What Was I Thinking?

I'm sure you've heard the expression, "I need this like I need another hole in my head."  Well, I've said that to myself about 465 times in the last 2 days. 

What was I thinking when I said yes to this?

This is Salter, an 8 month old ??labradoddle?? maybe??  Honestly, I don't know, I'm just guessing.  He belongs to some friends who are away for 2 weeks.  They had a dog sitter (another friend of ours), who was going to take care of him-or so they thought. 

Dogsitter came by late Wed. night-(the day Salters family left) for some reason, and told me he felt bad that he wasn't able to get back to the dog until after 6pm THE NEXT DAY.  I resisted the urge to strangle him, asked for the keys to the house, and said I would let the dog out in the morning and afternoon.  He said the family had said he could just stay at the house while they were gone-but he felt funny doing that.  (Then why the f did you agree to watch the dog, dumbass?) 

Anyway-ToolTime and I could not let this dog sit in a crate all day long without being let out, so we took him home.  The kids are home everyday-so they have been recruited to help out! 

What was I thinking?  In addition to that-I've got this:

With 3 dogs in the house, it feels like a doggie daycare. 

Honestly-I need this like I need another hole in my head!

Project Payback: The Finished Product

Well, it took me about 5 hours in total, but Payback's room is done....

Let's just say she was in a state of shock when she saw it, and much to my suprise....she said "Thanks, Mom!".  I really thought she'd go a little crazy on me. 

Next Project....the boys room.  Dreading it!!

One Year Later

It was one year ago today that I went back to work-not by choice, but by necessity.  I'm still there-again, not by choice, but by necessity.  It's not a great job-it's pretty crappy, in fact.  It is part-time, and I make just over minimum wage.  But at the time, it was the only thing out there.  That still holds true-I look for something new 3 or 4 times a week. 

The truth is, I really don't like this job.  I'm old enough to a mother to 3 of the other 4 employees.  It's in retail-so the hours suck.  Hats off to any parent that works full time in retail-because it is the pits.  You never see a full weekend.  How do parents do it full time??  They should given awards. 

Child Boss is 17 years younger than I am-she is recently divorced, and is enjoying "making up for lost time" if you know what I mean.  She thrives on letting us all know about, too.  Now, I realize I'm from different generation-but can't some things be left unsaid?  She has asked me why I don't open up to her and the other employees, honestly, I really don't need these people knowing my business, so I check my outside world at the door. 

Gulliver is the assistant manager-he's relatively new, but he really needs to show some signs of having cajones.  People walk all over him on a daily basis.  It's just sad. 

Vampira has magenta hair, a septum piercing, and spacers in her ears.  Thank God company policy does not allow these to show cuz they gross me out.  She also has a tramp stamp, and constantly wears too small pants and shows her crack. Nice.

Dreadlock Boy is just that- a boy with dreadlocks.  Luckily, I never work with him, so he won't be getting a bashing today. 

All in all-this job has been quite an experience.  I can't believe I have been there for a year.  I never thought I would make it this long.  As much as I dislike the job, it has been a learning experience in more ways than one.  Believe me, I will be only too happy to turn in my resignation when things get better for my family.  And that's just it- I'm doing what I have to for my family.  Would I rather have a job in the field I have a degree for? Yes, but there are no jobs there.  So for now- this just has to do.  At least I come with some funny stories about the children I work with.

That's all-rant over!  Gotta hit the sack-tomorrow is a work day!

Project Payback

There are 2 rooms in my house that I do not clean-the kids bedrooms.  It is their job to do that themselves.  Most of the time it isn't done as well as I'd like it, but as the saying goes, "You've got to pick your battles."  So when I do ask them to clean, my only 100% better do it request is that everything is off the floor, otherwise it goes in the trash. 

My beautiful daughter, aka Payback, is away for one week in Wisconsin.  She is in for a shock when she gets home, because I'm taking a bulldozer into her room.  It's time for an overhaul, and since she is not here, she can't stop me.  I plan on doing it in pieces, because although the floor is (kinda) clean, nothing else is! 

Photographic Evidence:

It appears she has a fondness for stuffing things in hidden corners and the closet floor.  While I realize she is no different than other normal teenager-it's time for an intervention.

Today's project-get the big trash can in there, and fill 'er up!

Stay tuned for updates through out the week!

