Go Ask Mombear!

The Call Came!!!

My daughter finally called from boot camp today! I was hoping, but didn't really expect it. Although it was only for about five minutes (she had to call her hubby after me,) it was so special that she spent some of her precious free time to call Mom. I do regret that her dad was not here to talk to her. He is out of town (job related.)

Earlier this week, she actually did call us... but it was only because the Red Cross had told her someone from home was trying to get in touch with her. Since we hadn't done it and neither had her husband, it was quite puzzling; and a little worrisome. Well, she found out what had happened... another girl with the same last name (different spelling) had apparently "attempted" suicide because boot camp was "too hard" and she thought it was a way to get sent home. It didn't work. They will just counsel her and probably have her start over... just makes her misery that much longer. I doubt she pulls that stunt again.

I think I'm coming down with a cold. Darn that husband of mine! =)

Unconscious Mutterings

Week 55

I say ... and you think ... ?

1. Angel:: Bear
2. Birth:: Day
3. Logic:: Spock
4. Stars:: Night
5. Nursery:: Baby
6. View:: Nursery Window
7. Hart::
8. Creation:: World
9. End:: Finish
10. Fortune:: Bingo (as in Pogo games..lol)

If you want to play go here.

I'm An Air Force Mom

I finally got a REAL letter from my daughter in boot camp. YAY! She sent us decals for our car windows that say, Air Force Mom and Air Force Dad. I guess they got a little time to actually do some shopping.

It's quite amazing to read that my recent college graduate daughter, has to get up at 4:00am, and is actually doing it! The letter sounds more positive than previous contacts with her portrayed. She still says it's awful, but she is also finding some positives to tell us. She's made some good friends and since she is a team leader, working hard to pull her Flight together.

Dear Mom and Dad,

Hi from Boot Camp. It sucks!

What does a mom say to that? Our daughter is in her second week of BMT (Basic Military Training) for the US Air Force. This is the hardest thing she has ever had to do. One more month and we get to see her graduate. I can't wait!

Monday Madness

If you want to play, go here.

1. If I could win just $50,000, I'd be so happy!
2. Maybe one day I will try my hand at candy making.
3. Before I started blogging, I used to scrap, (making scrapbooks).
4. Lions in the backyard sure make me scared!
5. If I could fly, I would fly to Alaska.
6. If more people were not trying to be"politically correct", the world would be a better place.
7. I thought this meme was difficult this week.

Where did the years go...?

We heard from our son-in-law a few times this week. Two times were to let us know he had heard from our daughter. She is in Texas participating in Basic Training, in order to prepare for at least a few years in the US Air Force. She has been gone since February 10th and even though we don't live near them anyway, I get a little (ok, a lot) melancholy once in a while. A song on the radio triggered it today. I just don't know where the years went, when our kids were growing up. Sure, I remember events, but sometimes I just want my babies back... Anyone else ever feel this way? All you youn'uns with little ones, cherish all your time with them and make lots of memories... you'll need 'em!

Thank you DJ!

I want to acknowledge the much appreciated and invaluable assistance of my good friend, DJ... She has been very kind to help me set up my very first blog, and continues to help when I need it (which is quite often!) It has been very difficult for me at times and DJ surprised me by creating the logo at the top of my scrapping blog, Mombear's Scraps. (Isn't it great?) The photo is mine but she put the title with it and uploaded it to my blog. I am really very late in giving credit but my only excuse is, sadly, a total brain fog. I believe this is due to old age, as I am fast closing in on a half century. Please forgive my lapse...

Friday Five

When was the last time you...

1. ...went to the doctor? Had a mammogram October 2003

2. ...went to the dentist? Oooooo, had two fillings January 23, 2004 :(

3. ...filled your gas tank? Hubby always takes care of that :)

4. ...got enough sleep? Last night... about 7 hrs.

5. ...backed up your computer? January 2004... wanted to be sure I don't lose my many, many photos, so saved them to a DVD.

T3

Onesome: Serendipity:-- Do you believe in destiny? I believe that I do! My entire life has been a series of wonderful endings to potentially devastating situations. So many unexpected, so-called "bad" things have happened, but as time passed, the "true" reason for the situation has been revealed. And usually it has been a very positive ending.

