Alive, Aware, Amazed...

Today's thought from a guest blogger ...

2011-12-10T11:36:00.001-08:00

for your thoughts....

... my Sweet-T

Ever been driving down the road, with your Darlin' Love sitting in the passenger seat and something catches your eye? There is an irresistible urge to keep looking but as your impression of a gooses neck starts to take shape, a sudden gasp (or sucking) of air accompanied by the sound of an open hand slapping some part of the door or the dash. Of course my immediate reaction is two fold; (1) I slam on the brakes as I snap my attention back to the road where there is another vehicle breaking, & (2) A few choice, colorful metaphors are expelled as I exhale.

I know I should be getting used to this as my Lil' Darlin' and I have been married for a year, and before that we were dating for a couple years before that. In that time I have experienced this phenomena almost every time we go out and I have the opportunity to drive.

Anyway, I only bring it up since she made me a deal the other day. "I will stop slapping the car when you stop cussing." ... Hmmmm, this may be a challenge.

As I mentioned earlier, It is out anniversary weekend and there just so happened to be a lunar eclipse which I took photos of. I am happy to say this also is an event my beloved and I have had the chance to share twice since we have known each other. On a side bar, What is with the cold weather during Lunar eclipses? Last time we were at the beach, in a sub-zero sleeping bag, freezing body parts off. This time we were just outside Sun River staying at our friends home but to get good pictures I had to venture out into the <20 d-d-d-d-d-degree-e-e weather.

We actually had not known or planned on a lunar eclipse during our anniversary plans. It just happened to be on the news the night before. So the alarms where set and at 4am we bundled ourselves up for the weather and started checking windows to see if we could forgo the bitter cold of a winter morning, predawn, on the high desert. I was pretty excited to see a full view of the moon as I raised the blinds to the big picture window in the front room. About a half an hour later, my excitement faded as .... Well, I'll let the picture tell it.

Back to the bundling up, the shoes, the warm cups of coffee and many trips out into the cold to grab a few quick snaps before my fingers got too cold to operate the camera. I do not ever plan on being a professional photographer! I love their work but what they go through to get some of their photos ... NO THANKS!

After about two hours, I couldn't feel my toes, My fingers hurt every time my sweet brought me a cup of fresh coffee, and I was starting to feel a little jealous of my bride sitting in the warmth of the house. I have to give her kuddos, she really was a trooper to keep coming out every five to 10 minutes sporting new layers of clothing borrowed from a coat closet and toting fresh warm coffee for me to warm myself with.

I am blessed to have such a wonderful bride to share all the miracles God has for us.

But from now on, maybe we should look for miracles in warmer climates. ... Maybe something tropical, or Mediterranean.

I love you BB.

December happenings...

2011-12-06T23:32:00.000-08:00

Richardson family Christmas party

Family photo missing two of my siblings, a spouse & even more in-laws & kiddos

bro-stash aka... Kilroy / Wilson?

my JL2 with cousins ... Aaron and Jon

keeping cousins in line

technology review with cousin Steve

even more JL2 cousins ...

cousin Allen, April and Lindsey

JL2 with cousins Zachary and Lindsey

Zach-man

Smilin'Lindsey

cousin Mathew/ Maty and Miley

cousins Mat,Miranda / Maty and Miley

Uncle David / cousins Jeremy & Blake

cousin Damien / Tavar

Aunt Tammy / cousins NaKysha and Damien

Just a little bit o'family news for 2011 -- Tammy, Tavar and kiddos may be home for Christmas (a visit, not staying); my other sis' Sarita plans to move her family to Texas; Dad and Mom are finally closing on the sale of the BIG house (12.23.11) ... coming up soon

Sweet-T and I celebrate our 1 year wedding anniversary 12.11.11!

H o n u g i r l

boyz to men ...

2011-12-03T09:39:00.000-08:00

... and then some:

okay, go ahead ... take the picture !!!

still not TOO old to sit with their Mom for a photo...

the BIG Bro (14 now)

the one he calls... "Bro-stash" (11yrs)

and then some for mom ....

step-dad AND
the most interesting man in my world!!

H o n u g i r l

Blessings ...

2011-11-24T12:00:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving!!

I know ... right?

2011-11-17T22:52:00.001-08:00

just a glimpse into the teen vernacular...

" that's what SHE said! "

" T.M.I. Mom " (too much information... unless you know video-game-talk = too many items/input)

" ... who knew? "

" I'm a teen, Mom ... it's what teens do "

" Yah, like, right"

" Whaaat? " (after this one ... the next sentence usually mimics that s l o w speech pattern)

" yah, I know, right?

As a mom of a teen and tween, it seems parent vocabulary is seriously affected too...

" nice try "

" wonder how that will work out for you? "

" I love you too much to argue "

" that's what PARENTS' say "

" teens, who knew? "

" hmm, I'm a Mom ~ that's what Mom's do "

" ... TMI gotta love it "

Honestly though I have no complaints ... since in between all the other stuff I still get to hear ...

tee hee.... I know ... right?

H o n u g i r l

Switch back ...

2011-11-15T00:38:00.000-08:00

what's with the "new look" updates.

I admit to being a serious online junkie in the past ... but not so much lately. Call it procrastination if you wish or delayed consciousness but "whatever" I can barely stand to stare at the screen. Going insane...

I was reading at farmsuite and katie's blogspots and realized that I should update the gang on life. It was intended to happen on 11.11.11 -- but then again, not all wishes come true, right?

So here's the thing... I noticed that things have changed. It appears I was issued a blogstop rather than a blogspot!! I'm not sure exactly sure where the complaint line begins, but I know it exists

{my son found this image -- thought it was perfect, LOL}.

Ya know me well enough to know that I have plenty to say all right -- believe me, I could go on about the childish things I've observed recently in the "old enough to know better crowd" (I mean really...when they are older than I am, they outta know BETTER, right?). But not so much, given the silent treatment I've been dealt -- however, I must say it allows for more time to get my work done (oops, did I imply that this was happening at the office ... hmmm, my bad.)

I've been unhappy with the facelifts on Gmail, Facebook, Blogger, and even the banks are remodeling their websites. It hurts my eyes to watch the speed with which the changes, new looks, and upgrades are happening ... and did I mention, the site doesn't work any better after the changes (it's in fact harder to navigate). I wanna switch back please!

I get enough changes in the morning when I can't decide what to wear to work in the morning. Which reminds me -- Sweet-T bought me brown boots. I wouldn't say I'm picky, but it took me three years to find a pair that I liked immediately after putting them on. =) It was quite funny, I've never seen a man so happy to buy anything -- he actually caught me before I flipped them over (the price is usually on the bottom, right ladies?)

T: Hey now, don't EVEN look there... just put them in the cart and take 'em to the counter I'll buy 'em for ya now if you want them -- you did say you like 'em, right?

J: Yes, they are perfect. [turning them over to read the price] well, maybe, but WOW -- isn't that a bit much?

T: Not even going there... it took you three years to find this pair divide the price by 3 if it makes you happy ... but I'm buying a pair you like!

J: =) aawww [... lotsa mushy stuff ...] thank you!!

Overheard later that week at a dinner party. Guys comparing what they bought wives/girlfriends for birthdays.... (which sadly included a hair dryer and tires) perfectly timed, my Sweet-T announces he bought me brown heeled boots (just because) ... screeching friend says NO WAY !!! She's been looking for the perfect pair for THREE YEARS!!!

~ Tee hee!!!!

Okay then... I guess some changes are GOOD! No switch backs here I'm happy. REALLY HAPPY!!

H o n u g i r l

Halloween 2011

2011-10-31T23:34:00.000-07:00

Uncle!! ...

2011-07-25T20:18:00.000-07:00

if you're on your knees anyway -- pray!!

He's fallen and can't get up ... {video link to news story}

My uncle Archie proved when you know you can't get up on your own power ... God sends along unexpected strength to lift you up outta the mud!

Never under estimate the power of the simple prayer ...

Honugirl

God makes a way ...

2011-05-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

where there seems to be no way.

He works in ways we cannot see.

He will make a way !!!

~

Honugirl

Gift of words & deeds ...

2011-05-10T00:15:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day!

Mother's Day gifts from boys (mine at least) are always simple, yet profound. Usually handmade (unless you count that year I ~~gave~~ ~~myself~~ got a Nerf gun) or when Grandma took them to the dollar store.

