This past week was the worst way to end such a horrible year! On Wednesday, my house was foreclosed on through a sheriff's auction. On Friday, work pulled me into a meeting and told me "the economy hasn't gotten better as they had hoped and no longer needed my services" (I'm out of a job)!! Then on Sunday, my 76 year old Grandma fell in her driveway and hit her head - she's all right, just going to be stiff and sore a lot longer.
This past week reminded me of a few weeks out of 1999. We had just bought the house the end of September, a week later a different employer said they no longer had a position due to my restrictions and let me go, and then a week after that my mom died.
I believe in God, I believe in Karma, I believe that I will get through this. I just wish that I could catch a break because I don't want to have to deal with anymore of this. My family and I have been through enough in the past few years, we just want a chance to recover without feeling like we're getting kicked while we're already down.
Today is a very busy day for me: if my boys have school - I will be dropping them off, then I have to take a few things back to my former employer. When I get home I need to call unemployment and go over their questionnaire, then start sorting through my stuff and deciding what I want to sell on craigslist, give away to Goodwill (St. Vincent de Paul), what gets packed for storage and what goes with us wherever we're moving to.
I also have to figure out where we're moving to, I need to call some ads I've seen in the paper and go check them out. I'm just hoping to keep my kids in their respective schools, because they don't want to lose their house, their friends, and their school all this month.
I've got some friends that are willing to help us move to wherever we are going. I've got to call around and see what other help is available around this time of year. And then I need to start making a list of places I can go to find a job. This is such a sucky time to be doing this!!!
Dear Lord, please help me to understand what I am going through right now, I need some help getting through this for me and for my family. Please help me find my way so I don't get lost
Monday, December 15, 2008
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Yahoo!!
I've got some great news!!!!! Logan is moving back home!! I am so happy that I'll have all my babies under one roof again.
He was having numerous problems at his father's and now he decided that he wanted to come home to his momma!
Thank you God for bringing my son back to me!!
He was having numerous problems at his father's and now he decided that he wanted to come home to his momma!
Thank you God for bringing my son back to me!!
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Sunday, September 21, 2008
This past week.......
I swear Monday morning I hit the ground running and didn't stop until this morning. Let me fill you in on what happened...
Obviously, Monday, I got up and went to work. Did my daily thing and then that afternoon I got home, grabbed a snack and back out the door we all went. Josh had a home soccer game. Logan even came with the girlfriend and spent some time with us. The two of them picked Jacob up from football practice. Right before they left he picked me up and cracked my upper back with a VERY tight squeeze, I lost my breath and felt very ill.
Tuesday I stayed home because I still didn't feel really good, but since Terry had the day off he decided that we needed to do some errands. I hardly got any time just to sit down. Then Josh had another soccer game at home. After the game we had to pick Jacob up from practice.
Wednesday morning I woke up feeling pretty good, until my text message went off on my cell phone. Hubby telling me that he had to bowl tonight, no family dinner like we planned. Did the normal workday and then home, grab a snack and off to the bowling alley. Thank goodness no football prac on Wednesdays
Thursday - went to work, home for a quick dinner, and then off to the ball diamond to watch Terry play fall softball. He had two games, I only stayed for 1. I was falling asleep on the bench! Logan picked up JT from practice again. Got home in time to help Josh put his bookcovers on his book, then off to bed for the three of us!!
Friday - uneventful workday. Orders were actually very slow, but that's ok. We had a company scheduled kickball event that afternoon. My team lost again this year. Terry even got to participate in the 2nd game because 2 of my team members left early, and 2 decided they didn't want to play anymore. Work provided dinner for the 2 of us, then we jetted home, zipped off to McDonald's for the boys and then out the door to get groceries. JT wasn't feeling well so he stayed home from practice.
Saturday - off and running this morning. JT had a football game and had to be 20 miles away for a 9 am game. We had to leave from home about 8:15. Terry had to take Josh to his JV soccer invite by 8:15 a.m. Josh had 2 games to play - unfortunately they lost both of them. Jacob's team won their football game 26-0. Jt and I zipped home so he could shower and then out the door we went to drive about 45 mins to the first of 3 birthday parties we had to attend. We got there for Bradley's 1st birthday on time and visited with family for a short while. At some lunch and then back out the door before they had a chance to open a present or cut the cake. Got back in time to head out to party #2 where Josh & Terry already were for friend Pete's 40th. Ate again, had a couple of drinks and then back out the door and home to drop off a vehicle before heading to the 3rd and final party. Shelby turned 8 on Friday and they had her party Sat evening. Josh stayed home, but Jt, Terry, and I arrived in time to eat and enjoy the family festivities. After enjoying the food, cake and ice cream, Terry went off to play cards and I fell asleep on the couch for about a 45 min nap. We finally got home about 10:30pm. Terry called Pete & Wendy to see if they wanted to hit the bar for a few..."nope we're staying home. sorry". So he grouchily put the truck in the garage and we went to bed where when his head hit the pillow he was "out cold!!!"
Sunday - the cats woke me up because they wanted to be fed. I grabbed some breakfast and my counted cross stitch, turned on the TV and began sewing and watching movies. I just got one load of laundry out of the washer and into the dryer and another one started. Sheets changed on the bed. Plus we want to run into the city (Madison-25 mins away) to look at Halloween costumes (we dress up - last year I took 2nd place). Then do dinner, fold laundry, and get ready to go to work tomorrow!!
Whooooo I am TIRED!!!!!
Obviously, Monday, I got up and went to work. Did my daily thing and then that afternoon I got home, grabbed a snack and back out the door we all went. Josh had a home soccer game. Logan even came with the girlfriend and spent some time with us. The two of them picked Jacob up from football practice. Right before they left he picked me up and cracked my upper back with a VERY tight squeeze, I lost my breath and felt very ill.
Tuesday I stayed home because I still didn't feel really good, but since Terry had the day off he decided that we needed to do some errands. I hardly got any time just to sit down. Then Josh had another soccer game at home. After the game we had to pick Jacob up from practice.