The Dog Days of Summer

It has been my intention to actually blog over the summer-cuz you know, the kids are home, I'll have more free time since I'm not driving 40+ miles a day.  I've got all these great blog ideas stirring in my head-just waiting for me to sit down and let them out.  Have I had any time to accomplish this?  No.  I cannot believe it is July 1 and I have done nothing but a couple of Post It Note Tuesdays.  (I love PINT-quick, easy, and done!)

Today has been the kind of day I wish I could have more of.  The kids got up and went to the free movie while I taught a class at the gym.  We got home, I threw dinner in the crockpot, and made fresh tortillas to serve with it.  It is balls to the walls hot out so the kids are allowed a bit of time on the Wii.  I head back to the gym at 4 to teach another 2 classes, then I'm home for dinner with the family. 

Come to think it, this whole week has been pretty good.  We've gone to the beach twice, and the kids have been going out in the evenings and playing baseball with the rest of the neighborhood kids.  The best part is that I haven't been at The Horrid Part Time Job much this week at all.  I took on 2 extra classes today because I didn't have to go the HPTJ today.  So in 3 hours time, I made 2x more than my typical 4 hour shift at HPTJ.   Note to self-get more business at the gym. 

So, as for those blog ideas-could I recall a single one of them today?  No, of course not.  They'll come back though.  For now-this little family is enjoying the dog days of summer. 

Post-It Note Tuesday

 

You know the drill!

Click the Post-It above, create your own, and link up! 

Have a great Tuesday!

That's all I've got for today! 

First Day of Summer Break

Here it is, the 1st official day of summer vacation.

It has been a long year for us.

All 3 kids at new schools, none happy to go.

1 hormonal teenager, 1 in full puberty, 1 who just doesn't understand

any of it!!

It has been a year of daily morning battles getting those

kids out of bed, and out of the house on time. 

So why are all 3 kids up before 7am today, when they have

nowhere to go, nowhere to be?

*On a positive note for me-since I won't be running the taxi service as much, maybe I can actually spend some time on this blog!*

Post It Note Tuesday!!

Five Question Friday!!

Wow, 2 blogs in one week-I'm getting better!  Now if I could just come up with a creative post of my own.....Actually, I'm working on, the idea is there, I just need to find the damn time!

Anyway, 5 Q's, 5 A's coming right up...

1. Do you have an iPhone and, if so, how do you get apps and what are your favorites?

Oh yeah, and I can't live without it!  Although I am probably one of the few people left who has the original iPhone.  A new one will be mine very soon, though!  BTW-when is the latest and greatest version due out?  Pretty soon, right?
Favorite Apps-Google Voice, Amazon Kindle-(GET IT! IT'S FREE!), Grocery IQ,  & Shop Savvy.  Also love FB and Twitter app, but that kinda goes without sayin"...
My kids love Falldown, Jelly Car, and Action Potato.  DO NOT tell them, but I am sadly addicted to them as well, but I suck at them, and the kids rock at them. So. Not. Fair.

2. What is your fondest memory of K-3rd grade?
Ooh, that's tough.  My 3rd grade teacher was a cranky little biotch, so scratch that year.  Kindergarden was only 1/2 days, and I remember one day we had the "afternoon kids" come in the morning, and I quite enjoyed bullying some boy out of my seat.  First grade-not much to recall.
So that leaves 2nd grade.....Mrs Basille, such a nice teacher.  Got it!  I was Miss Valentine in the class play, "February on Trial".  I loved that role, I loved the play, and I still have all the letters the other classes wrote to us about it. 

3. What makes you cringe at the thought of touching?
Snakes.  Cannot discuss further because I will get the heeby geebies.
4. If you could have any celebrity show up on your doorstep who would it be and why?
Female celeb-Sandra Bullock, and bring the baby please!  I think she could be my new bestie, and I could watch that delicious baby while she ran to the grocery store for milk.......
Male celeb-Patrick Dempsey.  Cannot discuss further because I will have to censor this blog.


5. What would you say is your best physical feature?
I have a great head of hair (if the weather is right).  It is abundantly thick, has lots of natural wave, and so far is still my natural color.   There is quite a bit of maintenance that goes with it though-I have an amazing hair stylist who is all that with a razor and thinning shears.  I've tried to stray from her outrageous price, but no one compares. 
Well, that's all, folks!  I must get on with my day!  But before I do, I gotta go link up, and hope you will do the same!
 
PS. I will be blog hopping looking for more fun iPhone apps!

Post-It Note Tuesday

Where the hell have I been?  I kinda fell off the blog wagon for a bit there, but I'm back now! 

