Monday, July 19, 2010

Glacier Day 3

The Red Rock Trailhead is located at the end of Many Glacier Road, which is on the east side of Glacier National Park. The most scenic driving route would be from the west entrance and across Logan Pass on the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Many Glacier Road is accessible after leaving the east entrance and then returning to the park via Babb, Montana.

miles hiked: 2.6 miles from the trailhead at the Swiftcurrent parking lot next to the Many Glacier Campground.
animals we saw today: Ptarmigan, Moose and twin baby moose, white tail deer and fawn,

Sunday, July 18, 2010

Glacier Day 2

Avalanche Lake and Avalanche Gorge can be reached via a 4 mile round trip from the trailhead at Avalanche Campground. It's pleasant hiking along the creek, but there are no views to speak of until you reach the lake. the park guide walked fast, and it was hard for us city slickers to keep up. Avalanche Lake is pleasant, but not one of the most spectacular destinations in Glacier National Park. Worthwhile.

South of the Avalanche Gorge footbridge on the Trail of the Cedars. Elevation climbs 500 feet

followed by

Trail of the Cedars
Across from the Avalanche Campground Ranger Station. Level boardwalk

miles today: 4.5
animals we saw today: chipmunks

Saturday, July 17, 2010

Glacier Day 1

A free shuttle from avalanche campground to Logan Pass.

The trail to the Hidden Lake Viewpoint is about 3 miles roundtrip. there was a ton of snow to carefully pick our way over, slipping and sliding was scary at times as we were perched on the side of the cliff.

We saw Gophers, Ravens, Mountain Goats, and Big Horn Sheep.

Friday, July 16, 2010

Together for a Limited Time Engagement

Krystal, Erik, Magnus, Jasmine, Naomi
Magnus, Jasmine, Naomi, Krystal, Erik

Monday, July 05, 2010

woodbadge

Books from Wood Badge lessons

Key texts used during Wood Badge for the 21st Century

Please note that during the course there will be be presentation handouts for all topics and notetaking will be highly recommended.  However, if you're not much of a notetaker, please realize that many parts of the curriculum are licenced and/or copyrighted by Ken Blanchard or others.  Therefore, getting hardcopy of some information will require you to purchase a book.  The most requested book on the course is The One Minute Manager Builds High Performing Teams .

Saturday, June 19, 2010

funny joke!

Two snakes are talking One of them turns to the other and asks,"Are we venomous?" The other replays, "Yes,why?..."
"I just bit ma lip."

Friday, June 11, 2010

Hurricane Slacker Mom strikes Southeast Texas Coast town

One home Destroyed in wake of Scout Camp, Swim Team, 4th grade Home school, Small Business Taxes, and invasion of Grandchild, double son-in-law deployment, 1: college, 1: high school, 1: 5th grade

Oh holy hell. House looks like tornado hit. Camp over today. swim season over tomorrow. Life over now. Should take photo of house and save for next year in case I think about volunteering for a 4th year.

End of school year activities at both schools have wiped me out, still have to finish up Magnus's year.

My Magnus fell in love yesterday. Pro Stock Drag Racing - Buddy Nickens Camaro that visited our Cub Scout Day Camp. Magnus sat in the seat of a $300,000 car unsupervised. There is just no way this kid is going to go into racing cars as a hobby!

2009 - Category: PM-OUTLAW, Type: ZN, Class: TPSA, Div: 4 Chevrolet Camaro 1/8 Mile ET: 4.758 at North Star Dragway/Denton TPSA 03/09 | 1/8 Mile MPH: 144.28 at North Star Dragway/Denton TPSA 03/09

Woke up

And wondered what the hell happened to my house.

End of the year at school, scout camp, swim team practices, and portrait sessions.

Looks like a bomb went off here.

Wednesday, June 09, 2010

Cub Scout Day Camp

camp is brilliant

we had a couple of bulls'eyes

forester pin, tool box done, bird feeder done

patrol assignments, patrol animal (bald Eagle) and patrol flag made

buckets and frame holding up nicely

BTW

I have a FANTASTIC 11 year old Den Chief

and I have no idea how a patrol would be successful without one he is fantastic

I still walked 14,618 steps today

Wow

I didn't know that http://www.coolquiz.com/trivia/explain/docs/mile.asp

Thursday, June 03, 2010

Can Not Call Surgeon Back

I feel like a failure. I get on the scale and I want to cry. I pull on the clothes that I could pull off without unbuttoning last year and I want to cry.

what happened? first off, people do not change. if they were worriers before, they will be worriers again. if they were stress-o-phobics before, they will be again. what do I do? I put everyone else before me. I am so afraid of being selfish that I sabotage my own health. why? I do not know, because it is easier?

It is easier to empty the dishwasher than to argue with the kids to do it. I hire people to mow the lawn, because it is easier than fighting with the kids to do it and I know that I would juts mow it myself if I didn't hire it out.

so about my health, getting down to the crux of the situation: stress and oxytocin, definitely part of it. Kirkland Trail Mix definitely part of it. diabetes and hypoglycemia most definitely part of it. homeschooling with Magnus and Jordan not helping matters, I rarely "get out of the house" or away from my desk, but that could be an excuse and I am just not in the mood to get away from my desk.

Moving, I put on a Pedometer and I walk 11475 steps a day...
I keep track of what I eat at MyPyramid:

Friday, May 14, 2010

I just need about 4 more hours in a day


I swear I am losing my mind these days. it has just been crazy here, it was much more so when your grandma and grandpa Sherman were here, but even now with Erik, Magnus and Jordan it is still busy.

Today, I woke up, made Erik a turkey, cheese and lettuce sandwich for lunch. he likes to have a chocolate chip protein bar and a chocolate milk for lunch. He eats toast for breakfast. I fill his water bottle up each morning so that he doesn't get thirsty all day. I brushed his hair, and he made it to the bus on time. The bus comes at 7:32 am

I made Jordan a breakfast of milk and sliced apples. I have a slicer that takes the core out at the time, it doesn't waste much using that tool. Sometimes, I put peanut butter on the plate for Jordan to dip his apples into. Magnus doesn't eat breakfast until closer to 10 am.

Then I have to make papa and me some coffee, I like a scoop of chocolate in mine with some cream and sugar. I usually have a cheese stick for breakfast.

