New Tires

Okay.  Today The Dad is having new tires put on Black Betty before we hit the road for Moscow and the first game of the last season.

 

I'm excited about the tires.  I LOVE getting new tires.  Is that weird?  The cars drive smoother when you get new tires.  Yes... I love getting new tires.  When we got Black Betty two years ago, she had 22K miles on her and the tires were in great shape.  I've been telling The Dad if we're going to all of these senior games - over the hills and through the woods - tires were a must.

 

Now we love Les Schwab and they've always taken very good care of us.  But, with Jeff's last day tomorrow - we kind of have to seek out the best deal on the bigger things for a while.  When he brought up the "make an appointment at L.S. for tires on Thursday" I told him to call Mike out at Midway.  Heck, it's in Post Falls (which is like Montana to us South Hill'ers) but an oil change costs me like $17.83 cents out there.  You can't beat that.  They are AWESOME! 

 

So The Dad semi-begrudgingly called them and asked about tires.  Mike, The Great Service Manager - gave him a quote of $623.  That was $300-$500 LESS than what Les Schwab quoted us... and I'm getting the same tires that I currently have on her. 

 

No brainer. 

 

The Dad took her out - it's not often he gets her all to himself... and he decided to tack on the oil change that is coming due in another couple of weeks.  So we're good to go to Moscow, to Vancouver, to Deming, to Seattle, to Portland, to Bozeman....  And go we will!

 

It's football season.  It's fall.  LET'S GO!

 



Calling all cars! Calling all cars!

Or just cops.

I walked out of my work building today to see a newer goldish/pewter colored Chevy Tahoe with regular ole' Washington State license plates - parked diagonally in the middle of our parking lot and a person getting out of it in... ahhh... cop-ish clothes.  Mostly not as identifiable as "regular" cop clothes.  He had pulled over a nice mercedes in our parking lot.  

I watched him as he handed the now angry man in the mercedes a piece of paper and say "Have a nice day."  I mean, REALLY?  "Have a nice day." after you've given a ticket?  That's crap.

So the policeman in disguise got back into the pretty Tahoe, took the entire width of the parking lot to turn around, versus pulling into a slot, backing up and turning the car around.  The Mad Man in the Mercedes pulled up behind him at the driveway and me behind the Mad Man.  The PID turned left and then immediately got in the left hand lane to turn like you're going to my house from my work.  The MMIM turned right.  I made my left turn and got into that same left hand lane by McDonalds and took the left.  As I went along the Palouse Highway and was just passing the Claire House on the left, the PID had just done another U-ey in that lot to catch the next speeder on the Palouse.  I passed by him/Claire  House and knew it was the same car, and he took a left and immediately pulled in behind me.  And then his little lightbulb went off and he pulled over onto the very small shoulder, flipped his car around again and pulled back into the Claire House parking lot.  That little lightbulb was that he obviously saw me get in my car back at work and he had *just remembered* my car and also that I now KNEW he was a P.I.D.  I think he's one of those ones that has to get his quota or likes his whole power thing knowing most people on the roads have ZERO CLUE that he is, in fact, a P.I.D.  

I've seen more and more of these cars that are typically "family" cars.  Suburbans, Tahoes, Explorers and Expeditions.  And you know they love that no one knows they are police.  But it's deceiving, isn't it?  To sneak up behind someone in an unmarked family vehicle, pretend you're just another driver on the road... just WAITING to catch someone.  

So for today - I blew his quota.  At least right at that moment.  I'm sure he was all excited to follow me and see if I'd do a california stop up ahead or forget my blinker at the next light... Instead, I know the car - and when I head back to work... I'm gonna wave at you!  

Our Own Little Wizard!

So I aired some dirty laundry yesterday and I'm good on it all now.  The Dad asked me if I wanted to see a response to an email he wrote and I said "No".  I'm done.  He proceeded to share some with my anyhow and instead of being upset about the WORDS that were written, I was angry that he shared when I told him I didn't care.  Didn't want it.  But, it's 12 minutes later and - I'm shrugging.  EXPELLIARMUS! *Poof*. 

 

Besides... there was this "little" tidbit this morning in the newspaper.  It's football season folks and we are so excited to get our tailgate on!  Let's go!  Bring on the Minn Magic!

 

http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2012/aug/27/ewus-minnerly-epitome-overachiever/

 

 



Flawed, But Cleaning Up So Well

Here it is.  Read it.  Don't read it.  

6 years ago a family member of mine divorced her husband and moved far away from him and her daughters.  Prior to that, this family member and I had a falling out and we've never come back from it.  But then - the only reason I've ever tried to was for the kids. It's been clear that this person is devoid of emotion, feeling, and caring about anyone unless it suits a need. 

I've stuck my nose in where it didn't belong - not because I am the kind that goes off an gossips about it after Sunday church - but I think mostly because I was/am so in shock that a mother could leave her kids. It's so unnatural. I live my life for mine - and would like to spend more time with them than I will ever get to again so the thought of leaving kids behind is just so bewildering.  

As time has gone on - this persons' role in the family dynamic has changed - as has mine.  I'm no longer the liar.  I'm not the one who steals.  I've never had the police called on me for disturbing the peace.  I don't tell people I take a half a hydrocodone or oxycontin a day for migraine management.  But then, even in my lying and stealing days (you know, the dippin' sticks they used to sell at Bernard Market or change from the parents change jar - yes, I did that, and worse.) I would never have had the drug issue.... so that's irrelevant.  

Times have changed.  People have changed.

A month or so back - this persons ex-husband called and asked me about stuff he found while gutting the house.  He said his ex-wife had left it and knowing she had been back to the house, stayed in the house many times over the past 6 years - she never took it with her, did I want it?  "No.  Toss it."  He went on to say "Someone might want it.  Someone should have them.  Your mom, maybe."  I still said "Nope."  But he couldn't  not toss it, so sent it here, by car, with another family member.  There was a picture of my grandparents and I thought "I might want that."  It was on top, I didn't go through the boxes as I don't have room for anything else - I have what I need or will use.  More than I need or will use or look at...

