Vacation Days 3 & 4

So I am homebound early tomorrow morning, so no karaoke tonight.  Its okay though.  Its funny how you can get tired doing nothing lol.

Yesterday I slept in so we got kind of a late start heading to the beach.  My Aunt is at Hills Resort so we go there and play.  Luckily we found a great picnic table next to the sand but under the shade of a tree.  We had a nice lunch at the resort, one of the best French Dips I've had!  After lunch we went back to our table and played cards.  I am incredibly lucky at cards, so even though Mama Debi taught me the game...  I trounced her haha.  When evening came we went to my brothers place.  My sister in law Alicia made an amazing lasagne and fresh corn.  So yummy!  I got to play a little more with Max.  He is so adorable!  When we got there he was helping daddy pick huckleberries and walking about going "pick pick pick".  :0)  I also found 2 four leaf clovers in their yard.  My dad found one too! 

Today the alarm was set so we could head out earlier.  We managed to get the same prime location picnic table for the day.  I decided I wanted a souvenir so I bought a nice plastic water cup, then went to the restaurant and asked for some ice water.  I should've done it days ago.  I had ice water all day!  Today we were smart and brought a picnic lunch.  Debi made an awesome cabbage salad that was delicious.  I need to get her recipe.  Aunt Nadine offered to buy dinner and drinks so we enjoyed the resorts kitchen some more. It was sad saying goodbye to her.  I haven't seen her in 16 years and who knows if I'll get to see her again.  I didn't get a chance to say goodbye to Jon, Alicia or Max but I hope they know how much I love them all and so enjoyed their hospitality and company!  

I am about to start uploading and editing pics.  I took a ton!  I haven't had a true vacation in forever so this has been a really nice few days.  I did have to call and talk to Liam today though.  I miss that little man already!

Vacation Days 1 and 2

So this year we are having a family vacation, and so far its been wonderful!  My brother and his wife are currently in Priest Lake Id. and we have been here for 2 days and not home until Wed. :)

Yesterday was a little hectic but great fun!  Sean, Lenee and Liam were able to come down for the night and went home today.  When we arrived it was straight to the beach.  I stayed in the shade for the most part but still managed to get a sunburn.  My Aunt Nadine is here also from Missouri.  I havent seen her in so many years its been wonderful visiting.  Liam had a great time at the beach, and it was so fun watching him and my nephew Max (almost 2) playing together.  After the beach we went and had some wonderful dinner and then settled in to our motel rooms for the evening.  The room is very nice and the decor is just fun!  Its beary cute!

Today (day 2)
Back to the beach this morning but it was already super hot and no shade.  We all hung out and watched the boys play until it was time for Lenee, Sean and Liam to head out.  We said our goodbyes and then we all kinda went different directions.  My brother took Max for a walk so that he would take a nap, and Dad and Mama Debi took Aunt Nadine to the resort to see if she could check in.  About a half hour later I got a text to meet them at the bar.  A couple drinks and nachos later we went back to the beach.  It was nice and shady by that time but I was getting a no caffeine headache and more sunburnt so came back to the motel fairly early.  I took a long lazy hot shower, and now just waiting to get sleepy.  Tomorrow is air conditioning and games, cards and such.  Should be great fun!  Tuesday they have karaoke and we will be going! lol

Tuesday evening Tea Time (Formally Coffee break lol)

So I realized that I have not done a "coffee break" update since the 2nd of Jan... time to update!  Including new name for my personal ramblings.  I have recently been trying to only drink coffee on the weekends.  Its not the coffee that is killing me calorically, but I need my creamer.  :)  So instead I have been drinking lots more tea on weekdays.  There are so many delicious flavors of both caffeinated and herbal teas out there!  I will admit though, since getting a beautiful pink Keurig for my birthday I have drank coffee on the weekdays more often than I should.  lol  Its so easy just to make a cup in the morning, and its just one cup, not a whole pot.