Twosome: Making fortunate discoveries-- What is your greatest "find"? I think my greatest "find" would have to be the job in Pennsylvania, which I held for nearly 9 years. I enjoyed working there so much, and would still be there had we not moved to Arizona for my husband's job. However, going back to the Serendipity question, if we had not moved out here (with virtually no rent to pay,) I would not have been able to spend last summer with my parents, helping them through a bad time.

Threesome: by accident-- Have you ever discovered a place entirely by accident and it's become a favourite place to go now? Yes, yes, yes! We were visiting friends in Phoenix for Thanksgiving and it was suggested that we go home by a more scenic route than usual. It was a very scary drive for me, but at the bottom of the mountain, was Jerome, AZ! A wonderful, small "ghost town" which is apparently quite popular with the tourists. We spent several hours walking around and shopping. Lunch was at Jerome Brewery, pizza and sandwiches...yummm!

How about you? When you're ready, post your answers in your own space, and leave a comment here so we can find you!

By the way, Mom...

Why would a young man of 25 yrs decide it's a good idea to cut up a credit card with a box cutter? Seven stitches later, I do believe he has reconsidered! Thankfully there was no permanent damage done to nerves or muscle. His hand will heal just fine.

Monday Madness

I've got a new idea this week.......First of all, pick a letter, any letter.................Got one? Ok. For the following questions, all your answers must begin with the letter you just thought of. (Honor system here, my friends!) Have fun with it! (Oh, I am in the process of updating my list so if you do not see your link yet, please know it will be there asap!) Thanks for your participation!! Remember; All your answers must begin with the letter you just chose! =)

1. Name two types of food that you could care less if you ever ate again. Turnips and turnip greens
2. Name one animal. Tiger
3. List three words to describe yourself. Truthful, Trustworthy, Tasteful
4. Name two things you might find at a zoo. Tortoises, turnstile
5. Name three things you might find living in the water. Tadpoles, turtles, tuna

You can play if you go here.

Chaperones

We just arrived back from our "special" Valentine's Day weekend in Phoenix. Sounds romantic, huh? Well, it was far from it! Hubby and I volunteered to chaperone a dozen high school kids on a trip which included a JROTC competition and a military ball. Thankfully, we were not directly involved with either of those events. We were there to chaperone the kids who were not involved with the event of the hour (competition during the day, Ball at night.) As it turned out, we were able to see a movie Friday night (Miracle) which was excellent, and worth recommending.

Gary did give me a card with a box of very yummy candy for Valentine's Day. Of course this is very detrimental to my weight loss efforts. It's the thought that counts... Saturday I was able to have my nails done (a big reason I agreed to do this! LOL.) They look very nice, thank you. I also did some shopping and purchased some table decorations for our daughter's wedding, coming up in September. Snuck some scrapbooking supplies in there too. That night, we took a handful of the kids to the mall and spent a couple of hours before going back to the house where we were staying, to have pizza for dinner.

Sunday was our departure day, but not before spending a couple of hours at the Phoenix zoo with all those kids. It actually was a nice outing. I took lots of pictures. We departed about noontime and arrived back at the high school around 6:00pm, as expected. Sure was nice to get back to our little apartment.

T3

::The secret of being tiresome is to tell everything. --Voltaire::

Onesome- The secret of: Can you keep a secret? Have you ever blabbed? What was the consequence?
A not so close friend was planning to leave her abusive husband and she wanted me to help her. I was very worried for her and asked a very close friend what I should do (as her husband was an MP in the Army and we were living on an Army post.) Well, unbeknownst to me, my close friend, knew the first woman and went to her about it... trying to help, but it still cost me that friend.

Twosome- being tiresome is: What's the one subject you get on your soapbox about?
This is really tough, because I naturally try to avoid most conflict and will stopping talking rather than argue a point.

