"Welcome to the wonderful world of Gidget"

college diaries 3

2008-09-14T21:51:00.001-07:00

Sunday, September 14, 2008
a double major??? college diaries 3 Category: Life
Wow,...............so off the phone with my son, and he tells his papa he is thinking of trying to test out of two classes and take up another major. Did I miss something? I mean, proud as I am, yeah, I missed something!
"Hold up,..take this stuff in stride", is what I wanna say. But I did tell him to dream big and go for it, now didn't I?
And with $2 to his name,....ha, ha, ha,....hack!,...ha, ha, ha,.. *worried,..... he is definitely living. He's got his savings, university debit card,....and other reserves, so technically he's still in really good standing. The whole $2 in his wallet just kills me. Good thing we paid for him to eat 24/7 in the university cafeteria. BTW, their food is pretty good. I know, because we ate there on both trips to ERAU, and had too many choices of all you can eat entrees, that sadly, made me realize my son would not be missing my homecooking right away.
Tonight was "Anime Club" nite with an anime film marathon of some sort. Needless to say, he is in a happy space with others that are a lot like himself.
*pondering,...........................I asked him, jokingly, if I was suffocating him and if I was bugging him to keep in touch. He responded with "No, you're being good. I've got space." Good. Like I told him, I love to hear from him, even if its only for 5 min. or one line of text. I just need to know he's fine, happy, and doing well. Bugging and suffocating him, I definitely don't want to do. So for now, I guess I'm good. Whew!.................................like it matters! LOL
Anyhow, just researched some flights for xmas. I don't think its too early to check how much it will be as well as availability. Do you?
And back to that double major? Hmmmm,...it seems as though designing spaceships may be something he wants to do instead.......................
Currently listening : Warning By Green Day Release date: 2000-10-03

college diaries 2

2008-09-12T16:05:00.000-07:00

This whole new side of parenting is really something. I mean, one minute, they depend on you, the next the need you,..... then they go to "I really am fine without you being by my side every waking moment of the day,....but stay close"..........to "Huh? Email? Snail mail? Uh, I've got ping pong to play, and trekking around town to do." Duh. Yeah, YOU left me at DUH!

I really have no complaints. This whole "letting go business" has either eluded me or just didn't happen like everyone warned me about. No crying episodes,..........yet. Only have sent cookies once. I try to send him something via "snail mail" so he has something to look forward to and open. I've been in touch with my college student as much as possible without suffocating him. See, the deal with that is simply this; give him enough space and hopefully he will want to keep in contact on his own terms because he wants to, misses all of us,....is a GOOD SON,...yadda yadda yadda. And if all else fails, I work with two sets of slippers, and ain't afraid to use 'em! *rethinking all of this,..............to myself, I think "Damnit! I better have raised a good son! And good kids for that matter!" LOL....................but yeah,....I really hope I have.

Reading his blog keeps me in touch with his young self. Its amazing that everything concerning him now is not contained into one lumped conversation starting with "How was your day at school today?" And if I'm lucky, I get to focus in on what he has to say at that point, but really, with 4 in your crew, everyone is fighting to get something in, making conversation feeling like your in a room full of stockbrokers. "Say what? No, really I was listening but Jo hurt his knee, Ash didn't do well on a test, and that boy said what? to you?,... and when is that money due again? Just tell me again please, and now everyone,....please be quiet so I can get all of this." In fact, our conversations (Gigi and mine) are like piecing together an interesting puzzle, that never really gets solved. I gather info from cell phone conversations, texting, home phone calls, actual "snail mail", email,....facebook.... his blog,... and in the future, maybe his friends. His brother is usually first in finding out info since they text back and forth everyday. I love that. I know he misses his big brother a lot, and knowing they're in touch makes everyone feel like there's still "4" when infact there are now "3". All in all, keeping in touch is okay right now. I do wish there was more going on, but that's not what's supposed to be happening right now. And I'm okay with it.

And talk about adventures! He's had a few already! And thank goodness, its not much to worry about...................yet! Well, I sure hope not. I mean, the trek downhill by bike going 40mph+ in the dark on the highway made me nervous, but he's fine. And he had a wild time experiencing it. Sure, I would have told him, "I rather you wouldn't. And If you do, please go SLOW, and remember, it only takes on little blip on the highway for you to either get hit, face plant and break your face, or drop of the side of that there mountain." But never got the chance. And he knew this would come out of my mouth. And I know he thought about it. But again, he was fine. *whew!,............thank you, God............

Every day, I check email, text, voice mess, mailbox,.... and hope I hear something. I'm extremely proud and happy when I do, and okay when I don't "hear" anything. He's living. And every nite,...well...until just recently, I text him with "good nite". But I think it and pray every nite as I go into his brothers and sister's rooms. That's something that will never change.

hmmmmmmmmm....its almost time for dinner and then relaxing with the crew before bed. Its Friday nite, and I really doubt I'll hear from him tonight. That's okay. There's always Sunday. Can't wait to "hear" what he's up to now. But for me, now, its time to spend it with the crew. Two of them are in the "I'm fine without you, but stay close phase"... and one is still "I need you just to see how goofy I really am".................I love that latter stage!

