Wednesday, December 19, 2007

Okay so I am having internet issues and haven't been online forever. Things aren't looking good until after Christmas. I can get online with Mitch's computer, but sometimes it is at work, or with him, and so it is inconvenient to blog.

So I am alive and well. The kids are excited about Christmas. Hopefully Mitch and I will get to Maine on Friday to pick up the rest of my decorations. Major storm last weekend, so I decided to stay in Narragansett where we just had to put up with rain and 60 mph winds.

Work is great. I love my job!!! The next few days will be crazy busy for us, so blogging might not be in the forecast. Please have a safe and happy holiday. Merry Christmas everyone!!!

Tuesday, December 04, 2007

Boooooo

Walpole (Mass) is supposed to be getting 9 inches of snow. They are about an hour from here. We have nothing. We are getting nothing. It is very windy today, though.

My shower was refreshing. We have awesome water pressure in this house and all the hot water I can stand! I am loving it! With the two bathrooms, I kind of expected that when one shower was going, we'd lose pressure in the other. Not the case. I even do laundry and run a load in the dishwasher and go take a shower and the water is the same.

I can hear the wind howling outside. Sierra is snoozing next to me. I am drinking some cranberry juice. I am so thirsty today.

12/4/07

I am craving some chocolate right now. I will have to stop at Cumbie's before going to work. I also have to buy some tokens for the Newport bridge. It is cheaper to buy the tokens than to pay every time you go over.

Work is still going well. I get paid on Friday! Yay! Tomorrow will be my long day.

We got zero snow. :(

I am sleepy today. I need to go take a shower and get ready, but really all I want to do is take a nap.

Monday, December 03, 2007

Wow!

Every once in awhile I like to read archives from a year ago. I was reading one from November last year and I was blogging about planning for my life-changing, upcoming year! I was pretty sure at that time that Brian and I were on our way back together, that we'd end up moving to Portland and that I'd be starting my preschool and going back to grad school.

Fast forward to my whirlwind love affair with Mitch. Moving to Rhode Island. Working in Newport. Living on the ocean.

I think it all started to dawn on me while standing on Broadway in NYC at the Macy's Day Parade. Whose life am I living? Just when you are pretty sure your life is headed in a certain direction, God likes to show you who's boss. What is also amazing is that just when you think you can't get any stronger, smarter, whatever (fill in the blank), you find yourself in situations that prove you just aren't as strong or as smart as you thought. It reminds you that there is always something around the corner. Moving to a new state (Narragansett is more like a different planet) has been challenging and exciting. Starting a new job has been the same. While in NYC, I just had this very surreal moment that seems to be hitting me more today than even on that day, how in the world did I get here? I thought I was strong in faith before, but that was before I had to really test that strength. It has been so hard for me to not be involved in every aspect of relocating my children. I am driving all over the place, a girl who just 10 years ago was having pretty bad panic attacks and hated having to drive alone anywhere. I drive in big cities, I take trains and subways. I don't get lost in NYC!!! That in itself amazes me to no end!!! This is not me, the me that I would have let myself become. I am so glad God had bigger hopes and dreams for me. I am happy, sad, overwhelmed, amazed, scared, all at the same time, but today, I know that no matter how uncomfortable all of this is, I am going through it for a reason. I have faith that I will come out of this stronger and smarter and ready for whatever God has planned next for me. For us. I am so committed to sharing this whole experience with the man God has allowed me to love.

I look back on that blessed year that God gave me to have to myself. No Brian. No relationship. Me and God. There are times when I miss those days so much but I couldn't stay in that place forever. God healed as many hurts as I'd let him and now life is coming at me hard and fast. I live in a high class town in which I feel like I am an observer, and work with hardworking individuals whose lives are so far removed from my neighbors that I still feel like I am an observer.

But it is an adventure and I love an adventure. Instead of just reading about it, God has been so wonderful to let me have one of my own! Mitch asked me this morning what I wanted to say about my life when I was 90. I want to be able to say that I didn't miss a thing.

December 3, 2007

I can't believe I am going to say this, but I want snow! We got nothing. Maine is getting nailed with their first big one of the season. The kids' friends in Bangor/Brewer/Old Town are enjoying a snow day.

We're supposed to get some fog and some strong winds later this afternoon, which will be fun for me while I am driving over the bridge into Newport for work later. We did run into some snow yesterday on the drive to New Hampshire to drop the kids off. Just rain in Narragansett. :( We might have some snow on Wednesday, but next week, it is supposed to be in the mid 40s and low 50s, so there will be nothing lasting.

Work is still going well. I am trying to adjust to this new schedule. Because I will be in Newport the next two weeks, I have to leave before the kids have to be at school and I get out about a half an hour after they do, and it is a 20 minute drive back to them. Mitch has been helping out a lot with giving them rides and stuff. We live about 8 miles from their school, so it is much too far for them to walk. His schedule is much more flexible right now since soccer is over, so he can leave work and get them and bring them home.

Friday, November 30, 2007

November 30, 2007

Today is my brother Adam's birthday.
Work is going well. I really like everyone that I have worked with.
Not a whole lot planned for today. I am going to enjoy my day off. Hopefully we'll get our tree this weekend. Maybe next weekend. Debi's birthday is the 15th, so I plan on taking her to dinner. I have to be in Maine anyway, to get my Christmas decorations out of storage. Hopefully, we'll get a chance to go to church Sunday morning before I have to head back to Rhode Island for work.
The next two weeks, I will be working mostly in Newport.
Mitch's parents and brother will be spending Christmas Eve and Christmas with us. I can't wait. We'll have fun. The last time Ryan was here, we had a fun evening of playing American Idol! I bought Mitch the ESPN Scene It for his birthday so I am sure they will love playing that, since his dad and brother are also college coaches.
I have to take a shower, vacuum the floor and then wash it! The joys of tile! It looks beautiful, but sweeping only does so much. After awhile, you need to do a good vacuuming to get up sand and dog hair that finds its way in the corners. I also have to finish up the laundry and load/unload the dishwasher. By then it will be time to get the kids from school.

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Long Day

Half of my long day is over. I got Zach to school at 8:15 AM, went home, took a shower and got ready and back to his school by 9:45 AM for a parent teacher conference. That didn't take as long as expected, so I ran a quick trip to the grocery store to buy some lunch items for me and I took them home to hide in the fridge. I blame the years that I taught preschool and raised my own little ones on my lunchtime diet. If I have to eat lunch, I prefer to have a string cheese, low-cal yogurt, a banana, either some flavored applesause (no sugar added kind) or jello/pudding. Throw in some pumpkin or sunflower seeds and I have myself a yummy lunch. Plus I can kind of graze with my lunch that way. Have a banana, get back to work, munch on some seeds or a string cheese and get back to work. I can't stand that heavy feeling in my stomach if I am not at home.

Now I have to finish the second half of my long day. I have a staff meeting in Jamestown 12-3 PM and then I work 3-8 PM in Wakefield. I get paid while in transit and mileage reimbursed so no complaints there!!! Then home to watch Charlie Brown Christmas followed by Dancing with the Stars! The season finale.

I have tomorrow off, so I can at least clean the house and get caught up on some laundry. I work Thursday and have Friday off.

Okay, I have to take Sierra out for a little walk and some attention. She is definitely someone who is NOT excited about Mommy going back to work!

