Dec. 1...time is flying by...



people take amazing photos.

Just like that...it's December 1. The first day of the last month of the year 2011. Time is strange, isn't it? It just keeps going and going and going...and seemingly faster and faster. This morning 13 minutes felt like two. I couldn't believe that 13 minutes had passed and I didn't even really know it...or feel it. The time was just...gone.

December 1...it's nothing significant in my little world...no birthdays, no anniversaries, just another day, really. But it does mean that it's only 3 weeks (give or take) until Christmas. And can I just tell you that I have bought maybe 1.5 gifts? Yeah. Not even close to being even slightly ready. But...that is usually my M.O. this time of year...I'm usually in denial about Christmas. Right up until the eve, really. I know...

December 1...it also means that I have approximately two weeks left in each of my classes. (Why did I not realize they were going to end at the same time? I feel like this should have occurred to me. Or maybe it did? And I forgot? Where is that ginkgo biloba?)

Regardless of what I think or don't think...remember or not...yes, each of my classes will be finis in two weeks. And this is a good thing...the time flying while I'm in school is totally OK with me. Because that just means I am that much closer to being done with school that much quicker. However, it really makes getting all the work done that much more of a challenge! Seriously.

But that's OK...I am grateful for the opportunity to even be IN school. It is a blessing...something not everyone is afforded the privilege of doing. I have got so much support in this endeavor...Chris and the boys are so sweet and understanding and helpful...my family is so supportive and encouraging...friends are rooting me on left and right and sending me notes of goodness and encouragement...it's amazing. And keeps me moving forward every day. All of this encouragement is also accountability. How in the world can I NOT follow through with this when I've shouted from the rooftops that I am gonna DO this? At this point...I have to finish!

And really...it's not just about "going to college". It's about really doing something that I've been working at, off and on, for many years and finally, finally seeing an end in sight. I can see the prize...and it's really not that far off.

Going back to school is about doing something that would have been really easy NOT to do...because I'm too busy, or too old, or too...whatever.

Bottom line? I am really happy that I am doing this...and every day I feel that much more accomplished. And it feels really good.

So I'm already signed up for my next classes...I'll be taking Human Development at the community college online and ENGU450 at Brandman, also online. I have no idea what ENGU450 even is...probably a class on how to teach English...the subject, not the language. I'm really glad I decided to study Liberal Studies rather than Sociology...or Criminal Justice. What? Criminal Justice? Who are you, Michelle?

Well...Sociology and Criminal Justice would have been really, really interesting subjects to study. I'm big on people...and getting into their heads...learning why they do things...and how they think. Especially people that are a bit...um...off, shall we say? It may explain why I feel the need to go into Special Education. I dunno.

However, when all was said and done, it made more sense for me to focus on teaching, and learning how to teach and so Liberal Studies it was. And it was a good decision.

I am also feeling bittersweet because as it turns out I am loving my creative writing class. LOV-ING it. And I can't believe it will be over in two weeks. Especially because it feels like we are all just getting to know each other....and each other's writing styles. We are loosening up in class...having fun...really writing and critiquing and encouraging each other. It's a really great class...and I am going to miss it like crazy.

But anyway...I didn't mean for this to be a dissertation on my college career. Really. I was gonna talk about the million mile an hour winds we are experiencing...and how my chickens are laying one egg a day. I was going to talk about how much Ian loves wrestling and how next week, at this very time, Seth will be driving, with a license,  by himself. I know. I know!

 I was going to talk about how our room is still neat and tidy...and how I am loving my little kitchen. And how our winter garden, while slow-growing, is doing well and is happy and healthy. Or how my mom and I are going to go Christmas shopping tomorrow night and how I plan to get a LOT DONE.

But...maybe we can talk about all of that next time...ok?

finally.

I have been wanting a duvet for our bed for quite a while now. But can I just say...duvets are expensive! I didn't want to pay an arm and a leg. I just wanted something fresh to cover our old comforter. I looked and looked online and at stores like Marshall's and Ross...Home Goods...but...nothin'.

Well last week a friend and I headed to Ikea in Sacramento. I was in search of a duvet...she, a storage unit for toys. And it was a successful trip...we both found what we needed!

I ended up choosing a white duvet with a decorative stitch for some detail. It also came with shams, which was a bonus. I looked at colors and neutrals but decided that white would be best...mainly because I took into consideration just about every photo I've Pinned at Pinterest and just about every single one has white bedding. So I figure that is what I like...what I'm drawn to...so I went for it.

And I have to say...I'm really happy with it. It just sort of finishes things off...makes our room look like I might have meant to do something in there. Our poor room has always been neglected...mainly because I could never figure out what I wanted to do in there. Mainly because I never thought we'd be here as long as we have been. Mainly because I have always considered it just a bedroom...not a master suite and therefore haven't ever really made the effort to make it inviting.

But as I browse Pinterest I realized that I wanted to do something in there..even if it was simple. I also realized that I am not into rooms that look 'decorated'. I like rooms that look as if they've evolved over time...that look comfortable and lived in. I like a relaxed look...and not one that is too matchy-matchy. (And trust me...I've got the NO "matchy-matchy" thing down pat...and not always by choice!)

