The Nothing Thread

[AFMom]

Hey J - My 8.5 yo ds has been in therapy for speech since he was almost 4. He's been tested and evaluated about 10 times now (usually the 2 hour deal) because of all of our moving around. He's never thrilled with it. But usually you'll get a therapist that will turn it into a game for them. They ask them directional questions, try to get them to make all the different sounds, how long of sentences can they put together, do they understnd questions, can they take directions (and how complicated can they be). They always do the basic speech articulation tests and add to that the vocabulary and comprehension testing. It can be a long 2 hours, and sometimes they'll let them go play on the therapist's office playground for about 10 minutes in the middle. If you have any questions about what they do, or what they tell you - we've been through a lot with that! Just let me know!

[Ginger]

Tell me if I'm being unreasonable, selfish, or whatever. I'm serious.

My family is being more overbearing than usual.
Cliff's note version:
There are 4 kids in my family. I'm the oldest, then 2 boys, and a sister 9 years younger than me. Oldest 2 are married, other brother has moved out of my parent's house. Sister is still in college. I work at the family business. I see my family everyday Monday-Friday. And I hate it (but that's another vent for another time). Only 1 person can be off work at a time.
My parent's decide we need a family beach trip for next weekend! They never plan ahead (another vent for another time). I'm a planner, I always plan ahead. They want to go to a beach 6 hours away plus a 2 hour ferry ride. I say "No, I'm not driving that far for a half day at the beach". So then they say we can go to this beach house they can borrow that's 4 hours away. House is about 15 min from the beach. When you leave you turn off all power, water, etc. When you open this house it takes a good 2 or 3 days to cool off. The bed's are hot, it's icky. There are only 2 bedrooms, 1 bath. We will have to sleep on the floor. I don't like it there. Bring in MIL's surgery/cancer. She doesn't want anyone to know, so my family has no clue. DH and I don't want to go to this closer beach place because of the above reasons on the house, MIL's surgery, and just the plain and simple fact that we don't want to go. We like spending time at our house, doing things together by ourselves, etc. So we say we are sorry, we have plans that weekend. They will not take no for an answer. We keep getting "why not", "what do you have to do", etc. Should I feel guilty? Or should I tell them to get a life and realize their kids are all grown up and people have lives outside of them? I don't feel guilty. But they are getting on my nerves.

Thanks for your thoughts.

[soozaay]

Nono...I'll take a schooner of a margaritas on the rocks please!!

[Ginger]

Susie,

http://www.foodsubs.com/HerbsAsian.html
scroll about half way down for a picture.

"lemongrass = lemon grass = citronella = fever grass = serai = sereh = takrai Equivalents: 1 small, trimmed stalk = 1 teaspoon sereh powder = 1 tablespoon dried lemon grass Notes: Thai cooks use these grayish green stalks to impart a lemony flavor to their dishes. Remove the outer leaves, then use about six inches of the base, discarding the top and the very bottom. It's best to cut lemongrass into large pieces that can be easily removed after the dish is cooked. Frozen lemongrass is a good substitute for fresh, but dried lemongrass (soaked in hot water) is only a fair substitute. Use powdered version (called sereh powder) only in a pinch. Substitutes: lemon zest (zest from 1 lemon = 2 stalks lemon grass) OR lemon verbena OR lemon balm OR lemon leaves"

[lllovell]

Ginger,

It sounds like you have every reason NOT to go and they are just trying to guilt you into it. Stick to your guns. If you go, you will be miserable every step of the way I am sure since you didn't want to be there!

We vacation together as a family often and the trips when we end up in "worse than normal conditions" be it too hot, not enough room, not enough beds, etc....are the WORST! When we take the time, find a good place to go, do a little planning, etc we have a MUCH better vacation that everyone can enjoy without the stress.

You deserve some time away from your family. I love my family VERY much (and yes - I still vent from time to time) but there is NO WAY I could work with them and then still want to spend all my free time with them as well. Time to cut the apron strings from Mom and Dad a bit I think.

I hope you are able to stand yours ground and yet keep family peace!

Laura

[Ginger]

Thanks Laura. We've never vacationed with them since I was in high school. Maybe they feel guilty. Who knows. I cut the apron string long ago, but I don't think they did. :) Other than work, I don't see them excecpt holiday's or birthday's.

[JamJarJo]

Stimpy- just to clarify. I got the creme from my regular doc (actually a prescription that I had to get filled). I put in on her myself before we went to get the blood work done. Like llovell said, I put cellophane wrap over it to hold it to the arm and then just before blood work time I removed it and cleaned it off with a baby wipe. My friend whose child has leukemia told me about the cream. My doc wasn't really thrilled about giving me the script. When I questioned her about why we can't get the script for childhood shots and the like, she said to remember whatever the cream touches it is going to numb. Apparently someone at some point had swallowed the stuff. :yuck: It did work though. The first time Addison was maybe six months old and they had to take 2 viles from her. I left that stuff on her for an hour before the test. She never flinched when they stuck her. I did meet one tech that wasn't happy that I had put it on her. I guess when she was pressing and trying to find a vein, something felt different to her. She asked me why I had put the cream there, like she wasn't even familiar with it.:idontgeti Anyway, she got the blood she needed and my child wasn't screaming her lungs off, everyone was happy.

Stimpy, I was going to say if you have to go to lab you can get Doc to write a prescription, get it filled and take it with you. I will warn you the brand name is pretty pricey but there is a generic. There is also an over the counter version called ELA MAX. I have used it on my son with good results but some people I know do say that it doesn't work as well.
You put about a pea sized amount of the creme over the area where he's going to be stuck and cover it with an occulsive dressing (basically something that seals all the way around) so you can use cellophane but also the large nexcare tatoo bandaids work well.
The creme can make it harder to find a vein which is probably why the one tech was complaining about it to Erin. Best thing would be to go early to the lab, tell the tech that you're going to use the Emla creme, let the tech check out your son's veins and decide where she/he is going to stick him, THEN put the creme on and wait 30 mins - 1hr. I would put it on a couple of sites in case the tech has any problems finding a vein. That way you have a backup.

[lllovell]

Thanks Laura. We've never vacationed with them since I was in high school. Maybe they feel guilty. Who knows. I cut the apron string long ago, but I don't think they did. :) Other than work, I don't see them excecpt holiday's or birthday's.


Hahah - I meant them doing the cutting - not you!!!

I would offer to help them plan a family trip some point in the future if you think you might actually like to go but say "we are sorry that we just can't go on such short notice. I hope you have a BLAST!" Be upbeat and end the conversation.

[Colorado Belle]

I think that the excuse that your H has to do something for work said with an eye roll...tends to make even the most overbearing 'rents ease up. Or, if you have kids, arent' they involved in activities that take up every second of every weekend?

2 true stories:
Two professors, both very smart, had their first child, a boy when they were in their early 40ies. When the child didn't speak by age 3, they started doing some testing to see what was up. At some point during the testing, the kid spoke in a complete compound sentence and everyone was kinda in shock. So later, the 'rents asked him why he hadn't SAID anything for goodness sake. And he told them that so far, they had given him everything he wanted or needed so...why waste words! (And the other truth is that they are ALL talking way too much by the time they are 16 anyway).

The other story relates to the shovel idea. Men and women/ mars and venus.
With men, or so the story goes, if their partner isn't complaining THEN that means (to them) that they are doing at least 50%. So women being women, tend to do and then keep doing...trying to be the best wife and the best mom etc....
And men being men, figure that their going to work and sharing their income is giving enough UNLESS we let them know that truth. And sometimes, especially when you have waited too long, the only way to get through is to use the shovel.

[KNWVIKING]

.................... And sometimes, especially when you have waited too long, the only way to get through is to use the shovel.


From the man's point of view: What do you tell a woman with two black eyes ?


Nothing. You told her twice already.

[Rozzie]

Oh Ginger. You know how I feel about couple time vs. family time!! Sounds awfully familiar. Stick to your guns, Laura is absolutely correct. If you go, you will be miserable. Plus you see them mon-friday, you need some quality time with your hubby. They will get over it. It might take some time, but they will get over it. Frankly the weekend sounds like a lot of work, and no relaxing. I wouldn't want to go either. Keep us posted!

I am a graduate of speech therapy myself. I never could say "R" and stuttered something horrible. I couldn't answer the phone for a couple of years. Reading outloud in class was the worst. And there were teachers who thought if they asked me to stand up and read more they would "cure" me. :( Mom took me to every specialist, and I had speech therapy until middle school. Then all of a sudden, I quit stuttering in late middle school. I think the social consequences are really bad for kids, but it seems there is more awareness and more therapy to make things better. Good luck to all of those having to deal with all that. It does get better. I turned out normal, well, almost normal. :crazy:

Just back from shopping. Mr. Roz's Polo shirts were 50% off, picked up a few, and then of course, had to get somthing for the POP trip. I hope I didn't jinx our trip Kimberly! :laughing:

[Rozzie]

From the man's point of view: What do you tell a woman with two black eyes ?


Nothing. You told her twice already.


bad :viking: , bad bad...

[ErinC]

Stimpy, I was going to say if you have to go to lab you can get Doc to write a prescription, get it filled and take it with you. I will warn you the brand name is pretty pricey but there is a generic. There is also an over the counter version called ELA MAX. I have used it on my son with good results but some people I know do say that it doesn't work as well.
You put about a pea sized amount of the creme over the area where he's going to be stuck and cover it with an occulsive dressing (basically something that seals all the way around) so you can use cellophane but also the large nexcare tatoo bandaids work well.
The creme can make it harder to find a vein which is probably why the one tech was complaining about it to Erin. Best thing would be to go early to the lab, tell the tech that you're going to use the Emla creme, let the tech check out your son's veins and decide where she/he is going to stick him, THEN put the creme on and wait 30 mins - 1hr. I would put it on a couple of sites in case the tech has any problems finding a vein. That way you have a backup.


Ela max is what we had. It seemed to work fine for us. I had to have a script for it, it wasn't over the counter (at least not 2 years ago).

[JamJarJo]

It is available over the counter now. I have bought it from Rite Aid when we were travelling and I discovered that I had forgotten the Emla creme. If you google it you will find it for sale over the internet too.

[Stimpy]

Thanks! I'll call the Dr's office Monday to see if it's ok and stop in the dreaded lab. :scary: I appreciate the advice!

Ok, pure nothingness here......

We have a skylight in our Master Bathroom, seemed like a good idea at the time, (great for those middle of the night trips when you don't want to put on the bright lights :scary: ) This morning, I actually got to go potty by myself!! (Rozzie, you have my permission to whack me on the head if I use the word "potty" on our trip!) No kids following me, no cats circling my feet. Well I look up and there is a gigantic seagull looking down through the window at me :headbrick There is just no privacy in this house :o

[soozaay]

Susie,

http://www.foodsubs.com/HerbsAsian.html
scroll about half way down for a picture.

