just life...

New mother of a pinky

noreply@blogger.com (Mini) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 19:25:00 +0000

On Monday, I went to the pet store to get some food for my bearded dragon, Khan. I was told a few weeks ago that he could eat pinky mice. They normally eat crickets, but the pinky's are like a treat. It has been a few weeks since he had one, so I decided to get one of them along with the crickets. I must say that it is a little disturbing hearing the crunch as Khan eats, but that is nature for you. My kids know that this is what happens and they are ok with it. So we put the pinky in the cage with Khan and wait....nothing is happening. What is wrong? I know he has to be hungry. Oh well, maybe just not at the moment...

Well, here it is Thursday and the pinky is still in the cage. Khan is showing no interest in the mouse. I dangled it in front of him and nothing. I left it out in the open so he could see it wiggle, nothing. Now what? I have this little,cute,baby mouse for food and it is not getting eaten. Well, they are called pinky's for a reason, they are pink. Now since a few days have past, the mouse is no longer pink. It is starting to get its' hair. Not good! If it gets too big, Khan can't eat it. Something about the size of the lizard vs. the size of the food. So, for the past few days I have been nursing this pinky just to keep it alive, so it can be eaten. Now it is growing and soon will not be able to serve as food. That just means another pet. That is exactly how I got my other rats, the snakes wouldn't eat them....ugh!!! I can't just let it die, ahhh, for the love of animals!!!!

It has gone as far as the pinky sitting under Khan for warmth. Now lizards are cold blooded, so I don't get it. It's like one of those weird connections between animals that you see on Animal Planet.

I am nursing this little mouse with a eye dropper. I have to make it use the bathroom by rubbing it with warm water. I have to keep it warm with a heating lamp, which I have for Khan. I am not sure what stage of mini mouse he is in, but his eyes are still closed. I must have patience for this. I will have to do some research to see how long I have to keep up with this. For now, it seems, we have a living, breathing, science experiment... What a fun way to learn.

Pharmacy's duty to customer

noreply@blogger.com (Mini) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 18:16:00 +0000

Today I go to the Dr. because I can't breath. I sit in the waiting room for about 1/2 hour, not bad. I get in to get my exam, Dr. checks breathing. He is making faces, not good! He says that a few more days would have put me in the hospital. Not to happy with that outcome, but I am getting meds to get better. So all is good.

From the Dr.s office I go to get a chest x-ray. Doc says the wheezing is not good and needs to be checked out. Sat in that office for about 1/2 hour, not a big deal. Things are going well so far. Now off the the pharmacy to get the Rx filled. On the Rx was 4 different meds. One antibiotic, one steroid (for swelling), and two inhalers. Ok, fine, I have to take them to get better. I get to the pharmacy and drop off the Rx. It's gonna be about an hour, so I decide to leave and rest until then.

Two hours later it's time to go pick up the Rx. Well, I get there and now there is a problem. I am sure that everyone can relate when I say, now I am pissed. I am not feeling good to begin with and now I have to deal with this crap. Well the assistant at the pharmacy says that one of the inhalers is no longer covered by the insurance, fine, not much I can do about that. The other inhaler has to be pre-authorized. Excuse me!! What the hell is the point of having an Rx from the Dr. if it has to be pre-authorized? I thought that's what an Rx was... So, of course, I lash out at her, maybe not her fault, but she could have called me in advance or just sent the paperwork herself, right! Wrong! That would be going to far for a customer. Well, I know if it were me I would do what was necessary to get the Rx filled by the time the customer got back. Or, if out of my hands, contact the customer so the necessary calls could be made in a timely manner. I mean, I am not getting an Rx because I am well!!! Duh, fucking duh!!!!

So I leave with 2 of 4 Rx's that I need. While in the parking lot I call the Dr. The nurse answers the phone, I explain the situation, and she asks me to go back inside and have the pharmacist call the Dr. so they can switch the meds. Ok, I am still there, so no problem. I get back inside, same bitch, says "Why can't the Dr. call us?" I don't know, just make the freaking call already! Well, "the pharmacist has to be the one to call the Dr." He is standing right there, so he heard what was going on and proceeded to call. As far as the pre-authorization, I had the ASSistant fax over the paperwork to the Dr. while I waited. Once the pharmacist was on the phone, I left.

Now lets see what tomorrow brings! Will I have to deal with the ASSistant again and her bitchiness (is that a word?)? Or will I get the meds I need to get better? Let's just hope for their sake I get my meds...it's not going to be pretty if not!

