My Own Little Show

Last night, a thunderstorm blew through my neighborhood with a fury. The rain was coming down sideways and the thunder and lightning was fairly intense. The storm knocked out the power briefly to my home, so I turned off all the lights/electronica and just let the house be dark until the storm was finished with us.

It was about 9:20pm when the rain started to let up some to a soft pattering drizzle and I heard the first thhhhwump...... boom!! I stepped outside onto my porch in time to see a pom pom of sparkling purple in the sky. Then I heard another ssssssst sound behind me and turned to see another pom pom of glittering gold.... followed by mother nature and the flash of far off lightning and a soft roll of thunder. I have some large trees in my backyard and while I waited for the aerial displays of color to go off on either side of my house, I watched the fireflies twinkling in the wood. It was rather ethereal and quiet lovely. The blend of mother natures version of a spectacular light display and man's creations were enough to keep me standing in the rain on my back porch until there was silence, and I was happy.

Just a few friends

Last night we had a small cookout. Just the kids and a few friends. Jenny, her daughter Megan, Dave, Gerald and Lisa. We also had a few cancellations (bummer!) but still had a nice time even though the weather didn't hold up as well as I would have liked.

Since we still had massive party fare, we cooked hamburgers and hot dogs and Lisa brought a beautiful fruit tray. Jenny baked cookies and brought some corn on the cob, which we grilled. Everything was yummy.

Sean was in rare form- he's so entertaining and Libby was a bit grumpy because she had to work and felt a bit left out. Of course, Sean had to say something uncomfortable to his brother, which I think is a requirement, and then the tense moment passed.

The rain moved in and since that seems to be the best time to light fireworks (according to my neighbor) we were treated to a fireworks display two houses down. How's that for convenient? Sitting on my porch, surrounded by friends, all with well fed tummies and laughter AND get to have your own personal fireworks display. Couldn't beat that!

Gerald had to work in the morning, so he left early-ish and then Jr. went home, Sean and Libby fell asleep and shortly after, Sr. did as well, leaving Dave, Jenny, Lisa, Me and Meg. (or as Dave puts it, himself and the Estrogen Brigade)

We played Uno until Meg was sleepy and wanted Jenny to go home, dwindling our group to just three of us. We played Uno, got to know one another a bit better with some good and open conversation and ended up calling it quits around 4:00am.

This means that my 4th will be spent the way Frank and I like it... quiet. We will watch a movie we've had out from Netflix for about 2 months now and maybe one other show I've been trying to get to and have something we rarely slow down enough to do... a holiday.

Enjoy your festivities!!

No Catchy Title

Let me begin by saying that I don't like it when I fall behind in blogging. Because when I finally do sit down to write, I either have to pick and choose what to write about, do a massive catch up blog, or write multiple blogs in the same day. Then I get stuck with the thought that if my blog is too long, that people will get bored and not want to spend the time to read it.... and then I remember... it's MY blog... if they want to read it they will, and if not then they don't. My blog is of course a way to share what goes through my odd little mind, but it's also just for me. That being the precursor, I've decided to have a polyblog day and stuff lots of different little blogs into one big blog.

The Party
After much preparation, we had the big party on June 23. I had been worried that there would be raging thunderstorms or oppressive heat, but the gods blessed us with a simply wonderful day. Little to no humidity ( a blessing in Maryland, people) clear blue skies and a slight breeze to flutter the luau fringe on the deck. It was perfect.

Not as many people showed up as had said they would, the nature of the beast that is a party, but being the hostess, I didn't want to be caught unprepared so I had procured victuals for slightly more people than had said would come, thus, now I have a larder padded with party food! Even without the additional people, there was a steady flow of people through the house and the grill was rarely off. The moon bounce was whirring off to one side and the giggles and screams of laughter from those jumping was a happy sound.

Many thanks need to be said to my friends, Jenny and Dave, for helping me set up and tear down. It would not have been nearly as enjoyable for me without their help and having them there. We wrapped up the long day around 1 AM, and all seemed good.

