The Squirrels have finally won.

Well nutty readers, I have made a difficult decision. I can no longer fight the Squirrelly-Ness of my life obligations and have decided that I need to cut back on some of my commitments. My juveniles need me even more in this new city, Caspian needs my support fully as he embarks on his new position, and I need to have time to myself that isn't filled with things that I need to do because I feel like I have to. I also have realized that with Caspian's new position, our anonymity as a family is more important, which means really scaling back on what I am able to share. That in itself frustrates me to the point that I lose my inspiration to write. Blogging is a way I was able to express myself without censoring, but in reality to keep my families best interests in heart, a censor is necessary.

A Bit Squirrelly is going into permanent hibernation.

Thank you for your support, advice, laughs and most of all friendship. I have enjoyed my brief stint in the blogging community immensely. My e-mail address will stay the same, so please feel free to drop a line anytime. This blog post will stay open for three days, then the blog will close.

XOXO,

It's Official. I Am One of THOSE Pet Owners

My dog is now on PROZAC people. I don't know what else to say.

Lizzard's Story

I want to preface this post with two things:

1. We really love Lizzard. It may not seem like it as you read this post, but we do love her.

2. We appreciate the Rescue Group for choosing us to adopt Lizzard and we really respect what they do, in fact we still donate to them.

Now that I have gotten that out of the way, here is the story of Lizzard joining the Squirrelly Gang and the events that lead up to the Trip to the Vet and Prozac yesterday.

September 2007: I was told that my Baby House had to be demoed (hysterectomy) though I would no longer have a uterus or cervix and I could no longer bear children I would get to keep my ovaries. Caspian and I had already decided that we would not be having any more children, but the finality of actually NOT BEING ABLE TO CARRY A CHILD was really hard for me. After a phone call to my dearest friend and almost sister Alandra to make sure that she and her husband did not meed my uterus for anything, my demolition was scheduled for October 2nd. The hysterectomy started the downward spiral of my quest to have something else to care for. This quest ended when Caspian agreed to adopting a dog. It was perfect. Fluffy, obedient, a companion. Just what I needed to help with my demo blues.

We had been in talks with a rescue group of Fox Terriers and they had an adorable Wire hair that they thought would be perfect for us as long as she did well with the kids. Well she did! She was affectionate, patient, non-aggressive and adorable. They did warn us of a couple issues she had. First and foremost she had been re-homed 5 times in 18 months. The first information that had on her was from the pound, so she had some separation anxiety. Secondly she was fence jumper and she did not come when called so we would have to be careful to not let her out. Third she chased squirrels. A Lot. Also she was anxious in the car. None of these issues seemed to be that big of a deal, and in comparison to Garbage Day. Garbage day that was not disclosed to us. Or the fact that she had leash issues and was not really afraid of RIDING in the car, but a fear of motor vehicles in general. All in all we were duped into believing that these were "minor issues" or just not told some of them at all.

One week after my Baby House Demo she came to live with us. Things were fine, we kept extra care to not let her escape the yard and we got in the habit of keeping a towel by the back door to wipe off her feet after she chased squirrels. We took her in the car on every trip imaginable and she began to settle in to our family. However, the honeymoon phase started to wear off.

I know, I know, we should not have taken on *any* animal in my state. We know that now, but at the time my hormones (or lack of functionality of them) had taken over and I needed to have something to care for. I was desperate to feel the completion of our family. The juveniles loved her, Caspian loved her, I loved her, but the added stress was building and her issues grew. Still I fought to make her the perfect fit.

As time went on she proved a perfect fit in many ways. She was super affectionate, very mellow, especially for a terrier, she was very good with not only our children but all children, like Golden Retriever good. She slept in her little bed at night, all night after a few months. She loved to be with us. All these great things make the bad things seem like we were dealing with the K-9 version of Dr. Jekyll and Mr Hyde.

As time progressed we tried all sorts of treatments, therapies, and training. We were gifted The Dog Whisperer DVD's for Christmas, we took her for morning walks (at 5:30am every day), my MIL (Gramma L) is trained in holistic Flower Essence Therapy for Cats and Dogs so she made several different concoctions for Lizzard. These were all on top of the obedience training she had already received from two (that we know of) previous owners. Nothing worked, though the walking seemed to be a little influential for following some commands.

Months passed and her Garbage Days turned into more nervous behavior every day of the week. She started getting up and pacing in the morning while Caspian got ready for work. She even would lay by the shower door and shake as he took his shower. She also began fearing all large vehicles which before she would acknowledge, but did not seem afraid of. She also started making our walks in the morning a traumatic experience to the point that I was afraid to continue them at all for fear of one of us getting really badly hurt, or worse once of us getting hit by a car. She also started peeing and pooping in the house. Not only when we were not home, but when we were just in the other room. Last Tuesday was the final straw. We talked long and hard about it, even speaking to my Gramma L about it and she was also in agreement that Lizzard was beyond normal behavior issues and we needed veterinary help. So Yesterday morning I took her in.

