that I would refuse to pay that bill for having my car towed and I swore to her with all that was holy that she would be the one to pay for having my car towed. I then asked where they had our vehicles towed to, she replied that they were out on the main road outside of our complex. I went and located my car.

It is apparent to me that they have not handled this situation properly. Had I known that my car was going to be towed if left in my personal parking lot, I would have moved my car. I was not the only one to have my vehicle towed, there were many. I would suspect that most of us residents living here in this complex are responsible mature adults, who when asked to remove their cars for re-sealing of the parking lot on a particular date, would have been only too happy to oblige. The mere fact that so many vehicles had to be towed, only reiterates to me that the only notice ever given was the one posted on the columns after most of us unsuspecting residents had come home from our workday.

Well, I guess I just needed to vent. Sometimes writing about something just purges the frustration of daily life.

Trials, Tribulations and Triumph!!

What a crazy couple of days it has been. My Mom has given us all quite a scare in the last couple of days. We have been given the run-a-round trying to figure out what has been wrong with her. We were fairly certain that she had a stroke yesterday morning. Took her in to see the doctor and that is what they concluded. Mind you, they came to this conclusion with only a neurological exam, (you know, squeeze my fingers, push up with your hands, apply pressure with your feet and flex ...) They did however run an EKG, the heart was sound. They said she had a mild stroke and that if this should happen again in the future to take her directly to the hospital. That will be $45.00, thank you very much and be on your way. In all honesty, I left there feeling a bit certain that our trial had concluded for the day, but just as certain that there were going to be more tribulations in the future. Needless to say, I had a difficult time falling asleep last night and did quite a bit of praying.

Move forward to this morning. My phonne rang at 5:07 am. It was my sister saying Mom was at it again. She had been immobile since 11:30 pm last night. Not only not moving, but unable to speak or make noise at all to notify them she was in trouble. She found her at 4:30 this morning in this condition. I can not even begin to imagine the fear that was in her heart. I know the fear that was in mine upon receiving the call. We all raced to the hospital. They ran a complete battery of tests on her, blood work, urinary testings, x-rays, cat scans, another Ekg, and of course the neuro testings again. The answers came to us via the blood tests. Her blood sugar levels were only at 38. That is incredibly low. They gave her dextrose intraveiously and we saw some better color coming to her quite quickly after this. We were there for a total of 4 and 1/2 hours. But we left feeling a little triumphant with at least a reasonable diagnosis. They are scheduling another MRI which we should get a date for by Monday. Hopefully, that is going to turn out as good news as well.

These last couple of days have been tough. But, in truth, I am grateful for them as well. It is through the tough times that real bonding happens and it is amazing how incredible the love is between Mother and daughters as well as between sisters. I have been ultimately blessed in my life with the family that I was born into. I wouldn't change it for the world. Toss in a couple of very loving and devoted husbands and I say we are really lucky. I suppose I will just end this blog with the most heartfelt thanks to the Lord above for prayers answered!

Happy Mommie's Day!!

Jeff and I just came back from a lovely Mother's Day Brunch with my Mom, my sister, Malana, her hubby Larry with Lil Joe in tow and all of Larry's family too. We went to Brew It Up in Sacramento. They really put on a nice spread. This year Larry and his brother Chuck planned the festivities. I say kudos to them, as they really chose well. We had our own private room and it really was a lovely time.

The food was incredible there. It was part buffet and part hot entree. All you can eat of both. There was plenty to choose from and what I had was delicious. I opted for the crab cake eggs benedict with grilled spinach. It was spicy yummy goodness. I topped off my meal with chocolate covered strawberries.

My nephew Joe got me a beautiful azalea and helium balloon with a lovely card to boot. Who knew an 18 month old could be such a great shopper. I think the highlight of my day was playing with Joe. He doesn't think of me as an Aunt, he just thinks that I am his human play toy. I don't for the life of me know why he thinks I am so funny. All I have to do is look at him and say "Hi Boo-Boo!!" and he rolls into fits of laughter. Today, I was placing his toy goat on top of my head and when it would fall off, he just thought that was the funniest thing he had ever seen. He really brings joy into my life!

