Oy! Yesterday was along one. The family is coming home from their camping trip today. I have done a ton of scrapbooking. It has been fantastic. I haven't scrapbooked in a long long time, too long. And, I definitely found my love of it again.
About 3pm I heard 'screaming.' I thought it was the bird, listened again, and discovered it was coming from Kassie downstairs. OMG, I went running. Her eye popped out. I was shaking and crying and panicing. I grabbed her and the car keys and called the vet. Who, even though they are open on Sunday, were closed. I guess it happened 10 minutes too late. ugh.
So, off to the emergency vet. That is in North Portland, which I do not know at all. I called and got directions. I drove the convertable into the grass in our yard as I pulled out of the garage. Did I mention I was a little upset? Freaked out might be more honest. I was so scared.
The vet's office gave me the wrong directions, so I drove almost to Washington, back to the zoo, and then connected with Mike and mapquest. Thank God he got me there. Did I mention I was pretty upset and scared? Anyway, they did surgery. It cost way less than the price quote. Yea. And I brought Kassie home about 10:30 last night. Between the eye drops and the pain killer, there are a lot of things going on. So, I didn't sleep too well. I am pretty sure Kassie didn't either though.
Anyway, it will be a few weeks before we know how her sight is... but thankfully the rest of her is OK. She looks like she has been through a war, but she will look normal again. Ahhh the joys of pets. They are like our kids, they make our hearts hurt.
Monday, July 30, 2007
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Hadn't done this in over 20 years....
I discovered that while I had printed the two big 2005 vacations, I had never printed pictures from the other stuff... ya know, birthday, back to school, etc...
So, I uploaded 100 pictures to riteaid.com and headed over to pick them up. When I came out of the store, about 8:30 pm, the front passenger side tire was FLAT. So, I was annoyed (of course) but decided to walk down the strip mall to Target and get some fix-a-flat. Yea, I know it is bad for my tire.... but, it was dusk and I wanted to get home and scrapbook. It is so great when the DH and DS's are out of town!
Well, needless to say the fix a flat stuff oozed out at about the same speed it oozed in! Ugh. So, I was going to have to do it, change the tire. Now, this is not my car, it is my husband's baby. His red mustang convertible. He loves this car, and has her picture on his phone. (I won't go there!) Anyway, I was able to remember enough to actually change the tire. As I was mounting the spare two young men came by and volunteered to help. LOL So, I let them screw in the lug nuts. I turned down the jack, jumped in the car--very dirty-- and drove home.
Thankfully Les Schwab was able to fix me up this morning. So, I should still be able to go to the beach and crop this weekend. LOL
So, now I won't be able to say next time, "I haven't done this in over 20 years!" Yea me! Oh, and dh (from his cell phone) suggested I call someone. Yea, NOT patient enough to wait. I have pictures to scrapbook. I am adding two that I found that I love from the first day of school in 2005. Casey was 9 and Alec was 11.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Five Things
Here are five things that you may, or may not, know about me already.
1. When Mike and I got engaged (1988) I told him I had to ALWAYS have a pekingese in my life. As you could figure, he agreed. Kassie is the 11th pekingese I have had in my lifetime. Yes, I said 11th!
2. My father told me I could be anything, but warned against going into teaching. I taught high school math for 12 years! OOPS.
3. My father also told me, just before he died, that communication was the most important thing. Many people have laughed at that over the years. But, now I realize he was absolutely right. He died in 1985. I miss him everyday, but still agree that communication is critical.
4. I spent 3 weeks at Georgetown University at debate camp when I was 15. It was the experience of a lifetime. I actually was on the debate team for four years in high school.
5. Napping is my favorite hobby. I would like to say it is scrapbooking, or stamping.... but, the truth it I will always choose an afternoon nap first. There is nothing like it!
So, there are some things about me!
1. When Mike and I got engaged (1988) I told him I had to ALWAYS have a pekingese in my life. As you could figure, he agreed. Kassie is the 11th pekingese I have had in my lifetime. Yes, I said 11th!
2. My father told me I could be anything, but warned against going into teaching. I taught high school math for 12 years! OOPS.
3. My father also told me, just before he died, that communication was the most important thing. Many people have laughed at that over the years. But, now I realize he was absolutely right. He died in 1985. I miss him everyday, but still agree that communication is critical.
4. I spent 3 weeks at Georgetown University at debate camp when I was 15. It was the experience of a lifetime. I actually was on the debate team for four years in high school.
5. Napping is my favorite hobby. I would like to say it is scrapbooking, or stamping.... but, the truth it I will always choose an afternoon nap first. There is nothing like it!
So, there are some things about me!