She was the perfect patient (she is also a favorite of the groomers) and after speaking to the most wonderful and compassionate vet we were given a Rx for Prozac and also the name of an animal specialist in behavior. We were also informed that she is not 3-4 years old like we thought but more like 6-7. Not a huge deal, but another lie to add to the list of those told to us by the rescue. We are dragging our feet on taking her to the specialist as of right now. We want to give the Prozac some time to work. That and we are using Rescue Remedy and Gramma L is working on some more essence therapy for her. Yesterday's bill alone for her was nearly $250. I am half considering billing the Rescue for it. I really feel we were terribly mislead.

For now we are accident free in the house and have made our yard completely roam friendly so she can bark and hunt squirrels as much as she likes. The Prozac seems to make her a bit sleepy, but other then that she seems to be handling it well. As I type this she is passed out at my feet. Her favorite spot when I am blogging.

That is the condensed version of The Story Of Lizzard. Any suggestions to how we can make this a home where we all can thrive would be appreciated. And a picture to leave you with:

WHY AM I PLANNING THE REUNION...

That I wasn't even going to attend???

And HOW did I get talked into doing it?? One word: Alandra.

Alandra is my BFF, like almost my sister, in fact most of the time I refer to her as such because we have been so close for so long. She and I have know each other since we were ten years old and she knows me inside and out. However I don't like that she can pretty much talk me into doing anything, and she knows it.

So while at her house about two months ago she informs me that she had been talking to a couple of our former classmates about the reunion. I already don't like where this conversation is going because there had been no reunion planned thus far. She then states that she told them that she and I were going to plan the reunion.

Umm...I WASN'T EVEN GOING TO GO TO THE REUNION!!!

I think all sorts of horrible, vulgar words and instead of stressing my total opposition I feel myself nodding in agreement to the planning and starting to pick out locations. Now I am pretty much coordinating the whole thing. FUDGE!! I don't want to do it! I have enough stuff going on in my personal life that I don't need this added stress.

NOT TO MENTION that I went to school with MORONS. I mean how many times do I have to send messages regarding the e-mail address in order to receive your invitations? Do I really need to post a blog on MySpace or message them all individually like MORE THEN ONCE??? C'mon people!

Oh and my favorite thing is the e-mails from those in my class who are informing me of what I need to do and what I am doing wrong. Umm, FIRST of all, were YOU planning anything before I took this task on? NO. Secondly, how about you SHUT THE DUCK UP if you don't even know what I have already done. M'Kay?? Great.

I am remembering why I didn't talk to 99.9% of these primates for the last decade--Evolution is definitely lacking with this group.

Alandra is lucky that her husband's family are fishermen and own a cannery and they are making me dinner tomorrow, which includes an appetizer of beverages at the wine bar or I might never speak to her again.

I promise to have a much more optimistic and appreciative post next time, but for tonight this is what I've got. It was either blog about it or "accidentally" delete alumni from the list.

Happy Holidays From Squirrelly-ville!

Enjoy all your loved ones this Holiday Season! Much love to you all!

xoxo,

The Squirrelly Gang

Free Chair to Good Home (with Bonus!)

Dark olive green over sized chair. Microfiber material. No stains or tears. Bought a few years ago, in excellent condition. Smoke-free home. *Free* to first person willing to pick it up under one condition: The dog stuck in it comes with it. Will not accept any returns due to the dog being mental. Will throw in a matching couch and bag of food if you pick up today.

Bins, Boxes and Packing Tape, Oh My!!

Okay so I opened my reader and was met with over 200 new posts. You have all been busy my bloggy friends! I will do my best to get caught up on posts when I take packing breaks. I considered dismantling my computer, but Caspian wisely suggested I leave it in case I need a sanity break. He knows me so well.

So, I am in the midst of trying to pack our house after being with Caspian for the last four days at my in-laws where we he has been staying. I pretty much have a place tacked down and are planning on moving in on Sunday. Yes, this weekend my dear nutty readers. That means counting yesterday from 3pm on, I have about 6 days to pack. My mother in law is taking the kids Friday until their rooms are set up on Sunday, so that will help some. Also we are picking up the moving truck and car trailer on Friday so we will have some extra time to load it before we have to actually move.

I am completely scatterbrained if you haven't gathered from the absolute lack of cohesive-ness of this post so I leave you now before you all wonder why in the hell you read my nonsense anyway.