Monday, November 26, 2007

Thanksgiving Update

The weather was beautiful in NYC on Thanksgiving. That was good and bad news. Good because it was t-shirt weather, bad because EVERYONE was there. We parked in New Roc City (New Rochelle) just outside of NYC and took the train to Grand Central and from there, we took the subway to Times Square and from there to Columbus Circle, where we watched the Macy's Day Parade. I have pics of all the balloons and will have Mitch email them to me so I can post them.

After the parade, Mitch, Zach and I had Thanksgiving dinner at Boston Market. Apparantly alot of people had the same idea. The manager said they did $20,000 MORE than they did last Thanksgiving. Craziness. Mitch's parents stayed over Friday night. We went shopping at Providence Place, which should have been crazy since it was Black Friday, but I found it to be less busy than the weekend before. We also got there about 1 PM. There is a good chance the craziness of Black Friday happened earlier in the morning. I chose to get my hair cut the morning of Black Friday, hoping the crowds would be at the mall. Which they must have been. After the mall, we had supper at The Cheesecake Factory. Very yummy. Then home to watch Christmas Vacation before calling it a night. I worked yesterday 10-4. After work, Mitch and I had to run to CT to pick up the girls at my sister's and bring them home. The girls stayed with them the whole weekend and gave my sister and brother-in-law a break from my (almost) 2-year old niece, Gracie.

That is about it. It seemed like a nice quiet holiday even though we were surrounded by 3 million people! I want to get back to do the Rockefeller Center skating and some shopping at FAO Schwartz, but Thanksgiving was not the day for that!

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

11/20/07

My second day of work is over. So far so good. I'm liking it and I get out of the house. The paycheck will be nice, too.

I have to get Zach from school in about 45 minutes. The girls are staying after until 4. Then I will buy some groceries and get ready for supper. I have a brief meeting tomorrow at 2 and then tomorrow evening, Mitch and I will be driving the girls to my sister's house in CT. We have to decide when we are leaving for NYC. We're probably going to drive close and park and take the train in, which will be a 15 or so minute ride.

Sunday, November 18, 2007

November 18, 2007

The kids and I went shopping at Providence Place yesterday. For those of you who don't know, it is an awesome 4-floor mall, with pretty much every store under the sun. I had to pick up a few more presents for Mitch's birthday. Now he has 5. His birthday was Friday, but he's still out of town until today. I don't mind when he's gone...I do mind, but he makes it okay by having flowers sent to the house and buying me presents when the team is on the road, so I at least have something to look forward to about his trips.

We also talked to my sister to finalize Thanksgiving plans for the girls. Macy's Day Parade countdown...4 days!!! I am so excited!!! Can you tell?

I bought some new pants from Old Navy for me. I don't usually get anything new for myself so close to Christmas, but I felt like celebrating my new job. I did find lots of stuff that will be on sale or clearance by the time the holidays are over and I have money to spend on just meeee!!! A major shopping spree will be in order for my sister and me come January or February.

Now I am going to make myself a latte. Mitch isn't home so it won't be one of his famous love lattes. I have to make my own! Boohoo!! I am so spoiled now.

Saturday, November 17, 2007

November 17, 2007

Holy crap! I slept for 12 hours and 40 minutes! I rarely even sleep 12 hours! But to go over? This is how it happened. Kayla, Zach, Sierra and I were all waiting to watch Titanic. It didn't come on until 8 PM, so I went to be at 7 pm so I could catch up on some of my Bible reading. I figured that would give me an hour of solid reading. About a half hour later, Kayla and Zach came up to join Sierra and me. I was out like a light by 7:59. I didn't even get to see any of Titanic. I woke up at
8:40 AM this morning!!! The night before last, I was out by 9 PM and slept until 7. I thought that was sleeping in! Maybe this is how I am recovering from my cold???

I bought some yummy homemade raisin bread for breakfast this morning. Special for two reasons. One, I hardly ever eat breakfast. I don't usually start eating until around dinnertime. That is just the way I am. Kind of a one meal per day person. I will have a banana here or a light yogurt there, a handful of crackers or something, but if I eat a real meal before 4ish, I feel this heavy full feeling that creates discomfort thru-out the rest of the day. Two, (you forgot there were two reasons didn't you) raisin bread doesn't last long. I buy it and it is gone in a day. Kind of like a gallon of milk. So the fact that I bought raisin bread last night and it is still available for my breadfast (a pun!) this morning is special reason number TWO!!!

Macy's Day Parade Countdown: 5 days

Kayla informed me she is expecting a Super Sweet 18 birthday party in February. Super? Unlikely. Sweet? Maybe. 18??? I can't believe we made it!!! We are discussing things right now. She wants a limo ride. I would like to rent a hall and hire a dj and invite all of her friends and family. My brother dj's, so that could be his gift to her. Allison could use her Culinary Arts degree and cater it for her. So that just leaves the limo ride and hall rental and food as major costs. Really not so major when you think that this will be her last birthday "party"...last party meaning one that Mommy has planned. There won't be any other parties until her wedding reception. That isn't true...she'll have a graduation party. And then a college graduation party. Those will be smaller, though, because her friends will have to have their own parties.

Friday, November 16, 2007

11/16/07

The kids have today off giving them another 3-day weekend. They had a 4-day weekend last weekend and will have another 4-day weekend because of Thanksgiving.

We are looking forward to a lazy weekend. My only big goal is to hit up Providence Place at some point. Grocery shopping is done. We had a great supper last night. Ham, mashed potatos, sweet potatos, fresh green beans, and corn on the cob.

Thursday, November 15, 2007

SCDS

Same cold, different symptoms.

Now it is soley affecting my sinuses. And inner ear. So if I turn my head too fast I get some drunk vertigo feeling. Super!!!

I am in the mood to cook today, so I think I will make something special for the kids tonight for supper. Zach wants ham. And green beans. It will be the extra stuff that I make that will make it special. I think we can have a big dinner since we'll all be apart for Thanksgiving. The girls are looking forward to being at my sister's. Zach will be in Maine and Mitch and I will be in NYC. They love it when I make the toasted baguettes with fresh mozzarella and thinly sliced roma tomatoes with a brush of olive oil. They also love homemade toasted pita bread with balsamic vinegar or homemade hummus to dip. Then again, we LOVE olive cream cheese spread on toasted pita bread, or baguettes or stuffed in some celery. So many options!

After next week, I can start decorating for Christmas.

Cindy has her first Maine game tonight coaching. I wish I was back in Maine for that one! Good luck UMaine women! I hope you have a fantastic season!

Wednesday, November 14, 2007

Blah!

Gosh, my blog has gotten soooooo boring! Every time I read older posts, I am amazed by how much more I had to write about.

I wish this cold would go away! I made the kids some of my Sante Fe chex mix...this time adding pumpkin seeds, which they love love love! We're having pizza rolls and seasoned fries tonight. Mommy is not in the mood to get any more fancy than that.

I bought Sierra an updated dog tag today with our new information. She was still wearing her Maine tags. Zach plays ball with her every night and tonight he was in his room watching tv and she was sitting at his door waiting for him to play with her, every once in awhile coming back to bother me or the girls...finally I figured out what was going on and Zach came out to play with her. Other than their nightly ball game, she is still Mommy's girl even though Mitch is trying to convince me she is now Daddy's girl.

I have wedding pics and some new Sierra pics to upload onto Flickr, but I have to wait until Mitch gets back to RI. His laptop has the only working USB ports...mine crapped out thanks to Hayley and Allison.

I got my nails done today. Nothing like a relaxing manicure!

I can't wait to be in NYC for Thanksgiving! Hopefully I will get some good pics of that, too! I bought some egg nog tonight. My once a year treat! Really my one glass per year treat. I enjoy it but it is a bit overwhelming. The kids love it, too, so we'll enjoy the half-gallon and wait until next year.