The biggest news is that I am moving.  I will be living with the Grady clan.  They have the room and I am there at least 3 days a week anyhow.  Big saving on gas and time when babysitting.  Also it will be nice to be with family.  It will be wonderful being there for Liam and watching him grow.  When is still unsure as the kids have to empty the storage room to make it mine.  I have a new bed waiting for me when it is time and I am excited about that.  I have not had a brand new mattress since I was married... yes a long time.  :)  I have started the packing process within my own things.  Im giving a lot to charity, its silly to cart around clothes that will never fit me, or I mildly dislike.  Also its good to clear out every once in a while. Another bonus is that it is a mildly flat part of town so walking will be a much more frequent event.  I heard the closest park has a walking track.  That would be awesome!  So much to look forward too!

So nothing new on the SSI fight.  I'm playing the waiting game now and letting my lawyers do all the work.  I hope it ends (positively of course) soon, but that's doubtful.

This weekend looks to be great fun!  On Saturday is our 4th annual karaoke birthday bash.  Its a little late this year but will be awesome as always!  Then on Sunday, hopefully not hungover, we are having a family photo shoot at the carousel with Liam and my brothers family including my nephew Max.  Max is 20 months and this will be my first meeting.  I am so excited.  We should get some great pics!  After we are going to spend the day out at my dads and just enjoy a family day.

Not really anything else new in the last 5 months.  I am so boring!  Oh...  I did get a new tattoo.  Its a dragonfly on my arm and it is gorgeous!  I've wanted a new one for so long, it was time.

Daily Prompt ~ H is for Honey

Honey

So I have recently made a few diet/lifestyle changes.  One of them (and the biggest change) is that I have quit drinking coffee on weekdays, switching to tea instead.  The coffee creamer I would go through was almost embarrassing.  So now coffee is only a weekend treat... and I've lost seven pounds.  :)  Now I have never been a tea person and thought the transition would be difficult.  I was wrong.  There are so many yummy flavors of caffeinated tea it was an easy switch, with no creamer and a new appreciation of honey.

Daily Prompt ~ G is for Gravy

Yes, I choose to write about gravy today.  One topic I can't say anything bad about.  I came to the conclusion one day that gravy was the perfect "comfort condiment".  I noticed most of my favorite comfort foods involve gravy, however gravy itself is not a comfort food alone, thus making it a condiment.  lol  

Damn now I want biscuits and gravy....  

Daily Prompt ~ F is for Frog

Frog

I am generally apathetic when it comes to frogs in general.   I don't think they're gross but I'm not a fan either.  I will however state that the little tree frogs are adorable.  I have lived in a couple different places where they were prominent.

When I was a child we had a problem with them coming up the drain and into our laundry room.  I never understood why they were there, but to my young eyes it was very cool.  The other residence I can remember was fairly close to where I live now.  We would find the frogs in the front flower garden.  Always so tiny and cute, the girls all got to play with them too.  Dang... that was a long time ago...

Daily Prompt ~ E is for Enjoy

10 things that I enjoy  :)

1.  Sleep
2.  Coffee
3.  The sound of rain at my window
4.  Music
5.  The squeal of delight when my grandson Liam sees me walk through the door
6.  The smell of fresh laundry
7.  Singing (although not well, I still have fun doing it)
8.  Dancing (same disclaimer as above)
9.  Meeting new friends
10. Almost all reality shows

Ok so this may have been an easy way to do the letter E, but I think its a good thing to sit and think about such things sometimes.  What brings you joy?

Daily Prompt ~ D is for Drop

Drop

I am terribly clumsy and drop things often.  I've been teased about my never ending case of "the dropsies".  Cell phones are the worst.  I have dropped and broken more phones than Im sure I can even remember.  I have dropped one in a toilet, spilled Pepsi all through another, and countless times have hit pavement or concrete floor.  My current phone only has one crack in the screen and a couple dings on the outside.  I know I need a case and screen protector...  but damage is already done.

Physically I am horribly skilled at dropping things like silverware on my feet.  The pain from the top of the foot is crazy and leaves such random bruises.  I have managed to never stab myself in the dropping of silverware so there is a plus side lol.

