Quirky Grandma

Did I Outgrow Quirky Grandma?

2012-11-30T12:17:00.000-05:00

I want to thank all my readers and let you know I appreciate your readership. As you may know, I just have not written on this blog in ages. There are many reasons, um excuses, that I can give. The truth is that many of the things that I may wish to write about just don't seem to fit on this blog. Blame my insecurities or my lack of experience. I narrowed the field of this blog too much. I am still a very loving grandmother but I am so much more than that. For those that wish to continue to read what I have to say, I have started a new blog, that is a bit more general. Of course, with money as it always is with me, I went with another free blog but I went with a WordPress this time. Please feel free to check it out, Middle Aged?. I can't promise to write everyday or even every week but I can promise when I write, it will be me. I will try to write on this blog more please wish me luck.

The reason my blog is left lonely

2012-11-20T10:38:00.001-05:00

I keep apologising for leaving my blog out of my life. With looking for a job, school, and other life issues, I just don't seem to have the energy. It is not about time because I do have it. I just don't have the energy to give to my blog and I will not do a post that is not ideal.

I still have not found a job that is 9 to 5, this depresses me. I can go to work but then what would we do about Anna when daycare is not operational. Has anyone every thought to make a daycare that has evening and weekend hours? I know many other parents and grandparents have this issue. Does anyone have any ideas?

I have finally finished my final project for Arts and Humanities. A huge final project for a class with lots of essays. Please feel free to click this link and check them out to see what I have been up to for the past few months Optimal Resume at KAPLAN UNIVERSITY.

I think it is more the depression that has me not writing on my blog as I should. It is not the money that is the issue. However, that is an issue. It is the feeling useless and lack of self worth. I do not wish for an EMO blog so I am not going to whine on my blog about how everyday my daughter goes out and works hard while I sit at home and make yet another attempt at finding a job that is close by with good hours and at least min wage pay.

I am helping Brittany, who is now also selling Avon. It seems I can't post her link to her page on my blog, that is what the rules say but check out my twitter feed https://twitter.com/QuirkyGrandma it is in there if you need an Avon fix.

A Rough Week

2012-10-24T14:28:00.000-04:00

This week has been interesting to say the least. An ear infection, night terrors (I will be doing research on why this happens as soon as I catch a break), and the flu all added up to some painful, scary times for my sweet Anna. She seems to be doing better now but it was not much fun for any of us this past week. Of course, we still had a little fun.

Even though a few days we missed out on walking and dancing. We had a couple days where Anna felt up to the activity for a while. Her smiles were fewer but the ones she gave was the most beautiful ever. She has gotten very stingy with kisses. I am not sure if it is because she was feeling bad, or the busted lips from the previous week, or she just is getting stingy with kisses.

Brittany, Anna’s mom, has decided with my advice to put Anna back into daycare. I truly need to get a paying job and Anna is at the age where she enjoys being with other kids. This breaks my heart in a way but I have to think it is best for Anna and who knows may even be better for me, as well. A more well rounded person and all that. Of course, on days off I still will have my dance partner. I used to have to go to bars to dance for hours but now I get to do “The Hot Dog Dance” all the time.

I must apologize, my cell phone was turned off and my computer camera well isn’t all that good. Only two pictures this week and kind of fuzzy.

The Clumsy Phase

2012-10-19T14:58:00.001-04:00

The tears, the pain, the blood, and the bruising. Anna has entered a clumsy phase. As she walks, she tends to trip. She can’t seem to go through one day where she doesn’t hurt herself. It breaks my heart every time I hear that cry. I would give anything to take the pain away.

Busted Lips

Yes, that is plural on the busted lip. First time, she feel on her sippy cup and busted it. The blood from a busted lip is the most scariest. My poor angel covered a paper towel. A few days later, she just tripped and fell right on the lip again and reopened the wound. And again, and again. Five times total so far, one time was her cousin pushing her down, as kids do. My sister was so upset with poor EJ, and I think he was the most upset about really hurting her. I think it is finally healing up but it is very sensitive, certain foods and drinks cause her pain.

The Coffee Table

Anna has a love, hate relationship with the coffee table. It is great for playing or even eating at but it just beats her up. She runs into it and bruises her pretty skin. She falls over and hits it head first. I have thought about getting rid of it but I think I will just figure out a cheap way to childproof it.

