The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and it's a beautiful day. Everyone is fresh from a good night's sleep: EXCEPT ME. I was up all night.
Second night in a row. The night previous, the last time I looked at the clock it was 4am.
What's keeping me up?
Sarah Palin.
I've got myself all worked up over politics. I'm married to a republican. My best friend is a democrat. I'm a moderate. I seem to always be caught in the middle of things. I've already expressed by my views, so I won't go there.
I will mention this. Sarah Palin's youngest daughter was as cute as a bug's ear while her mother gave her speech. The licking of her hand and smoothing of baby brother's hair was precious. I've read that in quite a few places on the web, everyone thinking that was cute.
I haven't read this: Was there anyone out there, besides me, thinking: TWO HANDS, hold that baby with two hands??? That made me nervous seeing that little girl holding her baby brother with one hand.
I know that I am an anxious person. I know that I need to let go of the politics. I need my sleep. When I get anxious, I don't sleep. So no more reading about politics. Let's see how long that lasts!
I'm going to try to take a nap now. Before I do, I'm going to gather several things that Thomas can do without mom's instruction. I'll get up with him, probably do math, and then I'll take a morning nap, because I cannot function with little to no sleep, I just can't. I will not nap in the afternoon, though. He can work on independent stuff while I take an hour snooze, and then I'll get up and finish the stuff I need to with him.
Not optimal, but it will do.
This is why I don't watch or read a lot of news, because I get too worked up over stuff. While that means I'm not keeping current, which isn't good, it means that I don't get worked up about stuff. Sometimes it stinks being a highly emotional person.
Thursday, September 04, 2008
Monday, September 01, 2008
Spelling, Week 1
In addition to our spelling program this year, we are going to work on a list of 20 words each week. Thomas is weak in spelling, and we are going to work really hard at it this year. I decided to scour the internet for lists of most commonly misspelled words. I made lots of lists, and from that, a master list. From that, I'm picking 20 words each week, in no particular order.
I am printing the lists for him, and it is his job to study them on his own. He'll have a test on Friday. I have chosen to chunk the words for him, so he visualize them better.
Hopefully we'll see great improvement this year! I'm planning on sharing the lists here, as this IS my homeschool journal, even though I go way off into left field so many times.
Week 1
abbreviate
baggage
cabbage
daily
eager
facilities
gadget
hammer
icicle
jealous
kitchen
label
machinery
naive
obedience
package
quarter
raise
safety
tariff
ab-bre-vi-ate
bag-gage
cab-bage
dai-ly
ea-ger
fa-cil-i-ties
gad-get
ham-mer
i-ci-cle
jeal-ous
kitch-en
la-bel
ma-chin-er-y
na-ive
o-be-di-ence
pack-age
quar-ter
raise
safe-ty
tar-iff
I am printing the lists for him, and it is his job to study them on his own. He'll have a test on Friday. I have chosen to chunk the words for him, so he visualize them better.
Hopefully we'll see great improvement this year! I'm planning on sharing the lists here, as this IS my homeschool journal, even though I go way off into left field so many times.
Week 1
abbreviate
baggage
cabbage
daily
eager
facilities
gadget
hammer
icicle
jealous
kitchen
label
machinery
naive
obedience
package
quarter
raise
safety
tariff
ab-bre-vi-ate
bag-gage
cab-bage
dai-ly
ea-ger
fa-cil-i-ties
gad-get
ham-mer
i-ci-cle
jeal-ous
kitch-en
la-bel
ma-chin-er-y
na-ive
o-be-di-ence
pack-age
quar-ter
raise
safe-ty
tar-iff
This and That
Monday. Nice to have a day off. For Bob, that is, somehow moms never get a day off.
I need to get to civilization sometime soon. My boom box is dying. Thomas and Bob bought me a very nice CD player for the kitchen a few years ago. It's a Sony, it's pretty--has a lovely blue neon light--and has great sound. The sad thing is that the CD player is no longer working. It started going on the blitz this past spring, and now I cannot get any CDs to play.
That presents a problem when we want decent quality for our Story of the World CDs. (We're doing SOTW4 this year.) Plus, I like music, and I can't play my CDs.
My past CD player lasted about four years, and the CD player went on it, too. Everything else on both continued to work just fine.
Bob suggested getting a Bose. I laughed and said I don't want to spend that much money. $500? $150 tops for me, thank you very much.
I still haven't got that Abba CD, and Thomas continues to listen to Abba on You Tube.
Cha-ching.
And another thing. The new chairs we bought for our kitchen table don't work well for me. I waited so long for the beautiful new chocolate brown chairs. They look so much better than the chairs we had that we bought right after (or was it before?) we were married. (1989!) The thing is: it hurts my back to sit in these chairs. I've tried adjusting the chairs in all different manners, but it just isn't working. Bob suggested that I buy a nice-quality office chair. He told me not to worry about what it looks like at my kitchen table, because my back is more important. He's right. So I'll have to make a trip to the big city.
Cha-ching. Cha-ching.
The chair is a necessity. The boom box and Abba CD: not so much. We will use Thomas's CD player, but the sound quality stinks.
I've been debating our first day of school. I had originally planned on jumping right in, going full force. I think Thomas and I need a more gentle approach. So, I held back on cleaning the school room like I normally would. I did manage to get all the books off the floor, though. We will jump right in with math and a few other core subjects, but we'll also organize and clean our school room.
We didn't use the school room much last yea. The year before we did. We both prefer the kitchen table. I have come up with a compromise, though. Our kitchen faces east, so we have nasty sun in the mornings. We have large kitchen windows, so we usually keep the windows closed up until 11ish. We've decided we'll do school in the west-facing school room in the mornings and then move to the kitchen table in the afternoons. That way we get open windows, we'll be able to resume our bird watching out the school room, and we'll be able to keep the table less messy. Bob just hates it when he comes home for lunch and all our stuff is spread out on the table.
Of course we'll have our annual first day of school drive-through breakfast tomorrow. Biscuits and Gravy for Thomas from Arby's (we miss Hardee's so!) and an Egg McMuffin from McDonald's for me.
This past week I was nervous about starting school. Today I'm very relaxed about it. I think taking the pressure off to get the room perfect, everything perfectly organized helped me. Plus, if I make Thomas participate in that, he'll take more ownership in it. And the kid has some very good ideas on organization, too. He's much more creative than I am.
