Truck

Scott did some research and we ended up buying a truck yesterday. We have been saving up for a while to replace the Forrester. The Forrester's check engine light has been going off and on for the past few years. We were able to get it in for emissions and safety inspections during the "off" period for a couple of years. However, last August, the light was on continuously. So, we finally broke down and repaired the catalytic converter and an O2 sensor. We decided it would be better to put down a good chunk of change to repair the car. However, the light started coming back on and the turning off about a month ago. Scott decided a truck better fit what he wants than an SUV (which was the previous target). So, we had the money to buy something now instead of waiting and putting more money into repairing the Forrester. He wants a vehicle that can tow and make it easier to enjoy all the recreation and fun that our area has to offer. It's a 2006 Ford F150. We're currently trying to sell the Forrester.

Does it fit in our garage? With about 3 inches to spare! We have to work together to park it in far enough but not hit the wall.

concert

When I was little, my brother dominated the stereo. We listened to tapes, watched MTV when MTV still played music videos, and had by today's standards, not the best sound system. However, I developed a love for 80s rock music. I felt a bond with my brother because I loved his music and he would make tapes of the best songs for me to listen to. I still love 80s rock music.
The first music video I remember seeing was "Livin' on a Prayer" by Bon Jovi. I LOVE that song! Last night, I got to see him in concert! I had SO MUCH FUN! I was dancing my little heart out! Well, as much as I could with everyone around me seeming so calm. I sang and danced and enjoyed all that is Bon Jovi. Scott even said, "8 years ago, I hardly knew any songs by him. Now, I knew about 80% of what we heard." Good thing he married me so I could introduce him to one of the greatest bands EVER!

Dentist

Richard and Audrey went to the dentist. They did really well and have no cavities! Audrey was especially excited to get an Ariel toothbrush.
Marie had to keep clarifying that her turn was all done. I guess the experience a month ago made her nervous.

friends

Recently, I've had to ask a lot of friends for help with babysitting. I've really started to think how much I depend on these women. What a blessing they are in my life! I've always wanted close friends. Sometimes you bond with people. Sometimes you don't. I have found women I bond with. They touch my heart. They help me be better. They will forever be important to me. How would we ever make it through life without the support of wonderful friends?

St. Patrick's Day

I think it's lame. The end.

Why I hate facebook

I hate that every day I have to read about how horrible someone's life is. It seems like attention seeking to me. Whine, whine, whine. Complain, complain, complain. I finally blocked said person.

Consequences

I do my best to teach my kids the consequences of their actions and that consequences ALWAYS exist. If they don't get dressed in a timely fashion in the morning, I tell them they can go to school in their pjs. If they don't eat their lunch, they don't get food until dinner. When Richard didn't put his homework in his backpack like I asked him to because he was too captivated by watching Scott play video games, he lost video game privileges for a day. I do my best to not fight with them, but just let the natural consequences take place.  (Unless of course, there are no obvious natural consequences and then I just make up what I feel is appropriate.) If they are obedient, they get to do fun things. If they eat their dinner, they get dessert. If they are nice to each other, they can play with friends.
However, for some reason, I sometimes wish that rule didn't apply to me. For example, why can't I just eat what I want and what tastes good? Why do I have to experience the natural consequences? Most immediately, I feel gross. Really gross. That didn't happen 15 years ago. Yet, now, if I eat too much greasy, fatty, sweet, etc food, I feel gross. Then, long term, I gain weight. One of my most important long term goals is to not look like the people I take care of in the hospital. To me it's absolutely disgusting to be so overweight. Other long term effects are increased risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, cancer, respiratory problems, and almost every other chronic condition you can think of.
However, every time I walk through Costco, the junk food calls to me. Every time I make a dessert, it calls to me. I have to remind myself of the natural consequences every time. Why isn't it just ingrained in my soul so that I don't have to even think about it? I guess we all have our temptations...