The Worry

At times, I worry that someone will see the lip or the bruises and her blood all over my shirt, from holding her, and think I have done something. In this day and age, it is easy to report abuse, which I am so glad about, but some things can be misconstrued. I had this happen with Brittany. Every bump and bruise, I had to justify because her grandmother on her dad’s side wanted custody. I do not want Brittany to have to go through anything like what I did. Children get hurt, it is the worst possible fact of life but it is a fact of life. Of course, that does not stop the guilt. Maybe if I was watching more closely. Maybe if I had bubble wrap around the entire house, hmmm, good idea?

I Don’t Know How to Date

2012-10-17T23:07:00.001-04:00

I have been on a total of five dates my entire life. Yes, you read that right 5. When I say I don’t know how to date, it is not that I don’t remember how. It is more that I seriously DO NOT KNOW HOW. I just sort of fell into the relationships I was in.

Many guys have said I was pretty but only a few have asked me out. I always have trouble telling if someone is interested in me. My sister is always telling me that guys are flirting with me but to me they just asked for the time. How does one tell the difference?

So what am I to do when I want to get into the dating world. I want someone to bring me out and to talk to. I want to be romanced and even courted, I know old fashioned but it is there. I want someone to catch my heart.

How does one go about meeting people in this day and age? Especially, how does one like me go about meeting people. One who is lacking the social gene. So even if I rarely have time for anything online anymore, I have added a few more sites to check on regular basis. Brittany, my daughter, recommended Plenty of Fish, I also added Zoosk to my Facebook. I spent a little bit of time on Plenty of Fish tonight and talked to a couple of seemingly nice men from my area. I just have no idea what to say. I am lost in this world but I will keep trying and not just because other people say it is time but because late at night I realize just how lonely I am.

Not sure about some of these things. I decided not talk to anyone that says they are just looking for casual anything. But who is to know they are telling the truth. I mean why would a man put that he wants to have a serious relationship and not answer questions about himself for a compatibility quiz. How can you know if you are compatible? I, of course, did all the quizzes or whatever they call it and found out a lot about myself.

Of course, there is my own drawbacks. I really don’t have that much time. Also, we can’t forget, who is going to want to date a 39 year old grandmother who has no real income. I don’t even have a cellphone anymore. How am I supposed to talk to these people that I meet? On my MagicJack, through my computer, in the living room.

Ok, enough negativity. I am sure many people would want to date a woman that puts her family first and is going to school to better herself, right? Also, talking to them on computer is best way to keep the conversations light and casual for now, which is what I need. I lay awake at night, not being able to sleep, anyway. I can get online then for this purpose.

Anna Steals Grandma’s Computer Time

2012-10-16T21:59:00.000-04:00

Well, my post are still hit or miss, mostly miss. However, I do think about posting often. Still looking for a job, of course, will look harder once Brittany has gotten child care established for Anna. Someone does have to be watch her.

I am still at home a good deal of time and probably could get some posting done if Anna didn’t take up all my computer time with Jake and The Neverland Pirates, Octonauts, and Doc McStuffins, all we watch at Disney.com. Made a choice to get internet at the moment and not cable. I need internet for school.

Anna and I still have lots of fun. She is talking all the time and usually I can understand some of what she says. She loves to listen to music as well as watch cartoons and insists the whole household dances with her. We are back to walking every day and Anna enjoys our walks. I have lost a bit of weight these past few weeks. Still pretty big but fitting into my old jeans feels good.

When Brittany is not working or looking for another job or getting things straight for childcare and doctors for Anna. She gets to get in on the fun. We took Anna to the Livingston Parish Fair this weekend. Even though it was HOTTT, we had a great time. Anna loved the rides and I got to ride on the carousel with her for the first time. She also got her face painted. I think she makes a beautiful butterfly.

Even Granny, my mom, got in on the fun. When she, Anna, and I went to the meat sale at Carter’s in Livingston. Filled up our little freezer for under a 100 bucks. Great sale. BTW, for my fans that live in Southeast Louisiana, I think Carter’s in Albany, LA is having the same meat sale this Thursday, you may want to check it out.

Just a little added humor. I know I got odd sense of humor but don’t see no reason to change anything on my girl. At least, until she poops. Ewwwww

An Update on The Quirky Household.

2012-10-08T09:29:00.001-04:00

“Shake, Shake, Shake your booty.” A lot of dancing has been going around our house lately, we are enjoying ourselves even as we clean. At least, Anna and I am, hard to tell with Brittany sometimes, she still has teenage impulses. BTW, we got some furniture.