What to do?

noreply@blogger.com (Mini) — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 18:11:00 +0000

Sometimes in our lives we come across decisions that are hard to make. I am having some trouble handling something that recently happened to me. I received a text from my ex. stating that he would be willing to give up his rights to our kids if I dropped child support. Well, here is the dilema. First, he doesn't pay child support to begin with. Second, he is not involved with his kids at all. Ok, doesn't seem hard right, well...based on that, no! But the dilema lies in how I would even approach my kids to tell them about their fathers idea. Or do I say anything at all? Do I let him make the decision, though it may be wrong. I can't understand how this would even be an option for him. He lives far and doesn't get to see them often, but when he does have them he spends his time on himself. Selfish, huh you don't say! Well, fine not my problem. But again the problem is in the kids. I just can't stand by and let him do that to MY kids. So where do I go from here? How could a parent just say to themselves that it is ok to walk away from their children, for (again) selfish reasons. I could never do that to my kids, they are my life. But now I am torn because I want to protect them, but at the same time, he is not serving as any type of father figure in their lives. Do I let him go through with it and screw the money, or do I force him face his responsibilities? I should be concerned with my kids feelings, money means nothing to me. But I just can't let him get away with not helping take care of his kids like he should be doing. Too many men walk away from their kids and its not right in so many ways. I am here for them no matter what. Should the trash be taken out of their lives for good?

It still exists

noreply@blogger.com (Mini) — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 13:01:00 +0000

Last week, as I was unloading my truck full of groceries, I was approached by one of our neighbors. She somehow managed to have her mini SUV roll into the street with the hood up. So she asked me for some help pushing it back into the driveway. Well, being that the driveway had a slight incline, it was very difficult. I had to take of my shoes to get a good grip and still the SUV didn't move. She ended up getting out of the car and helped me push from the back. After many attempts, and much sweat, we were able to get the car just barely off the street. I then asked her what the problem was because the hood was up. Well, apparently, the car wouldn't start and she needed a jump. The problem was the it was in the garage with no way to get near the battery to jump it. Little did she know that I have a portable 5-in-one tool that helps with that sort of thing. (Thanks to my man keeping me safe)

Now that we have the SUV in the driveway I can jump it and get it started for her. I get to the battery and hook up the negative side to the terminal. As I look at the positive side, to hook it up, I notice that it's not even connected. Well, that just might be the reason why it didn't start originally. Duh! Well, my neighbor is a little girly girly, so she wouldn't have known if it was staring her in the face. Just then, Jeff pulls up from work. Just in time. I walk over to him, tell him the problem, he grabs his tools and returns to fix the issue. Nothing big of course, just a little tightening of a screw. She thanked us and we went home to finish the groceries.

Now this is something that I would have done for anyone. I guess I am more willing to help than not. Especially if I can. The same goes for Jeff, he is very helpful to everyone.

Last night, we get a knock on the door. It wasn't real late but we also weren't expecting anyone, so it was a surprise. I was in the middle of cleaning the kitchen after dinner so Jeff went to get the door. I could hear some talking and then the door shut. Jeff walks in the kitchen with a bag and a note. Hmmm, what could this be, and who from? We open the letter and it says:

Jeff and Monica,
Thank you for helping me with my car. I really appreciated it. Hope you enjoy this bottle of wine.

Sincerely,
(her name)

Well, well, well, well, well!!! That is sooo nice, I couldn't believe it. Like I said, I would have helped anyone that I could of. Do I deserve such a nice bottle of Merlot?? I guess I do. I guess there are still people out there in this world who really do appreciate help. I will always help someone in need, just because it makes me feel better about myself. Giving is what I do! But to be thanked and shown appreciation, well that just doesn't happen that often, but I am glad to know it still exists!!!!

Oh the rain

noreply@blogger.com (Mini) — Sat, 30 May 2009 22:44:00 +0000

I can't begin to tell you how much I can't stand the rain. Ok, so we need it. But, do we need so much that my backyard is now a pool. Yes, it does disappear pretty quickly, when it gets a chance to...but man, you just can't get anything done. I have to mow the grass and clean out my truck. I do have a garage but it will just get too hot in there to vacuum. I know I am bitching for no reason. Oh well!! haha I am a Florida girl and I love the sunshine. I wonder if tomorrow is going to be the same. I certainly hope not, the kids are getting restless inside. There are only so many hours in the day that you can play video games without getting bored with it. I am hoping for sunshine and blue skies....I know that is near impossible. It is our rainy season here and it just gets worse. In fact, in two days it will be officially hurricane season. Sorry for those travelers whom have no idea what it gets like here. Ha! oh well, we also need the money here in Florida from the tourists. My mother just informed me that we are number 3 in the US for the most unsafe places to travel to. Nice huh! Well if the locals don't get you the weather will. LOL!!!