"lemongrass = lemon grass = citronella = fever grass = serai = sereh = takrai Equivalents: 1 small, trimmed stalk = 1 teaspoon sereh powder = 1 tablespoon dried lemon grass Notes: Thai cooks use these grayish green stalks to impart a lemony flavor to their dishes. Remove the outer leaves, then use about six inches of the base, discarding the top and the very bottom. It's best to cut lemongrass into large pieces that can be easily removed after the dish is cooked. Frozen lemongrass is a good substitute for fresh, but dried lemongrass (soaked in hot water) is only a fair substitute. Use powdered version (called sereh powder) only in a pinch. Substitutes: lemon zest (zest from 1 lemon = 2 stalks lemon grass) OR lemon verbena OR lemon balm OR lemon leaves"

THANK YOU SO MUCH GINGER!!!! I'm using the lemon zest idea!!! (I couldn't find the lemongrass) You are a lifesaver! :worship: I am SO glad that I asked the nothingers before going to the store again....you saved me SO much time!!!

I have to get back to cooking..... but it seems that many of my fellow nothingers need a :grouphug: & a lot of :dust :dust :dust (and you can have all of my pixie dust that I've found around my house too!!) I promise to be a better nothinger next week!

[RweTHEREyet]

I have just read the last 3 days worth of threads here and this is what I have learned:

Viking must be getting a wonderful education about women from reading this thread.

I am so lucky to have the husband that I have. He cooks, he helps around the house, he can fix the cars, he can fix things around the house and he is thoughtful. I am one lucky gal, and I will let him know that somehow today.

I HAVE NO PIXIE DUST---that is a good thing, though, cause I use a laptop while sitting on the loveseat and if I did have pixie dust behind my 'puter, I would be in for big trouble.

I am so glad that I do not live near any family except one SIL and I don't work with any of them. Seeing them once or twice a year is gracious plenty for me.

I was thinking I was glad that my son is a little older and we no longer have the trials and tribulations that those of you with younger ones have, but honestly, from the day they are born, you outgrow one thing (formula and diapers) and just move on to a new set of issues (day care, homework, first loves, learning to drive, first accident and ticket, college tuition, ever getting out of college????) .. It never ends, but you wouldn't trade any of it for the world.

I hope everyone has a good weekend.

Just a little funny. Hubby was going to the driving range this morning with SIL, who wants to start playing golf again and just also just needs some exercise. I decided to go on to Curves while they were doing that. I get in my car and throw it in reverse, nothing ever behind my car in my driveway, happen to look in the rearview window and what is sitting in the driveway directly behind my car, but hubbies golf clubs in his brand new Oakley golf bag. :holymoly: I slam on brakes and stop mere centimeters from his bag. I get out of the car and move the bag and get back in the car and start thinking, what in the word was he thinking!!!!!!!!!!! I stomped in the house :rant: and the lightbulb must have gone off in his head and he came flying around the corner with a look of great fear on his face, "Did you run over them???, huh, did you run over them?????" He doesn't wait for me to answer and flys out the front door, where are they, are they under your car? He couldn't see where I moved them to. I didn't respond, just got in the car and left and I laughed all the way to Curves. :coolcar:


P.S. I don't know what soozay is cooking, but if she is going to all that trouble, I am showing up for dinner.

[Colorado Belle]

I think we should all show up for dinner!!!!

I am TIRED. Played tennis today and got sluggish and sweaty hot about 8 games in. I had on my cute little disney beach coverup that I use as a tennis dress. Talked for a while with a guy who is in the know about the small town 'good ole boys' club re the court system here. He rolled his eyes when I mentioned my luck of the draw judge's name. If wishes could kill, our population would be 3 short here in my town and 3 more short in Denver. Going for a baker's dozen!:holymoly:

[Ginger]

Glad I could help Susie! Hope your dish turns out great. You'll have to share the recipe. I love to cook.


Thanks for the advice everyone. I really appreciate it.


Dh and I went to a local Italian store today. I haven't been there in many years. But it's like walking into NYC and they have anything Italian you could want. We bought some sausages for tonight and cannoli's (sp?) for dessert. I also got some dried mushrooms for risotto tomorrow night. Almost time to eat. I'm going to open the wine.

[Rozzie]

nothing new here to report. Just about to wack my brain, working on my resume. I just draw a blank trying to describe exactly what I do during the day. How mean how much do they want to know??? No job openings still at the hospital I want to work. Thinking about still turning in my resume, and keep updating it, and updating it, and updating it...

there are lots of jobs in Mobile, about 30 min to the other side of me, but Mr. Roz says no, he wants me to find a job in the actual same county I live in. Novel concept! I am relieved. Crime is really bad over there, I get the willy's driving over there with my doors locked usually. Especially in the areas where the trauma centers are. :Paranoid:

[ErinC]

Roz, are you trying to get a job at Thomas? It's a great hospital, at least from the time we have spent there. I've had all my babies there, they did Dad's heart surgery, and Addison's tonsils. Pretty much everyone we have encountered is so nice. The hospital administrators son will be in the same class with Briley this fall. They played on the same soccer team last fall too. Want to come to a couple of her class parties. I'll introduce you as Auntie Rozzie!:slyasafox

[Rozzie]

Roz, are you trying to get a job at Thomas? It's a great hospital, at least from the time we have spent there. I've had all my babies there, they did Dad's heart surgery, and Addison's tonsils. Pretty much everyone we have encountered is so nice. The hospital administrators son will be in the same class with Briley this fall. They played on the same soccer team last fall too. Want to come to a couple of her class parties. I'll introduce you as Auntie Rozzie!:slyasafox

Yes! LOL, I'll be Aunt anybody to get a job there! They have a position open in the ER, they just listed. Never worked in a ER before, but I am always up for a challenge. :tilt: Seriously, it's a good hospital, and no one wants to work in Mobile for obivous reasons, and nurses don't leave there. I am also considering North Baldwin (Bay Minette--wonder how long it would take??) and maybe maybe South Baldwin. Not too impressed with the care my stepdad got there, but I got to find something else. And pretty soon too. :crazy:

All these gas analysts are keeping me up at night, saying gas is going to be $4 a galloon in 6 months. :scary:

[AFMom]

Gas is looking bad - and I drive a lot. Currently I drive a diesel truck and we use 100% bio-diesel in it (made out of soybean oil right here in the USA! www.biodiesel.org ) - which is a bit cheaper than regular diesel (about 20 - 15 cents per gallon cheaper), but I only get about 17 mpg in this huge 3/4 ton truck.
So DH has hatched a plan to get me a little 1996 or 1997 Mercedes and convert it to run on pure vegetable oil (you get it used from restaurants for free and filter it). I want to do it to my truck - but he won't touch it until the warrantee expires.
Anyway - we're sort of odd that way.
Ginger - DON"T GO ON THE TRIP!!!!! That's all I have to say about that.......
RWE - send your DH over here to give lessons.....
Yesterday's swim meet was a nightmare. Got there about 7:30 am, didn't leave until 3pm and DS was only able to swim 1 race because of lightning. We spent a good part of those hours either waiting for the lightning to pass in a big building (about 400 of us squished in there), or waiting for the thunder to clear sitting in the 90 degree heat on the pool deck. FUN!:crymeariv Would have been nice if he had at least gotten to swim more!
Going to our "Pensacola Little Theater" to see Peter Pan with the kids today. DH can't go so I'm taking a friend's 5 YO girl with us (she thinks of me as an honorary aunt). Should be fun (and Air conditioned!)

[ErinC]

Yes! LOL, I'll be Aunt anybody to get a job there! They have a position open in the ER, they just listed. Never worked in a ER before, but I am always up for a challenge. :tilt: Seriously, it's a good hospital, and no one wants to work in Mobile for obivous reasons, and nurses don't leave there. I am also considering North Baldwin (Bay Minette--wonder how long it would take??) and maybe maybe South Baldwin. Not too impressed with the care my stepdad got there, but I got to find something else. And pretty soon too. :crazy:

All these gas analysts are keeping me up at night, saying gas is going to be $4 a galloon in 6 months. :scary:


Not sure about North Baldwin, haven't heard too many stories, but South Baldwin.... Ewwee weee! I've heard many a person say that they would rather wake up in a veternarian office than South Baldwin hospital!:hahahaha: It's been a few years though, and I know that South Baldwin has done a lot of refurbing, maybe things are better. I know one of the nurses in ER at Thomas. Her son was in class with Holland last year. She worked the night shift though. She would drop him off at school and then go home to sleep. Good luck with whatever you decide Roz. Wish I really was in with somebody that could help you out.

[Rozzie]

Not sure about North Baldwin, haven't heard too many stories, but South Baldwin.... Ewwee weee! I've heard many a person say that they would rather wake up in a veternarian office than South Baldwin hospital!:hahahaha: It's been a few years though, and I know that South Baldwin has done a lot of refurbing, maybe things are better. I know one of the nurses in ER at Thomas. Her son was in class with Holland last year. She worked the night shift though. She would drop him off at school and then go home to sleep. Good luck with whatever you decide Roz. Wish I really was in with somebody that could help you out.

yes, I probably wouldn't be hired at South Baldwin. I made a really big stink there when my stepdad was in there. I am sure they would remember me! :bagovermy

You sure you don't need a private duty nurse for your girls? :slyasafox

[Colorado Belle]

What are the odds that you two would live so close to each other?????

ER nurses work awfully hard Roz...and usually have to take some of the all night shifts .....but I can surely understand the need to change hospitals from where you are now. good luck in your searching!!!!

Spring cleaned the master suite this weekend....what do you mean it is long past spring??????

Have to box up some returns from here and there and write a few letters and pay a few bills. Right now I'm listening to a 20-20 about a doctor who murdered his wife of 30 years....will file it away under things that make ya go hmmmmmmmm

[jnrrt]

Hi all,

Late as usual, but thanks for all the speech therapy stuff. We go in the morning. I still can't quite figure out what they'll talk to him about for 2 hours since he's not even 2 yet. I made a list of his "words" and sounds, so hopefully that'll be helpful. I'm guessing they'll talk to me for a while anyway since he's very shy of anyone, and can smell any kind of Dr. appt. a mile away. He's been stuck or hurt a few too many times over the ear stuff, and he's not a big fan. But still, I'm looking forward to it, as I'd like some answers.

We were told that we weren't allowed to use Emla cream the one time we asked about it. They acted like it wasn't used much, except for really difficult things like ports, etc. I'm surprised that so many of you have used it. Wish we'd had it for my dd's IV - that was not a picnic.

So, don't forget to vote! I think I moved to #7, but I'll need votes even to stay where I am now - there are some others coming up behind me. Oh, and I sent my first CD to one of our military men in Afganistan, so I told him that he was the one to take my music international!

[TW1]

Happy Monday all.

Today is DD's 12th bday!. She's such a good kid, but boy is she gonna melt at camp today! Philly is epxecting most of that lovely heat that has hit the rest of the country. DW made DD her favorite dessert for tonight - pound cake! Must be the 5 eggs and 3 sticks of butter, but DD can't resist it - who could.