college weekend

2008-08-30T12:14:00.000-07:00

Saturday, August 30, 2008
the college diaries... Category: Life
And so? It has been a week since we said "See you soon" to the oldest of my crew. He was officially on his own and would officially become a college student that following Monday. In some ways its hard to express what I am feeling, and yet, when given the opportunity, the words and thoughts are fused together following with great eloquence. duh...who am i kidding,....
This has been a hallmark year of many. Seems as though every year is because there is always something new, some new adventure, some new hardship, ...always something. But this year, I'd have to say was different in many ways. Not only for me, not only for my son, but also for my family.
James is the oldest of four and is the first to trek outta state for university. A proud moment, indeed. And with it, comes expectations. Most of those expectations should just be thrown out the window so he can just live and experience his next chapter in life. Some of those expectations won't matter in a little while, but some will hold dear, as they should. He should know, that no matter what, I'm already more proud than I can possibly express.
My crew had no idea what to expect with his college trip coming up. Of course, they new that money would be spent, and not at all on them. They knew that tempers would be short and time would fly by. They walked on tip toes around me, waiting for me to burst into tears at the mere thought of one of my "ducks" gone.....................which never really happened. But what they did not know and did not really expect was how much they would miss him as well. They did not know how close knit we really were until this past week. Wait till the year really starts. They did not realize the expectations and the worth of all his and all of our (as a family) hard work. It gave my crew something more about family values, expectations, their own expectations, and a start at trying to understand an important life lesson not to be written but by themselves alone.
I do miss him.
The first nite there, he stayed with us in the hotel room cramped with anticipation for registration and orientation the following day. After breakfast, the whole crew trekked out to the university to start our busy day with other anxious freshman and parents. I have to say, the day went very smoothly. No big issues, everything was in order and very easy to understand. Over all, people were friendly, helpful, and excited for all the new incoming students. I'll tell you, it did my heart good knowing I was leaving my son in a good place with great people.
The rest of the day was spent agonizing over what to buy, what he needed, where to shop, and thinking about "good-byes". Thank goodness the area had every store imaginable within a 5mile radius that we were familiar with! Hello! Target!!!! But alas,..the husband and crew found Walmart.....gggrrrrrrr! Shopping ensued,............arguments followed with silent frustration towards the middle of the whole darn shopping trip....................so glad its over! The result was over $300 and James was ready to finish moving into his dorm room. BTW, the shower tote is mighty handy....
Back to the dorm, make the bed, put things away, miss his roommate once again,...... find a spot for "Chuck Norris",..... and well, off to dinner! He ended up spending his first nite there, in the dorm. When we dropped him off after 9pm, he woke his roommate up and ended up spending the rest of the evening getting to know him. I hear it was "good times". They seem to get along really well. *thanx....................
The next morning, Friday, was spent trying to tie up any loose ends, and I'll tell you,...you could already see in his face the excitement of being on campus, meeting people, and "I'm ready for you to go,now". *sniff But I couldn't even shed a tear here, because he was happy! And I was so damn happy and excited for him as well.
When we finally did show up on Saturday morning for our farewells, it was a different story. He did admit to being a little "lost and lonely" the nite before at the social but it was short lived because people found him and they all got along really well. I told him to expect it, and know that it may happen from time to time. But, all he has to do is call, text, write, email...... I'm here,.............we're all here for him. He admitted also that he was growing tired of farewells, and that he just didn't want to go through them again. Not because he'd miss us right away. I think its because he didn't know exactly how to react and what to say. This is new for him. First time away by himself for an long expected stay. He chatted about some goals he thought of after talking with many other students. He talked of doing so much that would take him away even further. Summer vacations in Havasu with the family and upcoming graduations of his siblings were on his mind, because his plans might make it difficult for him to be there. I told him, "Take everything in stride. I'm glad you are thinking ahead and making plans. We had a great family vacation before college, and we'll have more. If you can't make it, we'll see you another time. It'll be okay. As far as graduation? One day at a time. You know family is very important to me, and I've raised all of you in that manner. We will figure it out when the time comes. But you need to live now. Go after your dreams, and dream big. You only have so many opportunities to what you'll be able to do here. So go after them and do them now. Don't wait. And if you have to choose over making a middle school graduation or a high school one, try for the latter. And hopefully, it'll all work out. We're here for you. Just don't stay away too long and definitely keep in touch. Family is important. Remember that." *thinking,...........
And so,...............the time came. We walked outside and of course, I started singing to him. I started singing "My Hometown" by Bowling For Soup. Weird choice? Maybe. But the idea is what I wanted him to "get". You see, he is "getting out of our hometown". And that is what I wanted for him. I wanted him to see it, dream it and do it. You get a different perspective when you leave home. You grow up.
This song made him laugh. It'll definitely be a better memory than all of us breaking down crying. All of us took turns hugging him and saying many different things. What surprised me most was Papa's show of emotion. He sure is proud of his first born. He truly is going to miss him. His crew just hugged and tried to make light of the situation,...I think for him,............and for me. Then, it was "Leaving On A Jet Plane" by Justin, my turn. I hugged him forever,..I really tried. I told him ,....."dont' loose sight of who you truly are"................I just can't repeat right now....anyhow..................and then I prayed with him, in my mind, for peace, for him to continue on a good path, to seek his dreams,...to never forget himself, his true self, and never forget where he came from,..to be proud.........I asked God to take care of him, because with His help,................I've been blessed to have him, love him, raise him, teach him, laugh with him, enjoy him,...cry with him,..... learn from him...so much,.............and now he's in His hands. He always has been. All of them. But I was able to be a big part of all of that; with him and his siblings. No regrets. And I'm not totally letting go. I am still holding on and taking my place along side of him. I'll still be here, but its his turn to grow and learn some of what life has to offer on his own. I can't wait to hear his adventures and where his dreams will take him. A parent I will be always,..... but I want to be able to give him space, without totally letting go. Make sense?
After prayer, after more hugs and some tears........"Not goodbye. Just 'We'll see you real soon'. Love you sooooo much. And really going to miss you"*take your vitamins,... do laundry...... drink water,......
Did you know that he watched our car, all of us, leave campus until he possibly couldn't? I know. Cuz I was watching too.
Currently listening : A Hangover You Don't Deserve By Bowling for Soup Release date: 2004-09-14

pomp and circumstance?

2008-08-30T08:55:00.001-07:00

Saturday, June 28, 2008
outta here,....for now Category: Life
Amazingly, I thought I was going to be met with a chorus of trumpets and drums, signaling rather loudly my time was up, my time has passed. Time to pass the torch to some other newbie, oblivious to all the duties that come with first time parents entering into pre-k. Let the games begin! (didn't know about the room mom's unspoken duties, did ya?...hee, hee, hee,...)
But, alas, to my dismay, I did not hear trumpets, drums, nor bells,..or anything. Just the constant chatter from other anxious parents awaiting "pomp and circumstance" to signal the end of 7 years of elementary education (if that's what ya wanna call it) and the beginning of a new chapter of parenting, education,...hence, growing up. And let's just say graduation, or rather "culmination" was just not what it was supposed to be either!
Now, *scratching head,...I'm really going to start complaining. And I don't mean to, but c'mon! Graduation is graduation, and with it come 'expectations', now, right? Such as music, music 'you can hear', um,.... announcements, awards, pauses for applause and appreciation,.....can you tell where I'm going with all of this? *hands up in the air now in frustration
At this particular graduation, there was no music for the children to come in on, making it very uncomfortable and confusing for them, because they didn't know what to expect. As for all the parents, friends, and guests, they were left wondering if the first few children made a mistake by coming in too early? Or not on cue? And praying it wasn't their child in this predicament. * sigh * But, smart parents and relatives that we are, we caught on, immediately understood something was quite wrong with the audio equipment, and applauded our 5th graders while they entered. What else could we do?
Instead of it getting better, it just got worse. How can it get any worse, you ask? Oh,.....let me continue,..........
Principal tried to recite a poem that could not be heard, which, by the way, didn't seem as heartfelt as it should, and few awards were given out with little explanation as to why they were being awarded and as to why the recipient was chosen ( we barely heard names!). Infact, awards seemed to be something they (their 5th grade teachers) breezed right on through, showing little importance! How sad! Graduation certificates were given out rather rapidly, and again, one whole class' parents, friends, and guests could not even hear their childrens' names being called. And this is after many loud outburst from irritated (but patient) parents yelling "Please speak up! We can't hear you!"
And the kicker for me, after hearing my oldest and first born's name pronounced wrong was,......................................................................................... ..................................................are you ready?..............................................
.................................................Jo was third from the last in his class by alphabetical order. And,.................he..................was.................skipped,...... .................................over,..............................................

aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhggggggggggggggggggg!!!!!!!!!!!!
yeah, imagine the "smile" on my face! LOL Hey, at this point, you just have to laugh, and I did. We did. He had a huge cheering section that made up for being skipped and then remembered. Funny, up until he was "skipped", he was waiting just like all the other kids, and kinda dancing in his spot, enjoying the whole thing,...biding his time until he had to stand up. So laugh, we did, all of us together, WITH Jo.
I feel bad for the parents where this was the first graduation they've ever experienced for their own child. It should have been more wonderful and memorable. I have been fortunate enough to have seen three of my own kids' elementary graduations before Jo's and have great memories. This will be a great one to remember as well. Who else will be able to say they went to both their oldest and youngest sons' graduation in the same year, only to have their child's name mispronounced as well as skipped over? *pondering,..............
Anyhow, I just chalk it up as another experience to remember. I wish it was more memorable, and infact, I guess it will be. Its kinda sad to think I am actually done with elementary school now. No more field trips, volunteering, Halloween parades, cheesy christmas programs,..,....no more parent conferences in little chairs, finger painting activities, handball,...hoola hoops for recess..*sniff,.... wow, I guess I will miss it! *looking into the crowd of internet faces now,... "Anyone got a pre-k child in need of a room mommy?" LOL
Miss it yes, but ready for the next few chapters? Oh yeah,....*looking blindly into the wonderful sunset laid out in front of me,.....................Oh yes, I am,........
Currently listening : Empire Records: The Soundtrack Release date: 1995-08-22

empire records

2008-08-30T08:54:00.001-07:00

Sunday, June 29, 2008
this one’s for woobie Current mood: fabulous Category: Friends
And so it began, my lil love affair with a stupid cult classic named "Empire Records",...... as if Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure wasn't enough,......
You see, I would have never seen the movie, had it not been for Woobie, and his predicament at that place in time (which was on my couch). But, I'm glad I did see it,...glad we shared it. Ha, ha, ha,....... and with General Foods International Coffee! LOL
Funny thing, Woobie was over with his wonderful fiance and great crew of kids recently. And I had rented the movie because I had been dying to see it. Well, unbeknownest (ha, ha, ha,...did i just say that???...and did I spell it right?....derrrr) to me, he was able to make Gigi's graduation party. Great surprise!!!! Anyhow,.... I failed to jog his memory by showing the movie to him. And to tell you the truth, I didn't think he'd remember. Sheez, it's been many years since then! But to my surprise, that following Monday, I called him and asked him "Hey, I had our movie in the house. Do you even remember what it is?" And to my pleasant surprise, he responded with "All I gotta know is, am I the one with the black turtleneck, all in black!" Ha, ha, ha! OMG!!!! He remembered! And so, I cried back "Oh my gosh! You remembered! I love you soooooo much, man! I can't believe it! You really remembered!" Good times,...........................................
And after I got off the phone, I decided then to call his bluff and ask if he remembered the title. So, I text him with "you don't even remember the name of the movie, do you,...." Which he then texted back with "EMPIRE RECORDS" and "can you even do Lucas' dance?" LOL,.............yeah, he remembered.
I love this guy, I really do. Can't explain why and how much,..........infinite. And love that we share this stupid bond about a movie, among other things. I wish him nothing but the best in his life, because he deserves it, and he finally believes that he does deserve it as well.
And of the day of his wedding, I will (hopefully) have this cult classic wrapped up nice and 'purty' for him, with a card inscribed with "we'll always have 'Empire Records', man,............" , cuz we will.
*sniff,....................................
k, now, I just need to find it,..............................................
p.s.
is tomorrow a beach day?
Currently listening : Empire Records: The Soundtrack Release date: 1995-08-22

i was going,..

2008-08-30T08:53:00.002-07:00

Friday, July 25, 2008
and I was going to blog about this,.... Current mood: inspired Category: Life
yeah, its about baseball,....DUH!?!?!?!
So, first off, I think its pretty amazing to have beaten teams this summer season that we usually lose to. THAT, my friends, is an accomplishment! And well, what I wanted so badly to blog about a week and a half ago, was how my son did his last three games of his summer season. One word? PROUD.
Now, I will be the first to tell you that he is not the favorite on the team, never has been. And well, I can go on and on about favorites on teams and so forth. Yeah, guys, you know me! I will also be the first to say that he is not the best player on the team. And I know that's fair of me to say that. If he were, then its perfection, and then there's no room for growth, the ability to learn more, and excel. And that my friends, is exactly what he needs. He is sooooooooooo capable of sooooooooo much!
I will definitely be the first and the one person that will always mention his drive, and more importantly, his heart. With that being said,...........his last three games, I saw his drive, committment to the one thing he truly loves at this moment in his life, and his heart. And he did well.
In one of the games, I was truly amazed at how focused he was. Errors on his part play wicked games in his head that he generally cannot shake. And he is maturing in that area. Errors on the team just piss him off and frustrate him ,...he feels like his hands are tied. But again, maturity and experience will help him grow here. And it has. In this particular game, defense was on,....his pitching was on,.... and for 7 innings there was one unearned run, error on the team. But WHO CARES?!?!!?! What matter to me most, is to see him focused, not letting anything stop him, and enjoying HIS game! Oh man! I am without a doubt, so happy just to see him play. And elated just to see him do well among his peers. But to stand out,...for one shining moment? Right now? I have no other word than that mentioned above.
I would love to see him come around consistently with his bat as well! *key word at the moment, say it with me guys! consistently! And in time, it will. I know it will. He needs to believe it will. Heck, he has come a long way with that, almost a few feet from the fence. I would rather him just concentrate on contact, and hitting gaps. Anyhow................
That game, that moment, will remain with him forever, as it will me. Will it happen again? Yes, I believe it will. But nothing changes, practice as usual. Drive to be the best in what he wants, nothing less. And continue this love affair with a game he is trying so hard to tame and master. *sigh,.................He has so much to learn, so much to understand,........................
And so, I have now become that ugly parent that just brags on and on about their child's shining moment,...................... I try to keep him humble, that's how you stay grounded and focused. I know what I would like to see happen for him. I know his secret dream. And right now, I just need him to believe. Believe that if this is what he wants, go after it, and get it.
He came home with a feeling of accomplishment. What could any parent ask for? For the their child just to be happy with what he had just done. And you know, he still had comments on how he did, how he could do something better. Always working, always striving. But most of all, he came home happy. Now, that was definitely a change for the better. (note: I haven't mentioned his whole summer season,....) Anyhow, he needed this game, for his mind, his spirit, his self esteem, ...............his heart. He needed this sole sucking (ha, ha, ha!) game of his to kick something back! LOL *thank you , baseball! : )
As I also continue this love affair with baseball,.......................I am exhausted.
*sigh,.....................can't wait for winter season and THE season,.....
Well, we'll see.
Well done, son, well done.
Currently listening : Reckless By Bryan Adams Release date: 1990-10-25

hmm,...