I print out some coloring sheets for Jordan to work on, and then it is time for Magnus and I to start on his Math. He is learning how to multiply, divide and about fact families. Science is his very favorite subject, writing is the one that he dreads.

I had to turn on the soaker hoses since it has been so hot and the grass is starting to dry up, it is starting to turn all brown from the heat and sunshine. Today we played putt putt golf, and had pizza with our local congressman. We played with a bunch of other home schooled children today, Magnus was nervous at first, but after a couple of hours, he was running and playing and didn't want to leave. but we had to.

we had to get the car alarm fixed at the mechanic shop. and then we had to drop off a package for photos for a customer. and then we had to drop off a case of pop at Erik's school for the Parent Teacher Organization fund raiser tomorrow night. we had to stop at the store and pick up some chocolate chips because Papa ATE all of the ones that I had set aside to make cookies tomorrow. he is just crazy.

We picked Erik up early so that he could get changed into his scout clothes before we met up with his den go to on a long hike along the creek. it was just like when you go on walks with us down by the river. And guess what? Magnus, Erik and Jordan picked blackberries and ate them while we were out hiking. how crazy is that? you do not get blackberries until the first week of august and we have them here the second week of May. Thank goodness we took water bottles because it was crazy hot here, it was pretty close to 90'F today and I was melting.

We had to hurry back so that we could stop at the library to get Erik some books that he has reserved, he is reading Japanese animae and learning how to draw the characters. we had to really really rush so that Erik could make it to swim practice by 5 pm, he has to swim and swim and swim, a whole bunch of laps. it makes him really really tired but he is getting much faster each time he works on it. he can swim butterfly, backstroke, breast stroke and freestyle.

after swim practice, we went to the park so that Magnus and Jordan could swing and play on the toys. they got to play with the two boys that live across the street from our house, Nicholas is one year younger than Magnus and Sean is one year older than Jordan. Finally we had to go home and do you know what Sverre had done? he had made spaghetti and it was really really good. everyone had some and Erik had two plates full.

Today everyone got a shower. Magnus and Erik took REALLY REALLY long ones. I think that they ran all the water out taking such long showers. I had to snuggle with Jordan in my lap for 10 minutes before he went to bed and Magnus was so upset over something that I had to snuggle him to sleep, and that took forever.

I was able to get on the computer and edit some images for my clients, and get some orders printed and shipped. That is pretty much how every day goes, busy busy busy.

Sunday, May 09, 2010

Happy Mother's Day

Things My Mother Taught Me
1. My mother taught me TO APPRECIATE A JOB WELL DONE.
"If you're going to kill each other, do it outside. I just finished cleaning."

2. My mother taught me RELIGION.
"You better pray that will come out of the carpet."

3. My mother taught me about TIME TRAVEL.
"If you don't straighten up, I'm going to knock you into the middle of next week!"

4. My mother taught me LOGIC.
"Because I said so, that's why."

5. My mother taught me MORE LOGIC.
'If you fall out of that swing and break your neck, you're not going to the store with me."

6. My mother taught me FORESIGHT.
"Make sure you wear clean underwear, in case you're in an accident."

7. My mother taught me IRONY.
"Keep crying, and I'll give you something to cry about."

8. My mother taught me about the science of OSMOSIS.
"Shut your mouth and eat your supper."

9. My mother taught me about CONTORTIONISM.
"Will you look at that dirt on the back of your neck!"

10. My mother taught me about STAMINA.
"You'll sit there until all that spinach is gone."

11. My mother taught me about WEATHER.
"This room of yours looks as if a tornado went through it."

12. My mother taught me about HYPOCRISY.
"If I told you once, I've told you a million times. Don't exaggerate!"

13. My mother taught me the CIRCLE OF LIFE.
"I brought you into this world, and I can take you out."

14. My mother taught me about BEHAVIOUR MODIFICATION.
"Stop acting like your father!"

15. My mother taught me about ENVY.
"There are millions of less fortunate children in this world who don't have wonderful parents like you do."

16. My mother ! taught me about ANTICIPATION.
"Just wait until we get home."

17. My mother taught me about RECEIVING.
"You are going to get it when you get home!"

18. My mother taught me MEDICAL SCIENCE.
"If you don't stop crossing your eyes, They are going to freeze that way."

19. My mother taught me ESP.
"Put your sweater on; don't you think I know when you are cold?"

20. My mother taught me HUMOUR.
"When that lawn mower cuts off your toes, don't come running to me."

21. My mother taught me HOW TO BECOME AN ADULT.
"If you don't eat your vegetables, you'll never grow up."

22. My mother taught me GENETICS.
"You're just like your father."

23. My mother taught me about my ROOTS.
"Shut that door behind you. Do you think you were born in a barn?"

24. My mother taught me WISDOM.
"When you get to be my age, you'll understand."

25. My mother taught me about JUSTICE.
"One day you'll have kids, and I hope they turn out just like you!"

26. And my favorite: My mother taught me about INTEREST.
"everything that you go away with, you will pay for with interest with those kids that are now running around YOU.

Sunday, May 02, 2010

Woodbadge SR1024


yes, I have crossed over to the dark side. I am now in the final stages of my woodbadge.

vision statement is written.
training is over.
campfire skit is sung
project is complete and presented
tents are folded and chuck box inventory is complete
ticket is written

I am EXHAUSTED.

BTW:
Wee wee wee wee wee wee wee wee
wee wee wee wee wee wee wee wee wee wee
When I was just a wee wee tot,
My mama took me from my wee wee cot,
She put me on my wee wee pot,
To see if I would wee or not.
Wee wee wee wee wee wee wee wee
wee wee wee wee wee wee wee wee wee wee
But when she found that I would not,
She took me from my wee wee pot,
She put me back in my wee wee cot,
And I gave her all I'd got.
Wee wee wee wee wee wee wee wee
wee wee wee wee wee wee wee wee wee wee

Thursday, April 22, 2010

Monday, April 19, 2010

Hungry

Sverre made me a wrap yesterday, Green Leaf Lettuce, Grilled Chicken sprinkled with Carroll Shelby spice (Cumin, onion, garlic) I tried to get him to consider cheese and ranch dressing.

