The 1000 Piece Project

Last week, about mid-week, Daughter called. Apparently Pookie has a two week assignment that entails 1000 pieces of something, anything. It has to be grouped in easy to count ways and each child is encouraged to be creative. So, for the first week, Daughter tried to come up with something creative for Pookie's class project (all of them will be displayed for Open House night) and kept coming up with nada. So, she calls me with a week left. Mr Mushy and I went down to the grocery store that sells pasta in bulk and purchased enough pasta wagon wheels to make Pookie's required 1000 pieces easily. Now Pookie first suggested bagging them into bags .... and that idea was vetoed. We encouraged her to be a bit more creative, which this child has no problem being given free reign. Next suggestion was a pyramid...um, okay... 1000 pasta wagon wheels... how big is this thing going to get? Let's think and see if we can come up with any other ideas first. So, what we came up with in the end were rectangular panels of 100 pasta wagon wheels, hot glued and painted. Five of these panels will be hot glued into 5 sided open ended box (four sides and a top). Guess who got the job with the hot glue gun? Pookie isn't allowed to do it so yours truly volunteered. Yep. In the course of doing the first five panels I have burn marks from the hot glue. Ouch. It's amazing how one little bead of hot glue dropped on an inner wrist stings like a son of a gun, not to mention the nasty little burn it leaves behind. Five panels have been completed, painted and left to dry. A trip to Michael's before taking Pookie home so we can purchase more paint, more glue sticks and hopefully night light gizmos so we can finish up this project. What it will hopefully turn out to be is a two tiered night light for Pookie's bedroom when done. This makes a functional item out of a school class project she can enjoy for awhile. Hopefully this is gonna work. *fingers crossed* This is all kinda been fun because Pookie and I always do some sort of project on Saturday before she goes home. Usually it's cooking but this time it's a class project.

Yesterday the kids were in the backyard riding around in their jeep Power Wheels. I'm not sure what happened, as I was cooking dinner. What I did hear cracked me up so much I damn near dropped the hot pizza I was taking out of the oven. Conversation as follows:

Pookie: PAPA! (Mr Mushy, who goes to the back door and looks in the backyard)
Mr Mushy: What's the matter? Won't it go?
Pookie: Does it look like its going?

Little smart ass. It seems to run in the family.

Adultish--more info than you need? *grin*

Okay, I was curious so I took the test. *smirk*

Switch -- Whoa, the rarest breed of them all! The
switch, able to get a whipping and then turn
around and deal your own smacks. You call the
shots, you take the shots.


What BDSM type are you?
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Things of Mice, Men and Shrooms

Spring is definitely here. I have cats chasing mice in my pantry. I'm still trying to figure out how the little buggers get in. Maybe I should just watch the cats. The winter grasses around the homestead are getting taller. We have to get diligent here soon about cutting it down. As soon as it starts to dry out, we won't be able to mow it down. There's too many odds in favor of a grass fire starting, that's how dry it gets around here.

I managed to get in one evening of role-playing with my partner. I thank the Lady for her indulgence. It is certainly not nearly enough, but like I told him, I am hoping that May proves to be more generous. Bless his heart, that night I apologised for not being around more often. His reply was, " Who's counting? " I certainly don't, but that night I had a lot on my mind and in the forefront was my contributions to creativity. There had been a certain little scuffle among friends that made this not so easy to put from my mind. I had to take a couple of days to let it go because I still didn't agree with them on this. However, I did make my peace with it so, regardless of my own personal feelings in the matter, it's time to move on.

I did get something done for DoubleMoon and am currently working on something for Dark Towers. I have this need to flesh out the tavern and maybe the dungeons a bit more. I'm still mentally working on the next part to Raven and Hawke in their youth. I haven't quite got it clear in my mind yet.

Mr Mushy went to his first group meeting since our departure to Vegas and as promised, I took him down there and one of the guys gave him a lift home. He has been hanging in there. There has been no drinking of late. He also went to see his therapist for his second one on one yesterday. The topic was Mr Mushy's reaction to the subject matter discussed prior to our leaving. I asked about it yesterday and the session went well apparently. I don't dig. I give him his privacy until it becomes apparent that I have to dig. So, I'm quite proud of him and I make sure to tell him so. *wry grin* of course, he's on this sugar binge and it dawned on me today why. It's the sugar. Drinkers, when not drinking for periods of time, crave sugar. It'll pass eventually. It's a damn good thing I no longer have a sweet tooth. Otherwise, his overall health is looking good. He has an appointment on Monday in Sacramento for ENT ( Eyes, Nose, Throat) and from there we cruise on over to Oakland for the night. He has a Scottish Rite meeting. We haven't attended in so long, we'd figure we'd go while we can. We'll be back home Tuesday afternoon.