Have a great remaining of the weekend! Hope it is sunny for you!!

Long time

noreply@blogger.com (Mini) — Wed, 20 May 2009 14:46:00 +0000

Hello everyone. I know it has been a long time since I blogged, but it has been crazy. I haven't even checked any of the blogs that I follow. I feel so overwhelmed lately....not sure why either. It's not like I don't have anything to say, just not getting around to doing it.

I am feeling a little trapped lately. I have no job and yet my bf does not want me to get one. Ok, fine but being stuck indoors really sucks sometimes.

I got an invitation from my brother to go visit family this wonderful Memorial weekend and I am not permitted to go. It is my fault that I got involved with someone who goes away for 24 hours at a time. Does that mean I have to suffer? I feel like I am stuck! No money to ever do anything with my kids and no time to do it either. Ho hum...I have become wifey. I have to vent!!!

I love my bf with my whole entire heart, but yet sometimes he makes me so angry. It's like I am now a possession of his. I do what he says, not to cool with me. I have always been an independent woman and now I feel like I am being kept. Granted, it is wonderful to be able to stay home with my kids, but do I always have to stay home? I feel guilty if I do something without him when we are at home. He says it doesn't bother him if I do, but yet when I want to leave to visit FAMILY, then it is an issue. He works two jobs, by his choice. We barely spend time doing things together. So why can't I get away from MY monotony once and a while?

I haven't seen my uncle and aunt in a very long time. This weekend is a fun, family weekend and I can't go. Grrrrrr! It makes me so angry. Ok, breathe!

Guess this is the life I chose so I have to deal with it!

Sam's #9

noreply@blogger.com (Mini) — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 14:58:00 +0000

On Sunday afternoon, we had a small party for my eldest son Sam. It was tough for me because I was a bad mom and went out the night before. Ugghhh!!! But nevertheless, it was fun.

As always, I made my food to fit the theme. I think that it is better than decorations. At least you can eat it...I had donut tires, graham cracker stop lights, and checkered flag cookies. UMMMMMM!! I didn't have any, but by the faces on the kids, I knew it was good. The cake was like a street race, with cops even...Sam's idea!

The theme of the party was racing. I had the kids paint some wooden race-cars at the start of the party. So for games... we did races. The best one was the 3 legged race. I paired up the kids as evenly as possible. They were falling all over the place. We also did a fill the jug game. I took empty milk jugs and wrote "gasoline" on them (to keep with the theme) and then had the kids do a relay to fill them with sponges. The boys were against the girls. Being that there were more boys, the girls got extra sponges. Ya know, females can totally multi-task better. The best part of that game was the fact that my nephew T, kept pouring his sponge in the girls' jug. He got it after three or four times. It was probably the reason the girls won, because it was very close.

For all the pics go to:

From Sam's Birthday

Worldwide Cleanup Day

noreply@blogger.com (Mini) — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 20:30:00 +0000

A few weeks ago, I received a cause invite from one of my fellow facebookers. I accepted! The event stated that today, April 21, 2009 was Worldwide Cleanup Day. It was asking that everyone around the world pick up at least one piece of trash today, instead of throwing it out. I decided that this would be something good for my family to take part in. Well, unfortunately, I now see that only one of my three children are truly concerned with the protection of the planet. The one I am speaking of is my youngest. He is great. He volunteered to go with me today.

We decided to go to Biscayne Nat'l Park. I figured that would be great considering that he was now sworn in there to be a Jr. Ranger. Plus it was his idea, how could I say no. I think that he also had other things in mind because he took his wallet with him. He had spotted a compass last time we were there and now he had money to buy it. Kids are pretty smart!

We both grabbed gloves and a trash bag. As we drove to the park, we couldn't help but notice all the trash everywhere all over the road. It definitely takes more than just two people to do this. I certainly hope that we were not the only two out today doing so. In fact, as a fellow facebooker had stated, we shouldn't just wait to do this one day a year. We should always do this as a community, no matter where you live. The fact of the matter is...it doesn't happen as much as it is needed. So, if people all over the world can take part on one particular day, it will still help to clean up some trash. Something is better than nothing! It even rained while we were there and that didn't stop us.