Spent Saturday Deep Sea Fishing. Well, tried anyway. Not sure what came over us, but we all thought it sounded like fun. So we got up super early Saturday morning, hit the road at 6am to get to Brigantine NJ (near Atlatic City) at 7:30 am. Boat fills up, about 35 people on board, beautiful sunny day, and at 8 we're off.

About 10 minutes into the trip the first person looses it and by 8:30 most of the folks on board are leaning over the sides. DS and I are wondering what the heck happened to everyone!?! We feel fine. but everyone else, including DW and DD are completely green and clammy and wishing they were anywhere but on that boat.

Crew kept saying it was one of the calmest days out this year. Well, chalk it up to been there, done that, but I am sure I will never get DW or DD on anything smaller than the Magic or the Wonder ever again.

That's my Nothing report. Hope all is well.

[TW1]

Gas is looking bad - and I drive a lot. Currently I drive a diesel truck and we use 100% bio-diesel in it (made out of soybean oil right here in the USA! www.biodiesel.org ) - which is a bit cheaper than regular diesel (about 20 - 15 cents per gallon cheaper), but I only get about 17 mpg in this huge 3/4 ton truck.
So DH has hatched a plan to get me a little 1996 or 1997 Mercedes and convert it to run on pure vegetable oil (you get it used from restaurants for free and filter it). I want to do it to my truck - but he won't touch it until the warrantee expires.
Have you seen this? http://www.dogwoodenergy.com/
You can make it your self at home now.

[JamJarJo]

We were told that we weren't allowed to use Emla cream the one time we asked about it. They acted like it wasn't used much, except for really difficult things like ports, etc. I'm surprised that so many of you have used it. Wish we'd had it for my dd's IV - that was not a picnic.
It isn't usually used for one time blood draws etc. It's mostly used for kids who need repeated "sticks". We use it on my son's port. It's actually easier to stick a port than a vein, the reason we use Emla on his port is to reduce the trauma of frequent "sticks". But I do also use it if I know he's going to have venipuncture. In the next couple of years his port will probably be removed and we will have to switch to venipuncture and I don't want him to be scared of it.

[JamJarJo]

Gas is looking bad - and I drive a lot. Currently I drive a diesel truck and we use 100% bio-diesel in it (made out of soybean oil right here in the USA! www.biodiesel.org ) - which is a bit cheaper than regular diesel (about 20 - 15 cents per gallon cheaper), but I only get about 17 mpg in this huge 3/4 ton truck.
So DH has hatched a plan to get me a little 1996 or 1997 Mercedes and convert it to run on pure vegetable oil (you get it used from restaurants for free and filter it). I want to do it to my truck - but he won't touch it until the warrantee expires.
Anyway - we're sort of odd that way.
This reminded me of something I was wondering about recently. When we were in England in June we rented a Peugeot that was Diesel and we averaged 46 MPG in that car. It wasn't a big SUV but it wasn't a compact car either (held 5 of us comfortably). Last time we were in England we rented a Renault Laguna Diesel which got 54 mpg on the motorway. So what's the deal -- why can't we buy vehicles like this here in the US???

[TW1]

Catalytic converters

[Ginger]

No work for me today. I took the day off. Took an act of congress to get it. :) DH took the day off too. Today is our 7th wedding anniversary.

VW are also good cars to covert to run on used vegie oil.

[withdisneyspirit]

Happy 7th anniversary, Ginger!!!:cheerlead :bouncingp :chat:

DH and I just celebrated our 7th as well on July 7th! Hope your day is wonderful and with some romance thrown in too!!

[Stimpy]

Happy Anniversary Ginger & Mr Ginger! :cheerlead Happy Belated Lisa!

....digging deep in the pockets for money for vent jar......geez, who's idea was this?? I'm going broke! ;)

Found out why DH has been extra nice the last few days. U2 (he's fave band) is ending their tour in Hawaii in December. The opening band is one of my favorite bands Pearl Jam (which usually sell out their own shows, so I'm really surprised they are "opening" for someone at all!)

Ok, Hawaii, 2 of our fave groups, no kids in December...sounds good right??? WRONG! We would have to spend the whole time with his U2 board friends. Someone around here might remember my vent on them a while back. They are basically nice people but are obsessed with U2 to the point of insanity. That is all they talk about when they get together. (Can you imagine??? ;) ) But there is a difference between "us" and "them"...MO'ers (is that a real term???) CAN talk about other things besides Disney. These people DON'T or WON'T....just hours of talking about 1 group. So I am usually totally excluded and bored to tears. Hate to admit it, but last time I got seriously messed up and over drank was the last time we went out with them...I was paying for that night for days! :innocent:

Plus, it would only be 5 nights, which is not enough to go to Hawaii! (I've been twice as kid but want to really see it "right" as an adult....atleast for a week!) 2 days would just be travel (13-16 hour travelling time from NY). December is busy enough around here. And the cost would be a few thousand bucks...right before Christmas. Plus I have a million other excuses LOL

Bad part of the excuses.....THOSE he'll remember (doesn't remember anything else I tell him :worried: ) and guess what I'll hear next year for the MO December meet??? :help:

On the bright side, he gave up on our trip to Vegas to see Jimmy Buffett with his friends :laughing:

[JamJarJo]

Catalytic converters
As pretty much all new cars registered in the UK since 1992 have catalytic converters, I don't think that's the answer. :headscrat

[KNWVIKING]

This reminded me of something I was wondering about recently. When we were in England in June we rented a Peugeot that was Diesel and we averaged 46 MPG in that car. It wasn't a big SUV but it wasn't a compact car either (held 5 of us comfortably). Last time we were in England we rented a Renault Laguna Diesel which got 54 mpg on the motorway. So what's the deal -- why can't we buy vehicles like this here in the US???

First, understand the in the UK you are buying an Imperial Gallon which is nearly 5 qts.

Second, many of the great mileage robbing features we love are not built into UK vehicles. A/C, power steering & brakes, etc.

Third, most of those fuel sippers go zero to 60 mph in about three days, unacceptable here.

Fourth, years ago Volkswagon released the Diesel Rabbit that got close to 50 mpg on our 4 qt gallons.

Lastly, look at the price they are paying at the pump in the UK.... makes our prices look downright cheap. Americans haven't got to the point where gas mileage & conservation are REALLY that important yet.

[KNWVIKING]

This reminded me of something I was wondering about recently. When we were in England in June we rented a Peugeot that was Diesel and we averaged 46 MPG in that car. It wasn't a big SUV but it wasn't a compact car either (held 5 of us comfortably). Last time we were in England we rented a Renault Laguna Diesel which got 54 mpg on the motorway. So what's the deal -- why can't we buy vehicles like this here in the US???

First, understand the in the UK you are buying an Imperial Gallon which is nearly 5 qts.

Second, many of the great mileage robbing features we love are not built into UK vehicles. A/C, power steering & brakes, etc.

Third, most of those fuel sippers go zero to 60 mph in about three days, unacceptable here.

Fourth, years ago Volkswagon released the Diesel Rabbit that got close to 50 mpg on our 4 qt gallons.

Lastly, look at the price they are paying at the pump in the UK.... makes our prices look downright cheap. Americans haven't got to the point where gas mileage & conservation are REALLY that important yet.

[TW1]

Oh dear, the Viking is repeating himself. No one is safe.

[KNWVIKING]

Everything I say/type is twice as important as any non-Viking post.

[AFMom]

Happy anniversary, Ginger!!!!:jumpingbe
TW and Viking - there have also been very restrictive laws about particulate emissions - in CA they won't even sell new deisels - you have to buy them used only(that's changing soon) Anyway - that's all going away now - we're actually catching up with Europe (where bio-diesel has been at the pumps for years).
You can now get Jetta's and Passats that get amazing mileage on diesel, there are many brands of trucks, and I believe Dodge is coming out with a diesel Durango. Finally people are catching on. This is an alternative fuel that we can use right now! My truck has absolutely nothing altered in it - it is straight off the factory and can run this stuff. And old diesels can run on it fine as well (but you'll have to change the fuel filter a few times after you start running it.....)
Great website ,btw - DH wants to start making our own - but we need more space in the garage first! We want to start a co-op with other diesel owners in the area to help pay for the stills and then we can all make and share the fuel.
I really hope any one and everyone that is even remotely interrested will check this stuff out! Safer and cleaner than just about anything out there!!!!! And we need to get large corporations on board - including Disney.
Many military bases are already running thier trucks on this, and I know that numerous cities are now running their busses on it as well.
Stimpy - I'd still go to Hawaii and just ditch all of them and lay out at the beach!!!!

[bavaria]

Happy Anniversary Mr and Mrs Ginger!!!

Interesting about the diesels - I too wondered why there are not more in North America, but certainly the low fuel prices in the US (even now) seem to make many oblivious.

AFMom, I loved reading about your alternative fuel...

I'm also excited that the Rabbit is making a return to North America - I love the VW Polo (the European version of the rabbit) and was just thinking that they should bring it back here and they did!!! In two years I plan to buy a slightly used model.

Funny - in Europe there are so many micro mini fuel sipping vehicles and so few SUVs. I was reading about how Americans say that they won't buy the Mercedes Smart car (micro mini, available for several years in Canada; no longer for sale in Germany due to too much competition). Apparently they worry about SUVs and the inequity of the micro mini cars ie being squashed like a bug....

[PoohsPal]

Happy anniversary Ginger!

Life has got me sucked in pretty good. Will bekind of scarce fo a bit, but will ebt thinking of all of you!

[soozaay]

Happy Anniversary Ginger!!

Boy, have I missed you guys! There's no way I can catch up....I was trying, but new posts kept on being added and then I got confused....which isn't hard....:hammer: ....so let me just start off with a big :hug: & :margarita to all and here's to another week :woohoodan .

The luau appetizers that I made were a big success....I made grilled fresh pineapple (w/ brown sugar)....coconut shrimp...and beef teriyaki skewers with pineapple (the last recipe was the one I needed the lemongrass for....the lemon zest worked perfectly...no one knew the difference). I really wished that I was assigned desserts, cuz I would've made Dole Whip! I got eaten alive by mosquitos, though, so now all I do all day is itch....it's amazing how those stupid lil mosquitos can find that one little spot on your body that does not have repellent on it & bite you several times in it!:magnify: I even have bites on the back of my head! :sosad: After talking to others at the party, you would've thought I was the only one outside....no one else was biten!!! :boohoohoo

[soozaay]

Ok...don't know if this is old news....

J~ You're now #7!!!! :bouncingp :bluebloun :bouncingp :bluebloun :bouncingp

[JamJarJo]

Second, many of the great mileage robbing features we love are not built into UK vehicles. A/C, power steering & brakes, etc.
I think you'll find that most of the cars in the UK do actually have brakes :D

[KNWVIKING]

They had brakes... but not power brakes.

[withdisneyspirit]

Ok...don't know if this is old news....

