This is the outside of the invitation I designed.
Sunday, January 23, 2005
Wedding Weekend
Wedding, wedding and more wedding.
Calm down, dear reader, I don't mean me.
That would be like asking, if I said I felt yucky... "Do you think you're pregnant?"
"No," I reply sweetly, "no chance in HELL of that."
The plans continue for the wedding of my (sort of) sister, Natsuki Oku - from Japan. She's coming here to get married at the end of Feb., so my dad can give her away. Naturally, this means my mom and I running around town and the general vincinity like chickens with our heads cut off.... Saturday morning we returned to the paper store to pick up envelopes for the invites that I designed... paper for the programs and guest cards, her wedding album, and other miscellaneous things that every wedding can't be without. I have become like the movie, "The Wedding Planner," - always involved with weddings, but never getting married... much less falling in love.
Oh, I'm sorry... that was my other personality - the one I like to call "very-bitter-about-still-being-single Rachael". She's a real bitch.
So... here are pictures of the invitation... enjoy.
Wedding, wedding and more wedding.
Calm down, dear reader, I don't mean me.
That would be like asking, if I said I felt yucky... "Do you think you're pregnant?"
"No," I reply sweetly, "no chance in HELL of that."
The plans continue for the wedding of my (sort of) sister, Natsuki Oku - from Japan. She's coming here to get married at the end of Feb., so my dad can give her away. Naturally, this means my mom and I running around town and the general vincinity like chickens with our heads cut off.... Saturday morning we returned to the paper store to pick up envelopes for the invites that I designed... paper for the programs and guest cards, her wedding album, and other miscellaneous things that every wedding can't be without. I have become like the movie, "The Wedding Planner," - always involved with weddings, but never getting married... much less falling in love.
Oh, I'm sorry... that was my other personality - the one I like to call "very-bitter-about-still-being-single Rachael". She's a real bitch.
So... here are pictures of the invitation... enjoy.
Friday, January 21, 2005
Is this really my weekend off?
THINGS TO DO ... SATURDAY EDITION
THINGS TO DO ... SATURDAY EDITION
- Mail all mail not mailed this week (see below)
- Find receipt and return too small pants
Drop off girls... 10AM to Jim for overnight- Tell someone I won't be at church on Sunday (catering job, $$)
- Buy red shirt for Sunday job
Buy envelopes for invitations I designed- Buy ribbon for invites
- Assemble
- Get mailing list from mom and address
- Find out if LOVE stamps are out yet
- VACCUM CAR!!!
- reorganize girls closet (it's scary right now)
- mail ebay auctions
- finish painting in dining room
- find out when dad can rent floor sander and buffer
sleepeat
... sometimes, life is grand.
After leaving SB to finish her movie upstairs... took Jordin down for bed early - she misses her daddy tonight (even though we'll see him bright and early tomorrow morning) .... fell asleep while tucking Jordin in ... woke up to find SB curled up in my bed... on my side - under my blanket... :-) And even though it's mine - it looks more snuggly wrapped around her.
Sweet dreams.
Rachael
After leaving SB to finish her movie upstairs... took Jordin down for bed early - she misses her daddy tonight (even though we'll see him bright and early tomorrow morning) .... fell asleep while tucking Jordin in ... woke up to find SB curled up in my bed... on my side - under my blanket... :-) And even though it's mine - it looks more snuggly wrapped around her.
Sweet dreams.
Rachael
Thursday, January 20, 2005
A few of my favorite things.... from today....
Jordin: Eww... I am not having brussel sprouts... I hate brussel sprouts. (please, keep in mind - the child has never come close to or thought about the brussel sprout as a food previous to tonight's dinner....)
Me: Jordin, these aren't brussel sprouts, (lying embellishing truth to my advantage) these are little, tiny, baby cabbages.
Jordin: (Perplexed look... as if to say - damn, mommy - you got me on this one... I thought you said Brussel Sprouts....)
Me: So, I think we can try these sweet little baby cabbages, don't you?
(twenty minutes later, as Jordin scrapes her plate clean....)
Jordin: Mom, I loved the baby cabbages... yummy! But, I still hate brussel sprouts, ok?
(note : the same above tactic applies to eating salmon as well... at our house, it's known as "Jonah's Whale Tale".... must be something about biblical refferal and food.....)
Me: (snuggling up to Sarah Beth at bedtime) What was happening on the movie you were watching?
SB: Oh, they were playing bonopoly.
Me: You mean, monopoly.
SB: No, bonopoly mom... say it the right way.
By the way, dear reader.... I love it that people think my children are adorable. I really, really do. Take today - as a matter of fact - I am teaching at the middle school again where dear friend from high school is a teacher.... mind you, dear single friend who has never been married or thought about having children friend from high school.... the inevitable, "So, Rach - what are you doing later? You should meet us at (insert local restaurant name here) for dinner! Wouldn't that be GREAT?"
(alas - I begin to ponder the mechanics of getting myself and two fabulously tired children ready for dinner out.... )
"Friend," I say - "I would love to do that... I just don't think the girls would be up for it... "
"Oh, don't be SILLY... " she says, " just bring them... your girls are just so precious!"
(oh dear me)
Yes... precious. They are certainly that. I can imagine howfun excruciating that would be... my two overly tired children in a sit down restaurant surrounded by single people who have no children of their own. Oh yes, very entertaining!
And, as she rambles through and about the wonderful times we are bound to have together, I begin to ponder the "precious" value of my children at dinner.
Jordin: Eww... I am not having brussel sprouts... I hate brussel sprouts. (please, keep in mind - the child has never come close to or thought about the brussel sprout as a food previous to tonight's dinner....)
Me: Jordin, these aren't brussel sprouts, (
Jordin: (Perplexed look... as if to say - damn, mommy - you got me on this one... I thought you said Brussel Sprouts....)
Me: So, I think we can try these sweet little baby cabbages, don't you?
(twenty minutes later, as Jordin scrapes her plate clean....)
Jordin: Mom, I loved the baby cabbages... yummy! But, I still hate brussel sprouts, ok?
(note : the same above tactic applies to eating salmon as well... at our house, it's known as "Jonah's Whale Tale".... must be something about biblical refferal and food.....)
Me: (snuggling up to Sarah Beth at bedtime) What was happening on the movie you were watching?
SB: Oh, they were playing bonopoly.
Me: You mean, monopoly.
SB: No, bonopoly mom... say it the right way.
By the way, dear reader.... I love it that people think my children are adorable. I really, really do. Take today - as a matter of fact - I am teaching at the middle school again where dear friend from high school is a teacher.... mind you, dear single friend who has never been married or thought about having children friend from high school.... the inevitable, "So, Rach - what are you doing later? You should meet us at (insert local restaurant name here) for dinner! Wouldn't that be GREAT?"
(alas - I begin to ponder the mechanics of getting myself and two fabulously tired children ready for dinner out.... )
"Friend," I say - "I would love to do that... I just don't think the girls would be up for it... "
"Oh, don't be SILLY... " she says, " just bring them... your girls are just so precious!"
(oh dear me)
Yes... precious. They are certainly that. I can imagine how
And, as she rambles through and about the wonderful times we are bound to have together, I begin to ponder the "precious" value of my children at dinner.
- Mom, she's touching my napkin.
- Mom, can I have chocolate milk with dinner?
- I don't waaaannnnt thaaaat... I waaannnnnt thhhiisssss.....
- Whhhhhhy cannnn't I haaaaaaave thaaaaat?
- Well, SHE got it!
- Why don't I have a red crayon?
- I dropped my napkin again!
- Mommy, why does the girls bathroom have all boys in it?
- Mommy, why do boys stand up to pee?
- Mommy, can you button my pants?
- Oh, I forgot to wash my hands.... sorry
- Mommy, where is our food?
- Mommy, what are you talking about?
Yes. That would certainly be the epitomy of pleasure. Note to everyone, the Fletchers dine at home most frequently for reasons left mentioned above. Please add this to the list of "please-don't-purchase-that-sticky-gooey-toy-that-makes-alot-of-noise-for-the-Fletchers either.
Thanks!
rach
|
You Are 31 Years Old |
|
31 Under 12: You are a kid at heart. You still have an optimistic life view - and you look at the world with awe. 13-19: You are a teenager at heart. You question authority and are still trying to find your place in this world. 20-29: You are a twentysomething at heart. You feel excited about what's to come... love, work, and new experiences. 30-39: You are a thirtysomething at heart. You've had a taste of success and true love, but you want more! 40+: You are a mature adult. You've been through most of the ups and downs of life already. Now you get to sit back and relax. |
THE TO DO LIST ...continued
(these are from Monday's list)
Return the too big pants... buy new fitting pants. (um... where is the ^&!@^!& receipt?)
Finish my new book.... My Antonia....
Blog
Laundry
finish bible study homework
and now, the new stuff
(these are from Monday's list)
Return the too big pants... buy new fitting pants. (um... where is the ^&!@^!& receipt?)
Finish my new book.... My Antonia....
Blog
and now, the new stuff
- mail IRS form
- mail student loan form
- mail postcard invitations to scrapbook party
- check in with "singles" to make sure we're on for this weekend
- balance checkbook
- fill out SB's reading sheet
find out if SB can still buy a yearbook
ARGGG! Why is so much stuff left over!!??
Rachael
...and one more thing....
... and this is important. Maybe the most important thing you will read today.
... and this is important. Maybe the most important thing you will read today.
(there is a link below - you just have to read through my fluff for a while to get to the point, ok? Do me just this one favor. )
I have a lot of politically minded friends... :0) To my admiration and surprise, some of them you couldn't have paid me to believe they would ever be so... (ahem... Kelly... :-) ) I get emails every day from friends (and oh yes, my former MIL) directing me to their latest find - the latest bit of information or news... all of which I read and remain grateful for receiving... you can't be and educated citizen - or responsible voter - without knowing as much as you can take in - from all the angles.
So... I'll just tell you. I am about as conservative Republican as they come. I don't know how this happened - my dad is as flaming southern Democrat as they come. (This makes for much discussion during dinnertimes and election years) I am a supporter of our President (W) and, most importantly, supportive of our troops overseas right now. I have a dear, dear friend who is there - waiting ever so patiently to come home to his wife, new son, and children - and even he has shared with me the importance of knowing that America is behind him.
