If you only knew …

“You’ll thank me for this later…”

    Yesterday was my garage sale. I say no more. You didn’t really believe that 'no more' stuff – hah! Whew. I’m tired. I’m glad it’s over. 

   Good things happen though - my piggy is a few bucks fuller (well 3 piggys) – my boys sold stuff too. It wasn’t the boys weekend at home, but they were allowed to come 'help' for a few hours (selling their stuff for $ = good)… then returned to their Dad’s to finish out the weekend. It was a mixed bag of “so-called fun” for the boys inasmuch as: they had boring waits, hard decisions to accept less $ for their stuff, distractions as they played with friends (whose mom’s weren’t even shopping – hello?), fighting with each other and friends, talking about their beach trip with ATV (show & tell w/bruises from sand dunes – ouch), fun counting the $$, facing things that didn’t go their way… and ohhh so much more.

The most challenging moments in a day are when my boys suffer! Well I'm not squeamish over physical pain that I can take (blood no problem for me)… yet, it wasn’t that, nor was it financial, this ughhh was HEART pain. Those moments of suffering where a parent can choose to take over … or just listen (trying desperately not to cry). Oh… don’t get me wrong – I am fully capable of pulling off one big BAD full-alert whirring helicopter rescue mission to protect, kiss, and FIX whatever ails them… but what would they learn?

Yeah, not so much; I figure it’s not as critical for them to know that Mom understands what to do, has the skill to accomplish it, and even has the internal, emotional strength/courage to carry out the task… that, unfortunately, needs to be a learned self-concept for each of my babies, uhh, boys to own for himself. It’s a blessed feeling. To believe in yourself – to know and to accept the truth about self: I am brave enough; I have what it takes; I am worthy of being heard; I will make a choice to walk with my head high; I can do this without being rescued… I am not alone, but at the same time a supportive, caring parent will encourage me to step up and swing at any pitch! (Not exactly what I had when I was a kid – but I commit to not steal any opportunity from my boys.) However. This also means that I can’t grab them by the shoulders and say:

I know it feels bad now, but you WILL thank me for this when you are a man!! Yes, really you will. I know, you hate me. =( again. Nevertheless if I step in to fix it for you – rescue you from this pain – you will not learn how to do it for yourself and you may hate me now AND later. So, while you may feel a twinge of anger and hate toward me for NOT taking on your challenge for you… I still commit to give you this gift now. In the hope that you will have a blessed future and you may thank me one day, when …

• you face your challenges head-on
• you are humble enough to say sorry
• you are complimented for being a good listener
• you think before you speak
• you reach for a hand to shake rather than clenching your fist to meet another’s chin
• you live your words in your actions
• you let God take care of retribution, as you choose forgiveness
• you know each action has a consequence and you have chosen well
• you have learned that love is sometimes as simple as being quiet when you desperately want to “fix it” for that special person in your life…

Then again, I won’t hold my breath right now for such gratitude – hmmm, maybe there’s hope that some ‘future-friend or spouse’ will hug me and say “thank you” for raising such a good man!! If only they knew. . . garage sales are not all about the $$ some things are free.

True or False...

On controlling technology ... people, I got nuthin!! True: I love my computer, monitor, keyboard all working peripherals --they're a team! False: I love my monitor. My computer team knows I'm in control! True: I love my monitor UNTIL . . . the 'dark side' takes over. It's a BAD sign when your screen looks like this: Does anyone see a problem here? The top half of the screen is uhhh - asleep? Look closely -- can you see the horizontal white line... ? It's missing only the sound of a flatline BEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP ... An optimist might say the screen is half ummm... awake??? Maybe it needs some of my espresso? Anyway, keep in mind I wrote this while it was only half-awake! =0} Oh MY... this is especially BAD... given that I am unable to control the urge to turn on the computer and type furiously for the 5 minutes the screen is completely available. Yikes! Suddenly I am reduced to using only the lower half the monitor screen to view what type -- wait I need to scroll down again -- updating blogs and communicating through email as well as all that "important" banking stuff I do ... is then S L O W E D to a turtle's pace. hummph! [wait - scrolling again] It's a psychotic moment when mid-sentence "BLIP" the dark side is present. Half of the screen I need is dark. I have about 4 inches of a window to view ... it's really quite IRRITATING. Worse yet, a sane person would stop typing, turn off their computer and accomplish something anything else . . . but I am still here typing (trying to read) [ then scrolling the screen back into view ] Just imagine my pain -- I am experiencing some serious brain strain as I literally force my brain to remember long forgotten key strokes - my mouse is a dear friend - so easy to point + click = action. These memorized key strokes {hidden deep in my memory} are currently my only option. They allow me to 'move' {click+drag} a window within my view and other such necessary Windows functions. Okay . . . you think I'm whining - well, duh!! Give computing a shot while covering the top half of your monitor. Click File or Format or any menu function and try from memory to the pick one of the top 5 options - because those will be what you need when the DARK side attacks your monitor! The one's which randomly appear ABOVE the bright white flat line! GRRRR! True: I got nuthin.

