A Day in the Life of the Dutcher Family

eight parenting skills

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:08:00 +0000

The eight parenting skills recommended by Galinsky (1999) include caring attitudes that parents and other caregivers should use with their charges.

1. making the child feel important and loved

2. responding to the child’s cues and clues

3.. accepting the child for who he or she is but expecting success

4. promoting strong values

5. using constructive discipline

6. providing routines and rituals

7. being involved in the child’s education

8. being there for the child

I like this.....

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 01:46:00 +0000

"The question today is not whether early experience matters, but rather how early experiences shape individual development and contribute to children's continued movement along positive pathways."

Shonkoff & Phillips, 2000

August 29, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 02:52:00 +0000

Today was the first day of football season, and both girls are in cheer leading, so it was busy.  Dayton got here at 5:30 this morning and we went back to bed for awhile.  I got up and showered, then had the girls shower and fed them all breakfast.  Both games were at home, and Taylor's started at 11.  We were there by 10:30. Whitehall won 30-0.

The girls did really good, and had fun with it.  Their halftime routine was a huge hit!  It was done to a montage of Michael Jackson music.  I later showed Taylor the Thriller video to show her where some of her routine came from.  She and Heather thought that was really cool.

After Taylor's game we came home.  Dayton was picked up at the field by his Mom, so it was just the girl's and I.  Jon went to Grand Rapids to his friends house.  They went to a car show.  Once the girls and I were home, they watched tv and played on the computer and I napped.  I love napping, lol.

We went to Heather's game at 5.  I ended up having to run back home because I forgot the snacks.  Grrrrr.  It was raining off and on during the whole game, which we lost.  0-28.  Heather's cheer squad did really good, too.  It's neat to see the different capabilities of the 2 squads as well as the football teams.

The girls and I came home and had dinner, then vegged. We were all tired, them more than me, of course, since I had a nap. Now I'm just playing catch-up again.......

Sunday, May 31

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 01:49:00 +0000

It's been a busy couple of weeks, as usual. Full of softball games, practice, daycare, and college. I have lots of papers to write this quarter.

Today was spent at home. The girls were pretty good; they spent alot of time outside. I was going to work out in the yard, but have 2 papers due and a PowerPoint presentation to give this week, along with a test tomorrow in psychology, so I did homework pretty much all day. Except the time that I fell asleep on the couch (oops), and made dinner. The girls and I sat and watched America's Funniest Home Videos before bed. It was a re-run, but it was still good.

Extreme Makeover Home Edition was a re-run, too, but I watched it again. I actually don't think I watched much of it the first time, so it was mostly new to me. They featured a little girl (14 years old) who had a disease where she needed frequent blood transfusions. She spent most of her spare time campaigning and organizing blood drives for the American Red Cross. Reminds me that I need to do that. I was going to a couple of months ago. There was a drive at Baker, but they lost electricity and cancelled classes. So I forgot about it.

Guess I'll go try to plan this week's schedules and do my billing....

Memorial Day weekend

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Sun, 24 May 2009 18:22:00 +0000

Memorial Day weekend was a great one!! Jon, the girls, and I spent the weekend camping with Mom & Tom, Deanna, Justin, and their 3 kids. We met them at the campground at Manistee National Forest on Saturday, early afternoon. We went for a couple of hikes, and watched the beautiful sunset over Lake Michigan. We had a taco bar for dinner. It was cold at night, but Tom hooked us up with a little space heater in the pop-up. Getting up to go to the bathroom was not fun; it seemed like the bathroom was MILES away at 3 a.m. lol.

We got up Sunday and made an awesome breakfast! It was scrambled eggs in between bread, with sausage thrown in there, too, and cooked over the fire. We then drove up to Sleeping Bear Dunes, which is where the pic above was taken. This was where we stopped for lunch. We got back to the campsite late, 8:30 or so. Made a quick dinner and sat around the campfire.

We got up on Monday and went out for breakfast at a place not far from the campground. We then went back to the campground to pack up and head out. The girls and I got home in the early afternoon. I got home and napped. Long days, but fun.

May 5, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Wed, 06 May 2009 03:28:00 +0000

Geez, it seems like I'd be able to do this more often, lol. I could, but sometimes I just don't feel like it. But I do want to keep this going because I want the girls to be able to look at it someday and remember "stuff".

This morning was a nice one; I only had Sydney and Quinn. Sometimes I like the smaller groups because then they get more one-on-one attention. I got to play and bond with the 2 of them and do some teaching, and it comes to me a little bit more as I progress through school. I know that going to school and learning new things does wonderful things for me, and I'm hoping that it shows through the children that I provide childcare through. I love the teaching aspect of what I do; it's so amazing to watch these little one's do things or say things that I don't quite think they get, but then they prove me wrong, which is ok with me!! I can remember when I didn't think that Darrin was "getting it" when it came to learning shapes. Then one day his Mom came to pick him up, and he looked at a poster that I had on the wall and started naming those shapes that I had been trying so hard to teach him. He just stood there and rambled the shapes off, as I stood there with my mouth gaping open!! I learned that it wasn't about what I was teaching him, but about what he was learning!! And that was much more than I had hoped for.

So I had a pretty relaxing morning. Katie got here at 11 and took over for me, which was nice. I've been throwing myself at the books for the last couple of weeks. The first couple of weeks of school I was seriously slacking, and it showed on my first test of Psychology. Seriously, who gets a D in a Psychology 101 test????? There was a lot of biology in that first test (which I stink at), but I still could have tried harder. So now I'm gonna bring that grade up!!!!

Heather had an appointment with her counselor. We started doing Neurofeedback a last week. What an AMAZING process!!! OMG, I cannot describe how cool this technology is!!!! But I'll try, lol...... Basically, the counselor (Marcia) did an extensive questionnaire with Heather and I about what we thought her problems were (mainly ADHD, OCD, ODD, and daytime and night-time bed wetting). The questions lasted one whole session (an hour). Heather is hooked up to electrodes that go to certain parts of her brain, depending on where the questionnaire said to, and she is hooked up to a monitor, which is hooked up to a laptop. That laptop is hooked up to the counselor's laptop, and the counselor can program what to do with Heather. Heather is given appx. 10 games to choose from. For instance, one of the first one's that she chose was a Pac-Man type game. But instead of being played with a controller in her hand, she USED HER BRAIN WAVES!!!! What an amazing thing to watch!!!

In another game, there are 3 boats. Each boat represents the 3 sections of the brain. The goal is to make the middle boat stay in the winning position, while the 2 boats on either side stay a little bit behind, but also have to stay up somewhat near the middle boat. What this does is teach the sections of her brain to work together. Absolutely amazing to watch her play a video game on a computer with her BRAIN, not a controller that's in her hands!! A little creepy, but I cannot imagine why more doctors don't use this treatment. It seems to have great results, and there haven't been any downside to it in it's history.