Threesome- to tell everything. Have you ever had to fess up or come clean about something to save your skin or someone else's?
No, but just the opposite... my dearest friend in high school ran away from home to her aunt's house, because her alcoholic mother refused to stop drinking. (we all know these tactics rarely work, but we were only 16!) I had to swear to her mother that I didn't know where she was, even though she threatened to call the police. Of course the mother was drunk when she called me so she probably never remembered the conversation. My mom, bless her little heart, backed me up, although I did tell her everything after I got off the phone.
You can play by going here.

Blogger Seeds

Random Questions; Random Days... Imagine changing colors every time your emotions changed. What colors would some of your emotions be? My colors would start out tan (bland) and range through blue (lonely), green (happy) and red (passionate.)

Dumb Laws in Arizona

Law: Hunting camels is prohibited.
Explanation: The US Army once experimented with camels in the Arizona desert, and eventually gave up. The remaining camels were set free, and are now protected

Law: There is a possible 25 years in prison for cutting down a cactus.
Explanation: The Saguaro cactus, treasured by Arizonians, has been endangered by those who find pleasure in shooting or cutting down cacti. Thus, a law was passed to proect the cactus.

Donkeys cannot sleep in bathtubs.

Law: It is unlawful to refuse a person a glass of water.
Explanation: In the summer-time, with temperatures reaching topping 120 degrees, often people will need water, but may not have the money to pay for it (mainly applies to homeless). Hence, the law. It is very much in effect today, with businesses being reported (and heavily fined) who refuse to supply water to those who ask for it. Convenience stores are the primary businesses who uphold this law.

You may not have more than two dildos in a house.

You are Storm!

You are very strong and very protective of those
you love. You are in tune with nature and are
very concerned with justice and humanity.
Unfortunately, certain apprehensions and fears
are very hard for you to overcome, and can
often inhibit you when most need to be strong.


Which X-Men character are you most like?
brought to you by Quizilla

Today's the day...

...my daughter is off to Basic Training in the US Air Force. She called her dear old mom this morning after the official swearing in at MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Station.) She was sitting in a McDonald's restaurant eating lunch before going back to get on the bus to the airport. As I type this, she should have recently arrived at Lackland AFB in Texas for Basic. The next six weeks will be a major experience for her. This is one child we never thought would go into the military, EVER! She has completed college and as it turns out, this is a good move for her. Next year, barring the unforeseen, she will be applying for Officer's Training School. But for now, we just need to get through the next 6 1/2 weeks...

Monday Madness

1. On Sunday afternoon, I like to just... vegetate; read or watch TV.
2. I'm behind someone at a traffic light, the light turns green and they just sit there, I... honk my horn at them... politely of course!
3. My immediate reaction to someone making a nasty remark to me is... hurt feelings.
4. If I had to live in a state/country where it was cold most of the year, I would... enjoy it... stay inside all the time... but enjoy it nonetheless.
5. When the weather outside is hot and humid, I prefer to... stay in the air condition.
6. My favorite 'comfy' clothes to wear around the house is... sweats.
7. If given a deadline at work/school to finish a project, I usually... stress about it, but complete it on time.
8. If someone gave me a pet for my birthday, I would... love a puppy AND a kitty.
9. As far as watching the clock on weekends, I... only look at the clock to be sure I don't miss a show I want to watch.
10. I usually wash my car about every... hmmmm... well, it's been five months this time and was about a year before that! LOL!

What Do You Have In Common With Me?

What I Have In Common With Michelle:

Instructions:
1. Copy this whole list into your journal.
2. Bold the things that you have in common with me.
3. Whatever you don't bold, replace with things about you. Please add a comment if you do it so that I can come read it!