False: I'm gonna stop before my brain decides to be only half awake too.

HonuGirl

I wrote this blog a couple of days ago when my monitor had a Dark Side. Since then I started a search online for a new monitor. Beware technology... computers, mice, monitors are working as a team. Augghhh -- now they know WAY too much about my life. They talk, you see. The computer saw me researching the monitor's replacement -- then as if by magic (or a some kind of double agent divulging information)... my monitor - fearing replacement - began to work again -- no more Dark Side!! YEAAA... whahhh I wanted a new one! But, since I am so proud to have accomplished typing a blog with only half a screen ... I just HAD to share it with you! ps: shhh, don't tell my CPU, but i'm getting a new "M" for my b-day next week ~ tee hee {tanx 2 my friend V2T !!}

Birthdays, Cousins, and Food ... Oh My!!!

Don't be Jealous!

INTRODUCING . . . my favorite 1 year old... Miss Cutie Patootie herself (at least that’s where she’s filed in my dictionary)!

This is NaKysha ( aka "BabyGirl" my niece) today she is 1! we are celebrating with FOOD!! quite a happy, two-fisted eater Enter... Jeffrey (my camera lovin' LONG haired kid)

he's clearly admiring such grinning um, eating abilities in his little cousin! Jeffrey: "She's eating Ritz -- Mmm my favorite"

Aww... how cute, she shares. "Huh, what... for me?"

"Uhhh, no... thanks, really no I'm full."

Cousins who came to celebrate her birthday... Jeffrey (8), Jason (10), Aaron (6), Jonathan (10) Later that day ... Cake Time!!

just a little taste... mmm, good!

Happy 1st Birthday NaKysha!!

Storm's Over . . .

"The Future's So Bright, I Gotta Wear Shades" Did you experience the thunder storm this morning? I sure did. It was surprising. Incredibly loud. Frustrating too – I had to run to my car (with workout bag, purse, energy drink & keys) during a deluge. Frightening - as I worried a little when only a moment passed between each bolt of lightening and those thunderous roars. Yikes! Later, it was déjà vu. As that wasn’t the only storm of my day. Not too long after the morning storm passed – weather was no longer my concern. I was faced with a storm less threatening physically but certainly a storm of its own kind: emotions – aggravation, turmoil and words are the lightening, thunder and rain that poured only a few hours after my boys returned home. It’s not people or circumstance that determines this (or so I pray) but perhaps the idea that transition must occur on a regular basis; and no matter how long it’s been – they are children of structure. Space and time (and toys) are very important in their world. It happens every time in some way, some form.

A predictable storm. Often, I feel I am ill-equipped to cope… it may even take a while to process the what / why & how of managing the storms that arise. However, today I was not overwhelmed by the perceived power of the storm; I held my ground. In terms of parenting, I believe that I am not alone. I parent with the perfect trifecta of Heavenly Fatherhood for my boys. I claim the truth of God’s word for wisdom, strength, and grace. Framing what it means to love one another takes the terror from the sounds of thunder. Describing how precious each child is to God, to me – as each brother loves the other (as friends for life) soothes the fear that lightening may strike a painful blow. Sharing how to use words to love not to hurt quickly dries the rain of tears that reflect a wounded heart. (Not to mention the fact that I will not be producing any more … followed by 'that's obvious Mom'!)

It’s quiet here. There are no demands… my voice is confident, but quietly affirming… I suppress the need to lecture the boys… yet, they are acutely aware – in this home – I insist we speak truth. We review examples of mocking that were just witnessed – these are not truthful words. This needs to stop here, now. I spoke a prayer over their hearts, actions and words… may gratefulness fill their hearts, caring actions be expressed by their hands, and loving words flow freely from their mouths. Then we walked through what a “sincere” apology sounds like; how it feels to give and receive such apology. What a relief. The storm no longer threatens… we are at ease.