Zoom zoom zoom
Wow, this summer is zooming by! I can not believe July is almost over. I am getting ready to head to Puyallup WA in a couple of days for a stamp/scrapbook show. I really enjoy doing these shows. It is fun to meet new people and be a part of something big! =-)
The boys spent last week in OMSI camp, and we spent the week before in Seaside. The weather in Seaside over the 4th was amazing. I even got a sunburn. It was great to see our friends and spend the holiday on the beach. It is such a crazy place to be. Fireworks everywhere. Yet, once again we all made it out alive! Yikes.
OMSI camp (Oregon Museum of Science and Industry) was a forensic science camp. Unfortunately it was not the most organized camp, but for the first time the boys got to go together (both middle school age). It really gave Casey an opportunity to see what Alec goes through daily. He got picked on a bunch, and sadly the 'teachers' didn't seem to know what to do. They did learn a bunch about forensic science though.
This week I am getting ready for my show in WA. Like I said, wow it is all going so fast. I do have three projects planned.
I am also getting my books in for our unit contest. I have a few people coming to judge. The entries are great, so I think it will be a hard decision!
The boys spent last week in OMSI camp, and we spent the week before in Seaside. The weather in Seaside over the 4th was amazing. I even got a sunburn. It was great to see our friends and spend the holiday on the beach. It is such a crazy place to be. Fireworks everywhere. Yet, once again we all made it out alive! Yikes.
OMSI camp (Oregon Museum of Science and Industry) was a forensic science camp. Unfortunately it was not the most organized camp, but for the first time the boys got to go together (both middle school age). It really gave Casey an opportunity to see what Alec goes through daily. He got picked on a bunch, and sadly the 'teachers' didn't seem to know what to do. They did learn a bunch about forensic science though.
This week I am getting ready for my show in WA. Like I said, wow it is all going so fast. I do have three projects planned.
I am also getting my books in for our unit contest. I have a few people coming to judge. The entries are great, so I think it will be a hard decision!
Saturday, July 7, 2007
A little behind....

I had soooo much fun in Florida! I got to meet my 2nd downline Leah and see my downline Sue and Penny. It was great to see all of these ladies. We got to spend some fun time together eating awesome food & laughing. It was wonderful. Seems like I get to Florida about every other year. I helped Susan with her Tampa expo. It was HOT, and really fun. I loved setting up someone elses booth and not having all of the responsibillity. Hehehehehe.
When I got home from Florida it was the last week of school. This year went so fast. It is hard to believe we have lived in Hillsboro for a year now. Wow, time flies.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Back from Alaska
Just back from my 3rd CTMH cruise I noticed a few things. First, about half of the cruisers were first time earners. There were 93 cruise earners this year, and 83 actually cruised. The other 10 took the money! LOL You can be a first time earner next year. I KNOW this for certain.
There is a BIG difference between the consultants on the BB who congratulate people on "winning" the cruise and the consultants on the ship who talk about how they "earned" the cruise. There is no one there by accident. Everyone talks about how they schedule time every day for CTMH. Different ladies talk about clubs, workshops, gatherings, and expos. Most do a mix of all of them. Usually one stands out as a money maker, and they try to do more.
Kristine Whidfeldt, VP of Sales and Marketing, talked about the proper life balance. I found it very interesting! She said that the happiest people (a study) spend 35% of their time sleeping (or resting), 50% of their time working (including housework and any kidwork), and 15% of their time playing. Playing would include creating scrapbook pages and cards. Now, don't forget....TV time counts in that 15%! It really reinforced to me how important it is to make a plan and work your plan. I wish I could tell you how much I believe this. If you want to work one event a week, put it on your calendar and then work to make it happen. I am in no way suggesting you bully your friends or family. But, ask them if they are interested, and if they say no ask them if they know someone who would be. Almost everyone can come up with ONE person to hook you up with.
We sailed from Seattle on a rainy Sunday afternoon. The evening started with a CTMH reception where we all enjoyed drinks and snacks compliments of CTMH. In our balcony stateroom was a plate of cheese and a bottle of wine with Bon Voyage wishes. At the reception each consultant introduced herself and her guest.
Monday was a cruising day, as we moved toward Juneau. The weather was a little yucky, but we still explored the ship. On Monday morning there was a informational meeting for all of the consultants and their guests. It concluded with a 1 vs 100 type game. My guest won $3 for me in select product credit! woohoo It was pretty funny.
Monday night we all met in the dining room for dinner. Jeanette and David brought their two daughters this year. They are 11 and 14, beautiful girls. It was neat to meet them. I got a picture that I would share, but I managed to lose the first half of the trip from my camera. So, right now the memory card is at the lab being restored-hopefully! We ended the day with a cool set of binoculars with the CTMH logo as our gift in our stateroom.