I LOVE LOVE LOVE this post it thingy-it's quick, easy, and right to the point! 

PeterSam's Sick Day

PeterSam wasn't feeling so great yesterday, and of course, being that it's Monday, he was 100 times worse today!  So I let him stay home, but I hid every stinking remote in this house before I headed out to work this morning!  (Mean Mom!)
I had 2 text messages and 1 voicemail before I left work at 12:30, "When are you coming home?"  Do you think the poor kid was bored to death? 
We had a nice lunch together, took the rotten dogs out for a walk, and then he helped me plant some seeds.  We planted Italian Parsley, Sage, Sunflowers, Poppys and 3 Pumpkin seeds.  We've had a great time together! 
My intended Monday?  Work, home to clean, tackle the laundry, pay bills, get dinner going, back to work, and finally home for the night. 
I think I like the way day has gone much better than what was intended.  Time with PeterSam, sick or not, is a blessing....I don't get to do that much anymore.  The cleaning, laundry, and bills will all certainly still be here tomorrow, but PeterSam will be in school. 
I wish more days could be like this! 

P.S.  I don't have much of a green thumb, so if those seeds grow, it's just a bonus to a great day!

Five Question Friday!

There must be something seriously wrong with me-I actually forgot for a few minutes that today is Friday.  Go ahead, say it..."You need help'.....
What I did not forget is that I haven't done 5QF in 2 weeks, and I was so bummed about that!  It feels good to be back! 
On that note...here goes....

1. If you could, would you go back to high school?
Um, yeah, probably so!  It would have to be a 50/50 split though-keep 50% of what went on, change the other 50.  We had some good times, but I was also quite a handful for my parents!  But if I do go back, can I keep the big 80's hair???  But no smoking this time around.  See....50/50!

2. If a genie appeared and granted you two wishes, what would they be? (And, no saying "more wishes".)
    1.  That my family-sisters, brother,  & mother could make peace.  We are a family divided, and it really bugs me.
    2.   Financial stability-I don't need to be rolling in cash, I just wish we could keep up with the bills and not have to penny pinch. 

   3. What kids show do you secretly like?
Don't hate me because I'm perfect-(HA) but there isn't one! 
Listening to some of those cartoon characters is like nails on a chalkboard to me! 

4. What is your beverage of choice?
Non alcoholic-water.  Easy enough. 
Alcoholic-Cosmopolitan, or Pinot Noir.  


5. What is something that you would change about yourself (or are working to change in yourself)?
I have no patience, and can "blow" at any moment.  In other words, when I ask my kids to do something, I want them to DO IT NOW!  Not in 10 minutes........

Now, time to Link up!  An adorable blonde, whom I've never met started this, and she's got the goods on the copying, pasting, linking thing, so clickety here for the full scoop!  Thank You, Mama M for the 5Q's!

Good Mail! (and a Coupon Code)

It seems that all that shows up in my mailbox lately are bills and those annoying offers for yet another credit card.  Getting these babies in the mail just about made my day!

My feet (and knees) are so happy to finally have some new cushioning! 

AND

I got a great deal on them from RykaFit!  As an instructor, I get a discount on them anyway, but they were an extra 20% off-Sweet! 

FOR YOU...

The coupon code!!  Ryka is offering 20% off to my "clients"!!

Visit  http://www.rykafit.com/

Coupon code RCP20

Good through July 31, 2010

I promise you won't be disappointed in Ryka sneakers!!

Florida Edition of Leigh vs. Laundry

How catchy is that title, "Leigh vs. Laundry"?  I LOVE IT, but I take no credit-I stole it from another Leigh who had it way before me.....and she probably doesn't even know I borrowed it for today.  A) I love that I found another Leigh and B) I hate laundry as well. 
It's a typical Monday in my part of the world...laundry, kids to and fro, work, home, laundry, kids to and fro, back to work, etc.etc.etc.  Really, I'm no different than anyone else.

Now, I've been at this marriage/motherhood thing for almost 16 years, and I think I finally have the laundry down to a science.  When Tool Time and I got married, he needed a few lessons on putting dirty laundry in the hamper, and he's doing just fine with that now!  Payback is pretty good at it-she likes a clean floor, but PeterSam and G-man clearly take after their father.  (Sometimes I think they like hearing me yell......)