School is going good, I am enjoying my class Art’s and Humanities immensely learning so much about the world and the part that art plays in it. Database management is a good class as well. However, it can get repetitive.

My blog has suffered though the move and Anna fun times and school and add in job hunting, still looking. There has to be job with great hours, great pay, that will allow me to be creative and have things I can learn from somewhere. At the moment, I would just settle for just good hours and good pay. Back to the subject at hand, I do apologize. However, I know my readers understand that “real life” must come first.

Busy, Busy, Busy

2012-10-05T22:54:00.001-04:00

Well, I think the unpacking is finally done. Still looking for furniture, however. Until I find a sofa, I have volunteered my bed to be it. I have a bedroom and would love to be in it. We will be getting one soon. I have a few people who have promised to help me find one.

Of course, the main reason I have not posted recently, is that I am busy. Looking for a job, moving, babysitting Anna, school, plus the million other little things that are going on. Brittany and I are now sharing a computer and Anna is getting very active. No computer time, while she is awake. Today while I was on the computer trying to get a home phone, Anna unplugged computer 4 times, destroyed my living room, and turned the computer table over. She needs to be constantly in your vision, atm. But she is loving our new home. We all are. It is small but not cramped. The kitchen is really nice and it has a screened in porch.

I have mentioned that I am looking for a new job. I decided to try to find something that will at some point to lead to a job in IT, since that is what I am working my butt off at school for. I created a resume web page. Feel free to check it out and let me know what you think. I went with a Google page because money is tight. We got internet up quickly because of my schooling. Brittany insisted on it, I love that kid. I probably should have posted sooner but still trying to work out my schedule. That is the worst part about moving or really any change. My internal schedule gets messed up and my routine goes out the window for a while.

A Difference of Opinions

2012-09-25T21:14:00.001-04:00

As much as I would love to take care of my mother as she needs me, we have too many differences to live together in harmony. The stress of this makes her worse, rather than better. When she came to me on Monday, and told me that Brittany, Anna, and I had to go, I was not surprised. I had even been thinking the same thing myself.

Brittany and I quickly went into moving on mode. Mama, I believe, thinks it is because we are angry. However, the truth is that we are happy to be moving on to our next stage in life. Sure, our new place, even thought it is relatively cheap, is still a little out of our league with just Brittany’s salary. Therefore, I am, also, now in job hunt mode. We still don’t have a vehicle. However, are I must thank Mama and Daddy for letting us use theirs until we find one. We do have some money saved up for this and hope it will be enough for at least a down payment on something we can afford.

As moving out was not in the plans at this time, we all had decided on around January, we are a little short of furniture and well just about everything to set up a household. My mother and sister are helping out there as best as they can. I may be without internet for a few weeks. However, the truth is I have been having trouble keeping up my blog anyway and my sister and mom say I can go to there places for school work.

Our new place is a small, two bedroom, one bath, mobile home. It may be tiny and need a little TLC. However, it is one of them places that has great potential, screened in porch, built in shelves, lots of cabinet space in the kitchen. I am happy with our find and happy that we was able to rent it.

Another change in my life, and we all know I think changes can be good things. I will be back as soon as possible to tell you about my new job, my new place, and how Anna takes to this change.

I am Not Critical Thinker, Always.

2012-09-20T20:18:00.000-04:00

Critical thinking has always been one of my main issues. So you would think that a class that teaches about critical thinking would be simple for me. However, my Arts and Humanities class at Kaplan has me wondering if I am truly a critical thinker or not.

The class discusses how critical thinkers understand and see the world around them in this week’s unit. Also, we have to write essays on literature, art, film, and music that goes deeper than I ever thought about in the past. I love to listen to music, any kind of music is open to me. However, I never really listened as deeply as I should have been. I am even guilty of not knowing who the artist or band is or even the names of songs. I, rarely, watch any films. I prefer a good book over a film any day as it gives more detail and I think a better option for painting the right pictures in your mind.

While I do read critically, I realize I do not appreciate other forms of creativity in this manner. I will strive to be better at appreciating the artist that I love, rather they be written stories, art, or music. I, also, suppose I should at least give a good film a chance.

Anna Wednesday:Momo Keeps Leaving

2012-09-19T07:09:00.000-04:00

As you may have noticed, this week has been busy for both me and Anna. She has went to play with Ethan twice this week, while Momo had to take care of other things, as in, going to doctor and taking my mother to doctor. We all stayed over at Aunt Tammy’s house, Ethan’s house to Anna, on Friday. On Saturday, they all came over here and spent the night. They brought Gabe, as well. Gabe is the other cousin, one we don’t see nearly enough. While Saturday was a beautiful day and we got in one more day of swimming, maybe the last of season. The rest of the week has been rainy.