Tuesday we docked in Juneau. It was a BEAUTIFUL day. Danielle's friend Buck gave us the grand tour. Mendenhall Glacier was beautiful. We went to a few of her favorite spots from when she lived there and then to Buck's house for dinner. His home was unbelievable, looking over the water. A bald eagle sat in the tree for me all during dinner. WOW. We ended the day with a beautiful briefcase like bag as our gift in our stateroom.
Wednesday it was on to Skagway. Another beautiful day, I was only in jeans and a polo shirt. I did some shopping for the boys and later we took the White Pass Railway up the mountain. It goes up 3000 feet. This was a CTMH sponsored tour. Lovely, and a ton of fun. The pic I shared earlier was from that excursion. I spent a lot of time standing on the outside of the train car. Now, you warm weather gals would not have been with me on that, but it sure was lovely. We ended the day with a lovely gift in our stateroom.
Thursday was both Glacier Bay and our create and take day. The day started in Glacier Bay, where you see ice cubes floating in the water. I think I got a few good pictures that I will share eventually. We made 8 pages with the Majestic Blue Papers. We got three stamp sets, including an exclusive cruiser's set for Alaska. We also got some my accents and ribbons to use and then take home. At the end of the fun (and tiring) time we got a black polar fleece vest with Close To My Heart embroidered on it. Very nice.
Friday was our day in Ketchican. I met a customer that I have there for coffee and she took us around. I got some great eagle shots. WOW. Friday night was our second group dinner. It is always nice to visit, but there is not enough time to meet and spend time with everyone. We ended the day with Caps (Touque's say the Canadian's) and Thermos' with CTMH logo's for both the consultant and her guest.
Saturday it was hard to believe got there so fast. We had a closing reception where we revealed the secret sisters and got information on the Med cruise next year. We said goodbye and then docked in Victoria, BC for our last evening. We walked around downtown and in Beacon Hill Park. Wonderful and warm! We even stopped for some yummy food--although I just had a burger. LOL We ended the day with a charm to remind us of our great time in Alaska.
Sunday was a little more stressful. But, I did like the fact that Seattle is just a 3.5 hour drive home. So, not having to catch a airplane was wonderful.
I hope that you are ALL realizing that you can make your dreams come true with CTMH. I would love to have a group of us cruise the Mediterranean next year. And, I KNOW it can happen. But, it won't be an accident, you will have to work for it.
There is a BIG difference between the consultants on the BB who congratulate people on "winning" the cruise and the consultants on the ship who talk about how they "earned" the cruise. There is no one there by accident. Everyone talks about how they schedule time every day for CTMH. Different ladies talk about clubs, workshops, gatherings, and expos. Most do a mix of all of them. Usually one stands out as a money maker, and they try to do more.
Kristine Whidfeldt, VP of Sales and Marketing, talked about the proper life balance. I found it very interesting! She said that the happiest people (a study) spend 35% of their time sleeping (or resting), 50% of their time working (including housework and any kidwork), and 15% of their time playing. Playing would include creating scrapbook pages and cards. Now, don't forget....TV time counts in that 15%! It really reinforced to me how important it is to make a plan and work your plan. I wish I could tell you how much I believe this. If you want to work one event a week, put it on your calendar and then work to make it happen. I am in no way suggesting you bully your friends or family. But, ask them if they are interested, and if they say no ask them if they know someone who would be. Almost everyone can come up with ONE person to hook you up with.
We sailed from Seattle on a rainy Sunday afternoon. The evening started with a CTMH reception where we all enjoyed drinks and snacks compliments of CTMH. In our balcony stateroom was a plate of cheese and a bottle of wine with Bon Voyage wishes. At the reception each consultant introduced herself and her guest.
Monday was a cruising day, as we moved toward Juneau. The weather was a little yucky, but we still explored the ship. On Monday morning there was a informational meeting for all of the consultants and their guests. It concluded with a 1 vs 100 type game. My guest won $3 for me in select product credit! woohoo It was pretty funny.
Monday night we all met in the dining room for dinner. Jeanette and David brought their two daughters this year. They are 11 and 14, beautiful girls. It was neat to meet them. I got a picture that I would share, but I managed to lose the first half of the trip from my camera. So, right now the memory card is at the lab being restored-hopefully! We ended the day with a cool set of binoculars with the CTMH logo as our gift in our stateroom.