Much love to you! I will do my best to check in on you all as soon as time allows!

xoxo,

But You Can Lick My Floors DAMMIT!

I like to clean. I like a clean environment, orderly, hygienic, borderline sanitary. I am what some would call OCD about certain aspects of my cleaning, not OCD like Monk or Melvin, but in the sense that I HAVE to vacuum all floors at least twice a day--sometimes 3 (or lets be honest there was an incident of 6 times of vacuuming in one day, in my defense I was caring for Loaner Baby and I had been sewing so I wanted to make sure there was nothing that could be eaten by the crawler she was). I also LOVE watching shows like Clean House and my all time fav How Clean Is Your House on the BBC (if you have not seen it OH. MY. GOD. Those Kim and Aggie are hilarious and the transformations--WHOA).

My need for cleanliness is surpassed and put to shame by my good friend Marie. Now before I go on, I have to state that I am totally jealous of the fact that not only is she a better housekeeper, but she lives in a fabulous neighborhood in a perfect house AND she is a single mom, oh and she cooks, REAL MEALS and her four year old eats them, I know, AMAZING. All of this contributes to my inferiority complex. Especially since I am very spoiled in the fact that I get to stay home all the time and therefore feel like I need to rise to the occasion and be Aud's BFF Martha Stewart (even though I don't like her hair).

Before I met her I was always the neatest, cleanest, OCD-est person (other then my mom) that I knew. I prided myself in the fact that my house was 10-30 minutes away from company ready at all times. That my laundry was always only a load away from complete and that my floors could be Swiffered and Hoovered to perfection in minutes. Since befriending her my efforts seem to be in vain.

The last time she came over I was vacuuming when she arrived. She asked when we got there if I was just vacuuming for them. I of couse said no, that I was just keeping up on the house and wanted to make sure that her little crawler didn't find anything and eat it. Truth be told, my house was still in recovery from the SGRT and I could not stand that she would be over and see my mess. She is not the judgemental type, and would never say anything about the state of my house, but I just can't stand the thought of her even thinking it.

Yesterday I spent much of the day cleaning out cabinets and re-organizing the bathrooms. A $250 grocery shopping trip sprung me into cleaning mode and I felt as if I could continue for days. My first thought when I was finished was how I hoped Marie would come visit today so she could see my house. WTH is wrong with me? That is just insane. First off, I should want her to visit so we can VISIT, not so I can show her my clean house. Secondly WHAT THE HELL is wrong with me that I need to show my unassuming, non-judgemental FRIEND that I can clean and reorganize???

I need help people. I mean I already have a Cleaning Chart for crying out loud. Comparing my cleanliness to my dear friend's is just sick and wrong. It's intervention time.

Nothing says comfort like Mattress Ranch

Still recovering from the sickness here in Squirrelly-ville, but had to share. After seeing these commercials I know exactly where we are buying the mattresses for our new guest room.

I Was Channelling Mozart (SFMTY)

Two summers in a row my old roommate and I took trips up to Canada for a week of learning about and soaking in another culture (okay so really we went up there to go to clubs and drink and party since we couldn't do that legally in the states yet). On the trip we would always stop in Seattle to blow off steam and see the sights. In Seattle was the huge famous toy store FAO Schwarz. You know the one where Tom Hanks jumps around playing the piano in the movie BIG (the link is a you tube clip of that scene)?

So me, thinking I am oh so cute and funny decides to reenact that and put my 8 years of piano lessons to use (my piano teacher would have been so proud). This resulted in this:

Not much else to say about that picture...it speaks for itself.

For more Sincerely 'Fro Me to You visit We Are That Family.

Blah Blah, COLD, blah, PROMOTION, Blah, ELECTION, Blah

You know when you have a cold and all you can hear is blah blah blah blah? Yeah that is where I am right now. Muirne brought home a WHOPPER of a head cold and of course me being like 22 years older then her I tend to get more extreme versions and stay sicker longer. Go me. So here I go passing on my blah blah blah to you.

The snot has almost completely taken over my head and sinuses and is starting it's way into my throat and chest. Should be a fun next few weeks. I plan on getting a Neti Pot. Don't know what a Neti Pot is? It was on OPRAH yo!

If the Neti pot doesn't work I figure going into a cold medicine coma is the next best thing. Of course I have to wait for Caspian to get home, get the kids in bed, then talk with him about the latest let-down. You heard it right, we will not be moving the Squirrelly-Gang as of yet, but he seems to think there we other opportunities knocking soon. He is the ultimate persuasion in my promotion positivity. I loves that man.

