you can take the boy out of...

...Scouts but it's almost impossible to put him back in. This is a project I've been working, on and off, for a couple of years. (Every since we moved here.) It's incredibly frustrating. I'm looking for a troop near our home, it's been nothing but phone calls and unreturned messages. I got so fed up last year I quit. I decided to try again, hoping this time it would be different... but no.

I emailed the woman that runs my book club because I remember her mentioning last May that her son was joining some troop that met within walking distance of our house. I emailed her a couple of weeks ago for more information. She emailed back that she didn't know anything but sent a link to the troop's homepage. Okay, even though minuscule it was still progress. I searched and searched the website for a phone number but there wasn't one to be found, I was forced to go with the email address for the scout master. No reply, shocking. (all due sarcasm here)

So yet again, out of desperation I called the council headquarters in the area yesterday. "Oh, you'll want to talk to Steve, he handles your area. Unfortunately, he's not in today. He'll be back tomorrow." Again, shocking. "You can leave a voice mail for him or call back tomorrow..." I hate leaving voice mails because people (scouts) never return voice mails. I opted to call back today and they sent me straight to his voice mail. (shock-ing) So I left a message and am standing by at the ready to answer the phone because I just KNOW he'll call me back as soon as possible. I mean that's what his message says he'll do and a scout never lies, right?

nordic conquerors

Yago just left to go to a Vikings game and I already feel a little blah. Like, what on earth am I going to do with myself and the kids until Monday? Like there's nothing to look forward to for a few days. I think I just need to find some ambition and take a shower to get things started. Oh, and the rainy morning isn't helping.

I turned in some bullets for my OPR yesterday but I was short a couple of lines and it's unimpressive to say the least. (It always is.) I wish I could cross-train and do something else but that ship has sailed so whatever.

My online classes almost kicked my butt yesterday. It's a lot of work and very time consuming to go through everyone else's post on a weekly basis. ...Much less do all the reading and write my own posts. I kind of want to go back to bed just thinking about the 15 page paper I need to write about the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.

So I'll go out today and buy some fish sticks, tater tots, and ice cream, cuz that's what we do when Yago's out of town.

the fan

Man, when the stuff hits the fan it hits all at once. Yesterday I was notified that my supervisor didn't do my OPR before he left and now everyone and their brother is emailing me asking for bullets. This is my own fault but it couldn't be at a worse time. I guess it could be a worse time but I'm pretty busy right now, I have a bunch of work due for my classes today. I'm feeling a little overwhelmed and defeated already and it's only 9:00 am.

Remember last week when I was all relieved because I was ahead in my classes? I should have kept working. I'll start working ahead this weekend because trying to juggle everything during the week doesn't work out very well!

hypocrisy

I had to hold my tongue (or fingers really) today while reading someone's update on FB. They were griping about civil servants and the government tit. These are all retired military people who are contractors (and probably trying to get a GS position). It makes me shake my head when I see all the comments agreeing, I want to call them all buffoons. They all want to cut the government, except their jobs and programs they use. Then they'll fight like hell.

To be clear, I don't have a problem with griping about government but when you are currently suckling from the gov't tit you lose credibility.

high gear

I feel like I've been going nonstop lately, I'm gearing up for the beginning of the fiscal year and doing Reservist stuff. Which reminds me, I received an email today "inviting" us to meet the new senior level IMAs... tomorrow. Seriously? You send out the invitation that says if you're in the local area you're expected to be there, although it's not mandatory. How do they expect us to do that with a day's notice?

Tonight is Parent Information Night at Brownell-Talbot. I'm interested in meeting Schmitty's teachers, he really likes them and is enjoying Middle School.

I've got some toilets to scrub, they're a little gross.

fb chicken

I used to use fb a lot but now every time I think about posting something I change my mind. I like seeing what my friends are up to but don't really care to put too much out there anymore.

I just realized I was a week ahead in my classes and was going to post something silly on fb but changed my mind, putting it here instead. I think it's because I have too many acquaintances that aren't friends on fb. I'm pretty sure they only friended me hoping to get to a higher level in Mafia Wars or something.

Joke's on them.

dormis interruptis

I had an awful night's sleep last night between sirens and bed-wetting midgets. It's always when I have a bunch to do too, why is that?

I don't really have much else... I have to post something for my classes today and read about 50 pages. Hard to do when you're sleepy.

I also have a handyman coming over today to look at some projects. I like him but I kind of hate having him come over because he was apparently friends with the previous owners and I think she probably took better care of things than I do.

I need to get started on my day. The sooner I get started maybe the sooner I can get a nap.

it's leaving quickly

my motivation. Ugh. I've been busy busy busy doing dumb stuff all day. I just put Ralph down and want to surprise Yago by getting a start on mowing the lawn but my motivation is quickly dissipating. ...Eyelids droopy...

And? I haven't even showered today. I've been out and about all day long with my bootcamp clothes and hair. Makeup? No thanks. I'm not the kind of girl that can rock a no makeup, no hair day but there I am -- rocking it.

I've been stressing (seriously, interrupting sleep and all) putting our house on the market in the spring. To counter my panic I've been calling all over today to get people out here to quote different projects. Let's get it done already.

Okay, I'm heading out to the lawn mower.

b

I got a B in my stats class, far from stellar but still passing.

I started reading the book Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell yesterday. I'm only a few pages in but it's making me cringe. I know everyone says it's no big deal and that I'm overthinking or overvaluing the effect but I really wish I'd waited to start Schmitty in school. Of course, at the time I was in Germany working shiftwork thinking he was a smart little boy that was definitely ready for school. And he was, but...

If I'd waited and started him when he was five instead of four I think it would have been better. I remember in first grade I was almost putting out feelers about holding him back but the teacher assured me he was doing great. The truth is he is usually one of the top performers academically, so why do I fret about a decision I made five years ago?

I also started school when I was four and turned out fine, right? Except I feel like I've lagged in life. You would think it'd be the opposite, that I'd have the advantage of an early start but I don't think so. I didn't graduate college until I was 27 because I couldn't pull my head out and get my act together. Now I've just started working on my master's degree but I'm 37. An eight month age difference feels like forever when you're school-aged. The advantages that kids have when they're born immediately after cut-off dates is amazing. Whether you're talking about academics or sports when you look at the data, it's startling.

Schmitty and I are a lot alike, maybe too much alike. Yago gets frustrated with his flakiness but I'm pretty sure he gets it from me. Maybe the extra time would have offset the flakiness. ? Who knows? Maybe being a space cadet is hereditary and has nothing to do with a late autumn birthday.

Where is my handy, dandy time machine?

here's a hypothesis

I cannot reject the hypothesis that I suck at statistics. I'm writing my paper and have about 20 calculations done but don't know which one is the one I'm supposed to use. T table or Z table? Proportion or binomial? I've got them both, should I just include everything and let the professor sort it out? I would technically have the right answer buried somewhere in all the wrong answers...

can't trust oscar

Yago and I watched The Hurt Locker the other night. I was really looking forward to finally seeing it but was sadly disappointed. The movie wasn't that great but it won the oscar last year. If I remember correctly it also won best screenplay but I thought the screenplay was awful.

I feel compelled to disclose in all fairness that I'm reading The Good Soldiers right now which didn't help me enjoy the movie. The book is heartbreaking and true. The movie was hokey and over the top.

I'd be interested in other people's opinions if they saw the movie.

Yee-Haw!!

I got an A in my International Economics - Trade class. (This is not the Statistics class...) But still, I got an A!

idiot

I took my final, it didn't go very well. Here's what I did... We were allowed to bring a page of notes so I wrote as tiny as I could. Only problem is that I need reading glasses and after a while even the reading glasses don't help the eye strain. So after a week of getting up early to study, study, study, my eyes tire very quickly. Throw in a page full of minuscule letters written in pencil (the pencil also makes it harder to read because there isn't as much contrast) and it was a recipe for disaster.

I spent the whole test rubbing my eyes and trying to quickly find what I was looking for in the seven seconds I had before I'd have to look away and try again. So I took a couple of breaks to walk around in the hall for a few minutes. Anyway, I ran out of time. That stinks.

The professor gave us a couple of warnings that our time was about to expire. When he finally said he was getting cranky I turned in my paper even though I wasn't done expecting the other three or four people left to do the same. Nope. I handed in my paper and they were all still working when I left. I was a little ticked about that because I didn't finish and thought everyone else was going to follow suit and turn in their paper.

I poked around when I left because I was hoping to talk to the professor but 15 minutes later none of the other students or the professor had left. I should have just sat there and finished the dang test.

Oh well. I'll start working on the paper.