2008-08-30T08:53:00.001-07:00

Tuesday, August 19, 2008
bbq Category: Life
The BBQ for James was nice. It was nice to see all of the family together,...meaning both sides. It was great to see most of his crew there as well. They're a "motley" bunch somewhat, but they all seem like pretty good kids, and they are really going to miss their "Dungeon Master" and friend.

Of course, I got snap happy with my camera. I remember when my brother left for boot camp and we had his going away party. I still have one of the pictures. Looking back at all of his buddies then, its amazing to see that there are like 5 of those buddies that he still keeps in touch with today. So, when taking the "crew" pic, I wondered what they would all turn out to be in the next 5, 10, 20 years, and who would still be around. I think most of them will keep in touch, which I'm looking forward to.

Yesterday, was a little nerve racking, in the sense or trying to get things in order, mainly paper work. My gosh! I keep EVERYTHING!!!! And cannot seem to let things go. Well, much to the "assistance" of both Chris and Jr., and to many thoughts of wanting to bite them, and actually getting up and leaving the room after making Jr. yell,...I sifted through the mounds of letters and actually got everything into a presentable folder for our trip out to Arizona. Whew! There's still many things to do! Especially for today.

For today, again, I need to keep things in stride, and get my tasks all done. I just saw him pedal off, maybe for the last time until christmas? Summer break? I don't know,....and I absolutely hate the thought of "the last time to see/experience things in regards to one of my children. I mean, its not the end of anything. Its on to a new chapter of life.

I've been trying to keep busy, and with everything in the last few months, it hasn't been hard. Vacation, summer school, grades, semi-tutoring at home, chores,......they've all kept me busy, busy enough not to sit and dwell on the next two days and start missing him. But now, those two days are staring me in the face. I will miss him.

And I am soooooooooooooo damn excited and nervous for him. I am actually sending my first born off to college! Seeing him off to a brand new chapter in his life. Pictured it in my mind before, but very different to be actually going through it.

Well, its already past 7am, and need to get my day started. Need to get busy, yet again.

I can't wait to see what this chapter reads like,...............................
gidget gurlie
Currently listening : The All-American Rejects By The All-American Rejects Release date: 2003-02-04

the whole vodka and diarrhea episode,....

2008-08-30T08:51:00.000-07:00

Friday, August 15, 2008
jury duty misadventure,... Category: Life
and so, I came back from vacation a bundle of nerves anyway, only to be greeted with the dreaded jury duty letter I left by the computer when I left. Drat! So, like a good lil gurl, I called in, and repeated this nauseating procedure every nite, with the reward of having no duty, just to call in again the next nite. Until Wednesday nite,..........................................................*here, I will mimic my internal scream....ahem! AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRGGGGGGGGHHHHHH!
What ensued was just traumatic, drama for Gidget, at its best. I mean, really, any time is just not the right time to do this. And people, the ones who are now thinking "Ah, its not so bad, just do your civic duty and be done with it. I actually enjoyed it." To you guys, I just want to bite you,.............all of you! For me, at THIS particular time, it was just awful! Awful timing! I am in the process of the whole "letting go while holding on" crap, that I'm supposed to be okay with, and practice. (I'll get to that later) And anyone who has done jury duty knows you have to be available for 3-5 days, possibly 7. No, no and uh, no. I needed to be gone in 5 working calendar days, no sh*t! Really! I'm not making this up! So, for me to start a case would just be impossible in my mind.
Let me just tell you what happened.
I leave, grab a iced caramel macch, get to the court house,.... arrive a lil early, in a tank top, kini top, shorts, and flip flops. Yeah, I looked like I was still on vacation, and had the look of dread on my face to boot. Oh well,.........enter waiting room for jurors, go through orientation, dress code is explained,...where mind you, the speaker said "And do not come dressed in a halter top, shorts, or flip flops." At that point, I felt a million and one eyes on me. Anyhow, I decide I need to try and get a postponement. I fill one out, then decide much from the "encouragement" of my sis and hubby to renege it with their words "you should just wait it out. You may not even get picked". At this, I say "Whatev!", because surely, you have now jinxed me. They call the first and ONLY panel that day,......................its an 11 day trial, minimum, and people need to call in on the 20th, and report on the 21st. OMG!!!! I am now sick to my stomach,..... just know that diarrhea is going to hit any moment, and I feel the need to have vodka for the first time ever in my life! Thanks Chris! Thanks Boo! Are you kidding me? Oh, and did I mention that I was one of the first 5 called out of more than 40? For this particular panel? NOOOOOOOOO!!!!
By now, through crazy texting, and relaxation measures of my own, I aproach the window, to state my case. By now, because of the postponement, the renege,..I am on a first name basis,..............not good. Anyhow, I explain why I cannot be assigned to this case, and of course, she says "You understood everything clearly, and know that I cannot remove you from this case." After explaining again, that I am infact, competent and do understand what has happened, I explain my case yet again but this time, I add what can happen to me legally. At this she is dumbfounded, because I guess no one in their right mind would ask this? Remember,...I am a mom, getting ready to take her first born off to college outta state, and cannot,....CANNOT miss it. Just can't. I add to my question "I have proof of where he is going, when he needs to be there for check -in,..everything." Thank God, I had it to! Because she called me on it, removed me from the list, and put me back into the jury pool. She added, "Now you understand that you can be called again, right?" "Yes, but I can only hope I can either be excused or the case finishes by Tuesday." Whew!
Now, I wait,.............in agony! for what seems like hours. Oh yeah, it is! And then break comes. No vodka from Chris. No saving from anyone. My thoughts torture me. And thankfully, no diarrhea. (btw, sorry this is grossing you out!) So, I rebel, go off to the beach close by and just sit. Nice to just sit with the sand all over my legs and feet and the sun beating down on my unmercifully. I needed that.
And then back to jury waiting game for more hours. At this point, I am now afraid I'm going to fall asleep and start snoring and not hear me being called or excused from anything. I hate when that happens,........then,.........I'm saved!!!! All of the jurors, more than 60 of us, are excused! We won't be called to do any kind of service for atleast a year! Yay! Oh, I was soooo relieved! I just hope the next time,................and there will be a next time, will just not happen during a milestone such as this. The time before this? I had two graduations in danger of me not being there. Anything,............ANYTHING that has to do with my crew I simply cannot miss. Not in my mind. Its just total chaos.
Past the anxiety, past the dramatic day, past the diarrhea,...........................but vodka may come in handy soon. After all he is leaving.................................
...........................my feeling about that, right now,....and for days now,...is that I am worried about the "normal" stuff,...but most of all I am soooooo damn excited for him!!!! Yes, I'll miss him, but I'll see him soon enough, I'll hear from him, and can't wait to either.
Day by day,..................................................
Currently listening : Roots Rock Reggae By Various Artists Release date: 2005-03-08

2008-05-26T09:24:00.000-07:00

and then there was prom,....................................

playing at the beach

2008-01-21T08:13:00.000-08:00

wow,...didn't meant for them to be side by side!...LOL Anyhow,... just some shots I've been playing with. I was going for an artsy feel,..but then again, when am I not? Enjoy,....

details,...