When it comes down the nitty gritty of tackling the laundry-the kids have to help me separate it, and make sure everything is turned right side out.  I take care of the rest-washing, drying, folding.  They get the hamper full of clean clothes back, and they get to put it away.  It's usually an all day process...5 or 6 loads DONE.  And I only do it once a week, so if the clothes don't get in the hamper-they don't get washed! 

And here it is, folded and DONE! 

Now, really, does anyone give a crap about how I do my laundry???  No, probably not!  However, as I was checking up on other blogs, I stumbled upon
this little tidbitfrom the original Leigh vs. Laundry.  So, Leigh, this one's for you!

Who Knew?? And, A Product Review...

Hey, my title rhymes today...damn I'm crafty!!  I didn't even plan that....

Who Knew??  that I'd actually feel good about paying bills today.  I LOVE to spend money, but not on bills!  But times, they have a-changed around here, and paying the bills actually made me smile today.  (Do I feel a fever coming on?)  I think what felt even better was that ToolTime and I BOTH looked over Mt. BillStack last night, and decided together what was getting tackled.  In almost 16 years of marriage, he ran away from the bills and left me to deal with it.  We both dug the hole, we gotta fill it together.

A Product Review  Now don't get all excited for a great new find-(that will come later!)because this one ain't so hot in the fun factor, but I needed to give it a shout out. 

do you think I could have found a smaller image??

See, I told you it's nothing fun, but this stuff just saved my eyes!  I have had the worst allergy eyes I have had in years, they have literally been pink to red for over a month.  They have been itchy, watery, and just annoying.  I tried 2 other allergy drops, and a homeopathic drop to help me, but none of them worked like this stuff.  I put the drops in, and in 5 minutes, my eyes finally looked normal!  I feel like a new woman....let's just hope it lasts!!

On a final note-the old lady needs a bit of blogger help.  Is there any way to permanently change my font from the default to this one I'm using now?  Just thowing that out there...someone might know!

Unloading a Few Random Ramblings...

It's been a shit week.  Guess I could have put that on a post-it, but I didn't.

My Uncle Bob died last Thursday.  I haven't seen him in over a year-we weren't even close, but he was my fathers only brother, and his death came as a blow.  Even worse was my sisters reaction, all she could say was a shocked "Wow."  I didn't expect much from her as their relationship took a serious hit a few years ago, but "Wow"??   His funeral was yesterday, and his kids (all grown adults) were so sad-losing a parent is an unbearable pain.  Despite the bullcrap that has gone on in my immediate family, I'm glad I put it aside for two hours so I could be there to say good-bye to a wonderful man. 

PeterSam and ToolTime are butting heads in a big way.  Payback and I were in this place 2 years ago-and it SUCKS.  I hope they get over it soon-I'm sick of the arguing and yelling. 

Payback did not get into the AP program for 9th grade.  THIS is a problem in her self-centered teenage world.  I'll deal with it tomorrow!

On a good-no, GREAT note, we finally had a little cash come in.  So now, we can begin filling in the financial hole-I never thought I'd look forward to paying bills!!

And finally- can someone please explain to me how Kate Gosselin has managed to stay on DWTS another week?  Has America seen her "dance"? 

Das it!!  I got nothin' else.......

Did I Really Just Say Yes?

**this is a vent of sorts....so feel free to skip past this one**
**Language Alert**

Will I ever learn to say "Let me get back to you" before I open my fat mouth and blurt out "Yes!".  I am seriously kicking myself in the ass right now-I can't believe what I just did.  I put that lousy part time job that I really don't like before my kids.  What the hell is wrong with me????

On another day, it probably wouldn't be that big of a deal-but today it is.  Today, Tool Time and Payback are away on a camping trip, so it's just me and the boys this weekend.  I was scheduled to work from 4:30-9:30 tonight, and as much as I'm not thrilled with the idea-my boys are home alone.  PeterSam is really responsible, and the neighbors always know when they are here alone.  Is this ideal-no, could the State of FL nail me on this-maybe.  But it is what it is, I'd lose $$ paying a sitter, and due to the financial distress that we are in-I have to work. 

My Child Boss called me this morning, and asked me to come in at 3 so she can get out early.  I SAID YES???????  How fucking stupid am I?????  I hung up the phone, and after a few minutes started thinking about what I just did.  Child Boss is 24, and single.  I'm not stupid, I know she is not running home to a family-she is running home to the penis of the month and whatever drinking plans they have for tonight.  I am sacrificing my kids for this?  This job that I make a shitty $8 an hour at?  This job that I really don't care for?  I am shooting myself in the foot-AGAIN.  I do this to myself ALL THE TIME. 