As for my roleplaying, writing partner... who seems to be basking in the sun like a cat in this content, overly stuffed way... intent on driving me completely bonkers... Butthead. At the oddest moments I get this idea and then in the next second it's ..no, that can't be it... ARUUUGH. Am I bitching? No way. Am I voicing my frustration at not being able to put two and two together yet.. damn straight. His mind has about as many twists and turns as any complex labyrinth. What drives me even more insane is that actually, when one can see it, it's actually quite simple.... I can't think simple. *chuckle*I'm still learning his characters, his history, his backgrounds for every plot he has and just when I think I have him... he throws me a curve.

There are times he makes my brain hurt and it's not like he can kiss it better, dammit. I'm beginning to think the solution lies in a large strawberry margerita and a reclining swing in the shade. I think too much and I think too hard. Damn men, drive me to a distraction but can't live without them. And the worst part to all this? I'm married to one just like him! They're both good people and I'm glad they're a part of my life.

Margeritas... Tall... cold... shaved ice.... one of those little cheesy umbrellas. Yeah. Sounds good.

Now, I have one question......are they served up by a cabana boy in tight pants? Oh, mama.

Remote Possibilities

Well, I did it. I took a step for womankind yesterday... okay, so maybe the step was only for the Grove but hey, I like to swill in the illusions of grandeur from time to time. It makes me feel like I have some control.

I took over the remote control. I admired its design, I pushed a button..ooo.. and it was good.

I got braver as the night wore on and flipped the channel as the male species in this house were watching something most disgusting from Fear Factor.

There was disgruntlement...and it was good.

There is power in that little black box and I have learned something.... I LIKE IT.

I figure there may be three of them and even if they do gang up on me, I can still maintain the POWER. All I have to do is hide the remote. After all, as any woman knows, no man ever TRULY looks for anything... they just pretend they do or if they do feel the urge, it's all superficial anyway.

So, I think I'm pretty safe. There are lots of hiding places here in the Grove. I know only too well. I've got about a hundred bucks hidden so far and that's not counting the change.

And it was good....

Which Cute Little Bunny Are You?

cute? Cute? CUTE? I AM NOT CUTE in ANY sense. Lookin' to git yer butt whipped? Cute is for baby bunnies, chicks, puppies, kitties and babies... NOT 48 year old women... sheesh... but I will lay claim to the psycho part. *snicker*

you are the cute but psycho happy bunny. You
adorable, but a little out there. It's alright,
you might not have it all, but there are worse


which happy bunny are you?
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Time In A Bottle?

Maybe Jim Croce had it right but that should have referred to times when I was young. Now it should be more like.... Energy in a Bottle, some of that 8 and 4 year old energy. Wow. Thank heavens I have Sprout and Troll. Daughter and FB brought the babies by as they were going into town on Friday and Mr Mushy was still out at a funeral after Pookie came home from school.

The weather was so nice and warm and when you take a watering hose, two kids and a nice day, well, something is bound to happen. I could no more keep those kids away from the hose than I could get them to stop breathing. By the time Sprout came home from work those kids were only a little wet. By the time Sprout jumped into the fray, it was on! Water was flying everywhere. I nearly took refuge in the house, but dayam, I still got it. A few well spoken threats accompanied with a growl and the water stayed out of my vacinity. The next thing I saw was Sprout's water jug get poured over Pookie's head and it was closely followed by a high pitched girlish scream. She got even however.

I know the babies are impatiently waiting for the arrival of summer. Grandma sets up the pool and goes out to buy many water guns. Water fights break out here more than gunfights use to in the Old West and nothing is sacred, not even my house.... okay... electronics are and any water even remotely close to them or in their direction... well the punishment is worse than a slow horrible death.... so usually they are all pretty good about that. It also helps that I keep a plastic baseball bat nearby for threatening, should anyone develop a case of forgetfulness.

Today, Pookie and I made cupcakes. I couldn't tell how much frosting she put on the ones she got to take home. That girl loves her chocolate. Today I taught her to separate the egg whites from the yolks, the easy way, using a plastic kitchen device for that purpose and the old-fashioned way, as I was taught. She did pretty good at both. She was proud of herself, but not as nearly proud as I was.

I'm proud of Mr Mushy too. He has done several funerals since we got back and he hasn't paused to sit with the guys and drink. One day at a time. We've talked a little since then. I know he scared himself pretty damn good and I know he knows he scared me too. Everything is one step at a time, one day at a time.