2008-01-14T09:29:00.000-08:00

I found this image interesting and wanting more of the subject,...or atleast of the day. Maybe you'll think so too,....

forgot one!

2007-12-04T09:23:00.000-08:00

ah,...another one i messed with,..............i think the eyes came out amazing,.... pretty cool view,...

tweaking the natural,....

2007-12-04T08:30:00.000-08:00

wow,..so yeah,..i messed up and left the date and time on the bottom...SO WHAT!.... if you look at it from a different perspective,..its art in its rarest form,....... whatev,.................but here is something i like to look at,......................

full circle,....

2007-11-27T13:00:00.000-08:00

I just finished reading the eldest of my crew's prompt (well, one of them) for one of his college applications. And needless to say,... I started tearing up. Yeah, no surprise there! But not for obvious reasons, but rather what I had hoped would happen. Its coming full circle,...................

And let me stop here and add,................yeah, "Gidget will anyway!"..................... that I do believe in the full circle of things. But I also believe in "mini-circles" of life, achievement, and balance, if you will. And if I need to explain that,.............well, you'll just have to wait for another blog! *Ahem! So this is one of those "mini-circles"...................that will definitely make it to the larger,............

While reading his prompt, I felt like I had to 'really' read it, meaning this was not just a surface writing but rather an in depth reading. That is how he writes. He uses big words,...big ideas,.... and just paints a picture most cannot understand. And how beautiful it is to see this in him. Yes, he has a long way to go in his writing but really,....... its really good. He is definitely set apart from the rest of the "sheep" which is one thing I have stressed. I'm glad he's unique and not the like the rest.

In reading, he's quite confident, if not pompous yet in such a way, that it is unique to him. By all means, he is not an arrogant fool, but a gentle soul whom is confident in whom he is becoming. He states what he has done, in a nutshell,..... why he challenges himself, why he finds if so exciting, and what he wants to do,..................where he fantasizes his talents will take him. Oh, I do hope he goes where he wants to go in life. He has such a passion for learning, and it makes me so proud to see this in him. Full circle. Its what I wanted for him, for them. The passion for learning and not stopping there. There are many things I want for my crew. But this, this passion for not settling for their basic education at the time, but rather pushing the limits of why and why not, and seeing what else is out there,.........that's where I want my crew to be. Everything changes at different rates, so expect it and learn from it. Grasp it, and do what you will. But be a part of something bigger than you.

He has such dreams,.............................*sniff.....................................

Believe that what you do in the first few months of life matter in a child. Believe you can sculpt them, and guide them to the best of your ability. Believe that your child wants you to, even if he never says it. Believe that even if he never says it,....................you had such a strong influence in giving him a solid foundation to grow on....................................and keep believing,................

gas is the reason i can't frolic,....

2007-11-27T10:05:00.000-08:00

yeah,...member when gas was this much? feels like too long ago, and actually, it wasn't,....just sucks,....cuz now,...its hard for me to frolic,.................................

art

2007-11-24T08:12:00.000-08:00

I am often asked "Why even bother,...WHY do you blog?" Is there a so-called "format"? Well, I skipped that class, and glad I did. And I figure, if one does not want to hear my nonsense nor read it, well, you have that choice. But in some way, its rather theraputic to me. I've mentioned before that I really never have the chance to "talk" so,...................................

And as far as someone listening,....................I don't care either way.

Here's a sampling of my "art". I don't think many get my art either, but I still push forward! I think I was meant to create. And h*ll, if I'm wrong about that, well, its been fun! I'm still working on what works well together, but in truth, its what catches my eye and holds my interest long enough for me to make it, draw it,....encompass it all together. It's how I work.

day shoot

2007-11-23T21:25:00.000-08:00

...went on a day shoot with a professional photographer, and well, here's what i came up with,... these are my 'first impression faves' at the moment,... the first two are interesting to look at,... there's more than what meets the eye,...meaning they struck my eye/mind, with what i captured,...hey, its my art, so its what i like,..or what i find interesting,... and the other two just show you that when the professional is away "working with his subjects" the others will play,........................

damage control

2007-11-23T08:20:00.000-08:00

helluuuu eveyone,..well,..maybe three of you,........not many more visit, so,... been awhile since i've last blogged, and sad to say,... not another beach diary as of late either,....drat!... just been too busy,...too busy with so much, so much of everyone else's stuff,.... damage control being one of them,...and i do it because of my need to help others, help the situation at hand to the best of my ability,.......................and so,.... quite frankly, i am done,..............................................

............done doing damage control for everyone else,... done doing so much for others............. and not taking care of what matters most to me,....my crew,. .. my "business",.....me........................i'm getting lost in this shuffle of madness with no one to blame but myself,............................

*funny lil side note here,......................i wish i could blame someone else for all of this!... LOL..yeah,..i know,...'evil gidget!....EVIL!'....oh well,..blame it on the damn evil monkeys!...let's move on!...............................yeah,...but to place blame on all the others, would be easier,..kinda self satisfying,.... but in the end,.....................its me letting it all happen,....infact, encouraging it,..."yeah, sure,........i'll bend over and take another!"............................anyhow,.........................

.....................so what i am trying to say is this,...............i know myself,..............and refuse to let this be ALL of me,..............consume me,..............i know i will "relapse into the same darn pattern",...but just smarter this time,..... not give all of me, thus leaving me exposed more than i want and can handle,........................................and for now,... i don't need all of the unnecessary *BS,............right? no,............i don't,...................................

I will hold dear to my heart, what's important, because somewhere down the road,...i have let it slip a little away,...putting unimportant things and people there,...........................so, back to basics,................back to being the insane, REAL me,...................and only for those who are worth it,............

and to everything/everyone else?........................you can still have me,......................for a "price" so to speak,.................................................ha, ha, ha,..... i just need to take care of what is important to me, before all of you,.........................hate me for being real, but hate is a strong word and emotion,..............................deal with it,.....................................

yeah, this has been a venting session, if anything,...... stuff on my mind,...........................but i think today, ... i am in a better place,.............. i just am,................................realization and full circle are mind blowing,..........................i've reached realization many times before,............and when i reach full circle,..............i'll tell ya all about it,.......................................