However, as you read the following - put your political beliefs aside for the time being. Democrat, Republican, Kerry, Bush - whatever... just take a deep breath and take in what you are about to read. I found the link to this blog on another friend's site.... the link title caught my eye - and, being a selfish American - I went right to it, thinking I would find the online journals of an AMERICAN family in Baghdad... what fun it would be to read about their adventures. What I found was quite the opposite. These are the journals of a mother and her sons... currently voluntarily displaced from their home, traveling the middle East and Europe as they wait for safety in thier hometown. The mother, Faiza, is the main writer - (though you can link to her college age sons sites as well.) A mother who has sent her boys from their home to college - specifically away from Baghdad. Their lives have been rocked by explosions, gunfire, casualties, and strife. These are her journals as she travels, as she worries about the upcoming elections in Iraq, and as she longs for home. They are a middle class family - with the father owning his own company - three sons - and Faiza - who seems very well spoken and much more educated than I.
I found it tearjerking - imagining my comfy life here in the states... insulted to think that this would never happen here or to me. Imagining sending my girls to far away foreign lands - keeping them from the familiarities of home. Faiza misses the simple things - dinnertimes, the market, her neighbors... and says, much to my surprise - that many Baghdad natives have left home, spreading themselves throughout the middle East and Europe - waiting to come home.
What did I find most intriguing? The things, as an American - I had never thought about. Imagine an election in your country for the FIRST time.... the division felt between the two religious groups there - the Sunni and the Shi'aats. Also - the fact that I have NEVER ever, had to even imagine leaving my home... my Kroger, my Target... even my street. And, that as I read, I found no hatred of Americans as a people - but a sadness of a country occupied, a country that, despite it's occupation, longs for true democracy.
Did it change my support of our acitvites there? I am not sure. My new hope is that we, as Americans, will be able to offer TRUE democracy to Iraq - and allow the kind of peace that will allow Faiza to return.... HOME.
Rachael
And the week goes on....
Been substitute teaching all week at the middle school... missing out on what goes on in the rest of the world... as I am locked away between the hours of 8 and 4. I love it, though - and the kids seem to like me, which is nice.... amazing what a few BlowPops in your purse can do for you with middle schoolers.
"Oh.... you're one of those subs that is actually going to make us DO our work...?"
(Yep, that's me... Ms. Fletcher.... the model of discipline and good behavior....)
"Cool."
My favorite question from the week....
"How tall ARE you?"
...and by telling them how tall I actually am -and watching their eyes glance to the floor to see if I have on heels.... I have gained a few "lofty" friends - you know, the girls who were just like me in the sixth grade... tall. They find me during their lunch period or locker breaks for a quick smile and a hug...
My favorite quote to them.... "yes (insert name here) carry that book around... you'll really look intelligent... impress all the ladies....whoa - actually read it and who knows what will happen?"
After having been there most of last week, I realize that there is almost nothing as fun as walking through the hallways to "Hey! Ms. Fletcher! Are you gonna be our sub today?" Or, spending my "free" period in the libary yesterday, reading a book - and being bombarded by the sixth grade English class that I taught last week - all wanting my opinion on the books they were checking out.... they left with my personal favorites.... (insert pat on the back here... what a feeling....)
However - working all week means many, many things are left undone... laundry, cleaning... the car is making desperate cries from under all the "stuff" to be cleaned, and - I think there is at least $135 worth of dance recital costumes that were supposed to be hung up as soon as I brought them home... um, a week or so ago.
Hope you all are managing well this week! :-)
Rachael
Been substitute teaching all week at the middle school... missing out on what goes on in the rest of the world... as I am locked away between the hours of 8 and 4. I love it, though - and the kids seem to like me, which is nice.... amazing what a few BlowPops in your purse can do for you with middle schoolers.
"Oh.... you're one of those subs that is actually going to make us DO our work...?"
(Yep, that's me... Ms. Fletcher.... the model of discipline and good behavior....)
"Cool."
My favorite question from the week....
"How tall ARE you?"
...and by telling them how tall I actually am -and watching their eyes glance to the floor to see if I have on heels.... I have gained a few "lofty" friends - you know, the girls who were just like me in the sixth grade... tall. They find me during their lunch period or locker breaks for a quick smile and a hug...
My favorite quote to them.... "yes (insert name here) carry that book around... you'll really look intelligent... impress all the ladies....whoa - actually read it and who knows what will happen?"
After having been there most of last week, I realize that there is almost nothing as fun as walking through the hallways to "Hey! Ms. Fletcher! Are you gonna be our sub today?" Or, spending my "free" period in the libary yesterday, reading a book - and being bombarded by the sixth grade English class that I taught last week - all wanting my opinion on the books they were checking out.... they left with my personal favorites.... (insert pat on the back here... what a feeling....)
However - working all week means many, many things are left undone... laundry, cleaning... the car is making desperate cries from under all the "stuff" to be cleaned, and - I think there is at least $135 worth of dance recital costumes that were supposed to be hung up as soon as I brought them home... um, a week or so ago.
Hope you all are managing well this week! :-)
Rachael
Sunday, January 16, 2005
To DO List for MONDAY
- Return the too big pants... buy new fitting pants.
- Check with Dad about upcoming weekend schedule.
- Take Jordin to dance rehersal at 10 AM
- Stay for Parents meeting at 10 AM
- Help Sarah Beth spend money before her pants catch fire
- Read my new book.... My Antonia....
- Blog
- Laundry
- Send mail to Kelly's parents in Kansas
- finish bible study homework
- make snack for bible study on Tuesday night
- Ministy meeting at 7PM
- Plan Girls Night Out
And, the dice roll.... how much will happen.... how much won't....
Rachael
Hey YOU!!
yes..... you there... staring at your computer screen... the visitors from far and away.... yes, I am talking to YOU!
This is the thing.
Everyone loves a blog.
We love to read them, we love to write them.
Are you visiting my blog?
My problem? What makes you think I have a problem? I just want to know you came by - want to know that you might come back again - that my life - or at least my life according to my own fifteen minutes of blog fame - is interesting - exciting - worth reading about. I find myself spending countless hours obsessing over blogs -reading my other favorite blogs (see my list below right) and catching up on the lives of people I have never even met. It's Disney style voyuerism in the finest American way... via the internet. So.... tell me you came by... post a comment, add me to your Blogroll... you know, let's be friends! Ok... I am looking forward to hearing from you.....
yes..... you there... staring at your computer screen... the visitors from far and away.... yes, I am talking to YOU!
This is the thing.
Everyone loves a blog.
We love to read them, we love to write them.
Are you visiting my blog?
My problem? What makes you think I have a problem? I just want to know you came by - want to know that you might come back again - that my life - or at least my life according to my own fifteen minutes of blog fame - is interesting - exciting - worth reading about. I find myself spending countless hours obsessing over blogs -reading my other favorite blogs (see my list below right) and catching up on the lives of people I have never even met. It's Disney style voyuerism in the finest American way... via the internet. So.... tell me you came by... post a comment, add me to your Blogroll... you know, let's be friends! Ok... I am looking forward to hearing from you.....
Girls finally in the bed... another exciting weekend. Actually, despite the constant arguing and bickering, it was rather refreshing to spend the weekend with them ... Dad has been clocking in for a while on the weekend thing. Lucky me.
Bought Jordin her new dance shoes on Saturday... involved MUCH bitching and moaning from me (though silently, of course) regarding purchasing a pair of Jazz shoes she can only wear for two or three months at the most before it's time for a new $48 pair of ugly tan leather booties. However, upon arriving at the dance apparel shop, Jordin spotted a teenage girl buying her first set of pointe shoes.... she was completely enchanted, making all of my $48 worthwhile.... well, at least it was a temporary bandaid. We also left with new $18 tights.
Drank margaritas with my friend Tina on Saturday night at Longhorn's.... ran over to Target to dash in and check out the blue jeans (on sale, thanks Katie Fleck... ) and picked up Jordin two new pairs of jeans and a clearance pair of pink T-strap shoes. ... hey, at $4.98 - I'll buy her anything. The pants, alas -are too big (@#@@#*&!), but the shoes are perfect.
Tomorrow - the girls are out of school - Jordin has a rehersal for her dance recital from 10-12 - Sarah Beth has $10.00 burning a fire the size of Texas in her pocket - and I want to go to the fabric store... of course, there is a church ministry meeting at seven - so, we'll see how much actually happens. Gotta return the too big pants - and of course the damn sale is over.
Drat.
Rachael
Bought Jordin her new dance shoes on Saturday... involved MUCH bitching and moaning from me (though silently, of course) regarding purchasing a pair of Jazz shoes she can only wear for two or three months at the most before it's time for a new $48 pair of ugly tan leather booties. However, upon arriving at the dance apparel shop, Jordin spotted a teenage girl buying her first set of pointe shoes.... she was completely enchanted, making all of my $48 worthwhile.... well, at least it was a temporary bandaid. We also left with new $18 tights.
Drank margaritas with my friend Tina on Saturday night at Longhorn's.... ran over to Target to dash in and check out the blue jeans (on sale, thanks Katie Fleck... ) and picked up Jordin two new pairs of jeans and a clearance pair of pink T-strap shoes. ... hey, at $4.98 - I'll buy her anything. The pants, alas -are too big (@#@@#*&!), but the shoes are perfect.
Tomorrow - the girls are out of school - Jordin has a rehersal for her dance recital from 10-12 - Sarah Beth has $10.00 burning a fire the size of Texas in her pocket - and I want to go to the fabric store... of course, there is a church ministry meeting at seven - so, we'll see how much actually happens. Gotta return the too big pants - and of course the damn sale is over.
Drat.
Rachael
Monday, January 10, 2005
..the funny things Jordin says.....
So, I bake cookies.
I read "Family Fun" magazine... and try all the cute cupcake recipes.
I cut paper dolls, and dress them too.
I have a box to organize my extra ribbon.
I can cook a mean turkey for Thanksgiving.
I can fold napkins... know what a complete place setting of China looks like...
Apparently, all this has rubbed off on my children.
Friday at school, during discussion of the upcoming weeks of preschool...
Ms. Lisa: "We have a holiday on the 17th. You won't be at school on the 17th. Does anyone know why?"