Tomorrow we're going to the Iowa state fair, you wouldn't believe how excited Yago is. Before bed we've been watching state fair highlights on Iowa Public Television. It'll be a two hour drive so we're leaving at 0630. Seriously. I can't even be annoyed because I think it's so funny.

special kind of deviation

I'm taking my statistics final today. I think I've been on the verge of tears all week. I was woefully unprepared for this class. I have so many formulas and greek letters floating around in my head that I feel nauseous. I have questions that I can't even articulate. This is awful. I'm in a class full of Economics majors, many of whom this is their last Master's class. And? I'm the only girl. I hate being part of a stereotype but I guess that's how stereotypes form. I should just embrace it. ;^) I mean there have to be some positives to being a blond girl... If I can't pull off being an airhead what's the point?

All I can say is that I'm tempted to stop by the store on the way home and buy a bottle of Asti Spumante because pass or fail the final, it'll be over tonight.

the unthinkable

I may have accomplished the unthinkable. I believe I've worn Yago down to accepting the idea of a Disney vacation. At this point he may be willing to do anything to shut me up about it. I know he won't get excited about it but I'm holding out hope he'll enjoy it once he's there.

I forgot to mention that I finally had my 10% VA disability reinstated and I got back pay for about a year and a half. When the check came Yago said I should do with it what I wanted. (cuz he's cool like that) I told him I thought we should do something with the family, perhaps put it toward our vacation fund for next year. HE suggested Disney. Since then I've been relentlessly searching the website for information and prices. I've gone to ITT on base... everything.

I think I've decided what I have my heart set on and if all goes well I'll be able to check "Nag Yago about a Disney vacation" off my list of things to do!

no fair

The boys all went to the county fair, I'm left here alone to study statistics. BOR-ING! Hopefully they'll call later and I'll be done reading 600 pages. Yeah, it could happen.

addendum: I just realized I'm also home alone with the chocolate cupcakes! Oh Lord!

hairess

I finally gave up on my home coloring experimentation and had a professional do it. SOOO much better! I got it all chopped off and highlighted, it feels great. I had a couple of girls that I know from bootcamp do it, one cut it and the other colored it. It's not yellow and orange anymore with thick brown roots!

much to do

I can't believe summer is almost over, I mean it's August already! Where did it go. I have mixed feelings about how this summer has gone. I've done most everything that was on my list but I don't have the warm fuzzy feeling I thought I'd have. We go to the pool, we've been to the zoo several times, we've played, we're working on the alphabet. I don't know... I just thought I'd feel more bliss, now it's almost over and I'm still searching for the bliss.

I'm about to start a statistics course and need to pull my head out of my rear and get busy. I'll work on it.

My last professor was quite a character, and I'm not just saying that. He had a distinctively 80s look to him and was always using weird numbers for his problems (like the diameter of the moon, distance to the sun, and a bunch of wacky ratios I'd never considered). He told me he and his wife just opened a dance studio, he's a ballroom dancer and she's a ballerina. When I emailed him my final paper he sent me a link that I was reluctant to open but it was he and his wife dancing at some competition or exposition. Anyway, looking at his bio reminds me of the Dos XX guy, the most interesting man in the world. It's seriously ridiculous. I can tell my next professor will be nothing like the former.

I'm going to do a whole bunch of housework today and then study. I think. I'm definitely going to study but I haven't been too motivated on the housework stuff lately. Who is?

peter paper

Well, just paper. I have a paper due and it's kind of kicking my butt, mainly because I've never had to write a real paper. The university I went to wasn't exactly stellar so my rambles passed as work and I did fine, well actually. I feel like this is different though, I should at least be able to produce a good paper if I'm going to finish this program.

I've had the topic decided for a while but have had trouble finding the trade model that my problem fits and then figuring out how to prove it graphically. (graphically = with a graph, not in a bloody or XXX kind of way.) I've imposed a deadline of today so Yago can get on with his course instead of trying to make sure I have time available to work on my stuff. (He's very thoughtful like that.) I will have it done today and it will be the best I'll be able to produce (for better or worse). Tomorrow we'll be back on track with our Library Wednesdays. I plan to start our week of the letter "Aa" tomorrow.

I need some new blogs to follow but I'm a little lazy on the busqueda. I had a few that I followed but most of them have been abandoned or update monthly instead of daily now. I enjoy following people, not writers. I'd prefer to read about someone's encounter with an a-hole at the grocery store instead of a polished philosophical piece on "love at first sight." Ya know? Actually, I don't need more blogs to read. My time could be better spent doing other things...

On to other things.

nummer vier

Yesterday Yago and I celebrated our fourth anniversary. We'll go out to dinner and a movie Saturday night to mark the occasion, but yesterday wasn't celebrated with jewelry or a dozen roses. That's okay with me because when I made my coffee I found a little note from Yago that made me smile all today. This morning when I woke at 5 am for bootcamp he said something about starting our fifth year together. He's a good, good husband. ;)

brilliant

I'm watching the local news, there's a petition filed to recall the mayor of Omaha. The mayor is proposing additional taxes to cover a significant budget shortfall. His proposal increases property taxes by an average of $60/year and a 4% restaurant tax. The guy that filed the recall, Mr. Fasthorse, listed unfair taxation as a reason to remove the mayor but the brilliant part of the story is that he previously filed a petition to have the mayor recalled because the mayor wanted to close a library as part of a budget cut. So there's a huge shortfall but this guy doesn't want his services cut or to pay any additional taxes. I'd like to hear his solution...

unbelievable

I stumbled uoon a new (to me at least) reality show Sunday afternoon. It stars RuPaul and is called Drag Race. It's a bunch of drag queens competing for a chance to be a spokesperson for some products and an LGBT something or another. It was interesting but boy was I embarrassed when Yago caught me watching.

novelty

On Saturday I started my first master's class working toward a degree in International Relations. It's exciting and fun to be in a classroom again, I'm sure the feeling will dissipate shortly but Saturday and Sunday were good.

Yago got up early Saturday morning to pack my lunch and make me homemade, from scratch, whole wheat pancakes with fresh raspberries to accompany. We ate our breakfast outside and read the paper. Did I mention he also packed a thermos full of coffee for me take? Is he the grooviest husband or what? He's so funny too!

Since I went to bootcamp this morning I need to go take a shower. We were outside running sprints so I smell like sweat and bug spray. Mmm.

I saw a new spelling of ciao from a Spanish speaker the other day on fb, it was chau. Entonces, chau.

rainy fourth

Our neighborhood is supposed to be having a huge block party today but it looks like it may be rained out. It's been raining since about 7:30 this morning and is forecast to rain all day.

The Vietnamese neighbors are rumored to have bought 100 lbs of meat for grilling and have a shipping crate full of fireworks. The Venezuelan neighbors said they were buying 50 lbs of meat and boy can they cook! I don't know what Carlos was planning on making today but I'm positive it will be delicioso! (If you recall, last year the Vietnamese people gave Carlos a shark they caught on a fishing trip in Florida and he made some spectacular empanadas.)

We'll see how this all turns out but it's not looking good right now.

fb

Is it wrong that I'm tempted to correct people on Facebook? Just now I was reading a comment that read, "It looks like your having a good time." and I wanted to comment directly underneath, "AND it looks like you're having a good time." Of course, I would never actually do that but I do have the urge. Oh. And what is it with "shld of"? That throws me every time.

Don't get me wrong, I make my share of mistakes. ("Whose" gives me trouble for some reason.) But seriously. I also find it interesting that the people who make these errors all seem to be friends with each other. You know what I mean? I can count on regular errors from the same five or six people and they are always commenting on the other four or five's updates.

Hmm.

warden

This past weekend we sentenced Schmitty to 24 hours of solitary confinement except for meals. He spent Friday afternoon and evening giving me plenty of lip and yelling at everyone. Yago was so angry he couldn't even talk to him. We decided to make up the guest room and put him in there with nothing, no books or toys. He's been charming since 7:30 Saturday night. I think it was way more effective than any lecture or other punishment we could have given.

I can't believe the 4th is coming up already. My in-laws will be here Saturday evening and leave Tuesday morning, they're troopers for driving up again. They came a couple of weeks ago for a wedding. There's supposed to be a huge block party including homemade fireworks. I've been told it's amazing (we're usually out of town on the 4th so we've never seen it) but I anticipate Ralphie hating the noise and becoming a quivering mess.

I think this morning we'll head to the zoo and then go to the pool after lunch and naps. Maybe I'll get some studying done this afternoon, my class starts in a week and a half.

a good laugh

I had a good laugh this morning with Yago and we all know how much I LOVE a good belly laugh! We were talking about our honeymoon and some of the funny things that happened. I was still giggling and holding my side when he pulled out of the driveway. Then it occurred to me that we were on our honeymoon four years ago and planted a little Ralphie seed. That's funny too for some reason. Anyway, it feels like more than four years ago, it feels like life has been like this for much longer but not in a bad way.