Tuesday we docked in Juneau. It was a BEAUTIFUL day. Danielle's friend Buck gave us the grand tour. Mendenhall Glacier was beautiful. We went to a few of her favorite spots from when she lived there and then to Buck's house for dinner. His home was unbelievable, looking over the water. A bald eagle sat in the tree for me all during dinner. WOW. We ended the day with a beautiful briefcase like bag as our gift in our stateroom.
Wednesday it was on to Skagway. Another beautiful day, I was only in jeans and a polo shirt. I did some shopping for the boys and later we took the White Pass Railway up the mountain. It goes up 3000 feet. This was a CTMH sponsored tour. Lovely, and a ton of fun. The pic I shared earlier was from that excursion. I spent a lot of time standing on the outside of the train car. Now, you warm weather gals would not have been with me on that, but it sure was lovely. We ended the day with a lovely gift in our stateroom.
Thursday was both Glacier Bay and our create and take day. The day started in Glacier Bay, where you see ice cubes floating in the water. I think I got a few good pictures that I will share eventually. We made 8 pages with the Majestic Blue Papers. We got three stamp sets, including an exclusive cruiser's set for Alaska. We also got some my accents and ribbons to use and then take home. At the end of the fun (and tiring) time we got a black polar fleece vest with Close To My Heart embroidered on it. Very nice.
Friday was our day in Ketchican. I met a customer that I have there for coffee and she took us around. I got some great eagle shots. WOW. Friday night was our second group dinner. It is always nice to visit, but there is not enough time to meet and spend time with everyone. We ended the day with Caps (Touque's say the Canadian's) and Thermos' with CTMH logo's for both the consultant and her guest.
Saturday it was hard to believe got there so fast. We had a closing reception where we revealed the secret sisters and got information on the Med cruise next year. We said goodbye and then docked in Victoria, BC for our last evening. We walked around downtown and in Beacon Hill Park. Wonderful and warm! We even stopped for some yummy food--although I just had a burger. LOL We ended the day with a charm to remind us of our great time in Alaska.
Sunday was a little more stressful. But, I did like the fact that Seattle is just a 3.5 hour drive home. So, not having to catch a airplane was wonderful.
I hope that you are ALL realizing that you can make your dreams come true with CTMH. I would love to have a group of us cruise the Mediterranean next year. And, I KNOW it can happen. But, it won't be an accident, you will have to work for it.
Thursday, May 3, 2007
Progress
Two weeks from now I will be watching Alec perform in his dress rehearsal as the star of his middle school play. I am so excited, he will be awesome! The following morning Danielle and I will be headed to Seattle in the rented cargo van full of CTMH stuff! Friday will be set-up day and Saturday and Sunday the Heirloom Expo. Thanks to Mike this is do-able. He is coming up on Sunday to run the show, while we run over to the port and jump on the cruise ship. So, today I went through my 'dinner' clothes and got them in a big ole pile. Tomorrow I hope to do jammies and make a list of the daytime wear. Hopefully I can be packed and ready to go by the Sunday before I leave.... hopefully. That way I can focus on getting the van all loaded, packing my overnight bag for the two nights at the hotel during the expo, getting my demo stuff ready to go. OK, I can't make paragraphs tonight, so I am going to stop writing.... wonder what is up with that?
Wednesday, May 2, 2007
Panic sets in!
LOL Don't you hate it when you realize you have 6 weeks of work and 2 weeks to do it? I hate that! I am sure it will be fine. Just to make sure, however, today I am going to make some lists. I want to be sure I have big lists of what I need to do in May for my family, my home, my expo, and my cruise. Oh, and the day after I get back is Casey's 11th birthday. Oh boy!
So, need a packing list for the cruise. I know I need to buy some slacks for dinner. I haven't even considered looking at the excursions. Maybe my excursion will be sitting on the balcony everywhere. Hmmm, not a bad idea really.
I have been working hard on Aspen's growing barking problem. She was starting to make me crazy! I realized I better start working with her. And, yahoo it is working. She is so loud, I guess German Shepherds are that way. =-)
So, my goal now is to make a plan to get out of town, get downline trained, and get myself to feel READY to roll. Oh yea, and to make sure Mike knows the kids schedules. Motherhood is really keeping a calendar and a list.
So, need a packing list for the cruise. I know I need to buy some slacks for dinner. I haven't even considered looking at the excursions. Maybe my excursion will be sitting on the balcony everywhere. Hmmm, not a bad idea really.
I have been working hard on Aspen's growing barking problem. She was starting to make me crazy! I realized I better start working with her. And, yahoo it is working. She is so loud, I guess German Shepherds are that way. =-)
So, my goal now is to make a plan to get out of town, get downline trained, and get myself to feel READY to roll. Oh yea, and to make sure Mike knows the kids schedules. Motherhood is really keeping a calendar and a list.