J~ You're now #7!!!! :bouncingp :bluebloun :bouncingp :bluebloun :bouncingp

And now she is #5 :woohoo: :goodvibes :rockband: But I don't unerstand what happened to that song that was #1 (House of Thomas, I think)??? I don't even see theirs anymore! Are you only allowed a certain time period on the chart?

[jnrrt]

Yeah, songs time out after 90 days. I stilll have about 60 left. So really, I didn't move except by attrition, but hey, I'll still woohoo that! Woohoo! BTW, please go and hit my page too if you're there voting and leave me feedback if you haven't - everything on the main page resets on the first of the month, so I need some hits and feedback to get back on the top 10 lists. You get to my page by clicking on my name or "visit this artists page".

Hey, here's a DVC question. (DVC??? On the nothing thread? Scandalous!) Im trying to transfer points to my account to plan a trip for my brother. Someone offered me points that will expire in Dec. My brother's trip is Jan. They are Dec 05 points. I'm a June UY so I'm 06. Is there any way to use these? Will they change to my UY if transferred? Can I even do it since I'm a year ahead of the other guy? I swear, I get most things, but the transfer thing makes me very confused. I realize I should ask that somewhere else, but someone here will know the answer, right:loveisint ?

[TW1]

Jen's #5!

[AFMom]

Ya know - large cars aren't just because all of us like to drive large cars here. We camp about once a month out in the middle of nowhere with 2 kids and 2 dogs. Can't do that in a Rabbit or a micro mini car. Also - many places in Europe the grocery store is right down the road and people take many small trips - I go grocery shopping 35 minutes away every 2 weeks and fill up 2 grocery carts ( I mean over flowing off the top full). I could give you many more exaqmples, but you get the point. Our entire lifestyle and culture are different here. And yes - the idea of being squashed by a 1 Ton Truck has crossed my mind. You should see how bad people drive on Hwy 98 here!!!! However - to help make up for the size of my truck, my DH has a motorcycle that he commutes to work on. I also think public transportation needs to be vastly improved in most of the US.
Soozay! Those appetizers sound divine! Icky about the bites though!

[ErinC]

Woohoo #5 Jen! Jen, this is my answer, I'm not sure it's the right one, but... If you transfer the points they will take on your home and UY. You should be able to bank them and use them. I know this goes against what it should be, but it seems to be a glich in DVC system. Seems like I have heard others say that if you want the transferred points to retain their home and UY, you have to have MS transfer them manually.

Kristy- sure hope your roof is up to snuff now. We have had rain everyday here? How about you guys?

It is my understanding that GM is coming out with a hybrid Yukon in "08. DH has already been eyeballing it online. I know that smaller cars would cost me a LOT less money in gas, but I love my "big" vehicle for our family of five. Can't imagine trying to squeeze all three kids and all their stuff in the back of a regular car. I overthink the safety issue (if that is possible), but since I get to view accident vehicles all the time (our family has 3 body shops), I want something that will more than likely hold up in an accident. My girls will get "tanks" when they start to drive.:drillserg There are some smaller cars that do "okay" in accidents but, for the most part, "bigger is better!"

Happy anniversary a day late Ginger! Hope you enjoyed your day off.

No big plans today, if the rain holds off long enough, we may have lunch at LuLu's.

[JamJarJo]

Ya know - large cars aren't just because all of us like to drive large cars here. We camp about once a month out in the middle of nowhere with 2 kids and 2 dogs. Can't do that in a Rabbit or a micro mini car. !
Ok just to be clear --- the car we rented in England was not a micro/ mini car. It comfortably held my family of five and all our luggage. Also it was not some "Fred Flinstone" car. It performed well and handled great -- my hubby had a blast driving it. It was "fully loaded" - had AC, ABS, Traction control, power steering etc. The car we rented on our previous trip was very similar.

As Viking pointed out the MPG was based on British gallons but even so it is still much better than most similarly sized cars available here except for Hybrids. I'm not suggesting people give up their trucks or start driving Micro cars. I'm just wondering why you can't buy more family sized sedans with similar fuel economy here. I suspect the answer is what Viking said - That gas is still cheap here compared to Europe and until consumers demand better fuel economy automakers here will continue to turn out cars that get low gas mileage.

[TW1]

That gas is still cheap here compared to Europe and until consumers demand better fuel economy automakers here will continue to turn out cars that get low gas mileage. Totally agree.

[Colorado Belle]

Not much new here. I spent a lot of time trying to find a nice place to stay at Cocoa Beach the night before the shuttle launch. But I think I've found the top two spots (had to make 2 ressies in case another gal joins us). One a timeshare resort, large but with 2 bedrooms. (The Resort at CB) The other, a small inn that has a social hour, a breakfast and an OF room with a large balcony and breeze. I adore hearing the ocean at night and I'm not much for A/C, esp when there is an offshore breeze.

Getting really excited about this shuttle launch....and yeah, I do understand about cancellations, so I won't get my hopes up. But since we are 'invited by an astronaut' this is even more special. There is a party put on by the astronaut wives (yep, while the 'nauts are in quaranteen, the spouses do play!) that we will go to IF it is on Saturday night (since we fly in Saturday). Hence, the ressies in Cocoa Beach. I've seen a launch from a few miles away and thought it spectacular, so I'm getting psyched for seeing it right up close and personal!
:jumpingbe . (it is sure nice to have friends in high places!)

Then I'll drag my friends to Disney for a commando day and then they leave and I have the rest of the week to play on my own until my Sept 4 ressie starts...free dining with Matysgramma and we sure know how to do that !!!!

[Ginger]

Thanks for the anniversary wishes. We had a fun day. Went kayaking in the morning and out to eat at Ruth's Chris Steak House for dinner. Never been there before, but the food was great. Would go back again.

Work is extra busy because it's the 1st and I was off yesterday. Back to the salt mine. :)

[KNWVIKING]

Big gas guzzlin SUV's, RV's and pickup trucks are for the most part expensive. Many are used for business purpose so the gas is paid for by increasing the business product. Others are used for leisure & general purpose. People that can afford a 50K gas guzzler will cry about the price of gas, but they will not ammend their lifestyle one iota just because gas costs more.

[AFMom]

CB - I'm so jealous! I can't imagine how hyped you must be about the launch! I'll be hoping everything goes off well for you!
Little stressed out. Actually got a copy of DS's Occupational Therapy testing results (he's been getting therapy for a couple of weeks now). Something about seeing all of those "tested in the 1st percentile...." is bothering me. I just feel overwhelmed at times. His therapist was giving me all sorts of excersies for his memory and handwriting to work on - so at least the problems are finally being addressed. He was using Handwriting Without Tears - but his therapist says he's not even ready for that yet. Poor kid - he has such a long road ahead of him.
DH just took the next 3 days off work to get the roof finished on the chance that TS Chris shows up soon! Yay! I'll finally have a completed roof again!

[Colorado Belle]

Kristy, you can be jealous of personal invites to shuttle launches if I can be jealous that you now (almost) have a finished roof. Just got a 'reply' to his own motion from X's attorney that it is my fault that X hasn't secured the loan to fix, among other things, the roof. And the roof sits an leaks onto 6000 sq ft of hard wood flooring, carpet and marble. The floor is ruined and must be replaced, not refinished. A silk carpet in the dining room is ruined. And the foundation under the marble is crumbling...water damage. Oh yeah, must be my fault. (vent jar vent jar overflowing). Not sure if I understand the underlying issues re DS's learning problems. What does HE say? A friend's son got kicked in the head by a horse. We are so lucky that he lived. (His mom was there and she is a doc or else I don't think he would have made it.) Afterward, he was so depressed from having to relearn how to read, write, math...well everything. And the therapists (boo hiss) rec'd Ritalin.
The school, high on achievement scores, said he couldn't go there anymore.
I HATE drugging kids...so I had long talks with the mom....why didn't anyone realize that the kid was ANGRY that he was so bright and knew so much and that now he was gonna have to learn it all again? Anyway, that was a long time ago, no ritalin, change of schools, graduated top in his class, went to college, happy man. My point is that therapists mean well, but don't always have the right answers. Ask your little man what is going on and what you can do to help.

jnrrt.....in the top FIVE. WOWEEE!!!!!!Big congrats!!!!

Ginger....I'm sorry I missed your anniversary. Glad you had fun on your special day!

Viking: the woman with two Kohl black eyes had just returned from seeing POTCII for the second time. She was identifying in spirit with Capt'n Jack and no man who valued his privates would ever think of trying to tell her anything!

Ah.....notice my post count me hearties!

[KNWVIKING]

CB, ask jigger to tell you my frog joke.

I'm still not entirely certain she got it.

[soozaay]

CB~ Can I just say.....WOW....I am also very jealous of your whole trip! I'll keep my fingers crossed that there aren't any delays & cancellations of the launch. AND you're going to WDW to boot....that is so awesome! You deserve this trip, especially with what you've been through. Oh, and remember...that IF the shuttle launch is cancelled, that will be your fault too! (The NERVE! Do you want us to get the Nothing bus out there to show your X whose boss?!?)

AFMom~ I wish you & your DS all of the best. I agree with CB, sometimes therapists/doctors just want to put kids on ritalin & write them off...instead of really HELPING their patients (like they're supposed to do). On the bright side, at least you'll have a finished roof!!

Ginger~I've been to Ruth Chris once awhile ago and remember loving my dinner too...I wanted to lick the plate clean! :scratchch

New job is going good....we lost power today because of the heat...let me tell you, a building can become an oven in no time when it's 105 outside and no A/C inside! :blech: Luckily, it happened at the end of the day.

I started a new part-time job today.....I'm doing side work for the company that I just left. It's all admin stuff that I can do on the computer a couple of hours a night. It's nice...it's extra money (for points!) & I can work out of my house, so, I can get other stuff done at the same time. It's a win-win! :woohoo:

Nono~I've been thinking of you the last couple of days....how have you been doing without A/C in this horrible heat?

[nono]

Nono~I've been thinking of you the last couple of days....how have you been doing without A/C in this horrible heat?

It's been hot hot hot, but last night the ocean breeze kicked up and all of us could sleep in more than our skivvies! Tonight...not looking like we'll be so fortunate! But, with any luck our next door neighbors who have an olympic-sized pool will have another 11 pm pool party like two nights ago...daughter wakes up and peeks out her window that overlooks the pool and gets us invited over! :kickingco

We did run the last two mornings at 6:30 a.m...never had so much sweat on me! Then we washed the cars, so we cooled down quick! We may go over to the Gelato place in a few minutes...that place is a meat locker! Thirty minutes in there and we'll be chilled to the bone. Probably enough to make :catchingz OK!

I do think that coastal hot is so much easier than inland. I really feel for everyone else and how oppressive you've got it. Take it easy and don't get crazy. I did comment to my husband on our run yesterday that we'll probably have a couple of murders here in town this week. Whenever it gets hot, people always get killed around here. So, literally, KEEP YOUR COOL! :thumbsup:

[Rozzie]

sorry for not posting, but this dern anti-hurricane blowing machine is not working quite right.......Pixie Dust for the Gulf Coast..... the whole continental US, that everyone will benefit from my newest invention. :cool:

Nono--I cant freakin' imagine life without AC! Good thing L has the most adorable little face and can get ya'll into those pool party's!

