On Friday little Peanut had her very first field trip. We visited a tree farm that was responsible for both the growth of regular trees, as well as the beloved Christmas tree.
Although the kids all range from four to five years old and have the attention span of Dori from Finding Nimo, they all did excellent. They payed attention to our tour guide and loved seeing examples of Pine Cones of all shapes and sizes. They were especially enthralled with one that was over a foot tall. Which of course, for some (my Peanut included), the large cone was over half their size.
They were also show pieces of trees to demonstrate the aging process of the wood. They didn't seem to understand the ring concept, but they loved it nevertheless.
At the end the kids were allowed to pick out a sapling Douglas Fur. This was of course the coolest thing ever!
Peanut has already acusted the services of her well enduring Papa to plant her field trip prize.So needless to say, we are now the proud owner of a baby Douglas Fur. In about six years we can even use it as our Christmas tree if we so choose. Personally, I intend on leaving it in the yard for good to serve as a memory for Peanut of her very first outting with her classmates.
It might not have been something mega elaborate, but she had a blast. She can't wait for their next field trip. It is especially cool now because she actually knows the meaning of the word field trip.
Have your kids gone on any cool outtings this year? If so, tell us about them in the comment section of this post.
Showing posts with label Princess and Peanut. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Princess and Peanut. Show all posts
Saturday, March 9, 2013
Sunday, March 3, 2013
The Importance Of Family
I have been asked several times lately what the most important thing in my life is. For me, it's a no brainer hands down. My family. More specifically, my two daughters.
My little Princess and Peanut are my life and undoubtedly my everything. Every single choice I make is in some way a reflection of what's best for them.
Most parents would probably agree that when you have a baby, your entire world shifts to revolve around the newest little person in your life. Suddenly, your life, your wants and your needs come in second and sometimes, aren't even considered at all. It's all about your little guy or your little girl.
I come from both ends of the spectrum. With Princess, I was a teen mom. I was quite a bit older when I gave birth to Peanut. It's interesting to reflect on the way things are done when you are a young parent verses even just a few years older.
I also think it's enthralling to consider the differences and similarities between two different children. In some cases I have seen siblings who are very much alike. In others, I've seen the children be as different as night and day. And that's okay.
All kids are their own little people, unique individuals ready to take the world by storm. It's our job to give them to go out there and weather whatever comes their way.
Do you ever find yourself wondering who taught this kid to act this way? It can sometimes be a hard lesson to learn that well, we did as parents. Children learn the majority of their behaviors, habits, manners, values, etc. from us. It's easy to think that a little one isn't paying attention or that things we say travel right over their heads.
Then you receive the wake up call by hearing your innocent little one say their first cuss word. Gee, I wonder if they got them from Dora, or maybe Sponge Bob... of course they didn't. All kids go through a cuzzing fpeiod in their life. For some kids it's barely ever. For others, it's a regular habit that has you thinking their well on their way to becoming the next Junior truck driver or sailor. I assure you it's normal. It's all in how you handle it.
I have been pretty lucky. My little ones never went through a serious foul language period. This of course isn't to say they have never repeated a naughty word in their time. They have. I'm just saying it doesn't happen often.
The other great part of having little ones is when they start having actual conversations with you. In the ages between two and five, I've descovered that most kids have no filter. They tend to say whatever it is they're thinking, right when they think it, no matter who is around. My oldest Princess once yelled at a lady in a store who bent over and passed gas. My youngest little Peanut has been quoted at saying "take a hike old lady". As parents, it's so important not to get to taken over by mortification. You've gotta learn not to sweat the small stuff and laugh things off. Most people know the old saying, "kids say the darndest things." If they don't, they've probably een living alone in a cave for the past sever centuries.
There's nothing better than the love of a child. It's unconditional and non-judgemental. There's nothing like when you have a bad day and your little one comes up and gives you a giant bear hug just because. No one will ever love you as much as your child does.
It is said that we are our child's most important teacher. While I believe this to be true, I feel that it's two fold. They are our teachers too. Some of the most important lessons I've learned in life, I've learned from my girls. I love every minute of being a mom, even on the days I want to pull my hair out. I wouldn't change a single thing about my children or my life with them. They are mine and I in turn, am theirs. Just as it should be.
My little Princess and Peanut are my life and undoubtedly my everything. Every single choice I make is in some way a reflection of what's best for them.
Most parents would probably agree that when you have a baby, your entire world shifts to revolve around the newest little person in your life. Suddenly, your life, your wants and your needs come in second and sometimes, aren't even considered at all. It's all about your little guy or your little girl.
I come from both ends of the spectrum. With Princess, I was a teen mom. I was quite a bit older when I gave birth to Peanut. It's interesting to reflect on the way things are done when you are a young parent verses even just a few years older.
I also think it's enthralling to consider the differences and similarities between two different children. In some cases I have seen siblings who are very much alike. In others, I've seen the children be as different as night and day. And that's okay.
All kids are their own little people, unique individuals ready to take the world by storm. It's our job to give them to go out there and weather whatever comes their way.
Do you ever find yourself wondering who taught this kid to act this way? It can sometimes be a hard lesson to learn that well, we did as parents. Children learn the majority of their behaviors, habits, manners, values, etc. from us. It's easy to think that a little one isn't paying attention or that things we say travel right over their heads.
Then you receive the wake up call by hearing your innocent little one say their first cuss word. Gee, I wonder if they got them from Dora, or maybe Sponge Bob... of course they didn't. All kids go through a cuzzing fpeiod in their life. For some kids it's barely ever. For others, it's a regular habit that has you thinking their well on their way to becoming the next Junior truck driver or sailor. I assure you it's normal. It's all in how you handle it.