......................................be good to those who matter most to you....even if they are not good to you,... they learn from example,...*"heck,... i'm still waiting,....LOL"...................its worth it,..it is,...

.........be well, and may the sand on our endless stretch of beach find itself blowing near your feet,.......frolic!............................

"oh,....the beach diaries,.."

2007-10-19T10:57:00.000-07:00

Hi. Hope all of you,....(how many is that?...well, i'll just never know!),..are well. Today, I flaked going to my fave spot. This being because I felt resposibility lurking around every inch of my house,......! EEK! And so,...I gave in to being an adult for a day,....just ONE day, mind you!

But yesterday,..... was unbelievably good! The surf was rolling in endlessly, temperature was almost perfect,............i say almost perfect, because there is no perfect,...........well, there is, but,...........ANYHOW,....the sand was untouched brown sugar,...mine to frolic in! *YAY!!!!..............but, my current physique got the best of me and so,....... I frolicked on the stairs first.

Doing sets of stairs is not even a chore to me. First off, I'm where I want to be,...my most fave place. Second, its just you and the stairs,....and the surf, sand, and sun,.... No expectations but my own, and I like that. I compete well against myself. I'm a very competitive person by nature, I suppose. Mommy-hood has calmed me down some. But I work well by myself. And as soon as I know someone else is onto what I'm doing...... I move on. Meaning, "been there, done that, don't need to prove anything to you,...." And when the time is right, I go back. So, stairs,............... instead of doing the popular set by the life guard station, I found a quiet set further down. Oh how wonderful! First off,.... quiet alone time,...member? "Me, and the stairs...." And as soon as I started my set, I found that the little landings in between didn't make it easier, but rather harder and gave me more of a workout, which I needed. Well, lets just say, gidget got her butt kicked! And I only managed 5 sets!!!! Oh, that didn't make me happy at all, when knowing my best set less than 1 1/2 years ago....(has it been that long?) was 18 sets (up and down),... 14 being my average! Ay! but, it gives me something to go on,... to compete against, and just do better. And I will.

After my 5th set, I kicked off the shoes, and went running in the sand. Again, disappointment lurked nearby,...because I was stopping sooner than I wanted and what I had remembered. Again, not giving up,...I probably ran (maybe 1 1/2- 2 miles?) dunno,.................oh well. I'd be happy with one mile. Sand was superb under my feet. I was able to catch some surfing action which is always a plus! And to my delight, I watched the older guys surf which meant they really were enjoying themselves and giving everyone a great show. True soul surfing,...you could just feel it. Real lax,... moving with the waves as one,.....just awesome,...................and that's how I survive running in the sand. Somedays are better than others. And some just suck,..no not really,.............................not if I'm there,....then the day is beautiful no matter what.

Today, I had to be happy with just an hour long trek around the neighborhood. It was good. Got some good exercise and outdoor air. Put some Hawaiian Tropic on and sunblock and that just brought me back to the beach anyhow. I was sorta disappointed because I had planned to just sneak off for like, an hour and a half. But, no,..got stuff to do. Everyone does. And if I play my cards right,.... Monday is gonna be a kick a$$ beach day, so,.......................................

.....................................gidget just might find herself where she wants to be............

My weekend is busy as ever,......................crew is all over the place,.............visiting family from out of town,....................so,.......................

May your weekend find you by the shore,............with sand between your toes...... sunblock on your nose,....................and no time schedule,.......................

....................................me.................................................

p.s.
wish us luck!!!!.... crew is doing a number of things!!!!

"Beach Diaries"

2007-10-18T12:19:00.001-07:00

okay,...so i tried to upload a photo for you, but well,...whatev! There was a "problem".....hmmmmmmmmmmmmm,...

oh yeah,..*ahem! the "Beach Diaries"..kinda self explanatory, if you will, but guess I'll explain for some,.....another time! But for today.....gidget's faves for today's beach day,........

song to surf to: "When You Were Young" ~ The Killers
thing to do: sets of stairs and running as close to the surf as possible
music list to listen to: iPod set to "Jo's Xmas List"~ various artists rockin' this set, especially "Red Jumpsuit Apparatus"
conversation: high possibility, especially those frolicking towards the surf, like me,........
tasty treat: Jamba Juice's "Pink Starburst" with protein boost,...yeah, lots of calories, but tons of good stuff... a must!

so,...until later?...yeah,....till later,..................................

why do i bother anyway?

2007-10-15T20:03:00.000-07:00

yeah,..so uh...thanx for the comment?...i guess?..... wow,..it was sooooo enlightening,.....dude!...throw me a friggn' bone, why don't cha?......

I am seriously alone on this one,...... its not hard to follow,.... and no.... i'm not jumping off a cliff any time soon,.....................................
............................much to your dismay,.............................................

and sometimes, we blog,...

2007-10-12T09:49:00.000-07:00

I am often looked at as "stupid, with no life".... and knowing that I blog, well, it just adds to the sess pool. For those who entertain the thought that gidget has something extraordinary on her mind,....well, you lead me to believe that you do think well of me. But I know you don't. NO, this is not a "pity me" blog, but rather, a defining moment in gidget's history. You see, I am sometimes surrounded by "do-gooders" who really want to pay attention, want to make me believe I make sense, or that I do mean something in this world. But its not right, and not fair to make me believe all of this, when I know all of you guys don't believe it yourselves for one minute. So now I ask you this,... any one of you,...

Why do you do it? Why lead me to believe that what I am saying/blogging matters? It doesn't to you,...or you,....or even you *in the back row! *sigh,......

I guess everyone just wants to be heard, and validated. Right? How wonderful it would be to just have a person's attention, if only for a moment, to run amuck with their thoughts, and have them hang on every word, every thought, and not feel responsible for the after math......But what am I saying? Even I don't know.......

I have been silent for soooo long. I thought that I had grown,... my thoughts, my opinions,... I felt like I mattered. And just when I believed all of this, I realized that no one was listening after all. No one cared. What makes one individual more enthralling than the next?

It has been said to me a million times...."you're always there, you listen soooo well,... i can really talk to you,..." But ,.....who's there for me?

Here's a sobering thought,........

I don't need anyone, nor do you. Just when we lean upon someone, they lose balance anyway, get lost in their own selfish drama, so,...?..... Which is a good thing! Ha! It is, because, who better to count on than yourself? You are the one person who will be there, day in day out,..on this crazy road trip through life. And no drugs, counseling, friend, or foe can get you through it better than you. I'm right, aren't I...............................................................?.......