I get a text from my mom on Saturday night as Jeff and I are heading out asking if my step dad had a beer up here when he came up to get some of their stuff/his stuff.  "No."  Was he in a bad mood when he left. "No"  Whatever...  I get home that night to an email telling me that that stuff BELONGS to the person who left it in the house she was bought out of 6 years earlier and I was to bring it immediately to my step dad or the relative the next morning/day.  

We brought the stuff to his attention... it's not like we were trying to hide it or keep anything from anyone about having it.  It really didn't seem like a big deal.  At all.

But boy howdy is it.  It's a big fuckin deal.  Just so you know.  And once again... ALL MY FAULT.  It bothers me this time, sure, but each time this happens and it's NOT actually my fault anymore - I find it easier to let go of, move on.  Sometimes laugh.  It's sad - sure... but the fact that, over time, people know things are not quite right, but find it's just easier to let the scapegoat continue to do a job that she (me) owned so well, for a long time.  For them to wear the rose colored glasses.  To watch the elephant walk through the living room and pretend it's not there.  To never be wrong. Or sorry.  Or sad.  

It must be so hard never being wrong.  Or is it - It must be nice knowing you can blame someone, or anyone else's screwed up life on one person - even if that person had nothing, nothing to do with any event or comment or action.  For a long time coming now.  

Ya know what?  Who cares.  Really.  Waste of breath.  Waste of time.  I've learned.  I'm good. Why do I put this out there then?  Because writing helps me get it out.  Off my chest.  Be done with it.  There have been many many times I've wanted to put this out there and didn't.  I think because I always held out hope that there would be resolution.  That for once, one time, it wouldn't be my fault when it really wasn't... my fault.  But for some, that's never going to happen.  And I need to let it go - once and for all.  

Goodbye dear scapegoat.  You're needed at another dysfunctional family's house now.  I'm letting you go.    

One & One Makes Two

------------------>   (Click on "Wanted")  ------------------>

Congratulations on your engagement...

Rob & Liz

To a man who does everything in his power to make the women in his life happy (and anyone who needs plumbing done), and the woman who through tragedy came into this "family", took care of one and all,  hugs away all of our tears, greets Rob (and everyone else in her path) with a smile...

Here's to the rest of your lives together!

Me, #7 and The Kibbie Dome

On October 21, 1989 I was 7 months pregnant and my former (due to the roundness of my belly) EWU roommate let me tag along with her and the girls to the EWU vs. University of Idaho football game at the Kibbie Dome.  That was the first game I attended there.  I spent the better part of the game in the stands with my best friend from high school and some of her friends and then the other half with the EWU peeps.  This was the last game I attended at the Kibbie Dome.

 

Until now.  I realized yesterday that next Thursday, August 30, 2012 - just about 23 years from my first visit - I am returning there for a game.  A game that the "boy" who was growing inside of me at that time - will play in. 

 

His senior year starts in the stadium/arena/dome he likely "heard" his first I-D-A-H-O, Idaho! Idaho! Go! Go! Go! chant.  I've known since the schedule was released that we (EWU) were playing U of I - but I didn't dig deep enough to remember this until yesterday. 

 

It's kind of crazy.

 

And so are these fun little - MMUF's (Mom Made Up Facts).  I know some of you will come up with your own meaning for the acronym...  Have at it.

 

23 Years ago - U of I won the contest 41-34.  The difference of...  7 points.

My realization of the above came on August 23.  23 + 7 is 30 and the game is on August 30.

There were 7 Harry Potter books.  #7's nickname is "The Wizard".  (This doesn't really apply to this post.)

I have teared up 7 times just thinking about this. 

 

Can't wait to pull out of The Can around noon next Thursday and trek to Moscow.  I wonder if #7 will "remember" the sounds - somewhere, deep down. 

 

Since it hit me yesterday - I remember where I sat, where we parked, how loud it was. 

 

Crap.  How has the time gone this fast? 

 

E-A-S-T-E-R-N... Eastern Eagles, Go! Fight! Win!  Let's do this!

 

 

 



A Tale of Dan The Dog - August 23, 2012

This morning - The Dad fed the dogs and let them out at 5 a.m. as Wack was leaving for work.  He had a hard time getting Dan to come in - which is unusual, but eventually he came.  The Dad walked back upstairs - went out to get the paper, and disappeared into the "mens room".  There's nothing unusual about this.  Nothing at all.  BUT, usually Dan and Boone will come hop up with me until it's time for me to crawl out of bed for my run/walk/work out.  But neither of them did AND Boone was acting all paranoid.  It was... getting on my nerves.

 

So I asked The Dad "What was going on out there?  Boone is all freaked out."  So The Dads answer to this is to open the bathroom door, call Boone, shut bathroom door.  But The Dad was up and at 'em quicker than usual, so Boone was keeping up the antics behind the closed door and The Dad quickly figured out - that it wasn't just "ME" wondering "wtf?".

 

The Dad went outside to see if he could find out what had Boone so agitated and found nothing.  He came in, got dressed and drove off to the club in my car - as I had instructed him to do, saying I would run down and drive back with him.  So he rolled out of the driveway and I rolled out of the bed that none of the dogs had joined me on.  Put in my contacts, got dressed and remembered I wanted to add a few more songs to my nano.

 

I ran back to the bedroom for something and there was Dan The Dog laying on the bed.  He gave me this little look, had a ball in his mouth, but was bowing his head at me like he was about to be in trouble.  I said "Danny boy... whats.... wro.... ohhh nooooo!"

 

Dan The Dog had met up with a porcupine in the backyard!  Fortunately, he's only got about 12 quills in his little mug, but 1) HOW DID THE DAD NOT NOTICE THIS?!?!?  2) What a brave little man.  He never yelped, wasn't fussing with them (note ball in mouth) and 3) My poor guy thought he was in trouble.  Awwweeee....