Wednesday morning I woke up feeling pretty good, until my text message went off on my cell phone. Hubby telling me that he had to bowl tonight, no family dinner like we planned. Did the normal workday and then home, grab a snack and off to the bowling alley. Thank goodness no football prac on Wednesdays
Thursday - went to work, home for a quick dinner, and then off to the ball diamond to watch Terry play fall softball. He had two games, I only stayed for 1. I was falling asleep on the bench! Logan picked up JT from practice again. Got home in time to help Josh put his bookcovers on his book, then off to bed for the three of us!!
Friday - uneventful workday. Orders were actually very slow, but that's ok. We had a company scheduled kickball event that afternoon. My team lost again this year. Terry even got to participate in the 2nd game because 2 of my team members left early, and 2 decided they didn't want to play anymore. Work provided dinner for the 2 of us, then we jetted home, zipped off to McDonald's for the boys and then out the door to get groceries. JT wasn't feeling well so he stayed home from practice.
Saturday - off and running this morning. JT had a football game and had to be 20 miles away for a 9 am game. We had to leave from home about 8:15. Terry had to take Josh to his JV soccer invite by 8:15 a.m. Josh had 2 games to play - unfortunately they lost both of them. Jacob's team won their football game 26-0. Jt and I zipped home so he could shower and then out the door we went to drive about 45 mins to the first of 3 birthday parties we had to attend. We got there for Bradley's 1st birthday on time and visited with family for a short while. At some lunch and then back out the door before they had a chance to open a present or cut the cake. Got back in time to head out to party #2 where Josh & Terry already were for friend Pete's 40th. Ate again, had a couple of drinks and then back out the door and home to drop off a vehicle before heading to the 3rd and final party. Shelby turned 8 on Friday and they had her party Sat evening. Josh stayed home, but Jt, Terry, and I arrived in time to eat and enjoy the family festivities. After enjoying the food, cake and ice cream, Terry went off to play cards and I fell asleep on the couch for about a 45 min nap. We finally got home about 10:30pm. Terry called Pete & Wendy to see if they wanted to hit the bar for a few..."nope we're staying home. sorry". So he grouchily put the truck in the garage and we went to bed where when his head hit the pillow he was "out cold!!!"
Sunday - the cats woke me up because they wanted to be fed. I grabbed some breakfast and my counted cross stitch, turned on the TV and began sewing and watching movies. I just got one load of laundry out of the washer and into the dryer and another one started. Sheets changed on the bed. Plus we want to run into the city (Madison-25 mins away) to look at Halloween costumes (we dress up - last year I took 2nd place). Then do dinner, fold laundry, and get ready to go to work tomorrow!!
Whooooo I am TIRED!!!!!
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Happy B-day Logan
My oldest son just got a little older today - he turned 17! I got to spend most of yesterday and most of today with him before he rushed off to his girlfriend's to have cake.
I can hardly believe the boy I used to fill up the wading pool with warm, bubbly water is one year closer to being an adult. The boy that used to say "Monga" for Grandma, "ripes ream" for ice cream; the boy that used to come to me and say "I wuv you mommy".
The boy my mother put her wig on!! Isn't he cute as a girl??
The boy who took the deep fryer basket and put it on his head!
The boy who even tried to ride his bike on the lawn!!!
Logan is just an amazing son. I am so proud of the young man he's become.
Logan, I love you! I hope you have a very Happy Birthday!!!
Love, Mom
Friday, September 5, 2008
2nd Soccer Game
The Lake Mills Mens' JV Soccer Team did it - they won the game against Wayland Academy!!!
The temp hovered around 59 degrees and it was doing a steady, light rain, but the boys won their game!!
We couldn't be prouder!!
Go L-Cats!!!!!!!!!!!!
The temp hovered around 59 degrees and it was doing a steady, light rain, but the boys won their game!!
We couldn't be prouder!!
Go L-Cats!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thursday, September 4, 2008
The Firsts
I'm glad most of our firsts are over...
JT's 6th grade football team tied the first game 8 - 8.
The boys all had their first day of school for calendar 2008-09 on Sept 2nd. Logan is now a Junior, Josh a Freshman, and JT is a 6th grader. No more elementary school for us - it's weird not going to the school that my kids started out at.
Josh's JV soccer team lost their first game 1 - 4. (bummer)
Josh has picture day today as well as another game after school.
Terry's first night of fall softball is tonight as well. I haven't been here in a while to tell you - they won the summer championship!!! That was the coolest!
Saturday, JT has his 2nd game against a very tough school. Then we come home and all get ready for my cousin's wedding. It's an outdoor wedding and reception in a state park (let's hope the rain holds off!!) Although I'm sure they are using the buildings at the park, but a sunny day would be just awesome!
I'm glad this 1st week is almost over, seems like we've got more going on this year than we usually do and it doesn't look like there's an end in sight. We'll get done with soccer and football in the middle of October and then jump right into youth bowling on Saturday mornings.
Whew what an exhilarating schedule!!
JT's 6th grade football team tied the first game 8 - 8.
The boys all had their first day of school for calendar 2008-09 on Sept 2nd. Logan is now a Junior, Josh a Freshman, and JT is a 6th grader. No more elementary school for us - it's weird not going to the school that my kids started out at.
Josh's JV soccer team lost their first game 1 - 4. (bummer)
Josh has picture day today as well as another game after school.
Terry's first night of fall softball is tonight as well. I haven't been here in a while to tell you - they won the summer championship!!! That was the coolest!
Saturday, JT has his 2nd game against a very tough school. Then we come home and all get ready for my cousin's wedding. It's an outdoor wedding and reception in a state park (let's hope the rain holds off!!) Although I'm sure they are using the buildings at the park, but a sunny day would be just awesome!
I'm glad this 1st week is almost over, seems like we've got more going on this year than we usually do and it doesn't look like there's an end in sight. We'll get done with soccer and football in the middle of October and then jump right into youth bowling on Saturday mornings.
Whew what an exhilarating schedule!!
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Busy Week
My busiest week this month is upon me......
Monday - Work! Then register Logan for his Junior year! OMG where did the time go on this one - isn't he really only 5 and heading into kindergarten. Just as I'm wrapping up at work he texts me and tells me I don't have to anymore. His father can take him since he's off work early. I told him that that was fine with me as long as he was ok with it. I guess they got it taken care of.