Of course since he isn't promoting right this minute that means I need to make sure Muirne is signed up for the next month of ballet, that I need to try and get squeezed into my Hair Goddess' books, and that I can at least for this week live life like a normal, settled suburban homemaker. This of course means a trip to Costco, which if you read McMommy you know is a freaking mortgage payment in itself. Yeah me again.

Since I will be at Costco signing away my retirement to pay for my super-sized box of Dino Chicken Nuggets, I should also buy some toilet paper. We are out. Again. Someone around here needs to make sure that quits happening. Isn't there someone in charge here that takes care of things like toiletries and bananas??? Oh wait....

Speaking of toilet paper, we also need some of those flush able toilet wipes and disinfecting surface wipes. I have an almost three year old BOY who LOVES his penie and with it getting bigger and all is missing aim. Even with this cold I can smell the pee in there. Yum.

If you really want something yummy--some food for a political brain--head over and visit Auds at Barking Mad and convince her (an me too) why your favorite candidate should get her vote!!

Now that my cold has totally taken over my brain and I actually typed the word POLITICAL on my nutty blog I must retire. Wish me a speedy recovery. The juveniles can only eat Mc Deaths so many times before they start asking for broccoli.

Gross. Is It Summer Yet?

Yeah, so fall in Squirrelly-Ville means the start of rainy season and frosty mornings. This leads to our back yard becoming a mud-pit, which means Lizzard goes from being fluffy and white to this on a daily basis:

This means I get to give her a bath at least once a day, usually twice. Is it Summer yet?

Any suggestions on how to keep her from getting like this? Anyone? Anyone?

Lizzard Has Been Banished To The Garage

at least until Loaner Baby goes home.

It is Tuesday again....**sigh**, on top of it all Loaner Baby has a cold, though I must say she is being a trooper. I pulled out the little people stuff for the Juveniles in the toy room and that seems to have them all happily occupied for a moment, which gives me the change to complain. I know, I know, Auds Attitude of Gratitude and all that. I am just NOT feeling it today.

Garbage day started off as every other garbage day but today seemed particularly bad. She has started showing more and more nervousness other days of the week too. Anyhoo she was freaking out as I was getting Smoothies ready and Muirne runs in to tell me she has pooed. IN THE HOUSE PEOPLE! Not only that but peed yet again. I cleaned up the mess put her in the garage with her bed and food and water dishes (all our chemicals are in cabinets so she is safe).

I call Caspian and whine to him (like he has nothing better to do then listen to me complain) we agree that we need to reconsider a visit to the vet for some sort of Prozac or sedative or both. Gramma L's bro in law is a vet and he suggested we consult with our vet for medication for her. We have an appointment Friday at 8:30am. Man...

At this point if she doesn't get better we don't know what we are going to do. We have not heard back from Cesar and we cannot return her to the rescue. The kids love her too much. I love her too, just not right now.

Any advice my five faithful readers?? I really need it. My family needs it. Most of all Lizzard needs it.

Booze, Barf, Banquets, Bubbles, Belching, Ballet and Boogie

Umm...So I still have not caught up on my reader. I am not ignoring you my dear bloggy friends I promise. I am reading TODAY! I promised myself. Oh and if there is like a SUPER IMPORTANT POST that I need to read from you please link it in the comments. I don't want to miss it.

Okay now that is all out of the way. Here is the Bullet Random Recap of the last week or so.

• Booze: If you are drinking margaritas made by Caspian then gin and tonics made by the bartender that Caspian is tipping well, TWO is plenty. Oh and don't drink wine when you have finished the aforementioned drinks. Wine+Strong Booze=Puking in a public restroom. Yes I did. I don't have anything else to say about that.


• Barf: Really really don't mix alcohol in case you didn't catch my drift before. It. Is. Bad.


• Banquets: What is it about buffet-style banquets that make me eat like a freaking cow? I am basically at week one of my stretch marks to six pack after everything I ate. UGGG!


• Bubbles: Muirne is taking two weeks of swim classes. We started Monday and have the weekend off then go back through Thursday of next week. She told me the class was too easy and she is bored, after the first day. Awesome. Bardolf however is thoroughly enjoying splashing the shit out of me during the pre-school open swim, so I guess 1 of of 3 enjoying themselves isn't too bad.


• Belching: Lizzard burps. A lot. I have never heard a dog burp. Fart yes. Burp no, until Lizzard. WTF?
  
• Ballet: Muirne had her very first ballet recital. She did AWESOME and because I want to show you the sickeningly pink perfection that she was here are pictures and video (the video is only a minute and a half long so you better watch it dammit):

• Boogie: Bardolf was totally into the recital. There was Jazz, Tap, Lyrical and Ballet. The music moved him and I just couldn't resist sharing him getting his grove on:
  

So there's the recap. Regular posting will resume as soon as my reader is in the single digits again. If the cuteness was too much for you I promise to bitch and moan the next post for you M'kay?