Daily Prompt ~ C is for Coloring

Coloring

I still love coloring!  I am not artistic enough to draw anything creative but I am really good at staying in the lines and have a good eye for color.  :)  Also it is a good stress reliever, or something to keep my hands busy while watching a movie.  Often when the coloring bug hits I will find a good color page via net and print out, but what I really want is one of the kaleidoscope type coloring books.  Something really detailed for fine point markers.  Do you know any good coloring page sites? Please let me know!

Daily Prompt ~ B is for 3B's :)

The Three B's

Every family has some fun and unique traditions for the holidays.  One of my favorites, and passed down was the three B's in every stocking.  Bubbles, Balloons and a Ball.  It became expected, but always looked forward too.  Even now, watching Liam, the 3 Bs are some of his favorite toys.  The enchantment of bubbles and balloons and the fun of a new ball.  Sounds like a fun day!

Daily Prompt ~ A is for Adrenaline

Adrenaline

I awoke this morning to a rush of adrenaline.  I awoke a little after 6:00am, but I was backwards and thought that I was napping and had slept way to late for a nap.  It took a few minutes to realize that no, it was morning and I was fine.  I hate that panicky way of waking up!!  When I had my bearings back, re-relaxed and went back to sleep for another hour.

Daily Prompt ~ Z is for Zodiac

Zodiac

So I just recently learned about the "new zodiac" 13th sign.  I know, I'm way behind.  However, I have to say even though my sign changed, I dont share the traits.  I have always been a Taurus and now I am supposed to be an Aires.  Hmmm...  Maybe I just need to research more.  Is anyone an Ophiuchus?  Does it seem more fitting?  Any different being a whole different, brand new sign?  I would love opinions on this.  The "new zodiac" calender is this

The New Dates:

Capricorn: Jan. 20 - Feb. 16
Aquarius: Feb. 16 - March 11
Pisces: March 11- April 18
Aries: April 18 - May 13
Taurus: May 13 - June 21
Gemini: June 21 - July 20
Cancer: July 20 - Aug. 10
Leo: Aug. 10 - Sept. 16
Virgo: Sept. 16 - Oct. 30
Libra: Oct. 30 - Nov. 23
Scorpio: Nov. 23 - Nov. 29
Ophiuchus: Nov. 29 - Dec. 17
Sagittarius: Dec. 17 - Jan. 20

So, whats your sign?

Daily Prompt ~ Y is for Yacht

Yacht

Honestly I have never seen a yacht, and probably never will in my reality.  I have seen them on television (of course) but they just seem like a big boat, pretty, but still just a boat.  What am I missing?

Daily Prompt ~ W is for Walk

Walk

Before depression took over my life, I was walking several miles a day, and really on with my weight loss journey.  Unfortunately, I lost my stride and am getting it back.  I used to really enjoy the Sunday walk group, but also unfortunately I feel a little bullied out of the group, which sucks!  I am doing a daily workout but not a lot of cardio, but have informed (yes informed, not asked or suggested) Amity that she and I will start walking again on March 1st.  I gave her a month to prepare and personally I'm a little excited to get back into it!!

Daily Prompt ~ V is for Vitamins

Vitamins

I know that I don't eat properly so taking a daily vitamin is always a good idea.  I can tell the difference in the way I feel if I run out of vitamins for a while.  I dont have the same energy and just generally feel different.  I used to take a few different supplements as well but budgeting has cut out all but the basic essential daily vite.  I used  to always forget to take them.  Now with all my other meds, I just put one in the AM section each day and know I don't have to worry about it.

Boring today...  I know.

Daily Prompt ~ U is for Upstairs

Upstairs

As I rent a room in the basement there is a running joke about how they only see me upstairs to use the bathroom or I'm leaving.  Actually that really is pretty accurate.  As mentioned before I am pretty reclusive.  Lately there are so many people in this house that arguments are happening more frequently.  I dont like that kind of stress and negativity so I will put on headphones and lock my door.  I have a nice loud music session and miss all the shouting.  Its the safest way to stay out of all the drama.  I hear nothing, I know nothing and will not take sides.