Afterward two boys must repair relationship ... they pretend to lovingly, sincerely apologize – we all laugh. It is well with my soul. Finally – my joyful, spirited, courageous, compassionate and incredible offspring are enjoying blue skies. Beaming with the sunshine of laughter, love, and joy they offer to help with laundry, dishes and vacuuming (probably hoping for last week’s allowance) – they work now as a team! What a lovely feeling of hope that remains after a storm has safely passed; the smell of first rain still lingers. The future’s so bright I just gotta wear shades!

HonuGirl

Lose Your Love Handles in 3 Moves…

About advertising and inchworms. A friend of mine is concerned about having "a spare tire" (love handles) around the middle. Personally, there’s not a whole lot of love on my part toward that someone who actually plans to grab one of those… uhh handles. Hearing a need my ‘helpful’ inner voice said – ohhh, I know. I love recommending workouts. I can find a site to recommend for removing these ‘handles’ and share the love! I did just that. I searched online. I read numerous articles. Finally! I found the “right one”. A popular fitness magazine published many online. It seemed simple – easy even! It stated in big bold letters – “Lose Your Love Handles in 3 Moves” They even posted pictures of how to do the 3 moves. Can’t get any better than that, right? Just for kicks, I’ve posted the URL and diagrams – so as not to confuse you (I’m helpful that way) Lose Your Love Handles in 3 Moves

Stability-Ball Twist Roll and Curl

Medicine-Ball Twist Pay attention now. Do not expect to truly lose those handles in 3 Moves … I tried it already -- I did all 3 of those moves. Then waited. I have to say – it was rather disappointing. Nothing happened. I waited 30 more minutes -- still nothing. It's too bad... I really thought that would be the perfect workout for my friend. I guess my friend will have to work on that alone. Hummph! However, I am continuing my research as I'm more concerned with my abs than uhh those unloving handle thingies. Soon after I linked to the most intriguing articles entitled: "Get a Flat Belly in 10 Minutes" but I much prefer NOW rather than 10 minutes from now (I'm impatient sometimes) "Flat Abs Now! The Inchworm Push-Up" Whooo Hoo!! Doesn’t that sound like fun? Heh, heh - I can’t wait to watch that little inchworm do push-ups and begin sculpting my abs. Gee, I certainly hope it doesn’t tickle too much!!!

HonuGirl

Views from a lovely date ...

My date "flips" for me!

Expression of success (or is it hunger?)! Pure joy ... happiness ... and FOOD!

I'm biased, that's for sure ... but I think he's a Hottie!!! =)

I know, I know...

Wouldn't it be nice if I had actually updated this?

I have so much to say.

Yet, I am so far behind.

Quick update:

The sprinkler fix worked - for a couple of days.

I actually was able to sleep 2 nights in a row -- no sprinkler at 4:22am.

Then Tuesday the maintenance crew arrived. They - um - "fixed" it.

It didn't hit the concrete wall at 4:22am

The next morning it began at 4:20 am.

ARGGHH!

Oh, it is turned completely toward the plants.

And it's not as loud as before.

But still - I can't sleep through the noise.

I give up.

I need to go to bed now ...

4:20am is pretty early.

Apparently I must be awake to hear the plants outside receive adequate moisture before any sane human being is awake to enjoy their beautiful flourishing foliage... not to mention

... the spiders are probably thirsty again.

HonuGirl

Seeking anonymity...

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: I have changed the settings for comment posting -- those who wish to comment anonymously may now do so! =o} Happy posting my friends!

No, nothing funny here…

Stop smiling... and hand over the latte

If you are among the people who I will encounter in person today, I’m asking you a favor: Please do not tell me that I look tired - or that I seem tired - or suggest that I sound a little tired… or infer that I must’ve been umm, busy last night, and whoop like I was at a party. (Uh, nope … no parties happening here or sleep either, but that’s my point.)

It started one day last week. I've been too tired to remember exactly when.