We spent two hours at the park and were able to fill half a kitchen trash bag. Not bad considering that the park was just cleaned up this past Saturday. Much of the trash we found was recent. Some of it was fishing line that had been stuck in trees for some time, just missed I guess. Nevertheless, we felt great about what we did today and hopefully we can continue to do this on a more constant basis, and all over. I do know that we do our part by not littering, so why not do our part in cleaning up. Unfortunately not everyone sees things the way my family does. There would probably be less trash if everyone was even a little more concerned with the planet.

Pics on grill

noreply@blogger.com (Mini) — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 20:28:00 +0000

Well, I know it was about a week ago that I promised the pics, but here they are...

We grilled Orange Glazed Carrots and Smoked Beer Can Chicken. Jeff did a great job! He is really getting good at this.

Grilling Gods!

noreply@blogger.com (Mini) — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 13:48:00 +0000

Two weeks ago my bf decided that it was time to buy a new grill. We had a grill, but it was just not enough, I guess. Never had complaints about it, but it was still not enough. Now when a man says that it is a little hard to understand. How is it not enough. There is plenty of space for charcoal and definitely enough space to put food on for 6 to 8 people. I just didn't get it. Until he came home that one particular day.

First of all, he comes in and says that he bought something for me, yeah right! No idea what it could be. This was obviously a spur of the moment purchase. He explained that it was one of the credit card deals, whatever. So after it was all put together, I then figured it out. Ahhh the grill! Now, the one he got has enough. It is a dual grill, with gas on one side and charcoal on the other. It even has a little side burner for oh, side dishes I assume. Wow, very cool I tell him. Now what, "I hope you get your money's worth out of it!" Well he was sure that was going to happen. He must have had grill on the mind or something because everything was about grilling. Any store that we had been in since the purchase, we were looking for grilling accessories.

So...we decided one day last week that we were going for a relaxing walk at The Falls, a shopping mall. Crate and Barrel (love that store) was one of the places that we hit up on our walk. After walking around the store for about an hour, we are on our way out. Suddenly, bf sees a book on the lime green Weber grill sitting in a front display. Loved the grill I must add. Well, its a grilling book with techniques and of course, recipes. We literally sat there looking through this book so long, that the store was in the process of closing. A store clerked approached us and asked if we were going to buy it because they were closed. Well, not hard to decide, so we got it.

On the way home we were amazed at the recipes we found in there and the wealth of information. These are 5 star recipes. We couldn't wait to get grilling...

So far we have made, about 7 or 8 of the many recipes in this book and I tell you what. What? This has got to be the absolutely best recipe book I have ever had. I mean the food is sooooo mouthwatering. We now want to grill everyday. Unfortunately, I have not yet taken any pics of this wonderful food, but I promise I will, next grilling, which is tonight!

Some of the recipes already made by us are:

Porterhouse steaks with Red Wine-Shallot butter,
Flank steak with Roasted Red Pepper and Feta Stuffing,
Chicken Involtini with Prosciutto and Basil,
Cedar -planked Salmon with Tarator Sauce,
Roasted Peppers, Grilled Onions, and Feta Cheese Salad,
Asparagus and Prosciutto with Lemon Vinaigrette,
Yellow potato salad with Pistachio Pesto (minus the nuts, couldn't find them),
and dessert.....Grilled Banana S'mores....to die for!!!

Tonight we are having Smoked Beer Can Chicken and Orange Glazed Carrots. Ummm good! I will try and take photos and keep you updated. Or... if you so desire check out the book yourself and try some or all of the recipes at http://www.weber.com/cookbook/WayToGrill/.

I am sure that if you like to grill, you will thoroughly enjoy this book!!

Bored!

noreply@blogger.com (Mini) — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 21:26:00 +0000

Here it is Spring Break and I am bored out of my head. My kids are gone to their dad's and I find myself with nothing to do. Yes there is always housework, but I do that all the time anyway. So what to do??? I went grocery shopping, not eventful! I have a few things that I can think of, but nothing that really strikes up my interest enough to get motivated. I have a book I could read. I have a bike, should go for a ride. But the truth is I just want to relax. There is a part of me that feels that I should be doing SOMETHING!!! Ahh. Why is it when they are home, I go crazy trying to get everything done. When they are gone, I don't feel like doing anything. Should I stay bored and just catch up on ME time??? I think I will.

Boy, it's going to be a long week!

Camping Pics

noreply@blogger.com (Mini) — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 16:35:00 +0000

Come check out our camping pics from this weekend.