Saturday, April 28, 2007
It's 80's day! LOL
Well, one thing about not feeling very well (still) is getting to sit and watch movies all day. I am watching Footloose now, and was watching Breakfast Club earlier. I admit, I did watch the lifetime movie network (my fav) for awhile earlier today.
I don't know what is going on... it is the lung thing again. I am hacking up 'icky stuff.' So, I guess I have to go to Dr Doogie Howser again on Monday. What is up with me that I have had such trouble getting well this year? I guess the emotional stress with everything is taking a toll.... maybe.... or maybe it is just that kind of year for me. At first I was thinking it was allergies, but I don't think so anymore. Boohoo.
Well, beyond that, I have been compiling my downline surveys. I want to know how and when they want to talk with me! And, this is funny, most of them don't! ROFLOL OK, I am good by email. I think it is because it is easier for me to stay on task than on the phone. I get on the phone and get chatty. Not that it is bad to get chatty, but then it is much harder to get the questions answered and brainstorm. Now saying that, it many ways it is easier for me to brainstorm on the phone. Oh brother!
Alec continues to work on his story for his language arts class. Will this ever end? Oh yea, thankfully it is due on Monday so it will end.
OK, back to Footloose.
I don't know what is going on... it is the lung thing again. I am hacking up 'icky stuff.' So, I guess I have to go to Dr Doogie Howser again on Monday. What is up with me that I have had such trouble getting well this year? I guess the emotional stress with everything is taking a toll.... maybe.... or maybe it is just that kind of year for me. At first I was thinking it was allergies, but I don't think so anymore. Boohoo.
Well, beyond that, I have been compiling my downline surveys. I want to know how and when they want to talk with me! And, this is funny, most of them don't! ROFLOL OK, I am good by email. I think it is because it is easier for me to stay on task than on the phone. I get on the phone and get chatty. Not that it is bad to get chatty, but then it is much harder to get the questions answered and brainstorm. Now saying that, it many ways it is easier for me to brainstorm on the phone. Oh brother!
Alec continues to work on his story for his language arts class. Will this ever end? Oh yea, thankfully it is due on Monday so it will end.
OK, back to Footloose.
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Naked Butt
Kassie got her summer haircut today. I always put her in the lion cut for the summer. She really does look like a little lion. I always forget how tiny she is until they shave her back 3/4! Then I remember again, every spring. She looks teriffic, and seems to feel great too.
Aspen and I worked on "no bark" some more today. It finally seems to be working to squirt her with some water. Now I just say "no bark" and pick up the bottle, and she is quiet! Woohoo. I sure hope this works, because she has been getting worse.
Discovered that Alec wasn't being truthful about working on his 'book' project in his Language Arts class (that is what they call English now). So, that took up the better part of the afternoon into evening. The bottom line is now he is working on it, without any help (except to keep him in his room) and doing a great job! He is such a funny boy. So talented, and so stubborn. Oh, maybe he gets that from me.... a little anyway.
Casey is studying for his FOUR tests tomorrow. LOL I have a feeling if 5th grade is like this, I am really in for it during high school. Oh well, he is trying. And, that is important too. Another so talented and so stubborn.... I feel a theme.
Less than a month till cruise time. Woohoo, I am looking forward to a week off! Nite nite!
Aspen and I worked on "no bark" some more today. It finally seems to be working to squirt her with some water. Now I just say "no bark" and pick up the bottle, and she is quiet! Woohoo. I sure hope this works, because she has been getting worse.
Discovered that Alec wasn't being truthful about working on his 'book' project in his Language Arts class (that is what they call English now). So, that took up the better part of the afternoon into evening. The bottom line is now he is working on it, without any help (except to keep him in his room) and doing a great job! He is such a funny boy. So talented, and so stubborn. Oh, maybe he gets that from me.... a little anyway.
Casey is studying for his FOUR tests tomorrow. LOL I have a feeling if 5th grade is like this, I am really in for it during high school. Oh well, he is trying. And, that is important too. Another so talented and so stubborn.... I feel a theme.
Less than a month till cruise time. Woohoo, I am looking forward to a week off! Nite nite!
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
What really bugs me!
I felt FINE all day today, FINE. All of a sudden this afternoon I couldn't get warm enough. I ran to Safeway to get stuff for French Dips for dinner. The next think I know I feel like I am getting sick. ACK! OK, I can not get sick right now. Although now is better than two weeks from now. LOL It feels like a sinus infection beginning. So, I took airborne (love that stuff) and some thera flu. It hurts to swallow! Did I mention I felt FINE a few hours ago. Weird weird weird.
