For Jerrod

(Oh My Gosh - we were babies!!)

Happy 19th Anniversary Love!

I can’t believe we’ve come this far already. As I look back over our years together, I see that our life together is similar to romance novels in many ways:

When we started dating (in 10th grade), our relationship was like a YA romance: You were the Street-wise Bad Boy, I was the Innocent Shy Girl. No one would have pictured us together, not even us! But it was Instant Attraction and no matter how hard we fought it, we did get together, and by the end of high school we were The Couple Everyone Knew Would Last.

Then, in college, things got a bit bumpy; there may have been a “break” involved. At this point, our relationship was like a Contemporary Romance: We loved each other but were also trying to decide who we were as individuals. A road trip for you, some self-discovery for me…but we missed each other. Midnight phone calls, love letters…and a surprise road trip home. Read forward a few pages to our wedding day… We were definitely a Reunited Lovers story.  With a newborn baby in the One Year Later epilogue :)

Our life together has also been an Erotic Romance, a Comedic Romance (sometimes at the same time, lol), and an Inspirational Romance. One thing it has not been is a May/December Romance, although you repeatedly claim it is (I’m only 5 months older than you, damnit!).

Over the years, one thing has remained constant – our love for each other. Even when the things in life that don’t show up in romance novels (like you leaving your dirty clothes in front of the hamper, or me "rearranging" your spices in the kitchen), you’re still my Hero – a wonderful husband and father, friend and lover.

• If our life was a Historical Romance, I'd be the Wallflower and you'd be the Reformed Rake.
• If our life was a Vampire Romance, I’d let you suck me anytime.
• If our life was a Fairy Story, you’d be my Summer King, bringing sunshine and warmth into my life.
• If our life was an Urban Fantasy Romance, we’d fight the bad guys together.
• If our life was a Paranormal Romance, you’d be my Alpha Werewolf - large and in charge but totally dedicated to me and our children .

We’ve been married to each other almost half our lives: Thank you for loving me, giving me beautiful babies, sharing the fun parts and comforting me during the tough spots. Thank you for my very own Happily Ever After.

With Love Always,

Happy 18h Birthday Ian!!!

Uuuuhhh - Shakira stopped by to wish you a Happy Birthday

BUT YOU WERE IN DEL RIO!!!!

Seriously, I hope you're having fun.  I love you and miss you.  You might be growing up but to me you're still that tiny baby boy we brought home from the hospital 18 years ago. 
Happy Birthday Son.

My Birthday Trip to Houston

Can I just say I don’t remember the last time I had that much fun stuffed into one weekend!

That whole week I worked like a crazy woman, skipping lunch and staying late every day (including my birthday) so that I could take the day off on Friday. Wednesday was my actual birthday, and hubs and the kids and my parents met me for dinner at a great Middle Eastern restaurant after work. Then, Thursday after work, I came home, kissed the kids, threw some clothes into a suitcase, and headed out the door. After an uneventful trip – I only got lost twice, lol, I got to Michael and Hannah’s house at 2am.

Friday:
That morning Hannah and I woke up (Michael went to work) got dressed, did our hair and makeup, and went to lunch at the Briar Club, where Charlaine Harris was speaking. The lunch was wonderful and Ms. Harris was amazing. We got our books signed (mine says Happy Birthday) and chatted a few minutes. Our tablemates were very nice and I think Hannah and I both had a great time – my recap of the event is here.

After the luncheon, we decided to go to the Galleria. Jerrod gave me a wad of cash for my birthday and said “spend it in Houston”, so of course the Galleria was on our list of things to do! First stop – Borders! We both got this really cool book about vampire romances – it’s kind of interactive and was really neat. Best part? It was on sale - $50 original price – we paid $5.00.

After Borders, we wandered around for a few hours, looked at stuff, tried things on, picked up a few things, and just hung out and talked. Of course, after such an active day we went home, ordered Chinese, read our new books, and went to bed late.

Saturday:
We slept in a little, got up and dressed and met Michael’s friend and his wife for lunch at Genghis something-or-other. None of us had been and it was fun (we’ll be going in July when we have the kids).

We went to HEB (because it’s not a trip to Houston without stopping at HEB). I found the chips I love there so when we go in July I’ll be stocking up!

Then I dragged Hannah out shopping. I tried on a gazillion items and she gave me “thumbs-up” or “burn it and bury the ashes”. We did a little shoe shopping and all around girl stuff. Totally fun.

Then, we came home and got dressed for a concert. Michael’s best friend from high school is a roadie in a band and they were playing in Houston that night, so he got us tickets and VIP passes. First of all, I’ve never been a VIP anything before, so that was pretty cool in and of itself. There were three bands playing that night - Subrosa Union, Dumpstaphunk (a NOLA band), and Slightly Stoopid (the main show). On arrival, we got our passes, walked around backstage and then settled into the VIP seats for the show. Long story short, we had to move halfway through Dumpstaphunk’s set because we were in someone else’s seats. So, we moved, then after the set we went backstage again to see Michael’s friend:

Since our seats were gone, guess where we ended up watching the main show? That’s right baby – on the stage!!!! We sat on the stage behind the band and watched almost the whole show. It was really interesting to see how they all work together and worked the crowd. Now, anyone who knows me knows I’m not really a “look at me I’m on stage” personality, so I did spend most of my time in the far corner – wringing the crap out of my scarf, trying not to be noticed. But it was still fun and the music was surprisingly good. I’d definitely go see them again, and the next time Dumpstaphunk plays in NOLA I’m taking hubs to see them play.