Camping

New season

noreply@blogger.com (Mini) — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 14:25:00 +0000

Ahh yes, it is warming up outside and the fun times will now resume. Not like we don't have fun all the time whenever. But Spring and Summer are definitely my favorite seasons. (Florida doesn't have seasons, hehe) I love the fact that wearing practically nothing is acceptable. Not nude, Dad! Ya know, shorts, tank tops, sandals, and don't forget the bathing suit. Well to kick off the season, we are going camping in our own backyard. Not the yard of my house, but the wonderful Everglades that we live so close to. Let's see, in attendance...Me, Jeff, my kids, Paige (Shy's friend), Jason, his kids, Ivia, her girls, Bryan, Heather and Aidan. It's going to be so much fun. We haven't been camping in like two years so it should be great! Hope to catch some stars at night, where there are no street lights. I love the great outdoors! It's time to get back in the groove of things and be outside. That is "why" we live in Florida.

Pics will follow soon.

Our boring day at home

noreply@blogger.com (Mini) — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 21:16:00 +0000

Today we were unsure of what science project we could do. We have been on a science kick for about a week now. We decided to do something to break up the monotony of lessons. For Christmas, the boys got some cool stuff to build. We pulled out the boxes and chose what we thought would be cool.

It took a few hours to construct because there are lots of small pieces. Plus, everybody had to have a turn making part of it. Some were quicker than others. There were a total of three stages of construction.

I would say that today we learned how to follow directions. We also learned the mechanics of how one action creates another action. All and all, it was fun.

So this is what we ended up with....

We thought it turned out pretty cool!

Another great weekend

noreply@blogger.com (Mini) — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 15:50:00 +0000

Well, we had another great weekend in the sunny state of Florida.

It all started out with breaking boards at the Karate school on Saturday. The kids had a blast. It was a promotion for the school to get kids in, but we are always invited anyway! It lasted about an hour and boy did it go fast. Jesse, the instructor is awesome. He doesn't have any kids of his own, yet, but he sure knows how to handle them. It was quite comical at times. There were some real little guys and gals breaking, real boards too. I think the youngest was 3, that being my nephew JT. The kids listened pretty good, considering there were tons of them there. The parents as always were impressed with their own kids. It is really cool to watch all of them do their thing. Like little ninjas.

The rest of the day was spent in the backyard of our house. The neighbors had a party and the kids were invited to come over. They had a bounce house for the kids. That is one way to attract kids to a party. There were a few injuries due to the bounce house, but since they are kids there are more able to "bounce" back after getting hurt. Nothing major really. Just a bloody lip and a few smacked skulls. Believe it or not, both my kids. Damn! I didn't do so well with it, but Jeff was there so...no probs. We ended up retiring early that night. Something about running around all day gets kids tired. Yeah!!!

Sunday was even better. Back to the beach at Crandon Park. We just went on Tuesday of this week, but who could say "no" to the beach. The kids got burnt a few days prior so I made sure that everyone was covered with sunscreen. I went as high as 50 spf this time. Really, after 30 I don't think it makes a diff, but whatever. It was great. Lets see, in attendance was...Me, Jeff, my kids, Jason, his kids, Ivia, her daughter, cuz Kevin, and Yara...phew. We all packed food and drinks for the day. What a long day it was. We were there from about 11 a.m. till about 4 or so. The kids made sand castles, played in the waves and pretty much everything else you can do at the beach. It was an absolute gorgeous day.

Pics can be seen at

Weekend 3-14-09

Just so..not sure

noreply@blogger.com (Mini) — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 15:26:00 +0000

Have you ever woke up in the afternoon, lol, to wonder what you were going to do for the day. Well today is one of those days. I have been so busy trying to get my house under wraps with laundry and cleaning, blah, blah , blah. Well, I also have lessons to teach. This week has been science week and today I am just out of ideas, plus do I have the time? How am I supposed to teach and get all this crap done. Do you sit in a messy house for a few days and not teach? Do you not teach and clean the house? I sometimes feel like I don't teach enough to my kids and other days I feel fine about it. How do I know what is "enough". Soon we will have to get evaluations so that the kids can be promoted to the next grade level. Am I going to pass?? I think it really boils down to me. Have I taught enough all year? I am stressed. Some days I feel like three hours of lessons just isn't enough. Other days I may do only one hour because I have so many other things to do.... Aaahhhh!!! I do know that even when I am not teaching, my kids are still learning. They do watch TV programs that are related to learning, History Channel, Animal Planet, Cash Cab (lol). I guess I am just stressed because the end of my first year of home school is coming. I don't want to be disappointed in what I have accomplished as far as the kids are concerned.