The gifts are not always gift-wrapped, as sometimes it's only a card, but the written words wrapped in love are the gift. So thought-provoking, and always FULL of heart.

This year I received "thanks" for not only being his Mom, but also for not "dyeing" while giving birth (no kidding). Another "thanks" for letting him stay with me and not leaving him at an orphanage. Followed by "thanks for being the best mom ever! I enjoy your company. I am glad to be you[r] son!" Jeffrey.

Jason expressed his loving Mother's Day wishes in a card ... "I hope each mother's day is better than the last"... he offered many hugs & kisses, and a lot of leaning on mom (something about being taller than mom causes this weird "leaning" disease). His gift was acts of service as he carried many things to/from the car when we went to church then to Grandma's for the day. He sat close by and "leaned" over on my shoulder and whispered many times "I love you, Mom."

There is little that is more precious than knowing love in simple ways. The written word, thoughtful deed, and of course the spoken "I love you."

Perfect gifts indeed.

Honugirl

Happy Easter ...

2011-04-24T07:00:00.000-07:00

Thought I'd share this today, as it gave me chills when I listened to it --

may you feel blessed as you consider How Great He IS!!

~ Happy Easter ~

Honugirl

April showers ...

2011-04-16T13:20:00.000-07:00

brings a couple days of "normal" the rest we were showered with sickness. Ughhh

WEEK 1: dreaded stomach flu -- in house of 4 people that means each one of us was sick for the typical 24-hour bug and half of day of recovery afterward.

Whew! There was that ONE day of feeling somewhat normal/better ....

when suddenly, acck-hem.... he (Sweet-T) feels a tickle, then a scratchy throat ... NO! We both consume every immunity supplement & liquid on our shelf, drawer & even buy more organic tea to drink (well anything helps)

uh-oh -- it didn't work. I felt it too - awwww, not again.

WEEK 2: Why is it that each illness started around Thursday ... essentially just before the weekend -- Grrrrr. Well, just the same, it really blows (noo really -- that nose thing is terrible). The head cold brings headache / sinus pressure that could fill a weather balloon ... and there you have it we were sick again.

Gratefully only 2 of us 4 ... but I still had to work as I am out of sick leave/vacation from the accident. Yeah, tell ya how much fun it is to try to function on a computer in a loud office of people chattering to customers all day and the screen so right my eyes hurt and sneezy/coughing/nose blowing ever few minutes ( then sanitizing everything after I touch it ) ... makes for a VERY tired, worn out, grumpy and all around gripey kinda girl. =(

WEEK 3: It's not completely over yet, but I can finally sit at this computer and type for a minute without pain & suffering. So I start this week promising to look through the top half of the glass rather than looking up from the bottom (as it totally felt like someone slammed the glass down on top of me and there's hardly an option to see it half full -- just completely overwhelmingly heavy -- which is crazy when it was half empty at the time --- hmmm?!)

So I while searching for encouragement on my friends' blogs K's calamities and Farm Suite (following links they shared, like Mercy) --- I found the LIFT I needed. Thanks friends. And that's when I grabbed this button .... and made a choice.

No matter WHAT,

I am starting this week with an attitude of gratitude, I will remember that A spoonful of pretty helps the real go down. And, I am taking hold of promises: God's mercy is never ending and new every morning! whoo hoo!!

May your new week be BLESSED!!!

Honugirl

Music soothes the soul ...

2011-03-23T01:05:00.000-07:00

cousin NaKysha greets Jason before concert

(only slightly embarrassing, but then mom pulled out the camera)

-- three performances, two concerts, a solo all in one week --

Jason playing alto saxophone solo for Jazz band, Advanced Band

She listens intently

Jason jams in the choir room to relax!

First concert at a high school -- April they play at OSU

the end brings relaxed smiles.

Honugirl

Time flies ...

2011-03-16T22:00:00.000-07:00

whether you are paying attention or not!

I was awakened this morning by the obnoxious, annoying sound of a rooster crowing. So loud was this horrible noise that I had to assume it was in my apartment.

Now I know this seems strange - given that I live in an apartment complex where they won't even allow dogs as pets. So I'm rather certain that fowl would be completely unacceptable.

Yet the rooster crowed and crowed ... and it continued to do so, until, that is...

I was awake enough to tap my Sweet-T on the shoulder and say

"Honey, your rooster is in the kitchen and it won't shut up until you go in there!!

{Translated: Baby, you left your cell phone in the kitchen and you need to turn off your alarm!!"}

Not a cool ringtone, BTW.

Another realization occurred when last week I woke up to the awareness that I have been married for 3 whole months!   3/11/11    =) WoW! cool, huh? I got a reminder text from Sweet-T later in the day ...
   "happy 3mo. BB"

~

On Sunday I made it to church just barely on time - we set the clocks forward - which works easily for the clocks, what do they care? No lost sleep there. But my boys -- now there's some complaining I won't be repeating.

Honestly, I don't quite get what the big deal is over the time switch. I change the clock and my brain accepts that the hour is gone.   Ta-da, move on. Once all the clocks/watches are set, so is my brain.

Then again, I'm the girl who forgets my clock is 5 minutes fast and still rushes to the car, to work, only to find that I'm right on time. hmmm, wonder how that happened?

~

That's the thing about time, ya know -- here today, gone tomorrow. Well, I guess it's just too fast to calculate each second as it passes.

I have several blog posts that can attest to never seeing the light of publishing, since somewhere between my brain, the keyboard and the act of clicking the "publish post" button -- another day passes, then a week, and before I know it the topic is no longer even impactful or interesting.

Time flew!!!

   Honugirl

journey ...

2011-02-24T21:29:00.000-08:00

Words ...

2011-02-14T07:01:00.000-08:00

What's your love language?

W O R D S do it for me every time...

When I am not in a happy place in time or space my solution is to find a card from a friend or loved one (probably no difference) ...and re-read it.

However, if I'm away from home, I stop by a Walgreens or Riteaid maybe even Fred Meyer and walk down the card isle reading cards. Perhaps I'm hoping to find a perfect card to give someone else, a perfect card I'd like to receive myself, but mostly reading a bunch of cards that just make me feel better.

Sometimes this can take a few minutes, sometimes a lot longer, but no matter how long it takes I always find a card that says "just the right thing" to lift my mood and carry me on to a greater moment of JOY!

[ Okay. My Sweet-T says I must include the fact that it's not the perfect card, but nearly "ANY" card that makes me smile, giggle or Ahhhh. In fact, to his credit he stood an extra 15 minutes at the store the other day while my boys and I read cards to "possibly" give to my brother for his 50th birthday.... yeah, we read them all and LAUGHed until we cried. Hah, just so ya know they picked the best one... better than mine even -- but I digress ... ]

Really this works ... for me. However, if Sweet-T is with me I show him cards I "would give him" and vice versa ... a new thing for him, but he's adapted to the pseudo receipt of the card and putting it back ... ( FYI he's pretty awesome at picking the perfect cards! tee hee ... LOVE cup full cha ching!)

I feel SO much better and can truly COPE with whatever comes my way.

~

I discovered the other day that this word-thing works for me "SECOND HAND."

Example:

   The other day I was at my friend's house (aka my mother-in-law, but she was my friend first, so we decided to stick with that title) when I was offered the use her personal powder room upstairs since the downstairs facilities were occupied. While washing my hands I saw a beautiful card on the counter with familiar handwriting (hey, it was already open, I was not snooping).

   I read it and nearly cried ... I felt so incredible about life, love and even, a certain level of emotional satisfaction. My next thought was, "how silly: I'm the one who gave my friend this card -- how is it that I'm the one who feel so loved?" Conclusion: "I'm just weird."

   * then i saw a second card on the stair well shelf while heading downstairs ...  I felt doubly-special (which I think I just made-up, but it accurately describes how I feel. hah!) *

   This same thing has happened more than once ... reading a card I gave to someone else and having the incredible feeling of being well, ummm "loved?" ... is there some self-love psychology in that???

~

ANYWAY....

   These experiences just reinforce the truth I've known for a long time -- my love cup is full when words fill my world. A conversation, a card, a post-it love note, an email or facebook post.

I'm just simple that way.