Discovered a nice merlot the other night and I dont usually like merlots, as in wine, in case anyone needs the clarification. I am not much of a drinker in any case, but I do like an occasional wine in the evenings or with dinner. I am partial to white wines, chardonnays actually. I find most reds too harsh for my taste. I am a lost cause. *chuckle* I wouldn't know a really good wine from a bad one. I am just happy to find something I like, of course, it isn't in a bottle of Boone's Farm nor does it come in a box.

Much more to say, but for now this will have to suffice.

Warning! One of THOSE Quizzes

Goddess of Earth


What Kind of Goddess Are You?
brought to you by Quizilla

Here's a grin for you today. 

THE PHILOSOPHY OF GOSSIP

THE PHILOSOPHY OF GOSSIP

Keep this philosophy in mind the next time you either hear or are about to repeat a rumour.

In ancient

Greece (469 - 399 BC), Socrates was widely lauded for his wisdom.
One day the great philosopher came upon an acquaintance who ran up to him excitedly and said,

" Socrates , do you knowwhat I just heard about one of your students?"

"Wait a moment," Socrates replied.

"Before you tell me I'd like you to pass a little test. It's called the Triple Filter Test."

"Triple filter?"

"That's right," Socrates continued.

"Before you talk to me about my student let's take a moment to filter what you'rego! ing to say.

The first filter is Truth. Have you made absolutely sure that what you are about to tell me is true?"

"No," the man said, "actually I just heard about it."

"All right," said Socrates .

"So you don't really know if it's true or not. Now let's try the second filter, the filter of Goodness.

Is what you are about to tell me about my student something good?"

"No, on the contrary ..."

"So," Socrates continued,

"you want to tell me something bad about him, even though you're not certain it's true?"

The man shrugged, a little embarrassed.

Socrates continued.

" You may still pass the test though, because there is a third filter - the filter of Usefulness.

Is what you want to tell me about my student going to be useful to me?"

"No, not really ..."

"Well," concluded Socrates ,

"if what you want to tell me is neither True nor Good nor even Useful, why tell it to me at all?"

The man was defeated and ashamed.

This is the reason Socrates was a great philosopher and held in such high esteem. It also explains why he never found out that Plato was shagging his wife.

WORLD'S EASIEST QUIZ

WORLD'S EASIEST QUIZ
(Passing requires 4 correct answers)

1) How long did the Hundred Years War last?

2) Which country makes Panama Hats?

3) From which animal do we get catgut?

4) In which month do Russians celebrate the October Revolution?

5) What is a camel's hair brush made from?

6) The Canaary Islands in the Pacific are named after what animal?

7) What was King George VI's first name?

8) What color is a purple finch?

9) Where are Chinese gooseberries from?

10) What is the color of the black box in a commercial airplane?



All done? Check your answers below.



ANSWERS TO THE QUIZ

1) How long did the Hundred Year War last?
116 years

2) Which country makes Panama Hats?
Ecuador

3) From which animal do we get catgut?
Sheep and horses

4) In which month do Russians celebrate the October Revolution?
November

5) What is a camel's hair brush made from?
Squirrel fur

6) The Canary Islands in the Pacific are named after what animal?
Dogs

7) What was King George VI's first name?
Albert

8) What color is a purple finch?
Crimson

9) Where are Chinese gooseberries from?
New Zealand

10) What is the color of the black box in a commercial airplane?
Orange, of course

WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU FAILED?

Keeping Up

Oh my.... said on a long drawn out breath. What a whirlwind life has been so far this month. I know I could use some role-playing time to unwind, but dammit, by the time my day winds down, I'm out, sound asleep. The old bod is giving me what she's got, but my mind says it ain't enough. The soul is tired too. I know I bring this all on myself, I mean, I could simply walk away, but it's not in my nature when I know that my presence helps to make a difference. It becomes apparent that I'm knocking my head against a brick wall, I will give it an experimental push or two, but after that, I walk away. I just do not have the time or the energy to keep trying to help make a difference when it becomes apparent that the parties involved aren't going to achieve it, for whatever reasons. I am not the world's most patient person, hell, the universe is simply lucky that it has taught me patience at all.