XOXO
-KD

I am Now Publishing on AddsYou.com

http://www.addsyou.com
username=MjAwOC0xMi0wMiAxMToyMToyMQ==

Oh Tom! You smooth talker, You!

Caspian suggested I try and make some new friends. Get out and explore. Navigate my surroundings and familiarize myself with the new people and places. While excited for that journey, I was not ready to take on that task alone.

I met Tom in Sears, the electronics section to be exact. Though a typical place to run into men, Tom lured me in when normally I could not be distracted. The saleslady stood by as we familiarized ourselves with each other. I told him where I lived, where we shopped, where we wanted to go. He knew right where I was and where I needed to go in life.

I left and took Tom with me. What would Caspian say? How could I explain what I had done? None of that mattered. No longer would I feel lost in this new place. I had the perfect companion. How does that phrase go? It's easier to ask forgiveness then permission? Yes, I had to have Tom. Caspian would just have to understand that I could not resist and in a moment of weakness I succumbed to the smooth taking stranger.

Nutty Readers, I would like to introduce you to my new lover, Tom:

I just can't see the bigger picture right now

So don't tell me it is all a part of a bigger plan. Whatever the "plan" is, it better start showing itself because as of right now I am really struggling to see where all this is going. Most of all my heart breaks for the hardest working, most honest, and loyal employee I know. Someone who rarely complains, even for a moment. HE deserves the BEST plan and if it doesn't fall into place soon, I am not sure he can take it and I know I can't bear to see his face like this again.

Hi Headache? We need to talk.

Me: Yo, I know you have made yourself comfortable and all, but it's time for you to go.

KD's Headache: Duuudde! It's only been three weeks. I still have lots of time!

Me: No see that is the issue. I totally understand that you have a purpose to serve, that you are one of my body's warning systems that something is not right, but I KNOW what the problem is now. You can go.

KD's Headache: Oh you THINK you know. Just because you had a cold and then some neckaches, followed by a trip to your in-laws in the land of cats doesn't mean you know why I am here.

Me: No see you are wrong. When I took the Ibuprofen and allergy/cold stuff you went away.

KD's Headache: No I was just sleeping. Even headaches need naps Dude.

Me: That is the stupidest crap I have ever heard. You aren't even alive!

KD's Headache: But I am alive to YOU.

Me: Only because I gave you life sucka. As soon as I have some coffee and drugs you are outta here!

KD's Headache: Nope I just will be napping. I like to mess with you that way. I will be back full force as soon as your self-medication wears off!

Me: You are an evil evil troll. Just GO AWAY! I am tired of talking to you.

KD's Headache: You can never defeat me!

Yeah so obviously my brain is totally messed up right now. Seriously I cannot take this anymore. Any suggestions???

Dear John Letters to my Household Supplies

Dear Febreeze,

You have been replaced by Glade Fabric and Air. Glade smells better and the scent lasts longer. Plus it is cheaper. Those things make me happy. I am sorry that our relationship has ended so abruptly, but Yo, I gotsta have my house smellin' FRESH!

Sincerely,

Fresh in the NW, KD


Dear Proactiv,

You promised clarity, perfect skin, NO MORE BREAKOUTS! However this letter is to inform you that you have been replaced. After continuously using your products and spending ridiculous amounts of money for six months I have found new hope. Get ready because you may be surprised, but GO FIGURE Ivory soap. Yep plain old Soap and water and my skin has never looked better. Don't worry, I have given my leftovers to a friend for whose skin you ACTUALLY work for. I know. Parting is such sweet sorrow, but I like how Ivory smells better anyway.

Sincerely,

Acne-Free it's Soap for Me, KD


Dear Downy Liquid Fabric Softener,

I used you religiously, loved the scent and softness you provided, but was discouraged by the invisible barrier you put on my towels so they no longer were absorbent. Frustrated I looked for alternatives. Much to my surprise, some plain old white vinegar int he rinse cycle with store brand dryer sheets gave me the same results without the side-effects. Thus ends our torrid affair.

Sincerely,

Soft, fresh AND Absorbent towel owner, KD

Things are changing, hopefully for the good

***Update*** Caspian called. Things are perfect!!! Thanks for the good thoughts. They were not wasted!

So I am writing this post to basically say that I am hoping to replace it with one that is super excited and optimistic later on. To make a long story short, we are doing our best to stay focused on the future and know that things with Caspian's promotion will all work out, but yesterday evening's events may have put a kink in things. Sorry for being so cryptic, but I try and keep things as anonymous as possible when it comes to Caspian's career. Nothing is for certain, so any good thoughts you could send our way would be appreciated. I promise to update as soon as I know anything more.

xoxo

Seriously the SMOKIN'-EST Hiker EVAH (SFMTY)

When I was young we were definitely outdoors people. Summer vacations were spent fishing, camping, swimming in lakes and hiking. Growing up in the Northwest does that to you, it's a prerequisite in order to be allowed to call yourself a North-Westerner.