(Jordin eagerly raises hand and proceeds to obnoxiously wave hand around in order to gain attention)
Ms. Lisa : "Yes, Jordin, what holiday is the 17th?"
Jordin : "It's Martha Stewart Day, Ms. Lisa."
I think it might be time for less cupcakes, and more American History.
Rachael
So, I bake cookies.
I read "Family Fun" magazine... and try all the cute cupcake recipes.
I cut paper dolls, and dress them too.
I have a box to organize my extra ribbon.
I can cook a mean turkey for Thanksgiving.
I can fold napkins... know what a complete place setting of China looks like...
Apparently, all this has rubbed off on my children.
Friday at school, during discussion of the upcoming weeks of preschool...
Ms. Lisa: "We have a holiday on the 17th. You won't be at school on the 17th. Does anyone know why?"
(Jordin eagerly raises hand and proceeds to obnoxiously wave hand around in order to gain attention)
Ms. Lisa : "Yes, Jordin, what holiday is the 17th?"
Jordin : "It's Martha Stewart Day, Ms. Lisa."
I think it might be time for less cupcakes, and more American History.
Rachael
Sunday, January 09, 2005
Swollen nose and all.....
No worries everyone, I survived the day; though it has been a long one.
(yawn)
I was fortunate enough to blessed with some stronger than normal Tylenol medication this morning for the swollen knot that has become my nose. That helped. I went from not being able to feel anything but said swollen knot to being able to feel nothing, and I do mean nothing from the neck up. Beautiful. My favorite comment this morning at church was certainly the old favorite, "yes, your face does look really swollen."
Oh, thankyoueversomuch.
Jordin continues to ask if my nose is sore, though I have reassured her at least three million times that it's not her fault, and that it was an accident.
We had little Cassidy over for the afternoon to play - and considering the 71 degree weather we seem to have been fortunate enough to have, it was a gorgeous day for a playdate.
Bought two gallons of Martha Stewart "seedling" green today for the dining room. Can't WAIT to paint tomorrow.
Ciao -
Rachael
No worries everyone, I survived the day; though it has been a long one.
(yawn)
I was fortunate enough to blessed with some stronger than normal Tylenol medication this morning for the swollen knot that has become my nose. That helped. I went from not being able to feel anything but said swollen knot to being able to feel nothing, and I do mean nothing from the neck up. Beautiful. My favorite comment this morning at church was certainly the old favorite, "yes, your face does look really swollen."
Oh, thankyoueversomuch.
Jordin continues to ask if my nose is sore, though I have reassured her at least three million times that it's not her fault, and that it was an accident.
We had little Cassidy over for the afternoon to play - and considering the 71 degree weather we seem to have been fortunate enough to have, it was a gorgeous day for a playdate.
Bought two gallons of Martha Stewart "seedling" green today for the dining room. Can't WAIT to paint tomorrow.
Ciao -
Rachael
mommy abuse
ouch....
last night Jordin, whom I was picking up early from dad, threw her head back (you know, to be dramatic and swing her luxurious hair around) at the same time I was bending down to help her get her blue jeans buttoned..... her head hit my nose so hard I saw stars... literally. This morning, I feel like my face has been hit by a truck.... thank God it doesn't look like it... I think my nose is broken. Ouch. Anyone have an ice pack, something stronger than Alleve, and maybe a babysitter - so I can go lie back down? Jordin is quite the little nurse, however... maybe she won't try to be "luxurious hair nurse" today.
Saw Lemony Snicket last night... fabulous movie.
ouch....
last night Jordin, whom I was picking up early from dad, threw her head back (you know, to be dramatic and swing her luxurious hair around) at the same time I was bending down to help her get her blue jeans buttoned..... her head hit my nose so hard I saw stars... literally. This morning, I feel like my face has been hit by a truck.... thank God it doesn't look like it... I think my nose is broken. Ouch. Anyone have an ice pack, something stronger than Alleve, and maybe a babysitter - so I can go lie back down? Jordin is quite the little nurse, however... maybe she won't try to be "luxurious hair nurse" today.
Saw Lemony Snicket last night... fabulous movie.
Friday, January 07, 2005
First Friday 2005...
And here we are.... at home.
Enjoying my favorite kind of Friday ... the kind where, reluctantly I send the girls off to Athens with Jim for the weekend, and I ramble around the house for a while. Spent an hour in Michaels - lots of cool ideas but NO spending... and, then decided to eat dinner while watching television. Now, I have found a Lifetime movie to entertain me.
Jim wants me to come to Athens tomorrow night and take the whole fam to the Lemony Snicket movie.... this means either
And here we are.... at home.
Enjoying my favorite kind of Friday ... the kind where, reluctantly I send the girls off to Athens with Jim for the weekend, and I ramble around the house for a while. Spent an hour in Michaels - lots of cool ideas but NO spending... and, then decided to eat dinner while watching television. Now, I have found a Lifetime movie to entertain me.
Jim wants me to come to Athens tomorrow night and take the whole fam to the Lemony Snicket movie.... this means either
- a long day of driving - then bring the girls home post movie (more driving)
- or, spend the night in Athens
- or, just say no, can't make it this time.
(sigh)
It's hard when we've worked so hard to be friends and put the girls first always to say no... on the other hand, I HAVE to work on moving on. Doing things sans girls.... sans Jim.... I hate the thought of it.
Rachael
Thursday, January 06, 2005
Attention Amber Frey ... please go home.
Setting Single Moms back ANOTHER 30 years....
(prepare for "vent" mode)
The Today Show (NBC).
Oprah.
I've just about seen enough, honey. Let me just start by telling you - God bless you. You are obviously a brave and strong woman to stand up and testify, essentially, in the name of a woman and infant you had or would never meet. I don't deny you your good health and fortune, nor do I think you should be called anyone's "mistress." And I sincerely mean that from the bottom of my heart.
Now. All that being said.
It's time to go home. Sell the book, make lots of money... pay your legal fees, buy a new car. Move away from California and build a new life. But please, Amber - go home. I have listened to your interviews with Matt and Oprah - and all I can do is stare in complete amazement... the stereotype that I try so hard to run from is sitting right in front of me. The stereotype that every single woman runs from is sharing her story with the world....
Setting Single Moms back ANOTHER 30 years....
(prepare for "vent" mode)
The Today Show (NBC).
Oprah.
I've just about seen enough, honey. Let me just start by telling you - God bless you. You are obviously a brave and strong woman to stand up and testify, essentially, in the name of a woman and infant you had or would never meet. I don't deny you your good health and fortune, nor do I think you should be called anyone's "mistress." And I sincerely mean that from the bottom of my heart.
Now. All that being said.
It's time to go home. Sell the book, make lots of money... pay your legal fees, buy a new car. Move away from California and build a new life. But please, Amber - go home. I have listened to your interviews with Matt and Oprah - and all I can do is stare in complete amazement... the stereotype that I try so hard to run from is sitting right in front of me. The stereotype that every single woman runs from is sharing her story with the world....
- You really slept with him on the first date?
... and you don't mind telling the world about it? Listen everyone... I had my first daughter when I was 17 - started dating AFTER my divorce when I was 23... everyone understands that these things happen - completely... but when asked WHAT you were thinking, WHY you felt you so comfortable as to go ahead and hop in the sack with the man?
".... well, he had been prescreened by my friend, Shane...."
"... I just felt I could trust him...."
are you kidding me? The DAY my friends start to prescreen men for me - the day I think that simply because my friend set me up it's ok??? Please, dear future tall, handsome man of mine: I am not a desperate woman. Trust you? I hope so.. but, you know -
- You let him pick up your child from school by the third date?
Ok, you trusted him. I get that. Really. However, this makes me cringe. I guess I am just way, way too protective of my girls. You are going through some serious relationship with me before you are picking up my children from school by yourself. They have a daddy already, thanks.
I hate it. I am here - waiting - patiently, mind you - for Mr. Right. I don't mind waiting. I have a checklist three miles long - hell, maybe I am "over" waiting... whatever... and the guys I have dated - wonderful. Fabulous. But these stereotypes of single moms... you know, desperate for affection, searching for a father for their children - they are killing women like me... ARRGG!! So, please Amber - pack it up and run on home, honey. Let the book do the talking, and you can just go back to leaving the rest of us single mom's be. Thanks.
And - single women everywhere - these things are signs that you should be asking questions... as Oprah so gracefully said yesterday - "things that make little pink flags start waving...."
- only available by cell phone
- has "water" running in the background every time you talk (Scott said this sound was "soothing" to him)
- gives you his address to send him a card - to a PO box sixty miles from home
- first tells you he's never been married, then that his wife is dead, then that his wife is only missing.
I feel MUCH better now.
Back in the Swing of Things
Well, that's it. Christmas and New Year's officially passed, and the girls returned to school on Tuesday. They had a wonderful time in Florida with Jim - and were almost as happy as I was when Tuesday morning arrived. I've finally recovered all living room from PHT (post holiday trauma) and am slowly, slowly getting laundry under control. As I was taking the girls things downstairs to their bedrooms, I realized just how much STUFF they actually have... too much. I think this week, while they're enjoying school, I'll slowly move some older goodies towards Goodwill. It's time, you know?
The girls are adjusting to my more present status in their daily routines. Before, while working sixty plus hours a week - we didn' t do much on the "family" time... I didn't even realize how much we depended on my parents (Mimi and Pa) to get us through the week. I saw them for an hour or so every morning, and the same or less in the evenings. Pa did breakfast, Mimi did homework, bathtime and supper - and I safely crossed home just in time for bedtime stories. Since having my "revelation," (you know, realizing I was tired of working sixty hours a week for people who less than didn't appreciate me and all the money I made them... but I am not bitter, really) I am :
Well, that's it. Christmas and New Year's officially passed, and the girls returned to school on Tuesday. They had a wonderful time in Florida with Jim - and were almost as happy as I was when Tuesday morning arrived. I've finally recovered all living room from PHT (post holiday trauma) and am slowly, slowly getting laundry under control. As I was taking the girls things downstairs to their bedrooms, I realized just how much STUFF they actually have... too much. I think this week, while they're enjoying school, I'll slowly move some older goodies towards Goodwill. It's time, you know?