I have been pretty lucky. My little ones never went through a serious foul language period. This of course isn't to say they have never repeated a naughty word in their time. They have. I'm just saying it doesn't happen often.
The other great part of having little ones is when they start having actual conversations with you. In the ages between two and five, I've descovered that most kids have no filter. They tend to say whatever it is they're thinking, right when they think it, no matter who is around. My oldest Princess once yelled at a lady in a store who bent over and passed gas. My youngest little Peanut has been quoted at saying "take a hike old lady". As parents, it's so important not to get to taken over by mortification. You've gotta learn not to sweat the small stuff and laugh things off. Most people know the old saying, "kids say the darndest things." If they don't, they've probably een living alone in a cave for the past sever centuries.
There's nothing better than the love of a child. It's unconditional and non-judgemental. There's nothing like when you have a bad day and your little one comes up and gives you a giant bear hug just because. No one will ever love you as much as your child does.
It is said that we are our child's most important teacher. While I believe this to be true, I feel that it's two fold. They are our teachers too. Some of the most important lessons I've learned in life, I've learned from my girls. I love every minute of being a mom, even on the days I want to pull my hair out. I wouldn't change a single thing about my children or my life with them. They are mine and I in turn, am theirs. Just as it should be.
Sunday, February 10, 2013
My Crazy Life
I would just like to take a moment to say I am terribly sorry. I haven't been active on this blog and am behind on deadlines. I am still here and devoted to my work. Unfortunately, as some of you know life as a single mommy sometimes takes over and things get jumbled.
It seems like lately, if it's not one thing it's the other. Have you ever stepped back and took an outside look at your life? That's what I've been doing lately. Things have gotten very distorted and out of focus. Seeings how I'm blind, that's a pretty big improvement.
I'm trying to get back in the swing of things and promise to be full fledge normal very soon. I've been working on the review process for Clandestine in audio practically none stop. I have also gotten several chapters of Sightless Spirits and the yet untitled book three of Bound In Blood. Divinity is still in the editing stages.
I've also been trying to plan a fun give-a-away for the near future as well as planning some future signings to get out in public.
It's difficult to get the word out and with lack of funds for advertising and travel, the job can be that much more combersome. This is a huge pitfall of self-publishing that I plan to adress more fully in a future post.
My goal is to start posting more here so that the blog reader base will increase. I want to talk about things you want to read about. If there is ever anything you want to hear about no matter what the topic is, please don't hesitate to drop me a line.
I am also very open to guest posts on this blog. Are you an author? Maybe you are a reader who loves books and wants to talk about them. Or maybe you are a reviewer or someone else with a love and passion for the literary world. Either way, if you want to do a guest post, I want to work with you.
Do you have any ideas for posts? Let me know what you're thinking and I'll try to make it happen.
I will tell you that I am really loving the Bound In Blood series and think you will all enjoy where it's heading in the future. There are more tweists turns magic and mayham then the first installment of Clandestine. There are new love issues and jam packed action to keep you craving more.
The audio book for Clandestine is going to be marvelous. The narrator Melissa Strom is amazing and I love love love the music by Toby Semane.
As always keep checking back for more updates. You can also visit me on Facebook by clicking the link on this site. Remember, every like the page gets, helps get the word out for free. Please help by pressing the like button for the FB page. I'm active on there and always respond to questions, comments and or messages.
I have been having Twitter issues so I admit I haven't been as active there. You can also find me on Good Reads where I host a group and am a member to several groups.
I also have my blog Playing The Blind Card where you can get more info as well. Oh and side not, I have been contemplating combining the two blogs. What do you think? I will keep you posted on that front as well. I hope that if this happens all followers will consider traveling to that blog.
Thanks for listening to my rambling and I will be back soon more:)
It seems like lately, if it's not one thing it's the other. Have you ever stepped back and took an outside look at your life? That's what I've been doing lately. Things have gotten very distorted and out of focus. Seeings how I'm blind, that's a pretty big improvement.
I'm trying to get back in the swing of things and promise to be full fledge normal very soon. I've been working on the review process for Clandestine in audio practically none stop. I have also gotten several chapters of Sightless Spirits and the yet untitled book three of Bound In Blood. Divinity is still in the editing stages.
I've also been trying to plan a fun give-a-away for the near future as well as planning some future signings to get out in public.
It's difficult to get the word out and with lack of funds for advertising and travel, the job can be that much more combersome. This is a huge pitfall of self-publishing that I plan to adress more fully in a future post.
My goal is to start posting more here so that the blog reader base will increase. I want to talk about things you want to read about. If there is ever anything you want to hear about no matter what the topic is, please don't hesitate to drop me a line.
I am also very open to guest posts on this blog. Are you an author? Maybe you are a reader who loves books and wants to talk about them. Or maybe you are a reviewer or someone else with a love and passion for the literary world. Either way, if you want to do a guest post, I want to work with you.
Do you have any ideas for posts? Let me know what you're thinking and I'll try to make it happen.
I will tell you that I am really loving the Bound In Blood series and think you will all enjoy where it's heading in the future. There are more tweists turns magic and mayham then the first installment of Clandestine. There are new love issues and jam packed action to keep you craving more.
The audio book for Clandestine is going to be marvelous. The narrator Melissa Strom is amazing and I love love love the music by Toby Semane.
As always keep checking back for more updates. You can also visit me on Facebook by clicking the link on this site. Remember, every like the page gets, helps get the word out for free. Please help by pressing the like button for the FB page. I'm active on there and always respond to questions, comments and or messages.
I have been having Twitter issues so I admit I haven't been as active there. You can also find me on Good Reads where I host a group and am a member to several groups.
