Maunie James

Happy Days

2009-09-07T06:33:00.000-07:00

It's really cool in Boston but going back to the eighties this week. This is the kind of weather I

love. All day it's beautiful...and then at night you may need a sweater...so terrific. After going to

the girls soccer games we go out to have a bite to eat (which means no cooking for me) what's

wrong with that. Then, sleep with the windows open...awesome.

So many people have insurmountable problems. We have ours but I wouldn't change with

anyone. Just hope and pray things don't get worse. My grandchildren are my blessings and

with all the things you hear about teens today...they are amazing. Life is good.

Hello

2009-09-06T15:04:00.000-07:00

Okay I have been absent for awhile. I discovered facebook and it's addicting. First I check

my emails and then right to facebook. You can be friends with tons of people and see even more

of their lives...so...if your on come find me. I am Maureen Vellucci...hope to add you soon.

Can a little become too much?

2009-01-31T03:42:00.000-08:00

We have a large group of friends from forties to seventys who have been friends for some years.
I have a problem with two of them. How can you tell someone that they have crossed the line,
and what they are saying is hurtful.

Not too me but to the older folks in our group the good natured joking sometimes becomes
mean.

Should I just mind my own business? Hubby says it's worse when they are golfing and it's
all in fun. I'm not so sure. Any opinions?

Penny's such a bad kitty

2009-01-21T19:35:00.000-08:00

On our way down to Florida we stopped at Virginia to see our friends and had a wonderful

couple of days. Penny was not crazy about their five grandchildren (she is the star of the world)

but didn't bother them. When I spoke with my friend she was complaining about not finding

things ie; the kids small toys, nooks, all sorts of things. I apologised and told her to look behind

chairs, under tables any place a rouge cat can fit. They serched for three days. Last night she

called us. Penny found the perfect hiding place. Stuffed in a pillow case, including the pillow

were....two babies nooks, a small gold ring, Marianne's lipstick (maybe penny liked the color)

and various other things. Thank goodness they are dear friends or we wouldn't be invited back.

We tried explaining that it was naughty to hide other peoples things but she just continued

taking her bath in her favorite sunny spot. What can we do? She is so darn cute.

We made it

2009-01-21T05:32:00.000-08:00

Do you believe it? We made it down to Florida...no humans or cats were in any way injured

on the way down. Of course I followed the doctors instructions and stayed medicated most of

the way and did lots of nodding and smiling. Leaving Virginia it was so foggy and also pouring

I talked him into stopping in South Carolina to watch the two football games. I have never slept
,
as much as on the way down. Now the awesome drugs are wearing off and Iam feeling more

normal (bitchy). But I'm so glad to see my friends here, it's all good. I will get in touch with all

of you soon but now I have to unpack and do some straightening up. I LOVE this little place

and wish you were all here

Shouldn't I be excited?

2009-01-15T06:31:00.000-08:00

We are finally leaving for Florida tomorrow or the next day. The problem is that I am so
exhausted...all the time...I go to bet early but can't fall asleep and if I do I'm up at 4 or 5.
Too much on my mind I guess. Usually I am so happy and it's bitterly cold here. Even Penny,
the most wonderful cat in the world is sleeping up against the radiator. I guess it's just the drag of packing...cleaning up this house only doing the same in Florida...Oh well my dear friends...speak to you from there...I don't know what I would do without you...

Snow again

2009-01-10T04:52:00.000-08:00

A beautiful Saturday morning. Cold but not too cold. What's this? It's going to snow again?
Apparently this is why we go to Florida. One of our friends from down there already called and mentioned that if we leave now...we can get to Virginia in eight hours and no snow is predicted for them.

The first snow was wonderful...bright sun on pristine grounds...could not wait to get out in it,
Now...enough already. Hubby is so cranky because he won't be able to see the targets at his gun club. Older son will have to plow again...usually over night because he has so much commercial stuff to do. Me, I'll bake more and get fat as a horse, round as a pig, clumsy as a hippo...well, you get the idea.

I just put a blueberry cake in the oven and it smells wonderful in here, I haven't driven since December eleventh but I need ingredients and will have to sneak out when hubby leaves. The Doctor said I could drive in about a month so...tomorrow is the eleventh...right.
I do want to get back before the snow starts.

Hopefully, the fourteenth or fifteenth is the day we leave...if all goes well. I'm already sick
of snow...how could I have loved it so much when I was a kid or when my own children were small.

There goes the timer...gotta check the cake...wish I could share it with all of you.

2008-12-30T07:12:00.001-08:00

2008-12-30T07:12:00.000-08:00

I think I'm getting there

2008-12-21T03:31:00.000-08:00

It's six thirty in the morning and I'm awake. I sleep most of the day so when I am alert on any level here I am. I am doing much better but it's such slow going. I don't think I would have bothered with the surgery if I had anticipated this much pain but it's mostly over now.

I feel badly because hubby and I missed so many parties. Tonight is another one but I'm really not up to it. I could force myself but then I won't know how it effects Christmas Eve and day. These are his friends but I can't get him to go without me.

I have been so lucky. He has been amazing. Not complaining about all the boring stuff. ie:
cooking, straightening up...laundry...shopping...boy I owe him big time...now that I think of it a
couple of weeks before Christmas is not the time to do stuff like this.

Last year he was sick Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. It was the first time in his life he didn't see his mother over Christmas. Maybe next year I'll just take things as they come.

With no tree and no presents Penny the pack rat has been on her good behavior. a few
missing socks and pens and things but she is lazy and hides everything in the same spot....behind the dry sink..although I am missing about four rolls of tape.

Well, the least I can do is put on the coffee...thanks for putting up with me....

Maun

What was I thinking?

2008-12-15T11:49:00.000-08:00

On the eleventh of December I went into the hospital with the highest of expectations. Last
time I had the surgery for the right legs sciatica and it was not bad at all. Yes the back was sore
but when I put my right leg down...I was fine. This time I sunk right to the floor.

The pain was unimaginable. No drugs worked...morphine...demeral...anything they had I tried.
I was taking stuff every three hours but it only took the very top layer of pain away. I have never, ever experienced anything like this. The pain shoots down my leg and the toes on my left leg tingle...horrible...then the spasms start. I never slept more then an hour at a time and woke up ready to scream every time.

They finally sent me home late Sunday night with percodens and Valium for the spasms. I am
also taking a sleeping pill and sleeping in my own bed, I managed three hours.

I always thought I had a high tolerance to pain...so much for that. The Doctor says we will try
giving it a couple of weeks and then maybe more X rays and another MRI...he said it was too bad I had such an easy time the first time...and this is not uncommon...sure...anyway enough of me
belly aching just don't expect me around too much...you guys have always been so wonderful so a prayer or two can't hurt...love you all...Maun

Today's a happy day

2008-11-10T05:33:00.000-08:00

Sorry, I was a little down yesterday
But today, things are back to normal
Apparently I had a little glitch that
we all seem to suffer with, but back
to the old happy me today.

Also, I go for my acupuncture
this morning and I love that
I also polished off three loads
of laundry (young son is home
until he finds an apartment)

Because I am the worst Mom
in the world...this is what's
bothering me...I know, I know
you will have to take my name
off the ballet for Mom of the year

Everything else is status quo
I'm a little sore and achy but
will feel better after my acupuncture.
so don't cry for me Argentina
I am sorry for upseting anyone

2008-11-09T12:19:00.000-08:00

I'm having one of those days
you know the kind...I'm sort
of moody for no good reason,
depressed, for no reason
and very very witchy

Counting my blessings is not
working...being kind to others
not so much, my Mom used to
say I was "spoiling for a fight"
yup, that's it...I am spoiling

I'm very blessed. I have
wonderful family and friends.
I have all I need although not
all I want. Sometimes we just
feel selfish..and a little nasty.

Yup that's me today, so stay
outa my way...I'm spoiling
for something...feeling sad
and sorry...tomorrow...I
will be fine. Wish it was morning

Penny's always right

2008-11-07T05:50:00.000-08:00

I am trying to get my beautiful cat Penny
off so many treats. She cries for them
whenever someone walks into the kitchen.

I tried to fool her with her own food in a
treat bag. She lifted her tail and ambled
away...a look of disdain on her adorable face.

The vet said she is getting a little heavy
I know, I know how dare she. My little
Penny is just perfect. Okay, some times
she behaves like a pack rat hiding things
all over the house. But gee...so what.

My neighbor thinks I am too nuts over
my cat...hummm...you should see him
with his goofy dogs...and by the way...can
you actually love someone or something
too much? I don't think so.

It's Wonderful

2008-11-07T03:33:00.000-08:00

I have come to the conclusion that acupuncture is wonderful for all that ails you.
It's awesome for stress, and at least for the day, the pain is gone. I can't believe
what a difference I feel when I leave. Now if it lasted all the time it would be
terrific.

Monday was acupuncture, Tuesday was my regular doctor's appointment.
When I told him how great I felt the day before, he manipulated certain sites
on my back and leg and that felt wonderful too.

This whole business is to alleviate having more back surgery. I just had it about
four years ago and I don't want it again. Not that it's so painful, just, when does it
end. I don't want surgery every few years, even though the doctors and staff at Lahey
are wonderful, I'd rather try alternative medicine.

But that's just me...what do you think?

Happy Father's Day by Maunie James

2008-06-16T03:36:00.000-07:00

From Santa in the North Pole..with all his elves...to all the other Dads everywhere the very happiest of fathers day's.

This new generation of fathers is awesome. Both sons were hands on with their babies. Unlike our hubbies, for the most part. My hubby worked sometimes sixty hour weeks and waseven called out in the middle of the night. At that time he was a foreman in the telephone Company. He wasn't there to change diapers and give bottles but occasionally he did. My oldest son was holding his daughter the first time we saw her. Her Mom had a cesarean birth and was out of it most of the time. He did all the feeding and changing in the hospital and a lot of it at home. His second baby was born in January so he worked very little except for plowing and he took over with her too. I was amazed.

Young son spent every moment he could with his son. So different from the way our Dads and Hubby's interacted, but much better. So....all you hardworking and hands on dads...the happiest and most relaxing day to you all, you deserve it.