Hannah did a great recap here.

Then, all too quickly, it was Sunday – time to go home. Hannah woke me up – I showered and she went to get kolaches, then hugs and kisses and out the door. I had to be home in time to attend an awards ceremony for Ian (not FOR Ian, but he was a participant, lol), and then work on Monday morning. Jerrod was out of town until Wednesday, so it stayed crazy for a few days, but was totally worth it!!!

Best. Birthday. Ever. Couldn’t have done it without hubs, Hannah and Michael, an Mom and Ian – I can’t express to you all how much fun I had and how much it means that you all put forth so much effort to allow me to have such a great time.

Ian’s Graduation

Well, he finally did it! Ian graduated May 25 – he’s officially done with high school (and we’re officially done with high school tuition!). We’re so proud of him. He had a nice crowd of friends and family at the graduation to cheer him on.

That weekend he had to register for fall classes at Xavier University, where he is in the Chemistry/Pre-Pharmacy program. I was impressed they had his schedule all ready for him (he did not get to pick his own schedule, which is probably a good thing, lol). His first semester is 15 hours and his second semester is 18 hours. He’s taking classes like Chemistry, Lab, Honors English, and Calculus; with extra credit hours earned for English and Calculus if he passes (he needs a 3.0 to keep his scholarship, so he needs to pass). He’ll probably go into the actual pharmacy program after his Sophomore year. I’m going to stop pestering him about getting a job now, lol.

I think I mentioned before that he got a full four-year scholarship, so we were thrilled about that. The State of Louisiana also has a college assistance program for every student who graduates high school (TOPS). Ian’s GPA was high enough that he got extra $$, so the college will hold that and he can purchase his books with it. Whatever he doesn’t use will go into his bank account.

I’m thrilled and worried for him all at the same time. I remember when he started high school I was the same way. I didn’t want him to fail or get beat up. Why would either have happened? I don’t know – I just worry, it’s what I do. So I’m trying to remind myself that he’ll be fine and he’s growing up and this is part of it.

Congratulations son, I love you.

Hello or Goodbye?

As you can see, I haven’t been around in a while. I don’t know if that will be permanent or not. I’m hoping it’s just that May kicked my ass and not that I’m done.

Here’s what happened, sort of…

Hubs and I had a loooong conversation, if you will, about how much time I spend online and reading. And he’s mostly right. Part of the problem is that my laptop is in the dining room and everyone else hangs out in the living room. Part of the attraction of the interwebz is that for someone who doesn’t have much time in the day to get out, there’s lots going on online and I can participate from home. In my pajamas. With or without a shower. Then you get sucked in and oops, where did the time go?

So, first thing I did? Cancel my Facebook account and quit this blog. I didn’t delete it, but I’m not sure if I’m going to continue.

I also thought about closing my book blog, but enjoy it and don’t want to shut it down. I’m not sure what I’m going to do with it – finish up my obligations (through the summer) and close? Take on a 2nd reviewer – if I can find one? Limit my book review to 1 or 2 a week? With a full-time day job and a family, it’s starting to be a bit overwhelming. That being said, I still love being a part of it. Part of the networking that comes along with the book blog is twitter – I haven’t shut that down and probably won’t. I like twitter and it’s easy to do from my phone (although I hate Twitter for Android so if anyone knows a better app that’s easier for a technophobe like me I’d be willing to listen).

So, if you’re still here, a lot did happen in May, and I have a lot to talk about. I’m going to put up a few quick posts about the highlights:

Ian’s graduation and subsequent registration for college,
Bridget’s birthday party,
My fabulous birthday trip to Houston to meet Charlaine Harris,
As well as the regular family stuff.

And I have pictures.

Thanks for sticking around. Really; I love using this blog as an outlet and miss it.

The Cougar Hierarchy, The Building Blocks of Sandwich Making, and Don’t Look At My Kids While I’m Busy Judging Yours

So I’m hanging out with the family the other night, and one of the kid calls me old…

Hubs: Your mom’s not old, she’s a cougar.
Kids: Cougars are old.
Hubs: No they’re not – it goes like this: Feral Cat, Puma, Cougar, Lioness. Your mom’s not a lioness yet – then she’ll be old.
Me: Thanks honey… I think.

So, I think it goes like this:

Feral Cat: Megan Fox
Puma: Kate Hudson
Cougar: Demi Moore
Lioness: Sharon Stone



On to the sandwich talk:

Talking to SIL(H) the other day, and I mention I don’t eat sliced bread. She tells me H1 doesn’t either. I tell her I don’t eat Peanut Butter; H1 doesn’t either. Or Jelly. Then it really gets weird – she’s telling me how he had to bring his lunch while he was on crutches b/c it took him too long to get to the cafeteria, so she’d make his lunch. Me: “I hope you didn’t make it the night before.” She starts laughing – H1 says don’t make it the night before, no condiments until you’re ready to eat it, and no cheese, it makes the bread soft.