The rest of the day today I will be finishing laundry and paying bills, sipping coffee and putzing. Oh, and preparing my annual letter to the school district, can't forget that! And watching news coverage of the hurricane.
I need to get to civilization sometime soon. My boom box is dying. Thomas and Bob bought me a very nice CD player for the kitchen a few years ago. It's a Sony, it's pretty--has a lovely blue neon light--and has great sound. The sad thing is that the CD player is no longer working. It started going on the blitz this past spring, and now I cannot get any CDs to play.
That presents a problem when we want decent quality for our Story of the World CDs. (We're doing SOTW4 this year.) Plus, I like music, and I can't play my CDs.
My past CD player lasted about four years, and the CD player went on it, too. Everything else on both continued to work just fine.
Bob suggested getting a Bose. I laughed and said I don't want to spend that much money. $500? $150 tops for me, thank you very much.
I still haven't got that Abba CD, and Thomas continues to listen to Abba on You Tube.
Cha-ching.
And another thing. The new chairs we bought for our kitchen table don't work well for me. I waited so long for the beautiful new chocolate brown chairs. They look so much better than the chairs we had that we bought right after (or was it before?) we were married. (1989!) The thing is: it hurts my back to sit in these chairs. I've tried adjusting the chairs in all different manners, but it just isn't working. Bob suggested that I buy a nice-quality office chair. He told me not to worry about what it looks like at my kitchen table, because my back is more important. He's right. So I'll have to make a trip to the big city.
Cha-ching. Cha-ching.
The chair is a necessity. The boom box and Abba CD: not so much. We will use Thomas's CD player, but the sound quality stinks.
I've been debating our first day of school. I had originally planned on jumping right in, going full force. I think Thomas and I need a more gentle approach. So, I held back on cleaning the school room like I normally would. I did manage to get all the books off the floor, though. We will jump right in with math and a few other core subjects, but we'll also organize and clean our school room.
We didn't use the school room much last yea. The year before we did. We both prefer the kitchen table. I have come up with a compromise, though. Our kitchen faces east, so we have nasty sun in the mornings. We have large kitchen windows, so we usually keep the windows closed up until 11ish. We've decided we'll do school in the west-facing school room in the mornings and then move to the kitchen table in the afternoons. That way we get open windows, we'll be able to resume our bird watching out the school room, and we'll be able to keep the table less messy. Bob just hates it when he comes home for lunch and all our stuff is spread out on the table.
Of course we'll have our annual first day of school drive-through breakfast tomorrow. Biscuits and Gravy for Thomas from Arby's (we miss Hardee's so!) and an Egg McMuffin from McDonald's for me.
This past week I was nervous about starting school. Today I'm very relaxed about it. I think taking the pressure off to get the room perfect, everything perfectly organized helped me. Plus, if I make Thomas participate in that, he'll take more ownership in it. And the kid has some very good ideas on organization, too. He's much more creative than I am.
The rest of the day today I will be finishing laundry and paying bills, sipping coffee and putzing. Oh, and preparing my annual letter to the school district, can't forget that! And watching news coverage of the hurricane.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Spanish
Thomas and I tried to study Spanish last year. We have Bob's college text and tapes. It really isn't too much for us even though it's a text book because we can break it down into small chunks. Thomas does really well with the chunks.
We're having a slight problem, though. That problem is ME! I just am putting up a block to learning Spanish! I am slowing us down because I can't remember the vocabulary and then I cannot pronounce it correctly.
To be quite honest, I think the text book is boring. It was free, sitting there on the shelf gathering dust -- and then I bought another text book on eBay so we'd each have one, and that was less than $10. The price was right. But it's boring.
I've been looking at Rosetta Stone. Wow, it's a lot of money. I sure like the visuals though. I have done the Turkish sample a few times and I am remembering what I'm hearing/seeing. Thomas did that sample once and remembered it all.
Is Rosetta Stone worth the money?
money, money, money
We're having a slight problem, though. That problem is ME! I just am putting up a block to learning Spanish! I am slowing us down because I can't remember the vocabulary and then I cannot pronounce it correctly.
To be quite honest, I think the text book is boring. It was free, sitting there on the shelf gathering dust -- and then I bought another text book on eBay so we'd each have one, and that was less than $10. The price was right. But it's boring.
I've been looking at Rosetta Stone. Wow, it's a lot of money. I sure like the visuals though. I have done the Turkish sample a few times and I am remembering what I'm hearing/seeing. Thomas did that sample once and remembered it all.
Is Rosetta Stone worth the money?
money, money, money
Music to My Ears
I caught Thomas singing yesterday. Big deal, right? Yeah, it was a big deal because Thomas doesn't sing.
My kiddo isn't in to music. He hates--H-A-T-E-S--to sing. His one complaint about summer camp? Singing camp songs. He refused.
So yesterday I heard him singing. I can't complain about what he was singing, because he was singing.
Want to know the band that he is now in love with? I have had to endure listening to every one of their You Tube videos for the past few days. It's okay, because I like them -- takes me back to my childhood and teen days. I've never owned their album. Thomas will, though, as soon as I can get to Wal-Mart. I'm going to buy him a Happy New Year/Not Back to School present for Tuesday morning. We can listen to it during school that day. On my CD player, that sounds a million times better than the speakers on our laptops.
This is his new favorite band and song: (Should we be concerned? lol) (I think he has a crush on Agnetha, who must be near 60 by now. She was a cutie in the video, though.)
My kiddo isn't in to music. He hates--H-A-T-E-S--to sing. His one complaint about summer camp? Singing camp songs. He refused.
So yesterday I heard him singing. I can't complain about what he was singing, because he was singing.
Want to know the band that he is now in love with? I have had to endure listening to every one of their You Tube videos for the past few days. It's okay, because I like them -- takes me back to my childhood and teen days. I've never owned their album. Thomas will, though, as soon as I can get to Wal-Mart. I'm going to buy him a Happy New Year/Not Back to School present for Tuesday morning. We can listen to it during school that day. On my CD player, that sounds a million times better than the speakers on our laptops.
This is his new favorite band and song: (Should we be concerned? lol) (I think he has a crush on Agnetha, who must be near 60 by now. She was a cutie in the video, though.)
Friday, August 29, 2008
The Hardest Thing...
The hardest thing I ever did in my life was have a child and return to work. I had no choice, as Bob was finishing up his degree and I was the bread winner. I worked until Thomas was 22 months old. I hated every single minute I was away from my baby.