Another Fine Mess by Maunie James

2008-06-16T03:35:00.000-07:00

My two sons are not getting along. That's putting it mildly. Ands on father's day. What to do? We were all supposed to go to daughter-in-law's house for dinner. Then, older son declared taking young son would ruin another holiday for him. He made me so nervous that we decided to go out to dinner. Older son said "well you made your choice...are you happy?" Of course I haven't made my choice. And I am assuredly not happy.

Since they were small they argued and fought..we thought it was just sibling rivalry but now it has escalated into a form of pure hatred..It's so hard to try to make a holiday peaceful and hubby is taking the brunt of it today. So the three of us will go out and sidestep the big gathering, it's such a shame.

Hubby is getting concerned about his weight..he's not really large he just has a huge belly and sort of looks like that guy who is carrying the baby. It would be so nice if all men followed suit.Of course, there would only be one child per family but still, it would be nice. I can see all women smirking at the very thought. Then, they will find out how difficult it is...especially in the summer.

Well, that's my new rant for the day..happy fathers day to all of you wonderful Dads.

Money Woes by Maunie James

2008-06-16T03:34:00.000-07:00

You will not believe it. I'm not kidding you absolutely will not believe this..hubby...has put me on an allowance...me...on an allowance...are you as flabbergasted as I am? It started on Monday but I luckily had a few bucks put away because by Wednesday I was flat broke again. Now that's gone too!!! he will not relent...and claims I spend too much money. I haven't been on an allowance since...never...I have never been on an allowance or a budget or anything and I do NOT spend too much money.

He told me to get a part time job...in the summer...with the pool open...and the beach ten minutes from the house...I don't think so...and who will feed the hungry hordes who come to the pool every day...doesn't he know how much it cost for sandwiches and drinks and fruit? Of course he doesn't...but that's kind of why he took my cash access away...gee...he said if there was a poor house anymore we would be going to it...and me...because I am the cause of all this would have to have a room without a window...because I'm claustrophobic...see how mean he is...he said he will buy groceries on Tuesdays and when we run out of food oh well...oh well..my poor hungry grand children and their friends could starve to death...

I am thinking about options...maybe robbing a bank...or a gas station...that's where all the money is these days...who's up for helping me? I'm a great driver so I will drive the get away car. I will also write the note...not that I am a better writer but I am much more menacing...Now, we just need someone to wear a costume and do the physical robbing. Come on I know one of you can be up for it...and we will split...70 for me 30 percent for you cuz after all I thought of it.

Who's with me?

The Mess in my Head by Maunie James

2008-06-16T03:33:00.000-07:00

When I woke up I was so cranky...not really like me...My allergy is bad and I ache all over...I'm really not a cry baby but today is not a good day...

Hubby and young son are still replacing the fence that surrounds the pool and they are cranky also...and the weathers wonderful...and we have a nice breeze..we should all be sent to the island of cranky ingrates. Anyway, no matter what I do I am triping over them...I was doing laundry and they had to be down stairs...changing the bed and they are needing clean towels from the linen closet...now my neighbor comes in exclaiming about the stupid people who actually buy into the whole bottled water thing...just another thing to get hubby going...look...I can't kill everyone...so let's narrow the list...Hubby for obvious reasons...young son..again needs no explaination...now my favorite neighbor...what to do..so many suspects only one spare bullet.

Do ya think I can talk them into lining up...one after the other?

Another Fun Day by Maunie James

2008-06-16T03:32:00.000-07:00

I think I'm accident prone. I'm not kidding I am the biggest klutz in the world.

I was talking to my granddaughter and we were talking about when we visited my nephewJim and his family. Oh yeah Nana said she, remember you threw yourself in the bushes? Well Idon't quite remember it that way. I tripped and fell in, and her father, my oldest son, was so surprised he pulled me up with one arm and yelled at me for falling...MEN!!

But the funniest time was when you didn't let go of the bowling ball and fell down the alley. Oh my gosh Nana that was really a riot...well I do aim to please.. I thought

How about when you were in Florida and you were holding Penny and Grampy came at you with the new toilet and you hurt yourself rather then hurt Penny..by now you could tell she was going to wet her pants she was laughing so hard...serve her right...anyway Grampy was not threatening me with a toilet..he didn't quite see me and I was trying to get out of the way!!!

Oh, oh, oh, what about the time we forced you to jump in the pool and you almost swallowedhalf the water...gasp..gasp..okay sweetie I think Nana has entertained you enough for one day..tell Mom I will call her later...good thing she is cute as a bugs ear...at least if she hurts other peoples feelings they will still love her too..

Spring Time by Maunie James

2008-06-16T03:30:00.000-07:00

It's spring in Massachusetts and I have proof...it's warm and wonderful and I have bought tons of plants and herbs to plant and I can't wait.

One tiny problem...I can't breath outside...not an exaggeration..I can't even see that well...my eyes are all swollen..my nose runs...I cough and sneeze...and I can't take anything that may effect my a- fib.

If hubby ever finds out how much I have spent on flowers and things...well...I may just have to move in with one of you guys...I know perps...I promised no more credit card use but it's spring!

I was just thinking...is pollen as bad at night? Of course trying to plant, even in the barrels may be awkward if it's dark...and I'm such a scarredy cat anything in the dark frightens me...wish spending money and dealing with hubby scared me...I'll tell him about the wonderful sales I found...do you think he will buy that?

Unfortunately seeing them all nicely lined up in the garage is not making me happy...I even need more potting soil...think I will ask older son to drop some off for me...and if he's not too busy maybe he can plant some of them...after all... I am his loving Mom right?

Oh well...it's worth a try...excuse me for now...I'm baking hubby's favorite dessert right now..no reason...

Happy Mothers day to me

2008-05-12T07:13:00.000-07:00

I had the nicest Mothers day...the nicest in years and I am so grateful. Hubby took me to the Outback where we had an early lunch..It was awesome and I discovered a new pinot griego that is now my very best favorite.

Next we picked up a plant for my mother in law and for me. I had picked up a lovely card for her, hubby added a check and off we went to visit her and stayed about an hour..to find daughter in law #1 and youngest granddaughter had just been there..that was a special gift to hubby.

We started off to young granddaughter's soccer game and got thoroughly lost in Beverly, Hudson, Windam all over Ma. we got there to find they had lost. My older granddaughter lost her only lacrosse game when we were there..we seem to be bad luck.

Then back to son and daughter in laws for Chinese appetizers, and they gave me a huge hanging plant in addition...I felt loved and blessed. And hubby's Mom was thrilled to see so much of the family during the day..

I certainly hope, the rest of you wonderful mothers had a terrific kind of day, the kind of day that you love. Blessings and peace until fathers day.

2008-05-08T06:37:00.000-07:00

Simple Kindness
Tuesday, May 6, 2008

Simple Kindness
My beautiful granddaughter was installed into the National Honor Society at Biship FenwickHigh School last week...the ceremony was lovely and the students were happy and excited but the thing I came away with was a speech by the Essex District Attorney, Jonathan Blodgett.He talked about the decisions they will make in their lifetimes and what will happen because of them. He also talked about something everyone can do and that is simple everyday kindness to each other and strangers. Let someone go before you. Hold the door for someone. Check on a neighbor. The kinds of things we all should do but forget in our everyday busy lives.This morning, running around doing errands, I had the opportunity to put this in motion. I noticed a young mother ahead of me in line putting stuff aside because she found she couldn't afford all the things she had put in her carriage. She looked like a normal but harassed young mother, three children from about one to age five and she was pregnant. Oh my gosh. Of course, it was none of my business, but that has never stopped me. I was going to buy a few outside plants and had an extra twenty dollars on me so I walked over to her and the cashier,how much is she over I asked quietly. The poor women was red as a beet and just put her head down and mumbled she would come back later and get the rest of the things. I think it came to about eleven dollars so I gave the cashier the money and the mother the change. I told her to pass it on. Sometime when she saw another person who needed a hand maybe she could give it to them. I felt so good. Much better then the poor women or anyone else who was getting cranky because of waiting extra time in line. So really, pass it on. Let someone go before you in traffic. Pay the toll for someone in line after you. Not huge amounts of money, but just enough to let you feel good.
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Can this family be saved?

2008-05-04T04:22:00.002-07:00

Good Sunday morning everyone...for some strange reason I have been waking up at 4:30 every
morning. Usually I can just rest or doze until 6 thirty or even 7 but something was persistently waking me up..I thought it may be close so I got up.

This morning I could hear the turkeys who live up on the hill. They roost in the low trees up there and wander around all day...They seemed partially loud this morning so they forced me to get up. Until I got downstairs, I was looking out every window trying to find the culprit. Can
you just imagine my surprise when I saw hubby, with a turkey caller and a fat female turkey lure on our front lawn ...It was 5:00 a.m. Can you get arrested for that?

Anyway my poor penny (our beautiful cat) was frightened..and hiding under the dining room table telling him to stop!! (well she doesn't speak English) but I can pretty well interprete whatever she says..And then hubby started running all over the neighborhood with this turkey thingy...looking for the wild tom....hubby's hair was standing straight up (and it wasn't a fashion statement) he was wearing the old summer shorts and a t shirt of young sons, that he had slept in...he had on hunting boots he grabbed when he got his turkey caller. No amount of urging would get him to come in until I lied and said I saw the police coming.

What on earth gets into men...at seven thirty he left and down came the tom and he has been prowling around the house ever since...I would shoo him away but penny is having such a good time watching him I'll let him stay...I'll get rid of him before the great white hunter returns...

Can this family be saved?