Now I am hungry for some

Homemade beef noodle soup
beef stew with carrots, onions, bean sprouts and flat rice noodles
Ingredients

For the Broth:

For The Bowls:


Preparation

Start by sticking the whole cloves into the onion. Place onion and ginger root on grill and lightly char. We are not trying to burn here, more like grilling the pieces so don't rush this part. You can also do this over a burner or under a low broil setting in the oven. Just keep watch over them so they don't burn. When charred, set aside.

Combine the coriander seeds, star anise, and cinnamon stick in a small skillet. Toast the spices over medium heat tossing and stirring gently ever so often so they do not burn. Do this until slightly browned and fragrant. Set aside.

In a large pot (I use an 8 qt stock pot which is just barely big enough) place the bones and enough cold water to cover. Bring to a boil and boil vigorously for about 4 minutes. Turn heat off and pour bones, beef shank and water into a colander and drain bones. Wash pot out completely and dry. Carefully rinse off bones and shank of any scum or impurities with cool water and place back in pot. Fill again with cool water and add the ginger, onion, yellow rock sugar, fish sauce and spices and bring back to a boil. Turn heat down immediately and simmer for an hour. Remove beef shank after one hour and submerse in a bowl of cold water (I add ice to make it really cold). This will congeal the fat and juices in the beef. Let cool for about 15 minutes and drain, wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate.

Keep simmering the rest of the broth for about 3 hours more. the actual simmer time depends on patience. There are stories told of traditional Vietnamese cooking methods that let this broth simmer for 24 hours over charcoal fires. I would do this as well, if I had a decent charcoal fire and 24 hours to watch it. When the simmering is complete, turn off your heat and using a slotted spoon, remove bones, spices, onion and garlic and discard them. Strain the broth through a fine mesh strainer (use cheese cloth if your strainer isn't fine enough) and after the pot has cooled a bit, place pot of strained broth into the refrigerator. The next day, you will notice some of the fat has congealed on the top of the broth. Skim the fat off with spoon and discard. Your broth is now ready to be used. It can be frozen for a later use, or used right away.

Okay, at this point you should have what amounts to a stockpot of broth that has been skimmed of it's fat. Sometimes the broth will take on the characteristic of Jello when it's chilled, which is a good thing. It means that you were able to extract all of the good stuff from the bones which directly relates to flavor.

Begin by heating the broth. Meanwhile, assemble a garnish plate of the sprouts, cilantro, basil, peppers, and limes. I use a standard size dinner plate but you can do this on smaller plates for each person if you choose. On another plate I usually squeeze off enough Sriracha and Hoisin Sauce to cover each half of a small plate for each guest. This way the can dip whatever they want without fear! You may also leave the bottles on the table for refilling. Place the sliced onion in a small shallow bowl and cover with the vinegar. Place a pinch of salt and stir gently. You can do this ahead of time by as much as an hour or so and let sit at room temp.

Cook the noodles as per the instructions. Rice noodles cook slightly different than Americanized pasta so if it's your first time, you need to pay attention to cooking times and doneness. I usually cook them by boiling water and the pouring the water over the noodles in a bowl and then letting them sit for about ten to fifteen minutes. Then I rinse them under cold water and drain keeping them close at hand for serving. If you use this method, you want to make sure you have pot of boiling water at hand to quickly re-heat the noodles prior to plating (or bowling as the case may be). You can also use this boiling water to pre-heat your bowls because no one likes a cold bowl of pho.

Before you assemble the bowls, drain the onions. Add to the bowl some of the re-heated noodles on the bottom, some of the now pickled white onions, sliced cooked beef, sliced raw beef, and some of the scallions. Add the very hot broth to the bowl. This will cook the beef giving it a slight gray appearance.

Eating pho is a personal process. Some add sauces such as fish, Sriracha, or Hoisin directly to the broth. Add a few leaves of basil and cilantro at a time. Adding to many cool things will cool the broth so use your herbs wisely.


Cuisine: Vietnamese Main Ingredient: Beef

Friday, April 16, 2010

Meat Loaf "Muffins"

1 teaspoon olive oil
1 cup finely chopped
onion
1/2 cup finely-chopped carrot
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2
garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 pounds ground beef, extra lean
1 cup ketchup, divided
1 cup finely crushed fat-free saltine crackers (about 20) or fine
bread crumbs
2 tablespoons prepared mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper
Salt to taste
2 large
egg whites, lightly beaten
Cooking spray

meatloaf muffins ready to bakePreheat oven to 350°F. Spray 12 muffin cups with non-fat cooking spray.

Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, carrot, oregano, and garlic, and sauté 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let onion mixture cool.

In a large bowl, combine onion mixture, ground beef, 1/2 cup ketchup, crushed crackers or bread crumbs, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, pepper, salt, and eggs. NOTE: I like to use my hands for mixing meatloaf.

Spoon meat mixture into prepared muffin cups. Top each with 2 teaspoons ketchup. Bake at 350° for 25 minutes or until a
meat thermometer registers 160°F. Remove from oven and let stand 5 minutes.

Tuesday, April 06, 2010

Sensory Processing Disorder

Good news... Your frustration and confusion about your child - who may have Sensory Processing Disorder - is almost over!

Finally!... A thorough explanation and a name for the behaviors and developmental concerns that exist - which seemed almost impossible to understand or cope with.

When parents first find out about sensory processing disorders, their reaction usually comes as: a "flash", a "light bulb moment", the "Aha!", "So that explains it!", "Oh, so now I understand!", "Why didn't someone tell me about this years ago?"

1. Hypersensitivity To Touch (Tactile Defensiveness)

__ resists friendly or affectionate touch from anyone besides parents or siblings (and sometimes them too!)

__ dislikes kisses, will "wipe off" place where kissed

__ prefers hugs

__ a raindrop, water from the shower, or wind blowing on the skin may feel like torture and produce adverse and avoidance reactions

__ may overreact to minor cuts, scrapes, and or bug bites

__ resists brushing teeth and is extremely fearful of the dentist

__ avoids touching certain textures of material (blankets, rugs, stuffed animals)

__ refuses to wear new or stiff clothes, clothes with rough textures, turtlenecks, jeans, hats, or belts, etc.

__ is a picky eater, only eating certain tastes and textures; mixed textures tend to be avoided as well as hot or cold foods; resists trying new foods