So...yeah. I finally got a duvet...and it came with shams. And it made me happy. Now I can move on to the next thing...hmmm....what should that be? The to-do list around here is looooonggg.....

a long weekend...



A flower shop in Leuven, Belgium


I love 3-day weekends...even when they're a bit busy.

Ian had a wrestling tournament on Friday evening. It's the BIG one for our school...the one we host...so it was important. He did quite well...but in the end, didn't place. He was bummed. And so were we. But we were ready to get home...finally at almost 10pm.

Saturday involved sleeping in. I planned on it. I don't usually like to sleep in...but on Friday night I just knew I was going to sleep as long as my body would let me. I got up around 7:30...and yes, that is sleeping in. If I get up later than 8am I start to feel like half of my day is wasted.

There were some things that really needed to be done around here...outdoor chores that had been let go due to all of the rain and a busy schedule. The chicken coop was the biggie...those poor girls. It was such a mess. But Chris helped me and we cleaned it up in under an hour and it passed The Girls' inspection. Do your chickens do that? Go in after you've cleaned and peck around...as if they're inspecting your work? It cracks me up. Speaking of the girls...they have not laid one single egg in WEEKS. I know they slow down...but a complete halt? I'm attributing it to the cold temperatures...

Saturday afternoon Ian went to a birthday party which turned into a sleepover...and Seth went to a birthday party....getting home around midnight or so. Chris and I took that time to watch some movies...The Open Road and The Book of Eli. They were both good...I borrowed them from the library for FREE. Better yet! I will say they both contained language...and Eli contained some suggestive material and quite a bit of violence...I think they called it "brutal violence". And yes...in some scenes, it was. But the story was good...and the end was unpredictable...and I like that.

Sunday was church. Worship was sweet and the message was good...and timely. Afterward we stayed and chatted with friends for a good while...I don't think I got home until close to 1pm! After that...we just hung around at home. Ian recuperated from his sleepover...Seth went to another birthday gathering...Chris practiced guitar for the band he recently joined...and I read blogs and books and magazines. We ended the evening with another FREE movie from the library, The Blind Side. It was good...I cried a LOT. Like, the whole time!

Yesterday was Ian's 13th birthday. THIRTEEN. How is it that my BABY is THIRTEEN? Wow...it's official. I have teens... We hung out during the day....we opened presents and ordered his new scooter. We baked cupcakes and relaxed. Then around dinner time we headed over to our favorite restaurant. We eat there for every birthday...it's become our tradition. It's a great local Chinese place...and we order the same thing every time.

And now...the weekend is over...and I am exhausted. I am off to a very slow start this morning...but I have so much to do. Bible study...baseball sign ups...wrestling tournaments....lunch dates with friends...not to mention, classes start at the community college this week. I signed up for Creative Writing II and got in...but the Ceramics class I want is full. BUT, I'm going to go to it anyway and hope the instructor allows me to Add it. The scheduling of the classes is pretty convenient...Creative Writing from 11-12:15 and Ceramics from 1-4:15, both on Tuesdays and Thursdays. I think that'll work out quite well. These are both classes I need for my Bachelor's...and they're both available at the community college...which is GREAT as it saves me mega amounts of money vs. taking these same classes at Chapman. They'll take longer...16 weeks or so vs. 8 weeks. But you pay for that class acceleration...and to be honest, I don't want to rush through either one. I think writing and doing pottery until the end of May sounds pretty fun! Yes, it'll take longer to reach the goal of a degree...but that's OK. I'd rather have less in student loans at this point. Debt and I are not friends.

OK...well that pretty much wraps up the weekend recap...if you made it this far...I love you. If not...I still love you. And I don't blame you one bit for tuning me out... :)

bowls.

I got these bowls at the thrift store last week...on the first day of the new year. They're handmade...and unmarked...probably made by someone taking a pottery class, or something. I like them...I like the color, the texture, the size...they're just right for each of the boys to have one on their nightstand to corral little bits and bobs...keys and pocket knives and gum and nuts and bolts and...you know...boy stuff.

Speaking of pottery...I'm planning on taking a class beginning this month at the local community college. Would you believe I need it for my degree? Yeah...I do! I love it! I've wanted to take pottery for a while now. And painting. And drawing. And..any kind of art I can get my hands on.

I remember when I was attending the community college 20 years ago. I decided to major in Psychology...I was going to be a counselor...and live in a little old bungalow with lots of cats and a wild garden. I was taking all of the necessary psych classes in preparation. But every day I'd see the art students toting their portfolios and their huge sketch pads. I'd see them in the cafeteria...sketching their lunch...or their girlfriend. And I longed to be one of them...I wanted to be an art student.