The girls are adjusting to my more present status in their daily routines. Before, while working sixty plus hours a week - we didn' t do much on the "family" time... I didn't even realize how much we depended on my parents (Mimi and Pa) to get us through the week. I saw them for an hour or so every morning, and the same or less in the evenings. Pa did breakfast, Mimi did homework, bathtime and supper - and I safely crossed home just in time for bedtime stories. Since having my "revelation," (you know, realizing I was tired of working sixty hours a week for people who less than didn't appreciate me and all the money I made them... but I am not bitter, really) I am :
- picking them up in the carpool line
- taking them to the library
- going to Matinee movies
- rollerskating (imagine - six foot tall mommy on rollerskates for the first time in at least ten years... )
- making bubble baths
- kissing the ouchies to make them feel better (ewww... not a glamorous job...)
- doing laundry (so, we have a few new pink shirts and a few less white ones.... )
- reading stories (yes, the voices too)
- coloring
- dressing Barbie (at least sixty times a day; does this mean my children are somewhat addicted to new clothes?)
- driving to dance lessons (where in the #&@^# is the missing ballet shoe???)
and the girls are simply amazed. I am not saying that to be vain at all... it's funny. They cannot believe I can do any of this stuff.... Sarah Beth now wears a watch to be sure we are going to make it anywhere on time, and Jordin .... well, she's just happy to go anywhere. I made dinner last night - you know, actually cooked a complete meal from scratch (which, they didn't complain about, mind you) and Jordin said to me, with eyes as wide as quarters... "Mommy! I didn't know you could cook!"
I love it. May I always be a source of complete amazement.
Have a good day!
Wednesday, January 05, 2005
Hi Tech Frustration
Things I want to do on my blog but can't figure out.... *@(#*@()#*~!!
- Add people to my "Blogroll," and actually have them appear on my blog
- Make a new, less "free-Blogger"esque template (oy, this would require me knowing HTML, hahaha.... that was maniacal laughter.... I was married, after all, to the King of the Internet for three and a half years.... where is all that now?)
- Have a photoblog somewhere else besides my blog
- Do that cool "strike-thru" thing that all the cool blogs I read have
.... well, the list continues, but not to bore anyone to pieces. Maybe I will go and dust off my library card today and check out an HTML book. Hmmm... if anyone "stopping by" from anywhere in the world has any ideas... PLEASE! I am pulling out my single mom card and waving it around... HELP!!
Sunday, January 02, 2005
Beach Bums
The girls arrived home safely from the beach trip at about 9:30... Jim kept sunscreen on them, so they came home unscathed from the sun... however, neither one had brushed their teeth or hair in a few days... ugh. Sound asleep with many adventures to report. More tomorrow. Enjoy the pictures... we have a new scanner!
The girls arrived home safely from the beach trip at about 9:30... Jim kept sunscreen on them, so they came home unscathed from the sun... however, neither one had brushed their teeth or hair in a few days... ugh. Sound asleep with many adventures to report. More tomorrow. Enjoy the pictures... we have a new scanner!
Saturday, January 01, 2005
a day well spent, indeed....
(a day in the life of a single mom when the kids are away)
6:00 AM - Body clock briefly wakes me up... realize that because there are no kids home, there are also not seven night lights on throughout... darkness prevails. Turn over and go back to sleep.
9:00 AM - Wake up again. Smell brewed coffee from pre-set coffee maker. Realize there is no one to make breakfast for... turn over and go back to sleep.
11:00 AM - Wake up again. Smell old coffee. This is getting ridiculous. Drag self out of bed as if it's 6:00 AM. Decide that PopTarts do NOT sound good for breakfast. Make scrambled eggs and sausage... realize no one is complaining about no PopTart rule. Enjoy quiet breakfast watching CNN. Still, hear no complaints from AWOL Peanut Gallery.
12:30 PM - Check email in pajamas.
1:30 PM - Take shower. Think to self - I should probably do SOMETHING productive today. Go upstairs to craft supplies. Get out photographs and seperate. Become stingy about what photos to give to Jim.
2:00 PM - Dry hair and get dressed. Sit down on bed to put on socks. Realize - bed is not made, no children to supervise. Turn on TV. Watch COPS marathon. Realize - my life is not really that bad after all.
2:30 PM - Doze off in warm, unmade bed. No one comes to wake me up with insane question about anything.
3:00 PM - Wake up - panic briefly that day is wasting away. Clean out car completley. Gather change and extra $2.00 found in car and go get lunch. Eat and watch more "grown up" tv.
4:00 - 7:00- Work on craft projects like scrapbooking and etc. . Think about New Year's resolutions.
7:00-8:00 - Chat with parents. Eat dinner with parents who have brought me leftovers from lunch with friends. Yummy. Have dessert with dad. He made Fried Pies. Yummy.
8:00-10:30 - Finish craft projects. Help mom look up something cool on the net.
10:30-present - Blog.
(a day in the life of a single mom when the kids are away)
6:00 AM - Body clock briefly wakes me up... realize that because there are no kids home, there are also not seven night lights on throughout... darkness prevails. Turn over and go back to sleep.
9:00 AM - Wake up again. Smell brewed coffee from pre-set coffee maker. Realize there is no one to make breakfast for... turn over and go back to sleep.
11:00 AM - Wake up again. Smell old coffee. This is getting ridiculous. Drag self out of bed as if it's 6:00 AM. Decide that PopTarts do NOT sound good for breakfast. Make scrambled eggs and sausage... realize no one is complaining about no PopTart rule. Enjoy quiet breakfast watching CNN. Still, hear no complaints from AWOL Peanut Gallery.
12:30 PM - Check email in pajamas.
1:30 PM - Take shower. Think to self - I should probably do SOMETHING productive today. Go upstairs to craft supplies. Get out photographs and seperate. Become stingy about what photos to give to Jim.
2:00 PM - Dry hair and get dressed. Sit down on bed to put on socks. Realize - bed is not made, no children to supervise. Turn on TV. Watch COPS marathon. Realize - my life is not really that bad after all.
2:30 PM - Doze off in warm, unmade bed. No one comes to wake me up with insane question about anything.
3:00 PM - Wake up - panic briefly that day is wasting away. Clean out car completley. Gather change and extra $2.00 found in car and go get lunch. Eat and watch more "grown up" tv.
4:00 - 7:00- Work on craft projects like scrapbooking and etc. . Think about New Year's resolutions.
7:00-8:00 - Chat with parents. Eat dinner with parents who have brought me leftovers from lunch with friends. Yummy. Have dessert with dad. He made Fried Pies. Yummy.
8:00-10:30 - Finish craft projects. Help mom look up something cool on the net.
10:30-present - Blog.
New Years Day....
New Years Day 2005. The girls are away at the beach with Jim - he's at the Outback Bowl today... the girls I am sure are torturing their "other" grandparents... You know, these are the grandparents that see the girls about once or twice a year, and then only when Jim himself initiates the visit. So, I am sure they are completely deluged with a million and four questions, not to mention Jordin's usual show of whining and crying when around someone she feels she can manipulate... Sarah Beth I am sure, has not slowed her usual million question a day rate for the two of them, and I am positive both have complained about at least a meal or two.
Jordin left last week promising to return home to share her adventures.... "well," she added, "at least the ones I don't forget..." This clears her of any reponsibility when I ask them about their week, and the only thing they can muster about a week long visit to Grandad's fabulous beach house on the crystal clear shores of southern Florida is.... "I can't remember."
As for me - I spent last night with close friends, watching a couple of Lifetime movies, eating, and relaxing in the hot tub. Eating is not so bad, however, relaxing in a hot tub or watching Lifetime movies - especially the combination of both - is detremental for a single person who is decidedly tired of being single.... watching Lifetime movies is like sheer torture - all of which end with the perfect love story ending - you know, lost loves reunited despite horrible and strange, often decades long periods of seperation, or - the inevitable chance meeting of soulmates on a busy subway or street... and yet I continue to wait.... and, the hot tub idea... yikes... I'll pass next time on the warm relaxing hot tub experience with my sweet and dear friends who were celebrating their eigth wedding anniversary last night.... it was almost like a Lifetime movie... here we are - sharing our anniversary with our sweet, poor single friend Rachael.
My New Year's Resolution this year?? Well, there's a list of em', baby - but, at the top - to find that peaceful feeling that reminds me that it's ok - that someday, somewhere - I am sure to meet "him," and be a part of something for the rest of my life. That's my resolution. Yeah, yeah, it sounds really cheesy and storybook - but it's truly what I seek. I hate the panic feeling that sets in when I think about being single for the rest of my life.... it's scary. Maybe this year I can at least drop the panic thing - work on the rest some other time.
Happy New Year to you and yours -
Rachael
UPDATE - Just spoke to the girls, they can't wait to come home, even though they've had a wonderful time. I am so glad. :-) I've missed them.
New Years Day 2005. The girls are away at the beach with Jim - he's at the Outback Bowl today... the girls I am sure are torturing their "other" grandparents... You know, these are the grandparents that see the girls about once or twice a year, and then only when Jim himself initiates the visit. So, I am sure they are completely deluged with a million and four questions, not to mention Jordin's usual show of whining and crying when around someone she feels she can manipulate... Sarah Beth I am sure, has not slowed her usual million question a day rate for the two of them, and I am positive both have complained about at least a meal or two.
Jordin left last week promising to return home to share her adventures.... "well," she added, "at least the ones I don't forget..." This clears her of any reponsibility when I ask them about their week, and the only thing they can muster about a week long visit to Grandad's fabulous beach house on the crystal clear shores of southern Florida is.... "I can't remember."
As for me - I spent last night with close friends, watching a couple of Lifetime movies, eating, and relaxing in the hot tub. Eating is not so bad, however, relaxing in a hot tub or watching Lifetime movies - especially the combination of both - is detremental for a single person who is decidedly tired of being single.... watching Lifetime movies is like sheer torture - all of which end with the perfect love story ending - you know, lost loves reunited despite horrible and strange, often decades long periods of seperation, or - the inevitable chance meeting of soulmates on a busy subway or street... and yet I continue to wait.... and, the hot tub idea... yikes... I'll pass next time on the warm relaxing hot tub experience with my sweet and dear friends who were celebrating their eigth wedding anniversary last night.... it was almost like a Lifetime movie... here we are - sharing our anniversary with our sweet, poor single friend Rachael.