__ complains about having hair brushed; may be very picky about using a particular brush

__ excessively ticklish

__ distressed about having face washed

__ distressed about having hair, toenails, or fingernails cut

3. Poor Tactile Perception And Discrimination:

__ may be afraid of the dark

__ continues to mouth objects to explore them even after age two

1. Hypersensitivity To Movement (Over-Responsive):

__ may physically cling to an adult they trust

__ may have disliked being placed on stomach as an infant

__ bites or sucks on fingers

1. Hypersensitivity To Sounds (Auditory Defensiveness):

__ fearful of the sound of a car wash, cafeteria noise, classroom noise, car radio too loud

__ frequently asks people to be quiet; i.e., stop making noise, talking, or singing

__ runs away, cries, and/or covers ears with loud or unexpected sounds

Social, Emotional, Play, And Self-Regulation Dysfunction:

Social:

__ prefers playing by self with objects or toys rather than with people

__ does not seek out connections with familiar people

Emotional:

__ difficulty accepting changes in routine (to the point of tantrums)

__ gets easily frustrated

__ functions best in small group or individually

__ variable and quickly changing moods; prone to outbursts and tears

__ prefers to play on the outside, away from groups, or just be an observer

__ difficulty appropriately making needs known

Play:

__ difficulty with imitative play (over 10 months)

__ wanders aimlessly without purposeful play or exploration (over 15 months)

Tuesday, March 09, 2010

Back to Basics

I got my wake up call about two years ago, the weight was going up, but only a pound a month, no big deal right. I hit the snooze button

I got another wake up call when I couldn't comfortably get into my sexy jeans, no big deal right. I hit the snooze button

I went on vacation and got blisters and open sores where my waist band rubbed my tummy over Christmas break. I started skipping desert, but no big deal right. I hit the snooze button.

For me, it seems that March is my magical month that I need to DO SOMETHING. it was in 2006 when I made a choice, and it was in 2010 when I had to REALLY make a choice.

for some reason I was thinking that if I never stretched my pouch, I would never have to DIET again right? grrr

so naturally, I like to used my hypoglycemia as an excuse to graze, after all, I have issues, right? well, the more I cut back on SIMPLE carbs, and incorporate more Proteins, I am seeing less peaks and valley's and while I am still eating about 3 snacks and 3 meals a day, I am still keeping under my daily calorie goal.

Now I didnt move that much when I was first post op, but I did move, it was so much easier to just think that I could coast, but I rode a bike once in a while, I did walk, once in a while, I did go out and hang up laundry, once in a while, and all that did add up, whereas in the last year, I have been hiding behind my computer, holed up in the school room, and avoiding people.

Excuses? I do not have a car, I can not leave. I am going through menopause and I do not want to go out and talk to people. I do not have money, I can not buy anything. i am homeschooling my child, he needs to be home studying. I have my grand child and he can not ride a bike with me. all EXCUSES.

I could ride when the dad comes home. I could do something about the mess that is climbing up around my ears. so now I have shared my spiel and it is time for me to leave you and go declutter this house.

by the way, cutting back and making small changes this week, I had an unusually good week. -5 lbs. this week. I will most likely plateau, but eventually it will go down as we all know.

Saturday, March 06, 2010

THIS IS SO STINKING HARD!

you know, I would never have even concieved that I was a food a holic but the stress over the last 2 years had completely done me in.

I have regained 30 lbs past my goal weight, not the lowest weight, we will not even GO THERE.

I have restarted fit day and I brought out the scales and the itty bitty bowls and am recording and evaluating my life style down to the gram.

Calories
975

Fat 58.9 523 55 %
Carbohydrate 81.3 310 32 %
Protein 30.8 121 13 %

I struggled all day with snacking and portions and desperately hated every moment of it.

there is no excuse, not the 3 year old that can not walk as fast or as far, not the bike that doesn't have a trailer hitch, not the hypoglycemia that spins my world without notice, it was SUCH a HARD day. I was tired and angry and frustrated with myself all day. and let me be the first to say that menopause sucks, I am swathed in wool and freezing to death and it is a balmy 49F outside. I am miserable.

I already paid for this tool, the first year could have killed me, and the tool works I just do not seem to be able to completely break away from the cycle of stress eat gain stress eat gain. part of me hates that I have to revisit portions and wow did I have a moment when I had to start measuring yesterday. I had been okay with most of my portions but I was able to sneak in extras. Now with fitday I am tracking and keeping the portions down and of course this site has back to basics since we are not alone and that is free. I like free.

4 years ago I had surgery and beat my goal.

today I am not not able to get into the fat pants that I had for after goal. it has been a crushing realization for me. I am headed back up and find it all to easy to excuse each pound that I pack on.

yesterday, I made a choice, and going back to the basics and using fitday and finding things to do outside of the house and away from the computer so that I am not watching the clock all the time waiting for my next snack.

I have regained 30 lbs over my goal weight. fortunately, I never abused my pouch, so I am good there, I just have to watch my portions, dodge my snacks, and cut out all the fluffy carbs. I know the drill, but I do not want to go it alone

vitamins.. fluids.. and distractions.. I just need to counteract all the stress of an extra large family and the tendency to put out each fire before seeing to my own needs and that was right where I was this time four years ago. letting the kids dictate the emergency instead of my putting my own oxygen mask on first.

happy to say that my house is now freshly painted and looks great. and I was able to stay under my target goal of calories today, on top of that the calories burned exceeded the calories consumed. 2 days down, and a million to go. I have given myself 15 weeks to lose the 30 lbs.

it is hard to say no, but when you see so many giving so much, you feel awful if you do not give yourself.

I have a son in law that is preparing for his second tour in Afghanistan, I volunteered to take care of the three year old since my daughter is working two jobs. little did I know that the little pill is THREE and an ONLY child and has been around the Platoon of MARINES for so long that he is now very aggressive, has a little potty mouth on him, and needs to learn the word NO and to be much more civilized before he can be accepted into polite company. he seems to have learned every bad trait of an enlisted person and none of the ones that would have come from his great grandfather that was an officer. it will take me quite some time to bring about a positive change in him. But a change is needed.

I have a special needs daughter, she is screamingly bipolar, she is doing her very best, she is living on her own in another state, going to college full time, coping with a lot of challenges that she can face for the most part 80% of the time in her TIGGER state, and the other 20%, sends her spiraling into a depressed EEYORE state. when she has money, she is the hostess with the mostess, and when she is flat broke, she is desperately depressed. I am helping out with expenses like books but she is responsible for everything else and it is hard to be so tough on her, but if I were to cover ALL of her expenses, she would take advantage of that and take more. But I feel that she will appreciate it more if she has of the hardship of going to college, not just the showing up when she feels like it.

