(43-352) ALWAYS In Their Corner

If I had a nickel for every time I've said "time flies" during the course of writing "The Bumpy Ride"... BUT it's true, it does; and the fact that swim team is already concluding this week is just more proof of it.

It seems like just yesterday that my kids were starting swim team prep.  Remember I wrote "Love Gives You Courage" and I told you about that horrible, girl "Brenda"?  Then school ended and I was so looking forward to our summer and our swim meets.  I told you about sitting at the judges table, and how "awful, Brenda" was putting herself in races with slower swimmers so that she could come in "first place."  What I didn't tell you, was that this was not the best swim season, by a long shot - for either of my girls.

It's not that I didn't tell you because I was ashamed or embarrassed about how they were doing.  It's was just that there wasn't a whole lotta story there at the time.  I mean they each had a couple of good races; but something was different this summer, for the both of them, and ultimately neither was as successful as they had been in seasons past.  I kept telling them that it didn't matter what place they came in, as long as they were having fun; but what can  I say, they're their mother's daughters and hence they are competitive by nature. (Lyndzi more so than Kelsie.)

Ultimately it wasn't the best meet for Lyndzi or Kelsie, but they did have a couple of really good races.  Lyndzi got 2nd place for her Freestyle, 4th place for her Butterfly and 8th place for Backstroke.  Kelsie got 3rd place for Breaststroke, 6th place for Backstroke and 7th place for Freestyle.  Tomorrow it's Nicky's turn and interestingly enough, he's been having a phenomenal season, but I digress.

As a parent who is always looking for the lesson that can be learned, I wanted to reinforce the idea that as long as they tried their hardest and had a good time doing it; what place they came in was irrelevant to us.  I would rather have them come in last and have really tried, than to come in first because they were swimming against kids with less aptitude.  I told them that I would cheer them on whether they were come in second or seventh place because they're my kids and I'm ALWAYS in their corner.  Besides, if you usually come in first, I don't think that you appreciate it as much as if you've had a couple of eighth's and fifth's  throughout the season.  To truly appreciate the splendor of first place, you have to know what it's like to be in the other places as well.

I am very proud of my girls for the commitment that they made to swim team and for the effort that they put forth.  It is my pleasure to watch them swim and compete regardless of the outcome.  I am sad that swim team is over for the summer, but I look forward to the extra time it will give us together.
Till next time...
Queen of Everything

(43-293) HAPPY Birthday Nicky!!

The one thing that I've always been sure of was that I wanted to have children.  When I was single, I had promised myself that if I wasn't married by a certain age, I would find a way to have a child on my own, because it was just that important to me.  Since Luis and I had such a whirlwind romance, and got married after only knowing each other for a few months; we agreed that we would be married for a few years before we started a family, so that we would have a strong foundation to build upon.

I didn't necessarily want to be an older mom, but between relocating, and the early detection of some pre-cancerous cells; we wound up waiting four years before we attempted to have a baby.  We were very fortunate, because as soon as we made the decision to try and conceive, I got pregnant right away.  Luis and I were thrilled to find out that we were expecting and despite having morning sickness round the clock for twelve weeks; I was ecstatic.

Early on, I believed that I was having a boy and the ultrasound proved me right.  I wanted to name my son after my maternal grandfather Nathan, and since Luis assured me that his family would not pronounce the name Noah properly, we opted for Nicolas.  I would talk to Nicky every day and refer to him by name.  Even after getting sick, I would rub my stomach and tell him "That's OK Nicky, we're going to be alright;" and I felt a love like none that I'd ever known before. 

I remember talking myself through my contractions and saying "just a little while longer and I'm going to see Nicky.  Just a little while longer and I'm going to hold Nicky."  I was not concerned about the pain or discomfort, because I was so excited about getting to meet my son.  And when the nurse placed him in my arms, I cried tears of joy, and I rocked him and said "My Nicky, MY Nicky."  And I felt blessed.  I felt grateful.  I was utterly blissful; as I basked in the warmth of an overwhelming love. What a precious gift from God. 

It seems like just yesterday that I gave birth to my beautiful, baby boy; and yet it's now been twelve years. For twelve years I've been privileged to raise the most exceptional boy.  A boy that any mom would be so proud to call her own.  A boy who is thoughtful and compassionate, sensitive, trustworthy, intelligent, hard working, cooperative, kind, insightful, funny, mature and loving.  A boy who is a great big brother, and a wonderful son.

As always, Nicky didn't ask for much for his birthday.  He wanted to take a treat to school to share with his class, so I bought him cookies at Sam's Club.  He asked to go to PoPo's Fiesta Del Sol for dinner and he requested Red velvet cheesecake (from The Cheesecake Factory), for dessert.  And we were more than happy to comply.


Twelve years ago today, I began to fulfill my destiny. From the moment that Nicky was placed in my arms, I knew that I had been right all along and that I was meant to be a mom.  Holding Nicky I felt complete for the first time in my life.  Oh how Nicky was well worth the wait.

On this his twelfth birthday, I wish Nicky a lifetime of love and happiness.  A life filled with joy and fulfillment.  I hope that he becomes everything that he wants to be and that he has the courage to follow his every dream.  I hope that Nicky will find his passion and lives his life with intention and purpose.  I hope that Nicky will be true to himself and respectful of others.  I wish Nicky the happiest twelfth birthday ever; and I look forward to watching him grow and develop into the person that he is meant to be.
Till next time...
Queen of EVERYTHING

(43-272) Four Weeks And Counting...

As I was packing the kid's lunches this morning, I glanced over to the dry erase calendar that we keep on our fridge; and then advised Nicky that his birthday was three weeks from today.  I followed this announcement up by broadcasting that they would be done with school in just four weeks.  WOOHOO!!  And I did say THAT too.

I know that a lot of parents don't like having their kids home for the summer; but I REALLY look forward to it.  I like to spend as much time with them as possible; and I sadly recognize that it won't be long before they don't want to spend as much time with me.  

After dropping the kids at school this morning, I went to register them for Swim team.     Another sign that summer is just around the corner; and I can't wait.  I know that I've said it many times, but it's just amazing to me how quickly time flies by.  It seems like just a couple of years ago that I gave birth to Nicky, and yet he'll turn twelve on May 16.  All  I can say is that if you have children, young ones in particular; enjoy each and EVERY minute, because the little things that annoy you now, will seem like nothing as they get older and their problems get bigger.  When they're little it's so easy to plan EVERYTHING for them.  What they'll eat, what they'll wear, when they'll sleep, who they'll play with etc. etc. and as they get older they make more and more of these decisions for themselves; and not always successfully.

Yes, I'm counting down the days until the end of the school year and the beginning of our family time.  My favorite time!
Til next time...
Queen of EVERYTHING

(43-267) Decision Making

I think that one of the best things that you can do for your kids is to teach them to trust themselves; and encourage them to make their own decisions.  Now of course, when I say this; I'm referring to children of a certain age; but remember that you have to start somewhere.  So yes, I was the mom that let a five year old Kelsie wear two different colored flip flops to the store one day, because that's what she wanted to do and expressing her individuality wasn't going to hurt anyone.

I want my kids to know that they are capable of choosing what is best for them; and then take responsibility for their decisions once they've made them.  And this week, Nicky did just that.