~

So if I could I would say something really clever -- better even than a Hallmark card or American Greetings -- but for now, I shall rely on the best quote available:

"Scatter JOY!" ralph waldo emerson

so stated again by my favorite card writer ...

Happy Valentine's Day!

Honugirl

Flip the page...

2011-02-03T19:41:00.000-08:00

just like that another month begins.

How does it happen so fast?

Happy news ... I've been doctor-approved for "light" workouts! YAY!

Sad news .... I'm S I C K short lived joy ~

I tried going to work today, but came home at 9. I've been sick a couple of days... well, a number of days (feels like a week).

Anyway... truth is, I'm not just 'under the weather'; I feel like the weather van ran me down and backed over me a couple of times, called the network and let the rest of the fleet finish me off.

Ugghh.

So here's me hoping someone will flip the page so I can be well and actually begin this month, this new year, without being in pain or extremely uncomfortable with a sinus head cold.

p l e a s e !!!

Honugirl

Brief update ...

2011-01-28T11:56:00.000-08:00

Some things change:

like the color and year of my CRV ...

my ability to work full time ...

and NOT being allowed to workout at the gym ...

Some things, well ... not so much.

I was leaving work yesterday -- after my 4 hours (limited service until doctor releases me for full-time) -- and once again amazed myself in my innate ability to lose my car; although, I do try to park in the same general area daily to avoid such confusion.

The search begins immediately as I walk out the front door, looking first toward my typical parking spots, remembering oh, that's right I arrived later and drove around. As I survey the parking lot I give right-of-way to a car as it exits the lot... trying not to look obvious about losing track of my car.

Resolved in my mind if I start walking maybe I'll remember which direction to search; as I get closer to the vehicle parked directly across from the entry I decide it's prudent to push the unlock button on the key faub... I will watch the lights flash and see where my car is (how clever of me, eh?)

Watching for lights I laugh ... as the one two feet in front of me is mine. No really!! I don't make this stuff up -- it can't get any more obvious than that! I proceed to enter my car as though I knew it was mine all along. Quickly apologizing to my lovely little car for forgetting what color it was and who it belongs to. hummph.

...

And then begin the memories of those awesome days I used to workout with King G at the gym (daily, but even more miss the Fridays only now). I would walk out of the gym and inevitably lose my car among the many SUVs in the lot ... truly surprised at how many silver ones park in the same area as mine -- and ultimately feel totally embarrassed when I would try opening the door of the wrong car.
=( Yep, those were the days!

Ah, but now I my car is darker, its charcoal or graphite or metallic something-or-other gray ... it looks so different I have to bump into before I recognize it. Hah!

Some things NEVER change -- at least I always enjoy a good laugh!

Honugirl

2011 ... Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T12:10:00.000-08:00

the
LYON c l a n

Winter Honeymoon...

2010-12-23T13:06:00.000-08:00

whew, the weather outside was frightful ...

now the view is so delightful ...

and since we've no place to go ...

we watch the snow ...

admire the snow ...

just let it snow ...

~ ~ ~

Ahhh, relaxing with my new husband, a hand knitted blanket, and the laptop wireless connection (oh yeah, the blue ray dvd playing on a huge TV -- ain't so bad either).

ooh, did I forget to mention hot coffee, chocolate chip cookies and a whole lot of peace and quiet!!!

well, gotta go enjoy a nap. =)

Honugirl

12.11.10

2010-12-16T12:43:00.000-08:00

On Saturday I married my best friend ...

I changed my status from just me ...

to "we" ...

I had fun sharing the day with my Dreamer...

My boys gave their Mom away ...

and gained a stepdad!

More news to come ... this was just a quick glimpse of a glorious and joyful day!!

Blessings!

Honugirl

Blessings ...

2010-11-24T22:52:00.000-08:00

3weeks and counting...

2010-11-19T07:53:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is coming up and then Jet's turning 13 yikes!!

Where does the time go?

craziness.

It's hard to believe the year is almost gone -- all the planning & preparing ...

soon it will be December 1st then while blinking one morning THE day will come.

12 . 11 . 10

Honugirl

Didn't even notice ...

2010-09-16T22:42:00.000-07:00

did you?

Today was a very strange day indeed.

I was rushing from the minute I realized that awful noise was my "final - you're almost late" alarm.

~

Today is my Friday - as tomorrow is a mandatory day off.

I didn't check my son's hair for picture day - he assured me it was fine.

My boys had breakfast, I had coffee... I know I'm forgetting something... lunch ??

~

Nothing that was planned, came to be.

Things I expected would work, didn't.

Although half-staffed, the peace of a quiet office was never achieved.

Even the traffic was loud -- sirens on every major road.

~

People I wasn't expecting, showed up.

People I expected to see ... ok, appeared, eventually.

Boys were home in time for bed ... barely.

I imbibed a glass too many for my early schedule tomorrow.

~

Did you even notice that I went all day with only one earring on???

I'm going to bed now. Maybe tomorrow will be better!!

Honugirl

Once upon a blog...

2010-08-26T22:03:00.000-07:00

there were many thoughts being shared.

hmmm.

Lately, I find it hard to ... um, describe the LACK of shareable thoughts.

Instead, I will share what fills my heart:

So without many words ...

Catch me later when I actually use words... =) lol.

is this still considered a blog?

Honugirl

Oops I did it again ...

2010-08-17T22:52:00.000-07:00

technology beware!

Although generally a close friend to technology... I uh, well um, I sort of, unintentionally, caused the -- I ~~killed~~ broke another device. = {
~
Well, typically my M.O. is to break headsets; which initially I was afraid of when I invested in my Bluetooth -- a serious upgrade for me. It has survived since January; however, I did manage break off the 'on' switch (yes, off, the entire button thingy is gone); but, hey, it still works -- at least I never have to remember to turn it on before calling!!

(Now, if only I could remember where it is -- as I'm rummaging in my purse, saying "hang on a sec' I gotta find my headset.") =)
~
It's not like I ~~drowned~~ knocked my phone into the ~~toilet~~ bathtub ... or ~~threw~~ dropped it on the concrete... or even that I ~~killed~~ broke it doing something ~~stupid~~ silly with it {never use near open super glue).

Nope, I simply put it into a small carry case, put it in my gym bag and carried it with me to the gym. Upon arrival I pulled out my ID card and found it was sort of lodged in between the slider & the keyboard -- which must've been near that known manufacturer's defect: an easily loosened screw...

That's when I was resigned to bid "farewell, my cell friend -- rest in peace."
~
Thanks (GREATLY) to it still being within the 1-year warranty (and to that manufacturer's faulty screw), happily I will not be without my cell phone for very long.

Today I borrowed Jet's phone... my not so much "tweener" but definitely soon to be "teen."

So, sorry for not responding if you texted or called me today. I didn't bother to transfer my number -- will be using this ~~adorable~~ teen phone until tomorrow.

~

I can hardly wait to greet my new cell friend when it arrives tomorrow.

Wish me it good luck!!!

HonuGirl

Time ...

2010-06-23T21:08:00.000-07:00

such a strange thing, Time.

I have numerous clocks around the apartment, they are set at different times. Some exactly on time, others fast and one I'm sure is slow now {gotta remember to change the batteries}. Yet only the boys know for sure which one's are fast/slow/on-time. Hmmm.

~

I find it strange that I know the clocks are fast, but never re-calculate the time to be sure I'm 100% accurate that one is the fast one.

You see, there's a method to the madness of speedy clocks. I must confess that I'm not the most efficient at getting out the door on time {thus the 5 - or is it 6? - minutes set ahead on speedy clock(s)}.

~

Yesterday was one of those mornings. I thought, since I awoke early, worked out, found clothing to wear, ~~ate~~ drank breakfast, I was certain that I would be on-time!

Which seems not to be the case most mornings.

Here's the thing about mornings -- not each thing every day, but one thing ~~almost~~ every day -- it goes something like this:

I load my 'stuff' into the car, get in, reach for the hot cup of coffee I should have just placed in the cup holder... realizing my hands were so full on the trip out the door, I left my 'perfect' cup of coffee on the entry table; check clock in car - not enough time to stop at Starbucks. Grr, get out, lock car {well, my purse is in there now}, go back up the sidewalk, unlock apartment grab coffee -- you get the picture, get in car with hot coffee and "no" time to waste.