November 14, 2007

I am watching Extreme Makeover. I guess I just don't get it. There are things I would change about me, and I do get that everyone has a few things they would change, but the list of things that get changed on these people is staggering. Lipo, teeth, eyes, facelifts, chin implants, nose jobs, and breast augmentation, dermabrasion...at what point does someone need some counseling to find acceptance of his/her self? For me, I plan on fighting the aging process as long as possible...diet, nutrition, exercise, cosmetic surgery if necessary (face lift only)...but to change one's entire appearance structurely? Seems a bit extreme...hence the title of the show I guess. I guess I am more for enhancing what one already has naturally, if possible. This episode is about a bride and groom who undergo extreme makeovers...and unveil themselves to their families and each other at their wedding. Hmmm...wonder what their kids will look like? I can't imagine being happy about one of my kids changing their look permanently.

I have got to say, Eric's friend Holly has probably the nicest face I have ever seen. She should be on an Ivory Soap commercial. She has a beautiful smile and a healthy complexion.

It is showertime.

Tuesday, November 13, 2007

11/13/07

Five days since my last post??? Craziness!

Lots of goings on around here. Some good, some bad, some great, some sad...good news...I got the job! Yay! I am going to love it there! The people are so fantastic. Bad news...the kids, Mitch and I all have a bad cold. The great news and sad news are private and personal.

Zach is trying out for the basketball team as I write. Hayley is on the school's dance team. Kayla is after school three days a week getting help with Algebra 2. She was going to try out for the dance team too, but I love that she decided Algebra 2 is more important right now, with college coming up next year, than extra curricula.

I start my new job on Monday. I am getting my nails done tomorrow. Mitch will be out of town for a soccer tournament. He leaves tomorrow and depending on when (if) they lose, will determine when he's coming home. No later than Sunday. That is if they win the whole thing. I think the kids and I will hit up Providence Place Friday or Saturday. I need to start at least a little bit of my holiday shopping.

Thursday, November 08, 2007

11/8/07

Oh so much to do. I have quite a list of stuff to get from Walmart. And then pick up the kids. Come home, make supper, pack Mitch and I up for the weekend. After our brief trip to Maine, we have to immediately drive to CT for some recruiting. At least we'll get reimbursed for gas for that.

I talked to my sister yesterday. She is excited about having the girls for Thanksgiving and she wanted to make sure Mitch and I knew we were invited to dinner as well, but I am really excited about spending Thanksgiving in NYC.

Wednesday, November 07, 2007

11/7/07

It will be a quiet day today. I pick Zach up at 2:30 and then don't have to get the girls until 4:15. I have to run to the post office and bank but other than that stuff, it will be a nice day at home.

Dancing with the Stars is coming to Providence on February 9th. Mitch asked if I want to go...YEAH!!! That will be awesome!

Other than that, not a whole lot going on.

Tuesday, November 06, 2007

November 6, 2007

I am doing a load of laundry and a load of dishes in the dishwasher, so I thought I'd take advantage of my waiting time and blog.

However, there just isn't a lot to blog about. It is rainy. The kids all have stuff to do after school, so they won't be home until 4ish. Mitch won't be home until about 7ish. We have a date to watch Dancing with the Stars.

I am making my Christmas lists for the kids. Just ideas about what to buy them and checking prices so we'll have an idea and not be stressed out about the crowds and not having a clue about what to buy. The girls really like the cash or gift card option...so aside from a few token gifts, they'll be getting a lot of those and they will do their own shopping the days after Christmas. Teenage girls are easy!!! A few promises of big malls and tons of gift cards and cash and they are happy for a long time! Zach loves loves loves the Patriots, so I will pick him up some fan gear (hoodies, pajama bottoms, maybe a neon type light for his room) and he loves video games. And more video games. Lucky for him, we all love certain games, so we're getting the new guitar hero 3 and a Dancing with the Stars that you can use your DDR mat with. A country song version of American Idol for Kayla. I think Mitch wants some of the Sing Star ones, but you have to buy the sing star mike and can't use your American Idol mike, which I think is ridiculous as both games are for the ps2. Anyway...

I have to check in with my sister. She wants the girls for Thanksgiving. Well, all of us, but Zach is supposed to be in Virginia and Mitch and I want to be in NYC for the Macy's Day Parade with his friend Jerry and then we'll have dinner in the city or at Jerry's parents in New Jersey. I love that Thanksgiving is so flexible with us. I love the traditional dinner with my family, I love a romantic private dinner in the city, really any kind of adventure works. Christmas for now has to be a little more traditional, with lots of expectations and places to be. Mitch and I hate that part of it and long for the day when it is about the true meaning. Ideally, I want to go away for Christmas. And someday, when we have our condo at Sugarloarf, that is where we'll be spending our skiing holiday, or our condo in Florida...plus I am hoping that the 5 of our kids disperse themselves to nice locales when they are grown so we have fun places to visit!!! Mitch and I share a dream of owing a VW van and driving around the country having fun adventures.

Friday, November 02, 2007

Cool.

Soooo I got invited back for a second interview. If you pass the 1st one, then you get invited back to have an interview with the program manager. Then I will have 6 weeks of paid training, if they still like me, then a raise and 6 months probation. If they still like me after that, then another raise.

Benefits to boot.

I have the worst headache ever. I have been getting a lot of headaches lately.

November 2, 2007

Today has started out stressful. After some time in conversation with God, I am feeling better. I made some revelations about myself so that is always a good thing, whether they are positive revelations or not.

I am hopeful the interview will go well. I have a healthy level of anxiety about it...I know my stuff and I have a passion for this type of job and I know that will shine thru in the interview...but my anxiety has to do with new people and new places. It is really difficult for a person like myself, who is a very social being by design, to have this type of anxiety. I didn't start having problems with it until about age 25. I took medicine for a bit until I could learn skills to deal with that anxiety in more healthy ways...exercising, limiting alcohol, praying...and now it is hardly ever a problem. A new job is cause for anxiety in everyone, not just people with a general anxiety diagnosis, which is what I meant by having a healthy level of anxiety today. I am not letting it spin out of control and it is what it is. An interview. I need the job, though. Correction. I need A job. Staying at home has been nice but my kids aren't little anymore. I loved staying home with them when they were small. Those will always be my most happy and most memorable days. Not every parent gets that opportunity, so I thank God that I was so lucky, even though it was a financial strain. (Except when you figure in the cost of three kids in daycare!) So if I can find something I like, that has flexible hours, that will allow for me to continue with my master's degree, I will be very happy. This job pays well, has flexible hours, provides full benefits and offers tuition reimbursement for those that are interested.

Thursday, November 01, 2007

Happy November

It is a beautiful day for being the 1st of November! I am so glad my busy day (yesterday) is over and I never have to go thru that day again! It left me very grumpy this morning. But whatever.

Now I am gearing up for my interview tomorrow. I wish I wasn't in such a grumpy mood!

Wednesday, October 31, 2007

Happy Halloween!

My long day is just about over. Meetings, doctors appointments, errands! Grrrrrr!!! I just have to drop Zach off at his friend Andrew's for the night and I am done. Andrew lives on an island and I guess there are about a hundred or so houses on the island and so the boys are going trick or treating there.

Tomorrow, Mitch and I are going to find the office that I will be having my interview on Friday, so I will know where I am going. I don't want to be late for an interview.

Tuesday, October 30, 2007

Yay!