PD for your shuttle launch CB, you really deserve a great trip!

Kristy, big <hug> for you. :hug: Sorry you are having a stressful time with DS right now.

[AFMom]

CB - I'm so sorry about your floors. They sound like they were beautiful. I would be so P'd off if I was you - I don't know how you stay so nice and calm!
Well - it's been stessful since he was about 3, but sometimes just seeing it in writing is difficult!
He has Verbal/Oral Apraxia. His vocaublary is huge, but understanding him takes a bit of work. His speech therapy is actually going quite well. The other issues are too numerous to list - but basically he has problems rememberring what things look like (ie shapes and letters), he's dyslexic, and he is in the 1st percentile with anything to do with handwriting. He's a bright kid, but these sorts of roadblocks make it very difficult to do school work. One of the main reasons I homeschool. He has to do a lot of the question answerring verbally. He also has an "immature nervous system" from being born premature - so he has a hard time controlling his body when he's trying to sit still.
They've tried to tell me he's got attention problems - but I tell them he's just an 8 yo boy and to leave it alone! Luckily - no school people telling me I need to drug him. I'm sure at this point he would have been held back and drugged if he were in public school - but he's doing great as far as academics at home. He's at grade level in math and reading, he's above grade level in history & science. And he's learning German, art and music as well.
Sorry - I'm sure this isn't all that interresting- but it always helps to vent!!!! I do get very tired of people who don't have any idea what he's up against tell me that the schools here are great and I should just put them back in. Arg.

[Stimpy]

Kristy, it sounds like you are doing the best for your son. I really believe that a Mother knows what's best for their children. Sometimes it seems the people that are supposed to be helping you are just looking for the easiest way, not always the best and most effective way. I imagine it gets difficult for you and your son sometimes, just remember your a great mom and it sounds like he's a great boy! :grouphug:

Rozzie, how's that AHB-machine coming along??? Maybe if all the Nothingers blow really hard at the same time we can help?

[Colorado Belle]

Kristy, I think you are doing a wonderful thing for your son in home schooling him and being creative in what and how you teach him. Problems with our school systems are legion; but inherent in a system that was designed for the 'average' way to learn, the 'average' pace for learning (and I blame lack of funding and not the teachers)....if you aren't 'average' you are s.o.l. in our school systems. Sadly, this hurts the most creative of our human resources.....like the old Kurt Vonnegut story where to keep everyone 'average', the ballet dancers had to wear sand bags on their feet.

Haven't studies shown that many of the most creative minds of history were dyslexic? I wonder if the lessons learned in overcoming a difficult disability causes the brain to expand and create in so many other areas? Food for thought.

HANDWRITING!!!!! You are far too young to have witnessed the PAINTER writing system drilled into all of us 'older people' for years and years. And they wonder why our country lags behind all others in math and science!!!!! I think we spent more time on writing than on any other subject. I remember in first grade having my hand slapped because I wrote (cursive already) with my left hand. (I'm sure that's why my roof is leaking btw :D ) I don't mean to pry, but can your son use the computer keyboard? I love that he is learning German! Have you considered Tai Chi or Karate to help with mind-body coordination and calming?
What kind of art does he most enjoy doing? And music! :teacher:

May I tell another story? This is by far my fav. In the late 50's, a group of psychologists decided to test some learning theories in the elementary schools.
(Rosenberg (or -thal) . At the beginning of the school year they told individual teachers that they had identified 5 extremely bright children in each class from IQ testing...and that these children might, because they were so gifted, be difficult in the classroom, but that they were over the top in giftedness. In truth, the tests were administered BUT the children were chosen RANDOMLY and not on their test schores. At the end of the year, the psychologists went back to see how these 'gifted' children were doing. And EVERY one of them was....well, GIFTED! Top of the class in grades. And it wasn't only the teachers that believed these kids were gifted...the kids actually tested out with higher IQs!! WOW!
(Which helped me come up with a game plan....every year of elementary school, pick 5 kids in each class who are randomly designated 'gifted'...and by 4th grade, everyone will be acting and testing and BE-ing gifted! Double wow!)

People, and children especially, live UP to the expectations that we have of them.
Sadly....people also live DOWN to the expectations we have of them.
When we think back to various 'turning points' i our lives, it is remarkable that the people who had the greatest positive effect on us, were the people who BELIEVED in us.

Have a great day folks!

[PoohsPal]

nono - I thought I was the only person on earth w/o central air. Last year we broke down and bought a portable a/c unit. I am soo thankful! Hang in there!

Kristy - This does not solve many of your issues, but might help alittle. My niece has some issues (total blank on what it's called, but some of theme sound similar to your ds.) ANyway, her motor skills are very low. Last year my SIL started her with lessons that she coudl do on the ocmputer. It made a huge difference for her not havign to write. May want to look into a curriculum like that. :hug: It's hard enough for me to deal with my niece's issues (just kills me to know sh'ell have to deal with this stuff her whole life, but at least she's been diagnosed, so we can learn how to help her adapt). It must be really hard as a mom. SOUnds like you are doing everything you can fo rhim, though. Most importantly, he knows you love him and that makes a world of difference!

[jnrrt]

Hi all, just catching up.

First, thanks, I think I recognize some "nothingers" who left comments on my IH page, and that was great, I'm back on the top ten list for that. Now if I can just get another 100 hits a day or so on the page, I'll be golden. Oh, and if you're on myspace, come and be my friend. I'd love to have some friends who actually *are* friends, lol.

Man, this heat is bad. I'm really feeling for those of your without A/C. Yuck.

CB, I totally agree about expectations and schools. I think that's pretty much what kindergarten is for. Who cares what you learn that year academically. If you learn that you are good at school and can succeed, you will. If you learn that you aren't very good, you won't be. You know what I mean? Obviously there are kids with natural gifts, but everyone is so affected by the expectations of them. It's one of the reasons we're waiting to send my younger dd to kindergarten because she's very much on the youngest side right now, and thinks everyone does everything better than her. I wanted her to havev more confidence before starting school.

Well, my son's testing is done, and he came back as way above average in most areas, but in speech and language recognition, he is moderately to severly delayed. It looks like he's compensating in other communication areas for his lack of speech. It wasn't anything we didn't know, but it's still (as Kristy said) hard to see it in print. Since we know he couldn't hear for at least a year, I'm not terribly concerned about the speech - we can work on that, and I'm thinking he'll catch up pretty soon as long as he's hearing. What concerned me was that they are not sure what he's hearing exactly. For example, if you ask him to find his toes, he'll point to him nose, and the therapist pointed out that those look identical when said - no visual cue to help (now you're all saying those two words, aren't you?). So they are concerned that perhaps he has some permanent damage from all the trauma to his ears, maybe his hearing is distorted or something, as that would explain everything. And they can't test at that depth until he's at least 3. So, if he can't hear, therapy won't help. But if we don't get therapy, he'll get angry (he's already very frustrated when we don't understand him), and he won't be able to tell us what he can hear when they are able to test him. Aarrgh. But I think we'll go ahead and start therapy, and if it's not working, we'll know there's more to the problem.

As for my Dad, he seems to have stabilized some. He's not doing well, but he's generally okay, and a lot better than he was at hospice. So that's actually good, and has been nice for all of us.

[PoohsPal]

j - That is soo frustrating about your son! :hug: Glad to hear that your dad's stable at least. :hug: :hug:

[AFMom]

J - I'd definitely start therapy even if they aren't sure. It's amazing what a good SLP can do for a kid, the tricks they can teach them to communicate better. Then as soon as he's old enough, do the hearing exam and go from there. Keep in mind that he is really young, and the diagnosis they make on him will change every year as they see him grow. Alex wasn't actually diagnosed properly until he was 7.
Alex used to get so frustrated when he was younger. He'd have tantrums, and just break down crying when we couldn't understand him. It's much better now - almost everyone he comes into comtact with can understand what he's saying about 99% of the time. Used to be complete strangers couldn't understand more than about 15% and they'd have to have me interpret for him.
Thanks for all of your encouragement. I wonder some days if I'm doing the right thing, doing enough, doing it all correctly. We can only do our best, right?
As far as typing, he does do quite a bit - but so many of the workbooks want them writing right in them. My plan is to have him type them and then print them out and attatch the page. Only problem is - the keyboard can be very confusing to him with his visual memory skills out of whack! I think if he can get to a point of touch-typing he'd do better.....
OK - Everyone BLOW! DH should have the roof done by Sunday, but I still don't want a hurricane here! Not that I want other people to have to dea with it either.....
Ug - no AC??? I would be worthless.
CB - that story is awesome, btw. Every child has their own gifts - it's a shame that so many kids never get to discover them. Alex loves animals, cooking, and art. He does just about every sport out there (his large muscle motor skills are fine). Currently he wants to be a Vet at DAK!

[mickeyndvcfan]

Kristy....I see by your counter that we will be at WDW the same time. How long are you staying? We will be there until the 20th and this will be are first time staying at the BWV's. Can't wait.

[jnrrt]

Hey, Kristy, thanks for the encouragement. I just want to chime in and say I'm so bummed that it looks like we'll just miss you at BCV! We're there starting on the 17th.

I also wanted to say earlier that I really admire what you're doing in homeschooling him, and you can be certain that he's getting more that way. I don't think homeschooling is for every kid, but I sure don't think school is for every kid either. I agree that many schools are built for the "average" kid, and that is just kind of how it has to be. I know here, we are in one of the best districts in the country, and for the average kid, they are really good, for the advanced kids they are phenomenal, and for the delayed kids they are pitifully poor. I should say, they are great until first grade, and then it gets pretty pitiful. My best friend started homeschooling in the middle of the year because her son has a variety of special needs that just weren't being addressed in a classroom. They just kept telling her it was ADD (and it's not - he's adopted and has a very complicated history), and he was making no progress, and feeling really bad about himself too. Homeschooling has been great for him, and since then, she's hooked up with a lot of moms in the same boat. I mean, to be fair, he's going to be much more difficult than just speech delay or fine motor, or whatever, but there are a lot of moms who just think that if your kid is too far outside the "norm", the school can't teach them much.

I understand the school's position - there's only so much time and all, but I was very surprised (and not in a good way) by how few resources they had to deal with my friend's son. I mean, this is a model district! What are they doing in the not-so-model districts? So for us, the school is wonderful for my daughter, she loves it and so do I, and I expect it to be great for my younger dd too. But I'm really hoping my son catches up by first grade, or I may be rethinking the homeschool thing myself.