Nicky has been a Student Council rep this year, and he's absolutely loved it.  He's enjoyed working in the school snack bar, setting up for dances, volunteering at a food bank, and participating in meetings.  Nicky hopes to continue with Student Council next year, and as they're getting ready to have officer elections; he was considering running for Secretary.  Now why Secretary you might ask?  And the answer is simple.  The only positions that 6th graders may run for are Secretary, Treasurer and Spirit Coordinator.  Well try as he may, Spirit Coordinator is not a position that would suit Nicky right now, and a popular girl had already said that she was going to run for Treasurer, so rather than compete against her, Nicky was considering Secretary.

I was VERY proud that Nicky wasn't letting the two to five minute speech that he'd have to give in front of the 5th through 7th graders deter him.  We discussed the fact that although it might make him uncomfortable for a few minutes; in the long run the gain would be worth it.  Nicky was contemplating his decision to run and ultimately he decided that he didn't want to, because he really didn't want to be Secretary. Nicky thought that the Secretary position would be too much pressure for him, and speaking as someone who's held that position before; I would have to say he's right.  It's a lot of additional work and responsibility.  Nicky decided that he would wait until next fall, when he could run for a rep position, and hopefully get back into Student Council.  I respect Nicky's decision and how he made it.  He wasn't afraid to say that he'd changed his mind; and he definitely gave it a lot of thought before doing so. 

You know I joke a lot about how I have trouble making decisions; but the truth is, it's the insignificant things, like what to have for dinner that cause me to be indecisive.  When it comes to life decisions, I don't have difficulty at all.  Case in point, writing a daily blog this year.  I didn't waiver at all about doing it; although maybe I should have.  Just kidding!

As always I am extraordinarily proud of Nicky.  He's almost twelve years old, and he knows very well, who he is, and he is invariably true to himself.  Nicky is his own person and he does what's comfortable for him, regardless of if it's the popular thing to do or not.  And as his mom; that's EXACTLY what I had hoped for him.
Till next time...
Queen of EVERYTHING

(43-254) Music To My Ears

Anyone who knows my son Nicky, can attest that he's a pretty serious guy.  Nicky is the best son EVER!  He's intelligent, kind, thoughtful, caring, loving, polite, well behaved, as well as most other positive attributes that you can think of.  BUT, as much as it pains me to say it, often times he's uptight.  Loving him as much as I do; I work with him on a daily basis to try and help him to overcome his shyness and to relax; but it's been a very slow road.

When Nicky's at home, or with people that he's very comfortable with; he talks and talks; which I know some may find difficult to believe.  He jokes, and teases (to some extent,) and he enjoys comedy.  However, I don't often hear him laugh; and tonight, I had him hysterical; and it was music to my ears.

We were sitting on the couch and I was preparing to write my blog; when all of a sudden I got the urge to tickle Nicky.  I honestly don't think I've really tried to tickle him since he was a baby; which sounds totally unbelievable to me; and yet, I fear that it's true.  I started by tickling him under his knee, and he went nuts; to the point where he was laughing so hard that drool came out of his mouth.  I was so pleased with his reaction, that I switched to tickling him on his side, and then under his arms; and he fell off the couch laughing.  What a delightful sound!

Of course I've heard Nicky laugh before; but usually because he's amused by a TV show or movie OR because he's thought of something that he thinks is funny.  But NEVER have I heard Nicky chortle continuously, as he did tonight.  

I know for a fact that I laughed A LOT as a child.  So much so that I almost got kicked out of kindergarten for laughing.  I remember my mom telling me that she had been called to school because my kindergarten teacher said the I had a contagious laugh and that once I started laughing, the other kids would too.  The problem with that was that I didn't always laugh at appropriate times.  I chalk that up to me having a nervous laugh in addition to a contagious one; but nonetheless it needed to be curtailed.  My mom must have assured the teacher that I would learn to control myself, because I wasn't removed from the class; but I ALMOST wish that one day one of Nicky's teachers would have to make such a call.

I wouldn't want to change any of the great things that Nicky is.  But just like most moms, I want my child's life to be as stress free and easygoing as possible.  I think that tickling Nicky tonight just may have been a big (yes) HUGE turning point for us; and I can't wait to hear that sweet, sweet music again SOON!
Till next time...
Queen of EVERYTHING  

                                                                                                                                                        

                                                                 

(43-195) Three For Three

If you've been keeping up with "The Bumpy Ride," then the title probably tells you; that we now have three out of three, sick kids.  Now, I know that it must not be enjoyable to read about other people's sick children; but don't be so fast to skip this post; because what I'm going to share my surprise you.

When last you left me sick home; Nicky and Lyndzi were running fevers and both had been treated by doctors at Urgent Care.  Well, yesterday afternoon Kelsie started coughing and complained of a sore throat.  By the evening, her fever of 102.5 had set in; so I kept all three kids home from school today; and as soon as our Pediatrician's office opened at 8, I called to make appointments for both Kelsie AND Lyndzi.  Nicky seemed to be improving; but I was still uncertain about Lyndzi as I had reasons to doubt the Urgent Care doc.  I asked for an appointment with one of the two pediatricians that we typically see; and was lucky enough to get one at 1pm.  In the meantime, we did breathing treatments, took Ibuprofen and all of the other meds that had been prescribed.

Since Kelsie had complained of a sore throat; they did a throat culture; which didn't go well.  Kelsie was less than cooperative, which made the experience a lot more difficult and unpleasant.  I can't say that I blame her though.  I remember being told that it used to take two nurses to hold me down for a culture; so I guess the apple didn't fall far from the tree.  Our pediatrician then came in, and I brought her up to date on all of the illness and diagnoses that we'd gotten from Urgent Care.  Let's start with Lyndzi's first diagnosis - Bronchitis...  Our doctor said that Bronchitis is something that smoker's get and that as soon as most Urgent Care docs see some one will respiratory illness; they call it Bronchitis.  Next, Nicky's Sinusitis.  She said that there's no way they could diagnose Sinusitis within such a short time of him getting sick.  You would have to have green, goopy discharge for about ten days, in order for it to be Sinusitis; and as far as his Bronchitis; see previous explanation.  Let's move on to ear infections.  After examining Lyndzi, our doctor said that she had no idea how she could be diagnosed with an ear infection; when she couldn't even see her eardrum due to wax buildup.  she told me to get Debrox; and I told her that I had asked the Urgent care doc about that; by name, for Nicky and was told that the build up was too bad for that and that he'd need to come back when he was feeling better to have it flushed out.  Our doctor was appalled and assured me that we could treat their ears well, with the Debrox.

I told our doctor that I was doubting the Urgent care doctors because Nicky had been prescribed cough syrup with Codeine, and his cough wasn't nearly as bad as Lyndzi's had been (either time;) and yet she wasn't prescribed any. And our doctor told me that the cough syrup with Codeine was actually very dangerous for Asthmatics; GREAT!  I explained that Lyndzi had been prescribed a lower dosage of the Asthma steroid, even though she weighs more than Nicky; and she told me that both she and Nicky should have been prescribed 60mg instead of the 10 and 20mg's that the doctors had prescribed.  I told her about the Tamaflu and she asked me if the doctor had done a Flu swab.  I said "No."  And she told me that you cannot diagnose the Flu without a Flu swab; and that I had done the right thing NOT giving Lyndzi the Tamaflu, because there are a lot of bad side effects from it.  She said that even if Lyndzi has the Flu; she wouldn't have prescribed it.