Daily Prompt ~ T is for Tomorrow

Tomorrow

Tomorrow is Saturday the 22nd day of February, to me this holds no no particular meaning except it is the birthdate of several friends.  My plans for tomorrow include laundry and nails.  There are of course lots of other things that I plan to do... but can always be put off until the next tomorrow.  Because of course tomorrow only exists in our plans, by the time its time... its today.  :)

Daily Prompt ~ S is for Sidewalk

Sidewalk

I often find it a shame how the sidewalks in Spokane are for the most part NOT taken care of.   They are so cracked and uneven.  When walking, I would try to stay on sidewalk but more often was pushed into the street anyhow.  There was a particular house I used to walk by that had a nice clear sidewalk, but prickly roses that hung so far over you had to step in the street to get around them.  I think thats just rude and lazy.  Another pet peeve is snow.  If you have a sidewalk in front of your house, it is your job to shovel and keep it safe.  Its dangerous to try to walk anywhere in the snow.  Ok.... rant over!  :)

Daily Prompt ~ R is for Recluse

Recluse

I will be the first to admit that I am very much reclusive.  I like my quiet.  I like my space, calm, drama free and just comfortable.  I like having friends over, so not a total hermit, but again I so enjoy my space, solitude and not having to put on "a mask" that everything is peachy.   There is so much pressure in "the outside world" that often times I just can't handle it.  The down side is by enjoying a reclusive lifestyle it does get lonely at times.  But I've gotten used to it mostly and am so thankful for my real friends that understand and come see me!

Daily Prompt ~ Q is for Quilt

Quilt

I never truly learned how to quilt.  I've seen some that are so intricate and beautiful it astounds me.  I think I know some of the basics but for whatever reason it was an interest never followed up on.  I enjoyed crocheting many moons ago, but have forgotten that too.  I think I need to relearn them as I try to find new hobbies to keep myself busy...   :)

Daily Prompt ~ P is for Perky

Perky

There was a time where I was always described as perky, and it was true.  It was the persona that worked best in social or work situations.  Especially when I was waiting tables.  I was a good server, but always in the casual coffee shop, I don't think my personality would have fit fine dining.

Now, I'm just boring.  Sadly there is not much perk left in me.  I know most of that is the depression and agoraphobia but it has changed even the ability to put on such persona...  and most of my "friends" didn't like the real me.  They just disappeared.  Sigh....

Daily Prompt ~ O is for Oatmeal

Oatmeal

I love oatmeal, both old school stove top and easy add water pouches.  Oatmeal was often the breakfast of choice for the family... except Lily who would not even try it.  Lily was a very picky eater and often times we would have to be creative to get her to eat.  I think it was her dads idea, but one morning he asked if she would like some porridge like the three bears eat.  She gobbled up her oatmeal (porridge) and loved it.  Funny how with just a different terminology we were able to get her to try, and like something new.

Daily Prompt ~ N is for (what else) Nail Polish!

Nail Polish

If you know me, then you know my love (addiction?) of nail polish.  I bit my nails until I was in my late 30s and now am almost the polar opposite with the appearance of my nails.  I try to keep them perfectly shaped, long and always painted pretty.  Also there are always rhinestones either on middle finger or pinky.  Today I painted them candy apple (Valentine) red with gold hearts on the middle finger.

Im afraid to count, and so I wont, but we can safely say I have 3 ice cream buckets full of different colors.  I tend to gravitate to the chameleon colors that change, pinks and blues.  :)  Just recently I received some nail art type bottles in black, white and blue.  They are great for stripes.  I also have a small brush is which to use for any color.

Now if only I could paint others nails as well as my own...