Sunday after the party was the proverbial "day of rest". We all were sleepy and slow, which is a good and rare condition for anyone to see me in. I usually have an AGENDA of things to be done and I'm told that it contains more things to do than could ever be done in a day. I knew that I had to drive to South Carolina the next day with my two grand daughters and that it would be a bit of a haul. I was exhausted and I still had a visit from my mother-in-law to stay awake through. Poor thing, she rarely visits and yet here I am trying to stay awake. An early evening to bed was in store for everyone.

The Trip
Monday was the traveling day for the girls and I. I can't tell you how much coffee I downed, but 12 hours later- and lots of stops for little girls to eat, pee and stretch our legs- we pulled into our hotel parking lot. Heather had asked if I could keep the girls the first night so we had a great time in my big bed having a slumber party. We watched cartoons and snacked on a few things I had brought with me and then we all passed out in a cuddly tumble of sweet smelling little girls. (They said they wanted to smell like Nini, so we had a little spray fest of my perfume!)

The next day we played at the McDonald playground which was adjacent to my hotel while we waited for Heather to go to the baby's Dr. appointment. She came a bit later and I got to see Lillianna and Sebastian. Lillie is the spitting image of her mother when she was the same age and I had multiple flashbacks to when Heather was a little girl. Bittersweet, because Heather was a gorgeous little girl and she and I had a great time together, but that whole era in my life was not an easy one and some memories not so pleasant.

We decided to use my hotel pool and got the kids put together to swim with Heather, while I loved the baby and sniffed his head! (That's a rule, btw, you must sniff babies heads... they smell so good.) Thankfully, Sebastian is a relaxed and calm baby and marriage seems to suit Heather because she seemed a bit more relaxed and able to go with the flow.

When H got home, she found that she had gotten a notification in the mail about court and that she had to appear the next day. Bummer! That meant that on Wednesday, I would stay with the kids, but it would be a stay at home day. Heather was in court, waiting for her case, for over 6 hours. Sebastian, who is a breastfed, took his first bottles ever without even blinking an eye.

Willow and Holly have an extensive collection of dress up's, courtesy of Nini and The Mouse, so they were happily parading around as Snow White and Princess Aurora with Lillie in an older- and smaller- Tinkerbell costume. They wanted a play scenario so here is what I came up with....(this should explain why my kids are a bit zany at times) I was the Evil Queen (of course) who had stolen their little brother, Prince Sackofpotatoes (pictured above) and was instead calling him Prince Poopypanties and pretending he was my son. Their cousin, Prince Porkchop, had told them the real truth about my having stolen the Prince Sackofpotatoes at birth from their Mother the Good Queen, and told them they needed to find a way to save their brother so that the Royal Meal could be complete. At first, Lillie was on their side, but she climbed the couch and became enchanted by my spell and was then, my minion. The Princess' tried to plot and scheme and think of a way to get into my lair but I had an army of Dirty Diaper Soldiers protecting my gates and every time I caught sight of a Princess, my soldiers would fling themselves (with my magical powers of course) at the Princess. If a Diaper Soldier hit the Princess, she fell into a deep, deep sleep that only the sprite Lillianna could awaken them from. (OK- these were CLEAN diapers I was pitching around the house...but we were pretending... I even wore one on my head as a crown!!) The Princess' called to my sprite as she collected my Diaper Soldiers and returned them to my care, and if she deigned to give some love to each Princess, they were revived and able to attempt another rescue mission.

Heather's court went well enough, but the day was toast and Nini was worn out so it was an early night.

On Thursday it was a bit overcast, so we decided to go to a buffet pizza place and then to an ingenious place called House of Bounce. Some wise old soul has made the latest in play areas for children that are all the rage. I had heard of something similar up here as well. The concept is to find some warehouse space, buy multiple moon bounces, put down some soft flooring and voila!! A kid paradise. You sign the waiver at the front door saying you don't hold them liable if a kid falls and hurts themselves and then your child has hours of running around in a climate controlled area bouncing and sliding and having a blast. Wish I had thought of it.... sheesh!