That meant no going outside to play. However, we have spent lots of time on the porch watching the “Gobble, Gobbles” or turkeys for those of us that don’t know the real name for them. We even took some time out for loving on Chelsea, my dad’s dog.

However, it seems everyday this week, Momo is leaving and Anna is staying behind to be watched either by Granny or Aunt Tammy. Anna may not be sure why Momo had to get a card with her picture on it, driver’s license, but it had to be done. Hopefully, we will have more time to play and clean this messy house soon. Even if Momo starts her new term today, that only takes a few hours a day.

I Failed at Bed Rest

2012-09-16T23:23:00.001-04:00

My weekend of bed rest? Of course, I went to the hospital as I said I would. They took me but was unable to sign me up for the Medically Indigent Program, that is how they put it. It seems since I have never been able to afford my divorce and my ex would not pay for it, he is also responsible for my hospital bills. I asked if they were going to send them to him as I don’t speak to him. If I don’t pay, they do go on his credit. Hmm, should I do that since he refuses to pay for divorce even if he has two children with the woman he left me for? My credit is shot anyway. Ok, enough of my sour grapes over my ex.

Nothing is broken in my back. That is the good news. To find out if it is disk issue, which the ER doctor thinks it could be. I need a MRI. So time to start figuring out how to afford that and where to go to get that done. They gave me meds, that I still have not filled. Going tomorrow, I promise.

I was told to be on bed rest for three days. Ha, bed rest. My sister and her husband took me out for dinner. She fixed me up with a po’boy, for those that don’t know a po’boy is the best sandwich you could ever have, especially roast beef.

Saturday, we had girls time, just me, Mama, Tammy, Aunt Pat, Brittany ( after she got off work), and the kids, only boys allowed was Gabe and Ethan, Tammy’s grandsons. We swam, we drank, after babies went to bed, we talked, and watched a movie. Was an overall good day. Of course, the babies wear you out. Today was light cleaning and rest day. I needed it.

My Back Pain is a 8, atm.

2012-09-13T21:40:00.000-04:00

With each step I take, I can feel needles shooting through my spine. I have mentioned before my back problems. What I haven’t discussed is the fact that I have no insurance, I never have. I always worked minimum wage jobs that did not offer insurance and never had enough to buy it. I have not been to a doctor since the car wreck in 2010 when I went to Chiropractor and that was covered by the auto insurance of the other driver.

I was diagnosed with scoliosis at a an early age and always had back pain. After I fell in the tub last year, my pain became unbearable at times. I never went to the doctor. All I knew was that I was unable to get out of bed for days. Also, when I did got back to work at Hardee’s, half a day was all it took for me to realize that something was wrong. I ended up quitting that job because I could not handle the duties and with no insurance, no money, and in a state with no “Learning Hospitals” or Charity Hospital I had no way of finding out what was wrong or getting doctor’s excuse.

I have gotten used to it and am able to handle it usually. However, for the past week it is excruciating. As my readers may recall, I do not like taking meds. This past week I have taken Motrin often, it is not doing anything for the pain.

Luckily, I guess, I am now in Louisiana, that has a Charity Hospital. I am going tomorrow, Brittany is off, to find out what I did to my back. I don’t want meds, I just want to know what is wrong and if it can be fixed. I am scared that it is something that can’t be fixed.

I will be offline for a few days because I will be staying at my sister’s. But hope to be back on Monday.

The Return of Anna Wednesday

2012-09-11T23:15:00.001-04:00

Of course, just because I haven’t been blogging. That does not mean that Anna has stopped growing. She is talking a lot more now and sometimes says Thank You. I catch her signing the ABCs or Itsy Bitsy Spider sometimes when she thinks no one is paying attention. She has went through 3 shoe sizes in a month and is now in 2Ts. She isn’t a fat baby but she is bigger than most her age. Her bed can no longer hold her, we have to be creative when it comes to going to bed. Sometimes, if she is tired enough, just having Tasha, her favorite doll helps. However, there are times when it is just easier to let her get in bed with either her Mom, me, or even Granny. Of course, we only do that on occasion. Do not want her to get used to it.