What is that saying about Martyrs dying on the Cross?  I'm done with it-I'm done with saying Yes at the drop of a hat, I'm done letting my kids take the back seat to a job.  I'm done letting Child Boss abuse me because she knows I need the money.  My kids, my family have got to come first.  Yes, I took the job to help my family, but really, what good does it do if I have to sacrifice the welfare of my children?  (okay that may be a bit of an exageration-it's only 1.5 hours difference) 

I just made a phone call.......

Child Boss is not too pleased, but I don't give a rats ass.  I told her getting there at 3 is impossible-and it is.  G-man is at a birthday party that is done at 2.  PeterSam is at a friends house until 2:30.  Considering the driving-I will be in the car for a good 45 minutes picking them up-and it takes me 15 min. to get to the crappy job.  (Why am I justifying this to anyone?)  Child Boss asked "3:15, 3:30, what time?"  I told her I would get back to her as soon as I knew.  Screw You, you get paid your salary regardless of whether you stay or go-so don't push me to give you a set time. 

Damn,  I'm pissed.  But at least I learned a lesson.

Ultimate Blog Party 2010

As I do every morning before I head out the door to work, I quickly check Twitter, and find that there is a party going on, and dammit why did I not know about it?????

As soon as I got home from work, I had to investigate....it's a Blog Party!  I've never attended one-so I think it's about time to fix that! 

Now, I'm usually pretty quiet at the start of a party, but I can't be at this one-so here goes.....

I'm Leigh-that's Lee, not Leah, or Lay, and I'm 43.  I've been married for almost 16 years to Tool Time, and we have 3 kids.  One daughter, Payback-14, and 2 sons, Peter Sam-12, and G-man-8.  We live in (hot humid)Florida.  I work outside the home as a Personal Trainer, and Group Ex Instructor.  I also have a part-time at The Vitamin Shoppe because this economy SUCKS, and well it's a looonnnggg story, but we need the money.

Being that my kids are older, and I'm way past diaper duty-I've entered a whole new world being the mom of teenagers.  HOLY CRAP-this is harder than having 2 toddlers running away from you in opposite directions!  The head games....the drama....the guilt trips.....it's unbelievable!!  But, I wouldn't trade my life for anything-my family is my world! 

As far as parties go-LOVE THEM!  Give me a cosmopolitan, and I'm all game-as long as I know who's there, otherwise it takes me a while to drink enough warm up!! So my plan for tonight is to join this check out some fellow partiers...can't wait to make new friends!

So ladies, I'm off to drink link up now....Enjoy the party!

Five Question Friday

It's Five Question Friday!  This little bit is hosted by Mama M, and you can find her, and the Linky thingy right here.  She's got all the goods on this one!

1. Who would you want to play you in a movie of your life?
Because I think she's a great actress, I'd say Sandra Bullock.  If were looking for me with a great body-Demi Moore.  Me ten years younger-Anne Hathaway. 

2. Did you ever go to summer camp?
No, always wanted to, but never did.  I had to live vicariously through movies about summer camp-like Meatballs, and that one with Jodi Foster and Kristy McNichol--what the hell was the name of it???  Shit, I can't remember-but it was a good movie at the time!
And yes, I realize some of you are wondering about Meatballs, and Kristy McNichol.  I am THAT old people!!

3. What sends you running and screaming in the other direction?
Snakes-hate 'em hate 'em hate'em!!  Not good when you live in Florida........

4. What is something you do that drives your spouse nuts?
I was a spoiled rotten brat as a child, and still have the tendency to throw a good fit. 


5. What is currently your favorite song?
Don't know who sings it, but I think it's called Beautiful Girl. 
But-I do have an obsession going on with anything Rob Thomas sings.
Long time old favorite-Here Comes My Girl by Tom Petty.

Smell-o-blog, and a bit of Nostalgia

This tree is in my neighbors yard-I walk by it a few times when I take my dogs out. It is an orange tree, and it's blooming right now. I wish there was a way I could put the smell on my blog, because orange blossoms smell SO GOOD! I actually look forward to fighting with my 2 rotten dogs just so I can walk by that tree and inhale the sweet aroma. Once upon a time, this whole town would smell of orange blossoms for about 3 weeks every spring. That was before the housing boom when the developers bought up the orange groves and built ( most now empty and forclosed on) houses on the land. It's kind of sad-it's spring time, and you can't smell the orange blossoms in Vero Beach, FL.
The other thing that is missing from Spring in Vero Beach, is Spring Training. The Dodgers had their Spring Training camp here for YEARS, but they've moved to Arizona. Now, I'm not really a Dodger Fan, (die hard Yankee fan, though!) but there was definitely a missing element in this little town for the month of March. No Dodgers, no orange blossoms. I don't think we even have a AAA league here this year-so I won't be taking the kids to any night time games this summer.
At the time when all of the nonsense with the City of Vero Beach and the Dodgers was going on-I really could have cared less. But damn those orange blossoms for reminding my of what Spring used to be like here.