I'm crabby. Writing is something my soul needs and while everything is twirling around in my head like a tornado, ideas, communications, plotlines, outlines, scenarios, to actually sit down and begin the process is just not happening. Something has to crack soon, I just hope it isn't the ice under my feet. I do not relish the idea of taking a cold bath. I feel like I'm being drawn and quartered, tied between four horses, spread-eagled and pulled. There are things that need to be done on a regular basis so the household runs semi-smoothly, things that need to be done to keep the business productive, family members who request my input because I supposedly have a handle on life and there are those who I have found through the technology of cyberspace, who have become very near and dear to me... to those, I feel so damn bad because I feel like I am neglecting them... that somehow, I should be able to give some part of me even if for only a little while.. and Lady only knows, how much I need them. They are part of my sanity, part of my dreams, part of the will I find to keep digging through the everyday trenches. To those I say, you just don't know how much in the course of a busy day, a day when I am tired, I think about you... I do. You bring a smile to my face, a note of joyous song to my heart and sometimes, I even hear your voices...uh... maybe I am slipping a clog, eh? But you know what I mean. I do miss you. Some small amount of solace is found in reading your blogs. I rather be " talking" to you directly, but when that doesn't happen, at least I can read what you are up to, what is happening in your lives.

The weather is so nice right now, not too hot, not too cold. The sun feels so good on my skin. When I have a moment, albeit, a brief moment, I go and sit on a hay bale and lift my face to the sun. By the Lady, it feels so damn good. It renews something inside me. I draw it inside me and keep trying to get more, greedy little bugger that I am. When I open my eyes, I see the green grasses, the flowers in bloom and I feel...... lucky to be alive. I just wish I could live in that moment awhile longer, a lot longer. With a sigh not only on my lips, but in my heart, I know it isn't possible. So maybe, all the little moments I can gather, will make up for that. I hope so.

Movies: Went to see Sahara on our anniversary. Great movie. If you get the opportunity to see it do so. It's got a little bit of everything., civil war history, humor, intrigue, espionage, you name it. I want the dvd when it comes out.

The Kingdom of Heaven: I saw the trailers for this one and it's on my list to go see. You know me and knights. *grins*

State of the Union: Saw the trailers for this one, also on my list.

War of the Worlds: Tom Cruise, redone by Spielberg. Trailers show great promise, also on my list to go see.

There was another movie, can't recall at the moment the name. Humorous type. Those I always like.

Regarding current events, I hope to be able to post my thoughts on those this weekend. I got the babies on Friday. They haven't been here for two weeks. In the meantime, you all hang in there, enjoy whatever comes your way, and if that isn't possible, make the best of it. Mega hugs and much love.

Anniversary

Today Mr Mushy and I celebrate our wedding anniversary. I can honestly say that sometimes it has felt like forever ( that could be construed in two ways *grin* and both would be correct, depending on how my day is going) and sometimes, I can't believe it has been this long.

I appreciate him so much. This man came into my life having never had children of his own and took on my brood of three. Sprout was the hardest one to get along with. Sprout is a young man who hates disruptions in his perceived routines. So bringing a new man into his life, well, one can only imagine how that went in the beginning. I insisted on being the discipline because I knew there would be resentment if the hubby tried. I believe the only time the hubby ever stepped in was when Sprout went too far and was thoroughly disrespectful and the hubby got to him before I could. Sprout found himself up against a wall with his hands held behind his back. That was a tension moment, but they got through it. Afterwards, the hubby and Sprout talked and worked it out. Those two bang heads like two goats on the same mountain trail going in different directions. The difference is that after the hotheads cool down they talk it out and end up either having a meal together, hugging and getting along. The head butting has gotten further and further apart as Sprout has gotten older.

Mr. Mushy was there for me when I had to send the number one boy to live with his aunt. It clearly was one of the roughest spots in my life time. We've weathered it all so far and not too badly, I believe. Sometimes, I sit and feel sorry for myself, not often mind you, but it's a little of this whinny crap, " Why is it all so hard? " No sooner does the thought complete itself and it's gone again as no consequence. Who cares? My life is not sedate and boring. For all the aggravation, I wouldn't have any other way...... ok.... in the worst of storms that brew, I wish for a more peaceful existence. Hehehe. Still, all in all, with the caring of my dearest, closest friends and the man I love more dearly than my own life, everything is bearable.

OH.. and a little sidenote for my writing partner... I have one word for you... BRAT!

Is There A Brass Ring With This Merry-Go-Round?

Arrrruuuuugh!!!

Okay. That felt better. Sorta. Maybe. Not.

It's all about family. If it isn't my immediate family, it's Mr Mushy's and somehow, I'm in on this. Don't ask me how, I'm still trying to figure it out.

Ever since I got back from Vegas, I have not had one whole day to myself. I've either been on the phone or traveling to Sacramento or dealing with business. I managed a wee bit of time earlier in the week but dayam. This is not a complaint, merely commentary.