After her session, we went to her dentist appointment in Whitehall. Ok, so I flew, otherwise we would have been late. She had a cavity to fill. I have a case of that bad Mom syndrome because my kid had a cavity, but here's a couple of reasons:

Of course, tooth brushing. Yeah, she can suck at it. It can be one of those battles that every parent goes through, but with the ODD (oppositional defiance disorder), that's one of the things that I tell her to re-do and she flat out refuses. Short of physically holding her down by sitting on her and brushing them myself, there's not a whole lot that I can do. Bad parenting? You decide. But, come on over and be with my hard-headed ODD kid for a day and I'll prove to you that it may not be bad parenting after all.....

So anyways, we got done there at the dentist and came home. Katie, Judy, and the kids were outside, and we chatted for a bit. Judy was up for another job, but it doesn't look like it's gonna pan out for her. They didn't want to give her a schedule; just basically wanted her on call. I'm sorry, but no. And she agreed, I think. Seriously, retired or not, everybody has a life and things to do!!

Katie came in and made supper. Judy went home.... I was supposed to have an interview at 6:00 tonight, but it was another no-show. I'm SSSSSOOOOOO sick of those. I don't really prepare for interviews anymore, except some cleaning (thank you, Katie!!!), just because so many people don't bother to show up or even call to cancel/reschedule. Unreal that they don't even have that common courtesy......

So I spent a little extra time with my friends and my kids, and that's good, too. Since putting the girls to bed I've got a lot of studying for Psychology done. And I'm getting tired; so I guess I'll think about going to bed........let's just see if I can stay asleep for a change.......

April 18, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 04:31:00 +0000

Kind of a quiet day. Heather, Taylor, and Jon went to his parent’s house, near Mt. Pleasant. Gail had today off and wanted to take the girls to the new Hannah Montana movie. I had kids today and couldn’t go. I had originally taken this week-end off for the Girl Scout camping trip, but opened up for daycare to make the money once the trip was cancelled. I didn’t know Jon was going to go until after I had opened up for daycare. At least I had good kids today……

I spent a lot of time cleaning. It’s spring time, that’s all I can say. I’ve started cleaning things that have been neglected, cob-webbed corners, closets, etc. I thought about cleaning the carpets today, but decided not to. Glad I decided against it, because I ended up cleaning until almost midnight as it was. Now I just have laundry to do. We use fans in the windows to cool the house and everything ends up with a layer of dust/dirt. Drives me nuts. It’s only been this week that we’re using the fans, but already the dust has begun.

We went outside today, too. It was 70* and beautiful. I thought about doing yard work, too, but ended up kicking a ball and chasing kids, lol. So I guess I got my exercise in. Could be worse.

Hopefully going to get through some of my 2300 e-mails and to-do pile before I fall asleep tonight. I actually have all day tomorrow, too, but I’m so much more productive at night. Guess it’s the part werewolf in me, lol.

April 16, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 11:27:00 +0000

Yesterday was full of errands and running around. There was no school because of conferences, but daycare wasn't busy; I only had 3 for lunch. Judy came over at 1 so I could leave. Heather & Taylor ran around with me; kind of nice to have a girls day.

We first drove to the mall. Sort of. We got to Airline Drive when I realized that I left my wallet at home. Nice. My clip for my cell phone broke and I was hoping it would still be under warranty, but it wasn't. I have a $25 gift card for JC Penney so I was going to get new shoes, but with no wallet that wasn't happening......

Errand number 1 a waste of time. Stopped and got the Durango washed. I was at the bank the day before and was opening the door to get in. A bird shit just as I was doing so, and I counted my lucky stars that it had missed me. It had, however, hit not only the mirror on the way down, but the inside of the door as well. Of course I didn't notice that at first. I was driving down the road and noticed white on the tan interior of the door and thought, "WTH is that????". I'm REALLY glad I didn't touch it or try to get it off before I realized that it was bird crap.

So anyways, after washing the truck we dropped some paperwork off to Heather's new counselor. I wanted to give her a bit more history on Heather, so I gave her copies of school progress reports, report cards, etc.

We then ran home to pick up my wallet. And something to eat; the girls were hungry. We then went to the library. After seeing that I have over $5 in fees due because the books were late again, I told the librarian that I needed to schedule Katie or Judy for one afternoon per week to just run errands. I usually try to get them done whenever I can throughout the week, but that's not going so well; there's things being done late or too quickly, which frustrates me, so maybe if I have them work on a Friday morning where I can just go do what I need to do it would reduce that little stresser or mine.....

Went to conferences after that. Taylor's were first. Mrs. Snell said that Taylor is (as usual) doing very well. Academically and socially. She's my little social butterfly, and always helping out in the classroom. If she's not helping another student she's helping Mrs. Snell with things around the classroom. She tends to get her work done and almost never has homework, so I knew she does well with that. And her grades are awesome. They're not all A's, but she only has one B right now. Her MEAP scores came out very well, with her being proficient in science, reading, and writing, and advanced in math. Don't know where she get's those math smarts from, lol. When asked the other day, she said that Science was her favorite subject. I wanted to note that, because I'm really curious as to if that stays true. It was cute, in a note that she left for me to read for conferences, the first sentence told me that what Mrs. Snell had to say was important, so to pay attention. LOL That's my Tay!!

Heather's conferences were good, too. She is still very disorganized and her handwriting is horrible at times, but her work has improved and I think her teacher's are more aware of what she is capable of. She excels in math, and the MEAP scores showed just that. She was also found proficient in science, reading, and writing, and I'm happy with that. I just don't know what to do with her next year. I've asked for extra help through an hour of just study time at the end of the day for her, but if she does that she'll miss either science or social studies. I don't want her missing a whole class for up to a whole year for the extra help. I think the middle school teacher's do more when it comes to posting assignments online, so I guess I just need to find that out. Mary (her teacher) said that frienship-wise, Heather is doing ok. She never comes home and talks about friends, and when I ask her who she hangs out with during lunch, recess, free time, etc., she usually says no-one or an adult. So I worry about her making and maintaining friendships, but maybe that's just the Mom in me. Her grades could be better, but she needs to turn in the homework that she's given. Nine times out of ten the work is done, she just doesn't turn it in. Who knows why...... But I'm proud of her either way.

April 15, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 02:32:00 +0000

Another day almost down…… I've been sick for the past couple of days. We got together at Mom & Tom's for Easter dinner on Sunday and Justin and Mom ended up sick, too. I've had body aches, nasal discharge (isn't it amazing how much snot one can produce???), had a 101* temp last night, and I just wanted to scratch my sinuses right out!! But I'm better today. Really tired and snotty, but I think it's on it's way out since there's no more fever or chills.