I need to know what happened in our childhood that we have the same sandwich hang-ups. Were we punished with old lunches?

Oh, and speaking of Michael and Hannah – I came up with a cute name for them…not Hannael, Not Michannah, they’re the Titanium Twosome!!! Her arm and his hip – get it? Aaahhh – I crack myself up!



Okay, and lastly, I’ll leave you with a snapshot of my stellar parenting skillz:

In the Chinese restaurant yesterday, the 10yo and the 4yo are singing “F You”…’cause that’s really what you want coming out of your children’s mouths. Then, on the ride home, they’re singing (and dancing) to Jane Fonda (by Mickey Avalon)… and I wonder why Molly has such awesome pole-dancing skills!!!

Hello Stranger...

So hubs is teasing me about not posting – it’s been almost a month! But really, not much has been going on.

We’re getting ready for Ian’s graduation next month (I can’t believe my baby boy is graduating!) and his 18th birthday in July. I think he wants to spend the summer in his truck travelling – anywhere away from his family, lol.

We’re finally getting ready to throw Bridget’s birthday party…her birthday was at the end of February but it’s right in the middle of Mardi Gras so it’s hard to find a time and everyone’s busy going to parades; it’s a bad time for birthday parties. This year her party will be at an art studio, and they will be painting plates (I think) decorated in peace signs. Anyone who knows Bridget knows this is the perfect party for her!!!

Molly-moo is trucking along – she’s become obsessed with Springtime, her birthday (which is in September), kindergarten, and caterpillars.

Here’s a typical conversation we’ve had more than once:
Molly: Is tomorrow kindergarten?
Me: No, it’s after the summer is over, near your birthday.
Molly: Oh. Is it still caterpillar season?
Me: Yes, so you have to be sure to wear shoes outside. (those stinging caterpillars hurt!!!)
Molly: *whines* I don’t like caterpillars. I don’t like spring. I want to go to kindergarten.
Me: *sighs*

As far as Jerrod and myself, we’re both still working hard. Jerrod went on a fishing trip last week and says he had fun. Considering he came home with no fish and not much leftover booze, I’m thinking he had a lot of fun!

So really, I’m not blogging, but there’s not much going on to blog about. Sometimes it’s good to just chill out and catch your breath. I can say this because I see May coming and it’s not going to be pretty – I actually made a calendar to go over with Jerrod so we can keep track of what events, trips, and visitors are happening in May. And of course, in the middle of everything else is my birthday. Can’t forget the most important date of all, lol!!!

I know, I know...I never call, I never write....

I can't say how many times something funny has happened and I've said to myself, "I've got to remember to blog about this..." Yeah - good intentions and all that...


Molly grabbed my hand the other night and says, "Mommy, come see, come see!!" and shows me this:

Me: Oh how cute! It's a king cake!!
Molly: *looks at me like she's saddened by my lack of intelligence and blows out a sigh*
No, Mommy. It's a paper plate, and we cut it out and put paint and glitter and glued a crown on it.

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Last night we went out to dinner, and on the way home, Bridget was telling us about a vampire book she's reading. Somehow the conversation got side-tracked, because the next thing I know, she's asking, "Vampires can't be gay, can they?" To which Jerrod answers, "Of course they can, read one of your mother's books. Oh wait, don't."

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This is why I love springtime:

I took this picture standing in my back doorway. By the end of this week that bush will be a huge pink puff of color. Love it!!! (Yes, we have a "cajun chandelier" hanging at the top of that picture - we are high-klass. Jerrod and the girls made azalea necklaces this morning.

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I'm thinking about taking the kids to Houston my birthday weekend so I can go see Charlaine Harris. I went out there over Mardi Gras and had a great time with Mike and Hannah. I'd make it a 3 or 4 day weekend I think (surprise M&H, lol), since we're not doing a "real" vacation this year. Of course, I still want to visit for our traditional 4th of July weekend visit too ;)

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I'm super-excited about the "super moon" tonight. I love all things celestial so I've already been outside twice to look :)

Until next time....

Time to make the doughnuts...

Driving in the car with my teenage son this evening:

Me: There's the doughnut shop we ate in after we went out with Uncle Mike/Aunt Hannah.
Ian: Oh.
Me: They had a king cake doughnut.
Ian: Oooohhh - that's the place where you fell in love with the doughnut guy.
Me: I did not fall in love with the doughnut guy.
Ian: You hit on the doughnut guy?
Me: I did not hot on the doughnut guy.
Ian: The doughnut guy hit on you?
Me: *snorts* No, he did not hit on me.
Ian: Well, what happened with the doughnut guy?
Me: Hannah, Pam, Brenda, and I noticed the hot doughnut guy. That's all.
Ian: You mean you're not leaving Dad for the doughnut guy?
Me: *sigh*