As most of you know, I lost my son 2 and 1/2 years ago. Mother's day for me is a little bitter/sweet. I am grateful that I still have both of my Mom's, yet I can't help but feel a little bitter taste in my mouth for the loss of my child. I selfishly wish he were still here with all of us, knowing full well he is in a far better place. He meant the world to me and on this day, I wish he were with me in more ways than just spiritually. Just writing this, is causing the tears to flow. I have been fighting this battle all day. I suppose it is inevitable, the big cry is going to come whether I want it to or not. It is how we purge. I know you can hear me Kenneth, so all I have to say to you is this, "I love you to the moon and back, I miss you everyday and I can hardly wait to see you again!"

I hope everyone reading this has had a wonderful mother's day! Take the time to enjoy your families, it is the most precious gift we are ever given.

Back on my feet, finally!!!

Well, how often do you get to hear about the most boring week in someones life? Only I would choose to blog about it. You see, I re-injured my back last Monday and have been down with a slipped disk since then. I am now on the mend. I had to take an entire week off work. Do you know what this week has taught me? I really need to work. I am not the kind of person to just lay around. I find that it makes me terribly frustrated, bored, angry and to be honest, really nasty to my husband. He should be granted saint-hood just for putting up with me. I feel very safe in the fact that he REALLY needs me to go back to work as well. If asked, I am sure he would agree!! May God bless and keep him for putting up with my grouchy old butt!

I have seen more television, movies, played more computer games than anyone should ever have to in the course of the last week. These are things that I look forward to in the normal work week. However, here it is Sunday, and I would give anything to go and do something, anything! But mother nature is giving us some much needed rain. So... that limits us to indoor excursions. Maybe I can put on my thinking cap and figure out something to do that isn't mind numbing. I am sure that Jeff can come up with a couple of good ideas.

In my movie mania week, I did see the movie, "Marley and Me." It was a lovely movie until the very end. I had read the book, but the movie really shows how hard it is to lose a beloved life long pet. Truth is, it hit a little too close for home for my liking. My sweet dog, Midnight, is going to be 14 years old on Halloween. She is getting very gray around the muzzle and eyes, a little stiff in the cooler wet weather, and a lot more senile. She is still to me, one of the sweetest animals God ever put on this Earth. I love her more than words can say. She still has a little of the Chow stubbornness, but truth be told, that is my very favorite characteristic of her. She is adorable and loving. She greets any visitor to our home with her toy in her mouth saying, "Catch me if you can!" I do not look forward to the day that our home will not be gifted with her lovely, carefree, curious, and playful personality. That will be a dark day indeed.

Well, thanks for listening to this, frustrated, grumpy old woman's ramblings. Sometimes it just makes you feel better to write about the boredom. I can hardly wait for Tuesday to get back to my job and all those sweet pups!! If I have learned anything at all this past week, it is for certain that I am a doer. I need to keep busy for sanity's sake!

A Nice Week

We have had a really nice week. I got to see my granddaughter, Grace twice this week. I took my Mom and went to Placerville for Gracie's dance recital. What a kick that was!! All those little girls in their little outfits and adorable as they could be. I am so happpy to have experienced that wonderful production. I think that Mom enjoyed it too. I also think she would have enjoyed it more if she would have had a jacket. She was a little chilly, as the recital was held on an outdoor stage. The girls performed three different numbers with costume changes for each dance. It was for sure one of those "Aaaawwwww!!" moments.

On Sunday we had Grace for the day. We ended up going to Larry and Malana's to spend the day. Joey and Grace had a blast playing together. They have spent time together before, usually on a holiday, but today they really bonded in their play. It filled my heart with joy to see the two of them getting to know one another and enjoy each other's company. There was lots of giggles and laughter. In my opinion, it was just what the doctor ordered. Nothing like a Sunday spent with family, you just can't beat it!! Here are some pictures for you to enjoy!!