V2Trips said: You must be tired (mixed up letters on my text) Dad said: Honey, you sound tired. Joy said: Jolene, you’re being goofy. King says: You look tired. Random comment from stranger in locker room: You seem tired… but I’m not really sure what I did – or didn’t do – to warrant that, but I definitely checked for unnecessary toilet paper trails… if you know what I mean? (whew… nada). For the rest who need a clue: I AM TIRED!!! Hello people – that would be why I look like I haven’t slept for days. And another thing, if I don’t know you how can you tell that I’m not always like this, rather than just ‘seem’ to be? hmmm? I think it's good to have this outside input and observation; since I’m committed to being authentic these days I can admit that I don’t just “seem” tired or look tired, or simply sound tired … I am tired; therefore, I am quite proud that I am being entirely authentic with others and myself!! I love my espresso machine - think I'll make another latte. Bnnolkl;;phu][p9yuipp-0-0-0090o97645y6o] Oops, sorry about that! It’s impossible for you to notice the time lapse between that paragraph and this one … but I was so tired {no, I did not fall asleep on the keyboard}; I was using a Q-Tip to clean the top of the keys – I apparently am so tired that I cannot drink my very strong latte from a mug without spilling it on the keys (drinking problems)… I had to dab at the keys quickly before it began dripping in between them; my next blog begins how technology cannot run on espresso! Hummph.

BTW (there I go texting again, sorry - by the way).

I solved my drinking problem – Starbucks straws are the best!!! I had a point. OH yeah. My point is that. Um… I’m not getting enough sleep. Let’s see if I can help you understand why:

Between 4:15-4:30 am every day I have been awakened by a startling sound. Imagine for a minute the loud screeching sounds you may have heard when an espresso machine is steaming milk/froth for a mouth-watering latte… oh wait, but then feel shock and alarm when you realize it's about two inches from your head and you are were sound asleep [because you went to bed 3 hours ago after writing a blog]. I cannot sleep through the sound of an espresso maker – the thought that I may get some of the yummy nectar is enough to bring me to life… but this particular noise is no treat – it’s HORRIBLE.

The first morning I woke with a rush of adrenaline. Sleep walking to the window I observed a yard sprinkler spraying into a concrete wall from 4 inches away. Auughh. Just writing that sends quivers of frustration and sleep-deprived thoughts of what evil demise may come to the yard maintenance crew when I see them next. the culprit. That’s only part of my sleeplessness problem, for I am not the only one awakened by this horrifying noise! When I return to bed I discover the Octopraffe {octopus + giraffe} was awakened also and decided to sleep in my bed! Have I mentioned that this occupant – although somewhat larger than an average 8 year old, is definitely an active sleeper. His octopus-like behaviors combined with knees and elbows similar to a giraffe make sleeping in the same general space impossible [my bruises are proof]. The manager said yard maintenance crew won’t arrive until next week; she suggested I cover the sprinkler. Uggh.

Truth is, I was more concerned about encountering a sleeping Octopraffe in my bed again or I would not have braved the spider web infested landscape to trek back to the corner culprit to observe the problem. Ewww … yuck, blech … Now, it’s not a problem for me to kill spiders without a shoe, a guy, or tool for the job… but I truly hate – grrrr despise that feeling of the tickly, fine creepy, disgusting webbiness touching my skin! GROSSS!!! Last Friday.

However brave and ingenious I seemed at the time, that solution to the sprinkler problem didn’t work. It's still loud, obnoxious and keeping me awake from 4:20 am until my alarm rings. My situation is more desperate now. Both boys awaken cranky in the morning. I am so tired. Is it Monday yet?

Saturday. Things are desperate. Octopraffe is stealing sips of my latte. I'm too tired to stop him. Hoping it keeps him from being so cranky. Please make it stop!

Today is Sunday.

Two more days have passed. I am tired of being tired. Do they really need to water the plants daily at 4:22 am – don’t we live in one of the wet states? Don’t they know it rains here? Last night I finally convinced the Octopraffe that his bedroom was safe; the noise is just as loud in my room. =o] Yeaaa! No more bruises. Whaaahhh – still no sleep. I turned the sprinkler head around today. Hopefully this works. It’s possible I turned it toward the shrubs… but it’s black – I can’t really tell what I did. If I’m lucky it won’t spray the other wall. Guess I won’t know until 4:22 am. I am so tired. I think I am talking to myself now; I am so tired. I’m repeating myself too. Am I? Yes… you are. If you are among the people who I will encounter in person today, I’m asking you a favor: Please do not tell me that I look tired - just hand me a latte and smile!!!

This is so NOT funny! Stop smiling... and hand over the latte!!

HonuGirl

So it begins. . .