 

I called the club (I worked there when #7 was born... the phone number is still the same and I have had to call it maybe 4 times since 1989 - but I remember it) and told the gal behind the front desk to have The Dad call me.  She said he was just taking a break between games and she would get him.  That done, I get on the internet and find out what to do... DO NOT remove them on your own states "the internet".  Keep them still - says "the internet"... uhhh, right.

 

The Dad went out and inspected the backyard again without the dogs.  He said that when he opened the door to release the hounds earlier - Dan bolted to the right, right under our bedroom window and then to the fence.  He barked once.  So this much IS a rare occurance at 5 a.m.  But that was it.  He believes that a small opening under the fence is how Mr. Prickly got in and was hunkering down by the air conditioning unit.  He says it appears that the nasty rodent has been "making a path" to under Zachs' window for a while...  The hole will promptly be "blocked" today. 

 

A few summers ago - I awoke in the middle of the night to a "scream".  When the neighbor boy was over that afternoon playing whiffle ball with the boys I asked him if is family had heard it.  His response was "Uhhh yah.  It was our dog.  He met up with a porcupine."   I was so thankful that our fence was tall enough, vinyl and that the little buggers couldn't get into my yard.  Huh... who knew a porcupine could go UNDER the fence.  Grrrrrrrr

 

 

 

Dan The Dog is at the vet.  They've just called and he's going to be fine.  He had to have one "cut down" into his gum because one of the quills got that far in.  He gets antibiotics, tonails clipped and a shot.  All of these things, the primping... well, nothing pleases Dan more than being pretty.  No... I'm not kidding.  What a little man, that Dan.

 



"If You Can't Say Something Nice...

...Don't say anything at all."

My mom said that to me a LOT when I was a kid.

Today - I don't have a good word to say about a man that works out in the Liberty Lake area.  And no... I'm not eluding to my husband.  

I'm angry as hell.  I'm frustrated about by the continued stonewalling by this man to some employees.  And right now... I'm hoping some of this lighting strikes him down.

And that wasn't nice.  So I've just broken my moms rule.

The End.

A Quiet Monday

Wack left for work at 4:50 a.m.  And it quieted again.

The alarm went off and we settled back in to Mondays "off" from workout.  And it quieted again.

I went to work - and my "roommate" on the other side of the wall is out on vacation this week... so it's quiet there.  I didn't realize HOW quiet until I heard someones phone chirp that they were receiving text messages.  I NEVER hear it, but my roommate does...  Usually her music is on and she's clicking away on her computer that - in all of this time, I really haven't ever been bothered by it.  But today... I hear it.  It goes off.  And then it quiets again. I prefer the quiet.  

The Dad and I have had to WORK to get to this week.  This week something happens in our lives and while we know part of it, we don't know all of it.  It's been frustrating, encouraging, scary, exciting, overwhelming... but mostly a time full of all sorts of questions.  Questions that were met with "the quiet"...  silence.  Over and over... and over again.

I've been vocal about it all... but today.  I've been quiet.  We made it to this week.  We didn't have a choice.  The world hasn't ended, nor will it... Perhaps the expectations, originally there, the hope, the integrity, the trust - all but dissolved.  Yet, oddly, it's bringing about - "The Quiet".

And the quiet continues.

Ahh... until NOW.  As I watch my baby boy... my 6'4" baby boy pull up from his day at work and open the door to a "hello" to the dogs full of love and appreciation for them.  A few words to MOTY and a gulp of Sunny D out of the jug in the fridge... followed by the thumping a big boy makes going down the stairs, with a whistle...  A very welcome trounce down the stairs, a smile at the whistle.  A boy who knows what his next move is. His hope - and his dreams guide me away from the quiet.  If even momentarily.  A knowing smile because he is happy.  That's all we want for our kids.  Then again, it's what we all hope for, is it not?

The door shuts.  I hear no more.

I hear IT again.  The quiet.  

I just don't love "the quiet".  

The Name of the Game - Lemon & Lime Launching

The 2nd Annual YuccaFest went off without a hitch!  Last year we had 110 lemons and limes and 10 sun tea jars so that each couple had their own batch of yucca.  With the heatwave of 2011 and the air conditioning not working, some batches didn't come out quite right.  So this year - we "revised" the "Yucca Process".

The Dad and I bought 40 lemons and limes and brought up 4 of the sun tea jars.  We prepped and squeezed and got all of the ingredients into three of the four jars - thinking that would likely be sufficient based on the consumption last year.  We also didn't rely solely on yucca and water as beverages and made sure we had wine, beer, gatorade, soda...  Not everyone will love yucca.  Even though it is a sneaky, refreshing, "lemonade" if made right!  We saved 10 each of the lemons and limes for a 4th jar if needed... though mostly, I bought them with a different idea in mind.

The shaking commenced, the amazing food on the table all but ignored during the shaking and making of yucca... not to worrry - it was all but gone by 1:15 this morning.  We shook, we passed, we shook some more, we added more ice, we laughed.  And then we drank.  We had the perfect amount for 24 people and it tasted exactly as it should.  Perfection on a nice warm night on the deck.  Better yet, a perfect cloud cover came over the region just as the cool of the house was not jiving with the cool of the beverage.  It was time for some heat.

And the heat was on.  The teams were drawn for the Holy Board tournament - which, I am happy to say, I was on the winning team...  I'm known to be a skoche competitive, and it paid off.  Winning is awesome!  

Earlier, when we were getting the yellow forks and napkins, the green plates and cups and the "prizes" for the competitions, the green and yellow paint for the washers for Holy Board I told The Dad... "We currently have 30 lemons and limes.  I have an idea for another "game" so we should get 10 more of each."  And we did.  Sure, we could have used it for a 4th batch of yucca - but I was hoping it wouldn't come to that....