I get half-way to the car and my bluetooth "dings" the tone that says "uhh, hello Dory, walked too far from your phone - I'm turning off now". Auggh, go back set all my stuff down, unlock the door ... walk around looking/wondering where did I set that last???? Finally pick up home phone and call cell phone. Duh, of course, it's on the bed under the last thing I tried on before realizing such cute stuff was TOO cold to wear. [side bar ~ I have REALLY missed the sun, glad it's finally here.]

Inside the apartment I am ready to go; look at the clock(s), have plenty of time. Have all essentials: purse. phone. coffee. snacks. calendar. bluetooth. to-do notepad. other miscellaneous items girls carry and rarely admit they tote (6 lipsticks, 2 lip glosses, 1 lip liner - ok, I counted and was shocked that I still had room for my wallet); anyhow, where was I? Oh, right...

I'm ready to head to the front door all loaded up - I need keys to lock the door. Keys? You know, those things that are always in the right spot, uhh, until you think you have all your "stuff" together. Grr. Set everything down look for keys. Wish for some magical, cool, expensive gadget that makes them talk "hey, you left me by the coffee maker" or "down here - you dropped me in the wrong bag" or "Geez, Dory, I'll poke you in the butt if you sit on me." Hmmph. Take keys from back pocket (which seemed like a good idea at the moment - so I could carry the coffee) ... collect all the "stuff" get out the door -- no time to spare.

I could go on with that list but I really was going to tell you how different my story was yesterday morning:

There I was walking down the sidewalk, on-time but not too early. I had all the stuff I needed (or cared to remember). As I'm happily walking toward my car, smiling at the sunshine that's winking from the sky; my peripheral view alert system notifies my consciousness that a car is matching my pace. As I approach my vehicle I catch a glimpse of the car, driving along the street parallel to me. It's white with markings down the side, hmm, law enforcement. I glance over again, aware that it's slowing to make the turn into the parking lot. It's nice to know that the apartments are always monitored, I muse as I continue to load my car; only feel slightly concerned when it pulls in right next to my car.

Well, it did pull in but now it's exiting, no - it's blocking the back of my car... I cautiously, but politely, walk over to inquire ... just then I recognize the officer -- I know you! Hah, it's Sheriff Starr {offering his first name, yet again, but I had forgotten} hey, I noticed you're driving a different car - no more 'unmarked' car?!! Seems my sheriff friend had been given new duties in a flashy, very obvious law enforcement vehicle.

Now I'm thinking - wow, he's good. How the heck does Sheriff Starr recognize me walking down the sidewalk?? I think it's been, nearly a year since our last Starbucks encounter. We made small talk (briefly, as I'm sure I sounded edgy with precious fast second passing)... imagine that, he didn't know I lived at these apartments... well, it's not something I tell my Starbucks acquaintances. How are things -- he's not happy, but doesn't want to complain (too much anyway ... seems there's a lot to complain about); we agree there's not much point to complaining anyway. Hah, well, it's nice to see you ... uuhh, thanks for stopping... when he finally says -- oh, hey, I bet you are probably heading to work -- well, I wouldn't want to make you late. [right, thanks] Said goodbye.

~

Exactly as I thought, checking my speedy clock in the car -- I was going to be late for sure. Until I arrived at the office only to notice:

None of clocks on the walls, the computer, or my cell phone read the same time!

Hah! Although I worked an extra few minutes, I'm still not sure if I was late or not...

But I am certain that time remains a mystery to me!

HonuGirl

re-posted in entirety ...

2010-06-21T20:47:00.000-07:00

Belief Statement Essay
Visualize all the bloody cold wars coming to a halt because we learned to treat each other equally.

I believe we should all act equally, but have our own unique personalities. I believe this because I have been treated unfairly, and it just doesn’t feel right. You almost want to start a war in retaliation because it has such a bad feeling on your life.

Here is my perspective on the chain of events that ends up in death, war and other nasty stuff like that.

Stage 1, the Kid. The kid feels bad about something or he/she’s getting bored and he figures out some one’s weakness and exploits it to get a reaction. They begin to think it’s funny and start to get as many of their friends/others to join in. The person becomes such an out-cast that the teasing is no-longer teasing and it’s now just being mean. Then when the so called out-cast tries to tell a teacher, the teacher says something and will not commit to it (not all teachers are that way). That is not being equal or nice; whatever someone might say it will never be equal.

Stage 2, the Bully. The kid soon feels power making fun of the kid and starts to make fun of others too. The kid becomes the bully and gets in trouble more than the other kids. He soon gets more people to get in trouble and then the school is wreck. None of that would happen if we all treated each other equal.

Stage 3, the Criminal. The bully grows-up and thinks that nothing will happen if he hurts or kills someone. SO the criminal starts a gang and robs small banks, starts drugs and eventually it’s a bad city. Then the cops retaliate with a war on crime. If only the kid treated the other person EQUAL then none of that would have happened.

Here is why I say we should all be unique. Without being different (in a good way) it would be like taking away color in the entire world. You couldn’t play slug-bugs; you wouldn’t care about a rain-bow, and you couldn’t paint a beautiful picture because, well, it would have been painted already. So we all need to treat each-other equally but still have our own beliefs and religions.

There would be no wars because no one could be left-out; we would accept everyone into our society and no-one would feel sad unless some-one died; then everyone who knew him would be as sad just as if their father died.

We would all be happy, there would be no crime because no-one would want make others have a miserable life. We could support each-other and no-one would be homeless to. We still may have a president who makes decisions, but he will never be more important than anyone else. There would be winning and losing but there would be no bragging or higher rank. We would have supported those in need by giving our own work/labor for free.

I believe we all need to treat everyone equally,
but still remain unique.

I believe, we all have a purpose.

by Jason Lyon

free therapy ...

2010-05-21T07:04:00.000-07:00

and it wasn't even MY birthday!!

Thanks King G for a most excellent session ~

and the workout was great too!!

Enjoy your day! =D

Happy Birthday - King G !!!

he writes …

2010-05-19T07:30:00.000-07:00

Age Poem

At twelve I lived for the delicious chocolate-chip cookies my Mom and I made on Wednesday nights.

I lived for rock-band and staying up till 11:00 pm playing the endless setlist 1.

I lived for the endless nerf wars that 'the Jeffreys' and I would have (that they would win).

I lived for the times when we all would cuddle on the couch and watch a movie.

I lived for the times when Jeffrey and I would play fetch with Eddie and Jeffrey would hit the stop-sign 150 ft away

I lived for my friends and family and the help they have given me.

I lived for the times where we would play Mario Kart and watch Mom lose … horribly.

I lived because I wanted to Live.

But what I really live for is music, for getting into the emotion of the song and falling like a feather into the dark blue sea of emotion, music and love.

So music is what I really live for.

By: Jason Lyon
(Age Poem - 2010)

UP, UP & aaaa….

2010-05-18T20:06:00.000-07:00

whooahhh wait a second – no up, up … or awaaay?

Auughhh … sploooshhh, whoosh, and whirl into a horrible vortex of thoughts … spiraling downward with such momentum – unable to swim free from the mind-trap.

Know what…? I hate swimming; fear of drowning in deep water — very bad mo-jo.

Cold, dazed and confused… can I wake up now?

~

Yep, that's pretty much the sad description of an hour (or two) of my life today.

You see, usually when my mind wanders and thoughts endlessly flood my brain, they take me daydreaming or dream-playing or something much like a helium balloon floating up, up and away; with grace and poise {no water here} I’m delicately cloud hopping; drifting aimlessly into the blue skies and hot sunny days of summer.

“Usually” is the key word there …

Yet, conversely my bitter vortex of groossh ( gross outpouring of sh-ouldn’t says ) was so depressing and impulsive that I ~~almost~~ didn’t recognize myself.

Now that, my friend, is startling in itself; need I say more?

What I learned, however, is just how important it is to wake up on the “right side” of a vortex mind-trap or it will ensnare you in the spiral of aimless swill!

~

Thank God for close co-workers, BfF, and my Sweet-T who reminded me it's better not to swim alone, Dory …

"Just keep swimming, just keep swimming, just keep swimming swimming swimming"

HonuGirl

Easter photos ...

2010-04-04T22:13:00.000-07:00

Me and da Boyz!