With all that being said; the doctor concluded the girl's examinations and told me that Kelsie's throat culture was negative and she thought they had the Flu; so they had to be swabbed.  I asked where they do the swab and she said "in the nose."  She left the room and my girls started to panic.  I tried to keep them calm, but when the male nurse came in the room; all hell broke loose.  The girls asked where he puts the swab and he told him that it had to go up the nose all the way through the nasal cavity.  They asked if it was going to hurt; and he replied "Do you want me to be honest, or lie to you?"  And before they could answer he said "It's uncomfortable.  It's worse than a throat culture."  And the girls both FREAKED OUT.  They both started crying hysterically and they begged me to take them home.  It broke my heart.  I knew that they had to get the swabs done; but they were scared and there was nothing that I could do to make it better.  Lyndzi went first, and she screamed and cried as the swab went up her nose.  Kelsie watched and cried almost louder than Lyndzi.  As soon as Lyndzi was done I embraced her and tried to comfort her, but the nurse was telling Kelsie to get on the table and she was refusing.  Kelsie implored me not to take the test; and I started to cry.  The nurse made a comment about needing to get someone else in the room since I wasn't going to be of any use; and with that, another nurse came in and they held Kelsie down and swabbed her nose as she kicked, cried, and let out a blood curdling scream.  I held both girls; and apologized profusely; for what they had to go through.  Shortly thereafter, our doctor came back in and said they were both positive.

Our doctor said that because they'd had the Flu shot, their symptoms were not nearly as bad; as if they hadn't taken it.  She said that it shouldn't last as long; and that they needed to stay home from school until they were 100.2 or less for 24 hours.  She also said that we should assume that Nicky too had the flu and we should treat him accordingly.  OY!!!! 

I called urgent Care to speak with the office manager, because I wanted to let her know that I'd been there 3 times in two weeks and I received a number of misdiagnoses, inappropriate prescriptions, incorrect dosing, and life threatening mistakes.  I had to leave a message; but rest assured, this is a conversation that will be had.

All three kids are resting comfortably now; and the girls don't seem to be any worse the wear after this traumatic experience.  I swear, if I could have done it for them; I would have.  It's so difficult to watch your children be afraid and know that there is nothing that you can do.  I'm hoping for a speedy recovery; and that Luis and I manage to escape the perils of the Flu.

"Hey Paige Ramos; what are you going to do if everyone gets well soon?"  "I'm going to DISNEYLAND!"
Till next time...
Queen of EVERYTHING

(43-194) Mother Knows Best??

Just as I've previously promised that this was not becoming an all Scrapbooking blog, an all Politics blog, an all Soccer blog, an all Feet blog, an all Quote blog or an all anything else that I've ever had to promise this blog was not going to be all about; blog ~ it's also NOT becoming my journal, or sickness update blog; because really, who wants to read that?  BUT, (and of course you knew there had to be a but;) since my trials and tribulations are as much a part of "The Bumpy Ride" as my humor and advice are; that brings me to today's topic.

When I wrote "ALL AROUND ALL STAR,"  I told you that Nicky had gotten quite sick, very unexpectedly; and I even remarked that the rapid onset of his illness, was very much like what we'd experienced with Lyndzi two weeks ago.  Well as I was typing that post, I could hear Lyndzi coughing in the play room; and I asked Luis to give her a breathing treatment, because it sounded like her Asthma cough.  Luis went over to Lyndzi and she felt unusually warm; so he took her temperature; and it was 102.5  I couldn't believe it.  This poor child. 

We immediately started giving her breathing treatments and Ibuprofen; and since her cough actually sounded worse than what Nicky had; we gave her some of his cough syrup as well.  Lyndzi rested comfortably until about 5am when I heard her coughing.  I woke up and she was crying because she couldn't breathe.  I took her downstairs and had to give her two consecutive breathing treatments because she was in such distress. I took her temperature, and it was 105.2; which I knew wasn't because she'd been sleeping on that ear.  I gave Lyndzi Ibuprofen and got her back to sleep; but I set my alarm for 7:40, so that we could make it to Urgent Care right when they opened.

We arrived at Urgent Care just a few minutes after 8 and there were two patients ahead of us.  Lyndzi was crying because she didn't feel well; and after a considerable wait, we saw the doctor.  The doctor happened to be the same one that we saw two weeks ago; but he seemed perplexed by Lyndzi's symptoms.  After examining her, he told us that he believed she had an ear infection, and her Asthma, of course.  He said that she and Nicky could be passing a virus back and forth; and he also mentioned the possibility of the flu.  He asked if she'd been exposed to anyone who had the flu; but I told him that our entire family had gotten the flu shot; and to the best of my knowledge, Lyndzi hadn't been around anyone who'd had the flu.  Nonetheless, he prescribed the flu medication as well.

We dropped off Lyndzi's prescriptions at CVS; and I took her home to give her another breathing treatment and some Tylenol.  When I went back to pick up the prescriptions, the pharmacy tech told me that she had tried to call me because they didn't have the flu medication at that location.  She found another pharmacy that had it; but while she was checking into it, Luis called me.  I asked Luis about the flu medication, given his pharmacy knowledge; and my uncertainty about this diagnosis.  Luis explained that all the medicine would do is help with the flu symptoms like congestion and body aches etc; it wouldn't cure the flu.  I told him that she hadn't complained of body aches or any other flu like symptoms and he suggested that I speak to the pharmacist.  I had a lengthy conversation with the pharmacist and we both agreed that it seemed unlikely that Lyndzi had the flu.  I told him that I didn't want to over medicate Lyndzi; especially, considering that she had only just finished antibiotics and steroids a week ago; and he agreed.  He said, sometimes mom just knows best; so I asked him, "if she was your daughter,would you give her the flu medicine?"  And he said "no." 

I left feeling confident about my decision not to give Lyndzi the flu medication.  I took her prescriptions home and gave her medications.  She's been resting a lot more comfortably; and so far it seems that I made the right choice.  For Lyndzi's sake, I sure hope that this time, Mother knows best.
Till next time...
Queen of EVERYTHING

(43-160) A Cure For The Back To School Blues

I've previously mentioned that on the first day of school (as well as other special occasions;) I like to make Cinnamon rolls for my kids.  Since I'm not Lesa G; baker of the world's best, homemade, Lemon Bars nor am I Jenny and (SMF) David; Christmas Cookie chefs extraordinaire; I simply make Pillsbury (canned,) cinnamon rolls with CINNABON frosting; but my kids think they're just great.  So during one of my many Christmas break, trips to the supermarket; I picked up a can of cinnamon rolls; so that I could surprise the kids one morning.

I could have made the cinnamon rolls any day; and they would have been thrilled; but I decided that I would make them on their first day back to school.  I thought that it would be delightful to awake to the sweet cinnamony aroma that the baked pastries emanate.  But alas; on Sunday, I ruined my own surprise and told the kids about my plan;  because they were all so bummed about going back to school; and leaving me.

They all seemed so sad about the prospect of school starting up; so I thought I'd cheer them up by telling them that I planned to make them cinnamon rolls for breakfast; and indeed, this was a cure for the back to school blues.