So I was quite shocked when I was reading about Governor Palin just now at Wikipedia. She had her youngest child on April 18, 2008. This baby boy has Down Syndrome. This baby is four months old. Four months old.
Personally, I could never spend that much time away from my baby, especially a special needs baby, especially when I knew how much time is going to be spent campaigning.
I will not judge. I will not judge. I will not judge.
I know some women are better mothers when they work. I worked with them. I know no one thinks twice about a man spending that much time away from his baby.
I'm old fashioned and sexist, I guess.
I just find it -- looking for a word here -- strange.
I am sitting here very torn, because I'm all for Women's Lib. I believe wholeheartedly in a woman's right to choose, equal pay for equal work, etc. I really do. And I believe a woman has a right to choose to work or stay home with her child(ren). And I support that choice. But do I in all cases?
I just could never leave my baby, my four-month-old Down Syndrome baby, like that. I just couldn't do it. And sadly, I have the need to force myself to work on being open minded about it.
I had already made my decision to vote for Obama, so this isn't a political thing. It's a mother thing.
Frankie, who has some work to do and fully expects lots of negative comments on this one!
So I was quite shocked when I was reading about Governor Palin just now at Wikipedia. She had her youngest child on April 18, 2008. This baby boy has Down Syndrome. This baby is four months old. Four months old.
Personally, I could never spend that much time away from my baby, especially a special needs baby, especially when I knew how much time is going to be spent campaigning.
I will not judge. I will not judge. I will not judge.
I know some women are better mothers when they work. I worked with them. I know no one thinks twice about a man spending that much time away from his baby.
I'm old fashioned and sexist, I guess.
I just find it -- looking for a word here -- strange.
I am sitting here very torn, because I'm all for Women's Lib. I believe wholeheartedly in a woman's right to choose, equal pay for equal work, etc. I really do. And I believe a woman has a right to choose to work or stay home with her child(ren). And I support that choice. But do I in all cases?
I just could never leave my baby, my four-month-old Down Syndrome baby, like that. I just couldn't do it. And sadly, I have the need to force myself to work on being open minded about it.
I had already made my decision to vote for Obama, so this isn't a political thing. It's a mother thing.
Frankie, who has some work to do and fully expects lots of negative comments on this one!
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
A Lovely Day
Thomas and I had a lovely day today. Instead of working on school plans, cleaning the school room, paying bills, doing laundry, cleaning house, etc., we hopped in the car and headed toward civilization.
Mankato, Minnesota was our destination. It's over an hour from where we live, but it's the closest town that has any big chain stores. Well, we have Walmart and Kmart and a few fast food chains, but it has a mall, a BOOKSTORE, an Office Max, Sam's Club...cool stores.
Today's mission was to find The Sims2 Apartment Life for Thomas. We could have got it here, but it was much more fun to go there. We left this morning. We went to the mall and walked it a few times. Ahhh, Frankie needed to get off her lazy you-know-what and exercise a little. Then we hit all the fun stores: Yankee Candles, where I made a small purchase, the Game Stop where Thomas was sorely disappointed that what he was seeking didn't come out until tomorrow. And of course we hit the bookstore.
We went to the great pet store and bought our good dog food and two containers to store the food in. Pesky little border collies are too smart for Rubbermaid containers. We bought two containers that latch and they won't be able to open. Ahem, hopefully. The dogs like to snack on the cat food, so hopefully we'll alleviate that!
We went to Sally Beauty Supply just because Bob wasn't with us and I could. lol Bob will buy monthly female products at the grocery store without batting an eye, but he won't go to Sally Beauty Supply. Go figure.
We stopped off at a Baker's Square for a mid-afternoon snack. We had never gone there before, and we indulged in cheesecake and a cinnamon roll. Mmmmm.
All the while, we talked and talked like we hadn't seen each other in a long time. We laughed, we joked, and we thoroughly enjoyed each other's company.
It was a special day. We left the sadness and grieving behind. We lived in the moment and loved each other's company.
I was only slightly annoyed at our final stop on the way out of town: Best Buy. The greeter at the door was a retired gentleman. He touched my arm and asked, "When does school start?" I smiled and said Tuesday. He said, "Oh, Mom, I bet you're glad!" This is where Frankie got a little ornery. I smiled and said, "Oh, yes, we're very excited to start school again. We homeschool. My son is a very good kid and I really enjoy being in his company."
The man literally took a step back. He smiled, said that was great, and then turned and walked away.
Why do people assume that moms are tired of being with their kids at the end of summer? Even when Thomas WAS in public school, I hated the start of school. I hated it! I will never get that.
Mom 101: Love your child each and every moment, because they grow too damned fast. They'll be on their own in the blink of an eye. So don't get annoyed by them being with you, embrace it. If they're climbing the walls, be a parent and do something with them, guide them, love them.
There, off my soap box.
So yes, we are excited for school to start this year. Even Thomas confessed today he's ready to go, albeit a little nervous. He knows the work will be more difficult this year. But we're excited because we homeschool.
Mankato, Minnesota was our destination. It's over an hour from where we live, but it's the closest town that has any big chain stores. Well, we have Walmart and Kmart and a few fast food chains, but it has a mall, a BOOKSTORE, an Office Max, Sam's Club...cool stores.
Today's mission was to find The Sims2 Apartment Life for Thomas. We could have got it here, but it was much more fun to go there. We left this morning. We went to the mall and walked it a few times. Ahhh, Frankie needed to get off her lazy you-know-what and exercise a little. Then we hit all the fun stores: Yankee Candles, where I made a small purchase, the Game Stop where Thomas was sorely disappointed that what he was seeking didn't come out until tomorrow. And of course we hit the bookstore.
We went to the great pet store and bought our good dog food and two containers to store the food in. Pesky little border collies are too smart for Rubbermaid containers. We bought two containers that latch and they won't be able to open. Ahem, hopefully. The dogs like to snack on the cat food, so hopefully we'll alleviate that!
We went to Sally Beauty Supply just because Bob wasn't with us and I could. lol Bob will buy monthly female products at the grocery store without batting an eye, but he won't go to Sally Beauty Supply. Go figure.
We stopped off at a Baker's Square for a mid-afternoon snack. We had never gone there before, and we indulged in cheesecake and a cinnamon roll. Mmmmm.