2008-05-04T04:22:00.001-07:00

Dreary Tuesday

2008-04-29T14:19:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, April 29, 2008

It's cool and damp so instead of my complaining I am going to count my blessings..Too often.we forget about how lucky we are...Okay, I have a grumpy husband...but he's a great guy..a wonderful husband and an awesome grandfather...he can fix and remake anything...he designs and does over rooms or complete houses...yup, he's grumbling all the time but he's funny at times..so smart it scares me...and so loving to our little cat Penny...it's adorable. My oldest son is kind, brilliant, and an enormous help to his wife and children...he is also witty and amazingly funny...Daughter-in-law number one is a fantastic wife and mother...she is more then a relativeshe is also a dear friend...we adore her...the two girls are super athletes and straight A students.beautiful...kind...and personable. Daughter-in-law two is as commited to our grandson as any mother I have ever seen...so pretty and sweet...just a lovely girl....and my grandson is handsome..tall and needs a gentle prod at times in school but we adore him. See how very lucky I am...remind me sometimes I tend to forget...Oh yeah...younger son...he's trying I guess but I would need another thousand words to describe him.
Posted by mauniejames3 at 9:13 AM 0 comments

Mystery Solved

2008-04-24T05:33:00.000-07:00

My oldest grand daughter recently got her licence and drives one of the family's cars but
unfortunately she leaves the house later then she should.

Last week she was particularly late so she asked her mom to please toast her a bagel and put cream cheese on it. Mom said sure.

She put one half of the bagel in her mouth and ran around getting her soccer equipment and books and when she came down, the other half of her bagel was gone.

Furious, she said "Oh sure!! you think it's funny!!! All of you have bagels in your mouth!!!I'm not even going to ask who the mean spirited person is that stole my bagel..just remember I won't get to eat until later today!!!"

Just then, Jake, their German Short hair came around the corner...with cream cheese all over his mouth....

Patriots Day

2008-04-22T15:30:00.000-07:00

Because we live near Boston, we usually go to a marathon party...It's so much fun passing out cut up oranges and bottles of ice cold water...the children especially love it...although one year one little girl didn't want to let go of anything...although she did reach out her arm to the runners..she got angry if they actually wanted anything.

I have lived here all of my life and except for going to Florida for the winter, I can't imagine living anywhere else..there is so much to do and now that we are almost completely into spring
and flowers are popping up and trees have buds...and grass is actually green..what could be better.

Friends of ours have decided to live in Florida year round...when we said goodbye to them they seemed very happy with their decision until they called this morning and asked how the party was...Wonderful I said. It was great to see people again after the long winter(although
ours wasn't bogged down with ice or shoveling) and everyone sent regards...Karen burst out crying and said she wants to come home. But Karen, I said, you were the one who wanted to stay there. Yeah she said, but I don't think I really meant it. Now people are going home from
here to their own houses and I feel all alone...Why did we ever sell the house? It's really so sad.

Someone just slap me

2008-04-19T07:05:00.000-07:00

I don't know what's wrong with me....nothing is wrong...I'm happy to be home....my life is fairly good...I just cannot stop feeling sorry for myself....my friend says it's just being over tired and will pass but I really feel so nasty, and don't want to start snapping at people.

Last night was so nice...my beautiful big girl went to her junior prom with her adorable boyfriend, and then we went to a wedding reception which was very nice...I couldn't wait to get home...hubby thinks I'm cracking up...but of course, he's part of it....

How do you tell the difference between being cranky, overwhelmed, or nuts?

Back to the rat race

2008-04-17T04:57:00.000-07:00

Don't get me wrong....It's wonderful to be home but hectic. Already we have hosted dinner
twice...People are dropping in all the time, and it's so hard to get the necessary cleaning of this place done.

On the other hand, the kids all look so great, although they have their own lives and it's so hard to catch up with them...My oldest, has her junior prom on Friday...when her Grampy saw her with her gown on he almost fainted...He wants a tux so he can shadow her and her boyfriend all night..."why she is a full grown women", he complained to me...."ya take your eyes off them for ten minutes and look what happens" anyway she is so lovely I could not take my eyes off her.

Grandson is off school next week and his Mom has strep....hubby wants him to stay with us for the week....I don't know if I'm up to a whole week...we will leave it to grandson...

It's so nice to be home but so busy ....I think I need a long vacation..

Thirteen reasons for staying in Florida

2008-04-10T11:53:00.000-07:00

1. It's so nice and warm in Florida

2. Great places to eat

3. Penny loves it here

4. Not as much fun in Massachusetts

5. It's so nice and warm in Florida

6. I can swim whenever I like

7. Lot's more to do

8. Hubby doesn't mind cooking sometimes

9. Everything is on one floor

10. It's so nice and warm in Florida

11. Lot's more fresh fruit and vegetables

12. People in Florida like going to plays and movies

13. I really don't want to go home...it's so nice and warm in Florida

Just a Dream

2008-04-06T10:20:00.000-07:00

I had the most wonderful dream last night....I slept really well, and got up once, and then continued on with my dream....it was just so amazing.

It was so fantastic..it took place in our house but in the time it was my parents...before we bought and remodeled it...the old tiled kitchen and pantry...the table, formica and up against the wall...the rose wallpaper in the hallway...and all of their furnature in the living room.

My Mom and Dad, Aunt, Sister, Hubby and me and my son and his wife and we were all about the same age..it was some holiday and we were all laughing and having a wonderful time.
When I woke up and realized it was just a dream I was so upset. I wanted to climb into that dream and join in the fun. Wouldn't that be fabulous to be able to do that? Old wounds and hurts forgotten....and the best part of all....my Dad, Son and me going up to Grammy's to bring
her a plant or something....if not the best of dreams it was in the top two....I have been smiling all day...almost all of my loved ones.....

My family

2008-02-09T11:15:00.000-08:00

My father leaves the house for work at seven thirty two, gets in his BMW dressed in his suit and tie and goes to work..sometimes we don't see him again until the next day.

My Mom screams and yells all day

My sister Sandie is a cheerleader with a football player boyfriend and she's gone all day

My Mom drinks

My younger sister is in fifth grade and sneaks in and out of the house, so she won't bother anyone. Makes her own lunch and grabs a snack after school and trys to stay out of Moms way

My Mom lies to everyone and hits and punishes us for nothing..why doesn't anyone see?

I called my Nana...Mom's mother, and asked her for help but begged her not to tell..

Nana called my Mom and my mother said I was lying and going through teen years..then she told me if I said anything to anyone else she would kill them and me..

I believe her

I tried to tell Dad, he wouldn't believe me and said she was doing the best she could and to try to get along...

If she kills me, or I die, who would protect Susan my younger sister? I try to keep her safe but
its getting too hard now..

My Mom used to be kind of cool but now she hates everyone..even herself..does anyone else
live like this?

I'm just a kid and don't know what to do..can't anyone help me?

No place like home

2008-01-18T13:45:00.000-08:00

We have been in Florida just a little over a week and I am just a bit homesick...all the kids have
to do is mention getting together or doing something special and I melt.

Our big girl is going to a junior prom and needs a dress..she wanted me to come and help choose it..and I am so thrilled...also she would like me to call every day..even the days she is PO'd..
because she always loves talking to me..

Younger girl who just turned thirteen needs someone to talk and play cards with..(I know she just pretends to like this for me but I love it)...

Our boy, fifteen, has the house to himself some days which scare me to death..it's only a couple of days a week until his Mom picks him up but it scares me just the same..I miss them all so
much and we are hoping the parents let them come down a few days to stay with us..

I know..it's their lives..but I miss them so much...I was too young to appreciate my boys...
but these grandchildren are awesome...perfect and smart and wonderful...why did I leave them again?

Not my turn to cook

2008-01-17T07:03:00.000-08:00

Hubby got home late from the gun club last night and neither of us felt like cooking..it was his turn..I don't actually know this I just say it time to time when I don't want to cook...anyway..
I had been thinking about wings..chicken wings..all messy and gooey..so we called different people asking them where the best wings were...I called one friend who I thought said Hooters..Why I have never been to Hooters she said...I said Mugs and Jugs...oh sorry..but they are good there? I asked...the best, she answered...Hubby said, fine but that's not the greatest part of town and it's a bar...so...if it's that bad we will just leave..I answered..already
I could just taste those wings...when we got there it was a huge open room with people of all ages...from children to seniors...so I at least felt quite safe...I didn't really know what giant wings were but the waitress said most people ordered ten and a couple of sides..Hubby got
the ribs which looked wonderful and was quite pleased (and he didn't have to cook remember) and I got the wings, with onion rings and celery with ranch dressing..since it was
happy hour (yeah they still have that in Florida) we each got two draft beers and the ribs were on special because it was Wednesday...I don't know they practically paid us to eat there
but they were wonderful..a huge amount..but so good..I really enjoyed them.. smearing my face..hands..neck and most of my clothes...so whenever you are in Florida..don't let the name scare you..Mugs and Jugs have the best wings ever...and a good and inexpensive place to eat when it's your turn to cook.

Who would complain

2008-01-15T10:55:00.000-08:00

What gets into us..do we just get bored? I was just speaking to a friend about gossip...It serves
no purpose and always hurts someones feelings..yes I know we are all guilty of it at one time or another even if we don't mean to be mean we are...especially about children..yes they are cruel but why? They must hear it someplace..my Mom was very quiet and not at all mean spirited
my Grandmother was the most amazing person ever..I never heard her speak badly about anyone...was it just that generation...and it seems the more we have, the more envious we become..I know..I am ranting but my friends daughter was made fun of at school because she is
the "new girl"..and it's so hard to protect them and so easy to just go along and tell kids things
will be better...but will they?

I guess I was lucky I had the same friends..like forever...but we too, never meant to, but did
our share of maligning other people in our way but nothing like the way things happen today..
prank calls were one thing but nasty things on the computer and threats on a cell phone..who
comes up with this stuff...well I'm through ranting for now...lets please be kinder to one another.

All is well in Florida

2008-01-14T17:27:00.000-08:00

I'm almost embarresed to tell you how lucky I feel to be here...It's wonderful..a bit cool for down here but I wouldn't dare complain...they got about eight inches of snow at home...Hubby still has
the blisters from shoveling before we got down..the ride was very nice..three days and two nights at a quality Inn..they were the only place we could find that would take Penny and as it
goes they were very nice..a hot breakfast was served in the morning and they were nice and clean...not as nice as some or as bad as many...Penny kept getting into her traveling carrier the first night wanting to go back home but was thrilled when we finally got here..She didn't come near us for a few days..so glad to be back in her special places..She did manage to pull a lizard
in threw a hole she created in the screen...I thought she would just chase it around but she ate it.
The vet said she would be fine and it seemed she was after throwing the stupid thing up but we have to be more careful...she has no idea why we were so upset...we are trying to keep her out of the bedrooms this time..she wakes earlier then we would like...well more later...its so nice being down here.