Daily Prompt ~ M is for Morning

Morning

I have to admit it, I am a morning person.  Granted I love sleep, but I prefer going to bed earlier so I can be up at a good hour.  My body clock seems to have chosen 8ish to be the most proper awake time.  I wake up with more energy, and perseverance that wears off as the day progresses.  So for me, getting my cleaning done and out of the way first, makes the rest of the day better.  :)

Daily Prompt ~ L is for Lost

Lost

I have gotten myself a couple times but I am very thankful for the power of mapquest and navigation on phone.  Really nothing too major or important lol.

Now feeling lost, thats a whole different story.  I feel lost daily.  I am wandering alone, towards nothing.  You kind of get used to it...

Daily Prompt ~ K is for Kettle

Kettle

Having a tea kettle was always a must have when I had my own kitchen.  Even recently I missed it.  I don't notice it much, I guess, unless I want tea. That usually happens when I'm sick.  That said, I have already discovered and been spoiled by the electric tea kettles and plan on purchasing one.  They are awesome!

Daily Prompt ~ J is for Jingle

Jingle

I love the sound of wind chimes.  I know they don't really jingle, but close enough!  Now that I rent a room as opposed to a real apartment, I had to get creative with the two chimes I have.  One is hanging in my "kitchen area" from a nail in the unfinished ceiling, while the other is smack in the middle of the room hanging down from a light shade over the ceiling light.  I run into it at least once daily.  I know its there, but sometimes just don't wanna duck. lol

Many Christmas's ago I was given a chime ball as a gift.  Its a small, beautifully colored ball but has chimes inside, yet it is a necklace.  Liam loves it when I wear it to babysit.  He loves the "music ball" and will shake it so he can hear them too.  There is just something calming about the sound...

Daily Prompt ~ I is for Illustration

Illustration

First and foremost, I am NOT an illustrator by any imagination.  Sadly drawing in general is not one of my gifts.  Even my doodles are boring!  I have such admiration for all artists!

In my personal treasures I have an illustrated copy of "Little Women" that was given to me Christmas of 1975.  Yes I was 5 but I loved the book.  This particular copy was printed in 1970, same year I was born, and holding up well.  I haven't seen another illustrated copy anywhere, thats why mine is so treasured and special. <3

Daily Prompt ~ H is for Handbag

Handbag

I love purses and handbags!  I have it controlled, but I always can find a purse to love, just not take home.  I'm not worried about name brands or any of that stuff, but just something that catches my eyes.  Of course with the fun of a new bag, often comes the accessories, new wallets are just as fun!  I like to match, but need lots of pockets.  :)

Daily Prompt ~ G is for Game

Game (lets make it easy today)

So the "big game" just ended and being from Washington Im glad the Seahawks won, however growing up in a Bronco household, I was still hopeful.

I don't watch a lot of televised sports, football definitely included, but there is something just more "fun" about the super bowl.  I must admit that I've loved all the jokes about Washington and Colorado being legal weed states.  This year was mellow for me, no parties or anything.  I had the game on while doing other things, laundry, chores, just fussing about and keeping eye on tv.  Now the tv is off bc I don't really care enough for the after show!

To all Seahawk fans... WOOOOOOOT!!  Sorry Denver....  Sorry dad, I know you've been probably yelling at the tv for hours!

Daily Prompt ~ F is for Freeze

Freeze (Freezing)

As it is 32* outside I can truly say its freezing cold!  I so dislike Winter!!  Not being into any Winter sports like skiing or anything, its just cold and miserable!  We have been fairly lucky in Spokane as we haven't had a bad Winter in many years.  No complaints here!!  I do appreciate the beauty of snowfall however.  Yesterday was a day with the big fluffy flakes and it was almost magical to watch...  from the warmth of the inside through a window!

Daily Prompt ~ E is for Energy

Energy

Growing up the one thing I miss is the energy I used to have.  I watch Liam run laps around the house and wish I had a fraction of his energy.  Two year olds are a powder keg! lol  I know I used too.  I can feel myself getting older, and honestly knowing my weight doesn't help.  I am again on the losing it end side of my weight loss journey, which is wonderful, and one of the things returning is my energy, however the aches and pains remind me that I am over 40.  Thank goodness for ibuprofen  :)

Daily Prompt ~ D is for Duck

Duck

I love ducks!  I don't know why, but they always make me smile.  I used to love to go to the park, or the river and feed and watch the ducks.  At one point we lived across the street from the Spokane River that had a little rock beach and lots of ducks.  The school bus driver would have to wait for them to cross occasionally.  Silly ducks!