I have a brother-in-law, two years younger than myself, he's the second from the youngest in his family and has some serious issues, none of which I care to get into at the moment. To try and save some cramping of my fingers, he has ended up at my mother-in-law's and sister-in-law's house and has been mooching off them for three months now. To my m-i-l, he has been trying, to everyone else, well, he's not fooling anyone. After my talk with my m-i-l on Wednesday, he isn't fooling her either, not really, not deep down. However, my b-i-l he's a con artisit amongst other things. He knows how to play people and he'll use any means to get what he needs to make his life easier, to include guilt. My m-i-l felt the daughter living with her was being mean to her brother. Well, there is no love lost between them. B-i-l, behind his mom's back, talks about his sister with total disrespect. Hm. Everything is everyone's else fault and he never takes responsibilities for his actions. He gets into finanacial problems and he's dialing the families phone numbers. Before Mr Mushy met me, he loaned the brother some money, since me, it hasn't happened. I'm such a mean wench, aren't I? *snort*

Well, crap is going to hit the fan next week and more than likely on Mr Mushy's and my wedding anniversary. We have to be down in Sacramento again, Sleep Disorder Clinic, not me, Mr Mushy. Ah well, we'll celebrate later. It's also might turn into the day when the ca-ca will hit the fan. it remains to be seen, but I'm not holding my breath. Stay tuned, you might get to watch my sanity take a flying leap.

FB. Gods. Two things have emerged. One is his daughter by his ex. Our ADA finally got around to to looking at FB's case. At the moment there is nothing she can do to help get custody. However, she can help FB in keeping his ex to the judgement. The ex wife doesn't know everything, but ADA has been in touch with his ex's soon to be ex husband and more than likely the sheriff. She also has been in touch with the FB's ex. Suddenly, the ex has called FB with a pack of lies you could choke on. FB's ex now has a new boyfriend who has taken it upon himself to let FB know that FB can call his daughter but his daughter will not be coming out to Calif this summer. Wrong. Court order says otherwise and our ADA is going to make sure it's followed. I do believe FB's ex is the ADA's new pet project, like she needed another one, I'm sure. The boyfriend has also informed FB that FB's daughter has a lot of questions for FB, such as, why hasn't daddy called or written me all this time. So, part of this answer lies in Fb's ex's lap. She has told everyone FB is dead. The other half of this is in FB's lap. My daughter has been graciously and subtly trying to tell FB that he needs to call his daughter more or it's going to come back to bite him in the ass. She never nagged him about it because he would get pissy with her, hence, being subtle on her part. Hell, personally, when dealing with a stubborn mule who digs its heels in, my method would be less subtle. I'd would take a 2 x 4 to the back of its head. I'm not sure it would get better results, but it sure as hell would make me feel better, not much you can do constructively with a stubborn mule......then I'd bury it in the garden with my shovel. *snicker*

FB's latest stupidity is that my daughter recently found some nekky pics of a female friend of FB's which FB chose to keep on his laptop that he and daughter share. Yeah, well, I never claimed FB was the brightest bulb in the pack. Daughter is livid. Of course the female in question was trying to become a close friend to my daughter, well that isn't going to happen. Daughter is biding her time, when the wench calls the house, Daughter will be giving the wench a piece of her (Daughter's) mind..... not that Daughter can afford to give up a piece, yes, I do love her, terribly much so, but I have never been in denial where any of my children are concerned, bless their little pea picking hearts.

I spent most of Saturday morning online trying to secure tickets for Troll, Sprout and Daughter to the WWE event(professional wrestling) coming to our civic auditorium. Now that was an interesting morning, not. Needless to say, I didn't get great seats, but they'll do.

Oh yes, and before I forget.... Mr Mushy had an excellent report from oncology. All his tests look good. He has to go back in 6 months and if that one looks just as good, we get to stretch the appointments to once a year and after the next two years, with good reports, we can consider him having beat it. It pays for everyone over 50 to get a colonoscopy done. I dread to think what would have happened if he hadn't. If he had got it done at 50 instead of 56, it wouldn't have developed as much as it had and if he had waited any longer, it would have broke through his colon and affected a number of vital organs and he wouldn't be here today. So, get it done. It can save your life. Colon cancer is a silent killer but caught in time, it is cureable.

That's my soapbox for the day.

Home Again, Home Again

First off, my apologies to my dear friends for their worry. As I explained to the few online most recently, I gave my faster connection line to Sprout on Monday night and on Tuesday so he could get his online gaming fix. Of course, I had to claim it for today, work to catch up on. Since today is his last day of vacation is today, I may just feel generous and let him use the line tonight too. He really is a good guy.