The Christmas Clean-up

2008-01-01T08:35:00.000-08:00

There is nothing like Christmas...the gifts under the tree..the Santa's the trains..the angels
my carousel..the manger..everything to remind us of the best holiday all year...

But then the thought hits...all this stuff has to be put away and the same people who wouldn't help bring it up and place it...and clean each and everything before you display it...it takes a couple of days to place it and get it set perfectly..lovely

Okay..I look around and it's just me again...But I am determined..I'd like to leave for the warm weather and in order to do that..everything has to be put away...and after awhile the same things that were so perfect a week ago start to look dusty..

Get out the cleaning supplies..pack up..dust off...replace the regular stuff..and now it looks
clean but cold and empty..no red white and green of Christmas...just your regular everyday
things..I'm exhausted...been doing this repacking stuff since seven in the morning and it's
lunchtime..but I have set a new record and as much as I say I'm not doing this again next
year...I know that when the time comes I will be dragging out the same things with the same
eagerness as this year..the same anticipation..the same sense of wonder about Santa and
Christmas..Santa brings out the child in all of us....And the manger and the birth of the Christ child...all the wonderfulness of this season..but everyday can't be Christmas...

A different story

2007-12-30T05:24:00.000-08:00

When last we spoke all I did was complain about hubby's getting sick..well I'm sorry..I don't think I have the same thing but now have much more compassion for his being ill...I have had a horrible sinus headache for a couple of days and when I try to move around it's awful..anyway,
I was mean to hubby so now I guess I must pay..but how come he got to stay in bed for days?
And how come people came by to bring soup and foods? And how come people called every ten minutes for an update? Because he is much nicer you say? Because all I do is complain you say? Well that's how much you know..I can be nice..I can make a concerted effort to be nice..and then I will have people who care about me too...so there...and I am not being childish
either...

A very different Christmas

2007-12-26T05:09:00.000-08:00

We wait and anticipate Christmas all year..who will be at the various parties..what we are going to eat and drink..the guest list...wrapping the gifts...sending cards to loved ones...trimming the tree...it's all good until....ta da...hubby gets a cold...not an ordinary cold the worse cold ever know to man...worse by far then the plague..or a heart attack...worse then yellow fever..worse then having a baby worse then...oh you get the idea...so you say..with a gulp...I will stay at home with you dear...closing your eyes and clenching your teeth hoping he will say ..not at all..you go...but he says well I'll be okay for a little while..could you just take my temp again..so you do then lie and give him more tylenol and say..I'm pretty sure you will be okay for an hour or so..don't you think? So he says yes but looks as if he's going to cry..Then your son picks you up..mostly for all the food you have been preparing all day..and you get to the party and every man there commiserates with hubby and all the women roll their eyes..and you don't dare stay
very long and have someone drive you home..and the next morning the Christmas dinner you
have been anticipating all year..hubby asks..could you go to my Moms and get me some of her home made soup...so that's what I do on Christmas day and now...that he knows I am staying in with he makes a miraculous recovery..at least the fever is gone..and he makes it to the shower and resumes laying on the couch in case someone visits..but no one does because they have all been warned off...and Christmas has passed..and then as we are going to bed he says...this is the worst Christmas I have ever had......

A Message from Santa Claus

2007-12-20T16:16:00.000-08:00

Ho! Ho! Ho! Everyone

I want to apologize to everyone for not being online much lately. It is an important time of the year when Santa should be here and I am very aware of that.

Unfortunately, there is a person here in BlogWorld who seems intent on making sure that I am not part of the Christmas Season here at MBL this year.

Every time I log on, or check an email or anything I am immediately targeted and then have to go about fixing my computer yet again. Si far to date I have had to reformat my hard drive 5 times and then reload and configure all of the software. Each time seems to be different and it sometimes takes me days to get back online.

Just a word to the person doing it... I know who you are and so far have resisted the urge to publicly discredit you. It is not my nature to be negative or revengeful but it is nearly at the time when I will be forced to name you in the hope that that will stop you from this continual harassment that you seem intent on.

All I want to do is bring cheer and happiness and peace and joy and love to all of you at this special time and it hurts me more than I can say that I have been continually stopped from doing so.

I intend to stay online as much as possible but if I disappear once more unexpectedly you will know why and I do apologize for it. It's my job as Santa to bring the Christmas cheer to all of you and it hurts me to be unable to do that properly.

May Christmas be that special time that you expect and may all of your wishes come true. Please remember though the true meaning of Christmas this and every year is to celebrate the birth of Jesus, the Christ child. That is what Christmas really IS all about.

Merry Christmas to all of you and thank you for your support and loyalty over the past few months. It has been a wonderful experience.

as always,

Santa ô¿ô

Two frightened friends part 6

2007-12-20T06:20:00.000-08:00

Well here they sat in court...holding hands so afraid and Barbi wondered why Uncle Zeke wanted her to live with him all of a sudden..he never saw them very much and didn't seem to care for her Mom or anyone else in the family. Caroline was positive they were loosing Barbie and this close to Christmas...actually Christmas eve...it was horrible but if he didn't want to take muffin..why she would keep muffin which would insure they would still see their Barbie...It seemed as if hours had passed when the judge finally appeared. After being sworn in Zeke appeared first..Why, asked the judge do you want Barbara to stay with you Sir? The judge asked..Well, you honor, Zeke said...I hear the state pays money for the care of kids and she could cook and clean and keep the house nice..I work most nights and she could do her work then...after a few more moments the judge had an answer...you know I wish all my cases were this easy..Barbara would you like to be a part of this nice couples family? Oh yes sir, she said...I
would just love to..Done said the judge...happiness ensued the boys and their family's were home for the holidays and everyone was laughing and crying at the same time...Barbie delivered her gifts the next day..she spent every penny of her money on others in need but the highlight of her giving was when she handed out the last gifts and said for you Mom and Dad...it was a blur about what she received but she had the greatest gift of all parents and her wonderful muffin..there had never been a happier girl and a better Christmas ever...The end

Wow just Look At These Awards

2007-12-19T02:56:00.000-08:00

Adrian aka the Genie King from First Time Dad has received many awards recently and has decided to share ALL of them with his blogging friends, isn't that a wonderful gesture?

Adrian says: Christmas is a time of giving....and when you give... someone has to receive, right?? Guess what I've been so lucky to receive a few awards these past couple of weeks from a few wonderful folks!

From the mysterious Lady Java!!

From pretty Polli of Polliwog's Pond

From gentle Bokjae and yummy Jean...isn't this the cutest?!?

From super Sugar Queen's Dream

From still mysterious Lady Java again... Sweet Ann thinks I'm a little nutty and I think she might be right sometimes LOL
And finally from cute Ratu Syura a nice little slobbery kiss...

If you already have it or gave it to me, it doesn't matter because it's coming from me to you now. I'd like to give these awards to you for your support (take one or two or all if you like...all except the Slobbery kiss award...that's only for the ladies LOL

In his very kind and thoughtful gesture he has passed these along to the following bloggers:

A Great Pleasure A Nice Place in the Sun Anything Goes! Aunie Dar’s Life Brainy Bimbo Cotojo Shinade Monday Morning Power Sugar Queen’s Dream Christy’s Coffee Break Diamonds Saphire Emila’s Illustrated Blog Huma B In Cinq Journey with Water Learner Kim Fei’s Blog Lady Java’s Lounge Listening..Learning..Living Mariuca: Wishing on a Falling Star Maunie James My Life is Murphys Law NAFA NoDirectOn (not: NoDirection)
Nessa’s Mumblings Nihal’s Anything & Everything Petty Ramblings of a Petty Queen Room’s of My Heart Project Heavy Traffic Random Magus
Speedcat Hollydale Page Purple Frog Polliwog’s Pond Santa’s Community Blog The Magical Golden Cat This Is A Miracle Zubli

Congratulations to all!!

Oh you are just so wonderful my big greenish yellow man...I am so honored by them...so many wonderful awards to put on my site...and I adore the cute picture of your baby girl... with the big and beautiful smile that makes me smile every time I see it...I'm sure you will have a wonderful Christmas with her and she will adore it...you're a very lucky, loving and giving man..again, thank you so very much....Maun

Now it's my turn to pass them out, so I will pass these awards on to the following wonderful friends, some of you have already got this from the Genie King, but hey...it's no big deal just see it as link love from me to you.

Yvonne of joy unexpected, Erica of snazzykat, Rachel of Crankmama, Waliz of Waliz Diary 07, MidgetManOfSteel of MentalPoo, Santa of Everyday Should Be Christmas, Polli of Polliwog's Pond Kim of PurpleFrogCat

Don't tell Colin but I pinched this adorable little piggy from his blog because he is just so cute.

Christmas Morning

2007-12-15T11:47:00.000-08:00

The children will be awake soon
the brokenhearted father stated
how disappointed they will be
what shall we say..what can we do?
not too worry husband not too worry

the twins..in their eagerness for Christmas
slept in the same bed...giggled and smiled
they knew not too expect much
knew they may not be getting anything at all
but they had each other..and loving parents
and after all it was Christmas...and there was snow

as they tip toed down the stairs looking in awe at the tree
they laughed and in amazement saw there were gifts
gifts wrapped in brown paper and tied with twine
with their names on them..Santa did come..even for them
they received apples and an orange each..new mittens and
knitted hats..and a beautiful sled...newly painted and theirs
it was the best Christmas ever..and father gave mom a new scarf
had there ever been such a wonderful day?