I think yesterday was too tough! I took Alec to his therapist's. We talked about life, it was exhausting! LOL Alec is such a wonderful kid. And he just doesn't get the things the rest of us get. That is so hard, it makes me sad for him. Someday he will meet a woman who will love and appreciate his kind heart and love of all things living. But, until then we need to live through middle school.
Last night marked a landmark in his mathematics career. I bought him a graphing calculator at Target. (Boy do I love having Target 2 minutes away). It was neat to show him how to graph linear equations and now the newest thing for him... quadratics! I loved watching his eyes pop as he could see what changing the a, b, and c did to the parabola on his screen. I know it made a big difference for him, as his memory is a series of pictures. I do not understand why his school doesn't have them. I have been out of the classroom for 8 years, and we had them wayyy back then! Hehehehehehe.
Casey went to Bradley's house again today. It is funny to see him growing up and becoming his own person... well, Casey always was his own person. But, now there is no doubt! ;-) He sure does have his own ideas, even down to the eating a deli sandwich instead of a French Dip with the rest of us! I think he could be a Vegetarian someday. Time will tell!
All for now, off to see who gets voted off of American Idol tonight...
I think yesterday was too tough! I took Alec to his therapist's. We talked about life, it was exhausting! LOL Alec is such a wonderful kid. And he just doesn't get the things the rest of us get. That is so hard, it makes me sad for him. Someday he will meet a woman who will love and appreciate his kind heart and love of all things living. But, until then we need to live through middle school.
Last night marked a landmark in his mathematics career. I bought him a graphing calculator at Target. (Boy do I love having Target 2 minutes away). It was neat to show him how to graph linear equations and now the newest thing for him... quadratics! I loved watching his eyes pop as he could see what changing the a, b, and c did to the parabola on his screen. I know it made a big difference for him, as his memory is a series of pictures. I do not understand why his school doesn't have them. I have been out of the classroom for 8 years, and we had them wayyy back then! Hehehehehehe.
Casey went to Bradley's house again today. It is funny to see him growing up and becoming his own person... well, Casey always was his own person. But, now there is no doubt! ;-) He sure does have his own ideas, even down to the eating a deli sandwich instead of a French Dip with the rest of us! I think he could be a Vegetarian someday. Time will tell!
All for now, off to see who gets voted off of American Idol tonight...
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Love you
It seems impossible that my dad has been gone for 22 years 
today. This is a wonderful photo taken during WWII when he was a fighter pilot. There are so many things I never asked him. So many things I didn't know that I would want to know! I was only 20 when he died. I remember him telling me that "communication is the most important thing." I thought that was so unusual. And many people I have told that story to over the years also thought it was different. Most people say love or compassion..... but ya know what. I think it is true. Over the years I have discovered that without communication, the others just don't work. Ahhh dad, I am so much like you. I miss you everyday. Thank God you were here for me through my childhood. You may be gone, but you will always live in my heart.

today. This is a wonderful photo taken during WWII when he was a fighter pilot. There are so many things I never asked him. So many things I didn't know that I would want to know! I was only 20 when he died. I remember him telling me that "communication is the most important thing." I thought that was so unusual. And many people I have told that story to over the years also thought it was different. Most people say love or compassion..... but ya know what. I think it is true. Over the years I have discovered that without communication, the others just don't work. Ahhh dad, I am so much like you. I miss you everyday. Thank God you were here for me through my childhood. You may be gone, but you will always live in my heart.
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Toenail Clipping 101

Well, I had a first in my clipping days today! I clipped the birds claws. We were planning on taking him to the bird store and paying the $5 for clipping. But somehow it wasn't happening. So I ran down to the pet store, two minutes away... (did I mention how I LOVE the conveniences of the city?) and picked up bird nail clippers. They pretty much look like cat nail clippers. Anyway, I thought to myself....self, you better buy some quick stop just in case. And, sure enough on the last one I got Johnny just a little too close and a little blood. So, I stuck his nail in the quick stop, and it stopped! WOOHOO. Nothing like a new adventure.
On a very positive note I got to talk with my friend Vicki in So California today. I haven't visited with her in FOREVER and it is awesome to catch up. We had Calculus together my freshman year of college. WOW, that was forever ago..... Of course, Vicki sat in the front row, and I sat in the back row. Our professor was a crack up. He never had matching socks, and was very typical to what you would THINK a math prof should be! =-)
I woke up sore today. I took a fall on the stairs yesterday. It really just shook me up. But, I sure woke up sore today! I could feel it on my whole left side.