Friday we had the option of either going to the Children's Museum in Charleston (which I hear is a fabulous place to go) or to see a new movie. Since their Daddy is a chef, the girls chose to see Ratatouille. It was a good movie. I'm not sure the storyline was as understandable to them as it was to me, but they seemed to enjoy it anyway. Besides, the two sodas and the one big bucket of popcorn that was all for them (can eyes get that wide???) were a big hit too.

Saturday was another travel day for me. Again I was tired, but the ride was nice and it was good to play my music and just enjoy being on the road. It always goes much better when you are the driver and not the passenger....maybe it's a control thing.

Sunday, back home and exhausted, with party decorations still on my back porch, was a day that mocked my last Sunday at home to such an extent that I thought I had dreamed the previous week. It was so strange to feel and do almost the exact same things, just without little people lounging around with me. It was peaceful, but a bit sad since it means my babies are gone and I won't see them again for quite awhile.

Remarkable Obituary

Today we mourn the passing of a beloved old friend, Mr. Common Sense.


Mr. Sense had been with us for many years. No one knows for sure how old he was,
since his birth records were long ago lost in bureaucratic red tape.


He will be remembered as having cultivated such valued lessons as knowing when to
come in out of the rain, why the early bird gets the worm and that life isn't always
fair.


Common Sense lived by simple, sound financial policies (don't spend more than you
earn) and reliable parenting strategies: adults, not kids, are in charge.

His health began to rapidly deteriorate when well intentioned but overbearing
regulations were set in place. Reports of a six-year-old boy charged with sexual
harassment for kissing a classmate; teens suspended from school for using mouthwash
after lunch; and a teacher fired for reprimanding an unruly student, only worsened
his condition.


Mr. Sense declined even further when schools were required to get parental consent
to administer aspirin to a student, but could not inform the parents when a student
became pregnant and wanted to have an abortion.

Common Sense finally gave up the ghost after a woman failed to realize that a
steaming cup of coffee was hot, spilled a bit in her lap, and was awarded a huge
financial settlement.

Common Sense was preceded in death by his parents: Truth and Trust; his wife:
Discretion; his daughter: Responsibility; and his son: Reason.

He is survived by two stepbrothers: My Rights and Ima Whiner.


Not many attended his funeral because so few realized he was gone.

If you still remember him, pass this on; if not, join the majority and do nothing.

Wes 

** Sent to me by my friend Wes.. Thanks Wes!

Whew!

We survived, but boy am I tired. Suffice to say that all was well and all were well fed. I'll have to blog later about this, I think. Or maybe not.... I'm going to SC tomorrow and will be gone until next week.

Yikes!

I'm pulling my hare out!! hehehe

Ok, really I'm a bit stressed. I'm having a rather large shindig for my daughter and son, celebrating their graduation this weekend. I've rented the tent and moon bounce, dodged the no table bullet, and have the menu (and the cost) in mind. What I haven't finished is amazing, and mostly due to two adorable little munchkins that I would much rather be snuggling and loving all day. But I still want my house and my party to be enjoyable by all and the only way *I* know how to do that is to be prepared. Thus, I still have the following things I have to do:

Decorate
Figure out some music
Figure out how the electricity will get from point A to point B for all of the items needing energy
Procure another cooler
Put together the flooring
Fill the holes that the dog has dug (no busted ankles, please)
Go get the food and ice and beverages
Pick up the Cake on Saturday Morning
Prep the food
Make sure the grill has enough gas
Hang the curtains in my bedroom
Clean both bathrooms- check that there is enough toilet paper, if not add to shopping list
Pick up my desk and file the papers, organize the books
CHOOSE MUSIC or MUSIC SOURCE for party - What's a party without the right mood grooves???? Mentioned twice so you know what's important to me!!
Get the dog to the Kennel - she's getting her shots right now
Clean, Clean, Clean

If I can fit it in I had planned to-
Finish painting the doors and trim
caulk said doors and trim
paint my bathroom

If there are any really bored people out there reading this, and you like any of the jobs listed above... please feel free to let me know which you'd like to do! If not, that's ok... I have my coffee and I usually need very little sleep... :)

Entry for June 14, 2007

Someone said I should rename this piece I found on the net, Getting to Know Sharon....