The Christmas Eve party had just ended at the penthouse
Father locked the bedroom door behind him
Mother said the twins would be up to see if Santa came
well they had better not disturb me father stated
I will try and keep them quiet dear, you just rest Mother said
and quietly closed the door just as she heard the twins slamming theirs

Why there is hardly anything here,,they shouted in loud angry voices
Last year we got twice as much..it's not even worth getting up
clothes, you know we hate clothes..but they are jerseys for your favorite teams
with seasons tickets and footballs and soccer balls, and baseballs just as you asked for
but not for Christmas..we wanted something good for Christmas..something different
had there ever been such a horrible day...they got cheated..they never had a good Christmas

Two frighened friends....Part 5

2007-12-14T04:16:00.000-08:00

Well, things are moving right along for Barbi and Muffin..just two weeks left and secrets are all
around the house..lots of whispering and tons of smiling...Caroline was doing much better...Hopefully she could have her cast removed just before Christmas...the house looked and smelled so wonderful it surpassed all of Barbi's expectation's and then some..she felt on top of the world...her marks were wonderful and the baby sitting money was growing more each day...one morning she woke with her face all wet from tears..but they were happy tears. Muffin, had settled right down and now, while Barbie was at school, she slept on the top of the couch with Caroline...could things get any better? Then Barbies uncle showed up pretending to want her back...everyone
knew he probably just wanted money but it caused quite a bit of consternation for all of them..
After a lengthily family meeting it was decided...maybe they should go for adoption...but had they had Barbie long enough? Would the courts allow them a teenager at their age? Well since it's the only thing they could think of...they would go for it and the papers would be sent in tomorrow .........to be continued

A date at the North Pole

2007-12-14T03:46:00.000-08:00

Another blizzard and Santa was expecting his last shipment of products necessary to completing his toys for all good..and not quite so good...boys and girls..he walked into the kitchen and found Mrs Claus baking mince pies...he hated to interrupt her and the pies smelled wonderful, so he quietly left a note..Dear one, it's time for a date into town and that means disguise time so think about what we should be this time...the trucks can't make it..only the sleigh will do...I am off to work so come get me when you come up with something..any chance of a mini skirt? Mrs. Claus laughed hmm...we have exhausted almost every outfit we have been beat-nicks, french people..I liked that one..homeless people...how about a bad Santa and the Mrs..maybe we could look as if we were impersonating us...that may be fun...so they did. They
landed the sleigh in a huge field...and sort of materialized in front of a deli they liked...When they opened the door to a roomful of Santa's and Mrs Santa's it was the last day of training for the department store Santa's so they fit right in...As they were leaving to pick up their supplies they heard people mumbling..now that's the worst Santa ever...I just wonder who hired him?

I've Got A Best Friends Award

2007-12-13T09:13:00.000-08:00

Wow, just look at this awesome award I got from Colin over at Life. He is such a good friend and makes people feel so welcome and now he has given me this Best Friends Award!

Isn't it just so sweet? I Love It! Mind you, Colin got it twice!!

I will pass it on to the following wonderful friends:

Yvonne of joy unexpected, Erica of snazzykat, Rachel of Crankmama, Waliz of Waliz Diary 07, MidgetManOfSteel of MentalPoo, Santa of Everyday Should Be Christmas, Polli of Polliwog's Pond Kim of PurpleFrogCat ribbit ribbit! I'm also going to pass it back to Colin of Life which is a bit unusual I know, but I want to surprise him too!

Happy Holidays to you all, keep safe and have a wonderful time.

Catastrophe at the North Pole

2007-12-11T04:44:00.000-08:00

Ah said Santa...things are finally on track...perhaps I can just smoke my pipe...even though I am
advised to smoke only occasionally...there is no one around ...and it's been day's so I guess...what was that streak of yellow? He followed behind and grabbed magical golden cat, just before he ran up the freshly decorated tree in the large family room...before he could speak, a line of mice...drunken mice, were challenging the elves to a fight and rudolph's nose was not shiny
what in the world? Just then dear Mrs. Claus screamed...Santa there are bugs in the flour...however will I be able to make my biscuits for lunch...that's it!!!screamed poor Santa
where is that naughty elf? I want him front and center right now..but he was nowhere to be found...first he asked magical golden cat what had he been eating? and followed him to his cushion where he found a ball of catnip..humm Santa thought..this is not allowed at the North Pole...then when he chased the mice back to their hole he discovered there cheese had been tampered with...and poor Rudolf's nose was covered in a thick polish...I may not be able to prove it but I feel this mischief was caused by elfy..Santa...Mrs Clause screamed what about this flour?
Entering the kitchen with much trepadation..he discovered raisins in the flour..Elfy...he screamed..the kitchen now..or your room for the rest of the day...Elfy sneaked out of the kitchen cupboard..hehehehe Me? You wanted me? Why you bad elfy I have warned you before..now what have you to say for yourself...Well. err...it was so quiet and boring and I just wanted to have some fun dear Santa..all of his victims glared at him...well fun you shall have..you and everyone affected will be in the kitchen closet with you until all of the potions or whatever you have given them goes away...DO YOU HEAR ME? Dear, Mrs. Claus mummered..I think they heard you in Texas...and peace resumed..

Santa's grumpy day

2007-12-09T06:07:00.000-08:00

Poor dear Santa was having a horrible day. There was a mutany of the elves..each wanting more attention from Santa...Mrs Claus had had a headache for about a week and that was making Santa a bit frustrated. The cats had eaten garland and were throwing up all over the house..the raindeer were bored and just wanted to get going..even though it was weeks until Christmas...and since Mrs Claus had such a horribe headache she haden't been doing much cooking and Santa was sure tired of not having any er...Sweets...then a beautiful angel flew
in the window (don't quote me but I think it was mauniejames) and asked Santa why so glum..
he didn't really express his real concern but the angel, of course, saw through his problems and
went straight to Mrs. Claus...has anthing different been happening she asked? Why no I even
put on my beautiful new hat to look extra pretty for My big red man..hmmm. why your hat is too small..said the beautiful angel..and when they removed it...it was true...so now Santa felt
so much better since Mrs. Claus resumed er..cooking...he was happier with the elves, raindeer and even the cats so happiness resumed at number 1 North Pole

Happy Birthday from Santa

2007-12-08T20:33:00.000-08:00

Two frightened friends...Part 4

2007-12-05T09:03:00.000-08:00

Just a matter of weeks until Christmas..Barbi was becoming so anxious..when she and Richard
were waiting in the hospital some of her concern was evident to Richard.."she will be fine
Barbara" he exclaimed..".it's just her leg and rib..she might even be out of the cast on her leg by
Christmas..don't you worry..it was not your fault muffin frightened her on the stairs...and poor muffin feels as badly as you do...once we get her home and a nice cup of tea into her..she will be as right as rain." Barbi was not at all fooled by his seeming calmness..."But what can I do?' she asked..."what about the decorations she had pulled out of the attic before she fell?" " that's my
worry dear girl" said Richard patting her on the back...and maybe you can help he thought to himself just as the nurse came out to tell them Caroline was ready...after getting her comfy on the couch, which would have to be her bed until her leg healed, with her pain meds and a cup of tea and a piece of her wonderful coffee cake..she reinforced what Richard had said about Barbara not worring about her and muffins little misshap..and then she dozed off as Richard and Barbi had a quick sandwich before going off to bed. Poor Barbi tried so hard not to blame Muffin but if it was not for them..why Caroline would be wonderful..making herself sick..she too
drifted off to a guilty sleep. The next morning she had formed a plan...instead of baby sitting
she would spend all her time at home..learning to cook and decorate..and do whatever else was needed while Caroline got her rest..Imagine her surprise when she got up and saw a nurse and
housekeeper as she came down stairs...before she left for school she gently kissed Carolines cheek and whispered again how sorry she was...nothing to be sorry for dear...Caroline whispered back..you just continue doing wonderfully in school and babysitting for the neighbors..I'll be as good as new...Barbi left for school trying so hard to come up with a plan.........to be continued

Snowing in New England

2007-12-03T06:33:00.000-08:00

Lot's of excitement at our house last night..It was going to snow and grandson was hoping for the first snow day..it started off snowing lightly but at four o'clock this morning we heard the first snow plow...from then on it was a crazy house...two televisions on trying to catch school
closing information..Hubby making coffee to stay awake...me..in bed...reading my book..with
Penny curled up against me...finally at 6:15 the schools called in their information..all the schools in the near vicinity were closed or had a two hour delay except for grandsons...he was
not a happy guy. But before people started walking or driving on it ...the outside was perfect...like a beautiful painting of a past New England..pristine and clean..then life happened.
People went about their business and it started to change to rain which means the lovely snow
will be gone before night...the first snow of the year is so amazing...it reminds us of how our
seasons are differant from anyplace else...rain changes to snow, then back to rain and when the sun finally comes out it can be in the sixties...bad for the elderly and infirm but so exciting
for the rest of us..

Dieting

2007-11-28T07:38:00.000-08:00

I'm a tad nervous today so here I go posting again...my friend from Virginia called and she

not only has been dieting but also walking on the treadmill for 5 miles three times a week..she

says the weight is just falling off..humm I remember when this same friend talked me into

dieting with her..the plan was to eat anything you want...but just eat half..being practical I saved

the other half...her..she had her own ideas..we were having lunch at her house one day and I had

brought over a plate of fried clams for me..and shrimp for her..I excused myself and went to the

bathroom after having had a couple of bites..when I returned my plate was covered with spray

on oven cleaner...WHAT HAVE YOU DONE? I asked...well, she said ,that's how I diet...I eat

what I want and then spray something awful on the rest..but, why spray mine I had not even

eaten a quarter of my dish..I had longed for for days? Well after I sprayed mine I started taking

stuff off yours...so..I had to save myself..Why do you mind?

two frightened friends part 3

2007-11-27T08:28:00.000-08:00

Well Barbi and muffin had a new worry. Christmas was right around the corner and poor Barbi was afraid of what her cat would do at the sight of the Christmas tree. The Potts were wonderful to them and so she was concerned about her behavior as well as muffins..she had been working around the neighborhood baby sitting for the past few months in order to buy
gifts.. she was especially worried about the Potts whom she now called Richard and Caroline,
what on earth did you get for the people who had changed your life...she was afraid to admit it but she now felt truly loved by them and was still uncertain about showing them how much
she loved them in return...after school one afternoon she went off to price gifts...she had no idea of how much money she had put in the bank but knew it was mounting up...baby sitting was
paying nicely when parents had so much to do before Christmas...she looked at all sorts of things
but they were just things...she wanted her gift to matter..then she saw the tree with names of poor children who each had listed a gift...imagine her surprise when she found her cousins names...apparently their Gran couldn't afford toys and extras with all the mouths to feed...humm...she thought...now that would be a good deed...then when she went to the vet to find an approprite gift for muffin (she thought catnip might be too much) she saw a notice that the animals would appreciate warm blankets and donations for food..hmm thats another idea..
Barbi started making all sorts of plans but then..poor Caroline fell down the basement stairs....
......to be continued

Beauty

2007-11-26T07:30:00.001-08:00

My both granddaughters are so very pretty... the oldest resembles her Mom but her features are a little softer...I think her Mom is just beautiful in a different way. Well, granddaughter has a boyfriend...adorable...and he looks just like her Dad did at that age..it's amazing..anyway they are such a cute couple..she complained one day about how to accept a complement without seeming to be conceited...She said one of his aunts is constantlly telling her she get's more beautiful every time she sees her...and she said...thank you seems so ...like I agree with her...what did you say when people said that to you? Well, her Mom said, unfortunetly no one ever said that to me..me either, I said..wow really? granddaughter said..oh...how horrible for you both..we were feeling pretty good about ourselves until then..As a family all of our grandchildren are very attractive...and it seems as if most kids are so much better looking then when I was growing up...something in the water?