I love my coffee, daily.
I am a Gemini.
I like to read.
I don't smoke.
I like broccoli & cheese.
I have always had a good relationship with my Mom.
I am a native Floridian.
I don't really miss my hometown.
I love to eat seafood.
I like cats.
I have no pets, currently, but plan to get a puppy next year.
I am happily married. (Although we do have our moments...)
I've never been to Bermuda.
My favorite color is green but my husband thinks it is blue. LOL!
I suck at parallel parking.
I enjoy a variety of musical styles., but I mostly like oldies and country music.
I like to spend time by myself, but I occasionally get lonely.
I watch Discovery Health Channel most days.
I am not a news junkie.
I wear perfume several times a week.
I hate to exercise. This is why my ass is flabby and out of shape.
I am very moody at times. (Understatement!)
I love chocolate.
I hate facial hair on men. Whiskers belong on kitties not people.
I hate having wet socks!
I wish I had a magical stop watch and could pause time in order to catch up on things without feeling as if I am missing out on something with my kids.
I am an emotional person.
I love to talk on the phone to friends and family.
I hate telemarketers.
I have to have the last word in an argument. It's a sickness. (Never thought of it, but I probably do too!)
I'm too hesitant.
I hate to wear a bra. The girls feel better when they are loose and free.
I am a nosey little bitch. I want to know what everyone else knows.
I think I am very tactful. Almost to a fault, except when I'm not! LOL!
I do not sing in the shower.
I am not as wealthy as I'd like to be. (Another understatement!)
I do not know how to dance and worry about dancing at my son's wedding in August and my daughter's wedding in September.
I sing often. To the radio, to the kids, etc. (As long as no one but my husband and kids are around.)
I a worrywart.
I used to have a crush Davy Jones of the Monkees.
I really enjoy thoughtful gifts, even if they cost nothing.
I like puzzles.
I believe in UFOs.
When I am nervous, play with my rings.
I hlike snakes, sort of.
I can tolerate beer, but I enjoy champagne more.
I prefer being barefoot, but not when my feet are cold.
I own sex toys... (definitely TMI)
I wish I knew how to express myself better- my mind often gets ahead of my mouth (or fingers when typing).
I am not fond of horseback riding, after spending 4 hours on horseback.
I like silence at times.
I would like to go to church, but haven't since moving to Arizona.
I’m smart.
I have been known to procrastinate on occasion. (Understatement!)
I suck at staying in touch with people, but I do try.
I always try to be a good person.
I was never good at playing fun things with my kids.
I don't wear any makeup.
I want to own a beach house someday.
I see most first run movies at the theater.
I have always strived to do what’s right. Sometimes I fuck up.
I can't stand to listen to a baby cry for long periods of time- makes me pissy which is why I tend to go out of my way so that mine don't cry a lot. lol
I suck at sports.
I love chinese food.
I think about going back to school, but I really hate the idea. My mind just doesn't remember things like it used to.
I like to people-watch.
I don't remember things too well.
I love getting handwritten letters.
I love to take pictures of almost anything.
I love my computer. (when it works, that is)
I am horribly shy around people at first. It takes me awhile to warm up so people sometimes think that I am stuck up and aloof.
I love candles.
I never play with my hair. I wish all humanity was bald so I didn't have to do anything to my hair.
I broke my little toe once.
I do not enjoy fishing, but would go with friends to enjoy the company.
I love garlic and use it a lot in my cooking.
I like candles more than incense.
I think I have a lot of close friends, but my self esteem is usually in the toilet, so I'm not sure.
I have never been arrested.
I love my family & friends more than anything.
I didn't get a flu shot this year.
It annoys me to watch dubbed over movies. It bugs me when the lip movement doesn't match the speech.
I hate tailgaters and will slow down until the impatient bastard gets off my ass.
I love the smell of citrus.
I love to watch movies.
I daydream sometimes.
I always wanted dark curly hair, I was born with very straight blond hair.
I wouldn't mind working in a pet store.
I wish I had a best friend that lived in this town or at least nearby.
I am not easily annoyed.
I don't have a really dirty mind. (much to my husband's disappointment.)
I'm ready for this list thing to be over.
I love to shop for other people, but I never know what to get them.
I will never be famous. (thank god)
I want one more baby.
I always appreciate the truth, however being tactful is nice.
I like to help people.
I do not like to wear clothing in layers. Just enough to cover me and that's enough.
I would buy things for people "just because"—if I actually had any money.
I'm glad this is done!

Glass...