I still enjoy those things but in smaller more manageable doses. I would love to say that I hike/camp/fish/survive with flint and a lean-to made of brush and a tree with only my keen survival skills to keep my alive, but Bear Grylls I am not. No dear readers I had really only one brush of true survival the summer before I started High school. This was the summer that my youth group would go on a 5 day long trek on a trail circling Mt. Hood.

The Pacific Crest Loop (part of the Pacific Crest Trail)is a 40 mile (yes FORTY) mile trail of winding, mountainous, rocky rugged trails that should not be attempted by a skinny pre-pubescent girl carrying a pack that nearly outweighs her. This trail though beautiful had stops along the way that left much to be desired for camping. These included those nicknamed "Mosquito-ville" (the place where all mosquitoes in the NW come from) and "Rocky-Road" where even with your whole 1/4" thick pad could not protect you from the rocks digging into your back as you tried to sleep.

The trip was not without fun. We did what we liked to call "Glacier Sliding" which was a game in which we folded our sleeping pads in half, held on and slid down glaciers that ran through our trail. The downside was the volcanic rock that also was in the ice. Stopping with anything but the bottoms of your feet resulted in horrid scrapes to any exposed skin. We also learned how to pluck and kill Quail (throwing a stick at the right angle at a quail will decapitate it, resulting in death, resulting in eating the evidence so we are not fined for hunting in a restricted area).

Food was also fun! Nothing better then Spaghetti logs with tomato paste and watered down Gatorade made with water pumped from a creek that a deer probably peed in somewhere up-stream from you. We immediately headed to the nearest burger place and wolfed down a double cheeseburger, fry and coke after being on the trail for nearly a week. This of course resulted in barfing our guts out since our stomachs had shrunk.

All in all the hike was at the very least beautiful, breathtaking and a learning experience. Plus I got to hang with my dad and bro. That for a 13 year old girl is huge.

No need to adjust your computer monitors Ladies and Gentlemen. I really was that geeky, awkward, flat chested and pale. I know it is hared to believe, but it is true.

For more blasts from the past visit We are THAT Family:

It's Official!!

Our offer was ACCEPTED!!

Yes Nutty Readers we will soon be homeowners in our new city! We will have the inspection later this week and hopefully close by the end of next month. Muirne has already decided on a two-tone pink bedroom with a canopy over the head of her bed, and Bardolf wants blue stripes and cars. For the toy/bonus room I am leaning towards a light green. The rest of the rooms will most likely stay as they are, with the exception of one wall in the dining area and the master suite. Also we plan on painting the brass on the fireplace. I PROMISE to post pictures of the finished rooms, but until then, here are a few from the listing (sorry they are so small...I am not sure why!):

BackYard (the lot is 1/2 acre!)

Living Room

Dining Room and Kitchen

Front Entry

Thank you all again SO MUCH for the good thoughts and comments!

xoxo,

CRAP! So there was this like big important thing!

Where have you BEEEN? What have you been DOOOING?

I know you have asked those questions, at least in my mind you all care and love me and miss my stretch-marked-soon-to-be-six-pack. I actually kinda forgot all about the big IMPORTANT meeting Caspian's company has every year and guess what? It was this past week. So I am back, kinda. My reader is busting at the seams with new posts to catch up on, so I will be spending the next couple days catching up on my reading, which means not too much posting. That and Caspian is off of work until Monday. Oh and the temps are in the 100's so we will be spending our time at the pool. So dearest readers, I will have squirrelly stories and nutty pictures to share starting back on Monday. Until then I will be stalking my reader and soaking up sun and chlorine.

Things Bardolf Knows For Sure

With Muirne starting kindergarten, Bardolf and I have been having more conversations during our alone time in the morning. Most of these revolve around questions and answers. The other day, however, Bardolf was in the statement making mood and was telling me things he knew for sure. For instance:

"Dat right dare is my Blanket. I like my Blanket."

"Wizzie don't wike dose quirrels. She bark at dem."

"Dat is your coffee momma, you wike dat."

"Dat sissy skool bus. She come home now."

"I do draw dat picture. I wike dat color on dare."

You catch my drift. Things that an almost three year old says because they think out loud, and want reassurance that their truths are right. Shortly after rattling off this list of things he holds as truths, he sits quietly contemplative. Suddenly he smirks, reaches his hand down his pants, and proudly proclaims:

"My Penie! It getting Bigger!!"