She isn’t bad but very active now and does not understand why she can’t cook, play with electric sockets, and other things that we say NO to. Of course, we do let her help some around the house. No point in her getting to play with toys while we do all the work. She loves to help me clean and it only adds a couple more hours a room for her to help me. hehe

She, also, got help Granny sort through her mail and pay her bills.

And can’t forget to mention that she spent her first night away from Mama. Went and had sleepover at EJ’s house. She seemed to have a good time and Aunt Tammy said she was good. *thumbs up my Anna.

Convenient Memories

2012-09-11T09:08:00.001-04:00

I have noticed that most adults have a convenient memory. Especially, when it comes to their children and grand children, they forget what they were like as children and young adults. The mistakes that they made. Many people complain about their children doing the same things that they themselves did as children.

I understand that you worry about what your children are going through and you don’t want them to make the same mistakes that you made as you grew up. However, I think admitting that you made those mistakes is a better way for dealing with your children’s mistakes. It may make them feel more understood and it may even if you are lucky keep them from making some of those mistakes.

I may have not succeeded but have always tried to be honest with Brittany. Of course, some things were shared only when she was old enough to handle them. However, I have felt that the truth is the best way to handle things.

I don’t wish to tell other’s how to raise their children but I wish that others would at least think about the morals that they are passing on when they tell lies. Even if the child does not realize the truth, it is still out there.

Also, if you admit the truth to yourself at least. You can understand where your children are coming from and can better help them to deal with the issues that they face so you can help them better.

The Birth of A Stronger Me

2012-09-10T09:43:00.001-04:00

I am a firm believer in honesty and also, that we must admit the things in life which are mistakes. That is why this past weekend I have written a small version of my life story. Of course, there is more to be said and other mistakes that I have made over time that is not in these pages. However, the ones that I wrote about are the ones that I am least proud of.

In order to move on with my life and to become a better person. I had to examine these things. I thank anyone who is willing to go on in my journey of self discovery with me. I am now in school and at this time I have a 4.0 for the second term as I finished the first with a 4.0. This makes me very proud. I still have issues with men. I simply want a man in my life to talk to and to be with. However, I realize that I have to find a way to be happy with me first.

For the most part, I am happy with myself now. However, there is times that I feel lost and like I am drowning. At night, after everyone has gone to bed is the worst time for me. I realize I am smart, basically pretty, still overweight (but not a whale). I also realize that I need to learn how to talk to the opposite sex, without sex becoming involved. With my best friend, ,that isn’t an issue. So, I should be able to do it with other men. I need to get back to walking, Mama has that treadmill in there collecting dust. Not so much to lose weight although that will be a plus but also, for my own health and when I walk, I feel better about myself.

I am basically a good person. I care about others, just have to find a way to show it. I still have times when I don’t know what to say to others but I am working on this issue. I do have a selfish side and am a bit on the lazy side. Especially, compared to other’s I know. However, those are parts of me that and I have to learn to embrace them or find good that comes from them. Cleaning is not my strong suit. However, at this time, my mother needs me to keep her house to her standards. This is difficult for me but I will find a way to do this, if I just knew what her standards were.

Well, it is time to continue my journey. I am in the best place to do this. This is where it all started. The ending of who I was is the beginning of someone wonderful.

The End of the Story but The Beginning of My Next Chapter.

2012-09-09T20:17:00.001-04:00

High school is a blur for me. By that time, I had started shutting down emotionally. I, also, for a while, shut down mentally. I started reading at an early age and always did ok in school. Nothing to brag about, but I completely checked out in 9th grade. I failed 3 subjects. I became enamored with romance novels and dreamed of being whisked away by “prince charming.”

Of course, there was no prince charming, at least I haven’t found him yet. However, that does not mean that I haven’t found many good guys, charming snakes, and even a couple of husbands along the way. One of them wasn’t mine. Yes, I was the other woman at one time.

In high school, there was more than my share of drunken one night stands. Also, I had four “boyfriends.” I was lucky that I did not catch anything or get pregnant sooner than I did. Lost one boyfriend at homecoming to my best friend. Another, was someone just to hang around with in my senior year. The other two are still are part of my life now. One is my Dad’s friend, the other is someone I consider my best friend.

Not long after school, which I did come back and graduate, was over for me, I was married and then I was pregnant. He was older, almost the same age as my mother. It was an abusive relationship that I escaped from only because he hit me with my daughter in my arms. I could not take the chance on him hurting Brittany.