We are currently suffering without our Jura-Capresso maker, it's in the shop. We had to part ways for a couple of agonizing weeks to get him fixed up. I called to check the status the other day and told the customer service guy that I missed that lil' fella, referring to the machine. I bought some folger's single bags but those are really a poor substitute.

Yesterday we had another realtor come over to look at our house and give us some advice. I feel more optimistic now, this lady seemed to really know what she was talking about. She gave us advice that made sense and was definitive. I almost wanted to hug her when she left. I mean our situation and the market are still not ideal but at least we have a little hope of not losing our pants next year.

Ralphster is up, gotta go!

in stitches

I haven't updated in a while. Earlier this week I posted a rant that was over the top and deleted it the next day.

I've been trying to start a project where I journal for the kids every night but it lasted one night. A short paragraph for each of the boys about something they said or did that day, maybe even with a couple of pictures pasted to the page. Like I said, it seemed like a great idea but my follow through is lacking.

Last night as I was finishing up the preparation of dinner Ralphie took a header off the deck. Yago and Ralph were covered in blood, I may have panicked a little bit... We wound up rushing him to the ER for stitches, staples actually. Schmitty was so squeamish he couldn't stay in then room when the doctors or nurses were there, he had to step out.

We topped off the evening with a trip to Don & Millie's for burgers and margaritas.

help me

Help me understand exactly what was SOOOO deplorable about Helen Thomas' comments. The "go home" part was a little over the top but I kind of agree with her. I think if I lived in the Middle East I'd be annoyed with Israel too. I know living in the US I get annoyed that we defend almost everything Israel does when I lot of it (settlements) I strongly disagree with. Anyway, any parcel of knowledge that would help me understand I'd greatly appreciate.

brutal

I've been taking an online cyberspace course at work. Ugh. It is AF training at its worst. I'm not even close to being finished but have surely exceeded the number of total hours they estimate it'll take. I want it to be over! I'm sure Yago will breeze through it quickly but it's really not my kind of thing. (or thang)

Schmitty had a piano recital yesterday, it went pretty well. He got a certificate for scoring well on his theory test, cool beans! (I think Schmitty's cute when he plays the piano.) The other day he was playing at home while I was making dinner. I happened to look over and saw that he was practicing bowing while he thought no one was looking. I thought that was funny in a cute way. He's already up to my shoulders, I can't believe my lil' buckaroo is so big, he won't be "cute" much longer.

Off to Whole Foods today, I hope they have a Whole Foods wherever we PCS to next. I really like that place. (I think it has something to do with the free cheese samples and occasional muffin samples.)

Congrats to StuckinMD for graduating today from acupuncture school!

schedule

Yesterday I started making what will be a schedule for myself. I felt much more "on task" yesterday. I need to schedule play time in there and some work with the alphabet and counting for Jake.

I enrolled in two classes yesterday. They're economics classes that will count toward an International Relations degree. If I finish those classes and decide to switch my major to Economics I could do that as well. I've been trying to figure out what to do because I realize an IR degree isn't all that useful unless I plan to work for the State Dept. I think I read somewhere a while back that there was an age limit on entering the State Dept though... Anyway, I could do Economics and use that anywhere (it's similar to an MBA) but I'm not sure I'd be as interested in it as IR. When I finished my undergrad I swore I'd do something I wanted to do, not just check a box. That's why I'm leaning toward IR right now. Plus? Maybe it'll come in handy when Yago and I join the Peace Corp in 16 years. ;)

In other news, Yago almost died riding his bike home Tuesday afternoon. It had been threatening to storm all day but by 5:30 I was pretty frightened. I tried calling his work number to come pick him up but he'd already left. I decided to wait at home because I wouldn't be able to get to him on the bike trail anyway. By the time I decided to go find him the rain started and it was seriously raining sideways. I hadn't seen anything like it since the hurricane I rode out in Biloxi about eight years ago. Luckily by the time I pulled out of the garage he was on our street. He got inside when the tornado sirens started going off. Yikes.

planning

I need to work on my planning. Right now Schmitty and I are scheming our Father's Day surprise. I won't give it away on the blog but we've been working and brainstorming on how we're going to do it. I'm really wanting to get organized this summer, maybe a spreadsheet or something. (That statement will probably make Yago giggle a little.)

We just got back from Oklahoma yesterday, we went down for Memorial Day weekend and attended a wedding. It was a good trip the boys had a blast but the drive back seemed to take forever. We normally leave around 8:00 am but this time we left after lunch so by 4:00 we felt like we should be close to home but were still hours away. That wasn't so terrific.

I gotta get a move on to pick up our dog. Ralph can't wait to see her. I've also got to get to Whole Foods. I did such an awesome job with shopping for the month that come June 1st we're completely out of food! No cream for my coffee, no milk for the cereal...

pancakes? no, cupcakes!

I'm waiting for the cupcakes to cool so I can frost and decorate before taking them to Schmitty's school. They do something called the cake walk, I still don't understand what that is. Sounded something like musical chairs but I guess I lost interest when it was being explained. Ralphie keeps calling them pancakes and then laughs when I emphatically correct him.

Bunco last night was a hoot. One of my friends there is so funny sometimes. Her comedic effect comes from the dichotomy between one's perception of her and her actual personality. She looks like she'd be very shy and meek but when she starts telling a story that is certainly not who she is. It's hysterical.

The book club is tonight. I'm a little apprehensive because I suggested the book. We'll see how it goes. (The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time... or something like that.)

I should finish dishes and frost some cupcakes...

almost summer

I'm super excited because this morning I officially enrolled in a master's program. I'm going for an MA in International Relations at OU, a real university. My undergrad was at Bellevue University which was more like a buy here, pay here diploma. I mean, it served its purpose but I feel like I didn't really get much out of it. Maybe that's how everyone feels when they finish college?

It's been excruciatingly hot and humid here. I think it's cooling off a little today, the low 80s. The weather has been making me feel lethargic.

Thursday is Schmitty's last day of school and then we're off to Oklahoma for Memorial Day weekend. Yea summer! No more commuting!

Incidentally, I read Greek Tragedy yesterday and it made me shake my head. I feel sorry for her kids. Sometimes I can't help but think how dumb she is/was. Why the heck did she marry that dude? I've had this discussion with Mickity before, clearly it was mostly about money but still...

As far as I can tell he was a jerk from the beginning, although it has clearly escalated. I think his first (or one of his first) messages to her had something in it about he'll be the smart one and she can be the pretty one. I think that was before they had even met. My impression is that she needs constant validation so why she would choose someone that, from the beginning, belittled and minimized her is beyond me.

I started reading her because Yago did. Before we started dating he told me about her blog. He thought she was a good writer and gorgeous so I had to look and see what it was about. Now that I've been reading it for years I can't imagine Yago ever being interested in dating her. He quit reading the blog years ago.

Anyway, their arguments are appalling.

progress

I'm making progress on my list. I just enrolled in two master's courses at OU. I'm not sure what I'm going to major in yet, either Economics or International Relations. A lot of the coursework is similar so I'm taking a couple class that would count toward either one. The IR degree would mean a couple of weeks in Oklahoma to get all the requirements. It's entirely doable since Yago's family is in OK. It'd be about a two hour commute from his parents house though. Therefore, I might just stick with an Economics major.

I'm doing the course for the cyber transition in the Reserves too. All good stuff. Got me feeling more productive. I still need to work on the espanol though.

I ran across a blog the other day that had someone's list of 100 things she wanted to do this year. It included things like; go to a Catholic mass, plant something in a garden, go to ten new restaurants, etc. The last one was something like donate $10 to a charity for every item I don't mark off by Aug 24th. She lined them out as they were accomplished, it was a nifty idea. Of course coming up with a list of 100 things would take me a year! Still... I'm mulling it over.

The spring luncheon with the PTA is today. I'm not sure if I'm going. I'm a little sicky and although I'm looking forward to the salad I ordered I'm not really friends with the other moms. At least I know who some of them are this year. I'll go. But I'll be dreading it the whole morning and feeling uncomfortable during.

seriously?

I am having a bonafide crappy day. Maybe it's karma for my earlier post. I am so irritated with the Reserves right now I'd like to go scream at someone after I punch them in the berries. If I can't find someone in the Reserves to take my punch I'd settle for someone at the MDG.