I woke Lyndzi at 6:30am, and after she got dressed, I asked what she wanted for breakfast.  She gave me a quizzical look and I asked what was wrong.  With a perplexed tone, Lyndzi then said "I thought we were having cinnamon rolls."  Oh my gosh; she was right.  I'd forgotten MY OWN PLAN; so in the long run, I suppose that it was a very good thing that I had told them about it.   Thankfully I still had plenty of time to get the rolls in the oven; and by the time Nicky and Kelsie got up, I had just finished frosting the delectable dough.  The kids happily ate their cinnamon rolls; and I'm proud to say, that I did not.   

Kelsie was more cooperative than ever as she got ready for school.  I think that Lyndzi was looking forward to seeing her friends; but like Nicky, she would have just as soon stayed home; so when I dropped them at school, I assured them that their day would pass quickly; and that although I would miss them; I'd be fine.  It was bittersweet watching them walk towards the school; but I always seem to feel that way after having them home for a while.  I get spoiled.

I went back home, worked for a few hours and then met Lesa G at the gym.  I returned home resumed working; and I wish that I could say that time passed quickly; but truth be told, it didn't.  3:00 couldn't come soon enough for me; and when it did, I flew out the door to go pick up my angels.  I'm happy to report that despite their hesitation, everyone had a great day.  And as for me, I'm getting pinker by the minute.
Till next time...
Queen of EVERYTHING 

(43-157) Ten For 10'

If I had to choose a word to represent MY 2010; without a doubt, it would have to be DISCOVERY.  This past year I have learned so much about myself, my family, my friends, and life in general.  Although I've frequently written about my discoveries on "The Bumpy Ride," since this is the end of the year; I would like to share TEN of my most important discoveries with you.

This year, I've discovered:
1.  Change is good.  Change can often be scary; but if things always stayed the same, they would never grow.
2.  You HAVE to be true to yourself.    Everyone has their own path, and you and only you, are responsible for yours.
3.  Age is just a number.  You're as young as you feel and you should never let your age stop you in any way.
4.  I am strong.  I have strength of character, and strength of mind. I am strong in my commitments and my values; and I am getting stronger every day.
5.  Family!  I have found cousins that I never really knew; and I am so ecstatic to have them in my life.
6.  I have made a difference. By reconnecting with some of the girls that I worked with when I was a Social worker; I now know that my efforts were appreciated; and meaningful.
7.  I have a lot left to do.  I have not nearly reached my potential, as a wife, a mom, a friend, a writer a person.
8.  Reciprocity is crucial.  Life is a two way street, and even though you may be accustomed to always being the person who does or gives; you also HAVE to let others do for you.
9.  Karma!  It's the guiding force behind (say it with me,) "The greater good."
10. It's OK to ask for what you need.  I've never really been good at this.  And I know that just because you ask for something, doesn't mean that you're going to get it; but certainly if you don't ask; you're assured not to get it.  And so, once again, I'm going to ask for your help...

This post is number 157 of 366 and number 294 for all time.  Hard to believe; I KNOW.  And as we all know; I still have a long way to go, at least to get to July 29, 2011.  So with that being said; once again I would like to take a grassroots stab at increasing my readership; and this is where you come in.  If you enjoy "The Bumpy Ride," and believe that my messages and stories are those that others would enjoy or benefit from; PLEASE share me with a friend.  I'm ASKING that you tell at least two friends about "The Bumpy Ride," in the hopes that they will join me on a regular basis and tell two more friends, etc. etc.
Now sometimes, telling someone about something isn't enough; you have to show them, SO in keeping with my Ten for 10' theme, I'm going to provide the names and links for the ten posts that I think were my best of 2010.  Then you can just forward this blog onto your friends, with suggested reading built right on; OR, you can copy and past one of the posts into an email, so they can read me for themselves; PLEASE!!

Ten For 10': 
43
Acceptance
My Something Special  
A Gift Horse Tale
The Dirty Word
What A Mom's Gotta Do
Red - A Retrospective
The Protectors
What You Choose To Believe
A Blueprint for a B.F.F


There are so many ways for people to join "The Bumpy Ride." If they visit my blog itself; they can sign up to have "The Bumpy Ride" emailed to them each time there's a new post. If they're on Facebook, they can sign up on Networkedblogs, and follow me that way; or they can sign up through Google reader. Let us not forget, they can also show their support by joining The Bumpy Ride Fan Club, on Facebook. I'm starting to feel like a bit of a broken record; BUT, if I don't ask you; then you won't know that I need your help; and boy, do I NEED your help.

Well, that's it for me. I'm so pleased with how this year has gone. Even though it hasn't always been easy; it's ALWAYS been worth it.  I'm so excited to see what 2011 holds in store for us all.  I wish you love, peace and good health.
Till next year...
Queen of EVERYTHING

                                                

(43-68) Quality Time With Kelsie

Kelsie is a PIP, there's no doubt about it.  She is probably the most complex of my 3 kids; because with Nicky and Lyndzi, whatchya see is pretty much what ya get; but Kelsie is another story altogether.  Kelsie is the most challenging of the 3.  Although they all are extremely, bright; Kelsie has a mind like a steel trap and she is ALWAYS thinking.
Kelsie will argue with you with inconceivable, conviction for a six year old; and  she will also defend anyone who she believes is in need of assistance.  Despite the fact that she's the youngest of my three kids; Kelsie is typically their spokesperson.  She has little to no fear of anything; from the word "no" to a speeding roller coaster.  Nothing is high enough or fast enough for Kelsie; (she must get that from her Titi Michele;) because both Luis and I are wimps when it comes to height and speed and Nicky and Lyndzi aren't much better.  Nicky and I will at least ride Space Mountain at Disneyland; but Luis and Lyndzi wouldn't even consider it; and then there's Kelsie!!
I've written before about Kelsie's antics and strong will; but I've also shared stories about her kind heart; and profound compassion.  Kelsie makes life interesting for sure and her unpredictability constantly keeps us on our toes. 
Kelsie and I spend more ALONE time together than my other kids and I do; because Kelsie likes to go shopping with me.  Part of me thinks that she wants to accompany me because she thinks she can talk me into getting her something; but the other part of me sincerely believes that she comes along so that I won't be alone.  Now even though Kelsie and I spend a great deal of time together, today was something special.
All 3 kids had been invited to spend the night at my friend Arlene's house; but Luis and I didn't think that Kelsie was ready to; so only Nicky and Lyndzi stayed.  Kelsie understood that the time wasn't right for her and that we didn't think that Nicky and Lyndzi had to forfeit the opportunity, just because she is six; but on the ride home, Kelsie cried inconsolably.  Luis and I reminded her that I had promised to take her out to breakfast today and that the kids would be home in the afternoon; but she was still very sad and cried throughout taking her shower.  I went to check on her and as she sobbed, she asked if we could talk about it in the morning.  I cuddled with her until she fell asleep and in the morning she asked if we could cuddle again.  While we were holding each other on the couch, Kelsie explained that she had been crying because she wasn't / isn't used to being home without Nicky and Lyndzi and she missed them.  She explained quite eloquently, that even when Nicky is on the computer in the other room, she still knows that he's here; and that Lyndzi is her constant companion and she doesn't like being without her.  My heart smiled; and I embraced Kelsie; my sage, six year old. 