Heather & I were supposed to go camping with her Girl Scout troop this week-end. It was a service week-end, and we were going to help do spring cleaning at the GS camp. But then Connie (troop leader) learned that we weren't staying in cabins after all, they were called "tent cabins". I'm thinking like a big tee-pee or something. But they're un-heated. Ummmm, no thank you!! It's been 30*-35* at night. I'm sure not all of the girls even have decent enough sleeping bags for that kind of weather. So we bailed out. We are going to Mackinac Island in June, though, so that will be fun.

I had classes today. They're going pretty well. I'm really learning a lot in the Comp 2 class, and liking it, too. My instructor is very clear and gives great instructions. Our first paper is due next week, so we'll see. All of the papers are argumentative and are in APA format. Last quarter's paper's were in MLA format. Figures, lol. Now I have to learn a new writing style. Evidently more and more schools are going with the APA format, and just not using the MLA much anymore. So at least I have the basics of MLA down; I won't be totally in the clouds if assigned that writing style again.

I really like the psychology class, too. I've always had an interest in human/social services. I could switch my major, but am not ready to. Haven't decided, I guess. I would love to teach preschool age; we'll see. Since I'm only taking a couple of classes per quarter I'll be 90 before I get a degree, lol. That's ok, I really like going to school.

Ewwwww, I'm watching CSI New York right now, and the M.E. pulled out a dead person's stomach, emptied the liquid green stuff, then smelled it. Lol

After school I stopped at Walgreens & picked up Heather's scripts. Then I went to Whitehall to pick Heather up from Girl Scouts. Came home and ate, then packed up Heather, Taylor, and Brianna and took Heather to softball practice. She did pretty well, and didn't lose much ability since last year. Taylor had fun; I finally let her go over to the playground. It's scary to let her go play on her own. I mean, she was with a friend, but it was one of those times where you hope (as a parent) that you've taught your kids what to be leery of and how to be careful and safe when not right in front of you…….

Came home and got the kids snack, Taylor took a shower, and got the kids to bed. Now it's time to play catch-up. Honestly, I don't know where the time goes….. Oh wait, I'm blogging, lol. I know that I have a lot on my plate, but it's how I live and I'm really happy with (the majority of) my life. I get over-whelmed about once a week, but "this too shall pass". And I know in my heart that I'm doing what's best for my kids. For the most part I can be there for their extra-curricular activities and school stuff. I do get busy with daycare, but I have 2 amazing assistants who help me out where/whenever I need it, and for that, I am grateful.

Ok, rambling done….. gotta get to my to-do pile and back to my popcorn. Hey, I have my priorities, ya know….. J

Easter Sunday, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 04:17:00 +0000

It was a good day. I stayed up too late again, and slept in until around 10:30. The girls and the phone kept waking me up, but it was nice to lay there and doze off.

We went to my parent's house for dinner today. We had ham, scalloped potatoes, corn, green bean casserole, rolls, Deanna's jello, deviled eggs, and more. Kelsey made cupcakes, and the cupcake and the frosting had crushed pineapple. GREAT CUPCAKES, KELS!!! I love pineapple..... Anyways, we sat around and chatted for awhile, had dessert, then came home about 5:30. Jon dropped Heather, Taylor, and I off at home and he went to his parent's house near Mt. Pleasant.

I've been doing paperwork and cleaning up since then. I like to start the week off with a clean house, and ended up cleaning Friday night, then again today. We're pigs, lol. I did have daycare kids here on Saturday, too, and that's usually messy. I still have to do my billing and actually have homework to do. Not sure if I'll get to that homework, but.........

April 10, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 02:07:00 +0000

Ohhh, I'm gonna like this!! Lol I just figured out how to post a blog with Microsoft Word… Well, I think I've figured it out; we'll see if it works.

Today was a busy day, as usual. I stayed busy this morning with many kids; Katie came to work at 12. Elijah had a dr. appt.; he's still sick with bronchitis. Poor baby……

Heather had her first appointment with a counselor today. Dr. Dirkse (her psychiatrist) suggested a female, and the school social worker suggested this one that we went to today. She seems very nice and I can tell that she really knows her stuff. She's been around the mental health scene for over 30 years. She does neurotherapy, too, so that's something that we may explore more. We just went through the basics today. We made Heather's next appt. for 2 weeks from today because the counselor's mother is in the final stages of death, so we're waiting on that to get started. That's ok; Heather's meds have been upped/changed, so she's much more manageable right now.

Heather then had a doctor's appointment with one of the doctor's in our family physician's office. Heather has planter's warts and had them frozen a couple of weeks ago. They were quite painful when it was done before, and today it didn't hurt her at all. She was sore in one spot for about an hour after the procedure today, but has been fine since then.

We then stopped at Subway so I could pick up subs for Katie & I. Heather walks in and sees that the girl behind the counter's name is also Heather and comments on it. Then she blurts out that she had the warts on her feet frozen today. OMG, I about died, lol. The innocence….. When we got out to the truck I explained to her that nobody needs to know; and some people think that having warts was a dirty thing, like she didn't shower enough. She showers every morning, but still…….

We came home and ate, made the kids grilled cheese for dinner, then cleaned. Shyann & Alec are spending the night. They got here a little after 5. They used to be in my daycare, and we sure do miss them. But they've missed us, so that's why we're having a sleep-over. We had movie & popcorn, and they're falling asleep with the music from Kids Choice. I've spent the evening cleaning, and now am playing catch-up on the computer while the kids go to sleep. Then maybe I can get the rest of the cleaning done tonight so I won't have to do anymore the rest of the week-end…… Hopefully!

4/9/09

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 03:11:00 +0000

Today was a pretty busy day with lots of kids. It's spring break, so there's a few extras hanging around. Makes it more fun, though. I just wish I had more time to do individual things with each of them.

We started a new baby this week. Her name is Emma and she's 7 months old. She's a good baby and loves to play with the infant toys.

Heather & Taylor came home today from my parents house. They've been there for the past 2 nights. It's nice to open their bedroom door after they've gone to sleep and just look at them.

Heather is doing WONDERFUL on her new & upped meds. Her ADHD and ODD is so much more in control, and she's noticing it, too. I am loving the extra and longer hugs from her; she sure can be such a sweet kid!

I started back to school this week and am going on Mondays and Wednesdays. I have Comp II from 12:30 - 2:10 and Psychology from 2:30 - 4:10. I really like these 2 classes. I've always enjoyed writing and English classes in high school. Haven't written in a loooong time, though, lol. Things have changed in the past 18 years, to say the least! And I really enjoy human services kind of work/learning. I liked working for Pathways when I was a Parent Aide. But the pay sucked and it just doesn't work having a 2nd job when my daycare is open 24/6.