So I came home and then had to take a package to the post office and then fill the truck up with gas (I was at a half tank - I put in almost 17 1/2 gallons for a whopping $65 gas is at $3.75/gallon right now). I got done doing my errands, came home and helped get dinner started, the youngest off to football practice, and throw in a load of laundry. After JT got picked up, we ate, talked, and then it was time for bed.
Tuesday - Work! JT practice & Terry softball. Plus supper and more laundry (just sheets and towels). Logan's supposed to pick JT up from practice, guess we'll see how his memory is!
Wednesday - Work! Then register Josh (Freshman) & JT (6th grade). Isn't Josh 3 and JT only a couple of months old?? Ok, ok, I know they're not that young, but my mind doesn't want me to realize that these boys are growing up at an alarming rate. After registration, race home and get ready for the Dodge County fair - Jason Aldean is playing!! $9 to get in to the fair AND the Grandstands to see him sing!!! Come home & go to bed. BTW - Happy B-day Kelly 26 on the 13th!
Thursday - Day off - WOOHOO!!! Go back up to the fairgrounds to see oldest niece show her cows. Gotta remember to pack that cooler with food and something to drink so we can have lunch and snacks. $6 to get in before 2 pm. Watch Miranda Lambert sing! I hope Logan remembers to pick JT and drop him off at practice and then do the reverse!?!
Friday - Day off!! JT & Josh to the doctor for check ups, sports physicals AND shots. Then we have to go get soccer & football socks and compression shorts. Come home, clean, mow lawn, start another weekend of laundry. Get JT ready for practice, pick him up from practice and then head up to the Columbus races by Terry's mom. (Terry's cousin races Late Model Division).
Saturday - JT practice 9-11 am. Then they're heading out to load up wood so we can have a "fire" in the backyard. I've got to break out the sewing machine and get a few things sewn up before they take over the corner in the bedroom.
Sunday - Back up to the fairgrounds to see the youngest niece show her calf. Then watch the demos and take the boys on the rides (I hope they have some good ones this year!)
Whoo, I'm wiped out just writing this down. Then it's back to another week of work, JT's practices and Josh starts soccer practice. Guess I better head to the shower and get ready for work - on goes my day!
Monday - Work! Then register Logan for his Junior year! OMG where did the time go on this one - isn't he really only 5 and heading into kindergarten. Just as I'm wrapping up at work he texts me and tells me I don't have to anymore. His father can take him since he's off work early. I told him that that was fine with me as long as he was ok with it. I guess they got it taken care of.
So I came home and then had to take a package to the post office and then fill the truck up with gas (I was at a half tank - I put in almost 17 1/2 gallons for a whopping $65 gas is at $3.75/gallon right now). I got done doing my errands, came home and helped get dinner started, the youngest off to football practice, and throw in a load of laundry. After JT got picked up, we ate, talked, and then it was time for bed.
Tuesday - Work! JT practice & Terry softball. Plus supper and more laundry (just sheets and towels). Logan's supposed to pick JT up from practice, guess we'll see how his memory is!
Wednesday - Work! Then register Josh (Freshman) & JT (6th grade). Isn't Josh 3 and JT only a couple of months old?? Ok, ok, I know they're not that young, but my mind doesn't want me to realize that these boys are growing up at an alarming rate. After registration, race home and get ready for the Dodge County fair - Jason Aldean is playing!! $9 to get in to the fair AND the Grandstands to see him sing!!! Come home & go to bed. BTW - Happy B-day Kelly 26 on the 13th!
Thursday - Day off - WOOHOO!!! Go back up to the fairgrounds to see oldest niece show her cows. Gotta remember to pack that cooler with food and something to drink so we can have lunch and snacks. $6 to get in before 2 pm. Watch Miranda Lambert sing! I hope Logan remembers to pick JT and drop him off at practice and then do the reverse!?!
Friday - Day off!! JT & Josh to the doctor for check ups, sports physicals AND shots. Then we have to go get soccer & football socks and compression shorts. Come home, clean, mow lawn, start another weekend of laundry. Get JT ready for practice, pick him up from practice and then head up to the Columbus races by Terry's mom. (Terry's cousin races Late Model Division).
Saturday - JT practice 9-11 am. Then they're heading out to load up wood so we can have a "fire" in the backyard. I've got to break out the sewing machine and get a few things sewn up before they take over the corner in the bedroom.
Sunday - Back up to the fairgrounds to see the youngest niece show her calf. Then watch the demos and take the boys on the rides (I hope they have some good ones this year!)
Whoo, I'm wiped out just writing this down. Then it's back to another week of work, JT's practices and Josh starts soccer practice. Guess I better head to the shower and get ready for work - on goes my day!
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Update
I just wanted to update you on how my cousin and her husband are doing.
He survived the surgery, they got about 90% of the tumor out of his head. But things just don't look good. They typed his cancer as a stage 4. They put chemo in his head. I don't think they give him much more than a year. His parents are planning on taking him to another cancer center and getting a second opinion.
We are all beside ourselves about this. My heart hurts for Kelly and her boys. We are all still saying our prayers and hoping that we will wake up from this nightmare. Dear Lord, please watch over this family.
He survived the surgery, they got about 90% of the tumor out of his head. But things just don't look good. They typed his cancer as a stage 4. They put chemo in his head. I don't think they give him much more than a year. His parents are planning on taking him to another cancer center and getting a second opinion.
We are all beside ourselves about this. My heart hurts for Kelly and her boys. We are all still saying our prayers and hoping that we will wake up from this nightmare. Dear Lord, please watch over this family.
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Saying a Prayer
I don't entirely know how to ask this of everyone, but I need help on this one.
My cousin, Kelly, found out last week that her husband, Chris, has a brain tumor. Today he is going in for surgery to see if they can remove it. They need as many prayers as possible.
They have 3 sons, Anthony was 6 on June 17, Morgan will be 3 on December 17, and the newest edition, Benjamin, was born June 16, 2008. None of us can picture their lives without him. He's been a terrific Dad and husband.
I'm sending my prayers to them, my thoughts will be with them, and I know there are lots of angels watching over their little family. May God watch over all of them and let Chris survive this.
My cousin, Kelly, found out last week that her husband, Chris, has a brain tumor. Today he is going in for surgery to see if they can remove it. They need as many prayers as possible.