Open for business...

noreply@blogger.com (Mini) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 19:50:00 +0000

OK, so we are now open for business!!! We have already done some quotes and even finished a job (tile). If anyone is interested in having some work done to their existing home, kitchen, or bath. Whatever it is, we can do it!! I have been working on a blog to be our home page. It is under www.GTConstructionofSFl.blogspot.com. Check back frequently for updates on pics and other news events.

For questions or comments see our page. All of our contact info is listed.

That sucks!!

noreply@blogger.com (Mini) — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 15:29:00 +0000

I am so excited as I have already mentioned to some. I got a new vacuum yesterday! Sounds crazy, but get this...

So, I am vacuuming one day and all of a sudden the damn thing starts making all this noise and black pieces start coming out of the bottom. Immediately I stop. Ok, what could this be?? I tell my wonderful man to check it out and please fix it. Well, after he takes the whole entire thing apart, down to the little wires, he sees that there is a problem with some rubber piece which is a cushion of some sort for the motor. Ok, whatever....So fix it!!! I have some cleaning to do. Well, easier said than done. He calls around vacuum repair shops looking for this piece. Now the vacuum is like 5 yrs. old or something, so we are having a hard time. I go online and finally find it for like $4. Awesome right! Well, at the same time, he is on the phone with Bissell. He talks to them about the part and they tell me that it is obsolete and that the part is not available anymore. Great!!! I need a vacuum.....So I told him that I would order the part online and it would be done. Fine, no not fine. He wanted to go through Bissell. Well, they told him to cut off the cord of the broken vac and send it to them. Now I have nothing at all to vacuum with. So he spliced some wires and fixed the other one temporarily, thanks!!

So yesterday, I get a knock on the door and it is FedEx. Hmmm....what could this be? I look out the door and there sat a entirely new vac. AWESOME!!!!! I know that just means more cleaning, that is OK with me. One thing I don't like is having to do things without the right tools...Now I have a new vac that really sucks and good. Hehe!!!

Could this be the start of something good??

noreply@blogger.com (Mini) — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 19:44:00 +0000

So, I am sitting there listening to the news as I am teaching lessons this morning. I know, "I'm not watching anymore..." I have to blame my bf, he always watches it. Anyhow...as I am listening, I hear something about California and the possibility of making marijuana legal. Hmmm! I said to myself, seems interesting, need to hear more. So I wait till it comes on and listen. From what I understood, if they legalize it, they expect to generate 1.3 billion dollars in taxes. Most people of course don't agree with that. Some say that people would smoke more if made legal. From how I see it, they wouldn't. They are people all over the US that smoke it now illegally. Will they smoke more??? I guess we won't truly know till it happens. On the other side of things, how 'bout the jobs it could create? It is like agriculture, right. So we could have people keeping the crops, packing, selling, etc...Sounds like bunches of jobs to me. Could it really help the economy. Think about this... instead of spending money trying to fight something that has been and will continue to happen, how about earning some money on it. Shit, more that half everyone I know smokes...in fact I know more people who do, than don't. Would they smoke more, I don't think so. I think it would be the same, except they would easily be able to go get it...I know that I would pay taxes on it and have it regulated just like alcohol. In fact, it's too bad alcohol is legal, because really it should be the one illegal....It does more harm to you than marijuana does. I can't say that I have heard anyone anywhere that uses alcohol for medicinal purposes????? If you know, please inform me...on the other hand, marijuana is used for many things medically. It is also used for other purpose besides medical. Did you know the Declaration of Independence was drafted on hemp paper? You can read more about hemp and its benefits on http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hemp.

Ok, maybe I am just rambling, but I know personally that if it became legal, I would more than likely not even drink alcohol. The damage alcohol does more than outweighs the benefits of marijuana, whether it be in full form or just medicinal.

If one state legalizes it, will other states follow? Maybe if they see an increase in state tax revenue. I know I would. Quit trying to fight a loosing battle, embrace it and use it for good instead.

I know there are many other issues out there regarding this and I would love to hear your imput!!!

Family Vacation

noreply@blogger.com (Mini) — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 20:49:00 +0000

Well, where do I start. Thanks to Uncle Sam, and all my hard work, I was able to take my family on a wonderful vacation. It will probably be the last for some time as the economy sucks! Anyhow...

We decided to go on a cruise. With the help of a good neighbor we were able to get a good deal, so we booked it. This was the first for all of us. We went to Key West and Cozumel, also a first.