*/VIRGO RABBIT/*

These Rabbits are incredibly and almost annoyingly organized. They can be seen as anal, but trust they will never lose anything and will finish most any project they start. They are a bit fussy about their neatness, but are some of the most efficient people you will ever meet.

*/THE WATER RABBIT 1903 AND 1963/*

Delicate and docile, Water Rabbits will pretty well go with the flow to avoid any conflict or argument. These situations hurt them and bother them because they are such sensitive creatures. They are usually sociable and relaxed, although sometimes they get withdrawn and introspective. They are supportive with family and friends as well as business partners and display an empathy that makes people flock to them for friendly advice and comfort. Sometimes, they can easily be taken advantage of because they are so generous with themselves and their emotions. So they have to be careful not to let their guards down so quickly.

*/THE RABBIT LOVER/*

The Rabbit lover would never dream of wearing his heart on his sleeve. The Rabbit seems aloof, yet underneath is sensual and loving - a tough facade protects a tender interior. Rabbit folk are romantic yet realistic, generous yet mercenary. Rabbits are strongly Yin and, whether male or female, are in tune with the feminine part of their psyche. Their mothering instinct compels them to nurture others, and they have an innate love of home and family.

*/MARRIAGE/*

Rabbits are easily moved to tears through words, thoughts and actions. They are deeply sensitive people who shun conflict. Rabbits tend to be a little moody and are sometimes influenced by the friends they have. Despite their cool exterior, they have a reputation for being very sexual and intimate beings. Although they may go a little crazy in their youth, they will commit themselves readily to a partner for life.

/*RABBIT PARENTS AND BABIES*/

Many Rabbit people have large families. The Chinese say this is due, in part, to them being the sign of fertility. Despite the record-breaking number of children any Rabbit person may have, the happiness of his partner and family is essential to his own well-being. Although they love their children intensely and take care of them quite affectionately, sometimes Rabbit parents can come off as looking uninterested or distant. Still, Rabbits are so defending of their children that they often appear strict and overbearing.

When their children are little, Rabbit parents will dress them in cute little outfits and will insist they act mild mannered and politely. Rabbits often find themselves wrapped around the tiny fingers of their kids and will do anything for them, too make them happy and to keep the peace. Rabbits despise arguing with their children, as conflict makes them quite uncomfortable, and they will avoid it at all costs. Rabbits will always be there for their children and will help them even as they grow and mature. They find themselves there for their kids throughout their lives.

*/RABBIT INFANT AND CHILD/*

Young Rabbits are very sensitive children. They tend to let their emotions get the best of them and will cry with no remorse. At school, these children often get teased for being so sensitive and become branded crybabies by other boys and girls. Rabbit children are especially close to their mothers and maintain a wonderfully close relationship with them throughout their lives. They depend on their mothers for advice and support and will reciprocate when necessary. Rabbit children are desperate for stability and routine and require a sort of scheduling to do their best work. Like the adult Rabbit, Rabbit children are likely to be quite interested in the arts, particularly in music, a subject in which most Rabbit children thrive.

*/LIKES AND DISLIKES/*

Since Rabbits are born under the same Animal Sign, they often share likes and dislikes. Following are similar likes and dislikes of the Rabbit personality.