For as long as I can remember I wanted to be an artist. I'm thinking I was around 4 when I decided that I wanted to be an artist when I grew up. An artist and a mommy. I loved to draw...and color...and paste. In Mrs. Dunbar's class in 2nd grade, if you got all your work done on time or if you scored the highest on your times tables test...you got to pick your free time activity first. And since I often scored well on my tests, I got to pick my free time activity. And every time...without fail...I chose art.

I'm not sure what happened along the way...when I lost that dream of being an artist. I don't know...

What I DO know is that I am finding myself with an opportunity, 20 years later, to be an art student. Even if it is just for a class or two...I'll take it.

Busy is an understatement!

At around 9:30 am yesterday morning I had a sudden revelation that this week is utterly and ridiculously chock full! I knew I had a lot to do...but it was still scattered in my head, in different little pockets.

I knew I had to take Seth and a carload of student council members to camp on Wednesday...and pick them up on Friday...in the San Francisco area. Looking forward to this, actually. A carload of 14 and 15 year olds has GOT to be entertaining.

I knew that Friday was Seth's birthday...although it hadn't really dawned on me that he was going to be 15. I thought he was turning 7. But...the fact that he wrote DRIVING SCHOOL on his birthday wish list snapped me out of that fantasy REAL quick. Driving school? Whatever.

Anyway...

I knew I was going to have my nephew on Wednesday night for a sleepover...and all day Thursday for a play day.

I knew I had a Belgium meeting on Wednesday night. And that Ian had baseball practice on Thursday night. And that Chris had worship practice on Friday night. I knew that Seth had a birthday party to attend on Friday night for a friend...on his birthday, no less. I knew I had to get a gift for this friend who's having a birthday...and his twin sister, too...both of whom we've known since they were all 5.

I also knew I had school work. But what I didn't know was that it was my last week..? I thought next week was the last week. So I wasn't fully aware of what this week's work load was going to entail. Until I wrote all the assignments down on paper, that is. Holy canoli! I'm in for it.

The bottom line? This week is going to be CUH-RA-ZY. But...I can do this. Especially if I stop blogging and facebooking and start homeworking! Which is what I'm going to do RIGHT NOW. I have a lesson plan to finish...!

What's your week looking like? If it's a little empty...call me. I've got a list a mile long I'd have NO problem sharing with you!

and just like that...

...summer is almost over. School starts in three weeks. The summer has gone by like a flash. The boys have held down the fort while I've gone to work...they've gone to church camp...they recently went backpacking with their dad...and of course, lazed around the house. Seth is off to Student Council Camp this coming Wednesday...he returns Friday, which is also his 15th birthday. 15. FIF-TEEN. This blows me away. He is ONE YEAR away from DRIVING. It renders me speechless. And trust me...not a lot can do that to me.

I've always really tried to live in the moment with my boys...appreciating them for where they're at in their lives. I have loved every stage...even the sassy, talk-back stage. It lets me know they're getting minds of their own. And I like that. And so, because I love watching them grow and learn and become young men, I have always thought that I would really be OK once it's time for them to leave the nest. But I tell ya...the closer it gets, the more I'm not so sure! I mean, I will be OK. Do we have a choice? And honestly, wouldn't it be worse for them to never leave the nest? Uh. Yeah. I think it would be. What's that called? Failure to launch? We don't want that. We want them to launch. But still...it will be change. And I am really not good at it...no matter how much I try to tell myself I am.

Either way...summer is coming to a close. School is getting ready to start. And in two short weeks I will have a 7th grader and a 10th grader living under my roof. Where does the time go...

In other school news, my classes are going really well. I took three...which is one too many. But...I'm doing it. And I'm keeping up...pretty much. Luckily, I've been given grace from my instructors on some late papers. That helped. And I am really hoping that I will be able to pull A's in all three. I'll know in about a week...this is the last week of the term. Really? I guess in this case, time flying is a good thing! Trade-offs...life's full of them.

All in all...life is good. Things are humming along at a fast pace, but also a good one. My kids are growing...I'm growing...and ultimately, that's what we want, right? Growth. Movement. Change...

Monday.

I can't believe that next week at this time my boys will be gone...for a week! I am already missing them. We have much to do in getting them ready...laundry, packing. I pray that God really gets a hold of them while they're there. Will you join me in prayer? For my boys and for the rest of the youth they are going with...9 total, I believe, including the counselors. Thank you...

Back to the grind today...I have to leave for work in an hour or so and what am I doing? Blogging. And searching worship music. I guess it could be worse! (Although...hello?! Homework anyone?! Actually...remember the assignments I forgot about and then turned in late? FULL CREDIT Baby!! Woohoo!!)

It's HOT here...already. Ick. Luckily it's only for a few days...it should be cooling down later in the week. So I can endure the heat for a time...thank goodness for a/c.

OK...fun's over. Time to get ready for work. I pray you all have a blessed and productive day today. xo

Sunny Saturday

Just popping in real quick to say hi. Seth has a Double Header today so that's where we'll be all afternoon. Ian had Closing Ceremonies last night...so that's where we were last night!