[ErinC]

Jnrrt- Never had to deal with the speech therapy stuff, but I think you should go ahead and try it for awhile. JMHO We did the same thing about Kindergarten with my DD. She has an August birthday, so she could have started Kindergarten two years ago. I just didn't think that she was mature enough to handle it. I was also hoping that she would outgrow the motor tics if I gave her some extra time (stupid doctor told me she would outgrow them by the time she was 4 or 5). She did 5 day preschool (1/2 days) when she was five and then started Kindergarten last year. It was the best decision we could have made for her. I will never regret it. She sailed thru K last year. I think she would have really struggled if she would have gone at five. She starts 1st grade on the August 10th, and will turn 7 on the 13th. She is pretty much one of the oldest in her class, but there were other kids that are older or right behind her. Seems like the trend in the last few years has been to wait. Good luck with both decisions.

AFMom- I completely understand why you homeschool, and frankly from a former teachers perspective, it is probably best for your child. You know what is best for your child. You would have to explain this situation to a "new" teacher every year. By the time they would have a good grasp of the situation, you would be moving on to someone else and re- explaining his learning style. I can remember the paperwork that was thrown at me as a new teacher regarding some special needs children in my classroom. It was overwhelming. The "lists" of things that were required were mind blowing. I remember looking at one of the special ed supervisors and asking her when was I supposed to find the time to teach the other 32 children in my class? I was completely overwhelmed. I hope that you don't find these comments offensive (it's so hard when your typing to put thoughts into writing), I just think that your son probably gets so much more quality instructional time from you than he would get in the regular classroom. You have all my respect and admiration. I don't think that I could homeschool my kids. Probably puts me on some bad mother list somewhere.....

Okay, somebody needs to start blowing that hurricane somewhere else. I feel so bad for my Mom. She and my Dad are supposed to leave for a mini vacation next Thursday. My Dad's brother is going to be in Tenn. visiting his kids and my Mom and Dad are headed to see him. She's had a very stressful time at work lately, and she really needs the break. But.... she works for our city and if they even think that the hurricane might head this way, they will cancel her vacation (just like Rozzie). She missed out on seeing her sisters last year because of Katrina. Pray that thing goes somewhere else!!

[AFMom]

Oh, Erin - I don't think you sounded bad at all. Classrooms are too large, and even 1 special needs kids can be as difficult to help as 6 average ones. I know Alex would have needed basically his own aid to be able to keep up with classroom work and according to the schools he isn't bad enough for that. And there is no way a teacher could give him the time he needed and still teach! Schools just don't have enough resources. So he would have been totally lost. He is unable to copy from a piece of paper next to him, let alone from a white board 6 feet away (well - he can bu it isn't legible, the words and letters are scrambled and it takes him hours) , he basically is unable to write anything more than a single word on his own, and then he usually can't spell them - even though he can read the words ok. Anyway - he's a complicated mess!
Gail - we're only staying 5 nights. We're going to USO/IOA and Sea World - os other than being at Disney - no Disney this time! Gonna be hard for me! We're going to do DTD and maybe go to lunch at Boma's. That'll at least be a little Disney (well - that and SAB!!!!)

[Ginger]

Kristy, I don't think Boma serves lunch. :( But you can always eat a late breakfast or ealy dinner. We love Boma and eat there every trip.

[soozaay]

this special announcement is to help all nothingers in their quest to cool off during the oppressive heat....
http://images1.snapfish.com/34777%3A2%3B%3B%7Ffp356%3Enu%3D324%3A%3E34%3A%3E94 5%3EWSNRCG%3D32339%3B8985457nu0mrj

now back to your regularly scheduled programming...

[jnrrt]

Soozaay, that reminds me of my first "real" snow of the year one year at college. We got lake effect snow in MI, and after one all-nighter of a storm, I needed groceries (see, college, hadn't learned to plan ahead yet) and my roommate and I went out and all the cars were gone, absolutely snowed under. We literally went back and got our broom and started dusting license plate until we found my car so we'd know which one to clean off. Crazy snow!

Well, not feeling cool presently. Just got back from the fair. Family tradition, have to do it, but it's 95 degrees, and there's nothing like a fair to make you appreciate Disney. "Hey honey, let's pay 2 bucks to put the kids in a nasty 40 year old pumpkin thing that will go around 3 times and stop. And then we can pay $2 more to put them in a nasty 40 year elephant that will go around 3 times and stop. And then we can pay $2 more..." You get the idea. It was fun, but I'm glad to be back. And I'm glad that's not my only option as far as family fun and rides go.

[gopherit]

Ooo, that snow looks GOOD! :loveisint It is HOT HOT HOT here... and yet my office is 55 degrees. I feel like I'm constantly driving through the Test track proving grounds.... HOT.... ccccccooooldd.... HOT...cccccoooold...

I think I tried to post something here last night, but actually fell asleep typing it and must have closed off the internet when my drool hit the keyboard (ok, kidding about the drool, but not about the sleeping part - woke up at 2 am with my head on my son's desk!) Yup, still using my kid's computer - is that pathertic or what - my computer is continuing its demise no matter what I try. Figure I'll work on it after vacation, when I'm already depressed, LOL! In any case - I think it's a GOOD thing I deleted my post - who knows what sort of jabberwocky I typed.

THis has been the house of ill (not repute... just ill). After dd's bout with pink eye nad ear stuff, ds 11 developed a fever of 102 and pink eyes as well - took him to doc, he has ear infection too. Lovely. I figure let's just put all 3 kids on antibiotics, told DH well, at least then maybe we will be safe in Florida next week! (And of course, Mr. Biology hubby of mine points out... "Sure, but antibiotics don't do beans for a rotovirus...") I have been watching with a keen eye the disturbance of Mother Nature. It was 2 yrs ago we got served with Charley while at the BWV... thanks but I'll pass on a second helping. What disturbs me more than Chris is the comment "some disturbance off the coast of Africa"... timing would be right for those to mess us up, since we will be down there for almost 2 wks. Haven't told DH - lest we forget, he is after all the chicken-butt when it comes to risk taking and hurricanes.

Just finished a REALLY cute dress for dd! I wanted something comfy but cute she could wear to breakfast at the palace for our mom/dd day together. Finally found a simple white cotton tank top dress (top part knit, bottom part pinpoint woven cotton with some simple tucks.) I had some sweet wide satin Disney ribbon with the princesses on it (S. White, Cindy, Belle, and her fave, Aurora) in pink diamond shapes and a matching skinnier ribbon of white and pink givng their names over and over... sewed those into the hem line and at the waist, with enough left over for her hair. Looks very cool, and very "non-itchy" - always a good thing! She will wear that with her pink SB crown, of course! I do fear, however, we are soon exiting the "princess years". Not sure if she's just pressured by the boys of the house or what, but she's far more interested in riding Space /Splash / BT Mountain than anything else, LOL. You moms of daughters - when did the transition occur? I'll be curious to see how our day together goes!

My hat goes off to any home-schooler. I think that's a wonderful gift you are giving your child. Funny, jnrrt about schools in your area. Where we are (just a scant 2 hrs but another state away), we are in probably one of the BEST areas of the state, but nonetheless, the public schools do not, in my opinion, work well for either the advanced or special needs child here. They have programs but I believe they are grossly understood and the criteria for putting kids in these programs is very subjective. Also - very little diversity (art, music, creative play) in the education (and I'm talking kindergarten / 1st grade, even - just a LOT of workbooks, maybe a reading center, that sort of thing). We put our first son in the parochial school system purely because of this lack of diversity (he was reading at age 2 and could count / recognize numbers up to 99, but the poor kid couldn't draw a picture... just came out as letters and shapes!) We didn't want him reading War & Peace at age 4, nor did we want him shoved in the back of the class because he "knew it already". We wanted to develop ALL of him. And the public school told us VERY flatyl "Hey, we have kids who haven't even SEEN an alphabet before. That's great that your son is so far ahead, but don't expect us to take that any further. Our programs don't address a kindergartener who can read." They just didn't understand that we weren't looking to turn him into Einstein - we only wanted to know that he wouldn't regress, or be set aside, while these areas in need of development continued to gather dust. The parochial school (because it is small) did a wonderful job and had a very broad program. They were better suited to handling a reading kindergartener, too, and finding ways to challenge him without honing only that one strength (for example, creating a word journal where DS had to DRAW pictures of words with certain sounds. Thatr journal is priceless -it just comes to life over the course of his year, from a geometric set of shapes in black and white to an explosion of color and creativity.) When son #2 came along - he is a summer birthday, just 1 month ahead of the cutoff. I was the same way (Oct birthday to a Nov 1 cutoff), so I thought what the hey - I did it, he can handle it! BUt when he was 4, I could clearly see that the child I knew at home crawled in a shell at school and just followed everyone else. He was normally such a go-getter! I had visions of him in jr high, just following the crowd... low self-esteem.... easy target for life's less than savory side! His pre-K teacher's EXACT words to me: "Oh, don't hold him back, I *think* he will probably make it!" Didn't exactly give us warm fuzzies. So we moved him over to the parochial school as well, and in doing so, held him back 1 year. We also sought counseling for emotional issues he was having. He was constantly comparing himself to his older brother - never seeing his own special talents, only seeing how he WASN'T like Evan. Already in a state of low self-esteem at the tender age of 5. By doing all of this (counseling and deferring one year), WOW - What a tremendous change resulted - this kid is SUCH a leader now! He figured out last year, however, that he is "old enough" to be a grade ahead, and even told us in June that next year he would be going NOT into 4th but straight to 5th grade... after all, that's where he's SUPPOSED to be. Very difficult conversation enused, explaining to him why he was held back. There are 2 other boys in his class that are actually older than him (also held back)- I think that does give him some solace! Bottom line, whatever the decision, anytime you put the child's best interest at heart (whether homeschooling or deferring a year or obtaining special aid) the benefit will be shine through - perhaps not obviously at first, but in time, it will be there.

Well, gotta go sew up some lanyards... hey can somebody refresh my memory - I saw lnayards last time with a d-ring to fasten the medallion to, and the lanyard fastened at the base with velcro - was there just one d-ring down there, or 2? (And why do the lanyards fasten with velcro? Is it so that if someone grabs it, or it gest caught, it will "break free" from a safety perspective?)

THANKS! And sending any spare PD I have hidden around my meesy abode to whomever needs it - sorry I'm so far behind on the Nothing News!

[ErinC]

Well, not feeling cool presently. Just got back from the fair. Family tradition, have to do it, but it's 95 degrees, and there's nothing like a fair to make you appreciate Disney. "Hey honey, let's pay 2 bucks to put the kids in a nasty 40 year old pumpkin thing that will go around 3 times and stop. And then we can pay $2 more to put them in a nasty 40 year elephant that will go around 3 times and stop. And then we can pay $2 more..." You get the idea. It was fun, but I'm glad to be back. And I'm glad that's not my only option as far as family fun and rides go.

:hahahaha: :hahahaha: The cost of Disney doesn't look too bad after an evening at the fair! I guess that we should appreciate the fact that our fair is in the Winter. No way am I hanging out in 95 degree temps and eating all the wonderful "fair" food!:scary:

AFMom- glad that my post came across like I wanted it to. If you need a little Disney fix while not doing the parks, try Mini golf. My girls think that the mini golf courses at Disney are the best. Their favorite is Winter summerland by Blizzard beach. Hope you have a great trip! Your family deserves it!