Kelsie and I went to breakfast at Mimi's cafe.  She had won a super student award last year, and this seemed like a great opportunity to collect her free meal.  Mimi's was very crowded, as it usually is on a Sunday morning.  I asked how long the wait would be and the hostess said 15-20 minutes; which we didn't think was bad; but just as Kelsie and I were helping ourselves to complimentary fruit punch and coffee; the hostess called my name.  I couldn't believe it because there was no way that more than 2 minutes had elapsed since we'd been given our pager; but we were the only "Paige" to walk up to the hostess station; and so we were promptly seated.
Kelsie used her best restaurant manners and politely ordered chocolate chip pancakes and milk.  She shared the coffee cake muffin that came with my quiche; and we zestfully, played Tic Tac Toe.  After finishing breakfast Kels and I went for pedicures and she sat most cordially, as her feet were being cared for.  Kelsie was sociable and courteous and she conducted herself like a little lady. I couldn't have been prouder.

We called Arlene after completing our pedicures, and she said that the kids were having a great time playing; so there was no need to rush to pick them up.  Even though Kelsie was anxious to see her brother and sister; she graciously agreed that we'd do our grocery shopping before going to get them.  Kelsie was on her best behavior while we were in the store and I told her how much I'd enjoyed our special day together and she said that she had as well.

We picked up Nicky and Lyndzi and shared stories of our time apart.  Kelsie was very eager to play with Lyndzi and they laughed and entertained themselves until dinner was ready. 

Kelsie and I had a very full day.  It was wonderful to enjoy her company without being challenged or exasperated; and I think that she felt the same way, because when she came to kiss me goodnight; she said "Good night my sweet, little pumpkin;"  and once again; my heart smiled.
Till next time...
Queen of EVERYTHING

(43-48) For the Love of Art

When I wrote "Art Imitates Life" on August 29, 2010 I shared a drawing that my 8 year old daughter, Lyndzi had done and entered in the MIX 96.9 Fridge Art contest.  At first I shared the link to the contest because I thought that you could vote; but I had jumped the gun a bit, because this was not the case.
I edited the blog before you'd even had a chance to see it; so that you wouldn't know that I had NO IDEA what I was talking about.  No offense to MIX 96.9 but the rules of the contest weren't very clear.  The only information that the website provided was:  Round 1 Voting runs from 9/13 - 9/27 @ 8:00am
Top 50 Voting runs from 9/27 - 10/11 @ 8:00am and Top 25 Voting runs from 10/11-10/25 @ 8:00am

There are 3 age categories and in 8-10, where Lyndzi is entered, there are actually ONLY 25 contestants; so really they're already in the top 25 and where exactly they go from there, I have no clue. 
So today we got an email from the radio station and they explained that each child had a link that we could share in social networks and blogs to encourage people to vote.  This process leads me to believe that sadly the contest really isn't about talent but about which child's parent can facilitate the most votes.  OY!!  I'm not really sure what to make of this.  I'm not going to say that Lyndzi's drawing is the best of the bunch; but I would certainly think that she was in the top 5; and yet, unless I can persuade people to vote for her on a daily basis, she might not do well in this contest at all.

Lyndzi is an artist down to her core, and she deserves to win this contest because, just like I know in my soul that I HAVE to write; at the tender age of 8, she KNOWS that that she HAS to create art.  Art is her passion and she takes great pride in her work.  I don't think that Lyndzi should win because her mom was able to solicit the most votes; but then again, if I don't try to secure DAILY votes, then she doesn't stand a chance; so, I HAVE to ask for your help.  Please take a moment to vote for Lyndzi; and then, even though it's difficult for me to ask this; could you PLEASE do so just once EVERY day until September 27th?  Now as if I haven't asked enough already, I'm gonna show some real chutzpah (fearlessness, balls, boldness) and request that you share the link with as many people as possible.  You might send a quick email to friends and ask them to vote for Lyndzi; even if they do so just once.) If you felt so inclined, you could also post the link in your Facebook or Twitter account.  I'm sure that sounds like a lot to do for a little girl that you might not know; but if you KNOW me; then you know that I would do it for you, and also that when it comes to my child I'll stop at nothing to encourage their dreams.

At this point in time, I'm still not sure if the decision making gets turned over to the radio station or to a panel on October 25th or what exactly what will happen at that juncture; but we'll cross that bridge when we come to it.  For now I just want to get Lyndzi as far along as possible and I feel really confident that with YOUR help she'll have a great chance.  Our world will be a very dull place without new generations of all kinds of artists; so we owe it to the world to foster creativity in our children.
Till next time...
Queen of EVERYTHING

(43-38) A Mother's Heart

Not long after Nicky was born; I saw a card with the following quote by Elizabeth Stone ~ "Making the decision to have a child is momentous. It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body."  As a new mom that quote resonated with me and it soon became one of my favorites; however, the truth is that as my kids have gotten older and exposed to more of life's cruelties, this quote has become that much more profound.
When you have a baby you feel positively consumed by the love that you feel for your child; and of course you want to do everything in your power to keep your precious, baby safe and out of harm's way.  But as your children get older, it becomes so much more difficult to shield them from the bumps and bruises that effect their hearts and it is OUR hearts that also get injured in the process.

I learned first hand how cruel kids can be.  When I was growing up I was teased about everything from my name (first AND last,) to my height and of course, my weight; and perhaps that's why it's so important to me that my kids are sensitive and kind to others.  Of course not all parents instill these traits in their offspring so we have absolutely no control over how our children are treated by others.
It seems that kids are mean to each other no matter the circumstances.  You can be handsome, but if you're shy as well, you're ignored.  You can be friendly, but if the "wrong" person doesn't like you; it can be misery.  You can be too tall, too short, too fat or too thin; no one is immune.
No matter how old you are or where or when you grew up; there was/is always a "cool" crowd who had / have the ability to make everyone else's lives a living hell.  I personally rued the days that I had to go to PE in junior high because there was a group of girls who picked on me relentlessly, and of course I had never done or said anything to provoke any of them.  I'm sure they didn't give a minutes worth of thought to the fact that I myself would have given anything to be shorter or thinner at the time.  Or considered that I wished that I could have disappeared as much as they seemed to want me out of their site.  For some reason it made them feel better about themselves to verbally abuse me EVERY chance that they got; and sadly I see the same things happening with kids now. 
 
To quote Friedrich Neitzche "What does not destroy me, makes me strong." [Or, What doesn't kill you makes you stronger.] I'd like to think that Nietzche wasn't referring to child hood when he said this and yet sadly, it applies.  I don't want to sound like an OVERprotective mom.  I KNOW that my kids have to learn from their own mistakes; but I figure they'll make plenty of mistakes during the times that their not with me, and they have to rely solely on their own instincts and judgment.  So if there's anything that I can do to help guide them and avoid pitfalls, heck yes; I'm gonna do it.
 
I believe that it's very important for kids to know, that when it comes to friends, it's quality and not quantity that counts.  My goodness, if you make just one TRUE friend in your lifetime; someone that you can count on and confide in; someone who stands by you even if it's not a popular thing to do; then you are a very blessed person indeed.  I also think that it is crucial for them to know that in order to have a friend you have to be a friend.  You need to treat people the way that you want to be treated.
 
I know that I'm being idyllic to think that everyone will just accept each other for who they are and see the beauty in each others differences; but seriously, how boring would life be if we were all the same? It takes a courageous person to be true to themselves and to march to their own drum; but I do believe that life is much richer for those who do.

