Bad ass in spandex

Being a cyclist means you get yelled names like "Faggot" a lot and have bottles of liquid tossed at you from time to time. You always hope it's only water. Larry takes all this in stride, especially when the people usually taunting you (or trying to purposely run you off the road, a little thing I like to call attempted murder) are big red necks in logging trucks or white trash in their POS cars, and have no hope of ever being athletic or earth-friendly and feel the need to cut down others that are both.

I hear about confrontations from time to time, but mostly I only hear the stories of "some jerk..." without any resolve.

Today Larry was on his way home from his ride and was cruising down Woburn (downhill). Larry was doing the speed limit and some guy decided to make a left hand turn into his lane. Then the guy stopped. So Larry had to slam on his brakes. The guy yells something incoherently and drives off. Problem is, there is a stop light at the bottom of the hill. And guy's dirty girlfriend has the window rolled down smoking (with small children in the back seat). So Larry pulls up and stops at their window. "Is there something you'd like to say to my face?" he asks. The guy replies that "there is a effing sidewalk there", like that's where Larry should have been riding his bike at 35mph. Larry informed him that it is illegal for him to ride his bike on the sidewalk, and by the way, my bike is worth more than your entire car, so I'd use a little more common sense the next time he tries to pull a stunt like that. The guy didn't say another word.

tee-hee. I love it when Larry tells me stories of catching people being assholes and calling them on it.

DARE

It's a dictionary I would l-0-v-e to have. It is a record of regional vocabulary. I love that stuff. I loved Linguistics in college, I shoulda been a social anthropologist. The dictionary has stuff like what people call things like: Soda, or Pop, or Soda pop, or Coke (regardless what it is). Or we might have a Bar-B-Que here on the west coast, but where my b/f/f lives in Minnesota, they have Grill-Outs. Or if you need to get to the diagonal corner of an intersection, I would say "it's kitty-corner", but apparently others may say "catty-corner", or "cater-corner". But the dictionary is like $100, so for now I'll just have to do with what's available online, or make more friends across the country to listen to.

I could just buy the book in my sons scholastic book order, it's about the power of punctuation called Eats, Shoots & Leaves. Looks like it could be a fun book. It also reminds me of one of my favorite movie lines (from a movie I've never seen)called View from the Top. Mike Meyers is a flight attendant or something and says " You put the wrong emPHAsis on the wrong syLLABle."

Our view from I-5 heading home from Mt. Vernon Saturday (after an afternoon at Jungle Playland with Erin, and an unexpected family reunion for me, I ran into my Aunt and cousin who were also there).

Utterly boring week...

A reminder that I have a double chin (or no chin). But I'm posting this picture anyway because the essence is sweet. Mom and son going for a stroll (or... mom herding toddler away from street while making it appear that she's not "controlling" him)

The boys having a very manly chat while tossing rocks.

I haven't posted because I have done nothing. That's not true. I went to Boulevard park with Erin and wondered why we thought that was a good idea (though the big boys thought it was a fine choice, they climbed in trees and threw rocks. What else did they need/want?)

I played bunco last night. Came close to most wins, but lost by one.

Today? Laundry and dog hair. Now that Katie lives in the house, I have to learn how to either clean up dog hair or learn to live with it. I have a feeling I'll live in constant purgatory of living with it while hating it. I cannot embrace having dog hair on all my clothes. But the other solution is to kick Katie out of the house and get her another dog. Uh, no. I'm looking forward to having a poo-free, hole-free back yard again.

Norman the Saint

Tonight I got a glimpse of just how sweet Norman really was all these years.

Katie is taking his absence a little hard, she is pretty forlorn, and sat at the edge of the deck tonight looking away while the kids and I were in the hot tub. Usually she is there eagerly giving us kisses while we are at her mercy.

Katie was laying at my feet tonight as I was watching The Biggest Loser. Any late-night cravings I might have had were killed by this dogs non-stop farting. Hands down the gassiest dog I've ever had the misfortune to be near for an extended period of time. But I couldn't exactly chase her off while she is in mourning. It also got me to thinking... sweet old Norm cuddled up and slept with her in close quarters for 10 breath-holding years. Now that's love.

Semiahmoo

Natalie commented on how her "legs aren't even tired from the bike ride!". Mine wouldn't be either if I had Larry hauling me around town.
The Street Sweeper. Brady inspected every square inch of this thing.
Some really cool rust on the sweeper.
Brady and I raced to the bridge. I had to let him win so we wouldn't hit that post!