I also have my blog Playing The Blind Card where you can get more info as well. Oh and side not, I have been contemplating combining the two blogs. What do you think? I will keep you posted on that front as well. I hope that if this happens all followers will consider traveling to that blog.
Thanks for listening to my rambling and I will be back soon more:)
Thursday, September 27, 2012
The Autograph I'll Never Forget
I went to a concert with Princess. It was for a country singer named Craig Campbell at the local fair in my small hole in the wall town. He’s a down home country boy with an adorable southern accent.
Even not being able to see, I thoroughly enjoyed myself at the concert and would go and see him again no questions asked. He sang not only his own awesome songs but also those by artists such as Alabama, Merl Haggerd, Tracy Bird, etc.
He was a very personable entertainer that had the crowd laughing on several occasions. What was more powerful still was the way everyone cheered for the songs they knew and even for those they didn’t. They stomped there feet loud enough that at times it sounded like thunder rolling through the stadium and often clapped in time with his beats.
The crowd on the ground worked hard for Craig’s attention and some were lucky enough to get a free T-Shirt or in the case of one young lady a story to tell. She had purchased a pair of Craig Campbell sunglasses from the merchandise booth and she handed them up to the singer while he was performing. He gladly took them and even wore them through part of one of his songs. He used her camera and took a picture of himself wearing her glasses. This of course gave me an idea.
I leaned over and asked my friend, “Do you think he would sign my cane?”
She thought there was a decent chance of it so she led me as well as Princess down on the ground in front of the stage. We were close enough to it that I could touch the floor of it. Every time he started our way my friend had me raise the cane up high tilted towards the stage. She attached a sharpie pen to the elastic band that is connected to the handle. Unfortunately though Craig didn’t see our efforts because that was around the time he was tossing out T-Shirts to people.
After the concert he was kind enough to stay long enough for everyone who wanted an autograph could get one. The line was gynormous and I thought we would be there for hours. It moved fairly quickly though once it got going. I bought Princess a shirt that she could have signed and excitement was vibrating off of her as we moved through the line. She wanted me to get in a picture with him and her when we got up there but I admit I was apprehensive. I don’t normally like pictures even on a regular circumstance. So… you can imagine my predicament when little Miss Princess wants me to pose with a celebrity.
When we got up for our turn with Craig he signed my daughter’s shirt and was very friendly. I felt silly directly asking him to sign my cane and started to lose my nerve. My friend however, did not.
Once she asked he accepted of course with no issue. The smart ass in me came out in full force and I said…
Me: I tried to get you to sign it while you were singing but you didn’t see it.
Craig: I saw you… you were the one over there
Me: Well than why didn’t you sign it?
Craig: I didn’t know you wanted me to
Me: I was holding it up to the stage with a pen attached
Craig: Oh I’m sorry
This is when he starts signing my cane
Me: It’s alright dude, I didn’t see it either (totally dead pan and yes I’m a nerd and said dude)
Silence for about five seconds where I assume he was trying to gage my seriousness or maybe if I am even really blind. Once the evaluation was properly calculated he burst out laughing exclaiming “I love it.”
For a split second I thought about taking the opportunity that had presented itself and asked him if he would buy a copy of Clandestine How cool would that have been to have a famous person agree to check out your very first book. Then I could be like “hey Craig and me are “like this” (this is where I’d cross my fingers) and he even owns a copy of my book.” But the book isn’t technically out yet since the release is of course set for next month. That would be wicked cool though but I didn’t think it was appropriate. Lol I wish I would have had a copy with me I could have just gave it to him… DANG IT! If only the concert was after it was out! lol
But seriously, Princess and I had a wonderful time at the concert and the conversation after is something I will never forget. I’m going to have to get a new cane now though but it’s completely worth it. I will keep this one forever. Craig Campbell is a sweetheart and very down to earth as well as good natured to my corky sarcasm. I had a blast and can’t wait for him to come to town again.
PS… I really wanted a 2012 tour shirt for my daughter but unfortunately they were out of her size by the time we got up in the line. If anyone from Craig’s crew ever reads this I would love to know where I can get one for her. She really wanted that one because it had Longview WA written on the back as one of his many tour stops. She still got a different one but still really wants that one. I would really appreciate it and since we are “like this” and all… lol Just kidding
I went to a concert with Princess. It was for a country singer named Craig Campbell at the local fair in my small hole in the wall town. He’s a down home country boy with an adorable southern accent.
Even not being able to see, I thoroughly enjoyed myself at the concert and would go and see him again no questions asked. He sang not only his own awesome songs but also those by artists such as Alabama, Merl Haggerd, Tracy Bird, etc.
He was a very personable entertainer that had the crowd laughing on several occasions. What was more powerful still was the way everyone cheered for the songs they knew and even for those they didn’t. They stomped there feet loud enough that at times it sounded like thunder rolling through the stadium and often clapped in time with his beats.
The crowd on the ground worked hard for Craig’s attention and some were lucky enough to get a free T-Shirt or in the case of one young lady a story to tell. She had purchased a pair of Craig Campbell sunglasses from the merchandise booth and she handed them up to the singer while he was performing. He gladly took them and even wore them through part of one of his songs. He used her camera and took a picture of himself wearing her glasses. This of course gave me an idea.
I leaned over and asked my friend, “Do you think he would sign my cane?”
She thought there was a decent chance of it so she led me as well as Princess down on the ground in front of the stage. We were close enough to it that I could touch the floor of it. Every time he started our way my friend had me raise the cane up high tilted towards the stage. She attached a sharpie pen to the elastic band that is connected to the handle. Unfortunately though Craig didn’t see our efforts because that was around the time he was tossing out T-Shirts to people.