All the while, we talked and talked like we hadn't seen each other in a long time. We laughed, we joked, and we thoroughly enjoyed each other's company.
It was a special day. We left the sadness and grieving behind. We lived in the moment and loved each other's company.
I was only slightly annoyed at our final stop on the way out of town: Best Buy. The greeter at the door was a retired gentleman. He touched my arm and asked, "When does school start?" I smiled and said Tuesday. He said, "Oh, Mom, I bet you're glad!" This is where Frankie got a little ornery. I smiled and said, "Oh, yes, we're very excited to start school again. We homeschool. My son is a very good kid and I really enjoy being in his company."
The man literally took a step back. He smiled, said that was great, and then turned and walked away.
Why do people assume that moms are tired of being with their kids at the end of summer? Even when Thomas WAS in public school, I hated the start of school. I hated it! I will never get that.
Mom 101: Love your child each and every moment, because they grow too damned fast. They'll be on their own in the blink of an eye. So don't get annoyed by them being with you, embrace it. If they're climbing the walls, be a parent and do something with them, guide them, love them.
There, off my soap box.
So yes, we are excited for school to start this year. Even Thomas confessed today he's ready to go, albeit a little nervous. He knows the work will be more difficult this year. But we're excited because we homeschool.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Friendships
The way we form friendships is changing. No longer are they formed only face to face, some chance meeting, but now they are formed in cyber world.
I just wanted to take a moment to thank all my cyber friends for the support I've been receiving here on the blog. It really means a lot getting an encouraging word when one is sorely needed.
Tonight I talked with one of my e-friends on the phone for close to two hours. She did more to pick up my spirits and encourage me. She's even pumped me up enough to clean out the school room tomorrow! I enjoy listening to all she's going through in life at the moment and her homeschooling journey. Thank you, Blue Hen.
Thank you to my Georgia Peach and Becky, who have also stuck by me in all my craziness. It means a lot.
And thanks to everyone for reading my blog when I have clearly gone way off topic for so long. Your comments mean a lot. And even if people read and don't comment, thanks for sticking with me.
I have a few friends here in my small town, but they're the kind I have to watch what I say. I feel so liberated here at the blog to be myself. (Okay, I don't swear on the blog and I do say an occasional naughty word in real life, but I try to have a little class here.)
So thank you, to all my friends.
I hope to stick more to homeschooling and less on my woes in the future. I won't quit whining, but I'll try to curb it.
I leave you with a poem:
I just wanted to take a moment to thank all my cyber friends for the support I've been receiving here on the blog. It really means a lot getting an encouraging word when one is sorely needed.
Tonight I talked with one of my e-friends on the phone for close to two hours. She did more to pick up my spirits and encourage me. She's even pumped me up enough to clean out the school room tomorrow! I enjoy listening to all she's going through in life at the moment and her homeschooling journey. Thank you, Blue Hen.
Thank you to my Georgia Peach and Becky, who have also stuck by me in all my craziness. It means a lot.
And thanks to everyone for reading my blog when I have clearly gone way off topic for so long. Your comments mean a lot. And even if people read and don't comment, thanks for sticking with me.
I have a few friends here in my small town, but they're the kind I have to watch what I say. I feel so liberated here at the blog to be myself. (Okay, I don't swear on the blog and I do say an occasional naughty word in real life, but I try to have a little class here.)
So thank you, to all my friends.
I hope to stick more to homeschooling and less on my woes in the future. I won't quit whining, but I'll try to curb it.
I leave you with a poem:
Internet Friends
by Ann Stareyes
My Internet Friends
You're so dear to my heart.
Family I've found
Real friendship I've received
I love you all so
Every moment shared
Never will be forgot
Deep within my heart
Special friends I cherish.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Sleep, Or Lack Thereof
It is 7:10 am. I have been up all night. Not by choice.
In the last week, I have had three sleepless nights. Normally I can drift off when Bob gets up and starts getting ready for work. Today I didn't because his jeans were in the washer and I got up and threw them in the dryer so he'd have something to wear to work. Nice of me, eh?
I think I'm going to try to stay up.
I think this lack of sleep is due to the grieving process. I constantly think of my Dad, I worry about his house selling, I re-live the past five months over and over and over. I worry about Thomas. I worry about school, and my inability to finish getting it all planned out. We're good to go, really, but I'm a planner and I haven't done that anal planning that I like to do with pretty planner pages. I'm just weird that way.
Okay, so to add to the grieving, I have anxiety issues. Obviously. This is just stupid, because lack of sleep -- or lack of eight hours -- is really bad for my health. I'm the type that needs eight hours, nine is ideal. It's like a vicious cycle: lack of sleep produces anxiety, anxiety produces lack of sleep.
I've stated before, I am ready to start school so we'll get that routine going. That will help.
On the other hand, all these sleepless hours were spent researching commonly misspelled words. I'm making up my own list, then I'll make some very basic worksheets. Thomas, in addition to his spelling program that I bought, is going to have to tough it out with a list of 20 spelling words a week. Whether he likes it or not.
I wonder how long I'll last today. I'll probably end up taking a nap. And then I won't be able to sleep tonight. Nah, I'll go to Walgreen's and re-fill my Ambien prescription. It's been a few weeks since I've been out, so even though I was trying to get by not using it, I think I need it.
At least it's a beautiful morning.
In the last week, I have had three sleepless nights. Normally I can drift off when Bob gets up and starts getting ready for work. Today I didn't because his jeans were in the washer and I got up and threw them in the dryer so he'd have something to wear to work. Nice of me, eh?
I think I'm going to try to stay up.
I think this lack of sleep is due to the grieving process. I constantly think of my Dad, I worry about his house selling, I re-live the past five months over and over and over. I worry about Thomas. I worry about school, and my inability to finish getting it all planned out. We're good to go, really, but I'm a planner and I haven't done that anal planning that I like to do with pretty planner pages. I'm just weird that way.
Okay, so to add to the grieving, I have anxiety issues. Obviously. This is just stupid, because lack of sleep -- or lack of eight hours -- is really bad for my health. I'm the type that needs eight hours, nine is ideal. It's like a vicious cycle: lack of sleep produces anxiety, anxiety produces lack of sleep.
I've stated before, I am ready to start school so we'll get that routine going. That will help.
On the other hand, all these sleepless hours were spent researching commonly misspelled words. I'm making up my own list, then I'll make some very basic worksheets. Thomas, in addition to his spelling program that I bought, is going to have to tough it out with a list of 20 spelling words a week. Whether he likes it or not.