I ended up with an A in Healthy Environments and an A- in Comp I last semester. Made the Dean's list again. Hopefully that will help with any financial aid that I'll need. I didn't have to pay for anything again this semester. I have, in the past, had to pay some out of pocket, then get reimbursed. It's no fun paying the payments, but the check at the end of the semester is nice.

My ER Thoughts

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 00:06:00 +0000

I'm sadly watching the last ER show. I have thoughts that keep going through my head and thought I'd put them down....

The first is that I'm very sad that this is the end. I've watched it from the beginning, and rarely missed a show. I've laughed and cried, and got lost in many story lines....... I think they're making a mistake in cancelling it. I have no idea what the ratings look like, but it just doesn't seem like they would be bad enough to let it go.

I should have had an ER party. Talked to Mom, texting Amy and Katie.... would have been fun, but it's a Thursday night, so it probably wouldn't have worked.

As a disclaimer, and because my profile is public, I'm stating that the pictures, along with the descriptions of the characters come from nbc.com.
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Dr. Abby Lockhart - (Maura Tierney 1999-2008)

For obstetrics nurse Abby, it's a long way to becoming an ER doctor, with life plagued by her bi-polar mother and brother. Her unexpected pregnancy pushes her relationship with Luka to the next level - marriage

Abbey, I loved her!!! She was great doing ob work, she just had a knack for pregnant women and babies. And furthering her education to become a doctor was difficult for her, but I loved how she pushed forward and didn't lose faith in herself. When Sally Field showed up as her Mother, Abbey's character just made sense!! Who knew???? I can't remember what happened to her brother, though..... I just remember that he, too, was bipolar.
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Dr. Archie Morris - (Scott Grimes 2003-2008)

Slacker Morris achieves the coveted position of Chief Resident due to lack of competition. He begins an effort to win respect and the heart of Dr. Hope Bobeck. After failing his boards, Morris begs Pratt not to tell.

Archie Morris, what a punk, lol. Inbreeding at it's best!! But you just couldn't look away, kind of like a train wreck. I must admit, he really grew on me.... Maybe it's because he started dating the cop and actually showed more emotions than dumbass, lol. Although she wasn't in the last episode. I thought that was kind of strange that she wasn't on the last episode.
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Nurse Carol Hathaway - (Julianna Marguilies 1994-2000)

ER nurse manager Carol is rushed to the ER after a suicide attempt, perhaps due to a failed romance with Doug. Despite many other relationships, Carol ultimately reunites with Doug after giving birth to their twins

I LOVED George with Julianna Margulies. They made a terrific couple!! It was perfect that she had twins. But when he left without her, omg, I can remember bawling my eyes out. I felt like he left me, lol. She had her own set of issues, but she was so caring; I just loved her.
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Nurse Chuck Martin - (Donal Logue 2003-2005)

Susan meets flight nurse Chuck in Las Vegas and marries him while drunk. Although the marriage is quickly annulled, the couple has a baby Cosmo, whom Chuck looks after when Susan is promoted to ER Chief

I really liked this guy, especially with Susan. I thought they should have stayed married, but I guess that's why I wasn't the writer. They just seemed to be a great couple and really meshed well together.
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Dr. Dave Malucci - (Erik Palladino 1999-2001)

Resident Malucci occasionally flouts the rules to get things done. When misdiagnosis results in a patient's death, Weaver comes down hard, firing Malucci after finding him having sex with an EMT in an ambulance.

Uggg, this guy annoyed me! He was so arrogant, I just didn't like him.

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Dr. Donald Anspaugh - (John Aylward 1996-2008)Dr. Anspaugh is appointed Chief of Staff after his hospital merges with County. Also a member of the hospital board, Anspaugh is County's eminence grise, usually arbitrating most controversies and staffing decisions.

He was another dick, but I liked him. Everyone knew what to expect with him, because he was consistantly a jerk.

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Dr. Doug Ross - (George Clooney 1994-2000)

Despite his womanizing, Doug is a dedicated ER pediatrician. When his attempt to help a patient goes awry, he moves to Seattle. Despite their engagement, Carole gives birth to their twins alone, before joining Doug

Ohhhh, George Clooney. Nothing wrong with that DNA...... He made decisions based on what was right morally, not necessarily what "they" said were the rules. I loved that about him. Oh, and he's hot. :)

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Dr. Elizabeth Corday - (Alex Kingston 1997-2004)

British Elizabeth comes to the ER seeking experience in trauma surgery, and has a hard time staying in the U.S. After an affair with Benton fizzles, Elizabeth finds true love with Greene and gives birth to baby Ella.

She is an AMAZING actress!!! You could tell that she gave her heart and soul to that character; she was very genuine. And who couldn't not feel so sorry for her after Greene died of cancer? She was so sad, but they had such a great ending together.

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Dr. Gregory Pratt - (Mekhi Phifer 2002-2008)

Dr. Pratt's arrogance sometimes gets in the way of his career and love life. When Bettina dumps him, Pratt decides to get serious. Sadly, it comes too late, as he perishes in an explosion in the ambulance bay

Mekhi Phifer (Greg Pratt), great looking man right there.... I missed the episode where he died, though. Ticks me off.
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Dr. Harold Zelinsky - (Steven Christopher Parker 2005-2008)

Neela's new surgical intern Harold tells everyone that he's 25, but he's really 19. Child prodigy Harold offends the surgeons with his superior medical knowledge, while seeking advice on how to lose his virginity.

OMG, this kid cracked me up!! He was so book smart, but very child-like when it came to most everything else. I loved that about him.

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PA, Jeanie Boulet - (Gloria Reuben 1995-2008)

After breaking off an adulterous affair with Benton, Jeanie returns to her husband Al, from who she contracts AIDS. Later Jeanie marries Reggie, adopts HIV+ Carlos and opens two HIV clinics.

I was always a little back and forth with Jeanie. I liked her, but sometimes I didn't, and I just have never been able to put my finger on why. I'm glad that she found happiness in her departure, though.

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Dr. Jin-Mei Chen - (Ming-Na 1995-2004)

After killing a patient, med student Jin-Mei quits the ER, only to return years later, pregnant with a child she gives up. Needing time to take care of her father, Jin-Mei quits again, to grant his wish for death.

She did an awesome job at showing how hard it is to care for a dying family member. Great actress.

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Dr. John Carter - (Noah Wyle 1994-2006)

Carter comes to County as a med student and stays for 11 years, surviving a stabbing and drug addiction to become chief resident. After the stillbirth of his son, Carter reunites with wife Kem to start over in Africa.