In between all the baseball hullabaloo I haven't been here because I've been too busy stalking my my online college course to find out my final grade. I've been stalking my class for about three days! And she finally graded my paper yesterday...I got an A on my final and an A in the class!! That made my day. Two classes down, and two A's on the GPA. Yes!! (I need them...my track record is not as impressive...ahem. This is definitely one of the perks amid the many downfalls to returning to college as an adult.)

School is out this next Thursday...I'm not ready. I never am. And now that I'm working part-time I'm even a little more anxious about it since I'll have to leave them every day. I realize they're old enough to stay home on their own...and I do leave them home on occasion. But every day? I don't know...I just don't like it. I like to be the home base, you know? I always have. Working and leaving them with sitters has never been comfortable for me...ever. And I had really great care for my kids during the times I worked. Really great. But it still wasn't me. And that was tough.

Regardless...I have to work. And the kids are getting out of school. And life is what it is. And we'll all be just fine. Although I can't believe my BABY will be going into junior high next fall...what?! When did that happen? Wasn't he just in first grade with a cute little boy haircut? You know the one, combed to the side...so cute. Now he's a long hair and going into junior high with an attitude...wow.

I suppose I better get going...I have to dry my hair, put on some mascara (about the extent of my beauty routing), eat a little something and head out the door. It's hot today...in the 90's I think. I'm not ready for that either! I've been spoiled by this cool and rainy spring weather.

So what are you doing today? Whatever it is...enjoy it!

this morning.

Today is Thursday. My Friday at the book store. The weeks are flying by so fast, aren't they? I can't keep up. It's like the first of the month gets here...and I start thinking about the bills to pay and such...and next thing I know it's the 6th! How does that happen? Is it just me?

I had a coffee date set for 9am but the friend I was to meet (our new pastor's wife) had to go to Sacramento to be with her daughter in law who is in labor! Woohoo! Keep Shannon in your prayers today...this is her first baby and you know how those first labors can be. Loooong. My first was 32 hours from start to finish...yikes. And I did it again! What's with us crazy moms? That's a God given gift...the ability to forget what we just went through so we'll do it again...and again and again in some cases!

Since I'm finding myself with a bit of extra time this morning. I think I'll use it to do homework. I have to watch a documentary and write a minimum 2-page paper about it. That's a weekly thing with online courses...a paper. I don't have any trouble coming up with two pages of words (obviously, as you can see, I tend to be a bit chatty...ahem) but I do have trouble formatting my dang citation page! And I even bought a special program to help me DO it. I have got to figure that out...it's costing me points on my papers. So far I'm still maintaining an A...thank goodness. But I'm right on the border...so I need to step up my game!

I can't even believe that I'm in Week 6 of my 9 Week class. See what I mean about time flying? Seriously. That means I'm almost done with my second class!! Woohoo! I really need to take two classes per term...but I am worried that I won't be able to keep up. School is a lot of work! My mom says if I didn't blog I'd have plenty of time...which is true in some aspects. If I didn't READ so many blogs I'd have the time...and this is something I need to consider. Too bad I don't get class credit for blogging...hmmm, I may have to look into this. Not a bad idea...

Anyway...I'll figure it out. Time management...it's never been my strong suit.

Even still, today is off to a good start. It's cool and breezy. It's sunny and bright. It's calm and quiet...the only sounds I hear are the wind blowing through the leaves of the maple in my front yard and the soft purr of sweet Rosie. Definitely off to a good start...

what are you up to?

It's Saturday...it's sunny...it's breezy...it's a great day! So far it's been a slow morning of dishes and putting things away...washing bedding and folding laundry...scrubbing wood furniture with Murphy's Oil Soap...taking out garbage and recycling...clearing off my poor little nightstand...and watching a decent Hallmark movie.

Notice there's no shower in there anywhere? Yeah. That's next! I also have a paper to write...photos to turn into note cards...more laundry to do...Crock Pot chili to prep...and a couple of baseball games to watch. No big deal. (Huh?)

Anyway...a good day. Busy? Yes. But full of good stuff. I better get to it! Have a beautiful and blessed Saturday...xo

Back to school.

As many of you know, I have recently returned to college to complete my degree. FINALLY. Going to college is a lot different now than it was when I started. (Which was just a few years ago...right? What? It WAS just a few years ago! At least it feels like it was...!)

OK, fine. It was many years ago. But...that's not the point here. The point here is that I finally learned how to go into the college web site! I deciphered all of my PINS and all of my passwords. I learned how to get my school email, how to attend a class online, AND how to check my grades. And guess what? I got an A in my first class!!! Oh my gosh...talk about excited! I was SO excited. But it was funny...I was at the college office, surrounded by very somber people, and I'm trying to hoot and holler over my A and nobody is humoring me. At all. Not even a little. I guess people get A's all the time or something. And good for them! I'm not one of them, however. So this was BIG for me! It made my day. And night. I was still pumped at 11 o'clock last night. Come to think of it, I'm still pumped this morning!