I wonder how long I'll last today. I'll probably end up taking a nap. And then I won't be able to sleep tonight. Nah, I'll go to Walgreen's and re-fill my Ambien prescription. It's been a few weeks since I've been out, so even though I was trying to get by not using it, I think I need it.
At least it's a beautiful morning.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
School Supplies
I usually go all out for school supplies. I love school supplies. Fresh pencils with clean, unused erasers, new pens with perfect tips, crisp, fresh paper...ahhh.
So this year I went all out. I got:
And that's it.
I about broke the bank with this year's shopping haul. I think I spent $15 tops.
Normally I spend *a lot* but I just couldn't justify spending money on fun stuff when I have a school room full of it.
This is so out of character for me! When we were at Office Max, I begged Thomas to pick out his two favorite colors of printer paper. I was thinking nice pastel greens or blues or yellows. Imagine my shock when he told me he actually prefers white. AAAACCCK. It's all about color, baby! The horror of it all!
Less is more this year.
So this year I went all out. I got:
1 24-pack of Bic Mark It pens. I did not need these. I have a thousand Sharpies. I just had to try them out. (And yes, I like them -- but I still like Sharpies.) They were on sale for $6.99 at Walgreen's.
4 packs of Black Warrior Pencils .39 a box at Walgreen's.
10 folders at Office Max for a penny apiece.
1 12-pack of Flair markers. For me, not Thomas. I love Flairs.
Two reams of white paper.
And that's it.
I about broke the bank with this year's shopping haul. I think I spent $15 tops.
Normally I spend *a lot* but I just couldn't justify spending money on fun stuff when I have a school room full of it.
This is so out of character for me! When we were at Office Max, I begged Thomas to pick out his two favorite colors of printer paper. I was thinking nice pastel greens or blues or yellows. Imagine my shock when he told me he actually prefers white. AAAACCCK. It's all about color, baby! The horror of it all!
Less is more this year.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Monday
Is it Monday already? My days are blurred.
I don't mind admitting here that I have been in a terrible funk for quite a few days now. I try so hard to stay positive, but my body and soul just ache from fatigue.
School starts two weeks from tomorrow. I follow our local public school schedule, and I'm very thankful they don't start until September.
I have two weeks to get my house in order, school planning completed, laundry caught up, bills paid, estate inventory done -- well, that needs to be done asap, and throw in some final summer fun. It all seems so overwhelming at the moment.
So today I took baby steps. That's the only thing I know to do when I get in a funk. I dug in and built a little momentum and got a little done. Physically, I am still not normal. I'm still on antibiotics, my ears are still popping, and I'm still easily exhausted. The good news is that I'm feeling so, so much better.
I'm wanting to follow my good friend Becky's advice by having a happy new year party. I usually think in terms of school year anyway. It's a little difficult, though, because memories of Dad pop into my head all the time. They make me stop what I'm doing and think and sometimes cry, sometimes smile. I suppose that will go on for awhile. It just makes me very sad that Dad won't be part of new year.
With the new year brings fear of what may or may not happen as well. It will be full of doctor appointments, adjusting to medications, getting the level just right, and my person fear of seizures. I can't get wrapped up in that, though. That fear is what is doing me in.
Breathe. One moment at a time.
Fear aside, I'm very anxious to start school again. I'm anxious and happily anticipating a normal routine. I'm excited to start learning again. I think that will do me more good, help me get back to a better place in my mind. I need that.
Thomas is doing very well. He still has bursts of frustration about his diagnosis and asks questions out of the blue. I think it's on his mind a lot. He's happy, though. Going to summer camp did more good for him, it renewed him. He's cheerful and optimistic.
Onward...more baby steps to take to get everything accomplished.
I don't mind admitting here that I have been in a terrible funk for quite a few days now. I try so hard to stay positive, but my body and soul just ache from fatigue.
School starts two weeks from tomorrow. I follow our local public school schedule, and I'm very thankful they don't start until September.
I have two weeks to get my house in order, school planning completed, laundry caught up, bills paid, estate inventory done -- well, that needs to be done asap, and throw in some final summer fun. It all seems so overwhelming at the moment.
So today I took baby steps. That's the only thing I know to do when I get in a funk. I dug in and built a little momentum and got a little done. Physically, I am still not normal. I'm still on antibiotics, my ears are still popping, and I'm still easily exhausted. The good news is that I'm feeling so, so much better.
I'm wanting to follow my good friend Becky's advice by having a happy new year party. I usually think in terms of school year anyway. It's a little difficult, though, because memories of Dad pop into my head all the time. They make me stop what I'm doing and think and sometimes cry, sometimes smile. I suppose that will go on for awhile. It just makes me very sad that Dad won't be part of new year.
With the new year brings fear of what may or may not happen as well. It will be full of doctor appointments, adjusting to medications, getting the level just right, and my person fear of seizures. I can't get wrapped up in that, though. That fear is what is doing me in.
Breathe. One moment at a time.
Fear aside, I'm very anxious to start school again. I'm anxious and happily anticipating a normal routine. I'm excited to start learning again. I think that will do me more good, help me get back to a better place in my mind. I need that.
Thomas is doing very well. He still has bursts of frustration about his diagnosis and asks questions out of the blue. I think it's on his mind a lot. He's happy, though. Going to summer camp did more good for him, it renewed him. He's cheerful and optimistic.
Onward...more baby steps to take to get everything accomplished.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Thursday, August 14, 2008
expensive day
Thomas had his appointment with the ENT today. I told Bob before we left the house that I really had an attitude about this appointment, because even though he snores on occasion--it's a light snore not like my window-rattling snores--I didn't think he had sleep apnea issues. I told him that doctor would have convince me of the necessity of having the tonsils removed.
His neurologist said he had a small airway and should probably have his tonsils removed. We got there, she asked us about snoring and if his breathing stopped in his sleep, which it doesn't. She looked at his throat quickly. She turned to us and said his tonsils are small, he has a good airway, and not to bother coming back unless we hear him stop breathing in the night -- or gasping, which she demonstrated.
I hate to imagine how much money this visit is going to cost when I add it all up. Let's see, Bob took a half day off work, we ate an early dinner at the Olive Garden, the gas to the big city and back, the visit to Barnes and Noble where we all purchased too many books, the purchases at Office Max...