They have 3 sons, Anthony was 6 on June 17, Morgan will be 3 on December 17, and the newest edition, Benjamin, was born June 16, 2008. None of us can picture their lives without him. He's been a terrific Dad and husband.
I'm sending my prayers to them, my thoughts will be with them, and I know there are lots of angels watching over their little family. May God watch over all of them and let Chris survive this.
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Around here - somewhere!
Ok, ok, I know, I know. I thought I could sneak in here a few times a week and post something and then life snuck up on me. I've had a busy couple of weeks and now they're about to get busier.
Yesterday I had the day mostly to myself. I decided to pull all of my tupperware up from the basement and sit down and price it for an open house next Saturday. I used to be a consultant and got a lot of stuff and now I know that I'm never going to use 90% of this stuff. I never realized how many things I'd gotten over time. But for 3 years of "selling", I think I did most of the buying! I was my best customer.
Today, my hubby has a ball tournament that you have to be invited to play in. Since we know a guy in the family and since he's played with them before, he got his invite. So now we spend the entire day at the ball park!! GO TEAM!!!!!!!
Monday, we go to the schools and listen to the sport meetings to sign up 2 of our boys for soccer and tackle football. Tuesday, Terry has a ball game. Wednesday, we gotta start setting up the garage for that TW open house and it's my Gram's b-day (she'll be 76 years old). Either Wed or Thurs, football practice begins. Friday, we have the stock car races that my cousin-in-law races at in Columbus, WI. Saturday, is my TW open house/inventory sale. Sunday, an outing with the in-law adults. Plus hubby and I have to work all week.
The next few weeks are filled up with a county fair, softball games, football & soccer practices, school registrations (3 boys- 3 different schools), a couple of b-days, a wedding, a football game, a holiday, school starting, another wedding AND a 17th birthday. At the end of all of this we will be at the end of the first full week of September. I'm sure there are a few things I've missed because I don't even want to look at the calendar!!
I guess I'll get going so I can get a jump on the day. Gotta get hubby up so we can get the cooler packed, the chairs and a blanket in the truck, eat and get ready to go. BUSY, BUSY, BUSY!!!!
Y'all have a good month if you don't see me around much!!
Yesterday I had the day mostly to myself. I decided to pull all of my tupperware up from the basement and sit down and price it for an open house next Saturday. I used to be a consultant and got a lot of stuff and now I know that I'm never going to use 90% of this stuff. I never realized how many things I'd gotten over time. But for 3 years of "selling", I think I did most of the buying! I was my best customer.
Today, my hubby has a ball tournament that you have to be invited to play in. Since we know a guy in the family and since he's played with them before, he got his invite. So now we spend the entire day at the ball park!! GO TEAM!!!!!!!
Monday, we go to the schools and listen to the sport meetings to sign up 2 of our boys for soccer and tackle football. Tuesday, Terry has a ball game. Wednesday, we gotta start setting up the garage for that TW open house and it's my Gram's b-day (she'll be 76 years old). Either Wed or Thurs, football practice begins. Friday, we have the stock car races that my cousin-in-law races at in Columbus, WI. Saturday, is my TW open house/inventory sale. Sunday, an outing with the in-law adults. Plus hubby and I have to work all week.
The next few weeks are filled up with a county fair, softball games, football & soccer practices, school registrations (3 boys- 3 different schools), a couple of b-days, a wedding, a football game, a holiday, school starting, another wedding AND a 17th birthday. At the end of all of this we will be at the end of the first full week of September. I'm sure there are a few things I've missed because I don't even want to look at the calendar!!
I guess I'll get going so I can get a jump on the day. Gotta get hubby up so we can get the cooler packed, the chairs and a blanket in the truck, eat and get ready to go. BUSY, BUSY, BUSY!!!!
Y'all have a good month if you don't see me around much!!
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Safe Neighborhood??
I found this link a while back and stuck it in my favorites. I must've forgotten about it because I just refound it tucked away where I wouldn't have thought it would be. Check out this link http://www.familywatchdog.us/search.asp to see how safe your neighborhood is.
CLEARANCE?!?!
I almost couldn't believe this when I saw it...I guess that would be why so many places are putting clearance stats on their overhangs!!!
I would have hated trying to explain this to the insurance company!!
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Chili Cook-off
I got this in an e-mail from my brother. He lived in Texas while doing basic training, but I doubt if he ever attended one of these events while he was there. My mom even participated in one of these events with her chili. She didn't win, but had a blast anyway.
If you can read this whole story without laughing, then there's no hope for you.
I was crying by the end.
This is an actual account as relayed to paramedics at a chili cook-off in Texas.
Note: Please take time to read this slowly.If you pay attention to the first two judges, the reaction of the third judge is even better. For those of you who have lived in Texas, you know how true this is. They actually have a Chili Cook-off about the time Halloween comes around. It takes up a major portion of a parking lot at the San Antonio City Park.
Judge #3 was an inexperienced Chili taster named Frank, who was visiting from Springfield, IL. Frank: 'Recently, I was honored to be selected as a judge at a chilicook-off. The original person called in sick at the last moment and I happened to be standing there at the judge's table, asking for directions to the Coors Light truck, when the call came in. I was assured by the other two judges (Native Texans) that the chili wouldn't be all that spicy; and,besides, they told me I could have free beer during the tasting, so Iaccepted and became Judge 3.
Here are the scorecard notes from the event:
CHILI # 1 - MIKE'S MANIAC MONSTER CHILI
Judge # 1 -- A little too heavy on the tomato. Amusing kick.
Judge # 2 -- Nice, smooth tomato flavor. Very mild.
Judge # 3 (Frank) -- Holy crap, what the hell is this stuff? You could remove dried paint from your driveway. Took me two beers to put the flamesout. I hope that's the worst one. These Texans are crazy.
CHILI # 2 - AUSTIN'S AFTERBURNER CHILI
Judge # 1 -- Smoky, with a hint of pork. Slight jalapeno tang.
Judge # 2 -- Exciting BBQ flavor, needs more peppers to be taken seriously.
Judge # 3 -- Keep this out of the reach of children. I'm not sure what I'ms upposed to taste besides pain. I had to wave off two people who wanted togive me the Heimlich maneuver. They had to rush in more beer when they sawthe look on my face.