Was this like, um… a date? For the most part, it wasn’t a special Friday. I worked out in the morning; arranged childcare; went to the office; finished work; paid for childcare; hung out with boys; transported one to an overnight and another to a play date with the neighbor kid. It was early evening and there I was alone – typing thoughts into my computer – "Oh, The Thinks I Could Think" – would be my computer's Dr. Seuss description... as it kindly keeps all my journal notes private – unless I give permission otherwise. I do love my computer! While fully engaged in thought, I heard a familiar voice (by the open patio door) saying “I’m going to the pool – want to come?” This guy knows I don’t enjoy swimming – I go solely for the SUN – which today was practically non-existent. Hmmm… and why would I go to the pool with cold air and no sun? He prodded me a little – my comment about being cold is met with: the water is warm (the pool heater was broken earlier in the week). But I don’t want to swim (now it sounds like I’m a whiny kid) – you could bring a book and relax. Then he caught me with his final jab – Really, I’d like to be with you a while… maybe you can keep me company; just sit on the swing. In my thoughts, I weighed the options quickly: a single woman, a Friday night, a computer -- or sit by pool reading book with male companion. Okay Fine! I agreed to meet him there after I retrieved a book, blanket and a hot latte – hey, I have my priorities! When I arrived at the pool next door, there were a number of people there – in the 10 minutes I spent gathering necessities, this guy already had the attention of every guest. He was entertaining them with his energetic personality and gift for conversation. Just watching him engage with others and the energy with which he performed in the pool… I was gratefully thinking about my decision to only observe - as I’m sure (being older than he) I would be hard pressed to keep up with this active fish (I mean, guy). While I read my book the number of guests at the pool reduced… to two. Without much persuasion I had soon become the only member of his audience – although I admit his tricks, flips and antics (oh he is quite a swimmer) were worthy of oohh’s and ahh’s for sure. He noticed quickly when my attention and eyes returned to the book; he swam to the edge of the pool deck in front of me to ask what I was reading. I was slightly embarrassed as I was reading a book for Mom’s – stories about sons (sheesh – yup, the mushy type). I thought he’d roll his eyes or it would change his interest somehow. But imagine my surprise when he asked me if I would read it aloud to him. Awww, now this is a guy who can capture a woman’s attention! In no time, dusk had arrived, it was nearing 9pm and my blanket was barely protecting me from the breeze that had kicked up. I wondered if he was depleted of energy or hungry (as I hadn’t eaten dinner – except a latte). As if our minds were tuned alike we both said something about needing food/eating dinner and we laughed as our stomachs growled; food would be a good plan! My apartment is just across the parking lot and around the corner from the pool; so we walked there together. As we strolled toward the sidewalk he put his arm around me in a gentlemanly fashion, pressed his shoulder into mine, and whispered in my ear “thanks for coming to the pool with me… I had a great time.” We arrived at the apartment and I suggested I'd make breakfast for dinner – a favorite for us both. Cooking is not my forte... so, I was thrilled that he offered to help even if just to flip the pancakes. He likes to work in the kitchen. He managed the cooking quite well; with a towel flung over his shoulder, he cracked eggs, flipped pancakes, and rattled on about each step like a pro on TV.

It was so entertaining, fun, and very relaxing to watch a man take charge in the kitchen (look out Emeril -- BAM)! He even agreed to have a latte with me (he doesn't even like coffee – whaat?); through a grimace he said “oh, this is the best (read: my only) latte I’ve ever had” – gotta love that in a guy, eh? When we had cooked, eaten and cleaned… we retreated to the couch. It was rather late now. My thoughts were sprinkled with anxiety as I wondered whether this is where the break down might occur… my past experiences haunted my present.

My Serious thoughts were disrupted as I was asked a question that I apparently didn’t hear the first two times being asked. Uhh, yes I’m listening… why what did you say? Do you want to read more of your book? I’ll read a little out loud then you read (my heart fully engaged with his words, as they are my love language). We snuggled close and read aloud. When it was getting past what would be considered appropriate for the night – I made the suggestion that the evening was at an end. My dear, sweet companion leaned in to kiss me on the cheek, saying:

I love you, Mom!

Was this, like um… a date?

I had fun. Can we do it again sometime?

Only let’s go to the mall;

You can hang with me at the science store (Imagination Station)

Then I’ll walk around with you at the gadget store (Storables/Kitchen Kaboodle,).