And then there are the boys that are still at home, we are still struggling with all the life lessons that we have to teach. Economy and responsibility, empathy and sympathy, manners and civility. it seems like a never ending battle, but I do not have time to let up and let issues slide. Being active in swimteam, tri-athalon-ing, scouting, and homeschooling, and running a house is a full time job. Even so, I had to let go of a lot of 'volunteering' requests, from church and community was extremely hard, but I had to do it. many assume that a stay-a-home has unlimited time to give, but sadly, that is not the case.

Even today, as I have 1 week to prepare my house for my parents to come for an extended stay ( a couple of months) I have already been up for 2 hours, cleaned two rooms of the house, (kitchen is like a never ending battle) and finally got some me time. I have to constantly evaluate my priorities, what is most important to me, that I am freezing to death, and need some more carbs in my body, or that I need to lose some of the extra pounds? I should just give up and go down stairs and make some oatmeal, accept that this is my life, and eat, even though I have been putting it off for two hours, and I SHOULD be able to go another.

having to choose between being a healthy weight and surviving hypoglycemia and all that entails, being lactose intolerant and the diet restrictions that leaves me with, THIS IS SO STINKING HARD!

Friday, March 05, 2010

UPWARD spiral


My Starting Weight
Start Weight:

Start Date:

My Goal
Goal Weight:

Goal Date:


Your BMI:
28.19

A BMI between 25 and 30 is considered overweight.
The healthy weight range for your height is between
118.1
lbs and
159.6
lbs.
Your weight is 20.4 lbs above the healthy range.
My Goal BMI
23.49

A BMI between 18.5 and 25 is considered healthy.


FOOD INTAKE:
3/4 oz Monterrey Jack cheese
1 oz half & half
20 oz coffee
3 vitamins
1 b12 sublingual
salmon patty
slice of cheese
two leaves of lettuce
22 oz of propel
one half brautworst, no bun
2 oz thuringer
2 calcium chews

total calories intake (consumed): 994
total calories spent (moving): 1594

Thursday, March 04, 2010

declutter

Provident living:
I am married to a European that does not believe in shopping beyond tomorrow, let alone next week or next month or next year, if he had his way, he would buy only for the next two days, drives me absolutely insane. I know what our menu is, I know that we will need XX by Monday Night, why wait to buy it? but he insists. that really does help. know your weekly menu, and while boring, it helps to take the anxiety away.
[Sunday]----[Monday]-----[Tuesday]-----------[Wednesday]---------------[Thursday]--------[Friday]--------[Saturday]
-[Pizza]----[Mac-n-chez]--[Tacos]----[grilled-Chez-n-Tomato-soup]--[Spaghetti]--[fish-n-veggies]--[crepes]
breakfast and lunch are the same, oatmeal and pbj, knowing that this is every single week, cuts down on the grocery bill.

declutter:
I can not stress how much easier my life became when I let go, and gave it all away. I was a stash and hoarder as well, I had the next three sizes for the kids, and yes, I saved a lot of money by recycling clothes and toys, but I put my health in jeapardy with stress of living in rooms with stuff stuffed and piled and stashed, and it was not healthy for me. my children have spotless rooms because they simply do not have a lot of material possessions and it is so much easier for all of us when I can walk in, and in 5 minutes have it picked up and company ready.

Flylady:
this program took me about 5 years to master, but it was well worth it, I still have hot spots around the house, but not like I had. take a moment and look at your house in the background in family photos, you would be surprised how messy mine was. I am ashamed that I let it get that way, but I didn't understand my mom when she was constantly harping on me to clean my room, exactly what she meant. it was not that things were out, they were, it was not that things were unorganized, they were not organized, but it was that I was storing things that didn't have value to me and had no room for the things that did. I went through and if it didn't have a story, it went and if hadn't been used in the last 18 months, it went. the only things that I have not purged is the books, but even those, I have filtered and donated a lot of the ones that are just not relevant and kept the classics in our library.

age appropriate homeschooling:
It seems to me, and this is just an opinion, worth about $.02, your children are still very young, and are not into the hard core academics yet, so I would work on just the basic basic basics.. reading, writing, and rithmatic. when all else fails, take them to the park. today's Pre-K lesson was a puzzle, and we were done for the day. ;-) our goal today is that I get through it without yelling anymore, and they learn not to scratch, whine, or steal my crackers.

My own battles:
my first kids, the twins, were LIVE WIRES and nearly drove me nuts with their precocious behavior, they were so bored. they needed to run and be free and I needed to take a nap, it is a wonder that we all survived those first 10 years. they were a lot more than I could handle and I still am not sure I was a good mom. but looking back, I was way too involved in their happiness. and too little involved in my own. and seriously, hats off to those moms that are 'dedicated' to their children's happiness, but I think (and this is my own irreverent interpretation) too many kids today have been led to believe that everyone will constantly and consistently put thier needs first because their parents made it a life long goal and seriously. That may be doing them a disservice. my husband's boss couldnt care less if he is happy and fulfilled at work. and in all seriously, when he looks at me that he is not happy at work, I tell him to suck it up and walk it off, we need the paycheck and until he force him out the door with his last check in his hand, he is going to go t work and keep money coming in to pay for luxuries like toilet paper and soap. I will do without a dryer, a car, and meat each week, but I strongly believe that it is not just my entitlement to stay home with my kids, but my duty. he may think that he wants me to go to work, but he truly doesn't want my job. to his credit, he does cook 5 nights a week, he does do laundry every weekend, and he will go to the store twice a week, but when it comes to homework, public or home schooled, activities, and play dates, parties and scouts, he is uninvolved and that will not cut it.

So frequently I forget to put myself first, to make sure that I am getting enough rest, that I am getting the right nutrition. and the right amount of mental health days. my work is not my hobby ad my kids are not my work. I need to get out and get away. sadly, I lost all my girls night out buddies and I seriously need to get a new group before I loose my mind and my fragile grip on reality. today I took some time, took a shower, didnt care if the house burnt down just so long as they left me alone to wash. it was a shock how much better I felt after I plucked out the greys, and washed what was left. I am not nearly as angry and I made it another hour.