*sigh,...but still,....it'd be nice to be heard,...................................................................

proof of what really goes on,...

2007-10-05T10:00:00.001-07:00

and this is why i was meant to have a crew, and this is also why i have a camera and can video tape,...................................

late blog of excitement

2007-10-05T09:09:00.000-07:00

wow,...this is really going to be something,...to try and turn that exicitement back on from last Sunday,.... *stretching out, and preparing to jump start her excitement,....

And why, you ask? Last Sunday was one of my crew's first ever gymnastics meet! It was sooooo exciting! Nerves galore, but not much for her. She was more excited than anything,.... and very tired by the end of the day.

The day started at 4am for me,... and if you truly know Gidget...you know she was up making a lei, candy bags for all the other gymnasts, and packing up everything for the next day. Needless to say, lil gidget didn't collapse into be until well after 1am.

After getting up at 4am,..waking everyone else up,... I had hair to deal with. Yeah, hair! She has very long hair, past her waist,....and in recent years, its just getting thicker. It's beautiful! But all week, I was playing with it to get it plastered to her head just right, and up off the shoulders like its mandated to all the gymnasts. I can sooooooooooooooooo do "cheer hair",...no prob! But I just taught myself how to french braid, and was struggling to just get it as perfect and plastered and up for it to be decent. Luck was on my side,.... I also went through the whole "Now you know it takes me some time, and if it doesn't come out like I want it to, I will be pulling it out, starting over,...and YOU just need to be patient and know this is probably going to happen,...SO,..just go with my flow, k?,...no eyeball roll,..no heavy sighs,...cuz that will just irritate both of us,....so just relax, and we'll both be happy" -speech,.. and it worked! LOL *did gidget mention she looked daunting?....ha, ha, ha,..

So, uh, yeah, hair in place,...leo and warm-ups on,...oatmeal in the belly, snacks packed,...lei out of fridge,....... papa up,.........................directions in car,.....on way to get grandma,...... hit the 405 South,.... and we're off! *and yeah,...got the camera battery and camera,..............................

We get there in plenty of time,..thank goodness. I'm more excited than her, I think! But not nervous cuz I'm hoping she just has a great showing for her first time, and comes off the floor with a smile and knowing she did her best. Let's skip past everything else and get to the events! Cuz, in this case the story will get more mundane,....i think i've lost most of you already??? And btw, yes...i was shooting everything and everyone.....duh?

K, now on to the events! She warmed up very well! Our studio looked great! All uniform, all clean, and strong,...and together! I had no idea what an impression we made,...................anyhow,.... her first event was floor,....*side note!!!!oh, btw, her best events according to her coaches are vault and floor. She has been struggling with her back handspring but her dance and grace on floor are amazing they say, considering she has no formal dance training. She, along with a few others, was just brought up to team (competing), and have learned all the routine competion skills in like.... 2-3 months? And she competed against girls 1 year in that division,.......so,...she 's very new,......................anyhow,...on vault she is very strong in running and hitting her mark and vaulting,........BACK to the events!!!! k..so! On floor,.... she did very well! She threw her round off back handspring well,..... not perfect, but she landed it very well,... and she even smiled at the judges! Ah, how funny! She totally looked like she was enjoying herself. I was sooooo proud! Even her father and grandma were soooo amazed, for her first time......................................

She vaulted next,..... and did an amazing job! Again, both grandma and papa were amazed by her running form and speed. She looked fearless going at the vault. In her level, she vaults on a mat. Will things change when she actually hits the "horse"?.......................dunno,...she's got some power though............

Her bars were pretty good. She struggles with her skills. She muscles up on some of her skills but can do all her skills. She did fairly well here. She didn't fall! This would have been a major deduction..................

On beam,..which is one of my faves, she had two (maybe more?) things that caused her minor deductions. Other than that,...she was very strong and graceful. I love watching her beam routine. She has such poise and grace,...and she's strong! But she took a fall,..pretty much collapsed on the beam about a month ago, and I think its still in her head. At that time, she wouldn't stay off the beam, but rather made herself get back up, and struggle to do her handstand,...she would not give up! But again,...I think its in the back of her head,...she agrees with me,.. that if she gets to thinking about it,..with any of her skills and loses focus,...she doesn't do well. Anyhow,.... her leg hit the beam when she casted up,.... and she didn't do her twist dismount,...but got back up, and did it anyway which entitled her to a lesser deduction. Now, don't ask gidget about the deductions cuz right now, its confusing to me! I just pretty much know if she messed up,...

K, now for the super exciting part,...!!!!!........ she got two medals!!! yeah, TWO MEDALS!!!! Now her division was really broken up, had she competed against all the ages, it could have been different, but the excitement and joy would not have been,.......................SHE GOT HER FIRST "9" AT HER FIRST EVER MEET!!! and that is amazing in its own right! She received low marks on her beam (sniff!) and her bars and she knew this might happen. She placed 5th on vault with a 9.150! Wow,..she was soooo happy! And for floor, she placed 3rd with a 8.325, not bad! Considering that she needs to perfect her tumbling and one can always get better with a routine in time, this was great! I am sooo proud of her! She is soooo proud of herself! And the most important thing ever, is that what I wanted for the day, happened. She left the floor with a smile, knowing she did her best. That's all I really wanted,....plus I had hoped she would do well.......................................but,.............. who's kidding?...... The scores, medals, and just overall excitement definitely added to it. So, for the first one,.... (thanks to God for keeping her well,..........) we had a great time. Here's another exciting piece of news,.....she made sectionasl! Yeah, in fact our whole studio/gym made sectionals. Btw,..how rude! I should say here that our studio placed everwhere, pretty much in the top, and overall scorers and top team awards. That's great! So kudos to the team, the parents, and coaches. Without all of you, none of this could happen! *clapping wildly!!!.....................

So until then,.....wish us luck at sectionals,....definitely wish us a great time,........ and I'll keep you posted,.....of course, i left a photo at the top.......................sums up the day,...........................................dont' you think?...................

okay guys,...here's my eye,...

2007-09-21T09:03:00.000-07:00

well,...here's my eye,.... I saw this and thought, "There's something beautiful about the park swings,...... " This was taken at 8 am, during our Cali heat wave, so the sun was just about done wisking away all the dew,...if there was any! The park employees had just finished raking the sand. No kids around,.....*sigh,..... can you imagine being a 5 year old, and seeing this? Oh, man! Your personal playground untouched, yours for the taking. You could probably run amuck and see your whole day of 20 minutes mapped out in front of you when you turned around to look at the sand. Kinda like the "Family Circle" cartoons, when you see their footsteps all over the place when they could have easily fed the dog in like, 5 steps? LOL

Still, it's my eye, that morning..... untouched, and I think its beautiful,............................

so here's that "First Day of My Senior Year" pic,....