Of the 6 or so jobs I applied for, the one I really want called me this morning for an interview on Friday. I am excited. It is in Newport, which is my preferred area to work in! I might not be able to afford to live there, but I can work there! Plus it will give me a chance to shop in my spare time. Newport RI is alot like Camden (Maine) and Freeport (Maine). Good shopping!

It will be good to be part of a team again! I miss my job in Bangor so much. I miss Carl and Iona and Claire. I miss our group and chinese food on Fridays. I don't miss working at the Ranch, though, just the old office.

I love non-profit atmospheres. It is so good to have a job that makes a change or has the potential to make a change in someone's life. Which is also why I love education so much. Even better is the opportunity to combine my education training with my non-profit background and a hopefully great job all rolled into one!

This is also a big deal with Christmas coming right around the corner!!!

So I will be doing a lot of praying in the next few days! A lot more than usual.

Saturday, October 27, 2007

Sooooo....

Today turned into a mall day instead of a stay at home and watch movies in bed day. Apparently everyone in South County had the same dang idea! So good to be home! The traffic in Warwick is yucky on a Saturday. Kind of like a Saturday on Stillwater Ave. in Bangor, yet on all of the streets! Plus I was missing Sierra!

I bought a new pair of pink fuzzy slippers at Walmart. So comfy and cute. I can't find any of my slippers. The girls have stolen them over the years and I think some of them went to their dad's house with the clothes they were not taking to Rhode Island. I had fuzzy pink ones, fuzzy blue ones, fuzzy black ones and fuzzy animal print ones.

So yeah, back to the mall trip. There aren't a lot of clothes out there this season that I like! I am ready for some new fashions. I can't stand those long shirts...I happen to like my butt and prefer shirts that I can show it off in. Plus there is no waist definition so even very thin people end up looking pregnant. Where were these shirts when I WAS pregnant? Actually, they were around, just in maternity stores! I do like the thin layering sweaters. I love sweaters but the thick ones can make anybody who isn't flat chested look incredibly bulky! My favorite sweater ever was a brushed wool v-neck from The Limited. I think I got it back in high school.

It is 2:30 so I think I can still salvage some stay in bed hours. I have some reading to catch up on, yet cable is so addictive. There is always something bad to watch. My new favorite bad tv show is entitled "I want to Look Like a High School Cheerleader (Again)"...grown up, turned fat, former high school cheerleaders go away to a fat/cheer camp to lose weight and get back into cheerleader shape. Whoever loses the least amount of weight each week gets sent home. It is compelling tv.

October 27, 2007

I fell asleep early last night and slept very well. Got up at 8. Discovered there was no milk for my latte. I had to run out to the convenience store for some milk. The kids and dog are still sleeping.

I had a long, bizarre dream last night. It was good, kind of a whodunit, someone trying to kill me, a war going on in the middle east with the US's newest weapon? The Grandma! She kept calling and giving me updates on the whole thing.

I am pretty sure this is a lay in bed and watch movies day. It is very foggy this morning. It rained last night so it will be awhile before some of this burns off.

I am in the mood to watch Sideways, followed by Fargo. I watched Beautiful Girls the other night. One of my favorites. I wish I owned it as I am in the mood to watch it again today. I am also in the mood for a long hot shower, which I think I will do first.

Friday, October 26, 2007

October 26, 2007

Zach has taken Sierra for a walk to the beach. Rarely do I let either one of them out of my sight.

Good! They are back. She had fun pulling Zach into the waves, I guess. They both came back soaked and sandy. Maybe I will go down with them tomorrow and take some pics of the fun.

Going to bed early tonight with some scary movies. It was an early morning this morning and I am looking forward to sleeping in!

Thursday, October 25, 2007

October 25, 2007

Last night we just had some easy sandwiches on bulkie rolls with some chips and dip. I wasn't really in the mood to make any kind of big supper. I am currently listening to some Bare Naked Ladies and drinking my latte.

Do you remember about a year ago when I blogged about my friend Lisa from church who was moving to California? Anyway, thru Debi, I became worried about her living in southern California because of all of the fires and Debi hadn't heard from her lately. Debi and I prayed Tuesday and Wednesday and Lisa got in touch with Debi yesterday. She is fine and in Indiana.

Jamie called yesterday. The one weekend she had available to come in visit next month is the one I have other plans. Hopefully she can get here soon. My friend Susan who lives in Boston is planning a little visit with me. I think it will be in Boston though. Not a whole lot to do here in Narragansett. And lastly, Jade and Elia want to come for a visit.

This weekend is homecoming for the kids. Dances, parades, football game. It will be a busy weekend for them.

Wednesday, October 24, 2007

Honey, I found us a new house...

Mansions along the Cliff Walk.

Zach's New Home


Zach's New Home
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

How About This One?


How About This One?
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

Or This One?


Or This One?
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

Are We Ready


Are We Ready
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

Along the Way


Along the Way
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

Start of the Cliff Walk


Start of the Cliff Walk
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

My Favorite


My Favorite
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable
My favorite manicure ever!

Tunnels


Tunnels
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable
Lots of tunnels on the Cliff Walk.

Tunnels


Tunnels
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

More Tunnels


More Tunnels
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

Over the Fence?


Over the Fence?
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

Cliff Walk


Cliff Walk
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

Shortcut


Shortcut
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable
Anyone for a little shortcut thru the hedge perhaps???

On the Trail


On the Trail
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

Cliff Walk 2007


Cliff Walk 2007
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

Sunset


Sunset
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable
Sunset on the balcony off my bedroom.

Beach in October!!!


Beach in October!!!
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable
October 21st to be exact!!!

Ocean


Ocean
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

Beautiful


Beautiful
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable
I like the car, too.

Jimmy Choo...God Bless You!

Gosh I love shoes! (And purses!) I found the most adorable peep toes ever! Ever!!!

Is anybody else sick of Carrie Underwood? I am not a fan of country music anyway so maybe that has something to do with it.

Things I love? Jimmy Choo. Wasabi peas. Peep toes. Purses. The smell of bleach. Chocolate. The ocean. Books. Macs. The color blue. And red. And black and brown. The internet. Overstock.com. Lattes. Being Irish. Skirts. Manicures. Daisies. Photography. Bookstores. Goodwill. Watching Rachael Ray.

Hopefully I will have some pics loaded on my blog today. Mitch has to email them to me because my USB ports are not working on my laptop!

I have to go take my shower. Light some candles. Dishes are all done. I have to do laundry and wash the floor. Pick up Hayley. Go to mail and bank. Get Zach and go to the grocery store. Drop them off and go back and get Kayla.

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

October 23, 2007

I missed Hayley's meeting at school this morning. Thankfully they let me reschedule for next week!

I find Rosie O'Donnell's blog highly addictive. I loved her back in her talk show days and lately was feeling like something very dark was going on within her after reading her poetry and reading her answers on her ask rosie page. But I am reforming my opinion of her again. It is nice to see the side of her as a "stay at home" mom and her video blogs are reassuring to me that she is still the same Rosie, just saddened by the events going on in the world, passionate about the things she believes in and is an intelligent and creative artist. I certainly don't agree with all of her thoughts and theories, but I trust my own intelligence and judgement enough to be interested in hearing what she has to say. I think it is unnerving for society when America's funny people aren't finding anything to be funny about anymore. Our way of life by choice is escapism. I watch comics to escape what is going on for real. Behind the comedy, though, is a strong woman who says what she needs to even if she is afraid. That is something to be admired.