Beauty

2007-11-26T07:30:00.000-08:00

Penny's big day

2007-11-25T06:54:00.000-08:00

Penny is a very spoiled money cat...she only eats certain foods and will turn her nose up at any introduction of something new...Most calico (money) cats are female...we don't know why..they just are..she has this thing about escaping to go outside and hide in the shrubs surrounding our house..then she just cries to be let back in because she is essentially an indoor cat.

Last week when hubby went out to get the paper she snuck out...hiding under the bushes she waited until someone came out with treats to lure her back inside, so she could sit on her own blanket and watch out the window for birds and any other cat who dared get too close to her house.

But no one came..hubby was reading the paper and I was down in the basement doing laundry..
when I came back upstairs and sat to have some coffee I wondered where she was but hubby didn't seem concerned so I assumed she was upstairs on our bed or on a chair..as we got ready to go out I wondered where she was but then the phone rang and I started doing something else and forgot all about her.

Now Penny, in the meantime, was very cold and afraid...when it started raining she became furious, why how dare they leave me out in this very cold rain..don't they care about me anymore? So, she decided to run away..she made a complete cirle around the house..not being the smartest cat in the world, she came right back to where she had started and then, not knowing where she was she had started to howl..

Hubby had just finished showering and was getting dressed when he heard the howling.. came downstairs and looked out the window...nothing...so then he decided to search for penny knowing if she indeed had escaped it was his fault...almost whispering he called her...looked in her ususal haunts and now was really getting worried. I was back downstairs when he shouted down..."Is she there with you"? he asked...Here with me I thought she was up on our bed..When I looked outside I realized it was snowing.

So there we were..him with his hair wet ,partially dressed..me in a robe and slippers and armed with kitty treats and a towel, going threough the bushes calling her name..finally we heard an exhausted mew from the other side of the yard...oh no Mama's poor baby...come over here and
let me wipe you down...no way she seemed to say..we dangled treats and told her how much we loved her...finally she decided to come closer so we could grab her..she was beyond angry amd stayed in her little bed most of the day..only coming out to eat and drink..she did forgive us later when she heard me open a tuna can for grandsons lunch. It's been almost a week now and she does not seem inclined to wander outside again.

Pre- Op with hubby

2007-11-24T06:06:00.000-08:00

We had to go to the hospital .I'm having my hand surgery done next Wednesday...it's not a big deal..so they say..just a quick hours surgery to remove something growing in the palm of my right hand (I'm a righty)..it wouldn't be bad, but its resting on a tendon and starting to ache..
anyway as usual I digress. The first hotshot couldn't get blood out of either arm...after twenty minutes I told her to stop..she claimed, she almost had it...I said ",I'd rather go down to the blood lab where they are trained to get it on the first try"..of course she was cute and hubby said "let her try a couple of more times" as she simpered at him..I got up and left the room..the next stop was to weigh me and get my vitals..I said please don't tell me my weight..as soon as I got off the scale hubby shouted it out...what a dear man..on to the nurse who told us what exactly the surgery entailed..then enter the doctor, while I tried to ask him about concerns I had..Chris
Rock sitting beside me started making jokes...stupid ones at that, to every issue I brought up.."how long do I have to keep my right arm in the air? " Why do you have a hockey game the next week?" the whole day was like that...so last night I killed him...maybe I can spend a nice quiet Christmas in my cell. And maybe I can lose the last fifteen pounds there.

The long day after the day before

2007-11-23T10:42:00.000-08:00

Good days fly by..just like the wind, poof and there gone..you know the kind of day everyone's in a good mood it's a nice day..no matter what, things happen to your advantage. You feel well, heck everyone feels well..if you go to a movie..it becomes one of your favorite movies..shop..
everything you like is in your size and on sale...but the day you wake up cranky...you squirt acne cream on your toothbrush..there is no milk for your cereal..out of coffee...you have on new shoes
and it starts to rain. At the office you do the same thing five times and still get it wrong...you order the same thing you always do for lunch..but it comes back tasting different. The boss is
also in a horrid mood..you think about sneaking out early but the boss decides to stay late..the thoughts of going home to your depressing apartment is not an option..so you call your Mom...she's not going to be home...your best friend has a dentist appointment..your second third and forth best friends are all busy too..this is turning into a long hard day...you start your car and realize you have a flat tire..the auto club says it will be an hour wait because of the rain..you decide to
just sit in the car and wait...you are looking out the side window and see your old boyfriend walking toward your car but he doesn't see you...you start to duck and notice someone is with him as they come toward you you recognize her...oh how funny...it's Shirley, you went to school with her..nose job, boob job, teeth false from when she got in fist fights with other boarish girls
you quietly laugh..she's a foot taller then him too and is evil, pure evil..you wouldn't believe it but you think you see some son..the machanic shows up...suddenly everything is getting better..
wonder why you thought it was such a horrible day.

The long day after the day before

2007-11-23T10:41:00.000-08:00

Two frightened friends...part 2

2007-11-20T04:49:00.000-08:00

Well, things didn't go really well..muffin was like a completly different cat and it was driving Barbi nuts trying to cover for her...she scratched furnature soiled the new rug in Barbies room..she was a regular terror...after school one day Barbie walked 2 miles back to the vet to ask what could be done..Thanksgiving was comming in just a few days and the sons were comming with their familys..the vet told her to show the cat lots more affection..so she did..instead of muffin sleeping down in the kitchen in her bed, Barbie spoke soothingly to her and she fell asleep each night on Barbies other pillow. They became much closer and muffin calmed right down...during Thanksgiving she was a gentle and loving cat with all family members..Barbie was so pleased...The next dat she went to see her cousins at their grandparents and was shocked to see muffin laying in the window as they pulled up..how could this have happened? Her cousins told her that they had had muffin the whole time...you mean I have a differant cat she asked..but she looks and acts just like muffin...ya didn't find her around our old school did you, asked Tim..well yea I did, she answered..that was that crazy feral cat..my gosh no one could calm that cat down...well it appeared Barbie did..they gave each other love and that's what each of them needed. to be continued

Two frightened friends

2007-11-19T06:07:00.000-08:00

Barbara Conway was fourteen and it seemed she had lived about a hundred years...Her parents
were very abusive so at age eleven her Aunt Gracie had taken her to live with her family of
four kids and two dogs and a cat named muffin. Aunt Gracie and two of her children were in a head on crash and all three died instantly..the two other children went to live with grandparents
but they were unable to take Barbie with them...She stayed in foster care for about three months bouncing from one family to the next...one who had three babies...just wanted her to take care of the kids...one family owneed a deli and wanted her for clean up..she was extreamly dispirited and afraid to go to the next family...they were an older couple who's boys had married
and lived in other parts of the country..they lived somewhat near Auntie Gracies house so at least she would be back in her old school district...After living there, being polite and quiet. trying
to not upset anyone..she came out of school one day and saw muffin..Poor muffin looked dirty and hungry..Barbie huged and kissed the pretty gold cat and wondered where it lived now..at dinner she tentively asked if she might have a pet, well Mr and Mrs. Potts looked at each other..humm...said Mrs Potts...let us think about it...what did you have in mind? A cat that my
aunt had...I saw it and it looked cold, hungry and frightened. Well now, maybe the cat belongs to someone else now..said Mr Potts..."I don't think so" Barbie said..the next day was a Saturaday and Barbie found muffin...just where she last had seen her and they took her to the vet to have her checked out...She was filthy...had fleas and was skinny but the vet said she seemed like a great cat and the family let her bing him home on a trial basis.....to be continued

Happy holidays

2007-11-17T10:02:00.000-08:00

The Gallagher family had moved again..Dad was in the army and Kevin the oldest was really concerned. For the past three years they had not stayed in one place for two Christmases in
a row. Now his brother and sister were as tired as he was and his Mom, due in a couple of
weeks, was too tired to organize anything. When Dad called and said he may not even be back by Christmas..that was the last straw. Kevin, being the oldest at thirteen didn't know where to start. The furnature was somewhat in place but boxes, suitcases and bags were everywhere.
Mom had asked him to order a pizza for dinner before she fell asleep from exhaustion but from where..he didn't know the area and what would they do for dishes and stuff? Karen had taken Kirk and they had gone walking around the base looking for kids their own age. Kevin thought
maybe he could borrow a phone book from one of the neighbors and call for that pizza, maybe if he ate something he would feel better. He lay on the couch for just a second and fell right to sleep...when he woke about an hour later there were a bunch of strangers in his house with
sandwiches and soda, unpacking everything and getting the house in order...he couldn't believe
it..all nationalities and one family spoke hardly any English they were laughing and eating, singing and talking. One lady named Mabel told him to just relax and stay out of the way..they would put things right and tomorrow they were getting a tree and finishing his Moms Christmas shopping...and by the way...Santa had never missed a family on an Army base before and never would..for some reason Kevin felt at peace..and when the Christmas music started and Karen and Kirk had found their pj's and sat beside him on the couch..he knew everything would be okay after all,

Grampy part 2

2007-11-15T05:47:00.002-08:00

Only the boys are allowed to use gardening tools. "Oh I get it, I supposedly said"because you
think the boys are too dumb to know which are which. He wasted no time telling my father that I was not content being a girl and should be treated accordinatly. I never figured out if he thought I would be flattered. Once as a teenager I gave him a slightly hard time and he told me that we thought alike...just imagine I thought, like that horrible thing...I hope not but it really frightened me, and I never displayed addolencent nastiness toward him again.