I just love him!! John Carter's look on his face when he was told by Eric LaSalle to hold the head of an infant being born, was, omg, priceless!! Like, "You want me to do WHAT???". lol It was said that he wore his heart on his sleeve, and that is so true. He was so innocent in the beginning, and I just loved him as that character. I love how his self-confidence just blossomed and we got to watch that. He truly turned into an amazing doctor.

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Dr. Kerry Weaver - (Laura Innes 1995-2007)

Ambitious and accomplished, Dr. Weaver rises to Chief of Staff, despite her physical disability. After many years, Kerry comes out as a lesbian to the staff, and eventually leaves the ER to become a TV medical reporter.

Ohh, I really liked her, too. For someone to have a medical condition that slows most people down, she sure did have a great outlook, and even went on to walk without assistance. She showed what determination will do!

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Dr. Kevin Moretti - (Stanley Tucci 2007-2008)

Following the resignations of Weaver and Luka, Dr. Moretti is moved from the ICU to head up the ER. During a blackout, he has an alcohol-fueled one night stand with Abby. Moretti quits to attend to his troubled son

I didn't like him, but I think it's because he had the affair with Abby when she was married. I know it takes 2, but seriously, say no.
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Dr. Lucy Knight - (Kellie Martin 1998-2000)

"By the book" med student Lucy has a brief affair with Carter, which he ends to staunch ethical questions. After coming to terms with her ADHD, Lucy is killed by a schizophrenic patient.

I liked Lucy!! She was so innocent and determined to make it despite her self-doubts. Then they knocked her off. Not cool.

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Dr. Luka Kovac - (Goran Visnjic 1999-2008)

Hailing from Croatia, Luka overcomes his personal tragedy and penchant for casual sex to marry Abby and father baby Joe. Despite Abby's resurgent alcoholism and an affair, Luka remains committed to their marriage

Mmmmm, Luka, how hot!! He always tugged at my heartstrings, though, because of how he lost his first wife and kids in the war, right before his eyes.
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Dr. Maggie Doyle - (Jorja Fox 1996-1999)

Intern Maggie Doyle works her way up to resident. When Carter shows an interest, she reveals that she's a lesbian. Maggie files a sexual harassment suit against Romano, which eventually leads to her termination

I totally forgot that Jorja Fox played on ER before CSI. Weird.....
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Michael Gallant - (Sharif Atkins 2001-2006)

Third year med student Gallant comes to the ER on scholarship from the U.S. Army Reserves. Called up to serve in Iraq, Gallant impulsively marries Neela, and is later killed while on active duty.

I cried like a baby when this man died. Yes, their marriage was quick and last-minute, but it was such a whirlwind romance, and I just wanted to see it flourish because of that reason.

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Dr. Neela Rasgotra - (Parminder Nagra 2003-2008)

Reserved Londoner Neela overcomes an identity crisis to graduate med school with Abby. Despite her feelings for Ray, Neela marries Gallant, who is killed in Iraq, which prompts a string of unsuccessful relationships

I'll admit, I didn't like her at first. She just seemed like a strange duck. But it didn't take me long to really enjoy her character. I love how she moved up in the medical world, and took on people who thought she shouldn't be there.

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Dr. Ray Barnett - (Shane West 2004-2007)

Ray's job performance was impacted by his commitment to his rock band, and his love for NeelaLuka and Gates, Ray was hit by a truck and lost his legs. created conflict during her marriage. After a drunken fight with

I really liked him, but was just in total LOVE with him when he got hit by that truck and lost his leg. Just made him more human, I think. Well, that and he's hot, lol. He proved to have a heart of gold.

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Dr. Peter Benton - (Eriq La Salle 1994-2002)

A talented surgeon with a hot head, Peter has a son with ex Carla who is born deaf. After a relationship with Elizabeth fails, Peter eventually wins custody of Reese and leaves the ER to start a new life with Cleo.

I was hot and cold with this character, too. I liked him for the most part, but sometimes he was pushy and arrogant. I do like how they let him go, though... kind of a picket fence ending I guess.

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Nurse Samantha Taggart - (Linda Cardellini 2003-2008)

A struggling single mother of diabetic Alex, Sam endures tragedy at the hands of her ex-husband. After a relationship with Luka fails, Sam enjoys the dating scene until a romance with Gates starts to get serious

Sam Taggart, she's a cutie.... I've always liked her character. A little screwed up, but cool. She would have been the fun one to go and hang out with. I've always hoped that she'd get her shit together. And I feel that she did (after seeing the last episode).

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Dr. Tony Gates - (John Stamos 2005-2008)

Rebellious paramedic Gates becomes an intern. Forgoing a relationship with the mother of his child Sarah, Gates pursues Neela to no avail. When Meg commits suicide, Gates takes custody of Sarah and begins dating Sam.

John Stamos, who didn't love him in General Hospital??? I did, and still do love him in ER.... But too much of a player. I guess I'm not a real big fan of anyone who does pretty much anyone at any time.... But, I could forgive him, though. He has a huge heart and can wear it on his sleeve sometimes. He showed that side and it made us women swoon.... lol And I liked he and Sam together.

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Dr. Robert Romano - (Paul McCrane 1997-2003)

Insensitive and obnoxious, Dr. Romano is a brilliant surgeon who eventually becomes Chief of Staff. Romano loses his arm when he backs into a helicopter. Later, another chopper falls on him, ending his life.

Romano!!! OMG, what a puke!!! How he died with the helicopter fell on him was frickin' PRICELESS!!! Perfect way for him to go out..... And perfect since he had lost his arm in a helicopter prior to being whacked by one. He sure was a heartless dick... lol

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Dr. Mark Greene - (Anthony Edwards 1994-2002)

Chief resident Greene loses his first wife to career stress, and his father to lung cancer, but finds love with Elizabeth Corday. Shortly after the birth of their daughter Ella, Greene succumbs to a brain tumor.

Oh, what can I say??? Definately one of my top favorites of the show. OMG, did I cry like a baby when he died!! And then I cried on the re-cap show when they showed him in his last moments. He seemed to come full-circle, though, when he died, and was at peace. (I wasn't, though, I was pissed when they killed him off, lol).

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Dr. Susan Lewis - (Sherry Stringfield 1994-2005)

Susan adopts her troubled sister's child, but loses custody. She forgoes a relationship with Greene, later returning to marry nurse Chuck Martin during a drunken Vegas weekend, and give birth to baby Cosmo

I really liked her spunk. She's kind of a smart-ass, much like myself. But seriously, COSMO??? Who names their kid Cosmo???? Geeesh.....

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As for the last show, I'm gonna run out of kleenexes.

It's awesome to see that John Carter's money was spent just the way HE wanted, not how most of his relatives wanted.

The man who came in with aids, talk about a double-whammy!! Now he has cancer?!?!? Holy not fair.... But cool that he was ok with it. He had been on this Earth for a reason, and I think he saw that he had completed his mission.