So it is 11:15 AM. I have loaded the dishwasher, discussed book ideas with Mitch, taken the kids to school, had a latte, planned supper, and caught up on my favorite blogs. I do more staying at home than I ever did at the office. Serious writing needs to commence. I have a Christmas deadline that I can't miss.

Sunday, October 21, 2007

Oh My Aching Body...

If someone asks you if you've done the Cliff Walk just say yes. 3.5 miles there...3.5 miles back. I am not sure who exactly thought this was a great idea this morning. I think it was me! My legs are on fire!!! The pictures will be beautiful, though. Glad I remembered the camera so I don't have to do that again. I am sure I will do parts of it again. Just not the whole dang thing!

After the walk, we dined at McDonald's in Wakefield and then I took Zach as promised to the big beach. I am home now and am going to make another latte and retire to my bedroom. It is only about 4:30 PM and I am ready for bed!

October 21, 2007

A beautiful Sunday morning. I am sitting here sipping my latte and blogging. Soon I have to go shave my legs. The kids and I are going to the "big" beach...what they call it. Instead of being a two minute walk, this one is about a 5 minute drive. Maybe less. They call it the big beach because there are no breakers there so the waves are huge. Our beach has these rock walls that go out quite a distance and the waves break against them instead of the beach...my only thought is that it prevents beach erosion. The big beach, otherwise known as Scarborough Beach, is more popular with the young adult-middle age crowd because of the surfing. Town Beach is my favorite, but very busy. They have cabanas families can rent for the season. The catch is that you have to actually live in Narragansett and pay taxes and you buy a pass for the summer that lets you go on the beach. Bonnet Shores is nice, too. More expensive, I think. The girls' friend Becca lives over there with her dad. He is a doctor. Then there is Fisherman's State Park beach. About a two minute drive from our house. Never been, except for seeing it from the other side, and another little beach down in the harborside of town. We hardly ever go down there. It is a working/fishing area and busy with lobster and fishing boats and the famous Block Island ferry. You can buy seafood right off the boats though, and save yourself some money. When I am down there, I feel very much like I am back home in Maine. It is like Camden/Rockport/Rockland...except not so touristy. The tourist side of town here is along Scarborough and Town Beaches, with big mansions along the way. Those mansions look like shacks once you get to Newport.

So this is the plan for today...the kids and I are going to go shopping and sightseeing in Newport. At 9 AM right now, it is still a bit chilly for the beach. Later around lunch time or after, we'll head back so Zach can play in the waves at the big beach. It should be in the 70s by that point. Maybe we'll get a chance to do the Cliff Walk while we're in Newport. Mitch won't be home until late tonight and I will go crazy if I just hang around here. So expect lots of pictures in the next few days.

Friday, October 19, 2007

October 19, 2007

Oh lucky day! The Irish cream Torani syrup that I ordered was delivered this morning! I ran out on Monday. Ordered it on Monday. Two bottles online for the price of one bought at Ampersand's. It is a lovely rainy morning here! It was so hot last night, I had to sleep with the doors open in my bedroom. It was a cacophony of sounds. Thunder, rain, waves, fog horn every 15 minutes. It was beautiful to listen to, however, it woke me up a couple of times in the night and I'd have a bit of trouble going back to sleep...so I am dragging butt a bit today. Sunday is supposed to be mid 70s and sunny so the kids and I plan to spend probably one of our last days at the beach. I keep saying that, but we keep getting the occasional beach day even though it is almost November.

I am making my latte right now. I love the cappuccino maker that Mitch bought me! Tastes just like Ampersand's and saves me $3.50 every day, which works out to be $1277.50 a year. By buying espresso ground coffee and two bottles of Irish cream syrup per month, I spend only about $240/year. Saving just over $1000, or $2.74 a day.

Mitch and I talked on the phone last night. It is nice to just be able to talk. When we're together we don't always do that...we cuddle, we watch tv, we play games, we run errands, we have sex...not always just talking and if anything good can come out of his having to be away so much during soccer season, it is that we get a chance to talk on the phone. Talk about our childhoods and funny stories about our days, how much we love each other and miss each other and want each other. I still like having him home, though.

I have a few loads of laundry to get caught up this weekend. The good news about having a rainy day is that I don't have to bother doing my hair when I get out of the shower! Just put it up wet and I am good to go.

Tonight the kids and I are on a mission to find a Chinese restaurant that they like. There are about 5 in town. So the process of elimination begins tonight. Ah well. Time for my shower.

Thursday, October 18, 2007

Yahoo Messenger

For some reason, I can see who is online, send an IM, but never get one back...even though my friends are writing back to me, I can't see their response or even if they are typing. I can however, get the yahoo web messenger to work, so I guess I will be using that for awhile. I just want to apologize to anyone on my list that thinks I am ignoring them! Not the case!!!

Supper is cooked, eaten, dishes done. I am going to retire to my bedroom and get some reading done. Mitch made it to Charlotte. He will call after practice.

October 18, 2007

The leaves are starting to change for real now. Probably two weeks of the pretty color and then they'll all be on the ground. I have no super large maple in this backyard, so no major fall or spring yard clean up! Yay!!! Just fence and hedge.

I am so looking forward to the relaxing weekend. The last 3 weekends in a row have been absolutely crazy. The kids and I are going to go out for some chinese tomorrow night. We haven't gone out for chinese food since moving here mostly because Mitch and I aren't huge fans of it. The kids love it though, and since Mitch is gone this weekend, it makes sense that only one of us should have to suffer! Tonight we'll have pizza. Saturday night, the girls' friend Becca will be spending the night. She has spent the night the last two weekends. She fits right in. We'll make nachos and popcorn and rent some scary movies and then my baby will be home Sunday night.

I HAVE to remember to buy conditioner today. I forgot to do that yesterday.

Next weekend is the last weekend of October! WHAAAAA??? Craziness!

The next few weekends after this one will be equally crazy. Bachelor party. Rehearsal and wedding. Mitch has a soccer tourney and recruiting. Then I think we'll have one quiet weekend before Thanksgiving!

Wednesday, October 17, 2007

This Will Go Untitled

The meeting wasn't as bad as predicted. Having Mitch there gave me more confidence so that helped. I love him so much. After the meeting, he had to go back to work and I had to go to the post office, get Zachie, go to the bank, and get some groceries.

I kind of reinvented chicken noodle casserole tonight. This is what I did: I cut up 3 chicken breasts and put them in a skillet with some EVOO, some garlic salt, pepper, minced onion, and rosemary and browned it up. Then I added a can of sweet corn and put that mixture in the bottom of a glass casserole. I sprinkled that layer with some shredded cheddar. I boiled a pound of bow tie pasta, and added two cans of cream of chicken soup. I also added about a can of water because it was a little too thick. I layered the pasta generously on top of the chicken and topped it with crushed cheese crackers and shredded cheddar and baked at 400° until brown. Can't tell you how delish it looks. I made chocolate peanut butter squares for dessert and the kids and I are playing American Idol on the PS2. Love that game!!!

October 17, 2007

Another beautiful day in Narragansett.

I am watching The Munsters on tv. It used to be one of my favorite shows when I was a kid. I am reading Ahab's Wife. Good book. I should have a pretty relaxing weekend. No driving. No soccer games (they are away this weekend). Just whatever I want to do whenever I want to do it. The only way it would be more perfect is if Mitch didn't have to be away.

I just have to get through this cheesey meeting today at 2. I am not sure why this could not be handled over the phone. After that, I have to get Zach from school, go to the post office, bank and grocery store.

Tuesday, October 16, 2007

Sooooo

I heard back from three of the six jobs I applied for. I just sent them my resume last night, so I was pleased and surprised to get three emails today. All three are still accepting applications and by the end of the week, they will be calling people to set up interviews.