CHILI # 3 - FRED'S FAMOUS BURN DOWN THE BARN CHILI
Judge # 1 -- Excellent firehouse chili. Great kick.
Judge # 2 -- A bit salty, good use of peppers.
Judge # 3 -- Call the EPA. I've located a uranium spill. My nose feels like I have been snorting Drano. Everyone knows the routine by now. Get me more beer before I ignite. Barmaid pounded me on the back, now my backbone is in the front part of my chest. I'm getting shit-faced from all of the beer.
CHILI # 4 - BUBBA'S BLACK MAGIC
Judge # 1 -- Black bean chili with almost no spice. Disappointing.
Judge # 2 -- Hint of lime in the black beans. Good side dish for fish orother mild foods, not much of a chili.
Judge # 3 -- I felt something scraping across my tongue, but was unable to taste it. Is it possible to burn out taste buds? Sally, the beer maid, was standing behind me with fresh refills. This 300 lb.woman is starting to look HOT ... just like this nuclear waste I'm eating! Is chili an aphrodisiac?
CHILI # 5 - LISA'S LEGAL LIP REMOVER
Judge # 1 -- Meaty, strong chili. Cayenne peppers freshly ground, adding considerable kick. Very impressive.
Judge # 2 -- Chili using shredded beef, could use more tomato. Must admit the cayenne peppers make a strong statement.
Judge # 3 -- My ears are ringing, sweat is pouring off my forehead and Ican no longer focus my eyes. I farted, and four people behind me needed paramedics. The contestant seemed offended when I told her that her chilihad given me brain damage. Sally saved my tongue from bleeding by pouring beer directly on it from the pitcher. I wonder if I'm burning my lips off. It really ticks me off that the other judges asked me to stop screaming. Screw them.
CHILI # 6 - VERA'S VERY VEGETARIAN VARIETY
Judge # 1 -- Thin yet bold vegetarian variety chili. Good balance of spices and peppers.
Judge # 2 -- The best yet. Aggressive use of peppers, onions, garlic. Superb
Judge # 3 -- My intestines are now a straight pipe filled with gaseous, sulfuric flames. I crapped on myself when I farted, and I'm worried it will eat through the chair. No one seems inclined to stand behind me except that Sally. Can't feel my lips anymore. I need to wipe my butt with a snow cone.
CHILI # 7 - SUSAN'S SCREAMING SENSATION CHILI
Judge # 1 -- A mediocre chili with too much reliance on canned peppers.
Judge # 2 -- Ho hum, tastes as if the chef literally threw in a can of chili peppers at the last moment.
**I should take note that I am worried about Judge # 3. He appears to be in a bit of distress as he is cursing uncontrollably.
Judge # 3 -- You could put a grenade in my mouth, pull the pin, and I wouldn't feel a thing. I've lost sight in one eye, and the world sounds like it is made of rushing water. My shirt is covered with chili, which slid unnoticed out of my mouth. My pants are full of lava to match my shirt.
At least during the autopsy, they'll know what killed me. I've decided to stop breathing it's too painful. Screw it; I'm not getting any oxygen anyway. If I need air, I'll just suck it in through the 4-inch hole in my stomach.
CHILI # 8 - BIG TOM'S TOENAIL CURLING CHILI
Judge # 1 -- The perfect ending, this is a nice blend chili. Not too bold, but spicy enough to declare its existence.
Judge # 2 -- This final entry is a good, balanced chili. Neither mild nor hot. Sorry to see that most of it was lost when Judge #3 farted, passed out, fell over and pulled the chili pot down on top of himself. Not sure if he's going to make it. Poor fellar, wonder how he'd have reacted to really hot chili?
Judge # 3 - No Report
If you can read this whole story without laughing, then there's no hope for you.
I was crying by the end.
This is an actual account as relayed to paramedics at a chili cook-off in Texas.
Note: Please take time to read this slowly.If you pay attention to the first two judges, the reaction of the third judge is even better. For those of you who have lived in Texas, you know how true this is. They actually have a Chili Cook-off about the time Halloween comes around. It takes up a major portion of a parking lot at the San Antonio City Park.
Judge #3 was an inexperienced Chili taster named Frank, who was visiting from Springfield, IL. Frank: 'Recently, I was honored to be selected as a judge at a chilicook-off. The original person called in sick at the last moment and I happened to be standing there at the judge's table, asking for directions to the Coors Light truck, when the call came in. I was assured by the other two judges (Native Texans) that the chili wouldn't be all that spicy; and,besides, they told me I could have free beer during the tasting, so Iaccepted and became Judge 3.
Here are the scorecard notes from the event:
CHILI # 1 - MIKE'S MANIAC MONSTER CHILI
Judge # 1 -- A little too heavy on the tomato. Amusing kick.
Judge # 2 -- Nice, smooth tomato flavor. Very mild.
Judge # 3 (Frank) -- Holy crap, what the hell is this stuff? You could remove dried paint from your driveway. Took me two beers to put the flamesout. I hope that's the worst one. These Texans are crazy.
CHILI # 2 - AUSTIN'S AFTERBURNER CHILI
Judge # 1 -- Smoky, with a hint of pork. Slight jalapeno tang.
Judge # 2 -- Exciting BBQ flavor, needs more peppers to be taken seriously.
Judge # 3 -- Keep this out of the reach of children. I'm not sure what I'ms upposed to taste besides pain. I had to wave off two people who wanted togive me the Heimlich maneuver. They had to rush in more beer when they sawthe look on my face.
CHILI # 3 - FRED'S FAMOUS BURN DOWN THE BARN CHILI
Judge # 1 -- Excellent firehouse chili. Great kick.
Judge # 2 -- A bit salty, good use of peppers.
Judge # 3 -- Call the EPA. I've located a uranium spill. My nose feels like I have been snorting Drano. Everyone knows the routine by now. Get me more beer before I ignite. Barmaid pounded me on the back, now my backbone is in the front part of my chest. I'm getting shit-faced from all of the beer.
CHILI # 4 - BUBBA'S BLACK MAGIC
Judge # 1 -- Black bean chili with almost no spice. Disappointing.
Judge # 2 -- Hint of lime in the black beans. Good side dish for fish orother mild foods, not much of a chili.