That baby that was delivered is a cutie-patootie, but seriously, giving birth is NOT that clean!! lol But they made up for it when she started bleeding from her whoo-ha. That poor Dad, he was just so overwhelmed..... And when she died, I wasn't surpised. Very sad, though.

Ohhh, I'm glad Mark Green's daughter got to be there!! I miss that Dr........

John Carter has some crows feet going on there!! lol Awww, how sweet that they named his center after his baby who died!! OMG, his wife just walked in!!! Ohhh, I hope they are ok!!! I've always wanted John to be happy, and he never seems to be. He just seems to be missing something..... Well, looks like she's not gonna stick around after all.... That sucks.

Wow, Elizabeth looks just the same; she hasn't aged at all!!

To see Kerry Weaver walking is amazing.

Sam's sone Alex sure has turned out to be a good looking kid. She's done a great job with that troubled teenager of hers.

Awww, that poor old man who's wife died. He looks so helpless. I'll bet he'll die of a broken heart soon after his wife..... But I'll tell you, Jon would NEVER lie next to my dead body like that old man did, lol.

OMG, is Sam realizing that she loves Tony and that he's really the best thing for her?!?!? Let's hope so... Ohhh, she's gonna hold his hand!!! HEHEHE, I'm just giddy now!!!!

I love how they had all of the staff at the end ready for what was coming next. Seems like it's never-ending...... as it should be.

So there you go, my 2 cents on some of our favorites and the last show. I'm gonna miss you, ER, and all of the characters...... :(

Typical Taylor

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 23:00:00 +0000

Some say Taylor is just like me some ways...... I suppose this would be one of them.

She made herself a couple of waffles, then put syrup on them. She used the last of the syrup and threw it away. She told me that it was gone and I asked her to see if there was any in the utility room. She said no, and asked me if I wanted her to put it on the grocery list that hangs on the refrigerator. I told her no, I was sitting at my desk, so I'd just put it into my Palm pilot. She came over to watch me do it. Then she went over to the couch and sat down.

I said, "Ummm, are you going to eat those waffles that you just left in the kitchen?" She had forgotten about them. lmao Yeah, that's my Tay......

My Poor Hoover....

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 00:47:00 +0000

One of my INDOOR cats has fleas. Seriously, how does that happen? lol So I went to PetsMart today and got some flea meds. I've done this on her before; it's the kind that you squirt on the scruff of her neck. But this time I bought a different kind, since I've had to do this before. She hated it last time, and she hated it this time.

But this time I wrapped her up in a blanket (not very well, though), and Katie squirted her. Katie missed, lol. Hoover hauled ASS back to my bedroom to sulk under my bed. She came out a while later and I saw that she was licking it. After seeing on the box to NOT let the cat get the meds into her mouth, I got a little concerned. So I called my vet's after hours number. He said that the otc stuff can be lethal if ingested, so she needed to be bathed in dilluted dishsoap. Great..... we've done that before, and let me tell you, Hoover HATES water.

So I put on a sweatshirt and some gloves and had Taylor shut the bathroom door behind us. Hoover knew as soon as she saw the tub of water. I did the best that I could, and I hope I haven't killed my kitty. She's on my bed now licking herself. That's gonna be one sore tongue!! lol

Sunday and into a busy Monday, March 16, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 02:17:00 +0000

Yesterday was awesome!!! I woke up around 10, all alone. Jon and the girls went to his parents for the week-end. Of course, I had kids on Saturday, so I couldn't go. When I woke up I had planned on going outside to clean up the yard a bit, leaves & stuff. But it was only 36*. Ummmm, no. lol So I worked on my to-do pile for awhile. At noon it was a balmy 54*, so I ventured out. Ohhhh, it was SO NICE outside!!!

I started cleaning out the garage last December in between last quarter's class and my hysterectomy. I had a little bit to finish up, so I did that yesterday. The rest is Jon's; just stuff that I don't know what to do with or how to do it. I'm sure if I put tools & stuff away it would be in the wrong places....

Got done with that and started raking leaves outside. I raked the driveway (strange, but true), around the front of the house, and the east side. Until the blisters started. I was out there for about 3 hours. Came in and showered; it was a wonderful shower since I was icky, lol. I worked on e-mail, my to-do pile, and homework, then took a nap. Got up and did paperwork for the week for daycare.... Very productive, I was.

Today was busy. Heather did not want to cooperate in being nice this morning. She can be so mean sometimes; I just don't understand it. She'll yell and scream at kids, calling them names, especially Taylor. Poor Tay has to take the brunt of Heather's moods most of the time.

I did find out, though, that we still have insurance coverage. I thought that between Jon's actual date of termination and when we got the paperwork and the check in we had nothing. But the coverage is still in force. Yeah!!! What a relief!! Heather's out of her Focalin 5 mg. tomorrow and has been out of the Focalin XR 15 mg. for a week or so (I've been compensating with 2-20 mg.), so the insurance will be nice!! I hate not having her stable on her meds; I don't want to mess up that little body any more than it must be.....

Katie got here at 10 and I showered.

Heather & I ran errands today; just had a Mom & Heather day. We went to the doctor to pick up Jon's prescriptions and make him an appt. We had to sit there longer than usual; they have a new check-in system now. It used to be that we could walk in and the receptionist would recognize me and grab what I came for, but they're evidently being more strict on getting people in in the order that they arrived. Fine... lol

Then we went to Wal Mart. We both needed shoes. We didn't find any there, but I got her a Hannah Montana tank top, one for Tay, and a pair of shorts for H. I know H will need the shorts this year; I'm pretty sure she's outgrown close to everything she has. But I only paid $3 each for them, so I was happy with that.

We went down the strip mall to Payless for our shoes. She's in a size 4 1/2, which is the last kids size that she'll wear; the next size goes to woman's. She was kind of sad about that, lol. She may not have be able to have the HS Musical shoes that she wants. Growing up is tough....

We then went into McD's to use the bathroom. The handsoap STUNK!! Anyways, we got our food and headed out onto the highway. We drove to Holland to her Dr. Dirkse's office (her psychiatrist). He gave me a voucher for her Focalin XR 15 mg. and Abilify samples. For one thing, it's saving us $60; for another, it may be a couple of days before I can actually pick up her scripts just in case the insurance doesn't actually go through on time.

We came back into Muskegon and stopped at Walgreens for Jon's scripts and to p/u some pop. His insurance wouldn't go through, so I was blessed with calling around Shape's HR dept. again. Grrrrr. She said it was a mistake and that it would be put through by the end of today. And it was.

We then went and washed the Durrrty Durango, cleaned the interior, and vacuumed it. Gotta love the free vacuum at the place across from Meijer!! And the wash only cost me $3 because I had $6 left on a card.