So you know - if you read this blog ever - that Dan the Dog has a pool.  It sits 35-40 yards from the deck in the back yard.  Dead center.  I thought it would be fun to see who could toss the lemons and limes into Dan's pool.  Kind of like "Closest to the pin" contest.  But with the slant of the back yard, a few large rocks under ground... the bounce wasn't always kind.  The back fence (fortunately to county property) sliced a few of them up.  What we expected to be a round of "Lemon Launching" turned into about FIVE rounds and people with their phone flashlights down in the back 40 seeking the tossed limes and lemons to bring back up for the next round.  Laughter, hilarity, lemons, limes, friends, family fun for all!  Music on the deck until the early morning hourse - THIS morning.  Last guests leave at 1:15.  Haven't been up that late in a long time...  because after a bit of pick up to make sure the dogs couldn't "snack" all night - it was 2 a.m. and I was tired.  <yawn>.

We're already looking forward to YuccaFest 2013!  

Pefect weather on the deck!  8/18/2012

Messing with Wayne during the Holy Board championship!

Greg calls this "Lime Disease".  Doesn't look quite right, does it?

Family and friends - Also reppin' Class of 88!  Cyndi and Ang!

Batchelorette-ing It!

I've been alone since Wednesday afternoon.  I admit, and I planned - to not do a whole lot on Wednesday night.  I got more done than I intended - and then got sucked into "The Other Boleyn Sister" or whatever it's called.  I didn't even watch it in HD, so mostly, it was a waste of time.  But then... MY time to waste!  I ate some leftover jumbalaya that night. It was much better 3 days earlier.  

Here's a good story for you though.  On Wednesday, I was determined to get the lawn a good nice drink knowing that it's been hot and was supposed to be uber hot the remainder of the week.  I want my grass as green as possible for YuccaFest 2012, so water water water it is!

After I finished the Boleyn Sister movie it was time for bed - but I had to turn off the water first.  As I was walking back in the house, I realized that Zach's dome light was on in his truck.  Which means... it had been on ALL DAY since he got home at 1 pm.  I ran down to get his keys out of his room and after searching a bit came up for air with them.  I unlocked his car, couldn't reach the light even on my tip toes - so climbed in.  I managed to get one, and as I clicked off the other one, the door shut.  Whatever.  

Until I tried to get out.  It seems as though Wack has pulled a little hard on his door handles and therefore - they are broken.  BOTH of them.  On the inside.  I sat there trying to figure out how I was going to get out.  The windows are electric, but I didn't think to put the keys in the ignition to roll them down so I could climb out.  I texted him and asked him how I was supposed to get out of his car.  In the dark.  Later in the evening.  He texted I'd have to roll down the window and pull on the handle from the outside.  "Well, that's great, but I can't roll down the (*&&^$ windows."  Right about now a couple is walking by and the lights are out in the car.  They can't see me - and I decide the best thing to do is go stealth... instead of yelping for help.  But I admit, I was getting a skoche panicked... what's better... I could hear Jack, Dan and Boone going ballistic in the house.  Crap!  It was then that it hit me to put the key in the ignition and I chose to go out the side that the grass is on, versus the street side.  It wasn't pretty, but I didn't land on my ass.  I did try to yank on the door handle first, to no avail.  So I escaped the doom of being "locked in" a truck that I had the keys to... with me.  Super awesome.  Right?

Day 2.  Up and at em.  Off for the walk.  Moved the sprinkler around.  Started the system in the spot it works.  Fed the dogs, started laundry and off to work.  Home at lunch, started more... you know the drill.  

For lunch I made myself two pieces of toast.  For dinner I made.... two pieces of toast.  It's like - who wants to go through all of the trouble when no one else is around?  That and, I managed to get Blue Eyes room all straightened up, clean sheets... and ready for him when he comes home.  I got Wack's room all clean and cozy and all of his laundry done, including the bathroom stuff.  I got the Yucca jars ready for tomorrow.  I moved the water this way and that and turned in at 9:06 pm.  The only thing I didn't do, true to bachelor form, was sit on the toilet 3 times with a newspaper in hand.  But my diet, and locking myself in a car... well, I couldn't have been more like a man if I was TRYING.

Day 3.  Home for lunch and toast and wheat thins it is.  The dogs are out.  More last laundry going and the jars aligned on the counter for YuccaFest tomorrow.  I'm returning to my old woman self and thinking about lemons and limes, vodka and appetizers to make.  The Dad and Wack will pull up around 930 or 10 and this house, will mostly be ready.  

That is... until they dump their 3 days worth of sweaty laundry down in the hall for me.  

Cue:  The Circle of Life music.

August 16, 2012

Two mornings ago - The Dad and I started our morning walk.  I was on edge because of the "stuff" going on and our talk, shortly in, was not turning out to be a stress reliever, but rather a stress inducer.  He turned back, I forged ahead.

It's been really beautiful in the early mornings and walking yesterday and today without a voice walking beside me and no headphones or ipod with me - it was easy to get swept up in the sounds of the breeze, the majestic beauty of the rolling fields, the occasional doe and buck heads popping up through the fields to look my way as I passed by.  The sun shining, no traffic - only the ability to get lost in it all. 

Knowing "today" the 11 month anniversary of my beautiful nieces wrongful taking from her world of friends, family, education, work, life... the alone time draws me to thoughts of her.

Last year at this time she was working hard - earning money to help her on the phase after EWU... UW in the winter.  Nearly $5K saved up... which is more than I've ever had in my life in my checking account at one time!  She had just enjoyed the fun that is the Deming Logging Show with all of the festivities, family, friends, silliness that goes along with it.  And in a few weeks time, she would head to WSU for a quick weekend to see her friends at their new school, take in a football game and live the life a young 20 year old should live.  A week later - who would have known that was her "goodbye". 

Today - The Dad will get to "visit" with her at the cemetary where she is now.  I feel a stabbing pang of guilt as I am a bit jealous that he gets to be there and not me.  But then I am happy that he gets to be there because that's a good thing. 

I have found in the 11 months - since September 16th - that she was with so many of us for quite some time following the accident.  There were months where you knew she had other things to do - take care of.  More jobs and responsibilities that The Big Guy so obviously realized she was more than capable to do.  But today I know she's out there.  In the wind, rolling through the fields I walked by.  She's watching us all as we tread on this weebley wobbley ground for the next 31 days. 