Bardolf. What can I say....




PS: Because I have been trying to keep limits on what I share and don't share I have considered not sharing this story about Bardolf, but SERIOUSLY! I totally had to tell you all because it cracked me UP!

Then I broke

What a week.

I broke yesterday. I made a quick stop at the grocery store and had Lizzard with me. I left her in the car with Bardolf and I ran in. In that time she managed to poop all over the inside of the car. I had to spend nearly four hours cleaning, shampooing and disinfecting every surface of the interior. It was awful.

That was my breaking point. I just sobbed. I cried for my cousin. I cried for my families loss. I cried because I was frustrated, tired and angry. I cried because I failed my children this week. I cried because of the unknown of Caspian's job. I just cried. Hard.

When I finished crying I felt cold, and drained. The rest of the day I just went through the motions. It was a busy day with swimming lessons for both kids plus conferences for Muirne. We got home late, then it was time to eat and get the kids ready for bed.

Caspian and I sat quietly, watching TV and talking about this and that on commercials. I let Lizzard out one more time, then we went to bed. Then, I slept. The first night in weeks that I have slept all night without dreams waking me.

Today we are taking our time. Muirne doesn't have school and we really don't have anywhere to be, other then visiting my grandma, and a quick trip to the store for some bread. This weekend I am taking my time to reset my family and focus on life in the moment. To remember those I love and know that those that have passed are not gone, but with us every day. To strengthen the bonds of family and never to forget to say I love you. That is what I plan to do this weekend, there is nothing I would rather do.

Lost In Translation

The Juveniles and I spent Friday afternoon at one of our local parks. This park had all of the regular play equipment plus a bonus item that we had not discovered on prior trips there. There were two speakers connected by an underground pipe that one could talk through and be heard by another at the other end of the playground. This was quite similar to the old two cans and string--which after Friday's fun I may have to make a set for them.

We spent much of our time talking to each other, trying to figure out what was being said and then responding accordingly. Most of the conversations were simple, asking what the other was doing, and giggling at the responses. However jumbled the messages sounded they didn't tire of each other's voices and continued to live in the now of the fun at that moment. The simple joys of the game overtook any possible frustration at not being able to understand what was being said. The fact that most of the time they had no idea what the other was saying was a non-issue compared to the jovial tone of the play.

Stunned by their complete disregard for anything but the present was like a slap in the face. I have shared with others, that this past week the Universal nudges are leaving me bruised by their persistence, yet I still find myself looking for the exact meaning, paths, answers, that in reality will show themselves to me if I just learn to let go of the literal translation. Instead of wondering if I am getting the message the way it is meant to be heard I need to just enjoy the message however it comes to me at that moment.

As the hour grew late and little tummy's began to rumble it was time to leave our games for another day. Muirne pleaded to whisper one last message to Bardolf at the other end of the speaker. Her message was simple.

"I love you, Brother!"

Those words translated loud and clear.

Seven Years Ago

Seven years ago today, we checked into Edgefield for the night.
Seven years ago today, we lit candles and tied ribbons on champagne flutes.
Seven years ago today, we gathered in front of three friends in the room.
Seven years ago today, we made promises to each other in front of a judge.
Seven years ago today, we kissed to seal the vows.
Seven years ago today, we were pronounces husband and wife.
Seven years ago today, we became us.

I love you. Happy Anniversary.

For those of you who don't know, we actually have two anniversaries. The first is November 17, 2001 when we quietly eloped with just three friends as witnesses. A little over six months later, May 25th 2002, we had a traditional formal wedding. To make a long story short we did so to make things easier in relation to Caspian's job. To this day, most of our famly does not know. My parents and brother know, but noone else in my family. My husbands family does not kow at all. Maybe someday we will tell everyone...or not ;-)

Breastmilk Sniper: the Next Phase in Stealth Weaponry

My cousin and his wife are coming into town for Thanksgiving. They come every other year for a week to spend time with the family, and this year is their year to visit, I am really excited. I lovingly call them "Ken and Barbie", because they are that beautiful. They have two preteen boys and live in a million dollar home outside of the Bay Area in California. He is an electrician and she is a housewife and bookkeeper for his business. They definitely fit the mold for the perfect example of Californian suburban family. This in exchange makes them more fun then you can stand.

Last time my cousin came in town, was last year for my dad's wedding. His wife, "Barbie" had to stay behind to play soccer/football mom for the boys. To make a long story short, my cousin "Ken" charmed a group of ladies in the bar as well as a group of gruff looking guys and the bartender, which in turn meant free drinks for us. I felt like total shit the next day for my dad's wedding, but the good time was worth it.