Judge # 3 -- I felt something scraping across my tongue, but was unable to taste it. Is it possible to burn out taste buds? Sally, the beer maid, was standing behind me with fresh refills. This 300 lb.woman is starting to look HOT ... just like this nuclear waste I'm eating! Is chili an aphrodisiac?
CHILI # 5 - LISA'S LEGAL LIP REMOVER
Judge # 1 -- Meaty, strong chili. Cayenne peppers freshly ground, adding considerable kick. Very impressive.
Judge # 2 -- Chili using shredded beef, could use more tomato. Must admit the cayenne peppers make a strong statement.
Judge # 3 -- My ears are ringing, sweat is pouring off my forehead and Ican no longer focus my eyes. I farted, and four people behind me needed paramedics. The contestant seemed offended when I told her that her chilihad given me brain damage. Sally saved my tongue from bleeding by pouring beer directly on it from the pitcher. I wonder if I'm burning my lips off. It really ticks me off that the other judges asked me to stop screaming. Screw them.
CHILI # 6 - VERA'S VERY VEGETARIAN VARIETY
Judge # 1 -- Thin yet bold vegetarian variety chili. Good balance of spices and peppers.
Judge # 2 -- The best yet. Aggressive use of peppers, onions, garlic. Superb
Judge # 3 -- My intestines are now a straight pipe filled with gaseous, sulfuric flames. I crapped on myself when I farted, and I'm worried it will eat through the chair. No one seems inclined to stand behind me except that Sally. Can't feel my lips anymore. I need to wipe my butt with a snow cone.
CHILI # 7 - SUSAN'S SCREAMING SENSATION CHILI
Judge # 1 -- A mediocre chili with too much reliance on canned peppers.
Judge # 2 -- Ho hum, tastes as if the chef literally threw in a can of chili peppers at the last moment.
**I should take note that I am worried about Judge # 3. He appears to be in a bit of distress as he is cursing uncontrollably.
Judge # 3 -- You could put a grenade in my mouth, pull the pin, and I wouldn't feel a thing. I've lost sight in one eye, and the world sounds like it is made of rushing water. My shirt is covered with chili, which slid unnoticed out of my mouth. My pants are full of lava to match my shirt.
At least during the autopsy, they'll know what killed me. I've decided to stop breathing it's too painful. Screw it; I'm not getting any oxygen anyway. If I need air, I'll just suck it in through the 4-inch hole in my stomach.
CHILI # 8 - BIG TOM'S TOENAIL CURLING CHILI
Judge # 1 -- The perfect ending, this is a nice blend chili. Not too bold, but spicy enough to declare its existence.
Judge # 2 -- This final entry is a good, balanced chili. Neither mild nor hot. Sorry to see that most of it was lost when Judge #3 farted, passed out, fell over and pulled the chili pot down on top of himself. Not sure if he's going to make it. Poor fellar, wonder how he'd have reacted to really hot chili?
Judge # 3 - No Report
Monday, June 30, 2008
What the ...?
What The ...? DMV Offers License Plate Fix
Free Replacement Offered For 'WTF' Tags
POSTED: 2:43 pm CDT June 25, 2008
UPDATED: 3:28 pm CDT June 25, 2008
Thanks to some text message-savvy grandchildren, North Carolina drivers whose license plates have the potentially offensive "WTF" letter combination can replace the tags for free.
The News & Observer of Raleigh reported Tuesday the state Division of Motor Vehicles has notified nearly 10,000 holders of license plates with the letter combination. Officials learned last year the common acronym stands for a vulgar phrase in e-mail and cell phone text messages.
The DMV recently realized the same letters appeared on the sample license plate on its own Web site. Officials are trying to remove the plate from the site.
"I can't believe it," DMV Commissioner Bill Gore told the newspaper on Monday when alerted to the situation. "Obviously, I didn't know it was there."
DMV officials got word of the plates last July when a 60-year-old technology teacher from Fayetteville complained about the plate after her teenage grandchildren clued her in.
It would definitely take a younger crowd to figure this one out. I don't know about you, but I go down the road trying to figure out license plates. It's like a game to my family and me. Some of the things we've come up with are too funny, it's a great way to pass the time when you're trying to get from one place to another.
My neighbor doesn't have a personalized plate, but hers does contain the letters DTZ and she is a bit of a ditz if you ask me. I have a personalized plate on my truck...a lot of people ask me about it too. (I guess they just can't figure it out!!) NTZMAMA ~ it stems from taking care of many kids over the last 10 years. You know, nutzy mama?!?
Some of those plates just keep me a-guessing and that's what I'll be doing when I absolutely have to head out on the road to get somewhere. I don't go out driving around much anymore with what gas is priced, $3.97 per gallon, but I still like to play the game when we're out for a walk.
Next time you're out and you don't think you've got anything else to do, start looking at those plates and see what you can come up with!!
Free Replacement Offered For 'WTF' Tags
POSTED: 2:43 pm CDT June 25, 2008
UPDATED: 3:28 pm CDT June 25, 2008
Thanks to some text message-savvy grandchildren, North Carolina drivers whose license plates have the potentially offensive "WTF" letter combination can replace the tags for free.
The News & Observer of Raleigh reported Tuesday the state Division of Motor Vehicles has notified nearly 10,000 holders of license plates with the letter combination. Officials learned last year the common acronym stands for a vulgar phrase in e-mail and cell phone text messages.
The DMV recently realized the same letters appeared on the sample license plate on its own Web site. Officials are trying to remove the plate from the site.
"I can't believe it," DMV Commissioner Bill Gore told the newspaper on Monday when alerted to the situation. "Obviously, I didn't know it was there."
DMV officials got word of the plates last July when a 60-year-old technology teacher from Fayetteville complained about the plate after her teenage grandchildren clued her in.
It would definitely take a younger crowd to figure this one out. I don't know about you, but I go down the road trying to figure out license plates. It's like a game to my family and me. Some of the things we've come up with are too funny, it's a great way to pass the time when you're trying to get from one place to another.
My neighbor doesn't have a personalized plate, but hers does contain the letters DTZ and she is a bit of a ditz if you ask me. I have a personalized plate on my truck...a lot of people ask me about it too. (I guess they just can't figure it out!!) NTZMAMA ~ it stems from taking care of many kids over the last 10 years. You know, nutzy mama?!?