Alright, I can't handle having Norm as my top post anymore, it's just salt in the wound.
We went to Semiahmoo this weekend to check on the in-laws house and go for a little bike ride. Of course Brady was more interested in examining an old street sweeper, but we had a nice ride none-the-less.

Good Boy

Normus, Normykins, bubbalou, big boy, Norm. You stormed into our life as a precocious puppy, and left a big paw print on our hearts. Mama loves you, boy.

Forgot the wool caps

Come on, sing along "In the ghetto (in the ghett-oooo!)" Ok, it's not really the ghetto, but the crowd there that day was. Natalie was pretty proud of her new stunt. And yes, it's mid-march and she's wearing a tank top. Fashion over function.

Larry's favorite Co-Op jab is to ask me if I got a wool-knit hat with my membership, since the crowd that shops there tends to be more of the earthen variety. The kids and I went there to get seeds for the garden and some salsa (Salsa Mama is hands down the best salsa ever. She's at the farmers market on Saturdays too. Get the medium, the hot will melt your lips off). Afterwards the kids wanted to play, so we walked over to the ghetto playground with our co-op snacks (you know, organic milk, organic blueberry-yogurt raisins and vegetarian gummi bears). While I was sitting on the graffiti-covered bench, I got to shake hands with a man that "had to say 'Chello' to me", and I got a big 1-toothed grin too. Brady came running over demanding (loudly) "What did that man do? What did he say to you? What did he want? What did you tell him?" And I tried to casually tell him that all he said was hello and shook my hand, like me shaking hands with strange homeless alcoholic/tweakers is totally normal. All the while keeping my hand casually away from my body until I could get back to the car and some wipes and hand sanitizer.

A random photo that appeared on my camera from Brady.

Getting my boy to eat...

Tonight I combined Brady's favorite food with an activity. I've tried making pizza in the past (the boy refuses to eat english muffin pizzas), and usually turns his nose up at any sort of rustic looking pizza. But I decided to have another go at expanding his horizons (if not just for appearance's sake) and we headed down to TJ's to pick up supplies (finding the Yeti in the process!)

We headed home, and I proceeded to form two small pizza skins saving the other half of the dough for a pesto-shrimp pizza for Larry and I to share. Brady scoffed at the mini-pizza, and claimed the large for himself. I allowed it if it meant he might actually eat the damn thing. Both kids decorated their own pizza (I had to chase Natalie away from the package of pepperoni) and I made my mini pizza (sorry Lar!) and put them in the oven.

I had to serve Brady his pizza ("don't cut it mom!") on our serving plate. He got halfway through before I called time.

I know it's just pizza, but at least he's broadening his horizons on appearance, texture, and how it's made (yes, these have all been problems in the past). I'll take this success!

Spring keeps blowing my door open!

I'm rarely glad for the weekends, simply because nothing really changes around here. I hate Saturdays, Larry works from morning to night, and everyone else is home with their families so they don't want to spend time with me (sniff, sniff).


But I'm glad this weekend has arrived because that means I don't have to work for a few days. It makes for an uncomfortable work environment when two right-fighters get into it. I'm one of the right-fighters. But if I told you my long, mind-numbing saga, I'm sure you'd see my point of view and agree with me. Because why? Because I'm right!

This 'spring' weather we're having makes me realize more than ever that we really need a new front door. I have to slam the hell out of it to keep it from blowing open, then the kids are locked out because they can't open it if I slam it hard. So then I have to stop blogging to let them in, then they leave again and shut the door, then I have to get up again and go slam the door again. It's really putting a damper on my blogging progress!

Last night Brady complained that his head hurt and could he have a bag of ice for it. I humored him and made the bag. Then he wanted the bag strapped to his head. So I humored myself.

Mysteriously Natalie came down with the same ailment shortly after Brady recovered.

Little fishies

Brady is "eating" the salmon food (see my great photographers timing? I snapped it just as she came into the frame)

This girl Jasmine... Trysen would NOT let go of her hand the entire time (except when he had her all to him self on the bus). Apparently Gilbert complained several about these goings-ons and tried to break them up. And then I found out that Aidan got busted last week because he kissed her twice. I feel for her parents.

The Raven, Salmon Mother (crying with her babies) and the bear totem.

Er, Ok.

Brady and Izayiah petting a sea otter pelt (at least they weren't using it as a skin puppet like most of the other kindergartners).

The life-cycle of a Puget Sound Salmon.