I was single for quite some time after that. This is when I started being the other woman. Then, I married my second husband and we weren’t happy but we weren’t completely unhappy for quite some time. We both had our issues. Many people in my family believe I cheated on him but I never did. He ended up leaving me for another woman. As I don’t think either of us ever loved each other, it was not a big loss to me but devastated Brittany. It did not help my self esteem any that he left me for skinnier woman.

After that, I went a little nuts. I can’t tell you names or even numbers. However, I now know I was looking for someone to make me happy with who I am, an impossible task. If you are not happy with who you, you won’t ever be happy with anyone. I did end up back in affair with the married man, as well.

I had a few good guys come in my life but I always ended up chasing them away or becoming their friends, as I did with the one in high school. I never felt I was worthy of someone with substance. I would choose instead the damaged or the snakes.It has taking me a while to get to where I believe that I am a good person, in spite of my past. I do deserve to be happy. Just need to find happiness with myself before I can be happy with someone else.

Curves

2012-09-09T09:51:00.001-04:00

I developed early on in life. By the age 12, I was a D cup. Of course, in my mind I was fat. No one disagreed with me. I already was quiet and shy and had issues with dealing with other people. This made it a lot worse for me.

I know now that the girls was jealous and the boys did not know how to act around me. At the time, I just knew something was wrong with me. My mother who is tiny everywhere and considers being 105 as fat, was not much help. I realize now she was trying to help in her own way. My older sister, who didn’t develop as fast as me, started calling me Boobie.

After my incident at 13, it was common knowledge I was a slut. The jokes, the taunting just got worse. I went further into my own brain. My books and my daydreams was my only salvation.

Now as I mentioned yesterday, I don’t remember much of my childhood and that is other peoples stories. One is dead, my real father. I can tell you that it was not “Leave It To Beaver” but not “The Adams Family.” Drugs, alcohol, and spousal abuse was there. My parent’s were divorced early on and I did not know my father much. My step father is a wonderful man. And my mother and he has one of them loves that is written about in the romance novels. Do you ever wonder what happens to the people around them when people love each other so completely? They sometimes feel unimportant and lost.

My next sexual experience was at 14; I was mature then, right. He was 29 and an alcoholic. Even though I know now why this was wrong. At the time, I thought I was mature. We had a 5 month relationship and I tried to be happy. Not sure how it ended but think it was something to do with my mother finding out.

The Past Must be Remembered to Move Forward.

2012-09-08T08:18:00.000-04:00

I miss my blog and I miss the blogging world. However, it has been so long that I have blogged. It’s not that I have stopped thinking and have nothing to say. It’s more that I have been thinking about things in the past that while I don’t regret anything, that is a waste of time, I am not proud of many of the things I have done in the past.

I would like to think I have changed. However, some things are still there as an everyday issue. When I lived far away, I could ignore them to a point. Here, in the town I grew up, ignoring these issues is not allowed. They are a part of the daily life. So to get it out of the way and move on. I have decided to share some of my past with my readers. I may lose some of you and I am sad for this loss.

I don’t remember much of my childhood and what I do remember was other peoples stories, so I won’t be telling those stories. Except to say, my grandmother, Momo Coot, was who I could always go to even if she was a bit old fashioned.

The Cruelty of Children

I had always been a shy and quiet kid. I can remember one year a boy, the one everyone adored, asked me to be his girlfriend as a joke. That moment in time is etched in my head. I began to feel I was not worthy of anyone important. The things that children due to children is shocking. However, it’s nothing new.

What I find completely amazing, most of the people I went to school with remember me and I have no idea who they are anymore. I remember that boy and a few others that were particularly cruel. I remember those that were nicer to me, who I considered friends, but I don’t remember anyone else.

The Beginning of Bad Decisions

I was 13, when I lost my virginity. When I tell people this, they are usually shocked. It was not something I enjoyed but was more of two children who did not know what they were doing. That was pushed into it by other young kids. However, the whole town, even my mother, found out about it and my reputation was ruined from that day forward.

My story doesn’t end there and continues on, I will be telling more over time. I have to get it out and examine the past to move on to the future. I invite you to share this journey with me and hope that it helps others in some way as it helps me. To be continued….

The Chaos at Quirky Home

2012-08-26T21:06:00.001-04:00

My regular readers may have noticed that I have been a bit hit and miss with my posts lately. I am down to that last few weeks of school and working very hard on my final projects for classes. Also, Brittany got a job and that means I am now Anna’s official babysitter again. Of course, I did tell you all about our sleepover. What I did not know at the time was that the sleepover came with colds all around. Both my sister’s household and our household have been suffering with colds since then. There is nothing worse than a sick baby.