Getting an A really boosted my confidence in this whole "back to school" thing I got going. I question myself daily about this decision. And I sometimes doubt that I'll be able to do it. I wonder what the heck I'm thinking trying to go to college AND work AND raise kids AND pay attention to my hubby AND everything else.

But you know...so far it's been really good. And my family is so supportive and has really stepped up to the plate with helping me around here. If I have to study or write a paper they take care of things. They really clear the way for me to do what I need to do. What a blessing...I'm one lucky girl.

Once I got over my doubt...and realized that I really am going to be able to DO this...I confidently signed up for my first online class. I am still struggling with my major. So I took a class that applies to either one. I will have to make a decision this next week, though....Social Science or Liberal Studies. Liberal Studies is the best decision. Social Science is the most interesting decision. But...as we know...time is of the essence. So...it's looking like I'm about to be a Liberal Studies major. Which is fine. It's good. It's all just a means to an end. And if I can do it in three fewer classes as a Lib Studies major, why is there even a question? I'll tell you why there's a question. Because once I get something in my mind it takes a while for me to readjust my thinking when things change. Because I'm stubborn. And rigid at times. That's why. But I'm working on that...really. I am.

Another change was that originally I planned on taking two classes each 8-week session. But this time around I'm only taking one, again. Eventually, I will need to take two classes per session if I want a degree before I'm a hundred years old. But for now...at this season of life I feel like I need one more session to get my feet wet. Especially since I'm trying my hand at an online class. I've never taken an online class before and I had no idea what to expect. So I decided to take just one class again. If the online class goes well I will probably arrange it so I can take one class online and one class on campus each session until I'm done. That way I won't have to be gone so much. It sounds good on paper...I'm hoping it works out like I imagine it will.

So what class are you taking, Michelle? Why, thank you for asking! I'm going to take Liberal Studies 300...a required course by Chapman. To tell you the truth...I don't even know what Liberal Studies IS. But I'm about to find out! See that stack of books in the picture? The top three books are for my class. And you know the great thing about those three books? I didn't have to pay for them! The financial aide guy at the college, Mario, had them and let me borrow them! He told me it was on my "honor". I replied, "I'm honorable!" So I better not lose them...I'd be so embarrassed!

And for someone who was never really a big reader (I went in spurts when I was younger...but hated to read books that were assigned. Such a rebel, aren't I? A brat is more like it!) I sure have a big stack of books on my night stand! I have to say, in the past 3 years or so I've come to really love reading and learning new things. I will admit, though, I'm still feeling a little rebellious about reading something someone tells me to read. Because I can be a bit of a brat on occasion (no comments from the peanut gallery!) I only want to read what I WANT to read. But I am almost 43 for crying out loud. I think it's time to stop acting 14. You think? I'll have to discipline myself to read school books first, library books second. I'll have to treat my self like I treat my kids. Because apparently rebellion isn't something one outgrows so easily.

Life.

Nellie enjoyed her chance to be in the limelight. Libby usually hogs the camera lens...but in a rare moment, sweet Nellie was able strike a coy pose. Isn't she pretty? I just love her...

So...life is barreling down the road at about 100 miles per hour lately. Between school and work and baseball games...it's all I can do to keep up on...anything!

The floors are dirty. The laundry is piled. The dishes are piled. There are piles of paper to be dealt with...mail, bills, lists, photos. Piles! I can't seem to get a grip on the "pile" issue. I may just have to resolve myself to the fact that I am a piler...and just go with it. I've fought it for years. And um...I'm losing the fight!

The boys are home on vacation this week and next. It throws a bit of a wrench in my machine...but it's working out OK so far. I go to work in the morning and leave them a small list of chores to take care of while I'm gone. Then I come home in the afternoon in just enough time to drop Seth off at the ball field. I come back home...change clothes...grab a snack...then head back out to his game. We usually get home around 7 or so. Unless Ian has a game...then it's more like 8 or 8:30. And hopefully I have something for us to eat when we get here. Not a whole lot lately. We've been eating junk...or "carnival food" as my friend calls it...which I think is hilarious!

I've been off from my school this week. We get one week off in between sessions. I'm still not even sure what I'm taking...and I start next week! In the past week or so I've decided (well, almost decided) to change my major. I'm thinking of switching from Social Science to Liberal Arts. Liberal Arts makes more sense for someone who wants to teach. Three of the classes for the major apply toward the credential...which is a bonus. I just want to make sure it's the right decision. I really don't want to waste any time or any money. I just don't have a lot of either to waste! So...I need to make a decision by tomorrow. Pray for me on this...would ya?

On that note, I suppose I should go toss in a load of laundry...wash some dishes...and get ready for work. Today is my Friday. Sort of. I work at our office on Friday's. But my boss is pretty nice to me...not to mention pretty cute (hi honey..are you reading today?) so it's not a bad gig!

It doesn't look like much now but...

...just you wait. In a few months this place will be bursting with life. And I can hardly wait!