I can't even explain all the ways I've wasted my day today without spending the whole afternoon writing about it which would just be another colossal waste of time. Suffice it to say, grrrr.

judging a book by the cover

I'm not sure if it's really a new phenomenon or not but I've noticed a LOT of memoirs recently. Maybe it's just because of the blogs I read... I also heard a story on NPR not too long ago about it. It's a symptom of how egocentric our culture has become. I'm always puzzled by people that want to spend their lives over analyzing every single thought they have and then express it to the world. Really? Who cares? I'm caring less and less. As soon as I see the word memoir on a cover I keep walking.

I'm generalizing but it seems everyone who has one of those blogs is chasing a book deal or some sort of media. So you were fat and went on a diet, big deal. So you went to two ivy league schools to become a lawyer and are still insecure, big deal. And? How many memoirs do we need from each of these self-absorbed noodle brains? You couldn't cover your dumb stories in one book? You need to write several books about your pedestrian struggles for everyone to read? Why are publishers lining up for this?

Honestly. I have my own life. Don't we all? Aren't we all a little too busy to spend entire days picking apart every decision we make or every encounter we have? I'm too busy to care about yours and I'm certainly not going to pay you to be so self-indulgent. Get real and do something worthwhile with yourself.

Am I snarky or what today? :)

phew

Today is over. I had my hearing with the VA DRO (decision review officer) today in Lincoln, NE. By last night I was extremely stressed and snapping at everyone. ("Stop blinking so loudly!") I stayed up late with a pile of paperwork from the VA and the Internet to write a statement.

After I finished the statement I felt much better, I'd expressed everything I'd wanted to. Even if the VA didn't change its mind I knew it wouldn't be because I'd been misunderstood or filtered through a doctor. Just that was a great relief.

So at the end of my testimony I read my statement. The DRO said she was inclined to reinstate my compensation and winked at us. (us: Yago went and testified with me) I won't know anything for at least a month but I'm cautiously optimistic.*

*Not as cautious as Yago... because he's one cautious motha@#!* ;^)

another mother's day

I must say, my Mother's Days have gotten markedly better since Yago entered the picture. Although he tries to pretend he's a big scrooge that doesn't care about holidays and presents he's very thoughtful.

He's not one to buy jewelry but he always makes me a fabulous meal (my favorite) and does nice things for me. This year he made the Chicken a la Olive, chose a nice bottle of pinot grigio, and bought half a dozen strawberries dipped in dark chocolate from an European chocolaterie.

We also planted flowers and enjoyed a couple of drinks with our neighbors. The Venezuelans always make super food too. I had arepas for the first time. In Venezuela they don't have tortillas, they have arepas. They're made from cornmeal but look almost like pancakes. You split them in half and then stuff them with whatever you're eating... kind of like a taco. Super!

The boys even behaved really well yesterday. Schmitty was exceedingly polite and forthcoming with the hugs. He must have wished me a Happy Mother's Day half a dozen times.

I'm already looking forward to next year.

ha ha!

I found the background designs that I spoke of a little while ago! Aqua Poppy Designs... Anyway, there's a limited number of free ones and I'm not about to pay $45-$175. So now I'm trying this on.

pics picks

By this evening we should be grilling out hot dogs on our new deck! Woohoo! They started last night and say they'll finish today, very good news. Maybe I'll have some pictures to put up.

Speaking of pics... DeVetter Fitness wants a blurb about why I like boot camp and a picture of myself that I like. Really? A picture I like of myself? Ain't got one. I've been through the archives, I'm stuffing my face in most of them. Hmmm, that's interesting. They want to run testimonials in a newspaper advertisement. Maybe I'll send a picture of someone else.

I guess that's why I couldn't have done the online dating sites even I'd wanted to. You have to have a nice picture of yourself. Ick.

sleeping (not so) beauty

I finally overslept and missed bootcamp. I missed yesterday because Schmitty had an early field trip and Yago's car was in the shop. This morning I overslept and feel like a slacker.

I was out late last night with the book club. I was the first to leave at about 10:15, I couldn't believe how late it was. Everyone was telling such funny stories. One girl was so funny I was crying, I kept wiping my cheeks but the tears continued. I do so love a good belly laugh.

One lady who always has to "one up" everyone declared this month's selection as the worst book she'd ever read. She continued by saying she only reads non-fiction and she's the only person she knows that reads non-fiction. The book club is good for her because it forces her to read fiction. (As if fiction readers are dolts.) I kind of wanted to say something about how she is NOT the only person who reads non-fiction, I read plenty of non-fiction. But I declined the invitation.

I have to take Schmitty to the orthodontist today and apologize to a neighbor for not only being an ass but being wrong in my assitude. I know you're all shocked. I sure am! :)

gala season

Schmitty's Golden Gala is coming up the first weekend in May. This year's theme is buried treasure with the attire listed as "casual chic" or come as your favorite pirate. ??? Really, I don't have a favorite pirate. Maybe Captain Featherhead from the Wiggles or something. Casual chic? What does that mean to rich people?

Last year's theme was island party. I just wore capris, nice t-shirt, and sandals. But this is a tad more complicated. Yago thought we should go all out and be pirates but I'm not comfortable with that. Factor in the expense and I'm not really "on board". Casual chic I may wear again if I figure out what it means.

Last night Yago looked it up. I had said I thought it just meant no jeans and t-shirts. He thought chic meant black. The website he found suggested some dark jeans with a trouser cut and quality accessories, to include a fedora or thick gold bracelet. I giggle to myself thinking of Yago wearing a thick gold bracelet.

I'm thinking the hand me down black shirt Mickity gave me for some Del Rio clubbing* with some black dress pants and strappy high heels. In fact, I decided that will be my outfit this morning. Perhaps I'll get (or even make) some accessories to make it interesting but I'm 95% sure that's what I'll wear.

I know, I know. This was a fascinating post. You're welcome.

*I'm wearing said shirt in the wine and cheese party picture on fb.

get real

Is there any limit to Yago's energy today? Crikey. I woke up this morning and he had baked peanut butter and jelly muffins from scratch AND done all the dishes. He ran to the store while I sipped my coffee and read the paper. Now he's home again cleaning the windows. I mean outside with a squeegee. Seriously? I'm plopped in front of the computer and he's right outside, looking at me, with a darned squeegee.

He's already run plans by me for the afternoon. They include story time and a hike at Fontenelle Forest. (??) 3:)

Tonight some neighbors are having a wine and cheese party, two of my favorite things! We're going out to dinner first and then heading over for some socializing. I really love our neighbors.

I should hit the shower and contemplate shaving my legs today. Ciao!

trying on

I'm trying on a new template, we'll see how I feel about it in a couple of days. I went to bunco the other night and got the blog address of another wife, she has a cool template so I thought maybe blogger added new options. Nope. I don't know how to really personalize things and don't want to risk screwing up what I have so I just really try not to mess with much.

I also had to update Ralphie's age, he's three dang years old now. Geez.

red eye

I'm up early for boot camp this morning even though I went to bed late. Make fun of me if you must Mickity, but I was up late playing bunco with the OSC. It was fun, there's a good mix of people of varying ages and stages of military careers.

I realize now that things I despised about my neighbors at Laughlin AFB I just misunderstood. Women didn't give me a look because I was active duty, it was merely disappointment that I wasn't available during the day. I'm always looking for stay-at-homes (or unemployed people) to do stuff with during the day. It wasn't judgment...

I got out of bed early thinking I'd have extra time with my Internet but somehow it flew by and I must go to work out. I'm not feeling it this morning and if it weren't so darned expensive I might be tempted to skip it today.

time

Last night I was laying in bed thinking about time, what a mystery it is. When I start thinking about it my brain hurts. Where does it go? How exactly is it passing. Yago just moved his leg, what happened to that moment when his leg was over there? How is it passing?!

Ralph is finally making REAL progress on the potty! We haven't had any accidents in a while now! I'd stick more exclamation points in this paragraph but you get the idea.

Schmitty's doing well too. He did really well at piano practice yesterday and today he's doing his little Lance Armstrong presentation. Yago's going to try to go see it with us, I think he'll do great.

Well, I have some showering to do so I can attack the day! Ra-arrr!

on the list

So I'm working on SOS (AGAIN!). I'm determined to do it this time though. It's so boring and I haven't taken a test in so long I'm nervous. I never developed study habits, mostly I've just gotten by on good looks. :) Anyway, having to study is very difficult for me.

I also am enrolling in an MBA program. After years of debate I decide to go with what I had instead of starting over to do something I would (or might) be passionate about. I can't stand the thought of starting a career nearing 50 when my competition would be 25. Plus it'd be too expensive. Anyway, I'm happy that I'll be doing something instead of continuing to contemplate the pros and cons of different decisions.

My kids are growing up too fast. Ralph is the age that I love the most. He's completely funny and unaware of being funny. He went down a slide Friday night and yelled, "That hurt my nuggets!" when he got to the bottom. It was funnier because he was holding his hip, not his nuggets. Anyway, I dread him being sassy at Schmitty's age and Schmitty being a teenager. Ugh.

is this thing on?