I asked him if he missed England..he said why of course but I could never save up the money to get back. Even when my Mom died I could not return home. She, he said sneering, kept having all them babies. It infurated me to hear him accusing Grammyof almost impregnating herself
with a savage malice toward him..

He lost his eyesight in his mid eighties and for the rest of his life he refused to dress himself, or feed himself. I had the dubious honor of feeding him the day of my beloved Grammy's funeral. The temptation to shove the food down his throat was irrestable, but decency prevailed and the worst I managed was to feed him a spoonful of pasta salad..Aha so it's Maureen feeding me he said with an almost smile on his face. I nearly liked him at the moment and we both chuckled..maybe one of the few he shared with family until his death at age ninty four.

Grampy part 2

2007-11-15T05:47:00.001-08:00

Grampy

2007-11-15T05:47:00.000-08:00

If Grammy was our light, Grampy was the dark. My Grandfather was Reginald Lincoln James
and was born in a town just outside of London..He immigrated to the States from Canada after the war at age twenty two. He was of medium built about five foot eight with a ramrod straight milatary bearing. His rigid posture betraying his even more strict lifestyle. His hair was mostly black until he died. His dark black eyes were intense and unyielding. He had a small thin nose
and tight narrow lips. Grampy looked perpetually constipated, and the only time I saw him smile was when he amazed himself. Winter or summer he wore heavy denim shirts and chino's
which were ironed precisly and he sometimes changed twice a day. His shoes were brown and polished, by him, each evening. Grampy always had his pipe in his mouth but only indulged in a smoke after dinner. He without exception, disliked each and every race and color except a white Englishman. He was the most unpleasent man. Rude and caustic, and so mean spiritedAny slight he felt was done to him, was rehashed and discussed with anyone who would listen to him.

We saw him use his hands in a loving way only in his garden, so if indeed he loved anything, it must shurly grow in his garden. His tomatoes and other vegetables were legondary. His fruit tress and grape arbor amazing...although the flowers unsurpasible nothing but some tiny amount of fruits and vegetables were given out and only by Grammy..When I was about five Grampy told me that only boys were allowed to touch anything...the girls could pull weeds.

please do me this one thing

2007-11-14T11:48:00.000-08:00

As I'm sure we are all aware several people are running on that blog thing..you know, you vote for top blogger...if you could...please consider purplefrogcat...for a vote..as I understand it...you just join her new blog spot and she gets a vote...she is very nice and so I would really appreciate your voting for her...thank you in advance...mauniejames

Auntie Chickie

2007-11-13T06:37:00.000-08:00

Your our rock of Gibraltar
the one we all choose
you worry and nurture
and relay our good news

You help to solve problems
and lend us your ear
to listen to grousing
and allay all our fears

You help take the place
of those loved ones who've gone
to help keep us centered
and form a real bone

Not just with each other
although that's so great
to have found again cousins
before it's too late

To share all experiences
to remember fun things
from Grammy's great cooking
to which one's of us sing

Your the dearest of people
the best of the bunch
the kindest and nicest
and I have a hunch

We will need you forever
so please never roam
we trust you and love you
our treasure our own

Grammy part 2

2007-11-12T11:35:00.000-08:00

Grammy smelled of scented soap, johnsons baby powder and baking. After she died it was discovered she had a whole drawer filled with boxes of perfume and bath bowder and soaps,
never opened gifts from all of us she was saving for some special day. The kitchen was filled with her high clear voice, singing or laughing. She was our perfect story book grandmother.

Gram managed the kitchen the way she managed the rest of the house, from her wheelchair
but she neverever complained...Her cooking was unsurpassed. Measuring with her hands and
cooking from her heart.

The stories she told us grandchildren were more interesting than any fairy tale. They were about the family, but no one was ever gossiped about, ridiculed or belittled. They were charming histories of family life in Norway, her children and grandchildren even of grampy
and his life in England.

When I was older and realized how difficult living with Grampy must have been, I asked her
if she had any regrets. "Land sakes dear, how ever could I? she answered laughing. "you
know she said confidently, Grampy wore his RAF uniform to church and all the girls tried to
get his attention and wasn't Grammy surprised when it was her." Why Gran I asked. "Well she answered with a faraway look. I wasn't thin or small and then I had these funny old shoes." A flush of shame spread over her face. And you know dear your Grammy was so ordinary. Ordinary? She graduated from high school at barley sixteen and then attended the New England Conservatory of Music for two years on a full scolarship, which was unheard of for a girl
in the early nineteen hundreds. She graduated an accomplished pianist and had a beautiful clear soprano voice. But she was unmarried and there were not many options available for young women unless they went on the stage and that was not an acceptable alternative so marriage was the answer and she was deeply honored when my grandfather proposed. She was the most sincere and the kindest person I have ever known. She fiercely loved her family and found humor and joy in all of our small accomplishments. When she died at 86 a bright light went out of all of our hearts.

Grammy part one

2007-11-12T05:45:00.000-08:00

It had gotten late and had started snowing again. The sun was going down and the afternoon
was cold and damp and as usual I had stayed out too long. My mittens were frozen to my fingers and even my underware was stuck icy and wet on my body.

I was about eight years old and because my mother was taking my sister to the doctor today,
I was spending the day with Grammy. Walking up the steep hill to Olive Avenue I suddenly
didn't feel so cold. Looking at the kitchen windows all steamy from her wonderful cooking.
I imagined baking smells and spices,soup or stew. My mouth was already watering.

The tiny house where they had reared eight children was alive with the perfume of delectable cooking aromas. I knew in spite of winters chill I would soon be warm as much from my grandmothers unconditional love as her unequaled cooking.

My grammy was the light of all of our lives. She was born Ethel Hall in South Boston. Her
parents were imigrants from Norway who had moved to America when her older sister was born.

Grammy was large and plump and everything about her was round and cheerful. She had light brown eyes and wonderful skin. Her hair had been blond but now was almost entirely white
and braided and wrapped around her head like a crown. She had a large assortment of gaily printed housedresses, which she wore with many different colored cardigan sweaters, pink
elastic stockings and heavy black shoes with one built up black shoe with the sole built up because she had had polio as a child and so she spent most of her life in a wheelchair even her
glasses were round, but her smile was sheer perfection.

PoeARTica: The Cat and the Ghost !!!!

2007-11-11T07:14:00.000-08:00

how wonderful....I loved this poem...my dad made silly pictures and wrote nonesense words...I still miss him every day....maunie

PoeARTica: The Cat and the Ghost !!!!

I was stolen

2007-11-11T06:34:00.000-08:00

I was stolen..taken from my real family and placed with a group of barbarians...I am a swan

among ducks...a genius amid cretins..I look like none of them..I bet I'm a princess..how can I find

out what country is missing a princess...or at the very least, I must be the child of amazing

looking movie stars...She, the mean one, must have done the grabbing...she is the brains around

here and must have always wanted a perfect child, so she stole me..All they want is for me to

mind their horrible troll children...filthy boys and whinney girls..and to cookand help clean their

disgusting house...Even my beloved Gran won't tell me the truth..she says it's because I'm

twelve and all adolescents feel this way..as if it were possible for any other person to feel as

unloved and abused as me. I'm gonna run away..or kill myself..then they will be sorry..

especially her..who will do her dirty work when I'm gone? I'm really going to do it this time

I'm either going to run away or kill myself..as soon as I finish my history homework.

Why me..Everything happens to me

2007-11-10T07:52:00.000-08:00

You wake up all feverish and achy
your throat is sore and you are sneezing
you had a big presentation today
but you have a temperature of 102
so you drink some juice and take two asprin
a bottle of water and the paper
you call the office and back to bed you go
you pull the comforter up to your shoulder
and you moan why me? everything happens to me

Or..perhaps you wake up just as sick
but your waking under a park bench
and it's cold and drizzly
and there is no juice or asprin
no warm comforter or dry bed
no one to call because no one cares
and you know your not sick enough
not for the hospital..not even a shelter during the day
so you moan why me? everything happens to me

suppose your at the mall
maxing out your credit cards
in and out of each and every store
spending money you hope some day to have
gifts for others and yourself
balancing bags and boxes your feet are killing and your
ready to drop and you realize your wallet is missing
so you moan why me? everything happens to me

perhaps your one paycheck from housing
you have been working two jobs at minimum wage
soon you can leave the shelter with the baby
you have almost enough for a real room
maybe furnished and not wonderful
but private and clean and yours
just you and your child
and you relize your money is gone
so you moan why me? everything happens to me

Last night I killed him part 2

2007-11-09T06:17:00.000-08:00

After slipping off my rubber gloves and the towel I had wrapped around my hair, I put them

both in the shopping bag I had brought with me, and removed the second towel...because I was

already nude, I gingerly stepped into the dirty shower stall to rinse the remnents of his meager

brains off my body...After barely toweling off, I quickly wiped off the bottom and sides of the tub

working as quickly as possible...When I threw my sweats back on, I glanced at my watch and

realized I had been there only ten minutes...time flies etc...

Well let's get this over with, I thought practicly running through his filthy apartment. I used

one of the still damp towels to remove finger prints in places they should not have logically been.

The police will have a party with the amount of prints they will find in this dump. I thought as I

put everything I had brought back into the bag, and glancing over my shoulder to see if I had

left anything behind, I quietly shut the door..

As I was silently walking to my car, grinning from ear to ear, I heard..no..come on sirens, I do

not believe this...Now what..that light is shinning right in my face...