Post it Note Tuesday-Late Night Edition

Hhmmm, that last post it just might make a good blog post......

5 Question Friday

Many Thanks to Mama M for starting this--check out her blog here.
My answers are short and to the point today-I'm heading out to work.  Anyway, visit Mama M, link up, and shell out some answers!

1. Do you sing out loud in the car when you're driving?
Yes, of course.  And I sound like a rock star.

2. What would you never be caught doing?
Damn, I hate hard questions!  Um, trying on bikini bottoms without my underwear on.  Um, farting out loud in public.  Leaving the house without a bra on, leaving the house without underwear on.  Ooh-licking my fingers and wiping something off the kids faces. (although I teasingly try this with them, and they are mortified-that part is fun!)

3. Will you go #2 in a public restroom?
When you gotta go, you gotta go.  Thank God for strong thighs and my love of squats. 
4. Have you ever broken a bone?
Yes, my little toe, about 2 months ago.  I dropped one of those hard plastic Oxo containers on it.  The damn thing hurt for a solid 6 weeks, then...poof! all better!

5. Do you prefer cooking or baking?
I don't mind either, I definitely cook more than I bake, though. 

Biotch-ing!

Tool Time has a very close friend, and through that friendship, our children have become good friends.  My daughter Payback and son G-man are at their house right now-they spent the night last night.  Tool Time drove the kids to their last night-it's a good 10 mile hike all the way to the other end of town, and depending on traffic, can take about 25 minutes to get there.  (I know- I live in Florida, and really, there is no "traffic"-but it is amazing how spoiled I've become.  We've got snowbirds, and man can they drive slow!)  Anyway....here is my beef-the friends NEVER drive either way.  We are constantly driving there, and back, and I'M SICK AND F'ING TIRED OF IT!  There is no reason she (their mother) can't get in the car and drive my kids home.  I know these are MY kids, and if I want them, I should go get them, but can we have a little 50/50 here?  Maybe the next time she wants my kids to spend the night, she can get her ass in the car and come get them!  Sidenote:ToolTime himself is a chunk of the problem-he has no issues driving down, and back...probably because he can have a drink and a smoke while he's there- UGH! 

So here I sit, stewing.  I called Payback, and she finally answered her phone...told her she needed to be home by 4:30, she relays the message to Miss I'm Not Driving.  What did I just get-a text message from Payback-"Dad is picking me up at 5:00."  Enjoy that cigarette, Honey.  And as for you, Miss I'm Not Driving, next time you want my kids to sleep over, you can come get them yourself. 


Done bitching now.

YO TWEEPS!!

YoTweeps Traffic Exchange! Week 3

Wanna meet some cool Tweeple?  Check this out-

DIRECTIONS:


To play along and increase your twitter twaffic do the following:

1. Follow the first FOUR Twitter Twaffic hosts listed on the linky. Netiquette and courtesy! They'll reciprocate your love on twitter!

2. MAKE A BLOG POST LIKE I am doing. Copy and Paste these directions INTO IT.

3. Grab the YO Tweeps Twaffic Exchange Button pictured below. Put him in your post

Encourage your readers to come to our page and grab the button too !




























5. Put YOUR OWN twitter icon or simply a link on your blog post like I did. It should directly link to your TWITTER PROFILE. ( there are directions below if you need)

6. Now link up the post that you just wrote to the linky below!

7. Visit some other #YOtweeps linkers on the list.

8. Follow them if you choose and shout out to them on twitter that you are following so they can instantly follow you if they're on.

(Follow their blog as well if you're interested.)

Example:

@personsname #yotweeps I'm following!

9. If someone follows you JUST reciprocate on twitter. It's that easy.

10. You have to have a BLOG POST to do this.

(Not So) Wordless Wednesday, and a Thank You!