I made a joke on someone's FB status that no one but Mickity and Yago will understand, and Mickity isn't even this person's friend. Apparently they're going to Berlin this weekend and wrote, "Berliner I will be." I commented, "You'll be a donut?" I guarantee they won't understand it but I couldn't help myself. It was a bit from Dress to Kill.

We got our Internet fixed yesterday, it had been intermittent for a long time. (intermittent = doesn't work when you really need to look something up) The cable leading in to the house was bad so it's been replaced.

I went to a second-hand store today and bought way more than I was supposed to. I was only supposed to get cleats for Ralph but wound up with cleats, four other pairs of Ralph shoes, a lamp, a coat for Schmitty, and a shirt for Schmitty. I don't really know what to say to justify the purchases except, well. Nothing.

I think I'll take a walk with Ralph and the dog real quick and then get the nap going.

ah-rooo!

We went to Great Wolf Lodge in Kansas City over the weekend, had a great time. It's nice to go somewhere out of town every now and again.

They had a MagiQuest game that kept Schmitty interested and lots of activities for Ralphie. MagiQuest was kind of a treasure hunt thing. You have to buy a wand and then find certain treasures or items throughout the hotel in a specific order. He seemed to enjoy it. For Ralphie they had story time and crafts, even a midget dance party! Too cute.

Now it's back to chores and errands. Bleh.

spring!

So much to do now that I'm off. Yesterday Ralph and I went to Fontenelle Forest to play and this morning we went to story time at the library. There are some pictures around somewhere...

I met with a county VA service officer (or some title similar to that) last week. I was supposed to get a face to face board to dispute their findings but something got lost somewhere and now it looks like I've missed my opportunity. I'm stressed out about this dumb VA disability thing because I KNOW I'm right (as I generally believe myself to be) but don't have a medical degree to prove it. It's frustrating. I'm not out to defraud the government or the VA but it feels like I've done something wrong. As though I must defend myself when really I just want them to uphold the correct decision they made in 2001.

Better news is that I won this month's competition at bootcamp. I kept a food journal for a while and got a $30 coupon at a local salon. All I have to do now is wait for my hair to grow back where it was burned off in the (unfortunate) perm incident. I colored it myself for the very first time last month and it didn't turn out too hideous. Although what I did won't be confused with highlights done at an expensive salon anytime before hell freezes over!

Time to play Clue with Schmitty. He's out on spring break.

so sue me

I was supposed to give up the Internet for Lent but I started cheating early on and now I'm basically full on checking blogs and FB.

I have a friend that hooked us up with his neighbor's old basketball hoop. I picked it up yesterday and the boys have been playing with it non-stop. I'm so happy that they're so happy, if that makes sense.

The weather is supposed to be beautiful this week which has me very excited. Yago and I have been doing yardwork today, discussing plans for our landscaping. It's so nice to be OUTside. Don't let Yago know I said that.

Well, I'm supposed to be making dinner so I gotta run. Something like rigatoni with a green olive pesto.

Smooches bloggy, I've missed you!

666

I just logged in and saw that I have 666 posts on blogger, this will be 667. I just thought it was funny that I had 666 posts.

I'm getting a little nervous about Lent coming in a few days. I'm giving up the Internet, that means not refreshing my email every time I walk by the computer and not looking at Facebook all the dang time. I was thinking it could even affect my cooking, I won't be able to search for recipes.

It'll be a change, for sure.

blew a gasket

On the drive home today I blew a gasket. Schmitty and our carpooler were physically fighting in the backseat. Without threatening, I pulled the car over and made them get out. I moved Ralphie's carseat to the center position and then ordered the boys back in (with plenty of expletives). I felt dumb afterward, especially since the other mother is an O-6 in the Navy and soon to be Yago's boss. I'm praying the other boy feels so guilty about misbehaving he doesn't mention the incident to his mom.

Oh well. They fight, play, scream, and holler at the top of their lungs every day. I used to come home a frazzled wreck. Best case scenario, they don't yell anymore because they're separated. Worst case, he tells his mom and doesn't carpool with me anymore.

unpleasant surprise

I woke up this morning to get ready for my workout when I was unpleasantly surprised. I wiped my mouth after brushing my teeth and felt the unmistakable beginnings of a fever blister. Ugh. Why why why?

I know after really tough workouts or when I begin an exercise regime I'm vulnerable to either getting sick or getting a fever blister. Yesterday's workout was brutal, we got a partner alternated sprinting with sandbags. I felt it the rest of the day. I love a great workout but now I'll be paying for it on my face for the next two weeks.

In other news, I got a card from my stylist yesterday telling me she's going to LA in order to get qualified to do Brazilian Blowouts. I had to look that one up. I wasn't sure what it entailed... could be a complicated waxing procedure (who knows where the blowout would come in to play). Anyway, it's supposed to smooth your hair for up to six weeks if I remember correctly so you can just wash and go without a bunch of frizz. It sounded intriguing except that I just got a PERM a couple of months ago. That was a huge mistake on many different levels.

Anyway, my plan for my hair is to process and wash less. Unfortunately, I darkened my hair to brown (my natural color) so I wouldn't have to spend the time and money at the salon anymore only to discover I have a lot more gray hair than I'd known about! So do I just color it at home every couple of months and risk frying it myself or go back to highlights every three months because gray blends better with blond?

Well time to shower with a midget so I can get to work.

hangover

I'm recovering from a hangover. Not what you think though, it's a pizza hangover. Last night was the annual Huff Family Night. We ordered pizza (which we NEVER do), drank soda (even the kids), and played games. Hungry Hungry Hippo and 39 Clues were hits last night. It was fun even though I ate WAY too much.

I wish I had taken pictures. I didn't think about it until I was in bed reading. I guess next year I'll take some pics.

wild night at the vfw

I met up with a couple of former coworkers Saturday night at the VFW. (Dana & Ron) I know, it sounds pretty glamorous. And it was.

First of all, I'm old. I didn't know any of the operators there, I thought I would see some people I knew from Kadena or Mildenhall but it's all young'uns now.

Second, I'm really happy I got out of that environment. My friend is recently divorced and looking to meet someone nice. Those guys really don't exist in the flying/deploying community. It reminded me of why I was so cynical a few years ago. I feel really bad for her and wish I could introduce her to a nice guy that can behave himself but I don't know anyone single our age. She's a good person but I know what she's up against. Even if she dated someone that didn't deploy she deploys all the time. She was gone something like 230 days last year. All I could offer was an ear. It's kind of depressing.

She asked how my marriage was and I couldn't help but tell her how great it is. ...How happy I am with my husband.

goals

So I have to set some goals here because I feel like I'm getting (going) nowhere.

First, I really have to get serious about SOS. I'm going to study every day. It's ridiculous that I haven't even taken a test yet. I'm not sure what to expect from the test and it paralyzes me in the studying. I need to get over the unknown and take a damn test.

I'm also going to take my GRE this year. We re-examined our budget this year and although we have no money for tuition I need to at least hunker down and study for the GRE. I can't figure out what I want to do. I mean I have dreams but reality isn't compatible with my dream. The fact of the matter is I'm almost 40 with young kids. It's a little late for starting a new career from scratch. Deal with it.

Finally, I need to refresh my Spanish. I will watch Telemundo or read Selecciones or something!

I'm giving up my computer for Lent. I think that should help in my endeavors of productivity.

losing hope

I'm frustrated with recent developments in gov't. So much so that I can't listen to NPR or talk shows. I'm giving up.

I'm starting to believe that most people are receiving medical care for conditions that are preventable. Maybe preventable conditions shouldn't be covered by any insurance. If you have diabetes because you're fat, perhaps you should have to be a healthy weight to get medical care, to include medicine. I work with a guy on a zillion meds basically because he's fat, refuses to exercise, and smokes. He had a heart attack last year followed by bipass surgery. Why should anyone have to pick up the slack (help pay his medical bills) when he's constantly stuffing pork rinds and cheese danishes in his face? Of course he's anti-health care because he's retired military on Tricare. He's convinced the only people denied access are lazy, unemployed, welfare recipients. I guess he doesn't realize those people are already COVERED by Medicaid.

I also think hospitals and doctors should post the prices of every single procedure or exam. You can choose what doctor you see, what tests you get, and where you get them. If you don't want to give up your cheese danishes and cigarettes you can make an informed decision and know how much they're costing you. I mean that's free-market capitalism at its finest, right?

And? Don't even get me started on the Supreme Court. I can't wait until the US becomes a third world country with no middle class.

And why is congress so completely impotent?