Mom wearing heels ... boyz, NOT.

Mom NOT wearing heels, Jeffrey tip-toes...
Jason just ... uh standing? yikes!

What happens after everyone relaxes... funny stuff!

HonuGirl

Happy Easter ...

2010-04-04T08:00:00.000-07:00

~ blessings ~

HonuGirl

Hmmm...

2010-04-03T22:23:00.000-07:00

guess the lack of "April Fools" foolishness could be exactly that -- April Fools.

~

I'd type more tonight but King G was kind enough to not go lightly on my Friday morning workout. Whoo hoo -- K.G. my ~~biceps~~ arms are screaming expletives {which I can't spell out} so I hope you are "happy."

[ ps: No worries my ummm, tattoo is fine.]

HonuGirl

Now THAT's funny...

2010-04-01T20:15:00.000-07:00

Today being April 1st is that "fools" kinda day

I found it totally cool that Google did a Topeka for this special day.

I, however, didn't remember to "FOOL" anyone. My kids are not home yet... guess I still have some time. Just not sure what 'fools' them -- they are way too smart for that!!

Maybe I can empty the fridge ... too much work ... umm, unplug the TV -- way too easy ... hmm... I'm thinkin' the only really sad thing is that I may not be quite as clever as they are ...

Perhaps tomorrow I'll have more to share about what clever "fool" they pulled on me.

=)

HonuGirl

Spring Break begins ...

2010-03-31T00:02:00.000-07:00

on the beach with cousins

taking the Northbound train...

cold art ... imitating life?

real art ... live trees

tall attractions

musical fountain!

fish calls ...

a break for coffee ... and chess

so much to see @ the aquarium

Time flies ~ Spring Break ends...

HonuGirl

Changing the world ...

2010-03-15T21:46:00.000-07:00

one puppy at a time!!

The boys qualified as "puppy raisers" with the Guide Dogs for the Blind program.

Noela is an 8 week old black lab puppy. She will be living with the boyz for the next year

-- at the BIG house with their Dad, that is.

I'm sure you can tell how much fun they will have nurturing, training (and feeding) this sweet girl.

Here she is all dressed up and ready to train!

I met her last week at school conferences -- no, she most certainly was not a distraction (tee hee)

Saturday I played "lap" for her nap during two basketball games!! awww, I love puppies!!!

~

I'm happy to announce we are ALL well again (finally)!! I'm so glad the month of illness is over!! Whew . . . it takes way too much time and energy to be sick and to take care of others while being sick; I don't recommend it.

~

On to better things... I'm so excited -- next week is Spring Break ... yeaah!! I'm taking some time off to be with the boyz. I'm looking forward to having fun, relaxing, reading, and maybe getting some new stories for blogging!

HonuGirl

TKO...

2010-02-24T22:38:00.000-08:00

and he's down for the count.

Today begins day 11 of sickness for double digit (Jeffrey's new self-reference since his birthday).
Doctor says he has bronchitis; actually he just sounds like he coughing up his socks.

~

I'm headed to bed now ... cuz, sometimes the nurse is just as tired as the patient.

hmmph... and my head feels like I've been in a boxing match.

HonuGirl

be inspiring ...

2010-02-20T20:18:00.000-08:00

No, really I mean "inspiring" not perspiring -- hmmph!.

If a person calls to "inspire" another, they should know the definition of the word.

Not that I want to second guess whether that individual understands the premise of the word, but in my personal opinion, after a receiving a call to "inspire" – the person called should feel encouraged, enthused or perhaps uplifted and motivated to move forward… not afraid, threatened, worried, and visibly shaken.

Had I not been the person who opened the line of communication for such "inspiration" in the first place, perhaps I'd feel less responsible, angry and irritated by the outcome.

Uhhh, hmmm, nope… I'm quite sure I'd still be grinding down the enamel on my teeth.

Due to the extra emotional distress caused by my belief that 'inspire' has a commonly understood meaning, I suddenly felt the need know whether it means what I think it means; and to be sure I'm not crazy …

So, I checked with a well-studied, commonly accepted to be accurate and very knowledgeable friend to inquire what it means to 'inspire.'

– here's what Merriam-Webster, had to say:

in·spire

1 a : to influence, move, or guide by divine or supernatural inspiration b : to exert an animating, enlivening, or exalting influence on <was particularly inspired by the Romanticists> c : to spur on : impel, motivate

Ahh, oh thanks for that clarification. Guess I'm not crazy after all. (Hey, no comments from the peanut gallery.)

Aspire to I n s p i r e before you expire!

Days 5, 6, & finally 7

2010-02-18T00:35:00.000-08:00

A little more (or less) about sugar …

Days 5, 6, 7 -- the one week challenge comes to an end.

Day 5 – Valentine's Day!

For most of the day I did quite well; that is, until I was in Mom & Dad's kitchen. That's where the candy calls from the glass jar on the side bar; the brownies whisper with a warm & welcoming smell on the island, and the serious problem was that it was Valentine's Day (and I know there are a gazillion containers of chocolate candies in the cupboard). Besides, does it make any sense at all to NOT have chocolate on this DAY? With a quick check on the "indulgent" list – it was a relief to find that I could have one ounce of dark chocolate (or was that 2?) for dessert. Okay – I fudged it a little and totally blamed it on  Day!

Day 6 – President's Day

Today was a holiday… I didn't go to the office! Instead, to my delight, I woke up at a more leisurely hour and met King G at the gym for a solid workout. It was incredible to see my friend again. We didn't skip a beat – talking, pushing weights, and catching up (a wee bit more complaining from me), the abs – well, I will wait to comment on that. So, about the sugar thing.… think I'm doing pretty well—feels good to me anyway! Food choices were good… until I made cupcakes for Jeffrey's birthday (tomorrow the 16^th). I don't like cake, but I opted to make frosting … and messed it up (umm, yeah, but Sweet-T fixed it for me). That's where I messed up more – I liked the frosting he made (dang good). And then I wished I hadn't =) That's when the boys came home and Jeffrey had a fever of 103. Hmmmph. The rest I don't remember.

Day 7 – Jeffrey's B-day (double digits)

Jeffrey being sick, I worked only a partial day, while Sweet-T stayed with Jeffrey; I can't remember eating, although I'm sure I did. My mother-instincts were on high alert the rest of the day… checking temperature, administering medicine, and trying to make the best of a 10^th birthday for a kiddo who feels rotten. Didn't help that my cupcakes were great (yes, I tried a mini one) … but the boys loved the confetti theme and the one 10 with a single candle to blow out. We cancelled the "friends" part of the evening since Jeffrey wasn't up for that.

~

Thus is the end of a seven day challenge. I have to say I did feel better san sugar … I will have to think hard before I completely cut it out of my life. However, it's certainly a culprit for a few things in my health. I will definitely be making some changes… next week!

Days 2, 3 and 4 ...

2010-02-16T22:23:00.000-08:00

Update, sans sugar …

Day 2 – a stellar Day!!

At the office I had a great day. I accomplished so much. Must have been a result of the extra time I spent in my cube; you could say I was focused … or more truthfully, I am avoiding the Baroness of Sugar, who maintains an office space just around the corner from me. You see, in order to visit the coffee room, restroom, printer, copier, fax machine, and even my mail slot I must walk past her space. She is the keeper of the treats at that corner cube. The good news is, everyone loved my red & pink almond snicker doodles!! Many people stopped by to thank me (I had to take them at their word for their flavorful, delicious, sweetness). For those of you who know my usual ~~lack of~~ self-control for sweet – I must honestly admit – I did NOT cheat. Hah, fooled yah.

Even during the evening, while I enjoyed conversation and a nice dinner with my BFF – I only had to use to 2 "exceptions" on the sugar options list – I thought that was pretty good, considering. Then we worked out … Day 2 ROCKS!

Day 3 – Friday is a great day!

Nothing special to report at the office; the treat corner had dwindled to cookies that are not tempting, I like coffee with cream (no sugar), and mixed nuts are good snack foods (reminded self often not to eat too many). I visited my dear friend – soon to be moving to Washington, she's selling her house and moving in with her sweetheart. I will miss her bunches. She offered me treats (twice) I was able to resist with ease. Later on Tony & I watched a movie and Day 3 ended with success as well.

Day 4 – Business Symposium (who had time for sugar?)