The trip two years ago, included both Ken, Barbie and the boys. We decided to have a cousin's night out Thanksgiving Eve. This group consisted of Ken and Barbie, Caspian and I, and my Brother "Juppie". On Juppie's suggestion we headed to a nice bar downtown that had a great atmosphere, good food and fantastic cocktails. I was still breastfeeding Bardolf at the time, but had pumped enough ahead of time that if needed, I could pump and dump the alcohol out.

We got to the bar and luckily it was not too busy yet. Juppie claimed a pool table while Caspian and Ken went to the bar. The pool table next to us was occupied by some attractive and curious bachelors. Of course they instantly headed in Barbie's direction, seemingly unaware that she was Ken's wife. She flirted while Ken stood by and laughed. This was a common theme for them I figured--and once again free drinks flowed.

After a few hours and too many drinks we headed out to a dance club. Caspian was driving (at the time we had a crew cab GMC) and therefore the only sober one in the bunch. Juppie was riding shotgun, I was in the driver side rear seat, Barbie in the rear center, and Ken in the passenger side rear seat. I complained that my boobs hurt because I hadn't nursed in a while, and I could probably shoot something with the milk, which sparked Ken to say:

"I'll give you $100 if you can hit someone walking down the sidewalk."

I started laughing, then I realized he was serious.

"Really? You'll give me a Benjamin?" I asked.

"Totally, but you have to be stealth and we have to see it," he said.

"I'm in," I said as I started to roll down the window.

Caspian figuring out what I was doing, started rolling up the window and hit the window lock on his door panel.

"NO!! I can totally do it! Unlock the window!!" I yelled as I took aim and then fired.

"Oh my GOD!!" Barbie screamed, laughing.

Then we all saw it, the big streak of milk across the window. Caspian had thwarted my attempt and wouldn't roll the window back down. The entire group erupted in laughter and Ken took a picture of the streak with his camera phone. I put the weapons away and mumbled that I totally could have pulled it off.

The next day was Thanksgiving and we went to dinner at my Aunt's house (Ken's Mom). When we got there they yelled for us to come around to the back slider instead of using the front door. When we got to the door there was a sign posted:

"Got Milk?"

Public Broadcasting, WALL-E, Thunder and Lightning, Mudbugs, SO RANDOM! (Monday Madness)

This weekend started off with a bang tourturing Bardolf and ended with a bang! Because it is Monday and I can't ever seem to have cohesive thoughts after the weekend, especially when Caspian has the whole weekend off (not just Sunday) so I have some Bullets of Random-ness for you.

• Bardolf really truly is traumatized and if we even mention the words "hair" and "cut" in the same sentence he starts to cry. Awesome.
  

• Alandra and her hubby had us over for dinner. And Mud-Bugs. Mud-bugs that were trying to escape the bag in the fridge. They thought they had 6 but we could only find 4. That will be a fun surprise later on.

• Caspian's Nova was not braking properly, so he worked on it for about 5 hours Sunday. My 'burb's brakes have been squeaking for about a month and he still hasn't fixed it. Priorities??

• Murine was watching TV while Bardolf napped and I cleaned up lunch. I suddenly heard singing. Like opera/musical singing. I asked her what she was watching. She said "PBS Kids" So I look at the screen and it is some sort of military musical. Weird. I tell her that yes it is PBS but not PBS Kids. She insisted it was and continued to watch it for half an hour until her My Little Ponies missed her. M'kay....

• Lizzard once again proved she is Mental and needs her Prozac. I foolishly trusted her to jump into the 'Burb when I opened the door. Nope she ran right past us then wedge herself through a fence into a neighbor's backyard down the street where she proceeded to take a large poo... MEN-TAL.

• I have decided that I want to live in Lizzard's brain for the day on a Sunday. Must be interesting.

• I also have decided I want to live in Bardolf's brain everyday. I think it must be fun.

• Bardolf is still too young to go to a movie in a theatre. Not even WALL-E could keep him entertained for more then 30 minutes, though the rest of the Sqirrelly-Gang thought it was pretty darned cute (and had a pretty neat message)!

• Spaghetti is my fall-back plan. Everyone will eat it and it is easy. I need to make it more often.

• I LOVE Jello No-Bake Cheesecake with cherries. Too much maybe.

• Thunder and Lightning storms cut out our original swimming plans for Sunday, but on the flip side watching them with the kids was fantastic! I forgot how much I enjoy them, especially when you can listen to them without a five year old jabbering your ear off....

(I got lucky and snapped this picture of the lightning above the trees across the street)

That's all Folks! Enjoy your Monday!

-KD

For more Monday Madness visit Barking Mad