She is there.  I know she is out there.  See you tomorrow sunshine...  See you soon.



Home Alone - Part I

There were the days... months... uhhh... decades, where I didn't love it if The Dad had to go out of town for business or pleasure.  I think being 24 and having 3 kids under the age of 4 probably didn't help things.

Ahh yesssss... in the old days.

Now we're in the new days.  

Even with Wack still home for another  month - my schedule is driven by little mouths to feed.  I race home after working and have to cook for The Dad and Wack.  Fortunately Wack has already fed the hounds, but that doesn't keep them out from under my feet while I'm cooking the humans food.  Three labs under foot while cooking = not fun.  Not even with wine.  In fact, three labs under foot while doing anything...  = not fun.  After dinner, The Dad cleans (ginormous thanks to my fave in Vancouver for that little lesson) and then it's start the water out back, start a load of laundry, pull out the load in the dryer - think really, really, really, long and hard about folding it and then  come back upstairs to go over the day.  

But today... today The Dad and Wack took off for the University of Washington orientation.  <sigh>  Wish I could have gone... so wish I could have gone, but at my job - you work an entire year before you can use any vacation time.  Because... supposedly, life stops for an entire year when you become employed here.  

So today... today I didn't have to rush home to make human food.  I worked through lunch so I could go to my hair appointment and then raced home to the hounds - who, unlike humans, are generally thrilled when I pour the same food into their bowls.  Were I to do that with my boys - it would not be met with the same enthusiasm.  No how.  No way. It's PARTY TIME!

I let them out, filled up Dan The Dogs' pool, picked up the dog c.r.a.p., and then the one job I have just really needed to do, but I don't because it was going to be "a chore"... popped into my head.  I had the time.  I had the energy.  I didn't HAVE to make dinner, clean up dinner, do laundry...  So I did it.  I needed to weed the flower beds and pots and trim some of them back.  Waaaaaay back... water them, love them, talk to them and tell them I was sorry I hadn't won the lottery yet so that I could spend the time I used to, with them.  They look much better for Yucca-Fest 2012 and I can say I accomplished something.  

I sat down to "yee haw" it up a bit, but a text comes across telling me they are on the pass.  And then I find myself welling up with tears.  Yes seriously.  BUT - to be fair (to myself) it's been one shitty ass month.  Well - since July 23rd.  Then #7 tells me he's either pulled his groin again or banged up his hip flexor.  The Dad seems to be doing all he can to be a man of integrity with a little something he has going on though it feels like it's all for naught, #7's work paperwork somehow didn't get turned in by his supervisor at Ferris - leaving him paycheck-less the end of this month.  The worst month in probably... 15 years for us.  Fortunately, <knock on wood> I haven't heard anything other than seen whoops and hollers on Twitter from Blue Eyes' due to King Felix' perfect game.  *&^^%$^%#$@... I missed that too.  

So while so many gals would be finding this sense of calm... a nice break... no responsibilities to The P.O.T.H. -  My security blanket, the one who helps me to settle down, unwind, find hope when it seems there is none... he's on the other side of the state.  It's no longer a party.  It's a countdown.  

Friday night can't come soon enough.  See you soon 'gag'.

The Week Ahead of Me

Monday:  Things aren't looking so great to start off a Monday.  I mean... we went for our walk/run this morning - but we got a late start so we HAD to run home so that I could be only 10 minutes late to work.  That's not awful.  I showered, The Dad made us an egg - and *poof* off to work we go.  I get home for  lunch and remember that we are out of bread so it's going to have to be yogurt and granola for lunch.  So while I'm getting the granola out - I see the Lays chips.  And then I remember the Resers ranch chip dip in the fridge.  So a few chips as an appetizer at lunch - and with Jack & Dan outside and Boone the only one wanting to "hang out" with me - he got a few too... I've finished my yogurt and could have a gatorade, water or milk, but I pulled a Diet Dr. Pepper out of the beverage fridge.  BUT... I have yet to open it.  I don't really like pop, but something is driving me out of my norm today.  Just want to get through today to get to tomorrow.

Tuesday:  My girlfriend is starting her new business so myself and another of our friends said we'd host her party tomorrow.  I'm excited for her and hope she does well, and I know it will be a good time.  But between today after work, laundry, dogs, house - I have to find something to prepare for snacks for it.  Tuesdays are usually a decent day at work - if you dont' know why, ask me... I'll tell you.  But on Tuesday, I'm going to be working to get to Wednesday.

Wednesday:  Now Wednesday is a banner day!  A banner day!  It's hair appointment day!  I had to reschedule my July 31st appointment and the soonest she could get me in was tomorrow...  So I look a bit like a backwards striped skunk, but on Wednesday that all gets righted.  That's the thumbs up part of Wednesday.  The thumbs down part of Wednesday is that The Dad and Wack get to head to Seattle for Zach's orientation.  I don't "earn" vacation normally - or rather, this place isn't like any other place I've ever worked where you can't take vacation until your year anniversary.  That's nearly unreasonable... Yes I went to Cabo in April - but when I interviewed I stated - this trip is purchased... I'm going.  But if I wanted to go on this monumental excursion - well, couldn't happen.  So with that going on... I'll be working to get to Thursday.

Thursday:  Now Thursday I've got some major work to get done outside of work what with Yucca-fest 2012 this weekend.  Floors, carpets, shopping and some serious cuddle time with my amazing four legged friends.  But on Thursday, I'll be working to get to Friday.

Friday:  On Friday I get to finish what I don't finish on Thursday - which is likely most of it because, lets face it, I don't get alone time much.  Though - I don't really WANT that.  But I can prep some of the food and the jars for Yucca and wait for The Dad and Wack to get home.  I will probably mow the lawn on Friday instead of Saturday due to an EWU scrimmage on Saturday.  So on Friday, I'll be working to get to Saturday.