After the concert he was kind enough to stay long enough for everyone who wanted an autograph could get one. The line was gynormous and I thought we would be there for hours. It moved fairly quickly though once it got going. I bought Princess a shirt that she could have signed and excitement was vibrating off of her as we moved through the line. She wanted me to get in a picture with him and her when we got up there but I admit I was apprehensive. I don’t normally like pictures even on a regular circumstance. So… you can imagine my predicament when little Miss Princess wants me to pose with a celebrity.
When we got up for our turn with Craig he signed my daughter’s shirt and was very friendly. I felt silly directly asking him to sign my cane and started to lose my nerve. My friend however, did not.
Once she asked he accepted of course with no issue. The smart ass in me came out in full force and I said…
Me: I tried to get you to sign it while you were singing but you didn’t see it.
Craig: I saw you… you were the one over there
Me: Well than why didn’t you sign it?
Craig: I didn’t know you wanted me to
Me: I was holding it up to the stage with a pen attached
Craig: Oh I’m sorry
This is when he starts signing my cane
Me: It’s alright dude, I didn’t see it either (totally dead pan and yes I’m a nerd and said dude)
Silence for about five seconds where I assume he was trying to gage my seriousness or maybe if I am even really blind. Once the evaluation was properly calculated he burst out laughing exclaiming “I love it.”
For a split second I thought about taking the opportunity that had presented itself and asked him if he would buy a copy of Clandestine How cool would that have been to have a famous person agree to check out your very first book. Then I could be like “hey Craig and me are “like this” (this is where I’d cross my fingers) and he even owns a copy of my book.” But the book isn’t technically out yet since the release is of course set for next month. That would be wicked cool though but I didn’t think it was appropriate. Lol I wish I would have had a copy with me I could have just gave it to him… DANG IT! If only the concert was after it was out! lol
But seriously, Princess and I had a wonderful time at the concert and the conversation after is something I will never forget. I’m going to have to get a new cane now though but it’s completely worth it. I will keep this one forever. Craig Campbell is a sweetheart and very down to earth as well as good natured to my corky sarcasm. I had a blast and can’t wait for him to come to town again.
PS… I really wanted a 2012 tour shirt for my daughter but unfortunately they were out of her size by the time we got up in the line. If anyone from Craig’s crew ever reads this I would love to know where I can get one for her. She really wanted that one because it had Longview WA written on the back as one of his many tour stops. She still got a different one but still really wants that one. I would really appreciate it and since we are “like this” and all… lol Just kidding
Even not being able to see, I thoroughly enjoyed myself at the concert and would go and see him again no questions asked. He sang not only his own awesome songs but also those by artists such as Alabama, Merl Haggerd, Tracy Bird, etc.
He was a very personable entertainer that had the crowd laughing on several occasions. What was more powerful still was the way everyone cheered for the songs they knew and even for those they didn’t. They stomped there feet loud enough that at times it sounded like thunder rolling through the stadium and often clapped in time with his beats.
The crowd on the ground worked hard for Craig’s attention and some were lucky enough to get a free T-Shirt or in the case of one young lady a story to tell. She had purchased a pair of Craig Campbell sunglasses from the merchandise booth and she handed them up to the singer while he was performing. He gladly took them and even wore them through part of one of his songs. He used her camera and took a picture of himself wearing her glasses. This of course gave me an idea.
I leaned over and asked my friend, “Do you think he would sign my cane?”
She thought there was a decent chance of it so she led me as well as Princess down on the ground in front of the stage. We were close enough to it that I could touch the floor of it. Every time he started our way my friend had me raise the cane up high tilted towards the stage. She attached a sharpie pen to the elastic band that is connected to the handle. Unfortunately though Craig didn’t see our efforts because that was around the time he was tossing out T-Shirts to people.
After the concert he was kind enough to stay long enough for everyone who wanted an autograph could get one. The line was gynormous and I thought we would be there for hours. It moved fairly quickly though once it got going. I bought Princess a shirt that she could have signed and excitement was vibrating off of her as we moved through the line. She wanted me to get in a picture with him and her when we got up there but I admit I was apprehensive. I don’t normally like pictures even on a regular circumstance. So… you can imagine my predicament when little Miss Princess wants me to pose with a celebrity.
When we got up for our turn with Craig he signed my daughter’s shirt and was very friendly. I felt silly directly asking him to sign my cane and started to lose my nerve. My friend however, did not.
Once she asked he accepted of course with no issue. The smart ass in me came out in full force and I said…
Me: I tried to get you to sign it while you were singing but you didn’t see it.
Craig: I saw you… you were the one over there
Me: Well than why didn’t you sign it?
Craig: I didn’t know you wanted me to
Me: I was holding it up to the stage with a pen attached
Craig: Oh I’m sorry
This is when he starts signing my cane
Me: It’s alright dude, I didn’t see it either (totally dead pan and yes I’m a nerd and said dude)
Silence for about five seconds where I assume he was trying to gage my seriousness or maybe if I am even really blind. Once the evaluation was properly calculated he burst out laughing exclaiming “I love it.”
For a split second I thought about taking the opportunity that had presented itself and asked him if he would buy a copy of Clandestine How cool would that have been to have a famous person agree to check out your very first book. Then I could be like “hey Craig and me are “like this” (this is where I’d cross my fingers) and he even owns a copy of my book.” But the book isn’t technically out yet since the release is of course set for next month. That would be wicked cool though but I didn’t think it was appropriate. Lol I wish I would have had a copy with me I could have just gave it to him… DANG IT! If only the concert was after it was out! lol
But seriously, Princess and I had a wonderful time at the concert and the conversation after is something I will never forget. I’m going to have to get a new cane now though but it’s completely worth it. I will keep this one forever. Craig Campbell is a sweetheart and very down to earth as well as good natured to my corky sarcasm. I had a blast and can’t wait for him to come to town again.