I am getting close to completing my final projects and hope to get become a regular blogger again soon. I, also, hope to soon be able to have time to read other’s blogs. Something which I miss almost as much as writing mine, almost. As long as Isaac does not cause major damage, I will be back to my regularly scheduled blogging by middle of next week. However, as it appears to be headed straight for us, so it may be a little longer.

While I am here I would like to thank SzaboIn SlowMo of the blog She Can't Be Serious for The Illuminating Blogger Award. As I mentioned in my comment on her page, I am always shocked when I win any award for my little hobby. It has taking me a bit of time to realize that I do have some talent in writing. However, I still am amazed when others notice it. There is rules for accepting the blog, of course.

Visit the award site, leave a comment, tell everyone who nominated you, and thank the blogger, including a link back to their site.
Share a random thing about yourself.

I have been craving a Roast Beef PoBoy.

Select 5 or more nominees and notify them that they’ve won the award.

As I have mentioned, I have not been reading blogs lately and this is something that makes me sad. However, consider all of the blogs on My Favorite Blog Posts as my nominees. Please visit them all they are wonderful for so many different reasons.

Put the award on your blog somewhere.

Free Card For Grandparent’s Day at Cardstore.com.

2012-08-23T09:21:00.001-04:00

Grandparent’s Day. A day that shows “Grandma” and “Grandpa” just how much they mean to you. Don’t forget what your grandparent’s have done for you and find some small way to honor them. Cook them a special dinner, buy “Grandma” some flowers or “Grandpa” some small gift, or find some small way to show you appreciate who they are. Even if it is just a card.

Of course, for me Quirky Grandma the most important day of the year. It is dedicated to me. I always make sure my daughter remembers my parents. Of course, with Anna to young I expect Brittany to remember me.

And with Cardstore.com there is no excuse. They are bring back their FREE Grandparents Day Cards + Free Shipping* at Cardstore.com! Just click on the picture below and use the code: CCK2248 at checkout. The offer is good 8/23 thru 8/26.

Take a little time and show your “Grandparent” how much you care.

*Free Shipping only valid in the US, Cannot be combined with any other offer

The Sleepover

2012-08-22T14:33:00.001-04:00

Anna is exhausted after this past week and so is her Momo. One HUGE development is the potty. She has peepee’d in the potty a few times and poopoo’d this morning, as well. Whooowhooo, way to go my girl. Applause was all around from all the adults in the household. Of course, that isn’t what wore us out. Not even being “eaten” by the chair would have wore us out.

No, what wore us out was the sleepover. We adore E J,
Ethan, my sister’s grandkid. However, he is a lot more active than Anna and more loving. They had a blast but now he gone home we are resting. We pitched a tent in the living room and the kids loved it. They had great fun. Of course, every time when Brittany would get the tent back in place. They had a blast tearing it down. Brittany, of course, did not understand why I laughed so hard. HaHaHa!

Naturally, we had some moments a few pushes, a hit or two. But for the most part, Anna and EJ get along well. One issue we did have is natural for children that age, especially those that are not around other children as often. Sharing. I believe they are doing a great job though and they have grasped the concept except when it comes to sharing Granny, my mother.

Of course, we did the swimming and going outside to swing. EJ is big boy and can swim all by himself. Anna is jealous of that and gets mad that we wont let her go. We hope EJ comes over again sometimes or even better yet maybe Anna will go to Aunt Tammy’s, my sister, house for a sleepover there.

Feeling Tiny and Lost

2012-08-20T08:31:00.001-04:00

Frail, helpless, weak. As a grandmother, I have seen this in my granddaughter and my daughter, my nieces and nephews, and even in my grandparents, as they grew older. However, nothing compares to seeing my mother like this. Watching your mother struggle to walk, makes you feel more tiny than you have ever felt. When I said that I was moving in with my mother, I said she needed me. It was never more obvious than yesterday, after three days of nausea and diarrhea. However, I felt useless. Oh, I get her something to drink and get her to eat a little something, if it will stay down. What else could I do? I followed her around like I used to when I was little. With each step, I was hoping she would not fall.

We have not always seen eye to eye. We never really understood one another. We are night and day. I am quiet and introverted. She is loud and outgoing, or she was. No matter what, when I needed her, and I have needed her a lot, she was there. I have to find a way to be there for her.