I so appreciate each of my children for the unique, individuals that they are and I wouldn't want them any other way. I love them with all of MY HEART!!

Till next time...

Queen of EVERYTHING

Reflections

The past few days I've found myself doing a lot of reflecting. Maybe it was because of Mother's Day, or because Kelsie is graduating from pre-school tonight, or because Nicky and Lyndzi will have completed another school year next Thursday, or because my first born is turning 10 on Saturday. Maybe it's because no one has been majorly sick this week so I had some time to change my focus; or maybe it's because both "American Idol" and "Dancing With The Stars" are coming to an end next week. Well, regardless of the reason; you know what this means... I have A LOT on my mind.

It seems that I am constantly replaying moments in my mind (and yes, I'm sure that there is some psychological diagnosis for this;) but for the sake of this ride; I'm going to work backwards (now there's a twist.) For instance, I'm wondering when exactly Sanjaya (American Idol Season 6) became a celebrity. AND, we know that he IS a "celebrity " because he's going to be on the next season of "I'm a celebrity...Get me out of here" along with reality show whore, Steven Baldwin. Now don't get me wrong; I actually enjoy Steven Baldwin (on reality shows, ) I just think it's fascinating that someone who has already worked as an actor, would now be spending most of his career over the past few years, appearing on reality shows. By my count he's done "The Celebrity Mole "- twice, "The Celebrity Apprentice" and now just in case we forgot that he's a celebrity, he'll be appearing with other big celebs; (like Sanjaya) in "I'm a Celebrity...Get me out of here."
Now typically I write about both "American Idol" and "Dancing With The Stars" in a timely fashion; however, this season I have completely dropped the ball. If you're following Idol, my commentary is well overdue but I do want to go on record saying how much I have absolutely LOVED, LOVED, LOVED Danny Gokey. I am SO sorry that he did not make it to the final 2; but I have no doubt that we will be hearing from him again and that he will outsell Reuben, Fantasia and Taylor Hicks combined. Trust me, Chris Daughtry is no worse the wear for not making it to the final 2 and neither will be Danny Gokey. Now, why Gokey you may ask... It could be because I think he looks like Robert Downey jr.(and ya know how I LOVE him;) but I really believe that it's because his singing moves me. His voice tells a story (not only the words.) And, unlike Adam Lambert; the man can REALLY sing! Now all you Lambert fans; don't get all mad at me. I'm NOT putting Adam down, it's just that he doesn't always SING the song. He has the ability to hit those REALLY high notes and when he does, sometimes it sounds (to me) more like shrieking than singing while Danny is a PURE singer. Adam is a performer through and through. I think he puts on a great show which is why I think he is primed for the revival of "The Rocky Horror picture Show" ~ and I'm sure that he can even provide his own costume ~ wink wink; I mean did ya see the boy STRUT down that staircase; that's just quintessential Frank N Furter. And in the inimitable words of Forrest Gump "that's all I gotta say about that."
As for "Dancing With The Stars" this season I have been absolutely wowed by Gilles; and although this probably sounds like an odd thing to say; I prefer him with his clothes on. For those of you who don't know, Gilles Marini came on the scene in the "Sex and the City" movie when he played Samantha's naked, neighbor. As a matter of fact, he was so NOT famous that when "DWTS" was announcing who he was, they pretty much said "naked guy from Sex and the City movie;" which is why I am SO glad to see him doing so well. He is a FABULOUS dancer and it seems to me that people are voting for him because of his dancing and not because of his popularity because even he has admitted that coming into the show he had a small fan base. The opposite may be said for Ty Murray who though he tried so VERY, VERY hard his technique wasn't there, but his fans votes were; and he was able to knock out the extremely entertaining Lil Kim. I must say I was really sad to see her go, because I had really high hopes for her freestyle; but alas Cheryl Burke IS the Queen of The Freestyle in my opinion, so I'm sure that Monday's finale will be all that and a bag o chips. And while on the subject of "DWTS" I also want to say how much I LOVE seeing some of the dancers, from "So you think you can dance" now appearing as pros on "DWTS." Lacey, Chelsea and Dimitri all hale from SYTYCD; and my boss has actually said "Maybe they should rename the show "So you think you can dance with the stars" ~ which gave me a chuckle.

Now believe me when I tell you that it takes longer to read and type these things then it really takes me to think about them, and there really are more important thoughts going on in my mind; but before we get to that, and since I rarely cover TV anymore; let me just make a few more comments that I feel are worth sharing.

First I want to say KUDOS to Joan Friggin Rivers. I am ecstatic that she has won the "Celebrity Apprentice" and though some of you may think that ecstatic is a really strong word to describe ones feelings over a reality show, I have to tell you that it is so much more than that. It was the battle between good and evil and GOOD won out. Joan Rivers proved herself to be a force to be reckoned with and gained the respect that she is so deserving of. Her work ethic, professionalism and compassion were all exemplary. Did she verbally attack Annie Duke; you betcha but she did so because she thought that Annie was two faced and sneaky and she told her what she thought right to her face; unlike Annie who let the cameras hear her thoughts about Joan (like, I hope she dies) but didn't say anything to her face. Joan worked hard no matter the task. She was a GREAT role model, a leader and a humanitarian (I mean WAS on the show, not like WAS as in she's dead;) and I hope that the American public has gained a new found respect for her. Oh sure, I like most thought that she was obnoxious to say the least on the red carpet, but ya' know what, I see now that it was all just a part of her act. What you saw on the "Celebrity Apprentice" was the real deal; and I am ECSTATIC for her and her charity.

Now, though it may sound as if I watch A LOT of TV the truth is I DVR a lot of TV and try to fit shows in while I'm cooking, doing the laundry, paying bills etc, etc, which is why I STILL have a month and a half worth of "General Hospital" to catch up on. Nonetheless, of all the shows I DVR ,there are 2 other than GH that are NOT reality shows; and those are "Ugly Betty" and "Grey's Anatomy." I don't really have anything to say about "UB" I've just been enjoying it for the good, clean fun that it is. But "Grey's" now that's a different story. I smell an Emmy or 2, people. The story lines have just been brilliant. And Katherine Heigl has been spectacular. The show makes me cry and emotes feelings that a typical TV show does not. I know that the finale is going to be a real tear jerker, and although I don't enjoy crying over shows and movies; I know that I will be all the better for watching it. I know that it will reinforce the fact that we need to live each day as if it were our last and live with no regrets; which is what REFLECTION can help us to do; and what it did for me; on Mother's day.

This Mother's day was truly significant for me, because although I fully acknowledged my own Mom and remembered the magnificent woman that she was; I was finally able to allow this day to be more about what I have than what I have not. I was able to appreciate the gifts of my family and how very lucky I am to have each one of them. I cared not, where we had breakfast, lunch or dinner or that no flowers were involved; I just felt honored to be the Mom that Luis, Nicky, Lyndzi and Keslie bestow their love upon. I felt blessed that they recognized all that I do for them and that they wanted to celebrate that and honor me. I remembered why I wanted to become a Mom and what my goals are for raising my children; and when the day was done I felt TRULY satisfied and EXTREMELY proud.