Oh well. Better safe than sorry. I just had a gut feeling it was a waste of time, though.
Whew. One less thing.
His neurologist said he had a small airway and should probably have his tonsils removed. We got there, she asked us about snoring and if his breathing stopped in his sleep, which it doesn't. She looked at his throat quickly. She turned to us and said his tonsils are small, he has a good airway, and not to bother coming back unless we hear him stop breathing in the night -- or gasping, which she demonstrated.
I hate to imagine how much money this visit is going to cost when I add it all up. Let's see, Bob took a half day off work, we ate an early dinner at the Olive Garden, the gas to the big city and back, the visit to Barnes and Noble where we all purchased too many books, the purchases at Office Max...
Oh well. Better safe than sorry. I just had a gut feeling it was a waste of time, though.
Whew. One less thing.
Seeing Eye to Eye
Bob and I don't see eye to eye on some things concerning our homeschool. Even though he's a visual spatial thinker, he wants Thomas's education to be very structured and sequential. He wants tests and proof that he's learning.
I agree with him on that in many subjects, but not science.
We have always done science in an unschooling-sort-of way. Thomas either picks up a science book and starts reading, or I suggest some topics, he chooses and he reads. We discuss. Or not. Usually, he discusses with Bob. Last year I bought him two science text books which he loved. He devoured them, reading on his own accord, something that he typically doesn't want to do.
Thomas has a good grasp of science. Every year he scores post high school in his standardized tests in science. I've never worried about science, because he just gets it.
So what to do this year. We really need to focus on the Language Arts. Really, I know that. But I think I'll meet Bob half way and be a little more involved, probably throw in a test or two, more labs -- at least planned labs, not spur-of-the minute stuff that we typically do.
I don't think Bob and I will see eye to eye completely, but we can meet in the middle. I trust my instincts, though. I know how he learns best. And he is learning -- he's soaking science up like a sponge.
I agree with him on that in many subjects, but not science.
We have always done science in an unschooling-sort-of way. Thomas either picks up a science book and starts reading, or I suggest some topics, he chooses and he reads. We discuss. Or not. Usually, he discusses with Bob. Last year I bought him two science text books which he loved. He devoured them, reading on his own accord, something that he typically doesn't want to do.
Thomas has a good grasp of science. Every year he scores post high school in his standardized tests in science. I've never worried about science, because he just gets it.
So what to do this year. We really need to focus on the Language Arts. Really, I know that. But I think I'll meet Bob half way and be a little more involved, probably throw in a test or two, more labs -- at least planned labs, not spur-of-the minute stuff that we typically do.
I don't think Bob and I will see eye to eye completely, but we can meet in the middle. I trust my instincts, though. I know how he learns best. And he is learning -- he's soaking science up like a sponge.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
I'm a Dork
To everyone who asked for my planner, I will send it tomorrow.
I apologize for being such a dork. See, I bought myself a new laptop. It came with Vista, and so I had to order the new Office. I got the student version. I emailed my planners and homeschool stuff to myself, opened up my planer, tweaked it, made a jpeg of it to load to the blog, blogged, and then saved the planner. Big mistake. It wouldn't save because it was incompatible with the new excel. So I made another one. I sent that out to the people who requested it. Only thing was, I seem to be the only one on the new version of Office.
So I need to go downstairs to the old computer, sit down, tweak the original version and email it. Only I haven't done that. I got busy with other stuff. And I feel guilty because I said I'd send it last night. And then I didn't do it today because today was a couch day because I didn't feel well (when will menopause hit? I'm so ready for it now.) This afternoon, we got hit with five packages from Amazon, Rainbow, Rod and Staff, and a couple other stores, so I simply had to look at the school stuff.
Then we went to the county fair. And got home at 10. Then I had to call my sister. Then I had to take a shower. Then I had to check email. Now I'm too tired to climb the stairs and go tweak. (Yet I'm not too tired to blog. Go figure.)
I meant well. I promise to get it in the email tomorrow.
I'm just such a dork.
I apologize for being such a dork. See, I bought myself a new laptop. It came with Vista, and so I had to order the new Office. I got the student version. I emailed my planners and homeschool stuff to myself, opened up my planer, tweaked it, made a jpeg of it to load to the blog, blogged, and then saved the planner. Big mistake. It wouldn't save because it was incompatible with the new excel. So I made another one. I sent that out to the people who requested it. Only thing was, I seem to be the only one on the new version of Office.
So I need to go downstairs to the old computer, sit down, tweak the original version and email it. Only I haven't done that. I got busy with other stuff. And I feel guilty because I said I'd send it last night. And then I didn't do it today because today was a couch day because I didn't feel well (when will menopause hit? I'm so ready for it now.) This afternoon, we got hit with five packages from Amazon, Rainbow, Rod and Staff, and a couple other stores, so I simply had to look at the school stuff.
Then we went to the county fair. And got home at 10. Then I had to call my sister. Then I had to take a shower. Then I had to check email. Now I'm too tired to climb the stairs and go tweak. (Yet I'm not too tired to blog. Go figure.)
I meant well. I promise to get it in the email tomorrow.
I'm just such a dork.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
My Favorite Yearly Planner that I made
If by any small chance someone would like a copy of this yearly planner, feel free to email me. whisperingwillow @ charter . net
I use one of these planners for each subject. I like to plan that way rather than on one typical planner sheet. Sometimes I merge all the info, sometimes not.
I use one of these planners for each subject. I like to plan that way rather than on one typical planner sheet. Sometimes I merge all the info, sometimes not.
Saturday, August 09, 2008
He's Baaaack
I drove three and a half hours yesterday to pick Thomas up. After an hour-long ceremony, which I'll definitely skip next year, (see that, NEXT YEAR?) we gathered stuff and left.
Thomas talked nonstop for the three-and-a-half-hour ride home.
He had a BLAST. He LOVED it. He was WIRED.
He asked if he can go next year. Of course!
He's very happy. That's just what he needed.
So we'll put money aside for camp next year. I also found that there are camps for kids with epilepsy out there. I think that would be wonderful for him, so he'll probably do two camps next year.
And now back to reality. This week is the county fair. We'll be entering his turkey. Usually we enter more stuff, but that's his best work and all he wants to enter. He also has his ENT appointment this week. He does not want his tonsils removed. He wasn't happy when he noticed that appointment on the calendar.