Went to Meijer after that. Great sales this week, some things I bought even though I didn't need them. But they're things that are I buy on a regular basis, and I'd rather buy them on sale than for regular price. It will all work out at the end, because I won't spend as much on the other trips.

Came home and put groceries away, made dinner, and shoved the last of the kids out at 7. Not really, the last one's were Kailynn & Emma; and they're easy. I've been working on homework ever since (other than the motherly duties, getting the girls ready for bed, etc.).

This is my last week of class. I know I'm getting an A in Healthy Environments, and a B+ so far in Comp. I. I have the last essay & a powerpoint presentation in English due this week, so hopefully I can keep those grades.....

I think my final essay is better. It was a rough start; for some reason I just haven't been able to wrap my brain around it and make it make sense since I first started it. When I first started it, it just flowed SOOOO easy!! But it's on ADD/ADHD in Girls, so the topic is pretty close to home. But I don't have a choice at this point; I had to buckle down and "Get 'er done!" lol. Ok, so I watched the roast of Larry the Cable Guy last night.....

OMG, I need to post more, lol. Guess I was long-winded tonight. But I'm also watching CSI & the news, and it's now time to work on business stuff and my to-do pile for a bit. I'm beat, and don't think I'll be going for too much longer without sawing logs.....

Saturday Stuff & random thoughts

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 01:47:00 +0000

Got up this morning and had to be productive. It has been raining all day, which is great for naps, but not for running errands.

After we showered and got ready, the girls and I went to Shoreline to sign Heather up for spring softball. She was pretty good at it last year, especially for being a first-timer. I'm glad, though, that she wants to join softball again. She's just not a very social child, and I sometimes worry about her social skills.

We then went to the bank to make a deposit. Those are always nice, lol.

We then picked up Riley and Bronson from home. They're such cute little buggers.

Went to drop Taylor off for a Destination Imagination practice. Then I realized that we forgot her box with her supplies in it. Had to run back home, grrrrrr.

Dropped Taylor off, only to find out that the practice was being shortened. So then I figured out that there wasn't enough time to run home to feed the kids lunch. So we just went to Burger King. I was very naughty and had a Whopper Jr. (hey, it was a junior, ok???) and an onion ring. Sucks for the diet, but I was starving!! Ok, look at my gut and ass; I'm not starving, but a choice had to be made!! lol

Went to pick up some clothes, which I just realized that I left in the car, dammit! Anyways, Taylor's old cheer leading coach gave us some clothes that her daughter's had outgrown last fall, and had more to share. Ohhhh, I'm sooooo appreciative of that!!! And their great clothes, too. Most are name-brand, which doesn't mean anything to me, but for her to just give them away to us is awesome!!

Picked Taylor up from her DI practice and came home. Got Riley and Bronson down for nap, Taylor on the computer, and Heather in front of the tv, and I took a nice nap. I love naps, but when it's raining out they seem sooo much better!!

My cats are always trying to sniff & play with my fish oil pill. Wonder if it's because they smell like fish???

Critter's eye is leaking again. Hope it's nothing serious; we sure don't have the money for that!!

I have plan menu as a reminder on my Palm Pilot. I wish I could do them again.... I miss it. But it costs more money for groceries to plan them than it does just to make whatever we already have in the kitchen. And time. Ugggg, I'd love more time (and energy, lol). I love to cook and bake, but there's just not enough hours in the day, and/or I'm too damn tired.

I want popcorn. Told you this was a random thought blog, lol.

I wish my kids would get ready for bed when I told them to. Then again, their Dad thinks it's playtime....

I hate it when I'm watching a show and my kids start paying attention. Of course, at that time, the show becomes inappropriate for them.....

Riley and Bronson just left for the night. I don't get them all week long until Saturday. Mom's going to Florida for the week. That's ok, she's a hard-working single Mom and deserves it.

So here I sit; sharing popcorn with Tommy. Dorky cat.....

Alright, I'll stop with the random thoughts. For now. Who knows what will pop up in my brain next....

I've BEEN ARRESTED!

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:11:00 +0000

I've
BEEN
ARRESTED!

Don't
bother
posting
bail...
I think
I'll just
do my
time!

alt=cid:5.2228898443@web59710.mail.ac4.yahoo.com width=480 border=0 DATASIZE="30398" ID="8" SRC="aoladp://MA22904469-0011/image005.jpg">

Sheesh

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 13:49:00 +0000

I was eating my Amish friendship bread, dipping it in butter. Hoover wanted my butter, but too bad. Then I hear Bronson spill his cereal WITH milk. I think I've outsmarted my cat and put the butter high up on my desk (she's afraid of heights; she doesn't go that far up). I go and clean up the table, the floor, and him. I put his dishes away and then put his washcloth away. I then decide to throw the laundry in the dryer. Come back to my desk and there's Hoover with Amish friendship bread scattered all over my desk and she's licking her chops......

Fine, I was outsmarted by the cat.......

I'm cold

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 03:57:00 +0000

And I hate being cold. But I'll live. I plugged in my chair and maybe my ass will be on fire shortly..... But who gives a shit. Told you I have random thoughts, lol.

I slept today until almost noon. But I actually slept like shit and woke up more than I slept, so really I didn't sleep in. Or did I..... That's one of the great things about having kids who are a little older. I can doze off on the couch and they are fine with doing stuff around the house. I can trust them (I hope, lol). And if Heather starts yelling at Taylor, I wake up enough to stop it.

I then cleaned for the afternoon. Oh, what fun. Jon vacuumed the bedroom and our bathroom and changed our sheets, and that helped alot. But there's still a shitload of laundry to do. It will happen eventually...

Taylor went to a birthday party today from 2-4. It will be the last time that she goes over there, 'cuz they smoke in the house. I told Taylor that if she wants the little girl to come over to play here, that was fine; but that I wasn't going to let her go back over there to play. I think she understood; as much as an 8 year old can. And when she got home I made her put her jacket and clothes into the laundry basket and take a shower. Eww

I made spaghetti for dinner. It was nummy. I use Prego for the sauce; the flavor is just awesome, imo...

We had a family movie night. We watched Space Chimps. It was cute. Taylor made popcorn, and I made Heather's fleece blanket. She wanted to sleep with it, but I'm washing it first. That's just how I roll......

My Weekend

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 21:36:00 +0000

It seems like my mind has such random thoughts all the time. I often wonder if it's normal....

Jon and the girls went to his parent's on Friday night. I had Riley and Bronson then and Saturday night. Pretty easy nights; they're good boys. Katie came over yesterday, too, and we had a counseling session. Great friend; it's nice to have one again. I got screwed royally by my last one, and it messed with me so that I couldn't trust anyone for a long time. I completely opened up to her, and she took so much from me. Money and friendship don't mix, I've learned......