If you go to this picture on my flickr you'll see some notes that I made...what's what and what will be. (Like the crazy sticks on the left...those are bean poles Ian installed for me using trimmed tree branches!) Tomatoes and peppers are in...and on Sunday I'm going to plant seeds. Peas, beans, zukes and cukes...and more. It's a small little garden plot...but I think we've got a good plan to utilize the space well so hopefully we'll get a decent amount of fresh veggies!

So yesterday we let The Girls out to scratch around the yard. They were being supervised and all was well. But as soon as they were left alone they flew over the fence...into the garden..and ATE MY PEPPER PLANTS. Oh my gosh...I was SO angry. They were *this* close to becoming fried chicken! We planted six pepper plants last weekend: one poblano, two Big Jims, two jalapenos and one red chile. The Girls ate the jalapenos up pretty good...I think I lost one for good. They did a number on the others, too...but I think they'll recover. I may have to replace the jalapenos...the jury is still out on that. I'll decide on Sunday.

As for the chickens? Sneaky. And destructive. And...stuck in the coop from here on out. They blew it! They've got a WHOLE YARD to scratch around in. Why did they need to be in the garden, too? Greedy...greedy, greedy girls.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

So...it's been a bit of a crazy week. I took my Sociology final on Tuesday. I'm not sure how I did...I am hoping that I did really well. Because if I did? I just may have pulled an A! If I didn't do well...then I'm looking at a B. And that's fine. I got a 98 on my term paper....which I'm really pleased about. And a 100% on my last quiz! So...I'd say all in all I did OK for my first time back to school!

Another thing on the school front is that I'm trying to figure out if it would be better and quicker to major in Liberal Arts as opposed to Social Science. To major in Liberal Arts would mean taking fewer courses when pursuing my credential as three of the courses apply toward the major AND the credential. So that would be nice. It would shorten my total school time by about 4 months. And at my age, I can use all of the extra time I can get! But I have to talk to the guidance counselor next week and see what she says...so that's still up in the air. I'll know more next week.

Then...on Tuesday morning my computer power cord stopped working so we were without a home computer for a couple of days. That's why I missed Wednesday in the Word this week! I was really upset about it. I felt really bad. I haven't missed a WITW for a long time. And I hope not to miss one again! It's one of my favorite things around here!

Can you believe the weekend is here already? I can't. We've got lots of baseball planned...my nephew has a game at 11, Seth has a double header at 11 and 2, and Ian has a game at 4:30! That is a whole day of baseball! Yikes. Good thing the weather has been nice...it should be a beautiful day. Then on Sunday...church and digging in the dirt. Can't wait to get those seeds in the ground.

What have you got going on this beautiful spring weekend? Anything fun?

odd(s) and ends...

Sweet Nellie...she's calm. She's patient. She's friendly. Not to mention beautiful and...um...fluffy.

She was feeling left out after Libby's "10 things" post the other day. No, no...she didn't tell me she was feeling left out. She's not like that. She's not a complainer like someone else we know. I could just see it in her eyes...she needed some attention, too.

(My husband finds it...um...odd, in a good way, of course...that I have such a knack for speaking chicken. Is it wrong? I mean, come on. I can't help it that I am a good communicator.)

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So today is Monday. And...so far, so good.

The weekend was good...some rain, some sunshine, some rest and some running around.

I got some laundry done. Chris and I cleaned the coop. I made a healthy dinner last night of stir fry and Asian slaw. I visited a dear friend on Saturday night who was in town visiting her daughter for the weekend. I got some great deals at Old Navy...an additional 50% off clearance items! I worked on my paper and am in the process of learning my new Word program for term papers. (Not the most fun...but it was very necessary.) The paper itself is just about done. Now I just need to figure out how to insert citations and a bibliography. Exciting, no?

I work today at 11. My new schedule is working out well so far. I like having the morning to do things around the house. Important things like laundry, dishes, dinner prep, feeding the chickens and blogging! And I figure in the summer it will give me time to water and tend the garden. So what I originally was unsure of...a work schedule smack dab in the middle of my day...is actually turning out to be ideal for me and my family. And I'm thanking God for that...for allowing me to have my cake and eat it, too. I can work and make a little grocery money. I can have a schedule that allows me to be available to my kids...and I won't miss a baseball game unless I'm at school! I can still be available to do the books at our business. And my hours are the same every week. This is almost unheard of in retail! So I feel very blessed. It's a win-win situation...and I'm thankful.

This week is much less busy than last week...and I'm thankful for that, too. Last week I had something going every night...school, bible study, baseball meeting, band concert. It was a lot. But...I made it through, one day at a time, and it was good. Not to mention, it made my Friday night all the better because I got to stay home and do NOTHING. AND...it was raining!! Perfect...

How about you? How was your weekend?

Busy, busy, busy...

I'm working today at a local elementary school. I am on the sub list for secretarial positions and I got a call the other day to work all day in the front office. So...I accepted it.

Then...a few hours later...I got a call from my manager at the book store asking if I'd be interested in a permanent part-time position doing inventory and receiving 4 days a week...3 hours a day. Umm...yeah! I'm thinking this will work well with the boys' school schedule. MY school schedule. And it will mean a reliable paycheck. Even if it IS a small one! So...I start training for that tomorrow at 10am.