PS… I really wanted a 2012 tour shirt for my daughter but unfortunately they were out of her size by the time we got up in the line. If anyone from Craig’s crew ever reads this I would love to know where I can get one for her. She really wanted that one because it had Longview WA written on the back as one of his many tour stops. She still got a different one but still really wants that one. I would really appreciate it and since we are “like this” and all… lol Just kidding
I went to a concert with Princess. It was for a country singer named Craig Campbell at the local fair in my small hole in the wall town. He’s a down home country boy with an adorable southern accent.
Even not being able to see, I thoroughly enjoyed myself at the concert and would go and see him again no questions asked. He sang not only his own awesome songs but also those by artists such as Alabama, Merl Haggerd, Tracy Bird, etc.
He was a very personable entertainer that had the crowd laughing on several occasions. What was more powerful still was the way everyone cheered for the songs they knew and even for those they didn’t. They stomped there feet loud enough that at times it sounded like thunder rolling through the stadium and often clapped in time with his beats.
The crowd on the ground worked hard for Craig’s attention and some were lucky enough to get a free T-Shirt or in the case of one young lady a story to tell. She had purchased a pair of Craig Campbell sunglasses from the merchandise booth and she handed them up to the singer while he was performing. He gladly took them and even wore them through part of one of his songs. He used her camera and took a picture of himself wearing her glasses. This of course gave me an idea.
I leaned over and asked my friend, “Do you think he would sign my cane?”
She thought there was a decent chance of it so she led me as well as Princess down on the ground in front of the stage. We were close enough to it that I could touch the floor of it. Every time he started our way my friend had me raise the cane up high tilted towards the stage. She attached a sharpie pen to the elastic band that is connected to the handle. Unfortunately though Craig didn’t see our efforts because that was around the time he was tossing out T-Shirts to people.
After the concert he was kind enough to stay long enough for everyone who wanted an autograph could get one. The line was gynormous and I thought we would be there for hours. It moved fairly quickly though once it got going. I bought Princess a shirt that she could have signed and excitement was vibrating off of her as we moved through the line. She wanted me to get in a picture with him and her when we got up there but I admit I was apprehensive. I don’t normally like pictures even on a regular circumstance. So… you can imagine my predicament when little Miss Princess wants me to pose with a celebrity.
When we got up for our turn with Craig he signed my daughter’s shirt and was very friendly. I felt silly directly asking him to sign my cane and started to lose my nerve. My friend however, did not.
Once she asked he accepted of course with no issue. The smart ass in me came out in full force and I said…
Me: I tried to get you to sign it while you were singing but you didn’t see it.
Craig: I saw you… you were the one over there
Me: Well than why didn’t you sign it?
Craig: I didn’t know you wanted me to
Me: I was holding it up to the stage with a pen attached
Craig: Oh I’m sorry
This is when he starts signing my cane
Me: It’s alright dude, I didn’t see it either (totally dead pan and yes I’m a nerd and said dude)
Silence for about five seconds where I assume he was trying to gage my seriousness or maybe if I am even really blind. Once the evaluation was properly calculated he burst out laughing exclaiming “I love it.”
For a split second I thought about taking the opportunity that had presented itself and asked him if he would buy a copy of Clandestine How cool would that have been to have a famous person agree to check out your very first book. Then I could be like “hey Craig and me are “like this” (this is where I’d cross my fingers) and he even owns a copy of my book.” But the book isn’t technically out yet since the release is of course set for next month. That would be wicked cool though but I didn’t think it was appropriate. Lol I wish I would have had a copy with me I could have just gave it to him… DANG IT! If only the concert was after it was out! lol
But seriously, Princess and I had a wonderful time at the concert and the conversation after is something I will never forget. I’m going to have to get a new cane now though but it’s completely worth it. I will keep this one forever. Craig Campbell is a sweetheart and very down to earth as well as good natured to my corky sarcasm. I had a blast and can’t wait for him to come to town again.
PS… I really wanted a 2012 tour shirt for my daughter but unfortunately they were out of her size by the time we got up in the line. If anyone from Craig’s crew ever reads this I would love to know where I can get one for her. She really wanted that one because it had Longview WA written on the back as one of his many tour stops. She still got a different one but still really wants that one. I would really appreciate it and since we are “like this” and all… lol Just kidding
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Princess's First Day Of School
Hey everyone:)
I just wanted to drop you a quick note about how Princess's first day of school. It went off without a hitch! She totally loved it!
She made new friends and reunited with friends from her old elementary school. She has at least a few friends in each class. All the teachers apparently were very cool and fun to listen to.
The only complaint that she had was about lunch. She said that it tasted stail. I personally don't see how since it is the first day of school and everything should be fresh. I think she's just picky. lol
Believe it or not, so far she is in love with school. She can't wait for tomorrow and I hope the good feeling train keeps rolling through.
I just wanted to drop you a quick note about how Princess's first day of school. It went off without a hitch! She totally loved it!
She made new friends and reunited with friends from her old elementary school. She has at least a few friends in each class. All the teachers apparently were very cool and fun to listen to.
The only complaint that she had was about lunch. She said that it tasted stail. I personally don't see how since it is the first day of school and everything should be fresh. I think she's just picky. lol
Believe it or not, so far she is in love with school. She can't wait for tomorrow and I hope the good feeling train keeps rolling through.
My Baby's Growing Up
Today my Princess starts her very first day of Junior High. She will have eight classes, a locker, lunch in a cafeteria and will be riding the bus. I can't help the tears as I get ready to send her off.
I know that growing up is a part of life. I get it, but that doesn't mean I have to like it. I want to keep my girls little bundles of joy forever. I want them to need me and never leave the nest.