My New Year's Resolution this year?? Well, there's a list of em', baby - but, at the top - to find that peaceful feeling that reminds me that it's ok - that someday, somewhere - I am sure to meet "him," and be a part of something for the rest of my life. That's my resolution. Yeah, yeah, it sounds really cheesy and storybook - but it's truly what I seek. I hate the panic feeling that sets in when I think about being single for the rest of my life.... it's scary. Maybe this year I can at least drop the panic thing - work on the rest some other time.
Happy New Year to you and yours -
Rachael
UPDATE - Just spoke to the girls, they can't wait to come home, even though they've had a wonderful time. I am so glad. :-) I've missed them.
Thursday, December 30, 2004
Merry Everything.
(or, Christmas with the Fletchers, 2004)
Oh, the joys of single motherhood.
December Calendar...
1st through 8th - do nothing special and spend time with family, say for the fifteenth time, "...this year, I am not going to make myself crazy over the holidays...."
8th through 10th - realize that there is only approximately 15 days until Christmas, yet no shopping has been completed... but, it's really ok because, "...this year, I am not going to make myself crazy over the holidays..."
10th through 12th - go out "after hours" (you know, past bedtime) and try to shop for girls Christmas gifts... become annoyed VERY quickly with mass amounts of people shopping at the same time....
13th through 15th - breathe a sigh of Christmas relief. Complete list of gifts for girls narrowed down, locations of gifts found, all withing reasonable single mom budget. Praise self for being organized and sensible.
16th - make detremental trip to WalMart; see many many things on the girls list; get a buggy and start shopping. Completely blow budget and list out the window.
16th through 17th - remain in denial about the mass amounts of stuff purchased.
18th - Have dinner with oldest and dearest friend. Girl talk. Therapy. Realize how much I have missed her, and how much "history" we have.
19th - Ex husband calls, unsolicited, to say that he plans to split cost of way too many Christmas gifts with me. Self imposed guilt. Be dishonest about amount spent, and be glad for half of that. Sister and I mutually agree to exchange hugs this year for our gifts - we both blew too much $$ on other stuff. Exchange hugs.
20th through 23rd - celebrate all of my mom's holidays - birthday and anniversary. Remain in denial about number of packages to wrap. Drop girls off with Jim.
24th - Start panic mode early. Call Jim in panic mode. Tell him we can't spend the night there because of panic mode. Receive supportive phone call from Jim's mom. Calm down.
Have conversation with Jim. Realize that he didn't buy me anything for Christmas, despite my well thought out gifts for him. Hang up. Call back. Make him promise to NOT buy me anything today, in desperation. He promises.
Work from 12-6. Leave work, rush home, pack car and overnight bag. Arrive at Jim's mom's. Feed girls, bathe girls, break up small fight, tell them I hear Santa outside - put girls to bed. Realize I left all family gifts at home. Watch movie with Jim. Fall asleep on sofa.
Surviving Christmas....
No worries - the girls and I survived the holidays with Jim... it actually turned out to be fun... ok, well - as fun as fun can be when spending the favorite holiday of the year with my former in laws and husband. The girls are away at the beach now with their dad - so, I am busy painting and being my very own home improvement show.... more to come about the holidays....
Rachael
No worries - the girls and I survived the holidays with Jim... it actually turned out to be fun... ok, well - as fun as fun can be when spending the favorite holiday of the year with my former in laws and husband. The girls are away at the beach now with their dad - so, I am busy painting and being my very own home improvement show.... more to come about the holidays....
Rachael
Wednesday, December 22, 2004
Wednesday.
My mom's 48th birthday.
The girls and I are painting today at the house... I got paint for a Christmas present from Santa (I think only adults get excited about things like paint for Christmas).... I am painting the walls a really light blue, the fireplace a really light green - and the trim and ceiling white. Don't worry - I thought the same thing when I heard about that possible color scheme - but it looks great. I think we'll finish the hardwood floors with a dark cherry kind of stain.
After my room, we still have much to accomplish. The living room has to be painted and carpeted, the dining room has to be painted (leaving that flooring for now), kitchen painted and countertops and cabinets replaced, bathroom finished (this is my dad's project - it could be a while) and the girls room - painted and carpeted. It seems like a lot more when I write it down than it does to actually see it... it's still overwhelming. A little at a time is the best I can do. Not to mention the emotional overwhelming I feel everytime I am up there.... I miss my Aunt Vera. A lot. Especially at Christmas.
Photos with the "former spouse" (Jim) and family went well yesterday. The girls looked adorable, and I took some great pictures. Of course, Jim took the film from me to develop it (whatever, as long as he wants to pay for it).... Susan (Jim's mom) took us out to lunch afterwards at the Pizza Construction Company in almost Vinings. It was great... she is precious and I love to spend time with her. I think she was happy about the photos as well. She likes "family" things like that. We'll see her again on Friday - since I decided to "share" the girls with Jim this Christmas. Aren't I nice? Let's just hope it all goes as peachy as planned.
My mom's 48th birthday.
The girls and I are painting today at the house... I got paint for a Christmas present from Santa (I think only adults get excited about things like paint for Christmas).... I am painting the walls a really light blue, the fireplace a really light green - and the trim and ceiling white. Don't worry - I thought the same thing when I heard about that possible color scheme - but it looks great. I think we'll finish the hardwood floors with a dark cherry kind of stain.
After my room, we still have much to accomplish. The living room has to be painted and carpeted, the dining room has to be painted (leaving that flooring for now), kitchen painted and countertops and cabinets replaced, bathroom finished (this is my dad's project - it could be a while) and the girls room - painted and carpeted. It seems like a lot more when I write it down than it does to actually see it... it's still overwhelming. A little at a time is the best I can do. Not to mention the emotional overwhelming I feel everytime I am up there.... I miss my Aunt Vera. A lot. Especially at Christmas.
Photos with the "former spouse" (Jim) and family went well yesterday. The girls looked adorable, and I took some great pictures. Of course, Jim took the film from me to develop it (whatever, as long as he wants to pay for it).... Susan (Jim's mom) took us out to lunch afterwards at the Pizza Construction Company in almost Vinings. It was great... she is precious and I love to spend time with her. I think she was happy about the photos as well. She likes "family" things like that. We'll see her again on Friday - since I decided to "share" the girls with Jim this Christmas. Aren't I nice? Let's just hope it all goes as peachy as planned.
Monday, December 20, 2004
We Three Things.....
Three names you go by
Rachael
Rach
Rachie
Three screennames you have:
Rach
sbsmommie
Rachael (yes... boring)
Three things you love about yourself
(oh, they are few....)
having long hair (for once in my life)
um
ok... we'll come back to this later...
Three things you dislike about yourself
(oh - good - this is my strongpoint!!)
weight gain (yuck)
"mommy" hips
my shoe size
Three parts of your heritage
( I only know two for sure)
Welsh
American Indian
Three things that scare you
spiders (of any size/description/color)
anything bad happening to my family or friends
not having a job (ooohhh... this sounds familiar)
Three of your everyday essentials
Jergens Cherry Almond scented moisturizing lotion
Coffee
Quiet Time
Three things you are wearing RIGHT now
My scarf I knitted (yay me, I love to knit!)
Gap Blue jeans (my favorite pair, even though they make me look huge)
socks
Three of your favorite bands/artists of the moment
Summerland (Baby Girl... turn it up and sing!)
Third Day (Christian group... except, they are HOT, as Paris would say)
Kelly Clarkston (can't help it, I love her)
Three of your favorite songs at present
Baby Girl (...dear mom and dad please send money)
Broken Road
Baby it's Cold Outside (though, any version BESIDES Nick and Jessica)
Three things you want to try in the next twelve months
having my own business
taking the girls on a SERIOUS vacation, bymyself
going somewhere completely crazy ... just me!
Three things you want in a relationship (love is a given)
Trust
Committment
Respect
(oh, dear - that sounds canned, doesn't it?)
Two truths and a lie
I love cold weather... brrr!!
I want to live on a farm one day - with lots of horses and land.
I think it's great being single.... HAHAHAHAHA!!
Three physical things about the opposite sex that appeal to you
Hands
Eyes
Smile
Three things you just can't do
finish anything on time
be anywhere on time
clean anything in a timely manner
Three of your favorite hobbies
Taking pictures (photography)
Scrapbooking
Writing
Three things you want to do badly right now
Finish reading my latest book (wicked... the life and times of the wicked witch of the west)
Finish knitting SB's scarf
Call Jim and ask him where the &@#*@& the pictures are I took this morning
Three careers you're considering
Wedding/Event planner
Full time, stay at home momma (yeah, right... I can't see that happening anytime soon)
Owning my own business... (shhh...)
Three names you go by
Rachael
Rach
Rachie
Three screennames you have:
Rach
sbsmommie
Rachael (yes... boring)
Three things you love about yourself
(oh, they are few....)
having long hair (for once in my life)
um
ok... we'll come back to this later...
Three things you dislike about yourself
(oh - good - this is my strongpoint!!)
weight gain (yuck)
"mommy" hips
my shoe size
Three parts of your heritage
( I only know two for sure)
Welsh
American Indian
Three things that scare you
spiders (of any size/description/color)
anything bad happening to my family or friends
not having a job (ooohhh... this sounds familiar)
Three of your everyday essentials
Jergens Cherry Almond scented moisturizing lotion
Coffee
Quiet Time
Three things you are wearing RIGHT now
My scarf I knitted (yay me, I love to knit!)
Gap Blue jeans (my favorite pair, even though they make me look huge)
socks
Three of your favorite bands/artists of the moment
Summerland (Baby Girl... turn it up and sing!)
Third Day (Christian group... except, they are HOT, as Paris would say)
Kelly Clarkston (can't help it, I love her)
Three of your favorite songs at present
Baby Girl (...dear mom and dad please send money)
Broken Road
Baby it's Cold Outside (though, any version BESIDES Nick and Jessica)
Three things you want to try in the next twelve months
having my own business
taking the girls on a SERIOUS vacation, bymyself
going somewhere completely crazy ... just me!