A Very Sad Day

I was driving to work today when I received a call from the shop where I work. It was from a gal that I work with named Victoria. The call was the last thing that I expected. She informed me that my friend and bather, Chelley was killed in a tragic car accident last night. Chelley was one of the most warm hearted, loving and giving people that I have ever known. She was always there, ready to work without complaint She dearly loved all the the pups that came through the door. She found the same gratifying sense of accomplishment in the work we do as I always have. I will always remember her joy in a job well done.

Her death is such a tragedy. Shelly was a recovering alcoholic. In the last couple of weeks, she had relapsed. She had herself in a very tense and tenuous situation. She tried so hard to get herself back on track, but lost that battle. You see, Chelley was drunk when she had her accident. She went head on into oncoming traffic and was killed instantly. She didn't do it on purpose, but the outcome is the same. As I well know, death is permanent. I feel safe in the knowledge that she is in a better place now. Free of pain, free of her demons and hopefully at peace in the arms of our Lord. Her struggles are over now. She is at peace.

Chelley leaves behind three children. They were the joys of her life. I wonder will they ever really know how much their mother loved them. Will they ever understand that they were the central force of her existence ? This is where the tragedy lies. I think that these boys will think that she chose alcohol over them, that she made the choice to drink and lose her life, that they weren't important enough to make her stop this roller coaster of a life. I know from when she would share her life with me, that they were everything to her. I hope they aren't doomed to live the rest of their lives with anger toward their mother. I pray that they grow into a life of forgiveness and peace in the knowledge that Chelley loved them more than life itself. She paid a permanent price for a temporary problem.

I will hold her in my heart for the rest of my days. I will think of her often and fondly. She had a disease. She was ill. She loved, she cared, she brought joy and sadness, she shared wholly, she was a good friend, a loving wife, an enigmatic character, and one of of the most loving and fiercely devoted mothers I have ever known. She loved music, animals, her friends, her family. but most of all her children. She has suffered due to her illness and in the end, paid the ultimate price for the demons she chased. I find it easy to forgive her. I only hope one day, her children can do the same.

The world will be a little less bright with out this energetic, boisterous, life loving wonderful woman that I called my friend. May God watch over her family and hold her in his warm embrace until they can all reunite in a better place. Chelley, if you can hear me...I love you. Thanks for sharing your life with me. I will always remember you and your beaming proud mother smile!! Rest in peace dear friend.

Happy 71st To My Mom!!

What A day it was! March 25, 2009 was my Mom's birthday. She turned 71. I was lucky enough to host her party at my house. Jeff and I had Mom, Malana , Larry, Lil Joe and my brother in law Curt over for the festivities. For me, it was the highlight of my day to see Mom in such high spirits. She was really happy and on a good buzz from her win at the Red Hawk Casino. My sister took her during the day to celebrate her birthday. As any of you who know Mom might know, it is her favorite excursion to go and feed the one armed bandits. I was thrilled that she won. I think she had a great day.

I cooked for three straight days making four trays of slow cooked enchiladas. (Mom's request!) She loves my beef enchiladas. I really love chicken in verde sauce. If I do say so myself, the chicken were the best I have ever made. I made a homemade sauce from Parilla peppers and California green chiles. It was by and far the best sauce ever. I am not a fan of tomato based sauces, so I found a recipe and made my sauce from scratch. Mmmmm Good!!! For anyone who may be interested, I found the recipe for this sauce on the web site www.allrecipes.com. I also made beans and rice along with a big bowl of homemade guacamole, chips and salsa. I must say we really feasted. No birthday is complete without a cake, so I made Mom my Peach upside down cake from scratch. It is really yummy topped with whipped cream. I think it was truly enjoyed by all.