We made it home without any problems and no further tickets. Getting the ticket this past Thursday as we drove in, made my teeth clench. However, I have since come to the conclusion that his foot and his brain are NOT connected and act independently of each other. For whatever reason, even after the ticket, the man had a hard time getting his speed down to the approaching speed limit as dictated for the town. If it says 25, he would cruise into town at 35. I tell ya, I was looking around for an abandoned shovel along the roadside. I did not get lucky. Lucky him. Something else I noted, and I swear to you, it's a male thing. I noticed that all the men that drove in town, in Vegas, when they stopped at a red light, they didn't actually come to a standstill, they let the car roll a little. I looked at Mr Mushy and said, " What are you thinking? That rolling the car is going to make the light change to green any faster?" And it wasn't only him. I watched other male drivers and they did the same thing. A male thing. *nodnod* Gotta be.

Troll decided to go bald Wednesday night before we left for Vegas. I did the initial cutting as his hair was a bit long in back. Sprout wanted to be the one to razor him. Too funny. The rolling commentary was something else again. When all was said and done, I have to say that Troll looks damn good. He looks mean as hell, but it suits him. I never did get the chance to set up the web cam for candid shots.

As for Sprout, at midnight, he and Troll went on down to the Hard Rock Casino and Sprout won $125.00. Troll lost money. Troll's whole attitude this vacation was that he was out to play to lose. He wasn't expecting to win, but if he did, great. They had a good time. Speaking of good times, Mr Mushy and myself had a good time as well. Both of us didn't do badly at gambling. I won $20.00 at Keno, the first time for that. I believe all in all, I broke even or at least lost maybe about $20.00. We didn't get to some places we planned on seeing. I'm pretty open and fexible that way. We ended up catching a show to see Ronn Lucas at the Rio. I didn't remember seeing him before but once he brought out his " Billy" (the cowboy) puppet, I remembered him. He's good. You forget that it's a puppet on the end of his hand. If you ever get the opportunity to see him, do so. Cute show and good for some laughs. I especially enjoyed Scorch, his pet teenage dragon. The man took a plain old sock and made it talk. You forgot it was a sock. Like I said, he's good.

We also went down to the Stratosphere. The gaming was okay. I refused to let Mr Mushy do those rides at the top of the thing. No way, no how. Can someone say heart attack? And it wouldn't have been him. We stopped in at the Circus, Circus. Nuh-uh. That place is going to seed. Nasty. We finally got to see The Sirens of TI (Treasure Island, the Mirage Treasure Island) yeah, it was good for a bit of flash and succulent young firm flesh. When the leading wench pulled out her bullwhip, Sprout, who was behind me, said " Oooo Baby, Marry me. " *chuckle* Kinky goofball. We didn't stand around to watch the Mirage's volcano blow it's fireballs. By the Lady, that place gets way too packed with people on a Saturday night. We'll catch that and all the other goodies next time around. The next time we'll fly, even if we have to endure a layover in Colorado or Salt Lake. It sure will be cheaper than getting speeding tickets. Next year it's hopefully a planned trip to Disneyland for Daughter and the grandbabies. A long time ago, before we left Hawaii, my ex promised our children a trip to Disneyland. Needless to say, he never fulfilled that promise. My number two son went with his first wife, we took Sprout for his graduation from high school and now I am going tot to take Daughter and the babies. The jury is still out on FB and if he will be allowed to go with. I am not going to let FB ruin a fun time for the daughter and the babies. It always seems like Daughter and FB get into fights and I don't want to deal with it and I don't want Pookie to have to deal with it either. So, he may or may not go. We'll see. Speaking of FB, I have an update on him too and one on Mr Mushy's family. However, at the moment, I have other things to do, so that update will have to wait.

The fur babies were so happy to see us. My house wasn't as bad as I pictured it, but they sure did have shredded paper all over the place. Right now we can't go two feet without one of them shadowing us or one of the cats sprawling all over us when we sit down. Go away for 4 nights and you'd think the whole world turned upside down. Well, maybe to them it did.

Did we all have a good time in Vegas? Yes. Did we all get an opportunity to relax and unwind? Yes. I enjoyed my jacuzzi every chance I got... me and my blue rubber ducky. So, now we're back and working on getting back into the swing of real life and its demands.

Oooookay

*blink* Apparently the lost note in cyberspace has founds its way into my blog afterall. Why doesn't anything surprise me anymore?

*Whew*

Hello from Las Vegas or otherwise known as Sin City. I did try to post last night before I went to bed but somehow it got lost in cyberland. I gave up after the second try. Of course I tried to use the 'recover post' and it didn't work, thought it may have been me but maybe it was bugged. Aside from not being able to recover what I was going to post, I can' remember what I wanted to write. Man, is the retro over yet?