So. Today. Work all day in the front office of an elementary school. Come home...make dinner...then head out to bible study at around 6:30 or so.

Tomorrow. Work from 10-1. Go to the shop to do payroll and banking. Then...pick Ian up from school at 3 and get the weekend started.

In the middle of everything I need to find time to do an "experiment"...more like a "study"...for school and write a 4-6 page paper about it. Rough draft due Tuesday.

Pray for me. It's gonna be a crazy coupla days!

I just got home from school...

...and I got a B on my first quiz. Lame. I'm so irritated. I really wanted an A. It's open book for crying out loud. And...to top it off...? I missed two True or False questions...and I KNEW that they were True, yet I marked them with an F! What is THAT all about? Lame.

So...I'm a little disappointed. But I'll live. And hopefully I did better on tonight's quiz...hopefully. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for the next week. And my toes.

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Day 2:

Breakfast: leftover baked potato, cubed and sauteed in olive oil with sliced red pepper, garlic, salt and pepper and a small bowl of unsweetened apple sauce with cinnamon.

Lunch: Homemade vegetable soup, 1/4 cup cottage cheese and ice water.

Snack: dried fruit and nuts and a clementine.

Dinner: Half of a quesadilla on whole wheat tortilla with refried beans and a sprinkling of cheese, cup of vegetable soup and ice water.

Snack: dried fruit and nuts.

Thoughts: You may notice that I added a small amount of dairy to the mix. About halfway through my day I realized that what I really need to be fasting is caffeine. I realized I don't necessarily need to be doing the Daniel Fast. Honestly, when I found out we were going to be doing a week-long corporate fast I just decided on my own that this is the one I'd do. But what I'm finding is that the real issue...for this fast, anyway...is my reliance on caffeine. It is pathetic how badly I am missing diet soda. Seriously. I almost cried today when talking to Chris about it! I know part of that was being tired. I stayed up too late too many nights in a row...which makes me weepy anyway. But still! Get a grip, girl!

Anyway...I will continue the Daniel Fast since I started it...but be prepared to see a few modifications in the menu. It may be closer to the Daniel Diet. (And if you're interested you can do a search to see the difference between the two because I am too darn tired to go into it!) You may see small amounts of dairy here and there...and maybe a glass of juice or two. What you WON'T see? Coffee. Or Diet Coke.

On a physical note...the headache was less today. And the fatigue was less, also. I was still a bit foggy...but more myself. Thank goodness.

On a rebellious note...I am telling myself that I can't wait until this week is up so I can drink a big ol' glass of diet Coke. Let's hope that tomorrow I can start the process of focusing on God rather than on a drink. Pathetic...I'm telling ya...if nothing else, this makes you realize how weak you are. And how...demanding our bodies can be. And I guess this shouldn't surprise me...being an addictive type and all.

OK...the eyelids are drooping. Time to call it a day...and pray that tomorrow, things continue to improve. Night...xoxo

sunrise.

As you can see...I was almost up before the sun. I went into the kitchen to get my coffee and saw that the sky was a gorgeous pink and orange and violet...and with sleep still in my eyes, ran back to get my camera and capture the moment.

Unfortunately, I also got the top of our shed and every outbuilding of every neighbor as far as the eye can see. Ah....the loveliness of living 6 feet away from your neighbor. Oh how I wish to live in the country...with a window over my kitchen sink...preferably with a beautiful view... Someday...

So it's a good thing I took this picture...this is the only bit of sunshine we got in the last 3 days or so. This morning I woke up to the sound of rain...which actually made me feel happy. You know how I love the rain...and to hear tapping against the window? Perfect.

I have homework to do...I need to finish up my first chapter reading in preparation for tomorrow nights quiz. We have a quiz every week! Open book, though, so I think I'll be OK. It's a good thing I took only one class...the work load is pretty heavy, apparently. Well, according to two of the students I talked with at break. I didn't think it sounded like all that much...but they said it was. So...I took their word for it since it's my first term back. What do I know, right? Oh, and I have to do a Power Point presentation! I don't know HOW to do Power Point. Luckily, both of my son's do...so they can show mom a thing or two. Too funny...I'm old.

On that note...I'm going to go finish up my reading. I need to be done tonight because I have many errands to run tomorrow. One of them being purchasing Scan tron sheets at the college book store. Scan trons? Really? Oh! That means I'll need a #2 pencil, too...oh dear. I can't forget that!

Whose idea was this, anyway....this whole going back to school thing?!

good eating. and a school report.

It's been a busy week. I've been running since... Gosh. Since...um...

Hmmm...I can't remember when I wasn't running this past week or so!

All the more reason I needed to stay home this morning and take a breather. I work at two...but until then, I'm going slow. I'll peck away at some laundry...and I need to dust...but my main goal today was to just take it kind of slow.