I worked very hard on getting his room in order while he was gone. I boxed up a bunch of stuff he no longer plays with. He's attached to his stuff, so I couldn't donate or toss, will just store the box and wait for time to pass. I didn't get the room finished, so he can do that this weekend.
We have the school room to finish as well. The floor is covered in wall-to-wall books. Last year we schooled at the kitchen table again. This year I'd like to do more in the school room again, just because it keeps my small kitchen less cluttered. In order to do that, I have to get my mess cleaned up. I'm the one that put the books on the floor.
Thomas's grandma took a spill and broke her wrist and a rib this week. We need to get out to see her, because we haven't gone since the Cowboy died. I'm so tired of traveling, but I think that's necessary. I don't know when we'll squeeze that in, but we must.
I'm loving this Saturday morning. My son is happy, confident and on top of the world. He needed that. As his momma, I needed it, too.
Thomas talked nonstop for the three-and-a-half-hour ride home.
He had a BLAST. He LOVED it. He was WIRED.
He asked if he can go next year. Of course!
He's very happy. That's just what he needed.
So we'll put money aside for camp next year. I also found that there are camps for kids with epilepsy out there. I think that would be wonderful for him, so he'll probably do two camps next year.
And now back to reality. This week is the county fair. We'll be entering his turkey. Usually we enter more stuff, but that's his best work and all he wants to enter. He also has his ENT appointment this week. He does not want his tonsils removed. He wasn't happy when he noticed that appointment on the calendar.
I worked very hard on getting his room in order while he was gone. I boxed up a bunch of stuff he no longer plays with. He's attached to his stuff, so I couldn't donate or toss, will just store the box and wait for time to pass. I didn't get the room finished, so he can do that this weekend.
We have the school room to finish as well. The floor is covered in wall-to-wall books. Last year we schooled at the kitchen table again. This year I'd like to do more in the school room again, just because it keeps my small kitchen less cluttered. In order to do that, I have to get my mess cleaned up. I'm the one that put the books on the floor.
Thomas's grandma took a spill and broke her wrist and a rib this week. We need to get out to see her, because we haven't gone since the Cowboy died. I'm so tired of traveling, but I think that's necessary. I don't know when we'll squeeze that in, but we must.
I'm loving this Saturday morning. My son is happy, confident and on top of the world. He needed that. As his momma, I needed it, too.
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
Yeah, It's Wednesday
And as soon as I posted my last post, I hit the camp website yet again. They must have heard me, because there were the photos.
This is what I know:
Thomas has changed clothes while he was there. lol
We spotted him in three pictures, and he didn't look unhappy at all. Whew.
That's all I know.
What I hope: That he's having a blast.
This is what I know:
Thomas has changed clothes while he was there. lol
We spotted him in three pictures, and he didn't look unhappy at all. Whew.
That's all I know.
What I hope: That he's having a blast.
For Pete's Sake
What stupid idiot -- er, forgetful and preoccupied mother forgot to cancel her Audible.com subscription?
I did.
I just got automatically renewed. We have 18 credits at Audible.com.
What to do?
I'm tired of planning school. I've cleaning to finish! What am I going to do with 18 credits?
Ideas? Anyone? Help. My brain just isn't thinking.
~~~
And just a rant, because I always rant. Dear YMCA camp, you know on your webpage it states that you will put camp pictures up on Wednesdays? Well, it's Wednesday. The pictures are not there. I have refreshed a gazillion times. Okay, there is one group picture, which I loved and spotted my Thomas in immediately, but...it's Wednesday, where are the pictures?
I've held my composure all week, I've dealt well. I've actually enjoyed my alone time. But -- but -- but I've never gone this long without talking to my son. Or seeing him. All I want are the pictures. Do you hear me?? IT'S WEDNESDAY!!! Where are the $#(*&^ pictures?
I jest. Kinda. I have hit that website probably 100 times today. I'll go do something, then think of the pictures and run to the computer.
I did.
I just got automatically renewed. We have 18 credits at Audible.com.
What to do?
I'm tired of planning school. I've cleaning to finish! What am I going to do with 18 credits?
Ideas? Anyone? Help. My brain just isn't thinking.
~~~
And just a rant, because I always rant. Dear YMCA camp, you know on your webpage it states that you will put camp pictures up on Wednesdays? Well, it's Wednesday. The pictures are not there. I have refreshed a gazillion times. Okay, there is one group picture, which I loved and spotted my Thomas in immediately, but...it's Wednesday, where are the pictures?
I've held my composure all week, I've dealt well. I've actually enjoyed my alone time. But -- but -- but I've never gone this long without talking to my son. Or seeing him. All I want are the pictures. Do you hear me?? IT'S WEDNESDAY!!! Where are the $#(*&^ pictures?
I jest. Kinda. I have hit that website probably 100 times today. I'll go do something, then think of the pictures and run to the computer.
Monday, August 04, 2008
Monday Morning
I'm not worried about Thomas. Honest. Really, I haven't even given him a second thought. ahem
When we were at the camp yesterday, I was checking out his cabinmates. It was a bunch of boys who looked very nice, but one thing was brutally honest: They were all jocks. You know, you can spot a jock a mile away. And there's nothing wrong with jocks. The only reason I mention it is because Thomas is so not a jock. He hates team sports. He cannot throw a ball to save his life. He doesn't want to. We discussed this team-sport thing at length, because he'll have to participate in some of that kind of thing. Hopefully, they'll be kind and help him through that part. Whenever we did sports stuff with Cub Scouts, I have to say the jocks were always good to Thomas and guided him. I think they got a little frustrated because they were so competitive, and he really slowed them down, but they were kind.
You can't force a child to do something he has no interest in, though. Now individual sports? Yeah, he goes for that. He's yearning to hit that rock wall. He's excited about the swimming.
Thomas is a fringe boy. He's always on the fringe of a group, not really in it. He's happy that way. Bob and I are kind of that way ourselves. I think we all three prefer one-on-one social contact as opposed to the group thing. We're all introverts.
So driving home yesterday, I admit I was worried. Will he get picked on, will he make a friend or two, will he have fun. BUT, when I uploaded the two pictures I took and shared here, my worries melted. He was so happy. It did my heart so much good to see that big grin on his face.
He'll be fine. And while I have thought about him, I've decided to quit worrying. Just like the momma bird who pushes the baby bird out of the nest--this is a little out of his comfort zone, but that rock wall just called out to him, and I had to push.