Color Preference: Pale Green

Gems and Stones:

Crystal, Emerald, Pearl

Suitable Gifts: Tapestry kit, CD, fine wine, easel, lyrics book

Hobbies and Pastimes: Writing poetry, hiking, planting gardens and trees, chatting with friends

Rabbits Dislike: Touchy-feely people, abrupt curves in their routines, disorganization

*/THE RABBIT ON VACATION /*

Rabbits love to indulge in different cultures and spend a lot of their lifetimes trying to find inner peace. Sensitive and careful by nature they would be just as happy shopping for hidden treasures at the local flea market or yard sale to display in their delicately decorated homes. Rabbits tend to want to travel to traditional places such as Europe and Asia when they have time off. In addition, taking a course to release their creative energies such as photography or instrument lessons would make the Rabbit feel well-rounded and accomplished.

*FRIENDS AND ENEMIES*

Rabbits, although outgoing, are definitely not the leaders of the pack or the spotlight thieves. They like to be associated with a group or a club, where they find comfort in the company of others. Rabbits just happen to be low-profile people. Perhaps this is because they tend to be rather picky about who they pal around with. Rabbits love their friends and offer them all a warm refuge and a sympathetic shoulder to cry on. They enjoy catching up and hanging out more than anything.

Compatible Friends

Best Friends: Sheep and Pigs

Mortal Enemy: Roosters

*/HEALTH /*

Rabbits are apt to be sensitive to ailments and to have bad allergies. Stress or conflict will detriment the Rabbit’s health. Exercise could take off unnecessary stress and strengthen the Rabbit’s physical condition, but he tends not to work out regularly. Rabbits have to learn to incorporate more action into their everyday routines.

*/AT HOME WITH THE RABBIT /*

A Rabbit will become depressed and withdrawn if his home does not consist of beautiful possessions that make him comfortable. They are extremely organized and the best way to throw a Rabbit off is to remove something from its sitting place. They are so orderly and their homes and offices so clutter-free that it is sometimes a point of humor with their friends. Rabbits are modest in their decorating choices and choose different shades of green such as sages and turquoises.

*CAREER AND FINANCE*

*/THE RABBIT ON THE JOB/*

Rabbits have really good communication skills and are best utilized in positions of management. They make great teachers and PR people because they are so diplomatic and well-organized. Even so, they can also make great painters or musicians due to their sense of beauty and their love of creativity.

*/MONEY AND THE RABBIT/*

Rabbit people are usually relatively careful when it comes to their finances. And that lucky rabbit foot didn’t just come out of nowhere…Rabbits are pretty lucky folks! They use much of their money for possessions such as their homes, cars or furniture. They would rather invest their money in gadgets and things than in the stock market. They love hunting for antiques, arts and crafts and will tend to make sound investments in these types of things.

*/RABBIT CAREERS/*

Those born in the Year of the Rabbit share the same kinds of goals and objectives in life. The occupations best suited for the Rabbit are listed below:

*/RABBITS MAKE EXCELLENT:/*

Therapists

Psychiatrists

Doctors

Ophthalmologists

Writers

Masseurs

Teachers

Publishers

Designers

Actors

Musicians

Administrators

PR agents

Fashion designers

Rabbits are private individuals, a bit introverted and withdrawn. People e born into this sign would rather work behind-the-scenes instead of being the center of attention in any situation. Do not misunderstand…the Rabbit is not a recluse. In fact, he is a reasonably friendly individual who enjoys the company of a group of good friends whether at a business dinner or a holiday party. Rabbits just like to be a part of the gang as opposed to the leader of it.


*THE SIGN OF THE RABBIT*

Rabbits, like their animal counterparts, are quite calm people who do not exhibit aggressive behavior and will avoid confrontation at all costs. When angry about something, a Rabbit will approach it calmly and considerately, hardly ever raising his voice or becoming visibly annoyed. Because of their serenity, Rabbits seem to miss things, whether they are confrontational in nature or not. However, the Rabbit is quite keen and pays close attention to the situations developing around him. He is intelligent and quick and can talk himself in or out of most situations with no problem.

*/CHARCTERISTICS/*

Keen, Wise, Fragile, Tranquil, Serene, Considerate, Fashionable, Sneaky, Obsessive