In the two years, that I was out of state, my Mother has been in the hospital more times than I can count. For a stroke, pneumonia, and severe dehydration. With every call, I hated the fact that I wasn’t here. However, every time she visited, she seemed ok. She is a good actress, I now understand. I am glad that I came home. I just wish I could do more.

My mother has always been the life of the party. She always had more energy in her little toe than I have in my whole body. In the weeks that I have been here, she has good days and bad. Even the good days, she is not the same woman. Seeing my once proud and vivacious mother so weak and frail, I feel lost and scared.

Five Question Friday

2012-08-17T09:12:00.001-04:00

People are always busy, we rarely take the time to get to know each other. That is why I like to read blogs such as Five Question Friday from other bloggers. It gives me a glimpse into who they are. If they take the time to answer the questions by sharing a little of themselves in their answers in an entertaining way, it makes reading them enjoyable.

I have looked before and not really found a question link that I liked. However, My Little Life has put the interesting questions that I enjoyed reading the responses to. That is why I decided to become a part of 5QF. I hope you enjoy my answers and that you learn a bit about me in an entertaining way.

Rules for 5QF as copied from My Little Life:

Copy and paste the following questions to your blog post, answer them, then watch for the linky post to appear Friday morning and LINK UP!

Oh, and remember (pay close attention...this is the important one)...HAVE FUN!

1. What's the one thing you buy every time you walk into the store?

Well, that is a hard one about the only thing I buy on a regular basis is a 20 oz Coca Cola. I don’t buy it every time I go into a store but most times I do if I have the money and they sell them. Although, if I had the money, I would be buying purses every chance I get. I love a good purse. Could not tell you why either.

2. If you had a day all to yourself, how would you spend it?

Sleep in late, watch some Star Trek, crawl into tub and soak for hours while reading book or I would write some on that novel that is waiting in my head to come out. Probably the first though, still scared of starting the novel.

3. Are you a speed limit driver? If not, over or under?

I usually drive the speed limit. Occasionally, I do drive under it. I have driven over the speed limit. However, that is a rare thing. I do not like to drive nor do I think I can drive well enough to drive fast.

4. What's your favorite dessert to make, homemade or from a mix??

If you would have asked meal, I would have had an answer, right away. I do not make a lot of desserts. Although, this past week I did bake some brownies and they were mix. Most of my cooking is a bit of mix with a little bit of extra I put in. I am good with semi-homemade cooking.

5. Would you rather have a spider or a mouse scurry across your face (no copping out and saying "neither!!")?

Seriously, neither. But I think a spider would be better than a mouse only by a little. I know spider’s could be poisonous, I was bit by one last week and have been watching it closely. However, I HATE MICE. They freak me out and they are bigger.

The Time Away Was Well Worth The Cost.

2012-08-16T08:47:00.000-04:00

When I left the house, I had $40.00. Thanks to my aunt and my mother and free play money, I did have a little bit more to gamble with. I think the casinos got about $80.00 out of me. But I ate some good food, played a lot, and drank free drinks so I felt well worth it.

They must have read my blog about eating all the crab legs. The Imperial Palace’s buffet did not have them there that night. My mother said that was first time ever that they didn’t serve them. Just my luck. However, I did have lots of shrimp, fish, and prime rib. I even through some rice dish on my plate haha to make it look a bit more even. Then I had some pudding for dessert, was too full for true dessert enjoyment.

Then it was time for more gambling. I was all for walking around some but the rest of the crew wanted to jump right in. We had stopped on the way at another casino and gambled away their free money, at least most of us did. My mother, of course, won. She is the luckiest person I know. But we hit the penny slots, I found a few that hit a bit and was doing ok for a while but still seemed to have the money flowing out faster than I would have like. My mother told me a secret that I shall now pass on to you. The older machines, Triple 7’s became my friend, seem to do better for you. Soon, I was doing well with at least staying even. Tammy and I played together a lot and got reacquainted, the best part of the trip. Mama outlasted us that night but we got up early and went back. And, again, Mama came away the big winner of the night.

I did have a great time and even got to the walk around some and check things out the next morning with Tammy. Some guy sat on machine next to me. Tammy insists he was flirting but I didn’t catch any vibe. He just asked about how machine works and we talked about luck. He was a kid anyway. Barely old enough to be there. After a big breakfast, we headed home and I, for one, am glad I went.