Enough for today. I did find this picture of the boys with Mr Roloff. He is the 'grandpa' of the Little People Big World Show on TLC. Yes, they live in Hillsboro. Soon, I will upload my tulip photos.... I think! LOL
Saturday, April 21, 2007
Spring Cleaning
Zzzzzzzz.. That is the sound I should be making right now! We did some spring cleaning in Alec's room. Wow, what a job! We got rid of tons of books and he got to take him to the used book store and get some new ones. He was able to get rid of a lot of things that he hasn't let go of before. I think maybe we are growing up! I know how hard it is for him, with the Aspergers. But, I think he is really trying, and I appreciate that!
Casey got to go to a writing festival today at Portland State University. He loved it. He works so hard at school, and on all of his homework everyday. I am so proud of him that he tries. In fact usually we do about 2 hours of homework each night. So, when he is selected to go to these things, I am very proud and know he earned it! Tuesday he gets to go to the lava caves =-)
What did I do today? Well, other than work on Alec's room and do laundry I got boxes packed for new CTMH consultants. I am so glad that I offer them homemade goodies. It would be easier without them, but it is sure one of the things I appreciate that my upline did for me. Hopefully they appreciate it too!
Also, we are looking at doing Disney World before convention next summer (2008). I hope it works out, it would be awesome. But there are a lot of things that will have to fall in place to make that happen.
Off to watch Numb3rs now. LOVE that show! We TIVOed it last night, so we are going to watch it together. Both boys like it too! What a funny show to be a family show!
Casey got to go to a writing festival today at Portland State University. He loved it. He works so hard at school, and on all of his homework everyday. I am so proud of him that he tries. In fact usually we do about 2 hours of homework each night. So, when he is selected to go to these things, I am very proud and know he earned it! Tuesday he gets to go to the lava caves =-)
What did I do today? Well, other than work on Alec's room and do laundry I got boxes packed for new CTMH consultants. I am so glad that I offer them homemade goodies. It would be easier without them, but it is sure one of the things I appreciate that my upline did for me. Hopefully they appreciate it too!
Also, we are looking at doing Disney World before convention next summer (2008). I hope it works out, it would be awesome. But there are a lot of things that will have to fall in place to make that happen.
Off to watch Numb3rs now. LOVE that show! We TIVOed it last night, so we are going to watch it together. Both boys like it too! What a funny show to be a family show!
Friday, April 20, 2007
Buzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
I went to JoAnn today and got some garden statuary stuff. It really makes me smile to look out into my backyard, where we have 7 huge pine trees, and see all the stuff hanging in them. I planted some shade hydrangeas and bleeding hearts under the trees last weekend, and now I am adding the garden stuff. It is just cute and fun. Usually I am not into cute. But, somehow it works for me outside. hehehehe
I am working on getting my packets mailed to my newest downline. I am excited to have them join us. Seems like there is never enough stuff to send them to get started! I guess I just don't spend enough hours in my scrapbook room. =-( Maybe there aren't enough hours in the day. LOL
I realized today that the CTMH Alaska cruise is only one month away. I am overwhelmed by all of the things I have to do between now and then. Yikes. Then I am home for a week and off to Florida for a week. I know it will be awesome. Yet, it just seems like there are still so many hoops to jump through before I get there.
I am trying to get help in Puyallup. But, don't have enough yet. =-( Danielle will be with me. Yahoo. Mike will come on Sunday to finish it up and pack it up, while Danielle and I head over to the Port of Seattle for the cruise! Wahoo. But I don't think I will have enough help to do create and takes or classes. Oh well, less to plan for. It's all good. Now I just need to decide what to demo and I will be good. =-)
Wonder who I will dial for dinner tonight? ;-)
I am working on getting my packets mailed to my newest downline. I am excited to have them join us. Seems like there is never enough stuff to send them to get started! I guess I just don't spend enough hours in my scrapbook room. =-( Maybe there aren't enough hours in the day. LOL
I realized today that the CTMH Alaska cruise is only one month away. I am overwhelmed by all of the things I have to do between now and then. Yikes. Then I am home for a week and off to Florida for a week. I know it will be awesome. Yet, it just seems like there are still so many hoops to jump through before I get there.
I am trying to get help in Puyallup. But, don't have enough yet. =-( Danielle will be with me. Yahoo. Mike will come on Sunday to finish it up and pack it up, while Danielle and I head over to the Port of Seattle for the cruise! Wahoo. But I don't think I will have enough help to do create and takes or classes. Oh well, less to plan for. It's all good. Now I just need to decide what to demo and I will be good. =-)
Wonder who I will dial for dinner tonight? ;-)
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Milestone
As of today I have 55 first downline. WOW, how exciting. I am not sure what excited me about that number. But, I have some FANTASTIC ladies on our team. I can't believe how excited I am! WOOHOOOO. I love CTMH and am so glad I can share it with others! Woohoo. Did I mention woohoo!