As a Mom it is bittersweet to watch your children grow. Every time I drop Nicky and Lyndzi off at school I marvel at the independent people that they are becoming. Although they are my babies, they are no longer babies; but capable children who can make their own way when they need to. And now tonight, my baby, my Kelsie will graduate from pre-school and begin a new path. She is going to sing "You Light Up my Life, and I have no doubt that I will be moved to tears; just as I was when she sang "What a Wonderful World" last year; in her tiny, sweet voice. Oh yes, Kelsie is my biggest challenge thus far; but I could not imagine my life without her; and I am certain that she is going to do great things in her lifetime.

Now if my mind wasn't reeling enough from all that I have been contemplating, My Nicky will be turning 10 on May 16th and THAT is just mind boggling to me. Nicky, my first born, my only boy, my protector, my sidekick; is going to be 10. Boy does time fly. It seems like just yesterday that I was giving birth to him; and I love to sit back and remember EVERY moment of it. I remember feeling each contraction and saying to myself "I'm one step closer to seeing Nicky, I'm one step closer to seeing Nicky;" and when I did see Nicky; I cried tears of joy as I do EVERY time I relive that moment in my mind. I don't write about Nicky as much as I write about the girls because quite honestly; he's just not that funny. I mean he has his moments; but given that I'm prone to writing about the ridiculous and he is the most complacent, low key guy; he doesn't typically provide me with a lot of material; unless I want to brag about his straight A's or his humongous heart. Nicky has compassion like I have NEVER seen. He has been able to demonstrate empathy since he was only a few years old; and he is wise beyond his years. Nicky has memorized almost every episode of "The Amazing Race" and dreams of going on it one day - hopefully with me. He has a BEAUTIFUL singing voice and can easily get a perfect score on Karaoke Revolution without really trying; and oddly enough he will sing in front of anyone who will listen. Nicky tells people that I am a great blog writer; which is just the icing on my cake. One might say that Nicky is painstakingly shy, and often times awkward but the boy has HEART and to me that is MOST important. He did give me a laugh today today though when I picked him up from school and he informed me that HE; is the King of Solitaire. Wonder where he got that expression from?

When I reflect on my 10 precious years with Nicky, I relish EVERY moment that he has been on this earth and I feel so fortunate that he is my son. And just when you thought I couldn't possibly have anything more to reflect upon; my cup has runneth over. Summer is upon us here in AZ. School gets out next Thursday, and I cannot wait. I love having them home; and spending time together. I love taking them to swim team practice and watching them compete. I love our freedom and flexibility and the endless possibilities of what we might do. And although I want everything to go VERY slowly, so we can savor every minute; I also look forward to all the times ahead, when I'll be able to reflect back on all that we've done.
Till next time...

Queen of EVERYTHING

You Know You Have A Problem When...#5

You Know You Have A Problem When you go to the pediatrician's office and one of (the many) receptionists tells you that she had been thinking about you, because you hadn't been in for a few days. (This was last Tuesday.) I responded by saying "You haven't seen me in a few days because my husband brought my younger daughter in on Friday."

So let me rewind. In my "Lyndzi's Advice" post, I regaled you with the details of Lyndzi's recent illnesses; but in light of the past few months I feel the need to offer a recap. For brevity's sake (yes, A new concept for me;) I'll only go as far back as January.

OK, so upon our return from beautiful, Puerto Vallarta both Lyndzi and Kelsie were suffering with their allergies and asthma, and ultimately Kelsie was diagnosed with pneumonia and Lyndzi with RSV. This stint brought us to the doctor's office every day for a week; and this one, kind, receptionist took notice of this fact, and just shook her head in dismay every time she saw me walk through the door. She shook her head again a few weeks ago, during spring break when I came in for Lyndzi who was diagnosed with Strep throat. She shook her head less than a week later when I came in for Nicky who had been running a high fever, and complained of a terrible sore throat. Because we were so convinced it was strep, I ran him in for the test but we didn't have an exam. Trust me when I tell you that this was not the exam to skip, because the culture was negative, but the next night we wound up in Urgent Care because Nicky had double pink eye. The doctor also gave him an antibiotic for Pharyngitis, and when all was said and done; Nicky had missed 4 days of school. 2 1/2 weeks later, Luis brought Kelsie in for fever, congestion and discharge from her eyes; and she was diagnosed with both a sinus and ear infections. AND then a couple of days after that; I returned to the pediatricians office, and this is when she shook her head at me and made the comment about thinking about me; when I brought Nicky in due to another high temp, headache and congestion; and he walked out with strep throat. On my way out the door, I reported to her that it was in fact strep this time and jokingly asked her NOT to think about me again. Nicky returned to school on Monday, after missing ANOTHER 4 days; but yesterday Kelsie started running a temp and she was really congested, and this morning it sounded like I had a seal take up residence in my house; so guess where I went today? Once again she shook her head and uttered the words "Oh come on; I just can't believe it." I asked her if she'd been thinking about me; but she swore that she hadn't.

Kelsie and I waited in the examining room and entertained ourselves with MANY games of Tic Tac Toe. While we were playing I noticed that Kelsie had really fat fingers below her knuckles. I LOVINGLY commented that I had never realized that she had such chubby fingers and she said "Everyone does." I said "No, not everyone ;"and I showed her my fingers which aside from my feet are the only thin thing on my body. When she realized that not everyone had chubby fingers, she said "I guess I'd better do some exercise;" and it was the cutest thing in the world. She followed that up with, "And you should probably do some exercise too Mommy." To which I replied "I would love to; if my children would stay healthy so that I could put them in the childcare at the gym or send them to school." The nurse practitioner then examined Kelsie an as I was leaving I stopped by the desk to tell "My friend" that Kelsie had Croup. Oh yes, it's not just for babies. My friend and I recapped that since January my household has now experienced allergies, asthma, Pneumonia, RSV, Sinus infections, ear infections, Strep throat, Pink eye and Croup. I said "What's next, pestilence?" And she kinda shrugged and said "well," like it wasn't an impossibility; so I swear I am totally considering scrubbing them all down with Lice shampoo, just as a precaution.

Now I honestly don't think it's enjoyable to read about all of my kids ailments and I have tried to spare you all the gory details; but of course I have a point and that is; now you know where the heck I've been. I have TONS of things that I have been thinking about writing about. I still want to share my Ass Burrito story, I have been dying to comment on American Idol and Dancing With the Stars; and I'm totally itching for someone to throw another Six Degrees challenge my way; however, instead I have been caring for my sick children and trying to balance my life.

I saw a book about Diablo Cody in Barnes & Noble the other day, and I looked at it longingly thinking, "now maybe if I become a stripper, someone will want to publish my writing." Then again, I'd really have to get back to the gym in order to make that happen, and given the health of my family, who knows how soon that will be. So instead, I am really going to commit myself to getting this blog out come Hell or high water or Strep, or Croup. I need to take a pledge like the mailmen; no rain or snow or sleet or hail ... will keep me from writing my blog; as God is my witness... Now there's gotta be some kind of recognition for combining the postmans pledge and a line from "Gone with the Wind;"... or not. But at least I feel like I'm getting my mojo back. Ya'know once I start rambling, "The Ride" is getting back to normal.

As for my kids, please send positive thoughts their way.

Till next time...