It was a really nice celebration of my Mom and shared by most of the people that I hold most dear. Joe was our source of entertainment. He hadn't napped that day and he was busily into everything he could get his hands on. He even tried to un-plant my potted plants. That boy is won whirlwind of energy. To be honest, I don't know how Malana can keep up with him on a daily basis. I don't know if I could do it. I would be worn out. But then, she is a couple of years younger than me. So if I am 29, she must be 27!! LOL!!! I think we both wish that were true!!

I wish I had some photo's to post, but I can't find my camera cord, soooo I am afraid there are none. Take my word for it, I believe a good time was had by all!!

What a day!

Being a dog groomer is hard work on any given day, but Saturday is the motherlode of all days. I had an absolute terrier day. I so love the terrier breeds. They are cute, adorable and feisty!! I so love their little endearing attitudes. Not to mention the fact that when completed, there is not a cuter breed on the planet than the the terrier group. I had eight terriers, one Basset Hound/Husky mix, one Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy (3 1/2 months old) and one 20 year old cat to shave. I started work at 8:00 a.m. and finished at about 6:15 p.m. By day's end, I was completely exhausted. It is a wonderful feeling to put in that kind of a day's work though. It is completely gratifying to see the clients faces when they pick up their beloved pets and just are thrilled with the outcome of the grooming process.

I feel blessed to do the work that I do. I truly believe that it was what I was put on this Earth to do. I joined this line of work on a fluke. It turns out that I am really good at it. It is a very rewarding job. I get to exercise my artistic side and my intellectual side all at the same time. My only desire would be that it wasn't so hard on my tired old body. All the love and puppy kisses received on a daily basis is just one of the perks of the job. Can you imagine anything more rewarding than the love of puppies all day? In my opinion and for me, I certainly can't!!

Well, we are celebrating my granddaughter, Gracie's 4th birthday today. I am so excited. I will have to write again when we return to let you all know how it went. My nephew Joe is going to be there too. I am doubly blessed with my two favorite munchkins in the world on the same day!!

An absurd week at best!!!

What an absolutely strange week last week was. As is the title of my blogger page, Going to the Dogs, has never seemed more appropriate. Due to recession, I have still been working, but not all that heavily booked as of late. However, last week I was swamped. It was such a long and treacherous week. I came home every night barely able to speak, let alone move. Thank God for my hubby Jeff, he always seems to take such good care of me when times are tough on me.

Anyway, needless to say, by the end of the week, I was exhausted. I had agreed early in the week to take care of my little nephew Joe for my sister Malana and her husband Larry. I was excited about it until the nasty week had taken it's toll on me. Come Sunday morning, I could barely open my eyes when the alarm went off. I made coffee and prepared myself for the sweetest little boy on the planet.

We had a prior commitment of a birthday party for my niece Kyra. Chuck E. Cheese at 11:00 am. We loaded up the family and headed out to Fairfield for the party. I have to tell you that it was one of the best days I have had in such a long time. I love my Lil' Joe sooooo much. He is surely a gift from God above. His smile just makes me happy to be around. It was such a pleasure for me to see his excitement and share in the joy that was his to behold. I feel truly blessed to have had that very special day with him. I ran more that day than I have in a long time. People say it is expensive to take children there. I found that not to be the case with Joe. He just ran and shared rides with any child on a ride that had captured his interest. I had to laugh at his indestructible desire to take rides for free on somebody elses token. No one seemed to mind though, as he is truly an adorable looking little child. He did however have a favorite ride, it was a tractor. We dropped a lot of tokens in that machine. He just loved it. He also loved the carousel. He thought it was like a ride that produced a really funny game of peek-a-boo!! Everytime he would go around and then spot me he would just burst out in giggles while I made a funny face at him. Too much fun, I'll tell ya!

When it was time to go, Jeff found us and gathered us up and took us out to the car. I think it would be completely truthful to say that I was more disappointed to leave than Joe was. I have to say that I will forever treasure the memory of this day and of the love and healing that my sweet little nephew Joe bestowed upon me!!