Some of those plates just keep me a-guessing and that's what I'll be doing when I absolutely have to head out on the road to get somewhere. I don't go out driving around much anymore with what gas is priced, $3.97 per gallon, but I still like to play the game when we're out for a walk.
Next time you're out and you don't think you've got anything else to do, start looking at those plates and see what you can come up with!!
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Happy 11th Birthday Jacob!!
I can hardly believe that my baby turns 11 today. On Wednesday, June 4, 1997, at 6:59 p.m., my son Jacob was born. He was 6 days early, but he weighed in at 8 lbs and was 19 inches long. He was and still is such a cutie.
Jacob sure does give me a run for my sanity at times. We are so much alike that it's spooky, although he is built quite a bit like his daddy and there are many times that he acts just like him. I love him to pieces even though there are those moments when I'd like to just throw up my hands and wonder what I ever did to deserve such a pain in my ass.
There are days I can hardly wait to see the wonderful young man he becomes. But right now I think I'll enjoy him at 11. Happy b-day JT!!!
Taggeroni, Taggalicious, and Taggafantabulous!
I got tagged by my friend Patti so here are the answers to her questions...
What was I doing 10 years ago? Celebrating my youngest son's 1st b-day, taking care of same son while he was "sick" with the chicken pox (the other 2 boys had it in May). Getting ready to start a new job at a cheese company.
Five snacks I enjoy: fresh strawberries or raspberries, cheese and crackers, cheetos twists, ice cream, homemade choc chip cookies
Five things on my to-do list today: Celebrate Jacob's 11th b-day, plan Jacob's party for Saturday, go to work, not go ballistic on hubby for lying, take a shower
Things I would do if I were a billionaire: pay off my debt, build my dream house, help my grams pay off her debt, give some to charity and cancer research, go on a long vacation, set my boys up with a trust of some kind.
Five jobs I've had: mom, shirt presser, cashier, certified nursing assistant, machine operator
Five bad habits: cracking my knuckles, correcting someone when they're speaking, picking out spelling errors, sitting too long at the computer, putting up with my hubby when I know he's lying.
Five places I've lived: Jefferson, WI; Fort Atkinson, WI; North Freedom, WI; Lake Mills, WI; San Antonio, TX (my fave!!)
5 random things: My 3 sons are my world, my Grams is my hero, I'd like to lose 40 lbs, I want to move away from here, I hate liars and cheaters
Who I want to tag and torture: sorry I don't know anybody else on this site besides my tagger and her friends who have already been tagged
What was I doing 10 years ago? Celebrating my youngest son's 1st b-day, taking care of same son while he was "sick" with the chicken pox (the other 2 boys had it in May). Getting ready to start a new job at a cheese company.
Five snacks I enjoy: fresh strawberries or raspberries, cheese and crackers, cheetos twists, ice cream, homemade choc chip cookies
Five things on my to-do list today: Celebrate Jacob's 11th b-day, plan Jacob's party for Saturday, go to work, not go ballistic on hubby for lying, take a shower
Things I would do if I were a billionaire: pay off my debt, build my dream house, help my grams pay off her debt, give some to charity and cancer research, go on a long vacation, set my boys up with a trust of some kind.
Five jobs I've had: mom, shirt presser, cashier, certified nursing assistant, machine operator
Five bad habits: cracking my knuckles, correcting someone when they're speaking, picking out spelling errors, sitting too long at the computer, putting up with my hubby when I know he's lying.
Five places I've lived: Jefferson, WI; Fort Atkinson, WI; North Freedom, WI; Lake Mills, WI; San Antonio, TX (my fave!!)
5 random things: My 3 sons are my world, my Grams is my hero, I'd like to lose 40 lbs, I want to move away from here, I hate liars and cheaters
Who I want to tag and torture: sorry I don't know anybody else on this site besides my tagger and her friends who have already been tagged
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Dreams and Horoscopes
I woke up this morning from a horrible dream. With it still banging inside my head I said good morning to my hubby before he walked out the door for work. He asked me what was wrong and I told him "a whacked out dream". He looked as though he wanted to stay and hear about it, but knew he didn't want to be late so I told him that I'll tell him later.
I wouldn't have given it much more thought, although I've learned to "listen" to what my dreams say because I know there are sometimes hidden meaning behind them. It's like gut instinct - you can't always explain it but you know deep down that it needs to be 'heard'. Anyway, I opened up my home page at yahoo and here's what my horoscope told me:
Aquarius (1/20-2/18)
Pay closer attention to your dreams -- they may help you identify patterns that could shed a lot of light on your life. Your subconscious mind is working while you sleep, playing out different potential scenarios and showing you alternate ways of looking at the world. Sure, most of the images are weird or downright disturbing, but sometimes being disturbed is the best way to wake up from the monotony of routine. Your brain is hungry for a change in your life, and your heart should be, too.
Well, here's the thing... I'm trying to make changes in my life as we speak. I put in a call to the county daycare people and told them I would like to get recertified for daycare and that I'm reopening my doors so they can send people my way!! My dream had more to do with what has been going on in the last 9 months though and very little to do with taking care of kids.
I've been trying to look at the world differently, I even thought I was on the right track. I guess I'll have to wait a little longer to find out for sure. Just gotta give the world a chance to catch up with me.
I wouldn't have given it much more thought, although I've learned to "listen" to what my dreams say because I know there are sometimes hidden meaning behind them. It's like gut instinct - you can't always explain it but you know deep down that it needs to be 'heard'. Anyway, I opened up my home page at yahoo and here's what my horoscope told me:
Aquarius (1/20-2/18)
Pay closer attention to your dreams -- they may help you identify patterns that could shed a lot of light on your life. Your subconscious mind is working while you sleep, playing out different potential scenarios and showing you alternate ways of looking at the world. Sure, most of the images are weird or downright disturbing, but sometimes being disturbed is the best way to wake up from the monotony of routine. Your brain is hungry for a change in your life, and your heart should be, too.
Well, here's the thing... I'm trying to make changes in my life as we speak. I put in a call to the county daycare people and told them I would like to get recertified for daycare and that I'm reopening my doors so they can send people my way!! My dream had more to do with what has been going on in the last 9 months though and very little to do with taking care of kids.