No cheating necessary. I was alert, focused and enthralled by the speakers during the business training sessions today. I brought lunch from home, and XS drinks were my liquid energy boosted with 4900% of Vitamin B, zero carbs, zero sugar, and few calories – I was awake for many hours of business training as well as my social "what's new" time – what an incredible day!

[ oops – looks like I forgot to post this… ]

Day 1 ...

2010-02-10T22:10:00.000-08:00

today is the first day of "limited sugar"

If I were to write "first day of no sugar" then my aggressive/defiant self (ADS) would become alert and rather noisy (although ADS is generally silent -- 95% of the time, my passive/compliant self (PCS) is at the ready for well, nothing really) … oh anyway, I’m gona blame King G for this one!

King sent me to a website for my health (‘cause he’s thoughtful that way) – it was so fitting. Too much so, actually, it was as if the speaker/author/“fitness dude” could see me through the back side of the monitor; dang it! He called it… nearly every symptom, ailment, and concern I had recently complained about (mostly internally as PCS rules 95%, and what have I to complain about anyway?)

Perhaps… it is the increased percentage of ADS presence that has been tad bit more noticeable as of late … (hey now – don’t think you’ll be getting’ any confessions here, I’m just saying... maybe I’ve been told to chill-a-tude a little more often than usual).

Stay with me now …

Day 1 no milk in coffee, means no latte. No latte means … NO LATTE auuughhh!!! What the heck! Who agreed to this stinkin' deal anyway.

Whoooa!! Wait, wait … really, what I meant was “I drank tea today, didn’t have any cream to put in my coffee” (milk has hidden – well, it's clearly documented on the nutrition label, but there’s that sugar stuff in there).

Tonight I baked cookies for the office -- Thursday Treats tomorrow. Yeah, almond snickerdoodles with pink & red sprinkles for Valentines Day. .

Resisting was easier than I thought -- although memory loss may be one of the symptoms on that Dude's list... hmmm. Well, easy if you call biting my tongue and/or pressing it to the roof of my mouth so no air gets inside. Holding my breath so as not to 'smell' the cookies as they come out of the oven in their perfect sugar/cinnamon almondy delight -- yeah, THAT was easy [NOT]. But I did it.

As soon as each batch was cool enough I'd count them as I placed each dozen into the ziplock baggie for transport -- kind of therapeutic -- yet, also assurance that my ADS had not snuck one away from the batch and preyed on it

It's late now ... tomorrow I will have different sugar woes uh-hmm, sugar cane, uh-oh. Thus, ends Day 1 -- all cookies accounted for in a bag. Only one q-tip head size crumb found it's way through pursed lips -- but my tongue felt better when I stopped biting it!!

( ps: thanks a lot King! )

Honugirl

It happened while I was driving ...

2010-01-07T23:53:00.000-08:00

THINKING of random, yet important things, when I can't write 'em down.

Silly, but it happens all the time. Whenever I'm in the car I have incidental thoughts of greatness (quotable stuff), sometimes I remember the date to an important event, or think of the critical items to bring with me to a meeting.

Heavy sigh... what's a girl to do. {Get a personal assistant to take notes in the car?}

Speaking of 'remembering' things. I have a to-do list that may as well be a rotating "undone" list. Somehow even though the things I write on my list get done -- whoosh -- suddenly they jump back onto the list again. It's as if I'd never checked them off!
   { take time to BLOG } { do your W O R K O U T } { get some S L E E P } { visit F R I E N D S }
^
One day (yeah, just once) I tried to prioritize my to-do's while driving. The thought that occurred to me at that moment was about my friend. We had not had contact since before Christmas. This was nearly a week after New Years... in a typical week, we might talk 3-4 times before Friday, so this revelation -- was startling to me!!

Although each task on my to-do list has importance (which is why prioritizing in the car is just wrong), I've learned that relationships are far more important to me than tasks! So, without hesitation, I dialed my friend's number. {While it was ringing it occurred to me that I didn't have my headset and it wasn't worth the ticket, so I pushed the speaker phone button -- you thought I'd hang up huh?) No answer.

Perhaps it was a bit muffled on the voice mail (since I had to tuck my flip phone in the front of my top to keep the speaker in place - hands free right?) ... but it kind of sounded like this:

   "Hi, my name is Jolene. I am a friend-a-holic" "It has been at least one week --
   no -- two weeks since my last contact with this friend. I find it very difficult to
   focus on my daily tasks without contact. I am having severe friend-withdrawal
      . . . please, help me. Any contact will do: phone . email . facebook .
   blog comment ... aauuughhhhh !!"

Certainly falls into the overly dramatic, I know, but an hour later she called laughing so hard she could barely say "hi is this my friend-a-holic?" I feel much better now.

^
On another note - my son grew another 1/4 inch this week (he specifically asked me to check today). He also handed me a certificate from middle school stating he was on the Principal's Honor Roll for his GPA Qtr1 (do you think, perhaps, he may have been standing a bit taller today??) hmmm. Does it matter? I already look up to him. [sidebar ... he can reach things for me in the upper cabinets now ~ whoo hoo!].

^
Not that overly dramatic is a 'chip-off-the-old-block' but...

I made my son cry today. Apparently the red inflammation around his wounded knee was to remain a private, understated injury and I was far too obvious in my motherly display of "Wow! We should treat that -- how's it feeling; sure looks red today." Tears and unintelligible comments referencing 'thinking about it again' followed by a dramatic, disgusted walk to his room where the tears flowed where he sat on the top bunk.

Honestly, I am normally more clued-in as to "why" things like that happen around here. But this kid is as tough as nails and now -- without even touching his wound (notice we don't have "ouchies" around here... these are wounds in battle, which will become COOL scars later) I managed to get him unhinged.

Finally, when all was back to normal and book reading, couch sitting and relaxed talking resumed, I hear more whimpers -- oh, and he's looking at his knee then averting his eyes from the wound repeatedly.

Now, I simply cannot take it any more. As tenderly and mom-like I lean forward to the blanket-wrapped boy to ask: "so what's the deal about the knee, I don't get it." =) (It really was the best I could do in the moment.)

Tough boy says through the tears " I don't want them to cut my leg off Mom; you're scaring me, so stop talking about it like it's infected. It just hurts a little." What will the doctor do anyway?

hmmm? I asked a few pertinent questions; cleared up a quick suspicion... (adult male humor/sarcasm at work here) I explained first that the doctor has no intention of cutting off his leg. Further, it's much funnier to dads/uncles/grand-pas and most any adult male to say stuff like "guess we'll have to cut it off if it's not healing" and randomly weird comments about removing appendages, limbs, and such.

After a few kind, gentle, comforting words of assurance and a sure fire guarantee that I would allow NO ONE to cut off his leg at the knee -- we are ALL better now. I'm sure I will blog about it again someday (a LONG time from now) when he says something similar to my grandchild... it's the circle of life.      [sidebar ... I'm thinkin' we just found the source of three nights of nightmares, sheesh!]

I'd like to say my priority is to finish this B L O G. But the task spelled S L E E P is winning out on the priority list.

*^*^*^*^*^*^*

Be blessed. I'll write again soon -- next time I take a drive and think about more stuff to say!

HonuGirl

Welcome to 2010

2010-01-01T12:39:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year !

A quote:

"Let every moment in every day be the best moment of your life!!"

author: Jason Lyon ~ as written to his Mom

HonuGirl

Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T11:59:00.000-08:00

Blessings for a wonderful day to celebrate with family.

Got power ?

2009-12-13T12:45:00.000-08:00

... many thanks to a few diagnostic friends and Sweet-T's extra power supply (stripped from an unused computer in the garage) ...

my computer LIVES again -- whoo hoo!

I'm so glad to have my computer in tact. Hmm, could it be that simple? I sometimes feel like my power supply is zapped -- are there extras anywhere for me? If only it were that easy... hah!

No worries though, I believe my technology is fully functional (monitor is still working). More than I can say for my eyes which feel rather scratchy right now.

Well -- I am ignoring my need for a new cell phone and headset. It's just gona have to wait a while.

One big relief was that the school photo discs were ejected unscathed (since the drives locked down when my computer died, slight concern for photos disc noted).