Nono- not sure how your making it without AC. Hope the neighbors are sharing the pool!

[gopherit]

Well, not feeling cool presently. Just got back from the fair. Family tradition, have to do it, but it's 95 degrees, and there's nothing like a fair to make you appreciate Disney. "Hey honey, let's pay 2 bucks to put the kids in a nasty 40 year old pumpkin thing that will go around 3 times and stop. And then we can pay $2 more to put them in a nasty 40 year elephant that will go around 3 times and stop. And then we can pay $2 more..." You get the idea. It was fun, but I'm glad to be back. And I'm glad that's not my only option as far as family fun and rides go.

ANd that is EXACTLY how I feel about the Boardwalk stuff where my ILs live. I don't mind the food stands, but the schmaltzy carny games - ewww. And you're right - it's $2 here, $2 there... with nothing really to show for it. I think that's why I hate that one section of Animal Kingdon with the dino version of WhacA Mole - it's like Disney ran out of creative juices and said, Hey, let's just stick some county fair carny games in this space over here - yeah, that'll do it. And let's make 'em really authentic too - make people pay to play. Oh boy. :sosad:

[PoohsPal]

lol j! Still can't understand why people complain about WDW costs. You just really proved my point!

soozaay - Oh, I must be delirious form teh heat when that pic looks heavenly to me!

gopherit - Hope everyone's better soon! Oh, I I would have killed for a dress liek that. How cool!

Erin - You are such a bad mom! :ROTFL: :ROTFL: I only said it because you keep sayingit. I hope your seeing my post will help youto see how ridiculous that statement is!

[soozaay]

j~ I feel the same way when I go to Six Flags....it's about the same price as a day pass to MK, and there's garbage everywhere...weird smells...paint chipping & rides that look as though they may break down at any moment. :yes:

When I saw that snow photo, for the first time I actually MISSED the snow & cold! It actually made me smile (I will have to find a photo taken during the heat wave to post in January!) :crazy: .

[nono]

Nono- not sure how your making it without AC. Hope the neighbors are sharing the pool!

Erin, This is one of the hotter times ever, but we're actually doing OK. From Noon to 5 is rough, but other than that, things are OK. We have the ocean (though the walk across our 5 blocks of sand -- very wide beach -- is ROUGH), pools, the hose, and our gelato cafe a.k.a. the meat locker. They're our new best friends!!! :slyasafox Of course, the fact that my daughter can still nap in the heat is making all of this bearable. As my husband says, "When the grid goes down, we'll already be acclimated." :hahahaha:

WDW costs....well, I always try not to look at pure dollars but value. Skiing? Well, it isn't cheap, but for the enjoyment and amount of time for the lift ticket, it's a pretty good value to me. Same for SCUBA diving.... And, when you look at the experiences, transportation and amount of time one gets to enjoy the property per day's expenditure, I find WDW a decent value. Same with the food. Folks complain about the cost of a dinner at WDW -- but for us, we've find the portions to be gigantic....and always take back leftovers to the villa. So, we get a second meal out of that $22 plate, and to us, that's a good value.

Homeschooling? Just like everything else...think it is a great that everyone have it as an option. My sister did it for 7 years until a charter school opened and my nephew has had a wonderful first year in "real" school. He says it's a bit easier than homeschooling. My sister can be a bit of :drillserg , so I understand! (BTW, the "real" in the earlier sentence is FIRMLY tongue-in-cheek...remember as an adoptive parent, I hear that word used in the same way more times than one would believe possible in polite society).

Anyone have some great weekend plans? Please share...I need ideas!!!! The Viking, you coming my way again this weekend????

[KNWVIKING]

The Viking, you coming my way again this weekend????

Not certain yet. DW may have a work "retreat" to attend on Saturday. Since they aren't paying her for the time, I told to skip it. She hasn't decided yet. This Saturday is looking pretty good weather wise. Last Saturday was TFH and the flies were out.

[Colorado Belle]

Hi all!

gopherit: yep, the velcro is a safety feature, quick release. Also, tho I haven't done this myself..it might be good to somehow attach a skinny velcro piece to hold it down on a child's tummy..they get kinda heavy with pins on them and it hurts when it bounces up and smacks you in the face on a ride! BTW,the dress sounds beautiful! I sewed for my daughter, and I now love looking back through photos (and I kept a few of the dresses for grandbabies of course!)

Schools: it was always a struggle here. I got involved with the school system when my d was born , in hopes that it would become better. (I had a great public school education in Pa, and I really wanted to stay with public schools. I spent most every day of elementary school volunteering. There was lots of scary stuff happening in that school...like the principal who didn't like kids and if they forgot to take their coats into the lunch room at lunch, they were forced to out out into the snow and blizzards (here at 9300 feet) without any outerwear!!!!! I also heard the "we're geared to the average here". (And la..you already know how I feel about high expecatations!). We waited until high school to buy a house in a great public school district in Denver. Best thing we ever did! She went from a high school of 200 to one of 4000....and she just thrived! Pom's captain, high honors, homecoming court, and academically AP'd her way through about 32 college credits. I suspect I should have done it in middle school instead. Luckily though I only had one child and we could do that kind of stuff...I so admire you 'rents who have to figure it all out with more kids and jobs....WOW!
But a mind is a terrible thing to waste.

Well off for a cuppa. I'm off to a wedding in less than two weeks. Chicago/South Bend in summer! Arrrggggg.

[Ginger]

Just got home from the hospital. MIL made it fine through both surgeries (cancer removal and reconstruction). They tested some limph nodes and didn't find any cancer, the Dr. thinks they got it all. Since they caught it so early, things look very good. She will have to have some more reconstruction work in a few months, but the skin has to stretch first. Sorry if TMI. Hopefully she can go home tomorrow, late afternoon at the earliest.

[soozaay]

That's wonderful news Ginger!! Thanks for the update! (and it wasn't TMI).

[Rozzie]

Just got home from the hospital. MIL made it fine through both surgeries (cancer removal and reconstruction). They tested some limph nodes and didn't find any cancer, the Dr. thinks they got it all. Since they caught it so early, things look very good. She will have to have some more reconstruction work in a few months, but the skin has to stretch first. Sorry if TMI. Hopefully she can go home tomorrow, late afternoon at the earliest.

that's great news Ginger on the lymph nodes. Wishing her a very speedy recovery. Thanks for the update, I have been wondering how things were going. :hug:

[soozaay]

http://www.mpimages.net/mp/compressed/contributed_general/dole_whip-bennett.jpg

The only thing that would cool me off (or at least make the heat a little more bearable) right now would be a delightful cup (or 2) of Dole Whip!!

[Rozzie]

OMG Susie! :bowdown:

I am about to lick the computer screen!! Dole Whips are the bomb!!

[nono]

Ginger,

Whew! Best of luck to her for a successful and stress-free recovery.

[withdisneyspirit]

Ginger,

Whew! Best of luck to her for a successful and stress-free recovery.

Yes, I also wish her success and healing!!

[PoohsPal]

Great news GInger!!! :dust for a speedy recovery!

nono - We have fire works tomorrow. They're amazing! You're welcome to come join us! Let me know when you'rew on your way, though, need to clean out teh spare junk closet, I mean bedroom. ;)

[nono]

Hey, big news from the coast....

Temp went down some. But....humidity is way up. Net result: Heat index of only 103, vs. 105-106 the last few days. :ROTFL:

Bar is open. Banana daquiris are frozen with a double hit of the hooch.

[TW1]

Bar is open. Banana daquiris are frozen with a double hit of the hooch.
Slide one down, Nono.

Off camping this weekend. We'll be up on the Delaware river within earshot of Greenban. which will be fine as long as his frogs don't keep us up all night.

DW's a wreck, her entire department is being let go at end of August. Last thing we needed right now was to crank up the job hunt:boohoohoo

Better slide down two of those frozen things Nono.

[PoohsPal]

DW's a wreck, her entire department is being let go at end of August. Last thing we needed right now was to crank up the job hunt:boohoohoo


Oh, I'm so sorry to hear that. Send dw a hug from me! (And let me knwo how you explain who I am and why I would be hugging her. ;) )

[Rozzie]

nono, I'll take one of those double hits banana babes.

TW1, that is really sad. And scary. Give her a hug from me too. (tell her also why I am hugging her, all this crazy brods coming up and hugging her...:bugeyed: )

[Ginger]

TW1, give your wife a hug from me too. I wish her the best in her search. I'm sure she will find a great job!

Nono, slide one down to me too. Sounds like your weather makes for frizzy hair. :)

[bavaria]

Great news, Ginger!!!

And I am so sorry Mrs TW1 - that's not a fun position to be in, I am sure.....

I'm blowing cool winds everyone's way - sorry if I blow a little dust along with it - haven't done any cleaning for a few months, it seems.

Best wishes to everyone for a cool, relaxing, healthy weekend!

[Stimpy]

Can I get a virgin daquiri?? Too many real margaritas at Margarita Madness last night. :crazy: Great time, Jimmy Buffet cover guy (can't really call 1 person a cover "band") on the water with cheap margaritas!

Ginger, glad to hear about your MIL. Sounds like some good news!!

TW, sorry about your DW's job! I really hope something better comes along really quick!!! :goodvibes

Warning...parts of the following vent will self destruct in about 30 minutes (or be deleted when I realize I shared TMI once again ;) )

Dh and I have not been out together without the kids in quite some time so I was really looking forward to going out last night for dinner and a few drinks/live music. DH managed to stress me out with 10 minutes of getting to the place last night.

He asked "so how are things on you MO board?"
Me getting leary: "Ok....why???"
"Oh no reason, a few of the people on my message boards are coming to LI and planning a get together"
Starting to get annoyed and realizing where this is headed....."when and who?"
DH casually answers, "oh just Maureen, lois, (about 4-5 other WOMEN that I was so PO at that point, I tuned out their names!) Oh, and it's going to be 8/26"
Trying to remain calm..."Ummm you mean when I am away for the weekend??"
"Yeah, that weekend, I can get your parents to babysit"
Me: "NO!" while giving him my biggest "what-drugs-are-you-on" look???

EDITTED OUT :)

So after about 20 minutes of pretty uncomfortable silence and finally getting a table for dinner, I asked him "what made you think that I would be ok with that in any way???" "I didn't think it was a big deal and thought you might say yes" I asked him how the h*** he would feel if he was going to be 1500 miles away and I told him that I was meeting up with a bunch of the GUYS from my message boards at a bar??? He told me "Oh I would be fine with it, I trust you!" That's when I almost hit the roof....of course he can trust ME! I never gave him a reason not to! Didn't have to actually say that because when he saw my face, he knew exactly what I was thinking! :burningma You know that saying about "blind rage", I think I had it at that moment. He quickly said he would not go.

So after I finally calmed down and had a margarita or two, we did have a better night.