She is very excited and scared all rolled into one wild mixed emotion. She got ready way earlier then she needed to and watched out the door for other kids to travel down to the bus stop.
I want such good things for her today. I hope that she loves her classes. I pray that she doesn't have trouble with her locker combination. I wish that she will make several hand fulls of new friends and lasting connections. I antisipate that she will miss recess, but think she won't mind.
I send with her strength, courage, warmth and love. I send with her a little bit of spit-fire tangled with consideration. I send with her the ability to know that a thick skin is required, but not necessary because she will do just fine.
My baby is a tower of strength at times you wouldn't think she'd stand. She is brave even when she is petrified. She's funny in times of great apprehension and she knows the difference between right and wrong.
For the entire second half of summer I anxiously awaited this day and couldn't hardly stand the need to enjoy the silence. Now that the day is here staring me in the face, I'm craving the noise and will miss her all day.
PS... I write later and let you know how it goes when she gets home:)
I know that growing up is a part of life. I get it, but that doesn't mean I have to like it. I want to keep my girls little bundles of joy forever. I want them to need me and never leave the nest.
She is very excited and scared all rolled into one wild mixed emotion. She got ready way earlier then she needed to and watched out the door for other kids to travel down to the bus stop.
I want such good things for her today. I hope that she loves her classes. I pray that she doesn't have trouble with her locker combination. I wish that she will make several hand fulls of new friends and lasting connections. I antisipate that she will miss recess, but think she won't mind.
I send with her strength, courage, warmth and love. I send with her a little bit of spit-fire tangled with consideration. I send with her the ability to know that a thick skin is required, but not necessary because she will do just fine.
My baby is a tower of strength at times you wouldn't think she'd stand. She is brave even when she is petrified. She's funny in times of great apprehension and she knows the difference between right and wrong.
For the entire second half of summer I anxiously awaited this day and couldn't hardly stand the need to enjoy the silence. Now that the day is here staring me in the face, I'm craving the noise and will miss her all day.
PS... I write later and let you know how it goes when she gets home:)
Thursday, May 31, 2012
You're Just Sayin That Cuz You're Old
I keep thinking this morning about time and how quickly it passes. When I first became a mommy everyone around me told me not to blink because I would miss something.
I scoffed, “Yeah right. You’re just sayin that because you’re old.”
Now I’m twenty-eight with two kids that are soon to be eleven and three and a half. I find myself telling one of my cousins who just ad a baby not to blink. Then I shudder inwardly at the revelation that the statement I just made condemned me to being old too. That’s right I Nicole Rae am old, or at least getting there fast with no end in sight.
AHHHHHHHHHHH!!!
So I know I’m not truly old. Obviously, I’m not even thirty. But I’m pretty close. I have Princess going into Junior High this fall. The other day she brought home a slip where she got to pick her elective and we both had to sign it. As cliche and old as it makes me sound I still remember the day I brought that same slip home for my parents to sign. I thought I was the coolest thing alive. It felt like a right of passage in my life.
Then I of course got to Junior High and realized the reality. I was a little fish in a big pond. I had to learn to swim harder and faster than I ever thought possible in order to keep up. But it was good. Junior High taught me a lot. Of course that always isn’t a good thing but hey, lessons learned are lessons learned.
I worry about Princess going to a bigger school with bigger kids and bigger homework loads. She is a very smart kid but the pressures can be overwhelming for anyone and hope that she is strong enough to not succumb to them. I have every confidence in her though. Sure there will be bumps along the way but that is to be expected when embarking on any new adventure.
Peanut will be starting Pre-School in the fall. My youngest baby is going to school. I am somewhat sad to see this milestone reached so early but am excited for her. Everyday she watches Princess go to school and wonders why she doesn’t get to go. Soon though, she will be getting on a school bus and headed to her new classroom and she can’t wait. Even as I write this she is standing at the coffee table practicing writing her name and playing with a book she was given at her school intake appointment.
Did I mention that in the fall I will have four days a week of me time??? A tiny part of me can’t figure out what I am going to do with myself. The bigger more rational part of me says…
HALLELUJAH!!!
Like most moms I don’t get very many days off. Being a single parent I don’t have a spouse to share the joys and pit falls of parenting with. It is all on my shoulders and boy are my arms tired. Sorry bad joke lol.
I am eager to have a few hours a day with utter silence. No TV, No booming stereos, no fighting, no crying, no tantrums, no mommy can I’s… NOTHING. Just me and me alone to relax. It will be nice to be able to clean up and not have the entire task ruined when one of them comes behind me. It will be nice to be able to put my full concentration into writing. Hell, I will be able to nap all by myself if I want to. I will be able to get errands done without another million mommy can I’s.
I totally adore my girls and wouldn’t change a single hair on their head. I love spending time with them and that is a fact. But I am also looking forward to the much deserved, long awaited for me time.
Please show your support and “Like” my Facebook Page. It’s fairly new and doesn’t have a lot of supporters yet. It will only take a second and you’d be helping spread the word about an emerging author. Don’t forget Clandestine comes out this summer so I need all the help I can get. To visit and like the my author Facebook Page please click HERE
I scoffed, “Yeah right. You’re just sayin that because you’re old.”
Now I’m twenty-eight with two kids that are soon to be eleven and three and a half. I find myself telling one of my cousins who just ad a baby not to blink. Then I shudder inwardly at the revelation that the statement I just made condemned me to being old too. That’s right I Nicole Rae am old, or at least getting there fast with no end in sight.
AHHHHHHHHHHH!!!