This morning I got busy. I have finally unloaded the suitcase that has been gracing my bedroom floor since my return from Denver. Good grief, I've never let something slide that long. I've sorted too many loads of laundry to admit and have got them going. I'm about to go dig out my kitchen.
I have plans on cleaning the whole house from top to bottom. That's a lot of work, because when we got home, I was tired, frustrated, hurting really bad and still sick. I didn't have the energy. Only the absolute necessities got done. Plus, since March I've been gone for almost 10 weeks, and let's face it, I love Bob to pieces, but he doesn't know what a vacuum cleaner is. So the house really got run down.
I bought myself some new bedding. Got a lovely bed-in-a-bag set from JCPenney's for $100. It was normally $300. It's 250 thread-count, which is more than this tightwad has ever had. I am going to hit my bedroom hard this morning and hopefully make it pretty.
I've also been looking for pretties. I really have a desire for a retro kitchen. Not too cluttered, but lots of 40s and 50s touches. I bought myself two salt and pepper sets that are Lustro-Ware, one in pink and the other yellow. One is for the table, the other for the stove. I'm on the lookout for more practical goodies. Not too much, but enough to get that theme established.
And speaking of that retro look, I've found a few vintage blogs that I have really enjoyed. I usually only read homeschool blogs. Okay, and Perez -- dare I admit that? The vintage or cottage/romantic/shabby chic blogs really make me smile, because they have great pictures. And that brings me joy, which makes me feel better.
And speaking of feeling better, I am. I finish my antibiotics today. I am not cured, I still have sinus issues and my ears are popping a lot. So I am going to get my second antibiotic prescription filled and do another round. But I am feeling so much better and have so much more energy, that I feel human again. So I'm close to being back to normal.
I have ordered my first-ever side of beef. We should get it the last week in August. I'm very excited about that--to have a freezer full of good quality beef. We'll get lots of goodies I typically don't buy, such as steaks.
Life is finally getting better again. I'm feeling better. Thomas was so happy yesterday that my heart soared with joy. I hope he has so much fun and forgets all his troubles. I've never been away from him for this long, but I do this: I kind of needed it. I just needed a break from everything. (I wish Bob were out of town this week! lol) I feel free to putz, to do what I want, when I want, in peace and quiet. I am thrilled with the prospect that when I clean, it will actually stay clean. Until we go and get him, that is. What a treat that is, though. I envision my refrigerator handle being clean all week--a glorious gift to me!
And now, off to swap loads and get to cracking.
When we were at the camp yesterday, I was checking out his cabinmates. It was a bunch of boys who looked very nice, but one thing was brutally honest: They were all jocks. You know, you can spot a jock a mile away. And there's nothing wrong with jocks. The only reason I mention it is because Thomas is so not a jock. He hates team sports. He cannot throw a ball to save his life. He doesn't want to. We discussed this team-sport thing at length, because he'll have to participate in some of that kind of thing. Hopefully, they'll be kind and help him through that part. Whenever we did sports stuff with Cub Scouts, I have to say the jocks were always good to Thomas and guided him. I think they got a little frustrated because they were so competitive, and he really slowed them down, but they were kind.
You can't force a child to do something he has no interest in, though. Now individual sports? Yeah, he goes for that. He's yearning to hit that rock wall. He's excited about the swimming.
Thomas is a fringe boy. He's always on the fringe of a group, not really in it. He's happy that way. Bob and I are kind of that way ourselves. I think we all three prefer one-on-one social contact as opposed to the group thing. We're all introverts.
So driving home yesterday, I admit I was worried. Will he get picked on, will he make a friend or two, will he have fun. BUT, when I uploaded the two pictures I took and shared here, my worries melted. He was so happy. It did my heart so much good to see that big grin on his face.
He'll be fine. And while I have thought about him, I've decided to quit worrying. Just like the momma bird who pushes the baby bird out of the nest--this is a little out of his comfort zone, but that rock wall just called out to him, and I had to push.
This morning I got busy. I have finally unloaded the suitcase that has been gracing my bedroom floor since my return from Denver. Good grief, I've never let something slide that long. I've sorted too many loads of laundry to admit and have got them going. I'm about to go dig out my kitchen.
I have plans on cleaning the whole house from top to bottom. That's a lot of work, because when we got home, I was tired, frustrated, hurting really bad and still sick. I didn't have the energy. Only the absolute necessities got done. Plus, since March I've been gone for almost 10 weeks, and let's face it, I love Bob to pieces, but he doesn't know what a vacuum cleaner is. So the house really got run down.
I bought myself some new bedding. Got a lovely bed-in-a-bag set from JCPenney's for $100. It was normally $300. It's 250 thread-count, which is more than this tightwad has ever had. I am going to hit my bedroom hard this morning and hopefully make it pretty.
I've also been looking for pretties. I really have a desire for a retro kitchen. Not too cluttered, but lots of 40s and 50s touches. I bought myself two salt and pepper sets that are Lustro-Ware, one in pink and the other yellow. One is for the table, the other for the stove. I'm on the lookout for more practical goodies. Not too much, but enough to get that theme established.
And speaking of that retro look, I've found a few vintage blogs that I have really enjoyed. I usually only read homeschool blogs. Okay, and Perez -- dare I admit that? The vintage or cottage/romantic/shabby chic blogs really make me smile, because they have great pictures. And that brings me joy, which makes me feel better.
And speaking of feeling better, I am. I finish my antibiotics today. I am not cured, I still have sinus issues and my ears are popping a lot. So I am going to get my second antibiotic prescription filled and do another round. But I am feeling so much better and have so much more energy, that I feel human again. So I'm close to being back to normal.
I have ordered my first-ever side of beef. We should get it the last week in August. I'm very excited about that--to have a freezer full of good quality beef. We'll get lots of goodies I typically don't buy, such as steaks.
Life is finally getting better again. I'm feeling better. Thomas was so happy yesterday that my heart soared with joy. I hope he has so much fun and forgets all his troubles. I've never been away from him for this long, but I do this: I kind of needed it. I just needed a break from everything. (I wish Bob were out of town this week! lol) I feel free to putz, to do what I want, when I want, in peace and quiet. I am thrilled with the prospect that when I clean, it will actually stay clean. Until we go and get him, that is. What a treat that is, though. I envision my refrigerator handle being clean all week--a glorious gift to me!
And now, off to swap loads and get to cracking.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)