We departed the Port of Miami on Monday the 16th, about 4 p.m. We were on our way. We first ate lunch as soon as we boarded the ship. It took some time before our room was ready, so we got started immediately. (Now I won't try to bore you with every detail, I do have some pics). Of course, the first nite we partied. The ship had all kinds of things for the kids to do and so they did. We barely saw them the whole 4 days. AWESOME!!!!

The second day we arrived in Key West. Since the partying was so heavy the night before, we didn't depart. We had been there many times before anyways. So that day was spent mostly in the sun, hanging out with a few people we had met the first night. It was so relaxing, I just couldn't believe it was really happening. We departed Key West about 2 p.m. and were on our way to Cozumel, Mexico. Yipee!!! We had our elegant dinner at 6 p.m. and boy was it good! After that, Jeff, Max and I went to the Captains Coctail Party. Max really wanted to meet him. After that we went to the pool and dropped Max off at the game room with Sam. Well, the second night didn't go as well, something about a hang over and a rocking ship that doesn't mix....

Third day we did some more hanging out and relaxing. In the meantime, the kids are hanging out with their new friends. My boys were back and forth, from mini golf to ice cream machine. I guess they were in their own worlds too. Every evening around 9 or 10 they asked to go to Camp Carnival, which was a fun place for the kids under 11. There was also a 12-14 yr. old club, thats where my big girl hung out. I must say I rarely saw her! She had a blast. So anywho, we arrived at Puerto Maya in Cozumel at 1 p.m. We took a taxi ride to Playa Corona and went snorkeling. The water was beautiful and crystal clear. A little too cold for us spoiled Floridians, but still just as wonderful. We had lunch at Three Amigos Restuarant at the port. After a few hours on shore, then back on the ship, the kids missed their new friends. Again, more hanging out and partying. That night was till 6 a.m. WOOOWW!!!!

Then comes the forth day. The fun day at sea, and that it was. Back to sunning and eating and having fun. Kids doing their things, parents doing theirs. We basically hung out with the two same couples that we met the first night. They were a blast too. It is so nice to mingle with people, just love it!!! We did some dancing, mostly everynight! Had to, I just don't get much of that at home anymore, ya know reality...We didn't hang out too long the last night, had to be up wayyyyyyy tooooo early.

We arrived back at the Port of Miami at 8 a.m. on Friday the 20th. Nothing amazing obviously, except for how much we were going to miss all the people we just spent four days with.

I have more pics if you are interested... go to http://picasaweb.google.com/Minicaca73/FamilyVacation?authkey=XP2xj2upItY&feat=directlink

So in Love...

noreply@blogger.com (Mini) — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 15:15:00 +0000

Today I am so in love with life. I woke up feeling great, refreshed! I want to find something to do today, but like always I have a house full of kids. Maybe that is what is so great. I love to see the kids happy, and not bugging me. Shy had a friend sleep over and so did Sam. So we have a total of 5 kids in the house. Seems to be the normal on most days. Sometimes it is more, but 5 is the average. I knew I should have had more, lol! NOT!!! The best thing is that they do go home, hehe!

So, the sun is shining and there is gas in the car. Maybe a ride to the beautiful Florida Keys would be in order. Ahhh, that sounds good. I could just listen to music and let the kids do whatever. Maybe after breakfast I will ask them what they think. We have been in the house all week, because the cold weather. Today is just beautiful, no need to be inside today!!

There are, of course, things I need to do today, like clean. But I can do that later. The house is a clean one anyhow. Lots of people think it is too clean! I agree, not today, or not right now.

I am making progress with my business so that is another thing I feel refreshed about. Like I said I feel so rejuvenated today.

Call me crazy...

noreply@blogger.com (Mini) — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 01:40:00 +0000

Ok, so you may think that I am crazy, but I am suffering a loss tonight. It is because of my little pet rat, Socks. She died tonight while we were out. She, after 3 yrs of life, got a tumor. This is very common among older rats. It ended up hindering her breathing because it was right under her neck. She had the tumor for quite some time, so eventually she was destined to die. Of course, it is always sad to lose a pet.

This is the latest pic of her...

May she rest in peace...

We still have my other rat, Nena. She is way alive and kicking (Stacey). She helped Socks in her last days by holding up her head up to help her breath. Something about rats that people don't realize is that they are very personable. They love affection. Socks was a very loving rat. You could hold her on your shoulder for hours. She only bit when you stuck your finger in her cage. LOL! There were many of times that I would take her out in public. People freaked, why because it was a rat. Some people just don't understand..