Three things you want in a relationship (love is a given)
Trust
Committment
Respect
(oh, dear - that sounds canned, doesn't it?)
Two truths and a lie
I love cold weather... brrr!!
I want to live on a farm one day - with lots of horses and land.
I think it's great being single.... HAHAHAHAHA!!
Three physical things about the opposite sex that appeal to you
Hands
Eyes
Smile
Three things you just can't do
finish anything on time
be anywhere on time
clean anything in a timely manner
Three of your favorite hobbies
Taking pictures (photography)
Scrapbooking
Writing
Three things you want to do badly right now
Finish reading my latest book (wicked... the life and times of the wicked witch of the west)
Finish knitting SB's scarf
Call Jim and ask him where the &@#*@& the pictures are I took this morning
Three careers you're considering
Wedding/Event planner
Full time, stay at home momma (yeah, right... I can't see that happening anytime soon)
Owning my own business... (shhh...)
Monday.
Oy. The girls are home (finally) this morning - and I am so happy. Had a wonderful dinner with my dearest and oldest friend, Kelly on Saturday - and I would have to write a whole post about that just do barely do it justice. Working a lot (yuck, I hate retail) - and can't wait till Christmas. Today, Jim asked me to be in his family picture... :-) Nice. More later.
Rachael
Oy. The girls are home (finally) this morning - and I am so happy. Had a wonderful dinner with my dearest and oldest friend, Kelly on Saturday - and I would have to write a whole post about that just do barely do it justice. Working a lot (yuck, I hate retail) - and can't wait till Christmas. Today, Jim asked me to be in his family picture... :-) Nice. More later.
Rachael
Friday, December 17, 2004
Friday.
Girls are getting ready for a weekend with dad... thank goodness - I am ready for a break... not that I don't love them - but, I've had them since October without a break. That's a long time. This weekend, Daddy can answer all the questions (and oh, there are many) tell all the stories, tie all the shoes, fix all the "crumpled" socks (anal retentive children), "straighten" all the covers, referee all the arguments, and zip all the sweaters and coats. He can make sure the tights match, the cupcakes are the same size, decide whose turn it is to choose the tv show, dress all the barbies, put back together all the pieces, get them to the next level on the Gameboy, and spread all the PB&J.
I think he's built up a few months of that... don't you?
And me?
Well.... I'll sleep later than seven every morning - fix breakfast for only myself and share it with no one, spread out in my bed and hog all the covers, read a complete chapter (even a sentence) of my latest book without being interrupted, buy myself Reese's cups - and not share them with anyone - see a movie with a rating more risque than PG.... I can meet my grown up friends late at night for coffee - stay up as late as I want too - go for long walks bymyself in the park....
... and then, by Sunday - I am sure to be miserable and ready for my two shadows to come home.....
Rach
Girls are getting ready for a weekend with dad... thank goodness - I am ready for a break... not that I don't love them - but, I've had them since October without a break. That's a long time. This weekend, Daddy can answer all the questions (and oh, there are many) tell all the stories, tie all the shoes, fix all the "crumpled" socks (anal retentive children), "straighten" all the covers, referee all the arguments, and zip all the sweaters and coats. He can make sure the tights match, the cupcakes are the same size, decide whose turn it is to choose the tv show, dress all the barbies, put back together all the pieces, get them to the next level on the Gameboy, and spread all the PB&J.
I think he's built up a few months of that... don't you?
And me?
Well.... I'll sleep later than seven every morning - fix breakfast for only myself and share it with no one, spread out in my bed and hog all the covers, read a complete chapter (even a sentence) of my latest book without being interrupted, buy myself Reese's cups - and not share them with anyone - see a movie with a rating more risque than PG.... I can meet my grown up friends late at night for coffee - stay up as late as I want too - go for long walks bymyself in the park....
... and then, by Sunday - I am sure to be miserable and ready for my two shadows to come home.....
Rach
Thursday, December 16, 2004
Tuesday.
Last day of school for the girls before Christmas Break.
The format of my blog might be changing a few times over the next few days; I found a really great template I want to use - just have to get Jim to help me set it all up... yes, sadly - Jim is helping me. That's ok though.
Got the girls off to school today on time - which, in case you are wondering is an accomplishment every time it actually happens. Both had their school Christmas parties today - mom took breakfast (biscuits and sausage) to SB's class, and I am going back at ten for Jordin's party... yikes- that means a shower, lipstick and good hair before ten... wow. Talk about accomplishments.
Their visit this week with Jim was of course great... as it usually is. Susan (Grammy; Jim's mom) picked both up from school on Tuesday - and they met Jim at her house. He and SB studied for her language arts test, and then they went out to Chuck E. Cheese for a while. They came home sometime after eight - both exhausted and ready for bed. I am sure that they had a fabulous time - but it drives me mad that he didn't bring them home, on a school night, till almost eight-thirty. Anyway, he stayed around and did the bedtime routine with me - which is good - because, it's hard to think up a new story to tell every single night of the week. So, Daddy told the stories. We talked afterwards about our calendar for the Christmas break - since this is literally the only time he sees them for days at a time - it's important to the girls - and I want to make sure it happens for them. He's open to having them quite a bit over the break, and even taking them to the beach house for the last week of December.
(sigh..... two things to miss about being married into the Fletcher family - the beach house and the mountain house.... oh well. .... )
There are only about three million posts I want to have time to write - but, finding the time to sit down and just type away is rare. So, I will whittle away at my list - and hope for the best.
I hope you enjoy reading - and, hope you enjoy the new format, once it finally shows up.
Rachael
Last day of school for the girls before Christmas Break.
The format of my blog might be changing a few times over the next few days; I found a really great template I want to use - just have to get Jim to help me set it all up... yes, sadly - Jim is helping me. That's ok though.
Got the girls off to school today on time - which, in case you are wondering is an accomplishment every time it actually happens. Both had their school Christmas parties today - mom took breakfast (biscuits and sausage) to SB's class, and I am going back at ten for Jordin's party... yikes- that means a shower, lipstick and good hair before ten... wow. Talk about accomplishments.
Their visit this week with Jim was of course great... as it usually is. Susan (Grammy; Jim's mom) picked both up from school on Tuesday - and they met Jim at her house. He and SB studied for her language arts test, and then they went out to Chuck E. Cheese for a while. They came home sometime after eight - both exhausted and ready for bed. I am sure that they had a fabulous time - but it drives me mad that he didn't bring them home, on a school night, till almost eight-thirty. Anyway, he stayed around and did the bedtime routine with me - which is good - because, it's hard to think up a new story to tell every single night of the week. So, Daddy told the stories. We talked afterwards about our calendar for the Christmas break - since this is literally the only time he sees them for days at a time - it's important to the girls - and I want to make sure it happens for them. He's open to having them quite a bit over the break, and even taking them to the beach house for the last week of December.
(sigh..... two things to miss about being married into the Fletcher family - the beach house and the mountain house.... oh well. .... )
There are only about three million posts I want to have time to write - but, finding the time to sit down and just type away is rare. So, I will whittle away at my list - and hope for the best.
I hope you enjoy reading - and, hope you enjoy the new format, once it finally shows up.
Rachael
Tuesday, December 14, 2004
Monday, December 13, 2004
Email status... none.
Anyway - today is Monday - lovely Monday. The girls and I had a famously (in the spirit of SB's very British teacher) good week end (another British thing) and - we all got to school on time this morning... amazing. On Friday - we had the Bethlehem dinner, and then I made a visit to the fabulous digs at the Cobb County Adult Detention Center (politically correct for, "jail." WHAT? What in the &#&$#^ was I, dear Rachael - doing IN such a despicable place? Well. ... more on that later - and more on the comments posted o the previous post.... there's always a story behind everything, you know?
Gotta pick up SB from school....
Rachael
Anyway - today is Monday - lovely Monday. The girls and I had a famously (in the spirit of SB's very British teacher) good week end (another British thing) and - we all got to school on time this morning... amazing. On Friday - we had the Bethlehem dinner, and then I made a visit to the fabulous digs at the Cobb County Adult Detention Center (politically correct for, "jail." WHAT? What in the &#&$#^ was I, dear Rachael - doing IN such a despicable place? Well. ... more on that later - and more on the comments posted o the previous post.... there's always a story behind everything, you know?
Gotta pick up SB from school....
Rachael
Sunday, December 12, 2004
Friday, December 10, 2004
Is this an addiction when I am up at 1 AM typing?
Friday - much done. I finished the girls Christmas shopping this morning - I just need to pick up the rest of the goodies for SB's knitting basket ... Jordin is going to get everything she asked for except for one crazy toy I swear the child made up. Couldn't find that anywhere - and not too stressed about it, either. I even found SB the charger she needed to replace for her Gameboy SP, which should make her happy - considering she's "lost" the last four or so that we've had.
Tonight was the "Bethlehem" supper at mom and dad's church. Dressed the girls in matching Christmas sweaters (only cuter) and off we went. VERY crowded. They had live sheep, goats, and a llama (for goodness sake, do you really think a Llama was present at the nativity)....
Friday - much done. I finished the girls Christmas shopping this morning - I just need to pick up the rest of the goodies for SB's knitting basket ... Jordin is going to get everything she asked for except for one crazy toy I swear the child made up. Couldn't find that anywhere - and not too stressed about it, either. I even found SB the charger she needed to replace for her Gameboy SP, which should make her happy - considering she's "lost" the last four or so that we've had.
Tonight was the "Bethlehem" supper at mom and dad's church. Dressed the girls in matching Christmas sweaters (only cuter) and off we went. VERY crowded. They had live sheep, goats, and a llama (for goodness sake, do you really think a Llama was present at the nativity)....
Thursday, December 09, 2004
Oy vey. Classmates.com will only lead to trouble. It's true.
So, you know - I am reading the little small town Dallas New Era last week (you know, THE place to be seen here in lovely small town Georgia) and I see this annoucement for the ten year class reunion for the 1995 high school class. SO. I think:
WOW.
How old are we?
Just think Rach, in two years - I'll be going to such.
Yikes.
Wow.
Things change, don't they?