If you're ever in Vegas and have even the slightest interest in marine life, I suggest you visit the Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay. That was awesome. We then went over to the Excalibur for The Tournament of Kings. The show has improved but tonight the food, which is normally great, was off. After that, we drove down to Mirage, Treasure Island to see The Sirens of Treasure Island but because of high winds, the show was cancelled so was the Mirage's volcano show. Last night we had dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe. The food was good and the crowds were interesting. *grin*. I promised Mr Mushy that we would go to New York, New York and Sprout offered to ride the roller coaster with him, thank heavens. Neither Troll or I do roller coasters. There hasn't been much down time for moi but that's okay. So long as Sprout enjoys himself.

Just arriving inside Northern Las Vegas, Mr Mushy got a speeding ticket, yes again. The state trooper didn't even give him the option of paying bail but put down that Mr Mushy must attend court. When we get home, I'll be writing a letter to the court and request a bail because making it back to Vegas is not going to be possible for all intents and purposes. Given that it's about 700 miles plus to return and a financial hardship, I am hoping the court will simply allow us to get a bail amount to forfeit. No, Mama is not a happy camper, but what can I do and what good will it do stay mad over something that's a done deal.

Daughter called this evening. They went out to the house to care for the animals. Apparently the animals have not been happy and have definitely run amok. LOL. I knew they would.

Okay, I'm beat. I'm going off to spend another hour soaking in the jacuzzi. *sigh* I love that tub.

Stay Well.

Really Short Note

We're here, safe as can be. Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers because a couple of times I wondered if they got ticked off as used. I'll explain more later. Oh yes.. *GRUMP* Mr Mushy got another friggin ticket, this time we made it into Vegas. I'm mad enough to spit silver dollars but what will that achieve? (aside from having some money to gamble on?) I am not going to ruin Sprout's vacation/birthday. I'll probably get more vocal later as I can feel it building up. Aren't y'all just sooo lucky. I'd actually feel sorry for you but I know you can simply move along. Ahhh well, I had a nice long soak in the jacuzzi and now I'm ready for bed. Tomorrow is a new day. After all, this one could have been worse.

Sleep well.

AH-HA!

The SUV is out front, Troll and Sprout are packing and I will be doing the same here in a few minutes. Last minutes buying and puttering is complete. I want the Explorer packed and ready to go by tonight. I was mildly and pleasantly surprised that when we went to pick up the Explorer, we got a 2005 one. It had only 60 miles on it. It's nice. Now we'll see how it drives and how well this old bod holds up traveling in it.

We're leaving around 6 am, check in is at 4 pm. I like to get there as close to that as possible.Once there and upacked I still need to make a store run and there's dinner to go out for. I plan to simply veg tomorrow night in the whirlpool bathtub with candle light and my blue rubber ducky (he goes everywhere with me)

The next time you'll hear from me is from Sin City. With Troll and Sprout along, there's no telling what is going to happen *chuckle* Stay Tuned.

Mercury's little tickle:

Yes, there was one but I don't have time to expound at the moment. Perhaps in the next few days. In the meantime, say a little prayer for me... dang.. I can hear that song in my head now.

Ciao.

Are We There Yet?

Two more days, just two more days and then I'm on my way to enjoying some relaxation, good food and good times. I can't wait. Sprout came in the front door doing a jig himself, chanting, 2 more days of work. Come to think of it, I thought I heard Troll saying the same thing as he went out the door to work this evening.

Other than the great in depth conversations around the Grove on current events, things have been relatively quiet. Of course, I won't admit to the others about some minor anxiety I have over leaving my babies ( the shelties and kitties), hell, if I am honest, there is always a wee bit of anxiety whenever I leave home and the guys go with us. I always relax more when I know someone is here to care for the critters and watch the place. We have some wonderful neighbors who keep a good eye on things and don't hesitate to come over and investigate. Daughter and family will be feeding the critters and doing walk throughs and it's only for 3 days and some, leaving Thursday morning around 6 am and heading home after 10 am on Monday. The drive is about 10-12 hours, depending on which way we go. This time we have opted for going into Nevada and driving straight down. It's a bit shorter that way and a straight shot after getting out of Reno.