We had taco salad tonight for supper. Sugar cookies for dessert. Last night, Mitch cooked hot dogs and hamburgers on the grill. VERY YUMMY!!!

My love is gone this weekend. A game in Charlotte and a game in St. Louis. He will be home Sunday night. The girls and I have started a study group for them and their friends and our first meeting will be Saturday at the coffee shop they like so much. I'm on hand to help out with homework questions and offer my services as taxi driver, so no CT shopping spree for me this weekend.

I have meeting #9012 at the high school tomorrow...I am exaggerating a little but this is getting a bit ridiculous. Mitch is coming with me which I so appreciate. He will be the voice of reason if I get a little ticked off.

10/16/07

I've been thinking alot about the process of getting older: watching my grandparents, remembering my great-parents, witnessing my own aging process...at what age do you stop looking forward and spend your time looking back? Will I recognize that threshold? How long do you stay in this vast everything-goes-land where your last few available thoughts that aren't consumed with daily living are spent looking forward and back, spent comparing faces and hands with the generations around you, looking forward to seeing my children's children while missing my own childhood? All the while the clock ticks on in a cruel way...speeding up when you want time to wait and slowing down when you're in a hurry.

I suspect these are musings of someone who has had the luxury of getting by in this world without the worry and anxiety of growing up in a war-torn country. I am really done apologizing for that, though. My immigrant ancestors gave up EVERYTHING to make a better life for themselves and their future generations. Like it or lump it. I am very priviledged to have this luxury.

My job search continues. If God wants me back to work, then something will open up. I applied for 6 non-profit jobs yesterday, all involving at-risk youth and education. Today I need to get my materials gathered so I can apply for grad school. I know I can work AND go to school AND raise a family. My master's is really just this pesky little problem that is sitting between me and my doctorate. I investigated becoming a realtor yesterday. Way cheaper than I thought it would be. Very low start up costs. Plus I can pretty much work as much or as little as I like. I might as well put my ENFP status to good use.

The Profile of an ENFP
The Inspirer

As an ENFP, your primary mode of living is focused externally, where you take things in primarily via your intuition. Your secondary mode is internal, where you deal with things according to how you feel about them, or how they fit in with your personal value system.

ENFPs are warm, enthusiastic people, typically very bright and full of potential. They live in the world of possibilities, and can become very passionate and excited about things. Their enthusiasm lends them the ability to inspire and motivate others, more so than we see in other types. They can talk their way in or out of anything. They love life, seeing it as a special gift, and strive to make the most out of it.

ENFPs have an unusually broad range of skills and talents. They are good at most things which interest them. Project-oriented, they may go through several different careers during their lifetime. To onlookers, the ENFP may seem directionless and without purpose, but ENFPs are actually quite consistent, in that they have a strong sense of values which they live with throughout their lives. Everything that they do must be in line with their values. An ENFP needs to feel that they are living their lives as their true Self, walking in step with what they believe is right. They see meaning in everything, and are on a continuous quest to adapt their lives and values to achieve inner peace. They're constantly aware and somewhat fearful of losing touch with themselves. Since emotional excitement is usually an important part of the ENFP's life, and because they are focused on keeping "centered", the ENFP is usually an intense individual, with highly evolved values.

An ENFP needs to focus on following through with their projects. This can be a problem area for some of these individuals. Unlike other Extraverted types, ENFPs need time alone to center themselves, and make sure they are moving in a direction which is in sync with their values. ENFPs who remain centered will usually be quite successful at their endeavors. Others may fall into the habit of dropping a project when they become excited about a new possibility, and thus they never achieve the great accomplishments which they are capable of achieving.

Most ENFPs have great people skills. They are genuinely warm and interested in people, and place great importance on their inter-personal relationships. ENFPs almost always have a strong need to be liked. Sometimes, especially at a younger age, an ENFP will tend to be "gushy" and insincere, and generally "overdo" in an effort to win acceptance. However, once an ENFP has learned to balance their need to be true to themselves with their need for acceptance, they excel at bringing out the best in others, and are typically well-liked. They have an exceptional ability to intuitively understand a person after a very short period of time, and use their intuition and flexibility to relate to others on their own level.

Because ENFPs live in the world of exciting possibilities, the details of everyday life are seen as trivial drudgery. They place no importance on detailed, maintenance-type tasks, and will frequently remain oblivous to these types of concerns. When they do have to perform these tasks, they do not enjoy themselves. This is a challenging area of life for most ENFPs, and can be frustrating for ENFP's family members.

An ENFP who has "gone wrong" may be quite manipulative - and very good it. The gift of gab which they are blessed with makes it naturally easy for them to get what they want. Most ENFPs will not abuse their abilities, because that would not jive with their value systems.

ENFPs sometimes make serious errors in judgment. They have an amazing ability to intuitively perceive the truth about a person or situation, but when they apply judgment to their perception, they may jump to the wrong conclusions.

ENFPs who have not learned to follow through may have a difficult time remaining happy in marital relationships. Always seeing the possibilities of what could be, they may become bored with what actually is. The strong sense of values will keep many ENFPs dedicated to their relationships. However, ENFPs like a little excitement in their lives, and are best matched with individuals who are comfortable with change and new experiences.

Having an ENFP parent can be a fun-filled experience, but may be stressful at times for children with strong Sensing or Judging tendancies. Such children may see the ENFP parent as inconsistent and difficult to understand, as the children are pulled along in the whirlwind life of the ENFP. Sometimes the ENFP will want to be their child's best friend, and at other times they will play the parental authoritarian. But ENFPs are always consistent in their value systems, which they will impress on their children above all else, along with a basic joy of living.

ENFPs are basically happy people. They may become unhappy when they are confined to strict schedules or mundane tasks. Consequently, ENFPs work best in situations where they have a lot of flexibility, and where they can work with people and ideas. Many go into business for themselves. They have the ability to be quite productive with little supervision, as long as they are excited about what they're doing.

Because they are so alert and sensitive, constantly scanning their environments, ENFPs often suffer from muscle tension. They have a strong need to be independent, and resist being controlled or labelled. They need to maintain control over themselves, but they do not believe in controlling others. Their dislike of dependence and suppression extends to others as well as to themselves.

ENFPs are charming, ingenuous, risk-taking, sensitive, people-oriented individuals with capabilities ranging across a broad spectrum. They have many gifts which they will use to fulfill themselves and those near them, if they are able to remain centered and master the ability of following through.

Friday, October 12, 2007

October 12, 2007

Another ridiculously busy weekend if I want it to be. Just thinking about it all gives me a headache. I am going to focus my thoughts on Thanksgiving. Mitch and I will be spending it in New York City...then he has some recruiting to do in New Jersey.

I have to get my nails done today.

Wednesday, October 10, 2007

God Bless Debi!!!

I just love my friend Debi! She is always there to remind me how great God is, especially helpful when I am not feeling well, and not feeling so grateful!

I have lots to do today.

Tuesday, October 09, 2007

Kayla & Meghan


Kayla & Meghan
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable
I can't believe they are almost 18!

Adam, Papa, Mimi, Julie


Adam, Papa, Mimi, Julie
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

Mommy & Kayla


Mommy & Kayla
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

Mommy and Zach


Mommy and Zach
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

The Girls


The Girls
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable
Kayla, Mommy and Hayley

The Boys


The Boys
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable
Cody, Hunter and Zach

Narragansett


Narragansett
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

Meghan & Hayley


Meghan & Hayley
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

Allison & Jenn


Allison & Jenn
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

Kayla Noelle


Kayla Noelle
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

My Beauty Queen


My Beauty Queen
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

Mommy & Hayley


Mommy & Hayley
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

Narragansett


Narragansett
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

Kayla & Gabs


Kayla & Gabs
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable
So pretty!