I realize, of course, my plan isn't a good one but I'm annoyed...

no haitian vacation

In the early 90s my squadron deployed to Eglin in anticipation of invading Haiti. We didn't invade and when everyone finally came back the trip was dubbed "The Haitian Vacation". They flew a couple of times but mostly the crews came back with drinking and strip club stories. I didn't go because I was still in training but I remember Jessica went. She was kind of bummed because she was underage at the time.

I got an email from the Reserves asking for volunteers to go to Haiti. I really wish I could go, understanding that it would never be called a Haitian Vacation. I tossed the idea around for a bit before I realized I couldn't do that to my family. I wish I could though. I feel like there's always a reason that I miss out on that kind of stuff.

I started bootcamp again, I went for the first time in over a month yesterday. My golly, I'm sore!

I'll be watching the election returns in MA today.

tsk tsk

It has been unbelievably cold here. The other day the high temp was -4. Driving in the morning my car's temperature gauge was hitting -15. School was closed three days again which was a total pain because I'm doing my annual tour right now.

I'm always toying with the idea of going on orders for three months to make some easy, extra money but when I attempt the juggling act during my annual tour I remember why I don't want to work nine hours a day, five days a week. Trying to pick the kids up from different locations, make it to piano lessons, fix dinner... it's too much stress. It's not that we couldn't do it, it's just I'd never have a meaningful interaction with my children during the week. I still would like to do something but I don't know what that will be or when. I've been kicking around the idea of preschool for Ralphie two days a week when the next school year starts. Maybe I could take some classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

I also think of working somewhere part-time where I want an employee discount. A high-end department store or a luxury hotel chain, either of those would be good. I love posh vacations, expensive clothes, and expensive furniture... things I'm doing without.

Well, not entirely doing without. I recently made a purchase that I have been telling myself for years was dumb. I bought a expensive purse with Christmas money that I pooled with a couple of disability checks. I was giddy over the purse and am fully aware of the ridiculousness of it. It's absolutely stupid to spend so much money on a purse but I can't help feeling inadequate around other women that have huge designer bags.

I've heard and read that such purchases don't bring lasting satisfaction but I disagree. According to a study I heard a while back you should spend money on experiences, tangible items don't bring lasting happiness. Supposedly the feeling you get when you buy a certain car or whatever fades but not so in my case. I'd always wanted a European car and although that sucker is eight years old, has over 100,000 miles on it, frequently needs tweaking, and isn't worth what a two-year-old Focus is I still love having it.

I guess it's a testament to my inner shallowness. Which I'm okay with. ;^)

Winter Fun

Is this not the cutest little man face?

time off

Why is my time off so busy? I'm off of work and the kids don't have school yet I'm running around everyday from right after breakfast until 3:00 in the afternoon. Schmitty has basketball camp from 1200 - 1400 and I run (shopping) errands the whole time. I'm taking him here and there to spend his Christmas money. At least basketball camp is over and he's broke. ;^)

I keep walking by my houseplants thinking that I haven't watered them in two weeks and they're dying, I'd better go water them. On the way to the sink I inevitably become distracted and forget.

Ralph is a little sick, he's got a gross cough and a low-grade fever. I hope he gets to feeling better soon.

record books

This holiday will go down in the record books. First, our refrigerator stopped working a few hours before our family was due over for a holiday party on the 21st. Completely kaput, no worky. We persevered but still no fridge in the kitchen.

Next, we left NE a day early because of an expected storm bringing sleet and freezing rain. We got to OK before the storm, good news. Bad news, it was the worst storm EVER in OKC. It was the most snow ever in OKC, it broke all sorts of records.

We picked out the perfect tree at a tree farm, Schmitty and Yago cut it down themselves. We put it up Christmas Eve but the tree was too small for the stand so it kept tipping over. After a few hours Yago and his father tossed the tree out the front door on to the porch. Really, not kidding. Christmas Eve we took all the lights and ornaments we had put on just a couple of hours earlier and tossed it outside.

Finally, on Saturday my car went over an embankment of snow and was damaged. I think some hoses were torn off... So my car in at a garage in Tuttle, we drove my mother-in-law's car back to Omaha.

I'm hoping the repairman calls today with a fix for the fridge. Otherwise, that might wind up on our front porch.

holiday creep

I can't believe how quickly the holidays creep up on me. If I think about it too much I become overwhelmed with all the stuff I have to do. I have to just take it one day at a time... We finally got the tree up yesterday so now it's just midget and frog wrestling.

Also creeping is my weight. No boot camp again until Jan 4 and all the cookies and sweets are taking their toll.

I've got to go pick up the boys from school. I chant, "Serenity now, serenity now." all the way home. The play/bicker/fight so loudly that it drives me crazy. At least they know I'm serious about the no-throwing-things-while-I'm-driving rule, finally.

i did it

I knew I would and last night I finally did it. I used the R word in front of my neighbor while telling a story. It happened just how I thought it would, after a few drinks and telling a story about how dumb I am. I couldn't tell what her reaction was but I feel very bad. I truly am dumb.

love them

I finally got a pair of Uggs today, the gray cardigan ones. I was supposed to spend my birthday money on them but when I got to the register I couldn't find the cash. That reminds me, I really need to find it.

Yago gave me free reign to go shopping for myself so off to the mall with midget in tow. He was losing patience while I was looking at boots when he heard another mother tell her child that they were going to get chicken nuggets. From then on it was, "Chic-ken nug-gets." from Ralphie. I told him if he behaved we'd get some. It worked for the duration of boot shopping but by the time I was ready to look for apparel it was over. We got some nuggets and headed home. He's currently still in the car, in an apparent nugget coma. A midget nugget coma. ;^)

rockin the 80s

So I decided last week to get a perm. Why? What was I thinking? I was thinking I had limp hair that could maybe get some loose curl and body. Wrong-o. Huge mistake. It's kinky and frizzy and takes twice as long to do. I feel it breaking every time I run a comb through it. It's pretty awful but I'm trying not to spend much time thinking about it.

Today I'm supposed to get a color since I couldn't color and perm on the same day. I want to get rid of all the bleached highlights but that means going dark for a while. It's not what I'm accustomed to and that didn't turn out so well last time either. I colored my hair pretty dark during the end of my pregnancy with Jake. Ugh.

doodling

Ralph and I went to Whole Foods today. While I was getting out of my car I noticed a dog in the SUV parked next to us. The dog was chewing on a bone but accidentally dropped it out the cracked window. I picked up the bone as the man inside the SUV called out that he'd get it. I returned the bone to the dog and asked about the breed. It was a goldendoodle, cute as a button. It was a happy, mellow dog. Makes me wonder what happened to ours...

patrick kennedy

I'm a little confused by the tea-baggin' crowd protesting Patrick Kennedy. I saw the cnn.com headline of someone holding a sign that says you can't be catholic and pro-abortion.

First, is anyone really pro-abortion? You may be pro-choice but I don't know anyone that's pro-abortion.

Secondly, you can't be catholic and pro-death penalty either. Is the bishop asking all the Republican Catholics to skip communion if they're in favor of the death penalty? If he has I haven't heard about it.

the strangest date

Last Wednesday I met someone for dinner. Someone I never thought I'd have dinner with... before you get too excited it was a girl.

We were in the same squadron for years but never really talked to each other. I went TDY for five months, came home and heard through the rumor mill that she was dating my "boyfriend". He, of course, denied all allegations and I was left not knowing what to think. Well, I knew what to think but was in deep denial. Anyway, this went on for a long time and for years the other woman and I never spoke to each other. Not because of rage or jealousy, just because it was awkward and uncomfortable. The OPSTEMPO helped, it seemed one of the three of us was always deployed.

She sent me a friend request on FB a couple of weeks ago, I was surprised to say the least. Turns out she's in the process of moving back to Omaha and has a three-year-old boy.

As I was getting ready to meet her at the restaurant I felt weird. It felt like I was getting ready for date or something. I wanted to look nice but not like I was trying too hard. Yago laughed at me. But seriously, I had worked that day and didn't want to keep my hair in a bun but if I took it down I had to fix it... I even tried to call Jessica in a panic because I had no idea how it was going to go.

So I had a strangely good time. I hope we get together again.

yesterday's thoughts

Yesterday I was at work talking with someone I knew from the 97th Intel Sq. We were discussing a mutual friend who recently got divorced. The woman I was talking with said something about how you never really know what's going on in someone's personal life. Relationships have their ups and downs, no relationship is perfect. I sat nodding in agreement but really thinking about how I honestly have not a single complaint. I think my marriage is great. I'm still waiting for the struggle.

hey internet

Hey, how you been? I've haven't been around for a while, I've been busy but I still love you. No te preocupes.