So I know I’m not truly old. Obviously, I’m not even thirty. But I’m pretty close. I have Princess going into Junior High this fall. The other day she brought home a slip where she got to pick her elective and we both had to sign it. As cliche and old as it makes me sound I still remember the day I brought that same slip home for my parents to sign. I thought I was the coolest thing alive. It felt like a right of passage in my life.
Then I of course got to Junior High and realized the reality. I was a little fish in a big pond. I had to learn to swim harder and faster than I ever thought possible in order to keep up. But it was good. Junior High taught me a lot. Of course that always isn’t a good thing but hey, lessons learned are lessons learned.
I worry about Princess going to a bigger school with bigger kids and bigger homework loads. She is a very smart kid but the pressures can be overwhelming for anyone and hope that she is strong enough to not succumb to them. I have every confidence in her though. Sure there will be bumps along the way but that is to be expected when embarking on any new adventure.
Peanut will be starting Pre-School in the fall. My youngest baby is going to school. I am somewhat sad to see this milestone reached so early but am excited for her. Everyday she watches Princess go to school and wonders why she doesn’t get to go. Soon though, she will be getting on a school bus and headed to her new classroom and she can’t wait. Even as I write this she is standing at the coffee table practicing writing her name and playing with a book she was given at her school intake appointment.
Did I mention that in the fall I will have four days a week of me time??? A tiny part of me can’t figure out what I am going to do with myself. The bigger more rational part of me says…
HALLELUJAH!!!
Like most moms I don’t get very many days off. Being a single parent I don’t have a spouse to share the joys and pit falls of parenting with. It is all on my shoulders and boy are my arms tired. Sorry bad joke lol.
I am eager to have a few hours a day with utter silence. No TV, No booming stereos, no fighting, no crying, no tantrums, no mommy can I’s… NOTHING. Just me and me alone to relax. It will be nice to be able to clean up and not have the entire task ruined when one of them comes behind me. It will be nice to be able to put my full concentration into writing. Hell, I will be able to nap all by myself if I want to. I will be able to get errands done without another million mommy can I’s.
I totally adore my girls and wouldn’t change a single hair on their head. I love spending time with them and that is a fact. But I am also looking forward to the much deserved, long awaited for me time.
Please show your support and “Like” my Facebook Page. It’s fairly new and doesn’t have a lot of supporters yet. It will only take a second and you’d be helping spread the word about an emerging author. Don’t forget Clandestine comes out this summer so I need all the help I can get. To visit and like the my author Facebook Page please click HERE
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Birthday Cake Revelations
Sometimes I wonder why adults don’t look more to kids for advice. Their simplicity and innocent little natures can be quite insightful at times. Maybe if we took a more simplistic approach in certain matters the world wouldn’t be so corrupt.
The old saying that “kids say the darndest things” is so incredibly true. In one phrase a child can solve a problem, calm you down and make you take a step back and reevaluate a situation.
In my household that is common place. My three year old Peanut always makes me stop and have a “huh moment”. I find myself constantly asking did she really just say that?
Last night was no different. Princess, Peanut and I were hanging out watching American Idol. That is my Princess’s favorite show and has been since she was like three or four. I was working on edits for Clandestine and trying to decide who I thought should be kicked off this week.
Peanut came up to me like usual toting a delectable treat for me to pretend eat. This time it was on a coaster. The food was still of course a Lego but this time it was my birthday cake. Of course my birthday isn’t until September but I was still completely appreciative.
I started to pick up the Lego confection when she stopped me and said…
“Mommy, you gotta blow da candles out.”
I said, “Oh I am so sorry. What was I thinking?” I then proceeded to suck in a deep breath to blow out the candles on my yummy pretend cake.
Peanut stopped me again. “Mommy you gotta make a whish.”
I smiled and apologized again. I closed my eyes real tight and pretended like I was thinking of the perfect wish.
“Mommy, tell me your wish,” chortles Peanut.
“I don’t know peanut, what do you think I should wish for?” I asked her.
She got really excited and said the following. “Say what I say…”
*Keep in mind that I’m repeating her after each sentence.*
Peanut continued. “When I’m sixteen… I wanna drive a car… so fix my eyes…”
I couldn’t even repeat the last part when she said that. I never would have realized that my three year old would have enough insight to know that driving would be a wish for me but that I would need my eyes fixed in order to do so. I must admit that tears swelled my eyes and I laughed a laugh that was happiness mixed with sadness.
I love my two daughters so much and truly don’t know what I would do without them. They remind me every day that life is worth living. Without them I wouldn’t be me. They are honest to God Blessings. They drive me insane and I’ll probably go prematurely grey but they are mine and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
The old saying that “kids say the darndest things” is so incredibly true. In one phrase a child can solve a problem, calm you down and make you take a step back and reevaluate a situation.
In my household that is common place. My three year old Peanut always makes me stop and have a “huh moment”. I find myself constantly asking did she really just say that?
Last night was no different. Princess, Peanut and I were hanging out watching American Idol. That is my Princess’s favorite show and has been since she was like three or four. I was working on edits for Clandestine and trying to decide who I thought should be kicked off this week.
Peanut came up to me like usual toting a delectable treat for me to pretend eat. This time it was on a coaster. The food was still of course a Lego but this time it was my birthday cake. Of course my birthday isn’t until September but I was still completely appreciative.
I started to pick up the Lego confection when she stopped me and said…
“Mommy, you gotta blow da candles out.”
I said, “Oh I am so sorry. What was I thinking?” I then proceeded to suck in a deep breath to blow out the candles on my yummy pretend cake.
Peanut stopped me again. “Mommy you gotta make a whish.”
I smiled and apologized again. I closed my eyes real tight and pretended like I was thinking of the perfect wish.
“Mommy, tell me your wish,” chortles Peanut.