I've been trying to look at the world differently, I even thought I was on the right track. I guess I'll have to wait a little longer to find out for sure. Just gotta give the world a chance to catch up with me.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Daycare - to do or not to do, that is the question
I was talking with an old supervisor of mine and she asked if I would quit my job and go back to daycare. She'd bring her 3 year old girl and when her son is born then she'd bring him. She said her brother's girlfriend was also in need of daycare. I know that a friend of mine wants to go back to work and would love for me to open my doors again. So that would make 5 kids all under the age of 5. Can we say glutton for punishment??
Even though that seems crazy - I gotta tell you that I am severely tempted. I know that I need to weigh my pros and cons on this - I really miss spending time with kids. Kids are so much easier to deal with than adults! :-) One of the cons is that I would have to rearrange the boys bedrooms again (hate doing that). Money would be more strained for a while. I enjoy doing daycare; spending time with my kids and those other kids, my stress level would prob go down. There are definitely some good sides to this.
I know I'd miss some of the people I work with - I don't even mind the job, but there are some people I could live without. I want to weigh this out cuz I don't want to jump in feet first and end up getting stuck!
I guess I just to put some thought into this. Any suggestions??
Even though that seems crazy - I gotta tell you that I am severely tempted. I know that I need to weigh my pros and cons on this - I really miss spending time with kids. Kids are so much easier to deal with than adults! :-) One of the cons is that I would have to rearrange the boys bedrooms again (hate doing that). Money would be more strained for a while. I enjoy doing daycare; spending time with my kids and those other kids, my stress level would prob go down. There are definitely some good sides to this.
I know I'd miss some of the people I work with - I don't even mind the job, but there are some people I could live without. I want to weigh this out cuz I don't want to jump in feet first and end up getting stuck!
I guess I just to put some thought into this. Any suggestions??
SNOW!!!
Another Valentine's Day has passed, another birthday followed closely behind. Almost hard to believe how quickly the year is going by - only 9 more days of Feb left.
We set the record for the amount of snowfall this season 2007-08. I think I heard 83.7 inches has fallen to the ground. Thank God that we had some warm days to melt some of it away so there isn't quite as much sitting around my driveway or covering the roads. You'd think by now people would know how to drive in this stuff. Unfortunately there are some that are still driving too fast or too slow for conditions and they are going into the ditches. A couple of weeks ago we got almost a foot of snow in less than 8 hours - of course I had spent those 8 hours at work. One of my co-workers couldn't get her car unburied, so I gave her a ride home and then picked her up in the a.m. and took her to work the next day. We have some wonderful guys at work that dug her car out for her that Thursday so she could drive herself home. I seriously wonder what this summer is going to bring us - I thought I overheard someone say that it will probably be like back in 1987 (or was it '88) when there was a drought and it was illegal to toss a lit cigarette from your car window!?!
We set the record for the amount of snowfall this season 2007-08. I think I heard 83.7 inches has fallen to the ground. Thank God that we had some warm days to melt some of it away so there isn't quite as much sitting around my driveway or covering the roads. You'd think by now people would know how to drive in this stuff. Unfortunately there are some that are still driving too fast or too slow for conditions and they are going into the ditches. A couple of weeks ago we got almost a foot of snow in less than 8 hours - of course I had spent those 8 hours at work. One of my co-workers couldn't get her car unburied, so I gave her a ride home and then picked her up in the a.m. and took her to work the next day. We have some wonderful guys at work that dug her car out for her that Thursday so she could drive herself home. I seriously wonder what this summer is going to bring us - I thought I overheard someone say that it will probably be like back in 1987 (or was it '88) when there was a drought and it was illegal to toss a lit cigarette from your car window!?!
Monday, January 7, 2008
Happy New Year!!
I'm betting everybody thought I fell off the face of the earth. I have been so busy between the family, school, and work it's been unbelieveable. Then when I think things will slow down a little the holidays shot past and I am just getting through those.
I was looking back at my page and realized that I haven't posted since August - that's right August. OMG I didn't realize it had been that long, but I know that there was a lot going on in my life. Lots of it was way too painful to write about at that time.
Terry and I had some problems and we've been working through all of that - we still have our moments, but for a while I seriously thought it was going to be divorce court for us.
School didn't go as well as I would've liked this past semester. And I received a crappy form letter from my school that says that since I've got so many credits that I won't be receiving financial aid anymore. I guess I will be taking this semester off and reattempting in the fall - work says that they reimburse tuition and maybe they will work something out with me. My teacher says "apply for a scholarship!!"
The boys are doing ok - Logan moved out of my house and in with his father in Fort. It about broke my heart, especially when he decided he didn't have to come over for Christmas either. I'm know that things will get better. I remember being a rowdy teenager and not wanting to follow the rules either. I just want what's best for my boys and for them not to get hurt.
I'm just so glad that 2007 is over with and that 2008 is not ALLOWED to be worse than last year. We need to look forward, not backward - or at least if we must look back then we need to learn from our mistakes and not make them again. We all know that if we don't learn from the past then we are condemned to repeat it!!
I was looking back at my page and realized that I haven't posted since August - that's right August. OMG I didn't realize it had been that long, but I know that there was a lot going on in my life. Lots of it was way too painful to write about at that time.
Terry and I had some problems and we've been working through all of that - we still have our moments, but for a while I seriously thought it was going to be divorce court for us.
School didn't go as well as I would've liked this past semester. And I received a crappy form letter from my school that says that since I've got so many credits that I won't be receiving financial aid anymore. I guess I will be taking this semester off and reattempting in the fall - work says that they reimburse tuition and maybe they will work something out with me. My teacher says "apply for a scholarship!!"
The boys are doing ok - Logan moved out of my house and in with his father in Fort. It about broke my heart, especially when he decided he didn't have to come over for Christmas either. I'm know that things will get better. I remember being a rowdy teenager and not wanting to follow the rules either. I just want what's best for my boys and for them not to get hurt.
I'm just so glad that 2007 is over with and that 2008 is not ALLOWED to be worse than last year. We need to look forward, not backward - or at least if we must look back then we need to learn from our mistakes and not make them again. We all know that if we don't learn from the past then we are condemned to repeat it!!
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