Is anyone out there having cold weather? LOL! Today being our regular shopping day, we arose early, ready to leave home by 7:00am, in order to arrive in Farmington, NM fairly early so hubby could attend a gun/knife show at the Civic Center. Needless to say, there was a very thick layer of ice on the windshield to scrape off. Nothing new. Off we go... about an hour down the road, I opened my eyes after dozing, and realized we have a crack starting up the center of our windshield. I brought to my husband's attention and he said "Yep, sure does look like a crack." HUSBANDS!! Anyway after determining that this crack is not covered by insurance, we decided it has to be fixed anyway. However, this of course has be taken care of AFTER the show.

As Gary goes into the show, I decided to sit in the van and read a while before taking a walk down to the newly discovered, and only, scrapbook supply store in town. What a wonderful shop! After I had been there about 15 minutes, in walks Gary... he was done with the show. He told me to take my time and he went back out to bring the van up and make some phone calls. By the time I left the shop, he had contacted several glass repair places and determined we should go to the one which happened to be nearest the mall.

A-1 Auto Glass was fantastic! The first place Gary called had quoted a price of nearly $300 to replace the windshield and they would still need to order it, etc., etc... A-1 quoted a price over the phone of $20 less and they had one in stock. Needless to say... The very pleasant surprise was, when they looked at our van and checked the computer again, the cost was only $216. Bottom line... after we went to lunch and returned an hour later, the windshield was replaced and they even knocked off the $16 for a grand total of $200 even! Now, no one wants to spend an unexpected $200, but this certainly turned out to be a lot more pleasant than spending $300 and praying the windshield wouldn't fall out while we waited for the shop to order one!

What do you snow!

It started snowing yesterday, but by the time it got dark, we were convinced there would be nothing to show for it. Snow tends to melt very quickly here in the upper plateaus of Arizona. Well, we woke up this morning to about 2 inches of snow on the ground and a lot of ice in the parking lot. School was delayed for two hours so my husband did not have to brave the icy roads until about 9:15am. He has just a 13 mile drive but in that kind of weather, it could well take an hour! Shortly after he left, the sun came out and by noon, the snow was just about gone. Now we have puddles everywhere!

In other family news: Our daughter called yesterday, after visiting two different florists for her coming wedding. She wanted to share with her loving parents, the wonderful choices she has made... as well as the cost. LOL! She truly made what sounds like terrific decisions for the arrangements and the cost really isn't that bad. I don't get to see the flowers ahead of time but the flowers will be burgundy and white. At least that's one more item we can check off the "To Do List." And last, but not least, our son has another possible job opportunity in Maryland. He will be talking to them today and it sounds promising. I really would like it if he and his wife-to-be would come out west so we can be closer, but sometime life just gets in the way of our wants (especially mom's wants.)

Second Class Completed!

I just finished my second class for HTML 1 at Virtual University (VU). What a wonderful idea, to have online classes almost free! I am having a great time learning all this web stuff. If anyone is interested, you can check out my class assignments at: Mombear's Virtual Notebook.

Monday Madness

1. I probably spend about 12-14 hours on the computer every day. Depends on how early I get on it.
2. It always takes me 15 minutes to get ready in the morning. I do not work outside the home.
3. I would rather go to the dentist than go to ... hmmm, I can't think of anything worse than a dentist appointment. Of course I am currently recovering from my latest vist to the torture chamber called a dentist chair.
4. My favorite dessert is anything chocolate.
5. When I go to the store for one item, I always walk out with about 3-4 items... at least!
6. If the statement, 'You are what you eat' was true, I would be a bowl of Kashi Go Lean cereal with frozen blueberries. I'm really addicted to having this every morning.
7. I set my thermostat to 70 in the summer and 65 in the winter.
8. My favorite outdoor activity is sightseeing.
9. My favorite indoor activity is a tie between scrapbooking, genealogy research and working on my website.
10. When I'm feeling down, I usually want to sleep.

Super Bowl...

Eight seconds left.... will the Patriots break the tie? Well, it looks like they pulled it off! Oh well... it was a good game anyway. Now... on to The Survivors!

FINAL
PATRIOTS: 32
PANTHERS: 29

EXTREME!

This seems to be the current WORD OF THE MONTH. I'm am so getting tired of hearing it! Every time the TV or radio is on, someone is talking about extreme this, or extreme that. Please, give us a break!