Boot camp this morning was fun, there was a camera crew (man) there. That wasn't so fun, you can look forward to seeing my white fleshy belly on youtube somewhere. On the bright side, I won a gift certificate for holding a wall squat the longest.

I started work again and that's been a bit stressful, mostly because I'm a terrible comm officer. I'm supposed to write a CONOP on IT funding prioritization, ick. I'm beyond clueless with composing a CONOP.

Well, I'm going to spend some time with Ralphie before I go in to work today. He's a cute little guy, you've never seen someone so happy about a haircut before!

getting back on the wagon

I blew my diet big time yesterday... Ice cream, blondies, mexican food for dinner. I'm experiencing some remorse today. I need to work out and do a practice pt test to see where I'm at but who knows if I'll I get there today.

After further examination of the new test I don't think I'll have to take it this year, it doesn't start until January and I'm due in December. Whew. I should still be able to rock the 30 push-ups in a minute.

That's another thing, I was reading the website about how they came up with the new standards. It said that they used a study of average Americans and made the 50-60th percentile the standard. I think that's bs. I find it hard to believe that the average American can run 1.5 miles these days. I look around and am astounded.

The midget is demanding something of me but I can't for the life of me understand what he wants...

last day

I joked to Yago yesterday that today was my last day of "summer vacation" because I start working half days tomorrow. I tried on my new ABU pants this morning and they seem to fit okay. I was worried because when they came in last year they tight. Maybe it'll keep me from buying my two bags of Fritos in the afternoon... it became my habit last year.

I also looked at the new PFT requirements, it's going to kick my butt. They changed how they score: the run is 60%, body composition 20%, push-ups 10%, and sit-ups 10%. The age groups don't go in five year increments anymore either: under 30, 30-39, 40-49, etc. That stinks. Also, to max out push-ups I have to do 46. Last year I maxed out at 30 and it about killed me! 46? What girl can do 46 push-ups? I haven't met her. Ever. I'll try timing my run on Saturday but it'll be less than stellar, I've never been very quick.

Boot camp is going great, I wish I knew someone around here that could go with me. Chas is bringing in a camera crew in a couple of weeks to film us. Eww. Who wants to see me at 0600 sweaty with no makeup and unwashed hair? Yago doesn't even want to see that!

Tonight Yago and I are sitting down for our annual budget review. Isn't that funny? He cracks me up. Of course our fiscal year is that same at the military fiscal year. He really is funny.

two thumbs up

That's what I give the movie Eragon for nap quality. Man, that's a great movie to fall asleep to. Schmitty's tried a couple of times to watch it with me but I can't resist the sleepy feeling. Luckily a couple of neighborhood kids stopped by as I was slipping away...

Schmitty's friend from last year was supposed to spend the night tonight but it hasn't worked out. The kid called a couple of weeks ago and asked if he could spend the night, I said I'd pick him up from school on the 25th. Never heard anything from the mother and when I tried to call his new school they didn't have classes today. All the phone numbers I could find have been disconnected so I guess that's that.

We had parent-teacher conferences today, they went well. I took the kids to lunch at the Cheesecake Factory, I always forget how expensive it is. Almost $40 including the tip for one adult and two kids, and I ate an appetizer with water to drink. (Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps) I wanted to eat something that wouldn't be too bad for me or my diet.

I start working next week, from about 1030 - 1430. We'll see how that goes, it's hard to believe the new fiscal year is already starting.

I need to get started on the pizza for tonight. I'm making arugula, prosciutto and artichoke pizza (pepperoni for the boys).

my butt

I got my butt kicked at bootcamp this morning. I'm liking it though. It's more interesting than getting on the treadmill downstairs but not as economically sound. At the end of today's session we were told the goal was for everyone to finish the six-week session. Usually there are one or two dropouts. I was thinking, "There's no way Yago would let me drop out after plunking down the money." Not that I want to but it still amused me to think about coming home and telling Yago that I didn't feel like going anymore.

Schmitty's having a tough time with the retainer. It's making his teeth hurt but after just two days you can see a dramatic difference in his gap. He's really not happy with it though. I feel bad for him but it's hard to be sympathetic when he's so darn grumpy! I think I managed to cheer him up this morning.

library

Today Ralphie and I took a trip to the library, actually libraries. I was looking for a book that was recommended at boot camp this morning.

Leaving the base library I was surprised to hear a guy yelling on his cell phone outside. I thought I was going to hear a juicy argument but after a couple of seconds I quickly ascertained he was talking about Kanye and Taylor (and Beyonce). Too funny. This guy was either a contractor or gov't civilian and my age or older. He was dressed in Dockers and a dress shirt yelling about how Kanye had a point. (oh, and he was white) "How can Beyonce win Best Video of the Year and Taylor Swift win Female Video of the Year? It doesn't make any sense!" Too too funny, but I think I already said that.

poor guy

My poor, poor, little guy had two teeth pulled yesterday. They weren't decayed or anything, they were taken out so his adult teeth would come in straighter and not crowd his existing adult teeth.

Yesterday afternoon I felt awful for him. My stomach was seriously in knots on the way home. Just looking at his face. He wasn't crying but I wished he'd cry, it was sadder to see trying to hold it together. He dripped blood on his white uniform shirt after he saturated his gauze.

I'm not sure what's going on lately but I feel like I'm going a little stir-crazy. I want to volunteer here and there but it's too hard with Ralphie. I need to find a mommy and me class or something. Unfortunately, it'll pass soon because I'll begin working in about three weeks. That'll probably satiate my need to go out and do something.

inadvertent farm

We have a small crop growing in our backyard, accidentally. We have a compost bin that we put all our food trash in, not including meat, out by our fence. A few weeks ago we noticed some sprouts from discarded seeds. We waited to see what all it was, it could have been almost anything.

We identified roma tomatoes but still didn't know what the other plants were. Today I discovered several melons! Some of them are quite large and many of them grew through the fence in our neighbor's yard!

yay!

We've had three poops on the potty in two days! Amazing to me, inane to my friends without children...

why

Why am I listening to Hannity? Ick. Because I'm too lazy to get up and turn off the radio.

I'm disappointed in the lack of momentum on h/c. What is all the nonsense people are talking about? I'm really (really) not understanding the fear and opposition. How is the argument that the free market works even made with a straight face? It's all very discouraging.

And? Sam didn't watch the presidential address at school. I thought the school had more sense than that. I thought we'd get more sense than that when we decided to send him to an independent school and not a catholic school.

new home

It's nearly 4:00 am and I just finished cleaning a bunch of dog poo. She barked to wake me to take her out to pee but apparently only after she soiled the rug. Did I mention she puked in my car this morning?

sorry snoop, i'm not pimpin'

So I got a tweet for an opportunity to win a free 6-wk session of bootcamp worth $175. I'm planning on signing up for it anyway and when I saw I could win it for free I was definitely interested. Then I saw what you have to do. You have to make the most "noise" on facebook and twitter. I considered for a moment. It seemed a little nebulous. What counts as noise? I don't have a lot of Twitter or FB followers, does it go by how many people you reach or how many times you post nonsense? Or a combination?

When I read on I found out it's not even making noise for the bootcamp, I have to make noise for omaha coupons. (which I suppose I'm inadvertently doing now) That's just a little too lame. Even for me.

early awkward

So Schmitty will be hitting his awkward stage early! He's getting glasses and a retainer! He also has to have a couple of teeth pulled next week. The tooth extractions are just to ensure his adult teeth come in properly...

I think I'm going to the library tomorrow for dog training and potty training books. (not a dog potty training book) The Frog has been driving me and the kids crazy. I can't take much more... I was ready to call The Humane Society yesterday. Really.

I had something interesting to write about earlier but it's escaped me... Sorry.

no in-between

I went to the portal training at Schmitty's school yesterday. I kind of hate doing stuff there. I was the only one who brought a kid, I guess everyone else has nannies or sitters. It was Ralphie and me, I spent a lot of the time trying to get him to stop jingling my keys.

All the other mothers are about 110 lbs, perfect blond hair, and golden tans. It's disgusting really. They all sat together catching up on god knows what. I sat in the back so I could make a quick exit if Ralphie got too rambunctious. Two women sat behind me speaking what I assume was Hindi.

We went to the picnic after school for bbq beef sandwiches and chips. We sat with a couple other boys from Schmitty's class. The mother finished her sandwich and then asked if I'd mind watching her purse while she talked to someone else. Really? sigh

school's in

We had a busy weekend, well a busy Saturday at least. We got up early for the airshow and then had some neighbors over in the evening. I'm not very good at entertaining because I'm too self-conscious. Yago came home early from the base and cleaned the house, bought the food, got the beer cold so everything was taken care of by the time I got home. He's cool like that.