Wednesday, March 03, 2010

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

PBS

two stations for Houston:
8.1 more kid friendly
8.2 more craft friendly
I swear, you could get a college degree just watching PBS... it is amazing how much stuff is in there...

Monday, February 01, 2010

stinking menapause

Magnus: had art today, he used clay and made a pokemon ball, painted it with acrylic paint, he and I pedals our bikes 6 miles total. He is ANXIOUS for Jordan to come and stay. we got a full size bed today for them to share.

Erik: had school today, he brought home math, social studies, and spelling for homework. his little buddy Nick is over, but I had to tear him away so that he could get his homework done. he is getting private writing help from the vice principal so that he passes his state exams in April.

Naomi, I have no idea, I have barely been able to get them to answer the phone since her birthday. do not know what thier deal is other than I have not been up there since February so they must be getting peeved at me. but that was thier own fault they said they were sending her here for the summer last year, and then they didn't follow through.

Krystal is working two full time management jobs, taco bell and commissary. she is extremely stressed and cranky. Jason is working extra hours to prepare for Afghanistan, they are putting a lot of stress and pressure on him so that he gets used to it and if he breaks it will not be under combat conditions. Jordan is getting caught in the middle and cries a lot. Krys will leave California at 5 am, arrive here at 2 pm, and fly back out at 3 pm, she will not even leave the gate, just walk off the plane, hand me Jordan and his bag, and get back on and leave. we are starting taxes tonight.

Jasmine is doing really well. she has only missed one lecture due to expecting her room mate to drive her. she now has an unlimited bus pass so that she can come and go and it is all paid for. I do have an alarm that goes to her phone 15 minutes before each class to remind her to stop gabbing and get to class. she was up really late the other night working on math, it was so cute. she has no running vehicle but since she is in town, she can get anywhere now with her pass. it is good for the whole semester for the mountain lion. the neighbors freaked out about her dog, the landlord told her she had 24 hours to get out, she has calmed them all down and is working through it. we are starting taxes tonight.

sverre is in a good mood considering that his boss is no longer with his group and he has a new boss. He adopted / ordered me a new desktop computer and it will be born this week in China and we will finalize the adoption this week. ;)

as for the house, we have acquired a 'full' sized mattress and boxsprings, I thought it would be a FUN project for dad and me to make a LOFT with it so that the dresser could go under it and the mattress ontop, but I will need someone to help hold the boards while I cut them on my fancy smancy table saw.

as for me, flipping menopause.. I was in a MOOD last week, fortunately, it only lasted 5 days. whew. I think I need some iron tablets or liver and onions.

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Zodiac because I don't want to work today

The Archer
November 23 to December 21

Traditional
Sagittarius Traits

Optimistic and freedom-loving
Jovial and good-humored
Honest and straightforward
Intellectual and philosophical

On the dark side....

Blindly optimistic and careless
Irresponsible and superficial
Tactless and restless

Sagittarius About Your Sign...

Sagittarians have a positive outlook on life, are full of enterprise, energy, versatility, adventurousness and eagerness to extend experience beyond the physically familiar. They enjoy travelling and exploration, the more so because their minds are constantly open to new dimensions of thought. They are basically ambitious and optimistic, and continue to be so even when their hopes are dashed. Their strongly idealistic natures can also suffer many disappointments without being affected. They are honorable, honest, trustworthy, truthful, generous and sincere, with a passion for justice. They are usually on the side of the underdog in society they will fight for any cause they believe to be just, and are prepared to be rebellious. They balance loyalty with independence.

Sagittarians are usually modest and are often religious, with a strong sense of morality, though they tend to overemphasize the ethical codes they follow and worship beliefs about God rather than God Himself. This means that, negatively, they regard rigid, unloving, intolerant adherence to ritual and conventional codes as more important than the truths they symbolize or embody. They sometimes pay lip service to religions and political parties in which they have ceased to believe because the outward forms satisfy them, yet they may not hesitate to switch allegiance in politics or change their system of belief if they see personal advantage to themselves in doing so.

They have both profound and widely ranging minds, equipped with foresight and good judgement, and they can be witty conversationalists. They love to initiate new projects (they make excellent researchers) and have an urge to understand conceptions that are new to them. they think rapidly, are intuitive and often original, but are better at adapting than inventing and are at their best when working with colleagues of other types of character that compliment their own. They are strong-willed and good at organizing, a combination that gives them the ability to bring any project they undertake to a successful conclusion. Their generosity can be balanced by their extreme care at handling their resources.

Sagittarians are ardent, sincere and straightforward in love, normally conventional and in control of their sexual natures. Yet if thwarted, they may easily allow their failure to embitter their whole lives or they may revenge themselves upon the opposite sex by becoming cynically promiscuous. They are more apt then the average to make an uncongenial alliance.
If their marriages are successful, they will be faithful spouses and indulgent parents; but their innate restlessness will inspire them to use even the most satisfying ménage as a base from which to set out on their travels. They need to fell free and are often faced with the choice of allowing their careers to take over their lives at the expense of the love of their spouse and family. Sagittarian women are the counterparts of their men; even if they have no career to rival their love, they find it difficult to express affection and may run the risk of being thought frigid.

In other personal relationships they are reliable, seldom betraying any trust given to them. They can, however, be impulsively angry and both male and female Sagittarians know how to be outspoken and exactly what expressions will hurt their adversaries most. On the other hand they are magnanimous in forgiving offenses and are responsible when looking after the elderly in the family.

Their gifts fit Sagittarians for a number of widely differing professions. They are natural teachers and philosophers with a talent for expounding the moral principles and laws which seem to explain the universe. This gift enables them to be successful churchmen on the one hand and scientists on the other. The law and politics also suit them, as does public service, social administration, public relations and advertising. Travel and exploration naturally appeal to such restless souls and, if their opportunities are limited, they may find something of travel and change of scene in the armed forces or through working as a travelling salesman. Others may make fine musicians and, in the days before automobiles, they were said to be successful at horse trading and all activities, including sporting ones, concerning horses. This has been translated in modern terms into an interest in cars and aircraft - and again with emphasis on the sporting side racing, rallying etc. They are said to make good sports coaches, but their tastes in this direction may lead them into imprudent gambling, though the gambling instinct may be sublimated by carrying it out professionally as a bookmaker.