Oh and if any of the MO guys want to head up to LI, feel free to give me a call....DH would have no problem with it at all :ROTFL: (Of course the MO girls are welcome too! :hug: )

[jnrrt]

Ginger, I'm so glad it went well and is over!

And TW1, that is no fun. Job searching is the pits. Tell dw I'm sorry!

[KNWVIKING]

Stimpy, I'm laughing at your story, but not in a cruel or sarcastic way.


"realizing where this is headed....."when and who?"
DH casually answers, "oh just Maureen, lois, (about 4-5 other WOMEN that I was so PO at that point, I tuned out their names!) Oh, and it's going to be 8/26"


All the man had to say is Fred, Joe, ......... or at the very least Bertha, Hilda ....

[Rozzie]

:( I so understand your feelings Stimpy. What on earth is he thinking?? :(

[Stimpy]

Stimpy, I'm laughing at your story, but not in a cruel or sarcastic way.


"realizing where this is headed....."when and who?"
DH casually answers, "oh just Maureen, lois, (about 4-5 other WOMEN that I was so PO at that point, I tuned out their names!) Oh, and it's going to be 8/26"


All the man had to say is Fred, Joe, ......... or at the very least Bertha, Hilda ....

:ROTFL: Yes, when you look at it that way, he certain isn't the smartest husband out there!

[PoohsPal]

Oh Kimberly, why do they never realize that after they do something to lose our trust, it's a very sensitive area?

On the bright side, he must have had no intention of any wrong doings or he would not have been stupid enough to not lie. I completely understand your reaction, though. :hug:

[TW1]

I'm a married spud
I'm a married spud
I'm a married spud

[TW1]

Anyone going to see Talladega Nights?

I can't wait, I find Will Ferrell hilarious and this is just the type of sophomoric humor I need right now.

[PoohsPal]

I'm a married spud
I'm a married spud
I'm a married spud
But we're hugging your wife, not you. ;) :laughing:

[TW1]

But we're hugging your wife, not you. ;) :laughing:
But I'm the one who was invited to Long Island!

[AFMom]

Ginger! Yay!!!! Hopefully things will keep going just as smoothly and well!
TW1 - bummer. That's all I can come up with. Job hunting is on my top 10 list of things I hate. Right up there with 3rd degree burns and Bartholin cysts.
Stimpy - you do really have to wonder sometimes. At least you can take consolation that he obviously thought it was an innocent meeting - or he wouldn't have been telling you about it. But I do think TW1 is right. Names like Bertha are always a good thing!
Went grocery shopping, post office, 2 dr appts for kids, and just finished a major art project with the kids. Send me 2 of those drinks and one of the dole whips.

[mickeyndvcfan]

Anyone going to see Talladega Nights?

I can't wait, I find Will Ferrell hilarious and this is just the type of sophomoric humor I need right now.


It's on the list for the weekend (DH's anyway). We'll probably go on Sunday.

[PoohsPal]

But I'm the one who was invited to Long Island!
Yeah, that dawned on me about 5 minutes too late. Long week, I'm a lot slow.

How 'bout if we all just drink Long Islands at the same time and pretend. Well, that we're together, not that we're doing anything wrong. :D

[nono]

Stimpy,

Haven't ya ever heard of "hair of the dog that bit ya?" OK OK, I'll make one without....

Also, Stimpy, kudos for recovering and enjoying the night. My husband would have had me up one side of him and down another for the duration when I was a bit younger. But, as The Viking points out, sometimes people are their own worst enemies and you just have to :confused: When my H does something like you've outlined, I now just ask, with a laugh, "Are you a jack@ss?" Saves a whole lot of talking and emotion...

BTW, apparently I ask this question fairly regularly, as my D recently called her Dad a Ja-ass. :faint:

Have a great weekend everyone!

[TW1]

BTW, apparently I ask this question fairly regularly, as my D recently called her Dad a Ja-ass. :faint:Wait till she gets to school and tells her teacher!

[PoohsPal]

[QUOTE=nono]

BTW, apparently I ask this question fairly regularly, as my D recently called her Dad a Ja-ass. :faint:
[QUOTE]
*cough* *choke* *gasp* *clean monitor* :ROTFL: I'm only laughing because I'm not hte one who had to keep a straight face when she said it.

[Ginger]

Oh Kimberly! I would be mad too. Hugs for you.

Nono, I'm LOL at your DD.


MIL will (hopefully) come home tomorrow. She's got a bit of a fever today. The Dr is not able to get to the hospital until around 6pm. He also said he might want to put a few more staples in the incision. She's feeling fine, so that's a good thing. They originally told her she would stay 1-3 days in the hospital.

[Rozzie]

nono---that L cracks me up!!! :hahahaha: Maybe that is another reason, #4789 to stay a DINK. I can't imagine a little one repeating what I call other people! Especially inlaws and brother! :Paranoid: :Paranoid:

[Colorado Belle]

Ditto for magic for Ginger's MIL.
Ditto for hugs for Mrs. TWI and job hunting..yuck.

Stimpy, I am so proud of you...Instead of 'taking it' (as I evidentally did), you let him know fair and square that it wasn't an ok thing BECAUSE he had in the past betrayed your trust and now he needs to earn it back. I'm also proud that after you said your piece, you were able to enjoy the evening....and that goes a long way in strenghtening your R....so good going, girlfriend!

Roz...re a different thread...I'm so happy you think I'm very funny pretty!!!!!! I like it so much that I might have to start putting it along my siggie: CBvfp.

Nono....I don't think you have to worry about DD saying that about her daddy to the teacher. Heck, the teacher already probably knows!!!! (Just joking here...:footopenm )

Well, no plans (but what else is knew for the weekend.) I will play tennis again tomorrow in a little tournament. I played fairly well today...last match, another girl and I took on two men. One of the men was new, but the other is a man I refuse to play with cause he is verbally abusive to his wife. I called him on it two years ago when she was my partner. But it seems he is really trying (besides being really trying!) to behave these days....he's pretty much kept his mouth shut and anger in check all season. So, we played against them (the two guys) and whipped them 3-1. (They pretended that they weren't trying hard, but actually they were....I had two lucky shots in a row when the new guy was kinda picking on me (one a very soft drop shot and the other a hard smash to my body....but I returned both for winners to his chagrin.) We broke both their serves...hehheheh while they accused us of psychological warfare. (but of course:hahahaha: )

Now it is time to cleancleanclean....and water indoor plants.....and pay bills and take the garbage.

Have a great weekend everyone!

[soozaay]

Anyone going to see Talladega Nights?

I can't wait, I find Will Ferrell hilarious and this is just the type of sophomoric humor I need right now.

I absolutely love Will Ferrell!! Just the sight of him makes me laugh! I can't wait to see the movie.

[soozaay]

http://images1.snapfish.com/347796584%7Ffp347%3Enu%3D324%3A%3E34%3A%3E945%3EWS NRCG%3D3233%3A28667869nu0mrj

I KNEW there was something wonderful at the end of the rainbow!! :woohoo:

[AFMom]

http://images1.snapfish.com/347796584%7Ffp347%3Enu%3D324%3A%3E34%3A%3E945%3EWS NRCG%3D3233%3A28667869nu0mrj

I KNEW there was something wonderful at the end of the rainbow!! :woohoo:

:kickingco :woohoo:
:ROTFL: :ROTFL: :ROTFL:

[mickeyndvcfan]

http://images1.snapfish.com/347796584%7Ffp347%3Enu%3D324%3A%3E34%3A%3E945%3EWS NRCG%3D3233%3A28667869nu0mrj

I KNEW there was something wonderful at the end of the rainbow!! :woohoo:


:lmbo: :lmbo:

[Stimpy]

Big lesson learned here this week.....if you send you child to day camp on a real farm in a heat wave... MAKE SURE TO EMPTY THE CAR!! Wholly Moley, I can not even explain the stink in my jeep right now!!! :holymoly: DS left his sneakers under the seat of my car Thursday night and no amount of Fabreeze, Oust, Lysol can get that smell out! :yuck:

[KNWVIKING]

Did you trying taking the sneaks out from under the seat ? Might help.

[AFMom]

Did you trying taking the sneaks out from under the seat ? Might help.


:ROTFL: :ROTFL:

If you can't get the smell out - go online and buy "Nok-Out" it gets ANY smell out!!!!

There was a huge thunderstorm here last night - sounded like the lightning hit our house! Had to go to soccer try-outs this morning and the field was a swamp. Everyone was getting bitten by fire-ants that were evacuating their tunnels.... lover-ly.
DS and I only got 1 bite each - there were a few kids that were covered in them! Ouch!
I wanna go back to bed.......

[soozaay]

Kristy~ Fire ants??? What a great way to start a weekend! Luckily you & DS made it out with only 1 bite...I've never been bit by one, but I've heard that it's not the most pleasant of feelings! :Paranoid:

[Ginger]

MIL is coming home today, just waiting for the discharge papers to sign.

I fear I'm turning into my Grandma, rest her soul. When someone was sick and you couldn't do anything for them, she would cook for them. Guess what I spent the morning doing after my workout? LOL I love to cook and this is an excuse.

[Colorado Belle]

Ginger...I do it because my mama before me and her ma before her did it...must be an English thing! Gives new meaning to the word 'comfort food'.

Well, I just did something STUPID!
I finally bought the bullet and decided to buy a used washer/dryer since mine are
twenty five years old. I was waiting for the remodel...and changing to GAS, but the dryer is eating clothes faster than I can buy them.

So I went down to this little condo complex in my little town down the hill and a cute little couple showed me their washer/dryer and I bought them for $120. I planned on picking the w/d up tomorrow, so drove my Jag X type (this is really a glorified Taurus with a great engine and brake and all wheel drive, but the body is all Taurus all the time). As I was exiting their parking lot, my CROC flip flop got stuck on the clutch pedal and I was going only 2 inches a minute so I reached down to pull it off AND THE NEXT THING I KNOW, MY CAR IS IN A BIG OLE DITCH WITH THE BACK RIGHT END STICKING UP BOUT 3 FEET IN THE AIR!!!!.

So I was thinking about calling a tow truck (and it is raining BTW) and then these kids come out of the condo next door an done of them says: oh I have a tow rope; I can pull you out. I mean this car was really down to the bumper in this ditch....but a couple of guys sat on the back and it came up and then the driver just pulled it right out (4 runner...w/o even going into 4wd. Took less than 20 seconds. So I gave him a $20 and a big smile and drove home.

(I might have to bake them cookies too and drop them off when I pick up the w/d.)
So goes the adventures of CB...never a dull moment!:bagovermy

[AFMom]

Oh CB - you really do need a vacation.:faint:
Now I can think of even more reasons not to wear flip flops of any kind!

[gopherit]

Wow, CB, you just lived one of my great fears - footwear failure behind the wheel! When I was about 17 or 18, I was out running errands for my mom in her little Chevy Citation, and to this day, I am not sure what happened - it was SUCH a rapid blur - but I *think* my sandal may have been the culprit (got caught perhaps on the gas?) In any case - I was