Neighbors A and Neighbors B came over and met each other, it went really well. So well that I was hungover Sunday, that wasn't great. I made pomegranate martinis...

Today was Schmitty's first day of fourth grade... The teacher mailed the parents questionares a couple of weeks ago, she also had questionnares for the kids to fill out this morning. That's one curious teacher. She had the kids prioritize their favorite subjects, Schmitty flew through it. He was on number eight when I pointed out he hadn't marked recess yet. "Oops."

what was i thinking

I'm dreading this weekend. We overbooked ourselves. Maybe I'm making too much of it. But still, I can't wait for it to be over.

20/20

Hindsight... I just connected with someone from high school on FB. We weren't great friends, I don't remember ever hanging out with her but whatever. (Yago has more friends than I do, I'm not about to turn down a solicitation.)

Anyway, this "friend" has a bunch of pictures from high school posted. Again, she's partying with people I knew but never hung out with. ...Mostly because they wouldn't give me the time of day. After looking at those pictures I'm wondering what I found so darn intimidating about those people. Seriously. It's ridiculous. I remember them all being cool and good-looking but that is not evidenced in the photos.

And Schmitty, give me a break will ya? I took him for an annual physical yesterday to find out he can't see out of his right eye. (He's blinder than a Cyclops with an eye patch.) Now I have an appt with an optometrist tomorrow. Today was the dentist and she recommended an orthodontist and possible tooth extraction. So next week an appt with the orthodontist and the following week back to the dentist. It's a full time job with him lately! (Not to mention a paycheck! Glasses and braces?)

thank you

I would like to thank Herman Melville for helping me go to bed early every night, not like that Wally Lamb bastard. Wally kept me up for hours wanting to know more.

I quit reading Moby Dick quite a while ago when he started explaining ad nauseam all the different types of whales, insisting they were fish not mammals. I couldn't take anymore and picked up a couple of different books instead. Now I'm back to Moby Dick and finding it more difficult than ever to continue. The sentences go on forever, to the point that I get bored trying to figure out what he's referring to anymore. I'll finish it but probably not before 2011. (I started it in 2008.)

i'm learning lots

Holy crap!!! Hannity just told me there's a VA Death Book!!! Shit!! I'm a vet, I had no idea I was about to be euthanized!! Page 21 says I have to sign saying my life's not worth living. I think he also just called me old.

my mind can't take it

Sean Hannity is mocking Obama for referencing the Bible. What??? After Bush? Really? Of course now he's bringing up Reverend Wright. ???? This is all because Obama said the right was bearing false witness... He just said the Senate is dropping the "death panel" from the bill; thereby admitting there were death panels! Arghhh!!! I can't take it!

passing by

After the tour Jess and I had a conversation about momentarily wishing we were back in the AF. There was a point in the Senior Scout tour that made us want to jump back in to our flight suits and fly a mission. What they're doing now sounds like so much fun.

FB kind of does the same thing for me sometimes. Everyone moves on but it makes me nostalgic for days when we all hung out in DOT and spoofed for sodas. There were people in the squadron that really made work fun. So many people that I wish I'd gotten to know better too. In some ways it feels like a lifetime ago.

event

I went to the much-discussed reunion. It turned out so much better than I thought it would I can't even express. The only thing that didn't turn out well was my daycare plan, but I digress.

I was nervous about seeing everyone but it was a very friendly atmosphere. It was nice to see people that I hadn't seen in ten years. We toured the RJ and Senior Scout then had a burger burn at the squadron. We sat around and caught up on who got married and how many kids we had. Ted has three boys? Wow.

Then we went to the Det. Det? There wasn't a Det when I was there. That was where we did the dedication and it was SOOO good. I can't overstate how good it was. Tyler got up and talked about Shane, his voice cracked a bit. Hearing Tyler talk about Shane while looking at Tony, Ted, and Scott sitting in front of me was hard because I knew that Shane would have been sitting with them. He introduced Ted and that was very touching also.

I didn't take any pictures, I knew I wouldn't be allowed to take it anywhere. That's disappointing but I'm extremely happy I went.

Oh. And I got to hang out with Jessica. She got to meet Yago and the kids, that's always fun.

anticipating the good and bad...

Poor bloggy blog has been sorely neglected while I obsessed over facebook. I'm twittering, facebooking and blogging but for no one in particular. Whatever.

I'm about 3/4 done mowing the lawn but needed to take a break.

Tomorrow, actually tonight, begins the reunion. I'm VERY ambivalent. I can't wait to see everyone but almost dread it too. I had a complicated relationship with my squadron, mostly because of my complicated relationship.

I'm mad at the family childcare center on base, it's stupid. I went in Monday looking for a home provider. I called back that day and they said they'd lined up Cali for me. She's just coming off maternity leave and looking to get started again. They gave me her number and I've called about three times every day including Monday but can't get a hold of her. I've left messages, I've called the fcc back, nothing. No one ever calls me back, meanwhile the reunion is tomorrow now. It's stressing me out, I don't even know where this chick lives. I always think I have these things taken care of but then it's never as easy as it's supposed to be.

On the bright side, Jessica's coming to town tonight. I'm excited and hoping not to say anything dumb. We'll see how that goes.

Well, I'd better get back to mowing. I'd hate to not finish before Yago gets home.

it's all perspective

Really? Schmitty is chuckling and cackling out loud at Home Alone 3. Really? I watched the first one and didn't see how anyone, young or old, could find it amusing. It was so ridiculous. And then a sequel? But really, Schmitty is howling watching this, which is making me laugh in spite of myself. He just said, "This kid has really got it going!" Hmph.

yellow

We've had another busy weekend... Friday we had Rana spayed and I shampooed the carpets. Carpet, really. I did the front room but it was more time-intensive than I remembered. Mostly because I'd forgotten how the machine went together and worked. I think I got it right. Plus I mopped the upstairs and downstairs, a task rarely done.

Friday night I was supposed to take Schmitty to Tae Kwon Do and then pick Yago up from a promotion party at a brewery in Papillion. It took a lot longer to get the pup than I had anticipated so we didn't make it to TKD. That was unfortunate. When we went to pick Yago up there was still free food so the kids and I foraged enough to call it dinner. Free dinner!

Saturday morning Schmitty tested for his yellow belt. He passed! He won't be able to continue lessons while school is in session but maybe next summer. We'll see.

Last night we went to an outdoor concert, it was 100 degrees outside. Ick. We brought wine and snacks thinking it'd be like Jazz on the Green but it was not. After we finished our wine we saw the "No Alcohol" sign. The crowd was stuffier than the Jazz on the Green conert too. We still had a good time, the boys got balloon animals and toys.

Today is a study and do housework day I think. Unfortunately.

complex

I have an appointment to get my hair done today and I'm having the same quandry as usual. I want to do something different but am held back by fear of it looking ridiculous or not being able to recreate the hairstyle at home.

I've had the same haircut for about 15 years with the exception of a couple brief interludes with a bob. The bob is definitely out but I'm tired of my style, or lack thereof. I'm too chicken to go really short but want something more modern. I'd like to go to a snooty PTA meeting and feel like I have more style than all those super-tan-and-huge-fake-boob-having-enormous-designer-bag-carrying women. I'm dumb.

Next week is the Beaner Reunion, I wonder if I can lose 10 lbs in a week...

long weekend

Yago got back Friday night and we've been pretty busy every since. It's so good to have him home!

To celebrate our anniversary Saturday night we saw The Hangover, I highly recommend, and then went to a Persian restaurant for dinner in the Old Market. I know we haven't been married that long but I keep waiting for the hard times to hit. They really haven't.

Sunday we went to Mahoney State Park with charcoal and lamb kebobs that Yago made. It was delicious! I mean delicious. We forgot some key utensils: tongs, plates, lighter fluid... but it turned out fine. We were able to borrow what we couldn't do without and then improvised the rest. The boys played some football and went to a nearby playground. It was a lot of fun, I'd like to do it again. Maybe on a day that isn't so hot though. It became miserable in the late afternoon... (I'd post a picture but I can't find my camera right now.)

When I woke up this morning I passed Schmitty's room and saw him with the puppy. I was about to yell at him for being rough with her when I realized he was trying to pick her up and get her on his bed. He finally got her up there and it was cute watching him pet her and snuggle. (Schmitty's is the only bed she's allowed on.) I tiptoed by so as not to disturb the cuteness.

So maybe more work on the OPR today...

help

I need some help from my computer geek/Internet geek friends. I can't get anything to work all of the sudden. Blogger and Google are the only sites I can get to, everything else times out. I got to Twitter but can't sign in. I can't read e-mail (killing me), FB, or even CNN. Earlier nothing was working... How to troubleshoot?