Mercury's Little Tickle:

I was taking a shower this morning, heard the dog eating the cat food so I put one foot out of the tub to chase her out of the room. When I went to step back in, my foot slipped in the tub and I landed on my arse, hitting the underside of my right arm on the rim. Ouch. It was sore and I knew it was bruised but it wasn't until later that I noticed that I had a goose egg growing on it. A little ice wrapped in a towel handled that just fine. Hey, at least Mercury was merciful. It could have been worse. Actually Mercury has been merciful for the last two weeks. I am grateful. One more week to go. Be gentle Mercury, be gentle.

The Sickies

Well looking at myself in the mirror this morning didn't make my eyes hurt. I can safely say I feel almost par. My body still feels a bit worn out, but my appetite at least registers on some sort of scale whereas before it was non-existent. If I take it easy through the weekend and until we leave, I believe I can embrace my vacation time and actually get to enjoy it. Mr Mushy, and this slays me, is more up to par than I am. That may be because of his previous flu shot. I am grateful. With all his health issues, the last thing I need is to worry about him catching some sort of flu bug that will compromise his health. Still, I sat on him and did not let him carry out any of his honor guard duties this week. They have enough people to carry it out without him. Last week, I thought he was going to throw in the towel and give up his captain's bars in the honor guard. I swear, sometimes I think a gaggle of old men are worse than a gaggle of women. Geez.

I am very relieved to hear all went well and the new device is up and working, reminds me of the Energizer Bunny. *grin* Welcome home. You have been missed.

With all this time on my hands, I have been thinking. Yes, you all better groan inwardly. *chuckle* My thoughts may or may not become public blog. I haven't finished thinking nor have I decided whether or not to publish them. Most certs, I shall share them with another part of my heart and they know who they are. I am still debating if there is any worthwhile reason to do something about it. I am hoping that going to Vegas will clear my mind and give me some much needed clarity. In the meantime, my mind is whirling with creativity. The stories come to me in my sleep or in moments of quietness with such vividness but having the energy to actually sit and write them out is not yet with me. I can't sit for periods of time yet without discomfort, as if I am nothing but one massive bruise. Geez. Where's my can of worms?

No babies this weekend, I don't have the strength to cope. *wry chuckle* Probably no bowling this weekend either. Troll is looking forward to his vacation time. He has quite a few hours to use up before August or he loses them. You know he's gonna use them. He's still bent on shaving his head. Sprout took the day off to spend with his father. I have to say that everytime I see that man I am reminded why I divorced his arse. Some things just never change. So at the moment, it's just the two sickies, lying around, recovering. oh yeah! Pookie has me playing Pokemon, fire red version. She gave me a mission to build up her fighting pokemon to take on the final battle. She also has expressed an interest to get the new Pokemon version coming out in May. Heck, I haven't even played these last two yet.

If I can remember, I'll take the computer cam since it will work on this laptop. I've been urged to supply a new picture for my webcam *grin* I may feel generous enough to oblige.

In a whisper, knocking wood, Mercury has been quite gentle so far. I hope it will continue to do so since I have to venture out of my foxhole next week. HOWEVER, I am am taking my pith helmet, my blankie and my stuffed bunny with me. *sniffle*

Be good to one another.

And The Wheel Turns

It seems kinda of appropriate, a time for all things as it were, that if it was meant to be for the Pope to pass on, that it would be now. It is Easter, the beginning of Spring, the time of renewal, of new beginnings. His walk on this Earth is done. He may have wished to stay longer, to try and accomplish more, but he answers to a higher source as do we all.

While I have expressed my discord with Catholic dogma, I have the upmost respect for the Pope. I might not always like what he has said, but I respect a person for speaking what he truly feels. He didn't mince words in that way. I have the highest respect for what he has accomplished in his lifetime. No one can deny he is a man of Love. There is no denying he loved people. There is no denying he made worthy contributions to world order and consciousness. One of the things he wanted to see happen did not come to pass, unfortunately and the one thing I have always truly believed in that humanity needs in order to move forward as a collective consciousness and that is this.

The Pope believes that all those who believe in God, in the Divine, need to come together. Killing in the name of God needs to stop, that the religious/spiritual beliefs have become so splintered and fractured and it needs to become whole. I think until humanity can get it through their collective thick skulls that no matter what we call it, no matter how we worship, we all worship the Great Divine and stand for and want the same things, peace, respect and a growing love for mortal humanity as well as divine growth and awareness so that we can all help and serve each other better.

While the Pope has not left his earthly body as yet, I don't think it will be much longer. I think he is ready to move on. When he does, I hope he knows he has done his best as he saw it to be, Man nor the Divine can ask for more. At some point, another must step up and pick up where he has left things.

May he, when the time comes, leave this earthly world in a gentle, peaceful way. May the Divine cradle him and hold him protectively in this journey. If nothing else, he was, is, a good man.