The vices to which Sagittarians are prone are anger they tend to flare up over trifles; impatience - they want to rush every new project through immediately and demand too much of colleagues who cannot work at the pace they require; and scorn of the inadequacies of others while expecting fulsome recognition of their own efforts. They may in one sense deserve recognition, because in completing a major project they will sacrifice their health and family relationships; in their family's eyes they may merit condemnation.

They can be exacting, domineering and inconsiderate in the work place; and boastful, vulgar and extravagant in their private lives. Their restlessness, if excessive, can jeopardize more than their own stability. some Sagittarians risk becoming playboys, wasting their lives away in frivolous pursuits. Others can develop a moralizing, religious fanaticism or else turn into hypocrites, their inner prudishness disguised by an outward appearance of joviality. Another side of the religiosity which is a danger in Sagittarians is superstition.
Possible Health Concerns...

Sagittarius governs the hips, thighs and sacral area; subjects suffer from ailments of the hips and thighs and are liable to sciatica and rheumatism. An alleged deficiency of silicon in their physiques can give them poor skin, nails and hair.

As they are often sportsmen indulging in dangerous pursuits, they are prone to accidents which arise from these. The ancient astrologers mention falls from horses and hurts from them and other four-footed beasts. The taking of risks in other sports is a danger to the modern Sagittarian, and he is also liable to accidents with fire and heat.

horoscopes

* LIKES Traveling
* getting to the heart of the matter
* Freedom
* Laws and meanings
* the general 'feel' of things

* DISLIKES Off the wall theories
* being tied down domestically
* Being constrained
* cooling your heels
* bothered with details

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

who am I

my husband would say that I am a slacker mom

my adult children would say that I am a helicopter mom

my preteen children would say that I am a photographer mom

on a different blog, someone just wrote:
As you go through your day and week at your job, think about the good things that your it provides you – whether it be a sense of accomplishment when you complete a project, the laughs that you share with your co-workers or just the money you take home. Going through life with an appreciative frame of mind can make a world of difference – especially at work! (Note: I do realize that not everyone has a job in the sense I’m referring to. But the same principles apply for those looking for work, going to school or staying home with your kids. Your job is whatever you consider it to be.)

and I had to think about that a minute. What am I and where am I.

what is a slacker mom? I prefer

Zen Mom

How do you do it? Even when explosions are all around, you are able to take a deep cleansing breath and chant your mantra "this too shall pass." You are a calming influence on your kids in a hectic world.

He really just wishes that I had a crappy job that I hated as well and that I made my own spending money and some for him too. heehee good luck with that. I LOVE my job. and it happens to be:

unregistered teacher and learning coach
undocumented chauffeur and navigational expert
unpaid childhood therapist and unorthodox priest
unprofessional nutritionist and physical therapy motivational instructor
plump and not so starving artist and family historian
overzealous activity and travel logistics director
unregistered nurse & medical professional
unmitigated family dispute judge and jury
unlicensed youth guidance counselor and Scout Advancement chairperson
enthusiastic but ineffective family economist
dreaded life skills youth trainer
reluctant hygiene policy maker and enforcer
master nuclear family unit time management coordinator
kitchen and lavatory faerie
outside labor supervisor

and what am a I doing right now? typing this rather than do my job for the day: uncertified public accountant and tax preparer. okay, I have avoided this long enough. back to the books.

Monday, January 04, 2010

Cod Soufflé

Ingredients

For the Roux
30g/1oz butter
30g/1oz flour
400ml/14fl oz milk

For the soufflé
6 egg yolks, beaten
salt and freshly ground black pepper
40g/1½oz butter, softened
110g/4oz White cheese, finely grated
125g/4½oz cod fillet
300ml/11fl oz double cream
8 egg whites (frozen and then thawed)
1 tbsp fresh dill, roughly chopped

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 190C/380F/Gas 5.
2. To make the Roux, melt the butter in a small heavy-based pan over a medium heat.
3. Remove from the heat and stir in the flour. Return the pan to a low heat and cook for two minutes, whisking continuously.
4. Remove from the heat again and add the milk, stirring constantly.
5. Place over a medium heat and bring to the boil, stirring continuously. Reduce the heat and simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring continuously. Allow to cool slightly.
6. For the soufflé, beat the egg yolks into the cheese and season well with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cover with cling film and set aside at room temperature.
7. Meanwhile, line pan with baking paper and spray with cooking spray.
8. Sprinkle a handful of the grated gruyère into the dish, rotating it to coat the insides.
9. Place the cod into a small pan. Add the cream and place over a low heat. When the cream starts to just come to the boil, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for two minutes.
10. Turn off the heat and leave to rest until cool enough to handle, then remove the cod and flake the fish into a bowl with your fingertips, removing any bones you may find. Return the fish to the heated cream.
11. In a clean bowl, whisk the egg whites with a pinch of salt, until soft peaks form when the whisk is removed.
12. Place one third of the egg whites into the roux mixture and stir well.
13. Add the roux and egg white mixture to the bowl of remaining egg whites and fold in very gently, adding the white cheese and dill as you fold.
14. Half-fill prepared soufflé dish with the soufflé mixture, then spoon in equal amounts of the cod and cream mixture.
15. Fill the dish with the remaining soufflé.
16. Place into the oven to cook for 7-8 minutes, or until risen and golden.

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Ongeltveitsjøen, Fjell, Hordaland, Norway

The cultural landscape and society through the ages The trail goes from hamlet to hamlet through an impressive cultural landscape.
The scenery alternates between infelds with farm buildings and small fshing communities, and outlying heathlands.
At Vindenesstraumen, settlements have been found that may be more than 9,000 years old. Finds from the Neolithic Age have been made at both Ã…gotnes and Vindenes. The remains of house foundations in outlying
land at Angeltveit and the cairn on the summit of Spjeldsfjellet probably date from the Viking Era.