Gabby


Gabby
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable
My niece Gabrielle.

Adam & Jennifer


Adam & Jennifer
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable
My brother and me.

Monday, October 08, 2007

Sick

I am not doing well. I have been fighting off something. I have a low grade fever and swollen glands in the back of my neck and a headache. I am feeling better today than yesterday, but still not quite right. Mitch got back from Richmond late last night and has spent today taking care of me. He is so wonderful.

On a brighter note, I am waiting to hear back from a non-profit organization that I might be working with. They are a homeless transitonal housing program out of Providence. A lot like the job I just left, but in a larger city setting. I am a little nervous. Narragansett is a very wealthy white town and Providence is not, and I don't want the fact that I live in Narragansett be a determinate in my getting a position there. Meaning, one might ask what I could possibly know about the homeless population and substance abuse and mental illness issues...

Anyway, I need to do something and get myself back out there. I appreciate so much this little month off to regroup and get the kids settled into their new lives. They haven't had me at home since Zach was 5. So 8 years.

Well, I am in the middle of getting supper ready and I need to go hop in the shower. Today was a holiday off from school for the kiddos and we spent a very very very lazy day at home!!!

Thursday, October 04, 2007

Tag

The Game of Tag about your MAN

1. Who is your man? Mitch
2. How long have you been together? 10 months
3. How long did you date? 10 months
4. How old is your man? almost 35
5. Who eats more? I think we tie.
6. Who said "I love you" first? I made Mitch say it first.
7. Who is taller? Mitch is 6'3 and I am 5'6.
8. Who sings better? He does. I love the 'I Love You' song he sings me. Not the Barney one...
9. Who is smarter? Hmmmm. He'd say me, but he already has his MBA.
10. Whose temper is worse? Definitely mine.
11. Who does the laundry? I do. I love to do laundry.
12. Who takes out the garbage? I put it in the garage. Mitch takes it from there.
13. Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? Mitch does.
14. Who pays the bills? Well our money pays our bills, but Mitch is usually the one who physically pays them, except for my cell phone bill cause I do that one over my phone.
15. Who is better with the computer? Me.
16. Who mows the lawn? Mitch and Zach
17. Who cooks dinner? I do because I get to stay home right now. Mitch will if I don't want to and he makes great pizza. He also makes me a 'love' latte every morning! AWWWWW!!!
18. Who drives when you are together? Mitch
19. Who pays when you go out? We share a checking account...pretty much whoever the bill gets passed to.
20. Who is most stubborn? DEFINITELY MEEEEEEE!!!
21. Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? Mitch
22. Whose parents do you see the most? I visit home more, but his parents have been here once and my dad has been here once.
23. Who kissed who first? After about 8 hours of waiting, he finally kissed me!
24. Who asked who out? He asked me.
25. Who proposed? Him
26. Who is more sensitive? Probably me.
27. Who has more friends? We're both pretty popular.
28. Who has more siblings? Me. Two brothers and a sister...Mitch has a brother.
29. Who wears the pants in the family? Mitch...he'll tell you it is because I let him.

Friday, September 28, 2007

9/28/07

As excited as I am to be returning to Maine for a brief visit, I just checked out the weather...we are leaving 70 and 80 degree weather to go to a low 60 degrees. Booooo!

Well, I have to go pack. We are leaving here around 11. I have to go to the post office and bank and gas station before heading out.

Thursday, September 27, 2007

9/27/07

I am kinda addicted to Cold Case. I got Mitch addicted to Dancing with the Stars! Ha ha...that makes me laugh.

Wednesday, September 26, 2007

September 26, 2007

I am in a much better mood this afternoon. Took Mitch most of the morning to get me here! My sister called a little while ago too, so that helped. I pretty much just needed to talk over why I was feeling so stressed about this weekend. It is just a little of everything. I'm not used to leaving Sierra behind, and I've never left her with Mitch...I know she will be fine. I am adjusting to her being "our" dog. Okay, not really, but it makes me smile everytime Mitch says it, and I love how much they love each other.

Tonight is the open house at the middle school. Mitch said he'll be home before we have to leave for that, so he can go with us.

Right now I am watching Stakeout. I love that movie. It has been a movie morning, with a little Pick-up Artist, Pretty in Pink, and Fast Times at Ridgemont High and now Stakeout. I love Rosie in the zebra jog suit, taking her Rottie, Archie for a walk...or should I say, Archie taking her for a walk, and then chasing after the bunny.

Into the Wild is a good book. A true story account of Chris McCandless. I wish he were still alive because we'd have a lot to talk about. As much as I tend to look like I blend in, I certainly pick friends that do not. We also share a lot of the same views on issues of homelessness and on the over-stimulation of the world around us, and also have similar tastes in literature. He would have been a true pioneer in the non-profit world. I am also fascinated about how one tends to find God and spirituality when there is nothing left but oneself and nature, and the true serenity that follows. I've even often thought that once this level of high consciousness is achieved, there is nothing left but death, that on some level, the body, or its will to live, is no longer the driving force in one's existence.

I have always been too chicken to be alone like that...not sure why. I'm not sure I'd be scared of any physical danger. He traveled with a gun, which I am sure I would do in the Alaskan wild. I think I'd be truly scared of being alone with myself like that. More so about the fact of not knowing for how long. That uncertainty would be scariest of all because I can do anything for a specific length of time. Anyway, I am certainly envious of the adventurousness of this soul.

Read the book.

Tuesday, September 25, 2007

Still Blah

It is a hot mid-80 degree day today in good old South Rhode Island. Still waiting for Autumn. Going to take the dog for a walk on the beach tonight. Give her a little break from the heat. We had some yummy homemade meatball subs tonight, some broccoli and cheese for a vegetable and some very yummy hummus that I made myself. It is all gone. The kids ate all of it when they got home from school. They even said it was better tasting than the brand we buy at the store. It is so expensive here and we love it so much, that I made up a little recipe that I can use the Bullet with. Some garbanzo beans, a little splash of lime juice, some garlic salt, minced onions, a little Italian seasoning, and sesame tahini, combine with some liquid beef bouillon and perfection!!! For dessert, after our walk on the beach, we'll have some cinnamon rolls.

My mood is still blah. This weekend is going to be overwhelmingly busy for me and I am not really looking forward to it. I am not looking forward to the extra company on Sunday. I love Mitch's parents and I am excited for them to see the house, but his kids will be here and Allison is coming back here with me to spend the week, which I am very excited about, too, but there will just be lots of people in the house on Sunday, until everyone leaves for the Maine game.

My kids do not have school on Friday, so we're heading out early for Maine.

9/25/07

In a blah mood today. Not really in the mood to write...maybe I will blog later. I am reading a good book, though...called Into the Wild.

Monday, September 24, 2007

9/24/07

I really hate making a bowl of cereal, thinking I have milk to complete the process, only to discover that we're out of milk. We had milk last night. Not sure what happens in the middle of the night. All three of the kids must have had cereal before school. We are now going thru 3-4 gallons a week.

Mitch and I had a nice relaxing weekend. Our first, I think, since we've moved here. They had a game Friday night, but had Saturday and Sunday off. We went shopping in Newport on Saturday and spent the day together. When we got home. we made some pizza and played American Idol with the kids.