It was 2 years ago this month that I made Director. And, two years before that I became a Sr Executive Manager. April is a good month for me. Maybe because it is my birthday month and I believe that all things are possible. And, all things are possible... it is true.
I also mailed over 700 snail mail info pieces this week. About 600 postcards and about 100 letters with CTMH info. I am feeling good right now, like I am working.
So, it is a milestone day in my CTMH career, in a milestone month. THANK YOU to everyone who made this mood possible. I sooooo appreciate you, all of you! BIG HUGS
It was 2 years ago this month that I made Director. And, two years before that I became a Sr Executive Manager. April is a good month for me. Maybe because it is my birthday month and I believe that all things are possible. And, all things are possible... it is true.
I also mailed over 700 snail mail info pieces this week. About 600 postcards and about 100 letters with CTMH info. I am feeling good right now, like I am working.
So, it is a milestone day in my CTMH career, in a milestone month. THANK YOU to everyone who made this mood possible. I sooooo appreciate you, all of you! BIG HUGS
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Accomplishment!
When we play the "high low" game at dinner, I often have a high that is about an accomplishment. I always feel good when I get something done. I am getting ready for my Scrapbook & Stamp show in Puyallup next month. I wish I had some local consultants that wanted to go and help! But, I digress. Right now I am excited that I am ready to place an order and be good to go!
Mike is going to run the show on Sunday because Danielle and I will be headed over to the port of Seattle to go on the CTMH cruise to Alaska! I am soooo ready to be gone on a ship for a week. There is nothing like the water to me.
I am kinda excited about looking into the MLM software that Sarita is using to track her work. Anything that makes me more organized would be an awesome thing!
This week is the first week of the 4th quarter for Alec. It has been quite stressful so far. Change is so tough for him. But, today he did a great thing in Social Studies. I am soooo proud of him. He really wanted to do one part on the group presentation & got stuck that he couldn't. He cried in the hall, poor kid, but got over it, went back into the room and did a different part. Wow, this is HUGE progress and I am thrilled. I can't imagine how hard it is for him when his emotions are breaking down and his logic tells him it is ok. But, this time, he was able to move toward logic and realize his emotions are a little wacky sometimes. So, my high for the day was somewhere between getting wayy closer to ready for the expo & Alec going with the mind instead of the emotion! Woohoo.
So, another day comes to an end...... but, a good day, and a day with progress. I am looking forward to an even better one tomorrow.
Mike is going to run the show on Sunday because Danielle and I will be headed over to the port of Seattle to go on the CTMH cruise to Alaska! I am soooo ready to be gone on a ship for a week. There is nothing like the water to me.
I am kinda excited about looking into the MLM software that Sarita is using to track her work. Anything that makes me more organized would be an awesome thing!
This week is the first week of the 4th quarter for Alec. It has been quite stressful so far. Change is so tough for him. But, today he did a great thing in Social Studies. I am soooo proud of him. He really wanted to do one part on the group presentation & got stuck that he couldn't. He cried in the hall, poor kid, but got over it, went back into the room and did a different part. Wow, this is HUGE progress and I am thrilled. I can't imagine how hard it is for him when his emotions are breaking down and his logic tells him it is ok. But, this time, he was able to move toward logic and realize his emotions are a little wacky sometimes. So, my high for the day was somewhere between getting wayy closer to ready for the expo & Alec going with the mind instead of the emotion! Woohoo.
So, another day comes to an end...... but, a good day, and a day with progress. I am looking forward to an even better one tomorrow.
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Sunny Sunday
Ahhh the beauty of a lovely spring day in Oregon. It is still cool, the flowers are blooming, it is wonderful! Today we rented a pressure washer and got the driveway and back area cleaned up for spring. It looks new again. Well, it isn't all that old, the house was only built last spring. But, nevertheless, it looks awesome! I added my new hummingbird feeder to the back yard, and a few new plants from Home Depot. I am ready!
I even got a nap in this afternoon & some work done! Woohoo. I realized that there are only two weeks left of this CTMH sign on special, so I better get the word out to whoever I can! Plus, I only have just over four weeks unti my Puyallup Stamp Show. Yikes! Time to make more lists. I am excited about May though. There is a ton going on!
Until then, I am going to enjoy the April showers and flowers!
I figured it was time to put a pic of my girls on the blog here... keep watching, maybe someday I will add a picture of my boys!
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