I don't want to unload my ugliness from today here (lets just say there is a co-worker that is rubbing my fur the wrong way); so I'll get to posting about Brady's field trip yesterday to Maritime Heritage park and the Environmental Learning Center. I got to tag along (to which Brady replied "Boring!" but still said he wanted me to come) and was designated "photographer" which was a huge mistake. I got a few pictures of the kids that are cute (but won't post here). About 10 minutes before our bus arrived to take us downtown it was hailing, but by the time we got to our destination the skies had cleared and we had beautiful weather (phew!)

My treasure from Ethiopia

It pales in comparison to what Erin brought home, but she thoughtfully brought me home a bag of honest-to-goodness Ethiopian coffee. I can't wait to brew a pot in the morning!

But if I got a bag of coffee from Erin, then that means... I met Ashi (his nickname)!!!! He is more beautiful in person than I could have ever imagined from his photos, and he and Erin have bonded quickly, which I am so grateful for.

I didn't get pictures today since our visit was kind of hectic (and very wet). But I got to touch his sweet little curls and hear his cute little voice, and see how happy (and tired!) Erin is.

Ashenafi Yohannes Campbell arrives!

Unless my information is incorrect, Erin, her mom Willow, and Ashenafi arrived in Seattle at 3:30 this afternoon! I can't believe he's really here! I can't wait for my turn to meet him and place my eyes on this wonderful little person at last! Congratulations Erin and Christian, what a beautiful addition to your family!

Growth and Percentages

The kids had their annual checkups and here are the latest stats:



Brady: 54 1/2 pounds (80th percentile)



4 feet 1 inch tall (88the percentile)



Natalie: 42 1/2 pounds (90th percentile)



3 feet 7 inches (96th percentile)



OK, this is weird. I just looked back at last years stats, and they both gained 6 pounds and grew 3 inches. Both of them. Weird, dontcha think?

Acute Destroyer makes her debut as a Betty

A preview of the quality of most of my photos of the evening. I hate gymnasium lighting.
A wipe out during The Cog Blockers vs. The Camaro Harem bout.

Acute Destroyer in action.

The Cog Blockers warming up. Acute Destroyer (Chloe) is in the center.

Scott Slamilton, the coach for the Flash. He wore a lovely blue velour and sequined one-piece, and was very graceful on the track.

After a whole lot of chaos; my mom, Tracy, and I ended up going to the bout while Josh stayed with the kids. Everyone seemed happy with the way that worked out. Josh wasn't dragged some some place embarrassing, and my kids got pizza and Josh, which is heaven to them.

Chloe (aka Acute) did great and her team (the Bettie's are broken down into 3 teams) the Cog (not cock) Blockers ended up winning their bout against Flash (they had the coolest Wonder Woman costumes).

You know how you're the person who always says "I never win anything" because most people don't win consistently? Well Tracy has the opposite problem; she wins all the effing time, which I don't have a problem with since I've been known to reap the benefits from her good luck from time to time. They had a raffle at the bout to raise money for the food bank. Tracy went over and bought a few tickets. They started drawing for goodie bags, tickets to bouts, etc. She was drawing dead. But wait! They have a Grand Prize! 2 season tickets to the Bettie's (face value of $120). Yup. She won 'em. I hope she takes me to at least one more bout! Next time I'm making her put her hair in pin curls and I'll wear a french twist, we'll look fabulous!

I forget sometimes how much fun it is to go to sporting events (that I'm actually interested in). My back is all knotted up from sitting in the bleachers, but I had a great time with two of my favorite people.

Betties?

I'm really hoping to go see the opening season bout of the Roller Betties today, I'm still gauging my patience level with my children to decide if we're appropriate for public today.

Yesterday was the memorial service for Laura and Dominic. It was a very sweet and sad service. My heart just breaks for the family. I made the memorial cards which every one seemed to treasure, and another group of friends made a wonderful assortment of food (I have to admit it was strange to have not contributed to the food, I mean that's what I do!) but I focused more on making food for the family and putting energy into making the cards so that they were meaningful and respectful. And I really need to say 'Thank you' to Jen again for watching my kids yesterday, I really appreciate her help in making my being there stress-free so I could focus on caring for the family.

On the way home yesterday (and I have to say how absolutely beautiful Totem Terrace is, it's on the bluff so you have a beautiful view of the islands and you also have a perfect view of Mt. Baker to the east. I couldn't decide what to look at more, my head was spinning!) I saw two Pheasants. I don't think I've ever seen them in the wild before, they are pretty cool. I came home and told Larry and he knew exactly where I'd seem them and made some reference to hunting. I told them I shot them with my camera, and that was good enough for me.

"Awe-some!"