I ate some oatmeal for breakfast...with dried cranberries and chopped walnuts. And of course, brown sugar and butter. So yummy...and so good for me. I always feel better instantly once I've eaten a bowl of oatmeal. I feel full...and satisfied. And healthy. There might be some argument about the butter...but..that's OK. At least it's not margarine.

Last night I made a good, healthy dinner. I made some chicken in my grill pan seasoned with salt, pepper and garlic powder. I roasted some potatoes, carrots and leeks mixed with olive oil, fresh cracked pepper and Kosher salt. Then to add some green to the mix I sauteed some broccoli with onion and chopped cabbage seasoned with sesame oil, salt, red pepper flakes, a splash of chicken broth and soy sauce. I sauteed in on high heat then turned the heat off and covered ti to steam for 5 minutes or so until the chicken finished cooking.

And I have to say...it was a good dinner! The broccoli and cabbage mixture tasted like chow mein...which means now I have to try and figure out how to make it! I figure I can just do what I did then add some noodles...and voila...(or however you'd say that in Chinese...tsing tao? No...I think that might be beer, hmmmm)...chow mein! Maybe toss in a little leftover pork or chicken? The possibilities are endless! That could be another great way to use up some leftovers, too. I'm liking this train of thought...

Anyway...thinking ahead I made extra potatoes and carrots in preparation to make myself a yummy, warm and healthy soup for lunch today! I'm going to add the leftover vegetables...including a bit of leftover cabbage, too...to chicken broth. I'll warm it through...then blend it with my immersion blender. Et...voila...roasted vegetable soup! Doesn't that sound good? I think so. But then again, I'm a soup kinda girl.

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So...yeah....I went to my first day of COLLEGE ON TUESDAY. Oh my...all day I was anxious about it. But by the time I got going...and got on the military base where some of the classes are held...and into my classroom...I was fine. And ready.

I'm going to say the average age in the classroom is roughly...oh...35? That's about right. So I'm not TOO old to be there...although I am one of the more mature students. But that's OK...someone said 40 is the new 30...so I'll take it.

The instructor is very nice. And very young. She refused to tell us her age. I'm guessing 30-35. But she looks even younger. Either way...she's nice. And she's engaging. And interesting. Which will make this a whole lot easier to do. I can't think of anything worse than sitting in a classroom for 4 hours listening to a droning instructor. And yes, I said 4 hours. The classes are accelerated...so we meet once a week for four hours. And I have to say, it went by surprisingly fast.

I decided to start with one class at the recommendation of my mom. She thought it would be a good idea to start slow and get my feet wet before diving in. At first I was like, "No way mom! I'm GOING FOR IT! I'm DOING THIS! I'm running out of time. I'm no spring chicken! I have WORK to do! Time is short! Seize the moment!! Get out of my way!"

Or...something like that. (Right, mom?)

Anyway...once all was said and done...and I started actually planning my schedule, it just worked out best that I start with one class. Mother truly does know best...

I had a revelation at the beginning of the week during one of my hyperventilation sessions. I realized that the reason I was so nervous about going back to school is that, this time, I do not have the option to stop. I do not have the option to quit. It is just not in the cards this time around. I have started and stopped college more times than I care to admit. And every time, I had good intentions. And high hopes. But as soon as an obstacle got in the way...I yielded to it. And I stopped. This time? Obstacles must either be moved...or walked around. No stopping. Not this time.

So with this revelation I thought, "Holy cow. This is IT! I am really going to have to DO this. What was I thinking?!"

Not to mention....I've told EVERYONE I know that I am going back to school. And I've given everyone I know permission to hold me accountable. Seriously. What was I thinking?!

I'll tell you what I was thinking. I was thinking that my track record for sticking with something is not the best record out there. And I was also thinking that I know myself...real well. And telling everyone and allowing people to hold me accountable was probably one of the smartest things I've done!

So...we're off. Or at least, I am. And I'm excited. Thank you for listening...and for encouraging me. And...if I start to slack...feel free to smack me upside my head!

snow.

It snowed! Can you believe it? It actually SNOWED!

What? What do you MEAN it's just hail?

It was piled in little piles on the side of the road. It was stuck to people's roof top's. It was stuck on cars. Kids were playing in it...and rolling it into balls and throwing it.

In my book...that is snow.

But then again, I was born and raised in Northern California.

What do I know about snow?

Oh well...it was fun to pretend.

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School in T-minus 41 minutes...40, 39, 38...breathe, Michelle, breathe...there's no turning back now...

I'm already behind and the day hasn't even started yet...

I love three day weekends. But man, do they throw me off!

The kids are back in school...the house is quiet...and I am already running behind. I have to go to the office today...and to DMV...and then...later tonight...to MY school. For the first time. In 12 years. Excuse me while I hyperventilate.

Until then, though...I still have mom and wife stuff to take care of. For today...I am wearing the wife and bookkeeper hat. After 3pm I'll put on the mom and housekeeper hat. And then...at 5...I'll put on the student hat.

It's settled. I'm crazy. AND I'm late. Gotta run! I'll let you know how my first night back at college goes...breathe, Michelle, breathe....