Saturday:  Saturday we'll do the 5 mile loop, or he'll play raquetball - we'll get cleaned up and race to the scrimmage.  I'll finish making food for Yucca-Fest 2012, we'll "set up" the holy board and draw out the "tournament" board.  The weather is going to be phenomenal and this year our air conditioning is working - it's looking to be a great time!  When that ends, we'll need to clean up and get the house ready for the NEWEST Spokane, UW Fiji bound boys for dinner here on Sunday.  So on Saturday... I'll be working to get to Sunday.

Sunday:  No rest for the weary.  Jack, Dan and Boone will not let us out of the morning at the Dog Park experience so that will start us off.  Followed by making breakfast for Wack and Blue Eyes who will be home on Saturday night for his fantasy football draft.  The Costco excursion, Rosauers and unpacking - probably just in time to make food for the new boys.  My newest set of "sons".  And when Sunday ends, I won't be working for Monday.  I'll be dragging my feet and hoping that if I stay up late to watch "The Newsroom" that that will let Sunday linger a little longer...  

Just long enough for me to check my lottery tickets...  so that I can sleep well into Monday. <knock on wood>

Walk/Run Much? Take A Tip From A Tipster.

We had a "round the world" day yesterday.  Down to Pullman to take Blue Eyes some stuff he left at home and see his new room at the Fiji house this year.  I'll admit - it's way cool.  I could totally just chill in that room and watch t.v., much like the boys were doing when we got there.  It's on the side of the house the afternoon sun doesn't hit and actually has THREE windows so the air can circulate.  Pretty sweet stuff.  Not to mention he's super jacked about it.  We took he and the Bruiser out to lunch (his girlfriend who has more nicknames than anyone I know... Bruiser, Bruiseanne, Snoozeanne, S-Flames & more) to Rancho Viejo, our yearly lunch with Ry-Man on move in day - or at least now of days, close to move in day.  We stopped and got shown his office at work for the S.I.D. and met a few of his bosses - then into Martin Stadium to see the new WOWZA pressbox that he'll be working in come September 8th.  

On our way home, we took the back way to Cheney to take #7 some of the stuff he left at home.  Yes, Cheney is a drop ball kick away from home, but once football camp starts in August, his time is extremely limited.  We originally thought we would hit the last part of practice and be able to see his new digs.  Instead, we showed up in time for the whole practice in the heat, with the many wasps zinging around.  It was fun to watch.   Hot, but fun and of course - it ended so great with all of these boys that we love to feed coming off the field and giving me sweaty hugs!  Love these boys and am realizing these are my last dinners with them here at the house in a few weeks and at the tailgates.  So... that bites.  

Meanwhile at home, #3 son was texting asking whats for dinner as my phone was running out of battery life.  So he started up the "conversation" with The Dad and they agreed on Panda Express.  We let him know when we were on our way and when we got up Hatch Road, the route that makes the most sense is the one The Dad missed.  

>>Come up Hatch, take a left on Perry, take a right on 29th, turn into Panda.  Leave Panda by way of Southeast Boulevard, turn right on Regal, left to Palouse Highway... so a great big giant circle and relatively little, if any backtracking.  But noooooo....  We (he) *missed* Perry and when I, WOTY said "uhhhh what?" or something like that - The Dad then turned left on Pittsburgh (as Pittsburgh goes all the way to 29th).  But Pittsburgh from 57th winds to the left and then take a right and then you're on heck... I think Madelia or Magnolia.  He was about to turn right on 49th to get back to Pittsburgh but forged ahead to Thurston where he HAD to turn right to get to Pittsburgh.  One short block later, we turned left onto Pittsburgh and this is when we saw "her".

She was short, older and had glasses on.  I can't remember if they were the "old person" sunglasses that cover half of her face, but only because I was checking out her outfit - which wasn't bad - but for her height and the heat - I made note of it.  She was short, but her socks seemed "heavy" for the heat of the afternoon.  She was walking along at a slow-ish pace but heck, she was out "exercising".  Good for her.  Right?  My comment to The Dad was "Hey honey, that's going to be us pretty soon."

That was the end of it.  And sadly... the real end of it.

This morning - I read on my Twitter that the Spokane Police were trying to identify a 60-70 year old, smallish built woman wearing light blue shorts, a white shirt, white socks and tennis shoes... and glasses.  She had been hit by a car on 37th and Crestline.  My Twitter told me about an hour ago that she has died.  Police STILL don't know who she is... was.

I told The Dad about the tweet earlier and he remembered her like I did.  And while I wrestled with whether or not I should call someone, I let the "I don't really have any information" idea win.  When I read that she had not survived - I decided that while she may live alone and no one knows to miss her as of yet, she may well have animals at home.  Or maybe an adult special needs child. Or perhaps... a husband.   

And so I picked up the phone and left our "we were heading north on Pittsburgh at around 6:45 to 6:50 pm and saw the woman..." details.  I imagine she must live in the area and was walking some circle route near her home - so hopefully our "tip" helps them narrow it down.  

I can't take back my comment about us looking like that soon  - and while I never knew her and would likely never have seen her again due to nearly NEVER going down Pittsburgh, I feel badly as my comment was that of a sarcastic nature.  I imagine though, that when The Dad and I are running or walking our routes these days, that others have said things about us...  and that's all well and good, but she taught me a lesson absolutely - regardless of whether I have a husband or animals or kids at home or not.  

Identification.  Whether on my ipod, or carrying my license, or even just a laminated piece of paper with my name and emergency contact info.  Even more so important as we don't do heavily traveled routes.  

It may not save my life - but it would spare the worry of my family, or save Jack, Dan and Boone's lives.  

Fall, Football, Family, Fun, Farewells...

You can have a hot summer day, which turns into, or stays a hot summer night.  You wake up in the morning and the air is still and you can go out to get the paper and think it feels pretty fantastic.

In The Can, that changes overnight and much as The Cannites would hate to hear it and will refuse to believe it - that happened just the other day.  Thursday.  