Today while at the salon waiting for my nails to cure… uh, dry. I observed a man walk in with his little girl – she was maybe 5 or 6 years old – she was adorned in pink from head to toe; he lifted her to view and select a shade of nail polish (blue was her final choice); he then requested – “can someone paint her nails?”

So it begins …

HonuGirl

Kids are so darn cute, entertaining, & surprising...

It's just not fair - they get the best lines!

Jeffrey – 8½ years old (email to mom) I love [you] for a mom! I think you are fantastik. <private> Jason can be annoying. Do you want to know why I don’t want to get married, Mom? (after a new pool move) That put bubbles in places I didn’t know I had! Can I log onto the computer to show you stick figures on crack? (after walking-in on adults discussing sex-talks for their kids)… AWKWARD (the rolling eyes and walking backward out of the room - were priceless) Mom, I can’t sleep. I’m worried that someday I have to leave and I always want you to be with me. (after a witty comment from mom) Clever, very clever. Can I have a popsicle? (about 10 times a day) Mind if I have your latte for breakfast, Mom? Is this coffee mine? (drinking half my cup) nice, but could use a little sugar… no offense. (after I made a PB&J + honey) Thanks! I love you, Mom. I don’t want to die right now; but when I am in Heaven do you think I could live with Missy (“step dog” who had recently died). (parked at the gym; said while standing outside my car door awaiting to offer his hand to assist me out of the car) You know what’s embarrassing about standing here helping you out of the car? All these people can see that you are strong enough to get yourself out without my help. (to which his brother responded) That’s true, but it’s polite and shows respect.

Jason – 10¾ years old I can’t wait until I’m 12 – then I can babysit Jeffrey while you go grocery shopping without us. Oh, that makes more sense, I thought the anus was somewhere by the esophagus. Mom, if you take us to Baskin Robbins, I’ll pay for the second scoop. (while in pool with brother on back) Look at my new backpack Mom – I’m going to take it for a swim. (figuring out a new camera) Here Mom, let me see it, I’m really good with this stuff. (reviewing a book on adolescence) Let me read the Table of Contents – I think I’d be most interested in the chapter about Falling In Love. I did that once, but I feel differently now. It would be good to read about though. Mom, when do I have to give up my stuffed animals? They are all my friends and I just can't imagine falling asleep without them. (Now – my caveat for parents who are squeamish about THAT topic – time to divert your attention to a latte or glass of wine… you may need it) Mom, did you know that over 60% of teens starting college are already having sex? I just wondered if you knew that – I read it in Readers Digest. Don’t worry, Mom, I won’t have sex until I’m an adult. (promised question from an earlier blog) What other kinds of sex are there, Mom? I know about two… (followed by) When people have sex, how do they keep from making a baby?

Answers to all questions were provided; however, their exact content not revealed to protect the writer from undue ridicule and judgment of others... or uncontrollable laughter. You realize this is the PG13 version?!!

HonuGirl

About Jason ...

A Longing for Wisdom Beyond Years…

Need Knowledge, Desire Wisdom. Not all ten year olds are alike. That’s a given. Mine is a boy – which to the average onlooker may be considered even more so a challenge for a single Mom as I am. I refuse to acknowledge that my yoke is heavier because of circumstances. I know I don’t carry it alone – I feel the assistance of a mighty presence when faced with the daily needs of life, it’s an honor to share knowledge with my boys; I pray for guidance daily. Along with that – I believe my son, Jason, is extraordinary. Of course in my eyes, it is as it should be… since I am his Mother. But deeper still, as a person I am taken in by his grasp of human/spiritual experiences, how he views life itself and his need – no, his absolute hunger for knowledge beyond his years even for his spiritual development; I love that he has a passionate desire for “wisdom.”

I embrace his need for knowledge and desire for wisdom … he seeks it authentically and therein – already has a great amount of wisdom.