Here they are -- Jason and Jeffrey 2009

YES, really, it's them. I keep testing their history to be sure they are mine; it seems only yesterday they were a mere 6 and 9. But, here before you is a 12 year old Jason (whose sometimes I'd say was preparing for college) and Jeffrey who is 9 (and seems much more like a teen than I'd expect). I'm glad it's just them as I'm not getting older -- I figure with age, it's a calendar and I'm turning the page.

Some presents are wrapped and the tree's decorated.

The computer is humming a quiet, steady (sans clicking) tune. My brain however is in need of some sleep.

Thanks for being there for me my techie friends -- love ya!!

HonuGirl

Cannot Compute...

2009-12-09T00:37:00.000-08:00

seriously...

I'm borrowing a laptop for this post, which has generously been loaned to me by Sweet-T (many thanks).

A power outage did the big TKO countdown on my computer this weekend. Although, it was a peaceful 7 hours of candles, blankets, chinese take-out, and starbucks (yeah weird, but I couldn't make my latte in the morning -- it had to be done).

Learning that my monitor outlived my CPU - creepy, yet mildly humorous and a bit ironic, ya think?

Its late, I'm overwhelmed with what's still not done, yet clearly I'm cyber twiddling with my blog (also facebook and my email).

What's that all about anyway??

Is it addiction ~ insanity ~ avoidance ~ distraction ....

does anyone really know... or care?

Being optimistic -- let's just say that I cared enough about my blogger friends to spend a few minutes ignoring the chaos to let you know I'm ok!!

Well then -- check that off the list! Now I have to go panic about the rest (or sleep, yeah, that's another option).

HonuGirl

Save the spray for other spots ...

2009-12-03T22:59:00.000-08:00

everything has God's fingerprints on it!

Although it seemed like a normal morning when the alarm sounded... my pounding headache suggested that today could be "one of those days". I immediately (after the 2nd snooze) drug my body off the bed with half open eyes found my way to the kitchen drawer where the powerful gel caps for migraines/tension/stop-the-pounding-in-my-head medicine resides.

I swallowed them down rather easily, by-passing the need for my usual "control-the-gag reflex" self-talk routine necessary to consume my daily vitamins. It may even have helped that I drank an energy drink with high concentration of vitamin B and proprietary herbs... wait now, these are the healthy kind of herbs people (certainly legal in any quantity)!!

BEEEP, BEEEP, BEEEP ... Al-righty then, another alarm sounds -- time for the boys to get up. Must skip espresso routine. Notice the empty kitchen sink. Turn light on in boys room down the hall. Notice the time. Wonder how it took 30 minutes to get pain killer and go back to take a shower? Hmmm, the mysteries of a Thursday morning.

Reminder:

God's fingerprints are in the smiling kitchen sink on a 2-snooze, need pain killer, no-latte morning.

Then came breakfast... while the boys ate, I struggled to cleanly cut the Magic Cookie Bar Treats I made last night for Thursday Treats at the office.

Being a tiny bit concerned about a successful outcome, I took my sample bite (honestly, I didn't followed the recipe 'exactly' -- I "guess-ti-mated" the amount of chocolate chips and coconut to sprinkle on top.)

After eating my sample, I announced to the tall young man who was now standing over my treat dish -- "uh-oh, Jason, I think there's too much chocolate."

To which he replied: "Mom, there can never be too much chocolate!"

"True, but you deserve a taste to decide for yourself" -- I handed him a small portion and watched with interest as he portrayed all the facial expressions and mouth movements of a professional bakery taster savoring the distinctive flavors and preparing to critique the pastry chef.

"Well, I have to agree, the chocolate overpowers the flavor of the coconut; maybe you should follow the recipe next time, Mom -- there would be more balance."

I was so impressed and befuddled that I gave him another one and said -- "good plan, we'll go with that."

Reminder:

God's fingerprints are in the beauty of 'graceful suggestion' rather than critical words.

Last night Jeffrey wanted to make cupcakes (announcing his dislike for coconut in my recipe). So he gathered the cake mix, bowl, eggs and measured the ingredients. He mixed it together by hand and then with a mixer until the batter was just right. We set the temperature together and I helped with pouring and oven placement. Then he watched the timer, waiting patiently for his reward -- a beautifully browned bunch of cup cakes fresh from the oven!

"Can we eat one tonight?" he asked hopefully. As tough as it was, I said he should wait until morning and have one with breakfast instead.

Morning had come, breakfast was eaten, cleaning routine completed and he had observed his brother consume two bites of chocolate coconut treats already. A if on cue, Jeffrey requested permission to taste his own cupcake, with a nod of my head, he quickly peeled the wrapper and began to enjoy the fruits of his labor (he even offered one to his brother).

He giggled with joy after bite number two and sweetly brought his half eaten piece to me for a taste -- usually I decline cake, but he was so adorable about making it -- I couldn't refuse him the pleasure.

I made a big deal out of that bite -- and to my taste buds surprise he had secretly dropped chocolate chips into the center of each cupcake before baking!

He was so delighted with his mouth-watering goodness he announced (as proof) -- "see, Mom, there can never be too much chocolate!!!"

Reminder:

God's fingerprints are on hidden greatness in the center of something simply "good."

The work day seemed to drag on slowly. The boys will not be home until Sunday. My emails lurk with unresolved status. It's cold outside. The snow flurries are expected for this weekend.

My headache is gone. Ornaments viewed during lunch bring words of faith, hope, blessing, grace and "believe." The day seemed to end quickly. A phone call creates an unexpected opportunity to see the boys. My friends bring smiles through personal visits, email encouragement and long calls filled with laughter. What a blessed day.

Just when I think I'm in a sticky spot, needing some spray to clean up what I view as a mess; I'm reminded to stop for a second to breathe in the beauty of the moment. I begin to relax and soon I'm whispering "thanks, God for leaving your fingerprints on my day!"

Reminder:

God is the midst of every day - touching each event - leaving His fingerprints throughout moments in my world.

HonuGirl

Thanksgiving

2009-11-30T00:30:00.000-08:00

Jason: "I'm thankful that God gave us you for a Mom. I'm thankful that you are not one of those 'over-protective' moms; you just say don't do drugs, don't smoke, try not to kill each other before breakfast -- oh, and be careful of sharp objects"

Jeffrey:

"Yeah, and you let us know if we don't get up on time -- we WILL be late."

What? – I need a ‘benchmark’ …

2009-11-19T23:38:00.001-08:00

Do I have to have my eyes open?

"Now is when you set your benchmark!" She called out during the first 5 minutes of class. I cringed at the idea that I wouldn't know if I've set the right benchmark – it's my first time. Arggh.

Wait – that's actually closer to the end of the story. Better fill in the beginning and middle first.

*-*

I have this new friend – to protect her identity (while I thrash on our after-work 'date') I fondly refer to her here as my Get-Fit Girlfriend (GFG), which reflects her desire/energy toward fitness, not throwing fits (she's so sweet).

In our brief acquaintance stage, we had fun discovering how much we have in common, yet remain quite different; she's taller, younger, and has not yet experienced motherhood (but she does have a boyfriend, so – uhh just kiddin' – I won't touch that.)

I think she very bright (intelligent & cheerful), driven, and goal-oriented. Today I learned she "LOVES" to play with babies – me, not so much anymore. Oh, I know, I've had them – I'm just not inclined towards reliving the fully-dependent, coo-ing and/or the uh-oh where'd he go now (crawling) stage. But I did give in today with the blue eyed cutie pie in his Osh-Kosh engineer duds, quite flirty too.

*-*

Back to my point ~ since our fitness goals align; we decided to join efforts to "create" the time to get fit. We both know what our personal fit figure feels like – when we wear it – which admittedly that particular body-suit is somewhat elusive and our options from our closets grow smaller as time passes! (yikes)

So we now bring our workout bags to work so we can grab the occasional lunch hour fitness opportunity or an after work gym date! So far so good; today was one of those successful plans – 5pm, meet at the gym for 5:30 class!

No problem. Uhh, yeah.

We had our first glitch in the parking lot, when she announced… ummm, my bag is not in the car (kind boyfriend put wrong bag in car; being helpful, of course) – I only have a tank and shoes. Hmmmph.

No worries – your new friend is an indecisive pack rat and has enough "extras" to complete outfit – good thing you brought shoes, because we are not the same size! Whew! Problem solved.

All dressed and set… now get to class.