I am not glad to be facing another busy week and weekend.

Allison is coming back with me next weekend. I can't wait to have her here. We'll go shopping in Newport Beach, in the mall in Warwick and the mall in Providence, hopefully get back to Mystic, CT, since we haven't been there together since 2002, and get to the Maine vs. URI soccer game, and we'll check out the Johnson & Wales campus for her.

Right now, I am blogging, watching some 7th Heaven and listening to Sierra snore and the hum of the dishwasher. I have to do some laundry today.

Wednesday, September 19, 2007

9/19/07

I can't believe how quickly the weeks are flying by. Fall tends to go fast for me anyway. September and October breeze by, Thanksgiving is 3 weeks after Halloween, Christmas just a few weeks after that. Next thing you know, it is January.

Tuesday, September 18, 2007

9/18/07

Today is my father's birthday. I hope he has a nice one wherever he is. It has been 7 years since I've last seen him. 5 since I've talked to him on the phone. I don't want to get sad today so that is all I will say about that!

Mitch and I got to spend the day together and tomorrow will be the same! Definitely makes up for the last few busy weeks. Our neighbor next door has a splendid little garden and she gave me some Japenese eggplant. I thinly sliced one of them and baked them with some butter, salt, pepper and minced onion...totally delish!!! The girls and I loved them! We ate them all before Zach and Mitch got home, which is fine because I don't think either one of them would have liked them much! We also had some stuffing, shake and bake chicken and corn. Just a regular "home-cooked" meal, without being too homecooked! I was busy yesterday, so it turned into the perfect quick meal. Tonight is pizza and fries. I also baked some chocolate chip cookies. All this being at home has allowed me to do little things like that for Mitch and the kids, that I haven't had a lot of time to do in the past because of work and work and work. Cooking makes me lose my appetite. My size 6's are getting rather roomy. I am certainly not trying to lose weight. I also think the stress of the move has helped perpetuate the weight loss. Zach picked me up last night, like he likes to do, to carry me around, and was like, "Mom, I think you're lost weight."

Mitch and I also get to spend most of the weekend together. That will make up for the weekend after next. Friday night, my kids and I are headed to Maine for the night. The girls will be with their dad, Zach will be at Dakota's and I will be at Allison's. The next day is my brother Adam's wedding reception and then we'll be on the road hopefully by 3 and home by 8 PM. Sunday is the Maine game and I can't wait. Plus Allison is coming back with me and spending the whole week! That will be awesome. It will be busy that Sunday. Mitch's parents will be here for the game, and then they are taking his kids back for us so we don't have to drive all that way.

Zach had fun at soccer practice last night with Mitch and John. He got some new Adidas soccer shorts and looks adorable.

Other than that, I am waiting for the pizza to get done and watching The OC. Sierra is sleeping on the couch and Hayley is doing her homework. Oh yeah, and Mitch bought me a new cappuccino maker because mine broke during the move. I used it for the first time tonight.

Current Mood: smiley
Current Music: whatever is on The OC

Monday, September 17, 2007

9/17/07

A very busy weekend. The URI vs. Brown game was a bit heated. Kind of fun when you're just in the audience, but when your loverboy is the one of the people involved it isn't so much fun.

Mitch's brother Ryan was here this weekend. It was fun. We all went to the beach Saturday night because it was still warm out and the sunset was gorgeous. We came back and had the birthday cake that Hayley and Millie made for Ryan's birthday. We all played some American Idol after. It was pretty much a perfect weekend.

Friday night, the girls and I went down to the boardwalk at the town beach for the end of summer festival, which included a carnival. That was fun.

Now I have to take a relaxing hot shower and clean the house and pick the kids up at 2. Mitch will come back to get Zach and they'll both go back to soccer practice.

Friday, September 14, 2007

9/14/07

I am not sure what the kids and I are going to do when they get home from school. Maybe a movie, maybe the beach, or maybe some mall shopping in Warwick.

I spent some quality time with Sierra this morning. She is now napping on the loveseat next to me. A happy sweet baby.

I had some nightmares last night, one of which was Sierra getting hit by a car. It has ruined my morning, that is for sure. Another one, I was being chased by someone. I woke up yelling leave me alove. I hardly ever talk or yell or scream because of a dream. Anyway, I am glad I am awake now, with Sierra sleeping by my side.

Wednesday, September 12, 2007

Zach's Jellyfish


Zach's Jellyfish
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

Zach Attack


Zach Attack
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable
He is such a sweet boy!

Kayla Noelle


Kayla Noelle
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

Fun!!!


Fun!!!
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable
Looks like fun...or a good way to break some bones!

Playing in the Sand


Playing in the Sand
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable
A beautiful September afternoon!

Playing in the Waves


Playing in the Waves
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

The Walk Home


The Walk Home
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

Soccer Boy


Soccer Boy
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable
Playing in our backyard.

Mom & Kay


Mom & Kay
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

9/12/07

Another exciting day in the neighborhood. Not really! Kind of boring here today. The kids have tomorrow off from school for Rosh Hashanah. Another good thing about not living in a mostly Catholic state, like Maine is, is that the kids get both Christian and Jewish holidays off from school! We'll spend tomorrow at the beach. We will go over today when they get home from school, too. There won't be many more beach days, so we'll have to enjoy them while they last. They only have one full week of school in the whole month of September, which is next week. Last week, they only had three days. This week, 4. Next week, a full week, and the week after...4 days. And they didn't even start until the 5th! The girls have a dance Friday night. I don't know if they are going to want to go or not.

Today I am going to lay in the sun and take a shower, pick up the kids from school and then head to the beach. Life is so hard right at this moment! :) I will try to take some more pics today.

I think we will have chicken and dumplings tonight for supper. The lasagna was good last night. I used Italian sausage instead of hamburger. The girls loved it and Mitch took some to work with him today, so I guess it must be edible if he'll pass up commons food for my cooking.

I have cable in my room now! Mitch hooked up our tv in our room. There was no cable upstairs, so we had to have it installed. Not that we really need cable or even tv in our room. We are usually busy or sleeping when we are up there. But it will keep me company when he is out of town.

Tuesday, September 11, 2007

9/11/07

It has been a busy day so far and it is only 1 PM! Zach isn't feeling well. Headache and nausea. Mitch and I both had something like that last week. He is in his room napping right now, with Sierra sleeping next to him keeping a close watch on her patient.

I got my nails done! I love the nail salon. They were very nice there and my nails were done perfectly, just like I like them! And they were even cheaper than where I used to get them done in Maine, so that is always a good thing!!!

I have to get the girls at 2 from school and go to the Post Office, then I have to run to the grocery store to figure out something for supper. I'm in the mood for some lasagna tonight. I think Mitch and the kids will be fine with that. Either that or Mitch can make pizza tonight and I'll make lasagna tomorrow night.

Yesterday and today were great days here. I am feeling much more settled and relaxed. Mitch is much relieved that my smile is back!


It is good to have my blog all up to date again and now I have to start back to work on my novel. Or at least some short fiction, to keep my writing flowing.

Have a great day everyone and don't forget to keep the families directly affected by 9/11 in your prayers today.

Monday, September 10, 2007

Buzzcut


Buzzcut
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

Beach


Beach
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

H & Z


H & Z
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable

Beach Kids


Kids at Narragansett Beach
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable
Before Zachie's haircut...this is the beach that is about a 2-minute walk from our house..

Folk Festival 2007


Folk Festival 2007
Originally uploaded by jennluvsgable
Mommy and Kayla at the Folk Festival...summer 2007