That was Brady's reaction to seeing Christian with me and Natalie as he got out of school. I was so happy to have Christian over for the afternoon; Brady and I had a really rough day yesterday so I was really hoping to have a better day today. And the last time Christian came over to play was a disaster, so I was a little concerned about having the two of them alone all afternoon. I was worried that Christian would be hesitant to play with Brady again, but he showed the same enthusiasm as Brady did to have each other. I love Christian's forgiving nature. Luckily Brady was in good spirits and the kids had a great afternoon.
Quote of the day (not from my kids): "I'm a lady. I'm a lady Nutcracker!" Say it in a sing-song way. TMI, Christian.

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Sweetness factor at all time high

I came home from work today to a very sweet surprise (and an "I'm sorry we didn't get much laundry done" from Larry).

It's not doing a whole lot for my exercise commitment, but the extra calories are totally worth the pride I saw in my families creation for me.

"Super Mom"

Chronicles of Narnia

I rented Prince Caspian this weekend and watched it with the kids, they both seem to enjoy this series and I can't wait to read it with them some day.

At the end of the movie when the children have to leave Narnia (oops, did I spoil it for you?) once again and they say their goodbyes, Natalie asks me as the credits start to roll: "Why did she have to say goodbye to the tiger (lion) Aslan?" I casually reply to her and then look over to her as I finished my answer. What I saw was a quivering lip and tears about to overflow. I held her and she began to sob inconsolably. She was really moved by the relationship between Lucy and Aslan. It was very cute and but I felt sort of guilty for letting her watch it.

Signs of Spring

Natalie and I went for a hike (OK, I went for a hike, Natalie rode in a stroller to give me some weight resistance, like I need it) today and enjoyed all the sights and sounds of the coming of Spring.

My thighs (and stomach?!) hurt like hell right now, I guess I've earned that pina colada I'm going to enjoy in a couple of hours at Kate's house ~ get that blender going, girl! Maybe I should take a shower first, Barkley kind of kicked my ass... it's pretty sad when you beg a 4 year old to "please walk for 500 feet" so you don't throw up on the side of the road. It's hard enough hauling my rump up a 8%(?) grade hill, but add an extra 40-50 pounds? Forget it. It will be easier next time...

I'm a Hyper-Hypo.

I have a Hypothyroid, and I am Hyperopic (farsighted).

Just call me Phillip.

An Awful Tragedy

I learned today that my dear, dear friend Billie's sister and her infant son were bludgeoned to death last night.
I am at a loss.

Tuesday on the tee box

After Natalie heads to school, there is usually about 90 minutes where it's just Brady (before he goes to school). I really cherish these 90 minutes twice a week since alone time with the oldest child seems to be a rarity once you have another child.
Today Brady was treated to a vanilla milkshake and his own bucket of balls at The Hitting Zone. Both he and Larry are a bit rusty swinging the sticks, but I was still impressed. I tried to read my new book, Prodigal Summer, but the boys kept saying "did you see that?" and I hadn't, so I eventually gave up.

Blustery Day

Brady was growling the word "Tiger". We are going through another "no-photo" phase with Brady again, so this is as good as it gets (unless I sneak a candid).

Natalie on the other hand...

Natalie and I are so good looking with our "wind-blown" look. (see my scarf? I got it at REI for $6.00, regular priced $25.00!)

Brady taking the reins of the kite.

A successful flight.

I awoke to the sun flooding in through my house this morning. It was such a wonderful way to start the morning. But there's always a price... today it is wind.

Once we all started moving, we headed to REI to cash in our dividend check and then headed to Zuanich park to play.

Thankfully the wind wasn't bitingly cold, but after 30 minutes, we were done anyway.

Girls! Girls! Girls!

According to reports from adult party-goers: Natalie had made claims that this Unicorn given to her by Pearl is named Horndy (or some variation, I think everyone was told a different name, to keep the heat off the unicorn. You have to protect their identity when you're dealing with mythical creatures), and he is a good Unicorn, but can sometimes be EVIL.

Natalie had her party today. And I'll cry if I wanna. Actually it was a lot of fun, but a house full of 4 year old girls can put your senses in overdrive. And all that work we put into cleaning the house: undone.

Larry did, however, pack us all up and take us out for Mexican for dinner (not in Ferndale, Sabina!) so I didn't have to cook on top of everything else today.

Natalie had a super time, loved seeing all of her friends (and Unc-ee, her new pet name for Uncle Richard). Snoopy even made a cameo appearance!

(I'll add more photos tomorrow. Larry had the camera on some goofy setting, so most are out of focus and all of the children have red-eye. I'm too pooped to edit. I'm kinda miffed about the photos too, but I'm trying to let it go)