It's funny because I didn't like her at first because she was the cause of my other rats' death. I blamed her for a long time before I could accept her as being, well, just another pet rat. I have loved all my rats. But after this I am done. I don't think I can stand to lose any more pets.

She will be greatly missed....

I just don't get it..

noreply@blogger.com (Mini) — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 23:34:00 +0000

Here I sit crying about someone I have never met. Today I spoke with one of my old co-workers just to say "hi" and then he throws me for a loop. A mutual friend of ours, just recently had his son move in with him. Ok, then why am I crying, sounds like good news. Well, unfortunately it is the result of a tragedy. A few day ago, right here in Miami, my friends ex-wife was killed by her current boyfriend. Nobody knows why, but he shot her 6 or 7 times, killing her within moments. My friend now sits with his little boy wondering how he is going to do it. He has to help this little kid through this tough time and become a full time father to boot. All because some f'n weirdo decides that he is going to take the mothers life. I can't help but feel sad. It is just such a crazy world out there. The killer did, the next day, kill himself. But that doesn't make it better. Now there is another little kid out there without a mother because some asshole couldn't keep his cool. Don't people understand that once you do something like that, the person does not come back, its over. No second chances, no reset, no nothing. I just can't take all this shit. It is soo sad! Makes me want to take my family and go hide somewhere in the world where no one can find us, just in case someone snaps for a stupid reason.

Why don't people think things through before they act????

Damn it's a sick world!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Mini) — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 16:42:00 +0000

So here I am this morning watching the news. I will honestly tell you that after the attacks on the U.S. on 9-11, many years ago, I stopped watching the news. I thought it to be to sad and miserable. Recently, I have started watching again. Reason being, because I was going to vote and I had to be informed. Well, the election is over and we now have a new president. So, I still do watch the news to keep up to date on what is going on. The only problem is that I realize that I am not just watching politics anymore, its back to the same ole sad news.

In the past few days there have been so many, how do I say, fucked up people on the news. First, a few days ago, a man in L.A. gets fired from his job and decides to go home and kill his entire family. Not something I would do, so yes that is fucked up. Next, I hear of a man in Colorado that gets totally intoxicated and tries to get into a home that he thinks is his. Well, turns out that it isn't and the homeowner shoots him and kills him. There was no threat to the homeowner, but because of certain laws he had the right to do so. Again, fucked up! Then today, an Australian man, who just can't take anymore, decides to throw his 4 yr. old daughter off a bridge. She lands in the water, is rushed to the hospital, and later dies. As it happens her two older siblings are in the car watching the whole thing. Of course, he is charged with murder. Major fucking crazy. The two other children in the car, more than likely, will be mentally screwed up for the rest of their lives because of this. Now what are they going to do when they grow up?

I just can't take this anymore. I think I am going back to just not watching the news again. If there were positive things, maybe. I just don't understand how so many people can sit back and watch this day in and day out! I am the type of person that likes peace and happiness. Why is it so many people enjoy these horrible stories they see on TV. To me all it does is confirm how many weirdos there are out there in the world we live in. Personally, I have enough of my own problems to want to hear about others'. Maybe to some, it makes their lives a little easier and they don't feel so bad about their situation. In my mind, it just makes living more scary.

Why can't the news have positive stories... A woman saves a child from drowning. A man stops on the side of the road to help an elderly woman that is broken down. Teens help to save animals trapped inside a sewer drain. Unfortunately, there are just not enough of these good stories for me to watch anymore. I think that I will stick to my comedy shows instead. At least they make me laugh.

Family and Friends

noreply@blogger.com (Mini) — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 17:16:00 +0000

Yesterday was such a wonderful day. I spent (what is usually my lay around and relax day) in the Florida Keys with my great family and special friends. The day was filled with sun, water, and food. We arrived in Key Largo about noonish. The fun was just starting! There was volleyball, fishing, kayaking, eating, dancing, laughing, and more. The kids (mostly) were kayaking all day. At one point, I had to call out to Sam because he was too far out in to the bay. I guess you could get carried away just paddling in the vast blue of water. The seas were flat, perfect day for boating. I was amazed that it actually got HOT. I know it is the end of January. Aahhh, to live in Florida! Wouldn't trade it for the world.

So we hung out all day until the sun went down. A few of us hung around and talked on the docks until it was just too dark, and cold.

Here are some pics of our wonderful family picnic day!! I am not good with words, but the pics tell it all!!!!