I think it was 2 weeks ago that I posted the picture of a woman on the floor, with a stack of bills.  She is splayed out, in total overwhelmed frustration.  That woman is me-no not REALLY me, but you know what I mean. 
My husband and I have living the American Nightmare for the last 15 months.  He owns a carpentry business, and there has been very little work.  We poured EVERYTHING we had into keeping that business going.  There were a few good months in the fall, bills were getting paid on time, food was on the table...all was well.  But it turned again, and there are no big jobs on the horizon, and the small stuff just can't support a family of 5 with bills out the you-know-what. 
My husband, Tool Time, got a job yesterday.  He will have a steady paycheck.  This really hasn't sunk in for me yet-probably won't until I see a check, but I am actually starting to feel a glimmer of hope.  I actually had a genuine smile on my face today, it wasn't fake or forced.  It felt good to smile again. 
We have a LONG road ahead of us....regardless of what he earns, money will be TIGHT.  I've always toyed with a budget, but never really had to stick to one.  Then when I got one set, and actually stuck to it, there was no money to budget with!!  Ha-what a lesson learned!  Anyway-can you guess what dirty 7 letter word is now in the forefront of my vocabulary?? 
There is a pinprick in the black curtain, and a glimmer of light is peeking through.  WE ARE BLESSED. 

THANK YOU to the lovely ladies who had such kind and encouraging words for me yesterday.  I do read the comments on my blogs, and I thank you for taking the time to reach out to me.  It meant alot! 

Post It Note Tuesday

Someday, when I have a few more minutes, and can look at our situation through clear eyes, I'll blog about it.  For now, I'm praying that Tool Time finds a real job, (and I gotta get ready to go to work-cuz it's all we got right now!) 

5 Question Friday

It's that time again... I love it!!  You may know the drill by now, but if not, click here and get the lowdown on how to join the fun!  Thanks Mama M, for the Questions! 




1. Did you pass your driver's test on the first try?

Yes, I did!  However, I did have a bad accident before I got my license, and I didn't drive for months.  My parents finally got me private lessons-God Bless that man, he had alot of patience! 

2. What is your most embarrassing moment?
Can I say I don't know???  I've never been THAT embarrassed.  Well, there was the time my 2y.o. son had diarrhea under a clothing rack in the Reebok outlet-and it went ALL OVER THE CARPET.  Yeah, that was pretty bad.  I think having kids has made me more tolerant of my own stupidity-stuff will happen, and I just sorta let it roll....



3. What TV show would you like to be on- Oprah, Biggest Loser, or What Not to Wear?
What Not to Wear-I try to stay in fashion, but sometimes I think I dress too young for my age, but then again, I don't want to look 10 years older, either!  And I'd love to know what styles flatter my figure.  If I'm not in gym clothes, I'm in jeans or shorts with tanks or tees. 


4. Would you ever get plastic surgery and what kind?
Yes!  And I never thought I would say that when I was younger, but as the years creep up, it's a definite yes!  If I had the cash, I'd have my boobs put back where God meant them to be. Maybe a shot of Botox or two....

5. What are your favorite jeans to wear?
Banana Republic makes great jeans at a decent price.  If I have the $$$  I like 7 for all mankind, but I never have $$$ anymore, so there goes that! 

Yo Tweeps! Twaffic Exchange!

Love Twitter???  Love Twaffic??? Then join in the fun! 
Click on the Twitter link on my sidebar---Follow me, I'll follow you back! 

Full detailed directions can be found on Supahmommy's page here.

And of course...grab the button!!

Post It Note Tuesday!

C'mon, join the fun!  For the directions, links, etc visit http://supahmommy.blogspot.com/

She's got all the goods on this one!

I'd do it myself, but I'm gonna be late for the hideous job of mine<--wait, do I care??

5 Question Friday!!

It's finally Friday!!!  Should I type that in CAPS, cuz I do want to shout it!  I'll just go Bold....there, that's better!
I love 5QFriday-I love the idea-it's an easy blog post for those of us who have no creative juices flowing at the moment, and that would be me!  But the real truth is it is just FUN!  So if you want to have some fun with me...clickety here .  This is Mama M's blog, and she is the genius behind this little questionnaire.  So hit her blog-copy, and paste away, link up, and share some love! 