So - I am thinking ALLLLL these things and the deadly thought comes into my head that I should email my high school semi-sweetheart (only "semi" because we only dated for like, a year and a few months - other than that, my total high school sweetheart) and tell him that his reunion is about to happen. I mean, I think he doesn't live here - but, you know - I am only guessing that - as every single friend I ever see asks me how he is... HELLO... I married someone else... anyway... so - I was thinking a nice thought. A do a good deed thought.
So.
I sent him an email through Classmates.com. You know - it was just nice. Hi, how are you, I am still here in town, everyone asks about you, if you want the class reunion stuff tell me and I will send it. Yadda yadda yadda. I even included two (2) :-)'s.
So, you know... I get this email today that he's read my email. HE READ THE EMAIL. Mind you, he was never supposed to actually read it.. I was just supposed to send it and never know if he READ it.. but, apparently Classmates is nice enough to inform you of these things via email... I now have knots in my stomach and feel like I am suddenly sixteen again - you know, reverting back to those days of no responsibility and ... ok - well, I was a BIT of a princess, but you know... I am just bothered that he read it - not bothered in a bad way - just well, what if he's thinking I am crazy or forlorn, or something awful. What if he's laughing because I sent it? What if, what if, what if. I even went back and reread the email to make sure it was totally neutral. I am sure it was.
And let me just tell you... after almost ten years and being married and two children later - I was madly in love with this boy. It took me MOVING away from home to finally get over it and move on with my life. MOVING, I tell you. I doubt he felt the same way about me - considering my "level of goody-goody and princess like behavior", but - I should have left well enough alone. Just - left it right where it was. Maybe.
On the complete other side of the insane psychoanalytical (oooohh... I REALLLY hope I spelled that big word correctly) Rachael, it was fun to send him an email. And, I am sure that my intentions were only read as sincere. I mean, let's hope so.
Hmmm. I think I have to go and call Jim now or something... he has a way with bringing back to reality -or, he could just totally piss me off and that would do it too.. did I mention that he's showing up here next week to pick up the girls and take them to Chuck E Cheese? ARRGG!! I hate DisneyDad. He's much better on a consistent basis.
I have to go and look through the "high school box" now.
So - the moral of this story - stay away from those classmate reuniting places. Just kidding. Just don't send emails.
Rachael
So, you know - I am reading the little small town Dallas New Era last week (you know, THE place to be seen here in lovely small town Georgia) and I see this annoucement for the ten year class reunion for the 1995 high school class. SO. I think:
WOW.
How old are we?
Just think Rach, in two years - I'll be going to such.
Yikes.
Wow.
Things change, don't they?
So - I am thinking ALLLLL these things and the deadly thought comes into my head that I should email my high school semi-sweetheart (only "semi" because we only dated for like, a year and a few months - other than that, my total high school sweetheart) and tell him that his reunion is about to happen. I mean, I think he doesn't live here - but, you know - I am only guessing that - as every single friend I ever see asks me how he is... HELLO... I married someone else... anyway... so - I was thinking a nice thought. A do a good deed thought.
So.
I sent him an email through Classmates.com. You know - it was just nice. Hi, how are you, I am still here in town, everyone asks about you, if you want the class reunion stuff tell me and I will send it. Yadda yadda yadda. I even included two (2) :-)'s.
So, you know... I get this email today that he's read my email. HE READ THE EMAIL. Mind you, he was never supposed to actually read it.. I was just supposed to send it and never know if he READ it.. but, apparently Classmates is nice enough to inform you of these things via email... I now have knots in my stomach and feel like I am suddenly sixteen again - you know, reverting back to those days of no responsibility and ... ok - well, I was a BIT of a princess, but you know... I am just bothered that he read it - not bothered in a bad way - just well, what if he's thinking I am crazy or forlorn, or something awful. What if he's laughing because I sent it? What if, what if, what if. I even went back and reread the email to make sure it was totally neutral. I am sure it was.
And let me just tell you... after almost ten years and being married and two children later - I was madly in love with this boy. It took me MOVING away from home to finally get over it and move on with my life. MOVING, I tell you. I doubt he felt the same way about me - considering my "level of goody-goody and princess like behavior", but - I should have left well enough alone. Just - left it right where it was. Maybe.
On the complete other side of the insane psychoanalytical (oooohh... I REALLLY hope I spelled that big word correctly) Rachael, it was fun to send him an email. And, I am sure that my intentions were only read as sincere. I mean, let's hope so.
Hmmm. I think I have to go and call Jim now or something... he has a way with bringing back to reality -or, he could just totally piss me off and that would do it too.. did I mention that he's showing up here next week to pick up the girls and take them to Chuck E Cheese? ARRGG!! I hate DisneyDad. He's much better on a consistent basis.
I have to go and look through the "high school box" now.
So - the moral of this story - stay away from those classmate reuniting places. Just kidding. Just don't send emails.
Rachael
Wednesday, December 08, 2004
It's 10:45. Just got home from doing some Christmas shopping. I had this epiphany a few hours ago that Christmas was only two weeks away and I had not bought the first gift... oops! This is the first year that, since I am not working like a crazy person, I don't feel crazy about shopping. It's not that I have a humbug thing - you know, I just am not in the mood to get out there and join the masses as the dive into debt ... all for one day. Anyway - so, I forced myself to go out and at least start looking for ideas. If you think shopping as married parent is hard - try being single. Usually, I recruit one the male personas (and, you know - that's all they are unfortunately - personas) to go with me, but not this year. This year I braved the mall alone.
Jordin made request for a "princess-shirt-with-all-the-princesses-on-it" (if you say it very, very fast you get the full effect) so - I found that at the Disney store... And, after I gazed at all the snowglobes that were on sale for $39.99, and reverted BACK to my teenage obsession with them.. oh yes - the shirt..wow.. GREAT sale! The shirts were only %5.99 - so you know, I bought SB one too - only she is NOT wearing anything relating to royalty (I swear she's going to be my hippie tree hugging child) so - she got an "Incredibles" one. I could have bought them everything RIGHT then and there - all the dress up, all the action figures - it was BOGO HEAVEN. But - alas - I knew I had bigger fish to fry. Jordin also wants some Aladdin/Jasmine toy that talks - which I could not find in the Disney store... if not in the Disney store, then WHERE??
(When SB was little, she thought the Disney store WAS Disneyworld - so, according to her, she went to Disneyworld like, every week... much to the amazement of all her preschool buddies. )
Then, I rambled through GapKids - as SB is the resident clotheshorse. I don't know about you - but I used to get REALLY mad when I opened a box and it was clothes... not SB; she LOVES it! She told me the other night when we were shopping for shoes that some of them "just weren't her style..." Oh, really.. then, praytell, dear child of mine, what is your style? "A little sassy," she said. Oh my goodness. Did MY child just tell me she's a little sassy? Yes indeed. So - I looked at a million different things - some WAY cool suede boots with flowers on them - skirts, glitter blue jeans, ponchos - only to wander out aimlessly.
Old Navy however - was more promising.... you know, you gotta have a 50% off sign to get my attention. So, two matching velour jumpsuits, two pairs of track pants and two fleece pullovers later (oh yes - and some socks too) I walked out happy. Yay. By this time - I am fading fast - and the stupid people in the mall are beginning to annoy me.
One last stop in Borders - bought SB a knitting guide... I think I will fix her a basket of supplies to go along with it... you know, needles, yarn and etc. . I sat and read and compared two books for like, an hour... and then left. Oh yeah - found my mom a GREAT book on raising orchids (oh yes, her thing) on the sale table for... well.. I am not telling how cheap my mom's perfect gift was....
I'll have to post tomorrow about SB's one request for Christmas - it's sure to break your heart. Or, well - maybe not so much break your heart, but you know - it's heartwarming.
Jordin made request for a "princess-shirt-with-all-the-princesses-on-it" (if you say it very, very fast you get the full effect) so - I found that at the Disney store... And, after I gazed at all the snowglobes that were on sale for $39.99, and reverted BACK to my teenage obsession with them.. oh yes - the shirt..wow.. GREAT sale! The shirts were only %5.99 - so you know, I bought SB one too - only she is NOT wearing anything relating to royalty (I swear she's going to be my hippie tree hugging child) so - she got an "Incredibles" one. I could have bought them everything RIGHT then and there - all the dress up, all the action figures - it was BOGO HEAVEN. But - alas - I knew I had bigger fish to fry. Jordin also wants some Aladdin/Jasmine toy that talks - which I could not find in the Disney store... if not in the Disney store, then WHERE??
(When SB was little, she thought the Disney store WAS Disneyworld - so, according to her, she went to Disneyworld like, every week... much to the amazement of all her preschool buddies. )
Then, I rambled through GapKids - as SB is the resident clotheshorse. I don't know about you - but I used to get REALLY mad when I opened a box and it was clothes... not SB; she LOVES it! She told me the other night when we were shopping for shoes that some of them "just weren't her style..." Oh, really.. then, praytell, dear child of mine, what is your style? "A little sassy," she said. Oh my goodness. Did MY child just tell me she's a little sassy? Yes indeed. So - I looked at a million different things - some WAY cool suede boots with flowers on them - skirts, glitter blue jeans, ponchos - only to wander out aimlessly.
Old Navy however - was more promising.... you know, you gotta have a 50% off sign to get my attention. So, two matching velour jumpsuits, two pairs of track pants and two fleece pullovers later (oh yes - and some socks too) I walked out happy. Yay. By this time - I am fading fast - and the stupid people in the mall are beginning to annoy me.
One last stop in Borders - bought SB a knitting guide... I think I will fix her a basket of supplies to go along with it... you know, needles, yarn and etc. . I sat and read and compared two books for like, an hour... and then left. Oh yeah - found my mom a GREAT book on raising orchids (oh yes, her thing) on the sale table for... well.. I am not telling how cheap my mom's perfect gift was....
I'll have to post tomorrow about SB's one request for Christmas - it's sure to break your heart. Or, well - maybe not so much break your heart, but you know - it's heartwarming.
Tuesday, December 07, 2004
Ok. I am officially modern. I know, I know - you've been waiting. Well, lucky you. Your wait is over... I have a blog.
Blog noun [short for Weblog] (1999) : a Web site that contains an online personal journal with reflections, comments, and often hyperlinks provided by the writer
If you know me - then you know I love to write. Anyway - now you can keep up with my daily adventures (ok - most will be boring) and the girls (who everyone wants to know about anyway).