2007-09-15T09:11:00.000-07:00

okay,...is it just me,....or do you guys see something wrong with this here pic? I mean,....come on!.... besides the cracks in the pavement and no apparent artsy composition,....do you see how big the books are?!?!?!!? oh yeah!... expecially the one on the bottom?...........

just ridiculous!.....yeah,...he signed up for that class, but really,...........did the book have to be that big?.... its like,..11 pounds! I almost freaked at the idea that he would have to lug it back and forth,...... and no, he doesn't,....the students have a copy for home and a set for class,....... btw, his back pack is full too,.......................that's why he's carrying books,........

remember "PeeChee" folders? yeah,..us "brainiacs" never got by with one of those,..we had a 'binder',..... but we still did not have has many books,.........................................................just amazing,....oh! its an AP Art History book, btw,....and i've been indulging in it during the wee hours of the night when i can't sleep...............rather interesting, it is, but then again,...i love history and love art,......................many wonderful photos of original art throughout the history of mankind,......from its early beginnings,...from the cave art drawings found in France!...but no, the book is not entirely pictures,........................much text, much reading,......

anyhow,..just like to share this photo with all of you, and let you know get a sense of what your senior might be bringing home on his first day of his last year,.....*sniff!............................................................................

on being bored,...

2007-09-10T11:40:00.000-07:00

hmmmmm,...I am bored. I am bored, bored, bored! I should've played hookey today and went to the beach, like I had planned this morning. But, *sigh,..... I looked around me, saw 'Responsibility' lurking everywhere,... and well,.............I'm where I need to be at the moment.

I've decided to make some blueberry muffins to brighten my day. Licking the bowl sure seemed to help. But the loads of laundry, and straightening up every room today just seem to drag me down. I know why,.....................its sunny outside! Total beach day!!!

I also just miss the crew. Funny, when they're about, its chaos but never the same day in and day out. I know by 2p.m. today, when I start my "job", it'll be a different story cuz my mind will be on overdrive trying to make all my windows, all my pickups, get all the info I can until dragging myself wearily into the house (not for the last time that day!) to forage for some food to put on the table and call it "dinner",...................and hoping its yummy, at that!

*sigh,................its just one of those days,.................

I had wanted to blog about something else,...maybe one of my many pics that only I find beauty in. My bro is constantly telling me I have an "eye" for a different kind of picture,....art.....maybe its his way of telling me that I suck. Could be,........................he's earning kudos and money,.... and well, I have my "wall" that I alone am proud of. No jealousy here, though. I admire what he does and am happy he's found his niche and can make some nice money from it too.

So, now,...I leave you with the smell of blueberry muffins filling the house. Along with my 6 more loads of laundry to do,......................................let's just hope tomorrow is a beach day for gidget....cuz somehow, someway,.....she needs to get there,.............................................for my soul's sake!.......................

and the school year is off to a , uh start,...

2007-09-05T09:44:00.000-07:00

Whew! Is it just me, or did the summer just fly by? Its definitely been a surreal summer for me. A lot of reminiscing,............................my oldest is a senior. Where has the time gone? Its true, one does find the time gone by so quickly,.....you start to think back to the first day of school........................and DAMN IT!!!! I forgot to take a pic of his first day as a senior!!!!! aaaaaarrrrrrgggggggg! Yeah, gidget soooooooooo does NOT know how she is gonna live with herself for the rest of the school year for missing this classic scrapbook moment! moving on,..... i thought i was painting a picture here,..............a nice melancoly one, at that,.......................

And so,..........reminiscing and all,..yadda, yadda, yadda ,.....................I have decided that all though I consider myself rather artsy and avant garde,.....I will not be posting my "art",..well, not most of the time,....because all the best photos are already being posted on jimcayer.blogspot.com......................but I will surely post random photos of my own from time to time. NO WORRIES!

back to the senior year,............................................

Its a great thing to look at the beginning of this year and know as a parent, I've had a hand in getting him this far,.................he's done it himself, but the foundation was set. I do hope its a strong one. I do hope it has a lot of love and hope to get him through not just this year, but whatever lies beyond the tassel and certificate. I can only hope its enough to make him stronger than he realizes he truly is and can be,................for what life journey will take him. *sigh,..... random thoughts invade my mind,...............................pre-k seems like yesterday, but yet,...I know I was just "on" him about finishing "War and Peace",..hey! He chose it! *gidget mutters,..."choose wisely next time, my son,..." The summer before Pre-K was soooo exciting,...so hopeful! I mean,... he was going to school,...armed with skills taught at home clearly readying him for whatever lay ahead before 10:20 a.m.,......when, happily, I would be picking him up from his first real day without me waiting excitedly to hear what his day was like. And then the questions ensued,...."Did you like your first day? Was the teacher nice? Was everyone else nice? Did you make any friends? What did you learn today?"..... and yeah,... the other normal stuff like,.. "Did you have to go to the bathroom? Did you wash your hands?" And when Mom said, "Well, this is the beginning of them growing up, before you know it, he'll be graduating from 5th grade! And when he starts middle school, it'll all go by sooooo fast! Can you imagine him graduating high school?" And hiding the tears, I remember saying,"No, I can't. I mean, he was just gone half of the day!" But now,..even though I don't want to, I can. Honestly, I can sometimes and others, I can't.

So, I will wait until I have to start my day of carpooling, homework, and various scheduling,.... and I'll ask how his day went, just like I have for the past18 years, and I'll listen with hidden tears, and remember to make the most of it, and listen carefully, as not to miss anything,...because this is his journey towards graduation,...... it will end only to start the next aspect of his life. And,..............................its going to be rather exciting,....................... I can't wait to hear all about it,.........................................what a ride,..............................

........................me......................................

misadventures

2007-08-31T07:49:00.000-07:00

where oh where is my new blog post?.....hmmmmmmmmm,..not again,..... !!!

craziness of the week,....

2007-08-30T12:16:00.000-07:00

......as if the week wasn't crazy enough! ...cheer camp for the week, baseball still,... kids wanting to go here and there,......aaaaaarrrrrrgggggghhhhhh!...and NO BEACH!.... its sweltering too,.....hmmmmmmmmmmm,... i sooooo need to garner some beach time next week,........

anyhow,.............have some photos i'm gonna share soon,...but in the meantime,.... i've stumbled across a fellow blogger,....check his photos out @ jimcayer.blogspot.com..... you won't be disappointed,........................
................me....................

2007-08-26T08:04:00.000-07:00

Hello all! Yes, gidget has invaded your world,....well, if you want me to! From time to time, I will post my "misadventures", my randon thoughts and ways,.....my incessant "going-ons" about music and lyrics,.....and of course my little dabblings in photograpy. Beware! This blog is DEFINITELY by far, for people who can multi task, cuz I never stay on the same track..........................ya gotta keep up!