Ducks also have a personal meaning.  Something special between Lenee and I.  She and I have matching little porcelain ducks that is one of my "treasures".  With that theme she also made me a necklace in which she drew Nana duck (me) with 2 little ducklings for Collin and Liam, yet again another treasure!  She even made me a duck snowflake!  I wish I still had that....

Daily Prompt ~ C is for Cruel/Cruelty

Cruel / Cruelty

My general "motto" is play nice.  With that includes whatever deserved respect.  I am not a saint and have said and done some mean things, not too many lol, but I have never been what I think of as cruel to another, intentionally or otherwise.  I dont understand the cruelty that goes on, how someone can go out of their way to hurt another person or animal.  What kind of thinking is that?  Do they have no conscious, or just no knowledge of how words or actions can seriously hurt.

Daily prompt ~ B is for Burn

Burn

They say that bad days start at the beginning and only you can make it better.  Every completely shit day I have encountered, usually started with a burnt bagel or toast.  Im not saying there is a connection, but maybe a subtle warning to go back to bed and ask for a do over!

Daily Prompt ~ A is for Again

Again

This is a definitely a suited word for the timing.  I apologise for not writing for a bit, sometimes real life takes precedence over other things and my writing gets pushed aside.

But here I am again, to try to write daily.  I've recently been better at paper journaling, but those are for no ones eyes but my own.  Its much easier to hide on pen and paper than the oh so public interwebs lol.  But again, I climb from the ashes and am trying to rebuild. I actually made it to the walk on Sunday.  I've missed the outings and refuse to let anyone muscle me away with awkwardness, if they feel awkward.... don't come, I'm done hiding!

With as many "agains" as I see in the coming year, I also see the even more "never again" messages.  I just need to listen to them more often!  

Daily Prompt ~ Z is for Zoo

Zoo

Even though I was born in Salt Lake, and there are pics, I have no memory of going to a real zoo.  Now as an adult, I wish that I had some animal memories.  I would like to go to Seattle at some point and visit their zoo, not that I travel. lol  Who knows... maybe someday...

Thursday morning coffee break, welcome 2014

I know, I am terrible when it comes to blogging about myself, but figured its definitely time for a catch up.

So we made it too 2014.  What does this year hold?  I try to be optimistic, but I fear for whats ahead.  I am still playing the SSI game.  Why do they make it sooooo difficult?  Certainly doesn't help the anxiety issues any.  I just want to have some sort of income, preferably over $200 a month so I can start living.  Sigh....

The holidays were wonderful.  Still have one more celebration to do when we can all get together with Collin's family as well.  I spent both Thanksgiving and Christmas day with Lenee and the extended Grady clan.  They have taken me in as family and I so love and appreciate that.  There is a sence of peace and normalcy that I am not used too, its nice.  Liam had a fantastic Christmas and is such a joy to be around.  He is so smart, and very communicative for a 2 year old.  I love spending time with him.  The big smile and the joyful greeting of "NANA" melts my heart each time.  On Thanksgiving Sue had Collin give me a call and I got a "love you grandma" from him as well.  Those are the moments to hold on too!  Some of the other festivities included a few days with Lily.  She is growing up too fast!  We went to a friends on Christmas eve and I think she had a nice time.  Good friends, good food.... cant go wrong!

My CVS is still acting up.  Its been better, sometimes going months in between episodes, but came back with a vengeance over the holidays.  I had 2 ER visits only 8 days apart.  Im hoping now that the excitement is over I will continue to feel better.

Hmmm...  really not much else going on in my corner of oz.  Still me and Lola against the world, I love my cat!  lol