Wednesday, December 09, 2009

Things to do In Klein

LOWES KIDS CRAFT
Christmas Ornaments Saturday December 12, 2009 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Pet Treat Keeper Saturday December 19, 2009 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

HOME DEPOT KIDS CRAFT
Wooden Perennial Box Calendar Saturday January 2, 2010 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM

PEARL MUSEUME OF FINE ARTS
Saturday, December 12th
10am-5pm Winter Fun Scene Art Project in the Northgate Conference Room
11:30am Holiday Performance with the Texas Medical Center Orchestra Chamber Players in the Main Gallery. The Chamber Players will play a variety of string and wind ensembles that will perform festive music for the season, both classical pieces and arrangements of popular Christmas carols.
12:30pm Look and Listen Tour with a museum docent in the Main Gallery
1:30pm Winter Scene Art Project
Holiday Performance with the Texas Medical Center Orchestra Chamber Players in the Main Gallery. The Chamber Players will play a variety of string and wind ensembles that will perform festive music for the season, both classical pieces and arrangements of popular Christmas carols.
Immediately Following the Performance: Hot Chocolate and Holiday Goodies in the Museum Lobby

NEXT MUSEUM FAMILY DAYS
Saturday, January 9
Saturday, February 13
Saturday, March 13

BARBARA BUSH LIBRARY
https://host4.evanced.info/harris/evanced/eventcalendar.asp?libnum=3
3rd Mondays: Elementary Book Club
Tuesdays: 4:30 - 5:30 Elementary Science & Games
Wednesdays: 5:30-6:30 Chess Club

JESSE JONES PARK
Saturday, December 12, 10 a.m.-noon. NATURE RANGERS. Kids ages 5-8
Saturday, December 12, 1-3 p.m SECOND SATURDAY SETTLERS: CHRISTMAS CHEER.

Saturday, January 9, 5:30 p.m. PIONEER CAMPFIRE: PEEL AND SQUEAL. campfire-baked potatoes, fixings, & bagpipe
Reservations required beginning Wed., Dec. 30.
Sunday, January 10, 2-4 p.m. SECOND SUNDAY PICKERS. Free folk concert
January 16 and 17, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. ARBOR DAY CELEBRATION. Saturday and Sunday,
Saturday, January 16, 10 a.m PULP TO PAPER. Learn how to make your own paper creation. Reservations required beginning Wed., Jan. 6.
Saturday, January 23, 10 a.m. WOODPECKERS. Learn about the various species of woodpeckers 6+

Saturday, February 6, 7 p.m. STARGAZING. Learn about the planets, stars, and other celestial bodies with the help of the North Houston Astronomy Club. All ages. Reservations required beginning Wed., Jan. 27.
Saturday, February 13, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Homestead Heritage Day (PDF)

F.A.C.E.
A.D. Players presents The Secret Garden
10 a.m., Saturday, January 30, 2010 - Free Children's Concert
ArtsPower presents Jigsaw Jones: The Case of the Class Clown
10 a.m., Saturday, March 27, 2010 - Free Children's Series

MERCER ARBORETUM & BOTANICA GARDENS
Beginner Gardening - Taxonomy, Jan. 13 from noon a.m. to 2 p.m
Gardening CEU: Wildflowers for the Garden. Tue., Jan. 19 from 10 a.m. to noon
Gardening 101. Wed., Feb. 10 from noon to 2 p.m.
Japanese Maples. Sat., Feb. 13 from 10 a.m. to noon.
Continuing Education: Vegetable Gardening. Tue., Feb. 16 from 10 a.m. to noon.

Monday, November 23, 2009

Movie night

EUReKA...

The 'kids' are in the first season of eureka with collin ferguson./oh joy.

Good morning from Klein Texas

Today is going to be a good day... too bad that there is only sunshine in the forecast and a 98% chance of housework, but that is life.

(Picture from Motorola Droid)

Sunday, November 22, 2009

love is always patient

Love is patient and kind.

Young men, and aaronic priesthood have a duty to God.

Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is an adult he will not depart from that path.

Magnify your calling

Thursday, November 19, 2009

first post from the droid







This could prove to be complicated. Edit html works but compose in wyswyg, not so much.

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

crappy economy

btw.. anyone noticed that there is a recession? a depression? two more of our acquaintances have lost their jobs yesterday. That is just freaking horrible. Makes me nauseated to think about what would happen.

I talked to the CFO of the house, we have 6 months in reserve and we have 6 months severance package if something were to go wrong. still freaks me out.

I just worry about what we as commoners are going to do to survive it. The one family has enough money to stay in their house until the end of December 2009. I do not think that we are anywhere near out of the woods yet by a long shot. I look at where my kids are and it is definitely affecting them negatively.

The one in college is getting a school backpack for Christmas. the one with a baby is getting work shoes for Christmas. we are practical as always.

Case in point dd#1 called asking for a loan to buy deer tags, dd#2 called asking for loan for Rx copay for bronchitis. I do not think that this will get better soon. DH at HP has lost many of his group in last 12 months. something like one in November, two in December, one in May, one in June and now two in November.

We have always been miserly, since I opted to stay home with the kids since 1999, be even more so, we are buckling down, pairing down our services, cutting back on power consumption, food consumption, clothing allowance, no extras.

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

That is It!

I am exhausted and I am gonna go to bed. cold Lunches, Homeschool, Math, Spelling, Social Studies, Science, Language, Vocabulary, attendance, Chess Club, Scouts, Geology, Rank & Achievements, Grocery Shopping, Proofing, Missing the DAMN FEDEX man, Ordering, Credit Card Processing, Custom Collages, Operating Systems that refuse to POP UP, websites that refuse to let me edit them, Custom Cropping, Digital Keychains, Kids and Finances, Kids and Sniffles, Freezing my ever loving tush off, cleaning the house, dishes, beds, locating missing DS's, solving European Voltage issues, NO MORE. I can not take one more thing today. I give up.

Monday, November 16, 2009

Thursday, November 05, 2009

weight.. weight. weight.

Happy Thursday? One off to school, four still not out of bed. I woke up at the butt-crack of dawn, decided to get to 'work' before teaching today. fun. homeschooling is very difficult, time consuming, morale busting work.

I am probably severely dehydrated but for some reason just can not get the fluids down that I need to, so the weight has crept up to +20 of my goal which is irritating me.
I did get new vits, I am forcing myself to eat breakfast, last night I had a HORRIBLE glucose reaction, had to have three gulps of OJ and then two cheese sticks to stabilize (blood sugar was 52). I had been grazing during the evening, so had no idea why it plummeted. didn't feel a spike from the dry cereal that I had after dinner (dinner was asparagus and mac-n-cheese and a tossed green salad.

so I jumped jump rope yesterday, that was hysterical, nearly peed my pants it was so hard, PITIFUL, I better stick to bike riding. ;-) we are going camping in two weeks, cub scouts rule.