1. Have you ever had a celeb sighting?
YES!!  All in one day...my kids and I were in NY for a family wedding, and Hurricane Jeanne hit FL so we couldn't come home. (damn!!)  Anyway, one day, we hopped on a train for NYC, and headed to Times Square.  Since we watch GMA on ABC, the kids knew exactly where we were....while we were nosing around the studio windows, a security guard came over and asked me if I wanted to meet John Travolta-um, hello, I know EVERY word to Grease-YES!!  So he directed the kids and I over to a door, and in a few minutes, who comes out...but yes, John Travolta himself, and I just about died right there!  He signed an autograph for the kids, and I could spit was, "Be polite, say thank you." to the kids, then I shook his hand....and he was wisked away into a limo.
So I stumble my way across the street to Toys R Us, and lo and behold there is Donald Trump signing autographs on his new doll-The Apprentice was new and in full swing.  So, we buy a doll, I send off the kids, and he asks them why they are not in school...I explain that we are hurricane refugees....he tells my daughter she's fired...and we are wisked awayby security.   P.S.  the Donald's hair??? not that bad in person. 


2. What temperature do you keep your house?
I live in FL, so in summer, we keep the AC at about 78-80. 
In winter, we very rarely have to turn the heat on, but sometimes we will turn it on, I think at 70, but Tool Time does it, so I'm clueless.


3. Do you notice dust at other peoples homes?
No, not really.  I'm too busy looking at the decor, and asking where they got it.


4. What's the worst job you ever had?

I'd say it is the current one-my part time job at the Vitamin Shoppe.  Now, I will say I have learned ALOT about supplements and nutrition, but the hours SUCK!  Retail hours and motherhood are not a good combination! 
Two thing though-1) as much as I hate the job, I am grateful to have it.  I was lucky to find it in this declining economy.  2)I have a whole new world of respect of mothers who have full time jobs, and single mothers who are working to support their kids--how the hell do you do it all???  HATS OFF TO YOU!

5. What is your most sentimental possession?
My Miraculous Medal.  My father wore it for years on a neclace, and he died with it on.  I have had it with me ever since.  It is my constant reminder of my father, and that someone is always watching over me.


Now, link up, and comment, comment, comment!

Yo Tweeps!! Twaffic Exchange!

Miss Uncreative (Moi) has linked up, cut, and pasted this fun way to increase your twitter twaffic.  Kudos to Supahmommy for the great idea! 

***If none of my links works-please go to Supahs page---I'm old and unfunctional, so...yeah.

DIRECTIONS:




To play along and increase your twitter twaffic do the following:

1. Follow the first 5 Twitter Twaffic hosts listed on the linky. Netiquette and courtesy! They'll reciprocate your love on twitter!

2. MAKE A BLOG POST LIKE I am doing. Copy and Paste these directions.

3. Grab the YO Tweeps Twaffic Exchange Button pictured below. Put him in your post.

Encourage your readers to come to our page and grab the button too !


(He's so cute. Put him on your sidebar too if you're that kinda girl. Netiquette... not a hairspray ;) lol )



























5. Put YOUR OWN twitter icon / link on your blog post like I did. It should directly link to your TWITTER PROFILE. ( there are directions below if you need)


6. Now link up your post below in the linky!

7. Visit some other #YOtweeps linkers on the list.


8. Follow them if you choose and shout out to them on twitter that you are following so they can instantly follow you if they're on.

(Follow their blog as well if you're interested.)


Example:

@personsname #yotweeps I'm following!



9. If someone follows you JUST reciprocate on twitter. It's that easy.



Have fun with this Tweeps!!

 xoxo Leigh

Small Messages

I have been stewing the past few days about what to post-I've got alot on my mind, and this is my place to be honest. 
So-being completely honest-my family is in bad shape.  We have ALOT of problems right now, and I was going to come here tonight and spill it...but I really don't want this blog to be a place of sadness.  I'm generally a pretty happy person-that is how I want my blog to be. 
I had noticed an email from my girlfriend Jill-she is one who does all of the chain emails, etc., but they are usually very positive, so I opened an e-mail titled "God's Little Notes"-and there they were-post it like notes with little messages about God. Now, I am not an overly religious person, but I do believe in God.  I really liked what some of the messages said, so I copied them and decided to make them my post for today.  Wouldn't you know I copied them here and NOTHING showed up!!  It's late, I'm tired, I'm not futzing around trying to fix it, so I went to the blogspot address that was on the little notes, AND I STRUCK GOLD. 
I do believe that you are led to things for a reason-and just as I was ready to unload all of my problems, I was led to this amazing blog.  Five reasons God permits problems???? and I  happened across this NOW?? 

Post It Note Tuesday