We woke up and headed out for our morning run/walk and when I hit the great outdoors in my usual workout outfit, I realized I needed something to keep my arms warm until we hit "the turn".  I actually ended up wearing it the past two days and not just to The Turn, but back as well.  After starting the laundry this morning and turning on the sprinkler system, I headed out to get the paper and felt that ever coolness of the morning air.  

Last night, The Dad and I ventured out.  When we were coming home I expected to head to our car in the nice, warm summer evening air.  Instead my lips quivered on my way to the car.  Even the warm nights are turning...

Fall is rearing her beautiful head.

Fall IS my favorite season in The Can.  The sun.  Leaves changing colors.  It's still warm during the days.  Football.  Fall get togethers.  Pumpkins.  Pumpkin candle smells.  Back to school shopping - once upon a time.  Football.  The "feel" of fall.  What has been the "busy"ness of the start up of school, sports, social gatherings, driving all over for games, planning around the times...  Love fall.  Especially when it's sunny.  Fall means Thanksgiving is coming - our families most favorite day of the year.  This year - it's followed by the Apple Cup in Pullman.  With a Husky and a Cougar in the house this year, our Thanksgiving Turkey Bowl may be a little more "spirited".  

So while the days still feel like summer, and my first sign that fall was coming was sending two Minn boys back to college - the second sign is sneaking up on us. Today we did nearly 5 miles instead of the 3.5 loop.  I wore my long sleeve top until the last uphill mile.  Seeing marmotts, deer, cows and hearing the breeze blow out in the open country is really quite a gift and will only get more beautiful as the colors change in the coming weeks.  Makes a workout not really feel like a workout.  

Now we'll turn on the PGA Championship, cheer on "my boy" Tiger - and in a bit head out on a day trip to take Blue Eyes some things he forgot and have lunch with him.  The tradition has been to move him down and take him out - but this year he left on a Tuesday while MOTY and The Dad worked.  I hugged him goodbye that afternoon and cried, just like I did last year when we dropped him off.

I think back to dropping both #7 and Blue Eyes off their first years and how I didn't cry.  Not a drop.  Didn't well up.  I hear so many parents say they bawled - half the way home. And I wondered what's wrong with me?  That the years FOLLOWING the first year are the years that make me want to give them hugs and never let go... and CRY.  And cry.  And then buck up, let go, wipe my tears and smile.

I believe #7 sealed this for me when we dropped him off for preschool at Ferris all those years ago.  I pulled up and was getting out to go walk him in when he turned to me like "What are you doing?"  I understood the look, but not believing my own eyes said "Want me to walk you in?"  And he said "No mom.  I'm good."  The students/teachers who ran the preschool looked to him and me and shrugged.  I cried all the way home.  My FOUR YEAR OLD didn't need me.

I realized that I don't break down the first year because this is what they've been, and we as parents have been working to get to.  I remember how I couldn't WAIT to get out of the house at 18.  So I am usually so happy that they are so happy to be "there" in that moment that I can't, nor should I "ruin" it with my selfishness of not wanting to let them go.  It's the second year... and the third... fourth... that the realization sets in that each year they go, the less of a chance I'm getting them back for much more time.

As a mother of three boys - I am keenly aware that sons, once married, spend more time with the brides families.  Perhaps this plays in to my emotions.

But it's a beatiful day for a day trip to Pullman - where en route home, we are to "swing by" Cheney to give #7 some stuff HE forgot.  But we'll get to see his new digs and may be the last sighting of him until we see him in the Kibbie Dome at the University of Idaho - at kickoff. 

Okay Fall... I think I'm ready for you.

I Know Someone, Who Knows Someone...

So...

I know someone...  who knows someone.

Actually, I just know someone in a bit of predicament.  A very good friend of mine works for a company that's going through a transition.  My friend is an executive at the company and was informed that she wouldn't have a job as of September 1, but there would be a severance package and she and the other executives would know what that was by the end of the week.  That was 3 weeks ago.  The second week into "Uncertainty" they were told they would be notified what that was - the middle of the next week.  The middle of the next week came and she was "told" sort of what to expect and she, having had much time to think about this - told "The Man" that she needed it in writing.

She told me on my way to pick up a friend for "Bunco" yesterday that "The Man" stopped in to see her "today" for their weekly one on one and The Man still said nothing about what's to come and in fact, he asked her to do so more work to help the transition piece along.  She pushed that she needed some assurance, that she needs, for her families sake, something in writing because September 1 was 15 work days away.  Or something to that effect...

The Man said he was being diligent regarding it all and left her work area.

The friend and the other executives have been asked to not say anything to the other employees out of concern there would be a mass exodus.  They did not sign a non-disclosure or anything that would say they can't say anything about it - nor did her family members.  But she stays the course and it's eating her up inside, she's not sleeping and she yelled at her kids the other day due to the extreme stress.  She pretty much said they were told to lie to anyone who might ask "What's going on?"  And when she (and they) inquired "You want us to lie?", they were told to make something up about financials, orrrrr... waiting on the bank or.... something.  So in other words... yah, lie.  

She can't really apply for jobs due to the nature of her position and setting off red flags to competitors which would, in turn, allow the employees to figure it out... leading to the unwanted, but not necessarily accurate, mass exodus.  I mean, people NEED their jobs these days.  It's not easy finding them - it took me 4-5 months to find mine and I make a pittance of what my pal makes.  

So I'm pissed and this is where I put on my boxing gloves.  I can't stand seeing a good person, an honest, hard-working person be drug through the political ringer.  Chasing a severance she may not ever get.  And by "chasing" I mean, by continuing to do everything in her power to help The Man get his millions, while she continues to have no assurance that he MEANS what he says.  Nothing to back it up.

There's more to the story, but my lunch is only so long.  Sadly, I told my friend - Money changes people.  Especially THAT much money.  The Man may have been full of integrity, honesty and commanded your respect before.... but thus far, he doesn't seem to be as concerned about you and I think that's where the dollar signs have factored in - and in my opinion, does not earn your respect any longer.  I know who this "man" is... he's a local, sort of...  a local going on a month long trip starting September 1st.  Out of the country.  