Hey it's a workday sleeping beauty, my mother said as she reached over to turn off my

shrieking alarm...you certainly looked as though you were having a wonderful dream Hun, she

continued..when I turned on the bedroom light you had the strangest smile on your face..

Yup...I sure did Mom...Laughing I jumped out of bed, eager to meet the day, and wondering

in advance, how I would kill him tonight...

by Maureen Vellucci

Last night I killed him

2007-11-08T08:27:00.000-08:00

Last night I killed him. It was almost too easy, but I finally did it...He was nude in his dirty bed,

head thrown back, passed out. I entered the room tentatively, looked at him with absolute

loathing. I stuck his own gun in his open mouth, thanked God it had a silencer and squeezing my

eyes tightly shut, pulled the trigger.

What a mess of white, gray and red slime. The smell was acrid. so sharp it brought tears to my

eyes. One little bullet, and debris covered the bed, walls, part of the ceiling and most of me. I

didn't have time to be squeamish. Now the smell was so strong I could taste it. Quickly, I

placed the gun in his right hand, adjusted his finger on the trigger, and aiming over his left

shoulder into the padded headboard, pulled the trigger again. I'm not sure how forensic's works

on these things, but they can not possibly differentiate between which bullet was shot first...can

they? It was imperative he have a powder burn on his hand to make it look like a suicide. See

in my scenario, I wanted it to look as if he chickened out the first time. Then worked up his

courage and did the world a favor. (to be continued)

Divorce

2007-11-08T05:46:00.000-08:00

They started out the same. He was dark and handsome, she blond, blue eyed, and fair..Over the years he gained stature, he became lord and master. She became the servent, then she started to fade..the house..job...children..take me...give me...love me..she was drying out...getting smaller...turning beige. He became a dictator and gained even more color. Does the male peacock draw his wonderful color from the pea hen? Is she drab so he can strut and dazzle
with his magnificence? I need a new mate he decided...younger more zest for life...more color...
I want the house and one of the children the ruler declared...Half? she asked Couldn't I at least have
some of all I worked for? Her voice was fading like her color..She was almost transparent..At
Dads they said..we eat steak and lobster...we go to movies ...we play miniature golf...we do wonderful things. Dad gives us money. I want Dad. I want to live with the ruler of the world..
His color is brighter..reds..greens..purples...he has no grays or beige..Mom..Mother..don't you hear me? I want...I need...too late..She's turned to dust and blown away...

By Maureen Vellucci

The family book club

2007-11-07T15:00:00.000-08:00

A handful of women
sitting around the table
sipping tea
discussing books

wise women
bearing ideas as well as children
dispensing wisdom
aiding each other

from thirty to seventy
not a sarcastic voice
no testerone needed here
so much caring and admiration

the current book is discussed for moments
but love and solidarity is theirs forever
mostly descended from a mutual grandmother
but enhanced by overwhelming respect

solving problems
no petty jealousies
just delight in individual strengths
dynamic women

sitting around the table
sipping tea
discussing books
saving the world
by Maureen Vellucci

some friends

2007-11-07T05:57:00.002-08:00

When you are in the lower grades you cannot invision yourself without your very best friend
and are positive you will forever be joined at the hip...work together...live right next door to each other...raise your kids together...etc...that's of course after you go to college and find an apartment in New York or some equally exciting place and be roomates...finally marrying twin
brothers in a double ceremony and honeymoon to follow...what actually happens is so bizzare ,
you will most likely not even know each other by sixth or seventh grade...no ones fault..you both
just move on...it happens...even if you stay together until after college...when you marry you
will most likely be living in different parts of the city or country...so you develop new very best friends...but we all know it's not the same thing. You really cannot trust these new friends as those before them...how surprised are you when they betray you for some unexplicable reason..
It's so much better to keep these new friends art arms length until you can really trust them
how many of us been betraid by someone we love and trust...and how shocked are we when it happens? You tell me yours and I'll tell you mine....

some friends

2007-11-07T05:57:00.001-08:00

But I'm not like that

2007-11-07T05:57:00.000-08:00

My mother-in-law is ninty three and getting a tad forgetful but she is also so adorable..the only good part of her forgetting some things is, she has plum forgotten she really didn't like me..
she loves me now...after thirty something years she finally likes me...but as usual I digress..my
youngest sister-in-law took her shopping and they ran into our friends Mom who is ninty four..
When they realized they knew each other, they chatted for quite awhile having a nice visit...the
next day...when I heard about it...I asked, how it was seeing an old friend after so many years..
Oh it was nice, she said...but my goodness...she has gotten so old looking...wrinkles and everything...such a shame.

What's Important

2007-11-05T09:17:00.000-08:00

I have always heard the old adage is what your worried about today going to be important in ten years? It depends on who you talk to...ask a child and any request is of the utmost importance...I have to have that...everyone else is...why not? Ask an elderly relative...your worried about what? In my day we never had such things so we never worried about stuff like that..a car..we didn't get a car until we could pay cash...vacations? who ever heard of taking a vacation...that was when we did repairs on the house..or helped the neightbors with theirs...
So we are made to feel so guilty for taking a vacation or buying a second car...treating the children to whatever....conflicted...you bet...my granddaughter, when she was about three asked me if I lived in a cave as a child...looking at the kind of electronics and have to haves makes me wonder if I did ..plasma television...oh gee...you only have one? cars....every young family has
at least two and their child will soon be of driving age...well, Mom needs a new car anyway...
who knew I would worry as my own grand parents did...how will they pay for all of this...what if
we do go into a recession...and why the heck don't they ever worry...maybe they do...but I'm
just hoping they will still be secure in their lifestyles in ten years...

Having a sick day

2007-11-05T07:15:00.000-08:00

I have to admit, I have had my fair share of sick days...between surgerys and just feeling ill..
it's so hard to obey the doctor and just rest...Hubby and sons have no such problem...a cold..
not any other persaon has ever been that sick..balls of crumpled up tissue...empty tea cups and toast dishes...the soup order inevitably ordered...a few years ago, hubby ... youngest son and I... got the flu in the middle of a bad snowstorm...my doctor had ordered a stress test for me...when I called in the morning he asked if I was running a temperture...it was low so he said..come on in...you will be fine...first I had to shovel out the car...go for the test...since I was out, got the ingredients for soup and a couple of other meals...came home...made soup...straightened up the house and tried to lay down...two days later I was in the hospital while hubby told everyone he was that sick but he kicked that colds ass...sure he did...oh and when his Mom called to see how he was feeling? He told her I had made him chicken soup...she asked to speak with him and asked if he wanted her to bring over some real chicken soup...I give up...

Just Santa and me

2007-11-04T03:38:00.000-08:00

Everytime I have a problem, Santa comes to my rescue...my gosh...he will have no time for toy making if I don't stop bothering him...he has been so patient and helpful with me...he is the
nicest and kindest person ever...so here I am now...good to go...last night hubby and I went out to dinner with friends and had a really good time...we got home a little later than usual but that
was fine until my very spoiled cat decided at five she needed to be fed, and have some treats..
Hubby and I have this down to a science..we both pretend to be asleep until one of us can't stand it anymore, and gets up with that wretched cat...I love her dearly but I'm a little cranky because I'm the one that caved this morning. After her usual cavorting and running up and down the length of my body...I couldn't stand it. I gave her fresh water, food, and a few snacks.
Now...she has gone to her cosy blanket to sleep and I am wide awake...and wouldn't you know that this is the day we turn the clocks back..I could have had an extra hours sleep but no..........
here I am typing my frustrations out while the two of them have a snoring contest...I am going
upstairs right now and yell FIRE...that will get them...and may I add I better get the heck out of here...hubby is not at his best when woken abruptly.

A real Nor'easter

2007-11-03T07:22:00.000-07:00

A real northeaster today...great...we have plans with two other couples to meet for dinner

we haven't gone out for a while because we have had our terrific grandson...who has now broken

his clavicle and we haven't really left him, although he is fifteen...our dilemma, do we leave a

teenager alone, while we go out for dinner...it seems okay to hubby as long as it's just wind and

rain but it scares me to death...what would you do? Would we be remiss leaving him alone...or

should we go against our own rules and let him stay at his friends for a second night? Please

give me an opinion....thanks....Maunie

Not for the faint of heart

2007-11-03T06:22:00.000-07:00

Blame Santa...thay wonderful man helped me get to my blogs... he's wonderful? Who

needs George Clooney? anyway here we go...yesterday I heared a message on telivision about

an elderly man being killed in Needham Ma..the name was close enough to our city that I locked

and secured every door and window...they had closed all the schools there, and ultimatly

arrested the killer...very exciting for a city north of Boston...when we realized it was not our city

I realized we are much too trusting and lazy enough not to close and lock up...I vowed to be

more careful...how about you...Do you consider how dangerous it is to leave the house unlocked?

Oh the Joys.. Two Little Feet

2007-11-01T05:41:00.000-07:00

Yup your right...these days are so hard...but believe me they go so fast...I know you'r thinking, cannot wait.. but now they are tucked into their little beds and baring teething or the flu your done for the night...wait till the nights they are not home and you hear a police car or the phone rings late...enjoy every burp and poop...I know you can't imagine it but you will be like me in the flick of an eye longing for the good old days...my grandchildren are perfect...they are the consolation of their dads misspent youth

Just a Girl in Shorts Talking about Whatever

2007-11-01T05:40:00.000-07:00

Becky I'm sorry that I'm not aware of what's been going on...sorry...I don't want you to have to repeat yourself but just know there are tons of us out here who think your the "cat'sass" that's a good thing...count me among friends and come on over whenever you can...you crack me up...I am trying to learn how to make a blog but I'm an old dog so new tricks are touchy..

Maunie James 3 lied to my face

2007-11-01T05:38:00.000-07:00

Wow...a blog...all about me...this is ... awesome...I am giddy with power...question

my youngest son is a mess...drugs...driving under...fighting...when do you cut them loose and how do you do it? We love him but he's killing us...no joke...I can get along with anyone

(the wicked witch of the west is my dearest friend) what would you do about the bad boy?