I am a newbie to this one… timidly, I walk to the back of the room, checking out the equipment with severe anxiety. How did I allow GFG to talk me into this? I should've suggested a different class. Ughh – heavy, sinking feelings ensue as I walk up to the stationary spinning machine – commonly known as a bike – but a fancy marketing idea to call it a "spinning" machine is rather appealing, compared to rump-busting, leg burning, pain-inducing cycle.

Guess that's just me being honest about the whole aversion to cycling. Yes, my friends, you see I have sworn off the real bicycle sport as in the past it did not treat me well… at least that's the way I "spin" the myriad of bad memories (and puns) from riding with FSU (former spousal unit).

*-*

Oohh-kaay... fine. Back to class.

It's all cool – for the first couple of minutes, spinning is easy. Then that whole… benchmark thing – what, why must I set a benchmark, I've never done this before. I don't get it. Hmm, just follow along it may make sense later (some things do).

Fast forward 10 minutes. Putting the past behind me (as well as a painful feeling).

And, I AM following -- at my own pace-- all commands …

"Gear Up" "Outta the Saddle" "Push it" "Another Minute" "Back to Saddle"

"Race it" "Gear down" "Benchmark" "Last Set"

(She repeats this pattern over & over for about 1 hour - and 15 more minutes, just because she has the microphone.)

Ugghh – gives new meaning to and keen awareness of the muscle group, including but not limited, to gluteus-rumpus (can't call it a maximus, not gona happen)—oww, my legs!! Course I may never walk normally again either.

Here are a few things I learned:

#3 – the floor is wood, stained purple. Which is really nice, because I thought that was God's way of ensuring me that I would survive to tell V2T that the floor was my FAVORITE color. I desperately wished to be walking on that lovely purple colored flooring, but no – still on the evil dreaded torture machine. Grrr!

#2 – people who ride these devices, S-W-E-A-T… oh my word – then again, that is a HUGE understatement. Oh, me? I had a serious glow about my person – no outward sign of over-exertion. lol

#1 – my benchmark I found, is that delightful space in time when I close my eyes and the urge to vomit is controlled by my subconscious mind and no longer the sole effort of my conscious mind, which is still "pushing it / gearing up / racing for 1^st in/out of the saddle all for another "minute".

Yes, I'm sure I put the past behind me now – at least I can't fall onto asphalt from here.

Suffice it to say, this was not a stellar performance on my part – but I might actually get on a real "bike" and not feel so anxious.

*-*

However, I'm sure I will have to keep my eyes open during an outdoor ride!

HonuGirl

Whatcha gona be ...

2009-11-04T12:50:00.000-08:00

when you grow up?

The question is commonly asked; the answers are rarely identical.

Here's what I heard:

Jason: I want to be an aeronautical engineer for the military; I would like to be a pilot, and a pastor (not really in that order). I think that means I have to go to college a few more years; but that’s really what I want to be – oh and I'd like to play professional basketball and be a good musician too.

Jeffrey: I just want to be me!

Jason: But what do you want to “do” when you grow up, you know, to make money or somethin'?

Jeffrey: Oh, I’d like to drive a monster truck and race cars. What kind of degree do I need for that?

[ mom is grateful big brother answered first -- without hestitation in fact -- the answer just rolled off his tongue while Mom was holding hers ... huh?? ]

Jason: Probably a physics degree; you'll need to know about trajectory of cars as you run them over. It would also be very helpful in determining speed, adjusting suspension and other important factors for racing too.

Jeffrey: Oh, that would be good. I’d like to be an artist too – I’m going to paint my truck pink!!

Mom: I want to grow up to have a good self-concept & be at least half as smart as my boys!

HonuGirl

Who said that ... ?

2009-11-03T13:06:00.000-08:00

Said what ?

Not I -- for I'm sure my brain would have diverted it's path --

if only mouth hadn't said it so fast!

Seuss is a favorite of one boy in my house, tonight he read Yertle the Turtle aloud. We laughed at the cute little turtles, the wonder of balance, and the pain of the weight; saying "good grief - that selfish Yertle made such a mistake." We pondered the courage of a young guy to speak, how his hopeful expression became disbelief -- we scolded the leader who barked at the plea of a burdened turtle who just needed a break ... we cheered when such a small motion brought Yertle his lesson -- how pride made him tumble and a noise brought their blessing.

*~*

It's time once again for words from the Lyon boys... please note, this blogger mom may {or may not} have permission to share quotes presented below... thus any boy words or motherly interjection will be unidentifiable {for the most part} unless I choose make it obvious.

Random words of kindness:

"Here, I'll carry that bag for you Mom, you look FAT-eee-gUd -- it means tired, I'm expanding my vocabulary" (whew, he almost got THE LOOK - ya know, the one that says "you did NOT just call me FAT-ish ??")

"My friend's littler sister has almost as much imagination as me. She's still growing, though, I can't wait for that day when it explodes like fireworks -- wow, it will be so cool!"

"that's cuz you're an adult and you ALREADY know better."

"I wish I had a punching bag"

"Are you hungry? Auuughh, not in the vegetable drawer" -- swiftly taking a sleep-walking boy to the bathroom {just in time... whew}

"You're the greatest Mom ... EVER!!"

"whoever invented homework, must not have liked kids."

"if one of my parents gets married again - I don't want them to have [ahem, you know]; my brother and I have enough brothers, we don't want any more kids" {edited, blog courtesy}

"my mouth was talking as fast as my brain was thinking ... but it was too fast for my brain to stop it."

and this pretty much says it all ~
* * *
"Whaat?? but I didn't even hear me say that!!"

HonuGirl

Grands and Greats ...

2009-10-18T12:51:00.000-07:00

making Grandma's day!

Grandma with da girls

Maty (great-grandaughter) and NyKysha (grandaughter)

deciding if there's room for one more in da picture

Da girls showing baby Miley (newest great) how to hang w/great-grandma

HonuGirl

Caution falling plates...

2009-09-21T23:35:00.000-07:00

Yikes!!

I've wanted so desperately to prove to myself how capable I am of spinning a multitude of plates. Those plates varying in size and fragility ~ all in motion at once, different speeds, yet simultaneously whirring in a rhythm undetectable as music, but still a slight hum is noticeable.

As delicate as plate-spinning can be, it becomes quite a display of skill for a single working mom-2-boys (feels more like throwing a Thanksgiving platter) must remain in perfect speed and motion at all times; and I've learned it takes a great deal of focus to keep an eye on balance and speed as it [the platter] sets the pace for all others.

I noticed most recently the healthy balance of fun twirling as a girlfriend; best-friend; sister; daughter; auntie; and workout partner are falling short of a full spin... { must keep spinning; glance, touch, tiny blocks of time carved out ... yes, a brief spin achieved - nothing broken; keep moving}.

Not that any of the ~~responsibilities~~ uhh plates spin without effort; they are charged to effectively spin to whatever their role in the rhythm... whether "Chief Chef" of fast {yet semi-healthy hopefully hearty} meals for 2boys; the ever eager computer dazed CSI at work; the positive, encouraging business-owner; finally and possibly even with some semblance of energy and ability must maintain the plates of merry maid; apt accountant; cheerful chauffeur; delightful director of daily events ... and ... umm ... blurry-eyed blogger [there are many more, but I'm exhausted already] ... and to think I wished to be a City Farm Girl {not too sad about the lack of a green thumb now}.

Ooohh the thought of what's on those plates marked "not yet in motion" or the ones Dory forgot were in motion [hi, did you see a plate spinning by here?].

There it was...

that...

you know... the thought that triggered the tiny spasm of stress that twitched the itty bitty finger that caused the wrist to wiggle which skewed the first moving orb to tweak off center ... sending all things into slow motion {as life seems to be moments before) THE CRASH!

The rest they say is history ~ you know, the part only a therapist knows because to the untrained eye the plates still appear to be spinning quite well; but all things simply seem normal due to a special skill in positive self-talk where the world sees the result of what is whispered to ones self as truth!

I am a capable, successful plate spinner. I love spinning these plates. My plates spin in perfect timing and speed. When I spin my plates with grace and patience the other plates will seem to spin themselves. All plates spin well when I touch them. =)

Uh-oh, oops, oh-no, you'd better duck ~ plates in motion!!

HonuGirl