{Later, I'll tell you what he asked tonight - now, I simply need sleep!}

HonuGirl

Payroll – I’ll take mine in black please…

It was one of those days -- where just one more thing... On any given day at any given time it takes just one more thing added to my thoughts or activities (read: added confusion) which sends an imperative note to self, any critical task or item of relative significance to life out the other side of my brain. I can’t be the only one who feels like this? (But, really I don’t want to know if I am – just in case it’s that one additional thing which will kick an important thought out – you see: I needed to pick up payroll!) When a brain is full of many things that need to get done, put on, picked up, cleaned, typed, read, moved, delivered, purchased, and places to be at certain times, not to mention… people to call, text and email (ohh and a blog… to write) -- one should not risk losing a single thought to allow distractination . This was a particularly crazy day (it was last week, although it took me awhile to blog/admit this in writing) – Dory showed up numerous times (although humorous, she was not particularly helpful). This is how it all began: Woke up late (yes, I heard the alarm – but being SO tired I hit snooze a “few” times too many) Took a quick shower (*beep* – heard text message alert on cell phone) Applied body lotion (legs can’t look crocodile-ish… eww ) Dried Hair (*press* – read text message) Applied make-up (*send* – reply to text message) [Note to self: ignore text messaging you’re late: *beep* Ohhh, another one… must read message – no get dressed first – want to read – must dress – ok, just this one.] Dressed for workout (glad I picked matching outfit night before) *beep* *press* Remembered socks, shoes *send* (yes, did forget these once – toes felt curiously cold walking to the car… in flip flops) Rushed to pack (read: stuff clothes quickly into) my gym bag (work today means presto chang-o from workout girl to employee) Zipped through the kitchen for an energy drink & food bar (skipped the vitamins – I’m late, King’s waiting) *beep*press*send* [Note to self: Call doctor about addiction to text messaging … can’t seem to ignore phone. *beep* Hey, look – a text message must read – no drive first – want to read – wait @ stop light – ok, just this one.] Only 5 (8) minutes late – whew!! Not too bad. (Put cell phone in purse … on vibrate) Drove to gym safely; similar to a speed demon with an adrenaline rush (I love my new car – weird; this speedometer doesn’t have 5’s, round to 70) **Reminder to self:

• Check business mailbox after workout on way to work.
• Pick up payroll on the way to work.

* * * * Whew!! Great workout day! power zone over. * * * * Presto Chang-o time !!! Nice – no more rushing – all is going well… (hmm, where’s my black… uh-ohhh, wait too many black things … well I’m sure I packed it)

First thought -- this is NOT good, NOT funny.

Having very strong suspicion that one particular item (which is black and supportive in nature) may actually be missing-in-action; I'm presuming it’s fallen to the bench or maybe I put my towel over it… calmly looking through the bag (again). Checking again - nope not seeing it (third time in this case, is NOT a charm – or charming – or cute even). I'm somewhat frantic now – I begin re-inventorying (yes, I’m in a locker room still awaiting attire … well, I can’t put anything else on as habitually this goes first). Shaking out individual items now: pants, top, panties, shoes (nice shoes… really like these)… nope not here. Certainly time is of the essence I will be late for my entire day if I don’t proceed to dress. FINE!!! I must submit to the fate – my black, upwardly-supportive item is NOT in the bag, or on the floor, or in my purse, or - well - anywhere here at the gym… *** At this very moment my amazing, most incredible, brain flashed the picture of where the comfy, black, upwardly-supportive item sat; there at the foot of my bed as I scooped all the clothes from the right side, placing - well, cramming quickly - (since I was late) the outfit of the day, along with open-toed lovely high heeled black shoes (I get warm fuzzies when I talk about shoes) – ahhh -- breathe, all is well, at least I packed my shoes! I might get arrested wearing just those, amazing, beautiful, black peek-a-boo, shoes … so I opted for that extra black tank from my bag ... pulled on my top (without the MIA comfy, black, upwardly-supportive item) finished dressing (aww, but I remembered my ankle bling);

Walked out to my car with sweater secured around my shoulders (what a bright, warm completely hectic morning) * * * * Heading to office now * * * * No worries – the guys rarely leave the job site to visit the office … =)

I'm only 8 (10) minutes late - whew!

**Reminder to self:

• Check business mailbox on way to work. – CHECK! (oh look, a Verizon store – I need a new headset – I'd better do that now)
• Replace headset @ Verizon – CHECK!

Where am I going from here?

What’s next – there's just one more thing ... Ohhh, look a Starbucks – THANK GOD I could use a latte. (better text that I'm coming in late)

Text to Boss "B @ offc in 10 - am l8" *send*

*beep*press* Boss says: "Y - U 4get pyroll?"

Text to Boss: "getn pyroll now! *send*

Turn around a mile from office – no time for a latte!! grrrr

Pick up payroll -- maybe they have something in black too?

Go to office with payroll; smile sheepishly about MIA black item; still desperately craving a latte!!

Yeah, that’s it – just one more thing . . .

HonuGirl