:-) I miss all of you! I hope that you are ALLLL doing fabulously well - please keep in touch!
MY BLOG!!/
Love
Rachael
(and the girls)
(ps - Kristi - got your email from Kell - hope you don't mind - loved your site - congrats on Jonathan - he's beautiful!! Tracy - same story - love you too!! )
Blog noun [short for Weblog] (1999) : a Web site that contains an online personal journal with reflections, comments, and often hyperlinks provided by the writer
If you know me - then you know I love to write. Anyway - now you can keep up with my daily adventures (ok - most will be boring) and the girls (who everyone wants to know about anyway).
:-) I miss all of you! I hope that you are ALLLL doing fabulously well - please keep in touch!
MY BLOG!!/
Love
Rachael
(and the girls)
(ps - Kristi - got your email from Kell - hope you don't mind - loved your site - congrats on Jonathan - he's beautiful!! Tracy - same story - love you too!! )
This is the article Jim sent me about the holidays.... ok, I get it - we're not the Cleavers -but, we manage....
The girls and I had a wonderful day... Jordin was in the bed with me EARLY this morning... Sarah Beth (must lie in her bed and worry for two hours before it's time to wake up about whether or not she WILL wake up with the alarm clock...) woke us all up on time (she loves that...) and we had oatmeal and bacon for breakfast... Everyone got to school on time too. I am really getting good at the mommy thing....
This afternoon SB and I dropped off Jordin at dance - and went to her favorite place to shop - the Dollar Tree. I gave her two dollars - and she was in heaven. After a good hour of debating over which treasures she wanted - she chose some ridiculous jumping beans and a stuffed puppy. Of course, she wanted to spend her money buying a small angel for the tree - but, I told her that I thought Mimi's angel would be perfect... (it's like a little Christmas book - SB and her desire to share her wealth with everyone but herself)... We headed home for homework ("sums") and I cleaned out my car. The revelation here is, for the past year and a half of working 60 hours a week - my life has been RATHER disorganized... so, a clean car is a miracle.
We went back to pick up Jordin at dance and watched the girls reherse their number for the Festival of Trees this weekend... oh my goodness - adorable costumes - they look like little peppermints - and, then we had to run to Wal Mart (oh the insanity) to get a baby gift and SB new tennis shoes. SB volunteered her birthday gift card to pay for her tennis shoes - so I let her pick the kind she wanted. Jordin and I picked out the baby gift (look for pictures tomorrow) - we always "make" the gift - so, we chose some pieces and then came home. By this time, despite an early supper, they were starving - so, each had a PB&J and then found their own thing to do... for SB, this means my lap... and for Jordin - well, an hour later I found her in full dress up gear, complete with makeup....It was a wonderful day.
This afternoon SB and I dropped off Jordin at dance - and went to her favorite place to shop - the Dollar Tree. I gave her two dollars - and she was in heaven. After a good hour of debating over which treasures she wanted - she chose some ridiculous jumping beans and a stuffed puppy. Of course, she wanted to spend her money buying a small angel for the tree - but, I told her that I thought Mimi's angel would be perfect... (it's like a little Christmas book - SB and her desire to share her wealth with everyone but herself)... We headed home for homework ("sums") and I cleaned out my car. The revelation here is, for the past year and a half of working 60 hours a week - my life has been RATHER disorganized... so, a clean car is a miracle.
We went back to pick up Jordin at dance and watched the girls reherse their number for the Festival of Trees this weekend... oh my goodness - adorable costumes - they look like little peppermints - and, then we had to run to Wal Mart (oh the insanity) to get a baby gift and SB new tennis shoes. SB volunteered her birthday gift card to pay for her tennis shoes - so I let her pick the kind she wanted. Jordin and I picked out the baby gift (look for pictures tomorrow) - we always "make" the gift - so, we chose some pieces and then came home. By this time, despite an early supper, they were starving - so, each had a PB&J and then found their own thing to do... for SB, this means my lap... and for Jordin - well, an hour later I found her in full dress up gear, complete with makeup....
Saturday, December 04, 2004
Jim and I decided that instead of me spending Christmas with the girls exclusively this year, we are all (yes, me, Jim, and the girls) going to spend the night at his mom's house on Christmas Eve. He sent me this article he read online the other day - you know, as if to seal the "we're really not that disfunctional" mantra.
I don't really mind so much, spending the holiday with him. He's good with all the putting together of the Christmas stuff -and, the girls love it. After all this time, when you ask the girls to tell you about their "family," or ask them to "draw a picture of your family," they are always drawing the four of us. Jordin once told a friend at school that her mom and dad were "best friends," which I thought was sweet, considering what some kids of divorced parents must say. I don't know about "best friends," but we try hard for the girls to maintain some sort of peaceable experience for their sake.
I hear these awful stories of divorce all the time - and even remember that shortly after Jordin was born, when Jim and I were married, he was actually "concerned" about his parents being in the same room together when coming to see her. I never want the girls to think of us that way. So, Jim sent me an article about divorced families spending the holidays together - you know, the attorney in him (God Bless him) had to provide the "supporting documents" to justify our activities together.... oh well... can't say that I blame him there. I'll keep you posted.
I don't really mind so much, spending the holiday with him. He's good with all the putting together of the Christmas stuff -and, the girls love it. After all this time, when you ask the girls to tell you about their "family," or ask them to "draw a picture of your family," they are always drawing the four of us. Jordin once told a friend at school that her mom and dad were "best friends," which I thought was sweet, considering what some kids of divorced parents must say. I don't know about "best friends," but we try hard for the girls to maintain some sort of peaceable experience for their sake.
I hear these awful stories of divorce all the time - and even remember that shortly after Jordin was born, when Jim and I were married, he was actually "concerned" about his parents being in the same room together when coming to see her. I never want the girls to think of us that way. So, Jim sent me an article about divorced families spending the holidays together - you know, the attorney in him (God Bless him) had to provide the "supporting documents" to justify our activities together.... oh well... can't say that I blame him there. I'll keep you posted.
Friday, December 03, 2004
Wow... another month over.
Sarah Beth and Jordin both celebrated their birthdays this month - each another year older. SB turned eight (I cannot belive I have an eight year old daughter) on the 11th of November, and Jordin turned five on the 30th. They are so much taller than I remembering them being only yesterday - and I think time is going by at a speed far beyond my control.
Sarah Beth. Every mom thinks their children are beautiful. I am certainly no exception. If you know them, then you know everyone thinks SB is a little Rachael... her mannerisms, her long legs... her ability to argue with a Stop sign... all very me. I cherish this about her. Everyday, sadly enough, I look at her and see her being less and less of my baby and best friend - and more of her own person - graceful and elegant and simply dancing through life. She is the writer - the creator - the artist. She keeps little diaries in notebooks she finds - there must be at least fifty of them in her room... she writes stories - journals her day to day life (note: according to one journal, I am "mean"; can't blame her for being honest). She tells me often that one day, she will be a "popular" (i.e., famous) author. For some reason, I have no doubts. Our relationship has always been special - more of best friends than mom and daughter... something she and I figure out more about each day we are together. A second grader - her teacher is from Wales, and SB has discovered she can speak very "good British."
Jordin. SO much a Fletcher. She is truly her "daddy's girl," and proudly proclaims it to anyone who stops to listen. She looks like him, moves like him, and even acts like him on occasion. She epitomizes everything Jim, in very female form. Jordin is the dancer - the drama queen, and the lover. She's the owner of the little feet you hear coming across your floor at four in the morning, looking for the warm place in the bed next to mommy. She's the kisser, the hugger, and the total diva. For some reason, I always encouraged Jordin to be herself... right down to wearing a tutu and plastic shoes to the grocery. She could care less about what anyone thinks - very self confident, that one. She's in preschool for the last time this year - next year she'll grace the halls of McGarity with her charms....
New pictures from the bday soon!
Rachael
Sarah Beth and Jordin both celebrated their birthdays this month - each another year older. SB turned eight (I cannot belive I have an eight year old daughter) on the 11th of November, and Jordin turned five on the 30th. They are so much taller than I remembering them being only yesterday - and I think time is going by at a speed far beyond my control.
Sarah Beth. Every mom thinks their children are beautiful. I am certainly no exception. If you know them, then you know everyone thinks SB is a little Rachael... her mannerisms, her long legs... her ability to argue with a Stop sign... all very me. I cherish this about her. Everyday, sadly enough, I look at her and see her being less and less of my baby and best friend - and more of her own person - graceful and elegant and simply dancing through life. She is the writer - the creator - the artist. She keeps little diaries in notebooks she finds - there must be at least fifty of them in her room... she writes stories - journals her day to day life (note: according to one journal, I am "mean"; can't blame her for being honest). She tells me often that one day, she will be a "popular" (i.e., famous) author. For some reason, I have no doubts. Our relationship has always been special - more of best friends than mom and daughter... something she and I figure out more about each day we are together. A second grader - her teacher is from Wales, and SB has discovered she can speak very "good British."
Jordin. SO much a Fletcher. She is truly her "daddy's girl," and proudly proclaims it to anyone who stops to listen. She looks like him, moves like him, and even acts like him on occasion. She epitomizes everything Jim, in very female form. Jordin is the dancer - the drama queen, and the lover. She's the owner of the little feet you hear coming across your floor at four in the morning, looking for the warm place in the bed next to mommy. She's the kisser, the hugger, and the total diva. For some reason, I always encouraged Jordin to be herself... right down to wearing a tutu and plastic shoes to the grocery. She could care less about what anyone thinks - very self confident, that one. She's in preschool for the last time this year - next year she'll grace the halls of McGarity with her charms....
New pictures from the bday soon!
Rachael
Sunday, July 25, 2004
Wednesday, July 14, 2004
The new pictures below are from a picnic at Dobbins AFB, here in Atlanta - given for the families of service men and women from active reserve units stationed overseas in Kuwait. Our church staffed the event, serving lunch, painting faces, playing games, and entertaining everyone. It was a wonderful day - and certainly reminded us all of how much we miss Jon Hamilton!! (those are HIS precious babies you see!!)
This is a great article about my church family... grab some tissues!!
Lighthouse Christian Fellowship
Lighthouse Christian Fellowship
Sunday, June 27, 2004
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