“I don’t know peanut, what do you think I should wish for?” I asked her.
She got really excited and said the following. “Say what I say…”
*Keep in mind that I’m repeating her after each sentence.*
Peanut continued. “When I’m sixteen… I wanna drive a car… so fix my eyes…”
I couldn’t even repeat the last part when she said that. I never would have realized that my three year old would have enough insight to know that driving would be a wish for me but that I would need my eyes fixed in order to do so. I must admit that tears swelled my eyes and I laughed a laugh that was happiness mixed with sadness.
I love my two daughters so much and truly don’t know what I would do without them. They remind me every day that life is worth living. Without them I wouldn’t be me. They are honest to God Blessings. They drive me insane and I’ll probably go prematurely grey but they are mine and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Friday, March 30, 2012
The Princess And The Peanut VS Writing
When you’re a mommy it’s really hard to have a writing routine. Neither job can be mutually exclusive. Nevertheless, both are important. It’s pretty much inevitable that both activities will run together.
I have two beautiful daughters that I will refer to as Princess and Peanut. The main reason for this is because my oldest daughter (Princess) would have a fit if she knew I was talking about her.
Anyway, Princess is ten and Peanut is two. Obviously, Princess goes to school five days a week, so that should make it easier for my writing. However, little Miss Peanut isn’t in school yet so she’s home with me every day. She will be attending Pre-School in the fall and is super siked about it.
Because she is home all the time, she of course demands the majority of my attention. I will say though, she is really good about entertaining herself for a bit if Mommy needs to get some work done. Now don’t get me wrong, there are interruptions… Lord there are interruptions.
I am sometimes in the middle of an intense plot point of a book I’m working on when Peanut decides she wants to take my order. This usually means I need to stop what I’m doing and tell her I want a milkshake and a carrot, or some other random combination I come up with at the time. Peanut will then rush to her pretend kitchen to fill my order. When she returns she has my delectable treat presented on a sparkling tray. Now by treat I mean Legos that she calls my food and drink. By sparkling tray, I mean one of her hard cover story books which do sparkle thanks to the glossy cover.
I then have to pretend to consume her creations and give her a rave review at which time I hand her my pretend money. After that, she takes my finished items back to her pretend kitchen and does the dishes. She’s really quite an efficient little thing isn’t she?
PS… If you ever play this game with her don’t ask her for change when you pay her. That’s where she scams ya.
Needless to say this some times makes for a non-eventful work day. For the most part I’m fine with it. I have learned to schedule my work stints in conjunction with naps, movie time or after both Princess and Peanut are tucked in at the end of the day. The only problem is sometimes you can’t schedule when an idea will take form. In order to let the creative juices flow and get the thought out, I will make a note of it on my computer or on my IPhone. For all of you sighted mommies, you can substitute computer for pen and paper if that’s more convenient.
Someday Miss Peanut will be in school full time and I’ll be able to have a normal work day with my writing. I am excited for those days but will miss my Lego and story book treats dearly. Yes writing is important and my future but it is only a piece. It’s easy to get wrapped up in writing your next book but always remember to cherish your little Peanut. They are only little once.
Please sign up to be a follower of this blog. If you do, you will get an Email message delivered to your Inbox letting you know when I’ve posted something new. If you are reading this and you are a Mommy and a Writer, leave a comment on this post. What’s your writing routine? Do you have a schedule too?
I have two beautiful daughters that I will refer to as Princess and Peanut. The main reason for this is because my oldest daughter (Princess) would have a fit if she knew I was talking about her.
Anyway, Princess is ten and Peanut is two. Obviously, Princess goes to school five days a week, so that should make it easier for my writing. However, little Miss Peanut isn’t in school yet so she’s home with me every day. She will be attending Pre-School in the fall and is super siked about it.
Because she is home all the time, she of course demands the majority of my attention. I will say though, she is really good about entertaining herself for a bit if Mommy needs to get some work done. Now don’t get me wrong, there are interruptions… Lord there are interruptions.
I am sometimes in the middle of an intense plot point of a book I’m working on when Peanut decides she wants to take my order. This usually means I need to stop what I’m doing and tell her I want a milkshake and a carrot, or some other random combination I come up with at the time. Peanut will then rush to her pretend kitchen to fill my order. When she returns she has my delectable treat presented on a sparkling tray. Now by treat I mean Legos that she calls my food and drink. By sparkling tray, I mean one of her hard cover story books which do sparkle thanks to the glossy cover.
I then have to pretend to consume her creations and give her a rave review at which time I hand her my pretend money. After that, she takes my finished items back to her pretend kitchen and does the dishes. She’s really quite an efficient little thing isn’t she?
PS… If you ever play this game with her don’t ask her for change when you pay her. That’s where she scams ya.
Needless to say this some times makes for a non-eventful work day. For the most part I’m fine with it. I have learned to schedule my work stints in conjunction with naps, movie time or after both Princess and Peanut are tucked in at the end of the day. The only problem is sometimes you can’t schedule when an idea will take form. In order to let the creative juices flow and get the thought out, I will make a note of it on my computer or on my IPhone. For all of you sighted mommies, you can substitute computer for pen and paper if that’s more convenient.
Someday Miss Peanut will be in school full time and I’ll be able to have a normal work day with my writing. I am excited for those days but will miss my Lego and story book treats dearly. Yes writing is important and my future but it is only a piece. It’s easy to get wrapped up in writing your next book but always remember to cherish your little Peanut. They are only little once.
Please sign up to be a follower of this blog. If you do, you will get an Email message delivered to your Inbox letting you know when I’ve posted something new. If you are reading this and you are a Mommy and a Writer, leave a comment on this post. What’s your writing routine? Do you have a schedule too?
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