Must be nice.  

Chin up friend.  Karma has a mysterious way of working things out.

Those People....

That's one of the biggest generalizations that I don't like.  "Those people..." and lumping everyone into a "category" that they may or may not be suited for, technically.

So I try hard not to use "those people" when trying to explain something - because mostly I think it makes us sound stupid.

BUT... and of course there's a "but" here...  I do have two of the "those people" groups that I do refer to.  And "those people" put themselves on "those" lists, really.  I don't put them there... well, not really.

Obviously there are "those people" that you send Christmas cards to year after year after year and you never get one back.  But then you're at the Jones' holiday party and you see in their little card hanging thing that shows off how many holiday cards someone receives - a card with the photo of "those people" that you keep sending holiday cards to, and now realize that they never send one to you.  So you make a mental note that you are not sending a card to "those people" next year.  

Ironically - this then becomes the year you don't send one and on December 22nd, receive one from them.  Which then becomes too late for you to send one to them because they will NOW know you sent one to them because they sent one to you.  Ugh.  

But it's not "those people" that has spurned this post.  

The Dad and I like to entertain every so often.  We've had Holiday parties where there are close to 80 people between the kitchen, living room and dining room and no room to move upstairs.  We started up our Seis or Cinco or Cuatro de Mayo parties a few years ago to get everyone excited for spring and get rid of the icky The Can, winter (yes still in May) doldrums.  We've tried the Superbowl, but would really rather just watch the game... and then some other random get togethers.  Our coup de gras are the Holiday, Cinco de Mayo and... Yucca-fest.

We started Yucca-fest last year and it was one of those good "success", not worried about the mess - let's go to bed, parties.  It was in July, just shortly after our air conditioning fizzled out - AND just so happened to be the hottest day of the entire summer.  People have asked us throughout the year if Yucca was going to happen again this year - and it is, though I just pulled the trigger on it as we have a lot of crap going on.  You know... the other days of the year - the REAL days, not the party days.  If only every day were a party...

So we invited most of the people that came last year - with a slight hiccup - I'm not on FB and don't have contact information for a few of the people that attended.  If the others tell them about it - they can come... absolutely.  But then... there's that list... the people you KNOW you're going to invite, that are excited and just want an "event" to go to.  

Then... there's "those people".  The people you feel obligated to invite... but here's the catch.  The people that won't EVER come.  And you KNOW this.  So it's like setting yourself up to be rejected - every.  single.  time.  Who does that to themselves?  So you continue to invite them because the implications of NOT inviting them are potentially more potent than inviting them and being a little pissy that they declined for the 25th time.  Right?  

So there's the part of me that knows that - and should just say "whatever" when they decline again... and I do.  Actually, with a few of "those people" it's more of a ten cent bet to see who declines the invitation first and what excuse they give.  Sometimes it's pretty entertaining - but the fact of the matter is, it's pretty pathetic at the same time.  On their part that is.

So... because I've just put this out there - friends, family, whoever - if you're reading this - and you want to know if you're one of "those people", ask me.  I'll tell you.  I have NO problem telling you.  I was the big liar as a kid - but roles have reversed and if you want to know - I'll flippin tell ya!

Well, it's time for me to get back to work.  With those OTHER people.  :)  Happy Wednesday!

The Weather Says "Summer", The Calendar Says "Fall"

It's happening.  The time is upon me and as a mom of three boys, I had mixed emotions as Monday, August 6th, 2012 reared it's head.

We bought the good steaks at Costco yesterday and fixings for their mexi-rice enchiladas. I came home at lunch and made them all grilled tuna sandwiches - for which 2 of the 3 were so very grateful and the other one slept after his long weekend at Watershed.

Dinner is served, we all watched "The Newsroom" for a second time, while Blue Eyes watched it for the first time and knowing that #7 would be likely to clear his plate and be ready to head back to Cheney - I pulled out the games.  I got Farkle out thinking it would be quicker, but Blue Eyes said "Aww no way.  If we're playing a family game, we're playing "Things.""  And so we did.  For an hour and 20 minutes I got to laugh with my boys and The Dad.

But I sit here now desperately trying to find a way NOT to think about what's next.  #7 starts his last season of football camp tomorrow.  We won't see him at home until Sundays after game days most likely... and... if then.  Blue Eyes is working his last day at the golf course tomorrow and then has to pack up and head to Pullman.  Being the king Fiji means he has to be back earlier than the rest of his brothers.  In another week and a half - The Dad and Wack head over for orientation at UW.  

This is not fun.

We spend so much time, from the time they have fuddies (pacifiers), diapers, spit rags - waiting to buy the last package of diapers.  From there we (I) couldn't wait until they were all in school - past kindergarten and the half days!  Next up - I couldn't wait for them to be out of the grade school simply because of the yearly headache also known as the Science Fair project.  It's ironic that the only school I never wished them out of was middle school... and that's ironic, because most parents now of days - FREAK OUT about sending their 12 year olds off to middle school.  I never was worried about it - because even though, like most other humans of the world who grew up hating their middle school experience, I survived it and knew that my boys would too.  Off to high school where there were really more heartbreaks than any other time.  A football game, a love of a game and not making the team, making a team only to lose a friend...  I couldn't WAIT for high school to be over.  I know better than to wish my life away - and wish for the next great thing - but knowing it and making sure I don't keep up the "wishing", well... you know how it goes.

Now I find myself wishing for them to all be home at the same time.  

Star light, star bright, first star I see tonight 

I wish I may, I wish I might

Have the wish I wish tonight

I wish that the 8 ball gives #7 a different answer the next time he asks that question.

I wish that Blue Eyes drafts the best fantasy football team, that he kills it in his field of study this year and that he never forgets how much his mom loves him.

I wish that Wack hadn't told me tonight that he wants to come home from school next year and his room will be purple and gold.  Not because I don't like the colors... but because I had just made the comment I was done painting in this house!  More than that though, I wish his wishes all come true.  

08/06/12
#7, Blue Eyes, me, Wack