Yesterday I started exercising and tracking my food again. I've got to do it; I just feel like it's time. Again. I go back and forth to caring about it to not giving a shit. It felt good to exercise; I did 15 minutes on the elliptical, sit-ups on my ball, and some strength training, too. I'm going to have to give up my gym membership, I'm thinking. Since Jon lost his job there's going to have to be more cuts made......

But right now I want some damn chocolate.......

Not-so-busy-Friday

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 04:16:00 +0000

Actually, today sucked for income. I had 3 kids all day. I had 2 from 11-11 and one from 3-6. And the funny thing is, there was no school today!!

So I got up and gave Heather her pills at 7:30 this morning, then went back to bed. Got up at 9 and exercised, showered, and got ready. Katie and I took Matthew, Heather, Taylor, and 2 daycare kids (Riley & Bronson) to the local nursing home with some valentines to hand out. It was neat, seeing all those people smile at the kids. The kids were apprehensive about approaching some, but did pretty good after the first half-dozen or so. I guess gray hair and wheelchairs can be a little overwhelming, lol. And after we were done we talked about why we visited the home; that sometimes their families and friends couldn't come and visit them and they get lonely.

Came home and Katie made lunch. I ran to Meijer to exchange an elbow splint that I bought last night. The one that I got was too small. I've worn the new one pretty much all day & night and I must say that my arm feels better. (I had carpel tunnel surgery on my right hand in October. When I went back to the gym, I over-compensated with my left hand and now have tendinitis (tennis elbow) in my arm). Getting old sucks.....

I tried napping, but couldn't. Got up to clean. Then just did the usual; clean, laundry, feed kids, read books, cuddle with kids, put them to bed, etc.

I watched Diane Sawyer's 20/20 show on people who live in the Appalachian Mountains. Holy sad. They live in such poverty, and some try to get out, but cannot, or will not.

I should get up and finish cleaning, but I've been exhausted for a couple of hours now, so it will probably wait until tomorrow.....

Tuesday and Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 05:13:00 +0000

I had classes on Tuesday, and it's mid-term week. My first one, English 101, I've found to be really easy. And I'm enjoying it. I've always enjoyed writing, though.... I think my test went well. It was open book, so that helped. I got back a paper that I wrote, a profile essay. I got an A - a 40/40. I was very happy with that, since the first draft was kind of flaky.....

My night class on Tuesday's is Health, Safety and Nutrition for Early Childhood (or something like that - I'm too lazy to look at the book right now). It's a VERY easy class; so much of it is common sense or things that I've learned along the way. My Mamma didn't raise no fool!! lol The mid-term for that class was open book, open note, and we got to work in groups. Doesn't get much easier than that..... I also really like the instructor. She's very down-to-Earth and knows that there are many different learning styles and we don't necessarily need to memorize the book in order to "get it". And that's just how I learn. I tend to remember what we talked about in class when it comes to personal stories vs. "text only", just material from the book, and it's nice to have a teacher who understands that.

Today I went to the bank and Subway. I had a daycare parent pull through and pay me what they owed, over $1000. Soooo nice!! So I made a payment to the trustee. Bankruptcy sucks. Our bankruptcy hearing was this morning, and I don't even know if we're in the clear. I was too afraid to call our attorney to find out. I want to know, but I don't want to know. hopefully I'll have the balls to call tomorrow to find out.... Because if it doesn't go through, we've lost our house and cars.

I was VERY lazy today. I didn't sleep very well last night; I couldn't stop thinking of the bankruptcy hearing. So I slept like a LOG at naptime, though. Katie kept trying to wake me up and kick my ass onto my elliptical. I finally woke up enough and got on there and did a mile. Thank God for her; I'd stay fat. lol

funny last Monday

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 04:56:00 +0000

I forgot to post this earlier, but.....

On Monday I had a doctor's appt. because we may be losing our health insurance later this month due to Jon being laid off. So I figured I'd go to the doctor for my tendinitis, etc. I had my appointment, drove off, got to the post office, and realized that I didn't have my wallet; I had left it at the doctor's. Shit......

So I drive back and go in. When you walk in, to the right is where the receptionists are. There's 2 of them, and they're separated by a wall (for privacy). So I go and stand kind of in between, at the wall, but back a little, so that the one receptionist sees me. She's worked there since we started seeing this doctor; 14 years ago, and she looks at me and puts her finger up for me to hold on, she knows what I want, but she's with someone else. So I wait patiently.....

There's 2 old ladies behind me,and you know how some old people don't give a rat's behind what they say or who they say it in front of? That was them. The one says to the other, "What did you tell the doctor?" Keep in mind that they're obviously hard of hearing, and not wearing hearing aids, because they're talking REALLY LOUD!! The second lady says, "I told the doctor that I couldn't piss!!" OMFG, I started laughing. DEAD silence in that waiting room, approximately 30 people. Not to mention that they're remodeling the lobby/waiting room, and there's 3 people installing flat-screen tv's on the walls, and their cordless screwdrivers STOP!!

So then the second woman continues on, "I went in to see him and he had me go to the bathroom and grab my ankles!!". OMG, I about lost it. By this time, the receptionist was done with the patients ahead of me, but she held a finger up to me and said, "Hold on, Sara, let me take care of these ladies." lmao Wonder why??? Even the little kids in the waiting room were quiet......

So she quickly checked them in and immediately sent them to the back. She got my wallet out of the safe and I left with a smile on my face......

I really should have been more productive....

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 05:20:00 +0000

I really should have been more productive today....

But I wasn't. I slept in this morning until about 8:45. But, for some reason, by 10:30, I was falling asleep at my desk. Not kidding. So I layed down around noon until 3ish. Talk about a day half wasted!!

Got up and the girls and I did some homework. Mid-terms are next week and I have a couple of assignments due, so there's plenty to do in that department. I only have one problem with taking this English class. I find myself typing and re-typing, and re-reading, and re-typing everything!! Good Lord, Sara, it's a BLOG, not an assignment!! lol

Then I spent a good portion of the evening on Facebook. More time wasted.... lol. But I think I needed some mindless things to do for awhile. I finally decided to be a little more productive. I've been sorting my file-sharing files, listing on eBay, and working on the pictures that are saved on my computer. I like to burn cd's of photoshows for people, but it actually takes a little bit of work. I'm also anal about the pics, so I have to edit them first. I really enjoy doing it though; I just wish I had more time to put towards it.

Heather was pretty good today. Actually, she was really good today. The only time that I had to holler at the girls today was 20 minutes before bedtime, because they decided to start running around the house. Of course Jon was helping, so he got yelled at, too. Such is life.....

So I guess I'll go back to actually doing something.....