Queen of EVERYTHING

The Haunting

On Saturday I flew out to Anaheim, to meet Rachel and Nancy ("Scrapbooking from the Inside Out;") for CHA (The Craft and Hobby Association show.) I was very excited to be going away for a few days ( sans family;) but also VERY nervous about being apart from Luis and the kids, considering that when I'm at home, I barely even get to go to the bathroom by myself. I knew that I was going to have a great time; how could I not? I was going to get to spend time with one of my best friends, doing something that we love to do (shop for scrapbooking supplies for the next six month worth of kits for SBFTIO;) I was going to get to meet the super talented, Nancy Doren IN PERSON AND have some much needed time to myself. And then to top it all off, I knew that Saturday night we were going to have dinner at my favorite restaurant "ROY'S." (Hawaiian fusion not fried chicken.) LOL and then Sunday night go to Disneyland. I honestly couldn't have designed a better trip if I was asked to.

I was VERY apprehensive at the airport. I hadn't flown alone since 1994 and things have changed drastically since then. I bought an $80 bottle of water (ha, just kidding I think it was closer to $3 but I thought I'd throw that in for Rachel. ) I wrote a blog, (which I'm not posting because it probably reads more like a neurotic confession,) and then read the book that Michelle (sometimes she actually refers to herself as legally) K had lent me, "Dear Neighbor; Drop Dead" by Saralee Rosenberg. I boarded my flight with ease and settled into a seat next to an elderly woman. As we were taking off I remembered how much I actually like to fly. I LOVE the freedom of it and the promise of a new experience. I kept telling myself that the kids would be fine. Luis would be elated to have me off his back and out of his hair for a few days, and all I had to do was think about myself. (Now that's something that I haven't done in like; well, FOREVER.) I arrived before I knew it and made my way off the plane without incident. I found Rachel just as she was walking in the door; and then - I could breathe.

Rach and I had a very productive wait for Nancy. We reviewed February's play list for SFTIO and even started onto March's. Nancy arrived; we enjoyed hugs all around, and then whisked off to dinner at


The first time I dined (and you HAVE to say dined rather than ATE, when talking about Roy's) was with my sister, Michele (OK; not my blood sister, and not Michelle(...)K; but MY SISTER Michele; (My best friend from college who just happens to have the same birthday as me; and who got me through some of the most difficult times of my life.) Anyway, Michele, her husband Tony and their son Gian Carlo were in Scottsdale for a conference a few years ago and Roy's was right across the street from their hotel so we decided to give it a try. Michele had asked me if I liked Sushi, and I told her that I was undecided. I had only had it once; and although I didn't hate it; I wasn't sure that I ever needed to eat it again. Michele then conducted Sushi 101 - we discussed everything from the thinly sliced ginger to the different types of Sushi and by the time she was done; my mouth was watering and I knew I needed to give Sushi another try. Sushi connoisseur's that they are, we let Michele and Tony do all of the ordering. We also ordered off of Roy's prix fixe menu, which included an appetizer, main course and dessert. Lucky for me, the prix fixe menu was not very vast, so it wasn't too difficult for the Queen of NOT BEING ABLE TO DECIDE WHAT TO ORDER to make a decision. As soon as I put the first piece of Sushi in my mouth, this HUGE smile spread across my face. The flavor, the texture it was nothing short of AMAZING! It was love at first bite! And I have been enamored with Sushi ever since. Something that I have noticed about Sushi is that it lingers with you. That's no to say that there is an aftertaste; but that once you've had good Sushi, you yearn for it -almost like a drug, because all you can think about is, "I WANT THAT SUSHI." I want to taste it again, enjoy it again; and I must say that EVERYTHING at Roy's has that effect on me. I have never eaten anything there that was not superb. In fact I would order anything and everything that I've ever had in any of my meager 3 visits there.

Well, since I've been raving about Roy's for a few years now, and there happened to be one, not far from our hotel; Rachel decided that Saturday night we would pay Roy a visit. Although I've ordered some type of fish during my previous visits; on this occasion I chose to order the Pistachio encrusted lamb with blueberry reduction and Mushroom Risotto and I have to tell you, I have been haunted by this meal ever since I finished my last bite. The flavors were so intense and complimentary that it is something I want to experience again and again. I mentioned this to Michelle (...) K who recently had her first dining experience at Roy's and she fully concurred. We were in agreement that food can in fact haunt you; just like when I had NYPD Pizza for the first time. I'll never forget it. I was at my friend Tiffany's and we ordered from this place that she recommended; called NYPD Pizza; and I have to tell you that after eating it, I could think about eating nothing but this pizza for a week. It was extraordinary. I tried to recreate the NYPD experience (because there wasn't one close to my house;) and I got a slice from Ray's; which I prior to my NYPD indoctrination, I had thought was pretty good; but it paled in comparison to my memory of the NYPD pizza. And then a few short weeks later I saw a sign announcing that an NYPD was coming to a shopping center not to far from me. Well I stalked the shopping center waiting for a sign with a date announcing the opening; and once it opened I got Michelle (...)K to try it too, and what do you think happened... Well, about a week after we had it she told me "Since we had NYPD I could think of nothing but that pizza!" See; it's not just me. I always tell people that I think they put crack in their pizza, because there is just something about it that once you have it, you just want more and more. I don't know if it's the whole milk mozzarella that they use (as opposed to most of the Pizza jokers here who use god knows what;) or if it's the fact that they claim to use water from NY; all I know is it's GOOOOD! And ironically enough, they are in the same shopping center as my gym - but I NEVER go there; believe it or not. Yes I can now pass up NYPD (on most days;) but if someone offered me Roy's - I would be there in a heartbeat. Think about it; I'm sure that you've all eaten something that you tried to draw out for as long as possible so that the pleasure wouldn't be over too quickly. (OK, please disregard how that sounds like I could have been talking about something other than food.)

I would love to hear about the food that haunts you - so please feel free to leave me a comment; as it seems that most people I know LOVE food and LOVE to read or talk about it; almost as much as they love to eat it.

I was just going to say Bon Appetite and end right there, but then I remembered that I needed to turn back. There actually was A LOT more to my trip then just dining at Roy's. The hotel was lovely; and the convention was fantastic. It was so much fun to see all of the new products that the scrapbooking manufacturers are putting out, and try to make suggestions to Rachel for possible kit inclusions.

After a long day on the convention floor, we actually ventured over to Disneyland. It wasn't too crowded; and other than the Peter Pan ride, we barely had any wait at all. Woohoo! We were only there for a few hours, but I think that we probably went on just as many rides as we would have if we'd gone earlier in the day and had a wait; oh yah, and get this... when we first got into the park, I went into the Emporium (store) on Main Street to see if the stores stayed open later than the rides (which they do;) and when I came out, Nancy and Rachel were looking at one of the windows and I went over to find them and saw T.R Knight (George) from "Grey's Anatomy;" and I was giddy. I LOVE George, he's a great character; and boy it's true - the camera really does add 10lbs, because he was much smaller in person. I didn't ask for an autograph, or even say "Hi;" I was just just tickled that I had seen him.

On Monday we went back to the convention and then sadly it was time for me to go. Again I made it through the airport without incident; and I owe many thanks to the two nice men who helped me put my suitcase in and take it out of the overhead bin; because it was HEAV-Y from all of the catalogs.

When Luis and the kids picked me up, no one was any worse for the wear and we drove home VERY happy to be back together. Guess it's safe for me to take off on another adventure some time...

Till next time...

Queen of EVERYTHING